Royal Mail/Junk Mail

Tippytoes

The postman stuck a card through my letterbox which stated that a letter was being held at the depot because it was understamped. The card gave details of when and where I could collect it. I duly went to the depot (some distance away) paid the surcharge, then discovered that the letter was in fact, junk mail. So, I paid over £1 for rubbish.

Whilst I was there, I asked the guy what happens to mail like this when it isn't collected. He said it is returned to sender or if there is no return address, it is binned. Personally, I would prefer that mail is returned to sender whenever possible. Why should recipients be inconvenienced and charged?

I was told that I could have asked to look at the letter before deciding whether or not to pay. Trouble is, the envelope looked official, and could have contained anything. If I had refused, I would still have incurred travelling costs getting to the depot. Anyone have any constructive ideas on what to do next time?

Pollycat

I'm not sure from your post if this a vent at Royal Mail.

Anyone have any constructive ideas on what to do next time?

Have you considered registering with the Postal Preference Service?

It should cut out some of the mail you receive that is addressed to you, but it won't stop the items that RM deliver not addressed to anyone specific.

custardy

so you paid for the item as it 'looked important'
but want RM to just return the items? which is it?
RM give you the opportunity to get your item,me i dont pay for any undercharged mail
if its important whomever sent it can resend it

Tippytoes

Thank you for your help

Darksun

Out of interest, who was the letter from?

biscit

Pollycat wrote: »

Have you considered registering with the Postal Preference Service?

It should cut out some of the mail you receive that is addressed to you, but it won't stop the items that RM deliver not addressed to anyone specific.

If you're not registered with the mailing preference service, you can do so here:

http://www.mpsonline.org.uk/mpsr/mps_choosetype.html

It is worth doing, it can cut out a lot (although not all) of addressed junk mail.

barnabee

Why not write to the company who sent you the mail and explain the problem. You may find that they will respond with a goodwill gesture to apologise for your inconvenience and being out of pocket.

I did this with Chevrolet who sent out a large brochure using an ordinary 2nd class stamp. I had an apology and a gift.

pmduk

I'm first to blame Royal Mail on the many occasions they screw up. However it's unfair to include them on this rant.

maninthestreet

Send it back to the sender in an envelope without a stamp on it.

TudorRose

Thanks biscit.

I have just registered not to receive unsolicited faxes at work & unsolicited marketing calls at home.
I am sick & tired of all the calls asking me if I've had an accident, in debt etc that I get at home.