MOQ is the single biggest barrier for new beauty brands. This guide explains what drives MOQ, how to negotiate lower quantities, and what SEYE's actual minimums are across different product categories.
What Is MOQ and Why Does It Exist?
MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) is the smallest number of units a manufacturer will produce in a single run. MOQs exist because manufacturing has fixed costs — setup, quality testing, regulatory documentation — that must be spread across enough units to be economically viable.
For cosmetics, MOQ is influenced by:
- Product complexity: Simple creams have lower MOQs than lyophilized ampoules
- Packaging type: Standard packaging = lower MOQ; custom molds = higher MOQ
- Formula type: ODM (stock formula) = lower MOQ; OEM (custom formula) = higher MOQ
- Regulatory market: EU/US compliance documentation adds cost
SEYE's MOQ by Product Category
| Product Category | ODM MOQ | OEM MOQ |
|---|---|---|
| Face Cream / Lotion | 1,000 units | 3,000 units |
| Face Serum / Essence | 1,000 units | 3,000 units |
| Face Mask (sheet) | 2,000 units | 5,000 units |
| Face Cleanser | 1,000 units | 3,000 units |
| Eye Cream / Gel | 1,000 units | 3,000 units |
| Freeze-dried Ampoule | 3,000 sets | 5,000 sets |
| Skincare Set (3-piece) | 500 sets | 1,000 sets |
| Handmade Soap | 500 units | 1,000 units |
Note: MOQs above are per SKU (per formula + packaging combination). Ordering multiple SKUs simultaneously may qualify for volume discounts.
How to Reduce Your MOQ
Strategy 1: Start with ODM
ODM formulas have lower MOQs because the formula is already developed and validated. Launch with ODM, prove your market, then transition to OEM.
Strategy 2: Use Standard Packaging
Custom-molded bottles and jars require tooling fees and higher MOQs. Starting with standard packaging from our existing library can reduce MOQ by 50–70%.
Strategy 3: Order Multiple SKUs Together
Combining orders for multiple products in a single production run can reduce per-SKU MOQ. For example, ordering 3 SKUs at 1,000 units each may qualify for the same pricing as 3,000 units of one SKU.
Strategy 4: Pilot Program
SEYE offers a Pilot Program for new brand partners: 500-unit trial runs with full regulatory documentation, allowing you to test market response before committing to full MOQ.
What's Included in SEYE's MOQ Price
Our quoted price per unit includes:
- Formula and raw materials
- Manufacturing and filling
- Quality control testing (pH, viscosity, microbial)
- Basic packaging (label printing not included)
- Certificate of Analysis (COA)
- Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
Not included (quoted separately):
- Custom packaging tooling
- Stability testing (required for EU/US markets)
- CPSR / PCPC safety assessment
- Regulatory filing fees
Payment Terms
| Order Size | Payment Terms |
|---|---|
| First order (any size) | 50% deposit, 50% before shipment |
| Repeat orders <$10,000 | 30% deposit, 70% before shipment |
| Repeat orders >$10,000 | 30% deposit, 70% net 30 |
| Annual contract | Custom terms available |
Getting Your First Quote
To receive an accurate MOQ and pricing quote, provide:
- Product type and target formula (or select from our ODM catalogue)
- Target market (determines regulatory requirements)
- Packaging preference (standard or custom)
- Annual volume estimate
SEYE Business Team
Key Account Manager
Part of SEYE's expert team with deep expertise in cosmetic formulation, OEM manufacturing, and global regulatory compliance.
