Many different printing companies offer a range of book printing services, but how do you know the best company to use that can provide you with quality books at a great price? Imagine the excitement of holding your freshly printed book, knowing that every detail is exactly as you envisioned. Now, contrast that with the frustration of discovering misprints, delayed shipments, or unexpected costs.
The printing company you choose is crucial in determining whether your experience is smooth and successful or has challenges that could have been avoided.
To help you navigate this important decision, we’ve compiled five essential questions you should ask any potential printing company before committing to an order. These questions will guide you in identifying a company that stands out in key areas, from what sets them apart in a competitive market to how they handle custom requests, meet deadlines, ensure consistent quality, and maintain transparency in pricing.
1. What Sets Your Printing Company Apart from Competitors?
In such a competitive market, it may seem like many companies offer a similar service. However, the tiny details in a company’s offering can make a big difference. Those unique qualities can significantly affect your overall experience and the final product.
Why It’s Important:
Knowing what sets a printing company apart allows you to determine whether they have specific capabilities or values that align with your project’s needs. Perhaps they offer eco-friendly printing options that meet your sustainability goals and appeal to environmentally-conscious readers. Or maybe they provide specialised services, like custom binding techniques or unique finishes, that can give your book a distinct edge in the market.
Details to Look For:
- Unique Services or Processes: Does the company use any cutting-edge technology that could enhance the quality or efficiency of your print job? For instance, do they offer eco-friendly printing, sewn-binding or special foil blocking?
- Special Guarantees: Look for offerings that other companies might not provide. This could include faster turnaround times or additional publishing services like cover design and book formatting.
- Approach to Quality and Customer Satisfaction: How does the company consistently meet high standards? A company that prioritises customer satisfaction and a quality print should be a priority.
Follow-Up Question:
What specific services do you offer that your competitors don’t?
Can you give an example of a unique project you’ve handled recently?
How do you ensure high quality in every project you take on?
2. How Do You Handle Custom Printing Requests?
For many self-publishing authors, having a unique book is essential. Whether it’s a custom book size, a special cover finish, or a bespoke binding option, having these choices can turn a good book into a great one. However, not all printing companies are equipped to handle such requests with the same level of expertise and flexibility.
Why It’s Important:
Custom book printing allows you to tailor your book to stand out in the market. Remember the saying, “Do not judge a book by its cover?” Well, they often are. Custom printing options are particularly important if you’re looking to create something that’s visually striking or if your project demands specific materials or finishes that aren’t part of standard offerings. A book printing company’s ability to handle these requests can put your book in front of other books in the market.
Details to Look For:
- Examples of Past Custom Projects: Ask the company to provide examples of previous custom work they’ve done. This could include projects with unique trim sizes, special cover finishes like embossing or foil stamping, or non-standard binding options. Any book printer should be able to send you samples and if they refuse then you should find a different company.
- Flexibility in Handling Requests: Do they have a streamlined process for managing custom projects from start to finish? Can they adapt quickly if there are changes or new requirements? What happens if something goes wrong? They should have plans in place to accommodate all requests.
- Limitations and Additional Costs: Custom books often come with additional costs. Before you proceed, make sure to discuss any potential limitations and get a clear understanding of the pricing.
Follow-Up Question:
What are the minimum order requirements for custom-printed books?
Can you accommodate custom requests for both small and large print runs?
How do you ensure consistency in quality for custom features across all copies?
3. What Are Your Turnaround Times and Can You Meet My Deadline?
Whether you’re planning a book launch event, a promotional campaign, or simply eager to get your book into readers’ hands, meeting your deadlines is crucial. That’s why understanding a printing company’s production timelines is essential before you commit. Many book printers will have different turnaround times for different projects. Some companies will use automated processes to increase turnaround times while other companies might need you to pre-book a production slot.
Why It’s Important:
Knowing the turnaround times for your print job can help you plan your project more effectively and avoid unnecessary delays. This is particularly important if you have a specific launch date in mind or if your book’s release is tied to a particular event or season. The ability of a company to meet your deadline can make the difference between a successful launch and a missed opportunity.
Details to Look For:
- Typical Turnaround Times: Ask about the standard production timelines for different types of print runs, whether short-run or long-run, hardback or paperback. This will give you an idea of how long the process typically takes and whether it aligns with your schedule.
- Rush Order Options: If you’re working with a tight deadline, find out if the company offers rush order services. It’s also important to understand any additional fees associated with expedited printing, as these can significantly impact your budget.
- Handling and Communication of Delays: Delays can happen, but how a company handles them makes all the difference. Inquire about their process for managing and communicating potential delays or unexpected issues during the printing process.
Follow-Up Question:
What are your procedures if a delay occurs during the printing process?
How far in advance should I book a production slot to ensure timely delivery?
Are there specific times of the year when turnaround times are longer due to high demand?
4. How Do You Ensure Print Quality?
The final printed book reflects your hard work and dedication and every copy must be printed to a high standard. Most printing companies will use the latest generation of printing presses, but quality control can vary between companies. How will your chosen company ensure the books pass a rigorous quality control procedure?
Why It’s Important:
Print quality and consistency are critical to ensuring that every copy of your book meets your expectations and provides a professional, polished look. Whether it’s the text’s crispness, the cover’s vibrancy, or the binding’s durability, these elements all contribute to the overall impression your book makes. A reliable printing company should have stringent quality control measures in place to catch and correct any issues before they become a problem.
Details to Look For:
- Quality Control Measures: Inquire about the company’s quality control processes at each stage of the printing process, from file preparation to the final production run. Will they supply a digital proof copy before printing?
- Handling of Print Defects: Errors can occur at any stage of print, and it’s important to know how the company addresses any defects that may arise. How do they handle corrections if issues are found after printing has started?
- Reprint and Refund Policies: Ask about their policy on reprints or refunds if significant quality issues are discovered. A company that stands behind its work will have clear, fair policies for rectifying any problems that may occur.
Follow-Up Question:
Do you offer a physical proof copy before the full print run, and is there an additional cost for this?
How do you handle discrepancies or errors that are found after the print run has started?
What is your policy for reprints if the final product does not meet the agreed-upon quality standards?
5. What Are the Total Costs Involved, Are There Any Hidden Fees?
While quality and service are essential, understanding the costs is equally important. Most book printing companies will have an online price calculator where you can get accurate costs for your book. However, it is worth asking for discounts and contacting them to see if there are set in-house specifications to get a better price. You also need to ensure the costs they give you, including all fees and shipping costs are accounted for.
Why It’s Important:
Knowing exactly what you’re paying for allows you to budget accurately and make informed decisions about the services you need. Without a clear understanding of the total costs involved, you might be dealing with unexpected expenses that could have been anticipated and planned for.
Details to Look For:
- Detailed Breakdown of Costs: Request a comprehensive breakdown of all costs involved in the printing process. Ask for a full specification, this will also allow you to easily compare costs between different printing companies.
- Potential Hidden Fees: Be aware of fees that might not be immediately obvious, such as charges for rush orders or last-minute changes
- Payment Terms and Options: Do they require full payment upfront, or do they offer flexible options like deposits or payment plans? Do you have to pay before the printing car start or is it payment when the books are ready for dispatch?
Follow-Up Question:
Do you offer any discounts for bulk orders or for using in-house specifications?
Are there any circumstances that could lead to additional costs after the initial quote is provided?
How do your shipping costs vary depending on the destination and the size of the print run?