What does 'set' or 'lot' mean when ordering printed products?

A set, also called a lot, is a batch of units printed together at the same time with the same specifications, even when the artwork differs. Sets are not the same as quantity: quantity is how many pieces you get per design, while sets is how many distinct artworks are run.

• Same quantity, paper stock and finishes define one set; each different artwork counts as a separate set.
• Example: business cards for 10 people with identical specs but 10 designs equal 10 sets, while 500 identical bookmarks are 1 set.
• One set can contain many finished pieces, common on plastic cards, tickets and forms sold in lots.
• Each set is its own layout on press, so the number of sets affects setup and pricing even when size and stock stay the same.
• Minimum quantities per set vary by product; if you need more sets than a printer lists as standard, ask for a custom quote.

On products that support it, the order form usually has a sets field where you enter how many designs you are sending.