Lob Overview
Lob is an API-driven platform that automates direct mail and address verification processes. It enables businesses to integrate print and mail operations into their digital workflows, allowing for personalized, data-driven direct mail campaigns and accurate address verification at scale.
Key Features of Lob
- Direct Mail Automation: Create and send personalized postcards, letters, and checks programmatically through API integration.
- Address Verification: Validate, standardize, and autocomplete addresses in real-time to ensure accurate deliveries.
- Intelligent Mail Tracking: Track the status and delivery of mail pieces using USPS Intelligent Mail barcodes.
- Template Management: Design and manage reusable mail templates for consistent branding and messaging.
- Analytics and Reporting: Access detailed analytics on mail performance, delivery rates, and campaign effectiveness.
What Makes Lob Unique
- API-First Approach: Seamlessly integrate direct mail into existing software applications and workflows.
- Dynamic Personalization: Generate highly personalized mail pieces using variable data and logic.
- Print-to-Digital Attribution: Link offline mail campaigns to online conversions for accurate ROI measurement.
- Compliance and Security: SOC 2 Type 2 certified platform with built-in HIPAA compliance capabilities.
- Scalable Infrastructure: Handle high-volume mailings with ease, from hundreds to millions of pieces.
Is Lob Right for Me?
Lob is ideal for businesses looking to automate and digitize their direct mail processes, particularly those in industries like finance, healthcare, and e-commerce. It's especially suited for companies with existing digital workflows that want to incorporate physical mail without manual intervention.
Signs You Need Lob
You're struggling with manual direct mail processes
- High labor costs for mail preparation
- Slow turnaround times for campaigns
- Errors in addressing or personalization
When Lob Isn’t the Right Fit
You have low-volume mailing needs
- Sending fewer than 100 pieces per month
- Infrequent direct mail campaigns
Customizing Lob
- API Integration: Integrate Lob's functionality directly into your existing applications and workflows.
- Custom Templates: Design and upload custom mail templates that align with your brand and messaging.
- Variable Data Printing: Customize each mail piece with unique text, images, and formatting based on recipient data.
- Webhook Notifications: Set up custom notifications for various mail events to trigger actions in your systems.
- Reporting API: Create custom reports and analytics dashboards using Lob's reporting endpoints.
Is Lob Worth It?
Lob is worth it for businesses looking to automate and streamline their direct mail and address verification processes at scale. Its API-first approach and integration capabilities can significantly reduce manual work, improve accuracy, and accelerate time-to-market for companies sending high volumes of personalized mail or managing large customer databases. For small businesses with limited direct mail needs or those not requiring programmatic address verification, Lob's advanced features and pricing structure might be excessive.
How Much Does Lob Cost?
Pricing is one of the most important evaluation factors when buying software. We have pricing
insights contributed by current and former customers of Lob to help you make the
best purchasing decision for your use case.
Competitors to Lob
| Vendor | Reasons to Consider | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| DirectMail.io | Comprehensive direct mail and digital marketing platform, user-friendly interface | Marketers looking for an all-in-one solution with less emphasis on API integration |
| PostGrid | Similar API-driven approach, focus on transactional mail and checks | Businesses prioritizing transactional mail automation and check printing |
| PostPilot | Specialized in e-commerce retention marketing, integration with popular e-commerce platforms | E-commerce businesses looking for targeted direct mail solutions |
| Inkit | Focus on trigger-based direct mail automation, strong CRM integrations | Companies looking to automate direct mail based on customer actions or events |
| Postalytics | User-friendly interface, strong focus on direct mail analytics and tracking | Marketing teams needing detailed campaign analytics without heavy technical integration |