Unflattened Transparency Detected: Warning

Message received: Transparency effects, such as shadows, glows, or opacity, were found on pages 6, 7. (The details change to match your file.)

Alert level: Warning. You can acknowledge this warning in the proof window and continue.

Applies to: Interior and cover files.

Meaning

Your file contains transparency effects, such as drop shadows, glows, soft edges, or opacity below 100%, that have not been flattened. Depending on the print system, these can sometimes print with boxes, halos, or changed colors. Flattening them before you export is the safest option.

Necessary actions

1. Look at the pages listed in the message for shadows, glows, soft edges, or objects with opacity below 100%.
2. Export with flattening:
   • InDesign: File → Export → Adobe PDF (Print), and choose the PDF/X-1a:2001 standard. [Verify against your version.]
   • Illustrator: File → Save As → Adobe PDF, and choose the PDF/X-1a:2001 standard.
3. Or remove the effect, or bake it into the image in Photoshop and place the flattened image.
4. Re-export and upload the new file. Preflight will check it again automatically.

Can I proceed without fixing it?

Yes. Acknowledge the warning in the proof window to continue. Most files print correctly, but flattening is safer.

Still need help? Email our support team at filesupport@acutrack.com and include your Artwork number with the alert. We will be happy to take a look.