Understanding MOQ: What to Expect from Chinese Lingerie Suppliers
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- 来源：CN Lingerie Hub
So, you're thinking about launching your own lingerie line or expanding your current fashion brand with sultry new pieces? Awesome. But here’s the real tea: if you’re sourcing from China — and let’s be real, most of us are — you’ve gotta get cozy with one acronym fast: MOQ, or Minimum Order Quantity. It can make or break your launch budget, inventory flow, and even your profit margins.
Chinese lingerie suppliers are known for their craftsmanship, speed, and cost-efficiency. But they also tend to play hardball when it comes to MOQs. Why? Because factories in places like Guangzhou and Shenzhen run on volume. Small orders don’t always make financial sense for them — which means you need to strategize smart.
Let’s break it down with real numbers. Based on 2023 industry data from Alibaba and Global Sources, here's what you can typically expect:
| Supplier Type | Avg. MOQ (Pieces) | Price per Unit (USD) | Customization Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Large Factory | 500–1,000+ | $2.50–$6.00 | Medium to High |
| Mid-Size Manufacturer | 200–500 | $4.00–$8.00 | High |
| Trading Company | 50–200 | $6.00–$10.00 | Low to Medium |
| OEM/ODM Specialist | 300–600 | $5.00–$12.00 | Very High |
Notice a pattern? The lower the MOQ, the higher the per-unit cost. Trading companies often act as middlemen, offering flexibility for startups — but you pay for that convenience. Meanwhile, big factories want bulk, but reward you with rock-bottom prices if you can commit.
Here’s a pro tip: negotiate based on total order value, not just unit count. Some suppliers will drop their MOQ if your total spend hits $3,000–$5,000. Others may allow mixed styles or colors to meet the quantity — meaning you can order 200 bras and 300 panties to hit that 500-piece threshold.
Want to test the waters without overcommitting? Look for suppliers offering sample batches. Many charge $50–$150 for custom samples, which can later be deducted from your first bulk order. This is golden for fitting checks, fabric quality tests, and photo shoots.
And don’t sleep on certifications. Reputable Chinese lingerie suppliers often have OEKO-TEX, BSCI, or ISO standards — a sign they meet international safety and labor requirements. Ask for proof upfront; it saves headaches later.
In short: MOQ isn’t just a number. It’s a negotiation tool, a cash flow challenge, and a gateway to quality production. Do your homework, start small if needed, and build relationships. Because in the world of intimate apparel, trust and consistency sell just as much as lace and silk.