The new mailing system

Franking machines are some of the ‘must have’ in a business firm. Not only do they make the huge number of mailing easy and reliable but they also give it a professional look. The franking machines are quite cost efficient and prove to be very useful when used in adjacent to public mailing like the Royal Mail. Franks can be paid through credit so that the firm is in total control of it. The machine does not restrict itself to large companies, government firms and universities; small firms and sole traders can also use them and there is no limitation to the amount of mail they will be able to send and the discount they will receive with it.

Although the Royal mail does not supply such machines but there are authorised dealer who supply them and will give an estimated cost involved with the machines. The franking machines can be bought or taken under lease and the firm will also have to bare expenses like the inspection cost, maintenance fee, ink and label purchase. The franked mails are usually posted through the regular posting box in the Post office which uses a low volume posting envelope, otherwise franked mails have their own assigned boxes. The franking machines give the mails a good look and the company can customise the printing to print in labels and logos to advertise the firm.

Advantages of franking machines

• Cheaper stamps: the new price of the Royal Mails will come into effect from April 2011. This price offers a 30% discount on franked mails than regular mails.
• It gives the business a professional image
• The franking machines can be re credited every 24 hours so that the firm does not run out of stamps or posting materials.
• Slogans and logos can be added with it.
• Royal Mail treat franked mail as business mail and avoid delays.
• Postage is exact. No over stamping, saving the firm expense and no under stamping saving surcharges to the customer.
• Less hassle with stamps.
• PIN codes are included for extra security.
• Individual postal account in Post Office.

With the franked mails, there are a few restrictions to follow:

• A license is to be issued from the Royal Mail for the usage of the franking machines.
• The Royal Mail also holds the right to withdraw permission for using the franking machine if they meet any contravention with the firm or if they feel the mails are being misused.
• Only a red ink may be used and the machine has to be updated through inspection.