Once you have a heat press you must decide where you'll get heat applied materials. Outsourcing the production of letters, numbers, and graphics can reduce your workload and can help to lower start-up costs and overhead. This approach eliminates equipment costs for vinyl cutters and print/cut systems, as well as associated energy and maintenance costs. It also minimizes the amount of workspace needed, allowing you to work from a small shop or even from your own home.

Pre-cut letters and numbers can be kept in stock, and the quality of custom graphics can be ensured when working with a trusted supplier. Contracting of custom transfers can add time to order fulfillment, though, and cut into profits, especially with small and add-on orders.

A new heat press business will often find it practical to order custom graphics and pre-cut letters and numbers from a manufacturer. On-site capabilities can be added as business volume and productivity dictate.

Even if you own a vinyl cutter or print/cut system in addition to your heat press machine, the addition of contracted services can be beneficial for especially large orders or during busy periods.