Table of Contents
- Introduction
- CustomCat Overview
- Getting Started with CustomCat
- Managing Designs
- Direct to Garment (DTG) Printing
- Personalized Products
- Shipping Options
- Support and Resources
- Pricing
- Rating CustomCat
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
Finding the right print-on-demand platform can make all the difference for anyone interested in dropshipping. One prominent option in the market is CustomCat, a platform known for its extensive product selection and ease of integration with popular eCommerce platforms. But what makes CustomCat stand out? Here, we will delve into CustomCat’s offerings, including its features, pricing, and overall usability to help you determine if it’s the right fit for your business.
In this blog post, expect a comprehensive overview of CustomCat, detailed insights about its unique features, and valuable tips on how to leverage it for your eCommerce store.
Let's get started.
CustomCat Overview
CustomCat is a versatile print-on-demand platform that lets you choose from a host of different products, notably T-shirts, hoodies, and handbags. Among its range, CustomCat boasts the largest selection of handbags, an appealing proposition for those looking to stand out in the eCommerce landscape.
Integration Capabilities
CustomCat seamlessly integrates with prominent eCommerce platforms like Shopify, BigCommerce, and Etsy. WordPress users can also utilize CustomCat via WooCommerce. For those with custom-built online stores, CustomCat offers API configuration, although this requires some technical expertise or hiring a programmer.
Getting Started with CustomCat
Sign-Up Process
The journey begins with signing up on CustomCat’s homepage. Once logged in, users are directed to their dashboard where they can complete their account information, a process that involves entering payment details via PayPal or credit card. After completion, your account becomes active, ready for building your store.
Dashboard Features
The dashboard serves as the central hub for managing your CustomCat activities. Announcements related to promotional pricing, discontinued products, and out-of-stock products are regularly updated here. Additionally, the dashboard allows you to manage payment settings, order processing, and customer service interactions.
Managing Designs
Design Library
Uploading designs is straightforward. Users can upload multiple designs in one go, preview them, and make necessary edits such as changing file names or adding tags. The design library also offers organizational features to help you sort and manage your designs efficiently.
Adding Products to Shopify
Using the CustomCat Shopify app, you can add products by selecting them from the product catalog. The platform allows extensive customization, from editing product names and costs to selecting colors and designs. Once products are ready, they can be published to your Shopify store.
Direct to Garment (DTG) Printing
Creating products for direct-to-garment printing involves selecting the desired product and adding designs to either the front, back, or both areas. CustomCat supports bulk design uploads, allowing users to manage multiple designs efficiently.
Decoration Methods
CustomCat supports several decoration methods, including DTG printing, dye sublimation, and embroidery. Each decoration method comes with its presets and customizable options for design positioning.
Personalized Products
The platform allows for text personalization, enabling customers to customize text on products before purchasing. This feature is managed within the design library and can be integrated into your store, providing a personalized shopping experience for your customers.
Customized Cart Codes
CustomCat offers custom personalized cart codes to display personalized text within the cart. This involves a step-by-step setup process with clear instructions provided within the platform.
Shipping Options
CustomCat offers five shipping options: Economy, Ground, 2-day, Overnight, and International shipping. Shipping costs and times vary based on the shipping method and the product’s weight category, ensuring flexibility for both the seller and customers.
Support and Resources
Customer Support
CustomCat offers multiple support channels, including a contact form, an email for order-related inquiries, a knowledge base, and a blog page named Go-Getter blog. However, the lack of live chat and telephone support could be a drawback.
Pricing
For Shopify users, CustomCat charges a $30 monthly subscription fee, with a free trial period of 30 days for first-time users. Users of BigCommerce, Etsy, and WooCommerce can use CustomCat without a subscription fee. There’s also a free plan, CustomCat Lite, where products are typically $2 more.
Rating CustomCat
Features
CustomCat earns a high rating for its robust product catalog and support for various decoration methods, making it a versatile choice.
Ease of Use
The platform’s user-friendly dashboard and straightforward processes make it highly accessible, even for those without technical expertise.
Support
While it offers useful resources like a knowledge base and blog, the absence of live chat and phone support limits its overall support rating.
Pricing
CustomCat’s competitive pricing structure makes it accessible for beginners and experienced sellers alike, contributing to its favorable rating.
Conclusion
CustomCat stands out as a comprehensive and user-friendly print-on-demand platform, perfect for anyone looking to start or expand their eCommerce business. Its wide range of products, seamless integrations, and customization options make it a powerful tool in the print-on-demand space. While its customer support options could be improved, the platform’s strengths significantly outweigh this drawback, making it a highly recommended choice.
FAQ
Q1: What types of products can I sell on CustomCat?
CustomCat offers a diverse range of products including apparel, accessories, kitchenware, and more.
Q2: How does CustomCat handle shipping?
CustomCat provides five shipping options ranging from Economy to International, catering to varied customer preferences.
Q3: Is CustomCat suitable for beginners?
Yes, CustomCat’s user-friendly interface and comprehensive support resources make it suitable for beginners.
Q4: What integration options does CustomCat offer?
CustomCat integrates with popular platforms like Shopify, BigCommerce, Etsy, WooCommerce, and also supports API configuration.
Q5: What support options are available?
CustomCat offers email support, a knowledge base, and a blog. However, live chat and phone support are not available.
