Your Guide to Print Turnaround Time
What’s the deal with Print Production Turnaround Time?
So, you’re ready to order some printed materials, but you’re not sure how long it’s going to take. You’ve heard the term “production turnaround time,” but you’re not sure what it means. Don’t worry, 1-Stop is here to help!
In simple terms, production turnaround time (TAT) is the amount of time it takes for a print job to be completed from start to finish. This includes everything from uploading your files to receiving your finished product.
The TAT can vary depending on a number of factors, including the complexity of your job, the volume of orders the printer is currently handling, and the time of year. But in general, you can expect to wait anywhere from a few days to a few weeks for your print job to be completed.
So, how do you know what TAT is right for you? Well, that depends on your specific needs. If you need your printed materials ASAP, you’ll want to choose a printer with a fast TAT. But if you’re not in a hurry, you can save some money by choosing a printer with a slower TAT.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a TAT:
- The complexity of your job: The more complex your job, the longer it will take to complete. For example, a job that requires a lot of custom artwork or finishing will take longer than a job that is simply printed on a single sheet of paper.
- The volume of orders the printer is currently handling: If the printer is currently very busy, your job may take longer to complete. This is especially true during peak seasons like trade show season or the holiday season.
- The time of year: TATs can also vary depending on the time of year. For example, printers may be slower during the holidays or during other busy times.
Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you can start to compare TATs from different printers. Be sure to ask about the specific TAT for your job, as it may vary from the printer’s standard TAT.
And don’t forget to factor in shipping time when you’re making your decision. Once your print job is complete, it will need to be shipped to you. The shipping time will depend on the distance between the printer and your location.
So, there you have it! Now you know what production turnaround time is and how to choose the right TAT for your needs. So, what are you waiting for? Start shopping around for printers today!
Our Print Turnaround Times: “Our TATs”
Submit your visuals by 9 AM for on-time delivery of print assets. For most assets, TAT is typically a week to two weeks. Orders will be submitted by 1 PM.
Here are some additional tips for understanding and choosing a production turnaround time:
- Ask about the printer’s standard TAT. This is the amount of time it typically takes for the printer to complete a job.
- Ask about the printer’s rush TAT. If you need your job completed sooner, you can usually pay a premium for a rush TAT.
- Ask about the printer’s shipping time. This is the amount of time it takes for the printer to ship your job to you.
- Consider your own needs. How quickly do you need your job completed? How much are you willing to spend?
By understanding production turnaround time, you can choose the right printer for your needs and get your printed materials on time.
Need print jobs with a reliable TAT? Contact 1-Stop Design Shop for all your printing needs, be it business cards, documents, signage and more!





