Mail | LetterStream Blog

Why Physical Mail Still Matters in a Digital World

Sending physical mail is easy to do online.

We live in a digital-first world. Emails. Text alerts. Online dashboards. It feels like everything has moved to screens—and for good reason. Digital tools are fast, flexible, and convenient.

But when it comes to business-critical communications, physical mail still has an edge. A big one.

Whether you’re in law, healthcare, finance, property management, or HOA administration, relying solely on digital channels leaves your business vulnerable to missed deadlines, ignored messages, and compliance risks.

Let’s break down why physical mail still matters—and how you can send it faster, smarter, and more securely than ever before.

Digital Is Easy to Ignore. Mail Demands Attention.

Your inbox is overflowing. So is everyone else’s. Most emails never get opened, and if they do, they’re often skimmed and forgotten. But a piece of physical mail? It has weight—literally and psychologically.

Physical documents land in the hands of real people. They get opened, reviewed and often acted on faster than just a regular email. Sending physical documents (or sending snail mail) is great for:

Violation notices
Legal disclosures
Payment reminders
Ballots and compliance documents
Statements

A print and mail service helps ensure these high-priority documents actually make an impact—while giving you the control and tracking you need.

Legal and Regulatory Compliance Still Favor Physical Mail

In industries like healthcare and law, physical mail is often the only truly compliant method for delivering sensitive or time-bound communications.

Digital delivery doesn’t always hold up in court or meet regulatory standards—especially when there’s no way to confirm it was received, read, or retained.

That’s why Certified Mail remains the go-to for:

HIPAA notices
Eviction letters
Collection demands
Audit disclosures
Insurance cancellations

When sending Certified Mail online, you get proof of mailing, delivery confirmation, and a digital audit trail—all without leaving your desk.

Trust Is Tangible

Physical mail communicates professionalism. It says, “We care about getting this right.”

It’s not just about regulation—it’s about relationships. Clients, patients, homeowners, and business partners are more likely to take action when they receive a well-formatted, official-looking document. It creates trust. Permanence. Accountability.

And with modern platforms like LetterStream, you can achieve this without manual effort or office interruptions. Upload your document. Choose your mail type (First-Class, Certified, or FedEx 2Day). We print, prep, and send it—all trackable.

Automation Doesn’t Mean Digital-Only

There’s a misconception that automation = digital. But in reality, some of the most powerful automation tools send real physical documents.

With tools like StreamLogic™, businesses get a standard of excellence. It serves as a framework to ensure speed, accuracy, and reliability, while giving customers complete visibility and control over their print and mailings.

When You Need to Be Sure, Send It for Real

Not all mail needs to be physical. But when it’s critical, sensitive, or time-bound—don’t gamble on a crowded inbox or a failed email.

Physical mail shows up. Gets opened. Gets noticed. And when it’s powered by LetterStream, it’s also fast, automated, and worry-free. Sending mail online has never been easier. Click here to try us out!

LetterStream makes printing and mailing a breeze!

LetterStream offers bulk printing and mailing services, allowing companies to send physical mail online. Whether it’s online Certified Mail, First-Class Mail, FedEx 2Day, or postcards, we give both small businesses and large corporations that time and freedom back to work on tasks that better serve the company. If you’re interested in creating a free account, you can do so here.

The Hidden Cost of Sending “Free” In-House Mail

Sending mail in-house doesn’t actually save you money.

“We already have a printer.”
“It only takes a few minutes.”
“Stamps aren’t that expensive.”

Sound familiar?

It’s the internal chorus many companies rely on when justifying their in-house mail processes. But here’s the thing: what seems free on the surface is usually costing you more than you realize.

If your team is still printing, folding, stuffing, stamping, and tracking important mail internally, oof, that’s a lot. Let’s break down what that “free” process is really costing you.

Spoiler: it’s not just paper and toner.

Labor: The Most Expensive Envelope You’ll Ever Seal

Think about how long it takes to send a single Certified Mail letter in-house:

Print the document
Grab the right envelope
Fill out the Certified Mail form
Apply postage
Drop it off at the Post Office
Save the tracking number (somewhere, hopefully)
File the proof later—if someone remembers
Enter in all the numbers just to track and see where your letter is at

Now multiply that by dozens, hundreds, or thousands of pieces of mail per month. And who’s doing all of this? Your office manager? Your HR assistant? Your paralegal?

That’s real time spent on repetitive tasks—and real salary dollars diverted away from actual job responsibilities.

Companies like ours that send mail online eliminate these manual steps entirely. Your team uploads a file, clicks send, and we take it from there.

