November 16, 2024
23
mins read
The print-on-demand (POD) industry is fast-growing, expected to reach $33.6 billion by 2030, thanks to the increased demand for personalized items.
This growth gives entrepreneurs plenty of opportunities to get started with using print-on-demand companies to sell unique products without holding inventory.
However, with so many print-of-demand companies out there, finding the right one to partner with can be tough. This is why you need to know what each of the best companies offer and how they match your business focus.
To help you get started, we've compiled a list of the top 12 print-on-demand companies you can partner with. In this post, we’ll introduce each POD company and highlight their key features and pricing.
We'll also discuss what to look for in top print-on-demand companies. Whether you're new to POD or looking to switch providers, understanding these factors will help you make the right decision.
Let’s get started.
Print-on-demand companies are platforms that allow you to create custom products without holding inventory. This means you can design and sell products without worrying about the upfront costs of manufacturing and shipping.
These companies work with various items like T-shirts, hoodies, mugs, posters, and more. Some POD services also offer more personalized items like jewelry or shoes. The key feature of print-on-demand is that items are only printed after an order is placed.
The process is straightforward. First, a customer selects a product type from the company's catalog. Next, they customize it with their own design or choose from existing artwork.
After the design is finalized and the order is placed, the POD company then manufactures the product and ships it to the customer.
Although print-on-demand services are popular among artists, many other entrepreneurs take advantage of this business model. They provide an accessible way to sell merchandise without significant financial risk.
So many print-on-demand companies are emerging today, which can make it hard to choose the right one for your business. Each offers different products, shipping options, and prices that you must consider to find a company that fits your needs.
To simplify your search, we’ve picked the top 12 print-on-demand companies, highlighting their features, pros and cons, and pricing.
Image via Printful
Another leading on-demand printing and fulfillment company that allows you to create and sell custom products is Printful. This service caters to entrepreneurs, small business owners, and established brands looking to expand their product offerings.
The company offers a wide range of customizable print-on-demand products under apparel, accessories, and home decor. Its catalog features over 367 products, so you can curate a unique selection that reflects your brand.
With Printful, it’s easier to manage multiple sales channels. You can connect your Printful account to major platforms like Shopify, Etsy, and WooCommerce to automate orders. You also have the option to sell directly on social media channels.
Printful also supports branding efforts with various tools designed to make your products and packaging look professional. You can add custom labels, pack-ins like stickers or thank-you cards, and personalized packing slips to enhance the unboxing experience.
You also have the option to customize shipping pages to display your brand logo and a message. With these details, you can build stronger relationships with customers through Printful.
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The pricing model at Printful is transparent and competitive, with no monthly fees. Users only pay for products once a customer places an order.
However, to access more features and enjoy additional perks, you can upgrade to any of the paid membership plans:
Image via Podbase
Podbase is one of the best print-on-demand sites that partner with users to produce products with high-profit margins.
When compared to other print-on-demand websites, Podbase focuses on in-house manufacturing, giving them more control over product quality and ensuring that every product adheres to rigorous quality standards.
Its manufacturing expertise extends over a decade, having successfully completed over 5 million orders. This cements its reputation in the print-on-demand industry.
Moreover, around 80% of orders are fulfilled within 24 hours, making sure that customers receive their products promptly. This impressive turnaround time can contribute to the growth of businesses that partner with Podbase.
Additionally, Podbase provides comprehensive support through its wide range of resources that include a help center, FAQ section, and blogs. This ensures that every user has the knowledge and assistance they need to succeed.
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Podbase doesn’t offer a tiered pricing plan. Users only pay when they make a sale. It offers unit prices, which vary depending on the product. Here’s an overview of the prices:
Image via Printify
With a global network of printing partners, Printify is among the popular print-on-demand companies that connect sellers to high-quality print providers globally.
The platform provides access to 900+ customizable products, including t-shirts, mugs, hoodies, phone cases, and more.
One of Printify's notable features is its ability to integrate with popular ecommerce platforms like Shopify, Etsy, WooCommerce, and BigCommerce. This makes it easy to connect your stores and automate order processing.
Printify also features an intuitive mockup generator, which allows users to visualize their designs on products before listing them for sale. It also offers a profit calculator to help users estimate potential earnings by adjusting product prices and profit margins.
