How Addressing & Mailing Services Influence Postcard Cost & Delivery
Addressing and mailing services are often the most complex part of a postcard campaign. These steps involve data handling, personalization, postal preparation, and USPS processing requirements, all of which influence project scope, delivery timing, and overall efficiency.
Why Mailing Often Costs More Than Printing
Mailing involves multiple operational components beyond printing, including:
Common Addressing Methods
USPS-Ready Addressing
Standard addressing workflows include printing recipient information, applying USPS-compliant barcodes, and preparing mail for automated processing. These steps support accuracy and postal compatibility.
Variable Data Printing (VDP)
Variable Data Printing allows personalization such as names, messages, images, or QR codes. VDP is commonly used to increase relevance and engagement while requiring additional data processing and print setup.
USPS Mailing Options
First-Class Mail
First-Class Mail is often selected for time-sensitive or critical communications. It typically offers faster delivery and includes forwarding and returns for undeliverable mail.
USPS Marketing Mail
USPS Marketing Mail is commonly used for large-scale campaigns where efficiency and cost control are priorities. Delivery timelines vary based on processing and destination. This class does not include forwarding or return services for undeliverable mail.
Quantity & Scale Considerations
Mailing complexity and efficiency are influenced by overall quantity, list quality, personalization level, and postal preparation method. Larger volumes may benefit from additional processing efficiencies.
Data & Compliance Services
Address hygiene and postal compliance services support successful delivery and include address standardization and validation, move-update processing, USPS presort qualification, and NCOA (National Change of Address) processing. These steps help reduce undeliverable mail and support USPS processing requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are address verification and move-update services required?
Certain USPS mailing classes require address validation and move-update compliance as part of postal preparation.
Is personalization required for effective mailing?
Personalization is optional. Campaign effectiveness depends on audience targeting, message clarity, and offer strength rather than personalization alone.
Request a Mailing Review
Share your postcard size, quantity, list type, and delivery goals, and our team will help outline the appropriate addressing and mailing approach for your campaign.