I Tested Printful, Gelato, & Printify in 2024 - Do NOT Choose Wrong!!

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide based on a recent test of three prominent print-on-demand (POD) suppliers: Printful, Gelato, and Printify. The goal is to help you make an informed decision when choosing a POD service for your online store. We will evaluate each supplier based on shipping speed, product quality, pricing, and available tools.

Step 1: Research the POD Suppliers

Before diving into ordering samples, gather information on each supplier.

• Printful: Known for its wide range of products and integration capabilities.
• Gelato: Offers a global network with a focus on sustainability.
• Printify: Features a vast catalog and competitive pricing.

Practical Tip

Visit each supplier’s website to explore their product offerings and read user reviews to understand their strengths and weaknesses.

Step 2: Order Samples

To evaluate quality and shipping speed, order samples from each POD supplier.

1. Create an Account: Sign up for free accounts on each platform.
2. Select Products: Choose a few products to sample, such as t-shirts, mugs, or posters.
3. Place Orders: Complete the checkout process for each supplier.
4. Track Shipping: Note the shipping times for each order.

Practical Tip

Use a standard product across all suppliers for a fair comparison.

Step 3: Evaluate Shipping Speed

Once you receive your samples, compare the shipping times.

• Log Dates: Record when you ordered and when each sample arrived.
• Analyze Results: Determine which supplier had the fastest delivery.

Common Pitfall

Don't overlook the importance of shipping speed. Fast shipping can significantly impact customer satisfaction.

Step 4: Assess Product Quality

Examine each product for quality and craftsmanship.

• Check Print Quality: Look for clarity, color accuracy, and finish.
• Inspect Material: Feel the fabric or material to gauge durability.
• Compare: Assess which supplier offers the best overall quality.

Practical Tip

Consider getting a second opinion by asking friends or family to evaluate the products.

Step 5: Compare Pricing

Analyze the costs associated with each supplier.

1. Base Prices: Review the base prices of the products you ordered.
2. Shipping Costs: Include shipping fees in your total cost evaluation.
3. Discounts and Offers: Look for promotional offers that could affect pricing.

Practical Tip

Use a spreadsheet to keep track of pricing details for easy comparison.

Step 6: Evaluate Tools and Features

Consider the business tools provided by each supplier.

• Integration: Assess how well each platform integrates with your e-commerce store (e.g., Shopify).
• User Interface: Evaluate the ease of use of their design tools and dashboards.
• Support Resources: Check for tutorials, customer support, and community forums.

Common Pitfall

Don’t overlook the value of user-friendly tools. A complicated interface can hinder your business operations.

Conclusion

Choosing the right print-on-demand supplier is crucial for your online store's success. By following these steps—researching suppliers, ordering samples, evaluating shipping speed, assessing product quality, comparing pricing, and evaluating tools—you can make an informed decision.

Next steps include selecting a supplier that best fits your needs and starting to set up your print-on-demand store. Remember to continually monitor supplier performance as your business grows.