Why MOQ Exists in Garment Printing

Production Setup Costs

Certain printing methods, such as screen printing, require setup time, screen preparation, and labour before printing begins. These setup costs make very small quantities less economical.

Equipment Efficiency

Commercial printing equipment is designed for batch production. Running extremely small orders can reduce operational efficiency.

Supplier Requirements

Garment manufacturers and textile mills often impose minimum purchase quantities, especially for custom colours or private-label production.

How MOQ Varies by Printing Method

Screen Printing

Screen printing typically has higher MOQs because of screen setup requirements. It is most cost-effective for medium to large runs.

Direct-to-Garment (DTG)

DTG printing often allows low MOQs, including one-off prints, because there is no screen setup involved.

Direct-to-Film (DTF)

DTF transfers can support smaller quantities while still offering flexibility for detailed designs.

Embroidery

Embroidery may have modest MOQs depending on digitising setup and machine time requirements.

MOQ in Different Business Scenarios

Corporate Uniform Programs

Larger uniform rollouts often meet or exceed standard MOQs, making bulk production cost-efficient.

Promotional Campaigns

Event apparel usually involves moderate to high quantities, aligning well with screen printing MOQs.

Retail Merchandise

Retail brands may balance MOQ with inventory forecasting to manage stock levels.

Small Businesses or Start-Ups

Lower MOQ printing methods such as DTG are often preferred when testing new designs.

Benefits of Understanding MOQ

Cost Control

Higher quantities generally reduce per-unit cost. Planning around MOQ helps optimise budgets.

Production Planning

Knowing MOQ requirements allows businesses to forecast demand accurately.

Inventory Management

Aligning order size with actual needs prevents overstock or shortages.

Method Selection

Understanding MOQ helps determine the most suitable printing technique.

Practical Considerations for Australian Businesses

Combine Garment Sizes

MOQ typically applies to total garment quantity, not individual sizes. Businesses can mix sizes within the total order.

Artwork Consistency

MOQs often apply per design. Multiple design variations may require separate minimum quantities.

Budget Alignment

If a required quantity falls below screen printing MOQ, digital methods may offer better value.

Seasonal Planning

For winter items such as jackets or hoodies, planning ahead ensures MOQ thresholds are met without excess inventory.

MOQ vs Cost Per Unit

While larger orders reduce unit pricing, ordering more than needed can increase storage and capital costs.

Australian businesses should balance:

• Per-unit savings
• Storage capacity
• Cash flow
• Expected usage timeline

Strategic planning ensures optimal order quantities.

Common MOQ Ranges in Australia

MOQs vary between providers, but general patterns include:

• Low or no MOQ for DTG printing
• Moderate MOQ for embroidery
• Higher MOQ for screen printing
• High MOQ for mill-direct garment production

Exact numbers depend on production capability and garment type.

MOQ in Professional Garment Printing

Minimum Order Quantity is a fundamental concept in structured apparel production. It ensures operational efficiency while balancing cost and scalability.

For Australian businesses investing in branded uniforms, retail merchandise, or promotional apparel, understanding MOQ supports smarter decision-making. By aligning order volume with production method and long-term needs, organisations can manage cost, maintain brand consistency, and optimise custom garment printing outcomes.