1. Printify

• Pricing: Free. Printify also offers two paid plans: Premium ($29/mo) and Enterprise (custom pricing), which offer up to 20% off on every product.
• Shipping: Printify works with printing partners in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, Europe, and China, saving you shipping costs. Most orders leave the printing facilities within 2-7 business days of order submission.
• Integrations: Major eCommerce platforms and marketplaces like Shopify, Wix, eBay, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Etsy, Walmart, Squarespace, and PrestaShop. You can also integrate with Printify API for a custom solution.
• Product category highlights:
  • Bella+Canvas 3001 and Gildan 5000 t-shirts
  • Hoodies and other apparel for children
  • Accessories like hats, backpacks, custom tote bags, and footwear
  • Home decor items, pet accessories
• Best for: Individuals with varying experience levels, from beginners and skilled merchants to those who want to personalize their products.

Unlike other print-on-demand companies, Printify lets merchants choose their Print Providers based on location, shipping speed, and fulfillment costs.

The Printify Catalog has 1,300+ products and a free Product Creator that lets artists and creatives design their products in the app. Upload ready-made designs, add creative fonts with the Text Editor, or use Shutterstock integration to browse millions of low-cost images. 

Printify offers direct-to-garment printing (DTG), all-over printing (AOP), direct-to-film (DTF), and embroidery. It also includes other custom branding options such as packaging inserts. Merchants set their own prices and keep higher profit margins compared to most platforms.

2. Printful

• Pricing: Printful offers a free version and a paid plan – Printful Growth ($24.99/mo).
• Shipping: Printed products are ready to leave the facility within 2-5 business days from their US, Mexico, or Europe fulfillment centers, implementing cost-effective shipping.
• Integrations: Print-on-demand marketplaces and platforms like Shopify, Etsy, Wix, WooCommerce, Squarespace, Webflow, Ecwid, PrestaShop, BigCommerce, Amazon, and eBay.
• Product category highlights: 400+ Print-on-demand products, like men’s and women’s t-shirts and other clothing, kidswear, and accessories.
• Best for: Brand builders who want to develop custom merchandise for their eCommerce store or business enterprise.

Printful is one of the most established print-on-demand websites, offering a wide selection of print-on-demand products with strong branding tools for online sellers.

Known for its in-house production, Printful controls much of its product quality and fulfillment, rather than relying solely on third-party print providers. This setup gives it more consistency and flexibility across printing options.

Printful also offers warehousing fulfillment, storing your non-Printful products and fulfilling your orders.

For added value, Printful offers product photography services, helping merchants create professional branding assets. Create custom branding through inside labels, packing inserts, and other packaging extras.

3. SPOD

• Pricing: Free to join and no setup costs.
• Shipping: SPOD has factories in the US and Europe, and ships within 48 hours of placing the order.
• Integrations: SPOD integrates best with Shopify. They also offer WooCommerce, Squarespace, and Magento. Order Desk allows integration with eBay, Etsy, and Amazon. SPOD API is also available.
• Product category highlights: Adult and children’s clothing, workwear, pajamas, and accessories such as phone cases, backpacks, stickers, and buttons.
• Best for: Individuals and on-demand businesses who need fast turnaround. Guaranteed 48-hour (or faster) fulfillment.

SPOD is built for speed – all orders are fulfilled within 48 hours. It’s an external app that charges for the order value and shipping costs, depending on the delivery type (standard, premium, or express) and the product value.

It’s also good for non-designers, as they offer 50K+ free designs to use on print-on-demand products.

4. Redbubble

• Pricing: Redbubble is free. 
• Shipping: Ships from third-party printers in Australia, Canada, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, the UK, and the US – based on delivery location and product type. Redbubble offers standard and priority shipping at an additional cost.
• Integrations: Because Redbubble is a marketplace and not an eCommerce platform, they don’t offer integrations; instead, customers buy products straight from their website.
• Product category highlights: Everything from custom apparel, such as t-shirts and accessories, to phone cases, stickers, and more.
• Best for: Artists and creatives who don’t want to build a website or open their own store. It’s also great for newbies, as the site is fairly easy to use.

This print-on-demand company doubles as a marketplace – you don’t need your own website, but you get to keep your cut of the profits. On the downside, there are no options for custom branding.

The designer receives an “artist margin” of 10-30% of the purchase price.

Buyers don’t purchase from you directly – they buy Redbubble products with your custom designs. Redbubble keeps all customer information and contact details.

5. JetPrint

• Pricing: JetPrint is free.
• Shipping: All orders are air-freighted from China with guaranteed 3-day production and 7-day global express delivery.
• Integrations: Shopify and WooCommerce.
• Product category highlights: 400+ apparel, shoes, watches, tapestries, bags, and more.
• Best for: Creating unique custom rugs, watches, tote bags, and shoes using direct-to-garment, screen printing, sublimation, and heat-transfer techniques.

JetPrint makes POD profitable, thanks to its geography. All products are made and printed in China.

JetPrint has a simple mockup generator for uploading and placing designs onto products. It stands out from other print-on-demand services by offering a wide selection of shoes and sneakers.

JetPrint is well-rated on the Shopify App Store, making them a trustworthy print-on-demand service.

6. Gelato

• Pricing: Gelato offers four pricing tiers: free, Gelato+ ($25/mo or $249/year), Gelato+ Gold ($129/mo or $1285/year), or a custom pricing Platinum model.
• Shipping: Gelato uses a global network of printers, so items are fulfilled as close to your customer as possible. Depending on the subscription type, they offer 20-25% shipping discounts to paid subscribers.
• Integrations: Etsy, Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Wix, and Gelato API.
• Product category highlights: Wall art – posters, canvases, acrylic, aluminum, wood prints, calendars, and cards. Basic apparel items like t-shirts, hoodies, and tank tops are also available.
• Best for: Sellers focused on high-quality print-on-demand wall art and sustainability. Gelato encourages on-demand production to reduce waste.

Gelato is a print-on-demand platform that uses third-party printing services. It features an easy-to-use product editor and integrates with Canva for ordering straight from the app.

Shopify users can customize products during checkout. Gelato also supports manual order entry – no online store required.

7. Apliiq

• Pricing: Apliiq is free.
• Shipping: Apliiq provides different shipping options, including international shipping to 150+ countries. They ship from two US warehouses located in LA and Philadelphia.
• Integrations: Shopify and WooCommerce. The Apliiq website also doubles as a marketplace.
• Product category highlights: Apliiq specializes in streetwear – hoodies, t-shirts, hats, pants, jackets, kidswear, and patches. They encourage merchants to work with their artists to design clothing and labels.
• Best for: Building a branded streetwear line with artist-driven customization.

This print-on-demand service offers diverse printing methods: digital printing, screen printing, embroidery, and appliqué (create your design from fabric and stitch it to custom products).

All Apliiq’s printing techniques are environmentally friendly – non-toxic, vegan-friendly, organic, non-hazardous, and biodegradable.

You have various customization options, including custom clothing tags, custom packaging, and packaging slips. However, these are only available if you have 250+ orders per month.

8. Spreadshirt

• Pricing: Free to create an account and start designing; no monthly fee. Base price for each product, as well as additional costs for customization.
• Shipping: Spreadshirt offers international shipping. The cost depends on the destination and package weight. The company’s website also has a delivery estimator.
• Integrations: Spreadshirt integrates with popular eCommerce platforms such as Shopify, Wix, Etsy, and WooCommerce, and social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
• Product category highlights: T-shirts and other clothing and accessories for all ages, home and living items, and stickers. 
• Best for: Artists and designers who want to monetize their designs with online sales.

