[rastermon]

I think the best way is to add it in an editor.
Such as Video post that comes with 3DSMax - render menu -- video post
Or with Combustion that is also from Autodesk.
Make your slate and credits images - can even use powerpoint and save as a jpeg.
then import those images into the video post timeline.
Piece together your 5 sec title, 1 second black, then your animation (whether its a series of tif images or an already compressed QT mov)
Add 1 second of black to the end.
The render the edit. (this takes much less time than the original 3D render).
Make sure its NTSC-DV Quicktime 720 x480
The only prob with 3DS Video Post is no audio capability.

Good luck!