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Frequently Asked Questions

File Preparation and Troubleshooting
What is bleed?
Where do I upload my files?
What type of files do you accept?
Do you accept Publisher or Word Document files?
What is safe area?
Can I write on UV coating?
How do I know if the correct file has been uploaded?
Do I need to use a product template?
Do you have an FTP site for uploads?
How do I know if your graphics department will set up two-sided artwork correctly?
What is CMYK?
What is RGB?
What is the maximum file size that can be uploaded?
Do you archive files?
What if my file is missing fonts?
Why should I convert my text to outlines?
What are print-ready files?
What is the difference between 100# gloss book and 100# gloss cover?
What is the difference between matte and glossy finish?
Why are glossy cards less expensive than matte? Are they lower quality?
What is 14pt C2S?
Do you offer product templates that I may use?
Your Order
How can I check the status of my order?
What if I found a mistake in the artwork?
Can I upload my files before placing an order?
Can my graphic designer upload files for me?
Why am I not getting automatic email updates?
How can I cancel my order?
Will I see a proof once I upload my files?
I need color copies and I was wondering if the artwork prints all the way to the edge?
I would like to re-order the same product I had done before. How do I do that?
How long will it be before I see a PDF proof?
Why are round stickers more expensive than your rectangle stickers?
Will I be charged right away even if I don’t upload files?
Why does my proof have marks on the corners? Will those be printed?
Will someone call me to confirm that my files are good?
You said you have sent me automated emails but I never received them. What could cause this?


Payment Options

Can I pay by check?
Can I use my resale license?
Can I be set up on terms?


Shipping and Turnaround Time
When does my turnaround time begin?
When will my job be complete?
Does my turnaround include shipping?
What shipping options do you offer?
Where are you located?
Does Print Runner ship to Canada?
How will I know when my order has shipped?
Can you ship USPS?
Will UPS leave my package at the door or is there a signature required?


File Preparation and Troubleshooting
    What is bleed? back to top back to top
A bleed is when an image extends beyond the trim edge of the product. If your image is not white on all four sides, you will want to include bleeds in your files. Add 1/8” (.125”) to each side of the file. For example, for a 2” x 3.5” business card with full bleed, the image size should be submitted at 2.25” x 3.75”



Get a Product Template to start your design with these guidelines.
For more information about Template Guidelines, Click Here.
  
    Where do I upload my files? back to top back to top
Files can be uploaded through our website during the checkout process. Or, you can upload your files later by going to “My Account” and selecting your order number.
  
    What type of files do you accept? back to top back to top
While PDFs are preferred and recommended for art uploads, we accept any of the following file formats:

Adobe Acrobat (.pdf)
Adobe Illustrator (.ai, .eps)
Adobe Photoshop (.psd, .tif, .jpg)
Adobe InDesign
QuarkXpress(.qxd)


Visit our File Preparation Help Center for more info.
  
    Do you accept Publisher or Word Document files? back to top back to top
We cannot print from these files as they do not provide a file that is print-ready, which will cause a low-quality printed piece. You may try using FREE utilities such as PrimoPDF, which allow you to create a PDF document from these applications (or ANY other application). When creating the PDF, please adhere to Print Runners PDF guidelines. You may then upload this PDF to us for printing.
  
    What is safe area? back to top back to top
Safe area is the 1/8” margin that we require between the trim line and the text closest to the trim line.



Get a Product Template to start your design with these guidelines.
For more information about Template Guidelines, Click Here.
  
    Can I write on UV coating? back to top back to top
UV coating cannot be written on. However, we do offer a matte or aqueous coating on several products which is writeable with most pens.
  
    How do I know if the correct file has been uploaded? back to top back to top
The only way to be certain you’ve uploaded the correct file is by double checking the file name prior to uploading the artwork. If you upload a PDF you will be able to see a preview of your file before placing your order.
  
    Do I need to use a product template? back to top back to top
Although it is not required, we encourage you to use our templates as this may prevent delays in processing your files. These templates include guidelines for bleed and safe area.

Download a Product Template to start your design with helpful guidelines. For more information about these template guidelines, Click Here.
  
    Do you have an FTP site for uploads? back to top back to top
We do not. However, uploading files can be accomplished through our website before placing your order.
  
    How do I know if your graphics department will set up two-sided artwork correctly? back to top back to top
You must upload artwork so that the finished piece backs up correctly. On two sided work, the head of one side backs up to the head of the other side. The head of a page is defined by the top of the rendered proof and the bottom is called the foot.

For folded products, we create a mock-up prior to approving the job to ensure the artwork is set up correctly. On jobs where the orientation is not so obvious, please describe how it should back up in the order notes.

For animated examples of how to rotate and orient your artwork, please refer to our:
Artwork Orientation InstructionsArtwork Orientation Instructions
  
    What is CMYK? back to top back to top
CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black). This is the industry standard process colors used in full-color offset printing. The combination of these four colors can produce a wide spectrum of colors. Cyan, Magenta, and Yellow combine to create the color, while Black is used to change the shade of the color.


