When the selectivity of the prospects or "mailing list" is such that each name represents a potential customer, can direct mail be considered an economic form of promotion. The mail order industry considers a 1% response rate average, 2% to 5% is amazing. This equates out to just 500 orders from the first 50,000 names you contact via a mailing list. Newspapers.
Although the most widely read publications in America are the local daily newspapers, this medium has decided limitations for mail order use, especially for the small operator. A newspaper is usually only kept for one day unlike a magazine which mailing list may be saved for months, possibly gone over carefully by other members of the family, loaned to friends, or is on file at the public library.
And Sundries Find out about postal rates and services. You may be able to send your products via third class or bulk mail. A postage meter may be of use to you. Finding a good printer is another area where you should really watch your pennies and the quality of the service provided. The quality of your sales literature is a very important factor, and can easily determine the difference between success and failure.