Excessive Requests for QSL Returns

First, let me say that most operators/managers only ask for an SASE with adequate postage to return a QSL card and appreciate extra to help with expenses. But be aware there are a few operators/managers who are requesting more than necessary for QSL replies. I've recently noticed that some DXpeditions in Australia are now doing the same by requesting 3 USD. Is there anything wrong with asking for or sending donations to defray the expenses incurred by mounting a DXpedition? Absolutely not, there is nothing wrong with helping these guys out. But it is wrong to demand donations, and return cards via the bureau if one doesn't comply. Generally, the one requesting a QSL sends an SASE or SAE with sufficient funds for a return. But some guys want more. Some may argue, "Well, that's what he wants. If you want his card, then send it or don't bother working him." The purpose of this page is to shine some light on these guys. You can decide if you want to send them what they want or not. Or you may hear, "I'll send him whatever he wants, I just want my card." This thought is the very reason these guys are asking for more than necessary. If you give in to their requests, consider yourself part of the problem. Keep giving in to excessive requests, and they may start wanting more.



International Reply Coupons (IRCs)

It clearly states on the back of each IRC that one is enough for return postage from any country that's a member of the Universal Postal Union. (UPU) I have received numerous emails from DX hams stating that their post office will not give enough return postage for the exchange of one IRC. I can look up the postage rates for some countries and the currency exchange rate, but can't really say with certainty what post offices in other countries are requiring to exchange postage for IRCs. Personally, I won't send two IRCs because it's too darn expensive. If they won't accept their country's stamps on an SASE, or require only one QSL per envelope, that sends up a red flag. It lets me know they are only interested in more greenstamps.



The following countries do NOT require 3 USD for return postage
See Foreign Postage Rates

Australia
Australia's airmail rates are 2.20 AUD for Europe and the US. Their card rate is 1.45 AUD. Two USD = 2.30 AUD, so anyone asking for 3 USD is asking for more than necessary to return your card.

Balearic Island
One OM in Balearic Island is requesting 3 USD for return postage, which is absurd. Postage for Balearic Island is the same as Spain, which is €.78 for the US, and €.62 for Europe. Since 2 USD = €1.40, he is making money with $2. Many report he didn't send a card after they sent $3. Why bother with him? There's plenty of EA6 operators who are honest and will send you a card for the minimum necessary.



The following countries do NOT require 2 USD for return postage
See Foreign Postage Rates

United States
I've noticed some ops in the US requesting $2 to return a QSL. As of January 2010, the cost to send international mail up to 1 Oz (28.35g) is 98¢, so $1 will cover the postage. The same gos for Alaska, Hawaii, and the US Islands. The postage is still 98¢. $2 will help pay for their vacation to the Caribbean or whatever/wherever.

Costa Rica
A couple of ops in Costa Rica are requesting 2 IRCs, and one of them is requesting 2 USD. This is a rip-off. Postage to the US from Costa Rica is 170 Colon, and 1 USD = 502 Colon. Yet, the guy requesting 2 USD states he will not reply if you send him 1 USD. I don't know what the deal is about IRCs, but as stated in the 2nd paragraph, one is sufficient. There's plenty of honest ops in Costa Rica who will return your QSL for the minimum required, so why bother with these guys. It's best to put them out of business.

Guatemala
One op in Guatemala requests $2 for return postage. Their rates are listed at the link above, which are 6.5Q for the US up to 50g, (1.76 Oz) and 8Q for Europe, up to 20g. (.7 Oz) 1 USD = 8.25 Quetzal. And where did I get this information? I got it from their postal service web site. El Correo Under Servicio, choose Cartas y Documentos (Letters and Documents) A link for the current exchange rate is provided at Foreign Postage Rates above.

This op also claims he can't exchange IRCs. The links below will list many hams in Guatemala. Most of them say nothing about QSL requirements. Only one is requesting $2, and two of them make statements to the effect they will accept IRCs. Besides, Guatemala has been a member the Universal Postal Union since 1881. Oh yes. when they limit 1 card per envelope, and 3 QSOs per card, that should be enough right there to send up a red flag. It shows they are only interested in $. My suggestion... Work one of the hams who is not requesting an excessive amount for postage.

Guatemalan Ops Page 1 via QRZ.com            Guatemalan Ops Page 2 via QRZ.com

Thailand
One guy in Thailand likes two greenstamps or more. And only one QSL per envelope, none of this two for the price of one. If you send him 1 USD, he is making money. It costs him 17 Baht to send to Europe, and 19 Baht to send to the US. 1 USD = 34 Baht. He sends his regards from "The land of smiles." I would be smiling too.

Trinidad & Tobago
From the island of Trinidad/Tobago there is a guy asking for 2 USD. 1 USD = 6.28 TT Dollars. It costs him 3.75 TTD to send to the Americas, 4.50 TTD to send to Europe, and 5.25 TTD to send to all other areas. So one greenstamp is more than enough for any place in the world. I will give him credit for accepting TT stamps.


Again, let me make it clear. I'm not against requesting or sending donations to defray the cost of DXpeditions, or sending extra to managers (by choice) to help with expenses. I'm not against awarding those who donate with an early QSL, as long as everyone gets theirs. What I am against is those who demand more or else your QSL is denied or goes via the bureau.

As for what is required to QSL direct, perhaps this link will be some help. Foreign Postage Rates

Email me:



OQRS
I have received numerous emails about DXpeditions charging a minimum of €4 or $5 for a QSL return. When I checked these out, most turned out to be those DXpeditions using OQRS. (Online QSL Request System) This is where you request your QSL online and pay with PayPal. The DXpedition pays PayPal for this service. OQRS gives you the opportunity to request your card without mailing one in. So if you live in the US and pay $1 to send your card, $2 for return postage, and $2 to help with the expenses, that's $5 right there. And if you choose to send a larger donation, it's safer than sending by mail. The cost was absolutely free for the ones who requested via the bureau using this service. And the time that it would ordinarily take for your card to reach the manager was eliminated. I have used OQRS several times, and love it. I had rather the DXpedition get the money than the postal service. Some DXpeditions awarded those who paid via OQRS with an early QSL or a quick upload to LoTW. That's fine, as long as everyone gets their card or LoTW match later. And with most DXpedition I've seen using OQRS, it was an option. You could still send for your card the old fashion way and donate only if you wish.