Catalog Postage Cost: Save Money on Postage with These Tips and Tricks

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

This thread explores the costs associated with mailing catalogs following a recent postage increase, with participants sharing their personal experiences and insights on various mailing methods and costs.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions paying $3.15 to send a catalog with additional sheets, expressing concern over the cost.
  • Another participant notes that their host package costs $4.80 and recalls previous postage rates of $1.80-2.00 for a single catalog before the increase.
  • One participant shares that they send host packets for $1.98 using Bound Printed Matter, emphasizing the ability to write off mileage to the post office.
  • Another participant raises a concern about potential postal fraud when using Bound Printed Matter for catalogs.
  • Several participants discuss the requirements for Bound Printed Matter, noting that all contents must be bound together and that certain classes of mail cannot include sales literature.
  • One participant shares that their postmaster no longer allows Bound Printed Matter for catalogs, leading them to use first-class mail instead.
  • Another participant mentions that Media Mail cannot include any advertising materials, which affects how they send catalogs.
  • Multiple participants report costs for mailing a single catalog, with figures ranging from $1.51 to $1.98, and some discussing the use of specific stamps to avoid overpaying.
  • One participant shares their experience of using a postal scale to determine the weight of a catalog, suggesting it may be useful for frequent mailers.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best mailing methods and costs, with no clear consensus on the most effective approach to mailing catalogs.

Contextual Notes

Participants share varied experiences based on their local postal services and personal mailing habits, reflecting a range of practices and costs associated with sending catalogs.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on mailing costs and methods for sending catalogs may find the shared experiences relevant.

heat123
heat123
Silver Member
Messages
6,922
Just wondering if anyone has sent out 1 catalog with the new postage increase? I just paid $3.15 for 1 catalog and two sheets of paper (specials) inside the white Merrill envilope, to a past host. I went to a postal annex but it's closer than the actual Post office, so I am at least saving on gas I think??! :mad: :yuck:
 
That seems like a lot for 1 catalog. My whole host package is $4.80. It has been a long time since I sent just 1 catalog but I think before the postage increase it was only $1.80-2.00.
 
I send out my host packets (3 catalogs, 3 ordre forms, show planner, show benefits, specials and info on the biz) and it's like $1.98. Send it Bound Printed Matter (just say it's catalogs) when you go to the post office. Plus you still get to write off the mileage to go there.
 
Chefstover2 said:
Send it Bound Printed Matter (just say it's catalogs) when you go to the post office.
Click to expand...
Did you know that you are committing postal fraud when you do that?I sent 3 catalogs in an envelope on Friday and it was $2.70. You pay extra at those postal annexes.
 
In order for something to be sent Bound Printed Matter, everything in the envelope must be bound together, which means no loose sheets or sticky notes. There's also one class of mail (I forget if it's Bound Printed Matter or Media Mail) that cannot include sales literature of any kind, which means you can't use it for catalogs.
 
My post master told me they no longer do bound printed matter. But before the change he would let me send catalogs as bound printed matter. Most of the time I needed to get the packet to them right away so I just sent it first class.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
wadesgirl said:
That seems like a lot for 1 catalog. My whole host package is $4.80. It has been a long time since I sent just 1 catalog but I think before the postage increase it was only $1.80-2.00.
Click to expand...
Yes, I use the flat rate stamps for host packs too but for 1 catalog I didn't want to use that particular stamp.

I realize the postal annex places are more expensive but the convenience of location vs cost of the real post office is what I was just wanting to find out the cost of 1 catty sent through the Post office?:confused:
 
Its Media Mail that can not have any ads, flyers, etc. I encountered that at the post office once. I was talking with someone and they happened to ask the question (they were trying to mail magazines). Anything that has something for sale, etc. in it can not be media mail.
 
chefann said:
In order for something to be sent Bound Printed Matter, everything in the envelope must be bound together, which means no loose sheets or sticky notes. There's also one class of mail (I forget if it's Bound Printed Matter or Media Mail) that cannot include sales literature of any kind, which means you can't use it for catalogs.
Click to expand...

