US Postal Service Submits Filing for Price Increase to Go Into Effect January 2023

Direct Marketing, News, Postal Facts, Uncategorized

This article was originally published on Brand United. It can be viewed here.

Late on Friday, October 7, the Postal Service submitted a filing with the Postal Regulatory Commission proposing a price increase. This would be in effect on January 22, 2023. The PRC will review the filing to ensure that USPS calculations are accurate and the proposed prices comply with the statute. The PRC is expected to approve the request in November. Yes, postage increased in July, and now there will be another increase in January. We also expect another increase in July of 2023.

Here are some of the proposed rates:

First-Class Mail:

The stamp and Meter price differential will remain at 3 cents.
Non-machinable surcharge for Letters will increase from 39 cents to 40 cents.
The additional ounce rate will remain at 24 cents.
5-Digit Automation Letters price will increase by 3.5%.
The overall increase for Flats is 6.2%.

Standard Marketing Mail:

Letter overall increase is 3.2%
The flat overall increase is 6.2%
Creation of 5 new discounts for flats on SCF pallets
EDDM retail increased by 1%
CRRT overall increased by 6.2%

Don’t let the postage rate increases scare you away from this vital marketing channel. Direct mail has the highest ROI of all marketing channels when done correctly. On average, the postage rates increased by less than a penny per piece, so they will not drastically increase your overall direct mail budget. Still, it is essential to account for the additional postage funds. It’s time to get creative and send direct mail that is interesting as well as cost-effective. Are you ready to get started?

As operating expenses continue to rise, these price adjustments provide the Postal Service with much-needed revenue to achieve the financial stability sought by its Delivering for America 10-year plan. The prices of the U.S. Postal Service remain among the most affordable in the world.The PRC will review the changes before they are scheduled to take effect. The complete Postal Service price filing, with prices for all products, can be found on the PRC website under the Daily Listings section at prc.gov/dockets/daily. The Mailing Services filing is Docket No. R2023-1. The price tables are also available on the Postal Service’s Postal Explorer website at pe.usps.com/PriceChange/Index.The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products, and services to fund its operations.

US Postal Service (USPS) Mail Delivery Timeline Getting Better

Direct Marketing, Invoice Processing, News, Postal Facts, Press Releases, Progressive Technology

Looking ahead to the 2022 holiday peak season, the US Postal Service (USPS) announced the dates for the “Temporary Rate Adjustments.” This year, the higher price rates will be effective from October 2, 2022, through January 22, 2023. In addition, USPS National News states that the average delivery timeline is now steady at 2.5 days. For the quarter, overall mail volumes were down 3.4% over the same period last year (SPLY), while revenue was up 5.0%.

The USPS service performance report during the 4th quarter indicates their scores covering July 1 through August 5 are consistent.

They included:

First-Class Mail on time: 93.1 percent.
Marketing Mail on time: 94.2 percent.
Periodicals on time: 86.3 percent.

One of the goals of “Delivering for America, the Postal Service’s 10-year plan” for achieving financial sustainability and service excellence is to meet or exceed 95 percent on-time service performance for all mail and shipping products. But, of course, this is once all elemental implementations of the plan. The Postal Service defines service performance as the time it takes to deliver a mailpiece or package from its acceptance into their system through its delivery, measured against published service standards.

Source: https://about.usps.com/newsroom/national-releases/2022/0225-usps-mail-delivery-time-consistent.htm

Variable Data Printing (VDP)

Direct Marketing, Uncategorized

What is Variable Data Printing (VDP)?

VDP is a method of digital printing that allows graphic or text elements to be easily and efficiently swapped out throughout a print job – making it more personal to the receiver. It is commonly used in the direct mail industry and generally yields a 42% response rate. This is a great way to cost-effectively personalize your marketing effort for specific demographics.

86% of consumers say that customizing a piece of mail, has some impact on their purchasing decision. VDP can offer to streamline efficiency – it’s easy to change out a name and address on each piece that mails. It also offers a great way to track your customer response with the use of customized codes etc.

