Wondering exactly how Stamps.com’s service works?
Upon signing up, you start out with a quick software download, which installs their postage printing software on your computer.
After install, the software can be linked up to address book software on your computer. Stamps is compatible with Outlook, Quickbooks, and other popular address programs. You are also able to print postage directly from Word, Outlook, Quickbooks, and others.
Once your free trial has completed, Stamps sends you a free postal scale. This connects directly with your computer and interfaces with their postage printing program. You place a piece of mail on the scale, and it automatically calculates the proper postage.
After calcluating the correct postage, the Stamps software is able to print on standard labels, plain paper, or even directly on envelopes. There is no special ink, printers, or labels like with many other solutions. It’s ability to include a logo and print on envelopes is especially valuable, as this looks much more professional than sticking a pile of stamps on every letter.
After this quick process, the letter is ready to mail. Send it just like you normally do, or request a USPS pickup. The postal service also allows Stamps.com packages over 16 ounces to be placed directly in the drop boxes, bypassing the normal restriction!
Finally, Stamps keeps a detailed record of all postage sent. You can use codes to easily track spending by office or client. Tracking is also easy, as a single click brings up tracking information – no long tracking codes required.
Click the coupon to the right for a special deal at Stamps.com
{ 17 comments… read them below or add one }
cindy corn 12.05.08 at 8:15 pm
Can you print postage from computer to plain paper? I have a 2 page newsletter that is stapled and a bi-fold. Looking for way to print postage on approx 150 sheets and then I would run through again for mail merge.
Thanks!
Admin 12.05.08 at 9:15 pm
Yes, you should be able to print on any media that your printer is capable of printing on.
JoLyn 12.19.08 at 8:52 pm
I just want to print stamps – not a shipping label. Can I do this? If so, do I need special labels?
Admin 12.31.08 at 2:19 pm
Yes, the service allows you to print stamps. You do not need special labels, it can even print right on the envelope if you would like.
Sarah 03.18.09 at 2:25 am
Thanks for the link to the coupon! I started using Stamps.com a few months ago to save money on shipping for my craft sales business, and thus far, I’m really glad I stopped going to the post office to deal with postage. It’s a big time saver.
Teri Kroll 04.29.09 at 8:58 pm
What are the charges for using stamps.com? I realize there is a free trial – but how are the charges for stamps.com calculated? Does is matters what your usage is? We use about 300.00 a month in postage.
I appreciate your prompt response.
Admin 04.29.09 at 9:16 pm
Stamps.com charges a $20/month service fee. The regular postage you purchase is priced at cost (same as the post office). Some of the premium postage (express, priority, and international) you are able to purchase at a discount, ranging from 3-11%.
Sharon Stewart 05.08.09 at 2:49 pm
How do you apply the stamps if printed on regular paper that doesn’t have adhesive?
Sharon
Admin 05.08.09 at 3:12 pm
Most people print either directly on their envelopes or on sticky labels – you could always use tape if that doesn’t work for you.
Gail Markham 05.20.09 at 5:23 pm
Will it work with only a b/w printer?
Tianna 06.13.09 at 7:01 pm
I am currently thinking of printing my own postcards for addvertisment, rather than use an outside company to save money. Will your postal system work for me?
eleanor 06.16.09 at 9:48 pm
If I want to print a single label for an address, because I cannot get the size envelope into my printer, do you sell and provide single label printers and the correct sized labels. How much is the printer? How much is a roll of the labels? How many labels on a roll?
Admin 06.17.09 at 12:52 pm
Yes, black and white should be fine – it just won’t be as pretty if you add images.
Admin 06.17.09 at 12:53 pm
Yes, it should be perfect.
Admin 06.17.09 at 12:54 pm
You can print on regular paper – so any labels that you purchase should be able to work. You do not have to buy special proprietary labels.
W. H. Wallace 07.26.09 at 10:41 pm
Two questions:
1. For how long is the committment to stamps.com. Can I resign at anytime or must I maintain membership for some minimum period of time?
2. What can I include as part of the stamp? How do I add my logo to the stamp? Can I include a picture? Can I change the appearance of the stamp from one stamp to the next.
Thank you.
w. H. Wallace
Admin 09.09.09 at 5:49 pm
You can include pictures or logos by adding them in the Stamps software. There is no long term contract – you pay month by month as you go.