Gelato POD is an app that allows merchants to easily build their print-on-demand (POD) business online and sell custom products.
With over 130 production partners across 32 countries and the most affordable prices in the market, Gelato sure manages to grab a lot of eyeballs. However, is it really as good as it seems? Can you really get your business up and running with such little effort after all?
In this review, we'll explain why Gelato POD is so popular among merchants and discuss its features and benefits. If you're looking for a reliable print-on-demand solution for your Shopify store, this review will help you make an informed decision and take your e-commerce business to new levels with Gelato POD.̧
Gelato app overview
| 💻 App name | Gelato |
| ⭐ Notable features | Large product coverage, design tool, mockup generator, personalization, customized packaging inserts and labels, mobile app |
| 🛠️ Ease of use | Suitable for beginners |
| 💵 Pricing | Free plan + other plans starting at $24/month |
| 📥 Install app | Install Gelato |
What is Gelato Print On Demand?
Gelato is a global Print On Demand (POD) platform that revolutionizes the way businesses create, sell, and deliver custom printed products.
By integrating Gelato with your e-commerce store, you can easily create and sell custom products without the need for minimum orders or carrying any leftover stock.
Gelato simplifies the POD process by connecting you to its network of 130 production partners across 32 countries. This borderless network allows for seamless, programmable, and sustainable production and delivery of custom products. Whether you're a creator, startup, or enterprise, Gelato can handle millions of print jobs each year to meet your unique needs.
Gelato pros and cons
| Gelato Pros | Gelato Cons |
| ✔️ Global reach | ➖ Can get expensive |
| ✔️ No inventory costs | ➖ Limited control |
| ✔️ Customization | ➖ Varied shipping times |
| ✔️ Sustainable solution |
Pros
- Global reach: Gelato's extensive network of printing partners worldwide allows you to cater to a global customer base. You can easily print and ship products to customers in various regions worldwide.
- No inventory costs: with the print-on-demand model, you can eliminate the need for inventory management and bulk production. Products are printed only when orders are received, minimizing the risk of overstocking or wastage.
- Customization: Gelato offers a wide range of customizable products, allowing you to create unique and personalized items for your customers. This customization can help you differentiate your brand and attract a loyal customer base.
- Reduced environmental impact: Gelato prioritizes sustainability by selecting the nearest printing facility to the delivery address. This approach helps reduce transportation emissions and minimize the overall environmental footprint associated with shipping.
Cons
- Pricing: The cost of print-on-demand services may be higher per unit compared to bulk printing for certain products. It is important to carefully calculate your pricing strategy to ensure profitability while taking into account the additional costs involved.
- Limited control: When using a print-on-demand service like Gelato, you have limited control over the printing process and quality. Ensuring consistency and quality across orders can be a challenge, so it's crucial to communicate your expectations.
- Shipping times: Shipping times can vary depending on the location of the printing facility and the destination of the order. Customers may have different preferences when it comes to delivery speed, so it's important to manage their expectations and provide clear information regarding shipping times.
Gelato features
Gelato offers a variety of features to ensure you can get your print-on-demand business up and running in no time....while also ensuring the best quality service.
Let's take a closer look at some of the key features Gelato offers -
Wide Range of Products
Gelato stands out from other print-on-demand companies by offering an extensive selection of high-quality products. Whether you're looking to create wall art, apparel, stationery items, mugs, calendars, or even photo books, Gelato has you covered. They have a broad and deep portfolio, ensuring that the products you create feel premium and hand-selected.
Design Tool and Mockup Generator
Gelato provides a user-friendly design tool and mockup generator that allows you to visualize your products before you even place an order.
With this tool, you can see what your designs will look like on various products. You can also use the generated images as product images in your store, making it easier for you to showcase your products to potential customers.
Personalization
Gelato understands the importance of personalization in today's market. They offer a product b that allows shoppers on all platforms to personalize their designs.
This means that customers can create customized products by adding their own text, images, or other elements. Gelato also supports personalization for different platforms, with Shopify offering shoppers the ability to personalize their designs during the purchase process.
Customized Packaging Inserts and Labels
Gelato goes beyond just printing custom products. They also offer customized packaging inserts and personalized packaging labels. This allows you to enhance your brand and create a unique unboxing experience for your customers.
By activating and configuring branding in your account, you can create or upload existing designs for packaging inserts and labels. Unlike other print-on-demand companies, Gelato prints these items on demand and adds them to your orders automatically.
Mobile app
One key feature that sets Gelato apart is its mobile app. The Gelato mobile app allows you to run your business conveniently from anywhere and at any time.
