As someone who’s been in the online selling game for over seven years, I’ve seen the evolution of Print-on-Demand (POD) firsthand. In this post, I’m going to share with you my top picks for the best POD companies in 2024, based on my personal experience, data, and research. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned seller looking to expand, this list will guide you toward the right platforms for your business.
After years of testing different platforms, Printify has remained my top choice. The platform is flexible, affordable, and gives you access to a vast network of over 90 print facilities worldwide. You can choose from a wide selection of products, including popular items like Gildan 5000 and Bella Canvas 3001 t-shirts, which are both durable and comfortable—two things my customers consistently rave about.
What really sets Printify apart for me is their Premium Plan, which you can get for free using this code Houry. With this plan, you’ll receive 20% off all products, making it easier to scale your business without sacrificing quality.
Why I Love Printify:
- Global Reach: With facilities in multiple countries, I can offer my customers faster shipping times.
- Customizable Options: From mugs to phone cases, Printify offers over 700 products.
- Excellent Return Policy: In the rare event that a product is damaged or defective, Printify’s team is incredibly flexible. They either issue refunds or offer reprints for over 60% of return requests, which saves me time and hassle.
Get your free Premium account on Printify using the code “Houry” and start scaling your POD business today!
Click here to join Printify with the free Premium Plan
2. Printful – Fantastic Mockups, but Watch Out for Pricing
Another big player in the POD world is Printful, and for good reason. Their design mockups are some of the best in the business, making it easy to create stunning visuals for your online store. With over 430 products available, Printful integrates seamlessly with platforms like Shopify, Etsy, Amazon, and even eBay.
However, Printful’s overpriced products are one of the downsides I’ve experienced over the years. While their quality is undeniable, their pricing can cut into your profit margins, especially if you’re targeting competitive markets. So while I love using Printful for mockups, I typically save it for higher-end products or niche designs where customers are willing to pay a premium.
Why I Use Printful Occasionally:
- Top-Notch Mockups: The mockup generator is perfect for marketing on social media or e-commerce platforms.
- Wide Product Range: From apparel to home decor, Printful offers a great variety.
- Seamless Integrations: Their partnerships with major e-commerce platforms make selling a breeze.
If you’re focusing on high-quality visuals and can manage the higher costs, Printful is a solid choice for sellers looking to stand out with premium products.
3. Gelato – A Global Solution with Speed and Reach
Gelato is another contender that I recommend, especially if you’re targeting a global market. With over 100 production hubs in 32 countries, they promise speedy delivery and a wide variety of products that cater to international customers.
The ability to print locally means that shipping is faster, which can give you a competitive edge over other sellers. Gelato integrates well with popular platforms like Shopify, Etsy, and WooCommerce. While their customization options aren’t as vast as Printify or Printful, their international reach makes them a viable option for global expansion.
Why Consider Gelato:
- Speedy Global Delivery: Faster shipping times due to local production hubs.
- Low Inventory Risk: Their on-demand model allows for lower upfront investment.
- Affordable Plans: You can start for free, with paid plans unlocking more features.
Explore Gelato’s Services Here
4. SPOD – Fastest Fulfillment in the Game
SPOD is one of the fastest in the business when it comes to fulfillment. With 95% of orders shipped within 48 hours, this makes SPOD ideal if you prioritize quick shipping times for your customers. Their product catalog includes over 200 items, and their integrations with Shopify, Etsy, and WooCommerce make selling simple.
They also offer 50,000+ free designs, which is a nice perk if you’re not a graphic designer but want to start selling right away. However, their selection is not as extensive as Printify or Printful, and customization options are somewhat limited.
What SPOD Brings to the Table:
- Lightning-Fast Shipping: 48-hour shipping on 95% of orders.
- Large Design Library: Perfect for sellers who need design help.
- No Upfront Costs: Pay only when you sell.
5. Zazzle – High Royalties, Niche Products
If you’re a designer looking to make money off your creativity, Zazzle is an excellent platform. You can set your own royalty rate (between 5% and 99%), which can lead to substantial profits if your designs are popular. Zazzle’s product range includes everything from t-shirts to pillows to stationery, making it a great platform for unique, custom products.
However, it’s worth noting that Zazzle functions more like a marketplace than a POD service, so it’s more suited for artists and designers who want to upload their creations and let Zazzle handle the rest.
Why Zazzle Works for Designers:
- Set Your Own Royalties: Maximize your earnings with flexible pricing.
- Wide Variety of Products: Great for niche markets.
- Easy to Use: No upfront costs, just upload your designs.
Explore More Free Marketplaces for Your Designs
Comparison Table
| Company | Key Features | Pricing | Best For | Downsides |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Printify | 90+ global print facilities, 700+ products | Free/Premium with discounts | Affordable, Global Reach | |
| Printful | Best mockups, 430+ products, e-commerce integration | Free to sign up | Premium products and design | High pricing, poor customer support |
| Gelato | 100 production hubs, fast delivery | Free/Paid plans | Global reach, fast fulfillment | Limited customization |
| SPOD | 200+ products, fast fulfillment | Free | Speed, beginner-friendly | Limited product range |
| Zazzle | High royalty rates, creative marketplace | Free | Designers, unique items | High fees for products |
When it comes to choosing the best POD company in 2024, it’s all about balancing your needs for product quality, shipping times, and pricing. I’ve had great success with Printify, particularly when using their Premium Plan for additional savings. Printful is a great alternative if you’re looking for standout mockups, but their pricing and customer support can be challenging. Platforms like Gelato, SPOD, and Zazzle offer unique advantages depending on your business model and customer base.
Ready to start or grow a POD business? Check out this full guide and download the eBook to lead the POD world with confidence!