Your budget decides what kind of product, MOQ, and manufacturer you can realistically work with. This guide shows you how to plan costs, work with low MOQ manufacturers, and launch without overstretching your cash.
Typical first order budget ranges
Example ranges only. Actual costs depend on product type, country, and terms.
Most founders jump straight to sourcing without deciding what they can afford. Your budget affects which categories you can enter, whether you can work with low MOQ manufacturers, and how many SKUs you can launch.
Some categories require more capital upfront for tooling, compliance, or minimum orders.
Low MOQ manufacturers offer flexibility but often at higher unit costs.
Your budget determines how many variants you can realistically launch at once.
These three example tiers help you see what's realistic for a first order. All numbers are illustrative.
1–2 SKUs
Simple category like accessories, basic apparel, or home items. Focus on testing demand.
Usually means working with low MOQ manufacturers who accept smaller runs at higher unit prices.
2–5 SKUs
One category with better packaging, more customisation, stronger brand presence.
The sweet spot for many serious new brands.
5+ SKUs
Multi-SKU launch for brand aggregators or well-funded brands.
Best unit economics but requires significant upfront capital.
Your budget decides which categories are realistic. Here are examples to illustrate the trade-offs.
200–500 units/style
Low MOQ manufacturers exist but expect higher unit cost
100–300 units/design
Often most budget-friendly for first-time brands
500–2,000 units/SKU
Requires lab work and compliance
200–1,000 units
Packaging and shipping volume affect total cost
1,000–5,000 units
Low unit cost but higher MOQs due to printing
*Low MOQ manufacturers help you start smaller, but you'll often pay more per unit. Higher MOQs mean lower unit costs but require more upfront cash. A good budget sourcing guide shows where the realistic middle point is.
Ex-factory price is only one part. Your budget needs to cover several cost layers.
Total Landed Cost Breakdown
$5,000
Caps & Tote Bags
Small test launch on ecommerce
Works best with low MOQ manufacturers accepting 100–200 units per design.
$12,000
Cleanser & Moisturiser Set
Launch DTC and test marketplaces
Requires manufacturers that understand your regulatory market.
$8,000
Stackable Storage Boxes
Test on marketplace and social commerce
Basic mould tooling is the main upfront cost.
*Disclaimer: These are rough examples to help you plan. They are not quotes and actual costs may vary based on product specifications, supplier terms, and market conditions.
Budget also shows up in how suppliers quote, structure MOQs, and handle payments.
Work through this guide alone, or let Sourcy handle the heavy work so you can focus on your brand.
From budget to boxes at your warehouse
Find factories open to smaller first orders so you can test demand without overcommitting.
See how sampling, production, QC, and logistics add up to the full landed cost.
We'll tell you when budget doesn't match your product idea and suggest alternatives.
From supplier search to QC and shipping, simplified so you don't have to learn everything at once.
Share your product idea and budget range. We'll recommend realistic options with low MOQ manufacturers where possible so you can launch with confidence.
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