Book Printing FAQ | Sure Print & Design

Question 1

What is the minimum order quantity?

Accepted Answer

There is no minimum for short-run digital printing — you can order as few as 1 copy. Bulk offset printing is available for orders of 500 copies and above, with significant per-unit savings at higher quantities.

Question 2

How do I get a price for my project?

Accepted Answer

For short-run orders (under 500 copies), use our Instant Quote tool — prices update in real time as you configure your specs. For bulk orders, custom specs, or specialty finishes, use our Custom Quote form and our commercial team will respond within 1 business hour.

Question 3

Are there setup fees or plate charges?

Accepted Answer

For digital short-run printing, there are no setup fees or plate charges. Offset printing for bulk orders may involve plate setup costs, which are included in your custom quote.

Question 4

Do you offer volume discounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Per-unit pricing decreases significantly at higher quantities. The most notable savings points are at 200, 500, 1,000, and 2,500 copies. Use the Instant Quote tool to see live pricing at different quantities.

Question 5

Can I get a printed proof before my full order?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We recommend ordering a single proof copy before committing to a large run. For bulk clients, we also offer a White Dummy Prototype — an unprinted structural sample that confirms binding, dimensions, and feel before press.

Question 6

What file format do I need to submit?

Accepted Answer

We prefer PDF/X-1a for all print files. We also accept standard PDF (with all fonts embedded or outlined) and Adobe Illustrator (.ai) with outlined fonts. All files must be in CMYK colour mode at 300 DPI minimum.

Question 7

What bleed and safe zone do I need?

Accepted Answer

All cover files require 0.125" (3mm) bleed on all four sides. Keep all critical content (text, logos) at least 0.25" from the trim edge. Interior pages only require bleed on edges with full-bleed images.

Question 8

How do I calculate my spine width?

Accepted Answer

Spine width depends on your page count, paper stock, and binding type. Use our free Spine Width Calculator — enter your specs and it generates the exact measurement for your cover file.

Question 9

What is preflight review and do I need it?

Accepted Answer

Preflight is a technical check of your print file before it goes to press. Our optional Preflight Review service has a human expert check your file for bleed errors, colour mode issues, resolution problems, and spine width — and fix any issues found. It's strongly recommended for first-time submitters or complex covers.

Question 10

Can I submit a Word document or Canva file?

Accepted Answer

Word and Canva files are not accepted directly for printing. They must be exported as print-ready PDFs first. Our Design & Formatting service can convert your manuscript or design into a print-ready file if needed.

Question 11

What binding types do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer Perfect Bound, Saddle Stitch, Wire-O, Casebound (Hardcover), Lay-Flat, Coptic, and Cloth Spine Wrap (bulk only). See our Finishing Options page for descriptions and use-case guidance.

Question 12

What is the difference between Perfect Bound and Casebound?

Accepted Answer

Perfect Bound (paperback) uses a glued spine and is the most common format for novels and manuals. Casebound (hardcover) uses a rigid board cover attached to the book block with endpapers — more durable and premium in feel. Casebound is available in both short-run and bulk quantities.

Question 13

What cover finishes are available?

Accepted Answer

We offer Matte Lamination, Gloss Lamination, Soft-Touch Lamination, Spot UV, Gold Foil Stamping, Silver Foil Stamping, Custom Colour Foil, Embossing, Debossing, and Die-Cut covers. Some premium finishes require minimum quantities.

Question 14

Can I combine multiple finishes on the same cover?

Accepted Answer

Yes — combining finishes is one of the most effective ways to create a premium cover. Common combinations include Soft-Touch Lamination + Spot UV, or Matte Lamination + Foil Stamping. Mention your combination in your Custom Quote request and our team will confirm feasibility.

Question 15

How long does production take?

Accepted Answer

Standard production is 10–14 business days after file approval. Turnaround begins after your file passes preflight — not after payment. Rush options may be available; contact us for availability.

Question 16

Do you ship across Canada?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We ship to all Canadian provinces and territories. We also ship to the United States. Free shipping is available on orders over $500 within Canada.

Question 17

Can I split my order across multiple shipping addresses?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Enterprise and bulk accounts can set up split-ship rules to distribute a single print run across multiple warehouse or retail destinations. Configure this in your Account Dashboard.

Question 18

Can I pick up my order locally?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Local pickup is available at our Ontario facility at no charge. Select 'Local Pickup' at checkout.

Question 19

Do I need an account to order?

Accepted Answer

No. You can place a short-run order as a guest. However, creating an account gives you order tracking, saved shipping addresses, a digital asset vault for your print files, and one-click reordering.

Question 20

How do I reorder a previous job?

Accepted Answer

Log in to your Account Dashboard, find the order in your history, and click 'Reorder.' Your previous configuration — binding, paper, finish, quantity — is loaded automatically. You can adjust the quantity before adding to cart.

Question 21

How long do you keep my print files?

Accepted Answer

Your submitted print files are stored securely for 24 months from the order date. After that, files are permanently deleted. Contact us if you need a copy of a file you sent us.

Question 22

I've never published a book before — where do I start?

Accepted Answer

Our Getting Started guide walks you through every step — from formatting your manuscript to understanding ISBNs, copyright basics, and how to prepare for print. It's free and written for first-time authors.

Question 23

Do I need an ISBN?

Accepted Answer

An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is required if you plan to sell your book through retailers or distributors. It is not required for personal copies or private distribution. We can walk you through the registration process — it's free for Canadian authors through Library and Archives Canada.

Question 24

Do you hold any rights to my book?

Accepted Answer

No. You retain 100% of the rights to your content. We are a print manufacturer — we charge only for production costs. There are no royalty fees, no exclusivity agreements, and no licensing involved.

Question 25

Can you design my book cover or format my interior?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our Design & Formatting service covers interior text formatting, advanced graphic layout, and custom cover design. See our service tiers and pricing.

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