With this functionality, you can optimize your pricing strategies while staying competitive in the market.
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Printify offers a free plan that allows users to create and sell unlimited products without any upfront investment. Businesses looking to maximize profit margins can consider the following paid plans:
Image via Gelato
Gelato is a global print-on-demand company that makes custom product creation and distribution easier for businesses.
Operating in over 30 countries, Gelato offers a wide range of products, including apparel, wall art, mugs, and stationery that can be printed with custom designs.
With local production in multiple countries, Gelato ensures that orders are fulfilled in locations close to the end customer to cut down delivery times.
The platform includes robust tools for managing and tracking orders, making it easy to stay on top of your business operations. You can monitor production timelines, track shipping, and view sales analytics, all from one comprehensive dashboard.
Gelato also offers API access for larger businesses that need more customization and automation in their workflows.
For those just starting, the platform offers a wide range of resources on Gelato Academy to help build and grow a POD business. From design templates to marketing advice, the platform provides educational content aimed at helping sellers succeed.
Also, like some of the best print-on-demand sites out there, Gelato provides a knowledge base filled with tutorials, best practices, and guides for maximizing the platform’s potential. You'll also find blogs and resources offering insights into industry trends to help businesses stay competitive.
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Gelato’s basic service operates on a pay-as-you-go model. This means that there are no upfront fees or subscription costs. In addition to this, Gelato offers the following premium subscription plans:
Image via SPOD
SPOD is one of the reliable print-on-demand dropshipping companies that offers a balance of speed, quality, and customization. Its production facilities are strategically located in both the US and Europe.
The platform enables flexible product options, with over 250 customizable products to choose from. Its products include men's, women's, and kids' clothing and accessories.
SPOD also offers a range of design options. You can upload your designs or use the Design Tool, which provides access to several free designs. The design tool is simple to use yet powerful, allowing you to customize products down to the last detail.
The service’s advanced printing methods, such as digital printing, sublimation, and direct-to-film (DTF) printing, ensure that designs remain vibrant and long-lasting.
The platform boasts a product return rate of less than 1%, which speaks volumes about the quality of its products.
In terms of production speed, SPOD's 48-hour turnaround is a key selling point. It has one of the fastest production times among other print-on-demand websites.
Moreover, users can order product samples so they can check the quality of the products before offering them to customers. This ensures that they’re satisfied with the materials, print quality, and overall appearance of the product, giving them confidence in the items they’ll be selling.
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SPOD is free to use with no setup fees required. You only pay per product sold. Pricing depends on the product selected and the print method used, and you can determine your profit margins by setting the final sale price.
Image via TPOP
Another site that can help you get started with your print-on-demand business for free is TPOP. It combines the benefits of traditional ecommerce with print-on-demand services, so you can create a store and sell various products.
You can customize your storefront to reflect your brand identity, choosing from various templates and layouts on TPOP.
The platform provides similar products to what you can find on some top print-on-demand websites but with a focus on sustainable and eco-friendly materials. TPOP's catalog is rich with customizable products, including apparel, accessories, and home decor.
All the products offered on TPOP are eco-responsible, so you can ensure that your business is aligned with environmentally friendly values. Additionally, the company has taken steps to eliminate plastic from its packaging, using alternatives like cardboard and recycled materials.
TPOP also provides branding opportunities for its users. It helps personalize product packaging with brand logos and other branding elements.
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Image via JetPrint
With more than 50,000 merchants using the platform and a vast catalog of over 450 products, JetPrint has established itself as a trusted name among other top print-on-demand companies.
The variety of products available on JetPrint spans categories like clothing, shoes, watches, drinkware, home decor, and more. It also allows you to customize your label, designs, and more, which is one of the standout features of JetPrint.
Merchants can choose from a broad range of items to diversify their product offerings and cater to different customer preferences.
JetPrint offers a free mockup generator that allows users to create detailed product designs and get a preview of the final look. This feature is essential for those who want to fine-tune their product images before listing them online.
Moreover, the company collaborates with a network of shipping carriers to provide both standard and expedited delivery options.
JetPrint is continuously expanding its integrations, with current options including Shopify, WooCommerce, Etsy, and Wix. These integrations make it easy for merchants to connect their online stores with JetPrint’s services, streamlining the process from design to delivery.
