Our team at Just Bottle thought it would be helpful to breakdown the cost of custom branded water bottles. Understanding the factors can be useful for budgeting and planning your promotional efforts. In this guide, we break down the elements that influence pricing, helping you make informed decisions for your next order.
Quick find
How much do stainless steel custom branded bottles cost?
How much do glass custom branded bottles cost?
How much do plastic custom branded bottles cost?
Factors affecting the cost of custom branded bottles
How water bottle material affects cost
When considering custom water bottles, the type of bottle you choose significantly impacts the overall cost. Here’s a closer look at different types of bottles and how they affect pricing:
Stainless steel custom branded water bottles
Stainless steel custom branded water bottles are a top choice for many businesses due to their durability, long lifespan and premium quality compared to other metal like aluminium.
Most stainless steel branded bottles are double wall and have vacuum insulation which keeps drinks hot and cold for up to 24 hours. As this is the highest quality and healthiest material expect to pay more.
For a high-quality stainless steel bottle with custom branding, a typical order of 300 units is approximately £15 per bottle including UK delivery, around $18 delivered in the United States, €18 in Europe, and $30 in Australia.
Pricing may vary slightly depending on the bottle size, larger 1 litre/ 34 oz bottles generally cost more - and there may be an additional charge for full wrap around printing or complicated logo designs.
Here’s a detailed look at why stainless steel branded bottles might be the right investment for your business:
Durability and longevity: Stainless steel bottles are renowned for their exceptional durability. Made from high-quality 304-grade stainless steel, these bottles are resistant to dents, scratches, and impacts. They are designed to withstand daily use and rough handling, making them ideal for a variety of settings, from corporate giveaways to outdoor events. Unlike plastic or glass, stainless steel does not break or crack easily, ensuring a longer lifespan.
Insulation properties: Many stainless steel bottles come with double-walled insulation, which helps to keep beverages hot or cold for extended periods. This feature is particularly useful for customers who want their drinks to stay at the desired temperature throughout the day. The insulation also helps prevent condensation on the outside of the bottle, keeping hands and bags dry.
Eco-friendliness: Choosing stainless steel over single-use plastic bottles is a more environmentally friendly option. Stainless steel is highly recyclable and does not contribute to plastic waste. Investing in stainless steel bottles aligns with sustainability goals and demonstrates a commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Glass custom branded water bottles
Glass branded bottles are a bit cheaper than stainless steel, but generally more expensive than plastic. They offer a more minimal look, and if you're not looking for insulation to keep the drinks hot or cold they can be a great choice.
Glass bottles are quite heavy, which does factor into the shipping cost. Many glass bottles come with protective silicone sleeves to reduce the risk of breakage, and this additional feature can affect the overall cost.
For a high quality glass bottle with custom branding and a typical order of 300 units, expect to pay around £10-12 per bottle including UK delivery, around $15 delivered in the United States, €15 in Europe, and $20 in Australia.
Plastic branded water bottles
Plastic bottles are the most affordable option for custom branded water bottles, though they may appear less premium than glass or stainless steel. They’re a practical choice for giveaways or when working with a tight budget - just be sure to choose a reputable supplier like Just Bottle to ensure the bottles are BPA-free.
If brand image and sustainability matter to you, choose 100% rPET plastic. Made from recycled plastic diverted from landfills and oceans, rPET eliminates the need for new plastic production. Since we're talking about custom branded water bottles for business, your brand image is everything, so rPET should be the only plastic you consider.
A plastic bottle made from 100% rPET with custom branding, expect to pay around £7 per bottle including UK delivery, around $9 delivered in the United States, €8 in Europe, and $13 in Australia. Note that the minimum order quantity (MOQ) is usually higher for rPET plastic bottles as the plastic needs to be collected in bulk before production.
The cost of custom branded plastic water bottles can vary based on the type of plastic used (e.g., BPA-free, rPET, Tritan), the thickness of the plastic, and whether the bottle is single-use or reusable. Reusable plastic bottles with features like flip-top lids or built-in straws may cost more than basic, single-use options.
Aluminium branded water bottles
Aluminium bottles are typically more affordable than glass and stainless steel but more expensive than plastic. They’re lightweight and usually single-walled with no insulation, featuring a plastic inner lining to prevent direct contact between the water and the aluminium.
While the lower price may seem appealing, aluminium bottles tend to wear and dent easily, leading to higher replacement costs and brand image concerns. There are also health concerns associated with drinking from aluminium bottles once the plastic lining begins to degrade - ever had that unpleasant metallic taste?
Ultimately, the material you choose depends on your budget, needs and preferences. If you're looking for a sustainable giveaway, go for 100% rPET plastic, otherwise choose glass for a minimal look or stainless steel if you need something more premium and durable.
Choosing a custom branded reusable water bottle for your business, whichever material, is a great step towards sustainability.
How order quantity affects the price of custom branded water bottles
When ordering custom branded water bottles for your business or event, quantity plays a major role in determining the final price per unit. Here's what you need to know about how order volume impacts cost, efficiency, and value:
Small orders = higher price per bottle
Ordering a small quantity typically results in a higher cost per unit. That’s because fixed production and printing setup costs are spread over fewer bottles. For example, the time it takes to prepare custom printing files, create printing templates, or set up engraving machines doesn’t change whether you order 25 or 500 units, so the cost per bottle is naturally higher for smaller batches.