Put yourself in the client’s shoes for a moment.

Receiving huge amounts of junk mail, ads, and other promos – that have nothing to do with their needs or interests – can get old quickly! It gets annoying pretty fast, too. Variable print can change that for you, helping you make a good impression in the long run. It makes you more memorable.

Current clients will be more likely to respond back to you or stay with you, while prospects are more likely to buy something from you the next time they make their next purchase.

How can variable printing be made – uniquely?

Other than changing out the address block, on a typical mail piece, you can also do the following:

You can change the header information, such as a name or salutation. See the example highlighted in yellow.

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Adding pertinent information, such as a savings or specific promotion – just for the client it is being sent to. See the example highlighted in yellow.

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Personalizing an image is also an option!

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And, remember, the address block should always include the following:

Full name
Company name (if needed)
City
State
Zip

Here at BMS Direct Inc., we are committed to helping you strive for that perfect piece of mail that will help you grow.

Paper Industry Update – PGAMA webinar

Direct Marketing, Progressive Technology, Uncategorized

Thank you, PGAMA, for putting this webinar update together.

We continue to monitor how markets tighten - specifically paper. We believe it is important to stay abreast of how paper mills reach their monthly reservations, as they are currently oversold - this means limits even with reservations. Mills are allocating a percentage for awarded tons. It is not in stone; it can change. The market changes daily; are you keeping up? Each mill is very different, and it involves many other variables based on supply chains other than paper, such as trucking logistics, nails, and many other surprising factors.

Watch this webinar with two guest speakers:

Domtar Paper Update - Gilbert Goodworth
Verso Corporation - Mike Robinson

Link

Political Elections

Direct Marketing, Postal Facts, Promotional Products

3 Musts for Your Election Campaign

It’s crunch time for your campaign! Due to our current environment, the election season looks a bit different than in previous years – but things are improving slowly. With this in mind here are some options to connect with your voters.

Get your name out there with a direct mail campaign

Direct mail is a great way to make a personalized touchpoint for voters. Sending a postcard with a customized name and the right target audience gives them a reminder of who you are. Make sure you have a call-to-action with a unique QR code. Keep your message focused – and create a memorable campaign.

Strengthen your campaign with customized products and apparel

Follow-up your direct mail campaign with a tee-shirt or ball cap! Tailor your promotional products to meet the needs of your target audience. These items double as great gifts to thank supporters, as well as, more exposure for the campaign. Say someone wears a campaign shirt to the grocery store. Now everyone in the store is aware of the nominee and may even ask questions or look them up to learn more.

Your message is our mission – with signage and wearable’s

You can’t be everywhere all at once – but your name can! Since larger in-person rallies are still limited a great tool to advertise your name is wearable promotional products and setting up signage! This allows voters to interact and see your name outside of the rally environment.

Prepare today – to win tomorrow!

Election Day is just around the corner, so discover what we can offer you! Contact us today at 866.816.2378. We would be happy to discuss your goals and how to achieve them.

National Nurses Week (May 6-12, 2021)

Direct Marketing, News, Promotional Products

National Nurses Week (May 6-12, 2021) and International Nurses Day (May 6)

We thank all our nurses. Who will you thank? The National Nurses Week will raise awareness of the value of nursing. It will help educate about the role nurses play in meeting healthcare needs. The World Health Organization recognized 2020 as the “Year of the Nurse” to elevate and celebrate nurses’ essential contributions everywhere. #ThanksHeathHeros

As one of the most significant healthcare professionals within the U.S., nurses play a vital role in providing health services. They’ve become heroes during the global pandemic for their selfless dedication to the patients they serve. Nurses most often are the primary healthcare professional when it comes to tending to patient needs, providing medical care and tending to personal and spiritual needs.

We can only imagine how much this work has increased in the last year.

