EDDM Marketing – Catdi Printing https://www.catdi.com A Leading Commercial Print & Direct Mail Provider Wed, 04 Dec 2024 22:35:58 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://www.catdi.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/cropped-favicon-32x32.jpeg EDDM Marketing – Catdi Printing https://www.catdi.com 32 32 How to Design an EDDM Postcard? https://www.catdi.com/how-to-design-an-eddm-postcard/ https://www.catdi.com/how-to-design-an-eddm-postcard/#respond Tue, 14 Mar 2023 16:49:44 +0000 https://www.catdi.com/?p=7321 Business owners know that staying connected with their potential customers helps drive sales and keep their business afloat. And designing EDDM postcards for this purpose is a great way to do it.  Every Direct Door Mail, or EDDM, is a fantastic marketing tool. However, if you don’t understand  USPS EDDM requirements, creating EDDM postage can […]

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Business owners know that staying connected with their potential customers helps drive sales and keep their business afloat. And designing EDDM postcards for this purpose is a great way to do it. 

Every Direct Door Mail, or EDDM, is a fantastic marketing tool. However, if you don’t understand  USPS EDDM requirements, creating EDDM postage can be confusing. 

The U.S. postal services have an EDDM manual that includes all the essential requirements related to flyer and postcard size. It also tells you how you can comply with all USPS must-to-follow requirements.

The USPS manual is quite lengthy (roughly more than 1300 pages) with lots of technical jargon, making it difficult to understand. This is when you need to seek the assistance of printing pros to help you design your EDDM postcards. 

Let’s delve into the details to learn how you can design an adequate EDDM postage to help your business stay at the top of your customer’s minds.

EDDM Basics

EDDM enables small companies to advertise in their neighborhood. By using U.S. data to filter results based on the factors like age and income, EDDM lets you map ZIP codes and areas instead of conducting market research. Typically, postal services offer reasonable rates for EDDM postcards that help you improve your ROI. 

Moreover, there is a variety of sizes and formats available with EDDM. You can give consumers everything from an in-depth description of your product or service to EDDM postcards, maps, and calendars.

How to Use EDDM Postcards Creatively

 As said above, EDDM postages are an exceptionally versatile tool for marketing that you can employ in several ways. Before we discuss how you can design an EDDM postcard, check out these creative ways to benefit your business with EDDM postcards.

  • Appointment Cards for Reminders

What is better than sending your customers an EDDM card to help them remember their appointments? It is an excellent way to make sure your customers get a timely reminder of their next appointment with you.

  • Thank You Cards

Show your gratitude to your customers by sending them a beautiful message through an EDDM postcard.

  • Loyalty Cards 

Customers’ EDDM cards might serve as loyalty cards for the business. This fantastic approach entices customers to buy your services or products.

  • Free Coupons and Samples

Free samples and vouchers are excellent tools for luring new customers and winning their loyalty. You can deliver free coupons and samples to prospective customers using EDDM cards.

  • Announcement Cards 

Many businesses and organizations use these postcards as announcements to inform their clients about new product launches, special deals, specials, and discounts. This is a fantastic approach to informing everyone of the news.

How to Design an EDDM Postcard

The EDDM design process is completely automated with the innovative EDDM Full-Service solution provided by reliable printing services. All you need is to use a web interface to choose a product, create artwork, and pick your EDDM route. 

The Printing Services, such as Catdi Printing, handle the rest of the procedure, including bundling, EDDM processing, and delivery to USPS. You can also select a template from the website and opt for the “print only option” to get the package.

If you want the printing service to take care of all the EDDM processing, choose “Full Service.” When you use the Full-Service Option, make sure your set EDDM files are correctly set up with the help of EDDM tutorial templates. You may check your postage by downloading several design templates for EDDM,

Along with the indicia and postal information, each template includes directions for the artwork. Both the EPS (Illustrator) and PSD (Photoshop) file types are usable. To make it simpler, the template has both indicia and addressing.

You need to save them with your artwork file so they can remain on the top half of the postcard. Keep in mind that the artwork’s front must have this information. 

Tips to Design EDDM Postcards

Once you’ve decided to launch a postcard campaign, the artwork and messaging must be effective. Here are some features you can consider when designing an EDDM postcard.

Catchy Headline

Your postcard should have a brief but impactful opening sentence. It doesn’t have to be extremely long, but it must grab readers’ attention.

Compelling Message

Explain why customers should choose you above your rivals. Knowing WHY you send out postage or what you want to achieve can help. Create a message that is appealing and reflects the overarching objectives of your company.

Good Discount

While the discount is an outdated strategy, it still attracts people and makes them respond more. Therefore, remember to add a coupon or discount to your postage if possible.

Relatable Testimonials

Whether it is a short bio, a testimonial, or any other information that shows your brand’s credibility, it adds a nice touch to your EDDM postcard. If you include this information, keep it brief and to the point. Of course, you don’t want your audience to get bored and stop reading.

Attractive Photos

As people are very visual, you need attention-grabbing images and a decent headline to make your EDDM postcard more impactful. Notably, the front side needs to have a significant focal point. Make sure your photographs are high-resolution, straightforward, and simple enough.

Call to Action

Last but not the least, there is no way you can underestimate the importance of a “call to action” in your EDDM postage. Once people are done reading your postcard, you need to tell them the next step that can be:

  • Make an appointment right away
  • Go to our website
  • Hurry, supplies are limited
  • Come by our shop right away

Summing Up

Small businesses can advertise their goods or services with EDDM at a low cost. Just print eye-catching brochures, flyers, or postcards at cheaper postal prices to determine how effectively the campaign is performing.

Use Catdi Printing’s EDDM postages available on their website to design beautiful direct mail postage. 

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The Ultimate Guide to EDDM Tool: Everything You Need to Know https://www.catdi.com/guide-to-eddm-tool-everything-you-need-to-know/ https://www.catdi.com/guide-to-eddm-tool-everything-you-need-to-know/#respond Sun, 09 Apr 2023 12:08:16 +0000 https://www.catdi.com/?p=7404 If you’re a business owner looking to reach more customers in your local area, then you’ve probably heard of EDDM (Every Door Direct Mail) tool. EDDM is a cost-effective way to target specific neighborhoods and zip codes with your marketing materials. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at EDDM tool and everything you […]

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If you’re a business owner looking to reach more customers in your local area, then you’ve probably heard of EDDM (Every Door Direct Mail) tool. EDDM is a cost-effective way to target specific neighborhoods and zip codes with your marketing materials. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at EDDM tool and everything you need to know to get started.

What is EDDM Tool?

EDDM is a marketing tool offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that allows businesses to send promotional mail to every household in a particular area or zip code. With EDDM, you can target your audience based on location, age, income, and other demographic information.

EDDM is a popular choice for small businesses and local organizations looking to increase their brand awareness and attract new customers. It’s an affordable way to reach a large number of people in a specific area without the need for a mailing list or specific addresses.

How Does EDDM Tool Work?

EDDM tool is an online service provided by USPS. To use EDDM, you’ll need to follow these steps:

  1. Choose your target area: Using the USPS EDDM tool, you can select the neighborhoods or zip codes where you want to send your promotional mail.
  2. Design your mailer: Design your promotional mailer to include your message, logo, and call-to-action. Make sure to follow USPS guidelines for size, weight, and content.
  3. Print your mailer: Print your mailer using a commercial printer or online printing service. Make sure to use high-quality materials to ensure that your mailer stands out.
  4. Deliver your mailer: Deliver your mailer to the USPS for distribution. You can choose to deliver your mailer yourself or use a mail service provider to do it for you.

What Are the Benefits of Using EDDM Tool?

