Australia post barcoded mail

A very specific topic!

In Australia, Australia Post uses a barcode system to track and process mail. Here's an overview:

What is a barcode? A barcode is a series of lines and spaces that represent a unique identifier, such as a postal code, address, or tracking number. Barcodes are used to quickly and accurately scan and process mail.

Australia Post barcodes Australia Post uses several types of barcodes on mail items, including:

  1. POSTNET barcode: A unique barcode that identifies the postal code and address of the sender and recipient. This barcode is used to sort and process mail within Australia Post's network.
  2. International Postal barcode (IPB): A barcode used for international mail, which contains the sender's and recipient's addresses, as well as the item's weight and dimensions.
  3. Tracking barcode: A barcode used for tracked mail items, such as Express Post and Parcel Post services. This barcode allows Australia Post to track the item's movement and provide updates to the sender and recipient.

How are barcodes used by Australia Post? When you send mail through Australia Post, the barcode is printed on the item along with the address and other relevant information. Here's what happens when Australia Post processes your mail:

  1. Scanning: Australia Post staff scan the barcode using a barcode reader to quickly identify the item and its destination.
  2. Sorting: The barcode is used to sort the mail item to the correct destination, whether within Australia or internationally.
  3. Tracking: For tracked mail items, the barcode is used to track the item's movement and provide updates to the sender and recipient.
  4. Delivery: The mail item is delivered to the recipient, who can use the barcode to track the item's movement and confirm delivery.

Benefits of barcodes for Australia Post The use of barcodes by Australia Post provides several benefits, including:

  1. Efficient processing: Barcodes allow Australia Post to quickly and accurately process mail, reducing the risk of errors and delays.
  2. Improved tracking: Barcodes enable Australia Post to track mail items and provide updates to senders and recipients, improving the overall customer experience.
  3. Increased security: Barcodes can be used to verify the authenticity of mail items and prevent fraud.

Overall, the use of barcodes by Australia Post has streamlined the mail processing and delivery process, making it faster, more efficient, and more secure.