Happy Thanksgiving From LetterStream

Happy Thanksgiving from us to you!

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to reflect on what truly matters, and for us, it’s all about the connections we help create. As a printing and mailing company, we’re in the unique position of ensuring important communications reach their destinations—whether it’s a, a vital notice, or a business-critical letter or a community update letter. This season, we’re pausing to express our gratitude for the people and partnerships that make it all possible.

From our loyal customers to our dedicated team and the tools that keep everything running, there’s so much to be thankful for. Let’s take a moment to celebrate what makes this work so meaningful.

Grateful for Our Customers: The Heart of What We Do

To our customers: you’re the reason we load up trays with letters, secure every envelope flap, and obsess over getting mail out in a timely matter. Whether you’re an HOA sending out annual meeting notices or a business managing critical mailings, you trust us with your communication—and that’s something we never take lightly.

Your loyalty, creativity, and understanding keep us motivated. We love hearing about how our services make your job a little easier, how our platform simplifies your processes, and, occasionally, how we’ve saved the day with last-minute jobs. (We do love a good mailing miracle!)

We’re also grateful for your feedback. Your suggestions and insights help us innovate, improve, and continue offering the best possible solutions for your needs.

Appreciating Our Employees: The People Behind the Process

Behind every perfectly addressed envelope is a team of dedicated people who make the magic happen. Our employees are the glue that binds (sometimes literally, depending on the adhesive situation) everything together. They’re the ones who ensure precision in printing, accuracy in mailing, and a smooth process from start to finish.

We’re especially thankful for their creativity and energy. From solving tricky logistical challenges to bringing a little fun into the workplace (we’re still talking about that pumpkin carving contest), our team doesn’t just do great work—they do it with heart.

Gratitude for the Little Things That Make a Big Difference

Sometimes, it’s the smallest details that bring the greatest sense of satisfaction. Like the smooth closure of a neatly sealed envelope or the precise alignment of text on a freshly printed page. These little moments remind us of the craftsmanship behind every piece of mail. We’re thankful for the tools, technology, and materials that allow us to deliver quality and care in every job we handle.

We’re also thankful for the moments of connection we get to share. Even though we’re a tech-savvy company, there’s something timeless and personal about physical mail. Knowing that we help businesses and communities stay connected—whether through invoices, newsletters, or heartfelt holiday cards—reminds us why we do what we do.

Looking Forward with Gratitude

As we wrap up another year (and maybe a few extra pieces of pie), we’re reminded of how lucky we are to be part of your journey. Whether you’re a long-time customer or just discovering us, thank you for choosing us as your printing and mailing partner.

As you gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, we want you to know how much we appreciate you. We’re truly grateful for the incredible people, meaningful projects, and lasting partnerships that make our work so rewarding. This season is a reminder of the connections we’ve built together, and for that, we’re deeply thankful.

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us! May your day be full of gratitude, good food, and maybe even a perfectly stamped envelope or two.

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.

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.

How To Get Your Mailing Strategy Ready for Q4

As we say goodbye to the third quarter, the big question is: Is your mailing strategy ready for Q4? For many businesses, the final quarter is a make-or-break time of year. Whether you’re managing end-of-year reports, sending out open enrollment letters, or dealing with holiday-related communications, a strong Q4 mailing strategy can be the difference between hitting your goals or missing them.

Here at LetterStream, we know how critical it is to enter Q4 with confidence. The real question is: Are you prepared? Let’s dive into why this quarter demands a streamlined mailing plan, how you can automate your processes, and what you should look out for when planning your business’s mailing strategy.

By the way, it’s not too late to get in the game for printing and mailing needs in Q4.

Why Q4 Demands a Well-Tuned Mailing Strategy

Q4 isn’t just another quarter—it’s often the busiest time of the year for many businesses. You might be juggling various mailing needs like sending time-sensitive open enrollment letters, compliance communications, or violation letters that need to be sent as First-Class mail or Certified mail with a return receipt. Delays are not an option when you’re working with crucial mailings like these, and any hiccups in your mailing strategy could lead to compliance issues, customer dissatisfaction, or missed opportunities.

A robust mailing strategy can help you avoid costly delays and make sure your mailings reach their intended recipients on time. So, ask yourself: Is your Q4 mailing strategy up to par? Are you taking the necessary steps to streamline mailing processes and stay on top of your business mail planning?

Reflecting on Q3: Lessons Learned

Before you dive headfirst into Q4, take a moment to look back at Q3. Did your mailing efforts run smoothly, or were there bumps in the road? Now is the perfect time to assess what worked well and where there’s room for improvement when it comes to sending letters.

