Eddm Cost Calculator

by

EDDM Cost Calculator

Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) by USPS is a cost-effective way to reach local households without the hassle of mailing lists. However, planning an EDDM campaign can be challenging when estimating costs for postage, printing, and bundling services. That’s where the EDDM Cost Calculator comes in. This intuitive tool helps businesses, marketers, and small business owners accurately calculate campaign costs, ensuring your budget aligns with your marketing goals.

Whether you’re sending postcards, flats, or large mailers, our calculator gives you a clear breakdown of your total costs, cost per piece, and households reached.

What Is the EDDM Cost Calculator?

The EDDM Cost Calculator is an online tool designed to simplify the process of budgeting for USPS Every Door Direct Mail campaigns. It helps you estimate costs for:

  • Postage – Based on mailpiece size, weight, and USPS pricing.
  • Printing – Costs for basic or premium printing, adjusted for paper stock and quantity.
  • Bundling Services – Optional professional bundling for easier USPS submission.

This calculator allows you to make informed decisions before launching your campaign, saving both time and money.

How to Use the EDDM Cost Calculator

Using the calculator is straightforward and requires minimal input. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Enter the Number of Mailpieces

Input the total quantity of mailpieces you plan to send. Note that USPS requires a minimum of 200 mailpieces for EDDM campaigns.

Step 2: Select Mailpiece Size

Choose the size of your mailpiece from three options:

  • Flat (6.125" x 11.5") – Standard size for brochures or letters.
  • Postcard (4.25" x 6") – Ideal for short promotions or announcements.
  • Large Flat (12" x 15") – For oversized marketing materials.

Step 3: Choose Mailpiece Weight

Select the weight category for your mailpiece:

  • Less than 3.3 oz – Lightweight options like postcards.
  • 3.3 – 3.5 oz – Standard flats with heavier paper.
  • Over 3.5 oz – Heavier materials, premium brochures, or thicker cardstock.

Step 4: Select Printing Options

Choose how your materials will be printed:

  • Already Printed – If your mailpieces are ready to go.
  • Basic Print (4/4 Color) – Affordable, standard printing.
  • Premium Print (UV Coating) – High-quality print with a glossy finish for a professional look.

Step 5: Choose Paper Stock

Select the paper thickness for your campaign:

  • 80lb Gloss Text – Lightweight, economical option.
  • 100lb Gloss Cover – Standard choice for durable and professional prints.
  • 14pt Cardstock – Heavyweight cardstock for premium feel.

Step 6: Select Bundling Service

Decide whether you need USPS bundling services:

  • Self Bundle – You handle bundling for submission.
  • Professional Bundling – Bundling is included in your cost for convenience.

Step 7: Calculate Costs

Click Calculate to generate a detailed cost breakdown:

  • USPS Postage – Total postage based on your selection.
  • Printing Cost – Total cost for your chosen printing option and paper stock.
  • Bundling Service Cost – Optional service fees for professional bundling.
  • Total Cost – Combined total of all expenses.
  • Cost Per Piece – How much each mailpiece costs.
  • Mailpieces & Households Reached – Quantifies the reach of your campaign.

Example: Using the EDDM Calculator

Suppose you plan to send 1,000 standard flats (6.125" x 11.5") weighing less than 3.3 oz, printed with basic 4/4 color on 100lb Gloss Cover, and include professional bundling:

  1. Enter 1,000 as the number of mailpieces.
  2. Select Flat for mail size.
  3. Select Less than 3.3 oz for weight.
  4. Choose Basic Print and 100lb Gloss Cover.
  5. Select Professional Bundling.
  6. Click Calculate.

The calculator provides a clear breakdown:

  • USPS Postage: $205.00
  • Printing Cost: $150.00
  • Bundling Cost: $20.00
  • Total Cost: $375.00
  • Cost Per Piece: $0.375
  • Mailpieces & Households Reached: 1,000

This allows you to see exactly what your campaign will cost and plan your budget effectively.

Benefits of Using the EDDM Cost Calculator

  1. Accurate Cost Estimates: Avoid surprises by calculating postage, printing, and bundling costs in advance.
  2. Time Efficiency: Quickly get a complete cost breakdown without manual calculations.
  3. Budget-Friendly Planning: Identify the most cost-effective options for your campaign.
  4. Customization: Adjust size, weight, printing, and paper stock based on your needs.
  5. Optimized Outreach: Know exactly how many households your campaign will reach.

Tips for Maximizing Your EDDM Campaign

  • Choose the Right Size: Select mailpiece sizes that match your message and target audience.
  • Optimize Printing: For large campaigns, bulk printing often reduces cost per piece.
  • Consider Bundling: Professional bundling saves time and ensures USPS compliance.
  • Track ROI: Monitor leads or responses from each campaign to optimize future mailings.
  • Test Campaigns: Start with a smaller batch to test engagement before scaling up.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What is the minimum number of mailpieces for EDDM?
    USPS requires at least 200 mailpieces per campaign.
  2. Can I calculate postage for postcards and flats?
    Yes, the calculator supports both postcards, standard flats, and large flats.
  3. Does paper weight affect the total cost?
    Yes, heavier paper increases printing costs slightly.
  4. Can I include premium printing?
    Yes, you can select premium UV-coated printing for a professional look.
  5. Is professional bundling required?
    No, it’s optional, but it simplifies USPS submission.
  6. How is cost per piece calculated?
    It’s the total cost divided by the number of mailpieces.
  7. Can this tool help plan multiple campaigns?
    Yes, adjust quantity and options to estimate different campaign scenarios.
  8. Do heavier mailpieces require more postage?
    Yes, mailpieces over 3.5 oz incur additional postage charges.
  9. Can I calculate costs for already printed mailpieces?
    Yes, select “Already Printed” to exclude printing costs.
  10. Does this calculator estimate household reach?
    Yes, the number of mailpieces generally equals households reached.
  11. Can I reset the calculator?
    Yes, click the Reset button to clear all inputs.
  12. Are discounts available for larger quantities?
    Printing costs per piece often decrease for larger quantities.
  13. Can I plan campaigns with multiple print options?
    Yes, calculate separately for each print type to compare costs.
  14. Is the calculator suitable for small businesses?
    Absolutely! It’s designed to help small and medium businesses budget effectively.
  15. Does it consider local USPS rates?
    The calculator uses standard EDDM USPS rates, suitable for most campaigns.

Conclusion

The EDDM Cost Calculator is an essential tool for businesses looking to maximize the efficiency of their direct mail marketing. By providing detailed cost breakdowns, per-piece pricing, and household reach estimates, it simplifies budgeting and ensures that your EDDM campaigns are cost-effective and well-planned.

Whether you’re a small business owner, a local marketer, or a seasoned direct mail professional, this tool saves time, reduces errors, and helps you confidently plan your marketing outreach.

Leave a Comment