USPS EDDM (what does it mean, how does it work + other FAQs)
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While email marketing tends to get a lot of attention these days, it can be plagued by low open rates and increasingly sharp spam filters. What’s more, you need an active email list, which can take years to cultivate.
So what would you do if you wanted to advertise locally, as a small business owner, restaurant, real estate agent or political candidate? Enter USPS’ Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) service. In this article, we’ll tell you how it works, why it’s useful, and how much it costs, so keep reading!
What is the EDDM for USPS in 2022?
Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) is a service offered by the USPS in 2022. It allows small businesses to advertise in local communities without requiring a postal license or address list. Senders can mail 200 to 5,000 messages per day. The price per mail is $0.20. Delivery takes 1-2 business days.
We’ll answer all of your EDDM questions in this article, so read to the end for more helpful facts and tips!
What is USPS EDDM?
Every Door Direct Mail (or EDDM for short) is a mailing service provided by the United States Postal Service.
Through this service, customers can mail 200 to 5,000 coupons, menus, flyers or postcards to local postal customers.
This makes it a very useful service for small businesses, restaurants, real estate agents and local political campaigns looking to advertise in their immediate area.
It does not require a mailing permit or even a mailing address.
Just enter the desired delivery routes, prepare your mail, drop them off at the post office, and USPS will take care of the rest!
How does USPS’ EDDM work?
The USPS has an online EDDM tool that allows users to locate their mail by zip code.
But it doesn’t stop there, because after selecting a general area, users can select specific neighborhoods and filter by age, income, or household size.
To use this service, you must be logged into the EDDM tool. A new EDDM retail account can be created here.
How do I create an EDDM retail email?
After creating an EDDM retail account, follow these steps to create a separate EDDM retail email:
- Search for a full address, city/state or zip code, then click “Show Table” to see details of nearby directions.
- Filter your audience by route type, age, income and cost. Select the community you want to use. You can choose multiple routes for a single message.
- Review your selections under “Order Summary” and save or continue.
- Design and print your mail.
- Select the return date and payment method. You can pay online with a credit or debit card, or at the post office with a card or check.
- On the Order Confirmation screen, review and print all Postal Service processing forms and correct EDDM documents to attach to the mailing package.
- Drop off or ship your package.
For more detailed instructions on these steps, visit the official USPS EDDM webpage.
Why should I use USPS EDDM?
EDDM is a useful service for getting marketing messages into the hands of consumers.
More specifically, it can help mailers reach locations without address lists, help build more traffic, help reduce mailing preparation costs, and potentially increase revenue.
What are the requirements to use EDDM from USPS?
There are some requirements that you must follow when using USPS’s EDDM.
E.g…
- Mail is limited to USPS Marketing Mail units
- Every piece of mail must display the “Every Door Direct Mail” retail mark
- User must select at least 200 mails in a zip code unless the zip code does not include 200 mails
What are the size requirements for EDDM?
Mail sent via EDDM must meet USPS size requirements. They are as follows:
- One side is greater than 6 ⅛ inches or 10.5 inches long
- Side length cannot exceed 15 inches or 12 inches high
- Must not weigh more than 3.03 ounces
- Thickness must be greater than 0.007 inches but less than 0.75 inches
- Type font must be at least 4 point size
How much does USPS EDDM cost?
Currently, USPS lists EDDM flyers, postcards and other prints at $0.20 each.
How long does EDDM delivery take?
Pieces sent as EDDM take 1-2 business days to arrive.
Does EDDM need a return address?
EDDM mailers are required to provide a physical address or PO Box as part of their mailing. The return address must be placed on the top left corner of the item.
To learn more, you can also read our posts on USPS mail deadlines, how to cancel USPS mail hold, and how to delete your USPS account.
in conclusion
USPS’ EDDM service is a great way for local businesses or individuals to promote their products. Not only is it affordable at $0.20 per item, but it’s easy to set up and doesn’t require a license or mailing list.
