Our Book Printing File Guidelines provide everything you need to successfully format and submit your files. Please review the requirements below based on your bindery type. Submitting files according to our specifications helps prevent production delays and avoids additional costs associated with file corrections.
Download our template here:
https://template.acutrack.com/
General File Requirements
How do I submit my files?
All artwork uploads and the proofing process are now handled through the Book Print section of the Acutrack Online Portal.
After logging in, navigate to the Book Print application. This is where you will upload your artwork, share files with Acutrack, and manage the proofing process.
To submit files for printing, simply upload your artwork within the Book Print application and review the proofs provided. This ensures your files are properly received, checked, and approved before production begins.
How should I submit my interior book file?
Your interior must be submitted as:
- One complete PDF containing every page in the book
- Pages included from the very first page through the final page
- All blank pages included
- Exported in single-page (1-up) format
- No crop marks, registration marks, or printer marks
Important:
Do not submit separate chapter files. The entire interior must be combined into one PDF.
How should I submit my cover file?
Your cover must be supplied as:
- One combined PDF that includes:
- Back cover
- Spine
- Front cover
- All design elements assembled in one final layout
A front cover by itself is not sufficient. The cover must be formatted as a full spread according to the template specifications.
Do I need a different ISBN for each format?
Yes.
Each format of your book requires its own unique ISBN. For example:
- Paperback = one ISBN
- Hardcover = a different ISBN
Please ensure the correct ISBN and barcode are placed on the final cover file before submitting for production. If you do not have an ISBN number, we can provide you with a unique barcode. A scannable code is required for our fulfillment process.
File Setup & Layout Questions
What does “Total Document Size” mean?
Total Document Size refers to the full dimensions of your file, including:
- Trim size (final book size)
- Bleed area
- Margins
- Spine width (for covers)
Make sure your document size matches the template specifications exactly.
What is a Safety Margin?
The Safety Margin is the space between the trimmed edge of the page and important content such as:
- Text
- Images
- Page numbers
- Logos
This prevents important elements from being accidentally trimmed.
Acutrack recommends a minimum 0.5 inch safety margin for all files.
What is Bleed?
Bleed is the extra 0.125 inch of artwork that extends beyond the trim edge of the page. Pages are printed larger than the final size and then trimmed down.
If your design includes:
- Background colors
- Photos
- Graphics that extend to the edge of the page
They must extend into the bleed area to prevent white edges after trimming.
Acutrack requires a 0.125 inch bleed on all files.
How is spine width determined?
Spine width is based on your final page count and paper type.
- Use the provided template to calculate the correct spine width.
- Keep all spine text within the designated safe spine area.
- Avoid full-width spine text placement.
- Acutrack does not recommend including spine text if the spine width is under 0.125 inch.
⚠ Important: Trim & Binding Tolerance
What is trim and binding tolerance?
During trimming and binding, a slight shift of up to 1/16 inch (2 mm) may occur. This variation is within standard printing industry tolerances.
While this tolerance is minimal, it can:
- Cause text or images placed too close to the edge to be trimmed
- Make borders appear uneven
- Cause spine text to appear slightly off-center
This is normal and not considered a printing defect.
Why Following These Guidelines Matters
Submitting files according to our specifications:
- Prevents production delays
- Avoids additional file correction fees
- Ensures accurate trimming and alignment
- Helps achieve the highest print quality
If you have any questions before submitting your files, please contact our team for assistance.