Emails in Spam at Gmail

If Gmail is delivering your emails to the spam folder, this guide will help you understand why and what steps you can take to resolve the issue.

Understanding the Issue

While MXroute maintains strict network controls and monitors outgoing mail quality, Gmail's spam filtering decisions are ultimately based on multiple factors including your domain reputation, email content, and recipient engagement. We've compiled the most effective strategies to help improve your email delivery to Gmail.

Step 1: Verify Your Email Configuration

Start by ensuring your email setup meets all technical requirements:

1. Visit mail-tester.com
2. Send a test email to the address provided
3. Check your score after a few seconds
4. Aim for a perfect 10/10 score

Your DNS configuration is crucial for achieving this score. Review our guides on DKIM and DMARC to ensure proper email authentication.

Step 2: Train Gmail's Filters

Gmail's spam filters learn from user behavior. If your legitimate emails are in spam:

• Ask recipients to mark your messages as "Not spam"
• Have new recipients add your email address to their contacts before you send
• Encourage regular engagement with your emails (replies, forwards, etc.)

These actions help Gmail recognize your emails as wanted mail.

Step 3: Monitor Your Domain Performance

Google provides free tools to track how Gmail views your domain:

• Sign up for Google Postmaster Tools
• Monitor your domain reputation score
• Check your spam rate and delivery errors
• Review authentication results

This data provides direct insight into any issues Gmail detects with your domain.

Step 4: Follow Gmail's Best Practices

Google publishes comprehensive guidelines for email senders. Review their official documentation:

Prevent mail to Gmail users from being blocked or sent to spam

Key points include:

• Authenticate your email with SPF and DKIM
• Avoid sudden volume spikes
• Keep spam complaint rates below 0.1%
• Maintain consistent sending patterns

Additional Considerations

• Content Quality: Avoid spam trigger words and excessive promotional language
• List Hygiene: Remove inactive subscribers and invalid addresses
• Sending Patterns: Build sending volume gradually for new domains
• Engagement: Focus on sending to engaged recipients who want your emails

Need More Help?

If you continue experiencing delivery issues after following these steps, consider:

• Reviewing your email content and formatting
• Checking if your domain appears on any blocklists
• Contacting support with specific examples and mail-tester.com results