Think about the following:

Did your team meet mailing deadlines?
Were there any delays or errors in getting important documents out the door?
How effective was your communication with clients and partners?

These questions can help you identify any gaps in your mailing strategy and prepare for a more seamless Q4. If you found yourself scrambling to meet deadlines or dealing with last-minute mailing issues, it’s time to consider more efficient ways to handle business mail, like sending physical mail online. Streamlining your mailing operations now will ensure you’re ready for the increased demands of the final quarter.

Automate to Streamline Your Q4 Mailing Process

We get it—Q4 is a busy time, and the last thing you need is to spend hours manually preparing and sending mail. That’s why automating your mailing processes by sending mail online can be a game changer. With our advanced mail automation services, you can schedule recurring or one-time mailings, ensuring that everything from your open enrollment letters to year-end tax notices is handled without you needing to worry.

Automation not only helps you streamline your mailing, but it also reduces the chance for error. Meaning, our error-free mailing solutions allow you to focus on more critical tasks while we handle the logistics of getting your documents where they need to go.

Whether you’re managing high volumes of mail or just want the peace of mind that your business mailing solutions are taken care of, automating your processes is the smart move. With Q4 here, there’s no better time to start.

Stay Ahead of Your Mailing Volume in Q4

While postage costs may not rise in Q4, although there will be another postage increase at the beginning of 2025, one thing that does increase is the volume of mail being sent. Between holiday promotions, year-end notices, and important compliance documents, businesses often find themselves managing more mail than usual. This surge in mailing activity can create bottlenecks if your strategy isn’t prepared to handle it.

By planning ahead and streamlining your mailing processes, you can handle the extra workload without overwhelming your team. A well-thought-out strategy allows you to focus on wrapping up the year smoothly, knowing that your mail will be sent out to its destination efficiently and without delays.

Ensure Accuracy in Every Detail

In Q4, there’s no room for mailing errors. Well, there’s never room for mailing errors, but you get the point. Sending inaccurate documents or having mail returned due to incorrect addresses can be costly—both financially and in terms of your reputation. That’s why it’s essential that your mailing strategy includes error-free processes.

To avoid any errors, our automated systems check for address accuracy and document quality, giving you confidence that your mailings will reach the right people, at the right time. We offer an Address List Clean-Up service and we even have a free PDF PreFlight tool that helps you line up your address prior to uploading a job to ensure they are set up correctly.

Plan for Success in Q4

We know Q4 is crunch time for many businesses, and just to reiterate, a well-executed mailing strategy is essential to staying ahead. The good news is you don’t have to tackle it alone. As a printing and mailing company, we specialize in helping businesses streamline their mailing processes and ensure everything runs smoothly—no matter how busy things get.

Are you ready to tackle the final quarter with confidence? Let’s work together to create a Q4 mailing strategy that helps you hit every deadline, meet compliance needs, and achieve your goals. Whether its bulk printing and mailing services, postcard printing and mailing services, check printing and mailing services, or just letter printing and mailing services, we’ve got you! After all, it’s not just about surviving Q4—it’s about thriving and setting your business up for success as you move into 2025.

LetterStream Makes Donation to the 2024 Code:Red Water Drive

To Donate to the Phoenix Rescue Mission Code:Red, click here.

Let’s start by saying that we’re so excited to be back contributing to the 2024 Code: Red Water Drive for the Phoenix Rescue Mission!

Ok, now for the story.

A longtime customer of ours, Brown Management, had asked us to participate again this year in helping to give back to the Code:Red Heat Relief Water Drive and of course, we said yes!

Phoenix Rescue Mission Code:Red

A stack of cases of water at our print and mailing facility

In case you haven’t heard of it, let’s first dive into who the Phoenix Rescue Mission is and what Code:Red represents.

The Phoenix Rescue Mission’s purpose is to provide life-transforming solutions to people facing hunger, homelessness, addiction and trauma.

Phoenix Rescue Mission Code:Red more specifically helps those who are homeless or less fortunate get access to drinking water during the extreme summer months in Arizona.

Unfortunately, over the last few years the summers have continued to get hotter and hotter.

According to Maricopa County, in 2023 the number of heat-related deaths was 645.

This was up 52% from 2022 which had 425 confirmed deaths and get ready for this, is an 896% increase over the last 10 years.

Mind-blowing.

