When searching for a mailing list, there are a few things to consider. 

• The more specialized your mailing list, the less quantity will result.  Therefore, you must consider increasing your market territory to increase your mail quantity. 
  

• Mailing lists come in all shapes and sizes.  Some mailing lists are compiled from public record data, while other mailing lists could be a subscribership list of a magazine.  The more effort it takes to create and update the mailing list, the more the owner will likely charge.  Generally speaking, there are also going to be an acceptable degree of error with every mailing list.  Ask about accuracy before you order you start your next campaign. 
  
  
• Mailing lists are rented not owned.  Unless otherwise stated, you are renting the mailing list for a one-time direct mail campaign.  With permission, and additional fees, you may mail the same mailing list more than once for a period of one year.  Ask about mailing and mail piece restrictions before you plan to order your next mailing list.
  
  
• Different mailing lists have different update schedules.  Some mailing lists are very deliverable, while others benefit from an NCOA scrub prior to mailing.  The more you learn about the compilation of a mailing list, the better prepared you’ll be to investing into your next direct mail test campaign.