What is the proofing process for print orders?

After your files are in, 4OVER4 posts a proof to your account so you can check the job before it goes to press. Free online proofs can be selected in the price calculator when you set up the order, and if you chose a proof, printing only moves forward once you approve it.

• Proofs are posted in your online account within minutes on auto-proofed products, otherwise in about 20 minutes or within one business day
• You get a notification, including by email, when the proof is ready to review
• Review the layout, text, spelling, image quality, colors, and bleed or trim for accuracy
• Approve it to release the job to production, which finalizes the order and moves it on to payment and printing
• If something is off, request a change instead of approving and a corrected proof is prepared for you

Because production waits on your approval, checking the proof promptly keeps your turnaround on track. Look especially at spelling, contact details, and anything near the trim edge.

How it works in your account:

• Open the proofs: click your order number, the Online Proofs Available link, or the blue proof button next to the order. If no email arrives, check your spam folder or log in and open the order.
• Approve in two steps: accept the proof (OK MY PROOFS), then click Approve next to the order number. You may be asked for your card security code: the card is pre-authorized at checkout and charged when the order is approved for production. You can also call support to approve.
• Reject with notes: click Reject Proofs and say exactly what to change, or upload a corrected file; a fresh proof is posted for review.
• Proof timing: a proof never expires. A secondary contact on the account gets all order emails, including the proof. If no proof shows after one business day, contact support with your order number.
• Hard copy proof: $75 on most products, $150 for multi-page books or die-cut to shape. The online proof is approved first; the hard copy prints 1 to 2 business days later, and you sign and return it before production.
• Straight To Production: this checkout option skips the proof approval step, and the job goes to print after the file review.
• The clock: turnaround counts from approval; approved before 3:00 PM EST, that day is day one.