Frequently Asked Questions About Printing Services in South Africa

Print On Demand

What is print on demand?

Print on demand is a printing approach where products are only produced when needed, rather than in large upfront quantities. This allows businesses and individuals to print smaller batches, reduce waste, and update designs between runs. It is a practical and cost-effective solution for anyone who values flexibility and control over their printed materials.

How does print-on-demand work at Asset Print?

At Asset Print, print on demand allows you to submit your artwork, request a quote, and print only the quantity you need. Once your artwork is approved and payment is received, production begins, and additional batches can be printed as demand grows. This approach makes it easy to test, refine, and scale your print projects without committing to large volumes.

Is there a minimum order quantity?

Asset Print supports short-run printing, making it possible to order smaller quantities depending on the product. For book printing, orders can start from as little as one copy, while other products may have low minimums. Exact minimum quantities may vary by product and should be confirmed when requesting a quote.

What products can be printed on demand?

A wide range of products can be printed on demand, including books, training manuals, business cards, flyers, brochures, labels, calendars, planners, and branded promotional items. This flexibility allows businesses to produce marketing materials, publications, and merchandise in manageable quantities as needed.

How long does print-on-demand take?

Turnaround time depends on the type of product, quantity, and finishing requirements. Production begins once payment has been received and artwork has been approved. Because printing is done locally, turnaround times are typically practical and efficient, with delivery time added on top of production.

Is print-on-demand cost-effective for small businesses?

Yes, print on demand is especially cost-effective for small businesses. It reduces the need for large upfront investment, eliminates excess stock, and allows you to print only what you need. This makes it easier to test new ideas, update materials, and manage budgets more effectively.

Can I order a sample before bulk printing?

Yes, smaller test runs or sample quantities can be printed before committing to a larger order. This allows you to review layout, colour, and overall quality before scaling up production. In some cases, samples may be available depending on the product. (Partially inferred, confirm for all products)

Book Printing

How much does it cost to print a book in South Africa?

The cost of printing a book depends on several factors, including quantity, page count, size, paper type, binding method, and whether the content is printed in colour or black and white. Because each project is unique, Asset Print provides detailed quotations based on your specific requirements.

What file formats do you accept for book printing?

Print-ready PDFs are the preferred format for book printing, as they ensure layout accuracy and consistent results. Other formats may be accepted if needed, but may require adjustment before printing. For best results, all files should be prepared according to print specifications.

Can you help with formatting or design?

Asset Print does not currently offer design or book layout services. Clients are required to work with an external graphic designer or prepare their own files before submission. The team can provide guidance on file setup, print specifications, and common technical requirements to help ensure your artwork is print-ready. This support is especially useful for first-time authors, but the final design and layout remain the client’s responsibility.and businesses, full design services should be confirmed if required.

What binding options are available?

Asset Print offers a range of binding options, including perfect-bound softcovers, saddle-stitched booklets, wiro binding, and case-bound hardcovers on request. The best option depends on the type of book, its intended use, and the desired finish.

What is the minimum print run for books?

Digital book printing allows for very small print runs, with quantities starting from as little as one copy. This makes it ideal for testing, short-run publishing, or producing limited editions.

How long does book printing take?

Book printing turnaround depends on factors such as quantity, binding type, and finishing requirements. Production begins once artwork is approved and payment is received, with timelines tailored to your project needs.

General Printing Services

What types of printing services do you offer?

Asset Print offers a wide range of printing services, including digital and lithographic printing, booklets, brochures, business cards, labels, signage, large format printing, promotional materials, and custom print solutions. This broad offering allows clients to manage multiple print needs through a single, reliable provider.

Do you print business cards, flyers, and brochures?

Yes, Asset Print prints a full range of business marketing materials, including business cards, flyers, brochures, postcards, and more. These can be tailored to suit your brand, campaign, or business requirements.

Can I customise sizes and finishes?

Yes, most products can be customised in terms of size, paper type, and finishing options. This includes standard sizes like A4 and A5, as well as custom formats, along with finishes such as lamination, specialised coatings, and binding styles.