There are several benefits of using EDDM tool for your marketing needs. Some of the key benefits include:

  1. Targeted Marketing: EDDM allows you to target specific neighborhoods or zip codes with your promotional materials. This helps you to reach the right audience and increase the effectiveness of your marketing campaign.
  2. Cost-Effective: EDDM is a cost-effective way to reach a large number of people in a specific area. You don’t need to purchase a mailing list or spend money on postage to send your promotional materials.
  3. Easy to Use: EDDM tool is easy to use and doesn’t require any specialized knowledge or training. The USPS provides all the tools and resources you need to get started.
  4. High Response Rates: EDDM is known to have high response rates compared to other marketing channels. This is because it targets specific areas and reaches customers who are likely to be interested in your products or services.
  5. Measurable Results: With EDDM, you can track the success of your campaign and measure your ROI. This helps you to make data-driven decisions and improve your marketing efforts over time.

Tips for Success with EDDM Tool

To get the most out of your EDDM campaign, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  1. Choose the right target area: Make sure to choose a target area that aligns with your business goals and target audience.
  2. Create eye-catching design: Design your mailer to be eye-catching and include a clear call-to-action that encourages recipients to take action.
  3. Use high-quality materials: Use high-quality materials for your mailer to ensure that it stands out and makes a good impression.
  4. Follow USPS guidelines: Make sure to follow USPS guidelines for size, weight, and content to ensure that your mailer is delivered Include an offer or incentive: To increase the effectiveness of your campaign, consider including an offer or incentive that encourages recipients to take action.
  5. Track your results: Use tracking tools to monitor the success of your campaign and make data-driven decisions to improve your marketing efforts over time.

Why Choose EDDM Tool Over Other Marketing Channels?

There are many marketing channels available to businesses today, including social media, email marketing, and online advertising. While these channels can be effective in reaching a broad audience, they may not be as effective in reaching a local audience. EDDM tool offers several advantages over other marketing channels, including:

  1. Targeted Audience: With EDDM, you can target specific neighborhoods or zip codes, ensuring that your promotional materials reach the right audience.
  2. Cost-Effective: EDDM is a cost-effective way to reach a large number of people in a specific area. You don’t need to purchase a mailing list or spend money on postage to send your promotional materials.
  3. High Response Rates: EDDM is known to have high response rates compared to other marketing channels. This is because it targets specific areas and reaches customers who are likely to be interested in your products or services.
  4. Easy to Use: EDDM tool is easy to use and doesn’t require any specialized knowledge or training. The USPS provides all the tools and resources you need to get started.

Why Choose Catdi for Your EDDM Campaign?

Now that you understand the benefits of using EDDM tool for your marketing needs, you may be wondering where to start. Catdi is an online printing and mailing service that specializes in EDDM campaigns. Here are some reasons why you should choose Catdi for your EDDM campaign:

  1. Expertise: Catdi has extensive experience in designing, printing, and mailing EDDM campaigns. They can help you create an effective campaign that meets your business goals and targets the right audience.
  2. High-Quality Materials: Catdi uses high-quality materials to ensure that your mailer stands out and makes a good impression.
  3. Affordable Pricing: Catdi offers competitive pricing for their EDDM services, making it an affordable option for small businesses and local organizations.
  4. Easy to Use: Catdi makes it easy to get started with your EDDM campaign. Simply choose your target area, design your mailer, and let Catdi handle the printing and mailing for you.
  5. Personalized Service: Catdi provides personalized service to ensure that your campaign is a success. They’ll work with you to create a custom campaign that meets your unique needs and goals.

In Conclusion

EDDM tool is an effective way to reach a local audience and increase your brand awareness. With the USPS EDDM tool, you can target specific neighborhoods or zip codes with your promotional materials and reach customers who are likely to be interested in your products or services. By following the tips outlined in this article and choosing a reliable EDDM service provider like Catdi, you can create a successful EDDM campaign that generates leads and drives sales for your business.

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Is Direct Mail Dead? Adding Direct Mail Marketing Is Easier Than You Think https://www.catdi.com/is-direct-mail-dead-and-do-you-need-to-incorporate-it-into-your-business/ https://www.catdi.com/is-direct-mail-dead-and-do-you-need-to-incorporate-it-into-your-business/#respond Thu, 16 Mar 2023 08:09:47 +0000 https://www.catdi.com/?p=7342 Introduction Where are you putting your marketing money? Companies of all sizes know just how important it is to make sure that they have proper marketing to help brand their business, increase name recognition. Without actual marketing, it is impossible to get enough customers to thrive and grow. Word-of-mouth marketing can only do so much. […]

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Introduction

Where are you putting your marketing money? Companies of all sizes know just how important it is to make sure that they have proper marketing to help brand their business, increase name recognition. Without actual marketing, it is impossible to get enough customers to thrive and grow. Word-of-mouth marketing can only do so much.

The use of digital marketing has grown significantly over the last few decades, but it is important that businesses do not forget about one of the best options for marketing that is still available

– direct mail.

That’s right.

The direct mail that comes to you straight from the post office to your mailbox is still one of the best ways to reach a large number of people affordably and in a short time.

There are ways that you can use the data you have on your customers and potential customers to ensure that you send out direct mail to those who are most interested in the types of services or products that you offer.

However, you can’t simply flood those mailboxes with junk. You need to think about the quality and design of the pieces you are sending, and you need to make sure that they can provide the recipient with some type of value.

Get Started in Direct Mail

Of course, you might not know much about direct mail at this point. You might not know what benefits it can offer or why you should use it. You may not know how to get started with this type of marketing.

This eBook will help to illuminate you. It will provide information on the benefits of direct mail, what you need to be successful, and how to do it – even when you have a small business. Let’s get a closer look at what direct mail will offer.

Chapter 1: 

DirectMail Is Still Alive and Kicking: The Biggest Benefits of DirectMail Marketing

As a business owner, you know just how important proper marketing is when it comes to the success of your business. You probably also know that over the past decade or so there seems to have been an exodus from the traditional marketing options out there. Today, people tend to talk about various ways that they can market and reach their customers digitally.

While having a good and firm grasp of digital marketing is certainly a good idea, it is also important to reconsider the benefits that using direct mail marketing can off. There might be some people out there who proclaim direct mail marketing to be dead, but the truth of the matter is that those people are dead wrong.

Let’s take a quick look at some of the biggest benefits that direct mail can provide and why you need to start incorporating it into your business sooner rather than later.

Benefit #1: Target Your Audience

This is one of the main benefits of direct mail marketing. Businesses are able to buy mailing lists of people who would be their potential customers through mailing list distributors like Dun and Bradstreet, for example. You can find a list of people in various geographical regions who buy the types of products or use the types of services they offer.

With a list of potential customers in hand, who are already known to have an interest in services and products like the ones you sell, they are considered targets. You do not have to simply send out direct mail blindly, hoping that you could find buyers.

Benefit #2: It Is Measurable

If you would like to know just how successful the direct mail marketing campaign can be, it is easy. You can put some type of coupon in the mail along with an expiration date. Deter- mine the number of direct mail pieces that were sent out with the coupon in question and then the number of times that the coupon was used during that period. This is a way that many eateries measure the success of their direct mail marketing campaigns.

Benefit #3: Very Flexible

There are many different types of direct mail options that are available to you. Some could work better for certain types of businesses than others might. For example, some companies might want to send out samples of a product they offer. This is possible with direct mail. Others might be on a tight budget, and they want to use postcards, which tend to be a very cheap option. This is possible, as well. There are ways that just about any company will be able to make use of this type of marketing effectively.

Benefit #4: Individualized Options

People do not want to feel like an afterthought, or even worse like you weren’t thinking about them at all when you sent the advertisement. Fortunately, there is technology that makes it possible to allow for more individualization with direct mail.  It is possible to address a person by name on a postcard or a sales letter, for example.

While this might seem like a simple thing, people tend to be more likely to look at mail that has their name on it rather than just “resident.”

Benefit #5: Cost Effective

One of the reasons that some companies might have shied away from using direct mail in the past is because they thought it would be prohibitively expensive for them to do so.  That’s not the case, though.  In fact, it is possible to achieve great designs and layouts in less time than it once was.  You can have professionally printed direct mail pieces for less than what would be spent with many other types of marketing.

If worrying about the cost was something that kept you from using direct mail for your business, you might want to take a closer look at today’s options and costs. It could be the perfect addition to your business’s marketing needs.

What Can Direct Mail Do for You?

