Custom packaging MOQ explained: why 300, 500 or 3,000 pieces?
You’ve found a supplier you like, then the quote says MOQ 3,000. Elsewhere you see “no minimum”. Why such a gap — and what should a growing brand actually expect?
What MOQ really reflects
Every custom box has a set-up cost: preparing the print, making a cutting die, making a foil plate, adjusting machines, and checking the first pieces. That cost is the same whether you order 300 or 10,000 boxes. A minimum order spreads it across enough units to make the price per box sensible.
Other factors:
- Structure. Rigid boxes are wrapped by hand and need more set-up than a printed carton.
- Material. Specialty papers are bought in larger sheets or rolls.
- Print method. Large offset runs suit big quantities; small runs need different handling.
- Business model. “No minimum” sellers usually sell ready-made stock boxes or print digitally on standard sizes — fast, but with a higher unit price, fewer finishes and no custom size.
Typical MOQs by box type
| Box type | MOQ at Silk Packaging | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Simple printed folding cartons | From 300 pcs | Flat printing and cutting, quick set-up |
| Folding cartons with foil, emboss or special finishes | From 500 pcs | Extra plates and processes per design |
| Mailer boxes and paper bags | From 500 pcs | Custom size, print and finish |
| Display boxes | From 500 pcs | Custom structure and print |
| Rigid, magnetic and collapsible boxes | From 500 pcs | Hand-wrapped board, per-design set-up |
Every box we make is custom — there are no ready-made stock boxes. Many factories in China start at 1,000–3,000 pcs because they are set up for very large runs. We start at 300–500 pcs because many of our clients are growing beauty, fragrance and apparel brands that want their own packaging before they reach those volumes.
How to keep your first order economical
- One hero size first. Launch with one size in a custom finish, then add sizes as you grow.
- Folding cartons instead of rigid. A well-printed carton with foil or emboss can look premium at a fraction of the cost and ships flat.
- Collapsible instead of fixed rigid. If you need the rigid feel, a collapsible rigid box saves a lot on freight.
- One finish, done well. A single foil logo on a good paper costs less than several effects — and often looks better.
MOQ vs unit price
Higher quantities lower the price per box because the set-up cost is spread across more units. When you request a quote, ask for two or three quantity tiers (for example 500, 1,000 and 3,000) so you can see where the price drops.
Get a quote at your quantity
Tell us what you’re packaging and how many you need. Jin will reply within 24 hours with the options that make sense at your volume. Get a quote.
FAQ
What is the lowest minimum at Silk Packaging?
300 pcs for simple printed folding cartons. Rigid, magnetic and finished boxes, mailer boxes, paper bags and display boxes start from 500 pcs per design.
Do you sell ready-made stock boxes?
No. Every box is custom-made for your brand — your size, paper, print and finish.
Why are rigid and magnetic boxes from 500 pcs?
They are made from board that is cut and wrapped by hand, with set-up for each design and size. Below 500 pcs the set-up time makes the unit price unreasonably high.
Can I order several sizes to reach the minimum?
Each size or design has its own minimum, because each needs its own set-up. Tell us your full range and we’ll suggest the most economical mix.
Ready to price your box? All we need is your product size.