Is it always cheaper to purchase larger quantities?
This can be a tricky question. It depends on the equipment that the final product is being printed on, but the short answer to this question is usually “yes.” Generally the time and material to set up a job are the bulk of the cost. Once a job is up and running it moves quickly and then the only addition to the set-up cost is the cost of the paper. Example: Let’s say your run cost is .10¢ per sheet and your set-up cost is $75.00 (Set up might include a press wash for 2 ink colors and metal plates for finer quality, plus the time it takes a press operator to set up a press). Cost breakdown: .10¢ x 500 Pieces = $50 + $75 (Setup) = $125 / 500 pieces = .25¢ per piece. .10¢ x 2500 Pieces = $250 + $75 (Setup) = $325 / 2500 pieces = .13¢ per piece. This example shows how the cost per piece goes down in higher quantities because the set-up cost is constant.
Related Questions
- I currently purchase products through domestic suppliers, even for larger projects. What are the advantages for me to work with Source Abroad on my larger orders?
- Why are some smaller scale models cheaper than their larger scale equivalent?
- Can I purchase bulk-buy cards in greater numbers than 25, for a cheaper price?
