What is the Minimum Order Quantity for Screen Printing?

At Stitch 99, we understand that every print project is unique, and so is the question of minimum order quantities (MOQs) for screen printing. If you’re considering London Screen Printing for your next batch of custom apparel or merchandise, you might be wondering what the minimum order quantity is and why it matters. Let's delve into the details to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)

The minimum order quantity refers to the smallest number of items that you need to order for a screen printing job. This is a crucial factor to consider when planning your project, as it affects both the cost and the feasibility of your print run.

Factors Influencing MOQ

1. Setup Costs: Screen printing involves creating a unique stencil, or screen, for each colour in your design. These screens come with setup costs that can be quite substantial. To cover these costs and make the job economically viable, printers often set a minimum order quantity. The larger the order, the more cost-effective the process becomes, which is why MOQs can be higher for smaller runs.

2. Design Complexity: Simple designs may have a lower MOQ compared to intricate, multi-colour designs. The complexity of the design impacts the time and effort needed to create the screens and set up the printing process.

3. Print Size and Placement: Larger prints or multiple print locations on a garment can increase setup time and material costs. As a result, the MOQ might be higher to accommodate these factors.

4. Material and Colour Choices: The type of fabric and the number of colours in your design can also influence the MOQ. Certain materials may require special inks or printing techniques, which can affect the minimum order requirements.

Typical Minimum Order Quantities

While MOQs can vary between printing companies, a general guideline is that screen printing usually has a minimum order quantity of 10 to 20 items. This allows for the cost of screen creation and setup to be distributed across a reasonable number of products. For some designs or special requirements, the MOQ might be higher.

Benefits of Meeting MOQ

1. Cost Efficiency: Ordering at least the minimum quantity helps you benefit from the economies of scale. The more items you print, the lower the cost per item, which can be a significant advantage for bulk orders.

2. Consistent Quality: Screen printing ensures that each item in the batch has a consistent quality and finish. By meeting the MOQ, you ensure that your entire order matches your specifications perfectly.

3. Streamlined Production: Working with MOQs helps streamline the production process, ensuring that each job is handled efficiently and on time.

Conclusion

Understanding the minimum order quantity for screen printing is essential for planning your print projects effectively. At Stitch 99, we’re committed to providing high-quality screen printing services tailored to your needs. Whether you’re looking for a small run of custom t-shirts or a larger batch of branded merchandise, our team is here to help. Contact us to discuss your project, and we’ll provide you with all the information you need to get started.

By knowing the factors that influence MOQ and working with a professional printer, you can ensure that your screen printing project meets your expectations and budget.