Custom printed apparel has become an extremely popular way for businesses, schools, and organizations to promote their brand. Two of the biggest names in custom apparel printing are Supacolor and Transfer Express. But which one is better for your needs?
This comprehensive guide examines the key differences between Supacolor and Transfer Express when it comes to types of printing offered, minimum order quantities, turnaround times, quality, pricing, and more.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Category | Supacolor | Transfer Express |
| Printing Methods | Heat transfers, direct to garment, screen printing | Heat transfers |
| Minimum Order | 12 pieces | 1 piece |
| Turnaround Time | 5-7 days | As fast as 1 day |
| Print Quality | Photorealistic with gradients | Bold, vibrant colors |
| Pricing | Starts at $3/piece, setup fees | Starts at $1.44/piece, no setup fees |
| Ideal Customer | Bulk orders 50+ pieces | Orders of just a few pieces |
| Order Processing | Account managers | Easy online ordering |
| Art & Design | Dedicated designers | Simple online tools |
| Company Size | Large capacity | Small specialized company |
| Shipping | International, can be slower | Faster shipping, free US shipping |
Overview of Supacolor
Founded in 1979, Supacolor is one of the pioneers and innovators in custom printed apparel. Headquartered in Markham, Ontario, Supacolor provides a wide variety of printing options for t-shirts, hoodies, hats, uniforms, and other garments.
Some key things to know about Supacolor:
- Specializes in heat transfers and digital printing
- Offers screen printing through partner companies
- Has production facilities in both Canada and the United States
- Known for high-quality prints and large production capacity
- Caters to businesses, event planners, schools, and organisations
- Has dedicated account managers and designers
Overview of Transfer Express
Transfer Express, founded in 1995, is one of the leading providers of custom screen printed and digital heat transfers. Based in Miamisburg, Ohio, Transfer Express has built a reputation for fast turnaround times, low minimum orders, and excellent customer service.
Here are some key facts about Transfer Express:
- Specializes in printed heat transfers
- Does not offer direct screen printing services
- Has one large production facility in Ohio
- Emphasizes speed with turnaround times as fast as 1 day
- Ideal for small quantity orders even just a few pieces
- Popular with small businesses, coaches, crafters, and side hustlers
Key Differences Between Supacolor And Transfer Express
Now that we’ve provided a brief introduction to both companies, let’s compare them across some key factors:
Types of Printing Offered
The main printing technologies offered by Supacolor and Transfer Express are:
Supacolor
- Heat transfers (inkjet printed)
- Direct to garment digital printing
- Screen printing (through partner companies)
Transfer Express
- Heat transfers (screen printed)
So the main difference here is that Transfer Express focuses exclusively on heat transfers, while Supacolor offers a wider range of printing methods including digital direct printing and third-party screen printing.
Minimum Order Quantity
Supacolor
- 12 piece minimum order for many products
- Up to 36 piece minimum for some speciality items
- Offer tiered pricing incentives at higher quantities
Transfer Express
- 1 piece minimum order!
- No setup fees or hidden minimums
- Great for buying just a few custom prints
Transfer Express is the clear winner when it comes to low minimum order quantities. Their lack of setup fees and ability to order just one printed transfer makes them accessible even for very small buyers. Supacolor has higher minimums more suitable for bulk orders.
Also Read: Reasons For Psycho Bunny Being So Expensive.
Turnaround Time
Turnaround time refers to how fast you can get your printed apparel order produced and shipped.
Supacolor
- 5-7 business days standard turnaround
- Offers rush production services for faster turnaround
Transfer Express
- As fast as 1 day turnaround!
- Most orders ship within 2-3 days
- Made-to-order model allows fast processing
Transfer Express is hands-down better when you need your order super fast.
Their production model is optimized for speed, and orders can ship out in just 24 hours.
Supacolor offer quicker service than traditional screen printers, but Transfer Express takes speed to the next level.
