< Blogs

Dropshipping vs Print on Demand – Complete Guide for 2025

Vivan Z.
Created on November 26, 2024 – Last updated on February 6, 20253 min read
Written by: Vivan Z.

In 2025, the e-commerce industry continues to grow rapidly, and Dropshipping and Print on Demand (POD) are two of the most popular business models. Many entrepreneurs often find themselves torn between the two when deciding which type of e-commerce store to start. So, what are the key differences? Which model is better for you? In this article, we will thoroughly compare these two business models, discuss their pros and cons, and help you make a well-informed decision.

What is Dropshipping?

Dropshipping is an e-commerce business model. The retailer doesn’t keep inventory. Instead, they team up with a supplier. When an order comes in, the supplier ships the products straight to the customers. In this model, the retailer focuses on sales and marketing while the supplier takes care of product manufacturing, inventory management, and shipping.

For more details on dropshipping, check out our previous article on What is Dropshipping & How to Start.

how does dropshipping work

What is Print on Demand?

Print on Demand (POD) is a custom e-commerce model where the retailer does not need to purchase large amounts of inventory upfront. Instead, products are printed and produced only when a customer places an order. This model is often used for custom items like T-shirts, mugs, posters, and more. It allows retailers to offer unique and personalized products without the need for upfront inventory investment.

For more detailed information on Print on Demand, refer to our earlier article on What is Print on Demand? A Beginner’s Guide to the Growing?.

Dropshipping vs Print on Demand: A Comparative Analysis

feature Dropshipping

Dropshipping Pros & Cons
Dropshipping Pros&Cons

Print on Demand Pros & Cons

 

Dropshipping vs Print on Demand: A Comparative Analysis

Which One Should I Choose?

Instead of choosing between dropshipping and print on demand, the goal of this article is to help you gain a deeper understanding of both business models. By reading this guide, you should be able to make an informed decision about which industry or service is the best fit for you. Both models have their unique advantages, and your decision should be based on your business goals, target market, and product offerings.

Conclusion

As we discussed in the Dropshipping Pros section, services like DropSure can help streamline and enhance the dropshipping process. We encourage you to explore your options carefully and choose the model that aligns with your business vision and resources.

Buttom

DropSure is Your Best Partner
22 Years Experience
Affiliate Rebates
100% Quality Guarantee
Top-Up Rewards
10+ Global Warehouses
Custom Branding Support
Smart inventory System
24/7 Customer Support
Get a Quote in 24 Hours
Start Sourcing for Free

Keep Learning

When TikTok “went dark” in the U.S., e-commerce businesses had to rethink how this would impact their operations. The TikTok ban isn’t just about data privacy; it’s also a glimpse into the bigger shifts happening in international trade and the digital economy. For dropshippers operating in global markets, it’s a mix of challenges and opportunities. In this blog, we’ll talk about what happened, how it affects cross-border e-commerce, and share some practical tips to help you sellers navigate these changes. The TikTok Ban: A Clash Between Tech and International Policy    Here’s what happen to TikTok.Back in 2023, the U.S. government rolled out some strict new rules against TikTok. The government said the app was a threat to national security. The controversy wasn’t just about the app itself, but also about its parent company, ByteDance, since it shares U.S. user data with the Chinese government. TikTok insisted that its data is stored in the U.S. and managed by third-party firms, but that didn’t lower U.S. government’s concerns.This dispute was about more than just one company—it became a really important clash between the tech industry and international policy. For dropshippers, this is a good example of how global events can influence your business. If you rely on TikTok ads to bring customers to your store, once TikTok is banned, your main way of getting traffic would gone. So it’s important to use more than one platform, like Instagram or Facebook, for marketing. What’s more, you need to obey data rules in the countries of your target customers are. For example, if you’re meking deal with U.S. buyers, make sure your tools and platforms follow U.S. privacy laws. This way, you can […]

Are you considering entering the world of eCommerce but unsure whether to choose Dropshipping or Amazon FBA? These are two of the most popular and successful fulfillment options available. The question is, which one is better suited for your business? In this article, we will break down the key differences between these two methods, comparing their pros and cons to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re looking for low-risk startup solutions or more automation, this guide will provide valuable insights for growing your online business. What is Dropshipping? Dropshipping is a business model where you don’t hold any inventory. As a seller, you list products in your store, and when a customer places an order, the supplier ships the product directly to them. For those looking to start selling with minimal costs and lower risks, dropshipping is a great choice. You don’t need a warehouse or worry about logistics. You only pay after a sale is made. However, dropshipping requires careful management of suppliers and effective marketing to bring traffic to your store. What is Amazon FBA? Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) is a service that allows you to send your products to Amazon’s warehouse, and they handle storage, packing, and shipping when an order is placed. You won’t need to manage packaging or logistics, as Amazon will also take care of returns and customer service.  Commonly, you can say it is an automated dropshipping Amazon service. FBA is ideal for sellers who want to leverage Amazon’s vast customer base and logistics network. Products become eligible for Amazon Prime shipping (Amazon Dropshipping), attracting more buyers. However, FBA requires upfront inventory investment and fees for storage, shipping, and fulfillment. […]

If you’ve explored the world of dropshipping, you’ve probably encountered numerous supplier platforms. Popular choices include AliExpress, CJdropshipping, Spocket, Oberlo, and other services that connect directly to global marketplaces. But what exactly is DropSure, and how does it stand apart from the platforms mentioned above? How can it help you streamline your operations and scale your business? This guide dives into everything you need to know about DropSure, exploring its features and why it could be the ultimate solution for your dropshipping success. What is DropSure? DropSure is a dropshipping solution that makes running your business easier. It has a team with lots of experience in dropshipping. They work to cut costs, improve product quality, and ship fast to customers all over the world. The platform offers many services like finding suppliers, handling logistics, and managing inventory. It also helps with branding and customizing products. DropSure uses global networks and personal service to help businesses grow. DropSure helps you find suppliers with good prices and quality products. It also helps you build your brand with custom packaging and print-on-demand. You can easily manage orders and track packages with DropSure’s tools.With shipping times of just 3 to 12 days, DropSure makes dropshipping easy and stress-free. Key Features of DropSure DropSure has a lot of experience in dropshipping and works directly with manufacturers. It offers services for both new and experienced sellers. DropSure is known for being reliable and helpful. Here’s a quick look at its key features: Cost-Effectiveness DropSure doesn’t charge monthly fees. You only pay for what you need, like products and shipping. This makes DropSure a cost-effective choice for dropshippers. Automation and Integration The platform works well with many […]

Recommended for you