Quick answer
Do not record “MOQ 20” by itself. Ask whether 20 applies to the whole product, each color, each size, a carton, a packaging option or the complete order. Then write the intended variant mix as separate rows.
Separate the five common quantity scopes
| Scope | What it controls | Question to resolve |
|---|---|---|
| Sample | A trial quantity, sometimes under different price or packaging terms. | Does the sample represent the production specification? |
| Product | Total units of one product code across allowed options. | Can sizes or colors be mixed inside the total? |
| Variant | Units required for each color, size, model or material. | Which option fields create a separate minimum? |
| Carton | Pack count or case configuration. | Must the carton be full and can variants share it? |
| Order | Minimum value, units, weight or cartons across the request. | Can different product codes contribute to the threshold? |
Write the intended mix before asking whether it is allowed
“Mixed sizes and colors” hides the quantities that matter. Use one row per exact option so the response can confirm, change or reject each row without rewriting the request.
| Code | Color | Size | Requested | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| J-204 | Black | M | 10 | Planned |
| J-204 | Black | L | 10 | Planned |
| J-204 | Stone | M | 10 | Planned |
If the product minimum is 30 but the variant minimum is 20, this three-row plan does not satisfy the variant rule even though the total reaches 30.
Do not confuse a lower minimum with a lower commitment
A low unit minimum can still create a high total cost when packaging, samples, required variant mixes, carton rounding or shipping are included. Compare the full usable quantity and total assumptions, not the minimum number in isolation.
Quantity advantage
The rule fits the mix you genuinely need and does not force unusable options or excess units.
Price advantage
The comparable unit price is lower after matching specification, quantity tier, inclusions and currency.
Ask for the rule in a form you can save
Please confirm the current minimums for product code [code].
My planned mix is [rows by variant].
What minimum applies to the product total, each variant, packaging, carton and complete order?
Can variants be mixed, and what rounding or price-tier change would apply to this exact mix?
Replace every bracketed field and keep the answer beside the dated product record.
Test the reply against the original plan
- Every minimum names the field it controls.
- The allowed mix is written rather than implied.
- Carton rounding and packaging minimums are visible.
- The price tier matches the adjusted total and variant rows.
- Substituted colors, sizes or models remain separate from requested options.
- The answer has a date and responsible source.
Choose one of three decision states
Ready for a comparable quote
The product, variant, carton and order rules all fit the written mix.
Clarify one constraint
One minimum, mixing rule, carton count or tier can still change the total.
Remove the candidate
The required mix creates excess stock, contradicts the page or cannot be stated clearly.
Carry the quantity rule into every later comparison
Keep the confirmed mix attached to the size chart, price basis, packaging record and shipping quote. If the quantity changes, earlier answers may no longer apply. Recalculate the comparison rather than editing only the total cell.