Additional information about color can be found on the following page:
Template Guidelines ExplainedConverting your Colors for Print
  
    What is RGB? back to top back to top
RGB stands for Red, Green, and Blue. These are most commonly used with web design, television screens and computer monitors but are not used in offset printing. RGB files should be converted to CMYK prior to uploading. Colors may need to be adjusted after the conversion and may not appear correct on your monitor.


Additional information about color can be found on the following page:
Template Guidelines ExplainedConverting your Colors for Print
  
    What is the maximum file size that can be uploaded? back to top back to top
Although Print Runner does not enforce a specific file size limit, we recommend uploading files no larger than 50MB. To reduce your file size, you can “zip” or “stuff” them.
  
    Do you archive files? back to top back to top
Although we cannot guarantee your files will be archived for more than 90 days, we do make an attempt to store all client files on our servers. Print Runner may, at its discretion remove any files from our servers at any time. It is recommended that you maintain a copy of all our files. If you wish to re-order a specific project, please use our “re-order” tool available through Print Runner’s “My Account” section. A preview of your previous files may be available through this tool.
  
    What if my file is missing fonts? back to top back to top
If your job has been placed on “Hold”, and a message states that your file is missing fonts, it may be possible to provide us the font file you used in your design. However, in most cases we require that you convert your text to outlines before uploading your files.

For more information about submitting your files, please visit our File Preperation Help Center.
  
    Why should I convert my text to outlines? back to top back to top
Converting your text to outlines is the most effective way to ensure your typefaces look exactly as you designed them. Once text has been converted to outlines, it can no longer be typeset like standard text layers, so be sure to save your source files accordingly.

For detailed instructions on converting your text to outlines, or to find out if it is necessary for your file type please visit our File Preperation Help Center.
  
    What are print-ready files? back to top back to top
Print-ready files are files that contain adhere to Print Runner’s file submission requirements.
  
    What is the difference between 100# gloss book and 100# gloss cover? back to top back to top
The difference between the 2 is that the cover stock is twice as thick as the book stock. 100# gloss book measures at .005 inches thick whereas 100# gloss cover measures .010 inches thick.
  
    What is the difference between matte and glossy finish? back to top back to top
With Matte coating you will get a dull finish without gloss or luster. With UV Gloss coating you will get a high gloss finish that will have a nice shine and protection for your paper. Please note that you can write on the surface of a matte finished product with a ball point pen, but not on a surface coated with UV.
  
    Why are glossy cards less expensive than matte? Are they lower quality? back to top back to top
Glossy cards are not lower quality. The reason for this is that the manufacturing process to produce a matte finish costs a little more to produce. Also we run more UV gangs which help keep the UV costs low.
  
    What is 14pt C2S? back to top back to top
14pt C2S is a type of board stock that is coated on both sides and has a thickness of .014 inches. This stock is highly durable and is well suited for a variety of print products.
  
    Do you offer product templates that I may use? back to top back to top
Yes we do. Most of our products have downloadable template for you to use free of charge. Please visit the product templates section of our website.
  

Your Order
    How can I check the status of my order? back to top back to top
You can check your order status by going to our website and clicking on the order status link on the home page of our website. You will be asked to enter your order/job number and order billing zip code or the email address and password that is listed on the account.
  
    What if I found a mistake in the artwork? back to top back to top
As a customer, you are responsible for the accuracy of your artwork. You are encouraged to carefully inspect the positioning, copy, and design elements in your art files before submitting them to us. Ordering a PDF or Hard Copy Proof affords you the opportunity to check for errors you wish to correct in your files prior to production.
  
    Can I upload my files before placing an order? back to top back to top
Yes, you can upload files before placing your order.
  
    Can my graphic designer upload files for me? back to top back to top
Yes. We’ve provided a tool that allows your designer to upload files to your order/job using only the order/job number and billing zip code. Simply have your designer visit our website and click the green “Order Status” button.
  
    Why am I not getting automatic email updates? back to top back to top
If you use an address with an email filter that requires each sender to fill out a form, you may not receive our automatic email notifications regarding the status of your order. Print Runner is not responsible for automated email notifications that are redirected due to a customer’s email filter settings. It is the customer’s responsibility to check their “My Account” page or contact their sales person for the status of their order.
  
    How can I cancel my order? back to top back to top
A request to cancel should be done by phone to prevent the job from moving forward in the production process. Cancelled orders require compensation for incurred costs and related obligations at the time of cancellation. Due to our company procedures, you may only cancel an order without incurring additional fees prior to preflighting of the artwork. All requests for cancellations after preflighting, or the approval of the artwork are subject to a minimum cancellation fee of 15%. No refunds will be given for orders cancelled after your job has been added to a Press Sheet.
  
