A mailing list is a targeted compiled list of names and addresses for direct mailing purposes. On the internet, a mailing list includes the person’s email address rather than a postal address, which is also known as a “traditional” mailing list.
The success or failure of any direct mailing campaign relies on three main things – the message or creative, the offer, and the quality of the mailing list. You might have the best creative material with a very attractive offer, but if your mailing list is bad and inaccurate, your message will not get in front of your target audience.
When building a targeted mailing list, consider your audience, as you have a myriad of options for comprehensive, specialty and compiled lists. Mailing lists can be as basic as name and address in a specific zip code to age, race, religion, annual income and more. Depending upon the exact audience you want to reach, you can get very targeted and extremely specific.
Pricing of mailing lists vary depending upon how targeted you want to be. Cost also depends upon the amount of leads you’re wanting to mail to, as most list companies have volume based structures. This means the more leads you buy, the less expensive the list becomes per lead.
There are many companies online that offer mailing lists. Be sure to find one that is reputable and reliable. A quick check with the Better Business Bureau is always a good place to start.