Find the best platforms to launch and grow your print-on-demand store

Starting a print-on-demand business requires choosing the right ecommerce platform. The ideal platform will offer ease of use, integration with suppliers, customizable features, and scalability. This article reviews the top ecommerce platforms tailored for print-on-demand services, comparing their features, ease of use, pricing, and integration options.

1. Shopify: The Leading Platform for Print-on-Demand

Shopify is often considered the best ecommerce platform for print-on-demand businesses due to its simplicity and wide range of features. It offers a variety of apps, such as Printful and Printify, that seamlessly integrate with the platform, enabling you to add custom-designed products to your online store. Shopify’s extensive support and customization options make it a favorite among entrepreneurs.

One of Shopify’s key strengths is its user-friendly interface. Setting up your online store can be done quickly with no technical experience. Plus, Shopify offers a plethora of themes and plugins to make your store visually appealing and functional. The platform also supports a variety of payment gateways, ensuring a smooth checkout experience for customers.

However, Shopify comes with a monthly fee, which may be a concern for those just starting. Additionally, transaction fees apply unless you use Shopify Payments. But overall, Shopify provides one of the most comprehensive and reliable platforms for print-on-demand businesses.

2. WooCommerce: A Flexible and Cost-Effective Option

WooCommerce is a powerful plugin for WordPress that turns your website into a fully functional online store. It is one of the most cost-effective ecommerce platforms, especially for those already familiar with WordPress. WooCommerce integrates smoothly with various print-on-demand services like Printful, SPrint on demand, and AOP+.

WooCommerce allows for complete customization of your store’s design, thanks to its open-source nature. You can create a unique and tailored shopping experience for your customers, from product pages to checkout flows. Plus, WooCommerce doesn’t charge any monthly fees, and you only pay for additional premium plugins or services you choose to use.

However, while WooCommerce is highly customizable, it can be a bit technical for beginners. If you are not familiar with WordPress or website design, you might need to hire a developer to help with setup and customization. But for those with some experience, WooCommerce is an excellent, budget-friendly choice.

3. Etsy: The Marketplace for Creators

Etsy is a well-known marketplace where users can sell handmade, vintage, and custom products, including print-on-demand items. While it’s not a traditional ecommerce platform like Shopify or WooCommerce, Etsy provides an excellent opportunity for print-on-demand sellers to reach a massive, built-in audience.

One of Etsy’s biggest advantages is the community of buyers and sellers. With millions of active shoppers, your products can quickly gain visibility. Etsy also integrates with several print-on-demand services such as Printful, Gooten, and Printify, making it easy to upload designs and start selling immediately.

However, Etsy does charge listing fees and transaction fees, which can add up over time. Additionally, it may not offer the same level of customization and control as other platforms. If you’re looking for more creative freedom and a unique branding opportunity, Etsy may not be the best option. Still, for those who prefer a marketplace model, Etsy is a great choice for a print-on-demand business.

4. Printify + Wix: A Seamless All-in-One Solution

If you want a simple yet professional website, combining Printify with Wix can be an ideal solution for your print-on-demand business. Wix is known for its drag-and-drop website builder, which makes it easy to create a beautiful, functional online store without coding knowledge. It offers multiple templates and design tools to personalize your store.

Wix’s integration with Printify enables you to add print-on-demand products directly to your store. Printify handles the production and fulfillment of orders, allowing you to focus on marketing and growing your business. Wix also supports various payment methods and offers marketing tools, including SEO optimization and email campaigns.

However, Wix may not be as feature-rich as Shopify in terms of scalability. While it’s perfect for small businesses, those looking to scale up may find it limiting. Additionally, Wix charges a monthly fee, which can increase as you upgrade to higher-tier plans for additional features.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Platform for Your Print-on-Demand Business

The best ecommerce platform for your print-on-demand business ultimately depends on your needs, technical skill level, and budget. Shopify stands out for its ease of use and extensive features, while WooCommerce offers greater customization at a lower cost. Etsy provides a ready-made marketplace with built-in traffic, and Wix with Printify offers a straightforward option for small businesses. Consider your goals and resources before making your decision to ensure the best start for your online store.

Ultimately, the success of your print-on-demand business will depend not only on the platform you choose but also on the quality of your designs, customer service, and marketing efforts. Take the time to explore your options and select the platform that aligns with your business vision and goals.