Mail barcodes

Mail barcodes! Also known as Intelligent Mail Barcodes (IMb), these are a type of barcode used to track and manage mail pieces in the United States Postal Service (USPS) system.

Here are some key facts about mail barcodes:

What is a mail barcode? A mail barcode is a unique identifier that is printed on a mail piece, such as an envelope or package, to help the USPS track and process it. The barcode contains information about the mail piece, including the sender's address, recipient's address, and other relevant details.

Types of mail barcodes There are several types of mail barcodes used by the USPS, including:

  1. Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMb): This is the most common type of mail barcode used in the USPS system. It contains a unique identifier and other information about the mail piece.
  2. OneCode Solution (OCS): This is a type of mail barcode used for packages and other large mail pieces.
  3. Barcode Sortation (BCS): This is a type of mail barcode used for mail pieces that are sorted and processed at a specific facility.

How do mail barcodes work? When a mail piece is processed by the USPS, the barcode is scanned and the information it contains is used to update the mail piece's status. The barcode helps the USPS to:

  1. Track and sort mail: The barcode helps the USPS to quickly and accurately sort and route mail pieces to their destination.
  2. Verify address information: The barcode contains address information that is verified against the USPS's database to ensure that the mail piece is delivered to the correct address.
  3. Provide tracking information: The barcode provides tracking information that can be used to monitor the status of a mail piece as it moves through the USPS system.

Benefits of mail barcodes Using mail barcodes can provide several benefits, including:

  1. Improved tracking and tracing: Mail barcodes make it easier to track and trace mail pieces, which can help to reduce lost or misdirected mail.
  2. Increased efficiency: Mail barcodes can help to streamline the mail processing and sorting process, which can reduce costs and improve delivery times.
  3. Enhanced customer service: Mail barcodes can provide customers with more detailed tracking information, which can improve their overall experience with the USPS.