Franking machines, which have existed for over a century, were initially invented in 1884 by the Norwegian inventor Engle Frankmussler. At that time, they were referred to as the ‘Postage Stamp Affixing Machine.

In today’s digital age, franked mail is emerging as a preferred choice over traditional stamped mail, especially due to the attractive incentives and discounts provided by Royal Mail.

Ready to delve into the world of mail franking with imail comms?

What is a Franking Machine in a Nutshell?

A franking machine is simply a metering device that allows postage to be printed directly on your mailing item with ease, swiftness, and accuracy.

Think of a franking machine as your friendly mailing assistant! It takes all the fuss out of sending mail by printing the postage right on your items. It’s like having a mini post office in-house, making your mailing tasks a breeze.

Franking introduces a 2D barcode franking mark on your mail, offering a modern twist to conventional stamps. By using a Mailmark franking machine, you can effortlessly include a return address, marketing messages, and your company logo on an envelope, parcel, or letter.

Related: What is a Franking Machine?

How does a franking machine work?

A franking machine works by downloading postage right from your computer or telephone line, using a linked business account. This convenient setup means no more trips to the local post office or applying stamps in your office.

Let’s walk through the franking process, one step at a time:

  1. Place your parcel or envelope on the weighing scale.
  2. Select the service and size of your mail items and add a message or your branding.
  3. The machine will automatically calculate the exact weight of your mail to determine the correct postage cost.
  4. A franking mark is imprinted on your item; a sign that postage has been paid and is ready for dispatch.
  5. Affix the label on your parcel and head to your business posting box to send your unique franked Royal Mail.

Related: How To Use A Franking Machine

Franking letter machine pushing out paper

Advantages of franking machines

A franking machine brings an innovative method of mailing that many businesses are recently turning to for their mailing needs.

Let us explore the reasons behind the increased popularity of franked mail!

Smart Savings Solution

Keep your postage costs in check, unlocking discounted rates for every mail item sent. It’s a witty way to save money and stretch your budget with postage savings without sacrificing quality.

Office Efficiency Partner

Supercharge your team’s productivity with the time-saving features of franking machines, freeing up valuable resources for more important tasks.

Brand Boosting Comrade

Amplify your brand presence with personalised mailings made possible by customisable options. Franking machines work with a friendly touch along with a special delivery that creates a lasting impression for your correspondence.

Organised Record-Keeper

Stay on top of your post expenses with detailed reports provided by your franking machine, offering insights into your mailing habits and expenditures, ensuring financial peace of mind.

Trusted Mail Protector

Ensure the security of your post with the tamper-resistant stamping capabilities of franking machines, assuring that your correspondence is safe and protected during transit.

Want to modernise your postal methods and save money while doing it?

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You may also like: Understanding Franking Machine Cost: Factors, Pricing, & Savings 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

We’ve answered some key questions about what franking machines are used for below.

What exactly is a franking machine used for?

Think of a franking machine as your own personal Post Office that sits on your desk. It’s used to weigh and print postage directly onto your Royal Mail. This handy device ensures you pay the exact postage every time, saving you from overpaying; an issue frequently encountered with stamps.

Can franking save me money on postal expenses?

Yes, indeed! Franking machines are like little savings banks for your mailing expenses. They come with Royal Mail discounted rates compared to traditional stamps, meaning every item you send costs a bit less.

What type of business is a franking machine suitable for?

Franking machines are for everyone! Whether you’re running a large corporation or a small startup, there’s a franking machine that fits your needs. Even with businesses that send low volumes of mail, many benefits can transpire with the guaranteed accumulation of savings.