Spreadshirt is a print-on-demand company that lets users create and sell custom clothing and accessories. Upload designs, choose products, and sell them on the Spreadshirt marketplace or through their print-on-demand store (Spreadshop).

This print-on-demand company has a partner program that lets businesses and organizations create custom merchandise for their employees or members.

9. Teelaunch

• Pricing: Teelaunch is free, with a base price for all custom products and additional customization costs.
• Shipping: Teelaunch provides international shipping. Printing facilities in the US, Europe, and Asia offer quick turnaround and low shipping costs.
• Integrations: eCommerce platforms and print-on-demand marketplaces like Shopify, Etsy, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, and API.
• Product category highlights: Apparel (t-shirts, hoodies), accessories, drinkware, home goods, jewelry, kitchenware, and pet products.
• Best for: Entrepreneurs offering unique, giftable products and looking for low-effort branding.

Teelaunch offers print-on-demand services, letting users create and sell high-quality products under their own brand.

Teelaunch has a library of pre-made, customizable designs. The company offers various customization options, including adding text and images to products. 

Teelaunch offers branded packing slips and labels, helping sellers deliver a more personalized customer experience.

10. Gooten

• Pricing: Gooten is free.
• Shipping: Global fulfillment by hundreds of third-party manufacturers. Shipping costs are calculated based on the customer’s location and delivery method.
• Integrations: BigCommerce, Shopify, Etsy, WooCommerce, and API plugin. Also manual one-off orders.
• Product category highlights: 150+ products, such as t-shirts, hoodies, leggings and other apparel, bandanas, notepads, blankets, bags, custom drinkware, and more.
• Best for: New sellers who want a simple interface and an easy-to-grasp product range

Gooten is user-friendly and offers a limited yet high-quality custom goods to sell under your brand, primarily to shoppers in the US. It partners with vetted print providers and provides reliable support.

They also launched the VIM (Very Important Merchant) loyalty program in 2020, the first of its kind in the print-on-demand industry. It’s recognized as a reliable option for scaling brands.

11. Zazzle

• Pricing: Signing up is free. For additional benefits, get Zazzle Plus ($19.95/year) or Zazzle Plus Premium ($49.95/year). 
• Shipping: Products are produced in the US and shipped domestically and internationally. Most orders are fulfilled from San Jose, California. Find shipping costs and times here.
• Integrations: Zazzle doesn’t integrate with any platforms or marketplaces.
• Product category highlights: 1300+ Products, from apparel and accessories to home goods, office items, and digital downloads.
• Best for: Those who need a wide selection of customization possibilities and want to sell their designs online.

Zazzle is a popular print-on-demand service thanks to its massive product selection. It allows you to sell tangible goods and digital products. Sellers set their own royalty rates and earn income as Zazzle Creators.

Printing options include direct-to-garment, engraving, embroidery, sublimation, screen printing, and heat transfer.

Zazzle’s setup includes a template system, royalty settings, and product tagging, which is less beginner-friendly. But once your store is set up, selling is automated and low-maintenance.

12. Lulu xPress

• Pricing: Signing up is free. Use their pricing calculator for accurate product prices and shipping rates. Bulk discounts available.
• Shipping: Delivers within 3-5 business days worldwide from the US, Canada, Europe, or the UK.
• Integrations: Shopify.
• Product category highlights: Magazines, print books, comic books, and calendars.
• Best for: Authors, illustrators, and creatives who want to earn money by self-publishing products such as books or calendars.

Lulu xPress differs from other print-on-demand platforms with self-publishing for customizable print products like books, magazines, calendars, and comic books. It’s a good choice for writers, photographers, and creatives who want to sell their own books, magazines, calendars, and more.

It lets you transform digital products into physical goods. Lulu xPress distributes printed books to Amazon, the Ingram network, Barnes & Noble, and other channels, but they take a 50-60% distribution fee off the listing price.

1. Print on Demand – Sell custom products with your designs

Print on Demand (POD) is a business model where products are made only when someone places an order – so no stock, no waste, and no garage full of unsold mugs. 

You upload a design, choose what to sell (think t-shirts, tote bags, phone cases), and your POD partner handles the printing, packing, and shipping. 

It requires little initial investment, but can grow into a full-time income stream. Your bank account will thank you for avoiding upfront expenses, and your creativity gets to shine. Plus, you can sell globally from your couch. Not bad, right?

2. Resume writing services – Write or polish professional resumes

Got a way with words and a knack for structure? Resume writing is a great side hustle where you help others land their dream jobs. Clean up grammar, organize content, and highlight skills like a pro.

How to start: Join platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or ResumeGenius, or create your own mini brand on social media. Bonus points if you can turn boring into brilliant.

3. Virtual bookkeeping – Handle finances for small businesses

Virtual bookkeeping might be your jam if you love order, spreadsheets, and making sense of numbers. Help small businesses keep their finances tidy from anywhere.

How to start: Learn the basics on platforms like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning, then find clients through QuickBooks ProAdvisor, Upwork, or Bench.

4. Social media management – Manage posts and grow followings

If you’re glued to social media platforms anyway, why not turn that habit into a hustle? Help brands or creators manage social media accounts, schedule posts, and grow their presence – all without quitting your day job.

How to start: Use tools like Canva, Buffer, or Later. Build a portfolio, then find gigs on Fiverr, Freelancer, or reach out directly to small businesses.

5. Freelance writing – Create blogs, articles, and web content

Love words? Freelance writing gigs let you flex your creative skills and earn money online writing about everything from tech to tacos.

How to start: Pitch on sites like ProBlogger, Contently, or Medium’s Partner Program. Start a blog to show off your style and turn your passion for words into profit.

6. Content editing – Polish and proofread for writers or brands

Got an eagle eye for typos and love grammar, clarity, and correcting “their” to “they’re”? Content editing is your zone. Help writers, bloggers, and brands shine by fixing grammar, tightening flow, and ensuring clarity.

How to start: Offer services on Upwork, Reedsy, or Fiverr. Bonus tip: Brush up on editing skills via Grammarly or the Hemingway.

7. Online tutoring – Teach students virtually

If you’re a whiz at math, science, AI training, English, or even guitar, you can teach it online. Students (and parents) are searching for tutors every day. This is a great way to reach potential clients globally.

How to start: Apply on tutoring sites like Wyzant, Preply, or Cambly, search online, or join tutoring Facebook groups.

8. Etsy side hustle – Open a shop for handmade goods

Got a creative streak? Turn your crafts into cash by launching an Etsy shop. Whether it’s pottery, art prints, or crochet hats, this can generate significant income and even lead to financial independence.

How to start: Create an Etsy seller account, list a few handmade items, add great photos, and promote your shop on Pinterest or Instagram.

9. Digital product sales – Create and sell downloads or tools

Create once, earn forever. Digital products like planners, templates, social media kits, or printables are hot sellers with no shipping required. Just upload, list, and cha-ching.

How to start: Create your product using Canva or Google Docs. Sell on Gumroad, Etsy, or Payhip. Promote using email lists, Pinterest, or short-form video content.

10. Affiliate marketing – Promote links and earn commission

Affiliate marketing is a low-cost way to start a profitable business. You share products online – through blogs, YouTube, social media – and earn a commission every time someone buys using your link. You don’t need to create a product, just promote it.

An affiliate marketer can thrive in countless niches: beauty, fitness, tech, parenting, pets – you name it. With the right digital marketing strategy and a bit of hustle, you can turn an existing audience (or build one) into a money-making machine.

