Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) are one of the biggest challenges for new fashion brands.
An MOQ is the minimum number of units a manufacturer requires for production manufacturing. Every factory has there MOQ and it’s important that you know this before proceeding.
These quantities for fashion manufacturing vary depending on:
- Factory
- Factory location
- Fabric
- Garment type
- Customisation requirements
Why do factories have MOQs?
Fashion garment manufacturing involves set-up costs and this is why there is a MOQ. Some of these costs include:
- Fabric ordering
- Machine preparation
- Cutting
- Labour allocation
Smaller quantities are less efficient for garment manufacturing factories. It is basically not worth it for them to produce smaller numbers of garments and this is why there are MOQs.
MOQ Examples
MOQs may apply to:
- Total production quantity
- Individual styles
- Colours
- Fabric orders
For example:
- 150 units per style
- 30 units per colour
- Minimum fabric meterage
Why MOQs matter?
MOQs impact:
- Startup budgets
- Inventory levels
- Cash flow
- Product variety
Understanding these requirements early helps fashion brands plan more effectively.
Can you manufacture small quantities?
At KJ Production House, we cater to those that prefer smaller quantities, small batch production, start-up friendly quantities and local sampling runs… even customised garments; however it comes at a higher per unit price.
Balancing risk and cost
Larger quantities reduce unit costs but increase inventory risk. Smaller quantities reduce risk but raise production pricing. Finding the right balance is important. KJ Production House will talk through this with you before you can make your educated decision on which way you would like to proceed.
Final thoughts
MOQs are a standard part of fashion manufacturing. Understanding what the Minimum Order Quantity for your fashion brand needs to be will determine where and how you manufacture your garments.