First identify whether the company sells distribution, writing, outreach, consultancy, or a bundle. An accurate provider explains the boundary between each activity and how the client participates.
Ask for details that can be checked: what is included, what is excluded, and what evidence is supplied after delivery. This guide offers a practical framework, not a guarantee of a particular distribution or editorial result. Specific provider terms can change; verify the current scope directly before you act.
Check the service model
First identify whether the company sells distribution, writing, outreach, consultancy, or a bundle. An accurate provider explains the boundary between each activity and how the client participates. For more on media release distribution, see the individual distribution page.
Evaluate claims and reporting
Request a sample report labeled as a sample, plus a description of what real reporting contains. Ask how outlet participation is verified and what the provider means by “published,” “syndicated,” or “delivered.” For additional context about best PR distribution options, see our related guide.
Read the terms before acting
Review pricing, scope, data handling, revision rights, rejection conditions, cancellation, and refund language. No provider can guarantee independent editorial coverage unless a specific, valid written agreement explicitly defines a different service—and even then, claims need careful review. For a deeper look at affordable press release distribution plans, review the current plan details.
Use this checklist
- Confirm the legal entity and contact channel.
- Get deliverables and exclusions in writing.
- Question guarantees of rankings or named editorial placements.
- Keep approval and payment records.
Practical next step
Write down the intended audience, the announcement’s strongest verifiable fact, and the result you can actually measure. Then compare channels and request written details before proceeding. Distribution does not automatically mean independent reporting, journalist attention, search ranking, or indexing.
For current plan details, compare pricing. Confirm the written scope before proceeding.