Customer Communication Checklist for Print Shops

Ask if they have print-ready vector files or high-res PDFs to avoid spending unpaid hours fixing their $100 brochure design.

Ensure you know if they want matte, gloss, or aqueous coating so your quote accurately reflects material costs.

Most trade show rush jobs happen after hours; using SkipCalls ensures an AI receptionist captures these leads even when the shop is closed.

Give a specific 'ship by' or 'ready by' date to manage expectations for time-sensitive event graphics.

Explain that 0.125-inch bleeds are required for full-bleed business cards to prevent white edges after cutting.

Never print a $500 job until the customer clicks 'Approve' to protect yourself against typos they missed.

Warn customers that their screen colors won't perfectly match the final ink on a $300 vinyl banner.

Double-check if 'standard' means 3.5x2 for business cards or something custom before you load the paper.

Let the client know the ball is in their court so production doesn't stall on a tight deadline.

If the specific 13oz scrim vinyl is backordered, call the client immediately to offer an alternative.

Send a quick photo of the first sheet off the press for high-value $1,000+ orders to build trust.

Since you can't hear the phone over a running offset press, use SkipCalls to transcribe voicemails into text so you can read them.

Include your shop's address and pickup hours for their $200 flyer order to minimize storage clutter.

Email the FedEx or UPS link for large-format signs immediately so the client can track their event arrival.

Ensure the balance is settled before the customer walks out with their finished print materials.

Confirm the count and specify details like 'Tri-fold' or 'UV Coated' so the customer knows exactly what they received.

Ask clients to share photos of their new signage in the wild for your social media portfolio.

Contact business card customers after six months to see if they need a fresh batch of 500 cards.

Send a text link after a successful rush job; reviews are how you win against big-box online printers.