A good printer will guide you through the printing process, but before you get to that point, make sure you ask the following basic questions:
What is the paper/card quality?
Coated, uncoated, laid, wove or bond paper? Matt, laminated, pulp or glossy? What weight? Letterheads are usually 100-120gsm, flyers 300-350gsm and business cards 350gsm. Ask to see samples before you put in any order. Check costs across the range of products.
When and how will I get my order?
You need an exact order date. Many internet orders are pretty fast, but be aware that some take several weeks to arrive. Local printers may be more flexible, but you need to know where you stand.
Does the print company use couriers? What happens if they can’t deliver? What happens if there is no-one to sign? Will someone phone or email me the day before?
What customer testimonials or previous customers can I speak to?
Read customer reviews and ask for names and contacts. Make sure testimonials are current. Any good printing company should be able to arrange this and most are happy to do so. Many printers work by word of mouth and customer recommendations anyway, so if they are not happy to provide excellent references be wary.
Is the price fully inclusive?
Check prices include VAT, delivery and file checking. Firms can charge 10% of the order just to check your files and make sure it will print OK. Are there any costs for using a credit card? Are there any other hidden costs? Prices should not be misleading – if the initial price you are quoted starts to climb then think again.
What printing methods do you use?
Digital and litho printing are the two main methods used by printers. Digital printing is cheaper and fast and is used by many small companies. Litho printing takes longer and is more expensive but the quality is better. Make sure you are not being charged litho prices for digital printing.
When can I contact you?
This varies. If you are using a local printer or print shop you can call or visit and there should not be any problems. Even if you can’t speak to the printer direct, there should be someone coordinating your order. This person should be able to answer your questions and keep you informed. Difficulties can arise with website orders if the company uses call centres outside the UK. While there are some very efficient online companies which offer excellent price and service, others are less efficient so do make sure you can contact them whenever you need to. When you initially phone with an enquiry, check how long the phone takes to be answered, find out who you are speaking to and generally how easy it will be to communicate. Make sure you feel comfortable, that the company are dealing with you personally and you are not just a number.
How can you help me?
While a printer is in business to make money, they should be able to give you plenty of help and guidance, particularly when starting out. You can expect help and advice on choosing paper, an explanation of print methods and costs. You can also get advice on flyers, posters etc. if the company prints them. Companies that can give advice on direct marketing can really help with plans and designs and if you want more than basic stationery you should find a printer who will do this for you. Make sure you feel at ease with the company you choose and can feel free to ask a seemingly idiotic question if you want to!
Where do you store your stock?
What would happen if there was a flood or fire? This happens more than you might think and you need to know (particularly if you store brochures etc. long term with the printer). What insurance and business continuity plans are in place? Stationery needs to be stored in safe, clean and dry areas, free from damp and humidity. Printers may store on site or use warehouses, but where ever the stock is stored it needs to be stored properly. It may seem a mundane question, but it is important.
