Methodology

What BoxCheck checks

• Bleed — whether background and artwork extend past the cut line, so trimming leaves no white edges.
• TAC (total ink coverage) — how much ink lands in the darkest areas; too much and the ink won't dry and can smear or set off.
• Safe zone — whether text and key elements stay clear of the edge, where the cut could clip them.
• Image resolution (DPI) — whether raster images have enough detail to print sharply.
• Color mode (RGB/CMYK) — print runs in CMYK; RGB elements can shift in color when converted.
• Hairlines — lines so thin they may not print or may disappear.
• Document size and TrimBox — whether the layout size matches the selected product.

How profiles work

Thresholds depend on the profile. The default “Not sure” profile is used when you haven't picked a product, so BoxCheck doesn't know which press and paper will handle the file. That's why it's more cautious (stricter): default TAC 240%, bleed 5 mm.

Choosing a specific product and print method gives more precise, usually more tolerant thresholds. Example: the “Cardboard box” profile defaults to TAC 300% and bleed 3 mm. These are BoxCheck's working defaults, not an industry standard: actual TAC depends on the printing process, substrate, inks, color profile and your printer's specification. A layout that the “Not sure” profile flags with a warning can be perfectly fine for a specific product.

Thresholds come from standard prepress practice and typical print-shop requirements. The shop handling your order may require different values — always check its specification.

What BoxCheck does not do

BoxCheck does not guarantee a file is 100% print-ready and does not replace a check by the print shop's operator. This page explains the checking logic; it is not a legal guarantee of print quality.

Your file is not stored on the server: the PDF is processed in memory.

How to read the result

Critical — a problem that will most likely make the print go wrong; fix it before sending.

Warning — something may affect quality; judge whether it's acceptable for your product.

Passed — the check found no deviation from the selected profile's thresholds.