As with a graphic designer, start by asking around for referrals. Check with other
bands to learn where they had their merch made and how the experience was for them.
Also check the Big Kahuna, Google. There are loads and loads of online sources for mer-
chandise production. Often, costs will be lower than using a local shop.
If you get quotes on your own, be as clear and specific as possible. That means com-
municating the needed quantity, number of colors used in the design, product colors and
sizes, taxes, delivery options as well as delivery fees. Be aware there are usually mini-
mum order numbers to be dealt with, setup costs, shipping costs and possibly other costs.
Ensure you know them all. If you don’t understand something, ask and continue to ask
questions until it’s all crystal clear. You don’t want to place an order and then get a sky-
high surprise invoice. Also, be aware that a quote is a firm price usually good for a spe-
cific period of time, such as thirty days. An estimate is more of a nebulous thing, as in,
“Well, it’s probably gong to cost $XYZ.” In other words, a quote is cast in stone, while
an estimate is a best guess. They’re usually pretty darn good guesses, based on historical
data, similar projects, etc., but they can change. If they do, the supplier should notify you
in advance. Ideally, well in advance.
Finally, you’ll need a place to store all your merch in between shows. Odds are, you
won’t be hauling the entire lot with you for each gig, either. You or a band mate might
have a basement that is watertight as well as relatively temperature and humidity con-
trolled. If so, count yourself among the fortunate few. You may need to rent a space, such
as a warehousing service, to store your stuff. Don’t just cram the merchandise into the
trunk of yours and your band members’ cars. That would be bad and a sure way to lose a