Description: Mail order is a system for acquiring goods that allows consumers to request products through postal mail. This method is based on the presentation of a catalog or a list of products, where customers can select what they wish to purchase and send their order along with payment to the selling company. This system has evolved over time, adapting to new technologies and market demands. The main features of mail order include the convenience of shopping from home, the ability to access a wide variety of products that may not be locally available, and the ease of direct shipping to the customer’s home. Despite the growing popularity of online e-commerce, mail order remains relevant, especially in areas where internet access is limited. This method has also been used by companies looking to reach a broader audience, offering printed catalogs and order options through forms sent by mail. In summary, mail order represents an accessible and practical way to shop, which has endured over time and continues to adapt to consumer needs.
History: The concept of mail order dates back to the 19th century when companies began sending catalogs to consumers’ homes. One of the significant milestones was the founding of Montgomery Ward in 1872, which launched one of the first mail order catalogs in the United States. Throughout the 20th century, this method became popular, especially with the advent of mass advertising and the development of more efficient postal services. In the 1960s, mail order solidified as a common form of shopping, and in the 1990s, with the rise of the Internet, it began to transform into e-commerce.
Uses: Mail order is primarily used in retail, allowing consumers to acquire products without the need to visit a physical store. It is also common in the sale of specialized products, such as clothing, books, and collectibles, where catalogs can offer a wider selection than local stores. Additionally, some companies use this method to reach customers in rural or hard-to-access areas.
Examples: A classic example of mail order is the Sears catalog, which was very popular in the United States for much of the 20th century. Another contemporary example is the use of catalogs by companies like Avon, which allow sales representatives to take orders for beauty products through forms sent by mail.
