Thunderbird Communications
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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about our direct mail services, file preparation, USPS requirements, and pricing.

We accept print-ready PDF files. Our automated preflight system will check your file for issues like RGB color mode, missing fonts, low resolution images, and incorrect trim sizes. Common issues are automatically corrected, and you'll see a detailed report before approving your proof.

We use the Xerox Iridesse digital press, which prints real metallic gold, silver, clear, and white inks inline with CMYK in a single pass. Unlike foil stamping or metallic substrates, our metallic inks can be applied to any area of your design with full variable data capability and no plates or setup charges.

Standard turnaround is 5-7 business days from proof approval. Rush service (2-3 business days) is available for most products. EDDM campaigns require an additional 1-2 business days for USPS processing. Complex jobs with specialty finishing may require additional time.

When you mail in bulk (200+ pieces or 50+ lbs), USPS offers presorted rates that are significantly cheaper than single-piece rates. We CASS-certify your mailing list, sort it by ZIP code and carrier route, and prepare your mail to qualify for the deepest discounts. You can save 30-50% on postage compared to retail rates.

EDDM lets you reach every household and business on specific postal carrier routes without needing a mailing list. You choose routes by ZIP code, and we handle everything from printing to bundling and delivery. It's perfect for local businesses wanting to reach entire neighborhoods at the lowest postage rate.

Yes! We offer both a built-in online design editor where you can create your own designs using our USPS-compliant templates, and professional design services for custom work. Our templates include safe zones for postal compliance so your mail piece is always regulation-ready.

We carry a range of premium stocks including 14pt and 16pt C2S cardstock for postcards and business cards, 100lb gloss and matte text for brochures, and 80lb cover stocks. Coatings include UV, aqueous, and soft-touch laminate. Ask us about specialty substrates for unique projects.

Absolutely. Once your order is placed, you can track it through every stage in your customer dashboard: file processing, preflight, proof review, printing, finishing, mailing preparation, and USPS acceptance. You'll receive email notifications at key milestones.

Our AI-powered preflight system automatically detects and corrects common issues like RGB-to-CMYK conversion, font embedding, and image downsampling. For issues that can't be auto-corrected (like missing bleed or wrong page size), we'll flag them with clear explanations and let you upload a corrected file.

Yes, we offer Net 30 invoicing for approved business accounts. Contact us to apply. Business accounts also get dedicated support, volume pricing, and priority production scheduling.

Still have questions?

Our team is ready to help. Reach out and we'll get back to you within 1 business day.