Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
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Paper Sizes Paper Weights Paper Thickness Paper Brightness Paper Finishes Paper Grain Perforated Paper Paper Labels Printing & Paper Tips Ordering Custom Services Samples & Product Assistance Shipping & Delivery Returns
Paper Sizes
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What are the most common paper sizes?
The most common paper sizes used in the United States are Letter, Legal and Tabloid/Ledger.
Letter (8.5" × 11") – The most common size for everyday documents.
Legal (8.5" × 14") – Three inches longer than Letter size, providing additional space for longer documents.
Tabloid/Ledger (11" × 17") – Twice the size of Letter paper, making it useful for projects that need a large printing area. -
What is Digital size paper?
Digital paper is primarily used for digital and commercial printing and is commonly available in sizes such as 12" × 18" and 13" × 19". The larger sheet provides additional space beyond common finished sizes, allowing room for bleeds, crop marks and other production requirements before the printed piece is trimmed to its final dimensions.
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What is a parent sheet of paper?
A parent sheet is a larger sheet produced by a paper mill that can be cut into multiple smaller finished sizes. Common parent sheet sizes include 23" × 35", 25" × 38" and 26" × 40", although sizes may vary by paper type and manufacturer.
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Can I order A4 or A5 paper?
Although A4 and A5 are not standard North American paper sizes, Church Paper may be able to custom cut select papers to A4 or A5 dimensions.
A4 measures 210 × 297 mm (8.27" × 11.69"), while A5 measures 148 × 210 mm (5.83" × 8.27").
You can contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 to discuss available papers and custom-cut options for your project.
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Can paper be cut to a custom size?
Yes. Paper doesn't have to be limited to standard sizes. Church Paper offers custom paper cutting for many of our papers and cardstocks, allowing larger sheets to be cut into the dimensions needed for your project.
You can contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 to discuss the paper, quantity and finished size you need.
Paper Weights
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What is Basis Weight?
Basis Weight is the traditional U.S. system used to describe paper weight in pounds (lb.). It is determined by the weight of 500 sheets of paper at a standard basic sheet size for that paper category. Paper categories such as Bond, Text, Cover, Index and Bristol use different basic sheet sizes, so pound weights from different categories cannot always be compared directly. Learn more about Paper Weights → -
What is GSM paper weight?
GSM stands for grams per square meter and measures the weight of one square meter of paper. Unlike Basis Weight, GSM uses the same measurement standard regardless of the paper category, making it easier to compare the weight of different types of paper.
The higher the GSM, the heavier the paper. For example, two papers from different weight categories can be compared more directly using their GSM rather than their pound weights.
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What are the different paper weight categories?
Common paper weight categories include Bond, Text, Cover, Index and Bristol. Bond and Text generally describe lighter papers, while Cover, Index and Bristol are heavier cardstock categories.
Each category has its own standard basic sheet size used to calculate Basis Weight. Because of this, pound weights from different categories should not be compared directly.
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Is 80 lb. Cover the same as 80 lb. Text paper?
No. 80 lb. Cover is considerably heavier than 80 lb. Text because Text and Cover are different paper categories with different basic sheet sizes.
The same pound number does not mean the papers have the same actual weight.
When comparing different types of paper, GSM can provide a more consistent comparison.
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What paper weight should I use for my project?
The best paper weight depends on what you're creating and how the finished piece will be used. Lighter papers work well for everyday printing and documents, medium weights are commonly used for brochures, letterhead and presentations, while heavier papers and cardstocks are better suited for covers, menus, flyers, postcards and cards.
Always make sure the weight you choose is compatible with your printer.
Paper Thickness
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What does caliper mean in paper?
Caliper is the term commonly used to describe the thickness of a single sheet of paper. Paper caliper is typically measured in thousandths of an inch using a precision measuring tool called a micrometer, sometimes referred to as a caliper.
The higher the caliper measurement, the thicker the sheet of paper.
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What does pt. mean when describing paper thickness?
Pt. stands for point and is a common way to express paper thickness. One point equals one-thousandth of an inch:
1 pt. = .001"
For example, 8 pt. paper is approximately .008" thick, while 12 pt. paper is approximately .012" thick.
The higher the point measurement, the thicker the paper.
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Is paper thickness the same as paper weight?
No. Paper weight and paper thickness are two different measurements. Paper weight describes how much a specified quantity and size of paper weighs and is typically expressed using Basis Weight or GSM. Paper thickness measures the physical thickness of an individual sheet and is expressed as caliper.
Because weight and thickness are measured differently, two papers with the same Basis Weight can have noticeably different thicknesses.
