Frequently Asked Questions

About Our Maps

What is a military career map?

A military career map is a personalized keepsake displaying a service member’s duty stations and deployments. We combine their locations, dates, name, rank, and service details into a design that tells the story of their career.

Who are these maps for?

Our maps make gifts for military retirements, PCS moves, promotions, changes of command, and going-away celebrations. You can also order one to commemorate your own service.

Which military branches do you offer?

We offer designs for the Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Space Force. If you need a joint-service or other custom design, contact us before ordering.

Is Duty Station Designs veteran-owned?

Yes. Duty Station Designs is owned by a U.S. Air Force veteran with more than 20 years of service.

Materials and Sizes

What is the difference between matte, canvas, and metal?

Matte poster: A smooth paper print that needs a frame for wall display.

Canvas: A textured print stretched over a 1.5-inch wooden frame. It is ready to hang without an additional decorative frame.

Metal: A smooth print on aluminum composite with a matte finish and mounting hardware included. It is designed for indoor display. We recommend purchasing a separate decorative frame for a finished presentation.

What sizes are available?

Common sizes include 20×16, 30×20, and 36×24 inches. Available sizes vary by product and are shown on its product page.

Which size should I choose?

For a career with numerous duty stations or deployments, 30×20 is a useful starting point. We generally recommend 36×24 for approximately 12–14 or more locations, particularly when adding a ribbon rack or other detailed elements.

The best fit depends on the length of the location names and the amount of information included. Contact us if you would like help choosing.

Can you include a large number of locations?

Yes, but space and readability matter. A larger size may be needed, and very detailed careers may require a simplified layout. Send us your list before ordering if you are unsure whether it will fit.

Is a frame included?

A decorative frame is included only when you select a framed option or the product description expressly states that one is included.

Matte posters need a frame for wall display. Canvas prints are stretched over a wooden frame and can be hung without an additional decorative frame.

Metal prints include mounting hardware, but we recommend purchasing a separate decorative frame for a finished presentation.

Are the maps illuminated?

Our standard matte, canvas, and metal maps do not light up. Lighting shown in a lifestyle image is not included unless the listing specifically states that you are purchasing an illuminated product.

Will the colors look exactly like my screen?

Colors can vary slightly because of screen settings, room lighting, and the selected material. Your proof shows the design and layout; the finished surface and texture depend on the material you choose.

Personalization

What information do you need?

Please provide:

• Name and rank.

• Years of service.

• Duty stations and deployments, with dates.

• Any requested wording or design details.

• Any additional artwork you would like us to consider.

Follow the personalization instructions on your selected product page. Please do not send classified information.

How do I send my information?

Use the personalization fields provided when ordering. If your list is too long or you need to send artwork, email dutystationdesigns1@protonmail.com with your order number.

Can I include deployments and overseas locations?

Yes. We can include duty stations and deployments around the world. Please provide the location names and dates as you would like them displayed.

Can you include repeated assignments to the same base?

Yes. Include each assignment and its dates. We will arrange the information to keep the design clear.

Can I include training locations?

Yes. Basic training, technical schools, and other significant training locations can be included.

Can I add a ribbon rack, unit patches, or Navy ship logos?

These additions may be available for your selected design. A custom ribbon rack is an optional paid upgrade. Contact us before ordering for availability and pricing for other additions.

For artwork you supply, clear PNG files are preferred. Please provide only material you have permission to use.

Can I change the wording or remove a design element?

Many designs can be adjusted. Include your request when ordering, or contact us first if it is a substantial change.

Can you create a map for a spouse or family?

We can discuss a design that reflects a family’s military journey. Contact us before ordering so we can confirm the layout and available options.

What if I do not know all the dates or locations?

Send the information you have and let us know what is uncertain. Please verify any details you want included—we cannot independently confirm a service member’s history.

Proofs and Approval

Will I see the design before it is printed?

Yes. We send a digital proof and require your approval before printing.

When will I receive my proof?

