DM News & Tips

Get ready for Move Update
In an effort to reduce undeliverable as addressed (UAA) mail, the USPS is increasing address quality standards. On November 23, 2008 the new Move Update standards will go into effect. They will now include all Standard Mail for letters, flats and parcels – as well as presorted First Class mail. Mailers will be required to update their mailing list within 95 days of any mailing. The authorized methods include NCOA processing, Fastforward processing or the use of an on-piece service endorsement, like Address Service Requested.

New address standards for flats
New rules will go into effect on March 29, 2009 for addressing flat-size mail. Mailers will be required to place the delivery address in the top half of magazines, catalogs, and other formats that mail as flats. This rule will apply to all Periodical, Standard Mail, Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail and Library Mail that is mailed at automation flat rates.

Strengthen multi-channel with DM
A recent survey found that the most successful campaigns are multi-channel. Many businesses have indicated that they will be strengthening their print, radio and web marketing with direct mail. According to the survey respondents 39% plan to increase their direct mail this year.

B2B tactic boosts response 40%
Viral marketing can work in many ways. Try putting two reply cards in your next B2B mailing. Label them “One For You” and “One For A Colleague.” This tactic increased response rates 40% for one business mail offer.

How good is your offer?
Is your offer so compelling that a reader will stop what they are doing and respond…right now? It must say to the reader-what’s in it for me. Does it tell them what you want them to do? Tell them the obvious…click here, call this number, clip this coupon and mail today. The offers that are working best are free white papers. More than 4 out 5 recipients want information before making the buying decision.