When it makes sense
- You're mailing more than 5,000 pieces a day in one ZIP Code.
- You want several ZIP Codes in one mailing.
- Your pieces are heavier than 3.3 ounces.
- Your printer or mail house already holds a permit and will enter the mail for you.
If none of those apply, Retail is simpler and has no fees.
What it costs
Postage for EDDM flats of 4 ounces or less depends on where the mail enters the USPS network:
| Entry | Price per piece |
|---|---|
| No destination entry | $0.309 |
| Regional processing center (DSCF) | $0.268 |
| Local delivery unit (DDU) | $0.259 |
On top of that, a mailer pays a $390 USPS Marketing Mail annual mailing fee and a $390 permit imprint application fee.
Compare that with Retail at $0.260 a piece and no fees. The lowest BMEU price saves a tenth of a cent a piece. The reason to use a BMEU is volume and flexibility, not price.
What's different on the day
| Retail | BMEU | |
|---|---|---|
| Account | USPS.com | Business Customer Gateway |
| Paid by | Card online, or cash, card or check at the counter | Permit |
| Paperwork | PS Form 3587 | PS Form 3602 and PS Form 8125 |
| Drop-off | Post Office | BMEU, a large mail processing center |
| Refunds | Online or at the Post Office | Through the BMEU tied to the permit |
In the EDDM tool
The tool treats an account with a USPS Marketing Mail permit attached as a BMEU account. BMEU orders must contain at least 200 pieces and are paid by permit.
Is BMEU cheaper than EDDM Retail?
Barely. The lowest BMEU price is $0.259 against $0.260 for Retail, and BMEU mailers pay $780 in first-year fees.
Do I need a permit for BMEU?
Yes. BMEU mailings are paid through a USPS Marketing Mail permit.
Can BMEU pieces weigh more than 3.3 ounces?
Yes. Over 4 ounces, they're priced partly by the pound.