Bounce handling is the automated processing of delivery failure notices (DSNs) to classify hard versus soft bounces and suppress addresses accordingly.
What is the difference between a hard and soft bounce?
Hard bounces are permanent failures (bad address). Soft bounces are temporary (full mailbox, server down). Suppress hard immediately.
Why does email bounce handling matter for deliverability?
Repeatedly sending to invalid addresses is one of the strongest negative reputation signals providers track.
What is the first step to get started with email bounce handling?
Parse DSN codes: 5.1.x means the address does not exist (hard); 4.x.x means temporary (soft).
What is the most common email bounce handling mistake?
Treating 'mailbox full' as a hard bounce and losing valid contacts.