You didn’t hire talented people to stand next to a postage meter. So why are they still doing it?

Equipment and Supplies

Sure, printers and paper seem cheap—until they aren’t.

There’s the printer that jams every other day. The envelope reorder that someone forgot. The postage meter lease. The toner that runs out mid-job. The unexpected maintenance call that kills your budget for the month.

These costs might be small individually, but collectively, they add up, especially when they disrupt workflows or delay time-sensitive mail.

And while no one wants to budget for a new postage scale, you’ll end up paying for it anyway… one emergency trip to the office supply store at a time.

Mistakes, Delays, and Compliance Risks

In regulated industries, one lost Certified Mail receipt can mean legal exposure. One delayed benefits notice can mean an HR violation. One botched billing cycle can mean thousands in late fees or customer confusion.

When you’re managing mail manually, you’re relying on humans to get it right, every time.

A proactive print and mail service introduces speed, reliability, and accuracy, and it reduces the risk of:

Wrong addresses
Missed deadlines
Lost documentation
Inconsistent branding
Untrackable delivery

These are hidden costs you can’t afford to keep ignoring.

Opportunity Cost: What Could They Be Doing Instead?

Every hour your team spends printing and mailing is an hour they’re not doing something more valuable.

That might be:

Following up with clients
Solving customer service issues
Closing new deals
Onboarding employees
Building new workflows

Manual mail doesn’t just cost money—it costs momentum.

With LetterStream, your documents are still printed, stuffed, and mailed, but your team doesn’t lose focus or flow to make it happen.

“We Only Send a Few Letters” (Until You Don’t)

A lot of businesses think they don’t send enough mail to justify using a platform. But sporadic mail is exactly where delays, mistakes, and distractions sneak in.

Plus, when something urgent comes up—like a legal notice or compliance mailing—you want a reliable system, not a scramble.

Whether it’s one letter or 1,000, a printing and mailing company ensures it gets handled with care, tracked properly, and out the door quickly.

Because your brand shouldn’t feel like a paper jam.

Real Costs vs. Perceived Costs

Let’s stack them up.

In-House “Free” Mail:

Staff time (hourly or salaried)
Equipment lease or replacement
Postage meter
Postage and supply overhead
Risk of error or delay
Storage, filing, and compliance burden

Online Print and Mail Service:

Fixed, transparent cost per piece
Built-in tracking for Certified Mail and compliance
Zero office disruption
Digital records
No hardware, maintenance, or manual labor
No trips to the Post Office

Which one sounds more efficient?

You’re Not Saving. You’re Delaying the Switch.

The businesses that move to online Certified Mail and First-Class Mail systems usually do it after one of two things happens:

A compliance scare or mail-related mistake.
A team finally had enough and says, “There has to be a better way.”

We’re here to tell you: there is a better way. It’s easier than you think. And it’s probably cheaper than what you’re doing now, especially when you factor in everything you’re currently not tracking.

Start sending mail online with LetterStream. We make sending mail a breeze!

The Best Way to Send Construction Mail Is Online

Construction Projects Move Fast. Your Mail Should, Too.

Running a construction company means living in the land of blueprints, bids, and bottlenecks. One day you’re chasing a lien waiver, the next you’re tracking down a signed contract from a subcontractor who swears they “faxed it.” (Sure, they did.)

It’s a hands-on industry. But here’s the part that baffles me: so many construction businesses are still mailing things the old way—printing documents in-house, stuffing envelopes, licking stamps, and physically heading to the post office.

Sound familiar? If so, it’s time to rethink it. Especially when you can send Certified Mail online without ever leaving the job site.

The Problem with Mailing Lien Notices the Old-Fashioned Way

Construction companies deal with some of the most time-sensitive and legally critical mail out there. Think:

Construction lien notice mailings
Subcontractor agreements
Change orders
Compliance forms
Certificates of insurance
Waiver tracking
Final pay applications

Each of those could be the difference between getting paid or getting sued. So why gamble with missed deadlines or bad recordkeeping?

If you’re still relying on someone in the office to remember when lien letters are due—or worse, driving to the post office yourself—it’s not just inefficient, it’s risky. Lien deadlines don’t care if your admin is out sick or your copier is jammed.

Why It Pays to Send Certified Mail Online

You’re already outsourcing the things you don’t want your crew doing—like electrical, or HVAC, or asbestos abatement. Mailing should be no different.

With an online mailing service for business, here’s what changes:

You upload your notice or contract from your computer (or phone).
It gets printed, prepped, and mailed—Certified, First-Class, or however you need it.
You get digital proof it went out, and a record of everything.
You never touch an envelope or postage again.
You get your time back.

