Finding a Postal Solution

I have decided to use USPS as my primary shipping method. Their prices are reasonable and their flat rate shipping boxes are perfect for shipping heavy arrangements.

The next step was finding a reliable and efficient way to print out postage labels. USPS.com has a simple way to print out a label to a plain piece of paper, but then you have to cut it out and tape it to the package. This is an inefficient use of time and materials. I decided to look for a better solution

1. Dymo printer – These are purpose-built printers designed to print labels using thermal paper. They do not require ink or toner but they do require special label paper. There are a select few Dymo printers that come with stamp printing software. However, this software is extremely limited. It only allows you to print postage for first class (1-13 oz), flat rate priority mail, flat rate envelope express mail, international (1 oz) and postcards. That’s a deal breaker as I also need to be able to ship variable rate priority mail. If you want to print the other types of postage then you have to upgrade to Endicia Standard for $9.95/month.

2. Stamps.com – Requires a $9.95/month subscription. I am OK paying a monthly fee if I can justify it. In this case I can’t figure out where the extra value is being offered. If I wanted a internet based solution USPS.com works great in this way. If I wanted a premium solution then I would go with Endicia Standard as it integrates with the Dymo printer. Stamps.com offers no advantage over other solutions so I am ruling it out altogether.

3. Half sheet labels – The best of both worlds. No monthly fee. I continue to use USPS.com, eBay/Paypal, or Etsy to print the label. I can use my existing printer to print the label. And I get a sticky label which does not require extra tape to attach to the package.  This is the solution I am moving forward with. I will provide an update on how this is working.

In addition I will need a postal scale so I can accurately determine how much postage is required.

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