Email Deliverability Checklist
Follow these 12 steps to ensure your cold emails hit the inbox.
Technical Authentication
SPF Record Configured
Ensure your SPF record includes all IP addresses allowed to send email on your behalf.
DKIM Signature Active
Verify that your emails are cryptographically signed with DKIM keys.
DMARC Policy Set
Implement a DMARC policy (start with p=none) to monitor authentication failures.
Custom Tracking Domain
Use a custom tracking domain instead of a shared one to improve trust.
Domain Reputation
Domain Age > 3 Months
New domains should be warmed up for at least 12 weeks before heavy sending.
Not on Blacklists
Check if your domain or IP is listed on Spamhaus, Barracuda, or others.
Consistent Sending Volume
Avoid sudden spikes in email volume; increase gradually.
Content & Engagement
Text-to-Image Ratio
Maintain a healthy balance (60:40 or 80:20). Avoid image-only emails.
Unsubscribe Link
Always include a visible, one-click unsubscribe link.
Spam Word Check
Scan content for trigger words like "Free", "Guarantee", "$$$".
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