Embroidery Machine Cost:
Commercial Prices and Startup Expenses

Commercial embroidery machine prices vary widely. The U.S. listings below start at $6,819 for a single-head Ricoma Swift and reach $69,999 for a 12-head Ricoma Titan. Your startup budget will also need to cover any software, supplies, and services the seller charges for separately.

The advertised U.S. prices below were checked on September 29, 2026. Treat them as examples: your quote will depend on the configuration, current promotions, taxes, shipping, and dealer terms.

Before you compare prices

• Each head stitches one item at a time. Needle count is a separate specification; the number of heads determines how many items can be stitched in one run.
• An advertised single-head Melco BRAVO costs $8,995. A two-head Ricoma Marquee starts at $14,939, with larger machines costing more.
• Check whether digitizing software, hoops, cap equipment, supplies, delivery, training, and support are included in the quoted package.
• Choose a machine for the orders you expect to fill, and compare the total purchase cost, including any financing charges.

How much does a commercial embroidery machine cost in 2026?

These manufacturer and U.S. dealer listings include a mix of machine-only prices, starting configurations, and packages. Ask for an itemized quote so you can see what each price covers.

Prices checked September 29, 2026. Ricoma lists starting prices; Melco lists a machine price alongside a starter package and optional charges. Hirsch Solutions lists the Tajima SAI as a promotional package that includes software, training, and shipping within the contiguous U.S. Ken's Sewing Center lists the SWF MAS-15 with a stand. The Tajima TMEZ-SC 1501 is listed by a U.S. distributor without a public price; its 15-needle configuration is documented by Tajima. Sources: Ricoma embroidery machines; Melco BRAVO; Hirsch Solutions: Tajima SAI-0801; Ken's Sewing Center: SWF machines; Hirsch Solutions: Tajima TMEZ-SC 1501; Tajima TMEZ-SC specifications.

For other machines sold in the U.S., including the Barudan Pro3 and HappyJapan HCD3e-1501, you will need a current dealer quote. Specify the frames, software, delivery, and training you need.

Sources: Barudan America: Pro3; Texmac: HappyJapan HCD3e-1501.

Single-head machines

A single-head machine embroiders one item at a time, so you can switch designs or garment types between individual orders. It can still have several needles: the models above have 8, 15, or 16.

Start with the work you plan to take on. Is the embroidery field large enough for your designs? Can the machine handle the caps you want to sell? Check the included hoops, software, training, and warranty too. Cap attachments and specialty frames may cost extra.

Multi-head machines

A multi-head machine stitches the same design on several items at once. This suits repeat orders, such as a batch of garments carrying the same logo. Allow time between runs to hoop garments, set up threads, inspect the finished work, and change designs.

Ricoma lists a starting price of $14,939 for its two-head Marquee and $69,999 for its 12-head Titan. For machines without a published price, ask the dealer to quote the head count and accessories you need.

Sources: Ricoma U.S. listings; Tajima's guide to head configurations and dealer quotes.

What else goes into the startup budget?

Use the seller's written quote to work out which of these costs you need to add. Package contents differ, so an accessory included in one offer may be an extra in another.

• Digitizing: You need to convert original artwork into stitch files. You can do this with your own digitizing software or pay a service to do it. Before buying software, check the features and license terms. Hatch Embroidery Digitizer 4, for example, lists a one-time price of US$1,199 before applicable taxes.
• Frames and attachments: Check which hoop sizes come with the machine. Caps, sleeves, and bags may need additional frames or attachments compatible with that model.
• Production supplies: Allow for thread, bobbins, needles, stabilizer, and test garments. These are recurring costs once production starts.
• Delivery, setup, and training: Ask whether freight, installation, operator training, and any travel charges are included. On its BRAVO page, Melco lists domestic shipping at $500 and optional on-site training at $1,650.
• Computer and ongoing support: If you digitize designs in-house, check the software's operating system and hardware requirements before relying on your current computer. Also compare warranty coverage, service access, and any financing charges.

Ricoma's EM-1010 package, for example, includes digitizing software, hoops, a cap attachment, starter supplies, and training. If these are included in your offer, you can leave them out of your separate startup purchases.

Sources: Hatch software pricing and system requirements; Melco BRAVO package and add-ons; Ricoma EM-1010 package; Ricoma shipping policy.

How to compare embroidery machine quotes

Give each seller the same sample job. Specify the garment or cap, design dimensions, approximate stitch count, number of colors, and quantity per order. Ask for a sample stitch-out, then request an itemized quote for the machine and everything needed to run that job. Get the warranty and support terms in writing as well.

For repeat orders, estimate the time needed to prepare, stitch, and finish the whole batch. Multiple heads stitch at once, but the design and garment handling also affect how quickly you can complete the order. If you plan to finance the purchase, compare the down payment, repayment term, interest, fees, and total amount payable. A monthly payment alone tells you little about the full cost.

Frequently asked questions about embroidery machine cost

Is digitizing software included with a commercial embroidery machine?

Some packages include it; others charge separately for software or upgrades. Ask which version is included, whether it supports the files you need, and whether there is a recurring fee. You can also pay a digitizing service to prepare your designs.

Is a multi-needle machine the same as a multi-head machine?

No. A single-head machine may have many needles but still stitches one item at a time. A multi-head machine has two or more embroidery heads that can work on multiple items during a run.

Should I compare used machines with new ones?

Yes, but compare more than the asking price. Check the machine's condition and service history, the accessories and software included, available training, and warranty or repair terms. Ask to see it stitch a design similar to the work you plan to do.

Before you place an order

Before committing, get a sample stitch-out for the work you expect to sell and a written quote that includes the equipment and services you need. Use that total to compare offers, and make sure the machine can handle your expected order volume.

How to Choose the Right Commercial Embroidery Machine
for Your Business

Success in the embroidery business starts with selecting the perfect machine for your needs. Priority on production speed, quality, and cost varies depending on your business scale whether it's high-volume OEM production, specialized studio work, or a space-saving personal shop.

This website introduces the ideal machine for each of these unique business models.

View Machines
by Business Type