Postage Meters and PC Postage
Postage meters and PC Postage products allow you to print postage indicia directly onto your mailpieces (or onto a meter tape or labels, which you then apply to your mailpiece). Postage meters and PC Postage products are collectively identified as "postage evidencing systems." Both are a very convenient way to pay for postage and track postage costs for your business or organization.
Some mailers use this postage payment option because they believe that it adds a more personal touch. A postage meter is also great to have around the office for all of your mailing needs-you can send out any class of mail (except Periodicals) in any quantity at any price with the same postage meter. PC Postage is USPS-approved third-party vendor software that mailers can use to pay for and print their postage using a computer, printer, and internet connection.
Postage meters come in all sizes. Very large mailers have big, specialized meters that fold, insert, weigh, and meter postage onto envelopes. Some meters are small and require each mailpiece to be hand-fed, which can take time. PC Postage vendors offer various levels of shipping and mailing options for mailers. A meter or PC Postage vendor can help you decide which meter is right for your mailing needs.
If you already have a postage meter or a PC Postage account and you're starting to do commercial mailings, using your postage evidencing system could be a smart choice. Although you can use the same postage meter for all of your mail, you must apply for a permit to use the meter for commercial mailings. Also, there are special markings required for commercial mailings that can be applied with your meter stamp. That saves you an extra step.
- How to apply for a permit to use a postage metered indicia for commercial mailings
- Tips for using a postage meter