The Complete Guide to Merch Bulk Orders

Why Bulk Ordering Branded Merchandise Makes Business Sense

Looking for quick information about merch bulk order options? Here's what you need to know:

A merch bulk order is the strategic purchase of branded promotional products in larger quantities to achieve cost savings, consistent branding, and streamlined logistics. Whether you're preparing for a corporate event, launching a marketing campaign, or equipping your team with branded gear, bulk ordering merchandise offers significant advantages over placing multiple smaller orders.

The benefits extend far beyond simple cost savings. When you place a merch bulk order, you're investing in brand consistency, reducing your environmental footprint through consolidated shipping, and ensuring you have promotional materials ready when opportunities arise.

According to industry data, businesses can save up to 48% on product costs and 30% on shipping expenses by ordering merchandise in bulk. This makes bulk ordering particularly attractive for organizations of all sizes looking to maximize their marketing budget.

With most suppliers, you can easily mix sizes, colors, and even different products within a single bulk order. This flexibility ensures you get exactly what you need without compromising on variety or paying premium prices for smaller batches.

I'm Ben Read, co-founder of Mercha.com.au, and I've helped thousands of businesses optimize their merch bulk order strategy to achieve better branding results while keeping costs manageable and production sustainable.

Merch Bulk Order 101: Definition & Workflow

Ever wondered what exactly a merch bulk order is? Simply put, it's purchasing customised promotional products in larger quantities—typically starting from 25-50 items. At Mercha, we've taken what can be a complex process and simplified it into three straightforward steps that anyone can follow.

Ordering branded merchandise in bulk with us couldn't be easier:

1. Choose your products - Browse our colourful catalogue and pick the items that'll make your brand shine
2. Upload your design - Pop your logo or artwork into our user-friendly platform (it's actually fun, we promise!)
3. Place your order - Review everything, confirm your quantities, and you're done!

What makes us different from traditional promo suppliers? We've ditched those frustrating back-and-forth quote emails. Our online platform gives you instant pricing based on what you select, making budget planning a breeze rather than a headache.

The beauty of merch bulk orders is the tiered pricing structure—the more you order, the less you pay per item. It's perfect for savvy businesses planning ahead for multiple events throughout the year. Not sure whether to go big or start smaller? Our guide on Bulk Orders vs Small Batches: Which Merch Kit Order Size Actually Works for You breaks it all down for you.

For inspiration on what other brands are creating, check out the gorgeous April Showers Store to see how others are making memorable merch.

How does a merch bulk order save money?

Let's talk dollars and sense. Bulk ordering is a bit like shopping at Costco—there's a method to the madness that actually saves you money:

Volume discounts make a massive difference to your bottom line. Ordering 100 t-shirts instead of 50 might slash your per-shirt cost by 15-20%. That adds up quickly!

Consolidated shipping is another hidden gem of savings. One bulk shipment costs substantially less than multiple smaller orders—we've seen clients save up to 30% on shipping costs alone.

Setup fees for customisation methods like screen printing are typically one-time costs. When spread across more items in a merch bulk order, the per-unit impact shrinks dramatically.

Inventory planning becomes much more efficient too. One of our Melbourne tech startup clients saved nearly $2,000 on their annual merchandise budget simply by consolidating quarterly orders into two larger bulk purchases. Smart move!

Can I customise each item inside one merch bulk order?

Absolutely! This is one of the biggest misconceptions about bulk ordering—that you're stuck with identical items. The reality is far more flexible:

You can mix sizes and colours within a single order. This is brilliant for team uniforms where you need everything from XS to 3XL, or when you want that perfect colour variety in your branded totes.

We offer multiple customisation techniques depending on your products—screen printing for bold, durable designs; embroidery for that premium feel; digital transfer for complex graphics; and direct-to-garment (DTG) printing for photo-realistic imagery.

Want different design placements? No worries! Front chest logos for some items, full back prints for others—you can specify exactly where you want your branding to appear.

Even multiple designs are possible within the same order for certain product types. Our user-friendly online design tool lets you preview exactly how your branding will look before you commit, so there are no surprises when your beautiful merch arrives.

With Mercha, your merch bulk order isn't just about quantity—it's about creating exactly what you need, just on a larger (and more cost-effective) scale.

