Does Lob have a specific differentiator compared to other API-enabled print fulfillment houses? It seems to be a fairly well served market (at least in the UK) so I'm slightly surprised to see a fresh YC team on the case.
Letter sending is often touted as being one of those things that's actually a lot more expensive than you think it is, and I think Lob are leveraging that common "wisdom". I don't really believe the Total Costs that are touted ($15.00 to send a letter), but it's interesting thinking how much this could therefore save.
I think there's also a huge potential here to partner with Mail Scanning Services. If I can charge you $1.60 to send a physical letter, and a mail scanning service can charge the same to receive said physical letter - then we're both in a position to cut out the middle man and essentially charge you $3.00 to send and receive an email.
That's a frighteningly efficient way of making money.
Hey this is Harry - one of the founders. Not sure where you are seeing $15 to send a letter to the UK. It actually only starts $1.61 and drops w/ volume. Shortly we'll also have a fulfillment center right out of London to make it even cheaper/faster.
I'm not sure if they do this or not, I don't think they do, but your post made me consider something else.
When I, in the US, want to send a letter to Europe, or China, or wherever, do they print and mail it in the US or in those countries?
For certain types of mail, they could take the entire hassle (time + money) of international postage and just send the letter electronically to the destination country, where it would be printed and mailed locally.
We've used Lob for various printing needs from postcards to stand up banners (excellent btw) for trade shows; and plan to continue using them as needs arise. The turnaround time has always been quick.
