Mail-sealing machines come in large, complex forms that can handle hundreds of envelopes per minute to smaller, desktop models that require manual feeding of the mail. Both have their benefits and drawbacks and share some of the same key terms. Understanding what types of options mail-sealing machines have will allow you to choose and operate a machine more smoothly. Learn the key terms before you're left with a mile-high stack of mail.

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Flap

The flap size and shape are important when it comes to mail-sealing machines. The flap is the part of the envelope that folds over to seal it shut. Most flaps are round or pointed, but their sizes vary. Some flaps are already folded, and some need to be folded. All of these factors should be considered when choosing a mail-sealing machine.

I recommend: The explanation of one type of mail-sealing machine at Ace Business Machines can help you understand what kinds of envelope flaps there are and how to find out what mail sealer will work for you.

Auto feed

Auto feed is defined as a mail-sealing machine that automatically pulls the envelopes in to be sealed. Automatic machines are usually much faster and can be left to do the work on their own.

I recommend: The Office Guide has information about auto-feed machines.

Manual feed

The manual-feed, mail-sealing machine is usually a smaller, desktop model designed for low-volume mail sealing. A manual machine needs an operator to feed envelopes, but then it usually does the flap folding and sealing of the envelopes.

I recommend: Packaging Machines Trade Marketplace describes the manual envelope-sealing machine. It also has information on the automatic machine and other features.

Seal gum

Seal gum is the adhesive used to seal the envelopes. Envelopes come pre-coated with seal gum or uncoated. If you use envelopes without seal gum, the mail-sealing machine must contain a seal gum to seal the envelopes instead of just a water reservoir. Some seal gum is also pressure sensitive. With these envelopes, no moistening is needed; only pressure is required.

I recommend: Western State Envelope and Label explains the different types of seal gum.

Sealing rapidity

Simply put, sealing rapidity is the amount of time it takes to seal the envelopes. Machines will usually be labeled as envelopes per minute or hour. Most machines will also include features so the rapidity, or speed, can be adjusted.

I recommend: AMS explains the term sealing rapidity and how it affects the amount of physical work required by an operator.

Reservoir

The reservoir is the area on the mail-sealing machine that houses the water used to seal the envelopes. Reservoirs come in different sizes and shapes. Some are also made transparent so you can keep an eye on the water level.

I recommend: The sealing machine at the Mail Product Store includes an explanation of the product. The reservoir for holding water is included in that explanation.

Mail sealing machines help large and small businesses expedite correspondence amongst employees, clients and prospective clients. Any business that relies heavily on direct mail marketing, employs a large number of people or processes large amounts of correspondence, benefits from having envelope sealing machines.

A letter sealing machine eliminates the need for manual flap folding and sealing. This helps companies manage their outgoing mail efficiently, and turn out thousands of sealed letters a day. Mail sealing machines are also useful for payroll checks, invoices and tax forms. When shopping for a mail sealing machine, you should consider the following:

1. The most proficient mail sealer is an automatic sealer, but there are cheaper manual sealers. The best sealer can process both unnested and nested envelopes.

2. Check the speed of the letter sealer before making a purchase. The amount of envelopes sealed per minute effects the total output of mail you process each day.

3. Postage sealing machines provide the postage and seal the envelope. This is a good option for businesses who output thousands of pieces of mail a day.

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Choose an envelope sealer machine that's the right size for your company

A large envelope sealer is best for a big company who needs a large output of mail processed each day. Large sealers work best in a company's mail room or copy room. Smaller businesses, or businesses run out of a home, can consider a desktop mail sealer for smaller quantities of mail.

I recommend: Browse larger mail sealers at American Mailing Machines, Inc. You can also check out a smaller, manual sealer that fits on a desktop at Ace Business Machines, Inc.

Pick an envelope sealing machine with a reasonable output speed

Whether you need 5,000 sealed letters or 50, there is a mail machine sealing solution for your company. Automatic sealers churn out more envelopes, but that doesn't mean a manual feeder doesn't save a small business time and money.

I recommend: One of the leading online stores for mailing machines, Mail Product Store, offers a mail sealing machine that outputs 18,000 envelopes an hour. Busiform sells a manual sealer that seals up to 35 envelopes per minute.

Rent postage sealing machines to get two jobs done at once

Businesses that output large parcels of daily mail benefit from renting a postage meter. You can rent the base along with the meter, but specialized bases that provide automatic feed and sealing are available for sale. While the initial investment might seem high, you save money in the long run by reducing your monthly rental fee.

I recommend: Get price quotes for postage machines from multiple dealers by plugging in your business information at BuyerZone.com, Inc. FP Mailing Solutions offers a variety of mailing centers for large and small businesses.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Envelope size is another important aspect of mail sealing machines, but most machines process the typical sizes and popular fold styles of most envelopes. If the machine you like doesn't seal large envelopes, talk to the supplier about an optional sealing kit provided for some machines.