Branded merchandise – whether it’s custom promotional products, corporate giveaways, or event merchandise – is one of the most effective ways to promote your business and keep your brand front of mind. From trade shows to client gifts, branded items can create lasting impressions and strengthen customer loyalty.
However, if you’re not careful, the costs of custom printed merchandise can add up quickly. The good news? With some smart planning and strategic choices, you can stretch your promotional budget further without sacrificing quality or impact. Here are some proven tips to help you save money on branded merchandise while getting the most out of your investment.
One of the easiest ways to reduce costs is to start early. The more time you allow for production, the more options your supplier can offer – including cost-effective overseas manufacturing. Last-minute orders often attract rush fees, limited product availability, and higher freight charges. By planning your promotional campaigns in advance, you give yourself the opportunity to choose from a wider range of affordable options.
If your timeline allows, ask your promotional products supplier to quote on overseas manufacturing in addition to local options. While Australian production offers quick turnaround, offshore production can deliver substantial savings – especially for large-scale corporate merchandise orders. This approach is ideal for events, product launches, or seasonal campaigns where you can forecast demand in advance.
When it comes to branded merchandise, the rule is simple – the more you order, the lower the cost per unit. Even if you don’t need all the products immediately, buying in bulk can be a smart investment. Items like branded pens, custom tote bags, and printed T-shirts have a long shelf life and can be used throughout the year for events, trade shows, staff gifts, or customer rewards.
If you need a mix of custom promotional products – for example, T-shirts, notebooks, banners, and branded confectionery – it’s worth ordering them all from the same supplier. Many suppliers offer package pricing or discounts for multi-product orders. You’ll also save valuable time by dealing with one point of contact, one invoice, and one delivery schedule instead of juggling multiple vendors.
Your decoration choices can have a big impact on your final price. Complex artwork with multiple colours or fine details can increase both printing costs and setup fees. For instance, a two-colour print might cost $1.40 per unit, whereas a single-colour print could be just $0.70. Choosing a minimalist design not only reduces production costs but can also create a cleaner, more professional look that enhances your brand visibility.
Final Tip: Partner with a trusted, experienced promotional merchandise supplier who understands your brand, target audience, and budget. They can recommend the best products, printing methods, and order quantities to help you achieve maximum impact without overspending.
