Frequently Asked Questions

How can I save money using CITYMAIL?

For starters: POSTAGE and LISTS. This is the biggest pitfall of direct mail marketing. A poor list and high postage costs can run you ragged when it comes to expenses. Let us take a look at what you are trying to achieve and we will show you the cheapest way to do so. You may be shelling out all of your funds because you are sending all your parcels USPS Priority when you could be using an alternative service.

I'm a Nonprofit, how can I save more?

Nonprofit Organizations (whether it be in Boston, Massachusetts, or across the country) qualify for the steepest postage discounts being able to bring piece price down to roughly 12 cents in some cases. Compare that to the 26 cents per piece you would be spending sending it out as Standard Mail. As a non-profit organization you must be authorized as a 501c3 with the post office- this will ensure you receive these incredible savings—and that’s just the beginning.

How do I register my Non Profit Org. with the USPS?

Nonprofit mailings have always been our specialty, which is why we’re here to walk you through the entire process of getting your mailing out at the best rate. It is not enough to be a 501c3 organization to receive discounted rates with the Post Office. You must complete a form and submit it along with the proper paperwork to your nearest BMEU (Business Mail Entry Unit). The process takes roughly 1-2 weeks but once registered you are in the system for good. Your rates drop 12-14 cents per piece and the savings are enormous.

Intelligent Mail Barcode? What is that?

CITYMAIL deals in bulk mail. A LOT of bulk mail. So with quantity comes presorting and bar-coding. Our USPS integrated software is able to apply a Intelligent Mail Barcode to the piece being mailed (this is called Presorting) which in return speeds up delivery and cuts postage costs. An Intelligent Mail Barcode can be applied to First Class Mail, Standard Mail and Nonprofit Mailings. EDDM (Every Door Direct Mail) takes that a step farther making it even more affordable (and specific) to target a specific zip-code or area.

Do I need a mailing permit?

In short, the answer is NO. CITYMAIL USA is registered in Boston, MA and in Peabody, MA with two different permit numbers. When you partner with a mail house like CITYMAIL USA we allow you to use our permit number free of charge. The only time a permit is needed is when you are sending mail out in bulk. It is considered Marketing Mail. This can be First Class, Standard or NonProfit. The cost of purchasing a mailing permit is a $220 startup fee and a $220 annual fee. So $440 up front. If your company or organization mails out on a weekly/monthly basis this would be the ideal choice to make. But nowadays we see more and more companies just having the mail house use their permit for them. If you would like to purchase (or learn more) about obtaining your own permit number click here.

3PL or Third Party Logistics… What does that mean?

CITYMAIL USA is considered a 3PL or Third Party Logistics Company. We provide and offer outsourced logistics services which generally deals with the management of multiple facets of procurement and fulfillment. The primary benefit of CITYMAIL handling the data, packaging, warehousing, fulfillment and distribution, is cost-savings. Some of the industries we provide this service for are Apparel, Medical Devices, Automotive Parts, Footwear, Health and Beauty and Perfumes/Fragrance. In the end we are talking about “Direct-To-Consumer.” Getting your product into the hands of your consumers at an expedited speed and cost efficient rate. You can find more information of our 3PL, or Third Party Logistic Services here.

What size Postcard is easiest to mail?

Direct Mail Postcards are the most cost efficient product when it comes to tackling a Direct Mail Campaign. There really is no “easiest size” card to mail. They are all relatively the same to us. But keep in mind that when you choose to do a 4 x 6 postcard, it basically gets treated as First Class Presorted Mail but you end up paying Standard Rates

How should I submit my mailing lists and what if there are data issues?

Microsoft Excel is the industry standard when it comes to file submission but we have seen all different types of files and should be able to work with whatever you send our way. If your file has formatting issues, needs to be deduped or missing “0”’s in your zip column don’t be alarmed. Our data team will polish your file and send it back to you good as new at the end of your job.

How should I submit my artwork?

Send design files to info@citymailusa.com

If your design is complete:

  • Send it as a PDF file (front and back should be on their own separate pages)

  • No crop marks

  • Extend art for bleeds 1/8” beyond edges

If you have images you’d like us to use:

  • Send as JPEG or PNG files

  • Should be high-quality images (300dpi or more)

Sending your logo:

  • Please have a high quality PNG format file available with no background

Sending text:

  • You can simply enter text into the body of an e-mail or send as a word file

  • Text doesn’t have to be perfect—we’ll do a final review for grammar and typos

Remember, we’ll always send a final proof for your approval before printing your design.

How do I set up my piece for mailing?

