What decides the MOQ for custom printed bags, what you can do to lower it, and how the sample process runs before mass production.
We prefer to answer this honestly rather than publish a number that only applies to one bag type. What follows is how the calculation works, and how to get the lowest sensible minimum for your product.
| Factor | Raises the MOQ | Lowers the MOQ |
|---|---|---|
| Print colours | Five to eight colours, photographic designs | One to three colours, simple line artwork |
| Bag structure | Custom liners, special valves, reinforcement strips | Standard open-mouth or valve structures |
| Material | Laminated film, imported paper, special gsm | Standard kraft grades we hold regularly |
| Size | New dimensions requiring new forming setup | Dimensions already in production |
| Artwork | Design still being finalised after quotation | Print-ready artwork sent with the enquiry |
| Order mix | Many small sizes in one order | One size, or sizes that share the same material |
Sampling exists so that both sides agree on the bag before a production run is committed. Skipping it is where most first orders go wrong.
Product, fill weight, dimensions, plies or fabric, liner and closure are confirmed in writing, along with the quotation.
We review your artwork against the bag structure and print method, and flag anything that will not reproduce cleanly — for example fine text on a gusset fold.
Printing plates are made for your design. This step is usually the longest part of sampling, which is why artwork readiness matters.
A sample bag is produced on our own equipment so the sample reflects the actual structure, not a hand-made mock-up.
Once you approve the sample, mass production starts, and the first piece of the production run is inspected against the approved sample.
It is set by structure, print colours and material. A standard kraft structure with one or two colours can run much smaller than a laminated bag with photographic print. Tell us your target quantity and we confirm in writing what is achievable.
Sample lead time is confirmed with your quotation and starts once the structure is agreed and artwork is approved. Plate or cylinder preparation is usually the longest step, so print-ready artwork shortens the process.
Sample arrangements, including any sample charge or courier cost, are stated in your quotation so there are no surprises. Tell us at quotation stage if your company requires a free sample before supplier approval.
Two to four colours usually give strong presence without unnecessary setup cost. Photographic designs suit the laminated woven range, where the film carries the print.
Yes, as long as each size meets its own minimum, because every size needs its own forming setup. Combining sizes in one container is common and reduces total freight cost.
Related: multi-wall paper bags · laminated woven bags · paper vs woven bags
Product, size, printing and quantity is enough. You will get a structure recommendation, a quotation and the sample steps in one reply.