How Does a Franking Machine Operate?

A franking machine operates in a few simple steps: weigh your mail item on the built-in scale, select the size and postal service, add an optional advert or logo, let the machine calculate the exact postage, frank the envelope or a label with your postage, date, logo and 2D barcode, then post it. The whole process takes seconds per item and gives you Royal Mail’s franking rates, which are lower than stamps on letters and large letters.

Franking machines have helped UK businesses process their mail quickly and efficiently since they were first sold commercially in this country in 1922. If you are new to franking and not sure what a franking machine does, here is how one works, using our entry-level machine, the Mailstart Plus, as an example.

How does a franking machine operate?

1. Place your letter or parcel on the scale provided. This calculates the exact weight and saves you money on postage.
2. Select the size and service you want. It is your mail, so you choose the format and class.
3. Add the advert or message you want to appear on the mail piece. Promote your business free of charge.
4. The franking machine automatically calculates the exact postage. You benefit from lower franking rates.
5. Put an envelope or label into the printer slot to be franked with your postage, date, company logo and 2D barcode.
6. Post your mail in a post box (using a meter envelope), a business posting box, or at your local Post Office.

And it really is that simple.

How Mailcoms can help

Mailcoms is a Royal Mail Authorised Independent Inspector & Maintainer of postal franking machines (since 2008), so we can supply a Mailmark machine to suit your mail volumes. A Mailmark machine carries Royal Mail’s lowest available franking rates. Whether you want to buy, rent or lease, view our range of franking machines here for a low-cost quote, or call us on 01543 572 776.

FAQs

How does a franking machine work? You weigh the item, choose the service, let the machine calculate the postage, then frank the envelope or a label with your postage, date, logo and 2D barcode before posting it.

Is franking cheaper than using stamps? For Mailmark machine users, yes. Royal Mail rates for franked letters and large letters are lower than the equivalent stamp prices.

Do I need a licence to use a franking machine? Yes. You need a Royal Mail franking licence, which your authorised supplier arranges when you get the machine.