Lasering / Inkjetting

Inkjetting

• The main application is for addressing envelopes and postcards where a very high resolution image is not required.

• The print quality is not as good as laser output but is approximately 50% cheaper. It's also a lot cheaper than printing and affixing a self adhesive label.

Laser - cut sheet

• This is mainly used for outputting personalised mailing letters / application forms on pre-printed single sheets which typically contain logos, company address etc.

• The most cost-effective quantity is for up to 50,000 pages although this will depend on page size.

• In the past, cut sheet laser printers have produced better quality output than 'continuous' but now there is very little difference.

• The other application for cut sheet is where it needs to be printed duplex - this may not be available via 'continuous' paper reels.

Laser - continuous

• This is used for outputting personalised mailing letters / application forms but mainly for very high volumes.

• The pre-printing is output on 'continuous' reel(s) of paper of up to 50" diameter which helps speed the process of lasering and reduces cost.

• Continuous print is usually cheaper than cut sheet print.

• Continuous print requires 'finishing' to remove sprocket holes and cutting to the finished size.

• There are a small number of specialist continuous printers which TMS recommends.

• If you need to affix an item to a continuous letter (e.g. card, or stickers) you will need to order 'fanfold continuous' which contains a perforation (ring us for advice).

Pre-printed and variable text

• You have the option of whether to pre-print the fixed text on cut sheet/continuous or to request TMS to output both the variable and fixed text.

• For either option, consult TMS first so that we can advise on matching fonts and identify any potential problems with print alignment.

• Don't worry about how you supply the fixed text as it ideally should be input into print software which controls the laser output.

• Variable text can include not only name, address and personalisation but also other elements such as digitised signatures, personalised application forms or geo-specific data such as location of nearest store, garage etc.

• Our quality procedures ensure you receive a 'white' proof to check the accuracy of the fixed text. Subsequently we will then provide you with several 'live' proofs which contain the final presentation of the fixed text and data derived variable text for each data file supplied.