How do I order custom products fast when my event is close?

Start with your in-hands date

Your in-hands date is the day the products must be at your door, not the day they ship. Count backward from it. You need time for the proof, production, and shipping. Production time counts business days only, so weekends do not help you. A 1-day buffer is a smart addition, because dates are estimates, not guarantees.

Production does not start when you place the order. It starts once the proof is approved and the order is paid. Approved business accounts on terms can start as soon as the proof is approved.

Know the speed options

Standard production depends on the imprint method. Most methods typically take 7 to 10 business days, and embroidery 10 to 14. When your date is close, you have two faster tiers:

• Rush: 3 to 5 business days, with priority production and a same-day proof. A surcharge may apply.
• Super Rush: 24 to 48 hours, on select products and imprint methods only. Call your rep to confirm it is possible for your item.

Rush orders use the same equipment, materials, and quality checks. Methods like pad print, laser engraving, and heat transfer tend to be quicker than embroidery. Drinkware and desk items can be ready in as little as 24 hours, and bags and tech in as little as 3 days. Your product page shows the production time for that exact item, so trust it over any general range.

Choose products built for speed

Simple items move fastest. Look for the Quick Ship badge, which means production of 3 days or less, or browse the rush-eligible products. A single imprint location, one or two colors, and a common color choice all help. Complex items such as multi-location embroidery take longer and leave less room to rush.

If your date is very tight, avoid products that ship from far away. The product page lists where the item ships from, and transit adds roughly 1 to 7 business days depending on distance. For the final leg, 2-day air and overnight shipping are available.

Avoid the common delays

• Low-resolution logos. Send vector files (AI, EPS, SVG, PDF) if you have them. Designers can also redraw your logo for free.
• Unknown colors. Include PMS (Pantone) numbers up front. If you skip them, the closest matches are chosen and listed on the proof.
• Slow approvals. Check the proof the day it arrives. Check spelling and colors carefully, because errors on an approved proof are your responsibility.
• Late payment. An unpaid order does not start production.
• Missing the cutoff. The daily cutoff is 4 PM Pacific. Orders after that start the next business day.

If you are unsure whether your date is realistic, call before you order. The team can tell you what is possible for your product and method.