How much does it cost to make 300 t-shirts?

Ordering 300 custom T-shirts can seem straightforward, but true costs are shaped by fabric, printing, labor, shipping, and more. Understanding what drives per-unit price helps brands, events, and small businesses get the best value—without sacrificing quality.

The cost to make 300 T-shirts typically ranges from $4–$12 per shirt for standard cotton, and $8–$18 per shirt for premium cotton or complex printing. Final pricing depends on fabric type, GSM, print method, labor, shipping, and manufacturer location.

Drawing from years of apparel manufacturing experience, I’ll break down the major pricing factors, show you market averages, and offer cost-saving strategies for mid-size orders.

Key Cost Components in Producing 300 Custom T-Shirts

Making 300 custom tees involves more than just fabric and print—every element, from GSM to labor, plays a role in your final price per piece.

Fabric type and weight (GSM), printing method, and T-shirt style are the biggest cost drivers. Higher GSM, specialty fabrics, and advanced prints add to the price, while simpler options and standard fits keep costs low.

Team Reviewing Design Analytics

How do fabric choice, GSM, and style affect unit cost?

The choice between basic cotton, organic, or premium blends, plus fabric thickness (GSM) and cut (standard vs fashion-fit), directly impacts raw material cost and production efficiency.

• Basic cotton (150–180 GSM): Lowest price, best for events or promo.
• Premium/organic cotton (180–220 GSM): Softer, longer-lasting, but costs 30–60% more.
• Fashion styles (slim-fit, oversized, custom hems): Add labor and pattern costs.

Fabric Type	Cost per Shirt ($)
Standard cotton	$4–$8
Premium cotton	$8–$14
Organic cotton	$9–$18

Does printing method (screen, DTG, heat press) significantly impact bulk pricing?

Yes. Screen printing is usually cheapest for 300 shirts, while DTG or heat press can be more expensive per unit but better for complex or multi-color designs.

• Screen printing: Economical for large batches, but setup costs apply per color.
• DTG (Direct-to-Garment): Higher per-unit cost, best for detailed artwork or many colors.
• Heat press: Good for small runs or specialty finishes (metallic, vinyl), but not cost-effective for 300+ units.

Printing Method	Cost Impact at 300 units	Best Use
Screen printing	Low	1–4 colors, bulk
DTG	Medium-High	Full color, photographic
Heat press	Medium	Specialty/low-quantity orders

Estimated Manufacturing Costs Based on Market Averages

Market data gives a useful reference point for budgeting 300 shirts in various quality tiers.

On average, 300 standard cotton T-shirts cost $1,200–$2,400 total ($4–$8 each). Premium or organic cotton shirts cost $2,400–$5,400 total ($8–$18 each). Labor, shipping, and MOQ policies vary by supplier and location.

What is the typical cost range for 300 t-shirts using basic vs premium cotton?

• Basic cotton (1–2 color screen print): $4–$8 each, or $1,200–$2,400 total.

• Premium cotton/organic (same print): $8–$18 each, or $2,400–$5,400 total.

• Larger, repeat orders can earn bulk discounts.

• Special requests (custom tags, eco-packaging) increase cost.

• Samples and setup fees ($30–$150) are often included in the first order.

How do labor, shipping, and MOQ policies influence the final price?

• Labor: Local manufacturing is 20–40% higher than overseas due to wage differences.
• Shipping: Air freight is fastest but can double shipping costs; sea freight is cheaper but slower.
• MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity): Some factories offer price breaks at 300 units, others require 500+ for best pricing.

Cost Component	Cost Influence	Tips
Labor	20–40% swing	Choose efficient locations
Shipping	10–20%	Batch shipments, plan ahead
MOQ	Lower MOQ = higher unit cost	Negotiate for price breaks

Working with T-Shirt Manufacturers for Mid-Size Orders

Finding a manufacturer that welcomes 300-unit runs—at a good price—is key for brands testing new designs or managing cash flow.

Many manufacturers offer custom pricing or “price breaks” at 300 units, especially for screen printing¹. Overseas factories are more flexible on MOQ, but local shops may provide better communication and faster turnaround.

Do most manufacturers offer price breaks or custom rates at 300 units?

Yes. 300 shirts is a common tier for price discounts—lower than sample pricing, but not as low as 500+ “wholesale” rates.

• Ask for a price list by quantity (50/100/300/500/1000+).
• Negotiate for bundled services (free setup, free sample with order).
• If you’re a repeat customer, ask for loyalty pricing.

What are the pros and cons of local vs overseas bulk production?

Local: Faster turnaround, easier communication, but higher labor/material costs.

Overseas: Lower price per shirt, more fabric/fit options, but longer shipping and less control over production details.

• Local factories are ideal for urgent projects or hands-on sampling.
• Overseas factories suit price-sensitive or large-volume orders, but require more time for approvals and shipping.
• Always request production samples, regardless of location.

Location	Pros	Cons
Local	Fast, easy communication	Higher cost
Overseas	Lower price, more options	Slower, complex logistics

How to Reduce Cost Without Sacrificing Quality

It’s possible to save money on 300 T-shirts by making smart design and production choices—without cutting corners on comfort or durability.

Choosing fewer print colors, sticking to standard sizing, batching multiple designs, or consolidating orders can lower costs per shirt while keeping quality high.

Can choosing fewer print colors or standard sizing cut down expenses?

Absolutely. Reducing the number of print colors lowers setup and ink costs. Standard sizes (S–XL) mean less fabric waste and easier production, lowering the per-unit price.

• Stick to 1–2 print colors for best pricing.
• Avoid special trims, tags, or finishes for first runs.
• Consider using the factory’s “house” fit, rather than fully custom patterns.

Is it worth consolidating orders or batching designs for efficiency?

Yes, consolidating several small orders into a single 300-unit run, or batching different designs with similar specs, can unlock better pricing, save on shipping, and reduce waste.

• Group multiple designs into a single bulk order for shared setup costs.
• Combine orders with other brands for joint savings (common among small labels).
• Use the same fabric/color base across designs for lower MOQ and easier stock management.

Cost-Saving Tip	Result
Fewer print colors	Lower setup and print cost
Batch designs/orders	Better price breaks, less waste
Standard sizing	Faster production, less error

Conclusion

Making 300 T-shirts typically costs $1,200–$5,400, depending on quality, print, and supplier. Choose your materials and print wisely, negotiate for price breaks, and consolidate orders where possible to maximize quality and minimize expense in your mid-size T-shirt run.

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