The 9x12 method (also known as the Local Spotlight method or shared mail advertising) is a collaborative direct mail marketing approach where multiple local businesses share space on a single oversized postcard measuring 9 inches by 12 inches.
Instead of one business bearing the entire cost of printing and mailing thousands of postcards, 6-12 businesses split the expense—making direct mail advertising accessible to small businesses that couldn't otherwise afford it.
The 9x12 size is the largest postcard format that qualifies for USPS Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) rates while still being cost-effective to print. The oversized format stands out in mailboxes and provides enough space for multiple businesses to have impactful ad spots.
The 9x12 Method Skool community is the go-to resource for learning the ins and outs of running successful shared mail campaigns.
Whether you're just starting out or scaling your existing operation, the 9x12 Method community has the resources and support you need.
Join the 9x12 Method Community6-12 non-competing local businesses join together to share postcard space and costs.
Each business gets an ad spot on the 9x12 postcard with their offer, contact info, and branding.
Target specific neighborhoods using USPS EDDM routes to reach your ideal customer demographics.
Postcards reach every mailbox in selected routes—typically 5,000-10,000 households per campaign.
The 9x12 method has become popular among local businesses for good reason.
Share costs with other businesses. What would cost $3,000+ alone might cost $300-500 per business.
Direct mail has a 4.4% response rate vs 0.12% for email—36x more effective at driving action.
Reach every household in specific neighborhoods where your ideal customers live and work.
9x12 oversized postcards can't be ignored—they're the biggest item in most mailboxes.
Build relationships with complementary local businesses while cross-promoting to shared audiences.
Campaign operators can build a sustainable business with monthly recurring campaigns.
Individual ad spots on a 9x12 postcard typically range from $200-$800 depending on the size of the spot and the number of postcards being mailed. This is significantly cheaper than running a solo direct mail campaign.
EDDM (Every Door Direct Mail) is the USPS mailing service used to deliver postcards. The 9x12 method specifically refers to the shared postcard format and business model, which often uses EDDM for delivery.
You can either join an existing campaign through a local 9x12 operator, or start your own campaign by recruiting local businesses, designing the postcard, selecting EDDM routes, and coordinating printing and mailing. The best way to learn is by joining the 9x12 Method community on Skool where experienced operators share their strategies and answer questions.
The Local Spotlight method is another name for 9x12 postcard marketing. It's called "Local Spotlight" because it shines a spotlight on local businesses through shared direct mail campaigns.
Yes! A professional website helps you attract advertisers, showcase past campaigns, capture leads, and build credibility. That's exactly what 9x12tools.com provides—purpose-built websites that launch in 60 seconds.