What is Print-On-Demand and Why is it Used?
In the world of print, there are many different options available for printing methods to bring your visions to life. Finding the most cost-effective and efficient method for your specific printing needs is key. In our last article, we discussed a popular method, known as “offset printing.” If you recall, this is an optimal method if you have large quantities of materials to print. The more your print, the cheaper the cost per item. However, if you’re looking to sell custom prints in small quantities without the need for storage or an initial investment, print-on-demand may be a better choice for you. Print-on-demand is defined as a process where individual copies or small quantities of a product are printed to order, using digital technology. With print-on-demand, you can print only what is needed, where it’s needed, and have it shipped to your customer instantly. Whether it be custom flyers, books, business cards, etc., print-on-demand is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly printing solution.
The Benefits of Print-On-Demand:
Minimal start-up costs
Inventory is “digital.” No physical products are printed until they’re ordered
Eliminates the need for storage/warehousing
It’s easy & efficient; Materials are printed as needed & shipped directly to the customer
Automation makes it a fast process
The volume of prints is scalable
Environmentally friendly printing solution, as there is no waste
Allows you to create custom designs
Branding/white labeling of products
When is Print-On-Demand Used?
There are many different print projects in which print-on-demand would be beneficial. Below are a few of the common examples of when companies or individuals may choose to use print-on-demand, rather than alternative methods of printing.
Custom Work
With print-on-demand, you can create custom designs, whether it be for 1 product or 500. There’s no minimum or a maximum number of quantities that need to be printed, and no financial investment, so you can get creative as you want with designs! Materials will only be printed as needed, so there’s minimal risk involved.
White Labeling
Have you ever seen a product, such as a pen or a baseball cap, that is exactly the same in design, but has a different logo on each? This is what is known as a customized white-labeled product. Essentially, white label printing is a product that’s generated by a company, which other businesses can rebrand to look as if they produced it. It allows for branding and customization through printing. Print-on-demand is often used for white-label printing, as it’s cost-effective.
Start-Ups
As a new business, the start-up costs can be overwhelming, and it can be risky to order large quantities without knowing what your demand for the product will be. You also may not have the resources available for storage. This is why many small businesses and start-ups rely on print-on-demand. It’s a cost-effective and efficient way to be able to fulfill orders, without investing too much of your own money upfront.
Book Publishing
If you’re just getting started in the world as an Author, you may be skeptical as to how many people will be interested in your works. Rather than taking a risk and printing thousands of copies and wondering if they’ll sell, print-on-demand allows authors to print their works as needed. With this method, authors can list their books on retailers’ websites and a print-on-demand service will fulfill the orders as needed. There’s no need for inventory or risky up-front investments.
Packaging
Print-on-demand also makes custom packaging for smaller quantities feasible. This is especially helpful for eCommerce businesses looking to fulfill orders and minimize any excess costs for inventory or large quantities of packaging. With print-on-demand, you can customize your packaging with logos and branding materials, no matter what size order you have!
Contact AA Global Printing
As you can see, print-on-demand is a highly efficient and effective method of printing for many reasons. If you’re interested in learning more or ready to get started on a print project, you can count on our team of experts at AA Global Printing! With our global locations, you can print only what is needed, where it’s needed. Fill out an online form or give us a call at +1 (617) 581-0744 today to get started.