MOQ stands for minimum order quantity: the smallest order a manufacturer will accept. It is often the first hurdle for a new brand. Understanding where it comes from makes it easier to negotiate.
Why factories set an MOQ
Most of the minimum comes from fabric. Mills dye and knit fabric in batches, and a factory has to buy at least one batch per colour. Setting up a production line, making patterns and printing screens also cost the same whether you order 100 pieces or 1,000.
What changes the MOQ
- Custom-dyed colours raise it; stock colours lower it
- Special fabrics raise it; common fabrics lower it
- Every extra colour or style is its own minimum
- Printing and embroidery can have separate minimums
How smaller buyers can work with it
You can often reduce the minimum by simplifying the order.
- Use fewer colours across more sizes
- Choose a fabric the factory already runs
- Share one fabric across several styles
- Accept a higher price per piece for a smaller run
Ask for it per product
MOQ is not one number for a whole factory. It differs by product, fabric and decoration. Give your supplier the details and ask what is possible for that specific item. We confirm quantities product by product for exactly this reason.
