Printing Services FAQ's

There are several things that determine this: Artwork, Production and, in some cases, Shipping.

Artwork - Some customers provide print ready artwork, so for this there is no delay. For those who are in need of our Graphic Design Services, it depends on the complexity of the project, how quickly we achieve the artwork approval from you, and how many projects may be ahead of yours. We often complete the artwork the same day, however the average time is a few days.

Production - The amount of time needed to complete your project depends on your order specifications and quantity as well as how many other projects are ahead of yours at the time. Production time for most items is about 3 to 4 business days but can vary from product to product. Most items also have the ability to be expedited for an additional charge, but there are some exclusions.

Shipping - There are a few items that we can not complete in the store. For these, you must account for time it takes to be shipped. Although there is traditionally a 2 day shipping period, there are some items that are 3-4 business days.

Note: As you can see there are many variables that determine how soon we can put your product in your hands. Rest assured that we will always do our absolute best to complete your project in a timely manner. Our best advice is, if possible, allow ample time to complete your project prior to the desired deadline. This can help you avoid the possibility of not completing your project, or experiencing unforeseen delays that will cost you extra money or stress.

Artwork - If you provide print ready artwork, then typically there is no charge or at the most a $5 setup for certain projects. If you do need Graphic Design services, then we will determine the cost for this based on brief consultation with you regarding the demands of your project. In an attempt to partner with you over the long term, we subsidize our artwork prices to make it more affordable. The average cost for Graphic Design Services is $40-60 an hour with a one hour minimum. We are able to price most projects at $20 for front only and $30 for front and back if you provide the images needed and the required text in a Word document if requested. In return for this steep discount, we simply hold the rights to what was created and the opportunity to future reprints of it. You can get more information on the Artwork Policies at the bottom of this page in the Resources Section.

Product - You can reference the price list for the majority of items we offer. However, there are many items that are custom sizes and require a specialized quote, which is typically determined on a per square foot basis. The two biggest factors of the cost of your project will be the size and quantity. We do not price by the color or printed coverage so you are free to create your project in as much vivid color as you would like. The larger the size, the higher the cost. Also, the larger the quantity you choose to print, the lower your price per unit will be. With that said, we are happy to consult with you and find out what might fit your needs best.

Quality is and will always be our number one priority. Most products we
offer have samples available in store so you can see for yourself.
There are a variety of paper thicknesses and finishes that you can
consider to achieve the look that you desire. There is a difference
between the way a 32# Matte Finish and 16pt. Gloss Finish product will
look and feel. Both are great options, but you may like one better than
the other for a particular product. We are happy to show you the
difference and help share some of the best practices we have seen used
over the years to help you make the right choice for your project.

There are numerous things that go into properly preparing artwork for printing. Below is a list of things you need to consider:

File Type: We prefer if you submit your file as a .PDF. We will accept other files such a JPEG, PNG, AI or EPS.

Colors: Your file must be created in CMYK in order for the colors to come out correctly. Artwork created in RGB will produce inconsistent results when printed. Be sure your colors contrast each other for good visibility. Special note on Blue: we strongly recommend a 30% separation from Cyan to Magenta in you blue color profile to avoid purple. For Example, C = 100, M = 70, Y = 0, K = 50 will produce a true blue. C = 100, M=90, Y = 0, K =50 will produce a purple tone.

Fonts: Fonts must be converted to outlines to avoid compatibility issues. Select fonts that are legible and easy for your customers to read.

Images: Use high quality images. Low quality images will result in blurry or pixelated prints. Do not use images that are copyrighted or you are not authorized to use.

Artboard/Spacing: Different projects can require different preparation to come out correctly depending upon what equipment it is being printed on. Detailed specs for each print product will be available on their individual product page.

You can sumbit these to us via our email address sales@urgentprintingusa.com, via a service such a WeTransfer.com or you can bring them into the store on a USB drive.