RM Franking Machines

[Westfield]

Hi, there,

My company has really been going through some postage costs recently and we're looking into getting a franking machine to try and save a bit of cash, we're looking at the smallest packages some companies are offering, this being 1-30/50 parcels a day which would suit us.

We've done the initial maths and worked out that at our current rate we would indeed save a little bit of money and this can only get better. (We were looking at one that was roughly £16 a month, but zero indication of if that was for a lease or rental or even if there was a 12..24...36 month contract.)

But the main question I have is, are there any pitfalls we should be looking out for? The whole too good to be true thing comes to mind; are we renting the machine or leasing it, etc, etc, do a majority of these companies force you to buy the essentials from them too?

So, basically, is the franking machine idea a complete con or worth getting from the right company, and if it is, any suggestions?

Cheers

 

[arcon5]

Tbh even if you don't acheive great savings they are so much easier than messing around with smartstamp or whatever method you use now.

Some other costs to consider:

- cost to topup the machine: pitney bowes charge over £6 fee everytime you topup your account. Neopost connect to a premium rate lines (about £1/min and takes about a minute or two) when topping up. So topup as little number of times as possible. Your billed for usage monthly which helps cash flow.

- cost of new ink @ about £70 and lasts circa 1,500 impressions (less if you have your own logo).

I have a 12 month lease and pay £14.50+vat per month. This is with pitney bowes.

They usually offer 1 month free trial. You can also get £10 (or negotiate more, some places offer £30) free credit. And free logo upload also as otherwise they can charge about £40.

Buying would likely be cheaper. You could probably buy one for about £400-£500 which pays for itself after a 2-3 years so depends how long you plan on using it.

Get what you can !!

And make sure all the extras are written on the agreement when returning it !!

 

[Westfield]

Thanks for replying!

We'd (Amazingly.) completely forgot about the cost of ink, but factoring that in we're still looking at a bit of a saving and any saving is worth it!

We'll also take a look a look at pitney bowers because the price you're paying seems like a good one.

Thanks!