Alliedify

| Published: July 24, 2025

Looking to sell custom products online without worrying about inventory, packing, or shipping logistics? Print-on-demand (POD) makes that possible and easier than ever in 2025.

With dozens of POD platforms now available, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve curated this definitive guide to the top 5 print-on-demand companies designed specifically for beginners.

Disclosure: This article includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a small commission—at no additional cost to you.

What Is Print-on-Demand (POD)?

Print-on-demand is a fulfillment model that lets you design and sell custom products online. You create the designs, choose the products, and once a customer places an order, your POD provider prints and ships it directly to them.

You don’t have to buy inventory upfront, manage a warehouse, or deal with returns. All you need is creativity and a store.

This business model empowers creators, entrepreneurs, and small businesses to scale quickly with minimal overhead.

How Print-on-Demand Works

Step 1: Upload your design to a POD platform. Step 2: Choose a product like a mug, hoodie, or tote bag and apply the design. Step 3: Connect your online store (Shopify, Etsy, WooCommerce, etc.). Step 4: When an order comes in, your POD partner prints and ships the item.

Shopify makes this seamless through built-in app integrations, streamlining order processing from click to doorstep.

The Top 5 Beginner-Friendly POD Companies in 2025

1. Printify

Printify offers a massive catalog with over 700 customizable products, ranging from apparel to home décor. With 90+ global print facilities, you can deliver to customers faster by routing production to the closest location.

Their Mockup Generator makes product previews a breeze, and you can integrate with platforms like Shopify, Etsy, and eBay in minutes.

Highlights:

• 700+ products across categories
• Free mockup and design tools
• Discounted pricing with premium plan
• Global print partner network

Cost: Free to join. Premium plan offers 20% discounts.

2. SPOD (Spreadshirt Print-On-Demand)

SPOD brings speed and simplicity to POD. They offer over 200 product options and claim 95% of orders ship within 48 hours. For non-designers, there are 50,000+ free design assets to get started quickly.

With seamless integrations to top eCommerce platforms, SPOD simplifies setup and fulfillment.

Highlights:

• 48-hour average production time
• 50K+ free design assets
• Seamless Shopify, WooCommerce, Etsy integrations

Cost: Free to use; pay only when an order is placed.

3. Zazzle

Zazzle operates as a POD marketplace, which means you don’t need your own store to start selling. Upload your art, set your royalty (anywhere between 5–99%), and let Zazzle handle fulfillment, customer service, and payments.

It’s ideal for creatives looking to monetize designs without handling sales logistics.

Highlights:

• Huge product range (t-shirts, stationery, accessories)
• Set your own royalty rates
• No need for a standalone eCommerce store

Cost: Free to join. Earn royalties per sale.

4. Printful

Founded in 2013, Printful has become a powerhouse in the POD space with 430+ premium product options and a reputation for quality. From embroidery to DTG (direct-to-garment), their customization capabilities are extensive.

With 20+ integrations Shopify, Etsy, Amazon, and more you can manage multiple channels under one dashboard.

Highlights:

• 430+ premium products
• High-quality customization methods
• Global fulfillment centers
• Robust branding options (custom labels, pack-ins)

Cost: Free to sign up. Charges apply per product ordered.

5. Gelato

Gelato leverages a network of 100+ production hubs in 32 countries, allowing for localized, fast, and sustainable delivery. The platform supports over 150 customizable products and connects smoothly with Shopify, Etsy, and WooCommerce.

With Gelato’s reach, you can serve international customers with shorter shipping times and lower carbon footprints.

Highlights:

• 3–5 day average delivery time
• Over 150 products
• Local production reduces shipping costs and emissions
• Compatible with major eCommerce platforms

Cost: Free to start. Paid plans unlock advanced features and shipping discounts.

Choosing the Right POD Platform for You

When picking a print-on-demand partner, consider:

• Integrations: Does it work with your store (Shopify, Etsy, etc.)?
• Product quality: Are customer reviews and samples positive?
• Fulfillment speed: Can they meet your delivery expectations?
• Customization: Do they offer custom labels or packaging?
• Pricing: How does their pricing affect your profit margin?
• Location: Where are the print hubs located?

The wrong choice can lead to late deliveries, inconsistent quality, and customer complaints. Choose wisely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the advantage of print-on-demand?

POD minimizes risk and overhead by eliminating inventory. You only produce what you sell.

How much does it cost to start?

Most POD platforms are free to join. You pay production and shipping costs only when an order is placed.

What kind of products can I sell?

Options vary by provider, but common items include clothing, accessories, mugs, posters, and phone cases.

How fast is shipping?

Production usually takes 2–7 days. Shipping depends on customer location. Platforms like Gelato offer local fulfillment to speed this up.

Can I use POD with my existing store?

Absolutely. Most major platforms (Shopify, WooCommerce, Etsy) support POD integrations out of the box.

Final Thoughts

Print-on-demand lets you monetize your creativity without the operational headaches of traditional inventory models.

With the right platform, you can build a scalable, branded online business that delivers quality, speed, and customer satisfaction.

Start small. Test your designs. Watch what sells. And then scale smartly with a POD partner that aligns with your goals.