In the dynamic landscape of postal services, businesses and individuals alike are often confronted with the challenges of adapting to changes in postage rates. As we usher in the year 2024, a notable increase in postage costs has become a reality. In this blog post, we will explore the implications of this postage rate increase in 2024 and shed light on how Pitney Bowes postage meters emerge as a valuable solution, offering both time and cost savings.
Postage Rate Increase 2024
With the dawn of the new year, postal services have implemented a small but notable increase in postage rates. Starting on July 14th, 2024, the US Postal Service will increase “Forever” stamp prices from 68 cents to 73 cents for letters weighing one ounce or less. This is on top of another increase that was put into place January 2024, where stamps increased from 63 cents to 68 cents. Whether you are a small business owner, a large corporation, or an individual managing personal mail, the impact of these changes is widespread. The rise in postage costs adds an extra layer of consideration for businesses aiming to streamline operations and reduce overheads.
When do postage rates increase?
As stated above, the second increase will take place on July 14th, 2024. Businesses and individuals who will be greatly affected by this price increase could start stocking up on stamps now before the price increase goes into motion, but it likely won’t be the last. Statistically, the USPS has been raising postage costs twice to three times a year.
Pitney Bowes Postage Meters: A Saving Grace
Amidst the challenges posed by the increased postage rates, Pitney Bowes, a pioneer in mailing and shipping solutions, stands out as a reliable ally. The company's SendPro® series of automatic postage meter machines have proven to be an indispensable tool for businesses seeking efficiency, accuracy, and significant cost savings in their mailing processes. But first, what is metered mail?
What is metered mail?
Metered mail allows businesses of all sizes to use a meter to print postage directly onto their mail, allowing them to save valuable time on trips to the post office.
In addition, postage meters like the ones sold by Pitney Bowes include a built-in scale so every letter, postcard, and package is accurately weighed, so you always pay the correct amount on postage. Postage meters offer discounts on postage that are unavailable at the post office, so price increases like the one being implemented this month are less of a worry. So not only are you saving on time, but you are saving money, too.
Why Pitney Bowes?
Not only has Pitney Bowes been in business for 100 years and has been a partner of the USPS for the same amount of time, but their mailing solutions are above all else. Pitney Bowes SendPro® postage meters automate the postage calculation and application process, eliminating the need for manual weighing, calculation, and affixing of postage. This automation not only reduces the margin for error but also frees up valuable time for businesses to focus on core activities. In a fast-paced business environment, time efficiency can be a game-changer, and Pitney Bowes postage meters deliver on this front.
Businesses of all sizes can choose a postage meter that fits their mail volume, but all Pitney Bowe’s postage meters allow for time and cost savings while being compliant with USPS standards. As a partner of Pitney Bowes, TROY is honored to add postage meters, as well as inserters, folders, and openers to our suite of security solutions.
Accurate Postage Calculation: Pitney Bowes' SendPro® postage meters utilize advanced technology to accurately calculate postage based on each mail piece's weight, size, and destination. This precision ensures that businesses pay the correct postage amount, avoiding the risk of underpayment and subsequent penalties. Accuracy in postage calculation becomes increasingly crucial in the face of rising postage rates, making Pitney Bowes a trusted partner for businesses seeking financial prudence.
Automatic Cost Savings: Beyond the initial investment in a Pitney Bowes postage meter, businesses can realize significant cost savings in the long run. Not only does each SendPro® postage meter have automatic updates to shipping rates, but will allow you to automatically save 3 cents on every First Class letter you send.
USPS IMI Compliance: The price increase for postage isn’t the only thing the USPS is changing in 2024. They are also changing the current IBI (Information Based Indicia) performance standard that all sending devices must meet.
2024 will see the introduction of IMI compliance, which will enable the USPS to better automate operations, increase security standards and ensure correct mail postage. IMI compliance will be a requirement by the end of 2024, and all other devices will be decertified. Pitney Bowes SendPro® postage meters are already IMI compliant, so upgrading now will avoid headache in the long run.
Stay Above the Postage Rate Increase in 2024 with Pitney Bowes and TROY
As businesses navigate the challenges posed by the 2024 postage hike, Pitney Bowes SendPro® postage meters emerge as a strategic investment. The combination of time efficiency, accurate postage calculation, cost savings, and convenience positions Pitney Bowes as a valuable partner in the quest for streamlined mailing processes. In an era where every penny and minute count, businesses can find solace and success in the reliability of Pitney Bowes postage meters.
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