What is a franking machine and what does it do?

Pitney Bowes has been supplying franking machines for over 100 years and is constantly innovating bring some of the most modern technology to the market. However, many businesses in the UK are still unaware of the benefit of a franking machine.

What is a franking machine?

A franking machine prints a Mailmark compliant indicia that includes a unique 2-D barcode onto a letter or parcel, instead of using a stamp. Sending letters or parcels with a franking machine is cheaper than using stamps due to Mailmark franking tariffs, which mean you could save up to 28.8%* when sending a letter or parcel.

What is a franking machine used for?

Franking Machines allow businesses to print postage within their office while taking advantage of savings of up to 28.8%*. It removes the need to make trips to the post office to buy stamps. Franking machines print a ‘Mailmark indicia’ including a 2D barcode, directly onto envelopes, postcards or adhesive labels. It can also be used to print a company logo onto an envelope or label often making business’ communications look more professional.

How does a franking machine work?

Franking machines select the correct postage price, by weighing the item you are sending before printing the postage on the mail item. This prevents you from overpay for your postage. The funds to pay for your postage are stored securely on the franking machine and in most cases can be topped on via online portals.

What is franked mail or post?

Franked mail are items posted using a franking machine. Franked mail will have an indicia that includes a unique 2-D barcode in the top right corner as opposed to a stamp.

What is an Indica and what does it look like?

An Mailmark indicia is a marking on a mail item, which is used instead of a stamp, to indicate the payment of postage. It is usually printed directly onto an envelope or label. You can see an example of what an Mailmark indicia below.

What are the advantages of a franking machine?

There are many benefits to having a franking machine. Here are just a few:

• Save money as you will be able to take advantage of Mailmark franking tariffs, saving up to 28.8% on items you send.
• Franking is quicker and more accurate than applying stamps.
• Print your logo, return address or promotional message on your envelopes, presenting a professional image to your customers.
• Franking is more secure as there are no stamp books lying around the office.

What savings do you make from using a franking machine?

You can find how much money you’d save using a franking machine, by checking out our franking machine guide for the full list of savings.

Still have more questions?

If you’d like to ask our specialists a question or want to find out more information find out how below.