Minimum Order Quantities Explained by a Custom Activewear Manufacturer

When starting a sportswear brand, one of the first questions entrepreneurs ask is: “How many pieces do I need to order?” Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) are a critical factor in custom activewear manufacturing. Understanding MOQs can help you plan your budget, production schedule, and brand growth strategy. In this article, we’ll explain MOQs, the factors influencing them, and how small brands can work with manufacturers like ohsurewear to meet their production needs efficiently.

What Are Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs)?

Definition of MOQ

Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) refers to the smallest number of units a manufacturer is willing to produce in a single order. For custom activewear, MOQs ensure that the production process is cost-effective, covering materials, labor, and machine setup.

Why MOQs Exist

MOQs exist primarily to maintain profitability and efficiency in production. Fabric costs, cutting templates, labor hours, and machine setups all contribute to the minimum order a factory can handle. By setting MOQs, manufacturers like ohsurewear can provide competitive pricing while maintaining high-quality standards.

Common MOQ Ranges in the Activewear Industry

• Leggings: 100–300 pcs per style

• Sports bras: 50–200 pcs per design

• Tank tops: 100–250 pcs per style

• Jackets/Hoodies: 50–150 pcs per design

These numbers may vary depending on customization, material, and manufacturer policies.

Factors That Influence MOQs

Fabric and Material Requirements

Expensive or rare fabrics can increase MOQs. For example, moisture-wicking, anti-odor, or high-stretch fabrics may require a minimum of 100–200 pieces to justify the production cost.

Production Complexity

Complex designs with multiple panels, stitching techniques, or detailed prints often require higher MOQs. Simpler designs can usually be produced in smaller quantities, offering flexibility for small brands.

Customization Level

Custom logos, labels, and prints can impact MOQ. Factories like ohsurewear specialize in low-MOQ production with full OEM/ODM services, allowing brands to order smaller batches without compromising quality or design.

How MOQs Affect Small and New Brands

Budget Considerations

High MOQs can significantly impact the initial investment required to launch a brand. Small brands need to consider production costs, inventory storage, and marketing budgets when planning their first order.

Risk Management

Ordering too many items can lead to unsold inventory, while ordering too few may not meet market demand. MOQs help balance production efficiency with inventory risk.

Strategies to Manage MOQs

• Negotiate smaller batches with manufacturers.

• Use pre-orders to confirm demand before production.

• Partner with factories like ohsurewear, which offer low MOQ, fast turnaround, and customizable activewear solutions.

Comparing MOQs Across Manufacturers

OEM vs ODM vs Private Label

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing): You provide the design and tech pack; the factory produces it. MOQ depends on fabric and complexity.

ODM (Original Design Manufacturing): Factory provides design concepts that you can brand. MOQs may be slightly higher due to design development costs.

Private Label: Pre-designed products branded for your company; MOQs can vary widely, often lower than custom production.

Example Table of MOQs by Product Type
Product Type	Typical MOQ	Notes
Leggings	100-300 pcs	Depends on fabric and print complexity
Sports Bras	100-300 pcs	Low MOQ possible with simple designs
Tank Tops	100-250 pcs	Basic designs allow smaller batches
Jackets/Hoodies	150 pcs	Fabric cost and cutting process impact MOQ
Accessories (Caps)	200-500 pcs	Produced in bulk for cost efficiency

Sample Content

Tips for Working with Manufacturers on MOQs

Clear Communication

Always share your business plan, target quantity, and design requirements. Clear communication ensures the manufacturer can provide accurate MOQ recommendations.

Negotiation and Flexibility

Some manufacturers are willing to adjust MOQs for long-term partners or first-time clients. Highlighting your growth plan can help negotiate smaller initial orders.

Planning for Growth

Use MOQ strategically. Start with a smaller batch to test the market and gradually scale up with your manufacturer as demand grows. Working with ohsurewear allows brands to benefit from low MOQ production without sacrificing quality or delivery speed.

Conclusion

Understanding MOQs is essential for any activewear brand planning production. By knowing how minimum order quantities work, what factors influence them, and how to manage them effectively, brands can launch with confidence, control costs, and scale efficiently. Partnering with a reliable manufacturer like ohsurewear, which offers OEM/ODM services, low MOQ, and fast delivery, ensures your brand can grow smoothly from concept to market.