A letterhead is a corporate-identity layout used on documents such as letters, communications and quotations. It can include a logo and official details, but it must leave enough room for the main text to be written and read comfortably.
Before designing the letterhead, decide which documents will use it and which information must always appear, particularly when legal details are involved.
What is a company letterhead?
It is the set of identifying elements normally positioned at the top or bottom of a document, although their arrangement depends on the visual identity.
Which details should it include?
The logo, registered name, address and contact details may be appropriate depending on the purpose. Any tax or legal information required for a particular document should be checked against the applicable rules.
Company letterhead examples by document type
A sheet does not need to be filled with details for the business to be recognisable. The layout changes according to the document and the space readers need to review or complete information.
- Business letter: logo and name in the header, discreet contact details in the footer and a generous area for the text.
- Quotation: branding at the top and enough room for references, items, prices and terms, without confusing the letterhead with the quotation content.
- Internal communication: a simple header with the department or company, with the date and subject clearly separated from the message.
These are layout examples, not legal templates. Before printing a full run, test the letterhead with a real document of two or more pages and confirm which details are required for that type of communication.
Designing an A4 letterhead
An A4 document measures 210 × 297 mm. Reserve a sufficiently large central text area and prevent the letterhead from competing with multi-page letters or quotations.
How to create a template in Word
Set the page size, place the image or logo in the header and footer, define useful margins and test both one- and multi-page documents. If the sheets are already pre-printed, do not print the same branding again with the variable text.
Which paper should you choose?
Uncoated paper may be suitable for writing and compatible office equipment. Check its weight and performance in the printer where it will be used.
Single- or double-sided printing?
Single-sided printing may be enough for simple letters. If both sides will be used, check the paper opacity and orientation of the corporate details.
Pre-print checklist
- Approve the logo.
- Check the company name and contact details.
- Confirm A4 or another format.
- Reserve adequate margins for content.
- Choose paper compatible with its later use.
- Print a complete test document.
Letterheads and headed paper
In practice, these terms are closely related. Headed paper describes the physical printed product, while letterhead refers to the corporate elements it carries.
For related products, see our custom corporate stationery printing options.
For urgent orders, confirm the required details, paper availability, approval cut-off and delivery conditions before committing to a deadline.
Frequently asked questions
Must the logo appear on every page?
That depends on the document and template.
Can letterheads be printed in colour?
Yes.
Are all letterheads A4?
No. Other formats can be specified.
Need printed stationery for your company? Tell us the format, paper, quantity and delivery requirements.
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