Uploading your files for plan printing should be straightforward, but small issues can quickly lead to delays, incorrect prints, or even the need to reorder. Whether you’re an architect, contractor, or designer, getting your files right the first time saves both time and money.
Here are some of the most common file upload issues — and how to fix them.
One of the most frequent problems is uploading the wrong file type. While formats like DWG or TIFF may work in certain cases, they can cause compatibility issues or unexpected print results.
Fix:
Always upload your plans as a high-quality PDF. PDFs preserve layout, fonts, and scaling, ensuring your drawings print exactly as intended.
Printing to the wrong scale is a critical mistake in construction and architectural projects. This often happens when files aren’t exported correctly or print settings are overlooked.
Fix:
Before uploading, check that your file is set to the correct scale (e.g. 1:50 or 1:100). When exporting to PDF, ensure scaling is set to “actual size” or 100% — not “fit to page.”
If your printed plans look blurry or unclear, the issue usually starts with the file itself. Low-resolution exports or rasterised drawings can lose detail when printed at large sizes.
Fix:
Export your files at a high resolution (typically 300 DPI or higher for detailed drawings). Where possible, keep drawings in vector format to maintain sharp lines at any size.
Sometimes, uploaded files don’t display correctly because fonts or line weights haven’t been embedded. This can lead to missing text or inconsistent line thickness.
Fix:
When exporting your PDF, make sure all fonts are embedded. It’s also worth double-checking line weights in your design software to ensure they translate correctly when printed.
Large plan files can be difficult to upload, especially if they contain high-resolution images or multiple pages. This can slow down the ordering process or cause uploads to fail.
Fix:
Compress your PDF without sacrificing quality. Many tools allow you to reduce file size while maintaining clarity. If your file is still too large, consider splitting it into smaller sections.
Uploading a file with the wrong page dimensions can result in cropped or incorrectly scaled prints. This is particularly common when switching between A0, A1, and A2 formats.
Fix:
Set your page size correctly before exporting. Double-check both the dimensions and orientation (portrait or landscape) to match your intended print size.
Uploading multiple files without clear naming can lead to mistakes in printing, especially on larger projects with multiple drawings.
Fix:
Use clear, consistent file names that indicate content and revision (e.g. SitePlan_RevB_A1.pdf). This makes it easier to organise and ensures the correct files are printed.
Getting your files ready for plan printing doesn’t need to be complicated, but attention to detail is key. By checking format, scale, resolution, and file setup before uploading, you can avoid costly errors and keep your project moving forward.
If you’re ever unsure, it’s always worth double-checking your files before placing an order — a few minutes upfront can save hours later.