1. What does MOQ (minimum order) mean?

MOQ stands for Minimum Order Quantity: the minimum number that a studio wants to produce per model, per color, or per size set.

Studios apply MOQs because:

• starting up costs time and personnel
• machines need to be adjusted
• planning becomes more efficient with larger quantities
• small quantities are often more expensive per piece

For beginners, this can sometimes be frustrating, but it is part of every form of garment production.

2. Production options: Netherlands, Europe, or Asia?

You can have your clothing line produced in three categories: locally in the Netherlands, within Europe, or outside Europe in low-wage countries. Each has its advantages and disadvantages.

1 - Production in the Netherlands

• low MOQ possible (25–50 pieces)
• short lines, direct contact with the workshop
• better control over quality
• sustainable choice due to less transport and better labor standards
• higher labor costs per hour

2 - Production in Europe (e.g. Portugal)

• good price-quality ratio
• specialists in jersey, knitwear, denim, etc.
• MOQ usually 100–300 pieces per model
• longer transport and longer lead time

3 - Production outside Europe

• very low unit price
• but high MOQ (300–1000+)
• risk of errors that you do not discover or discover late
• higher impact on the environment and longer delivery time
• many risks for emerging brands (inventory, cash flow, miscommunication)

For 95% of startups, production in the Netherlands or Europe is the most logical.

3. When does low MOQ work (and when doesn't it)?

Low MOQ works especially if your collection is compact and smartly structured.

Low MOQ works well for:

• capsule collections of 3–7 models
• few colors
• basic shapes that require little post-processing
• upcycled or deadstock projects

Low MOQ works less well for:

• complex designs with many panels or detailing
• knit + complex finishes
• items with prints per size/color
• collections with many variants

4. What are realistic MOQs per category?

Indications for Dutch ateliers:

• T-shirts / sweaters / hoodies: 25–50 pieces per style
• Pants / skirts: 20–40 pieces
• Jackets: 20–30 pieces
• Accessories: 25–100 pieces

In our studio, we work with similar minimums, depending on material and construction.

5. How low MOQ works at Atelier Jungles

In our sewing studio in The Hague, we help starting and growing brands with production that fits their phase and budget. We specialize in:

• low MOQ for clothing lines and pilot collections
• upcycling, deadstock projects, and small series
• transparent communication and clear planning
• full support from design to production

Everything is made locally, with sustainable materials and short communication lines. Check our page about clothing production in the Netherlands.

6. Checklist for production with low MOQ

• Your collection contains a maximum of 3–7 models.
• You use 1–2 colors per model.
• You have clear patterns and samples made.
• You know your selling price and margin per style.
• You have realistic delivery times and budget.

Do you meet this? Then production in the Netherlands is a very strong choice.