Tips to Help Your Mailing be a Success

Uniformity.
Inserting equipment requires the envelopes to be as 'uniform' as possible otherwise jams could occur. That is why we recommend Bowers' Insertelope® double side seam for most models. Most envelope inserting equipment is designed to allow for the +/- 1/16" industry standard variance in height and width of the envelope.

Flaps and Gumming.
When using diagonal seam envelopes, the envelopes should have split gumming and a shoulder. The envelopes should have uniform seal gum that dries quickly and closes securely.

Insert Size
For insertion ease, the following should be considered for envelope sizing:

• approximately 1/2" longer than the longest insert, plus the combined thickness of all the inserts.

• approximately 1/2" wider than the largest insert, plus the combined thickness for all the inserts.

Windows
The windows should be designed with the following in mind: All windows with patches should be at least 3/8" from the side of the envelope. If the window is open, keep it 1/2" from any edge and 1/2" from the throat of the envelope. Special, double and triple windows can increase response rates commanding more attention. Perforations and pull tabs are also highly effective.

Paper Choice
All envelopes need to be constructed of a high quality paper grade that will retain its shape through the wear and tear of insertion and mailing. Regular 24# wove vellum finishes work best. Why not consider using a colored stock or multi-color printing to bring attention to your envelope?

Preparation and Storage
The warehouse conditions that envelopes are stored in greatly affect their performance. Envelopes should be kept in sealed cartons, shrinkwrapped and stacked with the envelopes on edge. Unless in climate controlled conditions, envelopes should not be kept for more than 120 days due to moisture causing damage such as curling and sealing of flaps. Both sides of the envelope should be fanned prior to being put into the hopper to break free any minor tabbing.

IF YOU SHOULD ENCOUNTER ANY SITUATION THAT ISN'T MENTIONED ABOVE OR ONE THAT ISN'T IN THE MACHINE MANUAL, CALL YOUR BOWERS SALES REPRESENTATIVE OR YOUR INSERTION EQUIPMENT TECHNICAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR CONSULTATION.