How long do custom T-shirts take?

By Ross Bielema

Whether you're planning for an event, outfitting a team or launching a campaign, timing matters. One of the most common questions we hear is, “How long do custom T-shirts take?” The answer depends on a few key factors—but with the right planning (and the right partner), you can hit your deadline without sacrificing quality. 4imprint’s on-time guarantee is just one more way we make the process easy.

Let’s walk through what impacts turnaround time, how the process works from start to finish and what you can do to get your shirts exactly when you need them.

How long do custom T-shirts take?

Most custom T-shirt orders ship within 3–10 business days after artwork approval, depending on shirt style, design complexity and production method. Some projects are even faster.

Need it in a hurry? 4imprint offers rush production options, including 24-hour turnaround on several T-shirt brands, like Contender and Port Classic. Expedited shipping is another option to get your order delivered fast.

“I needed shirts fast -- so selected the red option from the 24 hour turn-around color choices -- perfect. The shirts are well-made and true-to-size.”
—Hanes^® Authentic T-Shirt product review provided by customer

We also recommend thinking in terms of custom T-shirt shipping, not just printing. Delivery time adds another layer—especially if you’re working with a specific event date. That’s where 4imprint’s 360° Guarantee_® and tracking information have you covered from every angle. Lowest price. On-time delivery. Complete satisfaction. Guaranteed.

How long does it take to make custom T-shirts?

The production timeline includes several steps, and each one plays a role in how quickly your order moves through the system.

Here’s what a typical flow looks like:

1. Design submission and approval
   Once you upload your logo or artwork, our team will review and email you a free art proof. Approving this quickly helps keep things on track.
2. Printing and decoration
   Based on your design and product choice, we’ll apply your imprint using screen printing, digital printing, heat transfer or embroidery. Each method has its own production time, and your dedicated customer service representative can help you determine which will work best for your needs and deadline.
3. Prep, pack, and ship
   After printing, your shirts are quality-checked, boxed and prepared for shipment.

Most orders fall within a 3–7 business day production window, especially if you're ordering popular styles, like men’s custom T-shirts or long-sleeve women’s custom T shirts. These in-stock basics tend to move faster because they’re readily available.

Larger quantities, personalizations or complex artwork may require a bit more time. But the 4imprint team will flag that for you upfront—no surprises.

How long does it take to print a photo on a shirt?

If you're adding a photo or full-color image to your shirts, the maximum quantity you can order might be lower due to a slightly longer processing time. 4imprint wants to make sure each photo and full-color shirt meets both our standards—and yours.

Printing photos on fabric typically uses a direct-to-garment (DTG) or sublimation method. This allows for a vivid, detailed image and is ideal for everything from staff photos to full-color graphics.

“Great quality great value. They were able to create logo exactly as I wanted from a photograph.”
—Hanes^® Authentic T-Shirt product review provided by customer

Here’s what to expect:

• Extra processing time to ensure photo quality and placement
• Proof approval to confirm layout and resolution
• High-touch quality checks to make sure every shirt turns out just right

Most custom T-shirts with a photo are printed and shipped within the typical 3–10 business days. Want to speed things up? Use a high-resolution image and respond to your e-proof quickly.

What affects custom T-shirt delivery time?

Even after production is complete, delivery time can vary depending on:

• Your shipping method (standard vs. expedited)
• Your location
• Weather or carrier delays (especially around holidays)

That’s why it’s smart to think of lead time as a combination of production and shipping. If you’re not sure which option to choose, our team can help recommend the best fit for your timeline and budget.

For example, if you're ordering custom T-shirts nearby, you may be able to shave a day or two off delivery. And for national programs, 4imprint can help you coordinate drop-shipping to multiple locations—keeping everyone aligned, even when you're not in the same place.

Need visibility? We provide shipping tracking information so you can be certain your custom T-shirt order will arrive on time, or it’s on us.

Tips for getting custom shirts faster

If you’re working on a tight timeline, there are smart ways to get your shirts faster without losing quality.

Here’s how:

• Order early when possible—especially for large quantities or multiple imprint locations.
• Use pre-set or vector artwork to minimize design adjustments.
• Choose quick-ship styles with shorter production times.
• Talk to our team for 24-hour rush production and drop or split shipments.

And here’s the best part: you don’t have to sacrifice quality custom T-shirts for speed. At 4imprint, we offer hundreds of options that balance fast turnaround with standout design and wearability.

“Love how soft this t-shirt is, and how true to size it is! The imprinting was perfect! Highly recommend!”
—Gildan^® Softstyle T-Shirt product review provided by customer

Need help choosing the right shirt for your timeline? We’ll walk you through it—no stress, no guesswork.

Ready to place your order?

If you’re wondering how long your custom shirts will take, the answer is: not long at all. At 4imprint, ordering is easy. We combine reliable production timelines with expert guidance and fast, trackable T-shirt shipping options.

Start your order today and get quality custom T-shirts delivered when—and how—you need them!