FAQ
You can find numerous answers to many of the common questions we get asked below. If you need further help, contact us. We would be happy to help.
General
HOW DO I SET UP AN ACCOUNT?
To set up an account with us please complete the New Client Contact Form so we have all your billing and shipping information.
This allows us to collect your:
- billing information
- shipping details
- primary contact information
Once your account is set up, you’ll be able to easily place orders, reorder merchandise, and manage your branded merch programs.
Do I Have To Pay Sales Tax?
Sales tax is required unless your business provides a valid resale or tax-exempt certificate.
If your company is tax exempt, please submit your exemption documentation when setting up your account.
Proofing & Order Approval
How Does the Proofing and Approval Process Work?
After you place an order, our team will send a digital proof for approval before production begins.
This proof shows:
- logo placement
- imprint size
- colors
- product color
- decoration method
Carefully review the proof for spelling, artwork accuracy, and placement. Production begins only after you approve the proof.
What Is A Paper Or Digital Proof?
A digital proof (sometimes called a paper proof) is a visual mockup showing how your logo or artwork will appear on the final product.
It helps confirm:
- artwork placement
- decoration size
- colors
- layout
This step ensures everything looks correct before your custom merchandise goes into production.
What Is A Pre-Production Proof?
A pre-production proof is a physical sample produced before the full order is manufactured.
These are typically used for:
- large orders
- complex artwork
- new products
Pre-production samples help confirm decoration quality and final appearance.
What About Freight & Shipping
Shipping costs depend on:
- order size
- product weight
- shipping speed
- destination
We work with trusted carriers to ensure your promotional products arrive safely and on time.
If your order has a specific deadline (such as a trade show or event), let us know so we can recommend the best shipping options.
What Are Typical Turn-Around Times?
Standard production time is typically 7–14 business days after proof approval.
Turnaround time can vary depending on:
- product type
- decoration method
- order size
- current production schedules
If you have a specific deadline, contact us early so we can help you plan accordingly.
Completely custom items made from concept to production will vary anywhere from 4-12 weeks depending on the item.
Why Are There Setup Charges? How Much Are They? Are They Recurring?
Setup charges cover the time and materials required to prepare your artwork for production.
Examples include:
- creating screen printing screens
- digitizing artwork for embroidery
- preparing printing plates or molds
Setup fees vary depending on the decoration method and product. Some setups may apply again on future orders if changes are made. The charge will vary—usually between $25-$75 and we will always let you know what the setup will cost before you order. Some items will incur a repeat setup charge and some items have no setup charge.
What Are Order Minimums?
Minimum order quantities depend on the product and decoration method.
Typical minimums include:
- Screen printed apparel: usually 24 pieces
- Embroidery: often 12 pieces
- Promotional products: commonly 25–100 items
If you need smaller quantities, we can recommend products that work for lower minimum orders.
Over-runs & Under-runs:
Industry standard allows for a small percentage of overrun or underrun. Your final invoice will reflect the actual quantity shipped.
Do You Offer Rush Orders?
Yes, rush production may be available for select items.
Rush orders may include:
- expedited production
- faster shipping options
If you need branded merchandise for an upcoming event or deadline, contact us as soon as possible so we can recommend the best solutions.
What About Our Off-shore Programs?
For large volume orders with flexible timelines, offshore production may be an option.
Benefits can include:
- lower unit costs
- fully custom product development
- unique promotional items
These programs typically require longer lead times, so early planning is important.
Product Safety & Compliance:
Many promotional products must meet safety and regulatory standards depending on the industry and product type.
We work with suppliers who meet compliance standards such as:
- CPSIA
- FDA guidelines (for drinkware or food contact items)
- Prop 65 requirements
If your industry has specific compliance requirements, our team can help guide product selection.
Fulfillment:
Yes. In The Bag Promotions offers merch fulfillment services for businesses that distribute products to employees, customers, or multiple locations.
Services may include:
- kitting and packaging
- warehousing
- drop shipping
- company merch stores
This makes it easy to manage large branded merchandise programs.
What About Client-Supplied Items?
Not all retail items are suitable for decoration. Any client-supplied goods will be subject to our approval and must be new with tags. If we accept and can decorate you will need to sign a waiver releasing our responsibility for anything that may go wrong in the decoration process. We can’t be held responsible for items we did not supply.
What About Order Cancellations & Changes?
Once production has started, changes may not be possible and cancellation fees may apply.
If you need to make a change, contact us immediately.
What If My Order Arrives With Damaged or Misprinted Items?
If you receive items that are damaged or misprinted, please contact us right away.
We will review the issue and determine the best solution, which may include:
- replacements
- reprints
- credit toward your account
Customer satisfaction is important to us, and we will work to resolve the issue quickly.
Can I Get a Sample Before Ordering?
Yes. Samples are available for many promotional products.
Samples allow you to:
- evaluate product quality
- test usability
- confirm color and style
What Are Blank Samples?
What Are Random Samples?
Random samples are pre-decorated products from previous production runs. They help demonstrate decoration techniques and product quality.
What Are Spec Samples?
Spec samples are custom samples featuring your logo. These are often used for larger orders to confirm final decoration before full production.
Artwork & Graphics
What Kind Of Files Are Acceptable?
For the best results, we recommend vector artwork.
Preferred file formats include:
- AI (Adobe Illustrator)
- EPS
- vector PDF
All fonts should be converted to outlines, curves, or paths.
If you need help preparing your artwork, our Creative Services team can assist.
Can You Print Half Tones?
This technique allows detailed artwork and photographic effects to be reproduced on apparel.
Can You Match My Brand Colors?
We can often match colors using the Pantone Matching System (PMS).
Exact matches may vary slightly depending on:
- fabric type
- printing method
- material surface
Our team will work to achieve the closest match possible.
What About Graphic Fees?
How Do I Submit My Artwork?
You can email your artwork directly to your Brand Ambassador, or to sales@itbpromos.com. Be sure to include your project details and Brand Ambassador’s name (if you have one assigned) in your email.
What File Formats Do You Accept?
Vector art in .ai, .eps and .pdf formats. For some projects, raster artwork is acceptable and must be submitted at 300dpi resolution in CMYK color space
What Is A PMS Color?
What Is A Spot Color?
Spot colors are commonly used in screen printing and branding to maintain color accuracy.
What Is Process Printing?
How Accurate Are The Colors I See On My Screen?
For the most accurate results, we reference Pantone color standards during production.
How Long Is My Artwork Kept On File?
Screenprinting & Embroidery
How Large and Where Can I Imprint My Apparel?
In most cases, our oversized screen printing area allows prints up to 17.5″ x 19″.
We can also print in creative locations including:
- sleeves
- pant legs
- shoulders
- side prints
If you have a unique idea, we’re happy to explore creative decoration options.
What Is Digitizing?
Digitizing converts your logo artwork into a stitch file that embroidery machines can read.
This process determines:
- stitch type
- stitch direction
- thread colors
Digitizing ensures your logo looks sharp and consistent when embroidered.
Can I Select Specific Thread Colors, Or Match The Colors In My Logo?
Vinyl
Do You Offer Vinyl Banners And Stickers?
Yes! We produce a variety of vinyl products including:
- banners
- decals
- custom stickers
- sticker sheets
These are great for events, retail packaging, promotions, and brand awareness.
Do You Offer Heat Press Vinyl and Custom Stickers?
Yes. Heat press vinyl is commonly used for:
- custom apparel
- sports uniforms
- short-run personalization
We also produce high-quality custom stickers that help brands spread their message in fun and creative ways.