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JetPrint doesn’t charge users for signing up and using the platform. Merchants only pay for the product they sell, depending on the product type and customizations, as well as the shipping costs.
Image via Teelaunch
Teelaunch is a prominent print-on-demand service. Founded in 2013, the platform has quickly gained popularity due to its user-friendly platform and extensive product range.
Teelaunch prides itself on maintaining the personal touch of a family-owned business while achieving a remarkable scale. It processes over a billion items annually — a volume that sets it apart from many competitors in the print-on-demand industry.
The company's ability to handle such a large number of orders is supported by its efficient production processes, strategic factory placements, and advanced technology.
This scale not only allows Teelaunch to meet large demands but also results in significant cost efficiencies that benefit customers.
Quality is a top priority for Teelaunch, as they partner with reputable manufacturers to ensure that each product meets high standards. The company uses state-of-the-art printing techniques, including direct-to-garment (DTG) printing and dye-sublimation, to achieve vibrant and durable designs.
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Teelaunch operates on a pay-as-you-go model, so there are no upfront costs or monthly subscription fees involved. Each product has a base cost that varies depending on the type and style, on which sellers can build their retail prices.
Image via Redbubble
Redbubble is an online marketplace that brings together a community of independent artists and art lovers. It was established in 2006 to help artists showcase and sell their work to a global audience.
Artists can create designs for free and sell them on a variety of products. These range from clothing and stickers to home decor and phone accessories.
This print-on-demand company also caters to fans of pop culture and entertainment through fan art programs. Artists can create licensed designs based on popular movies, TV shows, and games, provided they meet certain criteria.
This feature opens up additional opportunities for artists to reach dedicated fan bases while respecting intellectual property rights.
In addition to its vast product range, Redbubble fosters a sense of community among artists and buyers alike. The platform encourages interaction, allowing fans to connect with their favorite creators. Artists can build their brand and fanbase while earning money from their work.
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Redbubble's pricing varies depending on the product type and design. However, users can sign up for any of its tiered pricing plans: Redbubble Standard, Premium, and Pro.
The base price is set by Redbubble, which covers manufacturing and printing costs, while artists add their markup, which determines the final price.
Image via Zazzle
As a print-on-demand company and online marketplace, Zazzle connects millions of customers with thousands of creators worldwide. The platform offers a range of products for weddings, graduations, birthdays, and other special occasions.
What is print-on-demand service without the freedom for customization? Zazzle thrives on the concept of personalization. Customers can customize products to fit their individual needs, whether it's for personal use or special events.
Zazzle not only serves customers looking for unique products but also businesses seeking custom solutions. Companies can use Zazzle to create branded merchandise, employee gifts, or promotional items.
The platform's bulk order options and design tools make it convenient for businesses to order high-quality, customized products at competitive prices.
The community aspect is central to Zazzle's mission, with a diverse network of artists, designers, and entrepreneurs. Creators from various backgrounds, including children's book authors, graphic designers, and illustrators, share their work on Zazzle.
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Zazzle offers a flexible pricing model where creators set their own royalty rates on products sold through the platform. There are no upfront costs or monthly fees associated with listing products.
Image via Society6
Another vibrant marketplace that celebrates creativity by empowering independent artists worldwide is Society6. This platform offers a diverse array of products from wall art and home decor to lifestyle essentials.
Additionally, Society6 frequently updates its offerings with seasonal collections and themed products. This ensures that there’s always something fresh for customers to explore.
The community aspect of Society6 is a significant feature that sets it apart from other marketplaces and print-on-demand companies. Artists can connect through various trade programs designed to foster collaboration and networking.
Society6 also offers opportunities for artists to participate in curated collections and promotional events, increasing their visibility within the community.
What’s more, customers can share their purchases on social media platforms using designated hashtags to foster a sense of community.
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Society6’s pricing varies based on the plan that creators opt into before selling their work on the platform.
Image via Printy6
Printy6 is an all-in-one apparel print-on-demand and sourcing platform that allows users to create realistic product mockups in real-time.
The design tools offered by Printy6 are versatile. As a user, you can upload your patterns or choose from a vast library of free designs.
Printy6’s industry-leading image rendering technology ensures that the final product closely matches the design preview. Essentially, what you see is what you get.
The platform also provides extensive brand support through OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) services.
This way, you can still maintain full control over your branding and design despite outsourcing production to Printy6. The platform also offers customizable brand packaging options, such as washing labels, packaging boxes, and branded tags. With these, products are sure to align with the seller's brand identity.
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With Printy6, users only pay for the products once they are sold. There are no upfront fees or subscription costs. Product prices vary depending on the type of item and customization, with competitive rates starting as low as $22.26 for apparel and $42.89 for custom shoes. Additional services like branded packaging may incur extra fees.
Consider various factors when choosing your POD service to ensure that you make the right choice for your business. A good supplier will help you grow your business with minimal challenges.
On the other hand, a poor print-on-demand supplier can cause delivery delays, low-quality products, and customer complaints.
Without further ado, here are some factors you can compare your options against:
The products offered by a print-on-demand supplier are an important consideration for any business looking to diversify its offerings. Consider the following:
For instance, Podbase offers an extensive range of customizable products, so you can experiment with various options to find the right fit for your audience. This flexibility can enhance your brand and attract a wider audience.
Here are some examples of customizable products on Podbase:
Image via Podbase
If your supplier only offers a limited selection, you may miss opportunities to expand your product line.
Quality isn’t just about the materials used. It also includes print accuracy and durability. When customers receive a product that looks good and lasts long, they’re more likely to purchase from you again.
Another critical factor that can affect a print-on-demand business is shipping. If your customers have to wait weeks for their orders, they may become frustrated and less likely to purchase from you again.
Consider how the shipping speed aligns with your business model. If you sell gifts or seasonal items, quick delivery is even more essential.
Shipping costs can also impact your bottom line. Customers often look for free or affordable shipping options. If your supplier has high rates, you may need to absorb those costs.
On the other hand, if your supplier offers competitive shipping rates, it can attract more customers. Choose a POD service that balances cost with speed as this can make a big difference in your sales.
Podbase, for instance, offers a flat shipping rate of $10.95 per item, with a delivery time of 2 to 5 days worldwide. This balance between cost and quick delivery can be an advantage, especially for customers looking for timely, affordable shipping without hidden fees.
Image via Podbase
Furthermore, consider the geographic locations of your print-on-demand provider's warehouses. A provider with multiple locations can often ship faster. If most of your customers are located in a specific area, look for suppliers with a warehouse nearby.
Finally, don’t forget about international shipping. If you plan to sell globally, ensure your supplier can accommodate this. International shipping can be complex and costly. Look for suppliers that offer competitive rates for international delivery.
Check the supplier’s reputation for on-time delivery. Look for reviews and testimonials from other users. A reliable print-on-demand service should have a proven track record of meeting delivery deadlines. You don’t want to gamble with a supplier that has frequent delays.
Not all suppliers offer the same printing methods, and this can affect the look and feel of your products. Some common print techniques include screen printing, direct-to-garment (DTG), embroidery, and dye-sublimation.
Each technique has its strengths and works best on certain types of products. For example, DTG is ideal for complex, colorful prints because it allows for intricate patterns and text. Meanwhile, screen printing is great for simple designs with few colors.
Also, dye-sublimation is often used for all-over prints and custom patterns, while embroidery may work for custom logos, names, and small designs.
Product durability is another aspect to consider when evaluating print techniques. Some methods produce more durable prints that withstand wear and tear better than others. For example, screen-printed designs may last longer on fabric than DTG prints.
For products that are intended for frequent use, such as t-shirts or bags, durability is a key factor. Customers expect prints that won’t fade or peel after a few washes.
It’s important to choose a supplier with high-quality printing techniques to reduce the risk of returns and complaints.
Your POD provider needs to connect with your existing online store. Most print-on-demand companies, such as Podbase, offer integrations with popular ecommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, or Etsy.
Here are its integrations:
Image via Podbase
The smoother the integration, the easier it is for you to automate order processing and manage inventory. This can save you a lot of time by reducing manual tasks.
You also need to consider how deep the integration goes. Some suppliers offer basic integration that only allows order imports, while others provide more advanced features.
These could include automatic tracking updates or even the ability to edit product details directly from your store. The more features included, the better it will be for your business. Advanced integrations can help you stay on top of orders and offer a better customer experience.
