How much does it cost to make shirts in bulk?

By Ross Bielema

Whether you're outfitting a team, launching branded merch, or prepping for an event, ordering T-shirts in higher quantities can save money and increase impact. But how much does it cost to make custom shirts in bulk? That depends on the type of shirt, how you customize it and how many you need.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key pricing factors so you can budget smart, compare options and get the best value without sacrificing quality. For full access to styles, materials and price tiers, start by browsing custom T-shirts at 4imprint.com.

How much does it cost to manufacture a custom shirt?

The total cost of a custom shirt starts with the blank garment itself. Here’s what influences that base price:

• Material: Cotton is most common and cost-effective. Ringspun cotton and tri-blends cost a bit more but feel softer and offer better print quality.
• Brand: Value brands like Gildan^® offer budget-friendly options; premium brands like Bella+Canvas^® or Life is Good^® command higher prices for fashion-forward cuts and fabrics.
• Style: Standard tees cost less than long-sleeve, performance or specialty styles.

Once the blank shirt is selected, customization drives the rest of the cost:

• Ink colors: More colors mean higher screen-printing set-up costs.
• Print locations: Front only? Or front and back? Each placement adds cost.
• Decoration method: Screen printing is the most economical at scale. DTG and embroidery are better for small runs or specialty artwork.
• Set-up fees: 4imprint has some T-shirt options with free set-up, and we always waive set-up charges for exact reorders. Plus, each order includes a free e-proof and free artwork help!

So what’s the bottom line for custom T-shirts in bulk? On average:

• Basic shirts with a one-color front imprint range from $5–$7 per shirt.
• Premium shirts or multi-location imprints can land between $8–$15 per shirt.

One satisfied customer had this to say about their large bulk order:

“Great shirt!! It's quality material- soft, not too heavy, just right!! 4imprint was able to get our large order to us within our deadline and our design looks great!!”
— T-shirt product review provided by customer

Bulk orders allow you to stock up while also maximizing your budget. They’re a win-win!

How much does it cost to create 100 T-shirts?

Ordering 100 shirts is a great sweet spot. At 4imprint at this volume, you can unlock noticeable price breaks without requiring complex logistics or warehousing.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Basic Gildan^® cotton tee with one-color front imprint: –$5–$6.50
• Bella+Canvas^® ringspun tee with full-color imprint: –$9–$13

These numbers may vary depending on your imprint type, size mix and shipping zone. It's also wise to factor in:

• Shipping costs: 4imprint quotes itemize all costs, including shipping.
• Sales tax: Tax is applied based on delivery location, unless you’re tax-exempt.

Customers searching for bulk custom T-shirts near me often choose local vendors to reduce shipping time or costs—but 4imprint’s centralized production and fast turnaround (often within 24–48 hours) make it a strong nationwide alternative.

According to a competitor’s 2024 pricing breakdown, a basic printed T-shirt starts at around $7.75 per unit for 100 pieces—placing 4imprint in a highly competitive range when volume and decoration services are factored in.

What is a good price for a custom shirt in bulk?

A good price depends on more than just the number—it’s about what you get for that number.

Signs of a good value:

• Comfortable fabric and accurate sizing with the option to try a free sample on most items
• Clean, durable printing that holds up after washing
• Reliable delivery and responsive customer service
• No surprise charges

At 4imprint, pricing per unit decreases as your quantity increases. Common price breaks include 48, 72, 144, and 288 units. Larger orders unlock multi-tier pricing, so the more you order, the more you save per piece.

In many cases, a premium tri-blend shirt that costs $13 in a small batch can be closer to $9 when you order 250+.

Tip: Be sure to ask about pricing programs for schools, nonprofits or repeat clients. Some customers qualify for one-time discounts or event-specific pricing.

Whether you're outfitting a corporate crew or placing a reorder for an annual event, investing in bulk T-shirts with the right partner ensures consistency and value over time.

What printing options impact bulk shirt cost?

Choosing the right print method for your order size and design is key.

• Screen printing: The most economical choice for high-volume orders with simple logos or slogans. Requires a screen for each color but delivers long-lasting, vibrant results.
• Direct-to-garment (DTG): Best for photo-quality or multicolor prints in small runs. No set-up fee, but slower for bulk orders.
• Heat transfer: Ideal for short runs, fine detail or small orders. Susceptible to cracking or fading over time, but washing by hand can help.
• Embroidery: Great for polos or uniforms but usually more expensive per unit than print options.

If you're considering local production, searching T-shirt screen printing near me may help you find decorators who specialize in fast-turnaround orders—but be sure they offer pre-press proofs and clear pricing on set-up and shipping like 4imprint does!

Ready to make shirts in bulk?

Ordering in quantity doesn’t mean compromising on quality. In fact, it’s where great pricing meets brand impact. Check out custom T-shirts for bulk pricing options—or explore flattering, ready-to-customize women’s custom T-shirts to find the perfect fit for your group, event or campaign.