Does a TOC image have to be uploaded at the time of submission?

Uploading a TOC image is optional. TOC images can be uploaded at any point during the submission and review stages, or, if accepted, during the copyediting and proofreading stages. Authors can postpone uploading a TOC image until after acceptance.

However, uploading a TOC image during initial submission may be beneficial, as the editor can give authors early feedback on the suitability of the TOC image.

Related:

• What is a TOC image and where/how do I upload it?