What is Direct Mail?
Everything You Need to Know to Launch a Successful Direct Mail Campaign with 1Vision.
Direct mail is a form of marketing where physical promotional materials—like postcards, brochures, letters, or flyers—are sent directly to your audience’s mailbox. It’s a powerful way to reach customers in a tangible, personalized, and highly targeted manner.
💡 Why Use Direct Mail?
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🎯 Highly Targeted – Reach specific ZIP codes, demographics, or existing customers.
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📬 Tangible Impact – A physical piece stands out more than a digital ad or email.
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📉 Less Cluttered – Mailboxes aren’t as overwhelmed as inboxes.
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📊 Measurable Results – QR codes, coupon codes, and landing pages help track ROI.
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🔁 Great with Digital – Combine with email or retargeting for multichannel campaigns.
🛠 What We Offer at 1Vision
With 1Vision, Direct Mail is a full-service solution from design to doorstep:
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✔️ List processing (clean-up, deduplication, NCOA, and CASS certification)
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✔️ High-quality printing and finishing
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✔️ USPS sorting, postage handling, and delivery
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✔️ Campaign planning & tracking support
🔄 Workflow: Step-by-Step
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. File Submission | Upload print-ready PDF and mailing list (CSV or XLSX). |
| 2. Proofing | You’ll receive a digital proof within 24–48 hours for approval. |
| 3. List Processing | We’ll standardize addresses and apply USPS certification. |
| 4. Mail Class Selection | Choose First-Class or Marketing Mail based on budget and speed. |
| 5. Print & Finish | Materials are printed, cut, and finished to spec. |
| 6. Mailing & Delivery | We drop your mail to USPS and provide tracking if requested. |
🕒 Turnaround time: Typically, 5–10 business days from approval to drop
✅ Best Practices for Direct Mail
📂 Data & List Tips
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Use clean data with separate columns (First Name, Last Name, Address, City, State, ZIP)
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Avoid merged cells or irregular formatting
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Run NCOA every 90 days to keep lists fresh
🎨 Design Tips
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High contrast and large font sizes
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Include one main CTA (Call to Action)
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Use a scannable QR code to measure engagement
📬 Mailing Strategy
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Allow at least 2 weeks from kickoff to mail drop
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Avoid tight deadlines near major USPS holidays
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Ask us about list targeting if you don’t have one
💬 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the minimum quantity?
A: 200 pieces for Marketing Mail.
Q: Can I use my own list?
A: Yes. Just make sure it’s clean and formatted correctly.
Q: Can I track delivery?
A: Yes, with IMb (Intelligent Mail Barcode) if requested.
Q: What’s the difference between First-Class and Marketing Mail?
A: First-Class is faster, but more expensive. Marketing Mail is more affordable for large quantities.
🤝 Need Help or Want to Plan a Campaign?
Contact your account manager or email us at sales@1-vision.com
You can also submit a request through your 1Vision Client Portal