That means no more waiting at the Post Office counter (woohoo!) with green cards. No more hoping your lien notice didn’t get lost in the shuffle. No more “I think we mailed it?” drama.

Just uploaded. Done. Logged. Tracked.

Construction Companies That Outsource Mailing Stay on Track

Contractors who outsource mailing services tend to have one thing in common: they’ve stopped sweating the paperwork. Not because it’s any less important—but because they’ve systemized it.

Let your team build. Let the mailing experts mail. It’s really that simple.

Whether you’re mailing one Certified letter or 1,000 lien notices, it’s the same click-and-go process. That’s especially helpful if you’re running multiple projects across multiple states, with different deadlines and requirements.

Time is money—and also sanity.

The Bottom Line: Don’t Let Mail Delay the Build

Mail may not be what you think about when you’re quoting steel or managing a site walk, but it’s often the thing that can quietly derail your cash flow or compliance.

Sending certified mail online or mailing construction lien notices digitally isn’t just easier—it’s smarter business.

So the moral of the story is, stop stuffing envelopes. Stop chasing tracking numbers. And definitely stop driving to the Post Office when your boots are already caked in mud. Take yourself out to lunch instead.

There’s a better way to do this.

We’ll handle the mailing. You go build something.

Why Easily Sending Mail Online is the Future

Let’s be honest—“print and mail” doesn’t exactly scream cutting edge.

Most people still picture someone hunched over a clunky office printer, feeding in paper one page at a time while envelopes pile up like snowdrifts. It’s slow. It’s manual. It’s been “next on the list” for about two weeks now.

But here’s the truth: online printing and mailing isn’t just the future of business communications—it’s the present. And if you’re still doing it the old way, you’re missing out on speed, control, and a whole lot of sanity.

Let’s talk about why more businesses (the smart ones) are switching—and why the future looks a lot less like a jammed printer and a lot more like clicking “send.”

The Old Way Isn’t Working Anymore

There was a time when hand-stuffing envelopes made sense. Maybe you had one mailing a month. Maybe you liked the meditative hum of the folding machine. But now?

You’re juggling statement runs, compliance letters, customer notices, invoices cycles—and that’s just this week.

Manual mailing isn’t scalable, and it’s sure not built for teams trying to move fast. Not to mention: mistakes are easy, and nobody wants to resend 500 letters because of one column in a spreadsheet.

Online Printing Means You Don’t Need a Mailroom

When you move to an online platform, something magical happens: the mail still goes out, but you don’t have to touch it. Or buy stamps. Or stand in line at the post office wondering how your life got here.

Instead, you upload your file, choose your options, and hit send. Done.
Print. Insert. Mail. Track. It all happens behind the scenes while you do literally anything else.

And yes, it still counts as “real mail.” USPS delivers it. Your customers, vendors, or homeowners get a letter in the mailbox—on time and professional-looking.

You Get Speed and Accuracy

Let’s say you’re sending time-sensitive statements or legal notices. You need them to:

Go out fast
Be delivered to the right address
Have proof they were sent

With online mailing platforms, you get all three. Your job’s processed fast (sometimes same day), tracking is baked in, and you can access your full mailing history whenever someone says, “Hey, did we ever send that?”

Spoiler: Yes. Yes, you did.

Your Team Doesn’t Need to Be in the Same Place Anymore

Here’s a big one: remote teams.
It’s 2025. Not everyone works in the same office anymore. So why is your print-and-mail process stuck in 2012?

With an online platform, anyone on your team—remote, hybrid, in-office—can send mail from wherever they are. No printer? No problem. No one to sign off on postage? Still fine. Everything happens online, with visibility and control from wherever you’re working.

The Future Is Already Here

This isn’t some “someday” tech. It’s already how thousands of businesses are handling their most important mail. And once you switch, you’ll never go back.

Seriously—ask anyone who’s made the leap. They’re not hunched over a printer anymore. They’re sipping coffee while the compliance letters are sent for them. That’s the future we’re talking about.

If your mail process still involves toner cartridges, folding paper by hand, or someone saying, “I’ll run these to the post office after lunch,”—well, you already know the answer.

You’re ready.

Start here:
Online Printing & Mail Services – Send Your Letters The Easy Way

LetterStream offers bulk printing and mailing services allowing companies to send physical mail online. Whether it’s online Certified Mail, First-Class Mail, FedEx 2Day, or postcards, we give both small businesses and large corporations that time and freedom back to work on tasks that better serve the company. If you’re interested in creating a free account, you can do so, here.

