Fabric MOQ: Minimum Order Quantities Explained
KCK.Fabric's typical MOQ is 500–2,000 linear metres per colourway. MOQ exists because yarn dyeing, weaving set-up, finishing runs and colour matching all carry fixed setup costs per batch. If you are testing a market, sample yardage and mixed-colour runs let you start below the full MOQ. This guide explains how MOQ works and how to start small.
1. What is a fabric MOQ?
MOQ (minimum order quantity) is the smallest number of linear metres a mill will produce of one fabric in one colourway per batch. It is not arbitrary — every batch has fixed setup costs: yarn dyeing, warp preparation, loom set-up, finishing runs and colour matching. The MOQ spreads those costs across enough metres to keep the per-metre price viable for both buyer and mill.
2. KCK.Fabric's MOQ policy
| Order type | Typical MOQ | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First order (per colourway) | 500–2,000 linear metres | Depends on fabric base and finish |
| Reorder | Lower than first order | Confirmed per fabric |
| Sample yardage | 5–50 m per colour | Headless samples / lab dips at sample pricing |
| Mixed-colour run | Base-fabric level | Combines several colours toward the MOQ |
MOQ applies per colourway. Multiple products of the same base fabric can share the base-fabric MOQ; different bases in one mixed order should each meet a practical minimum.
3. Starting below the MOQ: three options
- Sample yardage — order 5–50 m per colour to verify colour, hand-feel, GSM and finish before committing. This is the lowest-risk first step and every serious buyer should do it.
- Mixed-colour run — combine several colourways of one base fabric toward the MOQ. You test more of the range in one production run, and the mill schedules one batch for all of them.
- Repeat-order commitment — agree a quarterly or annual metreage in writing; mills reward committed buyers with better MOQ and pricing.
4. How MOQ affects price and lead time
- Below MOQ — possible but with a higher per-metre price or standard-colour options; sample yardage is always priced separately
- At MOQ — standard pricing applies; ODM colourways on existing bases run 30–45 days
- Custom OEM — 45–70 days including lab dips and development; MOQ still applies per base
Meeting the MOQ lets the mill schedule your batch without interrupting other orders — that predictability is what keeps lead times short.
5. Questions to ask any supplier about MOQ
- Is MOQ per fabric base or per colourway?
- Can I combine colours of one base toward the MOQ?
- What is the reorder MOQ after the first order?
- Is sample yardage credited toward the first order?
- Does the MOQ change with custom widths or finishes?
Write the answers into your contract — MOQ clarity prevents most first-order disputes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the MOQ for KCK.Fabric?
KCK.Fabric's typical MOQ is 500–2,000 linear metres per colourway, depending on the fabric and finishing. Reorder MOQ is usually lower. Contact us with your target fabric and quantities for an exact figure.
Why do fabric mills have a minimum order quantity?
Yarn dyeing, weaving set-up, finishing runs and colour matching all have fixed setup costs per batch. The MOQ spreads those costs across metres, keeping the per-metre price viable for both sides.
Can I order below the MOQ to test the market?
Yes. Options include sample yardage (5–50 m per colour at sample pricing) or a mixed-colour run that combines several colours toward the MOQ. Both are common for first orders.
Can I negotiate the MOQ?
Sometimes — with trade-offs. A lower MOQ usually means a higher per-metre price or standard-fabric-only options. Committing to a larger order or a repeat-order agreement gives you the best MOQ and price.
Does MOQ apply per fabric or per colour?
Usually per colourway. Multiple products of the same base fabric can share the base-fabric MOQ. Mixing different bases is possible but each base should meet a practical minimum.
How does MOQ affect lead time?
MOQ and lead time are linked: ODM colourways on existing bases run 30–45 days, custom OEM development 45–70 days. Meeting the MOQ lets the mill schedule your batch without interrupting other orders.
Planning your first (or next) order?
Send your target fabrics and metreage — get the exact MOQ, sample options and lead time in one quote.
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