Which animation delivery formats are most commonly requested?

[Logan.S]

I'm building a checklist of animation delivery formats to streamline my client handoff process, but I'm finding that requirements vary widely between clients.

Some want ProRes files for editing, others want MP4 for web, and some even request specific frame rates or resolutions. I'm trying to standardize my delivery package but need to know what animation delivery formats are most commonly requested in the industry.

What animation delivery formats do you typically provide to clients? Do you have a standard delivery package, or do you customize for each project? Any formats that are becoming obsolete or emerging as new standards?

[Brian43]

The most commonly requested animation delivery formats in my experience are MP4 (H.264) for web use, ProRes or DNxHD for editing, and sometimes MOV with animation codec for specific applications.

I have a standard delivery package that includes: MP4 for web, ProRes for editing, and a frame sequence (usually PNG or EXR) as an archive/master. This covers most client needs. The specific animation delivery formats might vary slightly based on the project, but this trio works for 90% of my clients.

[Robert_T]

I customize animation delivery formats for each project based on the client's needs, but I always include an archival master format (usually ProRes 4444 or EXR sequence) that preserves maximum quality for future use.

Some animation delivery formats that seem to be fading are specific broadcast tape formats, as more broadcasters accept digital files. Emerging standards include HEVC/H.265 for 4K delivery and sometimes even AV1 for web platforms that support it.

[Sofia.B]

For social media animation delivery formats, requirements vary by platform. Instagram wants square or vertical formats, YouTube wants 16:9, TikTok wants vertical. I often have to create multiple versions of the same animation for different platforms.

My standard package includes the animation delivery formats mentioned by others, plus I often include still frames (key art) and sometimes project files if the client has in-house staff who might need to make modifications later.