Looking for a printing company to print your direct mail pieces? If so, there are some things you need to know when shopping for a print shop. You can’t just hire the first print shop you come across with. If you want to ensure that your postcard, letter, or catalog printing goes well, it’s important that you consider the following guide. It will help you understand the process necessary to finding the right printing company:

- Plan ahead. Direct mail marketing is not a one step process. It requires careful planning in order to make the entire designing, printing, and mailing process successful. In most cases, several people will be involved in the process, so you need to make sure everything is going on smoothly.

- It’s important to consider the content. You have to ensure that your direct mail materials are not only designed well but contain informative content. If you aren’t well trained in content writing, you can always hire a professional write to do it for you.

- Have a good mailing list. You can’t just mail your materials to just about everyone. If you want to get a good result, be sure to create a targeted mailing list. If the printer doesn’t offer a list tailored to your need, you can always look for a reliable list broker.

- Look at the printing techniques offered by the printer. It’s vital that you check which printing technique is offered by the company. Do they offer digital printing, offset printing, or a combination of the two? Digital printing allows you to print small quantities in just a short time whole offset printing is ideal for large print jobs. Be sure to ask the printer which technique will fit your printing technique effectively.

- You need to look at the qualifications of the people who work for the printer. Do their designers and printers have the right skill and qualification for the job? Do they have enough experience? You need to also look at how the staff relate with customers. Are they attentive to your needs? Do they help in solving your printing problems?

- Look at the finishing touches offered. It’s important that your postcard or catalog templates look as catchy and impressive as possible. One great way to achieve this is through good finishing. You can always choose to have a glossy or matte finish depending on your need.

- Consider also the kinds of folding available. If you need your direct mail pieces folder, you need to consider what types of fold the printer offer. For instance, if you want a tri fold brochure, will they be able to provide it?

- Find out if the printer offers mailing services. There are some printing companies that include mailing in their package. If you want the printer to do the mailing for you, you need to check with them about this service. Ask if you need to pay extra or the mailing service is part of their package. You need to also ask if they will accept your own mailing list.

With the right printing company, it would be so much easier for you to create the direct mail materials perfect for your marketing need. Be sure to shop around and compare prices so you get to save a lot of your marketing dollars.


Kathleen Bailey is an author who likes writing about catalog printing. Her articles will help you to find the best catalog templates ever.