MarketSleuth:
It depends.

Some newsletter publishers fear bulk mail; they feel it's unreliable. But consider this. Newsletters less than 6 1/8" tall by 11 1/2" wide travel the same basic route at the post office, whether it's first class or bulk rate.

Now, First Class mail is a priority service, so it gets the fastest attention, while bulk mail can sit on a postal loading dock up to 48 hours more. But, look at the big benefit -- almost half the price for similar service.

New regulations make discounted First Class mail seem unattractive to small mailers. For starters, your entire mailing list must be verified accurate (i.e. old addresses are inaccurate). With bulk mail, you simple add the phrase "Address Service Requested" under your return address and you get the piece delivered (or returned with the updated address for a small fee). Plus, you must mail at least 500 ZIP+4 pieces to qualify for postal discounts (only 200 at bulk rate).

Markus Allen is the president of MailShop USA. His latest special report 'How to Market with Postcards' is available for $15 (includes FREE shipping anywhere in the US) by calling: (800) 618-6050 Ext: 3274. You can order by mail at:

MailShop USA 4679 West Chester Pike Suite 3274 Newtown Square, PA 19073