Are you looking for franking machines for sale? If you’re running a business in the UK and are looking to manage your postage costs more efficiently, a franking machine could be an indispensable asset for your operation. Not only do franking machines save time by eliminating the need to queue at the post office, but they also offer discounted postal rates.
However, the landscape of franking machines available in the UK is extensive, making it challenging to determine which option is best suited to your business. In this article, we’ll explore various aspects you should consider when shopping for a franking machine.
Assess your mailing requirements
The first step in choosing the right franking machine is understanding the volume and type of mail your business typically handles. Franking machines are available in different sizes and functionalities:
- Low-Volume Machines: Ideal for small businesses sending out a limited number of letters and parcels each week.
- Mid-Volume Machines: Suitable for medium-sized businesses that require more advanced features like automatic feeding.
- High-Volume Machines: Designed for larger operations that require the ability to process a significant volume of mail each day.
Consider costs
Buying a franking machine is an investment, and you’ll need to consider not just the upfront costs but also the ongoing expenses such as ink, labels, and maintenance. While high-volume machines may offer more features, they also come at a higher initial cost and can be overkill for a small operation.
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Leasing vs buying
You also have the option to lease a franking machine rather than buy it outright. Leasing is beneficial for businesses that want to spread the cost over several months or years. However, in the long run, leasing can be more expensive than buying.
Features to look out for
Modern franking machines offer a variety of features, including:
- Digital screens for easy navigation
- Integrated scales for accurate postage
- Connectivity options for updating postage rates
- Automatic feeders for batch processing
Make a list of features that are essential for your business and use it as a guide when comparing different models.
Where to buy franking machines for sale
There are several avenues to explore when looking to buy a franking machine:
- Give your requirements
- Receive quotes to compare
- Choose a provider or walk away - your choice!
- Manufacturers: Buying directly from the manufacturer usually ensures you’re getting the latest model, although it may be at a premium price. Leading brands include Pitney Bowes, Frama, Quadient and FP Mailing.
- Authorised Dealers: These offer a wide range of new and refurbished models and may provide additional services like setup and maintenance. See our guide to franking machine suppliers.
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay and Amazon can offer competitive prices but be cautious about warranty and after-sales service.
Popular franking machines brands for sale in the UK
When considering which franking machine to buy, brand reputation can play a significant role in your decision. Here are some of the most popular brands in the UK, along with a few models from each that you might consider.
Pitney Bowes
A market leader in the industry, Pitney Bowes offers franking machines that are known for their reliability and ease of use.
- DM60: Ideal for small businesses, capable of franking up to 30 items per minute. Priced around £1,000 to £1,500, this model is cost-effective for small businesses.
- SendPro C Series: A more advanced machine suitable for medium-sized businesses, offering a colour touch screen and integrated weighing scale. Mid-range in terms of pricing, you can expect to spend between £3,000 and £5,000.
- Connect+ Series: Designed for high-volume mailing, with advanced features like colour printing and a processing speed of up to 180 letters per minute. For larger businesses, these high-end models may cost upwards of £10,000.
Quadient (formerly Neopost)
Quadient, which used to be named Neopost, offers machines that are known for their advanced features and scalability.
- IS-280c: Targeted at small businesses, offering a compact design and digital connectivity. A budget-friendly option, typically ranging from £900 to £1,300.
- IN-600 Series: A good fit for medium-sized businesses, featuring a semi-automatic feeder and a range of weighing platforms. Aimed at medium businesses, these are priced between £2,500 and £4,000.
- IS-5000/6000: Designed for larger enterprises, these machines offer high-speed processing and dynamic weighing. These high-volume machines are generally priced above £9,000.
FP Mailing
FP Mailing is renowned for its high-quality, German-engineered machines. They offer robust performance and can be a reliable choice for any business.
- PostBase Mini: Suitable for small businesses, offering a processing speed of up to 20 letters per minute. This low-cost option ranges from £800 to £1,200.
- PostBase Qi4: Designed for medium businesses, this model offers automatic label dispensing and an integrated scale. For medium businesses, expect to pay between £2,000 and £3,500.
- PostBase Qi9: A high-volume machine with advanced features like a fully-automatic feeder and dynamic scale. A premium machine that can cost between £7,000 and £12,000.
Frama
Frama is another reputable brand offering a range of machines designed to meet different business needs.
- Matrix F12: Ideal for small businesses, this machine offers a touchscreen interface and a speed of up to 25 letters per minute. Prices start from approximately £1,000 to £1,400.
- Matrix F32: Targeted at medium-sized businesses, offering a processing speed of up to 50 letters per minute and an automatic feeder. A mid-range model costing between £3,000 and £4,500.
- Matrix F82: Designed for high-volume mailing, offering a fully-automatic feeder and a speed of up to 140 letters per minute. For high-volume needs, expect to pay upwards of £10,000
Franking machines for sale – The verdict
Investing in a franking machine can bring operational efficiency and cost savings to your business. However, it’s crucial to undertake a thorough evaluation of your needs and the available options.
Whether you’re a small business sending out a handful of letters each day or a larger organisation with more extensive mailing needs, there is likely a franking machine that’s perfect for your business.
FAQ for buying a franking machine
When venturing into the world of franking machines, questions are bound to arise. Here are some commonly asked questions to help guide you through the buying process.
Franking machines can be purchased from a variety of sources, including:
Manufacturers: Direct from companies like Pitney Bowes, Neopost, FP Mailing, and Frama.
Authorised Dealers: These vendors offer new and refurbished models from various brands, often with added services like installation and maintenance.
Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay and Amazon offer both new and used machines, although warranties and after-sales service can be variable.
Local Office Supply Stores: Some general office supply stores also stock franking machines, but the selection may be limited.
Before making a purchase, evaluate your business’s specific mailing needs, the initial cost of the machine, ongoing costs like ink and labels, and the features that are crucial for your operations. You might also consider whether leasing is a better option for you than buying.
Yes, used franking machines are available, mainly through authorised dealers and online marketplaces. However, if you’re considering a used machine, make sure it’s from a reputable source and confirm whether it comes with a warranty or any form of after-sales support.
Some dealers and manufacturers offer trial periods where you can use the machine for a short time to decide if it meets your needs. Always inquire about this option before making a purchase.
Yes, you’ll need approval from Royal Mail to start using a franking machine in the UK. The process typically involves completing some paperwork to register the machine and your business.
This varies depending on where you buy the machine. While some vendors include free installation, others might charge an additional fee. Always confirm these details before making a purchase.
Modern franking machines usually update automatically via an internet connection. For older models, you might need to download rate updates manually.