Why minimums exist
An MOQ is rarely arbitrary. It usually reflects the smallest quantity at which the factory’s fixed costs — and its suppliers’ minimums — make sense.
| Driver | Why it creates a minimum |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Mills knit or weave and dye in lots; custom colors and constructions have their own minimums. |
| Dye lots | Each dye batch has a practical minimum size, and colors can vary slightly between lots. |
| Line setup | Markers, cutting, machine setup and operator learning time are similar for 100 or 1,000 pieces. |
| Trims | Custom labels, zippers, buttons and packaging are often sold in minimum quantities. |
| Decoration | Screens, embroidery digitizing and strike-offs are one-off costs per design. |
Per style, color or size?
Always ask how an MOQ is counted. “100 pieces” might mean per style, per color of a style, or even per size. Most knit programs quote per style per color with sizes split freely — but confirm, because it changes your order dramatically.
How to launch with small runs
- Use stock fabrics and colors — avoids mill minimums for custom dyeing.
- Launch fewer colorways — two strong colors at a healthy quantity beat five thin ones.
- Share one fabric across styles — a hoodie and jogger in the same terry pool fabric volume.
- Simplify trims — stock zippers and printed neck labels instead of custom hardware at first.
- Accept a small-run surcharge — sometimes paying more per piece is cheaper than holding excess stock.
- Plan the re-order — telling the factory your expected follow-up volume makes a small first order more attractive.
Negotiating tips
- Ask which component actually drives the minimum — fabric, trims or decoration — and solve that one.
- Be transparent about your launch plan and realistic volumes.
- Offer flexibility on timing, so the factory can fit your run between larger orders.
- Compare total landed cost, not just unit price.
NOVAFAB
Many of our knit styles start from 100 pieces per color. (Placeholder figure — replace with your real policy.)
Planning a small first run?
Tell us your styles, colors and quantities — we’ll suggest the most efficient setup.
Ask about MOQ
