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Intelligent Mail® Barcode

The USPS® has pushed back the implementation date for the Intelligent Mail® Barcode (IMB) from January to May of 2009. Use of the IMB is optional now, but will be required starting in May of 2009, in order to qualify for the maximum automation discounts. The PostNet™ Barcode will remain eligible for automation discounts until May 2010 and corresponding rates for its continued use will be announced in May 2009.

What Is It?

The Intelligent Mail® Barcode is the next generation of Postal Service technology and will ultimately combine and replace the current PostNet™ Barcode and PLANET Code® while providing additional features. The new barcode is capable of containing information to identify the mailer, a mail piece sequence number as well as information for routing and tracking letter and flat mail through the postal service.

The IMB is a 31-digit / 65-line structure utilizing four types of bars which have different physical specifications and appearance compared to the PostNet™ Barcode. The barcode can be placed above or below the address block, similar to the PostNet™ Barcode. There will be two levels of service: "basic" (which will simply replace the PostNet™ Barcode functions) and "optional". The optional service will include support for Address Change Service (ACS) and Confirm® Tracking Service. Each level of service will have its own pricing structure.

Parameters:

- Overall barcode length between 2.667 and 3.225 inches.

- Overall barcode height between 0.125 and 0.165 inch.

- Vertical barcode clearance at least 0.028 inch.

- Horizontal barcode clearance at least 0.125 inch.

Below is an example [for reference only]:

Postal sorting software and fonts have been currently updated to be ready for implementation.

For more information, please click on the links below:

http://ribbs.USPS.gov/ONECODESOLUTION/IMD/Mailer_ID_and_IM_Barcode.pdf

http://ribbs.USPS.gov/OneCodeSolution/USPSIMB_Tech_Resource_Guide.pdf