If you’re launching a clothing line or testing a new style, you might not want to commit to thousands of units. That’s where low MOQ manufacturers come in.
A low MOQ manufacturer allows you to produce smaller quantities of garments—usually between 30 and 300 pieces—helping you reduce risk, manage cash flow, and grow step-by-step.
Let’s explore what low MOQ really means, why it matters, and how to find the right partner for your fashion business.
What is considered a low moq?
Suppliers often advertise "low MOQ," but the definition varies by industry and product. So, what’s considered low in apparel?
A low MOQ in clothing manufacturing usually refers to an order quantity of 30 to 300 units per style, color, or design.
Why does “low” depend on context?
For a mass production factory making 100,000 shirts a month, 500 units might seem like a tiny order. But for a startup brand, even 100 units can feel like a lot.
In most fashion categories, here’s how low MOQs1 are generally understood:
| Product Type | Low MOQ Range |
|---|---|
| T-shirts | 50–100 pcs |
| Hoodies | 80–200 pcs |
| Dresses | 100–300 pcs |
| Activewear sets | 100–250 pcs |
| Children’s wear | 50–150 pcs |
These quantities allow for manageable inventory2, testing product-market fit3, and easier logistics for new or growing brands.
What does moq mean in manufacturing?
MOQ is a common term in any manufacturing conversation—but what exactly does it mean?
In manufacturing, MOQ stands for Minimum Order Quantity. It’s the smallest number of units a supplier will produce per order to make the job cost-effective.
Why do manufacturers set MOQs?
Even small production runs require:
- Material sourcing
- Machine setup
- Labor planning
- Packaging preparation
These fixed costs4 don’t change whether you’re producing 50 or 5,000 pieces. Setting a MOQ helps manufacturers cover those costs and avoid unprofitable jobs.
Here’s how MOQ benefits both sides:
| Role | Benefit of MOQ |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Keeps production efficient |
| Buyer | Gets access to factory resources |
That said, many small-batch manufacturers5 are adjusting to market demand by offering lower MOQs—especially for startup clients.
Why is MOQ so high?
If you’ve been turned away by factories for small orders, you might wonder—why do they require such large minimums?
MOQs are high because factories must cover material costs, setup labor, and machine time—regardless of order size. High-volume runs allow them to price each unit affordably.
What drives MOQ up?
Several factors increase the minimum order requirement6:
- Fabric sourcing rules: Some suppliers only sell fabric by the roll (e.g., 100 meters minimum).
- Dyeing and printing setup: Setting up screens or machines for one color or pattern costs time and money.
- Pattern development: Every size variation may require different cuts.
- Logistics planning: Shipping and customs paperwork are easier for large batches.
If a supplier says their MOQ is 1,000 pieces, it’s often because:
- Their machines are built for large-scale runs
- Their raw material vendors require bulk purchases
- They aim to serve wholesale or fast fashion clients
How to deal with high MOQ as a small brand?
- Ask for leftover fabric options
- Offer to pay more per unit
- Start with a simple, single-color design
- Use ready patterns instead of custom styles
- Work with a small-batch manufacturer7
Factories like these are more willing to work with lower quantities if you show long-term potential.
What is the minimum quantity in wholesale?
Buying wholesale is different from custom manufacturing—but it still involves quantity rules. So, what’s the minimum?
In wholesale, the minimum quantity usually refers to the smallest number of finished goods you can buy directly from stock—typically ranging from 10 to 100 units per SKU.
How is wholesale MOQ different from manufacturing MOQ?
| Feature | Wholesale MOQ8 | Manufacturing MOQ |
|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Ready-made goods | Custom-made garments |
| MOQ Range | 10–100 pcs | 100–1,000 pcs |
| Design Control | No customization9 | Full customization |
| Lead Time | 3–7 days (in stock) | 4–8 weeks (production) |
Wholesale is great for:
- Testing new markets
- Launching quickly
- Building your brand around existing styles
But if you want custom tags, sizing, or designs, you’ll need a manufacturer—and that’s when MOQ becomes more important.
Can wholesale MOQs be negotiated?
Yes. Many wholesalers allow mixed orders (e.g., 5 styles × 20 pcs each). Just ask if their MOQ is per SKU, per order, or per color. Being clear helps avoid miscommunication.
Conclusion
A low MOQ manufacturer is the ideal partner for small brands, startups, or fashion entrepreneurs looking to test designs and reduce risk. Whether you’re buying wholesale or placing your first custom order, understanding MOQ puts you in control of your production strategy.
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Understanding low MOQs can help brands manage inventory and production effectively, especially for startups. ↩
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Exploring strategies for manageable inventory can enhance efficiency and reduce costs for fashion brands. ↩
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Learning about product-market fit is crucial for brands to ensure their products meet customer needs and succeed in the market. ↩
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Exploring fixed costs can provide insights into pricing strategies and production efficiency in manufacturing. ↩
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Discover the benefits of small-batch manufacturing, especially for startups looking for flexibility and lower risk. ↩
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Understanding the factors that drive minimum order requirements can help you negotiate better terms with suppliers. ↩
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Exploring small-batch manufacturing can provide insights into how to manage lower quantities effectively and maintain quality. ↩
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Understanding Wholesale MOQ can help you make informed purchasing decisions and optimize your inventory management. ↩
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Exploring the impact of customization on MOQ can guide your product development strategy and enhance your offerings. ↩
