How I Run My Printing Business While Travelling
Let’s be honest—running a printing business sounds like something you need to be physically present for, right? But what if I told you that with the right systems and a little bit of digital hacks, you could manage it from anywhere—even while chilling on a beach or hopping between cities?
I’ve been there. Packing up orders, managing couriers, handling client requests… it can get overwhelming. But once I figured out a workflow that actually worked without me, it became a game-changer. So, in this post, I’m going to show you exactly how you can run your printing business while travelling. Whether you print t-shirts, business stationery, vinyls, or even wedding stationery—this guide’s for you.
Start With the Right Systems
Hire a Reliable Assistant
If you’re going to be away, even for a few days, having someone you trust to handle the hands-on stuff is a must. I recommend training one assistant properly instead of hiring many. Someone who knows your process, understands your style, and can take initiative is priceless.
Use Dropbox or Google Drive to Sync Designs
No more panicking over files! I upload my client orders, templates, and print-ready files to a shared Dropbox folder. It syncs automatically with my assistant’s computer. If you’re worried about security, you can set permissions so only specific folders are shared.
CCTV Access from Anywhere
One of the biggest reasons I can confidently run my printing business while on the move? CCTV cameras. I’ve installed cameras in my shop that I can access remotely from my phone or laptop. This gives me peace of mind knowing I can check in anytime—whether it’s to see if a delivery arrived, monitor work being done, or just make sure things are running smoothly without physically being there.
Organise With Smart File Naming
A small change that made a huge difference: renaming my files in a way that actually makes sense. I now include:
- Quantity
- Material
- Size
- Order number
Example: #124_ClientName_Grayscale_QTY100_A4_GlossBoard.pdf
This way, my assistant doesn’t need to ask me anything. She just checks the folder and knows exactly what goes where.
How to Handle Deliveries Remotely
Use a Courier Service
Book your courier online and simply send your assistant the waybill and collection details – or teach her how to book courier. If I’m managing it myself, I let her know which order number is going where. Easy.
Or Use a Driver/Uber for Local Deliveries
For local orders, I just send a WhatsApp with the delivery list to my regular driver. I also EFT him directly. No back-and-forth. I started off with using Uber / Delyver / Bolt.
Don’t Own a Print Shop? No Problem
You don’t have to own the machines. I’ve worked with reliable print shops in the past, and it works just as well if you build strong relationships. This also works if your assistant is unavailable or your printers are down.
Choose a Trusted Local Print Partner
Look for a professional print shop that delivers quality and is open to partnerships. Once you’ve built trust, you can send files to them, and they’ll print and dispatch.
Same Systems Apply
Name your files clearly, use cloud storage, and communicate with your assistant or driver the same way you would if it were in-house. Just make sure the printer knows who gets what.
Pay Your Printer Directly
This is important. If you’re getting discounted pricing, EFT the printer directly. This avoids confusion and keeps the trust solid.
Set Office Hours (Yes, Even on Holiday)
You don’t have to work all day. Set aside 1–2 hours each day to process orders, check emails, or follow up with your team. It’s manageable, especially if you batch your tasks.
I usually block out an hour in the morning and another in the evening. That’s it. Then I enjoy my day, knowing orders are being packed and dispatched while I’m away.
Tools That Make This Possible
Here are some tools that keep things running while I travel:
- Dropbox – For syncing and sharing files
- Canva Pro – For creating client proofs on the go
- Google Sheets / Microsoft Excel – For managing order lists and dispatch details
- MightyText – Lets me view and respond to calls and messages that go to the shop phone, right from my laptop
- WhatsApp – Quick comms with my assistant and driver
- WhatsApp Web – To view messages on my laptop that go to my shop phone
- Trello or Notion – For tracking client orders and statuses
Final Thoughts: You Can Work AND Travel
Running a printing business while travelling isn’t a fantasy. You just need systems, the right tools, and maybe one awesome assistant.
Whether you’re printing on t-shirts, mugs, or luxury wedding stationery—it’s doable. The trick is preparation. Spend time setting things up properly, and you’ll thank yourself when you’re enjoying a croissant in Paris while orders are still going out back home.
And hey—if you’ve got your own tips for managing a printing biz on the move, drop them in the comments or share them with me on Instagram @fg_designs_. Let’s help each other thrive, no matter where we are in the world 🌍
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