Benefits of Buying Print Locally vs Online
More Than Ink on Paper: The Hidden Values of Local Printing Services
Commercial printers need to be fast, flexible, and flawless. Online printers can be a tempting choice with their low prices, automated systems, and one-click convenience—but when quality, service, and logistics matter, there are clear advantages to working with a local commercial printer.
1. Personalized Service & Real-Time Communication
Online printers are efficient—but they’re also hands-off. These companies keep costs low by cutting out personal service. Questions are routed through customer service portals, and real-time problem-solving can be difficult.
Local printers offer human support. Whether you’re making a last-minute edit or need help understanding file setup, you have direct access to a knowledgeable team who knows your job, your deadline, and your goals.
2. Color Accuracy & Quality Control
Online print platforms often rely on “what you upload is what you get.” That leaves room for color shifts, resolution issues, or paper mismatches. As the client, you know your business better than anyone, but that doesn’t mean you’re as much of an expert in marketing and the technical aspects of printing.
With local printers, you can request a press check, see samples in person, and catch issues early. You can even start with a consultation to take your projects seamlessly from start to finish. That means better color fidelity and fewer surprises—especially for brand-critical or color-sensitive projects.
3. Broader Substrate and Stock Options
Most online printers offer a fixed menu of paper types and finishes—another way to cut costs. If your project requires specialty materials, textured stocks, or unique finishes, your options may be limited.
Local shops that offer commercial print, signage, and packaging provide access to a wide range of paper and substrate choices—along with expert guidance on what works best for your application, from premium brochures to environmental graphics, product packaging, and more.
4. Flexible Quantities & Custom Projects
Need short-run packaging, unique sizes, variable data, or mixed batches? Online services may not accommodate projects outside their standard templates.
Local printers specialize in flexibility. From small-batch signage to custom die-cut pieces and complex folding jobs, local shops can tailor the process to your specific needs, without forcing you into a one-size-fits-all model. You want to stand out from your competition, not blend in with the rest.
5. Multi-Location Support & Kitting Services
If you need printed materials packed and shipped to multiple retail locations, offices, or event sites, a provider in your area can offer hands-on fulfillment, kitting, and distribution services. This makes it easy to directly drop off outside items while directly ordering other merchandise, signage, and apparel from a single supplier. This provides a high level of trust in the final products, as you can see them before they are packed and shipped to their final destination. Many will manage custom boxing sizes, customized labeling, and even tight, staggered shipping schedules with expertise in optimizing cost savings.
6. In-House Data & Mailing Services
Unlike many online platforms that outsource mailing or don’t offer it at all, local commercial printers often have in-house data management, addressing, and postal optimization capabilities. This allows for more accurate mailings, faster delivery, and better integration with your internal systems.
7. Last-Minute Changes Are Possible
If something changes late in the game—like updated artwork or a revised ship list—online platforms may not be able to accommodate.
Local printers are often more agile and responsive, and can pivot when things change, offering real-time adjustments and personalized solutions. Relationships are everything.
On the Ground with AV Graphics
At AV Graphics, we offer these local printer advantages—plus over 30 years of experience in the Los Angeles area, supporting businesses of all sizes with everything from fast-turnaround brochures to complex packaging rollouts. We work closely with our clients to ensure accuracy, consistency, and quality every step of the way.
Whether launching a new campaign, refreshing your signage, or managing a multi-location fulfillment project, our team is here to help you get it done right—with the service and support only a local partner can provide.