MEASUREMENTS AND PURCHASE DECISIONS

A reproducible two-stock cut plan can still cost more than another plan.

Does choosing the cheapest feasible new stock prove the cheapest full order?

Use the matching calculator

Two Stock Length Cut Plan Calculator Stock Cut List Calculator

Use this decision sequence

Provide both stock lengths, their quotes and all required cuts.
Read the tool’s longest-first allocation and the chosen new stock types.
Keep unallocated stock separate from saw kerf and required cut length.
Compare alternative allocations when the order cost matters; do not label the heuristic as optimal.

Keep the quantities distinct

Quantity or assumption	How to use it
Cheapest feasible stock now	A local choice.
Least-cost total allocation	A separate optimisation problem.
Existing bin reuse	Can affect which later pieces need new stock.

Worked comparison

For illustrative 4 m and 2 m cuts, stock A is 3 m at $10 and stock B is 5 m at $12, with zero kerf. The 4 m cut needs B and leaves 1 m; the 2 m cut then needs A. This yields $22. That worked allocation verifies the reported plan but does not prove that the same greedy method is best for every larger cut list.

Check before using the estimate

Check kerf, usable stock and all required cut placements before using any plan for purchasing.

All dimensions, product properties, prices and specifications in this example are illustrative arithmetic inputs. Use the values from your measured plan, selected product data sheet and supplier quote. This guide does not choose construction specifications or certify safety.

Calculation and scope checked 2026-10-04. Methods and scope.