5 tips to speed up your next print project

When you are looking to get a printing job done fast but don’t want to compromise on quality there are some simple things you can do to make sure your project runs smoothly.

Whether you are looking for marketing materials for an event, business cards for a meeting or brochures for an exhibition these top tips help to reduce turnaround times by making sure your project is print ready as quickly as possible.

1.      Prepare print-ready files

It might seem obvious but one of the biggest delays in printing comes from file issues. Printers often need to adjust or fix files before they can start production. Taking some time before you send files to the printers can help alleviate the need for multiple corrections and changes.

Save your design in PDF format with embedded fonts and use CYMK colour mode instead of RGB to ensure accurate colour matching. Always check your resolutions, we recommend a 300 dpi as standard for print, and don’t forget to add proper bleed margins so that nothing important gets cut off in the printing process.

Preparing print-ready files is probably the easiest way to eliminate added corrections and keep your project moving quickly.

2.      Plan ahead and order early

Even ‘fast’ printing services benefit from early preparation. If you know you have a job coming up, try and book it in as early as you can so that the printing company can factor it in around busy periods and give you the quickest turn around. Uploading files early in the day at the beginning of the week helps to avoid overnight or weekend delays.

Once you have an agreed timeframe to submit your project try to upload your files ahead of time as it will give you room for proofing, corrections and delivery.

Try not to leave everything until the last minute. Before ordering take your time to finalise the design. Think about double-checking spelling, logos and contact details.

Planning will always help to ensure your prints are ready when you need them. 

3.      Simplify your design

Complex designs often require more processing time, especially if they involve multiple colours, special finishes or intricate layouts. If speed is your priority, keep it simple.

Where possible user fewer colours and heavy gradients and try to sick to standard sizes such as A4, A5 or business card dimensions.

Minimalist designs not only print faster but also look clean and professional.

4.      Communicate clearly with your printer

Miscommunication is a common cause of delays. Always confirm timelines, proofing requirements and delivery options with your printer.

It is important to ask questions such as:

“What’s the fastest turnaround you can guarantee?”

“Do you need me to approve the copy again before printing?”

“Can you deliver directly to my event venue?”

Clear communication cuts down confusion and ensures everyone is working to the same timeframe preventing last minute surprises.

5.      Know your limits

When it comes to print projects, efficiency is key. Fast printing services full of errors will not benefit your business.

It is important to be clear what you are looking for and not to compromise on quality.

When choosing a print shop know what your priorities are and how you want the finished project to look.

Being clear on your goals and non-negotiables will help to make sure your project is not only speedy but fit for purpose.

When deadlines are tight having a printer you can trust to deliver is important. However, there are lots of things you can do to help speed up the process and make your print project run as efficiently as possible.

Planning and preparation will always be your biggest ally and by booking jobs in advance you can beat busy periods and help to cut down wait times.

Think about simplifying your design to reduce the need for time consuming special finishes or intricate layouts and supplying print ready files will also cut down the need for lengthy amendments.

With over 60 years of experience in the industry LG Davis is always happy to talk you through the process and take as long as you need to get the perfect print project but where speed is of the essence these tips will help to keep you on track.

Why not get in touch to discuss your next print project and see how we can help.