How to Take the Stress Out of Tax Season with Letterstream

Using LetterStream to send out tax documents makes tax season a breeze.

Tax season can be a logistical nightmare, especially when it comes to sending out time-sensitive documents like 1099s, W-2s, and IRS correspondence. Ensuring your tax forms are mailed accurately and on time is crucial to avoid penalties and keep everything running smoothly. That’s where LetterStream comes in—making tax season easier with secure, efficient mailing solutions.

Meeting Tax Deadlines with Ease

One of the biggest challenges of tax season is meeting strict IRS deadlines. Missing deadlines can lead to fines and compliance issues, but with LetterStream’s quick turnaround, you can easily upload tax documents for immediate processing, ensure on-time mailing with First-Class Mail and Certified Mail tracking options to confirm delivery. LetterStream also offers a way to expedite your mailing to get your tax documents out the door same-day or within one business day, in the event that you’re behind on getting them mailed.

Reducing Manual Work with Automated Mailing

Printing, folding, and stuffing tax documents manually can be a hassle—especially in bulk. LetterStream automates the process, handling everything from printing and envelope stuffing to applying postage and ensuring your mail is secure and sent out quickly. Simply upload your tax forms, and LetterStream takes care of the rest!

Ensuring Security & Compliance

Security is critical when mailing tax documents, as they contain sensitive information. LetterStream prioritizes data protection with secure handling that meets compliance standards, certified mail options for proof of delivery, and processing methods that align with IRS mailing requirements.

Flexible Mailing Options for Businesses & Individuals

Businesses and accountants handling bulk tax documents need adaptable solutions. LetterStream offers options for bulk mailing high-volume tax documents, Certified Mail for IRS correspondence, and priority mailing for urgent send outs, ensuring every tax-related mailing is managed efficiently.

Tracking Your Tax Mailings in Real Time

Concerned about lost tax forms? LetterStream provides Certified Mail with tracking, so you always know when your tax documents are mailed and delivered. With confirmation for each piece of mail, reduced risks of missing important tax documents, and timely updates for clients and employees, you gain complete peace of mind.

Simplify Tax Season Today

Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful. LetterStream is a hassle-free way to send tax documents securely, efficiently, and on time. Save time, reduce errors, and meet every IRS deadline with ease.

Get started with LetterStream’s Online Printing & Mail Services today!

LetterStream offers bulk printing and mailing services allowing companies to send physical mail online. Whether it’s online Certified Mail, First-Class Mail, FedEx 2Day, or postcards, we give both small businesses and large corporations that time and freedom back to work on tasks that better serve the company. If you’re interested in creating a free account, you can do so, here.

Easily Outsource Your Business Mail

Let’s talk about outsourcing mail, specifically business mail: invoices, contracts, customer notices, and all the other documents that keep your operation running. If you’re managing this in-house, chances are you’re dealing with some serious frustrations—constant printer jams, paper shortages, and that one person who always forgets to refill the paper tray.

Sound familiar?

Here’s the good news: outsourcing your business mail with LetterStream can turn this chaos into a smooth, worry-free process. It’s not just about saving time; it’s about making a smart investment in your business’s efficiency, accuracy, and success.

Save Time, Save Sanity with LetterStream

Imagine this: Instead of spending hours printing, folding, and stuffing envelopes (not to mention the mad dash to the post office), you simply upload your documents to LetterStream’s secure online platform, click a button, and relax with your morning cup of coffee.

From printing and inserting to postage and mailing, LetterStream takes care of every detail. Need to send First-Class Mail online? Done. Prefer to send Certified Mail online? No problem. Want tracking? You’ve got it. And the best part? Your mail can often hit the post office by the next day after you upload it.

99% of all mail is sent by next business day!

By outsourcing to LetterStream, you’re reclaiming hours of your day to focus on growing your business—or finally taking that well-deserved coffee break.

Cut Costs on Business Mail Without Cutting Corners

Let’s talk about the cost. Handling mail in-house adds up quickly: printers, paper, ink, postage meters, maintenance costs, gas to drive to the post office and the time your team spends managing it all. And let’s not even talk about the occasional “printer tantrum.” You know exactly what we’re talking about it with that one.

With LetterStream, you only pay for what you need—no surprise expenses or hidden costs. Bulk mailers especially see significant savings, as our streamlined process is built for efficiency. Plus, you’ll never have to worry about running out of supplies or dealing with costly equipment repairs.

We not only save you money but also gives you peace of mind knowing your mail is handled by experts.

Are you starting to see why outsourcing mailing services is a good idea?

