Adding print-on-demand style fulfilment to a Shopify store gives you a second sales channel alongside marketplaces like Amazon, with full control over your storefront, pricing, and branding rather than operating inside a platform's rules.
Two ways to run POD on Shopify
- Connected POD apps - third-party apps that integrate with Shopify and automatically print and ship orders when they come in, you never touch physical stock
- Self-managed fulfilment - you hold a small amount of stock (blanks) and print in small batches yourself, using low-minimum-order methods like DTF transfers, giving more control over quality and margin than a fully automated app
Why some sellers choose self-managed over app-based POD
Connected POD apps are convenient but come with the same margin compression as marketplace POD programmes, a third party controls production cost. Sellers who want tighter control over print quality, faster turnaround, or better margin often move to a self-managed model using low-minimum print methods once they have some order volume, printing and holding a small buffer of stock rather than relying entirely on per-order automation.
Setting up a self-managed approach
- Choose a small range of blank garments in your target sizes and colours
- Order DTF transfers for your designs, no meaningful minimum order required
- Press transfers onto blanks as orders come in, or ahead of time for your bestsellers
- List on Shopify with accurate turnaround expectations set for customers
Using Shopify alongside Amazon
Many apparel sellers run Amazon as their primary volume channel while using Shopify for direct-to-customer sales, better margins (no marketplace referral fee), and brand building. The same DTF-printed stock and design testing process typically works across both channels.
FabricForge's DTF gang sheets and transfers work equally well for Shopify self-fulfilment as they do for Amazon FBA stock, printed and shipped from London with no meaningful minimum order. Explore DTF gang sheets
WhatsApp us to order Email us to order
FAQ
Do I need a POD app to sell printed products on Shopify? No, you can self-manage fulfilment using low-minimum print methods like DTF transfers, which gives more control over quality and margin than most connected apps.
Is Shopify or Amazon better for a new apparel seller? Many sellers use both, Amazon for reach and marketplace traffic, Shopify for margin and brand control, with the same print supply chain serving both.
What is the minimum order for DTF transfers on Shopify products? Typically none, making it practical to test designs before committing to bulk stock for your Shopify store.