The Print On Demand business hasn't seen any sign of going down anywhere anytime soon. To start a POD (Print-on-Demand), run a print on demand store with a slew of product types such as print on demand shirt, print on demand shoes, print on demand mugs, print on demand stickers, etc., and make a significant profit from it, it's all within your reach now as there are way pavers who are willing to share a lot in terms of experiences running this type of business.
While everyone swarms the Internet to find out questions such as How to make money with Print On Demand in 2023? or What Is Print On Demand? How To Start A Print On Demand Business?, there's an underrated concern that we do think each and every Print On Demand business owner should also take notice of. Have you ever wondered: How do Print-On-Demand websites choose their print manufacturers? Why is this so important? In this article, we would like to discuss more so let's dive in.
How do Print On Demand websites function?
Print-on-demand websites allow you to customize blank products with your own designs, such as t-shirts, bags, mugs, and books. You can simply upload your designs and connect your preferred print on demand services with your eCommerce website to start selling. One advantage of using print on demand services is that they function as dropshipping platforms, meaning you can sell your merchandise on a per-order basis without having to hold inventory. Additionally, these services take care of order fulfillment and shipping, making the process hassle-free. While most print-on-demand websites are free to join and only charge when you receive an order, some offer premium tiers with monthly subscription fees that provide extra benefits like shipping discounts or enhanced graphic design capabilities.
Why do you need to pay attention to the print manufacturers?
Indeed, understanding how Print On Demand websites choose their print manufacturers can be important. Let's take a look at the reasons listed below.
1. Quality
First and foremost, when you buy a product from a Print On Demand website, the fact is that, the quality of the product will depend on the quality of the print manufacturer they work with. This means that only by understanding how Print-On-Demand websites choose their print manufacturers can you get an idea of the quality of the products they offer and make an informed decision before making a purchase.
2. Variety
Do you know that different print manufacturers offer different products? and Print-On-Demand websites may work with multiple manufacturers to offer a wider range of products? By addressing the question "How do Print-On-Demand websites choose their print manufacturers", you will be able to opt for the right one that offers the products you think to be suitable for your POD business the most.
3. Price
Price is hands down a very important factor for a POD business owner to put on the scale to evaluate. Different Print-On-Demand websites will offer different prices for the same product, depending on the print manufacturer they work with. With this article, you will have a more in-depth insight into prices offered by POD manufacturers, then can compare and find the best deal.
4. Sustainability
And last but not least, there is one thing you can rest assured is that you can make an informed decision about the environmental impact of your purchase. If sustainability is what you find exceptionally important to you, you can choose a website that works with print manufacturers that have sustainable practices.
How do Print-On-Demand websites choose their print manufacturers?
Print-On-Demand websites usually have a selection process when choosing their print manufacturers. Here are some crucial factors that they are prone to take into account.
1. Quality
Print-On-Demand websites will surely want to work with print manufacturers that produce high-quality prints. Asking for samples or reviews from other customers to evaluate the quality of their work is one of the sure things that they will do.
2. Variety
In a highly competitive industry like this, all POD business owners will want to offer a variety of products to their customers (as much as they can). So, looking for print manufacturers that offer a wide range of products, such as t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and more, is one of their biggest goals.
3. Price
Print-On-Demand websites will want to work with print manufacturers that offer competitive pricing. They may ask for quotes from multiple manufacturers and compare them to find the best value.
4. Production time
Print-On-Demand websites will want to work with print manufacturers that have a fast turnaround time. They may ask about the production process and estimated delivery times to ensure that they can meet their customers' expectations.
5. Sustainability
Many Print-On-Demand websites may also consider the environmental impact of the print manufacturers they work with. They will ask about the materials used and the manufacturer's sustainability practices to ensure that they are making responsible choices.
Once they have evaluated these factors, Print-On-Demand websites will choose a print manufacturer that best meets their needs and requirements. Some even work with multiple manufacturers to offer a wider range of products or to ensure that they have backup options in case of production issues.
Who are the big players in the Print On Demand industry?
