FAQ - For Print, Promo, Embroidery and Signage
Non-print FAQs
What types of payments do you accept?
We accept checks and all major credit cards. You can also request open account.
Can I see a sample?
Yes! We’re happy to show you a sample of an item(s) you’re considering.
What if I am unhappy with my order?
If you’re unhappy with your order because the product is defective or ‘not as promised’ or the imprint quality isn’t ‘spot on’ just contact your Customer Care Representative and we’ll rerun your order or refund your money. We are in this for the long-haul and will work with you to be sure you’re 100% satisfied.
Do I have to pay for shipping?
There is no shipping charge for sample kit orders within the United States. Shipping sample kits to countries outside of the U.S. may require an additional charge.
Print FAQs
What does “Press Ready” mean?
“Press-Ready” means that your files are ready to be processed into plates for use in our Press. Not all software can save files in a Press-Ready format.
What file formats/ applications* are supported by Press?
We accept files saved at high quality 300dpi resolution from any program as a TIFF, PDF, or EPS.
- QuarkXpress/Indesign: Send all PostScript Type 1 fonts and ensure all colors and any images used are converted to CMYK. Collect for output. Save and send files as a .sit or .sea, or .zip format. Make sure linked images are EPS or TIFFs, and not JPGs. Please remember to send the images and any fonts used in your document.
- Photoshop: Save all files in CMYK color mode. Resolution of file should be 300dpi. Save and send file as a flattened EPS, PDF, JPG or TIFF.
- Illustrator: Make sure colors are in CMYK. Convert all text to outlines. Save and send file as an EPS or PDF.
- Freehand: Make sure colors are in CMYK. Convert all text to outlines. Save and send file as an EPS or PDF.
- Microsoft Word, Publisher, Corel, etc. do not create “PRESS-READY” files for output. Jobs submitted using these applications will incur additional charges to prepare your files for printing.
Can you scan my artwork?
Depending on the type of artwork submitted, we may be able to make modifications to your file. Any requested changes will be subject to an additional charge of at least $35.
Why can’t I submit my job in RGB color mode?
A lot of the colors you create in RGB mode are not achievable using standard four-color process printing. If you submit your job in RGB color mode, we will convert it before it goes to press, which will lead to color shifts that you may not be happy with. It is always best to create your document from the start in CMYK format to ensure that you have a better idea of how your colors are going to print.
If I provide a color proof, can you match it?
Probably not… As color lasers are typically not accurate. If color matching is critical, we highly recommend you request a color proof with your order.
Why did the colors print differently from the color on my monitor?
Monitors display colors in RGB… not CMYK. As well, most monitors are not calibrated for color accuracy. There is also a wide range of gamma differences in PCs, Macs, and various manufacturers of monitors. Room lighting can also have an impact of your perception of color. Leave the color to us – we’re the experts!
Can I create a file exactly to size?
Only if there is NO bleed required… otherwise you must add 1/8″ of bleed around all 4 sides of your files. Download the appropriate template listed above to insure correct bleed and trim settings.
Do you offer other paper stocks?
All our pricing is based on gang-run printing on the paper stock specified in each item’s description. If you wish to print on a custom stock, your price will most likely be significantly higher than our “standard” pricing, since your job will then have to run by itself on press, which means you will incur the full cost of custom plate output, press setup, press time, and cleanup. If you are interested in having a custom quote, please feel free to contact us we’ll be happy to quote your custom project based on your specifications.
What type of paper stocks do you offer?
We offer a variety of paper stocks with different thickness and coating options to choose from. Our 14-pt. paper stock is the most popular for business cards. It is sleek and durable, and you can add an optional UV gloss finish. Our Trifecta paper is our most luxurious stock and ranges between 24 to 38 pt. thickness. Recycled 100 lb. paper is our thinnest cover stock and best for cards that need to be produced in masses.
What is a “Safe Zone” and “Bleed” when it comes to designing?
Your Safe Zone is the area where all your elements (text, images, logos, etc) must be placed so that they are not cut off when the product is trimmed to the final size. • The Bleed is the part outside of the Safe Zone that gets trimmed off when the product is cut to its final size. Bleed is short for all the graphics on a product that will “bleed off the document” so that the color continues to the edge of your final product. Most of our business cards require that your files have a 0.1″ bleed.
Do you have any pre-made templates?
If you need help designing your cards (or just need a little inspiration), we offer several professionally designed industry-specific templates that you can customize with your company name, logo, contact information and more. We carry online design templates specific to popular industries and professions such as real estate, photography, handyman, lawyer, and much more. • The design styles range from modern and trendy to professional and minimal. All our printable design templates are specifically configured to be easily customized and personalized to match your brand’s identity
What is the difference between saddle stitching and perfect binding?