With that being said, it’s imperative that individuals get adequate amounts of drinking water to stay hydrated and that’s where this water drive comes into play.

Our Core Values

Cases of water bottles on a pallet to be donated from our online print and mail location in Scottsdale

As a company, we live and breathe our internal core values.

One in particular that stands out to us when it comes to this mission is: We believe in the tremendous value of people and that all should be treasured.

We believe it is our duty to treasure all people and to give back when we can, which is why we were thrilled to help Brown Management give back to the Phoenix Rescue Mission, helping them get drinking water into the hands of those in need.

Water Bottles Donated

Pallets of cases of water bottles in the truck to help Phoenix Rescue Mission and Brown, an HOA management community

We want to share how much water LetterStream donated but we’re not sharing to gloat but rather to showcase and celebrate our team members who believe in treasuring people.

This year LetterStream donated 240 cases of water and over 5,760 water bottles that will be dispersed to those who are in need of drinking water.

We couldn’t be more proud. Way to go, team!

A Big Thank You

LetterStream staff standing in our printing and mailing facility next to donated water bottles — A few of our awesome team members!

With that being said, we first want to give a big thank you to our awesome team for helping us treasure people and for donating to this incredible cause.

They came together and made magic happen.

We also want to give a huge thank you to Brown Management for asking us to participate again this year.

Brown is an HOA community management company that uses our services to send their HOA mail, including HOA statements, annual meeting packets, violation letters and more to their homeowners.

We also want to give a big shout-out and thank you to OPACS for supplying the box truck and lift to pick up and help deliver the water bottles that will be donated.

They also helped contribute to the Code:Red as well and we are super grateful for that.

OPACS, which offers office products and custom solutions, is another great long-term customer of ours who uses our print and mail services.

OPACS driving loading in cases of water on a pallet into the truck

Thanks again to everyone who made this possible.

If you want to donate to the Phoenix Rescue Mission Code:Red, you can check them out here.

To learn more about LetterStream and our printing and mailing services, click here.

Choosing the Right Print and Mail Service

Why You Need a Print and Mail Service

In today’s digital world, many businesses have shifted to online communication. However, there are still situations where physical mail is necessary, like sending important documents, contracts or invoices or violation notices.

This is where a reliable print and mail service comes in.

Using a print and mail service can save you time, money, and resources. Instead of manually printing, folding, stuffing, and mailing documents, you can simply upload them to an online platform and have them printed and mailed on your behalf.

Also, a really good print and mail service ensures that your documents are handled with care and provides reporting and tracking features, giving you insights into your mailing activities,

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Print and Mail Service

Choosing the right print and mail service for your business requires careful consideration. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Types of Mailing Services Offered

The first thing to consider is the types of mailing services offered by the company. Do they offer Certified Mail or is it only First-Class Mail? Do they give you the option to choose different paper types and colors? Make sure the service you choose can handle all of your mailing needs.

Additionally, if you’re a B2B business, you may want to consider a print and mail service that offers bulk mail services. This can save you time and money when sending out large quantities of mail and who wouldn’t want that?

Online Platform Ease of Use

by Austin Distel

The whole point of using a print and mail service is to save time and effort. Which is why it’s so important to choose a service that has an easy-to-use online platform. This includes features such as an intuitive user interface, easy document uploading, and the ability to track your mailings.

An online platform that offers a seamless experience from start to finish can greatly reduce the potential for errors and increase efficiency. Look for a service that provides a dashboard where you can manage your account details, view past transactions, and even track your mailings if you opted in for that.

Turnaround Time

As you know when it comes to mailing important documents, time is of the essence. Make sure the print and mail service you choose has a quick turnaround time. Ideally, they should be able to print and mail your documents within 24-48 hours.

Furthermore, if your business requires expedited services for last-minute mailings, check if the provider offers rush options. Knowing that you can rely on a quick option in urgent situations can be a huge plus when choosing the right service.

Cost

Of course, cost is a major factor when choosing a print and mail service. Compare prices between different services and like we mentioned above, consider the types of services offered and turnaround times. Something to ponder is that paying a little extra for a more reliable service may be worth it in the long run.

Oh and one more little note to keep in mind. While evaluating costs, don’t forget to account for hidden fees such as setup charges, minimum order requirements, or cancellation fees. A transparent pricing structure without unexpected costs can help you budget more accurately for your mailing needs.

Security and Privacy

by Mediamodifier (https://unsplash.com/@mediamodifier)

When sending sensitive documents, security and privacy are of utmost importance. Be sure the print and mail service you choose has secure servers and protocols in place to protect your information.

