Print-on-demand business: Meaning, benefits, and how to get started

A print-on-demand business model enables sellers to create and sell custom designed products – from t-shirts and mugs to phone cases – without the hassle of managing inventory or handling shipping. It allows businesses to enter e-commerce with low financial risk and high flexibility in product catalog expansion. This blog post explores the print-on-demand business model, highlights its advantages and challenges, and provides a detailed guide to successfully launch and scale a print-on-demand business internationally.

What is a print-on-demand business?

In a print-on-demand business, a brand sells custom-designed items such as t-shirts, mugs, posters, and other merchandise on demand. The business partners with a third-party supplier that handles the printing and shipping of the products. This model does not require an inventory as products are made to order.

When a customer purchases a product, the order is automatically sent to the supplier, who then prints the design on the chosen product and ships it directly to the customer. This streamlined process reduces operational complexities and financial risks associated with traditional retail models as there are no costs incurred until a sale is made.¹

Benefits of print-on-demand business

The print-on-demand business model offers many benefits, including:

Low startup cost

Products are made only after a sale, minimizing inventory expenses and lowering the barrier to entry.

Reduced risk

With no need to stock inventory, there’s less financial risk and easier product testing.

Flexible and scalable

Suppliers handle production and shipping, making it easy to grow without major investments.

Wide product variety

Sellers can offer a wide range of customizable products, enabling businesses to diversify and target different markets.

Focus on creativity

By outsourcing production and shipping, businesses can focus on creative branding and marketing initiatives to attract customers.

Location independence

Since operations are primarily online, entrepreneurs can run their business from anywhere in the world.²

Drawbacks of print-on-demand business

Despite the advantages, here are some potential drawback of a print-on-demand business:

Lower profit margins:

The cost per unit of a print-on-demand product is typically higher than bulk manufacturing, which can reduce profit margins.

Limited control over fulfillment:

Since print-on-demand relies on third-party suppliers, sellers have less control over production and shipping times.

Intense competition:

The low barrier to entry means the market can be saturated, making it challenging to stand out.³

Step-by-step guide to starting a print-on-demand business internationally

The following are some key steps involved in starting a print-on-demand business internationally:

● Market research:

Identify target markets and understand local preferences, trends, and regulations. Select a product category that aligns with your brand and appeals to international audiences.

● Design products:

Create unique and culturally relevant designs that resonate with the chosen market.

● Select a print-on-demand supplier:

Partner with a platform that offers international shipping and has a global network of printing partners.

● Set up an online store:

Create a user-friendly store optimized for international customers.

● Develop a marketing strategy:

Use digital marketing techniques tailored to each region, such as localized content and social media campaigns.

● Monitor and optimize:

Regularly analyze sales data and customer feedback to refine products and marketing approaches.⁴

Top print-on-demand products to sell internationally

● Unisex t-shirts
● Personalized baby clothing
● Mugs
● Hoodies
● Yoga pants
● Engraved jewelry
● Posters
● Bags and backpacks
● Stickers
● Cushions
● Phone cases⁵

Tips to start a print-on-demand business internationally

To successfully launch and grow an international print-on-demand business, consider the following tips:

• Leverage localized marketing

Create region-specific marketing campaigns to connect with local audiences effectively.

• Offer multilingual support

Provide customer service in multiple languages to enhance user experience.

• Incorporate customer feedback

Showcase testimonials and reviews from customers to build trust and encourage repeat purchase.

• Stay updated on trends

Keep abreast of global trends and demand to offer relevant products.

• Create mockups

Place sample orders and create mockups of your products so that customers can picture what the final product will look like.⁶

Conclusion

The print-on-demand business model is an opportunity for entrepreneurs to start their e-commerce export business with reduced risk and investment. By understanding the benefits and challenges, and following a strategic approach, individuals can establish a successful international print-on-demand business.

Amazon Global Selling: Easy e-commerce exports and hassle-free shipping

If you are a business owner and you want to sell your products to the world, Amazon Global Selling enables you to list and sell ‘Made in India’ products on 18 Amazon global marketplaces. As an e-commerce export program, Amazon Global Selling provides support and guidance at every step of your export journey, connecting you to Amazon’s Service Provider Network for tailored compliance, payments, and logistics support.

Registered sellers can choose to ship their products by themselves through Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN) or they can opt for Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and outsource order fulfillment to Amazon including packing, storage, delivery, and returns. Amazon Global Selling simplifies the process of international shipping to the world, helping businesses navigate customs and reach a vast audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you make money with print-on-demand?

The revenue from a print-on-demand business is dependent on the products you sell, your target audience and how well you market to them.

2. Is print-on-demand a good business model?

If you are looking to start a business from home with minimal investment, print-on-demand can be beneficial. You do not need to keep inventory or ship orders by yourself. All you need to do is create a design, apply it to a product, and begin selling internationally.

3. Is print-on-demand business still a viable option?

Yes, print-on-demand business is a viable business option.

4. What are the top categories for print-on-demand products?

Some popular categories for print-on-demand business are:
● T-shirts and hoodies
● Bags and backpacks
● Mugs
● Baby clothing
● Posters, stickers, and wall decor

5. How much does it cost to start a print-on-demand business?

Starting a print-on-demand business typically requires minimal upfront investment, as there is no need to purchase inventory. Costs may include design software subscriptions, e-commerce platform fees, and marketing expenses.

Published on June 16, 2022.
Updated on May 23, 2025

Sources:

1. https://www.shiprocket.in/blog/how-to-start-a-print-on-demand-ecommerce-business/#What_is_a_Print-on-Demand_Business
2. https://teeinblue.com/blogs/en/pros-and-cons-of-print-on-demand
3. https://ecommercebonsai.com/print-on-demand-pros-cons/
4. https://www.hostinger.in/tutorials/how-to-start-a-print-on-demand-business
5. https://www.shopify.com/in/blog/print-on-demand-products
6. https://www.shopify.com/blog/print-on-demand

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