Updating Your Franking Machine With The Latest Postage Rates

To update your franking machine with the latest Royal Mail postage rates, connect a modern machine to the internet via LAN or Wi-Fi and it will download the new rates automatically; older machines may need a slower analogue connection. Keeping rates current avoids surcharges for underpaid mail and refunds chasing for overpaid mail.

Keeping your franking machine up to date with the most recent Royal Mail postage rates is important whether you send a couple of items a day or huge volumes. The occasional over- or under-payment may seem small, but it adds up over time and can cost you a lot in the long run.

How to update your franking machine with the latest postage rates

Via the internet – LAN or Wi-Fi

Modern franking machines support digital connectivity, connecting to the internet via an Ethernet (LAN) or Wi-Fi connection. This strong, reliable connection gives you flexibility and convenience when updating postage rates.

Older models do not have this ability and some require an analogue connection, which is slower and more outdated. Most of these models are now decertified and obsolete, so it may be time to upgrade.

What happens if you do not update your franking machine

Franking machine error

Most modern franking machines simply stop you franking if the new prices are not active, preventing underpaid items and Royal Mail surcharges. Some machines may still let you frank at the old prices without an error, so make sure the machine is up to date before the deadline each year.

Paying too much

If you overpay for postage, you may be able to get a refund from Royal Mail by returning the unused postage you have paid. Contact Royal Mail for instructions.

Paying too little

Underpaying is more of a problem, which is why it is vital to update rates as soon as you can. If you underpay, even by a few pence, you may receive a surcharge and your mail may not be delivered. The surcharge includes an admin fee on top of the correct postage. Occasional surcharges happen, but they are easily avoided by updating rates promptly and using a modern Mailmark franking machine.

A Mailmark franking machine helps when sending mail and can even receive automatic postage rate updates. If you are interested in getting a franking machine or upgrading to a Mailmark franking machine with even lower prices available, view our franking machine page or call us today on 01543 572 776.

Updating postage rates FAQs

How do I update my franking machine with the latest postage rates?

Connect a modern machine to the internet via LAN or Wi-Fi to download new rates automatically. Older machines may need a slower analogue connection, and many are now decertified.

What happens if I do not update my franking machine?

Most modern machines stop you franking until the new rates are active. If you underpay, you may receive a surcharge (including an admin fee) and your mail may not be delivered.

Can I get a refund if I overpay postage?

Yes. You can usually claim a refund from Royal Mail by returning the unused postage you have paid – contact Royal Mail for instructions.