The Comprehensive Guide to Mailing Indicia for Bulk Mail
This guide explains what indicia is, its benefits, and why businesses should use a professional mail house like Printing Partners.
What is Indicia?
Indicia Meaning:
Indicia is a pre-printed marking that serves as a substitute for traditional postage stamps. It indicates that the sender prepaid the postage and has authorization to use this form of mailing. To get your company or organization started with bulk mailing, this indicia USPS guide is a valuable resource.
The photo above shows the four most common types of indicia: Nonprofit, First Class, Presort First Class, and Presort Standard. One of these would go in the upper right corner of your mail panel. To ensure your indicia meets official design requirements, consult the USPS Permit Design guidelines.
Download Mailing Indicia Template
We have got you started with a helpful mailing template. This file will contain indicias for Nonproit Indicia, First Class Indicia, Presort First Class Indicia, and Presort Standard Indicia. This file also contains a mailing safe area to keep open for automated mailing rates.
Mail Indicia Template Indesign .IDML Free Download
Mail Indicia Template Illustrator .AI Free Download
Mail Indicia Template PDF Free Download
Check Out Current Rates for Various Permit Categories
Curious about the cost implications of using these distinct indicia options? Find up-to-date pricing details on our Mailing Service page. Stay in the know and make savvy choices for all your bulk mailing projects.
Why Use Indicia Over Other Options?
Indicia
Pros:
- Cost-effective for bulk mailing
- Streamlines operations
- No need for individual stamps
Cons:
- Requires a minimum of 200 pieces
- Best managed by a professional mail house like Printing Partners
- Requires an endorsement line and Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMb)
Stamps
Pros:
- Easy to use
- No minimum quantity
- No need for an endorsement line or Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMb)
Cons:
- Time-consuming for bulk mail
- Costlier than other options
Precanceled Stamps
Pros:
- Lower cost than regular stamps
- Good for smaller bulk mailings
- Better postage rates with an endorsement line and Intelligent Mail Barcode
Cons:
- Requires USPS approval
- Not suitable for large volumes
Metered Mail
Pros:
- Convenient for varying mail volumes
- Automated process
- No need for an endorsement line or Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMb)
Cons:
- Initial cost of meter
- Ongoing rental fees
How Does a Postal Permit Imprint Work?
The top-right corner of the piece of mail contains the postal permit. It contains important information such as the permit number, service type, and ZIP code.
The Financial Benefits of Using a Prepaid Postage Mark
Potential Savings
If there was a business sending out 1,000 pieces of mail, using ordinary stamps would amount to $660. However, using presort standard rates with a Prepaid Postage Mark could bring the cost down to between $326 and $381. This could result in a possible savings of as much as $334 per mail-out.
Can You Implement a Bulk Mail Imprint Yourself?
While it may seem straightforward, it's advisable to use a professional mail house like Printing Partners. We work closely with the post office to send mail efficiently and follow all rules to save money.
Using Your Own Permit vs. Printing Partners' Permit
If you don't have your own mailing permit, you can mail under Printing Partners' permit number. However, you must provide the postage amount at the time of mailing. If you already have a permit number, the funds will need to be available in that account when we mail your piece.
Conclusion
Indicia offers a cost-effective and efficient solution for businesses engaged in bulk mailing. However, to maximize these benefits, we recommend using a professional mail house like Printing Partners. We can assist you with bulk mailing. We have extensive knowledge and a strong relationship with the postal service.
About the Author
Kraig Downham is the Marketing Director at Printing Partners, a key player in offset commercial printing. Since 2005, he has contributed to marketing, design, and technology at Printing Partners.
As a color expert, Kraig ensures high-quality prints. His work ethic and dedication come from a 10-year journey with 4-H. Learn more about Kraig's work at Printing Partners.
- Page updated March 9, 2024