Accuracy You Can Count On

Mailing isn’t just about getting documents out the door—it’s about getting them where they need to go, error-free. A single typo in an address can lead to delayed payments, unhappy customers, or compliance issues.

That’s why LetterStream has add-on options, like Address List Cleanup, to ensure your mail is accurate and secure. With LetterStream, you’re not just outsourcing—you’re upgrading to a higher standard of accuracy.

Scale with Ease, Thanks to LetterStream

Whether you’re a small business handling monthly statement printing and mailing or a corporation managing bulk mailing projects, LetterStream offers the flexibility to scale your mailing operations seamlessly.

One of our clients, a rapidly growing startup, came to us when their mailing needs quickly outpaced their in-house capabilities. We set them up to send thousands of letters using our online print and mail services. The result? Streamlined processes, satisfied customers, and a business ready to grow without being bogged down by mailing logistics.

Security Is a Top Priority

Business mail often includes sensitive information—financial documents, legal notices, and customer communications. Protecting that data isn’t just important—it’s essential.

Just so you know, LetterStream takes security seriously. From our encrypted online portal to tightly controlled mailing operations, we ensure your data remains confidential every step of the way. Rest easy knowing that your mail is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.

Stay Ahead in 2025 with LetterStream

In today’s fast-paced business world, efficiency and reliability aren’t optional—they’re critical. Outsourcing your business mail with LetterStream ensures you’re not just keeping up but staying ahead.

While your competitors are stuck battling printer issues, thanks to outsourcing your printing and mailing online, you’re focusing on serving your customers and growing your brand. And with LetterStream, sustainability is part of the package. Our optimized processes reduce waste and create more efficient delivery routes—a win for both your business and the planet.

Why Choose LetterStream?

With over 10 million jobs completed, LetterStream isn’t just another mailing service—it’s your trusted partner in simplifying business mail. Our customers range from small startups to industry leaders, all of whom value reliability, accuracy, and speed.

When you work with LetterStream, you’re not just outsourcing a task—you’re gaining a partner dedicated to making your business mail stress-free. Whether you’re sending your first set of invoices or tackling a large-scale mailing project, like open enrollment letters, we’re here to help you succeed.

Ready to leave the headaches of in-house mailing behind? With LetterStream, your business mail becomes one less thing to worry about. Print and mail documents online today and discover how we can make mailing easier, faster, and more efficient than ever.

If you haven’t outsourced printing and mailing services for your business yet, what are you waiting for?

LetterStream offers bulk printing and mailing services allowing companies to send physical mail online. Whether it’s online Certified Mail and First-Class Mail or FedEx 2Day and postcards we give both small businesses and large corporations that time and freedom back to work on tasks that better serve the company. If you’re interested in creating a free account you can do so, here.

Is Sending Physical Mail Better For Critical Business Communications?

Is sending physical mail better for critical business communications? The quick answer is yes. In today’s digital landscape, it feels like everything’s competing for attention. Emails pile up, screens demand constant refreshing, and notifications are endless. So, what’s the best way to get a message across when it really matters? Enter: good old-fashioned snail mail. From important notices and statements to updates that need acknowledgment, physical mail has some surprising advantages. There’s no cluttered inbox to contend with here—just a message delivered right to the recipient’s door. Here’s why business mail, from official documents to statements and policy changes, often achieves better results when sent the old-school way.

It’s Hard to Ignore Physical Mail

When an email notification can be swiped away in an instant, a physical letter sits patiently on a desk or countertop, waiting to be opened. There’s something undeniably impactful about receiving a tangible document that says, “This is important.” From account statements and legal notices to membership updates, a letter isn’t just information—it’s a call to action that grabs attention by design. Plus, it doesn’t get lost in the digital shuffle, so your customers, clients, or members are far more likely to actually read and respond to it.

Adds a Personal Touch to Business Communication

Emails may be fast and convenient, but they’re also a bit…impersonal. A physical letter, on the other hand, offers a personal, thoughtful touch that digital messages lack. There’s a sense of care that comes with a document you can hold in your hands. Imagine sending important updates about new services, policy changes, or community notices. Physical mail says, “We care enough to make this real,” which strengthens trust and customer loyalty. People notice when you take that extra step to ensure they’re informed.

Boosts Read Rates and Engagement With Physical Mail

With physical mail, there’s no spam filter, no cluttered inbox, no “marked as read” misclick. Studies show that printed letters have significantly higher open rates than digital communications. For crucial documents like statements, compliance notices, or account updates, this reliability can make all the difference. When your message lands in the mailbox, recipients are far more likely to open it, engage with it, and take any necessary action.

