mailers and computerized franking systems
overview (604.4.0)
postage meters and computer postage products are collectively referred to as “postage evidence systems”. A proof of postage system is a device or system of components used by a customer to print proof that the required postage for the shipment has been paid. Postage evidence systems print indicia, such as information-based indicia (ibi) or smart mail indicia, to indicate postage payment. customers print marks directly on a mailpiece or on a label that is placed on a mailpiece. customers must place marks in the upper right corner of the mailing or label, in accordance with 604.4.3.3.
authorized providers (604.4.1.3)
The following are USPS authorized vendors:
provider
meter
computer postage
phone
internet
- data-pac mail systems corporation.
x
800-355-1755
www.data-pac.com
- fp mail solutions
x
800-341-6052
www.fp-usa.com
- quadient inc.
x
800-624-7892
www.quadient.com
- pitney bowes inc.
x
x
800-322-8000
www.pitneybowes.com
- endicia.com (psi systems)
x
800-576-3279
www.endicia.com
- stamps.com
x
888-434-0055
www.sellos.com
- easy post
x
415-528-7555
www.easypost.com
client agreement (604.4.2)
Customers must enter into an agreement with the USPS to obtain authorization to use evidence of postage systems. By entering into the agreement, the customer accepts responsibility for the control and use of the system and agrees to comply with all rules and regulations governing its use.
postage payment (604.4.3)
the numerical postage value shown (in dollars and cents) on each correspondence must be equal to or greater than the amount due for the applicable price category and any additional service fees or other amounts permitted by mail standards . overpayment refunds are considered only per the standards in 604.9.0.
Measured postage must be legible and not overlap if more than one impression is applied to the same piece. metered postage should be printed or applied to the top right corner of the envelope or address label. Signs must be printed with USPS-approved fluorescent ink or use another USPS-approved method to ensure mail is oriented during processing. Approved methods include using a Front Identification Mark (FIM) for indicia printed directly on letter-size First Class Mail or printing indicia on USPS-approved labels or ribbons. USPS approved labels or tapes must be used when printing meter seals on tape (604.4.5).
meter date (604.4.6)
The date format used in the indicia is subject to the following conditions.
- full date. Shippers should use a complete date for the following:
- All Express Express Mail, Priority Mail, First Class Mail, and First Class Parcel Service – Trade Parts.
- all postal items with insured mail or cod.
- all postal items prepared with the signs printed on non-adhesive paper (for example, computer printer paper) and affixed to the mailing or used as part of an insert in a window envelope.
- month and year. Shippers may use a full date or a ship date consisting only of the month and year in indicia only for USPS Marketing Mail, USPS Retail Land, and Parcel Services Parts.
- no date. Senders must use undated signs for prepaid metered response postage. As an option, shippers may use indicia without a ship date for USPS marketing mail and package service parts not subject to 604.4.6.2a.
login and deposit (604.4.6.3)
Metered mail generally must be deposited at locations designated by the postmaster of the licensing post office (ie, the post office shown on the meter stamp). exceptions include:
- one-piece first-class mail, one-piece priority mail, one-piece priority mail, one-piece media mail, and one-piece library mail can be deposited in any box collection from the street or post office.
- direct delivery of metered mail (705.19.0) can be used.
metered postage designs
For specific dmm standards applicable to this category of mail, see the dmm sections above and the general sections within each dmm module.