Print Quality
Supacolor
- Very high print quality, especially with Direct to Garment digital printing
- Transfers offer photorealistic prints
- Screen printing partner network are experienced providers
Transfer Express
- Screen printed heat transfers offer bold, vibrant colors
- Not as photorealistic as Direct to Garment or transfers
- Focus is more on quick turnaround speed vs top quality
For maximum print quality with photorealistic images and gradients, Supacolor’s digital printing and heat transfers excel. Transfer Express prints are vibrant and bold but less realistic.
Pricing
Supacolor
- Print prices start around $3 per piece
- Reduced per-unit pricing at higher quantities
- Set-up fees around $25+
Transfer Express
- Print prices start at $1.44 per piece
- No setup fees or hidden minimums
- Free shipping on orders $50+ in continental US
Transfer Express has lower per-unit print costs particularly at lower quantities. Supacolor offers better bulk discounts at high order volumes but higher minimums. Overall Transfer Express has an edge with lower minimums and fees.
Also Read: Differences Between Snuggie And Oodie.
Ideal Customer Base
Supacolor
- Businesses ordering 50+ pieces
- Schools and organizations
- Event planners
- Retail clothing lines
Transfer Express
- Small businesses
- Coaches/teachers ordering just a few pieces
- Crafters and side hustlers
- Startups on a budget
Supacolor’s pricing and higher minimums make them preferable for larger bulk orders. Transfer Express is the choice for small businesses or individuals just needing a few custom shirts printed.
Additional Factors
Some other considerations when choosing between the two providers:
- Order Processing: Transfer Express offers easier online ordering. Supacolor has specialized account managers that provide white glove service and guidance.
- Art & Design: Transfer Express has simpler online design tools. Supacolor provides dedicated designers for custom art creation.
- Company Size: Transfer Express is smaller and specialized. Supacolor is a much larger printing company with greater capacity.
- Shipping: Transfer Express offers faster and sometimes free shipping. Supacolor ships internationally but can be slower.
Which Should You Choose?
With this breakdown between Supacolor vs Transfer Express, which is best for your custom apparel order? Here are some quick recommendations based on different use cases:
- Ordering just a few shirts? Transfer Express.
- Need super fast 1 day turnaround? Transfer Express.
- Want the highest photorealistic print quality? Supacolor.
- Ordering 50+ shirts for business/event? Supacolor.
- On a tight startup budget? Transfer Express.
- Want dedicated account management? Supacolor.
Both companies are excellent providers of custom printed apparel. Choose Transfer Express if your priority is fast turnaround and low minimum orders. For bulk orders with premium print quality and account management, go with Supacolor.
Also Read: Is Charles Tyrwhitt Better Than Thomas Pink Shirts?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Below are answers to some common questions about Supacolor and Transfer Express:
Supacolor uses a durable heat transfer process called SuperTrans Plus that allows for photorealistic image quality that looks and feels like direct printing. The transfers apply designs onto garments using heat press machines.
Some of Supacolor’s major competitors include: Transfer Express, Rush Order Tees, Ace Transfer Company, Howard Sportswear, Vistaprint.
However, Supacolor’s combination of transfer printing and direct-to-garment digital printing gives them a unique offering in the market.
The top competitors of Transfer Express include: Supacolor, F&M Expressions, Seay Graphics, Dowling Graphics, Wild Side Heat Press.
As one of the largest heat transfer providers, Transfer Express has managed to stand out through fast turnaround and great customer service.
Supacolor’s minimum order quantity is typically 12 pieces per design. However, some specialty products like outerwear or fleece have higher minimums around 24-36 pieces. Their tiered pricing model provides incentives for larger bulk orders.
Final Thoughts
In summary, for large bulk orders of custom printed apparel with great print quality, Supacolor is likely the best option. But for fast turnarounds and super low minimum orders, Transfer Express cannot be beat.
Evaluate your specific needs and order details to determine which provider is a better fit. Both companies have their strengths and advantages over the competition.
