If you are a business owner interested in print-on-demand, you need to know about the process. In this blog post, we will discuss the ins and outs of print-on-demand so that you can decide if it is the right option for your business.
We will cover topics such as how print-on-demand works and some things to remember when choosing a print-on-demand business. If you are ready to learn more about print-on-demand, then keep reading!
What are these 10 Things to Know About the Print-on-Demand Process?
1. Working with Supplier
Print-on-demand is a process when you work with a supplier to create custom products. This is usually done by adding your designs to white-labeled products.
The supplier then prints, packs, and ships your products to your customers on your behalf. Print-on-demand businesses do not need inventory or warehousing space because the supplier takes care of everything.
This system is excellent for businesses that want to offer unique or customized products without investing in many up-front costs. Also, Print-on-demand allows firms to test new product ideas without committing to large minimum order quantities.
2. Sell Products Individually
Print-on-demand services allow you to sell products individually with your brand name or unique design. You can do this through your website or online store.
When a customer orders one of your products, the print-on-demand company will print and ship it to them. This differs from traditional manufacturing because you don’t have to print large quantities of products upfront.
3. Provider
When you purchase a product through print on demand, you won’t pay for it until the third-party supplier prints it. So as soon as a consumer places an order with you, the print-on-demand provider takes over and sees every detail from printing to shipping.
This print-on-demand provider will print your design on the product and send it off to the customer for you. You don’t have to worry about minimum order quantities, inventory, or fulfillment. All you need to do is focus on marketing and selling your products.
Print-on-demand providers typically offer a wide range of products you can choose from, such as t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and more. They also handle all the production and shipping logistics, so you don’t have to.
4. Customer Orders
The print-on-demand process begins when a customer places an order on your website or online store. Once the order is placed, it is sent to the print-on-demand company, then prints, packages, and ships the product to the customer.
The print-on-demand company will also handle any customer service issues that may arise. This means you don’t have to worry about fulfilling orders or dealing with customer service issues.
5. Print File
The print file is the design you want to be printed on the product. This can be a logo, image, or text. The print file is sent to the print-on-demand company, which will print it on the product.
There are a few things to remember when creating your print file. First, ensure your design is high resolution and in vector format. This will ensure that your design looks great on the final product.
Second, remember that the print-on-demand company may have minimum requirements for the size and resolution of your print file. Be sure to check with them before submitting your design.
Third, remember that not all print-on-demand companies print in full color. Some only print in one or two colors. Be sure to check with the print-on-demand company to see what their capabilities are before submitting your design.
Fourth, remember that the print file will be printed on the product. If you want your design to be centered, you will need to create a print file that is already centered. The print-on-demand company will not make any adjustments to your print file.
And fifth, remember that you will likely have to pay for the print file when you submit it to the print-on-demand company. Be sure to factor this cost into your pricing when selling products through print on demand.
6. Printing
Once the print file is submitted, the print-on-demand company will print it on the product. This process can take a few days to a week, depending on the print-on-demand company and the product you are printing on.
The print file is printed on the product using various methods depending on the product and the print-on-demand company. Standard techniques include screen printing, digital printing, and embroidery.
After the print file is printed on the product, it is shipped to the customer. The shipping time will vary depending on the print-on-demand company and your chosen shipping method.
7. Shipping
Once the product is printed, it is then shipped to the customer. The shipping time will vary depending on the print-on-demand company and your chosen shipping method.
Most print-on-demand companies offer various shipping options, such as standard, expedited, and express. Standard shipping typically takes a few days to a week, while expedited and express shipping can take a day or two.
You will also have to pay for shipping when using print on demand. Be sure to factor this cost into your pricing when selling products through print on demand.
8. Tracking
Once the product is shipped, you (or your customer) can track the shipment. The print-on-demand company will provide you with a tracking number that you can use to track the shipment.
You (or your customer) will be able to see where the product is and when it is expected to arrive. This information can be helpful if there are any issues with the shipment.
Tracking information can also be helpful in case a customer claims that they never received their order. You can use the tracking information to prove that the product was shipped and delivered to the customer.
9. Returns
There may be times when a customer wants to return a product. Print-on-demand companies typically have a return policy that you will need to follow.
Be sure to familiarize yourself with the print-on-demand company’s return policy before selling any products through them. This will help you avoid any issues if a customer wants to return a product. In most cases, the print-on-demand company will handle returns for you.
But in some cases, you may need to handle the return yourself. Be sure to check with the print-on-demand company to see what their policy is. And finally, remember that you will likely have to pay for returned products.
10. Customer Service
Print-on-demand companies typically have excellent customer service. This is because they want to keep you as a customer and print your designs on their products.
Contact their customer service department if you ever have issues with a print-on-demand company. They will usually be able to help you resolve any problems that you are having.
Conclusion
In conclusion, print on demand is a great way to sell custom products without investing in inventory or worrying about shipping. Remember these ten things when using print on demand, and you’ll be sure to have a successful experience.
Thanks for reading!