Compare Postage Meter Prices in 2025
IWhen it comes to managing outgoing mail efficiently, a postage meter is a game-changer for businesses. Postage meters allow you to weigh, stamp, and process mail in-house, eliminating trips to the post office and reducing mailing costs. Whether you’re sending invoices, marketing materials, or packages, a postage meter can streamline operations and save both time and money.
At Kwote Advisor, we help businesses compare the best postage meter options available today, so you can make an informed decision based on your volume, budget, and needs.
Featured Postage Meter Providers
Pitney Bowes
FP USA
Quadient Direct
Postage meters cannot be purchased and are only available by a lease. Learn more about the cost of renting postage meters near me.
Considering the time and money that can be saved by having a postage machine in your office, it’s no wonder why more businesses are embracing this technology. Not only does printing exact change save you from running out at just the wrong moment but also means less risk for theft or loss.
If you invest more than $500 per year on postage, your office will enjoy a considerable reduction in operational costs when you invest in an efficient and cost-effective postage machine for small businesses.
Postage Meter Cost Information
The cost of a postage meter varies depending on features, mail volume, and whether you’re leasing or purchasing. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Cost Item | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Lease Price (monthly) | $20 – $200+ |
| Equipment Purchase | $1,000 – $8,000+ |
| Ink Cartridge Replacement | $50 – $150 |
| Scale Add-On (if separate) | $100 – $500+ |
| Postage Refills | Pay-as-you-go |
| Maintenance/Service Plan | $5 – $20/month |
Note: In the U.S., you typically cannot “buy” a postage meter outright — they are leased under USPS regulations through authorized providers.
Postage Meter Buying Guide
Scale vs Meter: What’s the difference between a scale and a meter? A postage meter is used to measure how much mailing paper you have out on your counter, while scales can be purchased separately if needed. Meters print indicia – otherwise known as “stamps” for lack of a better term- which store information about where mailings came from; this way they don’t need another piece like an envelope or box with their name written across it in big black letters! Most types come equipped either digitally (like most modern day ones do) versus manually using old-school technology or both.
Benefits Include:
- Postage scales to dynamically set postage
- Password to Limit User Access
- Cost Accounting codes
- Online Postage Refills
- Automatic date advance
- Save Money on Package Delivery
Here are key factors to consider when choosing the right postage meter:
- Volume:
- Small Office (<50 pieces/day): Low-volume machines.
- Medium Business (50–500 pieces/day): Mid-volume meters with integrated scales.
- High-Volume Mailing (500+ pieces/day): Heavy-duty machines with automatic feeders.
- Speed:
Measured in letters per minute (LPM). Choose based on your daily needs to avoid bottlenecks. - Integrated Features:
Look for built-in scales, automatic feeders, digital displays, and online postage refills for ease of use. - Contract Terms:
Always check leasing terms, length of contract, hidden fees (e.g., postage reset fees), and cancellation policies. - Service and Support:
Reliable tech support and maintenance are essential. Some providers offer 24/7 customer support with equipment leases.
Comparison Table: Best Postage Meters
| Model/Brand | Ideal For | Speed (LPM) | Lease Cost (Est.) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pitney Bowes SendPro C Series | Medium-High Volume | 65 LPM | $49 – $199/month | Touchscreen, scale, online postage |
| Quadient iX-5 Series | Medium Volume | 75 LPM | $50 – $180/month | Auto feeder, remote rate updates |
| FP PostBase Vision Advanced | High Volume | 85 LPM | $70 – $220/month | Full-color touchscreen, speed processing |
| Data-Pac EZ-Mailer | Small Businesses | 25 LPM | $20 – $45/month | Compact, budget-friendly |
| Pitney Bowes SendPro Mailstation | Low Volume | 18 LPM | $20 – $30/month | Perfect for startups, easy refill |
Postage Meter Bases
The base is a crucial component of your postage meter, designed to transport mail through it. You can buy them outright or lease one. Although this may sound like a small investment now, consider how much easier sending bulk certified documents will be when everything needs its own envelopes instead. The four types of postage meter bases are:
- Feeder Base
- Sealer
- Stacker
- Tape Dispenser
Postage Meter Repair Fees
There are NO FEES for repairing or maintaining a postage meter. If you’re looking to lease a meter, it’s important that before signing on the dotted line and handing over your money- make sure there will be any service obligations from repairs. The manufacturer may only offer technicians located far away or they could come right out in person at no cost.
Postage Meter Stamp Refills
The hassle of lugging your meter everywhere just to add more stamps is long gone. You can now refill them over the phone with no need for extra trips!
- Refill by Phone
- Refill Online
If you have a modern USPS postage meter and want to update your account with the post office, there’s an easy way. You can just plug in a little phone jack (provided by the supplier) which will let new refills come straight from your account. If rates change at all though then everything gets updated automatically too so no need for math skills here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I buy a postage meter instead of leasing it?
A: No. Under USPS regulations, postage meters must be leased through an authorized vendor.
Q: Is it cheaper to use a postage meter than stamps?
A: Yes! Meters typically offer discounted postal rates compared to regular stamps — savings can be 3–5 cents per letter.
Q: How do I refill postage on a meter?
A: Most modern meters allow you to refill online by connecting your machine to the internet or through a connected PC.
Q: What happens if postage rates change?
A: Most meters can update rates remotely. Some older models require a manual update or a technician visit.
Q: Is service and maintenance included in the lease?
A: Often yes, but always verify. Many vendors bundle support and repairs into your monthly lease fee.
Top Postage Meter Brands
- Pitney Bowes:
The industry leader offering a wide range of solutions for businesses of all sizes. Known for innovation, reliability, and ease of use. - Quadient (formerly Neopost):
Provides mid-to-high-volume mailing solutions with a strong reputation for speed, automation, and remote software updates. - FP Mailing Solutions:
German engineering with a focus on simplicity and performance. Great for both small offices and enterprises. - Data-Pac:
Specializes in cost-effective, compact machines ideal for small business environments needing basic mailing features.
About the Author
Chris Halpern is a senior logistics advisor with over 22 years of experience in mailing and shipping technologies. He specializes in helping businesses streamline their mailing processes and minimize costs. Chris is a trusted content contributor for Kwote Advisor, where he shares practical insights to help companies make smarter buying decisions.