Categories: Direct Mail Production

It can happen. You're in a hurry to get the art files of your latest direct mail package to the printer in order to meet your mail drop date. You send them out only to learn there are problems with the files that could delay the processing and throw the production schedule off. What could have happened?

Provide your vendor with a hard copy printout. This lets your printer see the final approved document, check for discrepancies and clarify how you intend the layout to look. For digital files, send a PDF with color mock-ups for reference. For multi-page jobs, include a mock-up indicating how you want the document folded and bound.

Here is a list of common errors to avoid:

Missing Fonts
Since there are so many similar versions of fonts, it is hard for the printer to substitute the exact fonts. Substituting fonts can change the look of your printed piece and cause text to re-flow. Always include all fonts that are being used on your printed piece.

Incorrect page size and inadequate bleeds
Incorrect page sizes cannot always be fixed by scaling the size of your pages up or down. If you do scale your pages, make sure that the size of your file can be adjusted proportionately to the desired size. If your pages need to be enlarged, doing so could possibly compromise the resolution of the images in your materials. Make sure your document is the final trim size and that bleeds have been extended ¼ inch.

Missing, unlinked or low-resolution graphics
If your document shows an image but the actual image file is missing, the image may have become unlinked when saved in a folder that is different from its original location. When a link is missing, the graphic will output in low-resolution or not at all. After saving your art file, double check that all links are included and up-to-date. Make sure your photos are at least 300 dpi and that they are saved at the actual print size.

Planning for Success
Our comprehensive guide to planning and executing a Direct Mail campaign.

No hard copy proof
A common error is pages being backed up incorrectly, as well as binding pages being out of sequence.

For a comprehensive Guide to Planning a Direct Mail Campaign for Your Organization, download EU Services' free resource below.