What is minimum order quantity (MOQ)?

Minimum order quantity (MOQ) is the smallest quantity of a product that a supplier allows a customer to purchase in a single order. MOQs are common in B2B eCommerce, wholesale, manufacturing, and distribution because suppliers often need to sell products in economically practical quantities.

For example, a manufacturer might set an MOQ of 100 units for a particular product. A buyer wanting only 50 units would need to increase the order to at least 100 units to purchase it.

MOQs can be based on:

• Number of units: Minimum 100 pieces.
• Order value: Minimum purchase of ₹25,000.
• Weight or volume: Minimum 500 kg.
• Product variant: Minimum quantity for a particular size, color, or specification.
• Customer or contract: Different customers may have different negotiated MOQs.

MOQs help suppliers reduce production, packaging, handling, and shipping costs and make bulk B2B transactions more efficient. They can also be combined with volume pricing, product bundles, and customer-specific catalogs.

In an eCommerce system, the MOQ should be clearly displayed and enforced during ordering so buyers understand the minimum quantity before completing their purchase.