Direct Mail Works Better Than You Think for Local Sales

Postcards still punch above their weight — if you know how to aim them.

Just launched your new business and need resources to ace direct marketing at lower costs with higher ROI?

Check out Salesfully’s course, Mastering Sales Fundamentals for Long-Term Success, designed to help you attract new customers efficiently and affordably.

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The Quiet Power of Direct Mail in a Digital Age

Digital marketing dominates headlines, budgets, and boardroom conversations. But when it comes to selling to local customers, old-school direct mail still performs — often better than flashy digital ads. According to the Data & Marketing Association, direct mail response rates can reach up to 9% for house lists, significantly

outpacing the sub-1% click-through rates common in online display ads.

So why does this analog channel still work?

Because people check their mail every day — and fewer marketers are competing for that attention.

USPS EDDM: A Local Sales Secret Weapon

Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) from USPS allows small businesses to target geographic areas down to the ZIP code or carrier route — no need for a mailing list.

For less than the cost of a Facebook ad campaign, you can place your offer directly in the hands of every household in your target area. EDDM is especially effective for:

• Local service providers (landscaping, roofing, cleaning)

• Retail shops and restaurants

• Real estate professionals

• Home-based businesses

Pro tip: According to USPS data, 42% of recipients read or scan direct mail they receive, and 70% of consumers say direct mail is more personal than digital communication.

Where Salesfully Comes In

Using the Salesfully local leads platform, you can go beyond blanket delivery and segment your mailers to the most likely buyers.

Want to target households with children, recent movers, or high-income zip codes? Salesfully provides up-to-date, filterable local data that you can align with your flyer design and call-to-action.

Instead of relying solely on EDDM’s zip code targeting, use Salesfully to refine your message, then let the mail carry it to the doorsteps that matter.

What Works on a Flyer in 2025

Mail that works is:

• Visual and bold — think minimal text and oversized postcards.

• Action-oriented — clear offer, deadline, and simple call-to-action.

• Hyper-local — mention neighborhoods, schools, or landmarks.

In a 2024 study by Small Biz Genius, it was found that 79% of consumers act on direct mail immediately, compared to just 45% who say the same for email.

A sample flyer for a local roofing company might read:

“Storm Damage in Pine Ridge? Get a Free Inspection This Week — Call or Text 555-ROOF-NOW.”

Simple, urgent, and geographically specific.

Why This Works Now More Than Ever

As digital ads become increasingly expensive and less trusted (looking at you, cookie pop-ups), direct mail is enjoying a quiet resurgence. It’s physical. It’s targeted. It can’t be scrolled past.

According to Forrester Research, marketers are reallocating up to 12% of digital ad spend to offline channels, including direct mail, to combat ad fatigue and audience saturation.

And platforms like Salesfully are making it easier than ever to align the right message with the right mailbox.

Direct mail isn’t “old school.” It’s smart business — especially when tied to smart data. Use USPS EDDM for reach. Use Salesfully for targeting. And keep your message simple, timely, and local.

Just launched your new business and need resources to ace direct marketing at lower costs with higher ROI?

Check out Salesfully’s course, Mastering Sales Fundamentals for Long-Term Success, designed to help you attract new customers efficiently and affordably.

Don't stop there! Create your free Salesfully account today and gain instant access to premium sales data and essential resources to fuel your startup journey.