Lamination is a popular way to protect important documents and give printed materials a glossy, professional finish. But does UPS offer laminating services in 2024?
As a shipping giant known for delivering packages to your door, you may not realize that UPS also provides convenient printing services like lamination at The UPS Store locations nationwide.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting laminating done at UPS in 2024, including:
- What UPS can and can‘t laminate
- Updated pricing estimates
- Step-by-step process
- Pros and cons of UPS laminating
- How UPS compares to alternatives like Staples
What Will UPS Laminate in 2024?
The UPS Store has over 4,800 independently owned and operated franchise locations across the United States. This means laminating capabilities can vary from one store to another.
However, most UPS Stores have standard hot and cold laminating machines that can handle small- to medium-sized projects like:
- Business cards
- Flyers
- Signage
- Menus
- Bookmarks
- Invitations
According to equipment provider Apache Technologies, many UPS Stores utilize the Apache AL13P hot laminator which can accommodate documents up to 13” wide. This allows stores to laminate letter size (8.5” x 11”) and tabloid size (11” x 17”) sheets efficiently.
For larger oversized projects like posters and presentation boards, you’ll want to call ahead to ensure your local UPS Store has the right equipment. Wide format laminators like the Apache Saturn Series can handle widths up to 63”. But not all franchise locations invest in these heavy-duty machines.
Apache reports that demand for wide format laminating grew over 8% annually from 2017-2022 as grand format printing gained popularity. So more UPS Stores may add wide format capabilities in the future.
How Much Does UPS Charge for Laminating in 2024?
Laminating prices at UPS can vary by location, but will depend on the size and mil thickness of your document. On average in 2024, you can expect to pay:
- Business cards – $1.50 per card
- 8.5” x 11” sheets – $2.10 per page
- 11” x 17” sheets – $3.15 per page
- 12” x 18” posters- $4.80 per poster
- 24” x 36” posters – $8.50 per poster
5 mil laminate is standard, but costs may be higher for thicker 10 mil or 20 mil laminate which provides more durability.
For an exact quote, call your local UPS Store and provide dimensions. Let them know thickness if you need heavier lamination.
How Does Laminating at UPS Compare to Alternatives?
UPS offers convenience for laminating with over 4,800 locations nationwide. But how does it compare to other options like Staples or local print shops on price and quality?
| Location | Pricing | Turnaround Time | Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| UPS Store | $$ | Same day for smaller projects | ★★★☆☆ |
| Staples | $ | Typically same day | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Local print shop | $$$ | 1-2 day turnaround | ★★★★☆ |
The UPS Store hits the sweet spot between price and quality. Local print shops may provide higher quality with specialized equipment, but often cost more and have slower turnaround.
Chain stores like Staples offer lower prices but frequently outsource laminating offsite which compromises quality.
The Pros and Cons of Laminating at UPS
Before you choose UPS for your next laminating project, here are some of the key benefits and drawbacks to consider:
Pros
Convenient locations. With stores nationwide, you likely have a UPS nearby making drop off fast.
Quick turnaround. Most standard projects done same day. Oversized items may take 1 extra day.
Professional quality. Most stores use Apache laminators preferred by professional printers.
Other printing services. UPS can handle all your copying, printing, and binding too.
Cons
Pricing not consistent. Varies by franchise location and materials needed.
Not all laminate wide format. Larger laminators only in select stores, call ahead to verify.
Margins required. UPS requires small border around documents to prevent trimming content.
Extra time for thick lamination. Specialty film like 10 mil needs slower heat setting.
How to Get Documents Laminated at The UPS Store
Ready to get your next project laminated at UPS? Here is the full process:
Find a local UPS Store on the store locator and read reviews.
Call ahead to inquire about laminating capabilities and get a price quote.
Send digital files if available for convenience.
Drop off documents and confirm needed turnaround time. Allow margins if important content near edges.
Pick up when project is complete and inspect before paying.
Allow to cool thoroughly before handling laminated items to prevent bubbles.
Don‘t have an urgent deadline? You can also email or order laminating online from some UPS Store locations.
Get High Quality and Convenience with UPS Laminating
For most small- to medium-sized projects, getting documents laminated at The UPS Store strikes the ideal balance of turnaround speed, competitive pricing, and professional results. Just be sure to call ahead for oversized items, get a price quote, and set expectations before dropping off your project.