    Will I see a proof once I upload my files? back to top back to top
If you have uploaded a PDF to the job an instant preview will be available. With the other file formats we apologize but the software we currently use does not support instant preview. For all copy critical jobs we suggest an electronic PDF proof be purchased. PDF proofs are sent out within 24 hours of the file being uploaded and is sent to the email address provided with the order.
  
    I need color copies and I was wondering if the artwork prints all the way to the edge? back to top back to top
Color copies do not print to the edge. There will be about a ¼" around the edge of the paper that will not include printing. If printing letter-sized copies you can print on a larger sheet of paper with bleeds and then trim off the edges.
  
    I would like to re-order the same product I had done before. How do I do that? back to top back to top
You may go online and find the job you would like to re-order. Once you have found it you can click on the re-order button which will add that project into your shopping cart. From there you can follow your normal check out process.
  
    How long will it be before I see a PDF proof? back to top back to top
PDF proofs are usually sent out within several hours but during certain circumstances it may take up to 24 hours.
  
    Why are round stickers more expensive than your rectangle stickers? back to top back to top
The production process to produce round stickers is a lot more labor intensive and takes longer to produce. Rectangle stickers are gang-able items that can be printed and cut out quickly.
  
    Will I be charged right away even if I don’t upload files? back to top back to top
Yes, we do require payment prior to processing your order.
  
    Why does my proof have marks on the corners? Will those be printed? back to top back to top
The lines on the corner of your PDF proof are crop marks. These show where the cutting will take place. These will not be on the finished material.
  
    Will someone call me to confirm that my files are good? back to top back to top
Once your files have passed our preflight file check you will receive an automated email letting you know your files are ok and ready for print. If the files are not print ready you will receive an email explaining what needs to be done to correct them.
  
    You said you have sent me automated emails but I never received them. What could cause this? back to top back to top
This is due to the mail server that you currently use. From time to time a provider may mark something as junk even though our emails are not. You will want to contact your Internet Service Provider and explain to them that you do want to receive our emails. If you use a web based email service like Gmail, Yahoo or Hotmail you will need to contact them and explain the situation. Please note that you will also want to verify that we have the correct email address on file.
  

Payment Options
    Can I pay by check? back to top back to top
Yes, we can accept payment by check. However, this process takes much longer than a credit card transaction. If you prefer to pay by check, you must mail in a completed order form including payment and print ready artwork. Once we receive the order it will be submitted but remain “On Hold” until the check clears with the bank. After the check has cleared, the standard turnaround time will apply.
  
    Can I use my resale license? back to top back to top
If you are producing a product for resale and would like to provide us with your resale number, you will need to fax us a copy of your California Resale Certificate.
  
    Can I be set up on terms? back to top back to top
I am sorry but we are currently not offering terms to our customers at this time.
  

Shipping and Turnaround Time
    When does my turnaround time begin? back to top back to top
Turnaround time for a print job where a PDF or Hard Copy proof is selected begins once the proof has been approved by you. If you did not select a PDF or a Hard Copy proof, turnaround time begins once your file is uploaded. If you approve your job by 4 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, turnaround time begins that business day. Also note that if we are unable to print your files because they do not conform to Print Runner’s file requirements, your job status will be put “On Hold” and your turnaround time will be reset.

Please visit our Turnaround page for more information.
  
    When will my job be complete? back to top back to top
Turnaround time varies with each product and begins once the submitted artwork has been approved. If no proof was requested, turnaround time begins the next business day if ordered before 2 PM Pacific Standard Time. For additional information visit the turnaround section on our website.
  
    Does my turnaround include shipping? back to top back to top
Turnaround time represents the business days required to produce the approved artwork. Shipping is based off the method selected at the time the order was placed, and is not included in the turnaround estimate.
  
    What shipping options do you offer? back to top back to top
Our primary method of shipping is via UPS. If you have an account with UPS or with a different shipper, you may provide Print Runner with your account number and we will arrange a pick up to fulfill your order.

Please note that business card orders under one pound are shipped using UPS Mail Innovations which takes 4-7 days to delivery and will be dropped off by the USPS.
  
    Where are you located? back to top back to top
Print Runner, Inc. is a commercial printer located in the city of Chatsworth in Southern California. We specialize in affordable high quality printing all of which is done in-house.

Our address is:
9673 Topanga Canyon Place
Chatsworth, CA 91311

Get Directions
  
    Does Print Runner ship to Canada? back to top back to top
We do ship to Canada using UPS. Along with the shipping costs there will be an additional expense paid to the brokering company to cover taxes and duties applied to goods shipped from US to Canada.
  
    How will I know when my order has shipped? back to top back to top
We will email your tracking number to you once your job is ready for shipping. If you selected customer pick-up you will receive an email stating your job is ready.
  
    Can you ship USPS? back to top back to top
I am sorry but no. We do not ship our products using USPS at this time.
  
    Will UPS leave my package at the door or is there a signature required? back to top back to top
UPS will not require a signature but the decision to leave a package without one is made by the UPS driver. The only way to make sure UPS does not leave the package at the door step will be to put a note on the door explaining that you do not want the package left outside.
  

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