You’ve seen five of the biggest benefits that direct mail can offer when you integrate it into your business. However, that’s just the start of the benefits. You will likely find plenty of other great reasons to start using and to continue using direct mail.

Use the information and the guidance presented in the rest of the book to help you make sure that you are doing it the right way, and then experience just how helpful it can be for your business

Chapter 2: DirectMail is a Great Choice for Companies Large and Small

What size company do you run? Do you have a small, local business? Are you running a business that caters to the city and the surrounding area? A region of your state? Perhaps the entire state or the entire country. Regardless of the size of your business, you will find that it is possible to benefit from the use of direct mail.

However, you need to make sure that you are doing direct mail the right way. Fortunately, it is not too difficult, but you probably will want some help from those who understand what does and does not work. We will cover this a bit further in Chapter 3.

How Can Direct Mail Help Small Companies?

Small business owners tend to work in the realm of digital marketing today because they see it as a cheap and relatively easy option. They worry that direct mail will be too complex or too cost-prohibitive for them. However, with the introduction to the USPS’s Every Door Direct Mail, businesses can pay as little as $.19 in postage to mail out a 6 X 11 Postcard! In addition, when businesses utilize our postage discounts, you’ll see that direct mail is cheaper to acquire clients at a lower cost.

Add the fact that with inflation, more and more small businesses are on a tight budget and will find that they can make good use of targeted direct mail campaigns to help them grow.

With a small business, it can be difficult to have the same advertising dollars as your larger competitors. You will, therefore, need to find ways that you can make better use of the money that you do have. Targeted direct mail can help in this area.

People have been shown to prefer getting regular, physical mail from brands than they do online junk mail. While many of your competitors are likely putting a focus on digital marketing, you can reach people in an old way that has really become new again. You can focus on customers that are right for your business, and these types of ad campaigns can allow for flexible spending, so you only have to spend as much as you can afford. It is not dissimilar to today’s online campaigns in this aspect.

You will also be able to reach customers that you might not have been able to reach through a computer. There are some people today who are not savvy when it comes to technology, and there are those who don’t care to spend much time on their computer or their phones, as hard as that might be to believe. With direct mail, you can speak directly to these people, potentially opening up an entirely new group of customers for your business.

How Can Direct Mail Help Large Companies?

You will find that the benefits that the large companies have are quite similar to those that the small companies will enjoy. However, they will generally be able to use direct mail on a much larger scale. Instead of focusing only on a city or a relatively small geographic region of the state, the direct mail ad campaign might be something that encompasses an entire region of the country or the whole country for that matter.

The companies will be able to use the same types of promotion and deals tactics in their direct mail that the smaller companies will use. With larger companies that might have multiple stores around the country, it might be a good idea to make sure that the ads for each of the various locations are targeted toward the items that are available in their area.

Consider the grocery store mailers and circulars for department stores. In some cases, these sales ads that come in the mail will be geared directly toward that particular store rather than the company as a whole. This would mean multiple and different printings for the direct mail depending on how many stores or regions will need to have individual mailers.

This might seem like a lot of work and cost. However, companies will find that the amount of money that they can gain from get- ting people to come into the store to spend money, can more than makeup for the cost of direct mail.

Local Service Companies Make Great Use of Direct Mail

If you would like to see an example of just how beneficial direct mail can be, consider some of the local service companies in your area. Chances are very good that these companies have sent you fliers or postcards in the mail before. There is a chance that you might have even used their services if you happened to need them at the time.

Service companies like plumbers, roofers, landscaping, auto mechanics, and the like provide services that people will likely need at some point in their life. They might not need it today or tomorrow, but they will eventually. By sending out direct mail to 

the local area, these companies are reaching their target customers, and those customers will likely hold onto the mail, at least so they can keep the company’s name and number handy if they ever do need the service.

When these local service companies use direct mail properly, it can help to drive their business and their brand, making them the go-to company in the area for the type of service they offer.

The local service companies, especially those who have been in the business for a few years, know what it takes to make direct mail work for them. You will find that they will often use this type of advertising as much or more than their Internet marketing.

What Makes Mailers from Local Businesses Work?

As mentioned, local businesses have spent a lot of time trying to perfect the mailers that they send out to their customers and prospective customers. Here are some takeaways that other businesses should keep in mind when they are developing their own direct mail.

  • They sell the benefits of the service, not the features. They explain to customers why they can make the customer’s predicament or life better.
  • They explain what they do in simple terms.
  • They provide essential information that the recipient will find useful.
  • They will have all of their contact information and service areas noted on the pieces of mail they send out.
  • They make it easy. Whether it is calling a plumber during an emergency, ordering a pizza, or inquiring about a new garage door, they make getting in touch and getting what the customers need as easy as possible.
  • They provide some type of actionable content. This might be a simple call to action, or it might be a coupon or discount.

Ultimately, it is about giving people what they want and what they won’t consider junk and throw away. Show them why you are essential to their life, and how you can make things better or easier, and then give them a reason to follow through and get in touch with you.

Everyone Can Benefit Greatly from Direct Mail

Data from the Direct Marketing Association has found that direct mail response rates are much higher than the response rate of email. While 0 .12% of people respond to email, 4 .4% of people respond to direct mail.  In addition, of those who respond, 62% of them become customers and actually make a purchase.

As you can see, it doesn’t matter what type of business you have. It doesn’t matter whether it is large or small. You can benefit from the use of direct mail. However, that doesn’t mean that you can just send out anything through direct mail and expect great results.

You need to do your research, you need to make sure that you are creating pieces of mail that people actually want, and you need to be sure that you consider working with professionals who can help with different aspects of your direct mail marketing campaign, including the design and printing.

Chapter 3: Ugly Postcards and Mailers Will Not Work

How important is design work in the direct mail that you send out to your prospective customers? For many, this is going to be the first thing that they see involving your company. The very first thing.

As they say, you can only make a first impression once. This is very important when you are in someone’s mailbox. They are going to be sorting through their mail, and they are going to determine, often with little more than a glance, whether they are going to keep your mailer or toss it into the recycling.

Naturally, you want to make sure that you have something that will catch their attention and make them keep your flier or postcard. Not only do you need to make sure that you provide quality information and offers on the mailer, but it also needs to look good from a design perspective.

Good design really can make quite a difference, even though many people think that they can get by without actually working with a designer. This is one of the reasons that some people who attempt direct mail marketing end up failing.

Why Do Businesses Hesitate to Spend on Design?

Even though businesses want to succeed, they are not always willing to spend on certain things that can help with their success. One of the areas that tend to get neglected is design.

While a company might realize that they need to have quality design for logos that they use, and they know that they need a good design for their website, they might not realize that they also need to have a great design for their direct mail. This leads them to send out mailers that are not going to get them the attention and the additional customers that they need.

Why are they not putting in any effort on design? There are several reasons for this, as noted below.

They Believe It’s Too Costly

One of the first reasons that many businesses will cite when it comes to not getting professional design for their direct mail is the cost. They believe that it will cost them a lot of money to hire a designer who can put together quality mailers and fliers. Businesses like to cut corners on their expenses wherever they can, and design is often where they will cut corners, especially for direct mail design.

However, the truth of the matter is that design today is not as expensive as most businesses believe. It only truly becomes costly for them when they do not bother with hiring a design team and put out poor-quality mailers.

They Think They Can Do It on Their Own

One of the other reasons that companies believe they do not need to hire a designer for their direct mail is because they believe they have someone on board who will do it. The owner might even think that they will be able to do it themselves despite not having any training or experience. It’s not as easy as downloading Photoshop and creating a flier.

People need to have the knowledge and skills needed to under- stand what actually goes into proper design. They need to do more than just put your logo onto the flier or postcard along with your phone number.

People who do not have some training and experience in design are not going to do as good of a job as those who have taken the time to truly understand what does and does not work in design.

Take the time to hire a professional who can help with your design work. Make sure that they have experience creating direct mail and look at some examples of other work they have done in the past.

