question re. direct mail

[graphicsmama]

In the past when I've done a direct mail campaign, I didn't get involved with anything except sending the mail house the graphics and going on my merry way. However, now I'm handling the whole shabang for this guy and I'm wondering how I go about writing up my estimate when postage isn't exact until the mail list is run? (depending on the 3-digit and 5-digit automation rates)

How have you guys handled these jobs and the payment terms?

Thanks!

[onedarkangel_uk]

In the past when I've done a direct mail campaign, I didn't get involved with anything except sending the mail house the graphics and going on my merry way. However, now I'm handling the whole shabang for this guy and I'm wondering how I go about writing up my estimate when postage isn't exact until the mail list is run? (depending on the 3-digit and 5-digit automation rates)

How have you guys handled these jobs and the payment terms?

Thanks!
I can't really give you sound advice on this but I can say, use the same kind of spec, and call some direct mail companies. And even visit them to just find exactly what their quotes will be, how do they break it down.

That's what I did when I began business in design. I looked at what competitors did and then as I grew in business, I got to know more.

Sorry I couldn't help anymore. But definitley, use your spec of your client, to get quotes from other companies and see what the costs are. That way you get a fai idea mate.

[WannaBrie]

The 3602 (document you get from the post office with your estimated postal rate on it) is just that, an estimate. You will need to explain to your client that postal rates are beyond your control (provided you set up your mail piece to comply with the standards and that your mailing list is clean and properly set up.) and give the client a copy of the 3602. Postal rates should be outside of your contracted rate. One way you could work this is to have the piece printed by a print house that also handles mailing - they should be able to help in recognizing the appropriate standards for the rate of mailing you want (i.e., first class, standard, etc)

I hope that made sense and helps (its been a while since I did direct mail on a daily basis) :)