Frequently Asked Questions
Can you do artwork?
Yes. All we ask is for you to provide a clearly written or typed art copy, together with a layout of how you want your leaflet to look. You must supply all pictures and logo's that you require on your leaflet.
What sort of pictures do I need to supply?
You can supply either photographs, transparencies or digital files. Please make sure you are satisfied with the quality of your picture as we cannot reproduce any better than what you supply to us.
Do you keep my job on file?
Yes. After completion of your job an electronic file is held containing your document for approximately 6 months. If you require an exact reprint within that time, simply supply a copy of your existing leaflet.
What about VAT?
Most types of printing are 0% VAT, however, the following are a few examples of items which incur the standard 17.5% rate: (i) business stationery (letterheads, compliment slips, business cards etc) (ii) greeting cards (iii) presentation folders (iv) leaflets or posters which are larger than A4 after folding (v) leaflets with more than 25% of their area designated as a reply-paid portion or an area for completion (vi) part-works, for example magazine covers supplied separately from the remainder of the magazine.
I am a new customer, can I set up an account?
Yes, but in order to simplify matters we do request a cheque is sent with your first order. We will then be able to set up a credit account for you, simply complete a Customer Account Application form and post it to us. All invoices are due for settlement 30 days after the month of invoice.
Will I get a colour proof?
Yes. For litho printing only and inclusive in the price you will receive a full colour inkjet proof, which we aim to send you within 24 hours of receipt of your artwork. If everything is correct then all you need to do is fax back the accompanying approval form.
Is the proof suitable to show my customer?
Proofs are mainly intended for layout purposes so that you can check the output is correct. Our proofs are printed on a high quality inkjet printer. Whilst not exact, the colour reproduction will give you a reasonable idea of what the press printed sheet will look like.
What are your normal lead times?
We aim to dispatch most work within 3 working days from receiving proof approval. Current lead time will normally be indicated to you upon placing your order. Long run orders or special finishing requests may take longer. If you require your printing by a specific date please indicate this on your order. We will endeavour to meet this deadline.
What are your delivery charges?
Local deliveries to our account customers are free. For remote or timed deliveries please call for a quotation.
Most printers I know are Mac based but I use a PC, Can you help me?
We use both Macs and PC's and can accept PC files in most popular formats - Quark Express, Corel Draw, Pagemaker, Illustrator and Photoshop on PC's as well as Macs, so we should be able to help no matter what platform or software you are using. Just give us a call if you are unsure.
Do you print with bleed?
Yes. In fact all work is printed with bleed, but unlike most other printers we do not charge you any extra for the service. We recommend a 3mm bleed be used on all edges of the document (unless of course you do not require bleed).
How do you make sure the colour is printed correctly?
Our press sheets are printed with colour bars that our printers check with densitometers. We ensure that the colour density of each of the process colours (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, blacK) are within a very tight tolerance range.
What is your maximum sheet size?
Please view our guides for more information:
Do you accept paper supplied by customers?
Yes, as long as it has been passed by our press manufacturers and it is supplied in A1 condition and at the correct size.
Is your trade printing service confidential?
Most definitely! We will not approach any of the customers whose work you send to us. We want to build up close working relationships with our customers and therefore treat all our jobs with complete confidence.
I need to send directly to my customer. Do you use plain packaging and will you send me samples of the job?
Yes. All our jobs are securely packaged in plain white or brown boxes that protect the contents. All of the packaging we use is plain including the tape. When sending work directly to your customers we will send you samples along with your invoice.
How can I place an order?
You can telephone, fax, e-mail or post your order. We will then send you your proof together with your ordering details.
Can I send you a PDF?
Yes you can but the PDF must be created in the correct manner. The Distiller job and printer PPDs which you need are available on request and can be emailed to you.
Can I ISDN files to you?
No. We have disconnected our ISDN service in favour for the quicker and less expensive FTP service.
Can you send my order to two or more UK addresses or to an overseas address?
Whilst additional charges may apply, we can send your order to a number of addresses from locations both within the UK and overseas.
What about expedited delivery?
We normally work to a next day delivery service, with most deliveries before 4pm. We can also deliver before noon, before 10:30, before 9:00 and before 9am and noon on a Saturday as additional options. Please ask for a quote on any additional delivery requirements you may have.
Will you accept films and a cromalin?
No. due to the fact that we now work with a DI press (Direct Imaging) we do not use film. Artwork must be supplied to us on disc, email or via FTP. We will send you a proof anyway, which in turn will save you money on having films and cromalins made.
Can my jobs be laminated?
Yes. Prices for gloss and matt laminating are available upon request.
Can you apply a UV varnish to jobs?
Yes. Prices for spot UV are also available upon request.
Will you return Zip discs and CDs?
Certainly! They will be returned to you with your job or with your invoice should the job go direct to your customer.