FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Cards
What are the card specifications? (All specifications relate to both the Christmas card and Everyday cards ranges except where otherwise stated).
Our cards are printed on a minimum 300gsm board and finished with a high-shine gloss to really make them stand out.
All Christmas cards are A5 size (landscape 148 x 210mm or portrait 210 x 148mm), which fits within the cheapest Royal Mail price band ('Letter' classification).
All Everyday cards are square (160 x 160mm) which fits within the cheapest Royal Mail price band ('Letter' classification).
Cards are 'book' format, i.e. the fold is on the left hand side.
Please request samples to see the quality for yourself.
What can I have printed inside my cards?
You may personalise the cards however you wish. The cost of your cards includes a standard layout, greeting and typeface, free proof and all printing in black. We can also print colour logos, signatures or any further personalisation - the choice is yours.
Are my details printed on an insert?
Your details are printed directly onto the inside of the cards.
Where are the charity details printed?
The details of your supported charity are printed on the inside left page of your cards, discreetly at the base. If you would prefer not to have these details printed, just let us know.
Can I have my details printed on the front of my cards?
Yes, we offer a bespoke service. We can adapt cards from our range to incorporate your details, produce cards from your own image, or even design a new card specifically for your needs. Please contact us for more information.
How environmentally friendly are your cards?
All our cards are printed on FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) approved board, from sustainable sources, and we only use printers that are FSC and/or ISO14001 accredited.
Our cards are recyclable, so please ensure you recycle any unwanted cards.
Can I buy e-cards too?
Yes, we offer a range of e-cards. Please visit www.charityecards.co.uk for more information.
Ordering
How do I order cards?
You can order cards by phone or email, send your order form by post or fax, or order online. The easiest way is to order online. Online orders are eligible for a 5% discount on Christmas cards (A5 'Executive' style).
I have ordered cards from 4C in previous years. Do you have my details?
Yes, we can send your layout from previous years for you to check. Just call or email your company name and we can send your card proof.
Is there a minimum order?
Our minimum order is 50 cards.
How do I choose my cards?
The cards on our website are shown by category. Just click on an image from the card gallery to view a larger version of the card.
Or simply contact us to receive a copy of our catalogue.
I can't find a suitable image. Can you help?
If you can't find a card to fit your needs, please call us to discuss what you are looking for and we can create a bespoke card for you.
Can I see a copy of the cards before making my order?
Yes, we will send free sample cards - please fill in the Samples form online.
How do I send my logo?
Artwork is best received via email, but post is also acceptable. To ensure printing is to a high standard, our preferred logo format is Adobe Illustrator EPS with Pantone colours to be embedded.
Alternatively, high resolution (300 dpi) TIFF or JPEG formats are also acceptable for logos and signatures.
We can also scan your logos or signatures from good quality hard copy. Signatures should be sent on 1 sheet of A4 paper.
Can I buy blank cards?
Yes, we can supply our cards flat and blank for your own printing.
Which charities can I support?
You can choose from 76 member charities or from various other good causes listed on our website. 10p from each card sold is contributed to the charity you select. If you opt to support more than one charity, the contribution is divided equally between them.
If you would like to support another charity not listed, please contact us and we will endeavor to make suitable arrangements.
If you represent a charity and would like to work with 4C, please visit www.4charity.org.uk for details of our charity services.
Acknowledging Your Order
When will I receive a proof?
As soon as we receive your order, we will send a confirmation email to you within 24 hours. We will then check to make sure we have all the details we need to proceed. If we have any issues or require any artwork, we will contact you as soon as possible.
Once your order has been processed our designers will send you a free PDF proof within 48 hours via email, or fax/post if necessary. Please ensure you check your proof, making sure there are no errors before approving.
Can I see a hard copy proof?
Yes, we can send a copy of your card with your details inside, for an extra charge of £15 (digital proof).
Delivery
When will I receive my cards?
On approving your proof, your order will be sent to print immediately.
We aim to deliver your Christmas cards to you in:
Blank cards - 4 days, Black printing - 7 days, Colour printing - 9 days.
Please order as early as possible as turnaround times nearer to Christmas can increase slightly.
How will my cards be delivered?
Cards are supplied creased and flat.
Delivery is via registered courier, which must be signed for.
Are envelopes included with the cards?
Our cards come with peel-and-seal envelopes for extra convenience.
Can you deliver overseas?
Our basic delivery charge covers UK mainland addresses. We are also able to deliver overseas - please email us for a quotation.
Payment
How much will my cards cost?
You can use our online Price Calculator or contact us for a full itemised quote.
Do you offer any discounts?
Yes, our discounts for Christmas cards (A5 'Executive' style) are as follows:
20% discount to 31st August
15% discount to 30th September
10% discount to 31st October
5% discount for online orders thereafter
Simply enter the applicable discount code at checkout.
How can I pay for my order?
You can pay by credit card, cheque or BACS transfer. You may pay in advance or we shall invoice you.
Will I receive a VAT invoice?
Yes, you will receive an invoice by post.
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