April 26, 2009
Is there a "snail-mail" opt out list for junk mail?
I understand how to block and/or filter email, but how about regular USPS mail. Is there a good way to stop the junk? I can't imagine how many trees it takes to make all the flyers and papers I get in the mail that go straight to the recycle bin. All those resources (postage/paper/money/time) spent and all the mail gets is a half-second glance, what a waste!
I don't mean through USPS. I understand they have to deliver mail that has paid postage. I'm asking if there is a way to get my address removed from the sources' lists.
Yaeko
Filed under Other - Business & Finance by
Comments on Is there a "snail-mail" opt out list for junk mail?
You can try putting a sign like "No unaddressed mail" on your box to see if it is honored.
They will not respond to the word junk, because that does not define any class of mail.
The USPS is required by federal law to deliver all mail. If it has a real address and proper postage it has to be delivered. It's not up to them to deliver some things and not others.
According to the Federal Trade Commission Consumer Protection site
Mail
The Direct Marketing Association’s (DMA) Mail Preference Service lets you opt out of receiving direct mail marketing from many national companies for five years. When you register with this service, your name will be put on a “delete” file and made available to direct-mail marketers. However, your registration will not stop mailings from organizations that are not registered with the DMA’s Mail Preference Service. To register with DMA, send your letter to: Direct Marketing Association
Mail Preference Service
PO Box 643
Carmel, NY 10512
Or register online at
Piggie is right. The DMA's Mail Preference Service is currently the best way to opt out of junk mail. Here's the correct link for it:
There's also a cool service for opting out of catalogs:
Unfortunately, these aren't perfect solutions. They'll only stop about 80% of the junk mail (if that). That's why I highly recommend that you sign the online petition for a national Do Not Mail list (like Do Not Call for telemarketing):
You might also want to check out Junk Mail Revolt:
Good luck!