We all get these annoying envelops for extra low APR credit card deals. So usually I sent back the business reply mail envelopes with coupons or paper shreds or something that means nothing to me. But I’m wondering since it says “NO POSTAGE NECESSARY IF MAILED IN THE UNITED STATES” that it means I can duck tape a brick to it and mail it back having the postal service charge them for the mailing fee of a 2 pound brick?
Cecil did a column on this, and basically, no, not anymore. http://www.straightdope.com/classics/a2_356.html
You would not want to do this even if it were possible. Many of the business reply envelopes also have bar codes on the flap identifying your solicitation account.
Bar codes are easily foiled by adding in a single line parallel to the lines of the code, preventing the scanner from getting a clear scan. They don’t hold up well to scissors, either.
That sounded snippy, I think… 'Twas not my intention at all, Duckster, my apologies.