How lead times are worked out
Lead time depends on the type of order, the size of the frames, and how full the workshop is when your job comes in. A small re-stretch or a simple frame clean can move quickly, while bulk screen orders and custom sizes need more prep, drying time and checking before release. In most cases, we confirm the timing once we have your sizes, quantity and delivery area.
If you are in Cape Town and need a quick turnaround, let us know early in the day. For Johannesburg, Durban, Pretoria and Gqeberha deliveries, the timing also depends on the next courier or route run. We always try to match the job to the most practical dispatch method, rather than rush it and risk damage.
- New screen stretching and custom sizes may need extra preparation time.
- Frame inspections and adhesive work must be fully dry before packing.
- Urgent orders are handled on a case by case basis, depending on workshop load.
- We will confirm the expected handover before your order leaves Maitland.
Collections from Maitland and Bellville
Customers who want to collect can arrange it from our Maitland Workshop, and some orders can also be handed over via Bellville Collections if that suits the route. Collections are useful for customers who want to inspect the order before taking it, or who are managing their own transport in Cape Town. Please wait for confirmation before coming through so we can have the frames ready and checked.
When collecting, bring the order details or reference from your enquiry. If someone else is collecting on your behalf, make sure they know the size and quantity, because we cannot release the wrong frames just to save time. A quick sign off at handover helps avoid mix ups later on.
- Bring your order reference or contact name.
- Check the frame count and sizes before leaving.
- Tell us if you need loading help for larger stacks.
- Ask about Bellville handover if that is easier than Maitland.
Courier packing and how we protect the frames
Screen frames and stretched screens are packed to reduce movement during transport, because a loose edge or sharp knock can affect mesh tension. We use a practical packing process that suits local road conditions, long-distance courier trips and coastal humidity. The aim is simple: the order should arrive clean, square and ready for use, not bent or scuffed.
Before dispatch, each frame is checked for visible damage, then separated and secured so the corners do not rub. If an order contains different sizes, we group them clearly for easy identification on arrival. For bigger loads, we may recommend a stronger packing method and a slightly longer dispatch time if that is what the job needs.
- Frames are secured so corners do not rub in transit.
- Orders are grouped by size and quantity for easier offloading.
- We check the frame condition before it leaves the workshop.
- Moisture sensitive jobs are packed with care for coastal conditions.
Nationwide dispatch for major centres
We dispatch to customers in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Pretoria and Gqeberha, with route planning based on order size and destination. Some orders go out on scheduled courier runs, while others move on local delivery routes where that is the faster option. If you are in a nearby area such as Paarl, we can often route it with the Cape Town supply run when the timing works.
Nationwide dispatch is arranged from Maitland, and the handover method depends on what you ordered and where it is going. For bulk screen orders, the delivery plan may differ from a single replacement frame because the size and packaging are not the same. We will always choose the option that gives the best balance between safety and cost, not just the quickest move.
If your business runs across more than one branch, you can also split delivery instructions. For example, one part of the order may go to Johannesburg deliveries while another part stays for Bellville collection. That sort of arrangement is common, and it helps keep production moving when printers are working across sites.
What to expect during the handover
Once your order is ready, we confirm the handover step and prepare the frames for dispatch or collection. If there are any questions about the size, tension or finish, we sort them out before the order moves. That extra check matters, because once a frame is on the road it is more difficult to correct small issues quickly.
At handover, you should check that the right quantity is present and that the frames match the sizes you ordered. If something does not look right, raise it immediately so we can resolve it while the order is still in front of us. We would rather sort out a missing item on the spot than have you discover it later at the workshop or on site.
- Confirm quantities before the order leaves.
- Check that the frame sizes match your instruction.
- Report any marks, bends or missing items straight away.
- Keep the packing materials until you are sure everything is correct.
Tips for printers ordering from different provinces
If you are ordering from outside Cape Town, it helps to send exact measurements and note whether you need new screen stretching, restretching or frame cleaning. A small difference in size can create delays, especially when a printer needs a batch to fit a specific press setup. Please also mention whether the order is for garment printing, repeat use or a one off test run.
Coastal towns may face more moisture, so it is worth asking about storage and screen care if your order will sit for a while before use. Inland customers should also think about storage during load-shedding, because damp or dusty rooms can affect mesh condition. A clean, dry holding area makes the job last longer and saves trouble later on, even if the delivery itself went smoothly.
- Send exact sizes and quantity with your enquiry.
- Say whether the order is for new stretching or restretching.
- Tell us if the frames will be stored before use.
- Ask for screen care advice if you work in humid or dusty conditions.
