Plastic Mold Pricing Guide: What Affects Cost in 2026
Understanding mold pricing helps you budget accurately and evaluate quotations effectively. This guide breaks down the key cost factors.
Major Cost Factors
1. Mold Size
The most significant cost driver is mold size:
- Small molds (under 500x400mm): $3,000-$8,000
- Medium molds (500x400 to 800x600mm): $8,000-$25,000
- Large molds (over 800x600mm): $25,000-$80,000+
2. Steel Grade Selection
| Steel Grade | Price Range | Best For |
|---|
| P20 | Base price | Low-volume, simple parts |
| 718H | +15-25% | Medium volume, polished finish |
| NAK80 | +30-40% | High polish, optical parts |
| S136/H13 | +40-60% | High volume, corrosive materials |
3. Cavity Count
Multi-cavity molds cost more but reduce per-part cost:
- 1 cavity: Base price
- 2 cavities: +60-80%
- 4 cavities: +150-200%
- 8 cavities: +300-400%
4. Part Complexity
Simple parts (boxes, containers):
- Basic parting line
- Simple ejection
- No sliders or lifters
Medium complexity (baskets with handles):
- Multiple parting surfaces
- Side actions required
- Lifters for undercuts
High complexity (chairs, intricate parts):
- Gas-assist or water-assist
- Multiple sliders
- Complex cooling systems
- Hot runner systems
5. Surface Finish Requirements
| Finish Type | Additional Cost |
|---|
| EDM finish | Included |
| SPI B1-B3 | +$500-2,000 |
| Mirror polish | +$2,000-5,000 |
| Texture (VDI/MT) | +$1,500-4,000 |
Hot Runner vs. Cold Runner
Cold Runner (Included)
- Lower initial cost
- Higher material waste
- Longer cycle times
Hot Runner System
- Add $3,000-$15,000
- No runner waste
- Faster cycles
- Better for high-volume production
Geographic Price Comparison
| Region | Relative Cost |
|---|
| China (Taizhou) | 100% (baseline) |
| China (Tier 1 cities) | 115-130% |
| Taiwan | 140-160% |
| Europe | 250-350% |
| USA | 300-400% |
How to Get Accurate Quotes
Provide These Details:
- 2D/3D drawings (STEP, IGES, or SolidWorks)
- Material specification
- Expected annual volume
- Surface finish requirements
- Any special requirements
Questions to Ask:
- What steel grade is quoted?
- Is hot runner included?
- What's the expected mold life?
- Are trial samples included?
- What warranty is offered?
Conclusion
Mold pricing varies significantly based on multiple factors. Don't just compare prices—compare value. A slightly more expensive mold with better steel and longer life often provides better ROI.
