1. Introduction to the Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMb) |
The Intelligent Mail barcode (IMb) is a key part of the United States Postal Service (USPS) mail automation system. Designed to provide a more efficient and reliable way to sort and track mail, the IMb encodes critical information about the mail piece, such as the destination, sender, and class of mail. It plays an essential role in enhancing the USPS's ability to handle large volumes of mail with minimal errors, ensuring quicker processing and delivery. Designing an IMb barcode label involves understanding its components, guidelines, and the technical aspects of printing and encoding data. |
This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to design an Intelligent Mail barcode label, covering all aspects, from its structure to the final printing process. |
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2. Understanding the Structure of an IMb |
The Intelligent Mail barcode (IMb) is a 65-bar 4-state barcode that incorporates both machine-readable and human-readable information. The barcode consists of the following elements: |
1.Service Type Identifier (STID): The STID encodes the class of mail (e.g., First-Class, Standard Mail) and any special services (e.g., delivery confirmation, return receipt). |
2.Mailer ID: The Mailer ID is a unique identifier assigned to mailers by the USPS. It is typically associated with the organization or individual mailing the piece. |
3.Tracking Code (or ZIP+4 code): The tracking code consists of an 18-digit alphanumeric string that allows for the precise tracking of each mail piece. It can be mapped to the address on the package and used by the USPS to monitor its progress through the delivery system. |
4.Checksum: A checksum is used for error detection. This ensures that the barcode has been generated correctly and can be read without errors. |
The IMb includes both the human-readable format (with the above details printed in text) and the machine-readable barcode. This allows postal workers to verify the data visually and machine-scanned. |
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3. Key Considerations for IMb Design |
Before diving into the technicalities of creating the IMb, several key considerations must be taken into account: |
1.Compliance with USPS Standards: The USPS has strict guidelines on the size, spacing, and placement of IMb barcodes on mailpieces. Ensuring compliance with these standards is critical to prevent delays or rejections by the USPS. |
2.Accuracy of Data: Since the IMb directly influences the sorting and tracking process, it is crucial that all the data encoded within the barcode is accurate. Incorrect information can lead to mail misdelivery, delays, or failure to track the mail. |
3.Barcode Placement: The barcode must be placed in the designated area on the mailpiece, typically near the address or in the bottom-right corner. The placement should allow for proper scanning and minimal interference with other printed elements, such as addresses or postage marks. |
4.Printer Quality: High-resolution printing is crucial for the successful scanning of the IMb. The barcode should be printed with sufficient contrast between the bars and the background to ensure it can be read by USPS scanners. |
5.Human-Readable Information: In addition to the barcode, human-readable information should be printed clearly for postal workers to visually verify the details. |
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4. Step-by-Step Process for Designing an IMb Label |
To design an IMb label that complies with USPS standards and functions correctly, follow these detailed steps: |
4.1. Gathering Required Data |
The first step in designing an IMb label is to gather the necessary data that will be encoded into the barcode: |
1.Service Type Identifier (STID): Identify the service type for the mailing. This could be based on factors like the class of mail (First-Class, Standard, etc.) or any additional services (Certified, Return Receipt, etc.). You can obtain this data from the USPS website or your mailing software. |
2.Mailer ID: If you have an established Mailer ID (assigned by the USPS), you can include it. If not, you will need to request one from the USPS. This ID must be a unique identifier tied to the mailer. |
3.Tracking Code: This code is usually generated by the mailer's system or through a third-party service. It is tied to the address and allows the USPS to track the mailpiece through its entire journey. |
4.Checksum Calculation: The checksum will be calculated automatically when generating the IMb barcode using software or systems approved by the USPS. The checksum ensures the accuracy of the encoded data. |
Once all data points are gathered, proceed to the next step of encoding the information. |
4.2. Encoding the Data into the Barcode |
The IMb uses a specific encoding method to map the data into the barcode. This encoding involves converting each of the data fields into a specific format recognized by the USPS's scanners. Most IMb creation software will handle this process automatically. |
The service type, mailer ID, tracking code, and checksum will be converted into binary data that corresponds to the IMb barcode format. This is a four-state barcode system, where each bar in the barcode represents one of four possible states: full black, full white, half black, or half white. |
Full black represents one state. |
Full white represents another state. |
Half black and half white represent the other two states. |
This method allows the barcode to be compact yet carry sufficient data for tracking and sorting purposes. |
4.3. Formatting the Barcode Layout |
The IMb barcode consists of 65 bars and 32 spaces, arranged in a specific pattern to encode the above data points. The barcode is divided into blocks, with the following layout: |
Start Block: The first block consists of a special pattern that signals the start of the barcode. |
Data Block: This block holds the encoded data, including the STID, Mailer ID, and tracking code. |
End Block: This block contains the end pattern, signaling the conclusion of the barcode data. |
The IMb barcode is generally printed with a height of 1.0 to 1.5 inches and must be at least 3.5 inches wide. The width of the bars and spaces must comply with USPS standards to ensure that the barcode can be read accurately by scanning equipment. |
4.4. Printing the IMb Label |
After encoding the data and arranging the layout of the IMb barcode, the next step is printing the barcode. Follow these guidelines: |
1.Printer Resolution: The printer should have a resolution of at least 300 DPI (dots per inch) to ensure clear, legible printing. A higher resolution is preferred for precise barcodes. |
