What is MOQ?
MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) is the smallest number of units a manufacturer will produce per order. It is not just an arbitrary number. It is rooted in the actual setup costs of production. For footwear manufacturers, MOQs typically range from 100 pairs for simple styles to 500+ pairs for complex constructions.
Typical MOQ Ranges by Shoe Type
| Shoe Type | Typical MOQ | Complexity |
|---|---|---|
| Slides/Flip-flops | 100-200 pairs | Low |
| Canvas Sneakers | 200-300 pairs | Low-Medium |
| Leather Dress Shoes | 300-500 pairs | High |
| Athletic Shoes | 500-1000 pairs | Very High |
MOQ Negotiation Strategies
Strategy 1: Order Multiple Colorways
Instead of 300 pairs of one color, order 100 pairs each in 3 colors.
Strategy 2: Offer Longer-term Commitment
Commit to a total volume over multiple orders. This gives factory revenue visibility and justifies lower initial MOQs.