How do I become a dealer?
Very easy. But you must be within the graphic and print trade. Just contact us via email. We reserve the right to refuse the application.
What program(s) do you accept files in?
We accept files in Adobe Photoshop CS3 or lower & Illustrator CS3 or lower, or any file saved as a .tiff , .jpg or .EPS file. Make sure all file images are at least 300 dpi. (Please make sure that the text is converted to outlines/curves to avoid font problems).
What is the turnaround time/production time?
For business cards, postcards, stickers, bookmarks and short run(under qty 5,000) of brochure/flyers, it is usually 7-10 working days after your approval of the proof.
What type of media do you accept files in?
We can accept files placed on floppy disks, zip disks, and CD-ROMS. But the fastest way to process your order is if you email or upload your artwork to us. (Zipped files would be recommended for artwork sent via email or upload).
What resolution should I save my images/files?
We recommend that the file or image to be at least 300dpi.
What is full bleed?
Full Bleed is when the ink is printed to the edges of all sides. There are no white border. If you want full bleed, please make sure the file you suply us has the colors go all the way to the edge. If you do NOT wish for bleeds and want a white border, please make sure there is at least 1/4″ of white border.
What Size should I set my business cards?
The cards should be setup to 3.75″ x 2.25″ which will be trimmed to the standard 3.5″ x 2″. We have templates for almost everything we print, click here.
Can I rush an order?
We offer faster production times on many items. Some may be NBD, Next Business Day etc. Then, we can ship via Next Day air or 2nd Day Air when the printing is done. These features cost more.
Why submit vector art, my file worked for brochures?
Vector art allows us to trap spot colors to improve registration. Apparel printing, 1 color printing, spot color printing and small type need to be designed in vector format. Many other products are printed in full color and do not need to be vector. Often Illustrator is used for vector artwork.
Can I increase the dpi to raise my resolution?
No, once the art has had the dpi reduced it cannot be raised again. The files should be at least 300 dpi.
Do we need white on clear products?
Yes. The opacity of the inks will not hold up once the decal is placed on glass or a color background. White should be used to either back up the art or as a flood behind the entire decal. Indicate which method to use for the white on your order.
Why do I need spot colors on my 4-color process art?
Large areas of coverage and specific PMS matches are not guaranteed in printing. Often a spot color is needed to meet our clients’ expectations.
When I submit spot colors, why do you ask for 4-color process?
It really depends on the art. Photographs and art with many shades are often better as 4-color process. Art is often submitted with spot colors identified, but unnamed or multi-color blends usually separate themselves into CMYK.
My art looked fine on the laser printout, but very rough on the decals I got, why?
If a low resolution tiff or grayscale art is submitted it will look better on laser paper. Laser or ink jet printers recognize shapes of gray and will not utilize a halftone dot. If the art is grayscale and no tones requested, the art looses all the shading in the film process. Thus the image detail drops out and prints very rough.
How can I upload my artwork files?
Customers usually use www.yousendit.com or email us. We can also provide an ftp site to upload very large files to if you need it.
Is consecutive numbering available?
Consecutive numbering is available on some products. If you have a particular item that does not say it can be numbered, just ask!
Will you send a proof before my job is printed?
If we are designing you piece, you will recieve a proof via email. When placing your order please indicate whether you would like to receive a proof and by which method. We can email or mail (at customer’s cost) a proof. Please remember that production time does not begin until after the proof has been approved and returned.
Ordering Information: Can I email my order to you?
Yes you can send your order via email to print@metroink.com. Please include the following when sending email:
1. Complete name, address, and telephone numbers
2. Note whether information is for a quote or for an order
3. Material
4. Item
5. Size
6. Quantity
7. Colors, including names and numbers
When we receive your email, you will receive a response from us stating that we received your file. If you do not receive this confirmation within a period of one hour after sending the file, please resend the file. It is a good idea to compress files to avoid problems during transmission. To assure we can accurately view your art, please send a JPEG or PDF file along with your vector art.
What if I need to cancel an order?
If you need to cancel an order please contact us as soon as possible. There will be no cancellation charges if the order is cancelled before the artwork is started. An order cannot be cancelled if it has been started or produced.
Can I order a non-standard quantity?
Only on large format items.
Do you have overruns/underruns?
On certain label jobs and some yes, a shipment of 5% over or under the quantity ordered will constitute a complete order and will be billed accordingly.
Is there are charge for halftones?
On certain labels, yes.
What are the turnaround times for your products?
Our production time varies from product to product. Each product page lists estimated production time.
What are your shipping policies?
We ship Ground Freight via our standard carriers, most often UPS Ground. If Motor Freight shipments are required you will be made aware and an estimate will be given.
Can you ship my order C.O.D.?
No.
Can you split shipment my order?
Not on most jobs. Please contact us about this if you need it.
Can you send me samples?
Yes we can send you a variety of samples. To request samples please fill out our online form, click here.