When you need custom labels or stickers fast, expedited printing services promise lightning-fast turnaround. But rushed production comes at a premium cost. This guide explores how expedited printing works so you can get your orders quickly without overpaying.
Understanding Expedited Printing Fees
Expedited printing services charge fees on top of normal production costs to jump your order to the front of the production queue. Common fees include:
- Rush service fees - a flat rate or percentage markup added to your order for expedited handling and production. This can range from 10-100%+ over standard rates.
- Overtime/off-hour production fees - some shops charge extra rates for working outside normal business hours to fulfill rushed orders.
- Shipping upgrade fees - expedited shipping methods like overnight or 2-day air can add substantial shipping charges.
When combined, these fees can more than double standard printing costs. Carefully review any premiums and charges so you know what to expect.
When every minute counts, expedited printing gets your custom labels and stickers delivered quickly, but with great speed comes great cost - rush fees can inflate quotes by 25% or more.
Here’s what to expect when you need order fulfillment to shift into overdrive:
- Most expedited print services impose flat rush order fees starting at 15-20% per job. The faster the deadline, the higher the premium. Intense 24-48 hour turnarounds can command fees exceeding 100% over standard quotes.
- You’ll also pay extra for overtime and weekend production to hit extreme deadlines. Running printers overnight or on Sundays costs staff overtime and utility surcharges - expenses passed onto the rushed order.
- Finally, expect to pay dearly for rapid order shipment via next-day, second-day, or Saturday delivery channels through FedEx, UPS, and other carriers.
To keep costs down, resist choosing the fastest option unless essential. Compare standard versus expedited turnaround times and weigh where to compromise speed to control fees. Submit orders as early as possible to build in padding, too - rushed printers leave no margin for error.
Examining Your Rush Printing Options
Print shops offer escalating levels of expedited service depending on your needs:
- 1-2 Day Expedited Turnaround
The fastest turnaround for simple print jobs. Files must be print-ready, and no revisions are possible. Best for emergency reprints or small orders.
2. 3-5 Day Expedited Turnaround
Allows time for minor proofing/revisions. Best for urgent sticker or label orders up to 5,000 units. Larger orders may require 5+ days.
3. 5-7 Day Expedited Turnaround
Ideal for larger orders that need review and revisions. Gives you time for quality checks while receiving orders faster than the standard 10-15 day turnaround.
4. Weekend/Off-Hour Production
Some printers offer overtime and weekend services for extreme deadlines. Expect to pay the highest premiums for after-hours and overnight production.
Balancing Speed and Budget
Order size, materials, and other factors affect turnaround times and costs. When evaluating expedited printing:
- Identify Must-Have Deadlines: Review lead times for must-meet deadlines to pinpoint the latest order dates. Build in buffer room for problems.
- Weigh Deadlines Against Costs: Compare standard vs. expedited turnaround options and fees to balance speed with budgets. Expedited printing can cost 25-50% more per order.
- Get Digital First: Digital printing is far faster than traditional offset methods. Go digital for all orders under 5,000 units.
- Size Matters: Large orders naturally take longer. Breaking large print runs into smaller batches can expedite fulfillment.
- Simplify Order Details: Fancy finishes, complex die cuts, and custom materials add production time. Streamline order details to eliminate delays.
Insider Tips for Faster Turnaround
Years of experience have taught us crucial lessons for optimizing expedited print orders:
- Prepare Print-Ready Files: Rushed orders leave no time for back-and-forth file revisions. Make sure your artwork and labels are pre-formatted and ready to print.
- Provide Supply Files Early: For custom labels, supply digital die lines, dimensions, and other guide files as early as possible to avoid delays.
- Confirm Production Details Early: Double-check quantities, dimensions, materials, shipping details, etc., before production to prevent costly corrections.
- Pay Close Attention to Proofing: Carefully review initial proofs and provide prompt approval to keep production moving swiftly.
- Communicate Clearly: Quickly respond to all printer communications to prevent delays while orders are in process.
With smart preparation and clear printer communication, you can receive rushed custom label printer orders pronto without paying a king’s ransom in fees and premiums. Just plan, confirm all order details, and work closely with your expedited printing partner for fast turnaround without hidden hassles.