How to start: Sign up with affiliate platforms like Amazon Associates, Printify, or ShareASale. Pick products you genuinely like, create content that fits, drop your custom links, and start making more money every time someone clicks Buy.

11. Transcription services – Convert audio into text

If you’ve got sharp ears and fast fingers, transcription can be a great gig. Turn podcasts, interviews, or video content into readable text and get paid per file. Perfect for introverts, students, or multitaskers with headphones.

How to start: Apply to sites like Rev, TranscribeMe, or GoTranscript. Use free tutorials or practice files to sharpen your skills. Grammar nerds thrive here.

12. Dropshipping business – Sell products without holding inventory

Dropshipping is like running an online store, without the hassle of packaging or storing anything. Unlike Print on Demand, though, you can’t customize the products – you resell existing items from suppliers. 

How it works? You partner with a reliable dropshipping supplier, list their products in your own online store, and – once a customer buys from you – you forward the order to the supplier, who takes care of packaging and shipping.

How to start: Pick a dropshipping niche, set up a dropshipping store, and use apps like DSers or Spocket to import products. Focus on one target audience, product trends, customer service, and solid marketing to earn.

13. Join focus groups – Share opinions for quick payouts

Got opinions? Of course you do. Companies want to hear from real people – and they’ll pay for your feedback on products, ads, or services. Just show up, share your thoughts, and get paid fast.

How to start: Register on sites like User Interviews, FocusGroup.com, or Respondent. Some sessions are virtual, others local. Either way, it’s cash for chatting.

14. Take online surveys – Earn cash in your spare time

Scrolling your phone during downtime? Swap the doomscrolling for some extra bucks by taking paid surveys. It’s easy, low-effort, and can be done anywhere – even in pajamas.

How to start: Join trusted sites like Swagbucks, InboxDollars, or Survey Junkie. Rack up points answering quick questions, then cash out through PayPal or gift cards.

15. Do task-based work – Get paid for small gigs

From assembling furniture to picking up groceries, task-based apps let you earn extra income by helping people with everyday jobs. No desk required.

How to start: Download apps like TaskRabbit, Handy, or Gigwalk. Set your availability, browse local gigs, and start stacking cash for stuff you already know how to do.

16. Rent out your space – Monetize a room or garage

Got a spare room, garage, or even a backyard studio space? You could be sitting on serious rental potential. People need good spots – for storage, working, or short stays – and they’re willing to pay good money for it.

How to start: List your space on Airbnb or Neighbor. Snap good photos, add details, set your rate, and start earning passively.

17. Flip thrifted goods – Resell secondhand finds for a profit

Are you a thrift store treasure hunter? Turn it into a money-making mission. Find hidden gems at garage sales or flea markets, then resell them for extra money. It’s fun, eco-friendly, and can bring in steady monthly income.

How to start: Look for quality secondhand items, clean them up, then list on eBay, Poshmark, or Facebook Marketplace. Great photos equal higher profit.

18. Voice-over services – Lend your voice for quick cash

If you’ve got a smooth, quirky, or powerful voice, brands want to hear it. Voice-over gigs are booming for audiobooks, YouTube intros, eLearning, and ads – and they pay surprisingly well.

How to start: Create a voice sample reel using Audacity or GarageBand. Then sign up on Fiverr, Voices.com, or Bunny Studio to start booking projects.

19. Graphic design services – Design logos, websites, or templates

Design-savvy? Offer graphic design services for clients who need logos, social media graphics, or custom templates. You don’t need web development skills – just a good eye and solid design tools.

How to start: Use Canva, Adobe Express, or Figma. Post your services on Fiverr or 99designs, or reach out to small businesses and creators on Instagram or LinkedIn.

20. Freelance photography – Shoot portraits, products, or events

Turn your camera hobby into a side gig. People need high-quality photos for events, headshots, or product listings. From graduations to Etsy sellers, photography can be a creative and profitable hustle.

How to start: Build a portfolio with free or low-cost shoots. Share your work on Instagram, then book clients through Upwork, Bark, or local Facebook groups.

21. Calligraphy services – Design invitations, signs, or prints

Got beautiful handwriting? Turn it into a business. From wedding invites to event signage and personalized art prints, it’s a creative hustle with charm and demand.

How to start: Build a sample portfolio, then list your services on Etsy, Fiverr, or social media. Try tools like Creative Fabrica or Procreate to digitize your lettering for prints.

22. Content creation – Build an audience on social media

This side hustle is blowing up. If you’re good on camera or love sharing tips, reviews, or stories, content creation can bring in brand deals, affiliate cash, and even a full-time revenue.

How to start: Choose a niche, post consistently on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube, and engage with your audience. Use tools like CapCut and Adobe to level up fast.

23. Drive for rideshare apps – Earn by giving people lifts

Got a car and some free hours? Turn your commute or weekend into a cash machine by driving for rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft. It’s flexible and great for social folks.

How to start: Sign up with your license and car details, pass a quick background check, and start accepting ride requests via the app whenever you’re free.

24. Deliver Amazon packages – Get paid to drop off parcels

Be the hero who gets those Prime orders to doorsteps on time. Amazon Flex lets you deliver packages on your schedule with your own car. It’s gig work, but with solid structure.

How to start: Download the Amazon Flex app, pick a delivery block, show up at a warehouse, load your car, and hit the road. Easy, reliable pay.

25. Do food delivery – Bring meals to doorsteps in your free time

Craving extra bucks in your spare time? Sign up with delivery services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Grubhub and bring tasty meals to hungry customers. Work when you want – zero commitments.

How to start: Use your phone to register, pass a quick background check, grab a hot bag, and start taking orders near you. Tips + pay = nice stack.

26. Shop and deliver groceries – Help others with their errands

Grocery delivery apps like Instacart or Shipt pay you to shop for someone else – yep, it’s that simple. It’s great if you like errands and want a flexible income stream, ideal for college students and people with lots of free time.

How to start: Sign up online, complete a quick onboarding, get your shopper card, then accept orders nearby. You’ll shop, check out, and deliver.

27. Rent out your car – Let it earn for you while parked

When your car’s not in use, why not let it work for you? Platforms like Turo and Getaround let you rent it out by the hour or day – and make passive income while you chill.

How to start: Create a listing, upload photos, and set your rates and availability. The app handles booking, insurance, and payments. You just hand over the keys.

28. Advertise on your car – Wrap it with ads for passive income

Your daily commute could bring in passive income – just by wrapping your car in ads. Companies like Wrapify or Carvertise pay drivers to promote brands as they drive.

How to start: Sign up, share your driving routine, and see if you qualify. If approved, they’ll wrap your car and send monthly payments.

29. Offer mobile car washes – Clean vehicles on-site, anywhere

Got a knack for keeping things spotless? A mobile car wash service lets you go straight to customers and clean their ride at home, work, or wherever they park. All you need are supplies and a smile.

How to start: Offer services locally via Facebook Marketplace or Nextdoor. Use your own gear or start with a basic car wash kit and grow from there.

30. Pet sitting and dog walking services – Care for pooches in your area

Dog lovers, rejoice! Offer pet sitting or walk dogs in your neighborhood and turn puppy playtime into profit. Apps like Rover make it easy to get started and find clients.

How to start: Create a pet-friendly profile, set your schedule and rates, and start booking jobs. You probably won’t make a million dollars, but the industry is full of opportunities (and tail wags).

31. House cleaning – Keep homes spotless and stress-free

Turn your cleaning skills into a tidy income. House cleaning is in constant demand, especially for busy families or professionals. It’s simple, flexible, and pays well per job.

How to start: List your services on platforms like Thumbtack or Care.com, or go old school with flyers in your area. Bring your own supplies and let your work shine.