It’s also important to inquire about the company’s data handling policies and whether they comply with regulations like GDPR or HIPAA, depending on your industry. The assurance that your confidential documents are handled with the highest level of security can give you peace of mind with each mailing.

Customer Service and Support

In case of any issues or questions come up, it’s important to have support from your print and mail service. Look for services that offer help whether it’s through phone, email, or a chatbot.

Quality customer service should be knowledgeable and responsive, capable of resolving any concerns swiftly. Make sure to read reviews or testimonials to gauge the service’s reputation for customer support before making your decision.

LetterStream for Printing and Mailing

Ok, so here’s the part where we tell you more about us! As experts in the industry, we’re a popular choice for businesses looking for a user-friendly online platform and quick turnaround times and we’re not just saying that.

Everything we’ve mentioned above with what to look for, we offer! Whether you’re an HOA manager looking to mail out your annual meeting notices, invoices or statements, a lawyer looking to send bulk Certified Mailings, a company needing to send out mass communication about a product recall or someone just wanting to send a single letter to grandma, we’ve got you. And, our online platform is a breeze to use. You can easily upload a job in 2 minutes or less, choose different paper and envelope types and it allows for real-time tracking of your mailings with no signup or monthly fees and no order minimums. You literally just pay for what you want to send.

Oh, and you shouldn’t have any issues when using us but if you do run into any or have questions, we have a very knowledgeable chatbot that is available 24/7 to help you out and of course our awesome customer support team is on hand as well. Not much usually comes up for our customers because we offer the option to pause, stop or shred a job from inside your online portal, but we are here if you need us.

Some more of our benefits include:

Amazing speed! 99% of jobs are mailed by next business day, with many mailed the same day we receive it
See instant, real-time proof of your mailings
Easily add reply envelopes or additional inserts to a mailing
Create your mailing anytime, day or night
Find any mail piece you ever sent by name or address
Certified Mail and FedEx 2Day tracking stored indefinitely in your account
Receive an email notification when your job is mailed

We offer a variety of products including First-Class Mail, Certified Mail, FedEx 2Day, Registered Mail, HOA Annual Meeting Notice packets, postcards and more.

Tips for Using a Print and Mail Service

If you’ve decided to use us, great! Either way, once you’ve decided to outsource your print and mail services, there are some tips to keep in mind for making the most out of their services:

Organize Your Documents

Before uploading your documents, make sure they are properly organized. This will save you time and prevent any mistakes during the printing and mailing process.

Proper organization also includes ensuring your documents are formatted correctly and meet any specifications required by the service. Double-check that all files are in the correct format and resolution to avoid any printing issues.

If you create a free LetterStream account then you have access to our free PDF tool, which helps you double-check address placements and errors before uploading your documents.

Double Check Addresses

by Jonathan Kemper

When sending important documents, it’s crucial to double-check the recipient’s address as any errors in the address could result in the mail being returned to you.

Taking the time to verify addresses can prevent delays and additional costs associated with returned or misdelivered mail. Many print and mail services offer address validation tools, so take advantage of these features to ensure accuracy. To answer your question, of course, LetterStream offers this service. We call it the Address List Cleanup (CASS) tool, which you can learn more about here.

Optimize Printing and Mailing Frequency

To save time and costs, consider optimizing your printing and mailing frequency. Instead of sending one document at a time, batch them together and send them in one mailing. Scheduling regular mailings, such as monthly invoices or quarterly newsletters, can help streamline your operations.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right print and mail service is an important decision for any business. Consider the factors mentioned above and choose a service that best meets your needs and budget. With the right print and mail service, you can save time, money, and resources, and ensure that your important documents are delivered securely and on time.

To learn more about how LetterStream can help you with your print and mail needs, sign up for a free account, with no hidden or monthly fees, here.

Elvis Presley and How to Return Mail to Sender

A story from the Letterman about return mail all thanks to a classic song…

It was a busy day of making mail and innovating today. I traveled to multiple facilities and had a brief celebration of our most recent quarter. I gave a Starbucks card and a high-five to our team leader, who produced the most pieces of mail for the month and watched as we spooled up a new process of shipping pallets of mail to send across the country for speedier mail delivery.

To give a little context, my family is out of town and I’m sitting in an Italian restaurant that is open late, having a little desert and writing blog posts about mail.

Is this not how everyone spends their Friday night? Or is that just me?

