Print on demand is one of the most practical ways to sell physical products online without the risk and cost of holding stock.
Here is a clear explanation of how it works
and who it suits.
The Basic Idea
With print on demand, a product is only created when a customer orders it. There is no minimum order quantity, no warehouse, no upfront cost for stock.
A customer buys from your shop. The order goes to your print on demand supplier. The supplier prints and ships directly to your customer. You receive the difference between your selling price and the supplier’s cost.
What Can Be Printed on Demand
Books — paperback and hardcover, in a range of sizes and paper qualities.
T-shirts, hoodies, and other clothing — printed with your design when ordered.
Mugs, tote bags, phone cases, posters, and more.
For authors, print on demand means you can offer a physical version of your book without printing hundreds of copies and hoping they sell.
The Main Platforms
Lulu and Bookvault— specialises in books. Good quality, straightforward to use, integrates with your own website.
Printful and Gelato — are great in clothing and accessories and more. Wide range of products, reliable quality, ships worldwide.
Both integrate with WordPress and WooCommerce, meaning orders from your website are fulfilled automatically without you doing anything.
The Real Advantages
No upfront investment. There are no storage costs. Not risk of unsold stock. You can offer dozens of products from day one. You have no headaches in production. You have full control in the prices.
The Real Limitations
Margins per item are lower than bulk printing. Yet, you are the one who decide the margins. You have less control over production quality than with a dedicated printer, yet you rely in well established third parties that are responsive to resolve problems. Shipping times depend on the supplier.
Is It Right for You?
Print on demand is right for anyone who wants to sell physical products without significant startup cost. It is particularly well suited to authors, creators, and small businesses testing new product ideas.
We help businesses set up print on demand shops that work properly from the beginning. Contact us at worldy.tcp@gmail.com or visit worldy-tcp.com/contact. We respond to all enquiries within 48 hours.
— Orli and The Team at Worldy TCP