32. Event planning – Help organize parties, weddings, or meetups

Love logistics and a good party? Event planning lets you help local businesses or individuals throw unforgettable events. From decor to scheduling, your creativity and organization pay off.

How to start: Build a small portfolio with mock events, offer your services to friends or local groups, then promote yourself through social media, Eventbrite, or Facebook.

33. Personal training – Train clients at home or in the park

Fitness-focused? Personal training is a rewarding side hustle where you help others meet their health goals. Train in person, at parks, or even online – no gym required.

How to start: Get certified (try ISSA or NASM), create workout plans, and find clients via social media or apps like Trainerize. Bonus: You stay in shape, too.

34. Car detailing – Make vehicles shine inside and out

If you’ve got an eye for all things clean and neat, car detailing can be a lucrative hustle. People pay well for deep cleans, waxing, and polishing – especially when it’s done at their home or office.

How to start: Invest in basic supplies, advertise locally, and consider listing on TaskRabbit or offering packages for regular clients. Your work speaks for itself, so make it sparkle.

35. Lawn mowing and landscaping – Mow, trim, and beautify yards

Put your green thumb to work and earn cash mowing lawns, trimming hedges, or doing seasonal yard cleanups. It’s perfect for weekends and can grow into a steady local biz.

How to start: Grab your gear, print some flyers, and offer your services around your neighborhood. Apps like GreenPal can help you land your first gigs fast.

Why Print on Demand is a great way to make a living without a job

Whether you’re looking to earn extra cash, launch a side hustle, or eventually replace your 9-to-5, here’s why POD is a smart way to make money without a traditional job: 

• Work when you want – No clocking in, no boss. Whether you’re a night owl or an early bird, you control your free time and set your own hours.
• Start from home – All you need is a laptop and an internet connection. Yes, you can build your store in pajamas and slippers.
• Low cost, low risk – Unlike a regular job or traditional business, there’s no need for a big upfront investment. Sell t-shirts, mugs, and more – you only pay for what you sell. 
• Focus on what matters – Forget packing boxes or managing stock. Your POD partner handles the logistics so you can focus on designing, marketing, and making money.
• Room to grow – Start small and scale at your own pace. Over time, your side hustle can become a reliable source of income and even replace your regular job.

Pros and cons of starting a POD business

POD can be a powerful way to earn money without a job, but like any business model, it comes with trade-offs. 

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Step 1 – Choose your niche and products wisely

Start with market research and think about what you love – it could be fitness, pets, gaming, or even something as niche as mushroom art. 

List your interests, then look them up on social media, Google Trends, or online marketplaces such as Amazon and Etsy to see what people are buying and talking about. You can also check online communities or focus groups to find real opinions from potential customers.

The more specific your niche, the easier it is to stand out and start earning extra cash. Once you’ve narrowed it down, pick products that match your audience. Popular options include t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, hats, and hoodies – all great for generating income.   

You don’t need to reinvent the wheel. If you’re an artist, designer, or already have your own clients, start with what you know. Focus on products that sell, keep experimenting, and don’t worry about being perfect.

Step 2 – Create or source your product designs

Once your store is live, it’s time to focus on what drives sales – great design. This might come naturally if you’re an artist, photographer, or designer. Creating content can turn everyday items into bestsellers you can list for sale online. But even if design isn’t your thing, you still have options. Hire freelancers through platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or Design Pickle to bring your ideas to life. 

Just remember: originality matters. Never copy someone else’s artwork or reuse copyrighted content. Not only is it illegal – it can hurt your brand in the long run. 

Your designs are what will set you apart in a competitive market. They’re the key to building brand recognition, attracting your ideal customers, and creating products that generate passive income.

Step 3 – Set up your online store

Once you’ve locked in your niche, products, and designs, it’s time to bring your shop to life. This is where most people will discover your brand, explore your products, and start buying – so it needs to be clean, clear, and easy to use. 

Start by picking a platform. Popular options like Shopify, Wix, Squarespace, Etsy, WooCommerce, and PrestaShop all support POD and offer different levels of flexibility. If you’re using WooCommerce with WordPress or building your store with PrestaShop, you’ll also need to register a custom domain through providers like GoDaddy, Hostinger, or Namecheap. With platforms like Shopify, Wix, or Squarespace, that part’s already taken care of. 

Once your store is set up, customize it with a template that fits your brand. Set up essential pages like your homepage, product listings, shipping info, and a contact page. Keep the layout simple and make navigation easy – confused visitors rarely become customers. To help recover abandoned carts and earn extra money, consider adding plugins or apps that remind customers to complete their purchase. 

This is your own website and the face of your brand. A smooth shopping experience builds trust and puts you in a strong position to make money.

Step 4 – Choose your POD partner

With your store built and designs ready, the next step is choosing a reliable POD provider.

When you connect your store to Printify, you gain access to Print Providers in over 100 locations and more than 1,300 customizable products, including everything from classic t-shirts to home goods and accessories.

The best part? You get to choose your Print Provider based on what fits your business. Want faster shipping? Choose a provider in the same country as your customer base. This helps save money on delivery, avoid customs delays, and provides a better experience – which leads to more sales and higher ratings. 

With Printify, you can compare suppliers by product availability, pricing, shipping speed, and customer feedback. We even make it easy to order samples, so you can check quality before listing anything in your store.

If you’re serious about earning money, building passive income, and turning this into a long-term business, choosing the right Print Provider is one of the most important steps.

Step 5 – Promote your store to maximize sales

Now that your online store is live, it’s time to spread the word. Without marketing, your products might just sit and collect dust on the digital shelf. To earn money and build real income streams, you need to get your store in front of the right people.

• Social media is your friend. Set up branded social media accounts on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest – you don’t need to be everywhere, just where your audience is. Share engaging content, use the 80/20 rule (80% fun or helpful, 20% promotional), and encourage followers to tag you when they post about your products.

Partnering with niche influencers can also help earn cash, and even small ad budgets can go a long way if you test and tweak your strategy. 

• Don’t forget your site. Use SEO to bring web traffic and make your store easier to find – include relevant keywords in product titles, descriptions, and blog posts. Add reviews to boost trust and help clients feel confident buying from you. 
• Try blogging. A simple blog with quality content can drive long-term traffic and help establish your store as a go-to spot in your niche. It’s one of those underrated income tools that builds value over time. 

Marketing doesn’t have to be expensive – just consistent. The more visible you are, the faster you’ll start making money without a job.

Step 6 – Monitor performance, experiment, and improve

Once your store is up and running, the real fun begins – tweaking, testing, and growing. To turn your POD hustle into a long-term income stream, you need to track what’s working and what’s not.

Start by checking your analytics. If you’re using Shopify, WooCommerce, or Etsy, each platform has built-in reports to show your traffic, sales, and conversion rates. Look at which products are selling, where your visitors are coming from, and where they’re dropping off.

If something isn’t selling, try adjusting the price, changing the product image, or improving your description. Test out new t-shirt designs, add a bundle offer, or launch a limited-time discount to bring in extra cash.

Don’t be afraid to experiment – that’s how you grow. Try new ad creatives, update your homepage layout, or test different suppliers on Printify to compare quality and shipping times. What works for one audience may not work for another, and that’s okay.

Keep an eye on your store’s performance. Small changes can lead to more money, better reviews, and a more sustainable online business.

1. T-shirts

T-shirts are a staple in any shop. They’re low-cost, high-demand, and perfect for anyone looking to earn cash while building a brand. With endless design possibilities – from niche humor to art-forward statements – you can easily turn this classic product into a reliable source of income.