As these frontline workers continue to care for the sick, suffering extended absences from their families and putting their lives at risk – we cannot just stand by and watch. Showing appreciation for all their strenuous efforts is a must!

What are some things you can do to show your appreciation or say thank you?

Donate what you can

Donations are a great way to show your support. Monetary donations or giving supplies – and we all probably know a local hospital or two that need help.

Could you provide them with the necessities they need?

Since nurses are risking their lives every day, it is essential to keep them safe and comfortable – supplying them with PPE kits, masks, gloves, sanitizer, lip balm, and more.

If you are looking for any help in finding items to donate or gift – to say thank you – we are here to help you in any way. Customizing is always an option.

Call Marisa Banke today with any questions – 866.816.7823 ext.7752.

Earth Day – Looking for Ways to Protect Yourself & the Planet?

Direct Marketing, Going Green, Promotional Products

People are living in an ever-changing world – and just one year ago, the pandemic was a big one.

How has it affected us as a society? How has it affected our lives personally? The daily adjustments every one of us had to make to cope and live amongst one another was a definitive change – let’s all think about this during Earth Day. In this case, we adjust to three new practices – wearing masks, sanitizing our hands, and practicing social distance. Each item protects yourself and the Planet.

The pandemic has not only affected the population but the environment too. Improvements in the air and water quality – due to quarantining – occurred in the latter half of 2020. Although significant, the haphazard disposal practices of organizations and society have created a negative impact. It makes one think, though.

What part can we play to lessen that negative impact?

A fundamental question as a person or business you should be asking yourself. In short, we can start with how the pandemic has worked its way into our daily living, as stated above.

For one, you are wearing a mask.

Choosing to use a reusable mask, such as fabric, is a start. Disposable masking offers a quick and easy solution to protect oneself – if not correctly disposed of, and it later can have negative impacts. Reusable masks will not be just safe for you and your community but the environment as well. You cannot only choose unique styles that suit you, but you can also relax in the knowledge that you won’t be adding unnecessary risk to the planet (source: Kalopsia).

Sanitizing is and will always be important going forward.

Hand sanitizers are green because most of the active ingredients are natural sources. A majority of hand sanitizers do not contain fragrances or dyes, which adds to the “environmentally-friendly” position (source: Clean link). Using eco-friendly brands is a must – and of course, if you do not have hand sanitizer at your reach – wash your hands!

Lastly, practicing social distance has been difficult for most of us, but it is necessary and doable.

If you are a small-business owner or work for a large organization – it can be not easy. The right signage – floor decals, wall graphics, window signs, or flags – can make this enforcement easier. Eco-friendly options are out there – and with the use of the graphics, it would not only protect your patrons but the environment too.

BMS prides itself on working hard and safely throughout this year.

During this last year, BMS worked tirelessly to keep employees safe and client projects going. We did this by following the key points listed above. If you need any products to help with your struggle, take a look at what we have to offer here: https://bit.ly/38uiMJX.

Vaccine Rollout – Are You Ready?

Direct Marketing, Promotional Products

Have you reopened your business and are having trouble communicating that to your customers?

The last year has been one for the history books. Many states are phasing in or out of their reopening plans, and customers require factual and frequent business information. The digital aspect, including email and social media—can get you only so far. Signage is the way to go these days. A creative, attractive sign can help your business stand apart from the competition.

Exterior signs can draw attention to your business and aid in differentiating it from others in the area.

While interior signs help customers locate merchandise and lead them to impulse buy. Signs serve as a type of silent salesperson for your business.

Do you have limited marketing funds?

Signs can be cost-effective and a great way to advertise. Its potential to reach a large audience is very high—mostly local clientele. They are versatile and can also be useful for off-premises use. The pandemic has changed our day-to-day lives, and informational signs and graphics can help your business grow and get your message out—the opportunity to think creatively on how to deliver your message.

