Our typical small-batch run is 10-500 units of a single SKU. Below 10 is custom work. Above 500 may make sense for some projects but usually doesn't beat injection molding on cost. In between is where FDM is the right tool.
Who this service is for
- Startups going from prototype to first product run.
- Makers selling on Etsy, Shopify, or local markets needing reproducible inventory.
- Kickstarter and Indiegogo creators fulfilling reward tiers.
- Tabletop game designers producing miniatures or accessories.
- Custom merchandise for events, conferences, or corporate gifts.
What's included
- Documented print settings so the batch is consistent.
- Hand-inspected quality control on every unit.
- Bulk pricing tiers - typically quoted at 25, 50, 100, 250, and 500 units side by side.
- Flexible packaging and fulfilment (drop-ship to your customers, bulk to you, etc.).
- Settings stay on file for re-orders.
What's not included
- Standard post-processing (paint, complex sanding, assembly) - quoted separately if needed.
- Multi-color prints add cost; design for single-material if budget is tight.
- Resin printing - FDM only.
- Contracts that lock in pricing before final design freeze.
Recommended materials
Material choice on a production run is a real conversation. Cost, durability, finish, and color availability all factor in.
PLAPETGABSTPUSpecialty filaments
Pricing approach
Per-unit cost decreases with volume. We typically quote 25, 50, 100, 250, and 500-unit runs side by side so you can pick the breakpoint that works. Quotes include all materials, labor, and quality control - no hidden fees.
Lead times by quantity
| Quantity | Typical lead time |
|---|---|
| 10-50 units | 5-10 business days |
| 50-250 units | 2-4 weeks |
| 250-500 units | 4-6 weeks |
These are real production numbers, not best-case marketing. Need it faster? Tell us - we’ll see what we can do, transparently.
Limitations to understand
FDM has visible layer lines as a function of the process. They’re not a bug; they’re inherent. If your end customer needs a smooth-as-injection-molded surface, FDM probably isn’t the right process - and we’ll say so before quoting. For most maker-market and event/merch use cases, FDM finish is part of the appeal.
Multi-color prints add cost and complexity. If budget matters, design for single-material with paint or decals applied after.
Recommended pairings
- Iterating before committing to volume? Start with Prototyping.
- Need tighter tolerances or specialty materials? Read the specifications first.
- Fewer than 10 pieces? See Custom 3D Printing.
Frequently asked
Can you handle re-orders?
Yes. We keep your print settings, color choices, and orientation on file so a re-order picks up where the last one left off.
What about quality consistency across the batch?
Documented print settings + hand inspection on every unit. On larger runs we sample-check critical dimensions and reject anything that drifts outside tolerance.
Can you fulfill directly to my customers?
Yes - drop-ship to your end customers is available on request. Tell us about your fulfillment workflow in the inquiry.
Can you handle multiple SKUs in the same project?
Yes, but each SKU is quoted separately so the bill stays itemized.