Skip to main content
All CollectionsOperations & 3PLs
Print Quality Standards for Inserts (3PL Reference Guide)
Print Quality Standards for Inserts (3PL Reference Guide)

To ensure all printed inserts meet brand standards, maintain high-quality presentation, and are correctly packed with customer orders.

Updated this week

What a Good Print Looks Like

  • Vibrant Colours: Match the brand colours accurately. No dull, faded, or incorrect tones.

  • Sharp Text: Clear, legible, and smudge-free. No blurring or ghosting.

  • Correct Scale: Designs must be printed at 100% / "actual size" to avoid cut-off or undersized content.

  • Clean Finish: No smudging, streaking, or ink transfer. Paper must be dry and clean.


Insert Placement in Packaging

  • Inserts should be packed face-up on the top layer, so it's the first thing a customer sees.

  • For fragile or premium items, inserts may go in a designated slot or envelope where applicable.


Visual Quality Control (QC)

Before packing:

  • Confirm the insert matches the preview.

  • Visually inspect for ink smearing, incorrect colours, or cropped text.

  • Check if the text is legible and large enough to comfortably read.

  • Look for staining or heavy ink patches.

  • Reprint if any visual defects are present. Do not send out flawed prints.


Common Issues & Fixes

Issue

What it Looks Like

Fix

Ink smearing / wet ink

Blurry or smudged text, visible ink residue

Run printer cleaning cycle; allow time to dry

Colours off (too light/dark)

Logos look faded or incorrect

Check ink levels; replace low cartridges

Text too small or cut off

Gift message unreadable or cropped

Set scaling to 100% / 'Actual Size'

Printing in B&W

Colour missing from design

Replace colour cartridges before printing

Insert missing

No card in box

Add insert at final QC before sealing


Quick Checklist (For Daily Use)

Please review and tick off before starting production.

☐ Ink levels (colour + black) are full
☐ Printer cleaning cycle run this week
☐ Test print matches the reference example
☐ Print scaling is set to 100% / "Actual Size"
☐ Correct cardstock is loaded (not standard paper)
☐ Insert is placed face-up on top layer in each box


Reference Print Standard

Keep one high-quality example ("gold standard") near the printer:

  • Use it for daily comparison against new prints

  • Helps quickly spot issues with colour, layout, or clarity


Paper Storage & Handling

  • Use only approved cardstock with correct weight and texture

  • Store inserts flat in a dry, temperature-stable area

  • Avoid humid, dusty, or bent paper which can affect print feed or quality


For any recurring issues or unclear results, contact your Yuzu ops contact or run a test batch before continuing production.

Did this answer your question?