We normally send your first proof within 48–72 hours after receiving your order and complete personalization information.

Can I see a custom mockup before purchasing?

Design work begins after purchase. You can review the examples in our listings before ordering, and we are happy to answer questions about whether your request is possible.

Can I request changes to my proof?

Yes. Your order includes two complimentary revisions. Additional revisions or substantial changes may involve a fee, which we will discuss with you before proceeding.

What should I check in my proof?

Carefully check names, ranks, years of service, dates, spelling, locations, and any added artwork. Review the full layout before approving.

How do I approve my proof?

Reply to the proof email with “Approve” when you are satisfied with the design.

What happens if I do not respond?

Your order will remain on hold until we receive your approval. Delayed approval will extend the production and delivery timeline.

Can I make changes after approval?

Contact us immediately. Once the design has entered production, we cannot change it. A corrected print may require a paid replacement.

Production and Shipping

How long does production and shipping take?

For standard matte, canvas, and metal maps, allow:

• Proof: Normally 48–72 hours after we receive complete order information.

• Production: 2–3 business days after approval.

• Shipping: Approximately 5–6 business days after shipment.

Revisions and delayed responses add time. Business days exclude weekends and holidays. Product-specific timelines are shown on the applicable product page.

Can you guarantee delivery for a retirement ceremony or other event?

Please contact us before purchasing if you have a firm deadline. We will review what is possible, but estimated delivery dates are not guaranteed unless expressly agreed in writing.

Do you offer expedited shipping?

Expedited shipping may be available for metal prints for an additional charge, subject to confirmation. Overnight shipping is not available.

Do you ship to APO/FPO addresses?

We can ship certain products to APO/FPO addresses. Please contact us before purchasing to confirm availability for your product and destination. Delivery may take longer than standard estimates.

Do you ship internationally?

Available destinations are shown at checkout. Contact us before ordering if your location is not listed or you need help confirming availability.

Will I receive tracking?

Yes. We send tracking information when your order ships. Carrier updates may take time to appear after the shipping label is created.

Can I ship directly to the gift recipient?

Yes. Enter the recipient’s address as the shipping address at checkout. Make sure it is accurate before submitting your order.

Can I change my shipping address?

Contact us as soon as possible. Changes may not be possible once your approved design has been sent to production.

Will all items arrive together?

Not necessarily. Products made by different production partners may ship separately.

What should I do if tracking stops updating or the package is late?

Email us with your order number and tracking details so we can investigate.

Digital Files and Urgent Orders

Do you offer a digital file?

A digital-file option may be available if you want to arrange your own printing or need an alternative for an upcoming ceremony. Contact us for availability and pricing.

Can you help with an urgent order?

Contact us before purchasing. Depending on the deadline, a digital file may be more practical than a shipped print. Rush design work is subject to availability and may involve an additional charge.

Can I print a purchased digital file locally?

Yes, when provided for that purpose. Tell us your intended print size so we can prepare the file appropriately. Local printing and framing costs are separate.

Returns and Product Problems

Can I return my personalized product?

Custom orders are final sale. We do not accept returns, exchanges, or refunds for changes of mind, except where required by law.

What if my product arrives damaged?

We will replace a damaged product at no additional cost. Contact us promptly with your order number and clear photos of the product, shipping box, and packaging. Keep everything until we provide instructions.

What if the finished product does not match my approved proof?

Contact us with photos and your order number. If a production error caused the difference, we will arrange a replacement at no additional cost.

What if I approved a proof containing an incorrect date or spelling?

Contact us to discuss a corrected replacement. Errors included in an approved proof are not eligible for a complimentary replacement or refund, so please review your proof carefully.

Can I cancel my order?

Once an approved design enters production, it cannot be canceled. Contact us immediately with any cancellation request before that stage. Our published policies and any applicable legal rights govern refunds.

Contact Us

How can I ask a question before ordering?

Email Ryan at dutystationdesigns1@protonmail.com. If you have already ordered, include your order number so we can help you faster.