For new and growing fashion brands, Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) can be a major hurdle when working with manufacturers. Some factories require hundreds or even thousands of units per style, while smaller brands may only need 50 to 100 pieces to test the market.

Understanding MOQs is essential for budgeting, inventory planning, and supplier negotiations. This guide will explain what determines MOQ, how to negotiate better terms, and the pros and cons of ordering high or low quantities for your production runs.

What is a Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)?

MOQ refers to the minimum number of units a manufacturer requires per order. This can apply to:

• Garment production (e.g., 300 pieces per style per color)

• Fabric orders (e.g., 500 meters per fabric roll)

• Trims and accessories (e.g., 1,000 buttons or zippers)

  
  

MOQs vary based on factory size, materials, production complexity, and location. While large-scale manufacturers prefer high MOQs for efficiency, smaller factories or local workshops may offer more flexibility.

What Determines MOQ? Key Factors to Consider

1. Fabric & Material Sourcing

Fabrics, trims, and hardware have their own supplier MOQs that factories must meet.

• Custom fabrics require higher MOQs (e.g., mills may have a 1,000-meter minimum).

• Stock fabrics offer lower MOQs (e.g., some suppliers sell as little as 10-50 meters).

• Specialty trims, custom labels, and unique dyes may require bulk orders.

2. Production Complexity & Labor Costs

• Basic t-shirts and hoodies have lower MOQs since they use common materials and simple construction.

• Highly detailed garments (e.g., tailored suits, beaded dresses) require higher MOQs due to longer labor time and intricate craftsmanship.

3. Factory Size & Business Model

Larger factories optimize for mass production and may refuse small orders, while smaller manufacturers or CMT (Cut, Make, Trim) workshops cater to low-volume brands.

• High-volume factories (MOQs: 500-2,000 units per style) – Ideal for scaling brands.

• Mid-sized manufacturers (MOQs: 100-500 units per style) – Suitable for emerging brands.

• Small workshops & CMT manufacturers (MOQs: 10-100 units per style) – Best for testing new designs.

  
  

4. Print & Dye Customization

Custom prints and dyed fabrics often require higher MOQs due to setup costs and minimum dye batch sizes.

• Screen printing requires separate screens for each color, increasing cost for small orders.

• Sublimation and digital printing offer lower MOQs, making them ideal for small-batch production.

5. Brand’s Order History & Relationship with the Factory

New brands often face higher MOQs because manufacturers prioritize repeat customers. As your order volume increases over time, you may negotiate lower MOQs based on loyalty and consistent demand.

Pros & Cons of Ordering High vs. Low MOQs

High MOQ: Pros & Cons

Pros Cons Lower cost per unit – Bulk orders reduce production costs. Higher upfront investment – Requires more capital. Easier to negotiate better pricing & priority production Risk of overstocking & unsold inventory More fabric and trim options – Access to custom textiles & specialty trims. Difficult for small brands to manage cash flow

Low MOQ: Pros & Cons

Pros Cons Less financial risk – Easier for small brands to test new designs. Higher cost per unit – Factories charge more for smaller runs. More flexibility for limited-edition collections Fewer fabric and trim options – Limited to available stock fabrics. Reduces excess inventory & waste Difficult to secure factory priority

How to Negotiate Lower MOQs with Manufacturers

If a manufacturer’s MOQ is too high for your brand, use these strategies to negotiate better terms:

1. Order Fewer Styles, More Colors

Instead of ordering five different designs with low quantities, produce fewer styles but more color variations to meet the MOQ while maintaining variety in your collection.

2. Use Stock Fabrics Instead of Custom Textiles

Fabrics from a manufacturer’s stock inventory often have lower MOQs, while custom-milled textiles require large production runs.

3. Offer a Long-Term Partnership

Factories are more willing to lower MOQ requirements for brands that demonstrate growth potential and repeat business.

• Discuss your future production plans with the factory.

• Commit to placing multiple orders throughout the year instead of a one-time bulk order.

4. Negotiate for a Sample Order First

Some manufacturers waive or lower MOQs for first-time sample runs. Use this as an opportunity to test their quality before committing to larger production.

5. Work with a CMT Manufacturer

CMT factories allow brands to source their own fabrics and trims, lowering overall MOQs while maintaining control over material selection.

How KOBO PLM Helps Brands Manage MOQ Challenges

A PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) system like KOBO streamlines supplier communication and MOQ management by:

1. Centralizing Supplier Data & MOQ Requirements

• Track MOQ requirements by supplier, fabric type, and trim material.

• Store previous order history to use as leverage in negotiations.

2. Automating Order Volume Planning

• KOBO calculates the best MOQ strategy based on sales forecasts and past order trends.

• Helps brands decide when to increase or decrease production volumes.

3. Reducing Waste & Overstock Risks

• Tracks inventory levels to prevent over-ordering and excess stock.

• Links fabric orders to projected garment production, optimizing material use.

4. Streamlining Communication with Manufacturers

• Stores email and chat history related to MOQ negotiations.

• Ensures faster approvals for adjusted order quantities.

Conclusion

Understanding Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) is essential for making smart production decisions. Whether you are a small brand testing new designs or a scaling business negotiating bulk orders, knowing how to manage MOQ requirements, reduce costs, and optimize inventory will help improve your fashion brand’s long-term success.

Next Steps:

• Download our MOQ Negotiation Checklist for fashion brands.

• Explore KOBO PLM and see how it helps manage supplier MOQ requirements.

• Book a consultation to improve your production strategy.