First domain checklist

Before sending production traffic with mc_live_ keys, complete this checklist.

1. Verify sender domain

• Add domain in dashboard → Domains
• Copy SPF, DKIM (mc1._domainkey), and DMARC records from DNS setup
• Wait for DNS propagation (up to 48 h)
• Run Verify domain until all statuses pass

2. Configure API key

• Create key with minimum scopes (email:send for transactional)
• Store in server secrets — not in frontend
• Test with mc_test_ first, then switch to mc_live_

3. Check quota

• Know your plan limit — Plans
• Monitor X-Quota-* headers — Quota headers
• Understand 80 % warning and 110 % block — Quota enforcement

4. Suppression list

• Import existing bounces/unsubscribes via Suppressions
• Understand hard bounces auto-suppress — Bounces and complaints
• Set up webhooks for email.bounced and contact.unsubscribed

5. Templates and content

• Publish template versions (drafts cannot send)
• Include {{unsubscribeUrl}} in marketing emails — Unsubscribe
• Test with POST /campaigns/:id/test or single sends before bulk

6. Monitoring

• Register webhook endpoint with HMAC verification
• Review Email logs after first production sends
• Optional: external deliverability check (mail-tester.com, mxtoolbox)

Ready? Continue with Send email or Campaign workflow.