Production Requirements

    File Setup Guide

    Standardized preflight requirements designed to prevent reprints. Production-ready files mean faster turnaround and consistent output.

    Accepted File Types

    PreferredPDF/X-1a or PDF/X-4
    AcceptedAI, EPS, TIFF, PSD (flattened)
    Not acceptedJPG, PNG, Word, Publisher

    Notes

    All fonts must be outlined or embedded. Linked images must be included. Native files require all assets packaged.

    Color Mode & Profiles

    Color modeCMYK only
    ProfileGRACoL 2013 or SWOP 2013
    Black buildsRich black: 60/40/40/100

    Notes

    RGB files will be converted. Pantone colors will be simulated unless specified as spot. White ink requires separate spot layer.

    Bleed & Trim

    Standard bleed0.125" (1/8") minimum
    Large format bleed0.25" (1/4") recommended
    Safe zone0.125" inside trim on all sides

    Notes

    Artwork must extend to bleed edge. Keep all critical content within safe zone. Trim marks optional — we use file dimensions.

    Cut Lines & Spot Colors

    Cut path layerNamed 'CutContour' or 'Thru-Cut'
    Stroke0.25pt, 100% Magenta spot
    OffsetMinimum 0.0625" from artwork edge

    Notes

    Vector paths only. No open paths, no compound shapes with gaps. Kiss-cut and perf lines require separate named layers.

    Resolution & Scaling

    Raster images150 DPI minimum at output size
    Vector preferredScales without degradation
    Maximum upscaleFiles at 50% scale accepted

    Notes

    Large format tolerates lower resolution. Full-size files prevent scaling errors. Do not submit at 10% scale.

    Common Issues to Avoid

    RGB color mode in production files
    Missing or unembedded fonts
    Raster images below 100 DPI
    Hairline strokes under 0.5pt
    Transparency over spot colors
    Files without bleed on bleed jobs
    Before You Submit

    Preflight Checklist

    Document is CMYK color mode
    All fonts outlined or embedded
    Linked images at 150+ DPI
    Bleed extends 0.125" minimum
    Critical content inside safe zone
    Cut paths on separate named layer
    No RGB images or spot colors (unless intended)
    File dimensions match ordered size

    Files that fail preflight will be held for correction. Submitting production-ready files ensures on-time delivery.

    Questions on File Requirements?

    Contact your account manager or reach out to production support. We're here to help get your files production-ready.