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First Class Mail vs. Standard Mail: Making the Right Choice for Your Mailing

 


Sending mail can be a cost-effective way to reach your audience, but choosing the right mailing option is crucial. This post breaks down the key differences between First Class and Standard mail, helping you make informed decisions for your next mailing campaign.

Cost and Delivery Speed:

Presort Standard Mail: This option offers the most economical postage. However, it comes with a trade-off: delivery can take anywhere from 1 to 14 days.

Presort First Class Mail: At approximately $0.622 per piece, First Class mail is more expensive. The significant advantage is speed, with delivery typically within 1 to 4 days.


Handling Undeliverable Mail:

This is a critical difference between the two options.

Standard Mail: Undeliverable mail pieces are not returned to the sender. They are generally discarded by the postal service.

First Class Mail: Return service for undeliverable mail is free with First Class. This allows you to update your mailing list and avoid wasting resources on future mailings to incorrect addresses.


Managing Your Mailing List:

How you handle undeliverable mail depends on your mailing strategy and whether you plan to reuse your list.

For Clients Who Want Undeliverable Mail Returned:

If you want to receive undeliverable mail back with First Class:

  • "Return Service Requested" Endorsement: Adding this endorsement to the envelope guarantees the return of undeliverable mail.


For Clients Who Don't Want Undeliverable Mail Returned:

If you're not concerned with receiving undeliverable mail back, you have two options:

  • NCOA Processing: Running your list through the NCOA database before mailing is highly recommended. This updates addresses based on USPS change-of-address filings, minimizing the number of undeliverable pieces and saving you money on postage for mail that won't reach its intended recipient.

  • "Or Current Resident" Endorsement: Adding this endorsement allows the postal service to deliver the mail to the current resident at the address, even if the named recipient has moved. This is useful for marketing materials or general announcements where reaching an occupant at the address is more important than reaching a specific individual.


Understanding Key Terms:

  • NCOA (National Change of Address): This USPS database contains change-of-address information submitted by individuals and businesses. It's a valuable tool for keeping your mailing lists up-to-date and reducing undeliverable mail.

  • "Or Current Resident": This endorsement instructs the postal service to deliver the mail to the current occupant of the address, regardless of the named recipient.

  • "Return Service Requested": This endorsement ensures that undeliverable mail is returned to the sender at no extra charge (only available with First Class mail).


Choosing the Right Option:

  • Choose First Class Mail if: You need fast delivery, want to receive undeliverable mail back, or are sending time-sensitive materials.

  • Choose Standard Mail if: Cost is your primary concern, delivery speed is not critical, and you don't need undeliverable mail returned. Using NCOA processing beforehand is highly recommended to improve deliverability.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the mailing option that best meets your needs and budget.

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