Marketing Mail (Bulk Mail)

Marketing Mail, also known as Bulk Mail, is a category of USPS mail primarily used for promotional purposes such as advertisements, flyers, newsletters, merchandise, or small parcels. Unlike First Class mail, which guarantees delivery times and offers services like free automatic returns and mail forwarding, Marketing Mail is more cost-effective and suitable for businesses focused on sending marketing materials.

Key Differences Between First Class and Marketing Mail

The main distinctions between First Class and Marketing Mail include pricing, delivery speed, and additional services like mail forwarding and returns for outdated addresses. First Class mail is ideal for time-sensitive or personalized information such as invoices and credit cards, delivering typically within 2-4 business days.

On the other hand, Marketing Mail does not guarantee a specific delivery time but averages under 5 business days locally and up to 13 days nationally. It does not include free automatic returns or mail forwarding. Despite these differences, Marketing Mail costs approximately 32% less than First Class mail, making it a cost-efficient option for businesses willing to accommodate longer delivery schedules.

Requirements for Marketing Mail

To qualify for Marketing Mail rates, mailings must adhere to specific criteria:

• Minimum quantity: 200 pieces or 50 pounds, uniformly sized and weighted.
• Westfield State University return address must appear in the upper left corner.
• Content restrictions apply, prohibiting financial advertising except when substantially related to the university's mission.

Mail Piece Specifications.

• Size: Between 3" x 5" and 13" x 15-1/2".
• Thickness: Up to 1.25" thick.
• Weight: Less than 16 oz.
• Paper finish: Matte or Dull.

Address List Specifications.

• Accepted formats: Excel, ASCII Comma Delimited, or ASCII Tab Delimited.
• Each file must have consistent formatting and fields, with identified headers and no hidden cells, columns, or rows.