Postage Meter

A postage meter is a printing machine available for home or office use. This type of device creates and applies physical evidence of postage to mailing packages and letters. Postage meters are actually regulated by the local postal authority. The meter indicia shows proof of payment and eliminates the need for adhesive stamps purchased inside a post office. This type of device may be sold by a shipping company to consumers, so that they can weight letters and packages and print postage directly onto the mailing pieces. This process makes it easier for one to track postage costs and manage their mailing needs at home, spending less time waiting in line at the local post office. This is an effective way of speeding up the mailing process and also allows you more cost control for your business.

You may be wondering where the postage meter came from. It was first introduced in the early 20^th century by a man named Arthur Pitney. The average machine consists of a keyboard, which enters the character data, as well as seals, and a stamping mechanism. While these meters have existed in some form or another through the 1900s and into the new millennium, the biggest advent in postage printer technology is coming from the Internet. Now consumers are able to order exact postage online and print out their label with ease. When you are ready to pay for postage, you can pay via credit card, debit card, federal wiring.

Postage meters are only available from authorized dealers who sell mailing equipment. Physical machines include mechanically based meters (now out of circulation and officially decertified) and digital meters, where postage can be updated courtesy of a modem connection. Digital meters print labels out with an inkjet cartridge using postage ink. The label that is printed can also show information based indicia and a 2-dimensional Data Matrix or bar code. This information actually contains hidden information about a person's zip code, destination, weight, mail class, and confirmation numbers.

The new age of virtual postage meters allows users to print postage using their own printer and a web browser. Individuals can use this technology in working with auction sites and online account holders like PayPal. Several years ago, the USPS actually started authorizing certain companies to print actual postage stamps for user download. As you can see, the postage meter concept has come a long way!

You can see what services are available at delivery services or how you can do same day delivery.