With the app, you can easily manage and monitor your print-on-demand operations, track your orders, view sales analytics, and stay connected with your customers. This mobility and flexibility empower you to stay on top of your business even while on the go.
The Gelato mobile app provides a seamless and intuitive interface, ensuring that you can efficiently manage your print-on-demand business right from the palm of your hand.
Pricing and plans
Gelato offers 4 subscription plans. These include -
- Free plan - Best for businesses getting started; offers production in 32 countries with easy integrations with Shopify, Etsy and WooCommerce
- Gelato+ - Best suited for consistently scaling businesses; offers up to 30% off standard shipping and comes with premium mockups as well as branded labels and packaging inserts options
- Gold - Best suited for fast scaling businesses; offers up to 50% off standard shipping, 30% off branded labels and custom pricing on shipping services
- Platinum - Best suited for enterprise businesses; offers fixed rate shipping on all products produced locally and customer success manager
Apart from these, Gelato also offers other custom plans based on your specific requirements, quantity, etc. Check them out on their website.
Gelato’s pricing is almost similar to industry standards. However, it is a cheaper alternative to some of the big players. With that said, your expenses will purely depend on what kind of product, quality, and quantity you choose.
How can I connect Gelato to Shopify?
Connecting Gelato to Shopify is a seamless process that allows you to leverage the power of print-on-demand for your online store. With Gelato's integration, you can offer a wide range of customizable products to your customers, without the need for inventory management or shipping logistics.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to connect Gelato to Shopify -
- Visit the Shopify integration page on the Gelato website.
- Click on the "Connect your Shopify store" button. This will initiate the integration process.
- Follow the simple and straightforward integration process outlined by Gelato. This process allows you to link your Shopify store seamlessly to Gelato's platform.
Once connected, you can start creating and selling print-on-demand products on your Shopify store. Gelato offers a wide range of product categories, including apparel, wall art, drinkware, and accessories.
With Gelato's local production network, your products will be printed and fulfilled closer to your customers. This ensures faster delivery times and reduces carbon emissions.
Gelato's integration also provides you with 24/7 customer support, ensuring that you have assistance whenever you need it. Their team is dedicated to helping you scale your Shopify business and maximize your success.
Is Gelato good and worth getting?
Choosing the right POD app is crucial for the success of your business.
Gelato is undoubtedly a reputable and reliable print-on-demand platform that offers a wide range of high-quality custom products. With its extensive product selection, global reach, and impressive features, Gelato provides entrepreneurs with a robust solution for their print-on-demand needs.
The platform's user-friendly interface, competitive pricing, and exceptional customer support further contribute to its appeal. If you're looking for a print-on-demand service that combines convenience, quality, and scalability, Gelato is definitely worth considering.
Gelato compared to other POD apps
| Feature | Gelato | Printful | Printify | GearLaunch |
| Product Range | Wide range of products, including apparel, accessories, and home goods. | Extensive product catalog, including apparel, home goods, and promotional items. | Broad product selection, including apparel, accessories, and home decor. | Focus on apparel, but also offers a variety of products like mugs and phone cases. |
| Print Methods | Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing, sublimation, and more. | DTG, embroidery, cut & sew, and more. | Multiple printing methods depending on the chosen supplier. | DTG printing primarily, with some other options. |
| Integration | Offers an API for integration with e-commerce platforms. | Seamless integration with major e-commerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce. | ntegrates with popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify, Etsy, and WooCommerce. | Integrates with platforms like Shopify and offers an API. |
| Shipping Options | Worldwide shipping with multiple carrier options. | Worldwide shipping with various shipping methods. | Global shipping options with multiple carriers. | Global shipping options with a focus on reliable delivery. |
| Custom Branding | Allows for white-labeling and custom branding. | White-labeling and custom branding options available. | White-labeling options for branding. | Custom branding options for a personalized storefront. |
| Additional Features | API for custom integrations and a design tool. | Warehousing and fulfillment services available. | Multi-store management and print provider comparison tools. | Custom store setup and design services. |
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Frequently asked questions
Gelato Print on Demand has a free plan. However, the business cost of running a print-on-demand business depends on various factors, including the specific products you select and the number of orders you receive. To get accurate pricing information, you can refer to Gelato's website, where they provide detailed pricing details based on your specific needs.
Gelato is a print-on-demand dropshipping service that produces and fulfills custom products for businesses.
At the time of writing, the Gelato Plus plan is available at $24/month or $239/year.