Anyway, Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin had been playing to set the mood of fine dining. I’m in the zone, cranking out blog posts and savoring affogatos after experiencing a wonderful day in the factories. As if it wasn’t already going great, the icing on the cake was when Elvis Presley came up in the playlist singing, get ready for it… Return to Sender. Now, to most, this would simply mean a great Elvis Presley song was playing. To a Letterman, however, this was gold. Could a day be any better?!

Elvis Presley and Mail

In case you might not be aware of what the song is, here is a little overview and some of the lyrics I got to listen to while celebrating a fantastic day of mail:

According to Wikipedia, “Return to Sender” is a song recorded by American singer Elvis Presley and performed in the film Girls! Girls! Girls!. The song was written by Winfield Scott and Otis Blackwell to suit Presley’s rock and roll musical style. The singer laments his relationship with a spiteful partner. Released on October 2, 1962, and published by Elvis Presley Music, the song became a commercial hit and received praise for its lyricism and melody.”

Lyrics:

I gave a letter to the postman

He put it in his sack

Bright early next morning

He brought my letter back

Return to sender, address unknown

No such number, no such zone

We had a quarrel, a lover’s spat

I write I’m sorry, but my letter keeps coming back,

address unknown

How timeless are the words from the king of rock and roll?

Return Mail That Isn’t Yours

Ok, but let’s talk about this for a minute. Granted the song is about two people who knew each other and one writes the words Return to Sender as if they don’t live there anymore, but I ponder the thought of mail ending up at the wrong location.

Which brings up the question: How often do we get a piece of mail that doesn’t belong to us?

As a recipient of mail myself, it’s a scenario I’ve encountered more times than I can count due to the United States Postal Service. There’s a certain curiosity that accompanies the moment when you realize the letter in your hand is addressed to someone else—a mix of intrigue and responsibility. It’s also a reminder that even in our digital age, the tangible exchange of snail mail still holds a place of significance in our lives.

When faced with this situation, my first instinct is always to do what’s right—to ensure that the first-class letter finds its rightful owner. It’s a simple act of kindness, but one that carries weight and importance. After all, behind every piece of mail is a story, a connection waiting to be made, even.

Returning the letter to its sender is not just a matter of correcting a mistake—it’s an act of respect and consideration. It’s about honoring the privacy of the individual to whom the letter was intended and upholding the integrity of the postal system.

How to Return Mail/Send a Letter Back?

But returning a letter isn’t always straightforward. Sometimes, there are no clear indications of the sender’s identity, and I’m left to rely on my instincts and intuition. It’s a process that requires patience and persistence, but one that’s ultimately rewarding.

Here are some helpful tips on how to return mail that was sent to the wrong address or if the person no longer lives there.

On the envelope write the words “Return to Sender” or “Not at this address.”
If there is a barcode on the # 10 envelope, cross that out to help ensure it doesn’t come back to you again.
Put the mailpiece back in your mailbox, an outgoing collection mailbox or you can hand it back to your postal worker or mailman the next time you see them.
If placed back in your mailbox and you have the option, put the red flag up, indicating you have outgoing mail.

On that note, if you’re sending a letter a bulk mailing that’s considered important, you may want to consider sending it in a way where you can track it. On our LetterStream website, we offer the ability to track your letters right inside of your online portable. So, if you’re sending Certified Mail, Registered Mail (international only) or FedEx 2Day letters allowing you to see if they were delivered, signed for or undeliverable. Just something to keep in mind so this doesn’t happen to you.

Return to sender written in red ink for return mail

There’s a sense of satisfaction that comes from knowing that I’ve played a small part in ensuring that a piece of mail reaches its intended destination. So the next time you find yourself holding a letter that wasn’t meant for you, remember the importance of kindness and consideration. By returning the letter to its sender, it extends a helping hand to a stranger, even in the simplest of ways.

As I wrap up this blog and my time here at the Italian restaurant, I can’t help but secretly hope that anyone who reads this post will now think of us here at LetterStream every time they hear Elvis Preseley’s Return to Sender.

Now Available! Send Registered Mail Through LetterStream

We’re excited to announce that sending Registered Mail online is now available in your online portal. If you’re a company or someone who is required to send letters internationally with tracking then this product is definitely for you. We’ll dive into what Registered Mail is, the reality of sending letters this way, alternative options and how to access this feature in your account. Let’s dive in!

What is Registered Mail?

If you’re not sure what Registered Mail is here’s a quick overview:

USPS Registered Mail is basically like sending Certified Mail except it’s to international locations. You are supposed to get proof of mailing, a unique tracking code, proof of delivery and a signature confirmation upon delivery.