Why Buy in Bulk? Cost, Flexibility & Brand Impact

Let's talk about why merch bulk order just makes sense for your business. I've seen how our clients transform their marketing efforts when they make the switch to ordering in bulk—and the benefits go well beyond just saving a few dollars.

Substantial savings are probably the most immediate advantage you'll notice. Our customers typically save up to 48% on their product costs compared to placing multiple smaller orders. Plus, consolidated shipping can cut your delivery expenses by around 30%. That's real money back in your marketing budget!

When you order all your branded merchandise at once, you're also ensuring consistent branding across all items. The colours match perfectly, the print quality is uniform, and everything looks professionally coordinated. This consistency matters—it's the difference between looking like a polished organisation or one that's pieced things together haphazardly.

There's also something wonderfully reassuring about event readiness. Having a stockpile of quality branded items means you're prepared for whatever opportunities come your way—surprise trade show invitations, impromptu client meetings, or those last-minute marketing campaigns that always seem to pop up.

From a planning perspective, bulk ordering offers simplified budgeting. With one upfront purchase, you know exactly what you've spent and can allocate your remaining marketing resources accordingly. No more unexpected merchandise emergencies blowing your quarterly budget!

And let's not forget the environmental benefits. By consolidating production and shipping into fewer, larger orders, you're actually reducing the carbon footprint of your merchandise program compared to placing multiple small orders throughout the year. It's a win for your brand and for the planet.

Want to dive deeper into smart promotional merchandise strategies? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Affordable Promotional Merch Packs.

Merch bulk order for businesses, schools & charities

Different organisations can leverage bulk merchandise in unique ways that suit their specific needs:

For businesses, branded merchandise becomes a powerful tool for building corporate culture through team apparel that creates a sense of belonging. It's also perfect for creating memorable client appreciation gifts, event merchandise that leaves lasting impressions, and support materials for new product launches.

Schools benefit enormously from bulk ordering uniform components that build school pride and identity. Many of our education clients also use branded merchandise for fundraising initiatives, creating special items for sports days or celebrations, and assembling welcome packs for new students.

Charities find bulk ordering particularly valuable for creating fundraising merchandise that spreads their message while generating income. We've helped many non-profits develop volunteer recognition items, awareness campaign materials, and thoughtful donor appreciation gifts—all while keeping costs manageable.

I remember working with a Sydney-based charity that ordered branded tote bags and water bottles for their annual fundraiser. Not only did they increase donations by 22%, but they also slashed their per-item costs by nearly 35% compared to their previous supplier. That's the power of smart merch bulk order strategy!

Real-world wins from merch bulk orders

The real-life impact of well-executed bulk merchandise orders can be truly impressive. Here are some success stories that might inspire your next order:

A Brisbane technology conference ordered 500 custom t-shirts, notebooks, and water bottles for attendee welcome packs. By consolidating everything into a single merch bulk order rather than placing three separate smaller orders, they saved over $3,800 while ensuring perfect brand consistency across all items.

One of my favourite examples is a fitness studio chain that used bulk-ordered branded apparel both as staff uniforms and retail merchandise for members. Their strategic bulk purchasing allowed them to maintain consistent stock levels across multiple locations while enjoying a 40% cost reduction compared to their previous on-demand ordering approach.

A university orientation team created welcome kits for 1,200 new students that included tote bags, water bottles, pens, and t-shirts. Their consolidated bulk order not only saved them 32% on product costs but also dramatically simplified their distribution logistics—a massive win during the chaos of orientation week!

For more inspiration from brands using merchandise effectively, follow some of our favourite suppliers like Bella Canvas on Instagram to see how their products are being used in creative campaigns worldwide.

Customisable Products & Printing Techniques

When you're planning a merch bulk order, the possibilities for customisation are practically endless. We've watched the promotional product landscape evolve dramatically over the years, and today's options offer so much more creativity and impact than the basic logo-slapped pens of yesteryear.

At Mercha, we've curated a collection of products that balance quality, style, and branding effectiveness. Whether you're after apparel that your team will actually want to wear, accessories that get daily use, or office items that keep your brand visible, we've got options to suit every campaign and budget.

