Custom Merch Pricing in Australia, Perth, Melbourne Explained: What Influences Cost & Value
At HUM. Concept, we believe that merchandise is never just a transaction; it is an extension of your brand’s soul. Whether you are a boutique roastery in the laneways of Melbourne or a grassroots sports club in Perth, every tangible item you put into the hands of your community carries your story.
One of the most frequent conversations we have in our studios is about the "why" behind the numbers. Why does one hoodie cost $25 while another is $65? Why does ordering 50 pieces feel so different from ordering 500? In this guide, we’re pulling back the curtain on custom merchandise pricing to help you move from simply buying "swag" to making intentional, heart-led investments that grow your brand presence and offer a healthier long-term return.
Tips for creating merchandise people actually want to wear for your team.
The Foundation: What Actually Drives Custom Merch Costs?
When we look into the inner landscape of your brand to design products, several mechanical factors influence the cost of the tangibles. Understanding these allows you to budget with heart and intention.
1. The Power of Volume: MOQ and Tiered Pricing
The most significant factor in your unit price is the quantity. Suppliers across Australia typically use a tiered pricing model where the per-item cost drops sharply as your volume increases. For example, moving from a minimum order of 48 pieces to a run of 100 can significantly reduce your base cost. This is because the initial labor—setting up machines, creating screens, and prepping artwork—is amortized over more units.
2. Fabric Selection: Budget vs. Premium
At HUM. Concept, we often say that "good merch is well kept and loved". The fabric you choose is the primary driver of that love.
Budget Garments (e.g., Gildan, JB’s Wear): These are reliable, practical, and ideal for high-volume promotional events where cost efficiency is the priority. A standard cotton tee might start around $8.00–$12.00 in bulk.
Premium Garments (e.g., AS Colour, Stanley/Stella): These feature modern, retail-inspired cuts and softer fabric feels (like 220 GSM heavy cotton or 330 GSM fleece). While the upfront cost is higher—approximately $20.66 per shirt compared to $17.47 for budget options in a 100-unit run—the "hand-feel" and tailored fit mean they are worn more frequently and kept longer.
3. Decoration Methods and Production Choices
How we apply your brand to the garment changes the price structure:
Screen Printing: This is the go-to for bold, vibrant graphics. Pricing is driven by the number of colors; each color requires its own mesh screen and setup time. It is the most cost-effective method for large bulk orders.
Embroidery: Ideal for the professional look required by hospitality uniforms or corporate gear. Unlike printing, embroidery pricing is dictated by stitch count, not color. A standard 5,000-stitch chest logo might start at $11.00 per piece, but large, intricate designs will increase machine time and cost.
Digital Transfers (DTF/DTG): Perfect for small runs or complex, full-color artwork with gradients. These often have no minimum order quantities but carry a higher per-unit cost than traditional screen printing.
| Decoration Method | Best For | Cost Factor |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Printing | Bulk T-shirts, bold event gear | Number of colors |
| Embroidery | Polos, caps, workwear, aprons | Stitch count (complexity) |
| Digital (DTF) | Small teams, photographic prints | Print surface area |
The Longevity Paradox: Why "Cheaper" Merch Costs More
It is a common trap to choose the lowest quote to save the marketing budget. However, at HUM. Concept, we look at the Cost Per Impression (CPI) and the long-term value of the relationship.
The True ROI of Quality
Research shows that 83% of people keep promotional products for over a year, provided they are high-quality. A single branded pen can generate over 3,000 impressions in its lifespan, but a premium hoodie or a 1L drink bottle can generate thousands more as it moves through public spaces in Perth or Melbourne.
When you choose a "cheap, flimsy" item, it often sends a negative signal about your brand's care and professionalism. In fact, 85% of people who receive high-quality merchandise end up doing business with that company. If your merch is tossed in the bin within a week, your cost per impression becomes infinite. But if a $40 hoodie is worn twice a week for two years, the cost per brand-exposure is a fraction of a cent—far lower than the $1.00–$2.00 you might pay for a single digital ad click.
Master designing products that reflect your brand story to boost loyalty.
The Devil in the Detail: Finishes and Production Choices
For brand-led businesses, the finish is what turns a garment into a "retail" product.
Neck Tags & Labels: Removing a manufacturer’s tag and sewing in a custom "HUM-inspired" brand label (Prestige sew-in labels can cost around $34.50 for 30) makes the item feel like a curated gift rather than a generic giveaway.
Sustainable Packaging: Gen Z and millennial consumers in Melbourne particularly value "radical transparency". Using compostable poly-bags or recycled cardboard swing tags adds a layer of ethical alignment that builds trust.
How to Budget Intelligently for 2026
Budgeting for your custom merch shouldn’t be a last-minute rush. Here is how we recommend our clients in Melbourne and Perth plan their year.
1. Map Your Key Moments
Don't order in small, reactive batches. Map out your new starter packs, seasonal activations (like summer beach umbrellas), and end-of-year gifting in January. Planning 4–6 weeks ahead avoids rush fees and gives you access to a wider range of stock.
2. Consolidate for Discounts
If your sports club needs jerseys, supporter hoodies, and caps, try to order them together. This leverages volume discounts and ensures your color-matching stays consistent across different materials.
3. Factor in the "Hidden" Costs
Always remember that the quote should include:
GST and Duties: For large orders imported from offshore, GST (10%) applies to goods and insurance costs. If the customs value exceeds $1,000, you will face additional import duties.
Freight Volatility: Fuel surcharges and remote delivery fees (especially to regional WA) can add 5–10% to your logistics budget.
Artwork Fees: Most studios charge a small fee (e.g., $30 + GST) if your logos aren't supplied as print-ready vector files.
Regional Nuances: Perth vs. Melbourne
As an Australian-grown studio, we notice distinct cultural appetites in our two home cities.
The Melbourne Perspective: Melburnians double down on inclusivity and values. 33% of diners and shoppers here prioritize sustainability and local sourcing. Merchandise in Melbourne should feel artisanal, socially conscious, and ethically produced.
The Perth Perspective: In the West, our community values durability and reliability. Consumer prices in Perth are approximately 3.21% higher than in Melbourne, but the local market is practical and self-reliant. Merch in Perth needs to be "tough and weather-smart" to survive the coastal sun and active lifestyle.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Tangibles
Custom merch pricing isn't just about the bottom line—it's about the soul of your brand. When you choose to invest in a product that is "well kept and loved," you are choosing to ground your story in a tangible way that builds a stronger, more engaged community.
If you are ready to bring meaning to your tangibles, we invite you to share your vision with us. Let’s collaborate with integrity and a whole lot of heart to create merch that continues working for you long after the delivery day.
See our custom merch design in Melbourne and Perth for local brands.