They Don’t Think It’s Important

Of course, there are those businesses that do not think that design is important. They think that the only thing that matters is the message and what they are offering the customer. While those things are certainly important, you aren’t going to be able to reach any of those customers with poor-quality design. Your fliers and postcards are not going to make it past the recycling bin. This is a simple truth that businesses need to admit and understand.

Something that is well-designed and that catches the attention of the recipient will stand a better chance of being kept and read, and eventually used.

The Importance of Good Design in Direct Mail

When a company allows bad design to become a part of something they do, even if it is their direct mail, it will cause more problems than they might realize. Bad design can make your brand look bad. You need to make sure that every foot that you put forward looks as good as possible and truly represents your business and what you can offer.

Bad Design Makes It Look Like You Don’t Care About Your Brand

Every part of your brand identity makes an impression. Make sure that the impression is a good one. If it isn’t, it can color how people perceive your brand. After all, why would they want to do business with a company that doesn’t even care enough to make sure their mailers look good? They might think that you are going to be cutting corners in other areas, as well.

Good Design Can Build Credibility

However, when you put in the effort to ensure that you have quality design work for all of your direct mail – and other aspects of your business – it helps to increase your credibility.

Those first impressions matter When thinking about doing business with someone. A nicely designed flier is going to be more appealing than something that looks like it was hastily scrawled and then photocopied. A nice-looking flier will help to improve that initial impression, and it will make it more likely that someone will be willing to do business with you.

It really isn’t that much different than visiting a business in person for the first time. If you were to walk into a restaurant that was dirty, disorganized and didn’t have any information on the menus, what would you do? You would turn around and walk out. People view your direct mail the same way. When you have a good design that’s well-made and well-thought-out, they are more likely to be willing to check out what you have to offer.

Good Design Helps You Stand Out

Many businesses refuse to accept that their design is important. That’s the entire reason for this chapter, after all. This is why so many companies fade to mediocrity at best and close at worst. You do not have to suffer that fate with your business when you step up the quality of the design on your direct mail.

The good design is going to stand out compared with all of the other mail that people are getting. Companies today are often sending out “adequately” designed mail. This isn’t good enough, and you do not want to be lumped into that category if you can help it. Just as the chapter title says, having ugly postcards and mailers will simply not work today.

Put in the effort to improve the look and the design of your direct mail and be sure to work with a professional designer. This means that the recipients are more likely to look at the mail, more likely to keep it, and more likely to use it when they need it, as well. You can leave your competitors in the dust with better direct mail design.

Tips for Great Direct Mail Marketing

Before closing out this chapter, let’s look at a list of some of the things that you will want to do in order to help make your direct mail marketing campaigns even more effective. These can make a difference in your level of success.

  • Work with a professional for the design elements
  • Make it personal
  • Make it relevant
  • Make the mailers useful by providing value – don’t send out junk mail to people or they will write off your brand
  • Be creative
  • Have a call to action
  • Keep is simple
  • Tailor it to the individual whenever possible

These are some simple tips that can really help you to improve the direct mail marketing materials that you are creating and sending out to your customers and those you hope will become your customers.

Your direct mail marketing campaign deserves as much care and attention as all of the other marketing that you are doing.

Chapter 4: Why Having Good Data Is Essential

Thus far, we’ve discussed the importance of quality and design when it comes to direct mail marketing. This is because they are essential in getting potential customers to take the next step and contact your company. However, you can’t overlook something that is very important – finding and targeting the customers in the first place.

What Roles Does Data Play?

Data is important for a range of reasons. With the right data, you will be able to better calculate the market potential and what share of it you might get. It can also help to make it much easier for you to segment your audience into smaller and more manageable chunks. This will make it much easier for you to target specific groups with the right types of ads at the right time.

Data will provide you with various types of demographic data that you will want and need to have on hand, as well.

Some of the types of demographic data that can be obtained include:

  • Median income
  • Median age
  • Median home value
  • % owner/renter occupied
  • % of families with children
  • Ethnicities
  • Religion

When you know the habits of the people that would likely be your ideal customer, and you combine that information with the data from demographics, it can help you with the design of your direct marketing campaign. Knowing who you should be targeting and where they are located will provide you with the best results.

For example, if you offer services for roofing or installing solar panels, you will want to target homeowners, not renters. If you have a store that sells items geared toward the elderly, chances are good that you won’t be targeting millennials.

Even if you are working with a professional, as you should be, you will find that it can be quite helpful when you have a solid knowledge of who your customers are and where to find them.

How to Target Customers

There are a number of ways that you can obtain the data you need. One of the first things that you will want to do is set up a mailing list for your current customers. These are people who will provide you with their addresses in the expectation that you will be sending out mailers from time to time. To help get more of your current customers on a list, you might want to come up with a loyalty program for them. Of course, it will depend on the type of business you are running.

Another option is to acquire a third-party mailing list. One of the simplest and best options for sending direct mail, and which is the focus of the following chapter, is USPS Every Door Direct Mail Service.

Keep in mind that you might want to have several different mailing lists, each of which are segmented and targeted for specific types of mail and ads.

Be Sure to Collect and Analyze the Data

Data is not only used when determining who you are going to target in your first round of direct mail marketing. It is also quite useful when it comes to determining the success of the campaign. After all, you want to know whether your efforts are being spent well, or if you might need to change some of your tactics.

Keeping up with changes to the demographic data that you have collected will be important, as well.

Some of the types of data that you will want to consider measuring and recording are in the list that follows:

  • Response rates for coupons
  • People who have recently moved to the area
  • New homeowners
  • The behavior of your current customers
  • Increases in social media engagement from people who have been sent mailers

The more data you have the better. Keeping up with the data will ensure that you are making the most of your direct mail campaigns. It can take some work, for sure, but having someone who can help you through it will make it far easier

Measure your success and continue to alter and improve your marketing mailers to increase the number of conversions that you get. In this respect, it is not much different from online marketing.

Keep At It

Data is essentially what is going to make your company a success and what will help you to focus your direct mail marketing efforts in the campaigns going forward. The following are some tips to remember.

You need to know your buyer, make sure that you have a strong database, and that you clean out that database occasionally from those who are simply not responding. Be sure you are building your database of customers from quality sources and try to verify the data when possible, so you are not wasting your time and energy. You could also use EDDM, which can help to simplify things greatly, as you will see in the following chapter.

Chapter 5: What Is EDDM and Why Is It a Good Option?

We’ve mentioned Every Door Direct Mail in the book already, but you might still not really know much about EDDM or why it could be useful for your business. While there are some similarities to direct mail, the goal of EDDM has always been to make things as easy as possible for the businesses that use it.

How Does EDDM Work?

The system is offered through the USPS, and it is a good choice for anyone who has a business and who wants to target customers in the local area. It makes it possible to advertise to specific residential areas, and you do not need to have contact information from each of the households to do it.

You might be wondering what other benefits it can offer. Check out the list below:

  • Place your ads in the hands of all houses in an area
  • Include coupons, menus, and more in the mailing – choose the format that’s right for your needs.
  • Choose the size that will work right for your needs
  • Cost-effective
  • Easy to set up

Fortunately, it is easy to get started with this system. The following are the steps that you will need to take.

Set Up an Account

In order to get started, you will need to have a USPS account. There are a couple of options from which you can choose.

  • EDDM-Retail Account: Those who have this type of account are able to have up to 5,000 pieces of mail each day per ZIP code. No postage permit is required.
  • USPS Business Account: This type of account is a better option for those who have a high volume that they need to send out. It makes it easy to manage mailings online, and you can send out more than 5,000 pieces per day per ZIP code. There is a postage permit required for this type of account.

What Routes Are Right for You?

You will then use the USPS EDDM mapping tool to choose the delivery routes that you would like to use with your mailers. You can choose those routes based on different factors, such as income, age, or household size.

Get the Mail Designed and Printed

You will next need to design the mailers that you are sending out. Keep in mind the tips that were included earlier in the book and be sure that you have a professional design the mail for you. A clear, beautiful, and simple design will work wonders for you. Postcards, fliers, and leaflets can work nicely.

