FAQ – inkasia

Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the most common questions we receive about book printing, binding, files, pricing, and shipping.

Printing

What types of books can Ink Asia print?

Novels, children’s books, art books, cookbooks, coffee table books, textbooks, religious texts (Bibles, prayer books), catalogues, corporate publications, playing cards, tarot decks, oracle cards, and custom packaging.

What is the difference between offset and digital printing?

Offset printing uses metal plates and is the most cost-effective method for print runs of 500 copies or more, producing highly consistent colour. Digital printing prints directly from a digital file and is ideal for short runs under 500 or when a fast turnaround is needed. Both methods produce excellent quality.

What is the minimum order quantity?

No minimum for digital printing. For offset, we recommend a minimum of 500 copies to make setup costs worthwhile. For quantities between 100 and 500, we’ll advise whether digital or offset is more cost-effective.

What paper stocks do you offer?

80gsm woodfree uncoated (novels, text-heavy books), 105gsm and 128gsm gloss art (colour-illustrated books), 140gsm matte art (premium colour), and various specialty stocks. Contact us if you have a specific stock in mind.

Can you colour match to a specific Pantone or brand colour?

Yes, for offset printing. Pantone Matching System (PMS) colours can be matched for cover elements and spot colours. Colour matching adds cost and lead time. For CMYK printing we provide digital and physical press proofs before production.

Binding

What binding methods are available?

Perfect binding, case binding (hardcover), saddle stitch, PUR binding, wire-o (spiral), Swiss binding, Japanese stab binding, and flexi-cover. See our Bindery page for a full comparison of each method.

What is the difference between perfect binding and PUR binding?

PUR (polyurethane reactive) glue is significantly stronger and more flexible than the EVA glue used in standard perfect binding. PUR-bound books can open wider without cracking the spine — ideal for textbooks and books opened repeatedly. PUR costs slightly more but delivers a much more durable result.

Can I get a hardcover book with a dust jacket?

Yes. We produce case-bound hardcover books with or without dust jackets. Dust jackets can be printed full colour with any lamination or embellishment. The hardcover case beneath can also be printed or cloth-wrapped with foil stamping and embossing.

How is spine width calculated?

Spine width depends on the number of pages and the paper stock thickness. Our team will calculate the correct spine width for your specifications. Do not design your spine until the width has been confirmed with us.

Can you colour match to a specific Pantone or brand colour?

Prepress & Files

What file format should I supply?

We prefer print-ready PDF files in PDF/X-1a or PDF/X-4 format. We also accept InDesign packages, Illustrator (.ai) with outlined fonts, and layered Photoshop (.psd). Word documents are accepted for simple layouts but may require reformatting. See our Prepress page for the full file submission checklist.

What resolution should my images be?

All images must be a minimum of 300 DPI at their final printed size. Images from the internet or social media are typically 72 DPI and are not suitable for print. Send us your files and our prepress team will check them for you.

Do I need to include bleed in my file?

Yes. Any design element that extends to the edge of the printed page must include 3mm of bleed beyond the trim edge. Also keep all important content (text, logos) at least 5mm inside the trim edge as a safety margin.

Do you offer a prepress checking service?

Yes. Our prepress team reviews every file submitted before production begins. We flag any issues — resolution, bleed, colour mode, missing fonts — and contact you to resolve them. This is included in every print order.

Ordering & Pricing

How do I get a quote?

Request a quote via the form on our website or email print@inkasia.com.au. Provide: book size, page count, quantity, paper stock, binding type, and any cover finishes. Our Sydney team will respond within one business day.

How much cheaper is offshore printing compared to printing in Australia?

Clients typically save between 25% and 40% compared to equivalent Australian printers, depending on specification and quantity. The greatest savings are on hardcover books and embellished covers where labour costs are the primary driver.

Do you offer flexible payment terms?

Yes. A deposit is required to commence production, with the balance due prior to or on shipment. Flexible credit terms are available for approved clients — please ask our team when requesting your quote.

Can I reprint the same job without a new quote process?

Yes. Once a job has been set up and approved, repeat orders of the same specification are straightforward. We retain your job details and provide fast reprint quotes.

Shipping & Delivery

Where do you ship from and to?

We ship from our Shenzhen facility via the ports of Hong Kong and Guangzhou. We ship worldwide, with a strong focus on Australia, USA, UK, and South Africa. Delivery is to your nominated address — warehouse, office, or distribution centre.

How long does shipping take to Australia?

Sea freight to Australian ports: 10–20 days from port of departure, plus customs clearance. Air freight: typically 5–8 business days. We will provide estimated delivery dates as part of your quote.

Do you handle customs and import duties?

Printed books are generally exempt from Australian import tariffs. Our team will provide all necessary documentation (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading) to support customs clearance. Consult your customs broker for advice specific to your situation.

Can you deliver to multiple addresses?

Yes. Split deliveries can be arranged. Additional freight costs may apply. Please advise us of all delivery requirements when requesting your quote.

Accreditations & Sustainability

What certifications does Ink Asia hold?

ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management), FSC® (sustainable paper sourcing), SMETA (ethical trade audit), Disney F.A.M.A (product safety and manufacturing), and BSCI (social compliance). Certificates are available on request.

What does ISO 14001 mean?

ISO 14001 is the international standard for environmental management systems. It confirms that our Shenzhen facility actively manages and continually reduces its environmental impact — covering waste, energy use, emissions, and responsible resource management.

Can I get FSC-certified paper for my book?

Yes. FSC-certified paper is available across most standard stocks on request. Please specify this when requesting your quote. A small additional cost may apply for FSC-certified stocks.

Is Ink Asia an ethical supplier?

Yes. Our facility is SMETA-audited and BSCI-certified — independently assessed against internationally recognised ethical trade standards. Our SMETA and BSCI reports are available to clients on request.