January 8, 2025
9
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With the rise of ecommerce, more entrepreneurs are looking to build an online store to cash in on the trend. With ecommerce, business owners can reach more customers, and starting a Shopify print-on-demand business can be your best bet.
Shopify allows you to sell customized print-on-demand products that are printed and shipped only after the order has been confirmed. This business model reduces inventory risk and requires minimal initial investment so you can maximize your profits.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through setting up your Shopify print-on-demand store and launching it successfully.
We'll also cover top POD platforms to streamline your ecommerce business and let you fulfill orders seamlessly.
Starting a Shopify print-on-demand business is easier than you think. The process is pretty straightforward: set up your store, choose a supplier, design your products, and list them for sale.
Here’s a breakdown to help you get started:
Head over to Shopify’s website and sign up for a Shopify account via email, Google account, or Facebook.
Image via Shopify
Shopify offers three days of free trial, after which you can choose from the paid plans that suit your budget and business goals.
After you've created an account, you'll have access to the Shopify dashboard where you can begin customizing your store’s appearance.
Shopify’s beginner-friendly UI lets you create an appealing website design that resonates with your target audience. It features fully customizable themes that allow you to tweak colors, fonts, and layouts to suit your brand style.
Image via Shopify
To set up your store, go to the Settings tab in the Shopify admin panel. This is where you can configure key details like store currency, shipping zones, and payment gateways.
Shopify integrates with major payment providers like PayPal, Stripe, and credit cards. Connect any of these providers with your store to make it easy for customers to check out their shopping carts.
With Shopify, you can easily manage products and orders and set up discounts. It also provides in-depth sales analytics, where you can generate reports and get a live view of your sales numbers. Here’s what the Shopify sidebar looks like:
Image via Shopify
After setting up payments, consider configuring your domain name to add credibility and uniqueness to your Shopify print-on-demand store. You can purchase a domain directly through Shopify or connect an existing domain.
After configuring everything for your Shopify store, test it out before you launch it. Browse products and complete a test checkout to ensure that there are no errors. Then, preview your store to ensure that it looks professional and aligned with your branding.
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Now that you’ve set up your Shopify store account, you need to choose the best print-on-demand for Shopify.
Start by exploring popular print-on-demand apps Shopify integrates with like Podbase, Printful, Printify, and others. Each supplier has its unique offerings. Ensure that you choose one that aligns with your needs.
Here are some factors you can consider when making a decision:
Image via Podbase
Also, it’s important to assess the quality of the supplier’s printing methods and products. You can check customer reviews and images to gauge the quality of the finished products. Look for suppliers that also provide mockups of your products as visual previews help customers see what they’re buying.
Unique product designs can set your Shopify print-on-demand business apart. You can use graphic design software like Adobe Illustrator or free tools like Canva to create eye-catching designs that match your target audience’s preferences.
Many POD platforms, including Podbase, offer built-in design tools to simplify the process. You can upload designs, adjust placement, and preview how they’ll appear on various products.
When designing Shopify print-on-demand products, focus on trends within your niche to ensure that your customers will want to buy them.
Also, use high-resolution images (at least 300 DPI) to ensure clear and sharp prints. You can even offer customizable options, allowing customers to add their text or images. This can enhance user engagement and boost sales.
Once the designs are ready, upload them to your chosen Shopify print-on-demand supplier platform, following their specific guidelines for dimensions and file types. PNG format is often preferred due to its transparency.
Start by syncing products from your POD service provider’s website to your Shopify print-on-demand store catalog.
For each product listing, include a clear item name and high-quality images. Showcase the item from different angles and add lifestyle shots if possible. This way, customers can envision themselves using or wearing the product.
Also, write compelling product descriptions that highlight features like material quality or unique design elements. Here’s an example of a well-created product listing:
Image via Podbase
Additionally, organize your products into collections or categorize them into themes or product types for easy browsing. You can also use tags so customers can find related items quickly through search filters.
Set competitive pricing based on production costs while considering market trends. Tools like Google Trends can provide insights into pricing strategies within specific niches.
Most importantly, ensure all listings include clear shipping information so customers know what to expect regarding delivery times.
With everything in place, it's time to start selling. To attract customers to your store, you can promote your Shopify print-on-demand products through various marketing channels.
Pick from options like Shopify’s built-in marketing tools, social media platforms, email newsletters, or even paid ads targeting specific demographics interested in POD items. You can also use discount codes to enhance conversions.
Consider running promotional campaigns, such as discounts or giveaways, during launch week, to create buzz around new offerings and increase sales.
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Print-on-demand (POD) businesses are thriving, and Shopify is one of the best platforms for this industry. However, choosing the best print-on-demand sites for Shopify is critical to your success.
Let's explore the best print-on-demand for Shopify companies:
Image via Podbase
Podbase is a top-tier Shopify print-on-demand platform that allows users to create and sell products with high profit margins.
With more than a decade of manufacturing expertise, Podbase has successfully processed over five million orders. The platform is also able to fulfill 80% of orders within 24 hours — a fast turnaround that contributes to the growth of businesses.
Additionally, Podbase offers a mockup generator that helps users visualize their designs on various products before listing them for sale. With this feature, you can enhance customer experience by providing an intuitive way to view products before purchase.
