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Translated from German; if the versions differ, the German version applies.

Checklist for choosing a sending platform

The selection checklist helps you compare newsletter sending platforms: seven neutral points to tick off, from sign-up with proof through one-click unsubscribe to the limits of a plan. It is meant for anyone who wants to choose or switch platforms, for example for a small business or a club.

Where the points come from

A sending platform is a program or online service that manages mailing lists, sends newsletters and automatically processes unsubscribes and bounces. The seven points come from the page Start your own newsletter, where each point is explained in detail. Three terms in brief: with double opt-in, the address that has signed up receives an email with a confirmation link, and it is only added after the click. One-click unsubscribe is a header in the email (List-Unsubscribe with List-Unsubscribe-Post under RFC 8058) through which the mail program can unsubscribe without any further step. SPF, DKIM and DMARC prove that emails really come from your domain.

How to use it

  1. Go through the list once for each platform you are comparing. Reloading the page clears the list.
  2. Look for the answers in the provider’s documentation or ask the provider.
  3. Note down what remains open and clarify it before signing a contract.

The checklist

  • Purpose and group of recipients clarified
  • Double opt-in with a log
  • Unsubscribe link in the text and one-click unsubscribe in the header
  • SPF, DKIM, DMARC for your own sender domain
  • Data processing agreement offered, server location known
  • Import of records of consent possible
  • Pricing plan with all the necessary features; for free plans, limits and export checked

What the checklist does not check

  • Individual providers. The list neither names nor rates providers; it is not a test and not a recommendation.
  • Prices. The list contains no prices; compare the providers’ current information.
  • Legal questions. Whether a platform is legally suitable for your case is not answered by the list. What laws, court rulings and supervisory authorities say is quoted verbatim on the pages under Law.

Frequently asked questions

Do you recommend a particular sending platform? No. The checklist applies to every platform; which providers you compare with it is up to you.

Is my progress stored? No. The ticks remain only while the page is open; there is no cookie, no local storage and no transmission.

Further reading