Pre-Press Checklist: 12 Critical Steps That Prevent Offset Printing Disasters
In offset printing, most costly mistakes don’t happen on press — they happen before the plates are made . A single overlooked detail in prepress can lead to color shifts, registration errors, trimming issues, or even a full reprint that wastes time, materials, and money. As print jobs become more complex and turnaround times tighter, having a disciplined, repeatable pre-press process is no longer optional — it’s essential. This pre-press checklist outlines 12 critical steps that help ensure your files are truly print-ready before they reach the pressroom. From color space management and image resolution to trapping, ink coverage, and paper considerations, these checks are designed to eliminate common failure points in offset production. Whether you’re a designer, pre-press technician, or print buyer, following this checklist can mean the difference between a smooth press run and a preventable printing disaster. Getting Your Files Print-Ready Col...