A
postage meter or
franking machine is a mechanical device used to create and apply physical evidence of
postage (or
franking) to mailed matter. Postage meters are regulated by a country's postal authority. A postage meter imprints an amount of postage, functioning as a postage stamp, a
cancellation and a dated
postmark all in one. The
meter stamp serves as proof of payment and eliminates the need for adhesive stamps.