I was told by my hospitality director that as long as there are no individualized things in there (i.e., handwriting), it still qualified for bound printed matter. And the people at the post office ask me if it's catalogs, I say yes, and it qualifies. So I don't feel I'm committing fraud. I send it all in the Merrill envelope and write their show info on that and then go over the packet with the host over the phone and they can mark it up as they like.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #10
Just bumping.... the topic kind of got sidetracked! Anyone know how much the cost of 1 catty is for mailing with the new postage increase??? TIA!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #11
Just in case anyone else wondered what the cost of 1 catty in envelope was too, it was $1.51 or 4 stamps he said. Hope that helps anyone else wanting to know! :)
 
heat123 said:
Just in case anyone else wondered what the cost of 1 catty in envelope was too, it was $1.51 or 4 stamps he said. Hope that helps anyone else wanting to know! :)
Click to expand...

I just mailed one tonight and it was 4 stamps...good thing I don't have to mail many packets that are not host packs.
 
I mailed one today. Just a catalog in a 9 x 13" envelope and it was $1.51.
 
A public service announcement for you: If you put 4 first-class stamps on that envelope, you're overpaying by 17 cents. You can purchase other stamps at the post office to total the actual amount. Large envelopes (what we put a catalog in) start at 83 cents (one ounce). Additional ounces are 17 cents each, which is the same additional ounce rate as smaller envelopes. You can purchase 83 cent and 17 cent stamps from the PO and have them on hand.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #15
Actually I was going to use 3 stamps plus an old .26c postcard stamp= $1.52 the next time I mail out 1 catalog! Thanks for the info Ann, good to know when my .26centers run out!

Definitely cheaper than the $3.15 I paid at the postal annex place the first time!
 
Ann, do you know off the top of your head what a catalog weighs?
 
um... according to my postal scale, 3.9 oz, without an envelope, just a naked catalog (well, with my labels on it).
 
chefann said:
um... according to my postal scale, 3.9 oz, without an envelope, just a naked catalog (well, with my labels on it).
Click to expand...
Thank you! Is it worth it to have your own postal scale? (I'm just into picking your brain apparently...lol)
 
Depends how much mailing you do. I mail stuff frequently for my online store, and I need to know the weight for that (I pay the postage through PayPal), so I use mine fairly frequently. If you always mail the same things (1 catalog in an envelope with 1 flyer, for example), you can weigh it at the PO and keep the info at home. My scale was probably $15 or less at an office supply store, and I've had it for several years. I also use it in the kitchen when I need to measure something by weight.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average postage cost for sending Pampered Chef catalogs?

The average postage cost for sending Pampered Chef catalogs typically ranges from $1 to $3, depending on the weight of the catalog and the mailing method used. It's important to check with your local postal service for the most accurate rates.

How can I reduce the postage cost when mailing Pampered Chef catalogs?

To reduce postage costs, consider using bulk mailing options, which often provide discounts for sending multiple items at once. Additionally, using lightweight materials and minimizing the size of your catalogs can help lower shipping costs.

Are there specific mailing methods that are more cost-effective for catalogs?

Yes, using First-Class Mail for lighter catalogs is generally cost-effective. Additionally, exploring options like Media Mail or flat-rate boxes can be beneficial for heavier shipments, as they often provide a flat rate regardless of weight.

Can I use digital catalogs to save on postage costs?

Absolutely! Sending digital catalogs via email or social media is a great way to save on postage costs. You can create an engaging digital version of your catalog that can be easily shared with your customers.

What tips can I follow to ensure my catalogs arrive safely and economically?

To ensure safe and economical delivery, use sturdy envelopes or mailers that protect the catalogs during transit. Additionally, consider using address labels and ensuring that your catalogs are properly sealed to avoid any damage or loss during shipping.

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