Vol 6 No 3

Great list, tremendous offer, now roll the presses

Hold on there! You might be thrilled with your list, copy and design, but you can’t just hand over your files to the first printer with available press time. You still have a lot of work to do.

Choosing paper, ink and the printing process should be decided early in the design stage. Too often, graphic designers create a masterpiece that is difficult to print and expensive to mail. This can increase costs, add delays to production and open the door for errors.

The first step is finding a printer that’s familiar with direct mail. This gives you an extra set of eyes to watch out for any problems you may encounter with postal regulations or lettershop capabilities. Things like paper weight, type of stock, postal indicia or size, shape and weight of the mailpiece are all crucial to the success of your mailing.

The best way to identify potential problems is to prepare a detailed quote request. You’ll find out if the printed mailpiece fits the budget. Also, your printer/mailer will have an opportunity to question anything that doesn’t meet postal regulations or standard production specs.

Here is a checklist of specs you should include on every printing quote request.

1. Project name

2. Larry Post operates five sheetfed presses at A.M. Each is uniquely suited for various direct mail pieces.

   Date quote needed
3. Description of piece
4. Flat size
5. Folded/finished size
6. Number of pages
7. Quantity and versions
8. Paper weight, grade and finish
9. Art platform and program
10. Proof type
11. Ink colors for both sides
12. Ink coverage and bleeds
13. Trim, perfs or die cut
14. Folding or bindery
15. Packing/shipping
16. Project due date

If you would like a copy of the Printing Quote Form used at A.M. Mailing Services, LLC, call us at 608-884-3452 or e-mail info@ammailing.com