I run a two-lathe shop and keep losing quotes on 10–25 piece stainless fitting jobs. My setup is ~45 min per job. How do others split setup across small runs so the per-part price is still competitive?
Also: do you quote threads (M8, 1/4" NPT) as a separate operation?
We quote setup as a separate line item and never hide it in the piece price. Customers understand a €60 setup fee; they don't understand why 10 pieces cost 4× per part.
For repeat jobs, keep the program and fixture, and quote setup at 50% the second time. Threads: quote as an op if it needs a die head or single-point; tapping on the lathe is part of the base price.
Same here. We also offer a 'schedule flex' discount — if the customer lets us slot the job whenever the machine is free, setup drops by 30%.
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