MOQ Explained: How to Order Custom Packaging in Small Quantities
"MOQ 500 pieces." For a startup launching its first product, this can sound like a door slamming shut. But Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) is not a brick wall — it is a negotiation starting point. This guide explains why factories set MOQs, which factors influence them, and how to get custom packaging at quantities that work for your business.
What Is MOQ and Why Do Factories Set It?
MOQ is the minimum number of units a factory will produce in a single order. It exists because each production run has fixed setup costs that must be recovered before the factory makes a profit.
What Goes Into Setup Costs
- Die cutting mold: $50-$150 (custom shape for your box)
- Printing plates: $30-$100 per color (CMYK offset printing)
- Foil stamping die: $30-$80 (for metallic logo application)
- Machine setup and calibration: 1-2 hours of production line time
- Material minimums: Paper suppliers have their own MOQs (typically 500-1000 sheets)
Total setup cost for a custom rigid box: $150-$400. This must be amortized across however many units you order. At 100 units, setup adds $1.50-$4.00 per box. At 1,000 units, it adds $0.15-$0.40 per box. This is why larger orders cost less per unit.
MOQ by Box Type at Mili Packaging
| Box Type | MOQ | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Magnetic Gift Box | 100 pcs | Lower material waste, simpler assembly |
| Drawer Slide Box | 100 pcs | Similar production complexity |
| Luxury Gift Box | 100 pcs | Standardized insert options reduce setup |
| Custom Mailer Box | 500 pcs | Printing plate costs amortized |
| Perfume Box | 200 pcs | Insert customization requires setup |
| Watch Display Box | 200 pcs | Multi-material construction |
| Shipping Box | 1000 pcs | Corrugated sheet minimums |
| Paper Bag | 500 pcs | Handle and die-cut setup costs |
7 Strategies to Lower Your Effective MOQ
1. Use Standard Sizes
Custom dimensions require custom die cutting molds. Standard sizes use existing molds, eliminating die costs and lowering MOQ. Browse our standard size options.
2. Order Multiple SKUs Together
If you need 100 boxes each in 3 different colors, order 300 boxes total. The factory counts the production run, not individual SKUs. You meet MOQ and get variety.
3. Start With Simpler Finishing
A matte laminated box with no specialty finishing can have an MOQ of 100. Add gold foil stamping and the MOQ stays at 100, but the setup cost increases. Start simple; add finishing on reorders.
4. Share Die Costs Across Reorders
Once your die mold is made, it is yours. Reorders skip the die setup cost entirely. First order: 100 boxes at $3.50 each. Second order: 100 boxes at $2.80 each (saving the die cost). More cost-saving strategies.
5. Ask About "Sample-Size" Production Runs
Some manufacturers run small batches alongside larger orders of similar specs. If your box is the same size and paper as a 5,000-unit order, they may add your 100 units with minimal additional setup. Always ask.
6. Consolidate Box Types
Instead of ordering 3 different box structures at 100 each, choose one structure and vary the artwork. One die mold, one setup, three designs. You meet the 300-unit MOQ and save significantly.
7. Work With Manufacturers That Specialize in Low MOQ
Some factories only accept 5,000+ unit orders. Mili Packaging specializes in low-to-medium volume runs with MOQs starting at 100 pieces. Get a quote for your quantity.
Need small-quantity custom packaging?
Get a Quote Starting at 100pcsFAQ
Q: Why is MOQ higher for mailer boxes than rigid boxes?
A: Mailer boxes use offset printing plates that cost more to prepare. Rigid boxes can use digital printing for small runs. The plate cost must be spread across more units to be economical.
Q: Can I really order just 100 custom boxes?
A: Yes, for most rigid and magnetic box styles at Mili Packaging. The per-unit cost will be higher than a 1,000-unit order, but it is absolutely possible. We work with startups and small brands every day.
Q: How much more expensive is a 100-unit order vs a 1,000-unit order?
A: Approximately 40-60% more per unit. A box that costs $1.80 at 1,000 units might cost $2.80 at 100 units. The difference is the setup cost per unit, not the material cost.
Q: What happens to my die mold after production?
A: It is stored at our factory and reused for your reorders at no additional cost. Most dies last 50,000-100,000 impressions before needing replacement.