Abstract: A platen module is fixably mounted to the base of a modular mailing machine. A support wall is fixably mounted to the base. Also fixably mounted to the base of the mailing machine is a drive motor having a output shaft and a plurality of gears fixably mounted the respective ends of the output shaft. A guide rod is slidably mounted vertically to the support wall and a platen plate fixably mounted to the guide rode. A plurality of rack post are fixably mounted at one end to the platen plate and in constant mesh with a respective one of the gears.