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In-House Design And PrintIn-House Design and Print

FAQs

Here at Discount Displays, we want to make your ordering process as quick and easy as possible. We have created this handy FAQ covering large format print, delivery, contact information, and ordering to help with common questions that we get asked. If you need to know anything else get in touch with us via our contact us page or call us on 020 8664 5660 for expert advice.

Artwork

How do I upload artwork?

On our large format print products you are able to upload your artwork when you place your order. With this feature, you can only upload one file of less than 64mb, so if you have multiple or larger files please wait to receive your email with information about how to upload your artwork to our server.

If your file is less than 25mb then you can email your artwork to us at [email protected]. Please make sure to include your name and order reference number to ensure your order can be processed swiftly.

If your file is over our 25mb limit then you can transfer your artwork to our server. Once you have ordered your items one of our team will email you with your reference number and a link to the upload page. Never got your email? Contact us at [email protected] or call 020 8664 5660 for expert assistance.

I don’t have any artwork, what can you do?

Don’t despair! We have a team of experienced graphic designers here to help. We can offer set price design packages, as well as a fully bespoke graphic design service for only £45 per hour. Find out more here. We also have hundreds of Free templates which can be customized online and are a great, cost-effective way to get your graphics. Find them all here.

What file types do you accept?

PDF

Press or print optimised. Page size must be set to the trim size plus 3mm bleed all around if necessary. Images and graphics must be in CMYK format, not RGB. Please embed any fonts used or convert to outlines. If you need to convert your file to PDF format, you can use this free online tool: https://www.freepdfconvert.com/

Adobe Illustrator

Include all images used. Convert all fonts to outlines to avoid font conflicts. Page size must be set to the trim size of your job. Bleeds should extend 3mm beyond the page area. Please output your files in EPS format.

Adobe Photoshop

CMYK, 100dpi at full size (400dpi at 1/4 size), flattened, no layers, saved as TIFF, EPS or JPG.

Quark Express

Include all fonts and images used. Page size must be set to the trim size of your job. Bleeds should extend 3mm beyond the page area.

Freehand MX

Include all images used. Convert fonts to paths to avoid font conflict. Page size must be set to the trim size of your job. Bleeds should extend 3mm beyond the page area. Files supplied as EPS or PDF.

Corel Draw

Include all images used, text should be converted to curves. Bleeds should extend 3mm beyond the page area. Files should be saved as EPS or PDF.

Adobe Indesign

Include all fonts and images used. Convert fonts to outlines if possible to avoid font conflict.

MS Office

We do not accept Microsoft Office file formats, such as Word or Excel, but you can convert your Microsoft Office documents to PDF format for free at the following site: https://docupub.com/pdfconvert/.

Other

Please output as EPS or print ready PDF where possible. If you need help in determining if your file format is suitable, please call us on 020 8664 5660 or email [email protected].

Can you send a proof?

If you are providing print ready artwork, we do not provide a physical proof as standard, which enables us to get your print to you quicker. If you require a proof please get in touch with us to discuss. We do provide a free technical file check as standard, however, we are unable to check colours, spelling and grammar and placement. We can provide a machine print proof for the extra cost of £25 plus delivery. This involves printing an A3 proof on the machine that will be used to produce your final print. This will give you an accurate representation of colour. If you are using our design service, we do send out a PDF proof, which is an accurate representation of content and positioning. It is not an exact indicator of the final colour due to the limitations of screens.

Where can I find the artwork template?

Templates can be download from each product page or you can get them here. If you need any help contact the team on 020 8664 5660 or email [email protected]

What is a vector?

In simple terms images on screens and in brochures are made up of dots. Vectors are made up of lines. If you expand an image created from dots it loses quality and becomes pixelated. A vectorised image can be expanded to any sizes and keep the same quality as the original. Want to know even more, then try our full Vector Art Guide

My logo is not big enough what can you do?

There is a limit on how big images can be blow up and retain their clarity. The best solution is to use our vectorising service. Once vectorised your logo can be blown up to any size and keep its sharpness. It starts at just £10.99 and you can keep your new vectorised logo to use over and over. Find out more here

How wide can you print?

We can print rigid material up to 8' x 4' (2400mm x 1220mm) and flexible materials such as banner PVC up to 3.2m wide in on piece, however, we can also create wider banners by welding them together. Shipping rigid panels of that size can be problematic so panels will be split into 2 pieces for sizes bigger than 100cm high and 150cm wide, however, if you require single sheets we can arrange a special courier delivery at an added cost.

Can I design my artwork in word or powerpoint?

We do not accept Microsoft Office file formats, such as Word or Excel, but you can convert your Microsoft Office documents to PDF format for free at the following site: https://docupub.com/pdfconvert/.

What is bleed?

Bleed is ink that prints beyond the visible edge of artwork. We provide templates for your graphics to ensure that the whole of your image can be seen, accounting for the bleed.

