Many businesses choose China for clothing manufacturers. This is why the country serves as the largest clothing manufacturer in the world. So, if you’re planning or thinking about starting a clothing brand for yourself, researching manufacturers with low MOQs is the first step to take.

Finding a manufacturer in China with low MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities) isn’t just about the price — it’s about building a real partnership. It’s like dating before marriage: you need to make sure they’re reliable, can meet your quality standards, communicate well, and align with your brand values.

You’re trusting them with your business’s future. So take your time, ask the right questions, and don’t be afraid to walk away if it doesn’t feel right. The right manufacturer isn’t just a vendor — they’re part of your brand’s foundation.

What is Minimum Order Quantities 

Minimum Order Quantities, or MOQs, refer to the smallest amount of product that a supplier is willing to let you order. Understanding MOQs can help your business with inventory management, production costs, and pricing strategies.

Not having to order 1000s of pieces gives you an insight into what your customers like and don’t like, without you having to spend a bunch of money.

Finding a factory that will work with a low initial order amount helps you balance efficiency and profitability while ensuring you can meet your demand without incurring losses.

The Alibaba website has many options. This is what I use to connect with factories. This platform gives you all the details about manufacturers, minimum orders, prices, and reviews from other businesses.

Factories can be deceiving on Alibaba. They will often display a low MOQ and cheap prices just to get your attention. However, once you contact them and start giving them the details of the design, the price and MOQ will increase dramatically. This can be frustrating and waste a lot of time!

After introducing yourself, the first question should always be, “What is the lowest MOQ you accept?” If you already know your MOQ is 100 pieces, start by asking if they can accommodate that quantity. If they say NO, thank them for their time and move on.

Some factories will ask for more details before they give you their MOQ, and this is fine. Just be sure to give them as many details as you can.

Here are some important details to keep handy when searching for a factory in China:

● The fabric type you want

● The GSM of the fabric

● How many pieces are you looking to order

● What sizes do you need

● Photos of the design(s)

● Details about special packaging, hang tags, barcodes, and custom labels

● A tech pack is always handy if you have one

● If you want a custom print on the fabric, make sure you have an Ai or PDF file ready. But I do not recommend giving your files upfront. Take a screenshot of it and send it to them. Don’t give anyone your raw files until you speak to a manufacturer who has met all of your qualifications!

● The address where you want your bulk order to be shipped.

1. What type of clothing do they specialize in? If you are looking for baby clothing, you wouldn’t go to a factory whose main product is women’s clothing, and vice versa! By researching their Alibaba profile, you can get a good idea of what their main products are.

2. Can they ship your bulk order DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)? This is the only way I ship my bulk orders to the USA! I found it to be the cheapest way as far as taxes/duties! And you don’t have to worry about getting a high tax bill from DHL, UPS, or FedEx!

3. Estimated shipping cost to your location

4. What is their production time frame

5. What are their sample fees

6. Ask them to show you photos of clothing they have made for other clients

To find China clothing manufacturers with low MOQs, you need to start with company profiles and reviews. On Alibaba, once you find a factory that you want to work with, order a sample! Never place an order without a sample. The more details and photos you can provide the manufacturer, the better chance you will have of getting a good sample.

You can also ship them a sample. If you have a sample of a design you want to make, ship it to them. By having a physical sample, it is absolutely the best way to get the most accurate sample. If you don’t have a sample to ship them, try buying an identical sample from Amazon, eBay, local clothing stores, thrift shops, or Poshmark, and then ship them that sample!

By getting a sample, you can assess the quality they offer.

Negotiating Time!

 As I mentioned earlier, let your first question be “What is the lowest MOQ you accept?”. This will save you a lot of time and headaches.

Some important points to keep in mind during the negotiation process are:

● Show your value, emphasizing yourself as a long-term customer.

● High-quality fabrics, pockets, zippers, and custom printing will increase the price. If you are not trying to create a high-end luxury brand, let them know you are fine with using mid-grade fabrics.

● Make sure you request photos and videos of your sample before they ship it to you.

● Put all of your details and requirements in writing and make sure they agree to them. This will make it easier to get a refund from Alibaba if they make a mistake on your sample or bulk order.

● Ask them if they are willing to remake your order if they make a mistake. This is very important!

After the sample process starts, communicate regularly with the manufacturer. Check in often, not just when issues arise. Oftentimes, the manufacturer will say the sample process takes 7-10 days, but in my experience, it always takes longer. Don’t be alarmed if your sample is not ready to ship on the date they initially promised.

Build your Clothing Brand with Buffie!

Finding manufacturers with low MOQs requires time, patience, and effort. You can pay someone to do it for you, or you can do it yourself. It’s not difficult, but it is time-consuming! Remember, China is 12-15 hours ahead of the USA. You will need to be up late at night talking with manufacturers.

With The Threads Scientist, we can help you find apparel factories with low MOQs in China or simply bring your fashion ideas to life. Whether you’re just getting started or improving your existing brand, we can offer the support to help you succeed.

“At this very moment, you are going through the same exact things that I was going through when I was starting my company. The only difference is you have me and I had no one.” – Buffie