For entrepreneurs who want to launch an online store with little investment, finding a good print-on-demand supplier is essential. With this strategy, it is possible to start the business with reduced costs and test new products in a more flexible way.
In this article, we will explain what this strategy is, the various advantages it brings to your online business, and present a list of the best suppliers available on the market today. Let’s get started!
What is print on demand?
Print on demand is a business model in which personalized products, such as T-shirts, mugs, and posters, are created only when the customer places an order. In this system, there is no need to maintain inventory, as items are printed and shipped directly by the supplier.
This allows entrepreneurs to significantly reduce their costs, as well as test new designs and quickly adapt their offerings to better meet market demands.
However, for this strategy to work and deliver results, it is essential to find the right print-on-demand supplier who can guarantee product quality and meet your needs.
Advantages of print on demand
This model offers a number of benefits for entrepreneurs, making it an attractive alternative for those who want to start a business. Below, we will explore some of the main advantages of this system:
- Low Initial Investment: Since there is no need to invest in inventory or printing equipment, the costs of starting a business in this niche are greatly reduced.
- Design Flexibility: As mentioned earlier, this business model allows you to test different designs and products without having to commit to large quantities.
- Risk Reduction: By working exclusively with products produced on demand, the risk of excess inventory and unsold items is virtually non-existent.
- Scalability: As the business grows, it is easy to expand the product line or add new designs without logistical complications.
- Global Audience: Most print-on-demand suppliers offer international shipping, allowing you to sell to customers in different parts of the world, expanding your business opportunities.
- Customization: Offering personalized products attracts customers who are looking for unique items, increasing your chances of making a sale.
These and many other advantages make print on demand an attractive business model option for entrepreneurs, especially those who want to start a business with little investment.
7 Best Print-on-Demand Supplier Options
Choosing the ideal supplier from so many available options can be challenging. To help you with this task, we have compiled a list of 10 of the best print-on-demand suppliers, so you can start your online store with confidence:
1. Printful
First on our list is Printful, a print-on-demand platform known for its wide range of products, high-quality prints, and easy integration with e-commerce platforms.
The platform currently has several facilities in different parts of the world, including the US, Europe, and Mexico, which allows them to offer faster delivery times and reduced shipping costs.
In addition, Printful allows companies and entrepreneurs to add their brands to products, including custom labels and packaging. This makes it possible to create a more professional experience and work on branding.
Highlights:
- 24/7 support;
- Can be easily integrated with major e-commerce platforms;
- Commitment to sustainable practices, offering eco-friendly product options and packaging that reduces waste;
- Intuitive control panel that allows you to manage orders, track shipments, and view sales reports.
2. Montik
Next on our list is Montik, a print-on-demand supplier that allows you to create your own online store in minutes, fully customized with your brand and stocked with high-quality products.
Getting started with Montik’s services is very simple: just sign up for one of the plans, create your store, and start selling. It is important to note that all plans offer hosting, store maintenance, and customer support.
Highlights:
- Over 9 years of experience in the market;
- Hosting service included in all plans;
- Profitability simulator;
- Provides direct support to your store’s customers.
3. Printify
Another excellent platform option for those looking for a print-on-demand supplier is Printify, a company that offers more than 600 products in various categories, including clothing, household items, accessories, and much more.
One of the platform’s main differentiators is the ability to order samples of customized products. This allows you to evaluate the quality of the items before launching them in your store, ensuring that they meet customer expectations.
However, it is important to note that, to date, the company does not have direct operations in Brazil, which means that it is not feasible to market its products directly to the Brazilian public.
Highlights:
- Affordable prices;
- Offers discounts for large orders;
- Easily integrates with different e-commerce platforms, such as Shopify, Wix, etc.;
- Possibility to order samples.
4. Modalyst
Serving more than 600,000 eCommerce stores, Modalyst is a dropshipping and print-on-demand platform that helps entrepreneurs find personalized items to sell, without having to worry about storage or logistics.
In addition, Modalyst works only with high-quality products from well-reviewed manufacturers and can be easily integrated with various e-commerce platforms, such as Wix, Shopify, etc., with just one click.
Highlights:
- Offers dropshipping and print-on-demand services;
- Works with high-quality products from well-known suppliers;
- Easily integrates with different e-commerce platforms, such as Shopify, Wix, etc.;
- Offers a free plan.
5. Gelato
Gelato is a platform designed to connect print-on-demand suppliers, companies, and customers in a fast and practical way. With a network of over 140 suppliers in 32 countries, it is a great solution for companies looking to expand globally.
They also integrate with some of the leading e-commerce platforms on the market and offer a wide range of products for customization, including mugs, cards, frames, notebooks, etc.
Highlights:
- Local production for certain products;
- Deliveries within 72 hours, depending on location;
- Easily integrates with different e-commerce platforms, such as Shopify, Wix, etc.;
- Intuitive editor.
6. Print Aura
You can also choose to use Print Aura, a reliable print-on-demand provider that allows you to create and sell a wide range of personalized products, such as clothing and accessories, with no minimum order.
Similar to other solutions we have listed so far, it easily integrates with platforms such as Shopify, WooCommerce, and Etsy, in addition to offering direct shipping solutions, design tools, and branding services.
7. Zazzle
Unlike other print-on-demand suppliers, Zazzle is one of the few platforms that allows buyers to customize the design and modify aspects such as the color, material, and style of the product before finalizing the purchase.
However, it is important to note that Zazzle is a print-on-demand marketplace, meaning that it cannot be integrated into your online store or marketplace. Once you have completed your registration, you will need to indicate whether you are a designer or a manufacturer.
- Designer: You are responsible for providing the designs and dropshipping the products through Zazzle.
- Manufacturer: You intend to sell your own products, but they can be customized and purchased through the Zazzle platform. However, you are responsible for managing all production and shipping of the merchandise.
How to choose a print-on-demand supplier
As we have emphasized, choosing the right supplier is essential. To help you with this decision, we have highlighted some important factors that you should consider before making your choice:
- Products Offered: The first step in choosing the right company is to analyze the products available and make sure that it offers everything you want to sell in your store.
- Price: Before making any decisions, compare the prices of products and services from all print-on-demand suppliers. After all, it is important to choose a company that fits your budget.
- Quality: Product quality is essential. So remember to check other customers’ reviews to see what they are saying about the quality of each supplier’s products.
- Shipping Time and Cost: Evaluate and compare the delivery time and shipping costs of each print-on-demand supplier, as these factors directly influence your customers’ purchasing decisions.
Have you found the best print-on-demand supplier?
We hope this article has helped you identify the ideal print-on-demand supplier for your needs. Choosing the right partner is crucial to the success of your business and can directly impact the quality of your products and the satisfaction of your customers.