Upload rules that fit the job before it reaches production
Artwork rules define what a customer may upload, what the system must flag, and which files can move through to proofing or production. For print shops, that means setting the right file types, artwork size checks, bleed allowances, safe areas and colour handling before anyone places an order into the queue.
We shape the rules around the products you sell, from business cards and flyers to pull-up banners, stickers, NCR books and wide-format items. A small garment order needs different checks to a folded brochure, so the rules cannot be one-size-fits-all. The aim is to catch avoidable errors early, without making the upload path clumsy for the customer.
- Accepted file types such as PDF, JPG, PNG and TIFF where suitable
- Minimum pixel or resolution checks for raster artwork
- Trim, bleed and safe-zone rules for finished sizes
- Font outline or embedding prompts for text-heavy artwork
- File size limits for smoother uploads on slower connections
Preflight rules for print-ready files
Preflight is where the system checks a file before it reaches your production team. We configure artwork rules to test the items that matter in a print environment, then route the order based on what the file contains. A clean file can move forward, while a file with missing bleed, low resolution or a colour mismatch can be flagged for review.
This is useful for shops that handle both self-service uploads and assisted orders. Your team may want some jobs to pass automatically, while others sit for checking because the product, stock or finishing method needs a closer look. We set those thresholds in plain terms so the team can use them without guessing.
- Image resolution checks for 300 dpi where needed, or another set value for large-format work
- Bleed checks, usually 3 mm for small-format items and larger allowances where the product needs it
- Colour-space prompts for CMYK, spot colour or mixed workflows
- Optional warnings for overprint, transparency and hidden layers in PDFs
- Approval paths for artwork that needs manual review before proofing
How we map rules to each product and template
Artwork rules work best when they are linked to the product template, not buried in a general notice that everyone ignores. A business card may need one set of checks, while a vehicle magnet, presentation folder or custom label needs another. We build the rules around your template structure, so the customer sees the right instructions at the right moment.
That setup usually includes the artwork upload screen, mandatory fields, proofing notes and the internal handoff into production. If a product has multiple sizes or finishes, we can set separate checks for each option. The result is a cleaner order flow, less back-and-forth in the shop and fewer files needing rework at the press floor.
- Product-specific rules for each size, finish or substrate
- Artwork notes linked to the exact item being ordered
- Separate checks for reprints, uploads and supplied print-ready files
- Optional customer prompts for spelling checks, version names and quantity matching
The setup process from brief to live rules
We start with the products you want to sell online and the file issues your team sees most often. Then we set the artwork logic, define the upload standards and test the order flow against sample files. If a shop offers both trade and retail work, the rules can differ by portal so corporate buyers do not see the same steps as walk-in customers.
After testing, we review the proofs, the warning messages and the production handoff. This is the point where small details matter, such as whether a file should be rejected, held for approval or allowed through with a warning. The setup is practical work, not a generic list of print terms copied into the storefront.
- Discovery of your product list and current artwork problems
- Rule setup for uploads, preflight and proofing
- Testing with sample files, including low-res and wrong-size artwork
- Final checks with your team before launch
Pricing, timing and support around the artwork build
Artwork rules are usually priced as part of a larger storefront setup or template build, then adjusted if the catalogue grows or the workflow becomes more complex. A single product family is one shape of work, while a full catalogue with many sizes, customer types and approval paths takes more shaping. We scope the work by product count, rule depth and the amount of testing needed.
For timing, the work depends on how many file rules, proof stages and template variants need to be covered. Larger jobs may also need a round of admin guidance so your team knows how to manage uploads, reject files, release proofs and read the status trail. The fee structure stays tied to the work involved, not a generic package that ignores the product mix.
- Quoted according to product count and workflow complexity
- Separate scoping where custom artwork checks are needed for many item types
- Option to add artwork rules during a wider portal or catalogue project
- Support for changes when new products or finishing methods are added
Aftercare once the first orders start flowing
Once the rules are live, the team may still need small adjustments as real orders come through. A banner size may need a different safe area, or a brochure proof may need clearer warnings on bleed and folding. We stay close to the workflow so the rules stay useful when the catalogue shifts, the artwork standard changes or a new staff member takes over admin tasks.
Aftercare also covers practical questions from the production side. If your staff notice that certain files keep arriving in the wrong format, we can tighten the checks or change the wording so the customer sees the instruction sooner. That kind of refinement keeps the upload path cleaner without making the order process feel heavy.
- Rule adjustments after live orders reveal weak spots
- Support for new products, reprints and seasonal catalogue updates
- Guidance for staff who manage artwork approvals and proof release
- Workflow review when the production line changes
Key facts
| Accepted artwork types | PDF, JPG, PNG and TIFF where suitable |
|---|---|
| Resolution checks | Set per product, commonly 300 dpi for small-format print |
| Bleed and safe area | Product-specific bleed and trim rules, often 3 mm on compact items |
| Proofing flow | Automatic pass, hold for review, or proof required |
| Portal fit | Retail and B2B portals can use different artwork rules |
| Setup coverage | Upload rules, preflight checks, proof notes and production handoff |
