Comparing print quotes can seem like a daunting task, but it’s really a snap if you know what you’re looking at. The process involves reviewing each quote to make sure that each printer is quoting you the same thing with the same aspects of the job in mind. These include color, size, shape, bleeds, paper stock, quantity and printing press.

Colors – The number of colors in your print piece affects its pricing. Each time you add a color to a print piece, it will increase the cost of the job. Typical choices range from black and white, one color, two colors or four-color process. Be sure each quote has the same color instructions for each side of the piece. 

Size & Shape – Make sure your printers know the size and shape of your print job and double check to see that they are all pricing the same size and shape. Business cards, flyers, brochures and signs can be as unique in size and shape as the individual. In some cases, your printers can guide you on the most cost-effective size and shape based on their press capacity.

Bleeds – A bleed indicates color that runs off the edge of the print piece. If your design has color that bleeds off the page, it will increase your cost. If there is no bleed, the color will stop before the edge and leave a white space around the artwork. Review your quotes to ensure the printers are accounting for bleeds or no bleeds.

Paper Stock – When you ask for a print quote, you will be asked to specify the paper’s type. There are as many price points on paper stock as there are choices. It is always good to ask for paper samples and consult with your printer on how a particular stock will best suit the job and save you money. Once you’ve selected your paper, be sure all of your print quotes include the same stock of paper.

Quantity – As a general rule of thumb, the more you order, the less the cost per unit. If you need 250 business cards now, and another 250 business cards five months later, it is likely cheaper to order 500 for the whole year. (But if you do this, make sure your information doesn’t change for an entire year.) You can typically ask your printers to quote 2 or 3 different quantities so you can analyze where the best price breaks occur.

Printing Press (Offset or Digital Printer) – This is usually dictated by the job. These technologies are very different, and their costs are very different. When comparing quotes, check the quote to see if the job will be run on an offset or digital printer. You should compare digital to digital and offset to offset.

The best way to ensure you are spending your money in the most economical and effective way is to have a working relationship with your printer. Let the printer know what you need, what you hope to spend and what you hope to accomplish. If you work with a good printing company, they will help you get the job done right and in the most cost-effective manner possible.