FAQs home

Frequently Asked Questions

I am a new customer, how do I begin ordering?

Here are a few ways to begin.

  1. Give us a call so we can get you started 800-354-9733
  2. If you were provided forms by your account executive and you have them handy fill them out and send them over.
  3. Visit our client access area by clicking here to download a customer profile.

Do I have to speak only with my Account Executive about my order?

Not at all, we are all here to serve you. Your account executive is an assigned resource for you but our structure should never get in the way of you getting what you need from us.

Do you do Thermography?

Yes. Most of our Thermography work with either business cards or invitations as it will not travel through a laser printer without melting. We do, however, partner with companies that do print laser guaranteed thermography and will be happy to source your stationery for you if that is what you require.

How long does it take for you to complete my order?

Most business cards print and ship in accordance with a pre-determined day of of the week based upon color; all other items normally ship 7 - 10 business days from receipt of approved proof.

Unique Requirements: Every job has its own unique requirements which may alter the standard delivery. Let us know, we will always work with you to meet any critical deadline that you may have.

What if I don't have artwork?

The designers in our Graphics Department have years of experience designing logos, business cards, forms, brochures, etc. and would be happy to help you. Our fees are very competitive. You can call your account executive to get an estimate.

Contact cindi@imperial-image.com directly to help you with your artwork development or feel free to call 1-800-354-9733.

How do I send a file?

We can accept files supplied on DVD, DVD DL, CD or USB.

We can also accept some smaller files via email. Files should be sent with all supporting fonts and illustrations, stuffed or zipped.

You can upload larger files through our FTP site. Please contact your customer service representative for directions

Why do I have to supply the fonts with my files?

Every font has a number of font houses that create it and each one may be slightly different. In order to be sure that the type, leading or kerning will not shift (re-flow), we ask that you supply us with the version that was used to create the piece. This will insure that your piece will look exactly as you want it to.

What is a "proof"?

A proof is a way to making sure that your job will print exactly as you want it to.

Typically, we will generate an electronic proof for your approval, however, in some cases a hard copy, digitally generated color proof may be more in line.

Do I still need a proof if I supply the artwork?

Yes. Although it is rare, file information, or fonts can shift from computer to computer. Our graphics department always performs a "pre-flight" on all supplied artwork. What this means is that they make sure that all of the fonts are there and readable, all images were supplied and are of the correct resolution, and that the file color separates properly. They will not only prepare a final proof for your inspection, but they will also advise you of their findings on the pre-flight of the file.

This will insure that you get exactly what you are expecting in the finished product.

Why does my printed color look different?

The only way to get an accurate view of what the final piece will look like is to do what is called a press proof. That is where we actually print an offset sample before printing the complete job. However, there is a fee for that. Most of our proofing is done either digitally or electronically and because all screens show color differently and all digital printers simulate the color using multiple inks (often times called CMYK or process), the colors will not be a perfect representation of how the finished product will look. If you specified a Pantone (PMS) color, then look at the color book for the type of paper you are printing on to see what that chosen color should look like. Keep in mind that ink is transparent and thus the color of the paper will effect the final color on the printed piece.

Why does my printed piece look lighter than the digital proof?

Laser printers produce an image with graphite which keeps the image a bit thicker than what is actually specified in the electronic file.

Our graphics rip, however, sends your file directly to the plate from which we will print. This allows a truer representation of what has actually been designed. This does, however, allow for a visual difference between the hard copy proof that you received and the final printed piece that we will deliver.

Can you take an image off a web site?

Web graphics, are usually low resolution gif files. This allows for faster loading of the web page, but images will not reproduce on an offset printed piece clearly.

Can you ship overseas?

Yes, we have many corporate accounts with locations world wide. We regularly ship to Canada and all overseas locations.

How do I pay?

We accept Visa, Master Card and American Express and can supply you with an authorization form. You card will only be charged when your order ships.

We can also ship your order COD through UPS our ground carrier.

Corporate customers can apply for an open account by completing a credit application. Once accounting has had an opportunity to check credit, they will advise you of the determination including the credit limit that has been authorized.