Short answer: you should receive vector files (AI, EPS, SVG and PDF) that can be resized without losing quality, transparent PNG files for websites and documents, JPG files for quick everyday use, small square icon versions, and the color codes for print and screen. Each should come in full color, one color, and a light version for dark backgrounds.
The most common problem we see when a client comes to us for a logo redesign is not the design itself. It is that they only have one low-resolution JPG. Everything works until they need a banner, an embroidered shirt or a sign, and then the file falls apart. This guide lists the files a professional logo package should include and what each one is for.
Vector files vs image files
Vector files describe the logo as shapes and lines, so they can be scaled to any size, from a pen to a billboard, without going blurry. Raster (image) files such as PNG and JPG are made of pixels; they look fine at the size they were made for, but become blurry when enlarged.
You need both: vector files to send to printers and designers, and image files for everyday use.
The logo files you should have
| File | Type | Use it for |
|---|---|---|
| AI | Vector | The editable master file (Adobe Illustrator). Keep it safe and send it to designers. |
| EPS | Vector | Printers, sign makers and embroidery shops that use older software. |
| SVG | Vector | Websites. Sharp on every screen and very small in file size. |
| Vector | Print shops and sharing a print-ready version with anyone. | |
| PNG (transparent) | Image | Websites, presentations, documents and social media, on top of colors or photos. |
| JPG | Image | Email signatures and quick uses where a white background is fine. |
Color versions
Every layout of your logo should come in at least these versions:
- Full color: the main version.
- One color (black): for stamps, single-color printing, engraving and faxed or photocopied documents.
- Reversed (white or light): for dark backgrounds, photos and dark-mode screens.
For LeanMeals, the LM lettermark was delivered in three ready-to-use color fills so the brand could switch between them without asking a designer each time.
Layout versions
- Horizontal: for website headers, email signatures and wide spaces.
- Stacked: for square spaces, such as packaging fronts and posters.
- Icon or monogram: the symbol or initials on their own, for small spaces.
Small square versions
A full logo becomes unreadable at small sizes, so you also need the icon on its own, sized for a favicon (the small image in a browser tab), app icons and social media profile pictures. A good logo is designed with this in mind from the start; it is one of the first tests we run on every mark.
Color codes
| Code | Used for |
|---|---|
| HEX | Websites and online tools |
| RGB | Screens: video, presentations, social media |
| CMYK | Standard printing: business cards, flyers, brochures |
| Pantone (if needed) | Large print runs and packaging where an exact ink color matters |
How the files should be organized
A tidy handover saves hours later. A sensible structure is one folder per format (Vector, PNG, JPG, Icons) with clear file names such as brandname-logo-horizontal-fullcolor.svg. Ask your designer for a short note or brand guidelines explaining which file to use where.
What if you only have a JPG?
You have two options. If the logo itself is good, it can be redrawn as a clean vector file. If it also has design problems, such as being hard to read at small sizes or looking dated, it is a good moment for a logo refresh or redesign. Either way, send us what you have and we will tell you which one makes sense.
Checklist
- Vector files: AI, EPS, SVG, PDF
- Transparent PNGs and JPGs
- Full color, one color and reversed versions
- Horizontal, stacked and icon layouts
- Favicon and profile picture sizes
- HEX, RGB and CMYK color codes
Every Dot Dzinr logo design project starts with research into your business, competitors and audience, and with hand sketches, and ends with production-ready files for print and screen.