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EDDM Drop-Off Guide: DDU, What to Bring, and What Happens at Acceptance [2026]

The drop-off is the moment of truth for EDDM. Here's how to show up prepared and get accepted without re-bundling everything in the lobby.

Nathan Crank·Founder, Postmarkr
·Updated March 2, 2026
EDDMUSPS

EDDM drop-off is simple in theory: bring bundled mail to the right Post Office, pay, and leave. In practice, it's where first-time mailers discover that "right Post Office" is very specific, and "bundled" means "bundled according to USPS rules, not your vibe."

Key takeaways#

  • EDDM Retail must be entered at the designated Post Office / Destination Delivery Unit (DDU) that serves the routes you selected.
  • Bring bundles (50-100), facing slips, and PS Form 3587.
  • Bundles should be secured with cross-strapped bands (not rubber bands).
  • You can typically pay online (credit/debit) or at the Post Office (cash/check/debit/credit), depending on how you set up the order.

What is a DDU?#

DDU = Destination Delivery Unit. It's the local Post Office where carriers pick up mail for the routes you're targeting.

For EDDM Retail, USPS expects you to bring the mailing to the Post Office responsible for those routes -- not just the closest Post Office to your house.

How to find the correct drop-off Post Office#

Use the USPS EDDM Online Tool:

After you select routes, the tool can show:

  • the required drop-off Post Office(s)
  • addresses and (often) hours/contact info

Warning: you may have multiple drop-offs#

If you select routes that span multiple DDUs, you might need to split your drop-off across more than one Post Office. The tool can flag this during order setup.

What to bring (the "don't get turned away" list)#

1) Bundled mail by route#

  • Bundles in stacks of 50-100
  • All pieces in a bundle facing the same direction
  • Bundles secured (see below)

2) Facing slips#

  • One facing slip per bundle/route group (depending on tool output)
  • Place facing slip on top of the bundle and secure it under the straps

3) PS Form 3587 (EDDM Retail mailing statement)#

  • Print it from the tool
  • Sign it before you hand it over

4) Payment method#

Depending on your setup:

  • online payment receipt/confirmation or
  • payment at the Post Office (cash/check/debit/credit)

Bundles: the rule that changed (and causes rejections)#

As of 2025, USPS guidance for flats bundling requires cross-strapped banding or shrink wrap + cross straps.

Practical version:

  • strap once around the length
  • strap once around the girth
  • bands cross on top/bottom

If your bundles are held together by rubber bands, assume you'll be asked to redo them.

What happens at the counter (typical flow)#

  1. You present bundles + paperwork.
  2. USPS checks the drop-off office is correct for the routes.
  3. A clerk may:
  • count bundles
  • verify facing slips
  • weigh a sample piece/bundle to confirm piece weight
  1. USPS stamps/records acceptance and payment.
  2. You leave with less stress and more free trunk space.

Shipping EDDM Retail to the destination Post Office (instead of driving it)#

USPS guidance allows EDDM-Retail mailings to be entered directly at the designated Post Office (DDU) or shipped to that Post Office under the applicable standards.

If you plan to ship:

  • use sturdy boxes
  • separate boxes by drop-off office (if multiple)
  • include paperwork inside each shipment
  • check the USPS EDDM program page for the latest packaging/addressing instructions

(If your campaign is time-sensitive, shipping adds risk. Call ahead.)

Common drop-off mistakes (aka "why did they reject this?")#

  1. Dropping at the wrong Post Office
  2. Missing PS Form 3587
  3. Facing slips missing or not secured
  4. Bundle counts don't match PS Form 3587 totals
  5. Bundles secured with rubber bands/twine/string
  6. Mailpiece weight exceeds Retail max (3.3 oz)

Frequently Asked Questions#

Can I drop EDDM at any Post Office?#

Not for Retail. Retail entry requires dropping at the Post Office that serves the selected routes (DDU), or shipping to that Post Office under the applicable standards.

What time should I go?#

Go when you have time to fix things if needed. Acceptance speed varies by office; calling ahead can help.

Do I need an appointment?#

Usually no for Retail, but some offices have practical constraints. If you're dropping a larger volume, it's smart to call the destination office.

Official USPS resources#

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