Fastener Total Cost of Ownership
Total cost of ownership adds everything it costs to have the right fastener at the point of use: buying, stocking, handling, stockouts and quality problems.
TCO elements
| Cost | Examples |
|---|---|
| Acquisition | Unit price, freight, duties |
| Process | POs, receiving, invoices, supplier management |
| Inventory | Carrying cost, obsolescence, space |
| Usage | Handling, kitting, line stoppages from stockouts |
| Quality | Inspection, returns, failures |
These tables carry the same figures as the printed sheet below.
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Text version of this sheet
Fastener total cost of ownership
What it is
AT A GLANCE
Total cost of ownership adds everything it costs to have the right fastener at the point of use: buying,
stocking, handling, stockouts and quality problems.
$
Price is only part of the cost
TCO elements
Cost
Examples
Acquisition
Unit price, freight, duties
Process
POs, receiving, invoices, supplier management
Inventory
Carrying cost, obsolescence, space
Usage
Handling, kitting, line stoppages from stockouts
Quality
Inspection, returns, failures
Key points
For low-cost C-class parts like fasteners, process and stockout costs usually outweigh the price of the part.
Governing standards: Supply chain practice. Editions shown are the latest confirmed as of September 2026. The drawing and the governing standard always take precedence over
this sheet.
torquing any fastener. Verify the current governing standard, project documents, OEM requirements, size, thread, coating and lot certification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, The Fastener App disclaims liability
arising from reliance on this reference.
Fastener Guide reference FG-56C769 · thefastenerapp.com/fastener-guide/procurement/fastener-total-cost-of-ownership · © The Fastener App. Reference only — verify the current governing standard, drawing and manufacturer data before specifying or installing.