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Why does paper thickness matter?
Paper thickness can affect the feel and presentation, folding, printer compatibility, mailing and finished bulk of a project. Thicker paper can provide a more substantial feel for covers, cards, invitations and menus, while thinner paper may be better suited for documents, inserts and multi-page pieces.
Thicker paper does not necessarily mean better quality. The right thickness is the one that works best for the intended use and printing requirements.
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Can paper be too thick for my printer?
Yes. Printers and copiers have limits on the paper thicknesses they can reliably feed through the machine. Paper that exceeds your printer's specifications may cause feeding problems or paper jams.
Check your printer manufacturer's specifications before using heavier or thicker paper, and use a manual or bypass tray when recommended.
Paper Brightness
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What is paper brightness?
Paper brightness measures how much blue light is reflected from the surface of white paper. It is measured by directing a specific wavelength of blue light at the paper and measuring how much is reflected back.
The result is expressed as a brightness number, typically on a scale from 0 to 100. The higher the number, the brighter the paper may appear. For example, a 96 brightness paper may appear more vivid and provide stronger contrast than a 92 brightness paper.
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Is brighter paper always better?
No. Higher brightness isn't automatically better for every project. A brighter white can provide crisp contrast and make colors appear more vibrant, while a softer or warmer white may create a more subdued appearance.
The best choice depends on the look you want to achieve and how the paper will be used.
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Does paper brightness affect printing?
Yes. Paper brightness can influence how printed text, images and colors appear on the page. Brighter papers generally create greater contrast between the paper and printed areas, which can help text appear sharper and colors look more vibrant.
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Is paper brightness the same as paper whiteness?
No. Paper brightness and whiteness describe different characteristics of paper. Brightness measures the amount of blue light reflected from the paper's surface, while whiteness describes how the paper visually appears to the eye, such as a cooler blue-white, neutral white or warmer cream-white.
Because brightness and visual shade are different, two white papers can have the same or similar brightness ratings and still look noticeably different when placed side by side.
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What shade of white paper should I choose?
It depends on the appearance you want for the finished piece. Cooler or brighter whites can create a crisp, clean look, while warmer whites can create a softer appearance. The colors, photographs and other design elements being printed should also be considered when choosing a white shade.
When appearance is especially important, comparing physical paper samples can help you choose the right shade.
You can contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 to request paper samples or get help choosing the right paper for your project.
Paper Finishes
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What is a paper finish?
A paper finish describes the surface characteristics and texture of a sheet of paper. Paper can be smooth or textured, coated or uncoated, with finishes ranging from highly polished and reflective to soft, natural and tactile.
The finish can influence how paper looks and feels, how ink or toner interacts with the surface and the overall appearance of the printed piece. Choosing the right finish depends on both the printing method and the look and feel you want for the finished project.
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What is the difference between coated and uncoated paper?
Uncoated paper has no surface coating, leaving the natural paper fibers more exposed. This gives the sheet a more natural, tactile feel and allows ink to absorb more readily into the surface.
Coated paper has a surface coating that fills spaces between the paper fibers, creating a smoother, less porous surface. Because ink remains closer to the surface, coated papers can produce sharper images, finer detail and more vibrant color.
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What are common coated paper finishes?
Common coated paper finishes include Gloss, Silk/Satin and Matte.
Gloss has a smooth, highly reflective surface that can enhance color, contrast and image detail.
Silk and Satin are often used to describe similar finishes that fall between Gloss and Matte, providing a smooth surface with strong image reproduction and less light reflection than Gloss.
Matte has a smooth, low-reflective surface that minimizes glare and provides a softer, more subdued appearance.
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What are common uncoated paper textures?
Common uncoated paper textures include Smooth, Felt, Laid, Linen, Vellum and Wove. Some provide only subtle surface variation, while others create a more noticeable tactile pattern.
For example, Linen paper has a textured surface designed to resemble woven linen fabric, typically with subtle intersecting horizontal and vertical lines. Its distinctive texture is popular for stationery, invitations, menus, business cards and other projects where the feel of the paper is part of the presentation.
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Which paper finish is best for my project?
The best finish depends on the look, feel and printing requirements of your project. Coated papers are often chosen when sharp images and vibrant color are priorities, while uncoated papers provide a more natural, tactile feel and are available in a wide range of textures.
For specialty projects, comparing paper samples can help you choose the finish that provides the appearance you want.
You can contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 to request paper samples or get help choosing the right paper for your project.
Paper Grain
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What is paper grain and why does it matter?
