How Much Does Direct Mail Cost? How to Make a Marketing Budget

The average person receives approximately 128 work emails and 117 consumer emails per day. Not to mention the dozens or hundreds of ads we’re exposed to on a daily basis.

Considering these facts, it’s not surprising that a growing number of consumers are expressing their preference for direct mail. Flyers, postcards, and other types of mail take up to 21 percent less cognitive effort to process than online ads and emails.

When used right, these promo materials can generate leads, build brand loyalty, and deliver highly personalized customer experiences.

But how much does direct mail cost? More importantly, is it worth it? Here’s how to budget for an effective campaign that drives business growth!

Factors Affecting the Cost of Direct Mail

As an entrepreneur or business owner, you know that every penny matters. That’s why it’s important to estimate your advertising costs and invest in those areas that bring in the highest ROI.

Direct mail advertising costs depend on several factors, such as the size of your mailing list, format selection, and postage rates. Consider the following aspects as well:

• Graphic design
• Personalization
• Copywriting
• Volume
• Colors
• Type of paper

How much you’ll pay depends largely on the size of your advertising materials, the number of colors in text and images, and the type of paper used. The more pieces you order, the lower the price per unit.

If you opt for high-quality materials and complex designs, expect to pay more. A flyer with multiple folds, for example, comes with a higher price tag than a basic model printed on one side.

While there are ways to lower your costs, it’s not always recommended to do so.

One option is to create the designs yourself in Microsoft Word or another program. There are hundreds of templates you may use for this purpose. However, unless you’re a graphic designer yourself, you won’t get the same results as a professional print designer.

The same goes for copywriting. You can either write the text yourself or hire a professional copywriter. Remember, your copy needs to be compelling and outline your competitive advantage.

Distribution and postage costs vary from one carrier to another. One way to reduce your expenses is to partner up with a wholesale direct mail provider. Our company can handle all your printing, fulfillment, and mailing needs at affordable rates.

How Much Does Direct Mail Cost? Get a Rough Estimate

As you see, direct mail advertising costs can vary, depending on the type of paper, consumables, designs, and more. The final price also depends on the marketing agency and shipping carrier you decide to use.

Most business owners will spend anywhere between $0.5 and $3 per unit. Again, it’s hard to determine the exact price before knowing all the details.

The best thing you can do is to reach out to a commercial printing company, present your ideas, and request quotes for each type of project. However, direct mail pays off for itself in the long run. The average response rate is around 21 percent — that’s significantly higher compared to other marketing channels.

Get the Best Deal on Direct Mailing Services

Direct mail makes it easier to target your audience with personalized messages. Plus, it’s cost-effective and can give you a competitive advantage. For best results, use it along with digital advertising.

Still wondering how does direct mail cost? Contact our team for a free quote! Let us know what you need and what your marketing budget looks like, and we’ll get back with an offer you can’t refuse.

4 Goals Every Direct Mail Campaign Should Have

Do you think a direct mail campaign is outdated? Think again.

No matter how beautifully you craft your marketing emails, the average viewer will only look at it for 2 seconds. That’s it.

Compare that to a piece of direct mail, which has an average shelf life of 17 days. Would you rather your potential customers consider your marketing materials for 2 seconds—or 17 days?

The advantages of direct mail marketing campaigns are clear. Still, for your best chance of success, you have to start out with clear goals in mind.

Here are 4 goals you should consider before planning your next campaign:

1. Address Business Challenges

Is there a specific hurdle you’re trying to overcome as a business?

Maybe you’re new and no one in the community knows who you are yet. Perhaps your community has mistaken beliefs about your company, like the notion that you’re too expensive.

Perhaps you’re trying to boost those seasonal dips in sales with an off-season special. Or maybe you’re ready to launch a new product or service.

Before you build your marketing materials, think of any current challenges you have and how this particular campaign can overcome it.

2. Build Brand Awareness

Consistent branding can increase your overall revenue by up to 23%.

Even if your marketing campaign doesn’t result in an immediate sale, you’re still raising customer awareness. Most direct mail pieces are short, sweet, and to the point—perfect for leaving a favorable impression of your business.

When used with other marketing channels (email, social media, etc), you’re further increasing your brand’s visibility. The more familiar people are with your brand, the more likely they’ll be to buy from you.

3. Generate New Leads & Conversions

90% of direct mail gets opened, compared to less than 30% of emails. This makes direct mail marketing a premier way to get your business in front of potential customers.

When you target new customers, at least some of the recipients will respond to your call-to-action. If you offer a free trial product or service, that’s likely to lead to repeat business down the road.

You can also target past customers and offer an incentive to return to your company. Direct mail is also a good tactic for upselling, cross-selling, or repeat selling to existing customers.

4. Improve Customer Retention & Loyalty

Mass marketing efforts often fall on deaf ears—people who aren’t actively seeking your product or service.

In contrast, direct mail allows you the chance to fine-tune your marketing efforts to those most likely to buy from you. This personalized service gives you the chance to communicate one-on-one with potential customers.

After a sale, keep your customers happy with follow-up pieces like coupons or vouchers. Offer further incentives if they refer a friend or make a repeat purchase.

Ready to Launch Your Next Direct Mail Campaign?

Now that you’ve got clear goals in mind, what’s next?

Once you’ve planned out your direct mail campaign, all that’s left to do is find a reputable printer near you.

Are you lucky enough to live in the Tampa/St. Pete area? Click here to learn about our printing company and how we can make a success of your next campaign.