Our most popular products for merch bulk orders include:

In the apparel category, our t-shirts range from everyday basics to premium organic cotton options. Hoodies and sweatshirts continue to be top performers (especially in our cooler Australian winters!), while polo shirts offer that perfect balance between casual and professional. Caps and beanies round out our headwear selection, providing year-round branding opportunities.

For accessories, tote bags and backpacks give your brand mobility in the community. Our water bottles and travel mugs have become especially popular as more organisations accept sustainable alternatives to single-use items. Tech accessories like power banks and USB drives offer practical utility, while lanyards and badge holders are event essentials.

In office supplies, our notebooks and journals range from budget-friendly to premium options like Moleskine. Pens and writing instruments remain the classic promotional staple, while desk accessories and planners keep your brand visible throughout the workday.

Choosing the right printing technique is just as important as selecting the perfect product. Each method has its own strengths:

Screen printing remains our most requested technique for apparel merch bulk orders because of its durability and exceptional value at higher quantities. The per-unit cost drops dramatically as your order size increases, making it perfect for larger runs.

Embroidery adds that premium touch that turns an ordinary cap or polo into something special. While it has a higher initial setup cost, this gets distributed across your order, making it quite cost-effective for bulk purchases.

For designs with lots of detail or colour gradients, DTG (Direct to Garment) printing offers stunning results without the setup complexity of screen printing. It's a great middle-ground option for medium-sized orders with complex artwork.

Digital transfer techniques work beautifully for smaller runs or items with intricate designs, while sublimation creates vibrant, all-over prints that become part of the fabric itself—ideal for polyester products.

Not sure which technique is right for your merch bulk order? Our team loves helping clients match their vision with the right production method. We consider your budget, timeline, design complexity, and how the items will be used to recommend the perfect approach.

For a deeper dive into creating cohesive branded merchandise collections, check out our Custom Merch Packs: A Step-by-Step Creation Guide. It walks you through everything from concept development to production considerations.

Go Green: Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Bulk Merch

Sustainability is no longer just a nice-to-have feature—it's becoming a core expectation for branded merchandise. At Mercha, we're proud to offer an extensive Eco-friendly range that allows businesses to align their promotional efforts with their environmental values.

Our eco-friendly merch bulk order options include:

Sustainable Apparel:

• Organic cotton t-shirts and hoodies
• Recycled polyester blend garments
• Hemp-based textiles

Eco-Conscious Accessories:

• RPET tote bags made from recycled plastic bottles
• Bamboo or wheat straw drinkware
• Cork-based products like notebooks and coasters

Responsible Packaging:

• Compostable mailers
• Recycled cardboard presentation boxes
• Plastic-free packaging solutions

When you place a bulk order of eco-friendly merchandise, you're not just saving money—you're making a statement about your brand's commitment to sustainability. We also offer carbon-neutral freight options to further reduce the environmental impact of your order.

Here are some of our most popular eco-friendly products:

Bamboo Travel Mug This stylish, reusable mug is made from sustainable bamboo fibre with a silicone lid and sleeve. Perfect for coffee lovers and environmentally conscious brands. View Product

Recycled PET Tote Bag Made entirely from recycled plastic bottles, these durable tote bags offer excellent branding space while giving plastic waste a second life. View Product

Cork and Recycled Paper Notebook Combining cork covers with recycled paper pages, these notebooks make a sustainable statement while providing practical daily use. View Product

For more ideas on cost-effective promotional items that still make an impact, check out our Practical Guide to Cost-Effective Promotional Giveaway Items.

Why eco merch boosts brand perception

Investing in sustainable merchandise offers multiple benefits beyond environmental impact:

Improved Brand Reputation: 78% of consumers say they feel better about companies that make an effort to be sustainable. Eco-friendly merchandise tangibly demonstrates your commitment to responsible practices.

Alignment with CSR Goals: For companies with established Corporate Social Responsibility programs, sustainable merchandise supports broader sustainability objectives.

Longer Product Lifespan: Many eco-friendly products are designed for durability and repeated use, extending the visibility of your branding.

Appeal to Younger Demographics: Millennial and Gen Z consumers in particular show strong preference for brands with authentic sustainability credentials.

