Part Complexity
Number of features, internal holes, tight corner radii and secondary operations (coining, forming) within the die all add machining time and design complexity, directly increasing cost.
Part Size and Number of Stations
Larger parts require larger die sets and more tool steel; multi-station dies cost meaningfully more than single-station tooling due to the added transfer mechanism and station-to-station alignment requirements.
Expected Production Volume
Higher expected volume justifies more wear-resistant (and more expensive) tool steel grades and coatings — a die built for a 50,000-part run doesn't need the same tool steel investment as one built for millions of cycles.
Material Being Cut
Harder or more abrasive materials (some stainless grades, higher-carbon steels) accelerate cutting-edge wear, again pushing toward premium tool steel and coating choices.
Getting an Accurate Number
Because these factors compound, die cost is quoted against your specific part drawing and volume — not as a generic per-part-size number. See our die design service page to start that conversation.