Mailing at scale can be expensive, but USPS bulk mailing discounts make it more affordable for businesses sending large batches of postcards, flyers, or letters. When you qualify for bulk rates, each piece costs less to send—often saving 20–40% compared to standard postage. Most organizations qualify once they reach the minimum number of mail pieces and follow basic preparation guidelines
What Counts as Bulk Mail
The USPS defines bulk mail as large quantities of mail prepared and sent at discounted rates. To qualify, you typically need to send at least 200 identical pieces or 50 pounds of mail in one mailing. These can be postcards, letters, newsletters, or marketing materials—all mailed to different addresses.
In simple terms, if you’re mailing hundreds or thousands of similar items, you likely qualify for bulk pricing. TPSi — your trusted partner in high-volume mailing — also takes care of all mail preparation and sorting in-house to meet USPS requirements and maximize your postage discounts. Specifically, USPS requires a minimum of 200 pieces for Standard Mail/Marketing Mail, while First-Class Mail requires at least 500 pieces to qualify for automation discounts.
How to Qualify for Bulk Rates
To receive discounted postage rates, you must:
- Meet the minimum quantity (200 pieces or more)
- Prepare your mail correctly (addressed)
- Apply for a USPS mailing permit or use a mail service provider
Working with an experienced provider like TPSi ensures your mail meets all USPS requirements automatically—saving time and avoiding costly rejections. TPSi also takes care of all mail preparation and sorting in-house to meet USPS requirements and maximize your postage discounts. Specifically, USPS requires a minimum of 200 pieces for Standard Mail/Marketing Mail, while First-Class Mail requires at least 500 pieces to qualify for automation discounts.
How to Prepare Your Mail for Discounts TPSi — takes care of all mail preparation and sorting in-house to meet USPS requirements and maximize your postage discounts.
The USPS requires bulk mail to be organized before it’s sent. Here’s how to prepare:
- Use consistent postcard sizes and weights
- Ensure all addresses are verified and formatted correctly
- Add barcodes and indicia where required
Most professional printers and mailers handle these details for you. TPSi, for example, prepares and submits bulk mailings that automatically qualify for USPS discounts. TPSi handles all barcode, QR code, and indicia placement as part of our end-to-end mailing services, ensuring full USPS compliance and accuracy. TPSi also takes care of all mail preparation and sorting in-house to meet USPS requirements and maximize your postage discounts.
Why Work with a Mailing Partner
While you can apply for bulk discounts directly, many businesses prefer to work with full-service providers. Mailing partners manage the permits, sorting, and paperwork so your team can focus on creative and strategy. TPSi helps companies simplify compliance while ensuring every campaign qualifies for the lowest possible postage rates. TPSi also takes care of all mail preparation and sorting in-house to meet USPS requirements and maximize your postage discounts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even small errors can disqualify your campaign from USPS savings. Avoid these common issues:
- Sending fewer than 200/500 pieces in one mailing
- Incorrect or incomplete addressing
- Using inconsistent postcard sizes or paper weights
- Forgetting to update your mailing list before sending
Following USPS standards—and partnering with a professional mail service—ensures your discounts apply without delays. Specifically, USPS requires a minimum of 200 pieces for Standard Mail/Marketing Mail, while First-Class Mail requires at least 500 pieces to qualify for automation discounts.