How To Ensure High-Quality Postcards: Avoid Smudges & Scuffs On Direct Mail

At Stannp, we know how important it is for your direct mail to arrive into your customers hands in perfect condition. A well-designed postcard can boost engagement, but smudges and scuffs can undermine your campaign's effectiveness. Let's explore why these issues occur and how Stannp guarantees that your postcards look flawless when they reach your audience. 

Why does smudging & scuffing occur?

Mail pieces go through multiple handling points, from printing to sorting and the final delivery. During this process, postcards may experience friction, pressure, and exposure to moisture, resulting in:

• Ink smudging: Ink may fail to dry properly if the wrong paper stock or ink type is used 
• Scuffing and scratching: Sorting machinery and stacking in postal bins can cause abrasion
• Environmental damage: Variation in humidity and temperature may affect ink adhesion

So, how does Stannp guarantee high-quality postcards?

At Stannp, we take multiple steps to ensure your direct mail arrives in excellent condition:

1. Premium paper stock and finishing options 

We use premium paper stock and provide different finishes to enhance durability, including: 

• Glossy coatings: Provides a sleek surface that resists smudging 
• Matte finishes: Minimise glare and fingerprints 
• UV coating: Adds an extra layer of protection against scuffing 

2. Cutting-edge printing technology

Our advanced printing process enhances ink adhesion, guaranteeing that your designs remain sharp and vibrant. We use:

• Quick-drying inks that reduce smudging 
• High-resolution printing for sharp, professional-grade images

3. Cutting-edge printing technology

To prevent damage during transit, we carefully package postcards and ensure they are properly stacked and bundled, minimising friction and exposure to mechanical stress. 

4. Postal optimisation

We work closely with postal services to ensure your mail pieces meet industry standards for durability. Our partnership with USPS and Royal Mail helps optimise processing and minimise rough handling. 

Best practices for smudge-free direct mail 

If you're designing a direct mail campaign, keep these tips in mind to reduce the risk of smudging and scuffing:

• Choose darker, bolder colours in high-friction areas such as edges and corners
• Ensure address and barcode areas remain clear for seamless postal processing

Now that's cleared up, let's send some high-quality direct mail with Stannp! 

Your direct mail represents your brand, so make sure it arrives looking perfect! At Stannp, we combine advanced printing, premium materials, and careful handling to ensure your postcards leave a lasting impression.