Many people love the idea of being able to sell their own custom design and branded merchandise online. But the reality of doing so can seem like a lot of work – and it is, depending on how you choose to do it. Managing inventory, overseeing the shipping, and dealing with orders are all time-intensive tasks before you even get to the capital required to start.

Thanks to companies, such as Printful, however – which specialise in drop-shipping, you can now begin your brand today without the need to worry about any of that. All you need are some ideas, a few designs, and a passion for setting yourself apart from the crowd.

How you can do it

When you work with a drop-shipping partner that offers print-on-demand services when you integrate your eCommerce store with their system you’ll have the ability to browse their range of blank items. These items are your canvas, on which you can have your designs custom printed to sell to customers.

You can have all sorts of things printed – everything from t-shirts and hoodies, to towels and phone cases. All of them, and so much more besides, can be custom printed to carry your own unique designs. Its never been easier or more affordable for you to make a start developing your own brand, and sharing your designs with the rest of the world.

How drop-shipping works

It couldn’t be easier. When a customer buys something through your eCommerce store, your drop-shipping partner is immediately notified. The custom print the item that has been ordered, before packing it and shipping it from their premises. The packaging all carries your custom branding, so as far as the customer is concerned it has come straight from you.

The advantage is, of course, that you don’t have to bother with a load of tedious inventory management. There’s no upfront investment required for custom printing in the hope you’ll be able to sell them all – things are only printed after they’ve been bought. As you pay for the service as a percentage of your sales, you don’t need investment to get the ball rolling either.

Drop-shipping has made it easier than ever before to have your designs commercially available to be purchased by customers all over the world. All you need is a vision – when you work with a drop-shipping partner they will provide you with the items on which to print your designs.