How do I prepare my VDP order?

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

• Same finished size, material, shape, and cutline

• Same base design and colors

• Same position for every variable element

VDP changes the information printed inside selected areas. It does not change the sticker’s size, material, shape or base design.

For example, you cannot combine different sticker sizes, materials or cutlines within the same VDP print run. These would require separate production setups and separate quotes.

Only the variable elements agreed on for the order can change from sticker to sticker. These elements must remain in the same position within 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, each sticker could include a unique name, number and QR code.

Variable images are also possible. The image itself can change, but every image must fit within the same fixed area. Its position cannot move between stickers.

Provide one base artwork file that will be used for the entire print run. We prefer a vector PDF, but a high-resolution file at 300 dpi also works.

Please 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 is available for selected materials and can be added to your VDP order. The backing paper must use one fixed design throughout the print run. Variable data cannot be printed on the backing paper.

If you want to add back paper print, include the artwork with your files and ask us whether it is available for your chosen material.

The files you need to send depend on the type of variable information in your order.

If your stickers follow a continuous sequence, simply tell us the starting and ending numbers. No spreadsheet is needed.

Also specify the number format. For example, let us know whether the sequence should appear as 1, 2, 3 or 0001, 0002, 0003.

Provide an Excel or spreadsheet file containing the information exactly as it should be printed. Each row should represent one sticker. If several elements change, place each variable in its own column.

Provide a spreadsheet containing the link, number or value for each code. Use one row for each sticker and 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, please provide finished files. Keep each QR code at least 1,5 cm wide for reliable scanning.

For variable images, add the image file name to the corresponding row in your Excel file. The name must match the uploaded file exactly so we can connect the right image to each sticker. All images must be prepared at the correct final print size.

Your stickers can be delivered as:

• Individual stickers

• Sticker sheets

• Stickers on rolls

Tell us which format you prefer. You should also specify whether the stickers need to be packed in numerical order. If the order does not matter, let us know that too.