Minimitilausmäärä

Minimitilausmäärä, often abbreviated as MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity), refers to the smallest quantity of a product or component that a supplier is willing to sell. This term is commonly encountered in business-to-business transactions, particularly in manufacturing and wholesale. Suppliers establish MOQs for several reasons, primarily to ensure that the cost of production and associated administrative tasks are covered. Producing very small batches can be inefficient and drive up the per-unit cost significantly, making it unprofitable for the supplier.

MOQs can vary widely depending on the product, industry, and supplier. For instance, a custom-manufactured item might have a higher MOQ than a standard, off-the-shelf component. The MOQ is typically determined by factors such as setup costs for machinery, material sourcing, labor, and packaging. For buyers, understanding and negotiating the MOQ is crucial. A high MOQ can be a barrier for smaller businesses or startups that may not have the capital or demand to purchase such large quantities.

Negotiating MOQs can be an important part of the procurement process. Sometimes, suppliers may be willing to lower their MOQ for a slightly higher per-unit price, or for a commitment to future larger orders. Alternatively, buyers might collaborate with other businesses to collectively meet an MOQ, thereby sharing the cost and risk. The concept of MOQ directly impacts inventory management, cash flow, and the ability of businesses to scale their operations.