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OrderingHow to Order Custom Race Bibs: A Step-by-Step Checklist
Ordering race bibs for the first time — or the fiftieth time, on a tight registration timeline — goes smoother with a checklist. Most delays we see come from missing artwork, an undecided numbering scheme, or a quantity estimate that changes after the mockup is already approved.
Here is the process broken into steps, in the order we recommend tackling them.
Step 1: Lock your headcount estimate
You do not need a final number to request a quote — an approximate is fine, and we will firm it up before production. But have a realistic range in mind based on current registrations or last year’s turnout, since quantity is the biggest driver of your per-unit price.
Step 2: Gather your artwork
Send your race logo as a vector file (AI, EPS, SVG, or PDF) if you have one. If you only have a PNG, JPEG, or printed reference, our designers will recreate it print-ready at no charge — just flag that up front so we can plan for it.
Step 3: Decide your numbering and personalization scheme
Will bibs be sequentially numbered to match your registration system? Do you need age-group color coding, wave assignments, or runner names? Answering this before the mockup stage avoids a second round of revisions later.
Step 4: Choose your stock
Standard coated paper works for most road races and indoor events. Choose Tyvek waterproof if there is a real chance of rain, mud, or a water crossing on your course.
Step 5: Approve your mockup
We return a photo-real mockup within 24 hours of your quote request. Review it against your actual data file if you are personalizing, and request revisions freely — there is no charge for additional rounds.
Step 6: Confirm and pay
Once you approve the design, confirm final quantity and pay. Production starts the same day.
Step 7: Receive and distribute
Bulk orders ship in about two weeks. If bibs are pre-sorted by wave, age group, or pickup location, confirm that sorting scheme with us before production so cases arrive ready to distribute.
| Step | What you need | Typical timing |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Headcount estimate | Approximate quantity | Before quote |
| 2. Artwork | Logo file (vector preferred) | With quote request |
| 3. Numbering scheme | Data file or plan | Before mockup |
| 4. Stock decision | Paper or Tyvek | With quote request |
| 5–7. Approve, pay, ship | Sign-off | Within one business day + 2 weeks |
Ready to start your order? Get a custom quote — free mockups in 24 hours. Learn more about how we work, or browse more guides.
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