Asset Checklist

Running a full-fledged direct-to-fan campaign for the first time can be a little intimidating. Don't worry, we get that - we've been there before! To help calm your nerves, here's some basic guidelines you can follow to ensure nothing slips through the cracks when it counts! 

DIGITAL DISTRIBUTION ASSETS

• We encourage you to upload Apple Lossless files as your metadata will be preserved exactly as it appears in iTunes. We do accept most lossless audio formats, however, such as: FLAC, AIFF, WAV and Apple Lossless.
• We do not accept lossy audio formats such as: MP3 or AAC.
• Image files larger than 100MB will be added to the Files section.
• Video and Audio files larger than 600MB will be added to the Files section.
• If you are uploading gobs o' files or files greater than 300MB, try using the FTP Uploader
• All video files at highest available resolution and bitrate (mov or mp4 format). Google guide to video formats.
• Album cover art: Must be at least 600x600. Preferably as high as 1200x1200. RGB colorspace — no CMYK
• Listing of all metadata - i.e, the information that will appear in iTunes. At minimum: artist name, album name, full track listing, genre
• Any internal unit costs for each product. E.g., wholesale costs, additional royalties due for each unit sale.

Key Question: 
Is your artist a label artist - do they have the rights to bundle a digital download with physical purchase without paying double royalty? If not, try to negotiate this.

PHYSICAL PRODUCT CHECKLIST

• A DETAILED description of each product. E.g.: Not just “CD”, but “8 panel Digipack with full artwork and lyrics. Not just “Vinyl,” but “12” 180g Gatefold Vinyl”
• For wearable merch: all sizes to be offered
• An accurate estimate of weight of each products (oz) to determine shipping rates
• An understanding of your inventory restrictions (e.g., unlimited, 500 copies, etc.)
• C.O.G.S. = cost of goods sold. Make sure to take into account any unit costs for each product you're selling. E.g., manufacturing or wholesale costs
• Retail price for each good

FULFILLMENT CHECKLIST

Will you be fulfilling it yourself or working with a partner? 

Please make sure you check out the following: 

If you're fulfilling it yourself:

• Have you learned how to use the Fulfill tab of your account?
• Have you determined proper shipping rates for your packages, accounting for different regions?
• Have you entered the proper shipping and handling rates for each package?

If you're working with a fulfillment partner:

• Does your fulfiller have a profile set up with Topspin? Have you configured your account with this fulfiller?
• Have you sent the fulfiller the details about your packages and received shipping/handling rates?
• Have you entered the proper shipping and handling rates for each package?