Advocacy Group Reduces Shipping Costs Over 80%, Upgrades Unboxing Experience | Nonprofit
11/25/2025
RRD’s patented Flex Mailer™ solution enhances the brand’s packaging, reinforces membership value
CHALLENGE
A prominent U.S.-based advocacy group provided a premium gift to their highest-level members. Although members perceived the item to be of high value, the organization faced challenges when it came to fulfillment: Their existing supplier shipped the items in an unadorned, corrugated box and did so using standard package-shipping rates. This combination resulted in excessive shipping costs that put a significant strain on the organization’s budget. Furthermore, the substandard packaging failed to both convey the premium nature of the item and the organization’s strong commitment to members, diminishing the overall brand experience.
The organization sought a fulfillment and shipping solution that would significantly reduce costs. They also desired a more stylized and branded design for their packaging to enhance the opening experience and increase member satisfaction.
SOLUTION
The advocacy group turned to long-time collaborator RRD. Already familiar with RRD’s capabilities, the organization tasked them with deploying a valuable, high-impact alternative to their current packaging and shipping method.
RRD first sought to gain a better understanding of the premium that would be included in the packaging. Importantly, they also consulted with the USPS to ensure the final design would meet all necessary requirements to qualify for lower mailing rates.
After presenting the group with numerous mockups, RRD ultimately designed and produced a custom-branded, patented Flex Mailer™ solution that would meet their goals for cost savings and brand presence — while also satisfying complex USPS requirements.
Engineered to securely and attractively accommodate the premium sent to members, the Flex Mailer solved the primary cost challenge facing the organization. Its streamlined dimensions and structure qualify it as an automated flat with the USPS. As a result, the company’s shipping costs were dramatically reduced for each package compared to the previous standard parcel rates.
The Flex Mailer’s interior tray addressed multiple needs: In addition to having one of its compartments safely securing the premium item itself, the tray’s structure provided an essential combination of flexibility and rigidity necessary for USPS processing.
RESULTS
By adopting the custom-designed RRD Flex Mailer, the advocacy group realized significant results, including:
- Delivery cost reduction: The organization was able to reduce delivery costs by more than 80% on every premium package shipped
- Total annual savings: The delivery cost reduction resulted in an estimated annual savings of more than $75,000 on shipping costs alone
- Member experience upgrade: The custom, branded packaging significantly enhanced the member unboxing experience, reinforcing the value of a membership and strengthening members’ emotional connection to the organization