What is RGB and CMYK and Pantone?

RGB is based on the colours red, green and blue. These are used for monitors and digital imagery.
CMYK is based on the colours Cyan (greenish-blue), Magenta (purplish-red), Yellow, Key (black) and is most commonly used for printing purposes.
Pantone is a colour matching system used to identify an ever-growing number of colours by a given number code.

Due to the difference in the way these colours are made up there can become variation between what you see on screen and the colour of the print. When Pantone colours are given we do our best to match these to CMYK colours however exact matches are not always possible. Please save files in CMYK to ensure they are printed correctly. We are able to provide an A3 proof of your print on the same material and machine that you order for £25 + delivery.

What do you check before printing?

Before printing we check file format, file size, resolution and fonts. Unfortunately we do not check spelling and grammar errors and cannot be held responsible for these.

Do you check spelling?

Unfortunately our pre-print checks do not include spelling and grammar errors, but we always do a technical check before printing.

Materials and printing

What materials can you print?

We print on a wide range of materials in-house from rigid graphics such as Dibond to PVC banners to backlit posters. Look at our large format print page to discover them all.

What ink do you use?

Our use of ink depends on the application but we try to be as green as possible whilst ensuring the best possible results. 90% of our flexible output is printed using Eco-friendly HP latex inks. Our rigid panels are printed using latex inks for longevity. Find out more here - Ink Guide

What do paper sizes really mean?

Confused about what paper sizes really mean? Take a look at our handy paper size guide which has a calculator to help you convert dimensions easily, as well as other useful information.

What window stickers do you offer?

Window stickers come in all styles and sizes and it can be confusing to get your artwork right. Front printed, reverse printed, etched glass, and one-way vision are some of the common types you may have heard of. To simplify the process, we have created this window sticker guide which explains the different types to help you find the right sticker for you.

What font colours look best?

Black on white or white on black are the clearest and easiest to read but obviously are not as attention-grabbing as some other colours. You have to get the balance between grabbing attention and making your signage legible. Have a read of our banner colour visibility guide for more information

How far away can my font be seen?

Visibility of your message is one of the most important parts of a banner design. Visibility depends on how far away people will view your sign or banner. We created this guide to help you make the most out of your display. Have a look at our font size guide here

What printers do you use?

We currently have 6 large format printers with our 3.2m HP Latex Printer being the pick of the bunch. We always make sure to keep at the forefront of printing technology to ensure you get the best prints at the best price. Find out more about our printers here

What is Correx?

Correx is a corrugated weather-proof plastic board ideal for temporary signage such as estate agents signs, placards etc. It is popular as it is a lightweight and economical solution. Find our more by reading our Correx Sign Guide

What is Foamex?

A premium quality, PVC foam sheet ideal for printing onto or applying self-adhesive vinyl graphics. It is easy to bend, cut, drill and glue. It is a high quality material used for longer-term signs. Unlike Correx the Foamex surface is totally smooth enabling a higher quality of print. Find out more about Foamex here.

What is Acrylic?

It has many names but it is a type of rigid plastic. It has many uses as a tough yet lightweight alternative to glass signs Find out everything there is to know about acrylic signage here

What is Dibond?

Dibond is a composite material made of a rigid polyethylene core between two thin aluminium panels. A truly premium material, it is durable, weatherproof and its smooth finish results in excellent print quality. Find out everything there is to know about Dibond signage here

What material should I use for my sign?

That depends on what you want to use it for. The best way to find out is to use our Sign Wizard tool which will suggest the best material based on your needs. Find it here.

Delivery and Returns

I need it urgently, can you help?

We pride ourselves in meeting deadlines, so if you need a product quick call us on 020 8664 5660 and our team will try our utmost to help. A same day courier delivery is available on certain products in the London area upon request.

How long will my delivery take?

Product TypeStandard Delivery TimeNotes
In Stock HardwareNext Working DayIf ordered before 3pm*
Non-Stock Hardware2-5 Working DaysDependent on product
Custom Printed Products3-5 Working DaysUpon approval of artwork
Bespoke or Made to Order Hardware10-15 Working DaysDependent on requirements

How long do printed goods take?

For printed goods, deadlines depend on when print ready artwork is received/approved. Dispatch is normally within 5 working days of this but is often quicker. If you have specific deadlines just let us know.

What time will I receive my order?

Standard delivery is between 8.30am and 5.30pm. Monday to Friday. However we also have options for an earlier delivery in the checkout.

Do I need to sign for delivery?

The courier will require a signature from a person at the delivery address, to avoid problems please make sure somebody is around to sign.

What if I'm not there?

If there is nobody available to sign for the delivery a card will be left giving details of how to re-arrange delivery or collection from their depot.

Can I track my order?

If you wish to track your order online, please call for a tracking number then you can view the progress of the delivery and view "proof of delivery" details.

