Which Franking Mistakes Lead To Surcharges?

It is a common fact that a franking machine offers discounted prices to send your mail in comparison to using stamps. However, human error is still something that can and does occur with using a franking machine. For example an error with measuring your mail weight and size can result in a fine by the Royal Mail. The occasional error is not a major issue, but mistakes made on a larger scale can result in a substantial fine. Below we have highlighted the most common franking errors that can lead to surcharges.

Common franking mistakes that can incur surcharges

Measuring Errors

In any office environment, it is important for all individuals to follow franked mail rules. However, it is worth noting that a franking machine will check the weight of your items. But the size and thickness of any item is not checked. As such, some individuals misuse the size guide or break franked mail rules. One such example is franking large letters as standard letters. The cost of doing this? The Royal Mail will charge you the difference plus any administration fees.

Mixing Mail Classes

If your mail is separated by classes, and a 2nd Class item is found in a 1st Class postage bag, it will be treated as a 1st Class mail item. The cost of doing this? The sender will be charged the difference between the 1st Class rate and the franked amount plus any administration fees.

International Charges

It is easy to accidentally frank an item intended to be sent to another country under the cost of UK post. If this is done a additional surcharge will be raised.

Incomplete Impressions

Sometimes the franking machine will not complete the franking impression. Parts could be missing or the impression could be too faint. If this happens then mail could end up not being delivered, withheld or delayed. As such you need to ensure your franking machine is regularly serviced so all impressions are printed clearly and crisply every time. Failure will result in a surcharge fee.

How Incorrectly Franked Items Are Treated By Royal Mail?

The Royal Mail processes millions of mail items daily. This means that underpaid items will still be delivered.
If you underpay or incorrectly frank your mail then you will be charged the underpaid amount, as well as incur an additional charge. It’s also important to note that there’s no €œunderpayment threshold€. If items are underpaid by even a penny, you will be contacted by Royal Mail and charged the extra amount plus admin fees.
A Mailmark franking machine can help massively when sending your mail. They can even help with eliminating the risk of receiving a surcharge payment. If you are interested in getting a franking machine or upgrading to a Mailmark franking machine with even lower prices available, then please view our franking machine page here or call us today on 01543 572 776.