Low MOQ clothing manufactures are often hidden by the global giants who are listed on the first page of Google search results. As you would already know, this makes them are incredibly hard to find. Additionally, often the main blockage to starting a clothing label is the infamous minimum bulk orders of 1000 pieces we all know too well. This can be extremely disheartening for first time designers who just need clothing manufacturers for small orders.

However, textile operations who see value in new designers and labels do exist. You can breath easy.
These smaller clothing manufacturers with small quantity orders capability are genuinely interested in working with new designer talent.

Boutique factories usually value keeping the main thing – creating fashion as a form of art and expression. This is because they are built on the foundation of clothing as a platform. One that celebrates and promotes both creativity and innovation. As opposed to fast fashion where under cutting the market is prevalent. 

If you are a designer with a talent bigger than your first order, you should stick around. In this article, we will answer all of your questions regarding clothing manufacturers for small orders.

Why do many clothing manufacturers require such a high MOQ?

To find a clothing supplier that you trust, that is ethical and can provide you with low quantity minimums is a diamond in the rough. 
Firstly, clothing manufacturers for small orders are rare because fabric is at its cheapest when it is fresh off the weave and in bulk. We are talking around 300-600kg. It is common to make fabric to order for brand giants with a huge capital behind them. 

However, some fabric manufacturers still produce their own designs and staple fabrics. Although, they are not interested in selling portions of their fabric. This is because they do not want to be left with awkward amounts of meters and colors. It is best for them to sell the entire roll all at once.

Often the next buyer of the fabric puts an additional margin on the fabric and sells it again, in smaller quantities. This supply chain can happen a number of times. Consequently, markets, Western countries and online stores end up with the highest prices. Even tripling the starting meter price.

Clothing manufacturers with a low MOQ either require you to supply fabric or a good manufacturer has a connection with the second in line on the fabric supply chain. Therefore, they have the ability to keep costs low. 

If you would like to learn everything there is to know, please read this extensive guide on clothing manufacturers. Let’s continue.

Does pattern making have anything to do with high MOQ?

The answer is simple. Yes. Time is money. 
The pattern maker is one of the highest paid staff members. Drawing up your pattern in multiple sizes takes time. You must know that.

Manufacturers are able to cover costs patterning and cutting fabric when quantities are high. Put simply, it is not worth their time and money to manufacture an extremely low quantity such as 10 items. Essentially, the clothing manufacturer with a low MOQ would lose money by processing these small orders.

They must cover their outlays including wages, rent, electricity, marketing etc. This is why they prefer bigger orders. Don’t worry, you gain more insight into the industry during the manufacturing process. You’ll see for yourself.

Who will make a low MOQ for my new brand?

Where do you find a clothing manufacturer with low minimum order? Do your research and price up local suppliers and factories abroad. Or you can use our research on the following clothing manufacturers for small orders.

Yoke Apparel Manufacturing in Central Vietnam prides themselves on offering a high quality, full service packages for small batch clothing lines. Their minimum order quantities start at 50 pieces with the intention of making quality clothing possible for small business.

In addition they are also as a social enterprise. Whilst employing disadvantaged members of the community, Yoke’s highly qualified manager runs a tight ship. Together they produce top-notch clothing ordered from Western designers. Yoke is a custom clothing manufacture with a low MOQ because they aim to empower brave entrepreneurs and fashion artists.

How do I know I can trust them?

There are 3 ways you can investigate a clothing manufacturer with a low MOQ;
Firstly, if a factory wants your business they will allow you to order a sample of the design you have envisaged. That way you can make any tweaks and check the workmanship and fabric quality. Although sampling is quite expensive, it is worth it for your higher priced items. 

Secondly, to get a well-rounded idea of your supplier, you have their socials to jump over and see what they are all about. Their Facebook and Instagram should give you a sneak peak of the factory floor and the people you are entrusting your brand with. 

Leaving the best for last, how about visiting the factory? Manufacturers with no skeletons in the closet should be open to a client seeing where their money is going. For instance, Yoke have their doors open to clients. You can be one, too.

Why is manufacturing timely?

From the moment you submit your enquiry to the day you receive your product, can vary between weeks and months.
When your order is simple – you can save time, obviously. For example, ordering T-shirts using the supplier’s fabric.

However, your wait time increases when you are manufacturing items that are unique and contain particular embellishments. When you add extras such as draw strings, sequins, and zippers. Those may require extra sourcing time. You must take that into consideration if you’re in a rush.

Once the manufacturer believes they have found the fabric or embellishments, they can gain purchase approval from the client. The manufacturer can then proceed with organizing freight to the factory.

Following this, sampling takes place. The product is then sent to the client and finally manufacturing the order happens. You have the entire process here.

Clothing manufacturers with low MOQ do not usually have an extended waiting list- so that’s definitely a bonus! 

Clothing Manufacturer Low MOQ conclusions

Definitely do not give up your brilliant idea to start your own clothing label. You can do it.

Sure you will need to be persistent sifting through the factories, wait for emails and sample products. But the rewards are huge! If it was easy, everyone would be doing it.

Although it may be a struggle finding a clothing manufacturer with low minimum order quantities. The goods news is, small operations are out there for you. Your label still has the chance to hit the shelves. You must let the world experience your innovative designs. You got this.

In conclusion if you still feel like you still need to know more, check out this informative guide on how to start a clothing line.

If you have more questions, feel free to leave comments below.