Barcodes on mail

Barcodes on mail! That's a fascinating topic. Here's a rundown on the use of barcodes on mail:

What are barcodes on mail?

Barcodes on mail, also known as Intelligent Mail Barcodes (IMb), are a type of barcode that is used to track and manage mail pieces. They are a combination of letters and numbers that are printed on the mail piece, usually in the top right corner.

How do barcodes on mail work?

When a mail piece is sent, the barcode is scanned at various points along the delivery route. This allows the postal service to track the mail piece and update its location in real-time. The barcode contains information such as:

  1. Mailer ID: A unique identifier for the sender.
  2. Mailpiece ID: A unique identifier for the specific mail piece.
  3. Service Type: The type of service used (e.g., First-Class, Priority Mail).
  4. Destination ZIP Code: The final destination of the mail piece.

Benefits of barcodes on mail

  1. Improved tracking: Barcodes enable the postal service to track mail pieces more accurately, reducing lost or misdirected mail.
  2. Increased efficiency: With barcodes, mail pieces can be sorted and routed more quickly and efficiently, reducing processing times.
  3. Cost savings: Barcodes can help reduce costs by minimizing the need for manual sorting and tracking.
  4. Enhanced customer service: Barcodes provide customers with real-time tracking information, making it easier for them to track their mail.

Types of barcodes on mail

  1. Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMb): A 65-character barcode that contains the information mentioned earlier.
  2. Postnet Barcode: A barcode used for bulk mailings, which contains a unique identifier and routing information.
  3. OneCode Barcode: A barcode used for international mailings, which contains information such as the sender's and recipient's addresses.

Best practices for using barcodes on mail

  1. Use the correct barcode type: Ensure you use the correct type of barcode for your specific mail piece.
  2. Print the barcode correctly: Make sure the barcode is printed clearly and legibly.
  3. Use the correct font and size: Use a font that is easy to read and a size that is large enough to be scanned accurately.
  4. Verify the barcode: Check the barcode for errors before sending the mail piece.

In summary, barcodes on mail are an essential tool for tracking and managing mail pieces. By understanding how they work and following best practices, you can ensure that your mail pieces are processed efficiently and accurately.