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ARTWORK + PREFLIGHT

CLEAN FILES PRINT CLEANER.

A strong production file removes guesswork before the printer starts. Use this guide for scale, resolution, color, layers, fonts, bleed, and contour-cut preparation.

Preferred: layered TIFF / PSD · Vector PDF / AI / EPS

THE TWO CORE RESOLUTION TARGETS

Build to one known scale.

Large-format resolution only makes sense when the physical scale is known. State the scale clearly so preflight can verify it.

FULL-SIZE ARTWORK150 DPIAt 100% final output size
1:10 SCALE ARTWORK720 DPIAt one-tenth final output size

BEFORE YOU SEND IT

Eight checks that prevent expensive surprises.

01Confirm final scale

State whether the file is full size or reduced scale. Put the scale in the file name and production notes.

02Use the right resolution

Target 150 DPI at full size or 720 DPI at 1:10 scale unless the project is reviewed and approved otherwise.

03Build in RGB

Work in an RGB color space and embed the intended profile. Call out brand colors that require special attention.

04Keep useful layers

Keep editable source artwork available if changes become necessary. Send the final print file first; source files are only needed for agreed correction work.

05Package vector assets

Outline fonts or include them, embed linked artwork, and supply clean vector logos whenever possible.

06Protect critical content

Keep logos, phone numbers, and other essential copy away from trims, seams, handles, hinges, and panel edges.

07Include working bleed

Extend backgrounds and image content past the expected panel edge. Final bleed is confirmed against the panel plan.

08Name cut paths clearly

Use a separate, clearly labeled vector spot path for contour-cut work and identify any weed or mask requirements.

OPTIONAL FREE REVIEW

What our experienced team looks for.

Choose FREE REVIEW with your print order for one initial review and one recheck. We assess what the supplied file lets us inspect and flag potential concerns.

Scale

Document size, stated ratio, vehicle template, and final output dimensions.

Resolution

Effective raster resolution at the declared final production scale.

Color

RGB setup, embedded profile, rich blacks, gradients, and identified brand colors.

Layers

Useful production structure, linked assets, hidden alternates, and required masks.

Fonts

Outlined or packaged type and obvious legibility concerns. You verify spelling and contact details.

Cut paths

Closed vector paths, clear naming, offsets, and intended print/cut behavior.

Panel logic

Overlap intent, alignment, safe areas, orientation, and install sequence.

Release notes

Material, finish, quantity, vehicle, version, and approved proof.

Review flags potential issues; it does not guarantee every error will be found or confirm vehicle fit without verified measurements. Corrections and further reviews are quoted separately. Review does not replace proof approval. The customer or trade partner remains responsible for confirming spelling, numbers, layout, vehicle, coverage, and final art.

FILE DELIVERY

Name it so the shop can follow it.

A useful filename identifies the customer, vehicle, side or panel, scale, and version. Example: Acme_Transit_LH_1to10_V04.psd. Include a low-resolution reference proof and production notes with the working files.

YOUR NEXT PRINT RUN

Have files ready? Start the quote.

List the file format, scale, material, finish, quantity, destination, and required arrival date.