Inderpul Narula and Royston Heaton ran west London-based Mail Logistics, which offered companies low prices for bulk international post delivery.
Rather than deliver the mail, the two arranged for it to be dumped in huge skips by a third man, Zhivko Antov.
Narula and Royston, who were estimated to have netted as much as 3m between them, were jailed following an investigation by the Police and Royal Mail.
The three defendants admitted conspiracy to de-fraud between 1 March 2001 and 15 May 2002, with Narula and Heaton ordered to pay 500,000 and 400,000 compensation respectively.
Antov was given a nine-month sentence, suspended for one year, at Southwark Crown Court.
Have your say in the Printweek Poll
Related stories
Latest comments
"Hilarious screen shot! Poorly performing HP kit discussed in poor English."
"Hello Fools Pantone Gold,
It's not free advertising. It's reporting. I have pointed out, again, that people at other associated businesses have not been paid.
Best regards,
Jo"
"Congratulations guys, looks like a great investment. I wasn’t aware the business was founded by 3 people as Joseph is listed as the sole shareholder, anyhow it’s great to see investment in our sector."
Up next...

1bn business letters
Evri expands with DHL eComms deal

Former staff still awaiting payment
Hastings plans 'bold new chapter' with Wren rebrand

Two installs, with a third to come
GB Mail upgrades paper wrappers with Norwix

Integrates with workflow data to make suggestions