One of our clients, an environmental consulting firm, reported that switching their conference giveaways to items from our eco-friendly range resulted in significantly higher retention rates—attendees were much less likely to discard the items after the event.

Fast-Track Your Merch Bulk Order: Rush Options

When deadlines are tight and you need branded merchandise yesterday, our standard production timeline might not cut it. That's where our Rush products collection comes to the rescue for those time-sensitive merch bulk orders.

We've carefully curated a selection of high-quality items that can be customised and shipped within just 5-7 business days—a significant improvement over the typical 2-3 week timeline for most custom merchandise.

Need to make a splash at that conference you just found out about? Our rush service has you covered with popular items like branded water bottles and coffee mugs that arrive before your panic sets in. View Product

Running low on those classic promotional pens that everyone somehow "borrows" from your office? Our express pens are perfect for quick replenishment before your next client meeting. View Product

And for those event goodie bags you suddenly need to fill, our rapid tote bags deliver both durability and style without the extended wait. View Product

The rush collection doesn't stop there—we also offer stress balls (perfect for that high-pressure product launch), sunglasses (for your outdoor summer event), notebooks (because everyone still loves writing things down), and umbrellas (because, well, Australian weather).

Want to explore all your quick-turnaround options? Check out our article on Need it Fast? Best Rush Promo Products for Quick Branding.

When to choose rush merch bulk order

Life doesn't always give us the luxury of planning months ahead. Rush orders are your best mate when:

You've just scored a last-minute spot at that industry trade show everyone's talking about. A rush merch bulk order ensures you won't be the only booth without branded goodies.

Your office manager calls in a panic because someone left the box of promotional items for tomorrow's client meeting on the train. Emergency replacements save the day!

Your marketing team wants to capitalise on a viral moment or trending topic that perfectly aligns with your brand. Quick response marketing requires, well, quick responses.

Or perhaps the approval process dragged on longer than expected (we've all been there), and now you're scrambling to meet your original deadline with a compressed timeline.

One of our clients, a Sydney-based marketing agency, reached out just 8 days before a major industry event where they needed branded merchandise for 200 attendees. Using our rush service, we produced and delivered custom notebooks, pens, and tote bags in time for their event. What could have been a marketing disaster turned into one of their most successful networking opportunities.

How to keep costs down on rush merch bulk orders

While rush services naturally come with some premium pricing (physics hasn't quite mastered time travel yet), there are clever ways to minimise the additional costs:

Simplify your design for faster production. Those intricate gradient effects and 12-colour logos might need to wait for your next order. Stick with clean, bold designs with fewer colours to speed things along.

Choose from our rush-ready stock rather than requesting custom products. We've specifically selected items that work brilliantly with quick turnaround times.

Ship everything to one location instead of attempting complex multi-destination deliveries. You can always distribute items yourself once they arrive.

Submit print-ready artwork in the correct formats from the get-go. This eliminates back-and-forth adjustments that eat into your already tight timeline.

Consider local stock options whenever possible. Products warehoused right here in Australia can typically be branded and shipped much faster than those requiring international transit.

By working closely with our team and making strategic choices, you can balance the need for speed with your budget considerations. We're always happy to suggest the most cost-effective approach for your rush merch bulk order without compromising on quality or impact.

'Yeah I Work In Tech' Custom Merch Pack

For technology companies, development teams, and IT departments, we've created the perfect pre-designed merchandise collection. Our 'Yeah I Work In Tech' Custom Merch Pack combines practical tools with stylish branding opportunities.

This comprehensive pack includes:

• Bellroy Custom Tech Kit: A premium organiser for cables, adapters, and small electronics
• AS Colour Men's Staple Tee: A high-quality, comfortable t-shirt that becomes a team favourite
• Logo Line Volt Combo Charging Cable: A multi-purpose charging solution for various devices
• Custom Sticker Pack: Versatile stickers for laptops, water bottles, and more

The entire collection comes neatly packaged and ready for distribution, making it an ideal merch bulk order for tech companies looking to create a cohesive brand experience.

Why this merch bulk order resonates with developers

The 'Yeah I Work In Tech' pack has become one of our most popular options for technology companies because:

It Solves Real Problems: The included items address actual needs that tech professionals have—keeping cables organised, having reliable charging options, and comfortable workwear.

