What Happens After Artwork Upload

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Overview of the Post-Upload Workflow #

Uploading artwork is only the beginning of the production process. Once files are submitted, they move through a structured workflow designed to confirm technical suitability, ensure accurate output, and schedule the job correctly within production capacity.

This sequence applies to most commercial print orders, whether they are instant-price products or quotation-based jobs. Understanding what happens after upload helps set realistic expectations for turnaround times and explains why production does not always begin immediately after files are submitted.

Step 1: File Receipt and System Processing #

When artwork is uploaded, the system first records the files against the order or quotation reference. Basic automated checks may run in the background to verify:

• File format compatibility

• Presence of bleed and trim boxes

• Page count

• Colour mode

• Image resolution

• Embedded fonts or outlined text

These automated scans do not replace human review. Their purpose is to flag obvious technical problems early so they can be routed for correction before manual preflight begins.

If files are incomplete or corrupted, the order may be paused until replacement files are uploaded.

Step 2: Manual Preflight Review #

After automated checks, files typically go through a manual preflight process. This is a technical inspection carried out by production staff to confirm that artwork meets printing requirements.

Preflight reviews commonly check:

• Trim size and bleed setup

• Safe margins

• Colour profiles and spot colours

• Overprint settings

• Transparency flattening

• Image resolution

• Black builds

• Die-cut or finishing layers

• Pagination and imposition needs

If issues are found, the order status changes to request revised artwork or clarification. Production does not begin while files remain in revision status.

Step 3: Artwork Clarifications and Revisions #

When adjustments are needed, customers are usually notified with specific notes describing what must be corrected. Typical revision requests include:

• Adding missing bleed

• Supplying higher-resolution images

• Converting colours to CMYK

• Fixing font embedding

• Separating Spot UV or die-cut layers

• Correcting page order

Turnaround times pause during this stage because the production schedule cannot be finalised until print-ready files are received. The sooner revised files are uploaded, the sooner the job can re-enter the queue.

Step 4: Proofing (Where Applicable) #

Some orders require proofing before production begins. Proofing can involve:

• Digital soft proofs (PDF previews)

• Colour-managed previews

• Physical sample prints for approval

• Layout confirmation sheets

Proofing is used to verify content, layout, pagination, and sometimes colour expectations. It is not intended for redesign or major creative changes.

Once a proof is issued:

• The order remains on hold

• Production slots are reserved tentatively

• The clock resumes only after approval is received

Delays in approving proofs commonly result in missed cut-offs and rescheduled delivery dates.

Step 5: Payment or Account Verification #

In most workflows, production does not start until payment has been confirmed or account billing approval is in place.

Orders may be paused at this stage if:

• Payment has not cleared

• Transfer confirmation is pending

• Credit terms have not been approved

• Additional charges require confirmation after file review

For quotation-based jobs, this step often occurs after artwork review because pricing may depend on final specifications.

Step 6: Production Scheduling #

Once files are approved and payment is cleared, the job is released into production scheduling. This involves:

• Assigning press time

• Allocating finishing capacity

• Reserving paper stocks

• Planning binding or cutting stages

• Slotting delivery or collection windows

At this point, the order is considered confirmed and subject to the published turnaround rules. Any changes requested after scheduling — such as artwork replacements or specification adjustments — may require the job to be removed from the queue and rebooked.

Step 7: Printing and Finishing #

The order then moves through physical production:

• Printing on digital or offset presses

• Drying or curing

• Lamination or coating

• Folding, stitching, or binding

• Die-cutting or stamping

• Trimming and quality checks

Each stage follows its own workflow and capacity limits. Multi-stage jobs naturally take longer than simple flat prints.

Quality control checks are performed before packing to ensure quantities, trim accuracy, and finishing specifications match the order.

Step 8: Packing and Dispatch Preparation #

After production is complete, items are:

• Counted and packed

• Labelled

• Grouped for shipment or pickup

• Prepared for courier handover

Dispatch timing depends on courier collection schedules and internal logistics cut-offs. Jobs completed after daily dispatch windows may ship the following business day even if printing has finished.

Common Reasons for Delays After Upload #

Delays most often occur because of:

• Non-print-ready files

• Missing bleed or incorrect sizes

• Awaiting proof approval

• Late payment confirmation

• Specification changes

• High production volume periods

• Special finishing requirements

Submitting artwork early and following preparation guidelines significantly reduces these risks.

How to Keep Your Order Moving Smoothly #

To avoid interruptions:

• Upload finalised artwork

• Follow file preparation guides

• Respond quickly to revision requests

• Approve proofs promptly

• Complete payment immediately after order placement

• Avoid changes after submission

• Monitor order status updates

Summary #

After artwork upload, files pass through automated checks, manual preflight, revision handling, proofing (if required), payment verification, production scheduling, printing, finishing, and dispatch preparation.

Production only begins once files are approved and payment is cleared. Understanding this workflow helps explain why turnaround times depend not just on upload time, but on how quickly technical and administrative stages are completed.