Product samples before you order
Write with the pen, open the notebook flat, test the highlighter on copy paper and the marker on the whiteboard. Before you order in volume we send catalogue samples and branded pre-production samples to your address in the EU.
Stationery samples are small and light, so several products usually travel in one parcel. Sample costs are credited against your order of that product.
Types of samples
Catalogue samples
Any product from the catalogue as it is, to check paper, ink, tip, binding and retail packing.
- 7–14 days to the EU
- Several products in one parcel
Branded pre-production sample
Your logo, cover print, colours and packaging on the actual product before mass production.
- Print proof or mock-up first
- Approval in writing
Sourcing samples
Samples from several manufacturers for comparison when we source a new product or a back-to-school set.
- Consolidated into one parcel
- Comparison table included
How it works
-
1
Choose
Send the products, colours and variants you want to test.
-
2
Pay sample costs
Sample price plus express shipping, credited against your order.
-
3
Receive
Samples arrive at your address.
7–14 days -
4
Feedback
Tell us what to change, from paper weight to print colour, and we agree it with the factory.
Frequently asked questions
Are samples free?
Samples are charged at cost: the product plus express shipping. The amount is credited against your first order of that product.
What should I check on a notebook or pen sample?
For notebooks: paper weight, ink bleed with your usual pens, whether the book opens flat, binding type and cover finish. For pens and markers: line width, how fast the ink dries, smudging on copy paper and whether the refill is a standard size. Note what you find, and we fix it in the pre-production sample.
Can I get a sample with my logo?
Yes, as a branded pre-production sample. Logo printing needs a set-up, so this sample takes a little longer than the usual 7–14 days and may carry a set-up cost, which we state first.
Can a whiteboard or a ream of paper be sent as a sample?
Yes, but heavy or large items cost more to send by express. We show the cost first; for boards a smaller size from the same series is often enough to check the surface and frame.
Will the bulk order be identical to the sample?
The approved sample is the reference for production and inspection. Normal manufacturing tolerances apply, for example small colour differences between paper batches.
Send us your product list
Links, photos or a spreadsheet are enough. You get delivered prices, minimums, lead times and the documents available within 2 working days.
Request a quote
Send a product list, links or photos. We reply with prices delivered to your country, minimum quantities and lead times.
- Reply on working days, usually within a few hours
- Prices delivered to your door, customs and VAT included in the calculation
- Written offer within 2 working days