Choosing the wrong screen printing vendor can cost you hundreds of dollars and weeks of delays. Before you sign a contract or place a large order, you need clear answers about their process, quality standards, and reliability. Here's what to ask custom screen printing companies to ensure you get what you're paying for.
What's Your Minimum Order Quantity?
Most screen printing shops have a minimum order requirement, typically ranging from 12 to 50 pieces depending on their operation size. Some boutique printers accept lower minimums (6–12 pieces) but charge a setup fee instead. Ask whether the MOQ changes based on the number of colors in your design—more colors sometimes mean higher minimums or per-unit costs.
If you're ordering for a small event or testing a design, clarify upfront whether their minimums work for your needs. A shop quoting a 50-piece minimum isn't necessarily a bad fit; just make sure you understand the total cost before committing.
How Much Does Setup Cost and What's Included?
Screen setup is a one-time charge covering the cost of preparing screens for your specific design. Typical setup costs range from $25 to $75 per color, though some printers bundle setup into their per-unit pricing. Ask:
- Do they charge separately for each color, or is there a flat setup fee?
- Is color matching included, or do you pay extra for Pantone accuracy?
- What happens if you need a design revision after setup?
This matters because a 5-color logo can quickly add $150–$300 in setup costs before you even print the first shirt.
What's Your Per-Unit Pricing Structure?
Screen printing costs decrease dramatically with volume. A 50-piece order might cost $15 per shirt, while 500 pieces drops to $8 each. Ask the printer to provide a tiered pricing quote:
- 50 pieces
- 100 pieces
- 250 pieces
- 500 pieces
Having these numbers lets you make an informed decision about whether a larger order actually saves money or whether smaller batches make more sense for your budget. Also ask if prices differ for different garment types (blank t-shirts vs. hoodies vs. performance wear).
What's Your Lead Time and Rush Fee?
Standard lead time for custom screen printing is typically 2–3 weeks from approval to delivery. Rush orders (1 week or less) usually cost 25–50% more. Emergency orders (3–5 days) can double the price.
Ask specifically:
- What's your standard turnaround time?
- Do you offer rush services? At what cost and for what timeframe?
- What happens during peak seasons (summer, pre-holiday months)?
If you're working with a tight deadline, some shops may not be able to accommodate you regardless of budget.
What Quality Control Steps Do You Use?
This separates reliable printers from those cutting corners. Ask whether they:
- Inspect ink coverage and color consistency before shipping
- Run test prints before the full production run
- Use pre-production samples for customer approval
- Check for pilling, fading, or ink cracking issues
- Offer a reprint guarantee if quality falls short
A printer offering a pre-production sample (usually $15–$40) shows they prioritize accuracy. Ask to see examples of work they've done for similar projects.
What Garment Brands Do You Stock?
Screen printers typically work with specific blank garment suppliers: Gildan, Bella+Canvas, Jerzees, American Apparel, and others. Ask which brands they regularly stock and whether they can source alternatives. Some printers have preferred vendors for durability and fit; others can special-order niche items at a premium.
If you care about garment quality, this conversation matters. A poorly chosen blank shirt undermines professional screen printing.
What Payment Terms and Policies Apply?
Confirm whether they require 50% upfront with the balance due before shipping, full payment upfront, or payment on delivery. Ask about their cancellation policy—what happens if you need to cancel or reduce quantities after placing an order?
Services like Mercoly help you compare multiple custom apparel and screen printing providers side by side, making it easier to vet options before reaching out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can screen printing handle gradient colors or photorealistic images? A: Traditional screen printing works best with solid colors and bold designs; photorealistic effects require specialty techniques like discharge printing or high-density inks, which cost more and limit fabric choices.
Q: How do I ensure color accuracy between my design file and the final print? A: Request a pre-production sample and specify Pantone colors rather than RGB hex codes—screen printing relies on Pantone mixing, not digital color conversion.
Q: What's the difference between plastisol and water-based ink? A: Plastisol is durable and vibrant (industry standard), while water-based ink offers softer hand-feel and better breathability but fades faster and costs 10–20% more.
Compare printer quotes and capabilities on Mercoly to find the right fit for your project and budget.