Stands Out in a Sea of Digital Noise

Digital fatigue is real—too many emails, too much time on screens, and a constant stream of notifications. By contrast, physical mail is memorable because it’s refreshingly different. In the middle of all that digital clutter, a letter becomes a focal point. For businesses, this can mean better response rates for service updates, billing information, and other vital communications. A physical document gives people the chance to step back, process the message, and respond without the usual distractions.

Why Use LetterStream for Your Business Mail?

When it comes to sending essential business mail, we make it quick and hassle-free. With LetterStream, sending physical mail online couldn’t be easier. We handle the printing, folding, and mailing for you, so you can focus on what matters most. Plus, our built-in tracking options, including Certified Mail and FedEx 2Day, let you monitor your mail right from your portal. Whether you’re sending monthly statements, compliance updates, or priority notices, LetterStream helps ensure your important messages reach their destination, on time and with peace of mind.

LetterStream is an online printing and mailing service company, offering bulk printing and mailing business mailing solutions for businesses of all sizes, from those with small business mailing needs to Fortune 500 companies that want to send mail online. Be sure to sign up for a FREE account to check us out.

Top Reasons Franchises Are Outsourcing Printing and Mailing for Faster Growth

Franchise owners have a lot on their plate, from managing multiple locations to keeping operations running smoothly. When it comes to essential communications—whether promotional materials, invoices, or important legal documents—efficiency and accuracy are critical. However, handling printing and mailing in-house can be a time-consuming and a resource-intensive process. That’s why many franchises are turning to outsourcing, allowing them to focus on what they do best: growing their business.

Here’s why outsourcing bulk print and mail needs is becoming a popular choice for franchises:

Let the Experts Handle It

Managing the logistics of printing and mailing can quickly become overwhelming. From printer malfunctions to managing supplies and ensuring timely deliveries, it can be a significant drain on internal resources. Franchisees already juggle enough daily responsibilities, so adding print and mail operations to the list only adds complexity.

Outsourcing to professionals removes this burden, leaving the intricate processes of printing and mailing to experts. This ensures that your materials are produced and sent out efficiently, with minimal hassle. Instead of spending time on admin tasks, franchisees can focus on delivering excellent service and growing their business.

Cost-Effective Solutions

While it might seem more cost-effective to handle printing and mailing in-house, the reality is that expenses can add up quickly. Printers, paper, ink, maintenance, and dedicated staff all come with a price tag. And when something goes wrong—like a printer breakdown—the unexpected costs can be significant.

Outsourcing often provides a more affordable option, especially for franchises that need high-volume mailings. Professional services can offer bulk pricing and eliminate the need for constant maintenance. By outsourcing, you can cut operational costs while still receiving high-quality, professional results.

Speed and Efficiency

Franchises thrive on efficiency, and when it comes to getting time-sensitive and important mailings out the door—whether statement and customer communications, signed ownership documents or tax documents—speed matters. Managing this process in-house can lead to delays and inefficiencies, especially when coordinating across multiple locations.

Outsourcing ensures that all your printing and mailing needs are handled promptly and professionally. With the right provider, you can trust that your materials will be processed and sent out quickly. This allows your franchise to run smoothly and meet tight deadlines without added stress.

Pro tip: If you want to get your mail delivered the fastest way possible, you can choose FedEx 2Day with a signature confirmation. That way if gets your mail there fast and you can track. Another option for tracking would be Certified Mail and you can also choose Certified Mail with an Electronic Return Receipt to get proof of delivery.

Compliance and Security

Franchises often need to deal with sensitive documents such as legal notices, financial disclosures, or regulatory forms. Ensuring these communications are handled correctly is crucial, as any errors could lead to compliance issues or security risks.

Outsourcing your printing and mailing to a trusted provider ensures that these important documents are processed securely and in accordance with legal standards. These providers are well-versed in data privacy and compliance regulations, so you can rest assured that your documents are being managed appropriately and securely.

Focus on Growth, Not Admin

For franchise owners, the goal is always growth—expanding locations, improving customer service, and increasing profits. By outsourcing non-core tasks like printing and mailing, franchises can reallocate their time and resources to focus on achieving these bigger business goals.

Outsourcing doesn’t just reduce the administrative burden—it enables franchisees to run more efficient operations. With printing and mailing handled externally, franchise owners and managers can concentrate on strategic priorities that drive long-term success.

LetterStream is a printing and mailing company, offering bulk printing and mailing services for businesses of all sizes from those with small business mailing needs to Fortune 500 companies that want to send mail online.

