Getting your piece mailed is the final step - and it helps to prepare. The postage option you choose will depend on your format and the number of people on your mailing list. There are two ways to send your direct mailings: First Class Mail or Standard Mail. Use this table to get an idea of when and how to use these postage types:
When and How to Use Postage
| Postage Type | When to use it | how to use it |
|---|---|---|
| First Class Mail | If your mailing is small (less than a few hundred) | With postage stamps to give you Direct Mailing extra attention |
| If you don't mail often (less than once a month) | With your own postage meter | |
| To do a quick direct mail test of a new offer with a few hundred pieces | ||
| Standard Mail | If your mailings are large (more than a few hundred) | Apply for a permit, a convenient way to pay for bulk postage, at your Post Office |
| If you mail often (one a month or more) | Sort mail according to mailing requirements | |
| You want to pay the lowest possible prices for postage | Pay for postage with: • pre-cancelled stamps • meters • permit imprints (impressions signifying postage already paid) for your mailings |
Direct Mail Options
In our basic course, we have discussed how to create and send you own direct mail piece. If you would like to additional on using mail, you should search on these topics:
- List Brokers and how to find the best lists for your business
- Metrics - how code your mailing and analyze the results
- Cooperative mailings - how to use card desks to reduce your costs.
- Using direct mail to increase customer retention
- Examining direct mail marketing companies