Introduction

For aspiring men’s underwear brand owners, high minimum order quantities (MOQs) can be a major obstacle. Traditional men’s underwear factories often require thousands of units per style, which is a big risk for entrepreneurs just starting out.

Fortunately, more  men’s underwear manufacturers are now open to low MOQ private label orders, allowing small-scale brands to test the waters. But is this model truly reliable? What should you be aware of? And how can you get started? Let’s break it all down.

What Is Private Labeling? What Does Low MOQ Mean?

• OEM/ODM: You provide the men’s underwear brand and design, the factory handles production.
• MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity): The smallest number of items you must order, typically 1,000 units/style.
• Low MOQ: Factories accepting orders as low as 100–300 units with limited customization men underwear .

Real custom underwear production(custom waistband, packaging, materials):
– Factories with real capability usually require MOQ of 1,000 units.
– Per color/size often starts at 300–500 pcs (one roll of fabric).

Below this, you’re usually selecting from the factory’s stock:
– Limited to in-house styles.
– Waistbands can only support heat-transfer or printed logos, not woven or jacquard.

Why Low MOQ Works for Startups

1.Lower capital risk – you can start with just a few hundred pieces.

2. Small-batch testing – ideal for market testing and collecting feedback.

3.Faster to market – skip long development phases.

4. Sample production time is around 10–30 days depending on design complexity.

Potential Risks and What to Watch Out For

| Higher cost per unit | Prices are much higher than bulk men’s underwear production. |
| Limited materials/design | Complex customization not feasible. |
| Weaker quality control | Small orders often scheduled during factory’s downtime. |
| Less factory support | Less profitable for factories, so support is often minimal. |

⚠️ Many low-MOQ men’s underwear factories are average in production capacity and quality. Their goods might not match brand expectations, and customer complaints may rise.

If you’re an influencer just starting, it’s better to source locally and validate your sales ability.
Once your brand gains traction, start with 1,000+ pieces per style. This ensures better quality, lower cost, and improved factory cooperation.

How to Start Private Labeling with Small Batches

1.Clarify your brand position – trendy, comfort-focused, or eco-friendly?

2.Choose the right supplier – one who communicates well and has real experience.

3.Confirm sample timing and cost – usually 10–30 days, $50–$150 per sample.

4.Start with 1–2 core SKUs – avoid too many variations at first.

5.Test via platforms like Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, or Shopify.

6.Prepare for after-sales – low MOQ means risk of product inconsistency.

Small Orders ≠ Cheap Orders

Some high-end men’s underwear factories do accept small batches during their low season.
– But expect prices to be 50%–200% higher than large orders.
– Every cost is averaged out over fewer pieces (fabric, labor, logistics).
– Factories may not be enthusiastic since it’s unprofitable for them.

So even if accepted, they may not allocate their best resources. Know what you’re getting into.

Conclusion

Low MOQ private labeling is a valid way for new entrepreneurs to test the waters, but it’s not without trade-offs.

✅ Start with ready-made items or samples.
✅ As your brand matures, aim for 1,000+ unit custom men’s underwear orders to achieve consistency, cost efficiency, and quality.

It’s not a shortcut – it’s a learning path.