USPS regulations have gotten stricter in the last 5 years. Show us a proof before you go to press and avoid paying extra postage. We have a USPS template that we use for all mail pieces ensuring that the address box, indicia placement, barcode etc. is all abiding by USPS regulations.



For More Information, Check Out Our Blog:

Blog
EDDM: A Beginner's Guide To A Useful Tool
EDDM: A Beginner's Guide To A Useful Tool

You’ve heard the term EDDM being thrown around before but what does it mean exactly? In the world of marketing; whether you are a small business, Non Profit Organization or individual trying to target a specific blanket of people/businesses; EDDM may be just the solution you have been looking for. EDDM is an acronym in the world of mail that stands for Every Door Direct Mail. And simply put: It means exactly what it sounds like. Let’s jump in!

Non Profit Print and Mail Solutions in Boston, MA
Non Profit Print and Mail Solutions in Boston, MA

When it comes to Donor Management we get how important it is. Sending out that French Fold Newsletter or that Tri-Fold Brochure to your members/donors keeps them in the loop and aware of what your Organization is up to. And of course CITYMAIL is always here to handle the more traditional mailings. The good old letter in the envelope with a remittance device still does the trick and we do a TON of them.

5 Unique and Beneficial Ways to Engage Your Recipient with Direct Mail Marketing and Print Campaigns
5 Unique and Beneficial Ways to Engage Your Recipient with Direct Mail Marketing and Print Campaigns

When working with a new client one of the first things that we get asked is: Does direct mail marketing really work? The simple answer is yes, yes it does work. But like any other marketing tactic, direct mail marketing is only as effective as you make it and let’s be honest; it is a bit of a lottery grab at the same time. Everyday we [as individuals] are absolutely inundated with digital media, print media (even if we don’t realize it,) and just about every other marketing strategy to grab our attention in some way or form. It always comes down to relevance and timing. How does it apply to you and is it being done in a witty way to capture your interest?

What Is A National Change of Address Process?
What Is A National Change of Address Process?

When it comes down to Direct Mail Marketing and Database Cleanup: The National Change of Address (NCOA) process is a simple, yet efficient, service offered by postal establishments like CITYMAIL USA. This data-driven process allows businesses and organizations that use direct mail to update their mailing lists with the most current addresses for individuals or businesses that have moved. If an individual has moved, relocated (or god forbid) has passed away; and NCOA process can assist with accuratley cleaning up the data and making the necessary address corrections!

7 Benefits of Having a US Mail Address For Your Company
7 Benefits of Having a US Mail Address For Your Company

Using a company address based in the United States for mail forwarding and shipping purposes can offer several benefits for companies outside the USA. CITYMAIL has helped numerous companies overseas when it comes to drop-shipping and international shipping solutions. Whether it be 3PL related or setting up a PO Box for mail forwarding; we cover the gamut so your logistics are in place. Here are some of the key advantages:

Why Non Profit Organizations Still Utilize Targeted Direct Mail Marketing
Why Non Profit Organizations Still Utilize Targeted Direct Mail Marketing

Direct mail marketing continues to prove its effectiveness in engaging audiences, sparking emotions, and inspiring meaningful action. Nonprofit organizations, driven by their objective to create a positive impact in the world, can greatly benefit from harnessing the unique advantages offered by direct mail campaigns and a targeted audience.

Increase Student Enrollment With Targeted Direct Mail Marketing: A Visual Explanation
Increase Student Enrollment With Targeted Direct Mail Marketing: A Visual Explanation

Here at CITYMAIL we work with schools across the country who tend to share a similar goal: How Do I Effectively Increase Enrollment At My Institution?

In this short clip, Guy and Jack from the CITYMAIL Team explain a simple (yet effective) method of increasing enrollment and the powerful use of full-color postcards to spark interest and generate buzz for potential students

Is Direct Mail Marketing An Effective Tool for Political Campaigns?
Is Direct Mail Marketing An Effective Tool for Political Campaigns?

Summer 2023 is upon us but the political season is already underway behind the curtains and people are beginning to plan and strategize from all angles. Today we are going to focus on Direct Mail Marketing and Print Marketing which is a key form of media that we still see being utilized on a daily basis when it comes to political exposure.

International Parcel Forwarding
International Parcel Forwarding


Want to distribute in the U.S. but not sure how to get started? CITYMAIL USA has a streamlined process to make shipping in the U.S. easy!

On-Demand Shipping for Fitness and Supplements
On-Demand Shipping for Fitness and Supplements

The best fulfillment company for fitness products and supplements can handle your orders from start to finish.

This means you should choose a company that has the ability to allow you to take as much of a “hands off” approach as you’d like so that you can focus on other aspects of the business.