How can mailing your Host Packet save you time and money?

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores various methods participants use to mail or deliver host packets, discussing the associated costs and personal experiences with different mailing options.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions that postage costs are a concern and asks how others mail their host packets.
  • Another participant shares that they typically send packets via Priority Mail, which is tax deductible, or deliver them in person when possible.
  • Several users note that they prefer to deliver packets in person to discuss details, but if mailing is necessary, they often choose overnight or first-class options.
  • One participant mentions using a cheaper mailing option by classifying the packet as "bound, printed material," allowing them to send multiple catalogs for less than $2.
  • Another participant states they prepare packets in advance for shows, which helps save on postage when handed directly to hosts.
  • One participant discusses the use of media mail for sending packets, while another shares a conflicting experience regarding USPS regulations on media mail.
  • Several participants discuss the tax deductibility of postage and other business-related expenses, with one expressing surprise at this benefit.
  • Another participant mentions the convenience of buying stamps online to keep track of expenses.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best mailing methods and the use of media mail versus other classifications, with no clear consensus on a single preferred approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and preferences regarding mailing host packets, highlighting the impact of time constraints and the importance of cost-effective solutions.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on mailing strategies for host packets and the associated costs may find this discussion relevant.

P
Pampered Laura
The price of postage is gonna be my early death, Im sure of it.
How do YOU mail your Host Packet? :rolleyes:
 
Usually because of the weight it gets sent Priority Mail which costs just over $4.00. But this is tax deductible.

Or if the host live close enough I will drive and drop it off. I have also done this and gone over the host packet with the host right away. Then I have my first host coaching call done.
 
if i can i also deliver mine and go over the packet in person. i also close out my shows in person if they dont close that night. (most do). anways if i have to mail it i usually overnight it so if they have any questions they can call and let me know
 
...i deliver it myself if they live close enough but if they don't i mail it first class usually costs between 3 and 4 dollars but i don't send it in a folder or anything i send specials ,3 catalogs, and show planner. my director uses a binder for hers and she uses the one price envelope. it costs her a little over four dollars
 
I like to deliver mine too and go over everything in person if possible. With busy schedules, it's often not possible to I just leave it in their door. When I have to mail mine I usually send it classified as "bound, printed material" and it is much cheaper. I can send three or four catalogs for less than $2.

I haven't incorporated this yet, but I think it's a great idea to have your packets ready at the show and hand it to them that night when you know they want to book a show. So many of my hostesses are computer savvy and like for me to just e-mail them the "papers" part of the packet - outside order forms, guest/host specials, invitations (I rarely use postcards).
 
I have 5 packets ready to go whenever I am doing a show. When someone books I just hand them the packet. It saves alot in postage. If I book a show by phone I just mail it and it usually runs around 1.75. But I only send 1-2 catalogs.
 
tax deductible???Wow it's tax deductible when we mail out our host packets, that would make sense, it's business related...that is cool!!! With two kids to home school, a toddler to tend to and a newborn to nurse, I don't usually have the time let alone the energy to pack them all up and head to the post office to wait in line forever!!!
what about mailing out catalogs to potential customers like caterers, real estate agents, etc...does this count as tax deductible also?

Is there a tax deductiong for Ibuprofin and chocolate for when I have to deal with missing items and adjustments with the H.O.????

Just kidding... :p

Debbie
 
I usually give my host packets when they book at the show and while everyone is eating I go over the host packet a little at the show then call 2 days after while I make my other calls to the guests.

If I have to mail it I send it media Mail which is only around 2.50. With one of my other businesses I sent a 7lb package of catalogs to Kansas for only 2.66 by media mail.

If the host needs it faster I use DHL Envelope or USPS Priority Mail.
 
I was told by my local USPS that I could not ship my things media mail because it contained advertising. It is basically for shipping manuscripts, teaching material etc. It is the cheapest way to go, they just would not let me do it.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #10
Bound printed, not media mailLaura,

I was told the same thing but I was told as long as 90% of the material in the package was catalogs I could send it bound printed matter which is in between media mail and first class mail as far as price.

Michele
 
Bound Printed MatterI ship my packets Bound Printed Matter. It takes 5 stamps or $1.85 at the PO. I mail mine from home with the stamps and I include 3 or 4 catalogs, show planner, 5 Outside Order forms, the cover letter, the Chef Recommends 5-15-5 flyer.
 
Thanks Michele. I will try it next time.
 
All postage that is business related is tax deductible. Anything for that matter that is only business related is tax deductible. Plus mileage, make sure you keep track so you can put it in your tax software or give to your accountant.

I usually buy my stamps from usps.com that way I have an online receipt for the stamps since I am great at loosing paper receipts. If I don't give out a host packet at the show I mail it to them from home, I also include the new mulit-part guest list form (in PP supply order) with a self-addressed stamped envelope for them to mail it back to me and then I address and send the invitations for the host using postcard stamps ($0.23 each).
 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can mailing your Host Packet save you time?

Mailing your Host Packet can save you time by eliminating the need for in-person meetings to deliver materials. This allows you to focus on other aspects of your business, such as recruiting new hosts or following up with customers, rather than coordinating schedules to meet with each host.

How does mailing your Host Packet help reduce costs?

By mailing your Host Packet, you can reduce costs associated with travel and gas. Instead of driving to meet hosts, you can send the materials directly to their homes, which can lead to significant savings over time, especially if you have multiple hosts in different locations.

Can mailing Host Packets improve host engagement?

Yes, mailing Host Packets can improve host engagement by providing hosts with all the necessary materials upfront. This allows them to review the information at their convenience, leading to better preparation and enthusiasm for their parties, ultimately resulting in higher sales.

What materials should be included in a mailed Host Packet?

A mailed Host Packet should include a host guide, product catalogs, order forms, and any promotional materials relevant to the upcoming party. Including these items ensures that hosts have everything they need to successfully promote and run their event.

Is there a benefit to using digital options alongside mailed Host Packets?

Yes, combining digital options with mailed Host Packets can enhance communication and efficiency. You can send digital reminders and follow-ups while providing physical materials, ensuring hosts have access to both formats and can choose what works best for them.

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