Quick Answer
A postage meter is a USPS-authorized machine that prints postage on envelopes and can support postage calculation for the selected service. USPS class, postage, and presort eligibility depend on the specific mailing and applicable requirements.
How Does a Postage Meter Work?
A postage meter operates as a closed, USPS-regulated system. You add postage funds through an approved service, and those funds are stored in the meter's secure memory. When you print postage, the meter applies the selected postage information and prints an indicia — the printed mark that replaces a stamp. Verify the mailpiece, service, and applicable USPS requirements before mailing.
Weigh & Measure
Use a supported scale to capture the mailpiece's weight and dimensions, then select the appropriate service.
Print Postage
The meter prints an indicia directly on the envelope or a supported label. Confirm the selected service and mailpiece details before mailing.
Prepare for Entry
Prepare the mail according to the selected service and applicable USPS requirements. IMb applies to cards, letters, and flats; IMpb is a distinct package barcode.
Postage Meter vs Stamps
A postage meter and stamps support different workflows. Compare equipment features, service arrangements, and the mailpieces you send before choosing an approach.
| Feature | Postage Meter | Stamps |
|---|---|---|
| Postage calculation | Based on selected service and mailpiece details | Choose the applicable stamp value |
| Different weights and dimensions | Supported calculation workflows | May require combining stamps |
| Presort discounts | Depends on the mailing | Depends on the mailing |
| Envelope sealing | Available on select mailing systems | Manual |
| Date printing | Available with supported equipment | Not part of the stamp |
| Barcode support | Depends on equipment, service, and mailing | Depends on mailing preparation |
| Upfront cost | Monthly lease fee | No upfront cost |
| Best for | Recurring office mail workflows | Occasional mailers |
Quadient Postage Meter Models
Mail Movers is an authorized Quadient dealer serving Salisbury, MD and the Delmarva Peninsula. We carry the full Quadient iX series.
| Model | Volume | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quadient iX-1 | Up to 200/month | Up to 18 letters/min | Small offices |
| Quadient iX-3 | 200–3,000/month | Up to 45 letters/min | Growing offices |
| Quadient iX-5 | 3,000–10,000/month | Up to 110 letters/min | Daily business mail |
| Quadient iX-7 | 10,000+/month | Up to 140 letters/min | High-volume operations |
Key Benefits of a Postage Meter
Postage workflow
Apply postage based on the selected service and mailpiece details. Ask us which equipment options fit your mail.
Streamline handling
Supported equipment configurations can include feeding, sealing, and stacking features for mail workflows.
Prepare accurately
Rate-data updates and barcode use depend on the equipment, service, and mailing. IMb is for cards, letters, and flats; IMpb is for packages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a postage meter?
A postage meter is a USPS-authorized machine that prints postage directly onto envelopes, labels, or tape strips. It replaces stamps by applying postage based on the mailpiece details and selected service, then printing an indicia. Digital postage meters can connect through an approved service to add postage funds and receive applicable rate-data updates.
How much does a postage meter save vs stamps?
The cost difference between metered postage and stamps depends on the specific mailpiece, selected service, and applicable USPS conditions. A meter can support postage calculation for pieces with different weights and dimensions. Presort eligibility depends on the mailing, not simply on having a meter.
Do I need a USPS license to use a postage meter?
Yes. All postage meters must be licensed by USPS and leased (not purchased) from an authorized manufacturer. USPS authorizes only a handful of manufacturers, including Quadient (formerly Neopost), Pitney Bowes, and Francotyp-Postalia. Mail Movers is an authorized Quadient dealer serving the Delmarva Peninsula.
What is the difference between a postage meter and a mailing system?
A postage meter is the component that prints postage. A mailing system can combine a postage meter with a scale, feeder, sealer, and stacker to automate an envelope workflow. Compare a model's published speed and features before choosing a system.
Can I use a postage meter for packages?
Package capability depends on the meter model, carrier integration, selected service, and the package's characteristics. IMb is used for cards, letters, and flats; IMpb is a distinct barcode used for packages. Mail Movers can help identify the equipment features appropriate for your workflow.
Where can I get a Quadient postage meter in Salisbury, MD?
Mail Movers in Salisbury, MD is an authorized Quadient dealer serving the Delmarva Peninsula. We sell and service the full Quadient product line including the iX-1, iX-3, iX-5, iX-7, and iX-9 mailing systems. Call us at (410) 749-1885 or visit our equipment page to learn more.
Related Resources
Ready to Stop Buying Stamps?
Mail Movers is an authorized Quadient dealer in Salisbury, MD. We'll help you choose the right meter for your volume and get you set up with a lease that fits your budget.