Bulk orders benefit from economies of scale
Larger orders benefit from economies of scale. As the quantity increases, the production cost per bottle goes down. This is due to more efficient manufacturing processes and access to bulk shipping rates.
Top tip: If you don’t need all your bottles immediately, consider ordering in bulk and storing the extras for future use. You’ll lock in the lower cost per bottle and reduce the need for frequent reorders.
Wholesale pricing and discounts
Many suppliers offer tiered or wholesale pricing based on the number of units ordered. Each supplier sets their own thresholds, so it’s worth asking what quantity qualifies for discounted pricing.
For example, Just Bottle offers wholesale pricing starting from just 50 custom branded bottles, and discounts for charities, making it accessible even for smaller-scale business needs.
Production and setup costs
Some suppliers charge setup fees for custom branding, which can include artwork preparation, mold creation, or custom color matching. These are usually fixed costs, so they affect smaller orders more significantly.
If you’re placing a large order, these fees become negligible when spread across hundreds of units. Alternatively, work with a supplier like Just Bottle who includes setup in the pricing, no hidden fees.
Improved cost efficiency over time
Larger orders reduce not only the per-unit price but also operational costs. Fewer reorders mean less time spent managing logistics, lower overall shipping costs, and peace of mind knowing you’ve got stock on hand.
This is especially useful for teams attending multiple events or running long-term campaigns.
Minimum order quantities (MOQ's)
Most suppliers have minimum order quantities depending on the product and customisation type. These can range from as low as 50 bottles to over 3,000.
Understanding your supplier’s MOQ helps you plan effectively and avoid additional fees or order delays.
Ordering more custom branded water bottles at once can significantly lower your cost per bottle, unlock wholesale pricing, and streamline your operations. If budget allows, aim to meet the minimum quantity for wholesale pricing and take advantage of bulk efficiencies, it’s a smart investment in your brand.
Tips for budgeting your custom branded water bottles
Define your customisation needs
The level of customisation significantly impacts the overall cost. Key factors to consider include:
- Type of bottle: Stainless steel bottles are the most premium and durable, followed by glass and plastic. Plastic is the most budget-friendly but may lack the high-end feel.
- Design and Printing Method: Full-colour, wrap-around prints or complex artwork typically cost more. Simpler options like single-color logos or laser engraving are more cost-effective
Plan your order quantity
Order size plays a major role in determining how much custom branded water bottles cost:
- Smaller orders: Higher per-unit prices due to setup and production costs spread across fewer bottles.
- Larger orders: Benefit from economies of scale and lower per-unit costs. You may also receive better shipping rates and access to wholesale pricing.
- Event timing: Rush orders may incur additional fees. For smooth delivery, allow 6 weeks for smaller orders and up to 12 weeks for large-volume custom orders.
- Storage: If ordering in bulk, make sure you have space to store any excess bottles for future use
Compare quotes
To get the best value for your investment:
- Request Detailed Quotes: Contact multiple suppliers with your quantity and branding specs.
- Watch for Hidden Costs: Some providers may quote only the base price. Make sure your quote includes all fees - logo printing, setup, and shipping for a true cost comparison
Look for value added services
Look for suppliers who offer more than just the product:
- Free digital mockups: Helps you visualise your design before committing to production.
- Samples: Request a sample bottle to check the quality. It doesn’t have to be branded, an off-the-shelf version works for evaluation.
- Bulk discounts: Ask if discounts are available for larger quantities. For example, Just Bottle offers wholesale pricing starting from just 50 units
Final thoughts
So, how much do custom branded water bottles cost? The answer depends on:
- Bottle material and type
- Customisation complexity
- Order quantity
- Additional costs (setup, shipping, printing)
The more you order, and the simpler the design, the lower the cost per unit.
Ready for a quote?
If you're ready to take the next step, start by browsing our full range of custom branded water bottles. You’ll find a variety of styles, sizes, and colours to suit your brand and budget.
Once you’ve found a bottle that fits your needs, you can request a personalised quote directly from the product page, no obligation, just a fast and friendly way to get started.
FAQ's
What is the average cost of a custom branded water bottle?
The average cost depends on the material and quantity ordered. For example, a high quality stainless steel branded bottle typically costs around £15/$18 each for 300 units, while glass bottles are about £10–£12/$15, and good quality 100% rPET plastic bottles start at £7/$8. Bulk orders reduce the cost per unit significantly.
Which material is most cost-effective for branded water bottles?
Plastic is the most budget-friendly option, especially for high-volume giveaways. 100% rPET is recommended as it's made from recycled plastic and is a more sustainable alternative to traditional plastic. Glass and aluminium offer mid-range pricing, while stainless steel is the premium (and most durable) choice.
How does order quantity affect the price per bottle?
Smaller orders have a higher cost per bottle due to setup and production fees. Larger orders benefit from wholesale pricing and economies of scale, making them more cost-efficient over time. Some suppliers like Just Bottle offer discounted pricing starting from 50 units.
Are there any hidden costs when ordering custom water bottles?
Some suppliers charge setup fees, shipping, or extra for full-colour or wrap-around printing. It's best to request an all-inclusive quote that covers logo printing, delivery, and any setup charges. Just Bottle includes setup in the pricing with no hidden fees.