How To Prepare For Mail Slowing Down This Holiday Season

The holidays are almost here—cue the festive lights, family gatherings, and, of course, the inevitable mail slowdown. Yep, as we head into the busiest time of the year, USPS, FedEx, and UPS are bracing for a tidal wave of packages and letters. Whether it’s holiday cards or businesses sending out year-end notices, the mail system is about to get busier than ever.

Now, we’d love to tell you that your mail carrier will power through the season with ease, but the truth is, things might start to feel like you’re stuck behind holiday shoppers on Christmas Eve. So, what does that mean for your business? Let’s take a closer look—and most importantly, figure out how you can avoid getting caught in the holiday mail storm.

Why Does Mail Slow Down During the Holidays?

It’s all about volume. USPS anticipates handling over 12 billion mailpieces, including close to a billion packages, during the holiday season. Yes, you did read that correctly. And that’s not counting all the letters, postcards, and business mail like invoices, statements, and end-of-year notices. When the system is overloaded like that, it’s no surprise things start to move at a snail’s pace really making living up to the name of sending snail mail.

It’s like trying to funnel a river through a garden hose—it’s bound to overflow and slow things down. That’s why it’s so important for businesses to plan early and stay ahead of the holiday rush to hopefully help avoid holiday mailing delays.

What Does This Mean for Your Business?

Here’s where it gets real: If your business relies on getting mail out on time—whether it’s invoices, contracts, or HOA annual meeting notices—you can’t afford to let holiday mail delays bog you down. As mail carriers juggle the extra load, what normally takes just a few days to deliver might start showing up fashionably late.

This could be a big deal if you’re sending time-sensitive legal or financial documents. An invoice that arrives two weeks late doesn’t just delay a payment; it can mess with your entire cash flow. And if you’re handling important contracts or compliance documents, missed deadlines could cost you a lot more than just frustration.

Long story short: Don’t wait for the holidays to sneak up on you—plan ahead and stay ahead.

How to Stay Ahead of the Holiday Slowdown

The good news? There are ways to make sure your business mail stays on track, even when carriers are overwhelmed. Here are a few strategies to keep things moving smoothly:

1. Plan Early, Send Early

The earlier you can get your letters mailed, the better. If you’re planning a big mailing—whether it’s holiday promotions or year-end statements—send them earlier than usual. Trust us, your future self will thank you when your mail sails through before the holiday bottleneck hits.

2. Consider Faster Mailing Options

If timing is critical (and it often is), upgrading your mailing services might be the way to go. FedEx Overnight and 2Day are the fastest options when it comes to sending mail quickly. First-Class Mail and Certified Mail services are usually given priority, meaning your documents have a better chance of reaching their destination on time but it’s not a guarantee. In fact, Certified Mail can actually take longer than what the USPS says. If you wondering how long Certified Mail takes, you can read more on that here. Yes, it might cost a bit more upfront, but when deadlines are looming, peace of mind is worth it.

3. Let the Pros Handle It

This is where we come in. If the thought of juggling large mailings during the holidays feels overwhelming, why not let someone else handle the logistics? We specialize in printing, inserting, and mailing business documents, so you can focus on running your business—or, you know, sipping some holiday eggnog. Literally, we handle all of the printing and mailing for you. We’ll make sure your mail gets out on time, no matter how busy the season gets. All you have to do is upload your documents and we handle the rest. You can even upload early and schedule out for future mailings.

4. Track Your Mail

If your mail absolutely must arrive by a certain date, tracking is your new best friend. Services like Certified Mail and FedEx 2Day come with tracking options so you can monitor the progress of your mail and keep your clients informed every step of the way. If using LetterStream you can send mail online and then with a Certified Mail Electronic Return Receipt or FedEx 2Day signature you can easily track it right from inside of your account without having to enter in a tracking number.

Don’t Let the Holidays Derail Your Business

The holiday season isn’t just about giving—it’s also about dealing with a lot more mail. But with carriers moving slower under the weight of extra deliveries, businesses need to stay on top of their game to avoid delays. By planning ahead, upgrading your mailing options, and outsourcing to the pros, you can keep your business running smoothly through the holiday chaos.

At the end of the day, it’s all about making sure that when you send physical mail online that it doesn’t get stuck in the seasonal slowdown. So, let’s keep things moving—before the rush sets in.

Ready to make sure your business mail stays on track this holiday season? We’re here to help you navigate the busiest time of year without skipping a beat. Sign up for a free account and start sending letters or your bulk mailing ASAP here.

