Direct mail products are a type of multi-record (batch) VDP. (Specifically, this type of VDP is also known as EFI VDP powered by DirectSmile.) As their name suggests, direct mail products are mailed to recipients on a list. Some steps that you complete for a direct mail product are the same as for any multi-record VDP, but some are unique to direct mail products.
Notes:
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Direct mail products are for U.S.-based customers only.
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Some direct mail products may let you "opt out." If you opt
out, the order/personalization process is the same as for any other multi-record VDP.
When you order a direct mail product, a mailing list may be one of the following:
● A CSV file of names and addresses that you upload.
● An Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) list that is generated for selected postal routes.
● A list that you purchase.
● Your company address book.
● A multi-column dataset (MCD) – a list supplied by the print shop.
During the order process you provide a mailing date, select the print shop from where the job is being mailed, and process the mailing list. Processing involves:
● CASS certification which ensures addresses are complete and correct.
● NCOA updates to check for changes in address.
● A check for duplicate addresses.
Note: CASS certification, NCOA updates, and checks for duplicate addresses do not apply when you use EDDM because the addresses are already validated and "clean."
● Presorting the validated list for reduced USPS mailing rates.
● The calculation of the postage cost, based on factors such as the size and weight of each piece, quantity, location of print shop, and addresses in the list.
Note: If you change any print options after processing the mailing list, you will need to re-process it since your changes may affect postage costs.
A direct mail product must always be checked out individually. You cannot check out a direct mail product with any other products or with another direct mail product.
● Ordering direct mail products