Most print delays are not caused by the press. They are caused by a file that is missing bleed, uses the wrong colour mode or has fonts that were never embedded. A few checks before sending can save days.
1. Use the right colour mode
For offset and digital printing, supply CMYK files. RGB colours can shift when converted, especially saturated oranges, greens and blues. If a brand colour must match precisely, provide a Pantone reference and ask for a drawdown or proof.
2. Add bleed and safe margins
Backgrounds and images that reach the edge need bleed — usually 3 mm on each side. Keep text and logos at least 3–5 mm inside the trim line. For packaging, use the dieline supplied by the factory and keep critical content away from folds and glue flaps.
3. Check resolution
Use images at 300 dpi at final size. A 72 dpi image from a website will look soft in print even if it looks fine on screen. Vector logos and illustrations should remain vector; do not place a low-resolution PNG of your logo.
4. Outline or embed fonts
Missing fonts change line breaks and can turn a carefully set cover into a different design. Outline the fonts or embed them in the PDF. If the printer needs to edit text, supply the original files as well.
5. Use the correct file format
A print-ready PDF/X-1a or PDF/X-4 is usually the safest format. Flatten transparency where required and check that all images are embedded. Do not send a screenshot or a Word document as final artwork.
6. Review the proof, not just the screen
Screens are bright and backlit. A physical proof or a calibrated PDF proof shows how the ink will behave on paper. Check small text, thin lines, dark images and any area where two colours meet.
7. Label the files clearly
Include the product name, size, version number and date in the file name. If there are multiple components, label each one: cover, inner pages, label, box, insert. A clear file structure reduces the chance of printing the wrong version.
If you are not sure whether a file is ready, send it to us before production. We check artwork as part of every print project and will tell you what needs to change before the plates are made.