Now, here’s the thing, it is technically considered to be a more secure process than Certified Mail tracking is. With Registered Mail tracking the sender can potentially get more progress updates than one would if sending a Certified letter. Tracking Registered Mail is considered to be a more in-depth process. A Registered letter can be tracked from the beginning, starting with the person at the USPS Post Office, then to each location it arrives at and when, to its delivery status, delivery confirmation and recipient signature.

Sending A Registered Letter Isn’t For Everyone

With that being said, we want to be completely up-front and transparent about this new product offering. We go more in-depth about it on our blog post here, but the reality behind sending Registered Mail is that it actually isn’t as secure as the USPS claims it to be especially when sending to international addresses. After our part is done it gets sent to the Post Office and then shipped out from there. Once the letter lands in the destination country, a new courier is responsible for delivery. Because of that they may or may not follow the proper protocols and that is beyond our control.

Something else to keep in mind, the delivery timeframe can take a very long time, the cost is a lot higher (more on those later) and a signature confirmation is also NOT guaranteed.

Again, we’re only stating all of this because we want to make sure you’re aware of what to expect when sending your letters this way.

Ok, now let’s get more into the details of sending a registered letter.

The Pink Slip

Registered Mail pink slip on an envelope of an international letter

If you’ve never heard of a pink slip in the mailing world than let us explain. A Registered letter pink slip is the equivalent of a Certified Mail green card (which is also known as a Return Receipt or an Electronic Return Receipt). The pink slip is placed on the back side of a mailing envelope. It covers the envelope flap to help secure the mailing. The Post Office will also stamp on and around both the pink slip and the envelope flap so that the sender and receiver can see if either has been tampered with. Again, this is not guaranteed but it is essentially what is supposed to take place.

Registered Mail Cost

Let’s briefly talk about price. It’s important to know that the cost of sending a Registered letter is on the higher end, especially compared to sending regular mail. Since Registered Mail is sent internationally, the location changes the cost of sending it. When sending through LetterStream, the price for sending Registered Mail starts at $30 and goes up from there. Not so great, we know.

Delivery Time

Ok, here’s the other not-so-great part. Sending a Registered letter can take a while to get to its destination. Again, this all depends on the location the letter is being sent to but it’s important to note that it can take a long time for a letter to arrive. How long you ask? It can take, on average, 15 days (about 2 weeks) to be delivered but it can also take anywhere from 6-8 weeks (about 2 months). And yes, you did, in fact, read that correctly.

If you have to send a letter internationally then Registered Mail is for you. However, if you’re looking to send a secure letter within the US then USPS Certified Mail is absolutely the way to go.

Access Registered Mail in Your LetterStream Account

To send a Registered letter online through LetterStream, simply login to your online portal (if you’re new you can create a free account here) and click on ”Send Letters.”

On the right-hand side there will be a section called “I would like my mailing sent” and below that you can choose to send your letter as Registered Mail. You can then go through the process of uploading a job to the website and proofing it. From there we handle the rest, including the printing, stuffing and mailing. After your letter is sent you can go back into your account and track the process of it. Keep in mind, that only 15 sheets of paper can be sent in each Registered envelope.

Although Registered Mail is the most obvious choice when you’re required to send mail internationally with tracking, it is important to remember that the process can be more promising than it seems. Unfortunately, tracking, signature confirmation, and delivery are not actually guaranteed. Sometimes the tracking is behind or it doesn’t actually track throughout the entire process. Sometimes you may not actually receive a signature confirmation and like we mentioned above, sometimes it can take a really, really long time to arrive at its destination.

With that said, we don’t recommend using Registered Mail unless it’s an absolute must and, in that case, we’re happy to offer this product to you.

To learn more about Registered Mail click here and to learn more about Certified Mail service with USPS tracking click here.

How to Seed Your Mailing List and Marketing Campaign

In the world of mailing, first impressions are often the most impactful. When sending a letter online the expectation is that your recipient opens their mailbox, retrieves your letter, and takes in its contents. This moment is crucial and we recognize the significance in that. Hence why we’re huge advocates of customers seeding their mailing campaigns a practice that may seem a bit unconventional coming from a printing and mailing company.

What is Seed Mailing?

Seed mailing or a seed mailing list is a simple yet powerful strategy that allows you to monitor the performance of your mailing provider. Essentially, it involves adding your own address or the addresses of friends and colleagues to your USPS mailing list. By doing so, you receive a copy of the mail piece alongside your intended recipients. This simple yet effective strategy offers firsthand insight into how your mailings are handled and delivered.

