“What type of files can I send?” (PDF PREFERRED for Print)

.eps, .tif, .pdf, .jpg, .psd, .ai, .indd, .doc, .xls, .csv, .dbf, .txt 

We would prefer you to send PDF’s and EPS files with outlined fonts. These files are much easier to handle and will likely speed up your turnaround. If you are going to send native file you must send with all font, support files / linked images.

 

“What color mode should my files be in?”

You should always save your artwork in CMYK mode. If you send us an RGB file, there is a chance that a color shift may occur and you may not be satisfied with your job, and we will not reprint your job with out new charges. Spot colors will also cause color shifts.

 

“What resolution should my file be?”

We accept 300 DPI files, and no less. Low resolution orders will be placed on hold until we receive new files, slowing your turnaround. We will notify you if the files are low resolution.

 

“How should I set up my bleed and crop marks?”

If you are sending an EPS or PDF, make sure you include an 1/8in bleed with crop marks so we will know where to cut your job. “Borders on jobs”

If the border is too close to the cutline, it may be cut off-center slightly. We cut through many sheets at a time, so watch your borders to avoid an unwanted mistake.

 

“How can I avoid transparency issues?”

Any transparency issue can be resolved before saving your file. Within Illustrator, you may select the artwork, go to Object and choose “Flatten Transparency”.

 

"Borders on jobs"

If the border is too close to the cutline, it may be cut off-center slightly. We cut through many sheets at a time, so watch your borders to avoid an unwanted mistake.

 

"What forms of payments do you accept?"

Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover, Checks, Cash, Venmo & Paypal

 

"What is a full bleed?"

When the printed inks run all the way to the edge of the paper.

 

"What is a PMS color?"

Stands for Pantone Matching System and is the trade name for a color-matching system used by printers to specify inks for printing. A specific formula is used to produce each shade, and each shade is assigned a specific number.

 

"What database formats do you accept?"

Excel, .DBF, .TXT, .CSV, XLS

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"Why Do Some of My Mailed Postcards Have Smudges or Scuff Marks?"

Postcards often end up with smudges and scuff marks during their journey through the United States Postal Service (USPS) sorting systems. This phenomenon, known as “postcard survivability,” refers to how well a postcard withstands the high-speed rollers and sorting processes.

When postcards enter the USPS mail system, a machine orients them and cancels the stamps or postage indicia. Simultaneously, a digital camera captures the address and ZIP code, assigning a fluorescent inkjet barcode and identification number. The postcard then undergoes sorting in a Delivery Bar Code Sorter (DBCS) system. Depending on the distance it needs to travel, the postcard may pass through multiple DBCS machines, typically consisting of belts and rollers that sort the mail based on outgoing ZIP codes. These rubber belts and rollers are often responsible for the color smudges and scuffing observed on postcards. As they grip and propel the mail, excessive pressure can penetrate the toner on the postcard’s surface, leaving scuff marks. In some cases, the equipment might even cause tearing. These marks commonly appear halfway to three-quarters of the way down the sides where the high-speed belts make contact.

Postcards sent via first class that the USPS deems undeliverable are particularly prone to scuffing and marking. The USPS goes to great lengths to attempt delivery for this class of mail, subjecting them to multiple passes through the DBCS sorters before declaring them undeliverable. Consequently, when first class undeliverable postcards are returned, they often exhibit noticeable scuffing.

The maintenance of local post office equipment plays a crucial role in mitigating these issues. If the sorting machines at your local USPS post office are not properly calibrated, they can damage the postcard’s paper and toner, resulting in black smudges, burn marks, scuffing, rub marks, tears, or even rips. It is important for each USPS facility to schedule regular maintenance and calibration for such equipment. By allocating sufficient resources and staying on top of routine maintenance, the local post office can significantly improve the survival rate of postcards during the mailing process. However, due to USPS cutbacks and budget constraints, machine maintenance is often one of the first areas to be affected.

Protective coatings offer a potential solution to reduce these issues. Using high-quality coated paper cover stock instead of uncoated stock and applying a protective UV coating to both sides of the postcards can help minimize scuff marks. Thicker coated paper enhances paper integrity, while a UV coating adds a slick, protective layer that facilitates smoother sorting.

While these options may not completely eliminate machine-made marks, they contribute to better quality and more consistently clean postcards upon delivery. Adding these options, even at a slightly higher cost per card, can be worthwhile for those seeking improved postcard aesthetics.