What is a “bounce processor”?

A bounce processor handles bounce messages systematically:

Core functions:

Receive: Collect incoming bounce messages (DSNs). Parse: Extract relevant information (codes, addresses, timestamps). Classify: Categorize by type (hard, soft, block, technical). Route: Trigger appropriate downstream actions.

Downstream actions:

Update suppression lists. Queue for retry (soft bounces). Alert on unusual patterns. Update CRM or database records. Generate reports and analytics.

Technical implementation:

Dedicated mailbox monitoring Return-Path addresses. Pattern matching against bounce dictionaries. Integration with ESP APIs. Real-time processing pipelines.

A bounce processor is the harbor's damage assessment team. It determines what went wrong and what to do about it.