If you’ve been thinking about starting an online business but dread the idea of managing inventory, print-on-demand (POD) might be the perfect solution.
It’s a simple, cost-effective way to start your own eCommerce business without dealing with storage, production, or shipping.
This article will explain precisely what print-on-demand is, how it works, and why it’s such a popular business model.
By the end, you’ll clearly understand how to start your own POD store!
What is Print on Demand?
Print-on-demand is a fulfillment process in which custom products (like T-shirts, mugs, or phone cases) are only printed once an order is placed. This means you don’t need to buy products in bulk or hold any inventory.
Instead, you can partner with a POD supplier, upload your designs, and let them handle the rest—from printing to shipping.
You’re the designer and marketer, and the POD platform handles the backend.
How Does Print on Demand Work?
The POD process is super simple, and here’s how it works step by step:
- Choose a POD platform (e.g., Printful or Printify).
- Upload your custom designs onto products like T-shirts, mugs, and phone cases.
- When a customer orders from your online store (Shopify, Etsy, etc.), the POD platform automatically receives the order.
- The POD supplier prints your design on the product.
- The supplier ships the finished product directly to your customer.
You don’t handle any inventory or shipping logistics, which is one of the main reasons POD is such a great, low-risk business model.
Types of Products You Can Sell with Print on Demand
Print-on-demand is versatile, and the range of products you can customize is vast. Here are just a few examples:
- Apparel: T-shirts, hoodies, leggings
- Accessories: Tote bags, hats, phone cases
- Home decor: Wall art, pillows, blankets
- Stationery: Notebooks, planners, stickers
- Miscellaneous: Water bottles, mugs, backpacks
Here’s a quick look at some common product types and examples of POD suppliers that specialize in them:
Print on Demand Product Types and Suppliers
| Product Type | Example Products | Popular POD Suppliers |
|---|---|---|
| Apparel | T-shirts, Hoodies, Leggings | Printful, Printify |
| Accessories | Hats, Tote Bags, Phone Cases | Teespring, Redbubble |
| Home Decor | Pillows, Wall Art, Blankets | Society6, Gooten |
Why Choose Print on Demand?
There are several reasons why POD has become so popular for new and seasoned entrepreneurs alike:
- Low Risk, Low Cost: POD significantly lowers your initial investment because you do not need to buy inventory upfront. You only pay for the product after a sale is made.
- Hands-Off Fulfillment: Once you set up your designs and store, the POD platform handles printing and shipping. This allows you to focus on growing your business and marketing your products.
- Scalability: The workload doesn’t increase much, whether you’re selling one product or a thousand. The fulfillment is automated, so your job remains the same as your store grows.
- Flexibility: With POD, you can experiment with new designs and products without financial risk. If a product doesn’t sell, you haven’t lost anything since you don’t hold inventory.
Choosing the Right Print on Demand Platform
When selecting a POD platform, finding one that aligns with your business needs is essential. Some key factors to consider include:
- Product Range: Does the platform offer a variety of products you want to sell?
- Shipping Costs: Compare shipping rates, especially if you plan to sell internationally.
- Integration with Your Store: Ensure the platform integrates seamlessly with your eCommerce store (Shopify, Etsy, etc.).
- Printing Quality: Look for customer reviews about the quality of the prints.
Popular platforms include:
Benefits of Print on Demand for Your Business
To wrap it up, let’s look at some of the key benefits of using a print-on-demand model:
- No upfront inventory costs: You only pay after the customer purchases.
- Easy to manage: You can focus on your designs and marketing while the supplier handles production and shipping.
- Endless product options: You can create and sell everything from custom t-shirts to wall art.
- Scalability: Your business can grow without adding much to your workload.
FAQs About Print on Demand
1. Do I need design skills to start a POD business?
No, you don’t need advanced design skills to get started. You can use free tools like Canva to create simple designs or hire a freelance designer on platforms like Fiverr.
2. How much does it cost to start a POD store?
The startup cost is minimal. Most POD platforms don’t have subscription fees, but you will need to cover the cost of your website (if using Shopify, WooCommerce, etc.) and any marketing expenses.
3. Can I sell POD products on platforms like Etsy and Amazon?
Yes! Many POD platforms integrate directly with Etsy, Amazon, and other marketplaces, allowing you to expand your reach.
4. How do I price my POD products?
Pricing typically includes the base cost from the POD supplier plus your profit margin. When setting prices, account for shipping costs and market competition.
5. What are the most popular POD products to sell?
Apparel, especially custom T-shirts, is one of the most popular POD products. Other trending items include mugs, phone cases, and home decor like pillows and wall art.
Conclusion
Starting a print-on-demand business is a fantastic way to dive into eCommerce without the headache of managing inventory or shipping.
It’s low-risk, scalable, and offers endless creative possibilities.
Whether you’re an artist looking to monetize your designs or an entrepreneur ready to start an online business, POD is worth exploring!
Best Print on Demand Platforms
Benjamin Shemesh is an ecommerce enthusiast and a digital marketing expert.
He loves surfing the ocean
