Friday Archive Dive: Reading a Printer's Spec Sheet

Today's Friday Archive Dive is from May 19, 2009, when we discussed the intricacies of reading a printer's spec sheet. This is a detailed quote that you'd get from an offset printer like TransContinental, in preparing to do a large-scale book run.

So, you've decided to get a quote from and honest-to-goodness printer for your next book run. You've e-mailed a quote request, and you've gotten a prompt response. One that you cannot decipher for the life of you. Fear not, here's a quick guide based on an actual book quote:

QUANTITY: 500- 1,000- 1,500 (10 % overs/unders) SIZE: 8 1/2 X 11 finished, with bleedsCOVER: Printed 4/0, Process, offset printing. Gloss lamination. Supplied by customer: PDF files.Supplied by printer: Color proofs, 1 set, high resolution digital. TEXT: 60 lbs text House brand uncoated offset - Printed 1/1 (Black), offset printing. BINDING: Perfect bound. PACKING: In double wall cartons on skids. FREIGHT: F.O.B. Client: Philadelphia, PA 191** USA- Residential delivery with tailgate. Additional handling, freight or storage is extra TAXES: Applicable taxes extra. TERMS: To be determined - Subject to review. QUANTITY: 500       -      1,000     -    1,500 Total cost: $2119.00  -   $2749.00  -  $3369.00 Per-Unit: $4.238      -   $2.749     -    $2.246

Log in to read the entire post.