What are 'sets' or 'lots' in variable data printing?

In variable data printing, a set or lot is a group of pieces that share the same specs and paper stock but carry different artwork. It is how one order can produce many personalized versions at once.

• Same across the batch: size, stock, finish, and print options.
• Different per piece: names, titles, addresses, unique codes, or entire designs.
• Counting sets: different artwork usually means a separate set even when the specs match, so cards for a 10-person team count as 10 sets or lots.
• Typical use: a stack of business cards for an entire team, each person with their own details on the same card layout.
• Also common for: numbered tickets, personalized mailers, and coded promotions.

Grouping work into sets keeps the shared production efficient, makes multi-name jobs easy to quote and order accurately, and still lets every piece be one of a kind.