Your Guide to NCR Printing
Let's Get You Started With NCR Printing
NCR printing is a smart, fuss-free way to create duplicate or triplicate documents without messy carbon sheets. We specialise in NCR pads, books, and sets that simplify your daily tasks and keep your business running smoothly.
So, What's NCR Printing?
NCR stands for "No Carbon Required"—a clever type of paper that eliminates the need for traditional blue carbon paper. When you write on the top sheet, the information is automatically copied onto the sheets below. It’s clean, quick, and ideal for creating duplicates of invoices, receipts, delivery notes, and more.
NCR printing is all about creating instant copies without the repetitive strain. And yes, you can absolutely print on NCR paper in full colour, or just black ink. In fact, it’s designed specifically for printing forms that need to be filled out and duplicated on the go. Whether you need two, three or even more copies, NCR forms are the go-to option.
Our Range of NCR Products
We offer three types of NCR products to suit different business needs.
- NCR Pads are great for quick, no-fuss documentation, popular with restaurants, retail counters, and mobile service providers.
- If you're after something more structured, our NCR Books are bound, numbered, and sturdier, making them ideal for businesses that need to keep things organised and auditable.
- Then there are NCR Sets, loose sheets that are super flexible, perfect for slotting into existing filing systems or handing out as individual forms.
Who Typically Uses NCR Products?
NCR printing is used in multiple different industries and use cases. In retail and hospitality, it simplifies things like taking orders, billing, and giving out receipts, everything's a bit smoother and faster. In construction and the trades, it's a go-to for quotes, job sheets, and invoices. Drivers and couriers in logistics rely on NCR forms for delivery notes and proof-of-delivery signatures. Doctors, vets, and medical professionals use them to jot down prescriptions and patient notes on the spot. And for professionals managing contracts, timesheets, and financial records, NCR products help keep everything documented and traceable.
How to Set Up Your NCR Artwork
Setting up artwork for NCR printing is simple when you follow a few key guidelines. First, use the product-specific templates that you can find on the product page, to get your layout spot-on. These templates already include the correct sizing, bleed, and safe zones.
Always supply your files at the correct dimensions for your chosen format, typically A4, A5, or A6, and make sure you're working in CMYK colour mode for accurate results. Resolution should be set to 300dpi to ensure crisp, clear text and lines.
Unlike most printed products, there is a non-printable area that surrounds the outer edge of NCR products. This space is used for the grippers that hold the sheets in place during production. Don’t worry—the template will show you exactly where your design can and can't go. Stick to the guide, and you’ll be golden.
Numbering
If your NCR forms need sequential numbering, mark the location clearly on your design. A simple box with the word “NUMBERING” inside is usually enough to show where you want it placed.
Drilling
Drilling is an optional add-on you can choose when ordering your NCR product. It allows you to have pre-drilled holes along the edge of your design, ideal if you plan to store your sets, pads, or booklets in a folder with a ring binder.
To make setup easy, download our artwork templates and overlay the drill hole guides onto your design. When submitting your files, please include two versions:
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One with the drill hole guides visible, to show placement
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One without the guides, ready for print
This ensures the drill holes are positioned correctly and won’t interfere with your layout.
And lastly, save and submit your file as a PDF/X-1a or other print-ready PDF format with all fonts embedded or outlined.
If you would like more information on NCR artwork setup, check out our Help Centre article.
Whether you're a busy tradesperson, a bustling café owner, or part of a team handling deliveries, NCR printing is a brilliant way to keep your business organised and running smoothly. It's not just about making copies, it’s about creating professional, branded forms that make life easier and processes quicker.
Find out more about our range of NCR products and how they can streamline your processes and improve organisation across your business.