Card Dimensions
Specify length, width, thickness (mm or inches), corner radius, and any tolerances for die-cutting so the vendor can confirm tooling and layout constraints.
A consistent specification reduces ambiguity between stakeholders, shortens production cycles, and lowers the risk of reprints or compliance failures. It documents technical decisions, assigns responsibility, and supports contract terms between buyer and vendor.
Specify length, width, thickness (mm or inches), corner radius, and any tolerances for die-cutting so the vendor can confirm tooling and layout constraints.
State substrate type (PVC, PET, composite), GSM or mil thickness, surface finish (gloss/matte), and any lamination or overlay requirements for durability and print compatibility.
Include file formats, color space (CMYK/Spot/PANTONE), bleed and safe zones, resolution (dpi), and an approved keyline or sample image for exact color matching.
Detail magnetic stripe tracks, RFID frequency and tag type, smartcard OS or header data, encoding standard, and testing procedures required at acceptance.
List holograms, UV inks, microtext, tamper-evident overlays, serialization, barcodes, or laser engraving and indicate whether serialization must be unique per card.
Specify packing method, unit counts per box, required labeling, shipping method, delivery window, and any special handling or customs documentation.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Document Upload | Require PDF/X files; allow attachments up to 25 MB |
| Reviewers | Add sequential reviewers with role-based routing |
| Signature Fields | Place name, date, and initial fields for each approver |
| Authentication | Use email link or SMS code for signer verification |
Choose a platform that supports PDF, DOCX, and high-resolution artwork attachments and that records an audit trail for every action.
Ensure the chosen service can store signed documents and produce tamper-evident PDFs; integration with existing ERP or procurement systems reduces manual upload steps.
5–14 business days depending on complexity
10–30 business days after artwork sign-off
2–5 business days for sample verification
Expedite fees apply; confirm vendor capacity
Variable: domestic 1–7 days, international longer
Stakeholders finalize technical and security needs
Final design files signed off for color and layout
Vendor produces and ships prototype sample
Operations signs off after QA and testing complete
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Varies |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Envelope Cap | No cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies | Varies | Varies |
Multiple roles collaborate on the specification to ensure technical accuracy, procurement alignment, and regulatory compliance.
Having representatives from procurement, production, and security review the document reduces misinterpretation and streamlines production acceptance.
Name and title of the production or vendor manager who confirms technical compliance and signs acceptance of sample production. This person can authorize runs, confirm QA results, and sign off on deviations within agreed tolerances.
Authorized purchaser who validates pricing, contractual terms, and payment instructions. This signer confirms the purchase order, approves supplier selection, and signs the document to trigger production under contract terms.