Warming Up a New Sending Domain
A brand-new domain or email address has no sending history, and mailbox providers are cautious about unknown senders. Warming up means gradually increasing how much you send so that you build a positive reputation rather than triggering spam filters.
Trying to send thousands of messages on day one from a fresh domain is one of the fastest ways to land in the spam folder or get blocked entirely.
Why Warm-Up Is Needed
Providers watch how recipients react to your early mail. A slow, steady start that earns opens and replies signals that you are a legitimate sender.
A Sensible Warm-Up Pattern
There is no single formula, but the principles are consistent.
- Begin with a small volume to your most engaged recipients.
- Increase the daily volume gradually over several weeks.
- Prioritise contacts who open and reply early on.
- Watch bounce and complaint rates and slow down if they rise.
Authenticate First
Warm-up only works if SPF, DKIM and DMARC are already in place. We set those up before the first message is ever sent.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does warming up take?
Typically two to six weeks depending on your target volume. Higher volumes need a longer, more careful ramp.
If you need a hand with any of this, your Progressive Robot delivery team is ready to help. Raise a ticket from the Support area of your client portal or speak to your account manager and we will guide you through the next steps.