MOQ — minimum order quantity — is the single biggest barrier new clothing brands face when trying to source overseas. Here's what it actually means, why it exists, and practical ways to work with it.
What Is MOQ?
MOQ is the smallest quantity a manufacturer will produce per style, per colour, or per order — whichever the factory specifies. It exists because production involves fixed setup costs: threading machines for a specific fabric, preparing print screens, cutting patterns, and running a production line all cost roughly the same whether you order 50 pieces or 5,000.
Why MOQs Vary So Much
A basic t-shirt might have a 50-piece MOQ because the setup is simple. A tailored jacket with lining, hardware, and multiple fabric panels might require 100+ pieces because the setup cost per unit only becomes worthwhile at higher volume.
Typical MOQs by Category
Printed apparel and t-shirts often start at 50 pieces per design. Formal shirts, jackets, and denim typically start at 100 pieces per style due to more complex construction. Kids' wear generally sits around 100 pieces per style as well.
How to Negotiate a Lower MOQ
- Combine styles, not colours. Some suppliers will lower the per-colour MOQ if you commit to a higher total order across a style. - Choose from existing base styles. Private label and white label options use patterns the factory already produces, cutting the effective MOQ. - Be flexible on fabric. Sourcing fabric the mill already stocks (rather than a custom dye lot) removes one of the biggest MOQ drivers. - Build a relationship first. Suppliers are often willing to lower MOQ for repeat buyers once trust is established.
The Sourcing Partner Advantage
A sourcing company with existing relationships across dozens of factories can match your order to the supplier whose existing production plan and MOQ threshold already fits your volume — something you can't easily discover cold-contacting factories yourself.
Need a low-MOQ manufacturer for your first order? Request a Quote — OSD Apparels starts at 50 pieces per style across most categories.