The easiest and cheapest way to get a franking machine is to rent one. Renting allows you to get the latest machine with minimal upfront investment. All 4 UK franking machine manufactures: Neopost, Pitney Bowes, FP Mailing & Frama offer similar rental contracts.
However, it may not be the right option for everyone.
Below we’ll outline typical costs and the advantages and disadvantages of renting vs buying.
Franking Machine Rental Prices
In 2017, the best franking machine rental deal is the Pitney Bowes DM60. It has a list price of only £17.99/month (+VAT), plus comes with a 30-day free trial and £20 in postage credit.
Mid-volume models such as the Pitney Bowes DM300 and the Neopost IN-600 can be hired from between £50 and £100 per month.
High volume models such as the Pitney Bowes SendPro series, Neopost IN-700, FP PostBase Ten and the Frama Matrix F42 will have a leasing costs of somewhere between £100 and £500 per month.
See our guide to learn more about franking machine prices.
Franking Machine Rental Advantages & Disadvantages
While hiring a franking machine is the easiest way to get one, it may not be the best option for you. Consider the following advantages of of renting and leasing vs buying to see which is right fro you.
Advantages of Renting
- Enjoy savings of up to 32% on Royal Mail postage costs vs stamps.
- Low upfront costs. Prices start from £17.99/month (+VAT).
- Benefit from the latest Mailmark technology.
- Rental cost usually includes maintenance and inspection contract.
- Easier to upgrade or downgrade between machines at the end of your contract if your mailing needs increase or decrease.
- Help with installation
- Help with staying compliant with Royal Mail’s licences.
- Full range of makes and models to choose from.
Disadvantages of Renting
- Usually still requires a 12-36 month commitment.
- You often have to buy supplies (ink, envelopes, labels, etc.) through the supplier, which can work out to be more expensive.
- Can work to be more expensive over the machines life-cycle if you use the same machine for more than 5 years.
Is renting the way to go?
The answer is that it depends.
You’re best bet is to get quotes from some of the Royal Mail authorised franking machine suppliers and find out what they’re currently offering in terms of renting vs buying contracts. You can contact them all individually or fill in our quote form and compare the leading companies in one-step.