Web-Based Postage System Launched

E-Stamp Corporation, one of two companies now testing electronic postage systems, is offering a Web browser-based, no-hardware-required online postage-buying system, authorized by the US Postal Service, and aimed at small businesses.

E-Stamp Internet Postage was tested in both the Washington DC and San Francisco Bay areas, the company says. E-Stamp’s system is offered in two flavors: E-Stamp Internet Postage can be accessed from desktop applications such as Microsoft Word or from Internet browsers.

The company believes its scheme will be successful because customers don’t need to download any additional software or connect any hardware to access the service.

E-Stamp’s Internet Postage also lets users print stamps on envelopes, labels or onto a document using a PC and standard printer. To see more about the new service, go to http://www.estamp.com.

Meanwhile, the US Postal Service (USPS) has given its blessing to a second Internet postage delivery system. Westlake Village, Calif.-based StampMaster Inc., which also does not require the purchase of a hardware device, according to company officials. The StampMaster software is a free download from the Web.

The StampMaster system lets users print — with either a laser or ink jet printer — a new form of electronic postage called "indicium" or Information Based Indicia (IBI), directly onto envelopes, labels or business documents.

The company charges users for the postage along with an associated service fee.

StampMaster’s Web site is at http://www.stampmaster.com.

(Contact: Karin Bauer Aranaz, Inter Active Public Relations, Inc., 415-703-0400 x235, karin_aranaz@ipri.com)