Us post office scan mail

The convenience of scanning mail!

The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers a service called "Scan Mail" or "Intelligent Mail Barcode" (IMb) that allows you to track your mail and packages in real-time. Here's how it works:

What is Scan Mail?

Scan Mail is a technology that uses a unique barcode, called the Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMb), to track mail and packages. The IMb is a 65-character barcode that contains information about the sender, recipient, and package details.

How does Scan Mail work?

When you send a mailpiece with an IMb, the USPS scans the barcode at various points during the delivery process. This information is then uploaded to the USPS database, allowing you to track the status of your mailpiece online.

Benefits of Scan Mail

  1. Real-time tracking: You can track your mailpiece in real-time, from the moment it's sent to the moment it's delivered.
  2. Improved accuracy: The IMb helps reduce errors and ensures that your mailpiece is delivered to the correct address.
  3. Increased security: The IMb helps prevent mail theft and tampering.
  4. Enhanced customer service: You can easily track your mailpiece and resolve any issues that may arise during delivery.

How to use Scan Mail

To use Scan Mail, you'll need to:

  1. Use a mailpiece with an IMb: Make sure your mailpiece has an IMb printed on it. You can request an IMb from the USPS or use a mailpiece that already has one.
  2. Enter the IMb online: Go to the USPS website and enter the IMb number to track your mailpiece.
  3. Track your mailpiece: You can track your mailpiece in real-time, and receive updates on its status.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Is Scan Mail free?: No, Scan Mail is not free. You'll need to pay for the IMb service, which varies depending on the type of mailpiece and the service you choose.
  2. Can I use Scan Mail for all types of mail?: No, Scan Mail is only available for certain types of mail, such as First-Class Mail, Priority Mail, and Priority Mail Express.
  3. How accurate is Scan Mail?: The USPS claims that Scan Mail is highly accurate, with an error rate of less than 1%.

Overall, Scan Mail is a convenient and efficient way to track your mail and packages, and can help you resolve any issues that may arise during delivery.