Abstract: A transfer mechanism cooperates with an envelope insertion machine and a postage metering machine to transfer an envelope between the insertion and postage metering machines while rotating the envelope 180.degree. and weighing the envelope such that the metering machine applies proper postage thereto. A drive mechanism allows independent control of rollers for transferring an envelope into a transfer cage of the transfer mechanism, rotation of the cage and subsequent reverse rotation of the rollers to discharge the envelope. Braking and locking devices are provided with the drive mechanism to ensure proper position of the cage. The cage is constructed to receive an envelope in either of opposite ends.

Abstract: A length of material (10) is provided with an indented zone (18) which receives an adhesive layer (24). The outer surface (26) of the adhesive layer (24) is coplanar with the outer surface (12) of the length of material (10) thus providing a check processing tab (44) having a uniform cross sectional configuration. The check processing tabs are wound into rolls (30) and are ultimately adhesively secured to checks (34) with the outer surface (12) of the check processing tab (44) positioned in the same plane as the reverse side (46) of the check (34) and subtantially offset from the face (48) thereof.