Understanding Metered Mail: How Meters Work and Their Benefits

Metered mail is a system used by businesses to pre-pay for postage, making the process of sending mail simpler and more efficient. Unlike traditional stamps, metered mail uses a postage meter that prints adhesive-backed postage labels, often used in high-volume mailing operations. This article will explore the functionality and benefits of metered mail, focusing on the systems and providers like Pitney-Bowes.

What is Metered Mail?

Metered mail refers to a service provided by companies like Pitney-Bowes, enabling businesses to pre-pay for postage by using a postage meter. This meter is not only a device for weighing mail but also for printing postage labels that are applied directly to envelopes or packages. The term 'metered' is used because the machine measures the weight and calculates the correct postage amount, ensuring accurate pricing and faster processing at post offices.

How Does a Postage Meter Work?

A postage meter is a licensed device that can print a certain amount of postage. These meters are equipped with advanced technology that allows them to determine the weight of the mail piece, identify its classification (such as standard letter or parcel), and print a metered label that includes the relevant postage information along with the date of mailing. This label can then be affixed to the mail piece, eliminating the need for individual stamps.

The Benefits of Using Metered Mail

Using a postage meter offers several advantages for businesses:

Efficiency: Businesses can avoid the hassle of frequent trips to the post office to purchase stamps. Meters can be installed in offices, making the process more streamlined. Reduced Costs: Using a meter can lead to cost savings, as it allows for pre-payment of postage in bulk, which can be cheaper than buying stamps individually. Ease of Use: Meters are user-friendly, making it easier for employees to use them, even those who may not be postal experts. Account Management: Postage meter providers typically offer account management services, allowing businesses to monitor their spending and manage their meter usage.

How Businesses Can Get a Meter

Companies like Pitney-Bowes offer different types of metering systems. For businesses with high-volume mailing needs, they can lease or purchase postage meters. Pitney-Bowes, for instance, offers a variety of metering solutions, including:

Cloud Metered Service: This service allows businesses to print postage from any computer or mobile device with an internet connection. On-Premise Postage Meters: These physical devices are installed within the business and can be used to print postage for mail pieces. Virtual Metering: A service that enables businesses to print postage directly from their own systems, integrating with their existing processes.

Conclusion

Metered mail is a crucial component of modern business communication, significantly enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of mail operations. By leveraging technology and advanced metering systems, businesses can streamline their mailing processes and focus on their core operations. As such, understanding and utilizing metered mail is an important aspect of effective business communication and logistics management.