Paper grain is the direction in which most of the fibers are aligned within a sheet of paper. Similar to the grain in wood, paper grain affects how a sheet bends, folds, scores and binds. Whenever possible, paper should be folded and scored with the grain, which generally produces a smoother, cleaner fold with less resistance.
Grain direction becomes especially important with heavier paper and cardstock. Folding against the grain can make the sheet more difficult to fold and increase the risk of cracking or uneven folds. Scoring can help create a cleaner, more controlled fold, particularly with heavier stocks.
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What is the difference between long grain and short grain paper?
Long grain means the paper fibers run parallel to the sheet's longer dimension. Short grain means the fibers run parallel to the shorter dimension.
For example, a standard Letter sheet with long grain would typically be written as 8.5" × 11", indicating the grain runs in the 11" direction. The same size sheet with short grain would be written as 11" × 8.5", indicating the grain runs in the 8.5" direction. The last dimension generally indicates the grain direction.
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How can I tell the grain direction of paper?
One way to identify grain direction is to gently bend the sheet in both directions. Paper usually bends more easily and with less resistance when bending with the grain.
Grain direction may also be identified on the paper label. The last dimension generally indicates the grain direction, while some labels may underline the grain dimension or use L (Long) or S (Short) as an indicator. In other cases, the label may specifically state the grain direction, such as Long Grain or Short Grain.
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Why is paper grain important in bookbinding?
Grain direction is especially important in professional and craft bookbinding. Ideally, the paper grain should run parallel to the spine of the finished book. This allows the pages to turn more naturally and helps the finished book open and lie flatter.
When the grain runs perpendicular to the spine, pages may feel stiffer and resist opening or turning as easily. Choosing the correct grain direction can also help reduce stress along the fold or binding, contributing to a cleaner, more flexible finished book.
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Does Church Paper sell short grain paper?
Yes. Church Paper offers short grain paper options and custom cutting services for projects where grain direction is important. Short grain sheets are especially useful for applications such as bookbinding, where the grain needs to run parallel to the finished spine.
Contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 if you need help finding a specific paper size, weight or grain direction.
Perforated Paper
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What is perforated paper and how does it work?
Perforated paper has a line of small cuts placed into the sheet so a section can be easily separated by folding and tearing along the perforation. Unlike cutting the sheet completely apart, perforating keeps the sections connected so the entire sheet can be printed before the detachable portion is removed.
A perforation consists of a repeating pattern of small cuts separated by uncut areas called ties. The size and spacing of the cuts and ties affect how easily and cleanly the paper tears.
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What is perforated paper used for?
Perforated paper is used whenever part of a printed sheet needs to be easily removed while the rest of the document remains intact.
Common applications include church bulletins with tear-off response cards, invoices with detachable payment stubs, coupons, tickets, reply cards, registration forms, statements, receipts and promotional mailers.
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Can perforated paper be used in a regular printer?
Yes. Many perforated papers can be printed using standard office printers and copiers, provided the paper's size, weight and thickness are compatible with the equipment.
Before loading perforated paper, fan the sheets to help separate them so the perforations don't catch or stick together. If your printer has a manual or bypass tray, consider using it for a straighter paper path. Always follow your printer manufacturer's recommendations for the paper you're using.
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What perforation configurations are available?
Perforated paper is available in a variety of standard and custom configurations depending on where the detachable section is needed. Common options include horizontal and vertical perforations, multiple perforations and detachable sections positioned at different locations on the sheet.
Church Paper offers custom perforating services for projects that require a specific perforation location or layout. Contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 to speak with our live customer service team for a custom quote.
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Can cardstock be perforated?
Yes. Perforations can be added to a variety of papers, including heavier sheets and cardstock. The appropriate perforation depends on the paper weight, thickness and intended use. Heavier papers may require a different cut-and-tie configuration to provide the desired tear.
Contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 if you need help determining whether a particular cardstock is suitable for your perforated project.
Paper Labels
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What information is found on a paper ream label?
A paper ream label typically identifies important product specifications such as the manufacturer, brand, item number, color, finish, size, weight, GSM, grain direction and number of sheets. Depending on the product, it may also include information such as recycled content or recommended uses.
This information can help you identify a paper, compare products and reorder the correct item.
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Why should I keep the label from a paper ream?
Keeping the label makes it much easier to identify and reorder the same paper later. It contains important product details that can help ensure you're purchasing the same product.
If you're unsure which paper you previously purchased, Church Paper can use the information on the label to help identify it. Contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 and have as much of the label information available as possible.
Printing & Paper Tips
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How do I know what paper my printer can handle?
