How do I upload my artwork files?

You can upload artwork 2 different ways:

The first option is given to you on ordering page when selecting your print product options.

The 2nd option you can initiate at anytime after placing an order by clicking on the red colored "Upload Artwork" link at the bottom of any page on our website. Then, you can log in to your account and follow the instructions for uploading new files.

If you do not have a XcelPrinting account, you will need to take a moment to register. Remember, these options are only available to customers who are in the process of placing an order or have already completed the checkout process.

How long will my file upload take?

The time needed to upload your file will vary depending on file size, number of files being uploaded, your connection speed (broadband vs. dialup), and other programs running on your computer. A small file can be uploaded in less than one minute while a large 25 MB file may take 15 minutes to upload.

For best results, we recommend uploading files when no other programs are open.

If you have a large file (i.e., larger than 25 MB), Please contact us for options on submitting your artwork to us.

How will the final printed job compare to my uploaded artwork file?

The color may vary, depending on how you submitted your files. The color on the screen cannot be guaranteed to match the finished product because every monitor can be calibrated differently. In addition, screen colors are represented in RGB, while offset printing colors are represented in CMYK. The color mode of submitted files must be CMYK to maximize color quality.

If your files are submitted using any other color standard, such as RGB or Pantone, they will be converted to CMYK by our prepress department (additional charges may apply). Conversion from one color standard to another may cause colors to shift.

For best results, we recommend that you submit your files in CMYK.

What is the difference between RGB and CMYK and why is it important?

RGB refers to the primary colors of light—Red, Green, and Blue—that are used in monitors, TVs, and computer screens. CMYK refers to the primary colors of ink pigment—Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black—that are used in four-color process printing.

RGB color combinations cannot be exactly reproduced if your file is converted to CMYK.  As a result, if your artwork was created in RGB, we strongly recommend that you convert your file to CMYK before uploading. After you convert your files to CMYK you may need to make color corrections to the file to match your colors to the original colors you desired.

You can learn more about color accuracy by visiting the Color Quality section of our Help Center

Will there be any loss in quality if I upload an artwork file instead of mailing it?

No. There will be no difference in file quality if you upload your artwork instead of mailing us a disk with your print-ready files. However, the file submission method you select may impact when turnaround time for your print job begins.

If you mail us a disk, we highly recommend clearly indicating the order number on your disc and mailing your materials overnight as this will speed up the start of your turnaround time.

Please note that turnaround time for your print job begins once your order has been placed and your print-ready files have been uploaded, attached and approved. If you ordered a proof, your turnaround begins when we receive approval for your proof.

Can I upload files before placing an order?

No. The only options for uploading files at this time are on the product page during ordering or at the Upload Artwork page after you have already placed an order.

If you do not have a XcelPrinting account, you will need to take a moment to register. Remember, these options are only available to customers who are in the process of placing an order or have already completed the checkout process.

What is the maximum file size that can be uploaded?

The maximum file size that our online system will accept is 25 MBs. However, the larger the file, the more time that is needed to upload your file.

The time needed to upload your file will vary depending on file size, number of files being uploaded, your connection speed (broadband vs. dialup), and other programs running on your computer. A small file can be uploaded in less than one minute while a large 25 MB file may take 15 minutes to upload.

For best results, we recommend uploading files when no other programs are open

If you have a large file (i.e., larger than 25 MB), Please contact us for options on getting your artwork to us.

Will I have to re-upload an artwork file to reprint a job?

Not necessarily. If the reprint is within 12 months of the last order that used the artwork in question.

To utilize previously uploaded artwork, please specify those instructions in the notes/comments section during the checkout process.

Can I upload multiple files at once?

Yes. You can only upload 2 files at time during the order process and up to 6 files after.

What file formats are acceptable?

XcelPrinting accepts print-ready files in any of the following formats: .eps, .pdf and .psd.

Please note that if you have an artwork file in any other format, we encourage you to create a PDF file (Acrobat 4, version 1.3) that can be uploaded to XcelPrinting.

What are print-ready files?

Print-ready files are artwork files that contain all fonts and images and are 100% ready to print, requiring no additional adjustments by XcelPrinting other than visual inspection and standard prepress work. XcelPrinting accepts print-ready files in any of the following formats: .eps, .pdf and .psd.

Please note that if you have an artwork file in any other format, we encourage you to create a PDF file (Acrobat 4, version 1.3) that can be uploaded to XcelPrinting.