Once you have designed the mail, you will need to make sure that you have them printed properly. A great design can be all for naught if you have a poor-quality printer handling the printing job. Whether you use a local or online printer, you need to make sure that you are choosing a quality, affordable option.

Set Up a Date to Drop the Mailers Off and Prepare Them Properly

Once you have the mailers ready to go, you will want to set up a drop-off date to bring them to the post office. Consider how many deliveries you have, their destination, and when you are going to need to have them delivered.

You will also be responsible for preparing the mailers. They should be bundled together in stacks that are six inches high or less. They say that they prefer when the bundles contain between 50 and 100 pieces of mail.

Complete EDDM Forms

You will then complete all of the EDDM forms and facing slips needed so the post office can process the order for you. The facing slip will be attached to each of the bundles you provide and should include the number of mailers in that bundle.

Those who have used the service before and have had a customer that has told them they do not want to be included in the mailings should include that address on the facing slip in the Do Not Deliver Address column.

Pay for the Postage

Next, you will just need to pay for the postage. The USPS will take care of everything else for you.

As you can see, the use of EDDM can help make getting your direct mail out to customers in your area quick and relatively easy. It is a cost-effective option to get your brand in front of everyone in the area, and you will have to worry less about segmenting your audience at this point. This could be a good option for many businesses to consider as a major direct mail marketing plan component.

Conclusion

By now, you should have a much better understanding of what direct mail is and why it is so important for your business today. It’s not dead. It’s alive and thriving; you can make it work for your business.

However, it is not always something that you will be able to handle on your own. Instead of pushing ahead on your own and making mistakes that could damage your brand, you will want to contact someone who can help.

Time for Help from Professionals in the Field

Sure, you might be able to do some of the work and have some ideas. The direct mail pros at Catdi Printing are here to help. It takes time and effort, though, that you might want to put into other aspects of your business. Instead of trying to take care of the entire direct mail marketing campaign, you might want to get some for our direct mail professionals.

Working with direct mail professionals who know the ins and outs of direct marketing and who can ensure that you have exactly what you need to reach the right customers is essential. It can make all the difference in the world in the quality of your marketing materials.

Just make sure you are working with one of the best in the field who can impart their experience and knowledge to help make your campaign successful. They can make the process easier for you, allowing you to get back to the other aspects of running your business.

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6 X 11 EDDM Postcards – Best Size for Your Marketing Dollar? https://www.catdi.com/6-x-11-eddm-postcards-best-value-for-your-marketing-dollar/ https://www.catdi.com/6-x-11-eddm-postcards-best-value-for-your-marketing-dollar/#respond Wed, 10 May 2023 01:07:14 +0000 https://www.catdi.com/?p=7508 Discover the power of 6 X 11 postcards for Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) campaigns. Find out why this size is the best option and how it can help you reach your target audience effectively. What is EDDM? EDDM stands for Every Door Direct Mail. It is a service offered by the United States Postal […]

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Discover the power of 6 X 11 postcards for Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) campaigns. Find out why this size is the best option and how it can help you reach your target audience effectively.

What is EDDM?

EDDM stands for Every Door Direct Mail. It is a service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that allows businesses to target specific zip codes or neighborhoods with their direct mail campaigns. EDDM eliminates the need for purchasing mailing lists and permits, making it an affordable option for small businesses.

With EDDM, businesses can send postcards, flyers, or brochures to every household in a chosen area without needing to know individual names or addresses. This makes it an effective way to reach a large audience with minimal effort and cost.

How does EDDM work?

To use EDDM, businesses need to select the zip codes or neighborhoods they want to target and choose the size and type of mailpiece they want to send. The USPS provides a mapping tool that helps businesses identify the delivery routes within their selected areas.

Once the target areas have been identified, businesses can design their mailpieces according to USPS guidelines and drop them off at a local post office for delivery. The USPS charges a flat rate per piece for EDDM mailings, which varies depending on the size and type of mailpiece used.

Why use postcards for EDDM?

Postcards are one of the most popular types of mailpieces used in EDDM campaigns because they are affordable, easy to design and print, and have high visibility. Postcards also allow businesses to convey their message quickly and effectively while providing ample space for branding and promotional offers.

What are the benefits of using 6 X 11 postcards for EDDM?

Affordability

  • 6 X 11 EDDM Postcards are one of the most affordable types of direct mail marketing materials available. They are less expensive to print and mail than larger pieces like brochures or catalogs.
  • 6 X 11 EDDM postcards have a flat rate pricing structure, which means that businesses pay the same amount per piece regardless of how many they send.

Easy Design and Printing

  • Postcards are easy to design and print, even for businesses with limited graphic design experience. Many online printing companies offer templates and design tools that make it simple to create professional-looking postcards.
  • Postcards can be printed in large quantities quickly, making them an ideal choice for time-sensitive campaigns or promotions.

High Visibility

  • Postcards have high visibility because they are delivered directly to households and do not need to be opened like envelopes.
  • Postcards also provide ample space for branding and promotional offers, making them an effective way to capture the attention of potential customers.

How many postcard sizes are available for EDDM?

The USPS offers several sizes of postcards that can be used for EDDM campaigns. These include:

  • 4.25″ x 11″
  • 6.25″ x 9″
  • 6″ x 11″
  • 8.5″ x 11″

 

How does the size of a postcard affect its effectiveness in EDDM?

The size of a postcard can have a significant impact on its effectiveness in EDDM campaigns. Larger postcards tend to be more eye-catching and memorable, but they also cost more to print and mail.

Smaller postcards are more affordable and easier to design, but they may not stand out as much in a mailbox filled with other mailpieces. Ultimately, the size of a postcard should be chosen based on the goals of the campaign and the budget available.

Can I include more information on a larger postcard for EDDM?

Yes, larger postcards provide more space for businesses to include information about their products or services. However, it is important to balance the amount of information provided with the overall design and readability of the mailpiece.

Too much text or cluttered design can make it difficult for recipients to understand the message and take action. It is recommended that businesses focus on providing clear, concise messaging that highlights their unique value proposition and includes a strong call-to-action.

How do I design an effective 6 X 11 postcard for EDDM?

To design an effective 6 X 11 postcard for EDDM, businesses should follow these guidelines:

  • Use high-quality images that are relevant to the message being conveyed
  • Incorporate branding elements like logos and color schemes
  • Include a clear headline that captures attention
  • Provide concise messaging that highlights unique value propositions
  • Incorporate a strong call-to-action that encourages recipients to take action
  • Avoid cluttered designs or too much text
  • Ensure all necessary contact information is included

Are there any specific guidelines or requirements for designing a postcard for EDDM?

Yes, the USPS has specific guidelines and requirements that must be followed when designing postcards for EDDM campaigns. These include:

  • Postcards must be rectangular in shape
  • Postcards must meet minimum and maximum size requirements
  • Postcards must have a clear return address and permit indicia
  • Postcards cannot contain any non-deliverable items like magnets or samples
  • The mailpiece design must comply with all postal regulations and guidelines

What type of paper should I use for my 6 X 11 postcards for EDDM?

The type of paper used for EDDM postcards can vary depending on the design and budget available. However, it is recommended that businesses use high-quality paper that is at least 80lb cover weight to ensure durability during mailing.

Glossy or matte finishes can also be used to enhance the visual appeal of the mailpiece, but it is important to avoid designs that may cause glare or make text difficult to read.

How long does it take to print and distribute 6 X 11 postcards for EDDM?

The time it takes to print and distribute 6 X 11 postcards for EDDM can vary depending on several factors, including the quantity ordered, the complexity of the design, and the printing company’s production schedule.

In general, businesses should allow at least two weeks from the time they submit their order to when they expect their mailpieces to be delivered. It is recommended that businesses work with a reputable printing company that has experience handling EDDM campaigns to ensure timely delivery.

Is there a minimum or maximum number of postcards required for an EDDM campaign using 6 X 11 size cards?

No, there is no minimum or maximum number of postcards required for an EDDM campaign using 6 X 11 size cards. However, businesses should consider the cost-effectiveness of their campaign and the budget available when determining the quantity to order.

