Understanding the USPS EDDM Map Tool and How to Use It

Understanding the USPS EDDM Map Tool and How to Use It

The USPS Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) Map Tool is a feature provided by the U.S. Postal Service to help businesses plan, target, and execute direct mail campaigns with precision. EDDM is an affordable and effective marketing tool that allows businesses to reach potential customers within specific geographic areas without needing a mailing list. The tool is designed to streamline the process of selecting postal routes, estimating costs, and preparing your mail materials for delivery.

What is the USPS EDDM Map Tool?

The EDDM Map Tool is an online resource provided by USPS to simplify the task of targeting specific areas for direct mail campaigns. It enables business owners to identify suitable delivery routes based on demographic and geographic data, such as ZIP codes and neighborhoods. The tool also provides details on the approximate number of residences and businesses in each route, as well as the estimated cost for sending mail to those addresses.

Using this tool, businesses can select routes according to their marketing goals, whether it's reaching customers in a specific neighborhood, targeting certain age groups, or saturating an area with promotional materials. This makes it an excellent option for businesses of all sizes, from local mom-and-pop shops to larger enterprises, as it removes the need to purchase or maintain customer mailing lists.

How to Use the USPS EDDM Map Tool

Here's a step-by-step guide to using the USPS EDDM Map Tool effectively:

1. Access the EDDM Tool

Visit the USPS Every Door Direct Mail website and launch the EDDM Map Tool.

2. Enter Your Target Area

Start by entering a ZIP code, city, or specific address in the search bar. The map will display all the available postal routes in the area you’ve selected.

3. Analyze the Routes

The tool will highlight the postal routes in the chosen area. You can click on individual routes to see detailed information, including the number of residential and business addresses served, age ranges, and the estimated cost for delivering mail to those addresses.

4. Filter by Demographics (Optional)

If your campaign targets particular demographics, you can apply filters to refine your route selection. For example, you can focus on age groups, income levels, or even delivery type (e.g., residential or business).

5. Calculate Costs and Plan Your Budget

Once you’ve selected the desired routes, the tool will calculate the total estimated cost for your campaign based on the number of mail pieces being sent and their dimensions. The current USPS EDDM rates will be factored in.

6. Finalize Your Selection

After reviewing your selections, finalize your chosen routes. You can then print a summary of the delivery details, which includes the route information, number of stops, and cost breakdown.

7. Prepare EDDM Paperwork

The tool also provides you with the necessary forms and labels to accompany your mailing. These include the USPS EDDM Retail Form PS Form 3587, which specifies your mail job's details.

8. Drop Off Your Mail

With your materials prepared (more on this later), all that’s left is to bundle your mail pieces correctly, attach the route paperwork, and bring them to the designated USPS entry point for processing.

How BlockbusterPrint.com Can Help with Your EDDM Mail Job

Once you’ve selected your EDDM routes and planned your campaign, you'll need a reliable printing and mailing partner to ensure your materials meet USPS guidelines and make the strongest impression on recipients. BlockbusterPrint.com provides comprehensive EDDM services designed to simplify the entire process and deliver high-quality results.

What Does BlockbusterPrint.com Offer?

1. Professional Printing

BlockbusterPrint.com specializes in producing high-quality EDDM postcards and flyers designed to captivate your target audience. From vibrant colors to durable materials, their printing services emphasize professionalism and quality.

2. USPS-Approved Formats

One of the key requirements for an EDDM campaign is ensuring all mail pieces adhere to USPS size and weight regulations. BlockbusterPrint.com ensures all materials are compliant, so you don't have to worry about rejections or additional costs due to incorrect formatting.

3. Design Assistance

Need help creating eye-catching designs? BlockbusterPrint.com offers professional design services to craft visually compelling postcards or flyers that effectively communicate your message. The goal is to grab attention and encourage action, such as visiting your store or website.

4. Mailing Bundling and Delivery Preparation

Preparing your mail job according to USPS bundling and labeling requirements can be time-consuming. BlockbusterPrint.com takes care of this for you, ensuring your mail job is properly bundled, labeled, and ready for drop-off without any hassle.

5. Convenient and Fast Turnaround

Time is critical for any marketing campaign. BlockbusterPrint.com offers fast turnaround times, ensuring your materials are printed, prepared, and shipped promptly so you can meet your deadlines.

6. Affordable Pricing

Direct mail is already one of the most cost-effective forms of advertising, and BlockbusterPrint.com ensures competitive pricing for their services to fit within your campaign budget.

How the Process Works with BlockbusterPrint.com

1. Choose Your Product

Select your preferred EDDM mail product on their website, such as postcards or flyers. You'll find options for various sizes, paper types, and finishes to suit your campaign's needs.

2. Upload Your Design

If you already have a design, simply upload your artwork to their platform. Don’t worry if you’re unfamiliar with EDDM size requirements—they provide templates and guidelines to help you prepare your design correctly.

3. Specify Your Routes

Provide the routes you’ve chosen using the USPS EDDM Map Tool. BlockbusterPrint.com will ensure your materials are prepared for each route accordingly.

4. Review and Approve

Before printing, you’ll receive a proof of your design. This gives you the chance to review your mail piece and make any necessary adjustments.

5. Sit Back and Relax

Once approved, BlockbusterPrint.com will handle the rest—from printing to bundling and preparing your mail job. You can either receive your completed bundles for drop-off at USPS yourself or have BlockbusterPrint.com send them directly to the closest USPS entry point.

The Benefits of Partnering with BlockbusterPrint.com

By working with BlockbusterPrint.com, you’re not just purchasing a service—you’re gaining a partner in your direct mail campaign. Their expertise in EDDM campaigns helps alleviate the stress and allows you to focus on your business while they handle the logistics. From improving your mail design to ensuring timely delivery, they simplify every step of the process and make your campaign a success.

Final Thoughts

The USPS EDDM Map Tool is an invaluable resource for businesses looking to reach local audiences effectively and affordably. By leveraging its capabilities, you can plan a targeted mail campaign that aligns with your goals. When paired with the expert services of BlockbusterPrint.com, you have everything you need for a seamless and impactful mailing campaign that connects with your customers and drives results.