How to Buy Paper?

We are often asked about the most efficient means for procuring paper for commercial printing jobs. Basic purchasing routes remain, online, such as Paper.com; from your printer, along with printing and distribution; a paper broker – who negotiates on your behalf; or directly from the paper mill. Typically, the way one purchases paper depends on company size and volume of paper consumed. Buying paper directly from the mill is reserved for only the big consumers with massive volume. Smaller buyers are better buying from the printer, and the mid size buyers, from a paper broker. In any case, given today’s economy, do your diligence that the supplier is financially stable.
Important attributes on paper procurement include-
-Be sure you are correct in all the specifications, size, weight, finish, shade, and quality.
-Double confirm the quantity to be ordered, the press date, and required timing for paper to arrive. Typically, the supplier will allow a ‘last date of change’.
-Compare many ‘like’ papers and specify the exact paper grade to be used for your job – you may request a trial to print to confirm quality and printing
-Do not buy from a seconds house – price is economical – but generally, there is something wrong with the quality of the paper – might even be a little as the shade or brightness not consistent throughout the order.
-If you have a choice, confirm a source close to printer – shipping factors into the price of paper.
-Negotiate the best price – paper is a commodity AND review pricing often.
-Try not to sign a contract that might commit you long term
-Remember also, you can save money in many ways with paper, reduce basis weight, smaller finished piece, lower paper quality
-Lastly, do not assume environmentally friendly papers are more expensive.