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    Tabbing Services - Catdi Printing
    USPS Self-Mailer Compliance

    Tabbing Services

    Sealed Right. Mailed Compliant.

    USPS-compliant wafer seal tabs applied to self-mailers and folded pieces — keeping them closed for postal processing.

    What Is Tabbing Services?

    Tabbing machines apply small adhesive wafer seals (typically 1-inch or 1.5-inch round or rectangular tabs) to the open edges of folded self-mailers. USPS requires these tabs to prevent the open edge from catching in postal processing equipment. Without proper tabbing, self-mailers may be rejected at the post office or charged non-automation rates.

    Tabbing is the application of small adhesive wafer seals (tabs) to folded self-mailers, brochures, and newsletters to hold them closed during USPS processing. USPS requires tabs on most self-mailers that do not use envelopes. Catdi Printing applies tabs as part of the mail finishing workflow — ensuring your self-mailer qualifies for automation postage rates.

    Key Benefits

    Why Catdi Printing clients choose Tabbing Services as part of their mail production workflow.

    USPS Compliance

    Meet USPS self-mailer tabbing requirements so your pieces qualify for automation postage rates.

    Prevents Processing Damage

    Properly tabbed pieces move through USPS sorting equipment without tearing or jamming.

    Multiple Tab Options

    We offer clear, white, and custom-printed tabs in round and rectangular configurations.

    High-Speed Application

    Tabbing machines apply seals at thousands of pieces per hour — no production delays.

    Works with Any Self-Mailer

    Compatible with tri-fold brochures, newsletters, postcards with flaps, and Z-fold self-mailers.

    Inline with Folding

    Tabbing runs inline after folding — no separate handling step for efficiency.

    Who Uses Tabbing Services?

    Common applications and industries that rely on tabbing services as part of their direct mail workflow.

    Tri-Fold Brochure Mailers

    Seal the open edge of letter-folded brochures for USPS-compliant self-mailing.

    Newsletters

    Tab folded multi-page newsletters so they mail as self-mailers without envelopes.

    Event Invitations

    Fold and tab event invitations for self-mailing — no envelope required.

    Menu Mailers

    Tab accordion-folded restaurant menus for direct mail distribution.

    Catalog Self-Mailers

    Seal folded catalog mailers for postcard-rate qualification where applicable.

    Political Mailers

    USPS-compliant tabbing for political self-mailers and voter contact pieces.

    Ready to Add Tabbing Services to Your Campaign?

    Catdi Printing handles every step of your mail production in-house. Get a custom quote today.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    USPS requirements vary by piece size and weight. Smaller pieces (up to 4.25×6 inches) typically require 1 tab. Larger pieces (up to 6×10.5 inches) require 2 tabs on the open edge. Very large or heavy self-mailers may require 3 tabs or other closure methods. Our prepress team will confirm the correct tabbing spec for your piece.
    Yes. Clear, white, and colored tabs are available. Custom-printed tabs (with your logo or message) are available for larger quantities. Tabs must not obstruct the address area or any required USPS endorsements.
    A wafer seal tab is a pre-made adhesive disc or rectangle applied by a machine. A glue seal is applied inline during folding using a cold glue bead. Both are acceptable for most self-mailers. We'll recommend the best option based on your piece type and postage class.
    No. Tabbing is typically performed inline with folding, adding minimal time to the overall production schedule. Standalone tabbing of pre-folded pieces is also available if you're sending us already-folded pieces.
    Untabbed self-mailers may be rejected at the USPS plant, charged non-automation rates, or damaged in processing. USPS has strict self-mailer standards outlined in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM). We ensure every self-mailer leaves our facility fully compliant.