What "print-ready" actually means

Print-ready is a standard, not a guess. Missing elements cause stops and rework.

5 min read · Updated Feb 2, 2026

In this guide

"Print-ready" means the file and specs meet the requirements for production without further changes. If something is missing or wrong, we have to stop and ask.

File requirements

Correct size, resolution, color mode (CMYK for print), and bleed where needed. Fonts outlined or embedded. No low-res images or missing links. We can list exact requirements per job type.

Specs and approval

Quantity, substrate, and finish must be confirmed. If you approve a proof, that is the standard we run to. Changing your mind after approval can mean rework or a new quote.

Checklist: print-ready

• File at final size, correct DPI, CMYK.

• Fonts outlined or embedded; no missing links.

• Quantity, material, and finish agreed.

Common mistake

Calling a file "print-ready" because it looks right on screen. Screen and press are different. We verify against production requirements before we run.

How we do it at Print Wave

We run a prep check on every file. If anything fails our print-ready criteria, we report it and do not start production until it is resolved.

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