Service and support

The meter does not require a service contract because the owner - the manufacturer - is responsible for repairs on the unit. Before leasing a meter, make sure you understand how the manufacturer will handle repairs: will you have to ship it somewhere? Or do they have technicians in your area that can come to your office?

Service contracts for the base will typically cost 5 percent to 10 percent of the cost of the base. However, bases are quite reliable; you will probably spend less by just attending to it on an as-needed basis.

Most modern meters have a simple phone jack that allows you to plug your meter in and download more postage from an account with the post office; some also allow you to purchase refills online.