Below is the list of top 5 Print On Demand companies we have meticulously put together for you to make it easier for you to pick your choice.
1. Printful
Printful is a well-known print-on-demand company that integrates smoothly with major eCommerce platforms and marketplaces like Etsy or Amazon. Their Design Market tool is a helpful feature that simplifies the process of creating unique designs and adding them to custom products. Printful offers an extensive range of products, including clothing, footwear, posters, drinkware, homeware, pet products, and eco-friendly lines for businesses that prioritize sustainability.
You can start with the Printful Free plan, which includes essential features, and charges for fulfillment, shipping, and taxes are automatically deducted when you make a sale. If you want additional premium features like product mockups, image background removal, and marketing promo creation tools, you can upgrade to the Printful Plus plan, which costs $9 per month.
2. Printify
Printify stands out because it provides access to a vast network of printing partners distributed worldwide. This not only expands the product options available but also allows you to choose your printer based on the country you want to sell in for faster and more cost-effective shipping.
The Printify Free plan allows up to 5 online stores per account, while paid plans start at $24.99 per month when billed annually and include more stores and up to 20% discounts on products.
3. Teelaunch
Teelaunch may have a name that suggests they only sell t-shirts, but they actually offer a diverse range of products at competitive prices. This makes them an attractive option if you want to use a single print-on-demand service for a wide variety of products. With Teelaunch, you can sell your products on your website, and the platform seamlessly integrates with Shopify and Etsy. Furthermore, they offer a mock-up generator that simplifies the process of creating product images. The best part is that there are no monthly fees to sell with Teelaunch, and you only need to pay for the product, printing, and shipping once an order is received.
4. CustomCat
CustomCat is a print-on-demand company based in the United States that typically ships orders within two to three business days. They provide several printing options, including direct-to-garment, 3D dye infusion, and sublimation. If you prioritize speedy order fulfillment, CustomCat is one of the fastest POD suppliers available. Additionally, they offer a free lite plan that is accessible to everyone.
5. Gooten
Gooten is a well-known print-on-demand website that offers a diverse range of printing options and products, including apparel, homeware, and travel accessories. They typically manufacture and deliver products in one to six business days.
Although Gooten's API and integration options are more complex than other print-on-demand companies, it is very developer-friendly and offers more flexibility to users.
There are no membership, monthly, or setup fees, and you only pay when a customer places an order. Sign-up is free.
What are some of the best-selling print on demand products in 2023?
Now you've got the answer to the question "How do Print-On-Demand websites choose their print manufacturers in 2023", and you are also provided with the most highlighted giant names in terms of Print On Demand companies in the field. Next, we would like to suggest to those who are newbies some of the selling-like-hotcake products that can get off to a good start for your business.
1. T-shirts
T-shirts are an ideal print-on-demand product to offer due to their widespread use throughout the year. This makes them a popular item to sell, but it's important to create unique designs that stand out. You can choose to create bold or more subtle patterns.
2. Mugs
Mugs are a great print-on-demand product due to their versatility and widespread use in households. They have year-round value and are a universal staple.
3. Tote Bags
Tote bags are also a top print-on-demand product. They have become increasingly popular as a fashionable and eco-friendly alternative to single-use bags. They are simple to customize and can be used all year round.
4. Stickers
Stickers are a favored product in the print-on-demand industry because of their low production costs, ease of shipment, and high value perceived by customers.
5. Water Bottles
Reusable water bottles have become a necessity for people who prioritize environmental sustainability and hydration. They are easy to carry and can be found everywhere, from the office to the gym to the beach.
Summary
That's all! We hope that you have been fully armed with information relating to "How do Print-On-Demand websites choose their print manufacturers". As demonstrated, there are numerous excellent POD companies available for selection. Besides the long-standing POD marketplaces like Amazon or Etsy, you can also begin your venture with Printerval to have a new and unique experience. Contact us to discover more about the benefits of partnering with us.
If you're interested in learning more about e-commerce, I suggest reading our articles:
