Check a Large-Format Poster PDF (A0, A1, A2) Before Printing
A2 and above are expensive to print and awkward to proof on paper. Check the numbers on screen first.
Poster sizes
| Size | mm | inches |
|---|---|---|
| A2 | 420 x 594 | 16.5 x 23.4 |
| A1 | 594 x 841 | 23.4 x 33.1 |
| A0 | 841 x 1189 | 33.1 x 46.8 |
| US Arch D | 610 x 914 | 24 x 36 |
1. Check the page size
Open the PDF in PdfRuler and read the size at the bottom right. Large files sometimes arrive at half or quarter scale (an A0 poster saved as A2 with "print at 200%"). Printers print the PDF's own size, so confirm it is the real one.
2. Check the margins and bleed
Use guides to mark 10 mm inside the trim and check no text crosses it. Posters are often framed or mounted, which hides the outer centimetre. For bleed, see what bleed is.
3. Zoom in on details
A big page at "fit" is small on screen. Use Ctrl + scroll up to 500% to read small details; measurements are unaffected, see zooming and measuring. The canvas size is automatically capped so very large sheets still render instead of going blank.
4. Check key distances
Place two points to verify a logo height, a title block or the distance between two elements, in mm.
5. Save a marked-up proof
Save the file with your measurements drawn in, and attach it to the print order.
Frequently asked questions
What size is an A0 poster?
A0 is 841 x 1189 mm (33.1 x 46.8 inches).
Can I check a huge PDF in the browser?
Yes. PdfRuler caps the render size internally so large sheets still show, and measurements always come from the PDF's own coordinates.
What is the right margin for a poster?
Keep important content at least 10 mm inside the trim, more if the poster will be framed or mounted.
