One key goal for most businesses, regardless of industry, is to boost revenue and improve profit margins. The question is — can you reduce your costs?
If you outsource key functions like CNC cutting, you may benefit from bringing the work in-house. This not only increases productivity and efficiency but also reduces your recurring expenses.
In this article, we explore the pros and cons of both outsourced and in-house plasma-cutting options. We also discuss the differences in costs, including upfront and running costs over time.
Pros and cons of outsourced CNC cutting
Outsourcing your CNC cutting involves working with a contractor or third party. This can be worthwhile for businesses that require a lower number of cuts.
Pro: Flexibility to try new methods
If you outsource your cutting tasks, you may not be as attached to the cutting method. It is relatively easy to switch to a new contractor if you want to try different cutting techniques, such as waterjet or laser cutting, for example. However, it is worth noting that changing your cutting technique may result in inconsistencies across your products.
Con: Third-party coordination
When you need cuts from a contractor, you will arrange for the pieces to be delivered, cut according to your specifications, and then delivered back to your worksite. This requires careful planning and scheduling, which can drain your time and often cause frustrating delays in your workflow.
If the third party cannot deliver your cuts according to your schedule, this can impact your outputs and bottom line.
Pros and cons of insourced CNC cutting
When you require more frequent cuts to be completed, it may be worth investing in a CNC plasma cutting machine for your workshop. This means your team can complete necessary cuts on demand, eliminating the need for a third party.
Pro: Increased control of the production timeline
When completing all your cuts in-house, you streamline your production process and reduce delays. With no third-party reliance, you can simplify the entire workflow and reduce your expenses considerably. This also enables faster turnaround times and higher production quantities, ultimately leading to increased revenue.
Con: Committing to one cutting method
When investing in a CNC plasma cutting machine, you won’t have as much flexibility to try other cutting techniques. If you haven’t tried plasma cutting before, we recommend trialling them first by outsourcing to a third party. When you have determined which method is more suitable for your operations, you can commit to the in-house machine with no hesitations.
What’s the cost difference?
While outsourcing cutting tasks can benefit businesses with fewer key functions, the viability will usually change over time when the frequency of cuts increases. The tipping point is when your outsourcing costs are higher than the cost of buying a plasma table.
When using an in-house CNC plasma cutter, the upfront investment will quickly be balanced by lower operational costs. What’s more, you’ll gain a valuable business asset that will hold its value for a long time.
Using our new Viability Calculator, you can determine how quickly you can pay off your CNC machine. The calculations are based on real-life customer data, providing tangible and reliable estimates.

CNC plasma cutting machine packages
At Surefire CNC, we design, engineer, manufacture, supply, and service CNC Plasma machines for Australian businesses. By owning the entire process, we ensure a machine that is reliable, well-built, easy to use, and cost-effective.
There are three key components of a CNC Plasma package — the table, plasma cutter, and CNC software. At Surefire CNC, we offer a range of packages for both entry-level hobby CNC to high-production industrial uses.
KT Series — Hobby CNC plasma cutting machine
Starting from $19,900, this range is designed for small workshops and hobbyists. These packages offer easy operation, options to expand later, and Australian-based technical support. The KT Series includes the KT12, with a 1220 by 1220mm cutting area, and the KT24, with a 1220 x 2420mm cutting area.
XT Series — Industrial CNC cutting machine
Starting from $31,900, the XT Series CNC cutters are ideal for industrial applications. These packages offer easy operation, exceptional durability, and Australian-based technical support. The XT Series includes the XT12 (1220 x 1220mm cutting area), XT24 (1220 x 2440mm cutting area), and XT30 Mk3 (1525 x 3050mm cutting area).
How to choose a CNC plasma cutter
Wondering how to select the best CNC Plasma Table for your needs? In our Buyer’s Guide, you’ll find all the specifications and recommendations to help you choose the right plasma cutting table, including:
- Product specifications.
- Product pricing.
- SureControl™ CNC software.
- Plasma-cutting power source.
- Optional extras.
- Frequently Asked Questions.
- Examples of our work.
Click the button below to get your free downloadable copy, containing everything you need to make an informed decision.
Work with us today
For more information on our products, services, and solutions, and to get pricing, please click on the button below.