A 3D printing quote is usually requested after a client sends a file or describes a part, and it needs to be sent before any printing begins. Clients tend to compare your price against online print services, other local shops, and the cost of buying a printer themselves. Your quote should explain what is included so it is not judged on price alone.
When to use estimates: Use estimates to provide project quotes and get client approval before starting work. Once approved, convert your estimate to an invoice with one click to collect payment.
Create an invoice for payment collection
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Invoice_1001_Client_2026-10-14.pdf
Files change during a project, and listing the exact version quoted prevents arguments if a revised file affects print time or material.
These settings drive cost and strength, and a client who expected a different material can dispute the result.
Specifying quantity and who pays for failed or rejected parts sets expectations before problems come up.
Support removal, sanding, priming, or painting can take more time than printing, so list which finishing steps are in the price.
FDM and resin printers have limits on dimensional accuracy. Stating realistic tolerances prevents complaints about parts that do not fit.
Lead time depends on your machine queue, so give a date or range and the cost to move faster.
If the client's file needs work, state the hourly rate and how many revision rounds are included.
| Service | Priced | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| FDM printing (PLA/PETG), machine time | per hour | $2-10 |
| Resin printing (standard), including wash and cure | per mL of resin used or per part | $0.15-0.50 per mL |
| Engineering filament (nylon, ABS, ASA, carbon fiber blends) | per gram | $0.10-0.35 |
| CAD modeling and design work | per hour | $40-100 |
| File repair and print preparation | per hour | $30-75 |
| Post-processing (support removal, sanding, priming, painting) | per hour | $25-60 |
| Minimum order charge | flat fee | $15-40 |
| Rush turnaround surcharge | percent of print total | 25-100% |
Typical US ranges. Rates vary by region, experience, and job size.
Slice the file with your actual settings to get print time and material weight, then add 10 to 20 percent for supports, warping risk, and test adjustments. Quotes based on rough guesses tend to run under.
Show per-part prices at quantities such as 1, 10, and 50. Setup cost is spread across a batch, and clients often order more when they see the discount.
Break out design cleanup or CAD from print cost. Clients can then choose to fix the file themselves, and you are not discounting skilled labor to win the print.
Filament prices, machine availability, and your schedule change. A validity period of 14 to 30 days keeps old quotes from being used at stale prices.
Simple quotes are usually free. For complex parts that need design review or test prints, many shops charge a quote or feasibility fee and credit it toward the order if the client proceeds.
Slicer estimates are usually close for print time and weight, but supports, failed attempts, and post-processing can change the total. Quote a fixed price when scope is clear and use an estimate range when the file is uncertain.
State in the quote that changes to geometry, material, or quantity require a revised quote. Re-slice the new file and send an updated price before printing.
For large orders, custom materials, or design work, a 30 to 50 percent deposit is common. It covers material purchases and shows the client is committed before machines are tied up.
Use the 3D Printing Service invoice template to bill the client, or convert this estimate once it's approved.
3D Printing Service invoice template