Low MOQ activewear & swimwear factory, China custom fitnesswear and swimwear manufacturer, small batch production, minimum order quantity, OEM sportswear supplier.
Introduction: Why MOQ Matters for Activewear & Swimwear Brands
If you’re searching for a China 100 MOQ activewear factory or a Vietnam low MOQ swimwear manufacturer, understanding the logic behind Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) helps you make smarter production decisions and build flexible partnerships.
MOQ isn’t about factories demanding large orders — it’s about production efficiency, fabric sourcing, machine setup, and quality control.
For new or growing brands, learning how MOQ works is key to reducing waste, controlling cost, and creating a sustainable supply chain.
What Is MOQ and Why Do Factories Set It?
MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) means the smallest quantity a factory will produce per style, color, or fabric.
Every production run has unavoidable fixed costs:
- Fabric purchase or custom dyeing
- Machine setup and calibration
- Cutting, sewing, trimming
- Quality inspection and packaging
If the order is too small, these costs can’t be shared across enough pieces — meaning the factory operates at a loss.
For both activewear (leggings, sports bras, joggers) and swimwear (bikinis, one-pieces, boardshorts), the standard MOQ of 100 pieces per style ensures consistent quality and efficient production.
5 Key Factors That Determine MOQ
- Fabric Supply and Dyeing Requirements: Performance fabrics (nylon-spandex, polyester-spandex) are supplied in 60–80 meter rolls — enough for ~100 sets. Choosing stock fabrics can reduce MOQ and shorten lead time.
- Print Setup and Color Matching: Print machines require color calibration and setup. Whether you print 50 or 500 pieces, setup cost is fixed.
- Machine & Labor Efficiency: Switching between thread colors and stitch types takes time. Smaller orders mean higher per-piece cost.
- Quality Control and Certification: BSCI, OEKO-TEX, SGS, and GRS certifications involve annual fees. MOQ helps distribute these costs fairly.
- Packaging & Shipping Efficiency: Hangtags, cartons, and export paperwork have supplier minimums. Bulk runs reduce per-piece shipping cost.
Typical MOQ Ranges in the Industry
| Product Type | Typical MOQ per Style | Notes |
| Yoga Leggings | 100 pcs | Standard activewear MOQ |
| Sports Bras | 100 pcs | Fabric efficiency optimized |
| Joggers / Hoodies | 100 pcs | Slightly higher due to volume |
| Bikini Sets | 100 pcs | Balanced cost and yield |
| One-Piece Swimsuits | 100 pcs | More lining required |
| Boardshorts / Men’s Trunks | 200 pcs | Outer fabric consumption higher |
| Jackets | 300 pcs | Higher due to complexity |
Combine similar products in the same fabric batch to meet MOQ efficiently.
7 Proven Strategies to Achieve Flexible MOQ and Partnership
(From MOQ Discount to Strategic Partnership)
MOQ negotiation isn’t just about price — it’s about trust, professionalism, and cooperation.
Key Strategies
- Use stock fabrics and core colors.
- Combine multiple styles under one fabric roll.
- Offer deposits or repeat order commitments.
- Join shared production runs with other small brands.
- Negotiate total MOQ across styles (e.g., 400 pcs = 4 styles × 100 pcs).
- Build long-term relationships — loyal clients enjoy more flexibility.
- Present a Brand Introduction Pack (brand story, market, forecast).
Factories support reliable, growth-oriented brands. Presenting your roadmap builds confidence and long-term trust.
Case Study: Why 100 Pieces Is the Ideal MOQ
Most OEM factories agree that 100 pcs per style strikes the best balance between cost, efficiency, and flexibility.
| Quantity | Unit Cost (USD) | Lead Time | Fabric Utilization |
| 50 pcs | $20–30 | 20 days | High Waste |
| 100 pcs | $10–20 | 15 days | Balanced |
| 300 pcs | $5–15 | 15 days | Most Efficient |
✅ At 100 pcs, both activewear and swimwear brands achieve scalable production without overstock risk.
Sustainable Materials and MOQ Challenges
Sustainable fabrics like Econyl® or Repreve® require higher MOQ (500 pcs) due to dye-lot minimums.
Treat this not as a cost, but as part of your brand’s eco-responsibility.
“Higher MOQ = Lower waste + Stronger sustainability commitment.”
Eco-conscious buyers in Europe and North America value transparency and traceable materials.
FAQs — MOQ for Activewear & Swimwear Production
Q1. How much does a 100-piece run cost?
A: Around $4–$20 per piece, depending on fabric and design complexity.
Q2. Can I mix sizes within 100 pcs?
A: Yes, MOQ applies per style and color — you can mix sizes freely .
Q3. Can I combine styles in one production batch?
A: Yes, as long as they share the same fabric base.
Q4. What’s the MOQ for recycled fabrics?
A: Usually 150–200 pcs per style/color for sustainable fibers.
Q5. Do you offer samples before bulk?
A: Yes, pre-production samples (1–3 sets) are available for approval.
Final Thoughts: MOQ Is Not a Barrier — It’s a Growth Strategy
MOQ isn’t your enemy — it’s your foundation for professional, repeatable production.
It helps brands plan smarter, optimize budgets, and build trusted OEM partnerships.
For both new and established brands, 100 pcs per style provides the perfect balance of cost control and flexibility.
Ready to scale your brand?
Partner with Quanzhou Vista Clothing Co., Ltd., a professional OEM factory offering 100-piece MOQ activewear & swimwear solutions, trusted by global brands for quality, efficiency, and sustainable manufacturing.
