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HomeResource CenterRSVP: Mailer Reply Options
in Direct Mail

reply options

RSVP: reply options explained

You are sending out a mailer and you want to make it easy for folks to send you something back, be it a detachable or inserted postcard, an envelope with a flap or one with an accompanying insert. Below you will find explanations of your options as they relate to both the inserted items and the postage costs associated with returning them to you.

Courtesy Reply Mail

Courtesy Reply Mail (CRM) refers to any type of piece you include that's meant to be returned to you, where the recipient is expected to add a stamp or otherwise pay for the postage necessary to return it. You are providing a convenient way for people to respond to you. For example, just fill out the enclosed card, insert it in the enclosed pre-addressed envelope, and add a stamp. So easy!

Pro tips:

  1. Sometimes mailers will include a code on the return piece to indicate when it was printed. This lets you know which piece you mailed that was associated with the response you received.
  2. Mailers often will also include "place stamp here" message in the upper right corner of the envelope or postcard to reinforce the idea that the postage is not prepaid.
  3. This is by far the most popular option embraced by our customers who mail!

Business Reply Mail

Business Reply Mail (BRM) is a USPS product that allows you to pay the postage for any reply your recipients send back to you.

Pro tips:

  1. BRM permit holders must be the sending organization. Holland Litho is not allowed by the USPS to be the permit holder for our customers.
  2. The design of a BRM must exactly follow USPS rules.
  3. The USPS has a free service to assist you with the design of your piece so it complies with their requirements.

Permit Reply Mail

Permit Reply Mail (PRM) allows you to prepay for postage on every piece you include in your mailer. With PRM, you are paying regardless of whether your recipient returns the piece you enclosed.

Pro tips:

  1. PRM is like putting a stamp on every piece you inserted and sent out.
  2. It is very expensive relative to the first two options and rarely used.
  3. A PRM permit must be approved by the USPS District Manager by the sending organization, so it is the most involved.

Just ask!

Wondering which solution is right for you? Your sales rep can help you decide based on your specific situation, and when necessary can bring in experts from our direct mail group. Just contact your sales rep for more information.