How do I prepare my VDP order?

A VDP order is produced in one print run using one fixed production setup. Selected information changes from sticker to sticker, while the sticker itself stays the same. Here's what you need to know before you submit your quote.

1. One print run, one sticker setup

Every sticker in the same VDP print run must have the same physical specifications:

• Same finished size, material, shape and cutline

• Same base design and colours

• Same position for every variable element

VDP changes the information printed inside selected areas. It doesn't change the sticker's size, material, shape or base design. For example, you can't combine different sizes, materials or cutlines in the same VDP print run. These need separate production setups and separate quotes.

2. Choose what should change

Only the variable elements agreed on for the order can change from sticker to sticker, and they must stay in the same position in the design. Variable elements can include:

• Names and short text

• Sequential or random numbers

• QR codes

• Barcodes and EAN codes

• Images

You can combine several variable elements on one sticker, for example a unique name, number and QR code. Variable images are also possible: the image can change, but every image must fit within the same fixed area and can't move between stickers.

3. Send us your sticker artwork

Provide one base artwork file for the whole print run. We prefer a vector PDF, but a high-resolution file at 300 dpi also works (see accepted file types). Include:

• Finished sticker dimensions

• Total quantity

• Preferred material

• Fonts used in the design

Your artwork should clearly show the position of each variable element. The rest of the design should be complete and ready to print.

Back paper print

Back Paper Print is available for selected materials and can be added to your VDP order. The backing paper must use one fixed design for the whole print run, and variable data can't be printed on it. If you want back paper print, include the artwork with your files and ask us if it's available for your chosen material.

4. Prepare your variable data

The files you need depend on the type of variable information.

Sequential numbers: tell us the start and end numbers. No spreadsheet is needed. Also tell us the number format, for example 1, 2, 3 or 0001, 0002, 0003.

Names, text and random numbers: provide an Excel or spreadsheet file with the information exactly as it should be printed. Each row is one sticker. If several elements change, put each variable in its own column.

QR codes and barcodes: provide a spreadsheet with the link, number or value for each code, one row per sticker. Make sure every value is complete and correct. We can generate standard square QR codes from a list of URLs. For rounded, custom-shaped or logo QR codes, provide finished files. Keep each QR code at least 1.5 cm (0.6 in) wide for reliable scanning.

Variable images: add the image file name to the matching row in your Excel file. The name must match the uploaded file exactly so we can connect the right image to each sticker. Prepare all images at the final print size.

5. Choose your delivery format

Your stickers can be delivered as:

• Individual stickers, like Die-cut Stickers

• Sticker Sheets

• Stickers on rolls, like Labels on Roll

Tell us which format you want and if the stickers need to be packed in numerical order. If the order doesn't matter, let us know that too.