Print on demand (POD) operates as a fulfillment method that simplifies the product creation and distribution process for online sellers. Here's an overview of how the print on demand model works:

1. Product Selection and Design: Sellers choose a range of customizable products such as apparel, accessories, or home goods. Custom designs, logos, or artwork are then created or uploaded to be printed on these products.

2. Integration with E-commerce Platform: Sellers integrate with a print on demand service provider, linking their online store with the POD system. This integration enables seamless order processing and fulfillment.

3. Customer Places an Order: When a customer places an order on the seller's website, the order details are automatically transmitted to the POD provider. This includes the selected product, size, color, and the custom design chosen by the customer.

4. Production: The POD provider takes charge of the production process. Using advanced printing techniques like direct-to-garment (DTG), sublimation, or other specialized methods, the custom design is printed onto the chosen product. This process occurs on-demand, meaning products are manufactured only after they are purchased.

5. Quality Control: Once the product is printed, it undergoes quality control checks to ensure that the design meets the specified standards and that the product is in perfect condition.

6. Packaging: After passing quality control, the product is carefully packaged, often with the seller's branding if requested, and prepared for shipping.

7. Shipping to the Customer: The packaged product is then shipped directly to the customer's address. The POD provider manages the entire shipping process, including choosing the most cost-effective and timely shipping methods.

8. Order Tracking and Customer Service: Sellers and customers can typically track the order's progress through the fulfillment process. Additionally, the POD provider often handles customer inquiries, returns, and any issues related to the order.

This streamlined process allows online sellers to focus on designing and marketing their products without the need to invest in inventory or worry about production logistics. It also offers the flexibility to easily scale the business, as the fulfillment process is efficiently managed by the print on demand partner.