What file format should I submit for print?
Find out which file formats Bradford & Bigelow accepts and how to export your files correctly.
Submitting your files in the right format is one of the most straightforward ways to keep your project on schedule. Incorrect file formats are a common cause of prepress delays, so here's what you need to know before you send.
Preferred file format
Bradford & Bigelow's preferred file format for all print-ready submissions is PDF/X-1a or PDF/X-4. These are standardized PDF formats designed specifically for print production. They embed all fonts, flatten transparency, and ensure color settings are preserved, reducing the risk of output errors.
What makes a print-ready PDF?
A properly prepared print-ready PDF should include:
- All fonts embedded
- Images at 300 DPI or higher at final print size
- Color mode set to CMYK (not RGB)
- Bleed of 0.125" on all edges where design extends to the trim
- Crop marks included
- No password protection or security settings
What about native files?
Bradford & Bigelow does not accept native design files (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Word, etc.) as final print-ready submissions. If you're working in one of these applications, export to PDF before submitting. If you need guidance on export settings, contact our prepress team.
Submitting your files
Files can be submitted through InSite or FTP.
Not sure if your file is ready?
Use our print file readiness checker to review your file against B&B's requirements before you submit. Catching issues early keeps your project on schedule.
Print Readiness & Proof Review
File specs + publisher proof checklist — 22 items across two phases
File Format
Press-ready PDF with embedded fonts
All fonts must be embedded. Other formats may incur additional fees and processing time.
Color
Images are CMYK, Grayscale, or Pantone — not RGB
File color must match quoted colors. RGB images are not suitable for print.
Ink channels match job type
4-color: CMYK only. Black-only: no rich black or registration black. Spot colors only when quoted.
No ICC profiles
Color space must be native CMYK, black, or PMS. ICC-profiled files are not accepted.
Resolution
All images 300 DPI minimum
Web images at 72 DPI are not suitable for print and will cause noticeable quality loss.
Bleed, Safety & Trim
0.125" bleed on all edge artwork
Artwork going to the document edge must extend 1/8" beyond the trim line.
Critical elements 0.125" inside edge
Text, images, and logos must stay at least 1/8" from the trim edge to avoid cutoff during trimming.
Crop marks offset at least 12 points
If crop marks are present, they must be offset 12pt+ so they do not interfere with bleed elements.
Trim size matches quoted spec
Any deviation from the quoted trim size can result in unexpected margin differences.
Layout & Pagination
Page order and front/back matter correct
Check for correct page order, missing or duplicated pages, blank pages where intended, and proper front/back matter placement.
Running headers, footers, and page numbers
Verify consistent chapter openings, section breaks, running headers/footers, page numbering, and table of contents alignment.
Trim & Bleed (Proof View)
Bleed elements extend properly beyond trim
Confirm all bleed elements extend past trim, no critical content sits too close to the edge, and page margins feel consistent throughout.
Image Quality
No low-res, pixelated, or soft images
Review for low-resolution images, unexpected color shifts, cropping issues, incorrect scaling, or pixelation.
Charts, tables, equations, and line art
Educational elements can reproduce differently from photography. Check fine rules, math equations, and data tables with extra care.
Color Review
Overall color balance and consistency
Review overall balance, flesh tones and neutral grays, saturation levels, brand/program colors, and contrast in educational graphics.
No out-of-gamut colors that may shift
Color interacts with paper stock and the press. Ask B&B if the proof was generated with the correct color profile and stock simulation.
Registration & Trapping
No misaligned color edges or halos
Watch for misaligned color edges, halos around text or graphics, and fine reversed type reproducing poorly from backgrounds.
Trapping on small reversed text and thin rules
Even with automated trapping, check small reversed text, thin rules, and complex color transitions closely.
Cover & Spine
Spine width, text centering, and alignment
Spine width is driven by page count and paper stock. Verify spine text is centered and front cover, spine, and back cover align correctly.
Barcode placement and safe areas at hinges
Check barcode position and safe areas near hinges or folds. Small cover errors become very visible once bound.
Proofing Method
Proof type is appropriate for this job
Insite softproof is most accurate for interiors (ripped to press). Epson proof (G7-calibrated) is used for covers. PDF softproof is the least accurate — it does not show how the file will rip.
Ready to approve or submit corrections
If corrections are needed, AA re-prep starts at $50 (preflight) + $25 first page + $5.50 each additional. Epson reproof $15/page. Laser $0.50/page. Prepress hours $136.50/hr.
Contact us with any questions.