Mail barcode decoder

A mail barcode decoder is a software or hardware tool that can read and interpret the barcodes printed on mailpieces, such as envelopes, packages, and parcels. These barcodes are used to track and manage the movement of mail and packages through the postal system.

There are several types of barcodes used in the mail industry, including:

  1. POSTNET barcode: This is a barcode used by the United States Postal Service (USPS) to sort and track mail. It consists of a series of bars and spaces that represent a unique code.
  2. PLANET barcode: This is a barcode used by the USPS to track and sort packages. It is similar to the POSTNET barcode but has a different format.
  3. Intelligent Mail barcode (IMb): This is a barcode used by the USPS to track and sort mail and packages. It is a 65-character barcode that includes information such as the sender's and recipient's addresses, the package's weight, and the shipping carrier.
  4. Royal Mail barcode: This is a barcode used by Royal Mail, the postal service of the United Kingdom, to track and sort mail and packages.

Mail barcode decoders can be used for a variety of purposes, including:

  1. Tracking and tracing: Mail barcode decoders can be used to track the movement of mail and packages through the postal system, allowing senders and recipients to monitor the status of their shipments.
  2. Sorting and routing: Mail barcode decoders can be used to sort and route mail and packages to their correct destinations.
  3. Data collection: Mail barcode decoders can be used to collect data on mail and package movements, which can be used to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the postal system.
  4. Compliance: Mail barcode decoders can be used to ensure compliance with postal regulations and standards.

There are several ways to decode mail barcodes, including:

  1. Manual decoding: This involves manually reading the barcode and entering the information into a computer or database.
  2. Barcode scanners: These are devices that can read and decode barcodes quickly and accurately.
  3. Software: There are several software programs available that can decode mail barcodes, including specialized software for the postal industry.
  4. Online tools: There are several online tools available that can decode mail barcodes, including barcode readers and online barcode decoders.

Some popular mail barcode decoders include:

  1. USPS Barcode Decoder: This is a free online tool provided by the USPS that can decode POSTNET, PLANET, and IMb barcodes.
  2. Royal Mail Barcode Decoder: This is a free online tool provided by Royal Mail that can decode Royal Mail barcodes.
  3. Barcodes Inc. Barcode Decoder: This is a software program that can decode a variety of barcodes, including POSTNET, PLANET, and IMb barcodes.
  4. Code128 Barcode Decoder: This is a software program that can decode Code128 barcodes, which are commonly used in the mail industry.

Overall, mail barcode decoders are an important tool for the postal industry, allowing for efficient and accurate tracking and sorting of mail and packages.