Postal Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the following frequently asked questions regarding postal procedures and regulations may be helpful. However, don’t hesitate to contact us if you need additional or more-detailed information. We’re happy to help!
Q: Should I send my mail “Standard” or “First Class”?
A: How you choose to send your mail depends on your delivery needs and your postal budget. Postal rates for “Standard” mail are cheaper, but delivery can take up to two weeks longer. “First Class” is typically used for customized and personalized mail, such as statements and notices and recipient-specific mail. “Standard” mail is an excellent and economical choice for advertising pieces.
Q: Is there a way to check to see if someone in my database has moved?
A: The USPS has specific requirements you must meet to qualify for postage discounts, and making sure that you mail to the most current address on file is one of the requirements. To qualify for any type of postage discount, you must be able to prove that you are updating your database every 95 days using one of the USPS approved methods. The most common of these methods is using NCOALink® FASTforward® software programs. Professional Mail Services will process your mail through one of these USPS programs, check to see if there are any records that have a “move” on file, and we mail to the new address. At that point, you are sent a report that alerts you to the move, so you can update your records accordingly.
Q: Do I need to have a postal permit to use your services?
A: No! That’s one of the great advantages of working with us: we handle all relations with the U.S. Postal Service and can send your mail out using our permit.
Q: When is tabbing required?
A: Although you should always contact your Project Manager co confirm, the basic rules for tabbing are:
Folded mailers under 6 1/8" x 11" in size:
If the address panel has the folded edge at the bottom, 1 tab is required.
If the address panel has the folded edge at the top, 2 tabs are required.
If the folded mail piece has staples or binding of any type, 3 tabs are required.
Folded mailers over 6 1/8" x 11" in size:
No tabs are required
Q: What are the dimensions of a First Class postcard?
A: A First Class postcard varies in size from 3 ½” x 5” at minimum to 4 ¼” x 6” maximum and must be printed on at least 9-point stock.
Q: Is barcoding worthwhile for my mailing?
A: Generally, barcoding will save you from five to seven cents per piece, depending on how finely the sort can be done. The cost savings makes bar coding very worthwhile for most customers and helps mail to flow faster through the system.