Postal Machines – Typical Problems You May Encounter
Monday, August 23rd, 2010Postage meters are dependable time and money savers for businesses that dispatch letters or packages to clients as part of daily operations. By stamping mails and parcels with accurate postage, businesses can save substantial amount of money. Businesses can also save time by reducing trips to the post office to replenish their stock of postage stamps. E-commerce websites and mail order businesses benefit greatly from them because of their convenience and ease of use. As shipping is a very critical aspect of these businesses, postage machines add value to their services by speeding up shipment.
Postage meters do come with some problems that you should be aware of before opting for one. A number of these problems are discussed below with tips on how to circumvent them.
Postage meters can only be leased
Federal regulations do not allow the purchase of postage meters. You have to lease it from authorized licensed vendors. There are plenty of options as these machines come with a diverse set of attributes, functions, and prices.
Replenishing printer supplies
Postage machines are prone to problems similar to those that occur with printers because they also use ink cartridges, labels, etc. A lot of printer supply stores that rent out postal meters include a service to replenish your printing materials without additional charge. Other stores offer the service for a small charge. Study the terms and conditions of the lease or contract to know what you get or ask the vendor about it. In case the dealer does not offer this service, you can replenish supplies from a variety of online postage outlets.
Updating postage rates
Postage rates are governed by the United States Postal Service (USPS). At times, the USPS updates the rates and this change comes into effect instantly on the date it is valid. Postage machines however cannot be updated as quickly shipping rates. This is usually done manually by the meter’s supplier. Digital postage meters can be updated over the internet while conventional meters involve a costly chip replacement.
Correcting incorrect postage labels
Sometimes, postage labels are stamped with the inaccurate amount. Though it is easy to reprint the label, the incorrect label’s amount is already deducted from the balance. You need to bring the erroneous postage label to your post office and get it reimbursed. You should ensure that this is done in less than 60 days of making this mistake or the refund will be rejected.
Troubleshooting technical issues
Postage meters too can stop working or develop troubles such as a printing failure, snag in the scale or components, etc. In such cases, you have little resort as only certified leaser are permitted to troubleshoot and rectify the issue. Government rules do not allow uncertified vendors or technicians from troubleshooting technical issues. This can be a hassle if authorized workers are not on hand instantly, compelling you to go back to the traditional mailing system and restart trips to the post office.
The troubles with postage meters are not so significant as to put you off from leasing one. If your mailing costs are considerable, a postage machine will undoubtedly save you money and allow you extra time to focus on business growth. Analyze available models and choose a meter that suits your needs perfectly.
Daljeet Sidhu. Read Postage meters and Postage machine blog.
