Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

• Where are you?  Can I see a map?
      (map opens in a new window)
• What are your hours?
• How do I request a quote?
• How do I schedule a pick-up?
• Can you help me with a mailing list?
• What file formats do you require?
• How many pieces do I need to qualify for a better postage rate?
• What size envelopes should I use?
• What envelopes should I use?
• How big should my post card be?
• What paper should I use for my mailing?
• How much space should I leave for the address and/or barcode?
• What wording does the Post Office require for the permit imprint?
• What is the difference between Standard Class and First Class?
• What is Bulk Mail?
• When are this year's Postal Holidays?
• What are common mailing mistakes, and how can I avoid them?

Answers:

How do I request a quote?  How do I schedule a pick-up?

To request a quote or schedule a pick-up, call us at:

• Springfield: 217-523-0330
• Bloomington:  309-820-1157
• Champaign:  217-355-1430
• Peoria:  309-495-9495

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Can you help me with a mailing list?

Yes, we can help you with your mailing list! We can refine your existing list or we can help you develop a list to target new customers.
 

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What file formats do you require?

We have experience with a variety of file formats in addition to common office file formats such as Access, Excel, and comma/tab-delimited.

 

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How many pieces do I need to qualify for a better postage rate?

Quicksilver has no minimum volume requirement for metered mail. We combine metered mailings so that our customers get the benefit of postage discounts without needing to meet US Postal Service's bulk volume requirments.

For permit mail, standard class and non-profit require 200 pieces, and first class requires 500 pieces.

 

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What envelopes should I use?  What size envelopes should I use?  How big should my post card be?  What paper should I use for my mailing?

The US Postal Service establishes size and thickness requirements post cards and envelopes:

 

requirements for cards

 

requirements for envelopes

 

In addition to the above thickness requirements,  the address area of the piece should be white or light colored to allow sufficient color contrast with the printed address and barcode.

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How much space should I leave for the address and/or barcode?

The address and barcode requires a 2" by 4" space on the front of each piece. The barcode itself requires a 5" by 5/8" strip at the bottom of the address area.

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What wording does the Post Office require for the permit imprint?

The Postal Service provides examples of acceptable permit designs on this page.
 

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What is the difference between Standard Class and First Class?

First Class designates the highest priority in delivery time.  First Class mail also receives free forwarding and return services.

in comparison, Standard Class designates lower postage costs, but also slower delivery times.

 

 

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What is Bulk Mail?

The term "bulk mail" refers to mail that is presorted and processed before delivery to the post office.  Properly prepared bulk mailings qualify for postage discounts because they reduce the work that would otherwise have to be done by the Postal Service. Bulk discounts are available for First-class, Standard-class, and non-profit mail.

 

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When are this year's Postal Holidays?

Quicksilver follows the USPS holiday closing schedule, posted here.
 

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Here are some of the more common mailing mistakes to avoid:

 

Mistake:  Leaving too small a space for the address and/or bar code.

Mistake:  Using dark paper so the address can't be easily read.

Mistake:  Using staples.

Mistake:  Putting a date on a Standard Class mailing.

Mistake:  Using the term "Bulk Rate" in the permit imprint.

 

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