Start With The Right Mesh Count And Frame Size
The first step is to match the mesh count to the job before anything is packed. Coarser meshes suit heavier ink deposits and more open stencils, while finer meshes are used where detail matters and the ink film must be controlled. If you are unsure, send the artwork use case, substrate and ink type through the enquiry form so the screen spec can be checked before stretching begins.
Frame size matters just as much as mesh count. A screen that is too small will limit print area and make registration harder, while an oversized frame can waste space in storage and transport. For repeat work, keep one standard frame size per common press set-up where possible, it saves time at dispatch and on press.
Plan Around Stretching, Re-Stretching And Tension Checks
When you order new frames or re-stretching, allow time for mesh bonding, curing and final tension checking. Good tension helps the screen release ink evenly, hold fine detail and reduce image distortion during long runs. On jobs with tight registration, ask for a tension check before packing so weak corners or uneven pull can be picked up early.
- Confirm whether the order is for new stretching or re-stretching.
- State the required mesh count and any preferred tension level if your shop works to one.
- Include whether the screens must be cleaned, inspected or packed for immediate press use.
- Let us know if the order is for daily production or for standby stock.
Choose Delivery Timing That Fits Your Production Schedule
For Gauteng deliveries, it helps to book screens one or two working days before they are needed on press, especially if the job is large or the count mix is varied. Midweek dispatch often gives the smoothest handover in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Germiston and the East Rand because receiving teams are already on site and ready to sign for parcels. If you need screens for a weekend run, plan ahead so the order does not clash with load shedding, traffic or municipal delivery restrictions in busy industrial areas.
For nationwide orders, build in extra time for sorting hubs and long-distance road travel. Cape Town, Durban and Gqeberha deliveries can move well when the address is complete and the receiving person is available at the gate or loading bay. Once your screens are packed, confirm the delivery suburb and contact person so there is no confusion at handover.
Use A Simple Packing Checklist Before Dispatch
Well packed screens arrive cleaner and are easier to receive into store. The aim is to protect the mesh face, stop frame corners from rubbing and keep the order easy to count on arrival. If your team will be checking several screens at once, keep the pack list visible on top of the bundle.
- Check that each screen is marked with the correct mesh count and frame size.
- Confirm whether the order includes batch screen prep or just stretched frames.
- Keep corners protected so the aluminium does not scuff in transit.
- Separate mixed orders by size or job number if more than one set is going out.
- Make sure the receiving name matches the contact on the enquiry form.
Set Up Receiving At The Workshop Or Print Room
A smooth delivery is not only about transport, it also depends on who receives the screens. In a busy print shop, have one person ready to inspect the frames, count the parcels and place them in the correct area straight away. This matters in coastal towns where humidity can affect storage conditions and in inland workshops where screens may sit near heat, dust or drying racks.
If screens are going straight onto press, allow time for a quick inspection first. Check the mesh for damage, inspect the bond line and make sure the frame is not twisted. A small issue picked up on arrival is easier to sort out than a problem discovered mid-run.
Repeat Orders, Rush Jobs And Regional Delivery Notes
Repeat orders work best when the previous mesh count, frame size and stretch notes are kept on file with the job reference. That way your next screens can be prepared to the same spec without guesswork. For seasonal runs, ask for repeat order service early so the frames are ready before your artwork is approved.
For urgent Gauteng deliveries, Johannesburg Delivery, Pretoria Delivery, Midrand Delivery and East Rand Supply can often be coordinated from Germiston more quickly when the site details are complete. For out-of-province orders, use the enquiry form early in the week and mention any site rules, after-hours receiving or loading bay limits. That way the order can be packed, labelled and dispatched with fewer hold-ups.
