How to Set Up Instantly for Cold Email Campaigns

Instantly is one of the most popular cold email platforms in 2026. Here is how to set it up for optimal performance. Step 1: Create your Instantly account Sign up at instantly.ai and choose a plan based on your account and feature needs. Step 2: Connect your email accounts In Instantly, go to Email Accounts and add your Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 accounts. The platform supports both OAuth and SMTP connection methods. OAuth is generally simpler and more secure. Step 3: Enable warmup For each connected account, enable Instantly's built-in warmup. Set the warmup volume and let it run for at least 14 days before starting campaigns. If you are using prewarmed accounts from Warm Inboxes, you can start campaigns sooner but should still keep warmup running alongside. Step 4: Set up a custom tracking domain (optional) If you want to track opens or clicks, set up a custom tracking domain to avoid shared tracking domain reputation issues. Go to Settings > Custom Tracking Domain and follow the DNS instructions. Step 5: Build your campaign Go to Campaigns > New Campaign. Upload your prospect list (CSV). Build your email sequence with multiple steps. Add variables for personalization. Set the sending schedule (days, times, timezone). Configure sending limits per account per day. Step 6: Configure sending settings Set the daily sending limit per account (25 to 35 emails per day for cold email). Enable inbox rotation so sends are distributed across all connected accounts. Set the time gap between individual emails (2 to 5 minutes recommended). Step 7: Launch and monitor Activate the campaign. Monitor open rates, reply rates, and bounces daily. Check deliverability regularly with the deliverability checker.

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