What Does "Cheap" Actually Mean for Banners?

Cheap banners online exist on a spectrum. At one end, you have bargain-basement prints that arrive faded, misaligned, or on flimsy material that tears in mild wind. At the other end, you have banners priced fairly because the printer runs efficiently — same quality, lower overhead.

The goal is to land in the second category. This guide helps you understand what determines banner pricing, what corners are safe to cut, and which ones will cost you more in the long run.

What Actually Drives Banner Pricing

Banner prices vary widely online. Here's what's actually behind the number:

• Material weight: 13oz vinyl is the standard for most banners. 18oz is thicker and more durable for permanent outdoor use. 13oz costs less and is fine for most applications.
• Ink quality: UV-resistant inks cost more but hold color outdoors for years. Cheaper inks fade in 60–90 days of sun exposure.
• Finishing: Grommets (the metal eyelets used for hanging) should be included standard. Some low-end printers charge extra.
• Shipping: This is where a lot of sites hide cost. A $15 banner with $25 overnight shipping isn't cheap. Look for free shipping included in the price.
• Turnaround: Rush fees can double the price on a banner you need in 2 days. Shops that offer same-day production as standard don't charge extra for it.

The Real Cost of "Slow and Cheap"

Ordering from the cheapest source online usually means 7–10 business day production plus shipping. If you need a banner for an event and it arrives a day late, the "savings" cost you the entire order. A banner you never got to use isn't cheap.

Factor in total cost: price + shipping + time value. A $25 banner that takes 10 days often costs more in real terms than a $45 banner that ships overnight and arrives tomorrow.

What Size Banner Do You Need?

Ordering the right size the first time saves money. Common sizes and their typical uses:

• 2′ × 4′: Small retail signs, indoor event signage, table displays.
• 3′ × 6′: Standard storefront banners, event backdrops, fence banners.
• 4′ × 8′: High-traffic outdoor signage, grand openings, trade show backdrops.
• Custom: Any size — contact us for a quote. Great for odd shapes or large-format installations. Free shipping included.

How to Get a Quality Banner at a Low Price

A few things actually make a difference:

1. Send a print-ready file. Shops that don't have to fix your artwork don't charge for it. A properly sized PDF at 100–150 dpi saves you design fees.
2. Order 13oz for short-term use. If the banner is for a one-time event or will be stored indoors between uses, 13oz vinyl at a lower price point is the right call.
3. Skip the rush fee. Order from a printer that includes same-day production in the base price, so you're never paying a rush premium just because you need it fast.
4. Look for free shipping. Some printers include FedEx overnight on every order. That "more expensive" option often costs less total than a cheap price plus standard shipping.

Our Pricing at SpeedyBanner

Our vinyl banners start at $7.50 for small sizes. Every order includes:

• 13oz or 18oz vinyl — your choice
• Full-color UV-resistant ink
• Grommets every 2 feet, standard
• Free FedEx Priority Overnight shipping
• Same-day production when ordered before the daily cutoff

No hidden charges, no rush fees, no minimum order. Use our free online designer or upload your own file.

See vinyl banner pricing →

Frequently Asked Questions