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Check the costs before you cut a batch.
The CNC Profit Quick-Check helps you estimate what remains after direct costs, machine allowance, and pay for your working time. Download the printable PDF, fill it out for one sellable unit, and decide whether to test, revise, or skip the idea.
What is inside
A price and direct-cost check; a hands-on labor allowance; simple surplus and margin calculations; and four checks to complete before a batch.
How to use it
Choose one project. Enter realistic per-unit estimates. Use actual test-cut times where possible. Revisit the sheet after your first completed order.
The calculation
Total allocated cost = materials and waste + selling/packing/shipping costs + machine allowance + labor allowance.
Labor allowance = hands-on minutes ÷ 60 × target hourly pay.
Surplus after labor allowance = selling price − total allocated cost.
Surplus margin = surplus ÷ selling price × 100. Use this only when selling price is greater than zero.
An illustrative example
A $35 item with $6 in materials, $5 in fees and packaging, $2 in machine allowance, and $10 in labor allowance leaves $12. That is a 34.3% surplus margin before any costs you have not included.
These figures show the calculation; they are not a sales forecast.
Use the result as a first screen
Include overhead, equipment costs, returns, and taxes in a full business plan. A positive estimate does not prove demand. Test a small batch, record the real costs, and update your assumptions.
Looking for a project to check? Explore Projects.