Direct mail campaign proposal: Free template

Customize this free direct mail campaign proposal with Cobrief
Open this free direct mail campaign proposal in Cobrief and start editing it instantly using AI. You can adjust the tone, structure, and content based on the client’s audience, offer type, and campaign objectives. You can also use AI to review your draft — spot gaps, tighten language, and improve clarity before sending.
Once you're done, send, download, or save the proposal in one click — no formatting or setup required.
This template is fully customizable and built for real-world use — ideal for pitching direct-mail campaigns to DTC brands, B2B sales teams, real estate professionals, or local businesses. Whether you're sending postcards, gift kits, or handwritten notes, this version gives you a structured head start and removes the guesswork.
What is a direct mail campaign proposal?
A direct mail campaign proposal outlines your plan to design, launch, and manage a physical outreach campaign — typically sent via postal mail to a targeted audience. It includes creative development, list targeting, printing and fulfillment, timing, and performance tracking.
This type of proposal is commonly used:
- When businesses want to break through digital noise and reach leads with a tangible message
- To support ABM (account-based marketing), new product launches, or winback campaigns
- As part of an omnichannel strategy that includes digital and offline outreach
- When teams want to drive higher engagement or conversions from a cold list
It helps clients stand out, engage harder-to-reach segments, and convert leads through physical touchpoints.
A strong proposal helps you:
- Clarify audience targeting and data sources
- Design personalized, high-conversion mail pieces
- Coordinate print, fulfillment, and shipping workflows
- Set up tracking to measure ROI — including landing pages, QR codes, and CRM integration
Why use Cobrief to edit your proposal
Cobrief helps you build a sharp, clean proposal fast — with built-in AI editing and no formatting delays.
- Edit the proposal directly in your browser: No clunky files — just focus on content and flow.
- Rewrite sections with AI: Instantly tailor tone for founders, brand managers, or marketing teams.
- Run a one-click AI review: Let AI flag scope creep, unclear deliverables, or weak positioning.
- Apply AI suggestions instantly: Accept changes line by line or apply across the full proposal.
- Share or export instantly: Send your proposal via Cobrief or download a polished PDF or DOCX version.
You’ll go from rough outline to signature-ready copy quickly — without slowing down execution.
When to use this proposal
Use this direct mail campaign proposal when:
- A client wants to stand out with a physical touchpoint in a digital-heavy market
- You’re supporting a B2B outbound or ABM effort and want to reach key accounts directly
- A DTC brand wants to boost retention, LTV, or reactivation with loyalty mailers
- An event, promotion, or launch needs personalized invites or follow-up kits
- The business has tried digital ads or email — but wants to improve results through a hybrid approach
It’s especially useful when attention is scarce, inboxes are overloaded, and response rates are lagging.
What to include in a direct mail campaign proposal
Use this template to walk the client through your direct-mail process — from targeting to tracking — in clear, structured language.
- Project overview: Frame the opportunity — digital fatigue, cold list, engagement drop — and how direct mail can drive stronger results.
- Target audience and list: Define the audience, sourcing method (client-supplied or third-party), and any segmentation logic (e.g., industry, spend tier, churn risk).
- Creative and offer strategy: Explain the concept — postcard, letter, gift box, etc. — and how the messaging will connect to the campaign goal.
- Design and personalization: Describe the design scope, copywriting approach, and any variable elements (e.g., name, company, gift selection).
- Printing and fulfillment: Clarify how items will be produced and shipped — including timing, vendors, and logistics.
- Tracking and reporting: Detail how you’ll measure success — landing pages, QR codes, PURLs, phone tracking, coupon codes, CRM sync.
- Integration (optional): Note if you’ll connect direct-mail flows to digital sequences or CRM workflows.
- Timeline and phases: Break into stages — concept, design, production, delivery, reporting — with time estimates.
- Pricing: Offer fixed-fee or item-based pricing depending on quantity and scope. Separate fulfillment and postage costs if needed.
- Next steps: End with a clear CTA — such as approving creative direction, confirming audience list, or scheduling the kickoff.
How to write an effective direct mail campaign proposal
This proposal should feel tactical, creative, and ROI-aware — especially for clients new to direct mail or nervous about print costs.
- Anchor in business outcomes: Talk about conversions and engagement, not just aesthetics.
- Break down logistics: Many clients are unclear on how fulfillment works — show that you’ve got it handled.
- Keep creative grounded: Focus on what works — useful, personal, and clear — not just flashy.
- Emphasize tracking: Show how offline becomes measurable — and how you’ll tie it to funnel impact.
- Offer digital support if relevant: Most effective campaigns blend mail with email, ads, or follow-up — position yourself to support the full loop.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How long does a direct-mail campaign take to launch?
Typical turnaround is 2–4 weeks depending on design, production, and fulfillment complexity. Fast-track options are possible for simple campaigns.
Should I provide the mailing list or use the client’s?
Either works — just clarify up front. You can source lists by industry, geography, or company size if needed.
Can I personalize each mailer?
Yes — you can customize names, messages, or offers using variable data printing. Great for ABM or loyalty programs.
How do I measure results from physical mail?
Use trackable URLs, QR codes, UTM parameters, promo codes, or phone numbers tied to the campaign. You can also track CRM-stage movement if integrated.
What formats work best for B2B or DTC?
For B2B: dimensional mailers, gift kits, or handwritten notes. For DTC: postcards, thank-you cards, or loyalty offers tied to past purchases.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.