What Is MOQ (and Why It Exists)

MOQ stands for Minimum Order Quantity — the smallest number of units a supplier is willing to produce in one order. It exists because factories need to cover setup costs, raw material purchases, and labor. If an order is too small, it isn’t profitable for them to run production.

How MOQs Affect Brands

For new or small D2C brands, MOQs can feel like a wall. Maybe you only want 100 units, but the supplier asks for 500. High MOQs create risks: excess inventory, tied-up cash, and slower testing of new products. Understanding why suppliers set them helps you negotiate smarter.

Common Factors That Influence MOQs

• Materials & sourcing: Bulk fabric or components require larger runs.

• Production setup: Machines and labor cost the same whether you make 100 or 1,000 units.

• Customization: The more unique your product, the higher the MOQ.

• Supplier size: Larger factories often require higher minimums.

How to Negotiate Lower Minimums

You may not always get the exact MOQ you want, but you can often reduce it with the right approach:

• Start with samples: Prove your seriousness with paid samples.

• Offer higher unit pricing: Suppliers may agree to smaller runs if margins improve.

• Suggest shared orders: Group different colors/sizes under one MOQ.

• Build trust: Suppliers are more flexible once they see repeat orders.

Smart Strategies for Testing Products

If you’re validating a new idea, don’t overcommit. Launch with a smaller batch, even if per-unit costs are higher. The learning you gain is worth the premium. Once the product proves demand, scale up and negotiate better terms.

NovaSupplier Tie-In

On NovaSupplier, brands can filter suppliers by MOQ before starting conversations, so you only talk to factories aligned with your scale. You can also clearly state your MOQ needs in the project brief, helping suppliers propose tailored solutions — including shared MOQ across variants.

Final Takeaway

MOQs aren’t barriers, they’re starting points. The best brands treat them as a negotiation lever, not a deal-breaker. By approaching suppliers with clarity, flexibility, and long-term vision, you can secure manageable minimums — and build stronger relationships along the way.