Is low MOQ custom pet food packaging really possible?

Many small pet food brands want customized packaging, but big MOQs hold them back. I once thought it was impossible unless you order 50,000 bags. But is that still true?

Yes, low MOQ custom pet food packaging¹ is possible. Digital printing, simple materials, and supplier negotiation² can reduce the MOQ to 500–1000 pieces.

I once helped a client launch with just 800 pouches. We found a supplier who accepted digital print and flexible design. It worked. That’s when I knew it is possible — but not without trade-offs.

At IMIPAK. We can accept MOQ 1pcs for your small business starup. What we want is long-term cooperation, but not one or two times

What does “low MOQ” mean in custom packaging?

Low MOQ means small businesses can still build their brand identity without ordering tens of thousands of bags.

Low MOQ usually refers to orders between 500 to 3,000 units for custom-printed bags, depending on features and printing method³.

Dive Deeper

H3: Factors that define MOQ

• Bag style: Flat pouches often have lower MOQ than gusset or quad-seal bags.
• Material choice: Common films like PET/PE are easier to source in small quantities.
• Printing method: Digital printing doesn’t require printing plates, so MOQ can be 500 pcs. Gravure printing usually starts at 5,000 pcs.

H3: Examples of typical MOQs

H3: Supplier mindset matters

Some suppliers focus on large-scale B2B orders. Others serve startups. I learned to ask early: “What’s your MOQ for digital print?” That single question often saves weeks.

What are the trade-offs when MOQ is low?

Low MOQ helps brands start lean, but it comes with some compromises.

When you order small quantities, the unit price goes up, options are fewer, and lead times may be longer.

Dive Deeper

H3: Higher unit costs

Setup costs like design, lamination, and shipping don't change. At low volumes, those fixed costs increase your price per pouch.

H3: Fewer material or feature options

Special features — foil stamping, matte varnish, or custom zippers — usually require bigger runs. Many suppliers skip them for low MOQs.

H3: Color & print limitations

Digital printing supports fewer colors than gravure. Color accuracy may shift slightly. You won’t see Pantone-perfect results.

H3: Case study example

I once requested 1,000 kraft stand-up pouches with window and zip lock. Supplier said yes — but only digital print, only gloss lamination, and $0.32 per bag.

Which printing method³ supports low MOQ best?

Printing technology is the key to unlocking low MOQ. Some methods need metal plates. Others don’t.

Digital printing allows custom design with no plate cost and supports MOQ as low as 1 pieces. Gravure printing requires large quantities.

Dive Deeper

H3: Digital printing

• Best for small orders (500–2,000 pcs)
• Faster setup
• Slight color shift possible
• Good for testing multiple SKUs

H3: Gravure printing

• Needs cylinders (plate cost $100–300/color)
• Minimum usually 5,000–10,000 pcs
• Best for long runs and perfect branding colors

Table: Comparison of printing method³s

How do I reduce MOQ without compromising quality?

There are ways to work with suppliers that keep MOQ low and quality high.

Choose digital print, reuse standard sizes, simplify features, and negotiate directly. These strategies lower MOQ without hurting your packaging.

Dive Deeper

H3: Pick common bag structures⁴

Suppliers already have tools for flat pouches, stand-up zip pouches, etc. Custom die-cut shapes or rare laminates push MOQ up.

H3: Use shared plate or color schemes

Keep color count low. Avoid metallic inks. If you have 3 SKUs, use the same size and bag type for all — just change the print.

H3: Work with a digital-ready supplier

Ask the supplier directly:

• “Can you support digital printing⁵?”
• “What’s the MOQ for digital runs?”
• “Can I combine SKUs in one run?”

H3: Pay more per unit — not more in total

Yes, your unit price may be $0.30 instead of $0.15. But for 1,000 pcs, that’s a $150 difference — better than paying for 10,000 pcs you don’t use.

Also here various stock bags are available with multi-bag types, materials.

Can share you the e-catalog

What low MOQ packaging options are trending in 2025?

Packaging trends matter — even for small orders. More suppliers now accept low MOQs for trending formats⁶.

Kraft paper pouches, matte finish, mono-materials, and simple zippers are now available even at small quantities.

Dive Deeper

H3: Matte finishes for premium look

Digital print now supports soft-touch matte. Looks upscale even in small runs.

H3: Kraft + window combo

Natural kraft paper with clear window shows food inside. Popular with new brands. Often available with 1,000 MOQ.

H3: Recyclable mono-material pouches

PE/PE structure is recyclable. Some suppliers accept low MOQ if you use their standard size.

H3: Standardized zip or valve

Use stock zippers and degassing valves instead of requesting custom ones. Keeps MOQ low.

Table: Popular features that support low MOQ

Conclusion

Yes, low MOQ custom pet food packaging¹ is truly possible — if I choose the right print method, simplify my design, and work with flexible suppliers.