A postage meter or franking machine is a mechanical device used to create and apply physical evidence of postage to mailed items. Postage meters are regulated by a country's postal authority. A postage meter imprints an amount of postage, functioning as a postage stamp, a cancellation and a dated postmark all in one.

What does a franking machine do?

Franking machines can process huge volumes of mail quickly and accurately. Send letters, parcels and international mail with no restrictions on minimum or maximum postage volumes. As it's a pre-paid, self-service way to post, you can manage your spend and access a wide range of both letter and parcel services.

Why is it called a franking machine?

The first franking machine was created in 1884 by Engle Frankmussler, a Norwegian who was keen to solve the problem of security in the long established postal system. ... Frankmussler's invention was called the Postage Stamp Affixing Machine and made its first appearance at the World Fair in Germany.