• At Capital we want to help you plan your job from start to finish, and are focused on providing you with the educational resources that you need during that process to make sure that your project comes out right the first time, every time.

  • Postal regulations are an important step to keep in mind when producing any mailable piece. Below are some important tips to keep in mind during the production of your work.

  • 1) Communication
    Always consult your mail house or post office representative throughout the creative process to avoid errors and save valuable time and money. Don't be fooled - a small change in size, weight or dimensions could negatively impact the mailing - especially with postage. Correct sizing decreases your chances of your mailing deadline being compromised at the post office.

  • 2) Verify Your Weights
    Keep in mind that ink on paper, mailing labels and postage all contribute to the final weight of a direct mail piece. The maximum weight for a standard #10 envelope is 1.0 ounce = $0.41 rate. A pre-printed mock-up is a good preliminary troubleshooting measure, ask your printing representative to provide you with a paper dummy of your piece and get it weighed by the post office so you can estimate your final weight. Remember though to still weigh the final end product to ensure that you don't have any surprises at the mailbox.

  • 3) Sizing
    Ensure that you confirm your scores/perfs/folds carefully. If you design a piece to meet postal regulations, ensure that your finished piece meets those dimensions. The slightest change, even 1/16 of an inch can open the door for the post office to impose the higher applicable rate. Do a comp or ask for a paper dummy from you printer so you can verify that you will meet the intended dimensions.

  • 4) Unique Sizes = More Money
    Square envelopes gain a great amount of attention through the mail, but surcharges usually apply. Be prepared to pay more postage if you decide to go that route. Keep in mind standard sizes when you are conceptualizing a piece. Going smaller with a mailer might mean the difference between it being mailed third class or first class, which can effect acknowledgement by the receiver.

  • 5) Differentiate Your Design
    While getting direct mail opened is a high priority, still use your judgment and don't ignore your instincts. When designing your mailing labels, make sure that your mailing and return addresses are distinct and can be differentiated. Avoid frantic calls from the client about receiving numerous returns, to find out that the post office read your return address as the delivery address!

  • For more information regarding postal regulations and standards visit the United States Post Office at http://pe.usps.gov