Frequently Asked Questions


Artwork

Do you charge for proofs?

We don’t charge for standard PDF proofs. If you require an Epsom proof, via a digital press or a ‘WET’ proof (A proof that is ran through an actual printing press which requires ink, and plate/screen setup) this will be chargeable.

What type of files can you accept?

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.

What’s the best way to supply artwork?

A print ready pdf file or native files (all the files you used to create the artwork with e.g. InDesign file with all the linked images and fonts).

What design programs do you use?

We use the Adobe Creative Suite for design and processing artwork. We have the latest creative cloud artwork so have no problems processing InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop and pdf files with ease. We no longer support QuarkXpress but a print ready file can be output from this program.

Are you Mac or PC based?

Our studio is Mac based but we can accommodate PC files.

Artwork Guidelines

Artwork Guidelines

Click on this PDF for information on our artwork guidelines Artwork Guidelines 2020

General FAQs

When will I receive my delivery?

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.

Which courier do you use?

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.

 

 

 

 

I’m missing a parcel, what do I do?

Speak to a member of the customer services team, giving details of your order and they will check with our courier or speak to our van driver.

Can I be invoiced to a different address?

Of course, just confirm this in writing to your customer services team and they will advise our accounts department.

What are your standard payment terms?

30 days from date of invoice.

I’ve approved my proof but it’s actually incorrect, what do I do?

The purpose of the proof is for you to check all aspects prior to going to print. If you have missed something we can obviously correct this for you and reprint, however there will be a charge to do this.

When can I speak to one of the customer services team?

Our opening hours are 8.30am – 5.30pm, Monday to Friday, excluding Bank Holidays. Alternatively, you can email your request and our team will respond as soon as possible.

Can I see my job in production?

Of course, please contact the customer service team to discuss this in more detail. Some of our suppliers work 24 hour shifts, so we would need to check time slots to ensure a convenient time.

What paper should I use?

This very much depends on the item of print you want. There are numerous options from uncoated stock to silk, gloss, matt papers, vinyls, PVC. Speak to your support team to discuss the options.

What are your environmental policies?

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.

How do you quality check your suppliers?

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.

Paper Sizes

ISO A Paper Sizes

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..

SizeWidth (mm)Height (mm)Typical UseOur Typical Papers
A08411189Posters195gsm Gloss, Silk & Matt, Polyprop (water resistant)
A1594841Posters195gsm Gloss, Silk & Matt, Polyprop (water resistant)
A2420594Posters195gsm Gloss, Silk & Matt, Polyprop (water resistant)
A3297420POS115gsm - 350gsm Gloss, Silk & Matt
A4210297Letterheads, forms, brochures, POS115gsm - 350gsm Gloss, Silk & Matt
A5148210Flyers, notepads
A6 105148Postcards250gsm - 350gsm Gloss, Silk & Matt

 

ISO C Paper Sizes

ISO C Paper Sizes
C-sizes are used for envelopes to match the A-series paper sizes.
SizeWidth (mm)Height (mm)
C2648458
C3458324
C4324229
C5229162
C6162114

Other Sizes

Other Sizes
SizeWidth (mm)Height (mm)Typical Use
DL21099Comp slips
DL Envelope220110Comp slips
Business Card8555

VAT on print

VAT on printed items

For further information on VAT for printed items, please click here

Web2Print

What do you offer with Web2Print?

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!).

My details are incorrect on my proof. What should I do?

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.

Can I change my delivery address?

Yes, it is possible to change your delivery address. You can do this at the shopping basket stage when you process your items.

Can I change my billing address?

I’m afraid we aren’t able to edit your billing address.

What payment options can be used with Web2Print?

There is the option for customers to pay by invoice or credit card with Web2Print.

Can I split my delivery?

I’m afraid this isn’t possible, but please email [email protected] if this is something you’d be interested in.