Getting Too Much Returned Mail -How Can I Update Addresses?

[Burt L.]

I have been getting more returned mail than usual lately - using a Listsource/County Assessor list and absentee owners. In speaking with customer service at Click2Mail, I was told I can create an account and run my list through their service, but that it only tells me what addresses are no longer good, not what the updated address is.

I was also told that for 50 cents each, I can get updated addresses from USPS, but that isn't cost effective for a list of over 1000 or so. It would make sense for individual letters returned, especially for ones marked "vacant" or another supporting reason.

In speaking with the local post office, I was told I can do an "address endorsement" which costs a fee, or put "address service requested" on each letter. Another suggestion was to put "or current resident" on each - though detracts from the personalized letter aspect, and may upset the renters on my absentee-owner list who would likely throw the letters away quickly.

Any suggestions on how I can do this better on the front end of the process, or afterwards? The box of returned mail with first class stamps is becoming frustrating.

[Ned Carey]

I look at returned mail as simply a cost of doing business. However it can be a real opportunity. The ones that are the hardest to reach are the ones that no one else reaches either so their is no competition.

Also if someone doesn't bother to update their information it could be they don't care about the property any more. Following up on the "dead" leads can be very profitable.