Another factor to keep in mind is how easy it is to set up the integration. Some suppliers have plug-and-play setups, while others may require you to do some coding. If you’re not tech-savvy, a simple setup can save you a lot of headaches.
Pricing can affect your profit margins and overall business success. That’s why it’s an important factor to look at when choosing a print-on-demand company for your business.
Print-on-demand companies often have different pricing structures, which can include base costs for products, printing fees, and shipping rates. Look for a supplier that provides transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
Make sure you check all the charges involved, including extra fees for any special requests.
When evaluating the pricing structure, pay attention to how it aligns with your product pricing strategy. Some suppliers may have low base prices but charge high shipping fees. Others may bundle the cost into subscription plans.
It's important to calculate the total cost that customers will see, including any extra charges that could surprise them at checkout. A well-structured pricing model from a supplier will allow you to keep your prices competitive.
Don't forget to look into payment terms and methods when comparing pricing structures. Some suppliers may require upfront payments for large orders, while others bill after the product is shipped. Consider how this may affect your cash flow.
Good customer service is vital for any business relationship — and print-on-demand suppliers are no exception. You’ll want a partner who is responsive and helpful when issues arise. Quick communication can save you time and frustration down the line.
Before committing to a supplier, test their customer service yourself. Reach out with questions or concerns during the inquiry phase to gauge their responsiveness. A reliable supplier should be easy to contact via multiple channels like email, live chat, or phone calls.
Consider how they handle returns and refunds as well. A clear policy on these matters shows professionalism and care for customers’ needs. You want assurance that they will support you if problems occur with orders.
Additionally, look for suppliers who provide resources or support for their clients. This could include design assistance or marketing tips that can help elevate your business further. A supportive partner can make all the difference in your success.
As always, it’s important to read reviews from other businesses to gain more insight into their experience with the supplier. This can provide valuable information about what you might expect in terms of support when working with them.
For your print-on-demand business to succeed, you need to choose the right POD company to partner with.
Each print-on-demand company has strengths that may suit different needs, so you need to weigh each option carefully. Compare factors like product variety, shipping times, pricing, and integration options to make an informed decision.
Additionally, your choice might depend on your goals and target market. Some companies excel at niche products, while others offer wide selections.
You can start by testing a few print-on-demand companies to find the best fit. Order samples to check product quality firsthand. This will make you confident in their offerings and also give you an idea of their customer experience.
In all, remember that print-on-demand is a dynamic industry. You need to stay updated on changes and new trends and keep an eye on competitors as well. You can revisit your choice periodically to make sure it still meets your needs and adapt as needed to keep your business competitive.
1. Which print-on-demand service is most profitable?
Profitability in the print-on-demand business hinges on several key factors, not just the service alone. Here are some key factors to consider:
2. Which POD company is best?
There are several great print-on-demand companies to choose from if you want to venture into this business. Here are some popular options that excel in different areas, such as product variety and shipping speed:
3. Is it possible to integrate print-on-demand with my existing online store?
Yes, integrating print-on-demand companies with an existing online store is entirely feasible and often straightforward. Many POD companies offer integrations with popular ecommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, Etsy, and BigCommerce.
To start the integration process, you typically need to create an account with your chosen POD provider. Then, you can install its plugin on your ecommerce platform. Most providers offer detailed guides or tutorials to make integration easier.
Once connected, any orders placed on your online store can automatically be sent to the POD platform for fulfillment.
4. How do I start my print-on-demand business?
Starting a print-on-demand business involves several straightforward steps as follows:
5. Can I sell print-on-demand products on multiple platforms?
Yes, you can sell print-on-demand products on multiple platforms to reach a wider audience. Many POD providers support multi-platform integrations, allowing you to list products on sites like Shopify, Etsy, Amazon, and eBay simultaneously.
Managing inventory across these platforms is usually automated through your POD provider, making it easy for you to scale and expand your business.
Don’t just dream about owning a POD business — you can start it with ease. Start your print-on-demand business with Podbase today.
Dive into our blog for expert insights, tips, and resources. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your business, our knowledge base is here to support your success.
With Podbase, you can achieve profit margins that are up to 100% higher compared to any other POD providers.
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