About our Cut-off time
The purpose of our cut-off time is generally to ensure a timely and efficient completion of orders. This includes job processing, file handling, pre-press stage (checking of artwork files), artwork proofing and approvals, printing, finishing, laminating, cutting, packing, and delivery booking or dispatch process. Whew!
Overall, our cut-off time helps to create structure and order, prevent delays, and guarantee that your rush orders are completed efficiently and effectively to meet your deadlines.
Order Process
Please be advised that any delays with the following steps that require your action can have an impact on your order, and your due date will be adjusted accordingly depending on your chosen turnaround time. To avoid delays, please ensure you are on the lookout for the next steps that require your attention.
To make it happen together, you only need to do 1…2…3… 4… 5 Steps in the process, we’ll take care of the rest! See our order process below and get involved:
What are your options for delivery?
Know the best delivery option for your order Learn more here
Why 10am?
10:00 AM cut-off allows us enough time to get everyone's job into production in an orderly fashion.
1
Job Processing
This is the first stage where the job is received and entered into the production workflow. It includes determining the customer requirements, assigning a job number, and scheduling the job.
2
File Handling
This stage involves receiving and checking the artwork files for any errors, such as incorrect resolution, colour mode, or missing fonts. The files may also need to be adjusted to meet the printer's requirements.
3
Pre-press Stage
This stage involves a designer checking or setting up the artwork files to ensure all artwork guidelines have been followed depending on what design service you paid for. The pre-press team will also provide a soft proof of the artwork for approval. Learn more about our Artwork Guidelines
4
Artwork Proofing and Approvals
Once the artwork files are checked or set up, a proof is generated for approval. You will be given the opportunity to make any final corrections before the printing stage.
5
Printing
This is the stage where the final artwork is printed onto the chosen substrate, such as paper, vinyl, or fabric. The printing process will vary depending on the type of printer used.
6
Finishing
Once the printing is complete, your item moves to the finishing department. Finishing may involve laminating, cutting, mounting, or any other special finishing requirements. Please take note that if you require special finishes, these may need a longer turnaround time due to complexities or dry times before moving to the next stage.
7
Packing
After quality check to ensure that the products meet your requirements, the finished products are packed and ready for dispatch.
8
Delivery booking or Dispatch Process
The final stage involves preparing the items for collection and booking the delivery if required. Logistics planning and tracking of the delivery are organised to help ensure that they are dispatched on the agreed turnaround.
Each stage is critical to ensuring that the final product meets your expectations and is dispatched on time.
Mechanics of Cut-off time
Our cut-off time is strictly at 10:00 AM especially for Same Day orders, but if you require your prints at a longer turnaround time, for example 4-7 business days, we have a bit more flexibility with the cut-off time. You may refer to the list below.
Example: If you placed your order on a Monday.
Before cut-off
If you have settled your payment and artwork approval by 10am your timeline is:
Same Day
DAY 0
T
W
TH
F
Next Business Day
M
DAY 0
DAY 1
W
TH
F
2 Business Days
M
DAY 0
T
DAY 1
DAY 2
TH
F
4 Business Days
M
DAY 0
T
DAY 1
W
DAY 2
TH
DAY 3
DAY 4
7 Business Days
M
DAY 0
T
DAY 1
W
DAY 2
TH
DAY 3
F
DAY 4
M
DAY 5
T
DAY 6
DAY 7
TH
F
Past cut-off
If you have settled your payment and artwork approval after 10am your timeline is:
Same Day
M
DAY 0
W
TH
F
Next Business Day
M
T
DAY 0
DAY 1
TH
F
2 Business Days
M
T
DAY 0
W
DAY 1
DAY 2
F
4 Business Days
M
T
DAY
0
W
DAY
1
TH
DAY
2
F
DAY
3
DAY4
T
W
TH
F
7 Business Days
M
T
DAY 0
W
DAY 1
TH
DAY 2
F
DAY 3
M
DAY 4
T
DAY 5
W
DAY 6
DAY 7
F
Want to understand better? Take this Dispatch Calculator to know which turnaround would you need.
Don't miss your deadline
We've got systems in place to meet your deadlines, but if we miss a cut-off time, it could cause delays in dispatch and delivery or cost extra for faster options. Let's work together to make sure everything's on track and stress-free.
Other possible delays that could affect your order’s turnaround time could be:
- Acknowledged receipt of order, payment and artwork approval after cut-off time
- Payment, or proof of payment for direct debit, has not been received.
- Artwork files submitted are not print-ready
- Revisions with artwork / design
- Artwork files are not supplied in the correct size
- Payment has not been received
- No response from you via email or call when a challenge arises
- Holiday on a Weekday
As such, it is important to be aware of and adhere to cut off times and order process in order to ensure timely completion of your orders.
Inkie's Tip!
Do you need your orders super, super urgently? Here are some tips for faster turnaround?
- Go for the classic or standard sizes and finishes (eg. 90x55mm Classic Business Cards)
- Steer clear of special finishes unless you have time to spare (as these will need more time for finishing)
- Pickup your order/s at our location once notified of completion (3:00 PM onwards, please)
- Book an Uber for point-to-point delivery if you are within Melbourne
- Of course, choose the quickest options - Same Day Dispatch and Courier
Thanks for reading about our cut-off time.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to send us a quick chat, our live agents are available from Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM.
If you’d like to get started on an order send us your order details at helpeme@samedayprinting.com.au
