Deutsche Post plans internet postage service in Germany
ONLINE REPORTER 17th September 2001
DEUTSCHE POST PLANS INTERNET POSTAGE SERVICE IN GERMANY
ORIGINAL TITLE: Deutsche Post To Debut E-Postage Service.
FULLTEXT:
Deutsche Post plans to launch its Internet postage service throughout Germany on September 17.
The system, which recently completed a successful three-month-long pilot, requires a Pentium PC with ink jet or laser printer and Internet access.
In order to print postage on a home PC or in the office, customers will have to purchase the post’s new Stampit software. The package costs $75 with an additional $7.25 for the printed user manual. After the first six months, a $2 monthly service fee is added.
Customers install the Stampit software, register online and purchase postage via direct debit. In a few days they will receive the necessary passwords by mail. When a letter is completed, customers determine the necessary postage by clicking on the Stampit icon and after the password is entered, the software builds an Internet connection to Deutsche Post servers that enables postage to be printed.
The stamp itself is printed onto the letter or envelope in the form of a black-and-white matrix code that contains encrypted information identifying the sender and details such as the date of writing and the postage. The program includes a provision for a test printout before the e-postage is printed.
Postage valued between $27-$181 can be purchased from Deutsche Post’s online stamp counter Postage Point.
Deutsche Post is offering business customers a starter kit with immediate registration and set-up at its outlets. The post says its Internet postage service is well suited to small businesses, offices or associations.
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Copyright 2001 G2 Intelligence, Inc.
(c) 2001 Resp. DB Svcs. All rts. reserv. $$