Frequently asked questions

Select a question to read the answer.

What file formats do you accept?

In order to print directly from a customer file we require the file be sent to us in vector format, which is a digital image composed of lines rather than pixels that does not lose image quality when resized. Example formats include Illustrator, AI, EPS, SVG, and PDF files. We will accept good quality pixel-based web images for print as well, however we cannot guarantee the resolution of the image will be clear if increased in size.

Can you use AI-generated images?

Yes, we can use images created by AI – however, their output is always expressed as a raster file, which is a pixel-based graphic designed for screen-use. This means that when the size of the image is increased, the resolution decreases and will appear pixelated or “fuzzy”. There are also no cut lines for our machinery to follow when cutting the image to shape (in the case of vinyl decals such as boat or vehicle lettering). In most cases, our design team can convert the image to a vector file for you (which involves digitally tracing the image to convert it to a line drawing with clear resolution), which is subject to an extra design fee (quoted upon request).

Can you print a specific Pantone/CMYK colour? Or are we limited to vinyl stock films?

Yes, we can match any Pantone colour provided or print a specific CMYK colour value. Please note that colours can vary from screen to screen and digital representations should not be relied on for 100% accuracy.

Do you offer graphic design services and/or design company logos and branding?

We do offer some graphic design services on a case-by-case basis; for example, we can design a sign for a customer if they provide the copy they want to use, the company logo/colours they want to incorporate, and the dimensions needed. We do not design company logos from scratch or provide a full branding package for companies; we recommend contacting a graphic designer who specializes in this area.

What information is needed to receive a quote?

In order to provide an initial quote for outdoor/indoor signage we need the following information: (a) the dimensions of the signage/lettering, (b) the quantity of signs/decals required, (c) the preferred substrate or material for the base of the signage, (d) any preferred colours, (e) any company logos/branding to be incorporated into the design, and (f) whether installation is needed.

For boat lettering orders we need the following: (a) the dimensions of either the total space available OR the preferred size of the lettering scaled to fit within that space, (b) the quantity/location of the lettering, (c) any preferred colours/special effects, (d) any preferred fonts or font styles, and (e) whether installation is needed.

For vehicle lettering we need the following: (a) the year, make, model, and colour of vehicle (as well as the roof height and wheelbase for larger vans), (b) the locations you want the decals applied to (such as side doors, tailgate, rear doors, sides of truck bed, hood, etc.), (c) any logo files you have available, and (d) any preferred colours in harmony with your company branding.

Is there a minimum charge or minimum quantity?

We do have a minimum charge of $120.00 CAD + taxes for all new orders; the exception to that is boat licence numbers, which have special pricing of $68.00 CAD + taxes for a set of two numbers. There is no minimum quantity of signs/decals, we charge per square foot of printed material used so please email us with your request and we would be happy to provide a quote. The larger the order the more of a price break you will receive.

How long do most orders take to complete?

Our turnaround time is dependent on how many ongoing orders we have in our queue at any given time, which tends to fluctuate during the year. For smaller orders (i.e. boat lettering, printed decals, individual signs) our lead time is approx. 3-5 business days and larger orders can range from 7 business days to 6 weeks depending on the scope of the project. Please ensure you give us enough time to meet any deadlines.

Do you offer a guarantee of your product’s longevity?

All of the materials we use come with an expected lifespan, which we do our best to communicate to each client (especially for outdoor signage). While they do not come with an official warranty, we will be happy to work with you if your order does not live up to the quality expected (assuming that the product was used for its intended purpose and was not exposed to unnecessary wear or vandalism).

Do you sell stock signage, like “For Sale” signs?

Everything we do is completely customized and made-to-order, so we do not stock duplicate signs in-house. We do have certain basic designs saved in our program that we can re-use for different orders, feel free to inquire about those options.

What types of substrates are available?

We have a variety of substrates suitable for different environments/mounting methods, including metal, aluminum composite materials, PVC, corrugated plastic, etc. Here is a link to our substrate catalogue: Jensen Signs Substrate Catalogue

Do you have access to vehicle or boat specifications?

Yes, we do have access to vehicle specs from an online subscription service (the vehicle year/make/model must be provided to us). However, we do not have access to boat specifications so measurements and photos are the responsibility of the customer to provide (unless a site visit is requested).

Do you provide courtesy cars for customer use while their vehicle is at your shop for decal application?

No, we do not provide courtesy cars for customer use. We will let you know how long the vehicle is expected to be unavailable and ask the customer to make their own arrangements for transport during that time.

Can you acquire the necessary permits for building signage on behalf of the client?

We work with a third party who specializes in sign permit acquisition. After discussing and confirming exactly what you require in the way of signage, we can give you an approximate cost for obtaining the required sign permit, including permit fees from the Municipality, and any additional fees for engineering should the Municipality require that.