Beta test is over...No More PC Stamp :(
Written: Feb 16, 2000 (Updated Jul 23, 2000)
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I recently signed up for PC Stamp beta testing. The US Post Office requires all of the electronic stamp providers to go through testing to make sure that the system is acceptable. PC Stamp is in this test mode. They are offering $100 for those who apply and are accepted. What you have to do is fill out an application for a postage meter license. You also have to give them your checking account number. I don't know how "safe" this is, but I did it anyway. I'm not to afraid of e-fraud like some companies would like me to be. It has been about a week since I applied and haven't received any information yet. I called to find out how the beta will work. Customer service and tech support are only available M-F 7:00-7:00 central time. The operator on the phone said that the application first goes to the USPS. After being accepted and having a license issued, they get back with me and set me up. It was unknown at the time what kind of service fees would be involved.
*** 2/19/2000 This just in...I just received the PCStamp package today. It came in a fairly large box. Inside was a manual, an electronic module, a scale (the other electronic stamp companies charge up to $100 for a scale), my USPS postal meter license, two cables and a few CD-ROMs. A funny side note: the post office representative on my license form was "Marilyn Manson"!! After reading the manual, I came across the first minor problem. It requires a modem, but I'm on cable and don't have a regular modem. I'll have to find a cheap one somewhere in order to get it started. In order to meet the requirements of the post office, you have to submit log files to the company twice a month and also send them an envelope with a PCStamp on it periodically. It does look promising. As soon as I get a modem, I will update this with another edit.
***2/22/2000 Well, I just bought a modem and got the PC Stamp all set up. I was able to get a modem for $7.05 after rebate, not too bad. The program dials an 877 number or a local number so there is no toll charges either. After getting everything setup, you have to print an envelope (#10) and send it into Neopost. After figuring how to print, I printed my first real envelope and it looks pretty good (except I screwed up my own name!!). After reading a little, I found out that the $100 may come as $10 per month, I will check on this tomorrow. All in all, so far so good, and would recommend anyone willing to give up the checking account number to a company to go ahead an try it out.
***3/20/2000 I have been using the PC Stamp for almost a month now. I just found out that although the beta test is still going, Neopost is no longer accepting testers for PC Stamp. They are doing the same program for a different system called PostagePlus(.com). It is an internet base system where you have to be connected to the internet to make a stamp.
I have mailed several letters, a package to my cousin in Michigan, and three priority mail packages. All have arrived without glitch. I even won an auction on eBay and sent a box with my payment enclosed and pre-paid for the return shipping by printing a stamp on a label. I didn't have to pay for shipping at all! I have not yet been able to determine if the $100 has been deposited into my account, but I have downloaded all of the postage I've needed without a problem.
***5/24/2000 I received an email two days ago telling me that the PCStamp was approved by the post office. Unfortunately, I have to return the unit. I have come to like the convenience of having the postoffice in my home. I've sent all kinds of packages with it, all over the country. Of the $100 I was given to use, I used about $63.00. The remaining $37.00 will actually be returned to me!! What a bonus. I will also get a rebate for one of Neopost's other products.
***6/16/2000 I received the letter requesting I send the unit back yesterday. Today I mailed it to them. They are offering me a unit called Simply Postage PROMail. It is an integrated scale and printing device. I will check it out and write a review on it later. Because I participated in the Beta Test of PC Stamp, I will get the unit at no charge, and maybe $50 in postage plus what ever I didn't use on the other unit. I'll have to wait and see what exactly I get. Right away, I can say that one pro is that you can make postage labels without even being connected to a computer. It has a quick $.33 button. The cons would be that there is a $49.95 set-up fee, but you get $50 in "free" postage. There is also a $14.95 per month usage fee. It includes unlimited downloading of postage and maintenance on the device.
In all I would suggest to anyone to get a home postage meter and printer. It was a little tricky figuring out the best way to print on various labels and envelopes, but I got the hang of it. Fortunately, If you totally mess up a label, you can get it refunded by the USPS. If you do purchase one, be sure to get an integrated scale. This makes sure that you are putting the correct postage on it and not overpaying.
There are now 4 major electronic stamp providers now. E-Stamp was the first. Like E-Stamp, PC Stamp has an electronic module that you connect to your computer so you can do stamps anytime. Stamps.com does not have this, so it has less expensive service fees. The only problem is you have to be connected to the net to get a stamp printed.
Recommended:
Yes
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About the Author
Member: Brandon VanOrden
Location: Texas
Reviews written: 88
Trusted by: 14 members
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