---
type: faq
title: "What's the minimum order quantity for offset printing?"
description: "Offset printing starts around 250 to 500 pieces because of metal plate setup, savings peak at 1,000 and up, and digital usually wins for runs under 250."
resource: https://www.4over4.com/faqs/printing-methods/what-s-the-minimum-order-quantity-for-offset-printing
tags: ["Printing Terms Glossary", "faq"]
generated:
  by: "process:4over4-mapp-build"
  at: 2026-10-20T21:01:19.542Z
timestamp: 2026-10-20T21:01:19.542Z
sources:
  - resource: https://www.4over4.com/faqs/printing-methods/what-s-the-minimum-order-quantity-for-offset-printing
    title: "What's the minimum order quantity for offset printing?"
status: stable
---

# What's the minimum order quantity for offset printing?

Offset printing uses metal plates, so it starts at higher minimums than digital, usually around 250 to 500 pieces depending on the product. The plate setup adds fixed cost, which is spread across the whole run. The real savings appear at 1,000 units and above, where the per-piece price drops sharply. For smaller quantities, digital printing is often the more cost-effective choice. Run size Better method Why Under 250 Digital No plate cost on short runs 250 to 1,000 Either Depends on product and finish 1,000 and up Offset Lowest cost per piece at volume

Offset printing starts around 250 to 500 pieces because of metal plate setup, savings peak at 1,000 and up, and digital usually wins for runs under 250.

| Run size | Better method | Why |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Under 250 | Digital | No plate cost on short runs |
| 250 to 1,000 | Either | Depends on product and finish |
| 1,000 and up | Offset | Lowest cost per piece at volume |

[Order Digital Printing](https://www.4over4.com/digital-printing-collection)

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