facer-canceler machine

A facer-canceler machine is a piece of postal technology designed to automate mail handling. Its primary functions are to align letters so the address side faces the canceler and to cancel the postage stamps. This process is often combined with separating mail into different classes, such as first- and second-class, to prioritize handling.1

These machines use sensing units to detect the presence and position of stamps. Some advanced units can also identify mail for priority handling by recognizing specific stamp indexes that react to ultraviolet radiation. This automation helps postal services manage high volumes of mail more efficiently, especially in regions with labor shortages or high labor costs.123