5 Tips on Selecting a Commercial Printing Company
When you need the services of a commercial printing company, you want to make sure you’re choosing the very best. Nothing is more frustrating than placing an important order for print marketing materials and receiving a finished product that does not meet your high standards for quality, takes longer to complete than you expected, or simply does not fit within your budget. That’s why it’s important to take the time to do your research and carefully consider all of your options before selecting a commercial printing company for your business’s print marketing needs. Here are five tips to help you make an informed decision when it comes to professional printers:
1. Where is the printing company located in proximity to your home and/or business? It’s not an absolute necessity to choose a printer in your own neighborhood; you can find many reputable printing companies that offer customers the option of placing their orders online and having the finished product delivered to their doorstep. However, if there is a top-notch printer near your home or office, it could be extremely convenient if you have any questions or concerns, or you’d like to view your proofs or pick up your order in person.
2. Does the printing company offer competitive pricing? Gone are the days when printers could charge customers an arm and a leg for a simple batch of postcards or flyers. In order to stay viable in a changing industry, printing companies must now offer professional results at affordable prices. Make sure you shop around before choosing a printer in order to form an accurate idea of how much your order should cost, and always ask for a quote upfront to avoid any unpleasant surprises once the job has been completed.
3. Can I count on this printing company to provide me with a superior level of quality? When it comes to printed materials, your number one concern should be quality. Remember that your advertising will be viewed by customers as an extension of your business; therefore, if you distribute materials that look cheap or shoddy, people will think that your business is similarly unprofessional. Ask to see samples of each company’s previous work, and always inspect a physical proof before placing your final order.
4. What kind of turnaround time can I expect on my order? Another important consideration when it comes to choosing a commercial printing company is time. Specifically, how much time will the company in question need to fulfill your order? As with pricing, you should compare time estimates from several different companies in order to form an accurate idea of how long you can expect your order to take. Most printers will expedite your order – meaning that it can be ready in just twenty-four hours or less – for an additional fee.
5. Is this company committed to providing excellent customer support? Choosing a printer that offers a superior level of customer support is an absolute necessity. If you have any questions before, during or after the printing process, you’ll want to know that your printer is just a phone call away. Look for companies that offer customers several different methods of communication, such as phone, chat and email assistance. Some printers even offer design help to customers at no extra cost.
With these guidelines, selecting a great commercial printer has never been easier.