For example, will you or a business you know be providing COVID-19 vaccinations soon or just preparing for the new day-to-day? Get your location ready sooner rather than later. Help provide assurance and confidence with temporary wall graphics, window clings, posters, and banner stands that display helpful tips and vaccine information.

As they say, “stay ahead of the curve.”

A Guide to the Gift-Giving Season

Direct Marketing, Promotional Products

A time of gifts rapidly approaches, so now is the time to start thinking about those end-of-year gifts!

Who should receive them?

Consider showing appreciation to employees, donors, and clients. Gifts are great for showing appreciation. Who doesn’t like receiving them, including all donors, clients, and employees! Presents help strengthen and build relationships, but they are not one size fits all. There are many things to take into consideration when choosing the right gifts for a business. The main thing to consider is the target audience. In layman’s terms, who is the gift recipient? What you get for a top donor is sure to differ from what you would get for an employee.

Budget?

Next, somebody must consider the allocation of funds along with a budget. Allocate money for gift giving. One method is to divide said funds into groups of who is receiving the gift. Maybe you want to spend more on your employees and less on donors. Consider that when laying out your budget. Different departments in your company may have room for gifts depending on the use. For example, the marketing budget can include presents for customers. Each department can absorb the cost of employees as well.

Type of Gift?

Now time for the big question: What gift do you get? Again, these are not one size fits all, so it is essential to consider both the target audience and a budget when making this decision.

CLIENTS: when thinking about gifts for clients, consider something small that is also relevant and useful. For example, this year, a great gift to give out would be customized keychain hand sanitizers.
EMPLOYEES: keep these gifts personal for staff, use inside jokes or company mottos for inspiration. Make them useful and enjoyable and sometimes even yummy. Consider using delicious personalized treats for staff.
DONORS: it is essential to consider a range of gifts. Many businesses are using a tier level for donors to determine how much to spend on the present. Let’s say a company takes a 3-tier approach to donors. The bottom tier receives a high quality branded sweatshirts—the middle tier portable Bluetooth speakers. Finally, the top tier expertly customized engraved wooden cutting boards.

Gift season can be stressful, but we are here to help.

Contact

Your Name*

Your Email*

Your Phone*
Question/Comment*

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Contact us today for a free consultation.

3 Musts For Your Election Campaign

Direct Marketing, Postal Facts, Promotional Products

These steps will help increase awareness and support for your campaign. With elections right around the corner, it is crunch time for your campaign. Due to our current environment, the election season looks a bit different than in previous years. This makes it harder for nominees to connect with voters. Here are three “musts” for a campaign in the COVID-Age:

Direct Mail

Direct mail is a great way to make a personalized touchpoint for voters. Send a postcard that says “Hey (insert name), we can’t wait to see you at the polls on Nov. 3!”. This gives them a reminder and also puts your name in their hands. Considering that not everyone will want to go to vote in person, use direct mail as a way to inform about the other voting options.

Tip: Add a QR code to your mailing piece that leads to the campaign landing page.

Virtual Campaign Rally

Since larger in-person rallies are still limited, utilize one of the many online platforms to hold a virtual rally. A great tool for this is Facebook Live. This allows voters to interact during your rally. Have someone behind the camera monitoring and engaging with viewers.

Tip: If you are holding an in-person rally, still consider using a platform such as Facebook Live. This gives an option and allows those to see who may not be able to make it.

SWAG

Who doesn’t like getting a swag bag? These double as great gifts to thank supporters, as well as, more exposure for the campaign. Say someone wears a campaign shirt to the grocery store. Now everyone in the store is aware of the nominee and may even ask questions or look them up to learn more. Some great products for a swag bag include; T-shirts, Pens, Car Decals, Magnets, Cups, Flags, and Hats.

Tip 1: Hold giveaways on social media to increase engagement and followers.

Tip 2: Set up a storefront to sell merch for the campaign.

Need help implementing these steps? Contact us today 866.816.2378 and ask for Karly Rouillier. We would be happy to discuss your goals and how to achieve them.