Introduction
This guide explains how to create and sell custom-designed products using AutoDS Print-On-Demand (POD). You’ll learn how to upload designs, list products, and automate order fulfillment—without managing inventory or handling logistics.
Print-On-Demand is a fulfillment model where products are produced only after an order is placed. This makes it ideal for creators and eCommerce sellers looking to launch custom-designed items with low upfront investment. You bring the design—AutoDS handles the rest.
By the end, you’ll be ready to launch your own fully automated POD business using AutoDS.
Benefits
Using Print-On-Demand with AutoDS brings key advantages:
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No inventory management – products are manufactured only after purchase.
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Full customization – apply your own designs to apparel, mugs, tote bags, and more.
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Global reach – ship to customers worldwide without manual handling.
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Flexible scalability – test new designs and product types with no upfront cost.
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Seamless automation – integrated with AutoDS automation tools including Fulfilled by AutoDS (FBA).
Quick Jump
Prerequisites & setup instructions
Before using Print-On-Demand in AutoDS, make sure you meet the following requirements:
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Active AutoDS account – you must be logged in with an active subscription to access POD features.
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Design file ready to upload
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Recommended dimensions: 2100x2400 pixels
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File type: PNG or JPG
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Max file size: 5MB
- We recommend using images with a transparent background for isolated illustrations or artwork.
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To place orders from the Print On Demand feature, the FBA service, and Auto-Order must be active in your supplier settings. These two tools work together to manage the fulfillment of your customized products smoothly.
👉 Learn more:
⚠️ Important:
- Print-On-Demand items are non-returnable due to their personalized nature.
- AutoDS does not provide design services. You must upload your own custom artwork.
How to create your custom product with AutoDS
Follow these steps to create and sell a custom product:
- Open the Print-On-Demand section
From your AutoDS dashboard, go to the Print-On-Demand section in the left sidebar. - Choose a product category such as apparel, accessories, or homeware.
- Edit the product
Hover over the product and click Edit Product. - Add your design
Use the design pop-up to configure your product:- Select product color – multiple colors will auto-generate size variants.
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Choose the side – front or back.
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Upload your design – must meet format and size requirements.
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Position the design – center or remove it as needed.
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Preview – check how your product will look.
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Save the product
Click Save to move the product to the Drafts section. -
Final edits in Drafts
Edit the title, description, or design before publishing. -
Import the product
Click Import to publish the finalized product to your store.
⚠️ Important: Adding a design to the back of a product (e.g., hoodies or t-shirts) adds an extra fee. This will be shown during checkout, but does not appear on the product page.
Product Information: Check pricing, variations and shipping
Clicking on a product image will reveal its full specifications:
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Item cost | Varies by product size and color. |
| Variations | Available sizes and colors. |
| Shipping & processing time | Shown in business days. |
| Shipping price | Click View shipping options to see all methods. |
| Edit product | Reopens the design editor. |
| Message to supplier | Contact AutoDS POD support. |
| Product info | View descriptions, materials, and technical details. |
Possible issues & workarounds
| Issue | How to fix it |
|---|---|
| Uploaded design is not displaying on the product | Make sure the image is under 5MB and in PNG or JPG format. |
| Product does not appear in your store after saving | Go to the Drafts tab and click Import to publish the product to your store. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use my own designs?
A: Yes. Upload custom images when editing a product.
Q: What file format and size should my designs be?
A: PNG or JPG, 2100x2400 pixels, and under 5MB.
Q: Can customers return POD items?
A: No. These are customized products and non-returnable.
👉 Learn more: 'Fulfilled by AutoDS' Service - Terms and Conditions
Q: How do I check shipping costs and delivery times?
A: Click the product image and then View shipping options.
Q: How do I automate order fulfillment?
A: Enable FBA and Auto-Order in your AutoDS supplier settings.
👉 Learn more: How to set up the Automations feature on AutoDS
Q: Can I add designs to both sides of a product?
A: Yes, but adding a back design adds an extra fee at checkout.
Q: Can I brand the package?
A: No. AutoDS does not offer branded packaging. All items and packages are sent exactly as they arrive from the supplier.
👉 Learn more: How to add a branding logo to your gift card