Benefits of A Seed List

As we mentioned above, we champion for our customers to seed their list, for numerous reasons. Firstly, it provides a comprehensive understanding of your mailing provider’s performance. By witnessing the journey of your mail piece yourself, from creation to delivery, you can assess its quality and efficiency and if it actually makes it to you in general.

Secondly, seeding your mailing list isn’t just about monitoring—it’s also about gaining confidence when sending to your marketing mailing list through USPS First-Class Mail or when sending community announcements for Homeowner Association Mailings, important notices or legal notices sent via Certified Mail. Basically, seeding offers reassurance by confirming delivery. It’s a proactive step towards ensuring accuracy and reliability in your messaging.

Check-In on Speed and Efficiency

Now that we got through all of that, let’s talk about expediting your USPS mailing online using LetterStream. There are several strategies you can use to streamline the process. One approach is to include your own name and address in the CSV file or merged file used for your mailing. This ensures that you receive a copy of the mail piece alongside your recipients.

A second option would be to utilize a seamless solution we offer in our online platform. When you’re in your account you can simply click the “Add Additional Recipient” button and type in your information to include your address directly. It’s super easy to do, just look at the screenshot below.

Add New Address

Empowering Your Mailing Campaigns

Seeding your mail job isn’t just a precautionary measure for quality control—it’s an opportunity to gain invaluable insights into your communication strategy. By proactively monitoring and optimizing your mailings you can guarantee that each communication is able to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re sending community updates, business announcements, or promotional materials to a mailing list for marketing, seeding empowers you to refine your approach and maximize your impact.

Seed Your Mail With LetterStream

Just remember in the world of communication that will live on, every detail matters. Seeding your mailing campaigns with LetterStream is about empowering your small business or company. By taking proactive steps when you mail letters, you can then take your communication strategy to new heights. So go ahead, embrace the power of seeding, and unlock the full potential of your mailing campaigns with LetterStream.

Get to Know LetterStream’s Pricing to Send a Letter Online

A quality we really pride ourselves in over here at LetterStream is understanding that transparency is a key component when it comes to choosing a solution to print and mail out your letters, along with one that fits seamlessly into your budget.

Recently we received an excellent question from one of our valued customers. They were asking about the monthly and yearly costs associated with our services. Although our pricing is pretty simple, we figured it would be beneficial to break it down a bit more here on the blog for our current customers and potential new customers to help alleviate any confusion.

So, let’s dive into it.

Our Pricing Philosophy: Free Access, Only Pay for Mailings – What?!

We’re extremely proud to offer a straightforward pricing model for our services based on USPS mail prices. If you’re wondering about the price to send a letter through LetterStream, keep on reading.

Our basic services come with zero monthly or annual fees – that’s right, it’s absolutely FREE to access our website and experiment with all the mail-making features.

And no, this isn’t a joke, we promise. You only incur costs when you have a specific mailing job. So, if you don’t send mail in a given month, you won’t pay a dime. It’s really that simple.

Mailing Costs: Affordable and Customizable

Ok, let’s talk about the price of mailing a letter and the costs associated with it. When it comes to printing and mailing online, we keep the costs simple.

For instance, sending a one-page letter printed in black ink on 8.5″ x 11″ and mailed via USPS First-Class Mail starts at $1.13 each. Similarly, if you want to send Certified Mail via the USPS, those start at $7.34. You can also send USPS Certified Mail with an electronic mailing receipt for an added price. If you’re looking for super fast delivery that’s where FedEx 2Day comes into play and starts at only $13.50. We also have cheaper options where you can easily send a postcard that will cost you a mere $.78.

Basically, it’s a pay-as-you-go system, ensuring that you only pay for the mailings you send.

Try Before You Buy

We encourage you to give our print and mail services a try – for free! Here’s an extra perk we forgot to mention. No credit card is needed to experience the full functionality of our website. It’s so simple to take advantage of our easy-to-use interface, explore the advanced features, and see if LetterStream meets your needs.

We purposefully designed our pricing model with simplicity, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness in mind.

