Choose the Right Direct Mail Service
Not sure which service fits your needs? Compare Direct Mail, EDDM, and Targeted Lists side-by-side to find the perfect solution for your marketing goals and budget.
Quick Decision Guide
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | Direct Mail | EDDM | Targeted Lists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Cost Per Piece | $0.50 - $1.50 | $0.20 - $0.35 | $0.60 - $1.80 |
| Minimum Quantity | 200 pieces | 200 pieces per route | 500 records |
| Turnaround Time | 5-10 business days | 7-10 business days | 7-14 business days |
| Personalization | |||
| Targeting Precision | Your own list | Geographic only | Highly precise |
| List Purchase Required | |||
| Postage Discounts | Presort discounts | Lowest rates | Presort discounts |
| Address Accuracy | Your responsibility | USPS verified | CASS certified |
| Best Response Rate | 2-5% (existing customers) | 0.5-2% (cold prospects) | 1-3% (targeted prospects) |
| Ideal Campaign Size | 500-50,000+ | 1,000-10,000 | 1,000-100,000+ |
Real-World Scenarios
Local Restaurant Grand Opening
Best Choice: EDDM
Saturate all households within a 3-mile radius at the lowest cost per piece. No list purchase needed, and you reach every potential customer in your delivery area.
Estimated Cost: $500-800 for 2,500 pieces
Real Estate Agent Farming
Best Choice: Targeted Lists
Target homeowners in specific neighborhoods by home value, length of residence, and demographics. Personalize each postcard with the recipient's name and property details.
Estimated Cost: $800-1,200 for 1,000 pieces
Customer Newsletter
Best Choice: Direct Mail
Mail to your existing customer database with personalized content. Include account-specific information, loyalty rewards, or personalized offers.
Estimated Cost: $600-1,000 for 1,000 pieces
HVAC Seasonal Campaign
Best Choice: Targeted Lists
Target homeowners (not renters) with specific home values and ages. Focus on homes likely to need HVAC service or replacement.
Estimated Cost: $1,200-1,800 for 2,000 pieces
Retail Store Sale Event
Best Choice: EDDM
Announce a weekend sale to every household in your shopping area. Maximum exposure at minimum cost for time-sensitive promotions.
Estimated Cost: $400-700 for 2,000 pieces
B2B Software Sales
Best Choice: Targeted Lists
Target decision-makers by job title at companies in specific industries and size ranges. Personalize each piece with the recipient's name and company.
Estimated Cost: $1,500-2,500 for 2,000 pieces