Our ready-stock items start from 1 piece, while custom printed silk scarf orders start from 50 pieces. MOQ means minimum order quantity: the smallest production run accepted for a design, size, fabric and finishing specification. Knowing what sits behind that number helps you plan a first order that is commercially sensible.
Why silk scarf factories set an MOQ
Every order requires artwork checking, color preparation, fabric allocation, printing setup, cutting, hemming, inspection and packing. Many of these steps take almost the same preparation time whether the run contains twenty pieces or two hundred. An MOQ spreads that fixed work across enough units to make production viable while keeping the process controlled.
What can change the minimum
- Printing method: digital printing is often more flexible for small runs, while screen printing has more color-by-color setup.
- Fabric availability: a standard stocked silk may support a lower minimum than a custom construction or unusual weight.
- Size and shape: efficient cutting plans can reduce waste; irregular shapes may require more material.
- Finishing: hand-rolled hems, custom labels and special packaging add separate production steps.
- Number of designs: an order split across several artworks is usually treated differently from one repeated design.
MOQ per design versus total quantity
Ask whether the quoted minimum applies to each artwork, each colorway or the total order. A factory may accept 200 pieces in total but still require a minimum number per design because every artwork needs its own setup and color approval. State the exact split you want when requesting a quotation.
A clear quantity breakdown prevents a low headline MOQ from becoming a surprise after artwork is submitted.
How to plan a smaller launch
Keep the first collection focused. One versatile size, one proven silk and one or two strong designs are easier to sample, merchandise and reorder than a wide assortment of tiny quantities. Standard labels and packaging can also protect the budget while the market response is still being tested.
When a higher quantity makes sense
Unit cost generally improves as fixed setup is distributed across more pieces. A larger run may be worthwhile when you have confirmed demand, a scheduled campaign or several retail locations. Balance the saving against inventory risk, storage space and the possibility of changing your design after launch.
Information to include in your MOQ request
Send the scarf dimensions, preferred silk, printing method if known, artwork count, quantity per design, hem type, label requirement, packaging and delivery country. A complete brief lets the factory confirm a meaningful minimum instead of offering a number based on assumptions.
Ready stock can be ordered from 1 piece. Custom scarf production starts from 50 pieces; the design split and full specification should be stated clearly in the quotation.