Checking & resolving domain blacklist issues

Email deliverability depends heavily on your domain's reputation. If your sending domain appears on an email blacklist, providers like Gmail, Outlook, or Yahoo may block or filter your messages into spam. Here's how to check and fix blacklist issues in Sendigram.

1. What Is a Domain Blacklist?

  • A blacklist is a list of domains or IP addresses flagged for sending spam or harmful content.
  • Email providers use these lists to filter suspicious senders.
  • If your domain is blacklisted, your campaigns may not reach inboxes.

2. How to Check if Your Domain Is Blacklisted

  1. Go to Account Settings → Sending Domains in Sendigram.
  2. Look for domain health or blacklist status indicators.
  3. Use external tools for detailed checks:
    • MXToolbox
    • Spamhaus
    • MultiRBL
  4. Enter your domain (e.g., yourcompany.com) and check results.

3. Common Causes of Blacklisting

  • Sending to large numbers of invalid or outdated email addresses.
  • High spam complaint rates.
  • Poor list hygiene (purchased or scraped lists).
  • Sudden spikes in sending volume.
  • Compromised accounts used to send spam.

4. Steps to Resolve Blacklist Issues

  1. Identify the blacklist where your domain is listed.
  2. Visit the blacklist operator's website for removal instructions.
  3. Submit a delisting request (you may need to explain what corrective actions you've taken).
  4. Improve your sending practices to prevent re-listing:
    • Clean your email lists regularly.
    • Use double opt-in subscriptions.
    • Avoid spam-triggering words and practices.
    • Monitor engagement rates closely.

5. Preventing Future Blacklist Issues

  • Set up SPF, DKIM, and DMARC for authentication.
  • Warm up new domains gradually before sending high volumes.
  • Keep unsubscribe options visible and easy to use.
  • Monitor feedback loops and spam complaints.
  • Use Sendigram's analytics to track bounce rates and engagement.

6. When to Contact Support

  • If your domain is repeatedly blacklisted despite following best practices.
  • If you can't identify the cause of blacklisting.
  • Sendigram Support can guide you on domain health and may provide extra deliverability tips.
Still have questions?