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:
- Minimum quantity: You must send at least 200 pieces of mail to qualify for bulk rate mailing. This can include letters, flats, and parcels.
- 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."
- 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."
- 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.
- Proper addressing: Each piece of mail must be properly addressed with the correct name, address, and zip code.
- Compliance with USPS regulations: You must comply with all USPS regulations, including those related to mailpiece size, shape, and content.
- 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:
- Bulk rate letters: These are letters that are sent at a discounted rate and are processed through automated machinery.
- Bulk rate flats: These are large envelopes or flats that are sent at a discounted rate and are processed through automated machinery.
- Bulk rate parcels: These are packages that are sent at a discounted rate and are processed through automated machinery.
- 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:
- Contact your local USPS office to learn more about the requirements and process.
- Visit the USPS website to learn more about bulk rate mailing and to access forms and resources.
- 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.