Why MOQs exist
A minimum order quantity is not arrogance — it is the point where a production run covers its setup cost. Understanding which cost drives the MOQ tells you which lever to pull.
The seven tactics
- Pay a setup surcharge — offer to cover the machine setup fee on a smaller run.
- Take stock colors or materials — custom inputs force custom minimums.
- Split across SKUs — 300 units of three designs beats 900 of one.
- Commit to a repeat order — a signed follow-up PO lowers the first MOQ.
- Group with another buyer — pooled orders share the run.
- Accept a higher unit price — a 10–15% premium often halves the MOQ.
- Start with a trial via the platform — many Prebro suppliers accept sample orders that convert to bulk terms.
What usually works
:::chart Success rate of MOQ tactics (buyer reports)
Higher unit price | 72
Repeat-order commitment | 64
Stock materials | 58
Setup surcharge | 51
Grouped orders | 37
:::
What not to do
- Don''t ask for the MOQ at the MOQ price — pick one concession.
- Don''t disappear after they agree — small buyers who reorder become big buyers.
> An MOQ is a cost problem, not a relationship problem. Solve the cost and the number moves.
Negotiate with a record
On Prebro, negotiation happens inside the deal room with every counter-offer saved — so the MOQ, price, and terms you agreed are the ones that appear in the contract.