Average cost of direct mail campaign

The average cost of a direct mail campaign can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size of the mailing list, the type of mail piece, the frequency of mailing, and the geographic region. Here are some general estimates:

Cost per piece:

• Postcard: $0.20 to $0.50 per piece
• Letter: $0.50 to $1.50 per piece
• Brochure: $1.00 to $3.00 per piece
• Catalog: $2.00 to $5.00 per piece

Cost per mailing:

• Small mailing (less than 1,000 pieces): $200 to $1,000
• Medium mailing (1,000 to 5,000 pieces): $1,000 to $5,000
• Large mailing (5,000 to 20,000 pieces): $5,000 to $20,000
• Very large mailing (more than 20,000 pieces): $20,000 to $50,000 or more

Total cost of a direct mail campaign:

• A simple postcard campaign with a mailing list of 5,000 pieces might cost around $2,500 to $5,000.
• A more complex campaign with a mailing list of 10,000 pieces, including a letter and brochure, might cost around $10,000 to $20,000.
• A large-scale campaign with a mailing list of 50,000 pieces, including a catalog and multiple mailings, might cost around $50,000 to $100,000 or more.

Factors that affect cost:

• Mailing list rental or purchase: This can range from $50 to $500 or more per thousand names, depending on the quality and accuracy of the list.
• Printing and production: This can range from $0.10 to $1.00 per piece, depending on the type of mail piece and the quantity.
• Mailing and fulfillment: This can range from $0.10 to $0.50 per piece, depending on the complexity of the mailing and the distance it needs to travel.
• Design and creative services: This can range from $500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the scope of the project and the level of design expertise required.
• List cleaning and validation: This can range from $50 to $500 or more, depending on the size of the list and the level of cleaning required.

Tips to reduce costs:

• Use a smaller mailing list or target a specific geographic region to reduce postage costs.
• Use a simpler mail piece design to reduce printing and production costs.
• Use a co-op mailing list or partner with another business to share mailing costs.
• Use a direct mail service bureau to handle the mailing and fulfillment process, which can often be more cost-effective than doing it in-house.
• Consider using digital direct mail or email marketing instead of traditional mail, which can be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.