What delivery options do you have?

At the checkout you can choose between Next day delivery, pre 12am next day, pre 10.30am next day.

Do you ship worldwide?

Yes! We often ship goods as far away as the Falkland Islands and Australia. For the most accurate shipping cost of shipping use our "Request a Quote" tool and provide an accurate delivery address. We have a range of suppliers in the US and Europe meaning that we can cut down on shipping costs on certain popular products.

Do I need to do anything if my delivery is large or heavy?

Some heavy goods will require pallet delivery. We’ll state if this is the case. Please ensure you have the means necessary to receive this from our courier. Don’t hesitate to call us to discuss such deliveries.

What are your shipping costs?

Delivery costs vary depending on the weight, size and quantity of the products ordered. You will be able to see the delivery price on the checkout before you place your order. For overseas shipping quote use "request a quote" on any product page or email us at [email protected] or call 020 8664 5660.

What is your returns policy?

At Discount Displays we want you to be delighted when you buy from us. Occasionally though, goods may be faulty or get damaged in transit. In the rare event this happens, please follow our returns procedure by clicking the link below.
How To Return Goods

Ordering and Payment

Can I get credit?

Instant credit accounts are available for charities, educational establishments and government departments. Choose BACS or Pro Forma Invoice at the checkout and put *credit request* in the order comments. Credit accounts are also available on request for other organizations. Please email [email protected] for a credit application form.

Do you offer bulk discounts?

We have recently launched our "Request a Quote" tool which makes bulk orders easier than ever. Go to the product page, select the quantity and hit the request a quote button and fill in your details. One of our estimators will review your order and get back to you with the best possible price in the quickest possible time. Find out more here

How can I pay?

Paypal
Payments can be made via Paypal to: [email protected]

Credit card
Mastercard, Visa, Visa Delta, Solo, Switch/Maestro are all accepted online, or over the phone if you prefer.

BACS transfer
If you would like to pay by BACS, choose the BACS option at the check out and you will be sent our bank details to complete the payment. Please use your order number as the reference.

Pro forma invoice
Select 'pro forma invoice' at the checkout and once you have submitted your order a pro forma invoice will be sent to you to pass on to your accounts department for payment. You can enter an internal purchase order number for your records, which will be included on the invoice.

Do you charge a credit card fee?

No! We don't charge any fees for credit card purchases, whatever country you are in.

How quickly will I get my refund?

Refunds are made in accordance with our returns policy. We will process the refund within 2 days of receiving the goods as per the policy. But please note the refund can take up to 10 days to appear on your account depending on the card used. Find our returns policy here - How To Return Goods

Contact and general information

How can I contact you?

We can be contacted in lots of ways.
  • Phone: 020 8664 5660
  • Fax number: 0208 665 5606
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Address: 31-35 Wortley Road, Croydon, Surrey, CR0 3EB
  • We also have a handy live chat feature, great for quick answers to simple questions.

What are your office hours?

We are available to contact from 8:30am to 5:30pm from Monday to Friday. You are able to order online at any time and your order will be processed the next working day.

Where are you based?

Our main office and production facility is based at 31-35 Wortley Road, Croydon, Surrey, CR0 3EB. We also have an additional 10,000 sq.ft of warehousing in West Sussex.

What is your money back guarantee?

If you are not entirely satisfied with a standard product (NON CUSTOMISED OR PRINTED) purchased from Discount Displays, we will replace or refund the product price under our 14 day money back guarantee. Click here for our full terms and conditions and information on returns.

What is your price match promise?

We keep a close eye on the competition and make a simple promise. If you find the same product elsewhere for less, prove it and we will match or beat it. It will only take you a couple of minutes and you'll make great savings. Beware! Just because a product looks similar it does not mean it is the same quality. For example, we imported samples of 6 different pavement signs before we chose our best selling A-board. All of them looked the same it was only when we tested them that it became evident where corners had been cut. Thinner material, weaker hinges, patchy finishing, thinner covers; all resulting in a far inferior product. More information and T&C's can be found here.

What are your terms and conditions?

How can I reset my account password?

Click here to go to our reset page. Enter your email address and one of our team will contact you with details of how to reset your password.

Privacy and Security

What is your privacy policy?

At Discount Displays we take your security and privacy very seriously and want you to always have the best possible shopping experience when using our site. Find out more about how we handle your information - here.

What is your cookie policy?

At Discount Displays we use cookies to be able to enhance the security of our site, to help us analyse our traffic and provide you with an optimised and personalised experience when visiting our site. If you want to know more about cookies and our policy then click - here

What is your security policy?

Your security is paramount to us which is why we ensure our site uses secure connections whilst you are using it. We use an SSL certificate that ensures our website is delivered via https to make the communication between your browser and our server as secure as possible. Find out what that really means and how we keep you safe - here.

What are your terms and conditions?

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