Understanding MOQ: How to Place Smaller Orders from Chinese Factories

MOQ — minimum order quantity — is the first number every new buyer negotiates over. It exists because factories must cover setup costs, mould changes and production line time for each run.

Why MOQ Exists

Switching a production line costs time and material. A factory selling 200 units where the MOQ is 1,000 would lose money on every run, so the MOQ protects both sides from quality issues caused by rushed micro-batches.

Five Ways to Order Smaller

1. Choose the supplier's stock designs instead of custom moulds. 2. Mix several items into one shipment to reach the value threshold. 3. Accept neutral packaging. 4. Order off-season, when lines are free. 5. Start with a sample-paid trial order and build trust before scaling.