Methodology of volumetric error identification is presented to improve the accuracy of NC machine tools by using a reference artifact and a touch trigger probe. Homogeneous transformation matrix and kinematic chain are used for modeling the geometric and thermal errors of a three-axis vertical machining center. The reference artifact is designed and fabricated to identify the model parameters by machine tool metrology. Parameters in the error model are able to be identified and updated by direct measurement of the reference artifact on the machine tool under the actual conditions which include the thermal interactions of error sources. The proposed method can speed up and simplify volumetric error identification processes.