How do you analyze bounce patterns for root cause clues?

Categorize by type:

• Hard bounces (invalid addresses)
• Soft bounces (temporary issues)
• Policy bounces (reputation blocks)

Analyze by provider:

• Is one provider showing more bounces?
• Provider-specific indicates targeted problem

Look for timing patterns:

• When did new bounce types appear?
• Correlate with sending changes

Read error messages:

• Messages often explain the reason
• "Policy" or "reputation" indicates behavioral issues
• "Blocked" or "blacklisted" indicates listing

Track trends: Increasing bounce rates over time versus sudden spikes indicate different causes.

Cargo rejection notices explain why shipments were refused. Read them carefully.