Sourcing

    MOQ explained

    Minimum Order Quantity

    The smallest quantity a factory will run; below it you get no quote or a setup surcharge.

    Full definition

    MOQ is the first filter Chinese factories apply to new buyers. Typical ranges: injection molding 1,000–5,000 pcs, metal stamping 500–2,000 pcs, apparel around 300 pcs per color. Sample MOQs (5–20 pcs) are negotiated separately, and production MOQ is almost always tied to tooling amortization — so negotiate both in the same conversation.

    Worked examples

    • MOQ 3,000 pcs (no quote below)
    • MOQ 1,000 pcs; 500 pcs accepted with 30% setup fee

    Related terms

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