FAQ - SME PRINT

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are the most commonly asked questions, if you can not find the answer here please contact us.

I can not find the quantity I require in the prices, do you print any quantities?
Yes. Our website displays the most commonly requested quantities. We can print any amount that you require, please contact us for a price.

Can I enter a different invoice address?
Yes. When you enter your delivery details there is a tick box that allows you to enter a different invoice address.

Why is there no VAT added to my order?
Some printed items are classed Zero Rated for VAT. Most items we sell have VAT added but some items such as leaflets, menus, booklets etc. are classed as VAT exempt and VAT is not added to these items. All items will show if VAT is added and our check out system will automatically calculate if VAT is charged.

Can I cancel my order and receive a full refund?
Yes. You can cancel your order at anytime, prior to you passing the proofs for printing, and we will issue you a full refund. However once you have passed the proofs for printing your order cannot be cancelled due to the printing process has started and you printing plates are made immediately after you have passed the proofs. 

I want to repeat an old order that was printed before
Your online account has comprehensive details of all your previous orders. Simply choose the old order and add that to your basket.

ARTWORK AND PROOFING

When will I receive my proof?
Your proof would normally be sent within 1 working day from you sending us your files. Usually within 1-2 hours but pleas allow upto one working day. If you do not receive a proof within this time please contact us because we may not have received your file.

The proof you have sent me has a white border round the edges?
If the proof we send you has a white border your finished order will have a white border at the edge of the paper. This is because your file has no bleed added to the artwork and we have to move your image 2-3mm into the paper to allow us to cut to size without cutting into your image. If you do not want a white border this is not a problem but you will need to send us a file with 2-3mm extra added to the image size which will be cut off later.

The colours look different from my original?
All files are converted to CMYK for commercial printing. If you setup your file as RGB this will be converted, most colours will convert fine but certain colours, such as orange, green, blue etc. will change colour in the conversion process. You should always setup your files in CYMK mode then you are always seeing the same colour that will be printed.

Can I view my proof on a mobile phone or tablet?
Yes. You can view the proof we send you on your mobile or tablet. However we have found in the past that the colours are completely different due to the colour settings of your mobile device. You should always try and view the proof on the same computer that you made the file on.

PRINTING

Can I change my files after I have passed the proof?
No. Once you approve your proof the printing plates are made immediately and your order is scheduled for printing on one of our printing presses. It is important that you fully check your proofs before passing because changes can not be made after the plates have been made without additional charges.

If I order 5,000 can I split the order into 2 designs of 2,500?
No. You will need to order 2 different items because the prices are for 1 design of the full quantity.

DELIVERY

When will my order be despatched?
Once printed and guillotined your order is dispatched on next day delivery. Each item has a different dispatch time usually 2-5 days, this timing is indicated on each item under the specification tab.

Can I speed up the dispatch time for my order?
Yes. We have an Express Service on most items. This reduces the despatch time by upto 80%.

What time of day will my order arrive with me?
Orders are sent next day delivery and can arrive anytime from 8am to 6pm. You will receive a tracking email and SMS notifications from our couriers which will give you the ability to follow your delivery.
We can send orders for before a certain time i.e before 12noon but this costs extra, please contact us for prices.

What if I am not in at the time of delivery?
Deliveries are normally attempted 3 times. If this is still unsuccessful a card will be left by the courier company and will inform what will happen next. The card may also inform you that your parcel is awaiting collection at your local post office. Full tracking information is available online which is linked to the tracking email we send you when your parcel is dispatched. SMS alerts are also sent to your phone with a time slot for the delivery.

Need it Faster - 'Express Service' is the answer

We offer an Express Service on all our products which usually cuts the standard delivery time by 80%. There is an extra charge for this service which is shown on each product and you can easily upgrade your order.

Delivery Time

Your printing will be delivered Monday – Friday 7am – 7pm. Specified timed deliveries such as before 12noon, 10am or 9am and Saturday deliveries are available at extra cost, please contact us for prices.

Plain Label

All our printing can be supplied in plain label packaging. There will be no reference to SME Print on the parcels or delivery notes. Ideal for designers, printers and other trade suppliers, we can send your order directly to your customer with full online Google map tracking.