Print production generates waste: trim from sheet size to trim size, spoilage during setup, and occasional misfeeds or defects. Printers build a waste factor into material and sometimes into quantity.
Where waste comes from
Sheets are larger than trim size; the difference is trim waste. Makeready uses sheets to get color and registration right. Running 500 does not mean 500 perfect sheets from the first pull; we order and run slightly more to yield your quantity.
How it affects price
Material cost includes the extra we need to yield your order. For large runs the waste factor is a small percentage; for short runs it can be a larger share of the cost. We do not charge you for waste separately; it is in the quote.
What you can do
• Order standard sizes when possible; they fit the press with less trim waste.
• Understand that "500 delivered" may mean we ran slightly more to get 500 good.
• Ask if the quote assumes standard waste; custom sizes can increase waste.
Common mistake
Assuming every sheet we run is delivered to you. We run enough to cover waste and yield your quantity. That is built into the price.