How should I send my advertising materials?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are acceptable file formats for creating ads?
A: Acceptable file formats for creating advertising materials include QuarkXpress, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop or Adobe Acrobat PDF documents.

Q: Does it matter what platform the ad is created in?
A: No. Macintosh or PC files are accepted, but Macintosh is preferred. If a PC file is supplied, NRLA reserves the right to substitute similar MAC fonts for supplied PC fonts. If you would like to avoid any font issues, please create a Hi Res, Press Ready PDF file of your ad with your fonts embedded and send that along with your native files.

Q: Should I save my graphics as CMYK or RGB?
A: ALL files must be saved and built in four-color process (CMYK). Files containing RGB graphics will NOT be accepted and may print incorrectly. The NRLA is not responsible for files submitted improperly.

Q: What resolution should I save my graphics at?
A: All graphics must be saved as high resoulution, 300 dpi (dots per inch) or higher, at actual print size. Files submitted with low resolution graphics (under 240 dpi) are subject to print refusal by The Lumber Co-operator publisher.

Q: Should I convert my text to outlines in my Adobe Illustrator document?
A: Yes. You should create all fonts to outlines when submitting an Adobe Illustrator document.

Q. Do I need to set the trapping in my files prior to sending?
A: No. Do not set trapping in Any files, this will be done by our prepress department prior to going to press. Setting the trapping yourself may lead to complications with your printed artwork. The NRLA is not responsible for misprinted artwork due to files being submitted improperly.

Q: What format should I save my Photoshop files as?
A: You can save any Photoshop graphic file as an .eps, .tif, .jpg, or .bmp file. If you are creating an ad in Photoshop, please send the working file along with your flattened file, saving your final flattened file as an .eps or .tif file.

Q: How do I submit my ad to the NRLA?
A: You may send ads on Floppy Discs, Zip Discs, or CD-Roms. E-mail files are acceptable, as long as it is small enough. You must include all support graphics and fonts used with your ad.

Q: Do I need to send a color proof of my ad with my disc?
A: Yes. No electronic media will be accepted without a color hard copy of your ad. If you are submitting an ad in black & white, please provide a black & white laser proof. The NRLA is not responsible for misprinted artwork due to files submitted without a color proof and/or matchprint.

Q: Do I need to send a matchprint with my file?
A: No. However, NRLA is not responsible for any printed color errors in ads without matchprint back-up. NRLA does provide matchprint's for color ads at a cost of $120 per matchprint.

Q: If I use an advertising agency to produce my ad, do I receive a discount?
A: Yes. All NRLA members are eligible for a 15% agency discount when agency quality materials are submitted. No discount is available on classified ads, production charges, or advertisements created by NRLA's Creative Services.

For more information on sending advertising materials, contact Melissa Stankovich at 800.292.6752.

If you would like more information on advertising or if you would like to receive our 2008 Media Kit, contact Jeff Sacks at 800.292.6752 or CLICK HERE to download a printable pdf.