Features:
Pricing:
Podbase operates without tiered pricing plans, charging users only when a product is sold. Unit prices vary based on the item category:
Image via Printful
Printful provides a wide variety of customizable products, including clothing, accessories, and home decor. With over 370 items in its catalog, you can craft a product lineup that aligns with your brand’s identity.
It helps you target social media users as it supports direct sales on platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
Printful also prioritizes branding. You can add custom labels, personalized packing slips, and extras like stickers or thank-you cards to make the unboxing experience memorable for your customers. You can even create custom shipping pages with your logo and a message.
Features:
Pricing:
Printful follows a pay-as-you-go pricing model, meaning you only pay for products when a customer places an order.
As your orders increase, you can upgrade to any of these membership plans:
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Image via Printify
Printify is another leading Shopify print-on-demand company that connects sellers with trusted print providers worldwide. Compared to some Printify competitors, it has a network of partners across 209 countries.
It also offers access to a vast catalog of 1,000+ customizable items. These range from apparel like t-shirts and hoodies to lifestyle products like mugs, phone cases, and home décor.
Printify also includes tools like a mockup generator, so you can preview your designs before launching products.
One of Printify's strongest features is its integration with popular ecommerce platforms, including Shopify, Etsy, WooCommerce, and BigCommerce. With this integration, managing tasks like order processing and fulfillment becomes easy.
Features:
Pricing:
Printify offers a free plan that allows sellers to have five stores per account. If you want to boost profit margins and enjoy other features, these paid plans are available:
Image via SPOD
With 20+ years of experience in POD service, SPOD is one of the best print-on-demand sites for Shopify dropshipping.
It offers over 250 products, catering to a diverse range of needs, from apparel for men, women, and children to accessories.
SPOD uses advanced printing techniques like digital printing, sublimation, and direct-to-film (DTF) to ensure vibrant, durable designs. With a return rate of less than 1%, it’s clear that they create products that consistently meet high standards of quality.
The platform’s production speed is another key advantage, with most orders being processed within 48 hours, making it one of the fastest in the industry.
Features:
Pricing:
There are no setup fees to start using SPOD. You only pay for products once they’re sold. Pricing varies based on the product type and print method you choose, and you can set your selling prices to determine your profit margins.
Image via Teelaunch
Another company among the best Shopify print-on-demand apps is Teelaunch. Quickly becoming a favorite among entrepreneurs, this company offers an intuitive platform with a wide variety of products.
Teelaunch has a wide reach, thanks to its six strategically located factories around the world. It also partners with trusted manufacturers to ensure each item meets rigorous standards.
The platform uses advanced printing methods, such as direct-to-garment (DTG) printing and dye-sublimation, to create vibrant designs.
Features:
Pricing:
Teelaunch follows a pay-based-on-order model, so there are no upfront costs or monthly subscription fees. The base price of each product varies by type and style, and you can set your retail prices above the base cost to maximize profits.
Starting a Shopify print-on-demand business has lower upfront costs compared to traditional ecommerce models. You don't need to invest in inventory, warehousing, or manufacturing. The initial costs are primarily associated with setting up your online store and partnering with Shopify print-on-demand services.
Shopify pricing plans include:
Image via Shopify
In addition to setting up a Shopify account, you'll need a domain name for your store. While some Shopify plans include a free domain, you can buy a custom domain to give your store a unique and professional identity. This typically costs between $10–$20 per year.
You may also need to invest in a premium theme or design. Shopify provides free themes, but if you want to give your store a unique look, you can purchase premium themes for $100 to $500.
Next, you’ll need to partner with print-on-demand suppliers. Most Shopify print-on-demand apps like Podbase are free to join and have no setup fees, but you’ll be charged production and shipping costs per item sold.
A Shopify print-on-demand store is a fantastic way to start an online business at a minimal cost. It's a low-risk, high-reward venture that allows you to sell custom products without the need for upfront inventory.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully set up your store, design your products, and start generating sales.
Remember, the key to success in print-on-demand is consistency and creativity. Continuously update your product designs, run effective marketing campaigns, and provide excellent customer service.
As your business grows, you can expand your product offerings, explore new niches, and even hire a team to help you manage your operations.
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1. Why start a print-on-demand store with Shopify?
Shopify makes it easy to start a print-on-demand store. You can customize your store to match your brand. The platform also supports integration with many print-on-demand apps, so you have the flexibility to choose your preferred POD service. Shopify’s interface is user-friendly, so even as a beginner, you can set it up quickly. Plus, it's highly scalable so your store can grow with your business.
2. Can you connect the Shopify store to Podbase?
Yes, you can connect your Shopify store to Podbase. Podbase is compatible with Shopify through the app. With Podbase Shopify integration, you can sync products and orders. You can design, upload, and manage products easily from your Shopify dashboard. Your customers’ orders from your Shopify print-on-demand store will go directly to Podbase for production and shipping.
3. Do you have to pay upfront for print-on-demand?
No, you don’t have to pay upfront for Shopify print-on-demand. Unlike traditional retail stores, print-on-demand only charges you after a customer places an order. The platform handles production, packaging, and shipping, saving you from initial expenses. As a result, it’s easier to test product ideas or expand your offerings without worrying about excess inventory.
4. Is Podbase free of charge?
Podbase is free to use for product creation and design. However, you will incur costs when a customer orders an item. These costs include production, packaging, and shipping fees based on the product and location.
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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