Not all printing services are created equal.
And while you may have been using the same printer for the past decade, that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with them for the next 10 years as well.
In fact, here are 12 reasons to upgrade to higher-quality printing services.
The 12 Signs That You Need to Start Looking for a New Printing Company Today
Whether you’re in the market for a brand-new printer, or you’re looking to replace your current one, these signs will help you spot which companies you should avoid at all costs.
1. They’re Always Surprising You with Hidden Charges
There’s nothing more frustrating than seeing a bill riddled with hidden fees. And while incidentals like extra packaging, proof changes, and unanticipated printing overages all have their associated costs, that doesn’t mean you should have to foot the bill – especially when these costs weren’t included in the quote.
2. You’re Constantly Shifting to Meet Their Schedule, Not the Other Way Around
It’s impossible to predict the future, and sometimes projects need to get pushed back a bit. The best publication printing services are able to pivot accordingly. If your current printer is unwilling to shift distribution dates or accommodate uploads delivered slightly past the deadline, it might be time to take your business elsewhere.
3. They Don’t Offer an On-Time Guarantee
While excuses and apologies for a late product might be better than nothing, they certainly don’t ensure your publication and magazine printer is actually invested in on-time completion. On the other hand, when your printer offers an on-time guarantee backed up by an actual discount, you can rest assured that on-time delivery is more than just a hollow promise.
4. It Takes Ages to Get a Response
Publication printing is a service. And just like any other service, timely responses to your concerns are crucial. If you’re waiting days to hear back from your printer, you aren’t getting the respect you deserve. Simple as that.
5. They Don’t Have In-House Mailing and Fulfillment
One of the best ways to cut down on publication printing costs and timelines is by using a service with in-house mailing and fulfillment. Not only does it eliminate a potentially costly third party, in-house fulfillment also means carriers will be more knowledgeable and better equipped to handle your delivery, leading to a higher quality end-product.
6. They Lack Interpersonal Skills
Running a business is hard enough without having to deal with unpleasant personnel. Using a friendly, hassle-free printing service means you’ll be more comfortable asking questions and ultimately preventing potential problems down the line.
7. Pricing, Pricing, Pricing
Just because your printer had the best prices in the industry a few years ago doesn’t mean they’re the most cost-effective today. You owe it to the success of your business to regularly check the market for more competitive magazine printing services. You just might be surprised at what’s out there.
8. Their Equipment Isn’t Up-To-Date
As with any industry, rapid advances in technology are changing the way printers do business. Ensuring your printer has the latest in web and digital presses as well as cutting edge pre- and post-press equipment means you’ll save on both time and money in the long run.
9. White Glove Delivery is a Foreign Concept
A high-quality publication and magazine printing service has just as much to do with the delivery as it does with the product. If your printer doesn’t offer hassle-free unloading as well as delivery tracking and follow-up, you may be missing out on a valuable service.
10. They Don’t Value Client Education
Printing can be a complicated industry. A company committed to education with blogs, webinars, and other resources on printing and magazine publishing is invaluable. Good printing companies help you utilize their services in the most cost-effective way possible.
11. Your Printer Doesn’t Have a Quality Guarantee
A handshake might be comforting, but when it comes down to it, a quality guarantee should put more at stake than just a reputation. Keep an eye out for magazine and publication printing services with a discount associated with their quality assurance, so you know they’re invested in your success.
12. They Aren’t Interested in Helping Their Community
Finally, your publication and magazine printing service should be a community leader that engages in a variety of local and national philanthropic causes as well as eco-friendly production and distribution efforts.
Finding the Right Printer Shouldn’t Mean Settling for Less
Just because finding a printer to meet your business’s needs can be tough doesn’t mean you should ever have to settle. If any of these 12 characteristics describe your current printer, it may be time to move on to a higher-quality provider of all your printed needs.
To upgrade to a hassle-free printing service, contact Shweiki Media for free samples and a customized quote today.