Saddle stitch binding is the most popular binding method for booklets and catalogs with fewer than 100 pages. During this process, the printed pages are stacked on top of each other and stapled together along the fold line to create a spine. The perfect binding method is often required for catalogs with a higher number of pages (the exact number depends on the thickness of the paper used). A perfect bound catalog means that the catalog pages have been gathered and a heavy-duty glue has been applied along the edge. The catalog cover is then placed around the pages and held in place by the glue. This process results in a flat spine. We offer saddle stitch binding for catalogs that are between 8 to 96 pages, and perfect binding for catalogs that are between 48 to 96 pages.
Embroidery FAQs
How much does it cost to get something custom embroidered?
Custom embroidery costs much less than regular traditional embroidery. As state-of-the-art embroidery machines are used to produce beautiful designs whether you want one single unique piece or thousands of pieces in the same design, the scalability of the design and work makes it value for money as well.
How do I order embroidery?
Can you make your own embroidery designs?
At Alpha Imprint, we believe in collaborating with our customers to translate your ideas into a perfect design. If you already know the exact design that you want custom embroidered on your choice of apparel, one of our design experts will sit down with you to create a working design before we begin the process of production
What is the minimum for embroidery?
We have a 12 piece minimum per embroidery design (same thread color and location).
Hats must be ordered in increments of 6.
Is embroidery more expensive than screen printing?
Embroidery can be more expensive than screen printing as an option; however, it depends also on a variety of factors – material chosen, size of the design, colors chosen, etc. For example, the more the number of colors chosen, the costlier does screen printing turn out to be. In the case of embroidery though, it would be a flat rate. Additionally, embroidery can be done on thick and heavy garments as well and due to its durability, embroidered garments last much longer than screen printed ones do.
How long does it take to embroider a name?
Machine embroidery is much faster than the traditional hand embroidery option. A simple name could take as less as an hour or at the most 2 hours. Whereas it could take up to 7 hours when done by hand.
How long does it take to embroider a logo?
If you are looking at a 3000-stitch design with a lot of details, done at 400 stitches a minute, a logo can be machine embroidered in about 4 minutes. Because a logo has far more detailing than a lot of other options, a complex pattern could still take about 2 hours.
How is embroidery priced?
Unlike screen printing, embroidery is priced by stitch count not the number of colors used. Size, design, location, and density all contribute to stitch count.
Can you embroider caps?
Sure can! Embroidered caps are a speciality of ours. Drop us a line to discuss puff embroidery and special placements on caps.
Should I embroider or screen print?
What is the turnaround time?
Standard turnaround time is 7-10 business days. We understand sometimes you’re in a pinch and we always try to accommodate any timeline!
Signage FAQs
How many colors can each banner include?
Alpha Imprint does not have a color limit on its custom banners, allowing you to choose as many photos or graphics as you want on your displays.
Can Alpha Imprint print on both sides of the banner?
Yes, we can print banners on both sides. We use 13 Oz vinyl for double sided printing.
Does Alpha Imprint make vertical print banners?
Yes we do.
What if I don't like the proof of the banner?
Our design team will work with you until we create a banner that satisfies you. If we cannot come to an agreement, you can expect to see a full refund within 24 hours.
What if the colors on the custom banner don't come out the way I expected?
Printers at Alpha Imprint are calibrated to print colors accurately to match the order, but in cases that they do not, we cannot be held responsible. The appearance of the thumbnail could be different on our screens and equipment compared to yours. We will not issue refunds or accept returns due to color, depth or tone. However, we recommend you to provide Pantone + Color Bridge Coated for the best match. We address each of these situations on a case-by-case basis.
Why should I order my custom banners from Alpha Imprint?
- We offer more than 20 years of high-quality printing experience.
- A complimentary design proof is available upon request for all orders.
- Putting in an order through our website is quick and simple.
- We pride ourselves on providing low-cost, high-quality goods.
- Since we are a one-stop shop, we can get your order to you much more quickly than our rivals.
Do the custom banners have grommets or holes along the side for hanging? If so, can I order more for my signage?
All of our banners include grommets every three to four feet, per industry standards. If your banner needs to have grommets placed at specific points, please explain in the ‘special instructions’ box. Also, if grommets are needed, you will have to select them from the dropdown.
I am hanging my custom banner over the street between two poles. What do you recommend to make sure it hangs properly?