It is recommended that businesses work with a printing company that offers competitive pricing and flexible quantity options to ensure they get the most value from their investment.

Can I target specific neighborhoods or areas with my 6 X 11 postcards through EDDM?

Yes, businesses can target specific neighborhoods or areas with their 6 X 11 postcards through EDDM. The USPS provides a mapping tool that allows businesses to select delivery routes within specific zip codes or neighborhoods based on factors like income level, age, and household size.

This makes it easy for businesses to target their ideal audience and maximize the effectiveness of their direct mail campaigns.

Are there any case studies or success stories that showcase the effectiveness of using 6 X 11 postcards for EDDM?

Yes, there are many case studies and success stories that demonstrate the effectiveness of using 6 X 11 postcards for EDDM campaigns. For example:

  • A local restaurant used a targeted EDDM campaign with 6 X 11 postcards to promote a new menu item. The campaign resulted in a significant increase in foot traffic and sales during the promotion period.
  • A landscaping company used EDDM with 6 X 11 postcards to target high-income neighborhoods in their service area. The campaign resulted in a significant increase in leads and new customers.
  • A real estate agent used EDDM with 6 X 11 postcards to promote an open house event. The campaign resulted in a high turnout and several offers on the property.

These examples demonstrate the versatility and effectiveness of using 6 X 11 postcards for EDDM campaigns across a variety of industries and applications.

In conclusion, 6 x 11 postcards are the ideal choice for EDDM due to their perfect size, cost-effectiveness, and ability to grab the attention of potential customers.

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EDDM vs Direct Mail Saturation Mailing https://www.catdi.com/eddm-vs-direct-mail-saturation-rates/ https://www.catdi.com/eddm-vs-direct-mail-saturation-rates/#respond Mon, 12 Feb 2024 14:44:09 +0000 https://www.catdi.com/?p=8783 In the ever-evolving landscape of direct marketing, the choice of mailing strategy can significantly impact your campaign’s success. Two popular methods are Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) and Direct Mail, both of which fall under the umbrella of direct mail advertising. Understanding the nuances of each, including differences in postage rates, can help you make […]

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In the ever-evolving landscape of direct marketing, the choice of mailing strategy can significantly impact your campaign’s success. Two popular methods are Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) and Direct Mail, both of which fall under the umbrella of direct mail advertising. Understanding the nuances of each, including differences in postage rates, can help you make an informed decision tailored to your business needs. This knowledge allows you to optimize your marketing efforts, ensuring that your message reaches the right audience in the most effective way possible.

What is EDDM?

Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) is a service offered by USPS that allows businesses to send mail to specific geographic areas without needing a mailing list. This method is ideal for businesses looking to target local customers efficiently.

Benefits of EDDM:

One of the primary benefits of EDDM is its simplicity, which makes it an effective part of a direct mail strategy for local businesses. Businesses can select postal routes that align with their target demographic without the hassle of acquiring or managing mailing lists or paying high postage. This method is particularly advantageous for local businesses aiming to raise awareness within specific communities. For instance, a new restaurant could target nearby neighborhoods to announce its grand opening and special promotions. EDDM’s cost-effectiveness also stands out, making it a budget-friendly option for extensive reach.

EDDM USPS Tool

What is Direct Mail?

Direct Mail involves sending promotional materials to a targeted list of recipients. This method requires businesses to create or purchase mailing lists, allowing for more personalized and segmented marketing efforts in addition to saturation mailing campaigns.

Benefits of Direct Mail:

Direct Mail offers a more personalized approach to marketing. By leveraging detailed demographic data, businesses can tailor their messages to resonate with specific audiences. For example, a luxury car dealership might use Direct Mail to reach high-income households likely to be interested in their offerings. This granularity can lead to higher engagement and conversion rates, making Direct Mail a powerful tool for targeted marketing campaigns, especially when using saturation mailing campaigns.

Mailing List

Geographic Targeting with EDDM

EDDM excels in geographic targeting, enabling businesses to reach entire neighborhoods or specific streets through saturation direct mail. This is particularly beneficial for localized marketing campaigns, such as promoting a new store opening or offering local services.

Benefits for Localized Marketing:

The strength of EDDM lies in its ability to blanket an area with promotional material, ensuring every household within the selected routes receives the postcard. This broad approach is ideal for businesses with services or products that appeal to a wide audience. Local events, such as a community fair or seasonal sale, can benefit greatly from this method.

Interested in learning about direct mail marketing click here to learn more

Direct Mail: Precision and Personalization

While EDDM focuses on broad geographic targeting, Direct Mail offers precision in reaching specific demographics based on detailed data such as age, income, and purchasing behavior. This granularity allows businesses to tailor their messages more effectively, potentially leading to higher engagement and conversion rates.

Pros and Cons: Direct Mail vs. EDDM

Both EDDM and Direct Mail have their advantages and drawbacks, which can influence your decision based on your marketing goals. Understanding eddm and direct mail will help you choose the right method.

EDDM Pros:

  • No Mailing Lists Needed: Simplifies the process by eliminating the need to purchase or manage mailing lists.
  • Cost-Effective: Reduces expenses, making it an affordable option for extensive reach.
  • Ease of Use: Streamlines the preparation and execution of campaigns with USPS tools.
  • Wide Coverage: Allows businesses to cover entire neighborhoods or specific routes efficiently.
  • Size: With the EDDM program, you have to use an oversized postcard, which provides more space for your messaging.

EDDM Cons:

  • Less Precise Targeting: Limited ability to target specific demographics.
  • Limited Personalization: Generic mailers might not capture the recipient’s attention as effectively as personalized ones.
  • Potential for Wasted Reach can be mitigated by choosing targeted mailing options or eddm and saturation mail. Mailers may reach uninterested recipients within the targeted area.

Direct Mail Pros:

  • Highly Targeted: Allows for detailed segmentation based on demographics and purchasing behavior.
  • Personalized: Tailored messages can lead to higher engagement and conversion rates.
  • Better ROI Tracking: Easier to measure and analyze the success of campaigns through targeted metrics.
  • Flexible Design Options: Allows for creative and customized mailer designs to engage specific audiences.

Direct Mail Cons:

  • Requires Mailing Lists: More complex and time-consuming to manage.
  • Higher Costs: Potentially higher expenses due to list acquisition, personalized printing, and postage rate.
  • Logistical Challenges: Managing large-scale direct mail campaigns can be resource-intensive, but leveraging bulk mail options can streamline the process.
Interested in learning about direct mail marketing click here to learn more

How to Get Started with EDDM

Getting started with EDDM is straightforward, making it easier for businesses to benefit from saturation mail. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Select Routes: Use USPS’s EDDM tool to choose routes that match your target audience and optimize your direct mail strategy. Consider factors like local events, income, demographics, and area-specific interests.
  2. Design and Print: Create your mailers, ensuring they meet USPS size and format requirements. Focus on eye-catching designs and clear calls-to-action to maximize engagement.
  3. Submit: Take your mailers to the post office or use an online service to complete the process. Ensure compliance with USPS guidelines to avoid delays or additional costs.

How to Get Started with Direct Mail

Getting started with Direct Mail involves a few key steps:

  1. Build or Purchase a Mailing List: Identify and acquire a high-quality mailing list that matches your target audience. This list can be segmented based on various demographics such as age, income, or purchasing behavior.
  2. Design Personalized Mailers: Create engaging and relevant content tailored to the specific segments of your mailing list. Utilize variable data printing to personalize each mailer with the recipient’s name and personalized offers.
  3. Print and Send a mail piece efficiently by understanding postage rate structures. Work with a reliable printing service like Catdi Printing to ensure high-quality production of your mailers. Once printed, coordinate the mailing process to ensure timely delivery.
  4. Track and Measure Results: Use unique codes, URLs, or phone numbers on your mailers to track responses. Analyzing this data will help you refine future campaigns and improve ROI, particularly when employing targeted mailing strategies to increase response rates.

Case Study: Successful EDDM Campaign

Example: Local Restaurant Launch leveraging direct mail marketing.

