MOQ Tooling And First Order Planning

The Two Numbers That Shape A First Order

The minimum is 3000 pcs per design per item, and not less than US$5,000 per item. Those two constraints together are what decides how wide a first order can be.

Why The Minimum Is Per Item, Not Per Order

Each item is a separate mould set up, a separate colour change and a separate packing line. The cost of starting a run does not fall as the order gets wider, so the minimum is applied per design. The practical consequence is useful: you can put many different items in one container as long as each one clears 3000 pcs.

Building A Sensible First Container

1. Pick six to twelve items rather than two. A narrow first order tells you very little about the market.
2. Mix bulky items with deep nesting items so the container fills on both volume and value.
3. Use existing moulds and existing colours for the first order. Save tooling and custom colour for the repeat.
4. Take the loading figures from the item pages and check the total before asking for prices.
5. Keep decoration simple on the first run. A plain body proves the market; the decal proves the brand later.

When Tooling Is Worth It

A new tool is worth it when the volume is repeatable and the geometry genuinely does not exist. It is not worth it to move a compartment 10mm on a first order. We will tell you which case you are in, and tool lead time and ownership are stated in the tooling quotation before you commit.

Timing

• Production: 30 to 40 days after all details are confirmed, for one 20GP
• Decal plate set up: 10 to 15 days, run in parallel where possible
• Quotation validity: one month from issue
• Payment: set up and sample costs 100% T/T in advance; under US$50,000, 30% deposit with the balance before or after shipment depending on whose forwarder is used