"MOQ" sounds like factory jargon, but it decides whether your boutique can even start. Minimum Order Quantity is the smallest order a manufacturer will accept — and for a new boutique, it is the difference between testing three styles and being forced to bet your whole budget on one.
What is actually inside an MOQ?
An MOQ can be calculated per style, per color, or per color-and-size combination. The last one is the dangerous one: "MOQ 100 pieces" might really mean 100 pieces per size, which is 600+ pieces for a full size run. Always ask the supplier to state it plainly: how many pieces per style, and can sizes and colors be mixed?
Why low-MOQ suppliers are worth more than they cost
A factory that accepts small orders is not being generous — it is betting that your first order becomes your tenth. That bet is good for you in four ways:
- You test real demand. A 10-piece order tells you what actually sells before you commit to volume.
- You learn the supplier. Quality, communication and delivery are all on show in miniature.
- You keep cash flexible. Money not locked in dead inventory funds your next best-seller.
- You reorder fast. Low-MOQ suppliers are built for restocking, which is how successful boutiques actually buy.
At Glory, stock styles start from just 2 pieces per style, so a first order of six styles costs less than a single night of ad spend — and tells you far more.
The hidden costs to watch for
| Cost | What to ask |
|---|---|
| Sample fee | Is it refundable against the bulk order? |
| Mold / pattern fee | One-time, or per order? (Usually one-time for custom designs) |
| Packaging | Standard poly bag included? Hang tags and custom boxes extra? |
| Shipping | FOB or DDP? Get the incoterm in writing. |
How to start: the 3-style test
Don't open with one style — open with three in different price points. A good starter basket for lingerie: one entry-price bestseller like a lace camisole babydoll, one mid-price set like a lace patchwork two-piece set, and one statement piece. Run them for 60 days, then reorder the winner and rotate in two new styles. This cadence builds a catalog that sells instead of a warehouse that doesn't.
Frequently asked questions
Is there really no minimum order?
Very few factories offer true zero-MOQ. At Glory, MOQ is 2 pieces per stock style — effectively sample-scale ordering, but at wholesale prices. Custom designs have MOQs based on fabric and trims.
Can I mix styles in one order?
Yes — stock styles can be combined freely, which is how small boutiques build a 10–20 style catalog in their first order.
Do low-MOQ orders cost more per piece?
Yes, unit price is higher than container-volume pricing, but for a new boutique the flexibility is worth more than the difference. As your volume grows, prices step down.
How fast can I reorder?
For stock styles with fabric in house, production is typically 10–15 days after confirmation. We'll give you an exact date per order.
Start with a 3-style test order
Tell us your market and budget — we'll suggest a starter basket within your numbers.
Plan My First Order See All Styles