Card Production Q & A
What is the standard gift card size?
Most gift cards are the exact same size as a credit card: 3 3/8” x 2 1/8” x 0.30 mil (thickness). Cards can also be produced in custom shapes and sizes. Additional die charges and production fees apply.

How should my card artwork be prepared?
Full bleed artwork should be exactly 1/16 larger than the card size (3.5" x 2.25"). The magnetic stripe is placed 3/16” from top edge of card. A 2-track mag is 5/16" wide, a 3-track mag is is 7/16." It is recommended that all type and other essential elements be placed at least 1/8" away from the card edge. Download Graphics Specs PDF

What file formats are accepted for artwork?
Electronic files are the preferred format for submitting card designs to us for production. We currently accept digital files for both the Mac and PC platforms created with any of the following programs:

  • Quark Express 7.0 or lower
  • Adobe Indesign CS3 or lower
  • Adobe Photoshop CS3 or lower
  • Adobe Illustrator CS3 or lower
  • Hi-res PDF, TIFF, EPS or JPEG files

Do you accept physical, camera ready artwork?
Yes. But keep in mind that photocopies and pre-printed materials (business cards, brochures, etc.) are less suitable for high-quality graphic production.

Can I have eCard Systems design my card?
Utilizing your logo and/or other artwork, or photos from our image library, complete card design services are available for a moderate fee.

How quickly will my card artwork layout be created?
Once acceptable artwork has been received, a card design will be developed and an electronic proof provided via email within 1 to 3 business days. Up to 4 revisions may be made with no additional charge.

What is the time frame for receiving my completed gift card order?
Once you have approved and signed your proof, normal card production turnaround is approximately 15 business days + shipping time.

What is the minimum card order quantity?
The minimum quantity for custom card production is 500. Preprinted, standard card designs may be ordered in quantities of 100, 250 or 500-card increments.

What are my options for numbering and encoding my cards?
eCard Systems produces cards for hundreds of different POS and card systems and can generate various types of number sequences for you if needed. Your equipment or software provider should be able to provide you with the information we need to properly number, encode and/or barcode your cards.