GES is your trusted partner for high-quality, show-ready graphics. This guide brings together everything you need to know—from preparing artwork and understanding proofing, to submitting files—so your graphics are produced accurately, beautifully, and on time.
Artwork & File Preparation
Accepted File Formats
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Use professional design software such as Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, or Photoshop.
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Provide logos and text in vector format whenever possible (AI, EPS, PDF preferred).
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Raster image files are acceptable when prepared correctly (JPG, TIF, PSD, PDF).
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Convert all fonts to outlines or paths before submitting final artwork.
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If fonts cannot be outlined, include all font files (OTF preferred).
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Embed or properly link all images in final artwork files.
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All artwork will need 1” bleed on all sides of graphic.
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Do not submit files created in Microsoft Office programs or artwork copied from websites.
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Compress final, print-ready files into a ZIP file before uploading.
Color Guidelines
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Use Pantone® colors when brand accuracy or color matching is critical.
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If using CMYK, set colors as Spot Colors for improved production accuracy.
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RGB colors will differ when printed. Please avoid.
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Provide layered Photoshop files if color adjustments may be required.
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Use gradients sparingly, as banding may appear in large-format printing.
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Always review colors and gradients at 100% final size prior to submission.
Image Resolution Requirements
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All raster images must be at least 100 dpi at final print size.
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Low-resolution images may appear blurry or pixelated when printed.
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Images containing small text may require higher resolution for clarity.
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Web images (JPG, PNG, GIF) are typically too low resolution for large-format printing.
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Review artwork at full scale prior to submission to confirm image quality.
File Submission Process
GES File Transfer Utility
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All graphic files must be uploaded through the GES File Transfer Utility
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Follow the steps below to submit your artwork.
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Go to https://file.ges.com/ and enter your email address.
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Click 'Validate Email' and enter the 5-digit verification code sent to you.
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Enter the recipient email address: gesgraphics@ges.com.
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In the Comments box, include: Show Name, Project Number, Booth Number, Exhibitor Company Name, and Exhibitor Contact Email. Without this information, your PDF proof for review could be delayed.
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Complete the CAPTCHA verification and click 'Next'.
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Choose your file (ZIP format recommended) and click 'Upload'.
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Once complete, you will see a confirmation screen and receive a confirmation email.
File deadline
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It is the desire of the GES team that graphic files are uploaded 30 days prior to move in of your event.
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Artwork files received after the 30 day deadline can be subject to delays in PDF proof review.
Proofing Process
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A PDF proof for your review will be provided via your email address on file by a GES Graphics Project Manager assigned to the event.
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Timing can vary, but you can expect a proof for review to be sent to you before show move-in.
Proof Approval Deadline
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Proofs are a courtesy review of the files submitted by the exhibitor.
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Approval of this proof is desired before the graphics team prints.
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Proofs not approved before show move in are subject to automatic approval by the Graphics team to help ensure product delivery to show site.
We’re Here to Help
Our Exhibitor Success Central team is available to assist with questions about artwork preparation, proofing, or file submission.
Phone: (800) 801-7648
International: (702) 515-5970
Live chat is available during standard business hours.
With GES, your graphics aren’t just printed—they’re perfected.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Linda Chandler
