Online Printing FAQ
Have questions about printing with Smartpress? Take a look at some common online printing FAQ.
What are the print guidelines or templates I should follow?
Please reference the layout guides under Project Resources on each product page. These templates are like a head start to your final print project and can help ensure it has proper dimensions, bleed, margins, etc. They’re convenient and easy to use for designers of all levels. Layout Services can even create custom templates. Please remember to delete the layout guides before exporting the PDF. Learn more: Layout Services
What if Smartpress doesn’t have a template or product for my project?
If you need help designing or creating your project, simply fill out a Custom Quote. You’ll provide your projects details and specifications and we’ll work with you to accommodate your request. Learn more: Custom Quote
In what format do I submit my file? What’s a print-ready file?
High resolution, print quality PDFs are the most reliable file format for online printing. A print-ready file has essential formatting and specs to ensure it translates from your computer to the printing press accurately and consistently. It must be a PDF with high resolution images in the CMYK color space with the appropriate bleed. Learn more: Print-Ready Files
How do I save a PDF?
Depending on which workspace you use, there are different ways to save your PDF. Learn more: How to Save Your PDF
Do you have sustainable paper stocks?
As an eco-friendly online printer, we’re proud to offer sustainable paper stock options on many of our products. For example, our Uncoated 100% Recycled – White stock is made from 100% post-consumer-waste recycled fiber and our Hemp stock is sourced sustainably through conscious growing practices. Learn more: Recycled Paper Stocks, Social Responsibility
What is the difference between text and cover paper weights?
Cover weight is thicker than text weight and has cardstock-like properties, while text weight stocks are more flexible and similar to the paper in your copier, only thicker. The higher the weight number, the thicker the stock: 120# cover is comparable to 12pt. stock. Learn more: Text Weight vs. Cover Weight
What’s the minimum order quantity?
The minimum order quantity varies by product, and we can print both large and short runs. When you enter a number in the quantity field, it will tell you if you haven’t met the minimum required to order.
Can you fix my artwork for me? What’s the white border around it on my proof?
We can alter artwork based on the type of file you provide. If the design requires large-scale alterations that are time-intensive, our Layout Services team can help for an additional fee. Learn more: Layout Services
The white border on your proof appears if your image size is smaller than the print size you ordered. Your image will need to be the size of the print, plus an 1/8” bleed on all four sides. Learn more: Bleeds & Borders
What is proofing? What do the colors on my proof mean?
Proofing gives you the chance to review the project and make any changes before it’s printed, including content, formatting and more. A digital PDF soft proof will be available for your review within one business day after we receive your file upload. For orders containing addressing and mailing services, proofs will be available within two business days. Learn more: Proofs
A yellow overlay represents where we print white ink under your art (to make the design more opaque). Other colored lines on proofs vary by product. For example, magenta lines can indicate perforation on one product and drill holes on another. If you have questions, please contact your Project Coordinator.
What is the turnaround time?
Turnaround time varies by product, but for most, the default is three business days. The quickest turnaround time we can accommodate for most products is two business days. To expedite turnaround time, use your order portal to work with your Project Coordinator or contact Customer Service. Learn more: Printing Turnaround Time
How long does shipping take? Can I split ship?
Shipping time varies by destination. Estimated shipping transit time is based on the number of business days in transit and does not include weekends, holidays or the day the package is picked up from our facility in Chanhassen, MN. Learn more: Shipping
Multiple shipments can be arranged by your Project Coordinator. Notify them in the Activity Log of your order and upload a list of addresses and quantities to the Job Files section. You can send a hard proof to a separate location by checking out using the shipping address for the full print run. After you’ve submitted payment, click on View Orders, the order number and send a comment in the Activity Log indicating the alternate address for the hard proof.
Do you save my specs from previous orders?
Yes. Log in to your Smartpress account and locate your previous orders. Click on Show Job Specifications to view the paper stock, size, quantity, finishing options and any other specs from that job.
How do I reorder a product?
Log in to your account. Select the job you’d like to reorder from the Your Orders page and use the Reorder button. You’ll be able to review and change your job specifications, as well as choose the same artwork or upload new files. When you’re finished, submit the order.
Why am I getting errors when trying to process my credit card?
Every time you try to submit an order, even if it doesn’t get fully processed or captured, a pending charge is sent to your bank/credit institution to check that the funds are available. Those pending charges usually fall off within a couple of business days. If you try to submit the same charge within 15 minutes, the system blocks the duplicate transaction.
To avoid this error, either wait for the time delay to run out or change the amount charged slightly. For example, if you’re ordering 100 invitations, change that quantity to 101 or 99 to change the dollar amount, even by a couple of cents.
If you’re getting a billing address mismatch error, check that your address and zip code matches the address on file at your bank. If you’ve moved recently, the error may be due to a delay in updating the billing address, so you can also try submitting your previous billing address.
Is there a nonprofit discount? How does it work?
There is! We offer a 5% discount on our online printing services to nonprofit customers. To be eligible, you must provide proof of your nonprofit status with a copy of your 501(c)(3). If your nonprofit is tax-exempt, please also submit a separate form for this from your state so we can remove tax from your order. You can submit these forms to CustomerService@Smartpress.com or to your Account Executive.
If I am unsatisfied with the results, can I get my money back?
The short version – you will love our work or we will make it right. If for any reason we’re unable to do that, you will be issued a refund. Please refer to our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee and to our Refund Policy for detailed information about refunds and reprints.