Choices, Choices: Banner Printing Near Me or Buy Online? The Pros and Cons of Both

A woman seated in a chair beside a wall adorned with a hanging banner.

When it comes to creating signage for your professional or personal use, trying to decide whether or not you should use a local shop or one online is going to be a challenge.

While many local print shops can offer you a wide variety of services, an online signage company may have more options, better pricing and online design tools that make your signage needs easier.

The question is…

How do you decide which direction to go?

Key Takeaway
  • In today’s digital age, deciding if you should print your banners online or at a local signage shop can be a challenge.
  • While a local shop may be able to offer you face-to-face customer service, an online print shop can give you more options and better pricing.
  • It’s important to weigh all your options and decide what type of signage shop is going to work best for your needs and your budget.

If you are in the market for some new signage solutions, deciding whether or not you should buy online or locally is going to take some research.

The good news is…you can start that research here.

Let’s do a deeper dive into buying banners and other types of signage from a local store versus buying these marketing and communication tools online.

Which one is better for you?

The Advantages of Local Printing

Shopping local for your printing needs offers several distinct benefits that can make a significant difference in your overall experience with a printing company and the quality of your final product.

Here are some of the key advantages of opting for local banner printing:

  • #1: Personalized Customer Service

    One of the most significant benefits of choosing a local print shop is the personalized customer service you’ll receive. In-person interactions allow you to build a relationship with the staff, who can provide tailored advice and recommendations based on your specific needs.

    This personal touch can be especially valuable if you’re new to banner printing or have complex requirements that need hands-on assistance.

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  • #2: Quick Turnaround Time

    Local print shops often offer faster turnaround times compared to online services. Since the printing process takes place nearby, you can typically expect shorter production and delivery times.

    This can be a critical advantage if you have a tight deadline or need your banners for an upcoming event.

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  • #3: Quality Control

    When you choose a local print shop, you have the opportunity to physically inspect the materials and final product before making a purchase.

    This level of quality control can give you peace of mind, knowing that your banners meet your expectations in terms of color accuracy, print quality, and material durability.

    Two colleagues collaborating in an office setting, focused on a large print displayed prominently in the workspace.

  • #4: Support for Local Businesses

    By opting for a local print shop, you’re supporting small businesses in your community. This can have a positive impact on the local economy and help foster a sense of community pride.

    Additionally, local businesses are often more invested in maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction, as their reputation depends on it.

    A man stands in front of a printer, observing the printing process with a focused expression.

The Drawbacks of Local Printing

While local printing companies can have some significant benefits, there are also a few downsides that you should think about and consider.

Think about the following before you choose a local print shop:

#1: Limited Options

Local print shops may have a more limited range of products and materials compared to online services. This can be a drawback if you’re looking for specific features or customization options that aren’t readily available locally.

#2: Higher Costs

In some cases, local print shops may charge higher prices compared to online services. This can be due to factors such as overhead costs, labor, and material expenses.

If you’re on a tight budget, this could be a deciding factor in choosing an online option.

#3: Geographic Constraints

If you don’t live near a well-equipped print shop, accessing local printing services can be inconvenient or impractical.

This can be especially true for those in rural or remote areas, where options may be limited or non-existent.

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The Advantages of Online Printing

Clearly, working with a local printing company has plenty of advantages when it comes to your banner and other advertising needs.

But — with the onslaught of online options that are now available — you also need to think about how and why an online printing company might be better at fulfilling your printing needs.

Here are some reasons to consider having your printing needs met with an online signage source:

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  • #1: More Convenience

    One of the biggest advantages of online printing is the convenience it offers. You can place an order from the comfort of your home or office, without the need to visit a physical location. This can save you time and effort, making the entire process more streamlined and hassle-free.

  • #2: More Options

    Online printing services typically offer a vast array of products, materials, and customization options. From different banner sizes and shapes to various printing techniques and finishes, you’ll have a wealth of choices at your fingertips. This flexibility allows you to create a banner that perfectly suits your needs and preferences.

  • #3: Better (and More) Competitive Pricing

    Online printing companies often benefit from economies of scale, allowing them to offer competitive pricing compared to local print shops. Additionally, many online services provide regular discounts and promotions, helping you save even more on your banner printing project.

The Drawbacks of Online Printing

Online print shops can offer you options that a brick-and-mortar shop can’t.

But they are not without their own potential downsides.

For example, an online print shop may lack the following:

  • #1: Less (or No) Personal Interaction

    One of the main disadvantages of online printing services is the lack of personal interaction. While many online providers offer customer support via phone or chat, it can be challenging to build the same level of rapport and receive tailored advice compared to an in-person experience.

  • #2: A Longer Turnaround Time

    Depending on the online service you choose, turnaround times can vary. While some providers offer expedited shipping options, you may still face longer production and delivery times compared to a local print shop. This can be a concern if you’re working with a tight deadline.

  • #3: Better Quality Assurance

    When ordering online, you won’t have the opportunity to physically inspect the materials and final product before making a purchase. This can make it more difficult to ensure that the banner meets your expectations in terms of print quality and material durability. While customer reviews can provide some insight, there’s always an element of uncertainty when it comes to the final product. However, some online print shops provide samples of their products, so always be sure to check if this is an option!

  • #4. Unplanned Shipping Costs

    While online printing services often offer competitive pricing, shipping costs can add up, especially for larger orders or expedited delivery. Be sure to factor in these additional expenses when comparing online options to local print shops.

Whether you choose to print your signage locally or online will come down to what works best for you, your vision, your company and your budget.

But regardless of what you choose, it’s important that you take all these factors into consideration before you invest your time and resources into your printing needs.

Decide what is right for you.

Ready to Order Your Banners Online? Reach Out to Easy Signs for All Your Printing Needs

At Easy Signs, we make online banner printing simple, efficient, and effective.

No matter your banner needs, we are ready to help!

Why Choose Easy Signs?

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Easy Online Ordering:

From Step and Repeat to retractable banners, you can browse our extensive product selection from the comfort of your home or office. With just a few clicks, you can place an order and create custom banners to fit your exact specifications.

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High-Quality Printing:

We use the latest printing technology to do the most amazing job possible, and ensure your fabric, mesh or vinyl banner printing is vibrant, durable, and professional.

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Custom Design Options:

Use your own artwork or take advantage of our easy-to-use online design tool and in-house graphic artists. We provide digital proofs to ensure your satisfaction before production.

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Fast Turnaround:

Our efficient process means banner availability is always on par with your needs.

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Excellent Customer Support:

Our Customer Happiness Team is dedicated to providing outstanding customer service. We’re here to assist you every step of the way.

Ready to get started?

If you are looking for high-quality, low-cost banners that will look professional without breaking your budget, then look to Easy Signs.

Let’s create something great together!

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Our streamlined production process ensures your order is ready within 24 hours, without compromising on quality.

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