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Hero Image for Lob Deep Dives Blog PostWhat should I look for in a direct mail vendor?Direct Mail Q&A's
Direct Mail Q&A's
August 25, 2025

What should I look for in a direct mail vendor?

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Lob

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Today’s best direct mail vendors do more than print and ship. They integrate with your systems, automate your ongoing output, and provide visibility every step of the way. From data to delivery, the right partner helps you streamline operations, improve performance, and scale with confidence.

Here’s what to look for when evaluating a vendor.

Easy integration with your existing tools

Your vendor should connect directly to your CRM, CDP, or marketing automation platform — so you can trigger mail just like email or SMS. APIs and native integrations reduce manual work and ensure consistent targeting.

Workflow automation

Look for workflow tools that let you build, launch, and schedule mail without heavy ops lift. The ability to set triggers, run A/B tests, and manage creative templates in one place is a must for modern teams.

Flexible print and fulfillment at scale

Whether you’re sending a few thousand pieces or millions, your vendor should support a wide range of formats and offer solutions like distributed printing for speed and redundancy. Variable data support ensures every piece is personalized and production-ready.

Real-time tracking and delivery insights

Visibility matters. Your vendor should offer delivery tracking, performance dashboards, and webhooks so you can monitor engagement and optimize your campaigns in real time.

Direct mail expertise and operational support

The best vendors do more than provide tools – they offer guidance. Look for a partner that can help you navigate USPS rules, optimize costs, and continuously improve your strategy.

Choosing a vendor with end-to-end capabilities ensures your campaigns are efficient, effective, and future-proof. Want to see what that looks like in action? Follow a mailpiece through every step of its journey.

FAQs

Answered by:

Eamon Barisone,

Eamon Barisone,

Principal Solutions Engineer

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