PDF vs JPG vs PNG

"Print-ready" is a term that means specific technical things. A file is print-ready when it meets the requirements of a print shop without requiring changes.

The five requirements

A print-ready file has:

1. Correct dimensions — the file is exactly the size you want printed
2. Bleed — 3 mm of bleed on all edges if any element reaches the edge
3. Safe zone — all critical content at least 3 mm inside the trim line
4. CMYK or print-safe RGB — colours that translate well to print
5. 300 DPI images — any raster image is at 300 DPI at its printed size

What is not required

• A specific file format — PDF, AI, INDD, and others can all be print-ready
• A specific software — the file just needs to meet the technical requirements
• Crop marks — most modern print shops prefer PDFs without crop marks (the file already has bleed)

How to check if your file is print-ready

• Open it at 100% zoom — does it look right?
• Check the file size — if it is suspiciously small, the images may be low-DPI
• Check the dimensions — is it the right size?
• Check the bleed — does any element reach the edge?

In Print Studio, the export panel validates these conditions and shows a summary before you export.

Common problems that make a file not print-ready

• Images at 72 DPI (screen resolution)
• No bleed on a full-coverage design
• Text in RGB that will shift dramatically in CMYK
• Fonts that are not embedded in a PDF
• RGB colours that are out of CMYK range (bright neon greens, electric blues)

What happens if you send a non-print-ready file

The print shop will either:

• Print it as-is (the result may have white edges, blurry images, or shifted colours)
• Ask you to fix the issues (delays your order)
• Reject the order entirely

It is in your interest to verify the file before sending.

FAQ

What is the difference between print-ready and high-quality?

Print-ready is a specific technical standard. High-quality is a subjective term. A high-quality file is not necessarily print-ready.

Can I make a file print-ready after the fact?

In Print Studio, yes. Open the file, set up the document with bleed, replace any low-DPI images, and re-export.

Does the print shop check the file?

Some do, some do not. A reputable shop will flag issues. A self-service shop may print it as-is.