How to mail bulk postcards effectively? What does that process entail, and how much does it cost? Is it better to bulk mail by yourself or use postcard mailing services?
Whether you're a business owner looking to promote your services, an event organizer spreading the word, or simply someone with a message to share, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to make your bulk postcard campaign a success.
We will answer all of those crucial questions so you can be prepared to reach clients with your message in the most effective way.
Bulk Mailing in a Nutshell
Bulk postcard mailing is a time-tested marketing strategy that involves sending a large quantity of postcards to a targeted audience simultaneously.
What's great about bulk postcard mailing is that it lets you combine the best of both worlds: the effectiveness of traditional mail and the precision of modern marketing.
Postcards stand out because they're real and physical. They don't get lost in crowded email inboxes, and people tend to pay more attention to them. They offer a personal touch that digital communication often lacks.
Postcards are also cost-effective, making them an attractive option for businesses looking to maximize their marketing budget.
Okay, so now that we know why, it’s time to learn how.
How to Mail Bulk Postcards?
Generally, there are two main routes you can consider when bulk mailing postcards. You can either do everything by yourself or benefit from professional bulk mailing services.
Let’s talk about both of these approaches and what each entails, starting with bulk mailing postcards fully in-house.
Step 1: USPS Mailing Costs
The very first decision you will have to make pertains to the payment for your postage. Generally, if you’re sending bulk mail through your own means, you have three options:
- The Postage Meter
- The Precanceled Stamps
- The Permit Imprints
A more convenient and cost-effective strategy is going with a postage meter instead of stamps, especially if you’re sending your materials in bulk. However, you will need to get access to the machine, which may or may not be available/in your budget for the year.
For most companies, the most effective way to go about sending postcards in bulk is through the permit imprint. In order to benefit from this solution, you’ll need to set up a postage account, also known as an advance deposit account, at your Post Office facility.
This strategy also entails applying for a mailing permit.
Maling Permits
You can apply for a Business Customer Gateway permit, which is a convenient way to go about it, as it can be done online. However, not every business is able to receive this permit, and in those instances, you should apply for it with a PS Form 3615.
A PS Form 3615 application, plus your completed Customer Profile (which you can acquire at the local Post Office or Business Mail Entry Unit), should be filed at your local BMEU or Post Office.
Both types of permits obligate you to pay annual mailing fees.
Step 2: Building Your Mailing List
Once the costs are all sorted out, you can move on to the next crucial step – building your mailing list. We won’t spend too much time on it, as you can find more information about this very step in the What is a Mailing List? Learn How to Build Your Own! guide.
Your target audience is the group of people most likely to engage with your postcards. Think about demographics, interests, and behaviors. Are you targeting existing customers, potential leads, or a specific geographic area? Defining your audience sets the stage for a more effective campaign.
Step 3: Postcard Printing and Production
Postcard designing and printing is the next step. Of course, it can be a rather complex process, and that’s why we recommend checking out our useful guides, such as What Makes a Great Every Door Direct Mail® Postcard? and The Ultimate Guide to Direct Mail Sizes and Dimensions, to learn all about it.
The most crucial aspects to keep in mind when designing your postcards are:
- Using strong copy to convey your message
- Selecting the high-resolution graphics
- Using readable fonts
- Adhering to USPS sizing guidelines
Step 4: Bulk Postcard Mailing
Once you have your designed, freshly printed postcards in hand, you get to take the final step before your clients receive your mail. It’s time to post it!
Congratulations, you’re almost there! Here’s what you will need to have with you in order to mail your materials at the Post Office:
- All your postcards
- Signed and dated postage statements (they can be filed electronically)
- Any supporting documents, such as printouts from, etc.
- Payment if you haven’t covered your postage costs yet.
Before sending your mail, it will be checked for the following:
- Price eligibility
- Markings and endorsements
- Adequate sorting
- Due postage payments
And that’s about it. Your mail is then handled by the USPS and gets delivered to the recipients. Sounds not too complicated? Well, using a professional marketing platform for designing, printing, and sending your direct mail materials is even easier.
How to Mass Mail Postcards with Taradel?
What if we told you that you can create or upload your postcards, build a mailing list, print and send your direct mail in bulk as well as track the important metrics for your campaign, all from one platform?
That is what you get with Taradel. A comprehensive tool and a team of experts behind it, supporting your every step and helping you shape a campaign that brings real value to your business.
You don’t have to be a marketing expert to receive good results. You just have to know who to partner with.
How Can You Send Postcards in Bulk With Taradel?
Here’s a really simple tutorial.
Step 1. Register with Taradel.
Step 2. Locate your audience by neighborhood or use a custom mailing list you can upload to the platform.
Step 3. Design your postcards using Taradel’s templates. You can also upload ready designs or work directly with our direct mail marketing pros to create something memorable and effective.
Step 4. Create your campaign, and let us do the rest of the work. We will print out and mail postcards to your customers at the time you select.
Taradel’s tool for building a mailing list
Benefits of Working with Taradel
- You’re saving time. If you have your postcards ready, you can launch a campaign in one day. This allows for dynamic and precise direct mail targeting.
- Designing your postcards is super easy. You can either upload your design or use our templates, which are fully compliant with USPS requirements. No place for errors.
- We got your back. You don’t have a mailing list? No problem! You don’t know how to design your postcards? Of course, you’re not a marketing expert after all. But we are. Taradel can assist you in creating an effective direct mail campaign from start to finish.
- You can step up your game. Looking for more sophisticated solutions and strategies? Are you considering multichannel campaigns or crafting personalized mail for higher effectiveness? When you’re ready to grow your business, we are right there with you, able to accommodate your changing circumstances and goals.
Try Taradel now and welcome convenience into your direct mail campaign efforts.
How Much Does It Cost To Send Bulk Mail
Good question. The cost of sending bulk mail can vary depending on several factors, including the type of mail, the quantity being sent, and the specific services you choose. Here's an overview of some common types of bulk mail and their associated costs:
- USPS Marketing Mail (formerly Standard Mail): This is one of the most commonly used options for sending bulk mail. The postage rates for Marketing Mail are typically lower than First-Class Mail. The exact cost depends on factors like the size, weight, and destination of your mailpieces.
- First-Class Mail Presort: If you want your bulk mail to be processed and delivered faster, you can use First-Class Mail Presort. This option is typically more expensive than Marketing Mail but offers faster delivery.
- Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM): EDDM is a cost-effective option for sending bulk mail to specific geographic areas without the need for addresses. The postage rates for EDDM are lower than standard First-Class Mail rates.
- Nonprofit Bulk Mail: If you are a qualified nonprofit organization, you may be eligible for reduced postage rates. The USPS offers special nonprofit mailing rates.
- Additional Costs: Keep in mind that postage is just one part of the cost. You may also need to consider expenses related to printing, design, addressing, and any additional services you choose, such as presorting or mailing list maintenance.
Conclusion
Don't let the complexities of bulk postcard mailing hold you back. Take the next step and discover the convenience and efficiency of Taradel's services. Register with Taradel today and start your journey toward a successful bulk postcard mailing campaign that drives results and growth for your business. Let's make your message count!