
A franking machine can be a game-changer for your business, saving you time and money on postage costs.
With a franking machine, you can print official postage directly onto envelopes, eliminating the need for stamps and reducing the risk of postal errors. This can lead to significant cost savings, especially for businesses that send out a high volume of mail.
By using a franking machine, you can also increase the speed and efficiency of your mail processing, allowing you to get your mail out the door faster. This can be especially beneficial for businesses that need to meet tight deadlines or send out time-sensitive communications.
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What is a Franking Machine?
A franking machine is a device used to post items with a franked mail indicia.
The indicia includes the postage amount, which is a crucial detail for sending mail.
It also includes the date of posting, which can be useful for tracking purposes.
Franked mail items will have this indicia, which is a distinctive feature of franked mail.
This indicia may also include a slogan die impression, which adds a touch of personality to the mail item.
Franked mail is often used by businesses and organizations to send large volumes of mail efficiently.
Advantages and Benefits
Using a franking machine can save you money, especially if you take advantage of Mailmark franking tariffs or up to 10c* savings on every letter and packet you send.
Franking machines are also quicker and more accurate than applying stamps, which can be a huge time-saver for businesses.
You can print your logo, return address, or promotional message on your envelopes, giving your customers a professional image.
Franking machines eliminate the need for stamp books lying around the office, making it more secure.
Here are some benefits of using a franking machine at a glance:
- Save money on postage
- Streamline mail processing
- Reduce time spent on manual stamping
- Present a professional image
- Simplify tracking and managing postage expenses
Pitney Bowes has been supplying franking machines for over 100 years, constantly innovating to bring modern technology to the market.
How to Use in 5 Steps
Using a franking machine is a straightforward process that can be broken down into five simple steps.
First, locate the franking machine and ensure it is properly calibrated and stocked with sufficient postage and labels.
Next, place the envelope or mailpiece in the machine's tray, aligning it with the guides to ensure accurate postage application.
Enter the recipient's address and select the correct postage rate using the machine's keypad, taking into account any additional services or fees.
The machine will then apply the correct postage and print the required labels, which can be easily removed and applied to the mailpiece.
Finally, remove the stamped mailpiece from the machine and deposit it in the mail collection bin, ensuring it is properly sorted and ready for delivery.
For more insights, see: Franking Post
Features and Functionality
Franking machines select the correct postage price by weighing the item you're sending before printing the postage on the mail item, preventing you from overpaying for your postage.
The funds to pay for your postage are stored securely on the franking machine, and in most cases, can be topped up via online portals.
This secure storage and online topping up feature provides a convenient and hassle-free experience for users.
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What It Does

A franking machine is used instead of a stamp, printing an An Post compliant postal/indicia mark onto a letter or parcel.
Using a franking machine can save you up to 10c on every letter, large envelope, and packet you send, making it a cost-effective option for your business post.
Franking machines select the correct postage price by weighing the item you're sending before printing the postage on the mail item, preventing overpayment.
The funds to pay for your postage are stored securely on the franking machine and can be topped up via online portals, making it easy to manage your postage costs.
Changing the ink cartridge on a franking machine is a quick and easy process, taking only a few steps to complete.
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Application and Assessment
To become an Authorized Franking Machine Dealer in Hong Kong, you'll need to go through a straightforward application and assessment process.
First, download and complete the application form, which can be found on the Hongkong Post website.

You can then submit the completed form by faxing it to 2526 1198 or by posting it to the Franking Machine Unit at 5/F, Hongkong Post Building, 8 Wang Kee Street, Kowloon Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
Once Hongkong Post receives your application, they'll contact you to conduct a detailed assessment of the types of franking machines you intend to sell in Hong Kong.
If you're an individual business owner, you'll need to provide your name and I.R.B.R. 152 for verification.
Here are the steps to follow in more detail:
- Download and complete the application form.
- Submit the completed form by fax or post.
- Provide your name and I.R.B.R. 152 for verification (if applicable).
Sending Mail
You can send mail using your franking machine, and it's actually quite straightforward. Royal Mail has made some changes, so it's worth knowing the latest rules.
As of 2022, you no longer need to use orange or silver adhesive labels. The new way to track your items is by printing an S10 1D barcode from your franking machine.
Sending international post is also simple. The service areas are split into three categories: Europe, World Zone 1, or World Zone 2, with different pricing for each.

To send international mail, you have the choice of standard, tracked, signed, or tracked and signed shipping. Just make sure to use Airmail stickers or write 'BY AIR MAIL' on the top left corner of your franked mail.
For tracked, signed, or tracked and signed international mail, you'll need to affix a specific label with a barcode and add an entry in the Special Delivery book.
Mailroom Equipment and Supplies
When setting up a mailroom, you'll want to consider the essential equipment and supplies to ensure smooth operations. A franking machine is a great starting point, but it's not the only thing you'll need.
Mailroom equipment and supplies can vary depending on the size and type of your office, but a good place to start is with the basics. You'll need a franking machine, as well as a mail cart or trolley to transport mail and packages.
To keep your mailroom organized, consider investing in a mail sorting system, such as a mail bin or a mail sorter with separate compartments for different types of mail.
Letter and Parcel Organization

Organizing your mail is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth and efficient franking process. It's advised to sort your items according to format, categorizing letters, large letters, small parcels, and medium parcels correctly, as each has specific size and weight restrictions.
Letters and parcels can be further organized by their destination, whether they'll be sent within the UK or internationally. You may also want to separate items by class, such as 1st or 2nd class, or by special services like Royal Mail Signed For or Special Delivery Guaranteed.
Sorting your mail thoroughly before franking lessens the risk of errors later on, so take the time to get it right.
Do You Need Royal Mail Stickers?
As of 2022, Royal Mail no longer uses orange (P2223) and silver (P4723) adhesive labels.
You don't need to stock up on these stickers because they've been discontinued.
Royal Mail now requires you to print an S10 1D barcode from your franking machine.
This barcode replaces the need for labels altogether.
To track your items, you'll need to make sure your franking machine is set up to print the S10 1D barcode.
By doing so, you'll be in compliance with Royal Mail's new tracking method.
6 Essential Mailroom Equipment for Your Office

Having the right mailroom equipment can make a big difference in your office's efficiency and productivity.
To start, you'll need a franking machine to handle your mail. This machine will allow you to stamp your company's logo onto envelopes for a professional finish.
You can feed your letters into the machine with the selected postage rate, making sure they're facing upwards. This will ensure a franking mark is stamped onto the envelope.
Some high-capacity machines allow you to feed letters in bundles, which can speed up the process.
A franking machine is a crucial piece of equipment for any office, and it's essential to choose the right one for your needs.
Find Best Value Models
Finding the right mailroom equipment and supplies for your team can be a challenge, especially when it comes to budget.
Our guides and reviews are designed to help you make informed decisions, like finding the best value models for your needs.
We know that finding the right tools for your team, at the right price for your budget, can be a real challenge.
Our team works hard to ensure our content is accurate and helpful, so you can trust our recommendations.
Cheap franking machines are a great place to start, with options available to suit various budgets and needs.
By comparing product features and prices, you can find the best value models for your mailroom equipment and supplies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do franking machines still exist?
Yes, franking machines still exist, but their functionality and certification have changed with the introduction of Mailmark technology. Royal Mail now only accepts franked mail from customers using Mailmark Franking machines.
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