Printing Terms & Conditions

Important production information, file requirements, and quality standards for your print orders.

File Requirements

Accepted File Formats

We accept PDF, AI, PSD, EPS, and high-resolution image files (JPG, TIF, PNG with minimum 300 DPI). PDF is our recommended format as it preserves formatting and fonts consistently.

Resolution and DPI

All files must be submitted at 300 DPI (dots per inch) or higher for print quality. Files with 72 DPI or 96 DPI are suitable for web use but not for printing and may be rejected.

Color Mode

Files should be submitted in CMYK color mode for printing. RGB files will be automatically converted to CMYK, which may result in slight color variations. Pantone spot color matching is available upon request for additional fees.

Bleed and Margins

Files requiring full-bleed printing must include a 0.125" bleed on all sides. Critical design elements should be kept 0.25" from the trim edge to avoid accidental cropping. Margins and bleed specifications will be communicated during the design/proof stage.

Proofs and Approvals

All orders are subject to proof approval before production begins:

  • Proof requests will be fulfilled within 1-2 business days
  • Customers are responsible for reviewing proofs carefully for accuracy, spelling, colors, and formatting
  • Customers must provide written approval (via email) of the proof before production begins
  • Changes requested after proof approval may result in additional charges and delays
  • Production is authorized upon customer's written approval of the proof

For expedited orders, rush proof review may be available; contact our team for details.

Color Accuracy

Please note the following regarding color reproduction:

  • Colors on screen monitors may not exactly match printed colors due to monitor calibration and screen settings
  • Printed colors may vary slightly from digital proofs due to paper type, ink absorption, and printing equipment
  • Variations of ±5% in color matching are considered within industry standard tolerance
  • For critical color matching, we recommend providing Pantone references rather than relying on screen colors
  • Paper stock, finish (matte, gloss, satin), and ink type will affect color appearance
  • We cannot guarantee exact color matching to unauthorized designer mockups or RGB color specifications

Production and Quality Standards

All products are produced to industry standard specifications:

  • Print products are carefully inspected before shipment
  • Minor quality variations (registration shifts ±1/32", small scratches, dust specks) within industry tolerance are not grounds for rejection
  • Digital printing may show slight color banding or variation across large color areas; this is normal
  • Offset printing may show slight ink coverage differences between sheets within an acceptable range
  • Scoring and folding may result in very slight dimensional variations (±1/16")
  • Die-cutting may result in minor edge irregularities on shaped products

Fonts and Text

To ensure proper production:

  • All fonts must be embedded in PDF files or converted to outlines/paths
  • System fonts not included with the design software may not print correctly
  • Type sizes smaller than 6pt may be difficult to read in print and are not recommended
  • We are not responsible for errors in submitted text or spelling mistakes
  • Verify all spelling, names, addresses, phone numbers, and URLs in your proof

Order Modifications and Cancellations

Order modifications and cancellations are subject to the following terms:

  • Changes to approved orders may be possible if requested before production begins; contact customer service immediately
  • Changes after production has started may result in rush fees and/or rejection of current production
  • Orders cannot be cancelled after production begins; however, partial cancellations may be negotiated
  • Cancellation requests submitted after proof approval are subject to a restocking fee

Liability and Warranty Disclaimer

Print Ship USA provides printing services on an "as-is" basis:

  • We are not responsible for errors in customer-supplied files or customer-approved proofs
  • Responsibility for final approval of color, layout, spelling, and content rests solely with the customer
  • Reprints due to customer-requested changes after approval are chargeable and not covered under any guarantee
  • Our liability is limited to the cost of the job
  • We do not guarantee exact color matching, screen-to-print color representation, or font rendering from third-party design files

Paper Stock and Finishing

All paper stocks and finishes are subject to availability:

  • Substitutions of similar stock/finish may be made if specified stock becomes unavailable
  • Special finishes (foil, embossing, die-cutting) may result in slight quality variations
  • Laminated products may show slight waviness or wrinkling depending on application and humidity
  • Folded products may show slight creasing on the fold line

Last updated: July 18, 2026. By submitting your print order to Print Ship USA, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to these Printing Terms and Conditions.