2. Cute and funny socks

Whether it’s bold patterns, silly puns, or cozy vibes, socks are fun to design and simple to sell. They make great gifts and impulse purchases, helping you bring in extra cash. Pair them with tees or hats to raise your average order value.

3. Trendy phone cases

Phone cases are a great way to start selling fast. Lightweight, affordable, and always in demand, they let you reach a wide market. If you’re targeting tech lovers or fashion-forward buyers, these can be a solid income stream.

4. Bags

From canvas totes to backpacks and fanny packs, bags are ideal for daily use and personalization. They appeal to eco-conscious shoppers and travelers alike, and they’re perfect for creating your own business that supports long-term, sustainable income.

5. Moody candles

Candles are a top seller in home decor and gift categories. With creative labels and original artwork, they become more than just scented wax – they’re aesthetic mood-setters that help you make money online while offering something your customers will actually love.

6. Seasonal ornaments

Looking for a way to make more money during the holidays? Seasonal ornaments are a fantastic opportunity to launch limited-time designs and test new income streams. You can tap into the festive season year after year to earn cash from returning buyers.

7. Blankets

Blankets are soft, versatile, and loved by just about everyone. Whether you’re offering personalized baby blankets or art-inspired throws, they can add serious value to your store and generate income almost all year round.

8. Water bottles and tumblers

Reusable drinkware is more than a trend – it’s a lifestyle. With water bottles and tumblers, you can save money on packaging, reduce waste, and appeal to customers who care about both style and sustainability. Plus, they’re great add-ons to increase average order value.

9. Stylish hats

Whether it’s dad hats, beanies, or snapbacks, stylish hats allow you to showcase bold logos, slogans, or artwork. They’re an easy win if you want to earn income with eye-catching designs that people can wear every day.

10. Canvas prints

Turn art into income with canvas prints. These are ideal for photographers, illustrators, or creatives who want to sell high-quality, gallery-style products. Perfect for building long-term passive income streams.

1. Product focus

Since eBay and Amazon serve different product niches, identifying your product category will help you choose the right platform.

Besides top-selling products like apparel, eBay’s marketplace is ideal for selling unique, vintage, or collectible items. Its auction-style listings attract online shoppers looking for rare or one-of-a-kind items.

On the other hand, Amazon excels as the go-to platform for new, mass-produced goods, letting you offer a wide range of products. 

Its focus on fast delivery and a standardized product catalog makes it ideal for third-party sellers, dropshippers, high-volume operations, and white-label products.

2. Ease of store setup

eBay is designed for simplicity, making it an excellent choice for beginners and individual sellers to get products online quickly. eBay requires sellers to meet its basic selling standards policy but offers the flexibility to list items without needing a dedicated store.

For those seeking more structure, eBay Seller Hub offers tools like detailed analytics and inventory organization through eBay Stores.

In contrast, Amazon provides a more structured setup process that’s ideal for professional sellers and larger businesses.

Seller Central offers comprehensive tools to manage listings and inventory and track sales.

3. Design and layout options

How you present your online store directly impacts its ability to attract loyal customers and drive sales.

eBay is a better choice for those who want to stand out visually, as it offers more freedom to customize listings and store layouts.

Use HTML or third-party tools like inkFrog to design customized listing templates, create banners, and add branding elements to your eBay store. 

Amazon uses a standardized layout for all sellers. While this gives buyers a consistent shopping experience, it limits branding opportunities. 

However, sellers can make their Amazon shop stand out with a multi-page storefront, A+ Content, and a brand story section to attract customers.

4. eCommerce tools

When deciding what is better, eBay or Amazon, consider the scale and goals of your eCommerce business. 

eBay offers a straightforward approach to selling, focusing on features like multi-user account access and simplified inventory management. 

However, these tools may lack the advanced functions needed for high-volume operations.

In contrast, Amazon provides advanced tools for inventory management through the Seller Central dashboard that caters to larger eCommerce businesses. 

FBA lets you store products in Amazon’s fulfillment centers while the marketplace handles shipping on your behalf, making it easier to expand operations.

5. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Unlike Amazon, which heavily relies on its internal search algorithm, eBay gives sellers more flexibility to optimize their listings for external search engines like Google.

eBay’s SEO strategy emphasizes the importance of well-crafted titles, descriptions, and keywords to rank higher in search results and attract buyers beyond the platform.

Amazon has a highly structured SEO system based on its internal algorithm. Sales history, product reviews, and fulfillment methods heavily influence rankings. 

Since this system is automated, it gives sellers less control over SEO and limits your ability to attract traffic from outside sources.

6. Pricing

Carefully analyzing your business model and goals, along with the platform’s subscriptions and payment processing fees, will help you decide between Amazon vs eBay.

Budgeting is crucial for reaching your profit margin goals and setting competitive prices.

eBay sellers can list up to 250 items per month for free. Beyond that, seller fees include a $0.35 insertion fee per listing and final value fees of 13.25% for most product categories.

Subscribe to eBay Stores to get reduced expenses. The monthly subscription fees are $7.95/month or $4.95/month with a yearly renewal.

Amazon’s fee structure includes subscription fees, referral fees, and fulfillment costs. Professional sellers pay a monthly fee of $39.99, while Individual sellers are charged $0.99 per item sold.

Referral fees vary depending on category and are a percentage of the final sale price, including shipping costs. Sellers using FBA also incur monthly storage fees and other charges for inventory management.

7. Analytics

Access to performance metrics helps you drive more sales on any online marketplace. When comparing Amazon vs eBay, each platform provides unique tools to support sellers.

eBay’s Seller Hub gives insights on performance analytics, sales trends, and customer engagement to help you identify trends and improve listing strategies.

Amazon sellers, in contrast, have access to advanced analytics through Seller Central. These include detailed reports on customer behavior, trends, inventory health, and ad campaign performance. 

For FBA users, additional insights help you manage fulfillment operations efficiently.

8. Marketing tools

Stand out on Amazon and eBay with exclusive deals and well-crafted marketing strategies to attract online shoppers. 

Is eBay better than Amazon in terms of marketing? It can be if you want straightforward, cost-effective advertising options. Tools like Promoted Listings and eBay Ads are simple ways to enhance product visibility in search results.

Plus, eBay promotion strategies like bundle discounts and targeted offers make it easy to build loyalty and increase purchases.

Amazon advertising has tools like Sponsored Products and Brand Ads for more precise customer targeting. They integrate with Seller Central, providing insights to refine campaigns. 

The marketplace’s vast customer base gives you access to a broader audience, making it suitable for business growth through well-executed advertising campaigns.

9. Customer support

For customer service, Amazon focuses on automated solutions that support streamlined operations and seller growth, while eBay provides flexibility in dispute handling.

eBay has guides and tools to resolve common customer support issues, while live chat and email support are available for more complex cases. 

However, eBay’s support can feel less comprehensive for high-volume businesses managing multiple seller accounts. Resolving disputes about an item sold often requires the seller to communicate directly with the buyer, which can be time-intensive.

Amazon handles customer service for FBA orders to reduce the burden on merchants, maintaining customer satisfaction through chat, phone, and email support. Non-FBA sellers can opt into the Customer Service by Amazon program for similar assistance.

If you choose to handle customer support yourself, note that unresolved issues can impact seller accounts due to strict Amazon seller policies.

10. Scalability

eBay’s flexibility is fantastic for sellers developing their own brand identity, offering customizable listings and pricing models.

However, scaling on eBay means hands-on management due to limited automation tools. You’ll independently handle logistics, inventory, and customer interactions.

