Quick answer: Use vector files (AI, EPS, SVG or vector PDF) for anything printed, cut, stitched or enlarged — signs, vehicle graphics, shirts and banners. Use PNG with a transparent background for websites, social media, email signatures and documents. Use JPG only when a platform requires it. A professional logo delivery should include all of these.
Your designer sends a folder full of logo files and suddenly you are not sure which one to send to the printer. Here is a simple guide you can bookmark.
Vector vs raster: the one idea that explains everything
Vector files store your logo as mathematical shapes. They can be scaled from a business card to a billboard without losing sharpness. Raster files (PNG, JPG) store your logo as pixels. They look great at the size they were made for, but get blurry when enlarged.
The formats, one by one
AI (Adobe Illustrator)
The master working file. Fully editable vector. Send it to designers and print vendors who use Illustrator.
EPS
An older, widely accepted vector format. Many sign shops, embroiderers and promotional product companies still ask for EPS.
SVG
A vector format built for the web. Ideal for website headers because it stays sharp on every screen. Also used by vinyl cutters and cutting machines.
A vector PDF is the safest file to email to most printers. Be careful: a PDF can also contain a pasted-in pixel image, so it is not automatically a vector.
PNG
Pixel format with transparency. Use it for websites, social media profile pictures, presentations, documents and email signatures. Pick the size that matches the use rather than stretching a small file.
JPG
Pixel format without transparency. It loses a little quality every time it is saved. Use only when a platform requires it.
Which file to use for common jobs
- Storefront sign, banner, vehicle wrap: AI, EPS or vector PDF.
- Embroidered polo or hat: vector file plus the simplified one-color version. See preparing a logo for embroidery.
- Screen-printed T-shirts: vector file with exact color values.
- Business cards and flyers: vector PDF or EPS.
- Website header: SVG, or PNG at double the display size.
- Facebook, Instagram, Google Business Profile: square PNG.
- Word documents and slides: PNG.
Other versions you should have
- Primary and stacked layouts for wide and narrow spaces.
- One-color version for stamps, decals and embroidery.
- Reversed (white) version for dark backgrounds.
- Color values — HEX for screens, CMYK for print and, where needed, Pantone references.
What if you only have a JPG or an AI image?
That is common. We rebuild logos from low-resolution files, screenshots and AI-generated images as true vectors. See AI logo to vector or how vector conversion works.
Frequently asked questions
Is saving a JPG as SVG or PDF enough?
No. The file extension changes but the pixels stay. The artwork has to be rebuilt as vector shapes.
Which file do I send if I am not sure?
Send the vector PDF or EPS and ask the vendor for their specifications. We are happy to prepare a file to a printer’s exact requirements.
Need a complete, organized logo file set? Request a quote or call (404) 448-1369.