Running shoe MOQ, sample time and production lead time explained

Minimum order quantity (MOQ)

MOQ is the smallest order a factory can produce economically. It exists because materials are bought in minimum lengths and colours, cutting dies and lines have to be set up for each style, and outsoles are moulded in size runs.

For customised running shoes, our standard MOQ starts from 300 pairs. Ask how that number applies to colours and sizes: a style ordered in several colourways needs enough pairs in each colour to cover material minimums.

What raises or lowers MOQ

• Existing sole tooling keeps MOQ low. A new outsole or midsole mould needs more volume to justify the tooling.
• Stock materials and colours are easier than custom-dyed mesh or special foam colours.
• Simple branding (printed or heat-transfer logos) adds little; moulded logos on the sole need tooling changes.
• Wide size runs spread the same quantity over more sizes, so plan the size curve early.

Sample development time

A development sample takes about 15 days, depending on the design and the amount of customisation. The clock starts when the brief is complete: reference images, colours, logo files, size for the sample and target cost. Missing information is the most common cause of delay.

Allow time for at least one revision round. Review the sample with a written checklist so that all comments reach the factory in one message.

Bulk production lead time

Bulk production usually takes about 35 days after sample approval and order confirmation. That period covers material purchasing, cutting, stitching, lasting and sole bonding, quality inspection and packing.

Plan backwards from your launch date

Step	Typical time
Brief and quotation	A few days
Sample development	About 15 days
Sample review and revisions	1–3 weeks on the buyer's side
Bulk production	About 35 days
Shipping and customs	Depends on route — ask your forwarder

Add the steps together and count back from the date the shoes must be in your warehouse. Peak periods before major holidays fill production schedules quickly, so confirm orders early.

Payment and terms

We accept PayPal, L/C and T/T. Final prices and timings depend on quantity, materials, colourways, branding and packaging, and are confirmed in the quotation.