The custom molds, dies, jigs, and fixtures required to manufacture a specific product, typically representing a significant upfront investment before mass production begins.
Tooling refers to the specialized equipment — including molds, dies, jigs, fixtures, and cutting tools — that must be created before a product can be manufactured at scale. Tooling is custom-made for each product and represents a significant upfront capital investment.
Tooling costs vary widely depending on complexity, material, and manufacturing process. For example, a steel injection mold can cost anywhere from €5,000 to €100,000+. Tooling ownership, maintenance, and amortization are important negotiation points when working with manufacturers found through FindMyFactory.