How to Start the Perfect Print-on-Demand (POD) Business

In India, when we talk about Print-on-Demand (POD), one key factor comes to mind—low MOQ (minimum order quantity). This helps eliminate dead stock and reduces financial risk. However, another approach is to make a medium or heavy investment in plain T-shirts until the restocking process becomes automated.

To successfully run a POD business, you need two essential things:

A) T-Shirts

1st Method: Low MOQ

If you're starting with a low MOQ, you need to find companies that maintain ready stock. After sampling and quality checks, if you're satisfied with their products, you can proceed.

• Cost: High
• Transport Cost: Very High
• Quality: Cannot be customized

2nd Method: High MOQ

For those opting for high MOQ, you have two options:

1. Purchase ready-made plain T-shirts in bulk from garment manufacturers.
2. Source fabric rolls from the market and get them stitched into plain T-shirts through job work units.

• Cost: Low
• Transport Cost: Very Low
• Quality: Can be easily customized

B) Printing Options

1. DTG (Direct-to-Garment)

• Quality: Premium
• Price: High
• Durability & Comfort: High
• MOQ: Starts from 1 piece

2. DTF (Direct-to-Film)

• Quality: Suitable for local and basic prints (Not suitable for premium brands)
• Price: Low
• Durability & Comfort: Low
• MOQ: Starts from 1 piece

3. Screen Printing

• Quality: High
• Price: Low
• Durability & Comfort: High
• MOQ: Starts from 100 pieces

Which Printing Method is Best?

• DTG: Ideal for premium POD graphic T-shirt brands that prioritize high-quality prints.
• DTF: Best for local or entry-level POD brands focusing on bulk production.

By choosing the right combination of T-shirts and printing techniques, you can successfully launch and scale your Print-on-Demand business in India.