# Article 6: Minimum Order Quantities for Custom Plush
- **Title:** Minimum Order Quantities for Custom Plush: What to Expect
- **Slug:** minimum-order-quantity-custom-plush
- **Meta title:** MOQ for Custom Plush | What to Expect From Manufacturers
- **Meta description:** Understanding minimum order quantities (MOQ) for custom plush toys. How MOQs work, how to plan your first order, and what manufacturers like Popinker can offer.
## H2 structure
1. What Is MOQ and Why It Exists
2. Typical MOQ Ranges for Plush
3. How to Plan Your First Order
4. Samples and Small Runs
5. Talking to Your Manufacturer About MOQ
## Internal link suggestions
- Link to `/pages/how-popinker-works` (process and options).
- Link to `/pages/toy-development-process` (order and timeline).
- Link to article 3 (choosing a manufacturer).
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## Body (draft)
When you order custom plush, manufacturers often set a minimum order quantity (MOQ). Understanding how MOQs work helps you plan budgets and timelines.
### What Is MOQ and Why It Exists
MOQ is the smallest number of units a manufacturer will produce for a single order. It exists because setup—patterns, cutting, assembly lines—has a cost that is spread across the run. Smaller runs mean higher cost per unit; MOQs help manufacturers operate efficiently while still offering custom work.
### Typical MOQ Ranges for Plush
MOQs vary by manufacturer and product complexity. Some accept a few hundred pieces per design; others require thousands. Simple shapes and fewer SKUs often have lower MOQs. Popinker and similar specialists can often work with brands on modest volumes; it’s worth asking what they can do for your specific design.
### How to Plan Your First Order
Use your sales or distribution plan to estimate how many units you need. If MOQ is higher than your first order, consider combining with a second design, splitting with a partner, or planning a phased launch. Your manufacturer can explain options such as smaller first runs or flexible scheduling.
### Samples and Small Runs
Sampling is usually separate from production MOQ: you pay for samples to approve design and quality before committing to the full run. Some manufacturers offer small “trial” runs after sampling; ask if that’s available if you need to test the market with a limited quantity.
### Talking to Your Manufacturer About MOQ
When comparing manufacturers, ask for MOQ by product type and size. Explain your goals (e.g. test run, event, ongoing line) so they can suggest the best approach. For more on how one manufacturer structures orders and timelines, see [how Popinker works](/pages/how-popinker-works) and the [toy development process](/pages/toy-development-process).