Check your printer manufacturer's specifications for the paper sizes, weights, thicknesses and media types the printer supports. Printer settings should also match the type of paper you're using whenever possible, since many printers allow you to select a paper or media type, size and sometimes GSM range.
Because printers vary considerably in their paper-handling capabilities, a paper that works well in one printer may not be appropriate for another.
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What is a manual or bypass tray?
A manual or bypass tray is an alternate paper feed available on many printers that can provide a straighter paper path through the machine. It can be useful when printing heavier paper, cardstock, perforated paper and other specialty media.
Check your printer's instructions to determine when the manual or bypass tray is recommended.
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Why does cardstock jam in my printer?
Cardstock may jam if its weight or thickness exceeds your printer's specifications, the wrong paper settings are selected, or the paper path isn't suitable for heavier media.
Check the manufacturer's supported paper specifications and, if available, use the recommended manual or bypass tray for heavier sheets.
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Should I test paper before a large print run?
Yes. When using an unfamiliar paper, test a small quantity before beginning a large print run. Testing allows you to check printer compatibility, feeding, print quality, color reproduction and overall appearance before committing to the entire project.
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How should paper be stored?
Store paper flat in a clean, dry and climate-controlled environment, away from excessive heat, moisture and humidity changes. Whenever possible, keep unused paper wrapped or in its original packaging until you're ready to use it. Proper storage helps reduce curling, feeding problems and other issues caused by environmental changes.
If paper has been stored or transported in conditions significantly different from your printing environment, allow it time to acclimate to the room's temperature and humidity before opening the package and printing.
Ordering
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How do I place an order with Church Paper?
You can place an order directly through ChurchPaper.com by selecting your product, size, color, weight and quantity and adding it to your cart.
If you need help finding the right paper or have questions before ordering, contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 to speak with a member of our customer service team.
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Do you only sell paper to churches?
No. While Church Paper's roots were formed in a family printing shop that originally supplied printed products to religious publishing houses and churches, today we serve a much broader range of customers, including businesses, schools, restaurants, printers, organizations and individuals across the nation. Of course, we're still very thankful for the thousands of churches we continue to serve today!
You can order directly through ChurchPaper.com or by calling us at 1-800-626-5222.
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Can I order paper in bulk?
Yes. Many products are available in larger quantities for businesses, organizations and other customers who need paper in bulk.
If you're planning a large order or need help determining quantities, contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 to speak with a member of our customer service team.
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What if I can't find the paper I need?
ChurchPaper.com offers paper in a wide selection of sizes, colors, weights, finishes and other specifications. If you don't see exactly what you need online, contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 for help finding the right paper for your project.
Depending on the product, we may be able to recommend another option with similar characteristics or provide custom cutting services for sizes that aren't normally stocked as standard products.
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What if a paper is out of stock, discontinued or hard to find?
If the paper you need is out of stock, discontinued or otherwise difficult to find, contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 before choosing a substitute.
If you have information about the original paper, such as the manufacturer, brand, item number, color, size, weight or finish, have it available when you contact us. We can help determine availability or identify another paper with similar characteristics.
Custom Services
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Does Church Paper offer custom paper cutting?
Yes. Church Paper offers custom cutting services for many papers and cardstocks. Larger sheets can be cut to the specific finished size needed for your project, giving you options beyond standard Letter, Legal and Tabloid sizes.
Custom cutting can be useful for printing, bookbinding, invitations, cards, inserts, menus, crafts and other specialty applications. Contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 to discuss your paper, finished size and quantity requirements.
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Can you custom cut short grain paper?
Yes. Church Paper offers custom cutting for short grain paper, which can be especially useful for projects where grain direction is important to the finished piece.
Custom cutting can also help create the finished dimensions and grain direction required for other specialized projects.
Contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 to discuss custom cutting options.
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Does Church Paper offer custom perforating?
Yes. Church Paper offers custom perforating services for projects that require detachable sections in specific locations.
Sheets can also be produced with multiple perforations when more than one detachable section is needed. The number and placement of the perforations can be customized based on the requirements of the finished piece.
Contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 to discuss your perforation requirements.
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Does Church Paper offer custom scoring?
Yes. Church Paper offers custom scoring services to create a controlled line that makes paper or cardstock easier to fold. Scoring is especially useful for heavier papers and cardstocks where folding without a score could result in cracking or an uneven fold.
Contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 to discuss your project.
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Does Church Paper offer custom promotional products?
Yes. Church Paper offers a variety of custom imprinted products for businesses, churches, schools and organizations. Available options include custom printed envelopes, bags, BIC® pens, note pads, magnets and multiple drinkware options that can feature your organization's name, logo, contact information or custom design.
