As we have mentioned in other sections of this site, sometimes we do not know what it is that we ought to know that can result in our saving a lot of money or spending a lot more money than we need to.
Canada Post has eligibility criteria for each classification of mail. In addition, there are some conditions that can automatically disqualify an item from being accepted in a particular classification of mail. On the other side of the coin there are some things that, if present, can enhance the likelihood of being classified a particular way.
Semantics can also play an import part in the perception of the piece. Some words just have particular implications. For example, if the words volume or issue are present, there is an inclination to think Publication. It’s not that these words cannot be used with other types of mail. It is more a matter of the rationale and posturing for each particular case.
Probably the most important facets of getting a favourable ruling are first and foremost the design and structure followed by the explanation and rationale.
Of course, as a pre-requisite, both the design of the mailing piece and related submission must be based on a solid knowledge of Canada Post rules and regulations for particular products.
We have never tried to break the rules. However, over the years we have recognized that in addition to specific black and white areas, there are also gray areas that can be subject to interpretation and some degree of latitude.
The long-term effects of an unfavorable ruling can be very expensive. To help you to get the most favourable ruling for your mailing pieces we can:
Typically, as there can be a considerable amount of consulting time spent on rulings, these services are offered on a fee basis at a rate of $125 per hour. With a minimum two-hour investment you could save many thousands of dollars over the years.
Our Creative Director, Matt Ward, maintains a blog he calls the dESIGNER'S cLOISTER. Featuring considerations of various facets of design for both print and web, with a particular slant towards the do-it-yourself designer, this blog seeks to inform and entertain.
Click here to visit Matt Ward's dESIGNER'S cLOISTER.
For your convenience, we have provided a link to Canada Post's free, online Postal Code Look-Up utility. It is simple and easy to use. Just fill in the address information and press the "submit" button. The utility will then process the information and return the corresponding postal code, so long as the information provided is that of valid Canadian address.
Click here to search for a postal code.
The Gotcha Gang is a fictitious group of “rogues” created by Highland Marketing in order to represent the often-unpleasant effect of direct marketing decisions that result in paying excess postage or labour costs, or which ultimately minimize opportunity.
Click here to read about their adventures and learn how protect yourself from the sting of the Gotcha Gang!
To us, innovation means continually looking for direct marketing opportunities and/or alternatives that clients may not perceive themselves, and presenting these to clients in a fair and honest manner.
We also challenge all of our employees to develop innovative ideas to help streamline plant production while still maintaining very high levels of quality assurance. Additionally, we instill the need to recommend quality-oriented procedures where special attention may be required in specific areas on a given job.
We believe that commitment is consistently doing what is expected, always doing what one says one will do and communicating any deviations from what is expected or planned. True commitment provides a solid base for any team and truly maximizes success at all levels.
There is an old saying that goes: "business is a fair exchange of values." We believe that long-lasting business relationships can only be built on mutual respect. Without a fair exchange and respect from both sides, a business relationship cannot be sustained.
We also believe that respect is founded on understanding. Many of our clients recognize that our innovation has saved them thousands, tens of thousands and, in some cases, hundreds of thousands of dollars. These same clients also understand that, although we do not offer the cheapest, nor the most expensive rates, the added value that we bring in the long run far offsets our modestly higher prices. As such, we have been extremely fortunate with long term customer loyalty. It’s something like the old expression: "kindness is something you cannot give away."
There is a place, not so far away, filled with marvels and wonders beyond our understanding. It is a place where the very fabric of space appears to come undone, and where the four lost continents of Arkavakia, Vaylora, Quilla and Lise float like stony beacons in their sea of swirling mists.
Can you find and unlock the gateways to all four continents? They have been scattered throughout the pages of this site. So far you have accessed these continents: