We can use a number of file formats. These include pdf, InDesign files (.indd), Illustrator files (.ai) and Photoshop files (.psd). We can also process Word and Excel files if need be. To make a file print ready make sure that all the fonts used have been embedded or outlined and that you have included 3mm bleed and crop marks on your pdf, these are settings that can be ticked when you save a pdf.
Click on this PDF for information on our artwork guidelines Artwork Guidelines 2024
Our standard lead times are 7 – 10 working days from proof approval, however this is very much dependent on the item in question. If a product is a generic item and in stock, we aim to despatch within 24 hours. If your item is bespoke, the standard lead time would apply (subject to quantity, stock printed on etc). We can be flexible so always check with the support team if your item is required for a specific event.
In most instances we use DPD. The DPD network provide ‘One Hour Window’ notifications of delivery via email or text, so you can know within a specific hour when your delivery will be made. If this slot is not convenient you can also change the delivery or arrange to use one of their many Pick Up locations across the UK.
We also use a number of other courier service providers depending on your specific requirements, for example if your items need to be palletised or you need a same day delivery.
Our courier offers several timed deliveries throughout the morning; pre 10.30am and pre 12 noon. Timed services will incur an additional cost, so please ask your support team for further details.
Print has greatly stepped up its environmental awareness over recent years and Birch are no exception. Our courier is the leader in the industry on reducing its carbon footprint and as such, every delivery we send out is carbon neutral.
In 2014 we installed a biomass boiler to replace our gas blowers throughout our warehouse and reduced our carbon footprint by over 48,000 kg of Co2 per annum.
All our papers and boards are from sustainable sources as a minimum, with many from FSC accredited sources. Cheap imports are not considered as there is no chain of custody. Although purchasing print from overseas can often appear to provide some cost savings, the environmental effects can often be much greater as there are often not the same level of checks and scrutiny as in the UK.
Each supplier we use has to offer the highest standards in all aspects of their production techniques and to continually demonstrate this. We formally quality check each supplier before accepting them for production. We also have an ongoing job by job evaluation and non-conformance process to ensure the quality and standards are maintained.
A-sizes are used to define finished paper sizes in commercial printing. The height/width ratio remains constant at 1:1.41 for all sizes. This means you get the A1 size by folding an A0 paper in two along its shortest side. Then fold the A1 size in two to get an A2 size paper, and so on..
Size | Width (mm) | Height (mm) | Typical Use | Our Typical Papers |
---|---|---|---|---|
A0 | 841 | 1189 | Posters | 195gsm Gloss, Silk & Matt, Polyprop (water resistant) |
A1 | 594 | 841 | Posters | 195gsm Gloss, Silk & Matt, Polyprop (water resistant) |
A2 | 420 | 594 | Posters | 195gsm Gloss, Silk & Matt, Polyprop (water resistant) |
A3 | 297 | 420 | POS | 115gsm - 350gsm Gloss, Silk & Matt |
A4 | 210 | 297 | Letterheads, forms, brochures, POS | 115gsm - 350gsm Gloss, Silk & Matt |
A5 | 148 | 210 | Flyers, notepads | |
A6 | 105 | 148 | Postcards | 250gsm - 350gsm Gloss, Silk & Matt |
For further information on VAT for printed items, please click here
Our Web2Print service is a bespoke-built website for all things print and marketing. We offer branded stationery items which include letterhead and business cards, marketing collateral such as leaflets and brochures, advertising items such as posters, banners and signage in many formats, and promo items such as mugs, bags, pens, balloons (anything you want!).
Please send your correct details to [email protected] and we will update your account for you. Please include your name, address, company name and the details to be amended so we can ensure that we update your proof correctly.
I’m afraid this isn’t possible, but please email [email protected] if this is something you’d be interested in.