THE MAILING PROCESS
Address Standardization
The first step is to run your database of names through our computer program. This makes sure that each address is standardized based on requirements from the Post Office.
CASS Certification
The next step is to add the zip+4 to the 5-digit zip codes. Performing this step allows us to get the lowest postage rates for your mailing with automation barcode information.
Ink Jet Addressing
Once the addresses have been Standardized and CASS Certified, we then ink jet the names, addresses and postal bar code directly onto the mail piece. This method has been proven to be more effective than using labels.
Presorting for Postal Discounts
After the mail pieces have been addressed, we then separate them into bundles based on specific zip code sequences or Postal Processing center. These bundles are then rubber-banded and placed in assigned trays.
Delivery to the Post Office
The last step of your mailing is to fill out all of the paper work and deliver the mail to the Post Office.
Guaranteeing Your Mail Dates
We will need print approvals and payment of postage before we mail your job. We will give you estimated times of arrival. Please Note: We cannot be liable for Post Office delivery schedules or when the USPS will deliver your mailing.
Mailing List(s) Privacy
Your mailing list will not be sold or offered for use to any other party or used for any other purpose.
OPTIMIZING THE MAILING PROCESS
In Order to Keep Costs Down & Get Your Order Out in a Timely Manner, Follow These Guidelines:
Provide an electronic copy of your mailing list.
• Keep your original mailing list and send us a copy of your mailing list.
• Provide your mailing list in one of the following file formats: ASCII Tab or Comma Delimited, Excel Spreadsheet, or DBF (database format).
• Please note, Direct Response cannot assume responsibility for the accuracy of your list(s).
Eliminate duplicates.
• Direct Response will remove duplicate names within database files at the request of the customer.
• Please note, Direct Response cannot guarantee 100% accuracy of duplicate removal due to variances in the data.
Avoid shortages with your mailing. We recommend printing a minimum of 3-5% extra.
It is inevitable that some of your printed pieces will get damaged while in the printing and/or mailing process. It is for these reasons that we recommend printing a minimum of 3-5% extra.
If you wish to mail out any indicia printed materials that have been returned to you:
• You must place a stamp over the indicia before mailing.
• Even though your cards/envelopes have been printed with an indicia that says "Postage PAID," you have only been charged for the pieces that have been mailed through the Post Office.
If you want extra pieces returned after your mailing has been completed, simply request it.
• Unless specifically requested by the customer on the order form, we will not return any leftover materials, instead they are recycled.