It Balances Practicality and Style: Unlike generic promotional products, this collection combines utility with aesthetic appeal.

It Creates Team Unity: When distributed across development teams or departments, these items foster a sense of belonging and shared identity.

It Extends Brand Visibility: The t-shirts and stickers in particular provide ongoing brand exposure in various environments.

A software development company in Adelaide ordered 75 of these packs for their team and reported that the tech kits in particular became "must-have" items that employees used daily, creating consistent brand touchpoints both in and out of the office.

'Walking in a Winter Wonderland' Custom Merch Pack

For cooler seasons or year-round comfort, our 'Walking in a Winter Wonderland' Custom Merch Pack provides a cosy collection of branded items perfect for employee gifts, client appreciation, or seasonal promotions.

This thoughtfully curated pack includes:

• AS Colour Cable Beanie: A stylish, comfortable beanie that keeps your brand visible in cooler weather
• Eco Colour Bound A5 JournalBook: An environmentally conscious notebook for ideas and notes
• Orso Kasty Rollerball Pen: A premium writing instrument that makes a lasting impression
• AS Colour Carrie Tote Bag: A versatile, durable tote that provides extensive brand visibility

This collection works particularly well as a merch bulk order for winter campaigns, end-of-year client gifts, or employee appreciation packages.

Perfect for cool-season campaigns & staff gifting

The Winter Wonderland pack offers several strategic advantages:

Seasonal Relevance: The items resonate particularly well during cooler months, making your brand a welcome presence during winter.

Practical Daily Use: Each component serves a genuine purpose in recipients' daily lives, ensuring regular brand exposure.

Eco-Conscious Appeal: The inclusion of sustainable items like the Eco JournalBook aligns with growing environmental awareness.

Gifting-Ready Presentation: The collection comes packaged as a complete set, saving you time and effort in preparing corporate gifts.

A financial services firm in Sydney ordered 120 of these packs as end-of-year client appreciation gifts and reported exceptional feedback, with several clients specifically mentioning how much they appreciated the practical, high-quality nature of the items.

'Tech Traveller' Custom Merch Pack

For businesses with remote teams, frequent travellers, or those looking to equip employees for the mobile workplace, our 'Tech Traveller' Custom Merch Pack offers the perfect solution.

This premium collection includes:

• Bellroy Company Branded Tech Kit: A sophisticated organiser for all tech essentials
• Promo Brands Zap Pack 5,000mAh Power Bank: A reliable power solution for devices on the go
• Moleskine Cahier A5 Journal Notebook: The industry-standard notebook trusted by professionals worldwide
• SWAG Mailer Box Printing: A custom-printed box that lifts the unboxing experience

As a merch bulk order option, the Tech Traveller pack delivers exceptional value for companies looking to make a lasting impression with high-quality branded merchandise.

Ideal merch bulk order for remote teams & frequent flyers

The Tech Traveller pack has become increasingly popular as work patterns evolve:

Remote Work Support: These tools help remote employees stay organised and productive regardless of location.

Travel Convenience: Each item addresses common pain points experienced during business travel.

Premium Brand Positioning: The high-quality components reflect positively on your brand's standards and values.

Practical Longevity: These durable items remain in use for years, providing extended brand exposure.

A consulting firm with teams across Australia ordered 50 Tech Traveller packs for their client-facing consultants. They reported that the packs not only improved their consultants' organisation and efficiency but also served as conversation starters during client meetings, creating organic opportunities to discuss their company's attention to detail and quality.

Frequently Asked Questions about Merch Bulk Orders

What is the typical turnaround time for a merch bulk order?

When you're planning your promotional campaign or event, timing is everything. For most merch bulk orders, you can expect a standard turnaround of about 2-3 weeks from the moment we approve your artwork to the day your items arrive at your doorstep. This timeline includes everything—production, our thorough quality checks, and shipping across Australia.

Need your branded merchandise in a hurry? We understand that business doesn't always follow a perfect schedule. That's why we've developed rush options that can deliver select products in just 5-7 business days. Just browse our dedicated rush collection for items that can meet your tight deadline.

