premailing
Premailing refers to a preliminary or pre-release mailing conducted before a full-scale direct mail campaign. In this context, it is a controlled, small-batch distribution intended to test and validate the mail piece, the recipient list, and the delivery process. The aim is to identify and correct issues—such as address errors, printing defects, barcode readability, or postal sorting problems—before committing to a larger, more costly send.
Typical premailing steps include cleansing and standardizing addresses, verifying the integrity of the mailing list, printing
In publishing and catalog operations, premailing can also involve sending proofs or advance copies to test
Advantages include reduced waste, improved accuracy of ROI projections, and smoother production and postage processes. Limitations
Related concepts include pilot programs, A/B testing, mailpiece testing, and list hygiene practices.