A new restaurant used EDDM to announce its grand opening. They targeted neighborhoods within a 5-mile radius, including special offers and a map to the location. The result was increased foot traffic and customer engagement, leading to a successful launch.

Case Study: Successful Direct Mail Campaign

Example: Luxury Car Dealership

A luxury car dealership used Direct Mail to target high-income households within a 20-mile radius. By using personalized mailers that included the recipient’s name and tailored offers, the dealership saw a significant increase in test drives and sales. The ability to track responses also allowed them to fine-tune future campaigns for even better results.

Which Works Best for Your Business?

Choosing between EDDM and Direct Mail depends on the nature of your business and your marketing objectives.

Best Fit for EDDM:

  • Local Service-Based Businesses often see higher response rates through direct mail marketing strategies. Dentists, pizzerias, and other local services benefit from targeting nearby neighborhoods to attract local customers through direct mail marketing, including EDDM mailings or saturation direct mail.
  • Retail Stores: Ideal for announcing sales, new products, or store openings to the local community.
  • Event Promotions: Perfect for promoting community events, fairs, and seasonal sales. Open house events for real estate agents are great use as they target specific areas.

Best Fit for Direct Mail:

  • High-End Products: Businesses selling luxury items like high-end pool builders or car dealerships benefit from targeted, personalized mailers that appeal to affluent demographics and improve response rates.
  • B2B Services: Companies offering specialized services to other businesses can leverage Direct Mail to reach decision-makers within specific industries and increase response rates.
  • Non-Profits: Charities and non-profits can use targeted mailers to reach potential donors who are more likely to contribute.

Both EDDM and Direct Mail offer unique advantages for businesses. EDDM is perfect for simple, cost-effective local campaigns, while Direct Mail excels in targeting and personalization, potentially yielding higher conversion rates. By carefully considering the benefits and limitations of each method, you can make an informed decision that maximizes your marketing efforts and delivers the best results for your business, whether through EDDM mailings or other direct mail strategies.

Ready to take your direct marketing to the next level? Contact Catdi Printing today to get started with your EDDM or Direct Mail campaign. Our team of experts will help you design, print, and deliver high-quality mailers that get results. Visit our website or call us to learn more and request a quote! Discover how eddm and saturation mail can lower postage rates.

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Things You Need To Know About USPS EDDM Postcard Sizes And other Requirements https://www.catdi.com/eddm-postcard-mail-sizes-for-your-business/ Mon, 06 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.catdi.com/things-you-need-to-know-about-usps-eddm-postcard-sizes-and-other-requirements/ As a business owner, you know that staying top of mind with your customers is critical to driving sales and keeping your business afloat. And what better way to do that than with an EDDM Postcard? But…. knowing the right size and the sizing rules of EDDM is an essential first step. It can be […]

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As a business owner, you know that staying top of mind with your customers is critical to driving sales and keeping your business afloat. And what better way to do that than with an EDDM Postcard?

But…. knowing the right size and the sizing rules of EDDM is an essential first step. It can be a little confusing with all the specific rules, but we break down what you need to know to navigate the EDDM size requirements.

Every-door direct mail can be a great marketing tool, but it can also be a bit confusing—especially when understanding the USPS EDDM postcard dimensions requirements. The United States Postal Services EDDM manual explains the postcard and flyer size requirements and what you need to do to comply.

However, the problem with the USPS EDDM manual is that it is 1300 pages long and full of technical jargon, which can be hard to understand!!

Don’t’ worry—the printing pros at Catdi Printing have you covered. In this blog post, I will break down the EDDM postcard dimensions requirements and other essentials so that you can quickly get your direct mail campaign up and running. First, let’s’ talk about EDDM cards in general.

What Exactly is EDDM (Every Door Direct Mail)?

EDDM is short for Every Door Direct Mail. It is a direct mail marketing campaign that allows businesses to target specific neighborhoods with their marketing materials.

It works by selecting the carrier routes you want to target. The USPS then delivers mailpieces to every door on those routes.

The beauty of EDDM is that you don’t’ need mailing lists. You choose the carrier routes you want to target, and the USPS will deliver your postcards to every door. For example, you are a plumbing services provider in Los Angeles, California, and you want to target homeowners in a particular neighborhood who may need your services. With EDDM, you can target those homeowners specifically without purchasing mailings. They will receive your marketing cards in their mailboxes. With postage rates hovering around only $.20 per card, it has quickly become a very popular program.

It’s’ a great way to reach many potential customers with your marketing message without spending much money on postage.

Now let me tell you the effectiveness of USPS EDDM card campaigns and whether it is worth spending your money on direct mail marketing.

Are USPS EDDM postcard campaigns effective in this age of the internet?

In this era of TikTok, Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms, some people think that direct mail marketing is no longer effective; it is! However, this is not true. Direct mail marketing is still one of the most effective marketing channels.

According to the data from DMA (DATA & Marketing Association UK), the response rate of direct mail marketing campaigns is 9 %, which is good.

Moreover, with the help of EDDM mailing cards, you can target a specific audience that is off social media with your marketing message. For example, according to Statista, there are 179.65 million users in the USA, while the total population is 332 million. So what about the remaining 152.4 million people? They are not on social media. However, you can reach them through these marketing campaigns.

Now that we’ve’ got that out let’s’ discuss the size of the EDDM postal card requirements.

Understanding the Basics of Every Door Direct Mail Size

To ensure a successful Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) campaign, it is important to understand the basics of EDDM sizes and ensure each mail piece adheres to USPS guidelines. The size of your mailpieces significantly impacts factors such as postage rates, campaign costs, and visibility. By selecting the suitable EDDM sizes, you can optimize your campaign and achieve the desired results.

Importance of Selecting the Right EDDM Sizes

Choosing the right EDDM sizes is crucial for several reasons, including compliance with USPS regulations and ensuring your mail piece meets certain criteria. First, it ensures that your mailpieces meet the specifications outlined in the USPS Domestic Mail Manual and EDDM requirements. Adhering to these guidelines is necessary to qualify for EDDM rates and avoid any issues at the post office. Second, selecting optimal mailpiece dimensions with square corners allows you to maximize the impact of your direct mail campaign and capture the attention of your target audience.

Essential Size Requirements for EDDM Postcards, as a form of direct mail pieces for EDDM®, require careful consideration of size to ensure they meet USPS requirements.

Understanding the key size requirements is crucial for a successful campaign when it comes to Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) postcards. These requirements determine eligibility for EDDM rates and ensure that USPSUSPS can efficiently process your mailpieces.

Minimum and Maximum Physical Dimensions

The USPS has specific requirements for the minimum and maximum physical dimensions of EDDM postcards. These guidelines ensure that the postcards can be processed and delivered efficiently. Here are the size restrictions:

  Minimum Size Maximum Size and Minimum Thickness
Length 6.125 inches 12 inches
Height 11 inches 15 inches

EDDM postcards must fall within these length and height ranges to meet the USPS size requirements. It is important to note that the dimensions of EDDM postcards should not exceed the maximum size restrictions to ensure proper processing and delivery.

Weight and Thickness Guidelines

In addition to the physical dimensions, EDDM postcards must also meet weight and thickness guidelines set by USPS. These guidelines ensure that the postcards can be handled efficiently during mailing. Here are the weight and thickness requirements:

  • The weight of the EDDM postcards must be between 0.007 ounces (0.198 grams) and 3.3 ounces (93.5 grams).
  • The thickness of the EDDM postcards must be between 0.007 inches (0.178 mm) and 0.25 inches (6.35 mm), adhering to the minimum and maximum EDDM thickness guidelines.

Adhering to these weight and thickness guidelines ensures that your EDDM postcards meet the USPS requirements and avoid potential issues during the mailing process.

It is crucial to carefully consider the size, weight, and thickness of your EDDM postcards to ensure compliance with USPS regulations. By following these guidelines, you can optimize your EDDM campaign and increase the chances of effectively reaching your target audience.

