Is there any way to print off postage for media mail with the postage machines at the post office?  I tried once, but media mail wasn't a choice.  Are there any work arounds?

Yes, you can buy postage that can be used as stamps in any amount in the APC

(well, you have to buy at least one over $1 to get started as they won't do a credit card charge for less),

i.e. you can buy in the amount of $2.23 for first pound media mail, $2.58 for up to 2 lbs, etc.

There is often a digital postal scale in the lobby that will calculate postage including media mail

if you forget the numbers.

I just did this this morning.  I weighed the packages on the scale.  There was a button to press for media mail, so it gave the correct media mail rate.  Then you go to the APC machine and buy stamps for the amount you need.

Since I work at a Post Office I just print whatever amount of postage I need from the APC for my books.

First class rate based upon weight: $1.68, $1.85, $2.02, $2.19 for 4-7 ounce books. I also print up extras and then I also print out several 17 cent stamps when I need to upgrade such as I'm out of $2.02 stamps but have several $1.85. Just add a 17cent stamp for the weight of the book.

For Media Mail rate greater than 7 ounce up to 1 lb is $2.23. 1-2 pounds is $2.58, 2-3 pounds is $2.93 etc add 35 cents for each additional pound increment.

I will print out several $2.23 since I use them the most and then buy several 35 cent or 70 cent stamps for the combinations of higher postage based upon weight.

What you can do is go to an APC and print out stamps (requires a Debit or Credit card) if you use a credit card you can print out several different stamp denominations in sequence.

To use up stamps you can print out say a 30 cent stamp from the APC and use it on your box of books along with your stamps. Even if it's over 13 ounces you have met the conditional requirement of printable postage that can track the package back to you via your credit card.

Of course I would recommend you use a calibrated scale to ensure you aren't short on postage. I would also recommend that you write on the package what the postage is and or the weight.

I.E. 14 ounces Postage Applied $2.23 (or $2.25 if that was what the combination of stamps that you used came to.

Kevin

I do the same as Sheryl, weigh my book packages at the post office lobby scale to get the media mail price, then go over to the APC and buy the postage in those amounts.  A nice post office employee showed me that method when I asked why can't I do media mail at the APC.  I'm in and out of the P.O. in minutes while everyone esle is standing in line.

My post office doesn't have a lobby scale, but it does have an APC.  So, make sure that you bring a printout of the media mail rates if your post office is like mine because the APC WON'T tell you the media mail rates.