Ordering Branded Merchandise: A Simple Timeline
Branded products are made to order. Knowing the steps – and where time is usually lost – makes the difference between a relaxed delivery and an express courier bill.
The steps of every order
- Enquiry. You send us the products you like, quantities, your logo and your deadline. The quote list collects all of that in one go.
- Quote. We confirm availability, suggest the print method and send prices, including set-up and delivery.
- Artwork and proof. We place your logo on the product and send a visual proof. You check position, size, colours and spelling.
- Approval. Production starts only after you approve the proof. This is the last moment to change anything.
- Production. The products are printed, engraved or embroidered and checked.
- Delivery. To your office in Malta, or straight to a venue elsewhere in the EU with drop shipping.
What takes the time?
Production itself is rarely the problem. Orders slow down in the steps before it:
- Artwork. A low-resolution logo has to be redrawn before it can be printed. Sending a vector file from the start saves days – see artwork information.
- Proof approval. A proof waiting in an inbox for a week is the most common delay. Decide early who signs off.
- Stock. Popular colours sell out before busy seasons. Having a second-choice colour ready keeps things moving.
- Shipping to Malta. Goods travel by road and sea or by air. Standard transport is cheaper; express is possible but costs more.
Plan backwards from your date
Start from the day you need the products in your hands – not the day of the event – and allow a buffer of a few working days for the unexpected. Then tell us that date with your enquiry: the delivery time depends on the product, quantity and print method, and we confirm it with your quote.
Busy periods to keep in mind
- October to December: Christmas gifts and year-end events. Order as early as you can.
- Spring and autumn: conference season in Malta.
- Early summer: summer campaigns and staff events.
- Chinese New Year (January or February): products sourced from Asia can be affected for several weeks.
In a hurry?
Rush orders are often possible if you are flexible about the product and print method. Call us on +356 9949 3975 so we can check what can be delivered in time; courier services may add to the cost.
Three things that speed everything up
- Send your logo as a vector file with the first message.
- Give exact quantities and your real deadline.
- Name one person who approves the proof.