Key takeaways
- Collated output: 1-2-3, 1-2-3.
- Uncollated output: 1-1, 2-2, 3-3.
- Collate booklets, reports, catalogs and forms.
- Uncollated suits single-page handouts.
- Carbonless forms are collated into sets.
Meaning of collate in printing
To collate is to gather pages into the correct order to make complete copies of a document. When you print three copies of a three-page document collated, you receive three complete sets: 1-2-3, 1-2-3, 1-2-3. Without collating, you would receive all copies of page one, then all of page two, and so on.
Collated vs uncollated
The difference at a glance:
| Option | Output for 3 copies of pages 1 to 3 | Use when |
|---|---|---|
| Collated | 1-2-3, 1-2-3, 1-2-3 | You need complete sets |
| Uncollated | 1-1-1, 2-2-2, 3-3-3 | Sorting by page or single sheets |
When to choose collated printing
Booklets, catalogs, reports, training manuals, proposals, menus with several pages and multi-part forms all need collating so each recipient receives a complete document in the right order.
When uncollated makes sense
Uncollated printing is useful for flyers, single-page handouts and forms that will be distributed separately, or when pages will be assembled later by hand or machine.
Collating in commercial printing
In commercial print, collating is done by machines that gather printed sheets or folded signatures in order before binding. A signature is a large sheet printed with several pages that is folded into a section of a booklet or book.
Binding after collating
Collated documents can be stapled, saddle-stitched, perfect bound, spiral bound or simply stacked. The method depends on page count and use.
Collating on an office printer
Most print dialogs include a collate checkbox. With it on, each complete copy prints before the next begins; with it off, pages print in stacks.
Collated carbonless forms
Carbonless forms are collated into sets, such as white, yellow and pink copies, then glued or bound so each set copies cleanly. We print and collate catalogs, booklets and carbonless forms.
Frequently asked questions
What does collate mean on a printer?
Printing complete sets in page order.
Should I print collated?
Yes, for multi-page documents you want as complete copies.
What is a signature in printing?
A large sheet printed with several pages and folded into a section.
What is custom collated printing?
Professional printing where documents are delivered as complete ordered sets.