Our FAQ'S

A. For the first time ever, the Postal Service will allow non-rectangular items to be mailed direct and without an envelope. This new classification is called CMM - Customized MarketMail. And ShipShapes takes full advantage of the new rules.

A. No. the plastic substrate that makes ShipShapes possible is waterproof, heat- and cold-proof and snaps back to its normal flat shape even after it's been flexed. So your mailing will arrive undamaged for maximum impact.

A. Why? Because we requested it! We created ShipShapes to be a whole new form of direct mail, then applied for a patent and petitioned the Postal Service to create new standards to accommodate it. You can be sure that ShipShapes satisfies postal regulations because we helped specify them!

A. ShipShapes must be between 3.5"x 5"x 0.007" and 12"x 15"x 0.75" or approximately the size of a large manila envelope. They're made using a specifically engineered plastic that can bend and be die-cut into unusual shapes. Because it's so durable, it arrives in "ship shape" - hence our name. All pieces must be 3.3 ounces or less to qualify.

A. ShipShapes are a revolution in effectiveness for both B2B and B2C communications. If you have "A" list prospects and clients you want to engage with an unforgettable message, ShipShapes is the perfect channel to reach them.

A. Most ShipShapes CMM mailers will sell for less than two dollars, including the 0.461 cent postage charge ($0.330 for Non-Profit postage), depending on the size of the order (minimum run 1,000 pieces) and the zip code saturation of the mail list.

A. The finished product will be drop-shipped to regional distribution centers within the postal system. The approximate time from production to delivery is 2 to 3 weeks.

A. Another Postal Service first from ShipShapes - a clear plastic post card processed as an automated flat. We use our durable, transparent plastic substrate and you provide the art.

A. ClearCards can be as small as 5" x 5", or as large as 15" x 12". As durable as any ShipShapes piece, they are machinable flats in accordance with USPS standards. So, whether you decide to utilize bulk mail rates, or first class postage, your message is sure to arrive in "ship shape".

A. Scoring is an added feature that can be applied to the ClearCard, If you would like to provide a loyalty card, coupon, redemption piece, or other form of plastic card with your offer, ClearCard is clearly the way to go. Get it in the hands of your target market without envelopes or attachments. The card becomes a part of the direct mail piece. Keep it in their hand and out of the trash.

A. Mail campaigns in excess of 10,000 pieces are traditionally less than $1.00 to print and mail. Price varies with the dimensions of the mailer and the zip code saturation of the mailing list. The outstanding ROI and lift rates of a ShipShapes ClearCard campaign will get you noticed.

A. The finished product is mailed as an automated flat in the postal system. The approximate time from production to mail drop is 7 business days.

A. Customized MarketMail service allows you to avoid enclosing non-rectangular, die-cut pieces in an envelope or box. This eliminates the costs incurred designing a container for your message while differentiating your message and making it immediately visible.

A. Each Customized MarketMail piece must bear the appropriate carrier release endorsement, indicating that a deliverable Customized MarketMail piece is to be left in a safe location near the recipient's mailbox.

A. You may include coupons or premium offers within Customized MarketMail pieces, subject to current Postal Service requirements. These items may be attached to the outside of Customized MarketMail pieces as long as the attachments are no more than 1/4 inch in thickness.

A. Customized MarketMail must be transported to a Destination Delivery Unit (DDU)-the facility where the mail will be sorted for delivery by the mail carrier. You can ship them there via Priority Mail ® or Express Mail ® services or you or your agent can take them directly to the DDU. Upon arrival, Customized MarketMail pieces are sorted and prepared for delivery by the letter carrier. Each time you plan to mail Customized MarketMail pieces, you must mail at least 200 pieces per mailing, but not all 200 pieces must be for the same DDU.

A. Extra services such as Address Correction service or Delivery Confirmation service are not available with Customized MarketMail service. Deliverable mail pieces will be left at the address, while mail that is undeliverable as addressed will be discarded. Each Customized MarketMail piece must be addressed using a complete delivery address with the addressee shown in one of three formats: name, name plus "or current resident" or simply "occupant" with no name. As with any mailing, an updated and complete customer mail file is important to ensure your message reaches your desired target.

A. Yes. Customized MarketMail pieces may weigh no more than 3.3 ounces. Pieces may be from 3-1/2 to 12 inches high and from 5 to 15 inches long. The length is the distance between the two outermost points. Pieces can, of course, be perfectly square or round, with the same height and length. Pieces need not be uniform in thickness, but must be no less than .007 inch at the thinnest point and no more than 3/4 inch at the thickest point, including attachments.