Bulk rate mailing requirements

Bulk rate mailing, also known as bulk mail or bulk postage, is a type of mail service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that allows businesses and organizations to send large quantities of mail at a discounted rate. To qualify for bulk rate mailing, you must meet certain requirements. Here are the general requirements:

  1. Minimum quantity: You must send at least 200 pieces of mail to qualify for bulk rate mailing. This can include letters, flats, and parcels.
  2. Pre-sorting: You must pre-sort your mail by zip code and arrange it in the correct order for automated processing. This is known as "presorting."
  3. Barcodes: Each piece of mail must have a barcode that contains the correct zip code and other relevant information. This is known as a "barcode sort."
  4. Correct postage: You must affix the correct postage for each piece of mail, which is calculated based on the weight and size of the mailpiece.
  5. Proper addressing: Each piece of mail must be properly addressed with the correct name, address, and zip code.
  6. Compliance with USPS regulations: You must comply with all USPS regulations, including those related to mailpiece size, shape, and content.
  7. Certification: You must obtain certification from the USPS to participate in bulk rate mailing. This involves submitting a sample of your mail to the USPS for review and approval.

There are different types of bulk rate mailing, including:

  1. Bulk rate letters: These are letters that are sent at a discounted rate and are processed through automated machinery.
  2. Bulk rate flats: These are large envelopes or flats that are sent at a discounted rate and are processed through automated machinery.
  3. Bulk rate parcels: These are packages that are sent at a discounted rate and are processed through automated machinery.
  4. Presort mail: This is mail that is pre-sorted by the sender and then sent to the USPS for processing.

To get started with bulk rate mailing, you can:

  1. Contact your local USPS office to learn more about the requirements and process.
  2. Visit the USPS website to learn more about bulk rate mailing and to access forms and resources.
  3. Hire a mail service provider or a third-party logistics company to handle your bulk rate mailing needs.

Remember to always follow USPS regulations and guidelines to ensure that your mail is processed correctly and efficiently.