Online print ordering involves four steps. Getting a quote based on project parameters, uploading files once you’ve decided to order, file verification, and tracking production. All through email, with no phone calls or in-person visits needed. Simple projects, like business cards, get quoted within a few hours, while more demanding orders can take up to a few business days.
This question comes up often with companies that have so far ordered print by phone or email and are wondering whether switching to online ordering actually makes things easier.
How Online Print Ordering Works, Step by Step
The whole process consists of a few clearly defined stages:
- Sending project parameters (format, material, print run, finishes) to an order coordinator and receiving a quote.
- Deciding to place the order and emailing the project files to the coordinator.
- Verifying the submitted files for technical errors.
- Approval and payment, after which the order moves into production.
Every one of these steps can be done remotely, with no need to mail physical samples or schedule a meeting.
Online Print Ordering and File Verification
File verification only happens once a client decides to place an order based on a quote they’ve already received. The submitted file gets checked for resolution, bleed, color space, and whether it matches the chosen format. Technical issues, like images with too low a resolution or missing bleed, get flagged right away, before the order moves into production.
That way, the client fixes the file once, at the upload stage, instead of finding out about a problem after the whole run has already been printed.
How Long a Quote Takes for Online Print Ordering
Every quote is prepared by an order coordinator, regardless of the product type. They’re the one who selects the material and technology and checks timeline availability for a given project. How long it takes depends on how complex the order is. Simple products, like business cards or flyers in standard formats, get quoted within a few hours. More elaborate projects, like books or catalogs, usually get quoted within one business day. The most demanding orders – with a custom shape, personalization, or unusual finishes – can take 1 to 3 business days.
This distinction is worth knowing before placing an order, so you don’t automatically assume the shortest possible turnaround applies to every project.
Online Print Ordering and Digital Proofs
Before the full run starts, the client receives a digital proof for approval. A preview of the design on the chosen material, generated based on that machine’s color profile. This step catches color or layout errors before printing even begins, even though the whole process happens online.
For orders where exact color shade matters, it’s worth requesting a physical print proof instead of just a digital one – it’s the only way to judge color in person rather than on a screen.
Tracking an Online Print Order
Once the quote and proof are approved, the coordinator assigned to the order keeps the client updated on production progress. From printing, through finishing, to packing and shipping. Any change to the timeline gets flagged right away, so the client doesn’t have to chase down the status themselves.
This is especially useful for companies ordering regularly – the history of previous orders and approved files is kept on record, which speeds up preparation for future jobs.
When Online Print Ordering Isn’t Enough
Not every project can be fully wrapped up remotely. For very large print runs, unusual materials, or a first order using a new technology, it’s worth requesting a phone call with the coordinator before the order goes into production. That makes it possible to clarify details that aren’t visible in the file alone – like the planned method of transport or assembly of the finished product.
Summary
Online print ordering comes down to four steps: sending project parameters, getting a quote from a coordinator, uploading and verifying files, and tracking production – all without leaving the office. Simple products, like business cards, get quoted within a few hours, while more complex projects can take up to a few business days. For projects where precise color matching matters, it’s worth adding a physical proof to the process before the full run begins.
FAQ
How long does a quote take for online print ordering?
Simple products, like business cards, get quoted within a few hours. Books and catalogs usually within one business day, and the most demanding projects within up to 3 business days.
Does online print ordering require a physical proof?
Not always. A digital proof is usually enough, but for projects where color matching really matters, it’s worth requesting a physical print proof.
Can I track the progress of an order placed online?
Yes, the coordinator assigned to the order keeps you updated on each production stage and any change to the timeline.
Can every project be ordered fully online?
Most can. For very large print runs or unusual materials, it’s worth also discussing the details by phone with the coordinator.