LetterStream is a printing and mailing company, offering bulk printing and mailing services for businesses of all sizes from those with small business mailing needs to Fortune 500 companies.

7 Reasons Why Small Businesses Should Be Outsourcing Mail

Being a small business is no easy feat, especially nowadays. There’s always a lot to do in all areas of the business and usually for small businesses that also means a smaller staff. There are many perks to having a close-knit team but when it comes to having enough hands on deck for all the tasks, both big and small, it can sometimes get a bit overwhelming. That is where efficiency becomes your friend and not only is it a goal of small business but it’s essential for survival. One easy way to become more efficient is by outsourcing mail services instead of doing it yourself.

Whether you’re managing the complexities of a law firm, overseeing the needs of an HOA, managing HR responsibilities, or in charge of confidential patient paperwork in the healthcare field, handling mail operations in-house can quickly become overwhelming. The constant demands of printing, processing, and sending out mail can drain your time and resources. This is where outsourcing your mailing service can make a real difference and can help alleviate some of the overwhelm in the office. Let’s explore how handing over your mailroom duties can streamline your operations and free up your team to focus on what they do best.

1. Time is Money: Save Both by Outsourcing Mail

Consider this: Instead of dedicating hours to tasks like printing, folding, stuffing, and addressing envelopes, your team could be focusing on core business activities. By outsourcing your mail operations, the routine tasks are handled efficiently by professionals, freeing up valuable time for your team. With the ability to send mail online with just a few clicks, those trips to the post office become a thing of the past, making your workdays more productive.

2. Cutting Costs Without Cutting Corners

Running a full-scale mail operation in-house can be costly. Between purchasing supplies, maintaining equipment, and paying for postage, the expenses add up quickly. Not to mention the human hours and resources needed to manage it all. By outsourcing, you not only eliminate these overhead costs but also benefit from the economies of scale that a professional print and mail service offers. Whether it’s First-Class Mailing, Certified Mailing, or FedEx 2Day, you can keep your budget in check while ensuring your mail gets sent out on time.

3. Accuracy and Reliability: Get It Right the First Time

Mistakes happen, and when it comes to mailing important documents, they can be costly—not just in terms of money, but also your reputation. Outsourcing your mail operations means partnering with experts who know the process inside and out. From printing and mailing online to ensuring the right postage and tracking, outsourcing simplifies everything. You can trust that your mail will be handled with care and precision, and be sent out on time, every time

4. Stay Compliant with Ease

If you’re in an industry where compliance is key (we’re looking at you, financial services and legal firms), staying on top of regulations is a full-time job in itself. Outsourcing your mail operations can help you stay compliant without the headache. For example, professionals in the field understand the importance of adhering to regulations such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) for handling sensitive healthcare information or the stringent guidelines required by FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority) for financial communications.

By utilizing these services, especially at LetterStream, your sensitive documents are processed within secure environments that meet or exceed industry standards. This includes encryption, secure data transmission, and other advanced security measures to ensure that your mail not only complies with legal standards but also maintains the highest levels of confidentiality. Whether it’s sending real mail online with Certified tracking or managing sensitive financial documents, outsourcing to a compliant provider helps mitigate risks and keeps your operations running smoothly and securely.

5. Scalability: Grow Without the Growing Pains

As your business grows, so does your mailing list. But scaling your mail operations doesn’t have to mean scaling your stress levels. Outsourcing allows you to easily ramp up or down based on your current needs, without the need for additional staff or resources. Whether you’re sending out a few dozen letters or thousands of First-Class letters or Certified letters, outsourcing can easily handle it all—seamlessly and efficiently and who doesn’t love that?

6. Embrace the Digital Age Without Sacrificing the Personal Touch

In a world where digital communication reigns supreme, there’s still something powerful about a piece of real mail. It’s tangible, personal, and often more impactful than an email that can be easily ignored. But just because you’re sending physical mail doesn’t mean you can’t embrace the convenience of the digital age. With online platforms, you can manage your mail operations entirely online—you can print and mail your documents with just a few clicks literally from anywhere…an office, the couch, the beach. It’s the best of both worlds.

7. Focus on What You Do Best—Let the Experts Handle the Rest

At the end of the day, your expertise lies in your business, not in running a mailroom. By outsourcing your mail operations, you can focus on what you do best—whether that’s serving your clients, innovating your products, or leading your team. Tasks like sending First-Class and Certified Mail or by sending real mail online in general, are best managed by professionals who specialize in these areas. This way, you can keep your business running smoothly without the added stress of handling mail operations.

If you’re a small business looking to outsource your printing and mailing online, you can sign up for a free account here to try us out!