Print size: Actual size with no border or border but image size is a bit smaller?

[ErikUngerPhotography]

I am looking to print some of my work to sell and put up in galleries. Problem is, I no longer have a printer of my own to work with. I plan on using Bay Photo for the time being, but it seems that, for example, that I can either print an image at 8x12 with no border or an 8x12 print with a border that would actually make the image smaller than 8x12.

I would like to have a border to be able to sign, put the name/place and the edition number. The prints would all be matted as well. I am just curious if an 8x12 print has a half inch border making the actual image 7.5x11.25, can the matted print still be labeled as 8x12? If not, then I need to find a new printing outlet.

[teaking]

I would assume assume its the size of the print thats visible that counts... But to be honest I think someone else would answer this better