Before You Mail Checklist
1 -
Is your mailpiece automation compatible?
Check size, thickness, weight and rigidity of the mailpiece. Will the barcode and address be visible on the stock -- what color is the stock?
2 -
How will the address be applied to the mailpiece?
Inkjet, labels, or window envelope. Will this work with the mailpiece design? What Information should be included on the address block? Click here for address block information.
3 -
What class of mail will you use?
First, Standard, Package Services, or Periodical. What are the requirements for each class of mail? For example: Discounted First-Class Mail® must meet the USPS® Move Update Requirement. (Information on Move Update.)
4 -
What postage rate do you want to pay for each mailpiece?
Discounted postage rates have additional mail preparation requirements. For example: barcoded mail must be CASS™ processed and the
greatest discounts are often received on postal presorted mail. Information on CASS processing and Postal Presort.
5 -
Be aware of the service affiliated with your class of mail and any mailpiece endorsements you may use.
For example: Standard Mail® with no endorsement that is Undeliverable As Addressed (UAA) will be discarded. Mailpiece endorsements for UAA mail such as " Address Service Requested " have a charge per mailpiece returned or forwarded. The USPS also offers an
electronic enhancement to the mailpiece endorsement service that can provide your address changes at a lower cost and in a more convenient format, this service is called ACS™.
6 -
Are you including traded or rented names in your list?
Is there a possibility of duplicate names in your mailing list? Mailing duplicate names is costly both in the cost of the mailpiece and the cost of postage. Duplicate Elimination, Merge/Purge, can help eliminate duplicates in your mailing. Information on Duplicate Elimination -- Merge/Purge.
Resources
USPS National Customer Support Center
For information on mailing requirements, the Move Update Requirement, and ACS call 800-238-3150.
USPS Postal Business Centers
Your local Postal Business Center will be able to help you with your mailpiece design, mailpiece endorsements, and services affiliated with the different classes of mail. Mailpiece Design Analysts specialize in the automation requirements for mailpieces.
Click here to find your local Postal Business Center.
Lorton Data
Phone: (612) 362-0200
Fax: (612) 362-0299
Sales: (612) 362-0205 or sales@lortondata.com
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