Short version: MOQ = the smallest order a factory will produce. For activewear, expect ~100 pieces per style per colorway for stock styles + your logo, and ~300 for full custom. Much higher minimums are built for big brands, not startups.
What is MOQ?
MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) is the smallest quantity a manufacturer will produce in one order. It exists because setting up a production line, fabric and trims has fixed costs — below a certain quantity, the factory loses money.
Per style vs per colorway
This trips up everyone. A "100 MOQ" usually means per style per colorway. So 1 legging style in 3 colors = 300 pieces total (100 each). Some factories also set a fabric MOQ (e.g. 500 pcs per custom color) because they must order a roll of dyed fabric.
What's a realistic activewear MOQ?
- Stock styles + your logo: ~100 pcs/style/color.
- Full custom (your tech pack): ~300 pcs/style/color.
- Custom Pantone color: sometimes ~500 pcs/color (fabric dyeing minimum).
How to start small (and smart)
- Launch 2–4 hero styles, not a big range — keep total units low.
- Start with fewer colorways; add colors once they sell.
- Use stock styles + your branding for your first drop, then go custom.
- Avoid factories with 1,000–5,000 minimums — they're not built for you. See why brands switch.
Why low MOQ matters for new brands
A low MOQ means you can test a style without gambling on thousands of units of dead stock. That's the whole point of working with a low-MOQ factory: prove demand small, then scale the winners.
FAQ
What is a good MOQ for activewear?
Around 100 pieces per style per colorway for stock styles with your logo, and about 300 for full custom development.
Does MOQ mean total order or per style?
Usually per style per colorway. One style in three colors at 100 MOQ means 300 pieces total.