With a moderate global reach and a 3% US market share, eBay is less suitable for rapidly growing businesses needing to reach an extensive audience.

Meanwhile, as one of the leading online selling platforms, Amazon provides a structured ecosystem designed for high-volume sellers. 

Services like FBA simplify logistics, leaving businesses to focus on scaling operations. A vast global customer base of over 3 billion visitors and comprehensive analytic and marketing resources mean rapid growth, but this comes with higher costs and strict seller policies.

Natural language processing (NLP)

Natural language processing is the foundation of human-AI communication, allowing machines to understand and respond to text or voice in a way that feels intuitive. For eCommerce companies, this means better customer interactions – whether through chatbots, virtual assistants, or AI-powered search functions.

When an online shopper types “black hoodie under $40” or asks a voice assistant for size options, NLP AI helps decode the intent and deliver relevant results. This leads to a faster, more seamless customer experience – and ultimately, higher conversion rates.

Where it helps: Chatbots, voice commerce, review monitoring, automated FAQs, customer support.

Generative AI

Generative AI in eCommerce is a game-changer for productivity. It automates tasks like writing product descriptions, creating social media posts, and designing ads – saving time while ensuring consistency across your marketing strategy. This technology can also create visuals and videos, helping eCommerce retailers enhance their product listings and captivate potential customers with compelling content. 

Where it helps: Automated content creation, image generation, ad copy, email marketing, listing optimization.

Machine learning (ML)

Machine learning is at the core of most AI tools used in eCommerce. It enables deep data analysis, identifies patterns in purchase history, and learns from past customer behavior. Over time, ML algorithms improve their predictions, offering personalized recommendations, pricing optimization, and smarter inventory decisions.

ML also drives big data insights, improving customer engagement, boosting sales, and streamlining backend operations. 

Where it helps: Recommendation engines, fraud detection, churn prediction, automated discounts, and demand forecasting.

Deep learning

A more advanced form of ML, deep learning uses multi-layered AI algorithms to process massive volumes of consumer data, often mimicking how the human brain works. This is especially useful for recognizing images, interpreting tone in customer feedback, and detecting patterns in human behavior.

In the eCommerce sector, deep learning powers AI tools like visual search, where users can upload an image and instantly find a product match. It also drives high-performing voice assistants and predictive analytics used to improve the online shopping experience.

Where it helps: Visual search engines, sentiment analysis, voice commerce, product tagging, predictions for logistics, and historical sales data.

1. Pricing optimization

AI in eCommerce enables dynamic pricing strategies that adjust prices in real time based on consumer demand, supply, and historical data. These AI tools help eCommerce websites decide which products to discount, when, and by how much – leading to a more efficient sales process and better margins.

While major eCommerce retailers like Amazon already rely heavily on pricing optimization, affordable options for smaller sellers are still emerging. Here are a few providers offering dynamic pricing technology:

• Accenture – Pricing per consultation. 
• Omnia Retail – Free trial; pricing available upon consultation.
• Stackline – Pricing available upon consultation.

2. Chatbots and virtual assistants

Chatbots and virtual assistants use natural language processing (NLP) to interpret online shoppers’ questions and respond in real time. While they can’t fully replace human support, they handle routine tasks efficiently – saving time and improving customer interactions.

Used wisely, these AI-powered tools enhance existing support systems by answering common questions and allowing your team to focus on more complex issues. For best results, implement them as part of an omnichannel enhanced customer service strategy.

Popular tools include:

• SnapCall – From $249/month for advanced AI-powered support.
• ChatHub – A freemium option that connects with multiple chatbots like ChatGPT, Claude, Bard, and Bing.

By integrating AI in eCommerce, these tools can help improve customer interactions and reduce response times.

3. Product recommendations

Product recommendations based on customer behavior are one of the most common eCommerce features using artificial intelligence. It’s everywhere, from Amazon and eBay to Etsy and Starbucks.

Many eCommerce platforms and website builders offer plugins that deliver personalized recommendations based on past customer behavior, browsing history, and product descriptions. The quality of these suggestions depends on the strength of the machine learning algorithms behind them.

The goal is to deliver an enhanced customer experience while increasing the accuracy of marketing campaigns and streamlining the sales process.

Sellers on marketplaces like Amazon or eBay benefit from built-in tools, but independent eCommerce websites can also access AI-powered recommendation tools through apps and plugins.

Some of the best Shopify plugins for product recommendations using AI include: 

• Dialogue AI Personalization – From free to $399 per month.
• Visely Product Recommendations – From $199 per month. 
• Personalized Recommendations by Glood.ai – Free plan available. 

WooCommerce store owners can benefit from many AI plugins with free plans or requiring only one payment. Some of the best-rated options include: 

• The official WooCommerce Product Recommendations – From $8.25 per month.
• Related Products for WooCommerce by WebToffee – From $89-199 per year, paid on the developer’s website.
• AI Product Recommendations for WooCommerce by divcoderPlugins – One payment of $21.

4. Fraud detection and prevention

Online interactions are increasingly vulnerable to fraud, which led to $44 billion in losses worldwide in 2024. Fraudsters are constantly changing their tactics, making detection an ongoing challenge.  

Machine learning algorithms are the ideal countermeasure. They can significantly reduce financial losses by analyzing millions of transactions in real time, quickly identifying suspicious patterns, and adapting to new fraud strategies.

ML can catch anomalies that would take humans much longer to spot – like attempts to enter invalid postal addresses, which may signal identity theft or redirected orders aimed at stealing personal data. 

Implementing AI tools also helps detect phishing attacks, payment fraud, document forgery, fake reviews, and even ad fraud. 

While companies like Amazon use their own built-in systems to avoid fake reviews, smaller businesses can turn to tools like Fakespot – a free Chrome extension that specializes in detecting fake reviews and scams across several marketplaces.

Some AI-powered tools for fraud prevention include Nethone, Integral Ad Science, or ZenGRC. 

While some of these systems may be costly for small businesses, investing in a strong fraud prevention strategy early can save far more in the long run.

5. Customer segmentation

Customer segmentation groups people by traits like behavior, demographics, or preferences. AI-powered eCommerce tools use machine learning to analyze customer data, spot market trends, and improve over time. Advanced systems apply NLP and sentiment analysis to refine targeting and messaging. 

The result? Smarter product recommendations, more relevant content, and a personalized shopping experience that increases customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Google Analytics and Trends are the most popular tools that provide advanced insights. Zigpoll also helps generate customer insights by organizing surveys and analyzing responses on its platform.

6. Inventory management

AI-powered inventory management helps eCommerce businesses balance stock based on sales trends, historical data, and projected demand, reducing waste and avoiding shortages. 

Unlike traditional methods, which rely on manual tracking, AI systems automate the process and run continuously. With smart logistics and warehouse robotics, businesses can analyze data, manage stock more efficiently, and respond to supply chain issues faster. 

Amazon sellers from Australia, New Zealand, and the United States can use Intellify’s AWS Solutions, which provide consulting services.

There are solutions for all budgets, including: 

• QuickBooks – Subscriptions from $3.50 per month.
• TallyPrime – One-time payment of $630.
• Fishbowl Inventory  – Request a demo first.

7. Supply chain optimization

Supply chain optimization goes hand-in-hand with inventory management, using AI tools and machine learning for demand forecasting and early issue detection. The supply chain connects every step of production and delivery, and managing it means balancing factors like customer demand and capacity. 

With enough data, AI can make smarter, faster predictions. Many eCommerce platforms, including tools like Fishbowl, combine inventory and supply chain features to improve speed, accuracy, and operational efficiency.

