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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions |
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Printing & Mailing
If I order 5,000 cards can I get 2 different versions of 2,500 but still pay the 5,000 price?
In order to keep our prices as low as possible we can only print one version of each card and still provide a price break for higher quantities.
I have a custom job not listed on your website-how can I get a quote?
PrintMailers mails over 6 million postcards a year-but we also handle custom print jobs of all types and sizes. From one thousand brochures to one million self-mailers - our top-of-the-line equipment and experience combine to bring you the best quality and value in the industry. Please contact us directly for a custom quote.
What kind of direct mail results can I expect?
There is no guaranteed level of returns with direct mail. Still, industry experts tend to use 2% response rate as a rule of thumb. We have seen results much higher than this and much lower as well. Your results will depend heavily on the quality of your direct mail list, your offer, and the amount of attention you grab with your design. Focusing on your goals for your results and return on investment are the most important measurements of success.
Does PrintMailers offer environment-friendly direct mail solutions?
Yes. We believe in using recycled paper products. We also practice recycling and environmentally conscious disposal methods at PMi.
Artwork & Design
How do I send you my artwork and what format should it be?
We use all of the latest and greatest programs -- such as Quark Xpress, PageMaker, InDesign, Illustrator, PhotoShop, and Acrobat. Our complete art submission guidelines can be found here.
I don't have artwork - just some ideas. Does PMi offer Design Services?
Yes. Our staff includes a full-service design department that is well versed in the language of direct mail. Our designers know what creates response and can design a fully customized mailer for around $200.
Mailing Lists
Can you help me find mailing lists that target my best prospects?
Yes. We are able to acquire virtually any list on the market. Just tell us who you are trying to reach and we will do the research and acquire the list for you. Our strong relationships with the country's largest and most credible list and database companies enables us to provide you with the best lists at great prices. Our experienced Client Services team can help you find exactly the right business or consumer list to meet your needs.
What will happen when I send my mailing list to PrintMailers
When we receive your mailing list, we will process your list with software certified by the USPS in order to obtain the lowest possible postage rate for your mailing. (The USPS offers significant discounts for mail that has been printed with automation barcodes and prepared in presort order.)
How many times can I use the list I purchase?
Most mailing lists are purchased/rented with a single use. Multiple use licenses are available for an additional fee typically good for one year - but since information changes often, it may be better to purchase your list as needed.
How should I provide my mailing list?
Your mailing list should be sent to PrintMailers via email or on disc. You can also use our online "My Account" system to upload your list. Call your Client Services rep if you aren't sure about how to provide your mailing list.
My mailing list contains duplicate records. Can you clean up my list?
Address certification (CASS) is a standard part of our mailing services. And if you need us to de-dupe and cleanse your list, we can do that too.
Postage
What type of postage is right for my direct mail campaign?
If you are sending a large direct mail campaign that is not time sensitive you should probably choose to send it via Standard mail. Standard rates for a saturated mailing can be as low as $0.14 per piece vs. First Class averages over $0.32 per piece. If you are sending a standard-sized postcard (4 1/4 x 6") the good news is that First Class postcard rates are closer to $0.22 each. First Class postage provides the fastest and most reliable delivery for direct mail as well as returned mail service. Some research shows it can produce higher response rates as well.
For the most current USPS postage rates-- click here.
Why do I have to pay for postage before my mailing begins? Can you just invoice me for the postage?
Requiring postage up front is standard practice in the Direct Mail industry. This is because the cost of the postage, which can be more than the cost of the entire printing job, is passed directly to the customer with no mark-up. Your CSR will send you a postage estimate and require a payment for the full estimated postage amount by 10 AM CST the day before we mail your project. Any overpayment of postage will be credited back to you. PrintMailers does not "re-sell" postage at a profit. We simply pass your postage along to the Post Office.
Can I put my postage amount on a credit card?
Yes we can accept credit cards for postage. There is a nominal 3.5% fee to pay for postage via credit card.
We are a non-profit, what do we have to do to take advantage of the non-profit postage rates?
If you don't already have a non-profit permit, you can use our non-profit permit at no additional charge. However, your non-profit status must first be approved by the Post Office. You must fill out a short form and supply some supporting documentation. PMi can assist you with that process. To download an application, Click here.
Payment and Credit Options
What methods of payment does PMi accept?
Payments can be made using Visa, MasterCard, American Express or E-Check on our website. If paying by check, please make payable to PrintMailers, Inc. All check payments must be made in U.S. dollars and drawn on a bank located inside the U.S. Please remit payment to the following address:
PrintMailers, Inc.
Attention: Account Receivable
707 West Road
Houston, TX 77038
Please be sure to include your order and invoice number on the check or money order to ensure proper processing. Please note that the delivery expectations are based upon the actual date your order is processed. If you choose to pay by check, your order will be processed once we have verified that your check has cleared.
How to I apply for Credit with PrintMailers?
Credit applications are available for any customers wishing to open a line of credit with PMi. We may extend credit to customers with established credit references that can be verified individually and/or through credit reporting agencies. When a customer loses credit privileges, PrintMailers may accept prepaid orders until credit can be reinstated.
Prepayment is required for customers without an established PrintMailers Credit Account or pending credit approval. Prepayment may be made by supplying credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, E-Check) information or by including a check with your order.
Do I pay sales tax on my job with PMi?
Texas law requires that we collect sales tax on jobs with shipping and/or mailing destinations within the state of Texas unless we have a completed and signed exemption certificate on file (see forms below). If you are claiming a sales tax exemption, please complete the appropriate form noted below and email to Accounting@pminet.com or fax to 832-201-2001. If you are outside of Texas, you are not required to pay sales tax.
Who do I contact if I have more questions?
Give us a call toll-free at 1-800-656-8883 to talk to one of our direct mail experts or email marketing@pminet.com. We're happy to help!
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