Ever wondered how to score high-quality custom shirts without draining your budget? Whether you’re outfitting a team, planning an event, or launching your own brand, finding affordable options matters more than ever.
Getting cheap custom shirts in bulk isn’t just about saving money—it’s about maximizing value without sacrificing style. In this article, you’ll discover smart strategies, key steps, and insider tips to help you get the best deals on bulk orders without compromising on quality.
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How to Get Cheap Custom Shirts in Bulk: A Complete Guide
Looking to order custom shirts in bulk without breaking the bank? Whether you’re coordinating an event, running a small business, outfitting a team, or planning a fundraiser, affordable bulk custom t-shirts can make your job easier and more memorable. This guide walks you through everything you need to know—simple, clear, and practical—so you get the best value with confidence.
Why Bulk Custom Shirts Are So Affordable
Ordering custom shirts in large quantities can significantly drive down the price per shirt. This is because:
- Screen printing and digital printing processes are more efficient for larger orders.
- Many suppliers offer tiered discounts—the more you order, the less you pay per shirt.
- Shipping and setup fees get divided among more items, reducing the cost for each individual shirt.
In fact, bulk orders can drop the price of a custom shirt to around $5 or even less per piece, depending on your choices and negotiation.
Step-by-Step: How to Order Cheap Custom Shirts in Bulk
1. Define Your Needs
Start by considering:
- Quantity: How many shirts do you really need? Bulk orders often start at 12 pieces, but savings jump at 50, 100, or 500+.
- Shirt Type: Do you want basic cotton tees, performance shirts, polos, or something unique?
- Design Complexity: Will your shirts have a simple one-color logo or a vibrant, multi-color design?
- Deadline: When do you need your shirts? Rush orders may add extra cost.
2. Choose a Custom Shirt Provider
Many reputable online companies specialize in custom bulk orders. You’ll want to look for:
- Volume Discounts: Suppliers frequently slash prices at higher quantities.
- Design Tools: Some sites offer beginner-friendly design studios where you can upload logos and see instant previews.
- Print Options: Common options include screen printing, direct-to-garment (DTG), embroidery, and sublimation.
- Free Shipping: Free delivery for bulk orders is a common perk and saves you more money.
Popular choices include those known for competitive pricing, user-friendly ordering, and quick turnaround.
3. Upload or Create Your Design
- Most providers let you upload your artwork, create designs using their templates, or even have their artists help at low or no extra cost.
4. Select Sizing and Colors
- Sizes: S-XL are usually standard, but extended sizes (XS, 2XL, 3XL, etc.) are almost always available.
- Colors: The more colors and sizes you select, the more complex your order may be—but many companies handle diverse combinations with ease.
5. Request a Quote and Confirm the Order
- Before you buy, double-check the final price per shirt—which should reflect all bulk discounts and shipping fees.
- Ask for a digital proof or sample when possible.
Key Aspects to Consider When Shopping for Cheap Bulk Custom Shirts
1. Printing Methods
Each printing method affects price, turnaround, and design options:
- Screen Printing: Best for large orders and simple designs. The setup is costly, but price per shirt drops fast with higher quantities.
- Direct-to-Garment (DTG): Great for complex, full-color images and smaller batches.
- Embroidery: Ideal for logos and professional looks, but typically costs more per shirt.
- Sublimation: Best for all-over prints on polyester shirts.
2. Shirt Quality and Brand
- Material: Basic cotton is most affordable, but blends (cotton/poly) and premium brands increase price.
- Durability: Ask about quality if your shirts will get lots of use or need to last through multiple washes.
- Fit and Feel: For events or giveaways, standard cuts work well; for retail or team uniforms, consider sizing samples.
3. Order Minimums
- Some companies have “no minimums,” but the per-piece price is higher at low quantities.
- Bigger minimums (often 24, 50, or 100 shirts) unlock major pricing discounts.
4. Turnaround Time
- Standard production is usually 7-14 business days, plus shipping.
- Rush jobs are available at an upcharge if you need shirts faster.
- Check if estimated delivery dates fit your schedule—free shipping may take longer.
5. Shipping & Delivery
- Free Shipping: Look for suppliers who include free delivery for bulk orders.
- International Shipping: If you need shirts shipped worldwide, check costs and delivery times up-front.
Benefits of Ordering Custom Shirts in Bulk
- Significant Savings: The more you order, the lower the price per shirt.
- Consistent Quality: All shirts are produced together, ensuring colors, sizing, and print quality match across your order.
- Easy Coordination: Simplifies event planning, brand promotion, and group needs.
- Stress-Free Logistics: Many companies offer free design help, sample approval, and streamlined online ordering.
Common Challenges (and How to Overcome Them)
- Final Price Surprises: Always check if quoted prices include design, print, setup, and shipping.
- Design Issues: Simple, clear logos are best for savings. Complicated designs can bump up price.
- Sizing Mix-Ups: Double-check your size breakdown and confirm before approving your order.
- Last-Minute Changes: Once your shirts are in production, changes may not be possible.
- Order Delays: Plan ahead and factor in a safety window when scheduling your event or product launch.
Cost-Saving Tips and Best Practices
1. Simplify Your Design
- Fewer print colors = lower cost (especially for screen printing).
- Stick to one or two locations (front-only or back-only is cheapest).
2. Order More Than You Need
- Bulk discounts kick in at higher quantities—the jump from 50 to 100 shirts can cut costs dramatically per shirt.
- Extra shirts can be used as backups or future giveaways.
3. Reuse Art and Setups
- If you reorder the same design later, many companies will waive new setup fees.
4. Compare Shipping Deals
- Free shipping is common on large orders. Ask whether it’s standard or a promo.
- For international delivery, bundle shirts into fewer large boxes to save.
5. Get a Proof Before Production
- Review a digital or printed sample to catch errors or color issues before full production.
6. Use the Right Shirt Type
- Basic cotton is cheapest—unless you need high-performance or retail-quality shirts.
7. Ask for Help
- Customer service and in-house design teams can help optimize your order for cost and speed.
What to Expect on Price
- Basic custom printed shirts: Can cost less than $5 each in bulk (especially with simple designs and one print area).
- Premium fabrics, full-color prints, or embroidery: Expect $10–$15 per shirt, depending on quantity and options.
- Design, setup, and shipping: Often bundled in, but always confirm the total price before approving payment.
Summary
Ordering cheap custom shirts in bulk is a smart, budget-friendly move for groups, businesses, and events. Start by outlining your needs, selecting a reputable provider, and keeping your design simple. Leverage bulk discounts and free shipping offers to maximize savings. With a little preparation and these tips, you’ll get custom shirts that look great—without overspending.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many shirts do I need to order to get bulk pricing?
Most companies start offering bulk discounts at around 12 to 24 shirts. Bigger savings usually kick in once you hit 50, 100, or more shirts.
Will I get to approve my shirt design before printing?
Yes, most providers send a digital proof or mock-up for your approval before the full order goes into production. Always review these closely.
Can I order different shirt sizes and colors in one bulk order?
Absolutely! You can usually mix sizes at no extra charge. Multiple colors are also possible, though mixing shirt colors in one order may require minimums per color.
How long does it take to receive my shirts?
Standard production plus shipping is usually 7 to 14 business days. Rush options are available if you need shirts faster, but may cost more.
Is it cheaper to print on the front only or both front and back?
Printing on the front only is always cheaper. Adding designs to the back or sleeves increases the cost per shirt, so keep things simple for the best price.