Why an MOQ of 100 Makes Sense for Custom Apparel Orders

When ordering custom apparel, a Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) of 100 might seem like a lot, but it’s actually a smart choice for cost efficiency, size distribution, and inventory management. Here’s why this MOQ is both practical and beneficial for businesses.

1. Optimised Size Distribution (1:2:2:1 Ratio)

One of the biggest challenges in apparel production is ensuring a well-balanced stock across different sizes. The standard 1:2:2:1 size ratio helps with this:

Small (S) – 1 part
Medium (M) – 2 parts
Large (L) – 2 parts
Extra Large (XL) – 1 part

With an MOQ of 100, this ratio ensures that you receive a well-balanced mix of sizes that aligns with common customer demand. Ordering fewer units can result in uneven size availability, which can lead to overstocking certain sizes and shortages in others.

2. Lower Cost Per Unit

Production costs are significantly lower when ordering in bulk. Manufacturing apparel involves fixed setup costs, including fabric sourcing, cutting, printing, and stitching. When you order 100+ units, these costs are spread out, reducing the price per piece.

On the other hand, smaller orders often lead to higher per-unit costs because manufacturers must still meet minimum fabric requirements and cover setup expenses, making the overall pricing less economical.

3. Efficient Stock Management & Lead Times

Custom apparel production typically has a 5-6 week lead time due to material sourcing, production, and quality control. Keeping a reasonable stock ensures that businesses don’t run out of inventory while waiting for replenishment.

With an MOQ of 100, you can:
✅ Avoid stock shortages and backorders
✅ Ensure consistent availability for customers
✅ Reduce the need for frequent reordering

Final Thoughts

While an MOQ of 100 might seem like a big commitment, it actually makes logistical and financial sense. It helps maintain a balanced size distribution, lowers per-unit costs, and ensures steady stock availability—ultimately benefiting both businesses and their customers.

Need custom apparel at the best possible price without compromising on quality? Let’s talk!