Franked mails

Franking is any device or anything affiliated with the mail to qualify it for postal service. The franks may be of different types based on the mailing systems. Some private firms using the franking system to mail within their company or to use it in adjacent to the Royal Mails. The Royal Mail can advice a company whether they are eligible to use it or not and whether it would be cost effective to them. There are no restrictions to a company’s size and usage. A franking machine is usually used by large corporate companies, government organisations and universities. Franking machines are easy and cost effective and can be used with any range of goods and items.

The franking machines enable an organisation to pay for credit as required and so the firm is in full control of it. Medium sized business and sole traders can also use it since there is no limitations on the goods franked and the amount of discount they will receive. Items that can be franked and used with the Royal Mail are:

• First class
• Second class
• Recorded delivery
• Special delivery
• Cleanmail
• Mailsort
• ParcelForce Worldwide service
• International / airmail

Apart from these, franked mails can be a means of payment for any service ordered through the Royal Mail.

The Royal Mail directly does not supply franking machine but can advice a number of certified suppliers who can provide a franking machine. The machines vary from simple low volume machines to large automated machines that recognise the thickness of the mail and frank them accordingly. Depending on the mailing requirements of the firm, the supplier will be able to able to advice the required machine. Depending on the machine the expense will be determined and whether the machine is taken on lease or bought will also be a factor. Inspection and maintenance costs, together with the ink and label expenses can be estimated by the supplier. These costs are often reduced by the discount offered by the franked mails.

Apart from the cost effectiveness and the reliability of the mails, franking machines give the mails a professional look. Small logos and messages can be printed on the mail which means the company can advertise on through their mails, almost for free. Franking reduces the risk of mailing failure and enables mail to be delivered quicker. The machines can print in ERA (external return address) which ensures the mail returns to the owner if not delivered.