How to send bulk mail

Sending bulk mail can be a bit more complex than sending regular mail, but it's still a relatively straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you send bulk mail:

Determine the purpose of your bulk mail

Before you start, define the purpose of your bulk mail. Are you sending:

  1. Marketing materials (e.g., brochures, flyers, catalogs)?
  2. Newsletters or magazines?
  3. Direct mail campaigns (e.g., promotional offers, surveys)?
  4. Transactional mail (e.g., invoices, statements)?

Choose the right mail format

Bulk mail can be sent in various formats, including:

  1. Standard mail (letters, flats, and parcels)
  2. Periodicals (newspapers, magazines, and newsletters)
  3. First-Class Mail (letters and flats)
  4. Priority Mail (parcels and packages)

Prepare your mail pieces

Before sending your bulk mail, make sure to:

  1. Use a consistent design and layout for your mail pieces.
  2. Include a clear and concise message.
  3. Use a legible font and font size.
  4. Add a return address and a postage stamp.
  5. Use a mailer's permit (if required).

Sort and bundle your mail

To ensure efficient processing, sort and bundle your mail by:

  1. Zip code or geographic area.
  2. Mail class (e.g., Standard, Periodicals, First-Class).
  3. Mail piece type (e.g., letters, flats, parcels).

Use the correct postage

Calculate the correct postage for your bulk mail using the USPS Postage Calculator or consult with a postal service representative. You may need to use a permit imprint (a special postage permit) for large volumes of mail.

Send your bulk mail

Take your sorted and bundled mail to a USPS location or schedule a pickup. Make sure to:

  1. Use a bulk mail permit (if required).
  2. Provide a detailed manifest or manifest label.
  3. Pay for postage using a permit imprint or stamps.

Track and verify your mail

To ensure your bulk mail is delivered efficiently and effectively, track and verify your mail using:

  1. USPS Tracking (for packages and parcels).
  2. Mailpiece Tracking (for letters and flats).
  3. Verify your mail pieces using the USPS Bulk Mail Tracking System.

Additional tips and considerations

  1. Check with your local post office for specific requirements and regulations.
  2. Use a mail service provider (e.g., Pitney Bowes, Stamps.com) for assistance with bulk mail preparation and postage.
  3. Consider using a bulk mail software or service to streamline your process.
  4. Be mindful of USPS regulations and guidelines for bulk mail, including formatting, content, and postage requirements.

By following these steps and tips, you'll be well on your way to sending successful bulk mail campaigns.