What are the bar codes on return mail for
The barcodes on return mail, also known as Intelligent Mail Barcodes (IMb), are used by the United States Postal Service (USPS) to track and sort mail. Here's what they're used for:
- Tracking and tracing: The IMb allows the USPS to track the movement of mail pieces, including returns, from the sender to the recipient. This helps to identify any issues or delays during transit.
- Sorting and routing: The barcode helps the USPS sort and route mail pieces to the correct destination. It contains information about the mail piece, such as the sender's address, recipient's address, and the type of mail (e.g., first-class, priority, etc.).
- Return processing: When a mail piece is returned to the sender, the IMb helps the USPS to identify the reason for the return and to direct the mail piece back to the sender.
- Data collection: The IMb collects data about the mail piece, including the sender's and recipient's addresses, the type of mail, and the date of mailing. This data is used to improve mail processing and to identify trends and patterns in mail volume and movement.
- Compliance with regulations: The IMb helps the USPS to comply with regulations, such as the Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act of 2006, which requires the USPS to track and report on mail volume and movement.
The IMb is a 65-character barcode that contains the following information:
- Mailer ID (a unique identifier for the sender)
- Service Type (e.g., first-class, priority, etc.)
- Mail Piece Sequence Number (a unique identifier for the mail piece)
- Destination Post Office (the post office where the mail piece is being sent)
- Delivery Point Sequence Number (a unique identifier for the recipient's address)
Overall, the IMb is an important tool for the USPS to efficiently and effectively process and track mail, including returns.