Franking Ink Colours: What They Mean for Your Mail

Franking ink colour can shape how your mail is received. Colour influences brand recognition and how customers respond to what lands on their desk, so it is worth thinking about. Red and blue are the most common franking colours, though Royal Mail now requires Smart and Mailmark franking machines to print in Smart Blue ink rather than traditional red. This guide explains what different ink colours signal and how to use them.

Pay more attention to franking ink colours

Many businesses overlook the fact that franking ink colour can have a real effect on customers. The right colour can help improve brand image and make your mail look more attractive, which in turn helps your business be recognised.

Colour is a strong influence on what customers buy, and it is one of the first things people associate with a company. Red, for example, is commonly associated with Quadient (formerly Neopost). Used consistently, colour can reinforce your brand every time you send mail.

Below is a guide to common colours and the impressions they tend to create.

• Red – Energy and urgency; raises the heart rate and is often used in sales and to attract impulse buyers.
• Blue – Trust and security; often associated with banks.
• Yellow – Optimistic and youthful; used to grab attention.
• Pink – Caring and warm; appeals to more traditional buyers.
• Orange – A bold call to action; used to prompt people to subscribe, buy or sell.
• Black – Powerful and sleek; often used to market luxury products.
• Green – Easy on the eye and relaxing; associated with value and budget-conscious shoppers.

Red and blue are the most common franking ink colours and can be used to frank all mail types. If your business has a Pitney Bowes Connect+ franking machine, a wider choice of colours may be available, so choose carefully to match your brand.

Important note: Royal Mail requires all Smart and Mailmark franking machines to frank mail in Smart Blue ink rather than the traditional red.

View our entire range of franking ink and supplies here, or request a quick franking machine quote.

Frequently asked questions

What colour ink do franking machines use?

Traditionally red, but Royal Mail requires Smart and Mailmark franking machines to print in Smart Blue ink. Some older Pitney Bowes Connect+ machines could print other colours.

Why does franking ink colour matter?

Colour affects brand recognition and the impression your mail makes, so consistent, on-brand colour can help your mail stand out and be remembered.

Where can I buy franking ink?

Browse our full range of franking ink and supplies to find the right cartridge for your machine.