Printing Quote Requests: 12 Essential Needs

When requesting a printing quote, organization is key. Being clear and concise goes a long way to saving effort, money, and especially time. With that in mind we’ve assembled some essential information to help you plan for requesting a printing quote.

Beginning a large print project can feel like a daunting task. There are a number of options to consider, and a lot of details to be on top of. Start with the basics and work your way through our list. A clear, concise printing quote will be the result.

12 Essentials for a Printing Quote Request

1. Name and Contact Information
   • Not to sound like your high school teacher here, but you’d be surprised how many times we get printing quote requests with incomplete names and contact information. Okay, maybe you wouldn’t be surprised.
2. Project Name
   • Don’t forget to name your project. Try to be specific, especially if the over all job has lots of parts. For example, ‘Kord Industries 2016 Annual Report’ is far better than something like ‘Ann. Report.’
3. Project Description
   • Keep it simple. ‘Newsletter,’ ‘Booklet,’ etc. Also include vital information. If it is an 8-page booklet, then say so.
4. Due Date
   • It’s important to make this clear from the beginning, because it gets everyone involved on the same page.
5. Quantity
   • The actual number of finished pieces you need.
6. Finish Size
   • ie. After your job is printed and trimmed, what size will it be.
7. Stock Type
   • Again, clarity is key. Don’t just say something like ’80 Pound.’ What type of paper? Cover, text, coated? Include the weight you want as well. If you know the brand you want, then be sure to state it.
8. Printing Sides
   • One-sided or two-sided?
9. Inks
   • Include the number of colors and their names. Ex. Black + PMS 301, 4-Color Process, or Digital. Be clear about the different inks you will use on each side as well.
10. Bleed
    • Yes or No? All sides or one?
11. Finishing
    • This can be a big one. Do you require folding, binding, or some other finishing process? We’re being a broken record, but the clearer you are about what you need, the better. If you are doing something complicated it is a great idea to include a mock-up prototype or diagrams.
12. Proof
    • What type of proof do you need? Is a PDF okay, or do you need a hard copy.

This list should help you cover all the basics as you prepare for a printing quote request. It will help you and us as printers get on the same page about your project. More importantly, it will help do so quickly and efficiently. Time is money, right?

Finally, we know that many print projects can get complicated. Our mantra is always:  talk to your printer early and often. If you need help or are unclear about something yourself, then by all means lets talk it out. A phone call, email, or in person conversation can help get your print project on track right from the start.

cutpasteandprint Printing, graphic design, binding, and promotional product specialists in Huntingdon Valley, PA. We proudly serve the Bucks and Montgomery County areas with superior quality, great customer service, and a commitment to getting you and your the best possible printed materials. Our services include: Digital Printing, Offset Printing, Graphic Design, Promotional Items, Bindery, and Copying.