BULK MAIL REQUIREMENTS

Standard Class Bulk Business Mail (formerly 3rd Class) is one of the most economical methods of sending printed material through the U.S. Postal Service.  Due to worksharing incentives (Mail Services verifies zip codes, barcodes, and sorts the mailings), postal handling is reduced. This results in a reduced postage rate.

Effective 10/6/96: All zip codes must be verified for accuracy. This can be done by running your address database through USPS approved verification software (see the section on Automated Mail) or by manually verifying each zip code with a current zip code directory (very labor-intensive).

To use UWEX Mail Services and meet the requirements for bulk Standard (3rd) class mail, these basic rules must be followed:

1. Material must be printed or duplicated only (no personalized material).
2. Single sheets must be pre-folded or sent in an envelope.
3. Mailing pieces included in a bulk mailing must be identical in size, weight, number of enclosures, and weigh under one (1) pound.
4. Each bulk mailing must include a minimum of 200 pieces (or 50 pounds if less than 200 pieces).
5. Each mailing piece must have an individual address with a complete five-digit zip code.
6. Return address must identify with the University of Wisconsin.
7. Postal endorsements (address correction requested, etc.) must be correctly formatted and located.
8. Each piece must have a permit indicia stamp, that is correctly formatted.  See sample below.
9. Mailing address and indicia (permit) stamp must face same direction on mailing panel.
10. No foreign addresses.

If you have any questions about these requirements, please call Bulk Mail at 262-9973.

Material with indicias (permit stamps) cannot be inserted into envelopes or flyers. Indicias must be covered or crossed out if inserted into other mailings.

Cooperative mailings with organizations that are not recognized by the USPS as non-profit organizations are prohibited.  Do not use non-profit permit 658 when doing cooperative mailings.  If you are doing mailings with other organizations (including other universities or government agencies), contact Mail Services for correct procedures.

There are strict restrictions on the use of advertising in non-profit publications. Contact Mail Services for details on the use of advertising in your publication.

University of Wisconsin Bulk Business Mail Permit
(a.k.a. "The Indicia")

There are many different rates for Standard class bulk mail. The rates most frequently used by U.W. departments are listed below.

*Letters must be between 3¹/₂" high x 5" long minimum, and 6¹/₈" high X 10¹/₂" long maximum, with an aspect ratio (length divided by height) between 1.3 and 2.5.  Material must have a thickness of between .007 inches minimum and 1/4 inch maximum (templates are available from Mail Services).
* Pieces larger than letter size are considered Flats.

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