I didn't know this when I was in the process of building my CNC metal machine, but I just found out that my local metal supplier can use big shears to cut mild steel plates to almost any size and use big punches to create holes on the plates. With the punches, I do not have to take long hours drilling holes that might not be in the correct spot or other problems. Had I known this, I would not have wasted a lot of time. The price seems to be right. I was quoted $16 for a 12" x 12" x 0.25" with 4 holes (punch and material). For $8, I can get a 6" x 6" x 0.25" with 4 holes (punch and material). I still do my own MIG welding since it cost $58/hour for the metal shop to do it. Their EDM/Plasma cutting machine is $70/hour with a $48 minimum. So EDM and MIG welding cost too much for me.

What other services do metal shops offer. Maybe it is possible for me to just take it to the metal shop and pay them to do it for me. However, the problem is I don't know what kind of services they offer. Any ideas?

Update: I was also told that all punching will warp/bent the part. The one person I spoke with says it will warp it at about 1/32". Is there a way to punch and not warp the part?