Royal mail stamp barcode

A very specific topic!

The Royal Mail stamp barcode is a unique identifier used to track and manage the movement of mail items, particularly those with a value or requiring special handling. Here's an overview:

What is a Royal Mail stamp barcode?

A Royal Mail stamp barcode is a 13-digit code printed on the top right corner of a postage stamp or a mail item. It's also known as a "Mailmark" barcode. The code contains information about the sender, recipient, and the item itself, such as:

  1. Sender's postcode
  2. Recipient's postcode
  3. Item weight
  4. Item dimensions
  5. Item value
  6. Special handling requirements (e.g., signature on delivery)

How does it work?

When a mail item is processed at a Royal Mail sorting office, the barcode is scanned and the information is used to:

  1. Sort and route the item to the correct destination
  2. Track the item's movement and status (e.g., "in transit" or "delivered")
  3. Provide proof of posting and proof of delivery
  4. Facilitate the tracking and recovery of lost or misdirected items

Benefits of Royal Mail stamp barcodes

The use of barcodes on stamps offers several benefits, including:

  1. Improved tracking and tracing of mail items
  2. Enhanced security and reduced fraud
  3. Increased efficiency in sorting and processing mail
  4. Better customer service, as customers can track their items online

How to read a Royal Mail stamp barcode

To read a Royal Mail stamp barcode, you'll need a barcode scanner or a smartphone app with a barcode reader. Here's how to do it:

  1. Position the barcode reader over the barcode on the stamp
  2. Scan the barcode
  3. The reader will decode the information and display it on the screen

That's a brief overview of Royal Mail stamp barcodes!