Discover the best print on demand platforms and how they help you succeed in 2023

Print on demand (POD) is one of the most convenient and profitable business models in 2023. Entrepreneurs, creatives, and artists are turning to POD platforms to design, sell, and ship custom products without needing to manage inventory. If you're looking for the best POD services, this guide will help you navigate the best platforms available in 2023, their features, pricing, and which ones stand out in the market.

1. What is Print on Demand and How Does It Work?

Print on demand is a business model where products are created only after a customer places an order. Instead of keeping large inventories, you create designs that are printed on products like t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and more when an order is placed. The POD service provider handles the production, packing, and shipping, allowing you to focus solely on marketing and sales.

This model is particularly popular for creators and small business owners because it minimizes risk and upfront costs. You don’t have to worry about unsold stock or warehousing expenses. POD services typically integrate with eCommerce platforms such as Shopify, Etsy, and WooCommerce, streamlining the selling process and making it easier to start your own business with minimal investment.

2. The Top Print on Demand Services in 2023

As we move through 2023, many POD platforms have gained attention for their variety of products, ease of use, customer service, and pricing. Here are some of the top options:

Printful
Printful remains one of the top POD platforms because of its wide range of products, integrations with major eCommerce platforms (Shopify, Etsy, WooCommerce), and global fulfillment centers. With Printful, you can create products ranging from apparel and accessories to home goods. They offer custom branding services like logo printing and pack-ins for a personalized experience.

Printify
Printify offers a large network of print providers across the globe. This means faster shipping and more flexibility in pricing. The platform has a wide product catalog and allows users to create custom designs for everything from t-shirts to pillows and even stickers. Printify integrates with platforms like Shopify and Etsy, making it easy to automate your POD business.

TeeSpring (now Spring)
Known for its strong focus on custom apparel, TeeSpring allows creators to design, sell, and promote their products with ease. In 2023, TeeSpring rebranded to Spring, emphasizing its focus on helping creators grow their online businesses. They also offer a suite of marketing tools, including landing pages and integrations with YouTube and Instagram, to help promote products directly to fans.


Gooten is another solid choice for POD, known for its advanced order management system and diverse product range. It provides a seamless experience for businesses looking for higher-quality custom prints and options like kitting and bundling. With Gooten, you can easily set up and scale your POD business and benefit from their extensive fulfillment network.

3. Key Features to Look for in a Print on Demand Platform

When selecting a POD service, there are several factors to consider. The best platform for your needs will depend on your goals, product type, and business model. Here are some of the key features to look for:

Product Variety and Quality
One of the most important considerations when choosing a POD service is the range of products available. You’ll want to work with a platform that offers a variety of items to appeal to your target market. High-quality products are equally crucial to ensure customer satisfaction and repeat purchases. Always check reviews and sample products before committing to a platform.

Integration with eCommerce Platforms
Look for a POD service that integrates seamlessly with your existing eCommerce store. Whether you use Shopify, WooCommerce, or Etsy, it's important that your POD platform can automatically sync orders, track inventory, and update product listings. This will save you time and streamline the entire process.

Fulfillment Speed and Shipping Options
Speed of delivery is one of the key factors that influence customer satisfaction. Many POD services offer expedited shipping options, but it’s important to know the typical fulfillment times. If you're targeting customers globally, consider a platform with multiple fulfillment centers worldwide, ensuring faster shipping times and reduced costs for international orders.

Customer Service and Support
Responsive and helpful customer service is a necessity, especially when you're running an online business. Choose a POD platform that offers reliable support, whether through email, live chat, or phone. Having access to resources like tutorials, FAQs, and community forums can also be helpful when you need assistance quickly.

4. Pricing and Profit Margins: What You Need to Know

Pricing plays a significant role in your ability to run a successful POD business. Most POD platforms charge a base price for each product, and you can mark up the price to set your own retail price. Your profit margin is the difference between the base price and the retail price you charge customers. However, you should also consider other costs, such as shipping fees and transaction fees, when calculating your profits.

Some platforms, like Printful and Printify, offer subscription plans with additional features, such as discounted product prices and priority support. It’s important to factor these costs into your pricing structure to ensure you’re still able to maintain profitability. For those just starting out, choosing a platform with a pay-as-you-go model without a monthly subscription might be a more budget-friendly option.

Ultimately, success in POD is about finding the right balance between product cost, your retail pricing strategy, and how much you can sell at scale. Experiment with pricing to understand what your market is willing to pay and adjust accordingly. Keep in mind that marketing and customer acquisition strategies are crucial to driving sales.

Conclusion: Finding the Best POD Platform for Your Business

Choosing the best print-on-demand platform in 2023 depends on your specific needs, budget, and product focus. Platforms like Printful, Printify, TeeSpring, and Gooten are some of the top contenders, each offering unique features tailored to different types of businesses. Whether you're an artist looking to sell custom designs or an entrepreneur looking to build a scalable eCommerce store, there's a POD service that can help you bring your vision to life.

When selecting a POD service, consider factors like product range, pricing, fulfillment speed, and customer support. By doing thorough research and testing the options available, you can find the platform that best fits your business goals and ultimately ensures your success in the competitive world of print on demand in 2023.