If customers say your emails never arrive, they are probably in spam. Email providers decide where to put your messages based on who you are, how you send and how people react.
1. Missing domain authentication
Without SPF, DKIM and DMARC, providers cannot verify your emails are genuine. Gmail and Yahoo now expect bulk senders to have these. Create the records with our SPF and DMARC generator.
2. Sending from a free email address
Marketing emails from Gmail or Yahoo addresses through email platforms often fail checks. Use your own domain.
3. Poor list quality
Bought lists, old addresses and people who never opted in lead to bounces and spam complaints. Clean your list with our email list cleaner.
4. No easy unsubscribe
If people cannot unsubscribe easily, they mark emails as spam. Include a clear one-click unsubscribe link.
5. Spammy content
- Subject lines in capitals with lots of exclamation marks.
- Phrases like “100% free”, “act now”, “winner”.
- A single large image with little text.
Check subjects with our subject line checker.
6. Sudden volume
Sending thousands of emails from a new domain overnight looks suspicious. Increase volume gradually.
7. Low engagement
If most recipients never open, providers treat future emails as less wanted. Remove long-inactive subscribers.
Promotions tab vs spam
Landing in Gmail’s Promotions tab is normal for marketing emails and not the same as spam.
Want the full picture? This article is part of Email marketing: the complete guide, our in-depth guide with everything in one place.
