Using Postage Meters

Learn how using postage machines saves both time and money

Postal meters are common supplies for mail rooms and shipping departments. Using postal meters can reduce the amount of time spent stamping mail. Postage equipment may differ in by brand however the postal regulations and guidelines are set by the United States Postal Service (USPS). Review postal meter guidelines to make sure you use the postal meter correctly and reduce your amount of unused postage.

To use postage machines efficiently, learn about general mail, bulk mail, and large or irregular packages. These types of mail all carry different postal meter regulations. The most common form of mail is general mail, such as letters and small envelopes. Bulk mail includes items such as fliers or catalogs. Large or irregular items consist of items over 1 pound or that have an unusual shape.

1. Prepare general mail with postage machines.

2. Save money and use postal meters for bulk mail.

3. Calculate correct postage for large parcels with a postage machine.

 

Understand how to use postal machines for USPS general mail

General mail encompasses letters and small packages that are sent out daily. Postage machines print postage either directly on these items or onto postage labels for easy marking and shipping. General use mail is the most common mail form and is regulated by the USPS.
Try: Learn how to use postal meters for letters and boxes from the professionals at the United States Postal Service. FP Mailing Solutions provides information about how to use a postal meter for boxes and envelopes. Learn about the general use and payment for postage used with a postage machine at Essortment.

Reduce your postage cost with bulk mail

Bulk mail is considered to be a block of 200 or more similar items that are mailed at the same time. Using postage meters saves you time by printing bulk mail postage. Bulk mail has a strict list of requirements that must be met or the postage won't meet bulk mail rate requirements.
Try: Learn the bulk mail guidelines at Creative Communications before you carefully prepare your bulk mail to reduce your postage costs. Read the bulk mail rate regulations at the USPS website before using postage meter machines. Review tips and advice about saving money with bulk mail at the Plymouth State University website.

Use postage meters and scales for large or irregular items

Large or irregular items require special handling. If the box does not fit in the sorting machine, a surcharge is often charged to the parcel. Using postage meters is possible for these packages, however the meter may need adjusting for the charge.
Try: Find information about size restrictions and surcharges at PostalMag.com. Pitney Bowes provides instructions for applying postage meter tape or labels to large packages.

 

• The United States Postal Service changes their regulations and charges for postal scales about once a year. Keeping up to date with any USPS changes saves you time and money when using your postage machine.

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