Unique Advantages of Using Specific Every Door Direct Mail Sizes

Rationale Behind EDDM Size Recommendations

Different Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) sizes offer unique advantages depending on your marketing objectives. Each size has been carefully recommended based on its ability to maximize visual impact and convey information effectively, ensuring they meet USPS EDDM size requirements. Understanding the benefits of specific sizes can help you make informed decisions for your direct mail campaign, ensuring your message reaches your target audience with maximum impact.

When determining the ideal size for your EDDM mailpiece, it’s essential to consider factors such as the type of message you want to convey, the amount of information you wish to include, and the overall design and layout of your mailpiece. The goal is to choose a size that not only meets USPS EDDM size requirements but also aligns with your marketing goals and enhances the effectiveness of your campaign.

Here are some key advantages of using specific EDDM sizes:

  1. Standard EDDM Sizes: These sizes (such as  6.25″ x 9″ and 6″ x 11″) are widely recognized and commonly used. They offer a balance between cost-effectiveness, readability, and visual impact. Standard sizes allow you to easily design your mailpieces, utilize pre-designed templates, and ensure efficient production and distribution.
  2. Optimal Mailpiece Dimensions: There are specific EDDM sizes (such as 8.5″ x 11″ and 11″ x 17″) that provide ample space for delivering detailed information, such as product catalogs, brochures, or menus. These larger sizes allow you to showcase your products or services more effectively while complying with USPS guidelines.
  3. EDDM Flyer Dimensions: Flyers come in various sizes, such as 6.5″ x 8.5″ and 8.5″ x 14″. These sizes allow you to strike a balance between compactness and the ability to accommodate essential information or eye-catching visuals. They are ideal for promoting events, special offers, or limited-time sales.
  4. EDDM Brochure Size Requirements: A Complete Guide Brochures offer a versatile format for sharing detailed information about your business or organization. Optimal EDDM brochure sizes, such as  11″ x 17″ folded to 8.5″ x 11″, provide ample space for showcasing your products, services, or causes while providing a visually pleasing layout.

The rationale behind EDDM size recommendations revolves around balancing USPS guidelines and achieving marketing goals. Strove for maximum dimensions that make a statement. SIt’selecting a size that allows you to effectively communicate your message, engage your target audience, and differentiate yourself from competitors is essential.

By carefully considering the unique advantages of each EDDM size and understanding the rationale behind the size recommendations, you can optimize the effectiveness of your direct mail campaign and

Most Popular EDDM Dimensions for Businesses

Effect of Size on Postage Rates and Campaign Costs

The size of your Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) postcards or mailpieces can significantly impact your postage rates and overall campaign costs. It’s essential to carefully consider the dimensions of your EDDM materials to optimize your budget and maximize your return on investment by adhering to the minimum size and maximum size guidelines.

When planning your EDDM campaign, remember that larger mailpieces may incur higher postage rates than smaller ones. The United States Postal Service (USPS) determines postage rates based on the mailpiece’s weight and size. Therefore, larger dimensions can increase costs for your direct mail campaign, especially if the mail piece is oversized.

On the other hand, smaller mailpieces can offer potential cost savings in terms of postage rates, fitting within eddm size requirements. If reaching a smaller target audience is sufficient for your marketing goals, downsizing your EDDM postcards or mailpieces could be a strategic choice to reduce campaign costs without exceeding a radius of interest.

Standard – (6.25″ x 9″ EDDM Postcard)

This is the most common and popular size for EDDM cards. It is a good size for fitting a lot of information on the card without it being too large or too small.

Large – (6.25″ x 11″ EDDM Postcard)

This size suits EDDM cards, including coupons or other promotional materials.

Jumbo – (8.5″ x 11″ (EDDM Postcard)

The jumbo postcards are a great choice if you want to impact your direct mail campaign significantly.

Over-sized – (12″ x 15″ EDDM Postcard)

Why Larger Postcards May Offer Better Visibility

While more oversized postcards may come with a higher price tag in terms of postage rates, they often offer better visibility and have the potential to capture more attention from recipients. Their larger size makes them stand out in a mailbox and are more likely to be noticed than smaller mailpieces.

Moreover, oversized postcards provide more space for compelling designs, impactful visuals, and informative content, essentially being popular EDDM postcard sizes that balance visibility and USPS compliance. They allow businesses to showcase their products or services in a visually appealing and informative way, making a lasting impression on the recipients with Every Door Direct Mail®, meeting minimum and maximum EDDM specifications.

When crafting your EDDM campaign, consider the benefits of more oversized postcards regarding visibility and impact. While they may require a higher investment, the increased visibility and opportunity for engagement can deliver a higher return on your marketing efforts.

At Catdi Printing, we understand the importance of selecting suitable EDDM sizes for your campaign. Our knowledgeable team can help you choose the optimal mailpiece dimensions that align with your business goals. Contact us today to get started!

Unique Advantages of Using Specific Every Door Direct Mail Sizes

Each specific Every Door Direct Mail size offers unique advantages businesses can leverage to achieve their marketing goals. Understanding the rationale behind EDDM size recommendations can help companies choose the sizes that align with their objectives, making EDDM marketing more effective. Whether it’s the optimal mailpiece dimensions for flyers, postcards, or brochures, considering the unique advantages of specific EDDM sizes can enhance the effectiveness of the direct mail campaign.

What are Some Creative Ways to use EDDM Postcards?

EDDM cards are a versatile marketing tool that can be used in a variety of ways. The following are some of the creative design ideas to use EDDM Postcards for your business:

1. Appointment reminder cards – You can use EDDM cards as appointment reminder cards for your customers. This is a great way to ensure that your customers don’t forget their appointment with you.

2. Thank you cards – EDDM cards can also be used to send a thank you message to your customers.

3. Loyalty cards – You can use EDDM cards as loyalty cards for your customers. This is a great way to encourage your customers to keep coming back to your business.

4. Free samples and coupons – Free samples and coupons are a great way to attract potential clients and convert them into loyal customers. You can use EDDM postcards to send free samples and coupons to your potential clients.

5. Announcement cards – Many businesses and companies use these postcards as announcement cards to inform their customers about the new product launch, special offers, sales and discounts. This is a great way to spread the news to the world.

These are some of the creative ways to use EDDM postcards for .

Ensuring Compliance with the USPS EDDM Sizing Guide

Complying with the USPS EDDM sizing guide is essential to qualify for EDDM rates and avoid any issues with mailpiece acceptance. To ensure that your EDDM campaign meets the requirements, it is crucial to understand the common pitfalls to avoid in EDDM size selection and the impact of non-standard sizes on your campaign, highlighting why standard postcard dimensions are preferred. Also don’t forget that even with the size requirements you need to add the correct indicia. At Catdi Printing, we’ll ensure your piece is sized correctly and that you won’tt have any issues.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid in EDDM Size Selection

When selecting EDDM sizes, businesses often make common mistakes that can hinder the success of their campaigns. Some of these pitfalls include not adhering to the maximum or minimum size requirements for their EDDM mail pieces.

  • Choosing sizes that do not meet the minimum or maximum physical dimensions specified by USPS EDDM requirements can lead to your mailer being rejected, which underscores the importance of adhering to EDDM size requirements.
  • Using non-standard sizes that may result in higher postage rates or printing costs
  • Disregarding the restrictions on EDDM postcard sizes, leading to non-compliance

Avoiding these pitfalls is crucial to ensure that your EDDM campaign aligns with USPS guidelines and maximizes effectiveness.

Strategic Sizing for Different Types of Direct Mail Campaigns

Strategic sizing is essential for different direct mail campaigns, including EDDM retail and EDDM mailer initiatives, to ensure each piece meets the minimum and maximum size requirements. For example, if you’re promoting a grand opening or a special event, more oversized postcards qualifying for an EDDM can have a more significant impact and grab the attention of potential customers. On the other hand, if you’re sending personalized offers or invitations, smaller sizes may be more appropriate to create a sense of exclusivity and importance.

At Catdi Printing, we understand the importance of choosing the right EDDM size to reflect your business goals. Our team of experts can guide you in selecting the optimal dimensions that align with your campaign objectives, ensuring maximum effectiveness and ROI. With our comprehensive printing services, your Every Door Direct Mail campaign will make a lasting impression.

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