Samples & Product Assistance
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Does Church Paper offer paper samples?
Yes. Church Paper offers paper samples to help you evaluate a product before ordering. Samples are especially helpful for comparing colors, white shades, textures, finishes, weights and thicknesses that can be difficult to judge on a computer screen, and they also give you an opportunity to test the paper with your printer before placing a larger order.
Contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 to discuss the paper you're considering and available sample options.
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Can Church Paper help me choose the right paper?
Yes. Church Paper's knowledgeable customer service team can help you compare paper sizes, weights, thicknesses, colors, finishes and other characteristics based on your project and printing needs.
Use our website contact form or call 1-800-626-5222 to speak with a live customer service representative.
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Can Church Paper help me find a specific paper?
Yes. If you're looking for a particular paper, provide as much information as you have, such as the manufacturer, brand, item number, color, size, weight or finish.
Even partial information—or a description of the paper and how you plan to use it—can help us identify the product or narrow down the options.
Use our website contact form or call 1-800-626-5222 to speak with a live customer service representative.
Shipping & Delivery
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Where does Church Paper ship to?
Customers in the 48 Contiguous U.S. States can place orders directly through ChurchPaper.com.
Please Note: We cannot ship to P.O. Boxes, so a valid physical street address is required when placing your order.
We also ship to Alaska, Hawaii and International destinations, but these orders cannot be placed through our website and require a shipping quote.
For shipping to Alaska, Hawaii or an International destination, please contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 to discuss available shipping options.
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What are Church Paper's minimum order and shipping charges?
Church Paper has a $25 minimum merchandise order. Orders of $150 or more qualify for free standard shipping, while orders under $150 have a standard $15.99 shipping charge.
An additional $1.50 per ream or package applies to orders shipped to AZ, CA, CO, ID, MN, MT, ND, NM, NV, OR, SD, UT, WA and WY. This surcharge also applies to orders that otherwise qualify for free standard shipping.
Additional shipping charges apply to Alaska, Hawaii and International orders.
Please contact us through our website or call 1-800-626-5222 to discuss available shipping options.
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How is paper packaged for shipping?
Church Paper takes extra care when packaging orders to help protect paper during shipping. Paper remains in its ream or package wrapping to help keep it clean and protected, and orders are packed in sturdy shipping boxes.
Full-carton orders are double-boxed for additional protection, helping reduce the chance of damage during transit.
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How long will it take to receive my order?
Order and delivery times can vary depending on the products ordered and delivery location. Custom cut, perforated or scored paper may require additional processing time.
Once your order has shipped, FedEx or UPS tracking information will be available so you can follow the progress of your shipment.
If you need your order by a specific date, call 1-800-626-5222 before placing your order so our customer service team can discuss the available options and timing requirements.
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What should I do if there is a problem with my order?
If your paper arrives damaged, an item is missing or you receive a product that doesn't match your order, contact Church Paper at 1-800-626-5222 as soon as possible.
Have your order information available, and if the shipment is damaged, keep the paper, original packaging and shipping materials while our customer service team reviews the issue and provides next steps.
Returns
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What is Church Paper's return policy?
Returns may be accepted with prior approval within 30 days of purchase. To request a return authorization, call Church Paper at 1-800-626-5222.
Some products are not eligible for return, and all approved returns must be properly packaged and returned in their original packaging.
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How do I request a return?
Before returning a product, call Church Paper at 1-800-626-5222 to request return authorization. Returns require prior approval and may be accepted within 30 days of purchase.
Please do not send a product back without first contacting Church Paper.
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What products cannot be returned?
Certain customized and special-order products cannot be returned. This includes non-defective imprinted products, custom-cut paper, specially perforated or scored paper and special-order products.
To request a return authorization, call Church Paper at 1-800-626-5222. Please do not send a product back without first contacting Church Paper.
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Do I have to pay return shipping?
Shipping charges may apply to returns of non-defective items. Original shipping charges on non-defective items are generally not refundable, however, depending on the circumstances, Church Paper may be able to credit some or all of the shipping charges on a case-by-case basis.
Call us at 1-800-626-5222 to discuss your return and available options. Please do not send a product back without first contacting Church Paper.
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Does returned paper need to be in its original packaging?
Yes. All returned products must be properly packaged and returned in their original packaging.
Keeping paper in its original packaging also helps protect the product during return shipping.
To request a return authorization, call Church Paper at 1-800-626-5222. Please do not send a product back without first contacting Church Paper.