Additional Features

Now that we’ve covered our free pricing subscription (again mailing cost and service of sending a job only), let’s dive a little bit deeper. We take pride in offering more than just mailing services. Our platform is equipped with several additional features to enhance your experience when you sign up:

Trained AI Chatbot to answer questions 24/7. Although this one is available on our website in the bottom right-hand corner even if you aren’t a member.
Traditional help pages and videos are instantly available.
Multiple-user access.
Various user-access roles.
Reporting offered by user, department and job type.
Mailing jobs guaranteed to go out on time.
Easy-to-use interface.
Different types of perforated/perf paper to select from.
Return envelope options.
Can accommodate all types of jobs, including Fist-Class Mail, Certified Mail, FedEx, Postcards, Registered Mail and Flats.
Easy-to-use ‘Search’ feature to find any job or recipient that you’ve mailed to.
And, of course, our extreme commitment to excellence to serve our customers.

For an added cost, here are some more advanced options that can be accessed:

Load a document of variable page count per recipient and we’ll sort it out for you.
Address List Cleanup to help reduce undeliverable mail.
Ability to send an email copy in addition to a letter for $0.20.

If you’re visiting us for the first time and want to get in on all the cool features we offer and to help you get your mailings out the door, then comment below for a new customer promo code to get $10 free added to your account to test out sending a letter online.

To learn more about Certified Mail prices, First-Class Mail prices and other services we offer, click here.

How to Proof Your Letters When Sending Mail Online

Here’s something fun for you to do on your next printing and mailing job, spend a few extra moments reviewing online proofs of your mail!

Ok, just kidding, that’s not actually the most fun thing at all. In fact, sometimes it’s downright painful for people, so much so that they just skip the process. But trust us it’s something you’ll want to start doing when you send mail online because your end product will then be sent out perfectly.

Take the time to review your letters

It’s really important to take the time to look over your proof before you zip through to checkout. In fact, it’s so important that just last year we spent some time making the link to view your proofs more prominent, in an effort to remind you to review the documents you uploaded before sending out your snail mail.

Right before you get to the checkout screen, on the right-hand side, there is a blue ‘View‘ button. This button appears next to each person you send mail to, allowing you to view each one.

Fun fact: behind-the-scenes we like to call it the Little Blue Button. We started calling it that one day when talking about improving our process for it and the name has stuck ever since.

Screenshots of the LetterStream online customer portal that showcases where the proof button is located.

Ok, back to it. Look, the truth is, we get it. When you’ve finished uploading your documents and are done with this portion of your work, getting the ‘Order Acceptance‘ email from LetterStream is exciting because you know your part of the process is over. It also means your mailing is moments away from cruising through LetterStream’s crazy, fast production facility. However, it’s important to note that just because you were quick to get that “order acceptance’ email, doesn’t mean you were quite ready to send it or that it was actually ready to go on your end.

Truth is, we need some help from you to make certain your job is fully ready to print and mail.

Oops, mistakes were made

As much as we like talking to and helping our customers, we also like to save them time. Here are some popular and frequent emails our Customer Support team takes after a job has been mailed that showcase why it’s a good idea to check your proofs:

“Argh! I forgot to add my return envelope, it is too late to add it in now?”

“Oops! I forgot to specify that I wanted my flier printed in color. What do I do now?”

“Yikes, I forgot to run the letter past the CFO and mailed out the wrong prices!”

As you know, we like to help our customers make the very best impression possible when using our online printing and mailing service, but we also like to go really, really fast, which everyone likes. If your mailing has mistakes in it, then that means we have to stop production on it and possibly even shred a job. In short, this just adds more time to the process.

Things to look out for when viewing your proofs

different samples of proofs of letters that are to be mailed and printed by LetterStream. First-class letters and #10 envelopes included.

In order to avoid having to use our Chatbot on our website (although it is a great tool to utlize that’s availabe 24/7) or contact customer service to make changes to a job, here are some things that you might want to check for before the final submission that will be helpful to both you, the customer, and us here at LetterStream.

Ask yourself:

is my return address correct?
are all pages and envelopes included?
did I include the correct mailing list of addresses?
am I using the most up-to-date information?
are all dates/phone numbers on my documents correct?
are the amounts in the document correct and properly formatted?
do my addresses all seem to be properly formatted?
Did I make sure to choose the correct type of mailing, like USPS First-Class Mail, USPS Certified Mail or Certified Mail with Electronic Return Receipt for USPS tracking?

Many other items need to be examined for a perfect mailing, but the questions above might be a good place to start. Then maybe you can create a list of ‘things to double check’ when it comes to mailing a letter.

After all, being a printing and mailing company, we like it as much as you do when your mail goes out fast and perfect! So, while the proofing task isn’t the most fun, it’s really is fun to know that you’ve just completed another perfect mailing online!