Can eStamps save your business money on postage? In 1999, the United States Postal Service (USPS) allowed the average person to set up special hardware on his or her personal computers in order to print postage. The inception of the eStamp followed shortly thereafter when the USPS allowed third-party vendors to sell the hardware and software necessary to print the exact amount of postage on mail. Since then, thousands of businesses have benefited from the convenience and reduced costs of processing their mail. Your business can benefit from this technology too.

An eStamp can be purchased simply through download as long as you have an Internet connection. By selecting the amount of postage you need, you can pay and send your mail. Special eStamp software on your computer allows you to deduct the postage from an account established with your eStamp provider. There are three basic benefits to investing in an eStamp provider:

1. Get the convenience of a meter that can provide infinite eStamp abilities without the hassle of costly equipment.

2. Eliminate the need to stand in long lines at the post office with eStamp technology.

3. Control mailing costs using eStamp technology to avoid unnecessary expenditures.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Easily find an eStamp provider

It's quite simple to find an eStamp list of providers online. However, there are only two main providers that are sponsored by the USPS and offer many advantages.

I recommend: Stamps.com not only has a partnership with the USPS, but it also offers many benefits, including a secure SSL payment gateway. Endicia is another vendor that is affiliated with the USPS that has software for Mac and Windows users as well as a free 30-day trial.

Purchase eStamp equipment without hassles

Your eStamp postage and mailing needs may require a scale and a postage meter, depending upon the size of your firm. If you have a medium- to large-size company, this may be a better alternative to downloaded software.

I recommend: Pitney Bowes has long been an eStamp provider of postage meters and scales. The company has a wealth of eStamp information to offer first-time buyers. Neopost is a world leader in mailing and address systems and offers such systems according to your mail volume.

Use an eStamp to build a business presence

Traditional postage does not allow a business to highlight its services; however, through e-stamp technology, a firm can establish its presence through mail. Whenever a potential customer is exposed to a mailing of yours, the stamp on the envelope or postcard can display your logo. The logo immediately can stick in your clients mind.

I recommend: Zazzle allows eStamp users to create their own logo online and then have stamps downloaded with photos or a custom business logo. Hasler also allows businesses to upload their company logo, which is then printed on downloadable postage.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Determine your mail volume and let eStamp technology save you even more money. By understanding the amount of incoming and outgoing mail at your firm, you can arrange to pay for exact postage for standard USPS services such as first-class, international and express mail packages. These eStamp services can really help your business.