Business card artwork checklist before sending a file to print

Before sending business-card artwork to print, complete a final handoff check. The goal is to confirm that the content is correct, the artwork reaches the intended trim area, and the recipient can open and use the supplied files.

1. Confirm the content and QR destination

Review every name, job title, phone number, email address, website and social-media detail against the approved information. Check punctuation, spacing and capitalisation as well as the details themselves. If the card includes a QR code, scan it and confirm that it opens the intended destination. A QR code can look correct while still pointing to an outdated or incorrect page.

2. Separate trim from bleed

The trim is the intended final edge of the card. Bleed is extra artwork outside that edge, allowing for slight trimming variation and helping prevent unintended white gaps. Adobe describes 3 mm (0.125 in) as a typical bleed value, but this is not a universal production specification. The chosen print provider must confirm the required bleed.

Extend any background colour, photograph, pattern or other artwork that should reach the edge beyond the trim line and into the bleed area. Do not treat the bleed as extra space for essential text, logos or contact details. Keep important elements positioned safely inside the final card area according to the provider’s guidance.

3. Run a preflight before packaging

Use InDesign’s preflight process to look for problems before handoff. At minimum, check for missing fonts and missing or modified links to placed graphics. Also inspect the document visually at a useful zoom: confirm that text has not shifted, images appear as intended, the QR code remains clear, and no accidental objects or hidden content are present.

4. Understand the packaged handoff

InDesign packaging can collect the document, linked graphics, fonts and a report for handoff. This may make it easier for the recipient to access the assets used by the document, but it does not replace checking font licensing or confirming what the recipient can accept.

Before exporting or packaging, ask the chosen print provider to confirm accepted file types, colour settings, font requirements, proofing expectations and finishing requirements, in addition to bleed. For business-card printing information, see Lamasatna’s business-card service page and the guide index.