Calloway Network Direct Mail QA

I don’t really know a lot about mail – where do I start?
The experts at Calloway Network will be happy to sit down with you to discuss your ideas. We specialize in carrying our customers through the entire mailing process – mailpiece design, address & postal permit placement recommendations, class of mail, list procurement/management, & more. Large or small mailings – we customize our services with your needs in mind.

Why don’t I just process my own mail?
You could, but you’ll likely find that it costs you more in the long run. Calloway Network provides the expertise necessary to get your mail to the desired clientele at the least expensive rates. Due to our staff’s years of experience and state of the art software, you can concentrate on running your business and leave the mailings to us.

What kind of response rate can I expect with my mailing?
Response rates are affected by offers, quality of mailing list, mail piece/package design, delivery time of the mailing, etc. Many industry experts suggest 1-3% is successful.

What kind of turn-around time can I expect if Calloway Network handles my mailing?
Once we receive all mailing lists and materials in-house, Calloway Network typically provides a 4-day maximum turn around.

What class of mail should I choose?
The Postal Service divides mail into different services called "classes". Each class has different features, service levels, postage rates, and presort requirements. For most of your mailings, the content of the material and postage rate will determine the class of mail you select.

• First Class (including Priority Mail): Anything mailable including bills, invoices, personal correspondence, merchandise, advertisements.

• Periodicals: Newsletters, magazines.

• Standard Mail: Advertisements, circulars, newsletters, magazines, small parcels, merchandise. Must weigh less than 16 ounces.

• Package Service: Merchandise, catalogs, printed matter, computer media.

Why are the rates for Standard Mail less than those for First Class Mail?
Because it is less costly for the USPS to handle. Standard Mail must be presorted, sacked, labeled and delivered to the post office by the mailer. Standard Mail is also given deferred service in handling.

How much longer does the mail take if I send my mail Standard vs. First Class?
This varies by the distance the mail piece has to travel. Although the USPS cannot guarantee delivery schedules, on average First Class Mail should deliver in 1 – 3 days and Standard Mail delivers in about 5-7 days.

How many mail pieces do I need to qualify for presort discounts?
To qualify for Standard Mail, you must have a minimum of 200 identical pieces or 50 pounds. To qualify for First Class Mail discounts, you must have a minimum of 500 identical pieces.

What is Zip+4?
The "+4" part of the zip+4 is an extension to the traditional 5-digit zip code that identifies addresses more accurately geographically. The use of zip+4 helps the Post Office sort mail faster and with fewer errors, thus allowing you to receive lower postage costs.

What is CASS Certification?
The Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS) Certification process is used to improve deliverability and to qualify the mailing for postal automation discounts. CASS Certification software assigns a zip+4 and barcode numbers to deliverable addresses. Mailers must be able to prove that their lists are CASS certified to claim automation discounts.

What is NCOA?
National Change of Address service updates the addresses of people who have moved in the last three years. To claim presort or automation rates for First Class Mail it must be demonstrated that the addresses have been updated within 6 months of the mailing date. Two updating methods are NCOA and ancillary service endorsements (instructions for the disposition of non-deliverable addresses). The advantage to using NCOA over endorsements is that NCOA is used prior to a mailing. Address changes are made before a mailing so mail pieces are delivered, not wasted. In addition, postage is not wasted.

What is an indicia?
An indicia is an imprinted designation (a postal permit) on a piece of mail that indicates postage payment. It can be used in place of a stamp or meter mark.

Do I need my own permit?
No. Calloway Network has a permit through the Lancaster, PA Post Office and it is available for use at no additional cost to you.

How do I pay for postage?
The USPS requires that all postage be paid at the time of mailing. If you are using Calloway Network’s indicia, postage must be received prior to taking your prepared mail to the post office. If you are using your own indicia, postage must be deposited into your postal account before we deliver the prepared mail to the post office. If you do not currently have an account with the USPS and would like to open one, we would be happy to assist you. The USPS does charge a small fee to open and maintain a postal account.

Is it true that non-deliverable pieces mailed at Standard rates are thrown away rather than being returned to sender?
This is true. However, by applying the appropriate Ancillary Endorsement to your piece, you can instruct the post office to treat your mail differently. There may be fees associated with the services you choose. Call our staff about these options.