Printing costs in advance?

I'd wondered about this too but have since taken a bit of advice from someone with a lot more experience.

You aren't a financier or a bank so don't offer your client a loan. Be honest and upfront with your client and ask for prepayment of the print (and possibly payment for the design and artwork as well) at the point of getting written sign-off of the artwork. If they are genuine they will understand why you're asking. If they are unhappy with being asked for prepayment they are quite possibly looking to rip you off. Unless you've had the client credit checked I'd be asking for the balance of payment on delivery at the very least (one reason why it may be worth being involved at the delivery stage). '30 days credit' etc is something that a client may earn over time but shouldn't be just given with no assurances of being paid (especially in the 'current climate').

This won't appear as unprofessional - in fact it will be the opposite. If you're clear, open and honest in the way you negotiate payments and how the project will run you will come across as professional and organised. Politely get it all down in writing with your quote. It will also put someone off trying to rip you off

Thank you

You have been very helpful :)

I'll keep you posted on how this first job goes.

Wish me luck!

Hi Natalie

You could also charge the client a fee for handling the print work but ask them if they'd be happy to be billed direct for the actual print costs.

That way there's transparency in what you're charging (be prepared to explain/justify what you do for that charge), and if the client's VAT registered and you're not, they can reclaim that portion which will save some money - so it may be more attractive to do it that way and you can suggest it as such. Make sure they have final sign off of printer's proofs.

Rizzo's suggestions look good - hadn't thought of doing it that way round.

Good luck with it - I'd certainly be interested to know how you get on