Magazine Ad Requirements

For a professional, print-ready full-color, 8.5″ x 11″ magazine ad, you need to provide the following:

1. Correct Final Size & Bleed

  • Live Area: 8.5″ x 11″ is the final trimmed size.

  • Bleed: Extend background colors/images 0.125″ (1/8 inch) beyond each edge. Your supplied file should be 8.75″ x 11.25″ (8.5″ + 0.125″ on left & right, 11″ + 0.125″ on top & bottom).

  • Safe Margin: Keep all critical text and logos at least 0.25″ (1/4 inch) inside from the trim edge to avoid accidental cropping.

2. High-Resolution Images

  • 300 PPI (Pixels Per Inch) at final size (8.5″ x 11″).

  • Use high-quality photos/illustrations. Do not stretch low-resolution web images.

3. Correct Color Mode: CMYK

  • Design must be in CMYK color mode, not RGB (used for screens). This ensures accurate color reproduction on press.

  • For specific brand colors, use Pantone (PMS) spot color references if an exact match is critical (may incur extra cost).

4. Proper File Format & Setup

  • Preferred Format: PDF/X-1a is the industry standard.

  • Also Acceptable: High-resolution press-ready Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, or Photoshop files with fonts outlined and links embedded.

  • Fonts: Outline all text (convert to vector paths) or package all font files with your submission.

5. Inclusion of Printer’s Marks (Optional but Helpful)

  • Include crop marks showing the trim line.

  • If required, include registration marks and a color bar.

Quick Checklist for Submission:

  • ☐ File size: 8.75″ x 11.25″ (with bleed)

  • ☐ 300 PPI resolution

  • ☐ CMYK color mode

  • ☐ Fonts outlined

  • ☐ Saved as PDF/X-1a

  • ☐ Critical content inside safe margin

Always confirm final specifications with the magazine’s production department, as requirements can vary. Providing a correctly prepared file prevents delays, extra costs, and ensures your ad looks exactly as intended.