✓ Royal Mail Authorised Inspector since 2008 | Trading since 2005
Franking Machines
What is a franking machine?
A franking machine is a piece of mailroom equipment that prints postage directly onto outgoing mail such as letters, parcels and packets, replacing traditional stamps. It accurately calculates and prints the correct postage based on the item’s weight and size, saving your business money while streamlining your mailroom.
What is franking?
Franking is the method of pre-paying postage by using a franking machine to print a mark, also known as a franking impression. This impression often includes a 2D barcode, an indication that postage has been paid, and a company logo or return address.
Best franking machines for sending letters
Sending 0 to 30 items a dayMailstart
Process low volumes of mail accurately and fast to get huge savings. Welcome pack & ink cartridge included as standard.
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Sending 30 to 50 items a dayMailsend Essential
Process your batches of envelopes much faster with a semi-automatic feeder. Offers the lowest ink running costs of any entry level franker on the market.
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Sending 50 to 100 items a dayMailsend Pro
The perfect low volume franking machine for sending low volumes of mail. Welcome pack & ink cartridge included as standard.
Explore Mailsend Pro →Best franking machines for sending parcels
Sending 30 to 100 items a dayParcelsend
The simple way of sending higher volumes of parcels and packets through Royal Mail and Parcelforce Worldwide. Now includes free proof of delivery with every parcel or packet you send.
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Sending 100 to 500 items a dayParcelsend Speed
Seal and frank your items all in one continuous feed to save your business time and money. Now includes free proof of delivery with every parcel or packet you send.
Explore Parcelsend Speed →Compare franking machines
| Feature | Parcelsend | Parcelsend Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Daily volume | Up to 100 items | Up to 500 items |
| Mail processing speed | 65 items per minute | 120 items per minute |
| Mail feeder type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Integrated scale | 7kg scale | 7kg scale |
| Cost centre accounts | Up to 100 | Up to 500 |
| Thermal shipping label printer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Special Delivery & Signed For 1D barcode compatible | ✓ | ✓ |
Franking machine FAQs
What is a franking machine used for?
A franking machine lets a business print postage from their own office whilst taking advantage of postage savings. It prints a Mailmark impression (often referred to as an indicia), which includes a 2D barcode, directly onto envelopes or adhesive franking labels for your parcels. This impression can also print a company logo and/or return address to help make a business’s communications look much more professional.
How does a franking machine work?
Franking machines operate by automatically selecting the correct postage price based on the weight of the item you are sending. This is done before the item is even franked, ensuring the correct postage is always applied and eliminating the risk of over or under-paying. The funds to pay for your postage are stored securely on the franking machine and can be topped up via online portals.
What is franked mail or post?
Franked mail or post are items that include a franking impression or indicia instead of a traditional stamp in the top right corner. This impression is produced using a franking machine and printed directly onto your envelope or franking label rather than applying a stamp. Royal Mail can process franked mail faster and more efficiently, which is why franked items are sent at discounted rates.
What is an indicia and what does it look like?
A Mailmark indicia is the franking marking applied to outgoing mail via a franking machine. It is the alternative to a stamp and indicates to Royal Mail that postage has been paid. It is printed directly onto an envelope or franking label. An example is shown below.
What are the advantages of a franking machine?
There are many benefits to using a franking machine, including:
- Save money on every item you frank through exclusive franking savings.
- Save time in your mailroom, as franking is much quicker than applying stamps.
- Increase professionalism by printing a company logo, return address or promotional message.
- Improved security, as your postage is protected on the machine rather than left lying around.
Summary: what is a franking machine?
A franking machine prints postage directly onto your mail, replacing traditional stamps. It calculates and applies the correct postage using built-in scales, often at discounted Mailmark rates. Ideal for businesses of all sizes, franking machines save time, reduce mailing costs and give mail a professional, branded appearance.
Find the right franking machine
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