Utilizing flexible bungee cords will ensure that the banner will hang in the proper areas. We recommend taking the signage down if the area experiences heavy winds.
Order/payment/shipping FAQs
Does Alpha Imprint give bigger discounts to commercial orders?
Yes, please contact our sales department at orders@alphaimprint.net for more information on how we can process your bulk order.
How much is the shipping cost?
All of the shipping calculations are done based on the product you will order from us. On the cart page, you will see the exact amount for shipping.
How long does it take to receive my custom banner?
Once we get the approval for the artwork, our team will take 12-24 hours to work on the banner. From there, it depends on the type of shipping, which could range between three to nine business days.
Will I get a full refund if I decide not to go with the order after 60 days?
We only provide store credit after 60 days.
Does Alpha Imprint ship outside of the United States?
Yes, we ship outside the US. Below are the details for the countries where we ship. You can also contact our customer support team for more information.
What if my order is not delivered within the guaranteed time frame?
Alpha Imprint‘s website displays an estimated delivery date for your product based on the selected shipping method. Please use the correct payment option when you reach the checkout. Unless there were issues with the shipping company, we have fulfilled over 85% of orders by the expected delivery date.
Where do I mail my payment?
All checks should be mailed to our sales office located at: 415 Horizon Drive, Suite 350 Suwanne, GA 30024, United States.
May I purchase a custom sized banner?
Yes, please input the custom dimensions in the instant price space. For example, if you are looking for a 4.5 foot by 10 foot banner, input that measurement in the space where it says ‘instant price’. Repeat these exact dimensions in the ‘special directions’ space to make sure that the design and printing teams are aware of the size of the custom banner.
What if my package is returned to the sender?
if orders are returned to our facility we will make every attempt to contact the customer to reship the order. If we cannot make contact with the customer we will be forced to toss the order after 30 days of receiving the returned order.
Where are you located?
Can I change my order after the dimensions are approved?
You can contact our customer support team via call or chat. We will check the progress on the order, and if possible, we will make the changes to the order. However, once the order is processed and is in production, there cannot be any changes to the order.
Can I cancel my order and get full refund?
What If I received damaged order?
Alpha Imprint guarantees that the order will be delivered safely and without any issues. However, sometimes the order may be damaged in transit. In which case you can take the product images along with the shipping box images, clearly showing the damage and the package label. Upon reviewing the images, we will offer a refund, reshipment, or store credit.
I only received part of my order - where is the rest?
Different materials mean that we can’t always fit many products from the same order into the same package. There is a possibility that the product will arrive in many containers. If you have any questions or need assistance locating your additional package(s), please get in touch with our customer service team.
Can I update my billing address?
Once the order is placed you cannot update the billing address.
Can I change the shipping address?
You can modify the delivery address while the order is in the packaging process. If you need assistance with this, please get in touch with our customer support team. However, once the order is packed you cannot make changes to the delivery address.
How do I reorder something I previously purchased?
This service is available for a 6-month-old order. However, if you are unable to reorder, please contact our customer support team.
Can I reorder a product but change the size?
Unfortunaly this service is not available as it may vary the process of reordering. However, if the old order is within 6 month old then you can mention the old order number in the “Specific Instruction” box so that our designer can see the issue.
I am a tax exempt customer and/or a reseller. How do I collect a refund for the taxes I paid?
If you are tax exempt first order you need to palace with us and contact our customer support team with the tax exempt forms. Once its finalize we will provide you the refund for the tax and next time you will be exempt from the tax.
Do you ship to APOs and FPOs?
Unfortunately we do not ship to APO and FPOs.
Will the printed product look exactly like the design proof displayed on my monitor?
Due to different monitor calibrations, some printed colours may not always match the colours displayed on your computer monitor.
Can I make a correction to my order after the artwork is approved?
No, you cannot make any changes to the order once the design is approved.
Orders common FAQs
Do you price match?
Our Price Match Guarantee does not apply to:
- Offers from websites that cannot be verified as genuine online retailers or distributors.
- International production orders.
- Pricing only available to select groups of customers including loyalty offers, discounts relating to non-warehouse membership programs and government exchange store offers.
- Competitor offers including service prices, liquidation offers, and special daily or hourly sales.
- Bundle offers.
Can I cancel or change my order?
You can cancel your order if the order hasn’t been APPROVED (meaning virtual proof has been confirmed and credit card has been charged).
Once the order is APPROVED, Cancellations will be charged a $30 service fee which may include, but are not limited to, art charges, paper or product proofs, setup charges, restocking fees (15% of item price), or shipping charges. These fees will be billed at AnyPromo.com’s discretion.
