When it comes to printing projects, whether it’s business cards, brochures, or promotional materials, finding the right printing service is crucial. However, before you commission a printing job, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure that your project is executed properly and meets your expectations. In this blog post, we will discuss ten essential questions to ask before commissioning a printing job.
- What printing options do you offer?
Before proceeding with a printing job, it’s important to inquire about the printing options available. Ask the printing company about the types of printing techniques they employ, such as digital printing, offset printing, or screen printing. Understanding the available options will help you choose the one that best suits your project’s requirements.
- Can I see samples of your previous work?
Requesting samples from the printing company allows you to assess the quality of their work. By examining the samples, you can determine if they meet your standards in terms of color accuracy, print resolution, and overall print quality. This step is particularly important when working on large-scale projects or when consistent branding is crucial.
- What file formats do you accept?
Ensure that the printing company can work with the file formats you have available. Inquire about the acceptable formats, such as PDF, JPEG, or TIFF, to avoid any compatibility issues or the need for file conversions, which may result in a loss of quality.
- What is the expected turnaround time?
Knowing the estimated turnaround time is crucial, especially when you have strict deadlines to meet. Ask the printing company about their production schedule and whether they offer rush services for urgent projects. Clear communication about timelines will help you plan your project effectively.
- Do you provide proofing services?
Proofing is an essential step in the printing process to catch any errors or make necessary adjustments before final production. Inquire if the printing service offers proofing services, such as digital or physical proofs. This will allow you to review and approve the final design before it goes into full production, ensuring accuracy and minimising potential errors.
- What paper options do you offer?
The choice of paper can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your printed materials. Ask the printing company about the variety of paper options they provide, including different weights, finishes, and colours. Having a range of choices will enable you to select the paper that best aligns with your project’s objectives.
- Can you provide assistance with design and file setup?
If you’re unsure about design or file setup, ask the printing company if they offer design assistance or have templates available. They should have design professionals who can help you optimize your artwork for the best printing results. Additionally, inquire about any specific requirements they have regarding bleeds, margins, or colour profiles to ensure your files are prepared correctly.
- What are your pricing options?
Pricing is a crucial factor when commissioning a printing job. Inquire about the pricing structure of the printing service and if there are any additional costs such as setup fees or shipping charges. Obtain a detailed quote to ensure there are no surprises when it comes to the final bill.
- Are there any quantity restrictions?
Some printing services may have minimum or maximum quantity requirements for certain print jobs. Ask about any quantity restrictions to ensure that your project can be accommodated.
- What is your cancellation or refund policy?
Lastly, it’s important to understand the printing company’s cancellation or refund policy. Inquire about their policies in case of changes or cancellations to your project, as well as their policies regarding damaged or unsatisfactory prints. Being aware of these policies will help you make an informed decision and mitigate any potential risks.
Commissioning a printing job involves careful consideration and thorough communication with the printing company. By asking these ten essential questions, you can ensure that your project is executed smoothly, meets your expectations, and delivers the desired results.
At Capital Print (formerly Kall Kwik City) we’re a friendly bunch and welcome your enquiries about our services. We promise we won’t “blind you with science” and will always be clear about pricing and delivery times so know exactly how your project will be completed.
Call us for more details on 020 7247 3556 or email sales@captialprint.london – or come into the shop in Fenchurch Street where you can see samples of our previous work and talk directly to the professional who will be working on your project. We’d love to hear from you!