What to Charge? A Practical Guide to Pricing Printing Services in New Zealand

Pricing printing services in New Zealand can feel like a juggling act with varying project sizes, materials, and client demands. This practical guide shares friendly advice to help printing professionals and small business owners set fair, competitive prices while managing local market expectations.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Calculate Your Full Cost Structure

Start with a detailed understanding of all your costs: paper, ink, machinery, maintenance, labour, and utilities.

For example, printers in Auckland might face higher rent and supply costs than those operating from smaller towns like Hamilton.

Cover your costs properly to ensure your pricing supports a sustainable business.

2. Research Regional Market Rates

Check what other NZ printing services charge on platforms like Yada, TradeMe Services, and local directories.

Pricing may vary between urban centres like Wellington and smaller communities such as Rotorua.

Knowing the local market helps you price competitively and realistically.

3. Break Down Pricing by Job Type

Create clear pricing for different printing jobs: business cards, flyers, banners, and large-format prints.

A Christchurch print shop might charge $0.50 per business card but $150 for a banner installation.

Clear rates make quoting easier and clients appreciate transparent options.

4. Factor in Complexity and Customisation

Charge more for complex designs, special finishes, or urgent turnaround times.

Nelson printers often add fees for metallic inks, embossing, or same-day delivery.

Make sure clients understand how these extras affect pricing.

5. Include Design and Proofing Fees

Many clients need graphic design or proofing. Decide whether these services are included or billed separately.

A Wellington print service might offer free basic layout adjustments but charge for fully custom designs.

Setting expectations upfront avoids billing surprises.

6. Be Clear on Delivery and Installation Costs

Specify charges for delivery, onsite installation, or large-volume handling.

A Tauranga printer typically includes free local delivery but adds fees for distant or complex installs.

Transparency here keeps clients happy and jobs running smoothly.

7. Offer Discounts for Volume and Loyalty

Encourage repeat business by offering discounts on large orders or for returning clients.

An Auckland printing firm saw increased loyalty after introducing tiered pricing for bulk jobs.

Discounts help your clients and build steady income for you.

8. Showcase Client Testimonials

Collect and share positive reviews on platforms like Yada and your own website to build trust.

One Wellington print business grew bookings significantly through testimonials from satisfied local companies.

Social proof is a powerful tool for attracting new clients.

9. List Your Services on NZ Platforms

Maximise reach by listing on Yada, TradeMe Services, and Neighbourly.

Yada’s no fee setup helps keep your earnings higher and pricing competitive for clients.

Their mobile-friendly platform supports easy client communication and order tracking.

10. Communicate Clearly and Customise Quotes

Use Yada’s internal chat or calls to discuss client needs before finalising quotes.

A Nelson printer customises quotes based on materials and final application, boosting client satisfaction.

Personalised communication leads to loyal customers and positive referrals.

11. Avoid Undervaluing Your Work

Don’t underprice just to win jobs. Emphasise quality, reliability, and service.

Christchurch printers who maintain fair rates and consistent quality enjoy steady work.

Kiwi clients prefer paying for dependable, well-done printing.

12. Review and Update Your Pricing

Regularly reassess your pricing based on costs, market trends, and client feedback.

Yada’s data on job bookings and reviews can help inform smart pricing changes.

This keeps your business sustainable and competitive.

13. Build Referral Networks Locally

Partner with local marketing agencies, event organisers, and businesses to increase referrals.

An Auckland printer grew their client base through collaborations with event planners and graphic designers.

Strong local networks foster steady work and support fair pricing.