We know that changes may occur, and will work with you to come to a resolution which is in the best interest of both parties. The best way to avoid cancellation fees is to be 100% confident that you want to move forward with your order. Please make your selections carefully and thoughtfully.
If the order ships, it would be treated like a return or exchange. Click here for questions and answers on returns & exchanges.
What are setup charges?
Some of the items we offer have “setup” charges (screen charges, die charges, etc.). It is important to note these are NOT art charges. These are charges to create the screen, die or other necessary items to imprint your specific logo.
If I reorder a promotional item with the same artwork, will I pay setup charges again?
If you place an exact reorder (same art and item) within 2 years, you may not have to pay a setup charge again, but it depends on the item you are purchasing. If you are required to pay a “repeat setup” charge then it will be less than the original setup charge. Your Customer Care Rep would be happy to advise you if there would be a repeat setup charge. In any case, you should check our coupon page for discounts on repeat orders.
If I place multiple orders using the same design, do I still have to pay the setup fee for each order?
Yes. Each product has a different set-up cost, even if the design or imprint is the same. They would each have to be printed in separate machines and at different times.
Will I see a virtual proof (photoshopped preview of my promotional product) before my order goes into production?
Yes! You will always see a virtual proof of your item. That’s because you must approve the art, location and overall appearance of your product before we produce it.
Do you charge sales tax?
In compliance with a new law, AnyPromo will collect state and local sales tax on all orders where applicable as of January 2019. Purchases will be subject to state, county, and/or city tax unless within a jurisdiction or for an organization that is tax exempt.
If you are ordering on behalf of an organization that is exempt from sales tax (state or local), please provide us with your tax exemption letter, form or resale certificate.
*Please note ‘income tax exempt’ and ‘sales tax exempt’ are not the same.
If a reversal of tax is necessary, please request this in a timely manner. We are only able to remove tax from an order within the same month of the order being placed.
Can I order in quantities smaller or larger than those shown?
Most of the time, the minimum quantity shown is the required minimum, although we encourage you to call if your requirements mean you need fewer items. We can sometimes work a little magic behind the scenes, so it’s worth a try. If you need to order more than the quantities shown, please call 1-833-662-5742 as additional discounts may be available.
What if I receive damaged or broken items?
We use a specialized method of foam packaging to ship our products. In the event that damage is incurred, please advise your Customer Care Rep. We will either replace or credit the damaged pieces. Learn more about returns & exchanges.
How can I get a quote?
The easiest and fastest way to get an instant quote is through any product page using the appropriate button under the price table. You may also email hello@alphaimprint.com, and an associate will contact you the same day if you contact us early enough in the day. Otherwise, we will get back to you by tomorrow. In most cases, we respond within an hour.
Can I place my order over the phone?
Sure, please call our toll-free number: 1-833-662-5742 Monday-Friday from 8.00 am – 5.00 pm Central Standard Time and an associate will gladly help you. Please have your product information and credit card information ready.
Can I email my order?
Yes, you may email your order by to orders@alphaimprint.net. Please attach your logo/ artwork to the email if applicable.
Do you offer rush Service?
This depends on the product that you want, quantity and customization services. Most products have rush options available, and this information can be found on each product’s product page. We can also work some behind-the-scenes magic in situations that warrant special attention, but you need to contact your Customer Care Rep to discuss options and fees. More questions and answers on rush service.
Coupon & special offer policy
AnyPromo.com offers coupons as an additional bonus for our loyal customers. AnyPromo’s coupons are sent to customers via email for those customers who register on our email sign up page. Coupons are also advertised on AnyPromo’s social media channels. When checking out, add the coupon code to redeem.
All coupons must be AnyPromo.com’s coupons; we do not honor competitor coupons or coupons from third party publications and websites. To redeem a coupon, it must be added at checkout; coupons cannot be applied to prior purchases. Coupon discounts are taken once the required pretax purchase amount is met. Coupons may be used on all regular and sale priced items, unless stated otherwise, however, they cannot be combined with any other offers, nor used on Flash Deal or 10 for 10 items.
Other restrictions or conditions may apply. Please review the terms printed on our coupons prior to redeeming.
AnyPromo.com offers gifts with purchases to customers. Gifts are selected by AnyPromo and valid for a limited time.
If the original order placed by the customer qualified for our Price Match Guarantee, the order does not qualify for the gift with purchase.
All gifts with purchases have the following restrictions:
- Cannot change shipping method
- Cannot change quantity
- Cannot change production time
- Cannot change imprint method or location
- Does not qualify for 100 day returns
- Does not qualify for Price
- Match Guarantee