8. Visual search and image recognition

Visual search uses AI systems to let users search with images instead of text – perfect for moments when you don’t know a product name, but know what it looks like. 

Shoppers often screenshot items from social media, then use visual search to find similar products online. AI algorithms analyze pixels, shapes, colors, and patterns, matching them to items in your catalog. As these AI systems train on larger datasets and apply deep learning, visual search becomes more accurate, offering a more intuitive online shopping experience and increasing customer loyalty.

This technology is powered by machine learning and image recognition, with major tools including: 

• Google Lens  
• Bing Visual Search
• Pinterest Lens. 

eCommerce retailers, like Amazon (StyleSnap), Cyder, Aliexpress, and ASOS, also use this technology. 

Another example is Printify’s AI Image Generator – an OpenAI-powered tool that lets users create unique, high-quality designs for print-on-demand products by simply entering descriptive text prompts.

Integrated directly into Printify’s Product Creator, it allows merchants to generate custom artwork in various styles, such as anime, line art, or 3D modeling, and apply it to items like t-shirts, mugs, and posters without needing external design software.

9. Sentiment analysis

Sentiment analysis (or emotion AI) uses artificial intelligence to detect emotions in written text. It identifies if customer feedback is positive, neutral, or negative. For eCommerce businesses, these tools scan reviews, surveys, emails, and social posts to label them as positive, neutral, or negative. This data helps brands improve customer satisfaction, fine-tune messaging, and even predict churn before it happens.

Tools like Medallia, Brandwatch, and Social Searcher analyze reviews, social posts, and surveys, providing actionable insights to guide marketing campaigns and boost customer engagement. Pricing varies greatly, and most services offer some sort of free trial.

10. Voice commerce

Voice commerce is where voice tech meets eCommerce. Think Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant helping customers shop using their voice. These tools use natural language processing (NLP) and AI-generated content to interpret commands and guide the purchase process hands-free.

Still growing, voice commerce taps into several technologies, from synthetic media to natural language generation. Big-name brands like Starbucks and The North Face have already launched successful voice-enabled experiences.

Here’s how it works: 

First, voice is converted to text. Then, NLP analyzes customer intent and suggests products based on purchase history, behavior, or preferences, offering a personalized shopping experience.

Beyond convenience, voice biometrics can be a game-changer for accessibility and may help boost conversion rates. Some platforms even use voice biometrics for secure payments. One of the strongest examples of AI in eCommerce is Amazon, which uses artificial intelligence for personalized recommendations, voice shopping via Alexa, and smart inventory management.

That said, AI-powered voice tools raise privacy concerns, especially around customer data collection. So while voice commerce is promising, it’s still evolving, and worth watching as AI in eCommerce continues to grow. Companies like Just Call offer AI voice assistants with pricing available on consultation.

1. Create a TikTok business account

Before you can start promoting your products, you’ll need to set up a business account to access TikTok’s marketing tools and reach the right audience from the start.

Step 1: Download and open TikTok

If you haven’t already, download the TikTok app and sign up or log in using your business email or linked social media accounts.

Step 2: Switch to a business account

Tap the profile icon at the bottom right to access your profile. To view your account settings, open the menu by tapping the three lines at the top right, then select Settings and Privacy. Under Account, tap Switch to business account and choose the Business option.

Step 3: Select your business category

Pick a category that best describes your business. This helps TikTok show your content to the most relevant users. Some common TikTok categories include:

• Clothing and accessories
• Beauty
• Arts and crafts
• Electronics
• Education and training
• Finance and investing

Once you’ve completed these steps, your TikTok business account is ready. TikTok also gives you access to built-in analytics tools to help track performance and optimize your TikTok content strategy.

2. Make your first impression count

Before you create content, make sure your business account is optimized. With 62% of TikTokers under 30 – you’ve got to think – and act – like your audience. That means everything on the TikTok app needs to be short, sharp, and engaging. This includes your profile page.

Brand your profile photo appropriately

Your TikTok profile image and business name are the first things users see, so keep them consistent with your branding across platforms. 

The profile picture should be visually related to your other social platform profiles, using the same color palette and style.

The optimal dimensions for a TikTok account photo are 200 x 200 pixels. Consider simplifying the details, so the image looks good on the small thumbnail icon.

To improve visibility and engagement, make sure your TikToks include clear video information, such as captions and descriptions.

Make your bio short and catchy

The maximum allowed TikTok bio length is 80 characters. That’s about 10 to 20 words – try to make it half that. There are two ways you can go about it:

• Describe your business – Amazon’s bio is “we’d give you five stars,” Wendy’s bio is “Sir, this is a Wendy’s TikTok,” LinkedIn’s is “Let’s Tok about your career.” If they can make it work, so can you.
• Promote upcoming campaigns – Make your bio seasonal and timely, and update it frequently. Present an upcoming sale, event, feature, and anything else you have going on. 

Link with intent

You can link directly to your eCommerce store, but that’s not always the most effective way to track performance or guide users based on your content’s intent.

If your TikTok content focuses more on increasing brand awareness or sharing business insights, consider linking to another social media platform, a short video ad, or even an article about your business.

Alternatively, if you’re using your account to spotlight products, a dedicated catalog or landing page is often a smarter choice.

3.Prepare a TikTok marketing strategy

TikTok has redefined digital advertising, favoring content that feels real over traditional product pitches. Today’s younger audiences are sharp, skeptical, and quick to spot anything that feels overly polished or salesy. 

When creating TikTok ads, lean into a less commercialized approach – one that speaks their language.

Prioritize transparency, authenticity, and content that reflects real life. That’s where genuine value – and real connection – live.

Align your strategy with your business goals

Start by identifying the type of content you’ll create for a results-driven approach. These TikTok content ideas for business can help you match each piece of content to a specific objective:

• Increase brand awareness – Share engaging content that highlights your brand’s strengths and presence in the social space.
• Build engaged communities – Connect with the TikTok community by curating content for your niche. Collaborate with like-minded creators and speak directly to your audience.
• Sell products and services – Promote your offerings with targeted content around discounts, seasonal campaigns, product launches, and sales opportunities.
• Gather audience feedback – Use prompts, questions, or comments to invite feedback on your products and services, showing you’re listening and ready to improve.
• Provide educational content – Create helpful tutorials, how-tos, and step-by-step guides to support customers and even offer tips to fellow business owners.

Select your target audience

Make sure TikTok’s audience demographics align with your target audience. 60% of app users are female, and 40% are male. Of those, 80% are between the ages of 16-34.

Contrary to popular belief, TikTok isn’t just for teens. It’s steadily gaining popularity among older age groups, making it a valuable space for a wider range of businesses and audiences.

Thanks to TikTok’s algorithm, content is curated around niche interests: dancing, fashion, arts and crafts, cooking, fitness, and more. To make your ads resonate, think about the specific audience most likely to be interested in your content, and align your style with the formats and trends they already enjoy.

If you’re marketing to a global audience, don’t forget to factor in language preferences and cultural nuances. Tailoring your message helps you connect better with viewers around the world.

Choose relevant hashtags

Explore trending tags and use the right keywords or hashtags to help TikTok understand and promote your content to your ideal audience.

Stick to hashtags that reflect your brand and content, and avoid stuffing unrelated or overly generic ones. Strategic use of trending tags can help you gain more reach and attract new followers.

Team up with TikTok influencers

TikTok thrives as a social platform built around communities of shared interests – many of which are shaped by popular influencers.

To tap into this network, create content that interacts with well-known creators and connects your brand to the wider TikTok community. Duets, shared music clips, and trend-inspired posts are great ways to join the conversation authentically.

