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Use Collatavo's free Print-Ready PDF Checker to inspect page count, page dimensions, bleed-related geometry and font information. Files stay on your device during the check.
Print-ready PDF guide
What should you check before calling a PDF print-ready?
Printers continue to report the same avoidable file problems: missing bleed, unsafe trim margins, unsuitable color, low-resolution graphics and font issues. A structured check catches many risks before handoff, but checking is not the same as repairing artwork.
Before printer handoff
- Match the finished size
- Verify required bleed
- Confirm embedded fonts
- Check page count and order
- Restate production instructions
Start with the press
Use the printer's written specifications.
Confirm the finished size, required bleed, accepted PDF standard, color expectations, stock, sides and quantity. A file can open normally and still fail production requirements.
Know what the checker cannot see
The checker does not judge color suitability, image resolution, transparency, content near the trim edge or a printer's acceptance rules. Compare its results with the printer's own requirements.
Correct the source file first
If the PDF needs new bleed, artwork repair, text changes or color correction, return to the source artwork or designer. Collatavo's $79 package does not create or repair artwork.
Five checks
Verify the file and the instructions together.
A clean PDF cannot compensate for missing production directions, and complete directions cannot repair an unsuitable PDF.
- 01
Finished size
Every page should match the one approved finished size and the printer's specification.
- 02
Bleed
Artwork that prints to the edge must already extend beyond trim by the amount the printer requires. Collatavo does not add or invent bleed.
- 03
Fonts
Confirm fonts are embedded, outlined or otherwise accepted by the receiving printer.
- 04
Pages
Confirm every approved page is present once and appears in the intended order.
05 · Production instructions: confirm one stock, single-sided output and one clear quantity sheet for the fixed package. Use the free multi-location print checklist to prepare the handoff.
A defined $79 path
When the content and artwork are already final.
Collatavo can organize and verify an eligible job through the Production-Ready Publishing Package.
Fits the $79 package
- Up to 10 locations or recipients
- Up to 10 final, single-page source PDFs
- Up to 250 assembled output pages and 100 MB
- One size, one stock and single-sided output
- One quantity sheet and one proof/approval cycle
- Production-ready PDFs, reconciliation and a digital manifest
Outside the package
- Original writing or editorial development
- Artwork creation, retouching or color correction
- Adding bleed or rebuilding artwork
- Physical printing or shipping
- A guarantee that a printer will accept the files
- Larger or different work without a separate quote
Completion timing is confirmed after payment. While online checkout is unavailable, qualifying requests are saved for manual review before payment.
Check first. Request review second.