Draft
The packet is being set up: title, source universe, and piece details.
Direct-mail production help
Move a mail piece from audience to delivery evidence.
Use this guide to run a direct-mail packet through its stages, track the four approval sign-offs, and attach the evidence each drop needs.
Production stagesFrom draft to delivered
Audience ready
The mail audience is exported and QA'd from the source universe, with suppressed households removed.
Proofing
Creative, copy, and compliance are under review against the proof.
Approved
All required approval tracks are signed off; the piece is cleared to print.
Sent to printer
The print release is issued and the job is with the vendor.
Mailed / Delivered
Postage is paid and the drop is confirmed; delivery evidence closes the packet.
Approval tracksEach is signed off separately
Creative approval
Sign-off on the design and mail art.
Copy approval
Sign-off on the written message.
Compliance approval
Sign-off that the piece meets disclaimer and compliance requirements before print.
Proof approval
Final sign-off on the printer proof before the run.
Evidence to attachA documented paper trail per drop
FileMail export. The vendor-ready householded mail file.
FileCreative proof. The design proof reviewed for approval.
FileCopy + compliance approval. Written and compliance sign-off records.
FilePrint release. The authorization handed to the printer.
FilePostage invoice. The postage cost record for the drop.
FileDrop confirmation. Confirmation the mail entered the stream.
FileDelivery evidence. Proof of delivery that closes the packet.