Alternatively, consider influencer marketing through paid collaborations to promote your products or services in a way that feels natural and resonates with their followers.

Turn comments into conversations

Engage with active TikTok users who post questions or reactions in your comments. These user interactions can provide valuable insights for improving your content.

Observe and like entertaining comments and reply to user concerns. Use the feedback to note whether your structure, prompts, or video framework needs to be optimized.

Develop a posting strategy

TikTok recommends posting content one to four times a day. This lets you test different types of content and what works best. Posting more than that risks flooding a user’s feed with too much marketing content.

Your TikTok videos must be consistent and posted according to your audience’s time zone. On weekdays, the best time to post on TikTok is early in the morning or late in the evening. For weekends, aim for the afternoon.

Plan ahead with a content calendar to stay on top of TikTok trends. 

While TikTok doesn’t allow post scheduling in-app, you can use third-party tools like Later, Hootsuite, or Metricool to schedule posts in advance and stay consistent. 

4. Engage with the target audience using relevant content

Know your target audience

Every time you open TikTok, the content magically caters to your preferences. That’s the algorithm at play. To get its attention, you need a very specific idea of your TikTok audience, what their niche is, and how you can compete with the content they already consume.

TikTok is an entertainment site first

Always consider how your marketing gets people’s attention. Unlike other social media business accounts, TikTok users expect your brand to entertain, not offer deals. Share your process of creating custom merch, bedazzle them with amazing designs, and be playful and fun without shifting from your brand voice.

Follow trends and challenges

83% of TikTokers have posted a video. TikTok will never run out of new trends you can hop onto. When a trending sound blows up, a new hashtag takes off, or a viral challenge hits the feed – move fast. Join in early and add a clever, on-brand spin that ties back to your business.

5. Start creating without overthinking video quality

TikTok tends to favor videos that feel real and unpolished over highly produced or overly edited media. Users aren’t necessarily looking for flashy formats or hard sells – they respond better to content that feels genuine, relatable, and easygoing.

To stand out on TikTok, focus on how you create high-quality content: with clear storytelling, strong relevance, and visual clarity that keeps viewers watching.

Think simple and authentic, not scripted and commercialized. Bring out your office pet, or offer a duet with a TikTok follower. Being authentic and transparent can help your brand build trust within the TikTok community and connect with users who value originality.

6. Tap into TikTok ads

TikTok offers several ad formats, including In-Feed Ads, TopView, Brand Takeovers, Branded Effects, and Hashtag Challenges. To get started, make sure you’re using a TikTok Business Account, then create a TikTok Ads Manager account, set your budget and goal, and connect your store to track conversions.

Keep your ads fun and engaging – TikTok rewards creative storytellers over hard-selling. If you plan to run ads, focus on content with replay value, a clear hook, and links in captions rather than in the video itself. 

Consider running Spark Ads, which let you boost existing organic content while retaining its original engagement metrics.

Merch by Amazon

Merch by Amazon, or Amazon Merch on Demand, is the platform’s own POD service, providing an easy fulfillment solution for people already selling on Amazon. 

This lets you focus on creating best-selling designs while Amazon handles the logistics. 

Creating a business seller account is free and takes about one to two weeks for approval. Be sure to check MBA’s content policy to confirm that your designs comply with Amazon’s requirements.

Printify

One of the best ways to start a shirt business on Amazon is with a print-on-demand service like Printify. 

There’s no need to buy inventory upfront. List your custom t-shirts and let us print and ship them when someone orders. It’s low-risk – plus, you get access to over 1,300 customizable products to grow your Amazon shop.

With Printify, you can:

• Create t-shirt designs using our beginner-friendly Product Creator.
• Integrate your Amazon seller account seamlessly.
• Automatically fulfill every product sold through Amazon.
• Tap into our global network of reliable Print Providers.
• Avoid inventory management and packing orders.

This setup saves time and avoids upfront costs, making it ideal for anyone looking to make money selling t-shirts without warehousing issues. You control the creative side while Printify gets your products to customers.

Sign up for free and connect your Amazon account with Printify in just a few clicks.

Amazon SEO

Search engine optimization (SEO) is the practice of including relevant keywords and phrases in your listings to make your products more visible to shoppers. 

Amazon has its own algorithm and optimization rules for increasing organic traffic. 

To improve your Amazon SEO, think like a buyer while creating your listings. Include all the information potential customers might want before purchasing – like colors, variants, measurements, pictures, and videos.

Customer reviews

Prioritize customer satisfaction – most shoppers don’t buy from brands with ratings below 3.4 stars.

Reviews are prominent on Amazon’s product pages, and the marketplace lets buyers filter by review scores. That means great feedback is essential for getting seen and making sales.

Make your brand top of mind by setting competitive pricing and engaging with your Amazon buyers to develop good customer relationships. Answer all questions, send thank-you emails, and encourage feedback.

Affiliate marketing

Affiliate marketing is a huge source of traffic for online businesses and one of the best ways to develop brand awareness.

Contact influencers, blogs, and YouTube channels in your niche and create an affiliate strategy. 

How does it work? The affiliate mentions your product and shares a link to your listing. They receive a commission from that sale, while you get brand exposure to their audience.

Make your listings stand out so Amazon Associates pick them up, promote them, and send you more traffic – without costing you a dime.

Social media marketing

Go all-in on social networks and share info about your new products, updates, giveaways, and sales. Keep your content engaging with informative posts and publish regularly.

Share your social media pages on your Amazon page and vice versa.

And don’t forget paid advertising. Most social networks give you the option to create ads from scratch or transform well-performing posts into advertisements, driving traffic to your Amazon store.

Unisex jersey short sleeve tee

This tee checks every box. It’s breathable, lightweight, and made to last. With over 50 color options and a wide size range, it’s perfect for any shirt design – from bold graphics to subtle typography.

Key features:

• Front and back print areas
• Easy to machine wash
• Bulk discounts available

Unisex heavy cotton tee

Looking for a sturdy, everyday option? This heavy cotton tee delivers. It’s soft, structured, and ideal for larger or more intricate t-shirt designs. The elastic collar keeps its shape and the color stays vibrant through multiple washes.

Key features:

• Front and back print options
• True-to-size fit
• Multiple sizes and colors

Custom baby t-shirt

Add an adorable twist to your Amazon sales strategy with our niche hero product. This baby t-shirt is crafted from organic cotton and features convenient snap closures. 

Aside from making the perfect gift, it’s a must-have for any t-shirt shop targeting families and parents.

Key features:

• Available in 6 sizes
• Direct-to-garment printing
• Soft and safe for sensitive skin

eBay

The pioneer among online marketplaces, merchants can sell products for the highest bid or at a fixed price on eBay. 

It’s possible to create your own branded storefront through paid subscription plans. However, when starting out, new sellers are limited to five product listings. 

eBay pricing overview:

• Insertion fees. Listings are generally free up to 250 items per month. Beyond that, it’s $0.35 per listing.
• Final value fees. Varies by category but are typically around 13.25% of the sale price up to $7,500. Any sale amount higher than that is charged 2.35% plus $0.30 per order, but can vary based on category.
• Store subscriptions. Starts from $4.95 per month and provides more free listings and lower final value fees.

Etsy

Have quirky designs and a niche audience? Explore selling shirts on Etsy – a popular marketplace known for unique finds.

Etsy doesn’t charge subscriptions and offers a storefront for all sellers. You also have the option to purchase a Pattern subscription at $15 per month to create a standalone, custom website. 

The platform charges $0.20 per listing, and you may be subject to other costs like sales tax and transaction or payment processing fees. Learn more about how much Etsy takes per sale on our blog.