Printing Estimates – how do you know that the printing estimate you want is what you’ll receive?

One thing that becomes apparent with print estimating is that the various prices that are offered, apparently based on the same ‘specs’,  often vary tremendously. But are they really all the same and how can you compare difficult to measure items like Service, Materials, or whether your printer is based in London or close you.  And in any case – does it all really matter?

I was surprised when speaking to a prospective client that he thought that if he supplied the same specifications to every printer he spoke to then he would get the same quality finished printed item delivered to his door from all the printers, regardless of price!

Getting an accurate printing estimate

If only it was that simple, but it’s not, as print is a detailed process and it is really important to consider certain factors when going through your estimate details:

• Proofing: How will your product be proofed?  Is a colour calibrated printed proof included in your details for you to approve before your item goes to press?  So pretty much what you see on the proof is what you get.

• Material: Has the name of the paper stock been specified?  There are thousands of different stocks out there and like most things they range from poor quality to higher grades.  What will you be paying for?

• Size & extent: Is the finished size clearly outlined as well as the number of pages?

• Colour: Will your item be printed in the requested Pantones or batched up in a run based on full-colour print in the end not being colour accurate?  Has a seal been included for silk and matt stocks which prevent marks and scuffing to the finished item?

• Finish: Is it clear what finish is included?  Has that requested gloss lamination to the outer cover been included or is it being passed off as the gloss stock?

If there was something a little out of the ordinary about your request is it clear that the person doing your estimate has understood, have they put in the little bit of extra effort to explain certain factors. Have they really demonstrated that they understand your print estimate requirements?  In other words, do they care?

Does the person creating your printing estimate pay attention to the details?

All of the above points are important as well as where the printer is based.  If you are a London based company is it a London printer you require, also nice to know that you can pop over to discuss your project or have the printing company’s staff come to you – even if you don’t necessarily need to take up the offer every time. What about an all-important press pass if required?  Seeing that in person can really help.

Print quotes in London

PrintHouse Corporation is a London printer that has been established for three decades.  Our success has been based on the fact that we really listen to your requirements (even offer more economical alternatives if possible) and use quality products to deliver high grade printed goods.  Not clear on some of the points outlined above?  Want to find out more or discuss your next project? Feel free to give us a call on 020 8963 0123 or drop us an email or use the contact form below. We’ll be delighted to assist.

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