As an aspiring entrepreneur or side hustler looking to break into the e-commerce and print-on-demand industry, choosing the right service provider is crucial. Two prominent names in this space are Inkthreadable and Shirtee, both offering a range of print-on-demand services for clothing brands. In this article, we’ll compare these two companies across various factors to help you make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways
| Inkthreadable | Shirtee | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | UK-based | US-based |
| Product Range | Focused on clothing and accessories | Broad range including home and living items |
| Printing Method | Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing | DTG and sublimation printing |
| Shipping | Worldwide shipping | Limited to US and select countries |
Product Range
Inkthreadable specializes in clothing and accessories, offering a wide range of t-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, and other garments. They also provide options for custom printing on items like phone cases and bags. While their product catalog may be more focused than Shirtee’s, Inkthreadable’s offerings cater well to clothing brands and entrepreneurs looking to create a cohesive line of merchandise.
On the other hand, Shirtee boasts a broader product range that includes home and living items in addition to clothing and accessories. This diversity can be advantageous for those looking to expand their offerings beyond apparel, but it may also make it more challenging to maintain a consistent brand identity.
Print Quality
Both Inkthreadable and Shirtee offer direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, a process that allows for vibrant, high-quality prints on clothing items. However, Shirtee also provides sublimation printing, which is known for its no-feel print texture and superior durability.
When it comes to print quality, both companies strive for excellence, but Shirtee’s additional sublimation printing capability may give them an edge, particularly for those seeking long-lasting, high-quality prints.
Shipping and Costs
As a UK-based company, Inkthreadable offers worldwide shipping, making it a convenient option for customers and clothing brands across Europe and beyond. Their shipping costs are generally competitive, especially for customers located closer to their UK facilities.
Shirtee, on the other hand, is primarily focused on the US market, with limited shipping options to select countries. While their shipping costs may be more favorable for customers within the US, international customers may face higher shipping fees and longer delivery times.
In terms of overall costs, both companies offer competitive pricing for their print-on-demand services. However, it’s essential to consider the volume of your orders and any potential additional fees or minimums when evaluating the total cost.
Customer Support and Integration
Both Inkthreadable and Shirtee are known for their excellent customer support, providing guidance and assistance throughout the print-on-demand process. They offer various integration options, allowing you to seamlessly connect your online store or e-commerce platform with their services.
Inkthreadable offers a simple integration process with popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Etsy, while Shirtee provides integration with platforms like Shopify, BigCommerce, and WooCommerce, as well as marketplaces like Amazon and Walmart.
The Verdict
After a thorough comparison, it’s clear that both Inkthreadable and Shirtee have their strengths and weaknesses. If your primary focus is on clothing and accessories, and you’re looking for a UK-based company with competitive shipping rates for European customers, Inkthreadable may be the better choice. However, if you’re based in the US or have a broader product range that includes home and living items, Shirtee could be a more suitable option.
Ultimately, the decision should be based on your specific needs, product range, target market, and business goals. It’s recommended to request samples and thoroughly evaluate the print quality, shipping times, and overall customer experience before committing to a long-term partnership with either service provider.