Franking machines are great tools for businesses to reduce their mail postage expenses. But there are requirements set by the Royal Mail
(prHWY.com) October 2, 2012 - london, United Kingdom -- Franking machines are great tools for businesses to reduce their mail postage expenses. But there are requirements set by the Royal Mail in the acquisition and operation of each franking machine. These guidelines are outlined and include licensing and proper ways of printing the marks. Compliance minimizes delivery problems and fines.
Businesses sometimes fail to fully optimise their operations because of an anxiety towards new processes, methods and technologies that are centred towards improvement. Business communications through traditional mail remains important but there are now innovations in postage methods. However, some companies still stick with traditional stamping instead of the newer way using a franking machine.
Franking machines are applicable for use with any kind of mail. Adaptation of this equipment can bring down postage costs significantly via metered discounts. It was stated that businesses pay 2p less for first class mail and up to 26p less for a 500g package. However, he machine's meters must be reset when new rates are introduced in order to work correctly every time.
Businesses need not worry about over stamping anymore. The scale of a franking machine efficiently and accurately takes the weight and computes postage. These machines can operate despite limitations in office space. For businesses interested in acquiring franking machines, there are some procedures that need to be followed. These requirements have been set by the Royal Mail.
1. A special franking license is required as per the guidelines stated in Royal Mail Scheme for Franking Letters and Parcels 2008. The license will be given along with the machine from the authorized supplier.
2. Franking machines must be properly initialized. A test print and a setting of £0.00 must be inputted to make sure that you are printing clearly. A franking machine that runs out of ink will produce ineligible marks causing problems in delivery. Erroneously franked mail can be returned but at a cost of a 15% fine. Thus it is imperative to minimize errors.
3. The franking machine automatically inputs the right amount, date and time before each print but you should still check this twice to be sure.
4. You can print the franking marks on labels for even better legibility, especially for packages which come in different configurations. Labels and ink can be bought from the same firm that supplied the machine or from other sources online that may offer lower prices.
5. Print your return address on each piece of mail (usually at the back). Sometimes, this is integrated with the franked mark. Learn from the franking supplier the exact guidelines on this aspect as well as the printing of "slogan blocks."
6. Franking marks should ordinarily be printed in red. However, blue must be used for Cleanmail® deliveries. Like stamps, these are placed on the upper-right corner of envelopes.
7. Advance franking can be done by inputting the succeeding date on the machine. This helps to minimize missed collections.
8. The Royal Mail prohibits franking in order to prepay the postage cost of return mail. Instead, the date of collection or postage should be postmarked.
The reduction in postage costs can reach 40% with the use of franking machines. Businesses must select the type appropriate for their requirements.
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