Price of sheet metal processing for cabinets and enclosures

Sheet metal fabrication for cabinets and enclosures typically ranges from $422 to $3,018 per project, depending on material, complexity, and labor.Typical Cost RangesSmall or simple projects: $100–$500Average custom cabinets/enclosures: $422–$3,018, with an average around $1,564Large or highly customized projects: Up to $9,500 or more, especially for complex shapes, finishes, or high-volume production Factors Affecting PriceMaterial Type: Aluminum, stainless steel, cold-rolled steel, galvanized steel, and specialty metals vary in cost. Thicker gauges or harder-to-work metals increase expenses .Labor: Skilled labor rates range from $50 to $130 per hour, depending on the complexity of cutting, bending, welding, and assembly .Design Complexity: Custom shapes, intricate finishes, or additional features like powder coating, CNC machining, or multi-axis milling add to the cost .Volume: Prototype or low-volume production (1–5,000 parts) may have higher per-unit costs, while larger runs benefit from economies of scale .Finishing and Assembly: Powder coating, painting, or full assembly services increase the total project cost .Services IncludedMany fabricators, such as ASM, Openex, and Jet Fabricators, offer full-service solutions including:Cutting, forming, bending, and rollingWelding (spot or full) and assemblyCNC machining and multi-axis millingQuality inspection and testingCoating, powder coating, or painting How to Get Accurate PricingRequest a quote: Provide detailed specifications including dimensions, material type, thickness, finish, and quantity.Use cost calculators: Tools like Xometry's sheet metal fabrication calculator can estimate costs based on material, labor, and production methods .Consider design optimization: Uniform thickness and simplified designs can reduce fabrication costs . By understanding these factors, you can plan your budget effectively and select a fabricator that meets your quality and cost requirements.