It's worth noting that a few factors might influence your delivery timeline. Complex designs, specialised printing techniques, larger quantities, and certain shipping destinations can all add a bit of time. And if you're ordering during our industry's busiest periods (particularly November-December for holiday campaigns or the end of financial year rush), we recommend adding an extra week to your planning schedule. A little foresight goes a long way in ensuring you're not caught short!

Can I mix sizes, colours and designs in one order?

Absolutely! One of the things our clients love most about placing a merch bulk order with Mercha is the flexibility we offer.

When it comes to apparel, we know one size definitely doesn't fit all. That's why you can easily order a mix of sizes (S through to 3XL and beyond) within the same order. Want your team t-shirts in different colours to suit different departments or preferences? No problem—we can accommodate various colour combinations of the same product in your bulk order.

Many of our clients also combine different product types in a single order. Maybe you need t-shirts for your team, water bottles for an event, and notebooks for a conference—you can bundle all of these together for simplified ordering and shipping.

For designs, we do have some practical considerations to keep in mind. Each unique design typically requires its own setup process, which may affect your pricing. For screen printing specifically, multiple designs mean multiple screens and setup processes. And if you're looking for personalisation (like adding individual names to items), we can certainly do that with a bit of additional cost.

The good news is that our user-friendly online platform makes specifying all these variations straightforward during checkout. No complicated back-and-forth emails or confusing quote processes!

How do I estimate my bulk discount before checkout?

We believe in transparent pricing, which is why our system shows you bulk discounts automatically as you adjust quantities in your cart. You'll see your savings in real-time—no surprises at checkout.

Generally, our merch bulk order discounts follow these thresholds:

• Order 25-49 units and enjoy approximately 10-15% off
• Bump up to 50-99 units for savings around 15-25%
• Reach 100-249 units and you're looking at roughly 25-35% discount
• Go big with 250+ units and save between 35-48%

These savings do vary depending on what you're ordering and how you're customising it. Screen printing on t-shirts, for instance, becomes significantly more cost-effective at higher quantities than certain other customisation methods.

The easiest way to see exactly how much you'll save is to add products to your cart and experiment with different quantities. Our system updates pricing instantly, so you can find the sweet spot for your budget.

For more complex requirements or if you'd prefer a detailed breakdown, our friendly team is always ready to provide a custom quote custom to your specific needs. We're committed to helping you maximise value without compromising on quality.

Branded Merch Made Easy

We've taken the hassle out of merch bulk ordering at Mercha by creating something that's been missing in the promotional products industry for years: a genuinely user-friendly platform that puts you in control of your branded merchandise.

Gone are the days of endless back-and-forth emails, confusing quotes, and mysterious pricing. Our approach combines the straightforward convenience of online shopping with the customisation capabilities traditionally locked behind lengthy consultation processes.

What makes our platform special isn't just its simplicity – it's how we've balanced ease-of-use with genuine quality. We've partnered with respected brands like AS Colour, Bellroy, and Moleskine to ensure your branded merchandise reflects the quality standards your organisation deserves.

And because we believe good business and environmental responsibility go hand-in-hand, sustainability is woven into everything we do. Your merch bulk order isn't just good for your brand—it's better for the planet too. From our expanding range of eco-friendly products to sustainable packaging options and carbon-neutral shipping alternatives, we're making it easier to align your marketing efforts with your values.

The Mercha difference comes down to a few key elements that our clients consistently appreciate:

Our simplified 3-step ordering process eliminates confusion and saves you valuable time. Just choose your products, upload your design, and place your order – that's it.

Our transparent pricing model means what you see is what you get – no hidden fees or surprise charges after you've committed.

Our commitment to quality ensures your branded merchandise makes the right impression, whether it's worn, carried, or used in daily work.

Our extensive customisation options let you create merchandise that truly reflects your brand identity, not just generic items with a logo slapped on.

For inspiration on your next merch bulk order, take a look at our most popular collections featuring bestselling products and carefully curated merchandise packs that our clients love.

Ready to reimagine your branded merchandise strategy? Start your merch project today and experience the difference that quality, sustainability, and simplicity can make. Whether you're planning for an upcoming event, creating employee appreciation gifts, or developing a comprehensive year-round merchandise program, we're here to help you create a merch bulk order that achieves your goals while respecting both your budget and timeline.