One of the biggest hurdles for new apparel brands is navigating Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs). Factories require MOQs because setting up a production line (cutting, printing, sewing) for a very small number of items is not financially viable.
Negotiating MOQs
If a factory quotes an MOQ of 500 pieces, ask if that can be split across different sizes or colors within the same style. Many factories are willing to accommodate 100 pieces per color, provided the core fabric and pattern remain the same.
Beware of "Zero MOQ" Promises
Factories offering zero or extremely low MOQs (e.g., 5 pieces) are almost always middlemen or drop-shippers using pre-made, low-quality blanks. True custom OEM manufacturing requires reasonable MOQs.
Bays Sports specializes in helping startups by offering flexible, low MOQs without compromising on custom manufacturing quality.