Mailing Lists Overview
What it is
A mailing list is a collection of recipient records - names, addresses, and optional contact details - that you use to drive mail orders. Every send on thanks.io targets one or more mailing lists, whether you are placing a one-off batch or running an automated campaign.
Lists are the connective tissue of the platform. Campaigns attach to lists. QR scan automations move people between lists. Analytics track engagement per list. A well-organized set of lists gives you precise control over who gets what mail and when.
Creating a list
- Go to Mailing Lists in the left navigation.
- Click Add List.
- In the dialog that appears, choose Manually Enter Addresses.
- Enter a descriptive name (e.g., "Q3 New Leads" or "Just Listed Farm - Oak Park").
- Click Save.
Adding recipients
- CSV upload - upload a spreadsheet of addresses. See CSV Upload & Format.
- Manual add - open the list, click + Add, fill in the name and address.
- API - add recipients programmatically using the thanks.io REST API. See docs.thanks.io for the full endpoint reference.
- Zapier - use the thanks.io Zapier integration to add recipients from any connected app (e.g., CRM, form builder, or spreadsheet) without writing code.
- Campaign automation - campaigns can move recipients between lists automatically on send or scan events.
Searching and filtering
Use the search bar to find recipients by name or address. Use the Invalid Only filter to surface addresses that failed verification and need attention.
Tips & best practices
- Name lists by purpose and date so they stay organized (e.g., "Birthday Campaign 2026").
- Keep separate lists for different campaign types - don't mix drip recipients with birthday recipients.
- Use the Invalid Address filter regularly before sending.
- Use Move Recipient on Send or Move Recipient on Scan to build engagement-based segments automatically.
Plan-based limits
- List management is available on all tiers, including Free.