Getting a file rejection from a print shop is frustrating — especially when you thought the design was finished. In most cases, the rejection comes down to a small number of technical issues that are easy to prevent once you know what to look for.
1. RGB Colour Mode
Most print shops require CMYK colour mode. Files submitted in RGB will either be rejected or converted automatically — often with unexpected colour shifts. Always convert to CMYK before exporting your PDF. You can verify the colour mode with PrintReady247.
2. Missing Bleed
Without a 3 mm bleed margin, backgrounds cannot safely reach the edge after cutting. Many printers enforce this as a hard requirement.
3. Low Resolution Images
Images below 300 DPI at final print size will be flagged or rejected. Screen images (72–96 DPI) are never suitable for print.
4. Fonts Not Embedded
If fonts are not embedded, the printer cannot guarantee the text will look correct. Most professional printers require all fonts to be embedded or outlined.
5. Wrong PDF Standard
Many print shops require files in PDF/X format (PDF/X-1a, PDF/X-3 or PDF/X-4). These standards enforce colour, font and transparency settings required for production printing.
6. Incorrect Page Size
A mismatch between your file size and the ordered print format causes scaling issues. Double-check that your document dimensions match the intended print size, including bleed.
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Run your file through PrintReady247 before submitting to any print shop. It checks all common rejection criteria automatically and generates a clear report.