The preflight check that is in place for ad submissions will look for specific file errors when your ad is processed. PDF files saved as a higher version than 1.3, RGB images, low resolution images or files using non-Adobe or non-embedded fonts are just some of the things we will be looking for. If your files doesn't comply with our preflight settings, the items that caused the errors will be noted in your preflight report.

Ads4Elsevier accepts PDF/X-1a compliant PDF(s), or PDF files saved as version 1.3 (Acrobat 4.0 compatible). Transparencies within the supplied PDF(s) will be rejected. Ideally, the transparent elements contained in your file(s) should be flattened within your native layout application and resubmitted as PDF version 1.3 (Acrobat 4.0 compatible). Instructions on how to accomplish this is located in Program Specific Help below.

Alternatively, transparencies can be flattened in Acrobat using the High Resolution Flattener Presets and saved as PDF version 1.3 (Acrobat 4.0 compatible). For step-by-step instruction on how to flatten any transparencies within your existing PDF and then save as PDF version 1.3 click here.

PDF files submitted to Ads4Elsevier should not be rasterized or trapped. Every time a specification is overlooked the file will require additional intervention to make it compliant. This could result in an end product that does not reflect your desired output.

VERY IMPORTANT! PDF files display on your monitor in RGB color and can be misleading. What you see on your screen should not be used to check for color accuracy.