Published 2026-10-13
Two quotes for the same job can differ a lot, mainly because shops measure the price in different ways. In India you will see rates per square foot, per piece or per hour of machine time. Knowing what sits behind the number helps you compare fairly.
The factors that move the price
- Material. Acrylic, plywood and metal all cost different amounts per sheet, and the finish you choose (mirror, coloured, stainless) changes it further.
- Thickness. A thicker sheet cuts more slowly, so it takes more machine time.
- Amount of cutting. What counts is the total length the laser travels and how many separate pieces and holes there are, not only the size of the sheet. A plain rectangle is cheaper than a lace-like pattern in the same size.
- Engraving. Filled engraving takes longer than a line cut.
- Quantity. Setup is done once, so the price per piece falls as the quantity rises. Close packing of parts on the sheet saves material.
- Design work. A ready cut file costs nothing extra. Redrawing a sketch or a photo is charged as design time.
- Finishing. Painting, lamination, bending, powder coating, assembly and packing add to the cost.
- Delivery. Pickup is free of charge. Courier or rider delivery depends on distance and size.
Questions to ask before you compare quotes
- Is the material included, or only the cutting?
- Is finishing, packing and delivery included?
- Is design work included, and how many changes are allowed?
- Is the price for this exact thickness and quantity?
How to get a lower price without lowering quality
- Send a clean file, so there is nothing to redraw.
- Combine several small items into one order.
- Simplify very fine details that nobody will notice.
- Order a little earlier, so there is no rush charge.
Send us your idea with the size and quantity, and we will reply with a price and what it includes.