Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful information about printing, awards, custom engraving, copies, artwork, and industrial identification projects.
General Questions
Do you provide color and black-and-white copies?
Yes. We provide both color and black-and-white copying services.
Can you scan my documents?
Yes. We can scan documents for printing or scan and email them. Please contact us about unusually large documents, high page counts, or special file requirements.
Can you enlarge or reduce a document?
In many cases, yes. Available sizes and final quality depend on the original document and requested finished size. Bring the original to the shop so our team can evaluate it.
What information should I provide for a quote?
Please include the product or service, quantity, dimensions, preferred material, colors, artwork, personalization details, intended use, and required completion date.
Do you offer pickup, delivery, or shipping?
Most completed orders are picked up at our El Cajon location. Shipping can be arranged upon request at the customer’s expense. Please discuss delivery or shipping requirements when requesting a quote.
Do you offer rush service?
Rush availability depends on the current production schedule and project requirements. Please call to confirm whether we can meet your deadline before placing a rush order.
Can you help prepare artwork?
Yes. We can inspect your files and explain whether preparation or recreation is needed. Design services for printing projects are billed in half-hour increments.
Who owns artwork created by your staff?
Original artwork and production files designed by El Cajon Print or Class A Awards remain the property of El Cajon Print and are not automatically provided to the customer. Customer-supplied logos and original artwork remain the customer’s property.
Can you use Canva, Word, or a low-resolution image?
Possibly. Suitability depends on the product and production method. Screenshots and some Canva or Word files may require additional preparation or recreation. Design charges may apply to printing projects.
Where are you located?
El Cajon Print and Class A Awards & Graphix are located at 1251 Broadway in El Cajon, California. Call (619) 440-4448 if you need to discuss a time-sensitive or specialized project.
El Cajon Print
How long do printing projects take?
Printing projects typically require five to seven business days after design approval. Timing can vary with quantity, complexity, materials, and the current workload.
Do you provide design services?
Yes. Design assistance is available for printing projects and is billed in half-hour increments.
Is a deposit required?
Yes. A deposit is required before production begins on all El Cajon Print printing jobs.
Will I receive a proof?
A proof is provided when artwork or layout approval is required. Carefully verify spelling, dates, dimensions, colors, and layout before approving it.
When does the turnaround period begin?
Production timing begins after the design is approved, project details are confirmed, and the required deposit is received.
Class A Awards & Graphix
How long does engraving usually take?
Engraving typically requires approximately five business days. Timing may vary with quantity, materials, personalization, and the current workload.
Can I bring my own item to be engraved?
Possibly. Customer-provided items must be examined and approved by staff before being accepted.
Is there a risk when engraving my own item?
Yes. Customers accept the risk associated with engraving customer-provided items because we cannot verify their material, coating, manufacturing quality, source, or replacement availability.
Is a deposit required for customer-provided items?
Yes. Class A Awards requires a deposit of at least 50% before work begins on an approved customer-provided item.
Can I provide a list of names or personalization details?
Yes. Clearly organized typed information is preferred. Customers are responsible for checking spelling, dates, and personalization details before production.
Industrial Engraving
What industrial engraving products do you specialize in?
We specialize in phenolic tags, stainless-steel switch plates, nylon switch plates, valve tags, nameplates, identification tags, and industrial vinyl labels.
What specifications should I provide?
Include the product type, quantity, exact text, dimensions, material, colors, thickness, mounting method, hole details, numbering sequence, and required completion date.
Can you help select the right material?
Yes. We can recommend a material based on the installation environment, expected exposure, durability requirements, mounting method, and project specifications.
Can every material be engraved?
No. Materials and customer-provided components must be evaluated for compatibility with our equipment and production process.
Can you produce sequentially numbered tags?
Yes. Provide the starting and ending numbers, required formatting, and any skipped or repeated numbers.
Can I submit drawings or a completed tag schedule?
Yes. The Industrial RFQ form accepts the completed engraving worksheet, artwork, drawings, PDFs, and reference photographs.
How long does industrial engraving take?
Industrial engraving typically requires approximately five business days after complete specifications, proof approval when required, and deposit arrangements are complete. Large or complex projects may require additional time.
Do you claim MIL-STD-130 certification?
No. We do not claim MIL-STD-130 certification or compliance. Projects are reviewed and produced according to the specifications supplied by the customer.