Do you offer design services?

Asset Print does not currently offer design services. Clients are required to supply print-ready artwork prepared by themselves or an external graphic designer. The team can advise on file specifications and printing requirements to help ensure your files are suitable for production, but they do not create or design artwork.

What printing methods do you use?

Asset Print uses both digital and lithographic printing methods. Digital printing is ideal for short runs and quick turnaround, while lithographic printing is suited to larger volumes where consistency and cost efficiency at scale are important.

Orders, Turnaround & Delivery

How long does printing take?

Printing timelines depend on the type of product, quantity, and finishing requirements. Production starts once artwork is approved and payment is received, and an estimated completion date is usually provided. Delivery time is additional and depends on the location.

Do you offer urgent or express printing?

Asset Print aims to provide efficient turnaround times, particularly for digital printing jobs. If you have a tight deadline, it is best to discuss your requirements directly with the team to explore available options.

Do you deliver across South Africa?

Yes, Asset Print delivers nationwide. Orders are produced in Cape Town and shipped across South Africa using courier services.

How much does delivery cost?

Delivery is generally included in the quoted price of your printing order, although shipping insurance may be excluded. It is always best to confirm delivery details when requesting a quote.

Can I collect my order?

Yes, you can arrange to collect your order directly from Asset Print’s Cape Town premises. Collection details and timing should be confirmed with the team once your order is ready. Collections take place at Unit 9, St Michael’s Business Park, Cape Town, 7945. The branch is open Monday to Thursday from 07:30 to 16:30, and Friday from 07:30 to 16:00, and is closed on weekends and public holidays. If you need assistance ahead of collection, you can contact the team on 0861 527 738 or 021 423 4137.

Pricing & Quotes

How do I get a printing quote?

Getting a quote is simple. You can submit your requirements using the contact form on the website. After submission, Asset Print will follow up with any additional details needed and provide a clear, detailed quotation based on your project.

What affects the cost of printing?

Printing costs are influenced by factors such as quantity, size, paper type, finishing options, colour requirements, and binding. Customisation and changes to artwork can also affect pricing, which is why detailed quotes are provided for each project.

Are there discounts for bulk orders?

Bulk pricing may be available depending on the product and quantity, but this should be confirmed when requesting a quote. The more you order, the more affordable the rates.

Artwork & File Requirements

What file format should I use?

Preferred file formats include print-ready PDF, AI, EPS, TIFF, and high-quality JPEG. Files such as Word, PowerPoint, or Excel are not suitable for professional printing and should be converted to PDF before submission.

What resolution is required for printing?

All images should be set to a minimum resolution of 300 dpi to ensure sharp, high-quality print results. Lower resolution images may appear pixelated or blurry once printed.

Do I need bleed and crop marks?

Yes, designs that extend to the edge of the page should include a 3mm bleed on all sides. Important content should be kept at least 5mm inside the edge to avoid being cut off during trimming.

Can you fix or adjust my artwork?

Asset Print does not provide artwork editing or correction services. All files must be supplied print-ready and checked carefully before submission. The team can offer guidance on technical requirements such as file format, bleed, and colour settings, but the accuracy of the design, including layout and spelling, remains the client’s responsibility.

Why Choose Asset Print

Why choose Asset Print over other printing companies?

Asset Print combines local production, flexible order quantities, and a wide range of services to support businesses across South Africa. With a focus on quality, efficiency, and personal support, clients benefit from reliable turnaround times and printing solutions tailored to their needs.

Do you work with small businesses and startups?

Yes, Asset Print’s print-on-demand and short-run capabilities make it well-suited to small businesses and startups. This allows clients to print in smaller quantities, test ideas, and scale production as their needs grow.

Can you handle custom or unique print jobs?

Yes, Asset Print offers a broad range of printing solutions across industries, making it possible to handle custom and specialised print projects. From branded materials to unique formats, projects can be tailored to suit specific requirements.