Bulk T-Shirt Pricing: What Affects the Cost of Custom Shirts
Bulk t-shirt pricing can seem confusing at first. However, it comes down to a few simple factors. Once you understand them, you can design a shirt that looks great and fits your budget. This guide explains exactly what drives the price of custom shirts at Bulk Custom Shirts.
The 4 Factors in Bulk T-Shirt Pricing
1. The Blank Shirt
The garment sets your base cost. For example, a classic cotton tee like the Gildan Ultra Cotton G200 costs less than a premium tee like the Bella Canvas 3001C. Also, larger sizes like 2XL and up usually cost a little more.
2. The Number of Ink Colors
Each ink color needs its own screen and its own pass on the press. Therefore, a one-color design costs less than a four-color design. A simple, bold logo is often the smartest way to save.
3. The Number of Print Locations
Every location, such as the front, back, or sleeve, adds to the print cost. For instance, a front logo only is the most affordable layout, while front and back prints cost more.
4. The Quantity
Quantity has the biggest effect on bulk t-shirt pricing. Setup costs, like making screens, are split across every shirt in the order. As a result, the price per shirt drops as your quantity grows. For example, an order of 144 shirts usually costs much less per shirt than an order of 24.
Example: How Quantity Changes the Price
Imagine a one-color logo on the front of a basic cotton tee. At 24 shirts, the setup cost is spread thin, so each shirt costs more. At 100 shirts, the same setup cost is shared by four times as many shirts. Then, at 144 shirts or more, you also reach a lower print price tier. That is why many groups combine orders, for instance by ordering for two events at once.
How to Lower Your Cost Per Shirt
- Use fewer ink colors, because each color adds cost.
- Print on one or two locations instead of four.
- Choose a value blank, such as the Gildan Softstyle G640.
- Order more at once to reach a lower quantity tier.
- Also, keep your design the same across colors, since changes create separate setups.
What Is Included in Our Price?
Every quote includes a free design review, a free digital proof, and free UPS Ground shipping in the lower 48 states. In addition, there are no hidden rush fees unless you request a rush. Texas orders include sales tax unless you provide an exemption or resale certificate. You can learn about the tax rules on the Texas Comptroller website.
Minimum Order Quantities
- Screen printed items: 24 pieces per design.
- Embroidered items: 24 pieces per design.
- Full-color process prints: 48 pieces.
- Orders with finishing, such as printed tags or polybagging: 96 pieces.
The fastest way to see real bulk t-shirt pricing is to build your shirt in our t-shirt catalog, which shows instant prices. Or, send your details through our quote form.
Ready to get started? Browse our catalog for instant pricing, request a free quote, or call (855) 337-4878.