Minimum order quantity (MOQ)
also: MOQ · minimum buy
The smallest quantity a supplier will sell or produce in one order; MOQs on parts, packaging and production runs shape early cash needs and unit cost.
Suppliers set MOQs to cover setup costs: a full reel of components, a print run of packaging, a minimum production batch, a minimum material order for a custom color. At low volumes MOQs often force you to buy more than you need, tie up cash in inventory, or pay a premium for smaller lots.
MOQs are often negotiable, especially with a credible growth plan, but every custom item (colored plastic, printed boxes, custom cables, displays) carries its own MOQ, and the largest one tends to set the size of your first run.
Founder takeaway
List the MOQ for every custom part and packaging item before your first order, and use off-the-shelf parts in early versions where MOQs would strand cash.
engineer review pending