2.Contrast: Ensure that the barcode is printed with high contrast-dark bars on a light background-so that the USPS scanners can read it easily. |
3.Correct Placement: The IMb barcode should be placed in the bottom-right corner of the mailpiece. Ensure that it is clear of any other markings, stamps, or address elements that could interfere with scanning. |
4.Margins and Spacing: Maintain a clear margin around the barcode. Typically, the IMb should have at least 0.25 inches of white space around it to allow for scanning equipment to read the entire code. |
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5. Verification and Testing |
Before finalizing the design and sending mail, it's essential to verify and test the IMb barcode: |
1.Verify the Data: Double-check that the data encoded in the barcode matches the information entered. Any discrepancies could result in undelivered mail or delays. |
2.Test Scanning: Use a barcode scanner to test the readability of the IMb. This will help ensure that the print quality is sufficient for USPS scanners. You may want to test the barcode on several pieces to ensure consistency across your print jobs. |
3.USPS Certification: If you are a commercial mailer, you may need to verify your IMb design through USPS-approved software or systems, such as PostalOne! or Mail.dat, to ensure that it meets all required standards. |
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6. Compliance with USPS Guidelines |
It's critical to ensure your IMb barcode design adheres to the USPS guidelines to avoid potential issues with delivery. Some of the most important guidelines include: |
1.Correct Placement: The IMb barcode must be placed in the correct position on the mailpiece, typically in the lower-right corner. |
2.Correct Dimensions: Ensure the barcode follows the required height and width standards. The barcode should not be distorted and should be printed clearly with enough spacing between bars. |
3.Legibility: Ensure that the barcode is scannable by USPS equipment. Poor print quality, smudges, or incorrect bar widths can cause issues. |
4.Data Accuracy: The information encoded in the IMb should be accurate, including the Mailer ID, tracking code, and service type. |
5.Postal Standards: Consult the USPS Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) for the latest requirements and updates regarding IMb labeling. |
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7. Conclusion |
Designing an Intelligent Mail barcode label requires careful attention to detail, including understanding the structure of the barcode, gathering the necessary data, and ensuring compliance with USPS standards. By following the step-by-step process outlined above, you can create an IMb label that ensures efficient mail processing, accurate tracking, and reliable delivery. Proper testing and verification are essential before mailing any pieces to ensure the highest quality and efficiency in the USPS system. |
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Here are some practical examples to illustrate how to design and implement Intelligent Mail barcodes (IMb) for different mailing scenarios. These examples cover real-world applications where the IMb barcode would be used for sorting and tracking mailpieces, ensuring compliance with USPS standards. |
1. Example 1: First-Class Mail Letter |
Let's consider a First-Class Mail letter that needs to be tracked using an Intelligent Mail barcode. |
Step-by-Step Design Process: |
1.Gather Data: |
Service Type Identifier (STID): Since this is a First-Class Mail letter, the STID will be 010, which represents First-Class Mail. |
Mailer ID: For this example, the mailer's Mailer ID is 123456789. This ID is assigned by the USPS to commercial mailers or can be requested for individual mailers. |
Tracking Code: The tracking code could be 123456789012345678. This unique alphanumeric string is generated either through a USPS-approved software system or third-party service for tracking mail. |
Checksum: The checksum is calculated automatically by the barcode creation software. |
2.Barcode Encoding: The software will encode the data into the IMb format. It will produce the following: |
STID: 010 for First-Class Mail |
Mailer ID: 123456789 |
Tracking Code: 123456789012345678 |
Checksum: Automatically computed by the system |
3.Format the IMb: The IMb barcode will be created with 65 bars and 32 spaces, and placed in the bottom-right corner of the envelope. The barcode will encode the following: |
Service Type Identifier (STID): 3 digits |
Mailer ID: 9 digits |
Tracking Code: 18 digits |
Checksum: 1 digit |
4.Printing: |
The IMb barcode will be printed in a dark black color on a white background to ensure high contrast and legibility. |
The barcode will be 1.0 to 1.5 inches in height, following USPS standards. |
It will be placed in the bottom-right corner of the envelope, ensuring enough white space around the barcode to allow for proper scanning. |
5.Testing: |
The barcode is tested using a scanner to verify that it is machine-readable and that the data encoded matches the required tracking information. |
The mailpiece is printed and ready for mailing. |
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2. Example 2: Standard Mail with Special Services |
Now, let's consider a Standard Mail piece that includes a Return Receipt and needs to be tracked by the USPS. This involves additional considerations like special services. |
Step-by-Step Design Process: |
1.Gather Data: |
Service Type Identifier (STID): For Standard Mail with Return Receipt, the STID could be 200, which represents Standard Mail with the return receipt service. |
Mailer ID: Assume the mailer's Mailer ID is 987654321. |
Tracking Code: The tracking code will be 987654321098765432. This is the unique tracking number generated for this mailpiece. |
Checksum: The checksum will be calculated based on the data encoded in the barcode. |
2.Barcode Encoding: The data is encoded into the IMb format: |
STID: 200 for Standard Mail with Return Receipt |
Mailer ID: 987654321 |
Tracking Code: 987654321098765432 |
Checksum: Automatically calculated. |
3.Format the IMb: The barcode will be designed with the encoded data. The IMb for this example will contain: |
STID: 3 digits |
Mailer ID: 9 digits |
Tracking Code: 18 digits |
Checksum: 1 digit |
4.Printing: |
The IMb barcode will be printed on the bottom-right corner of the mailpiece. |
It will have a clear margin around the barcode to ensure no interference from other marks or stamps. |
The height of the barcode will be between 1.0 to 1.5 inches, in compliance with USPS requirements. |
The contrast of the barcode will be dark black on a light background, ensuring scannability. |
5.Testing: |
Once printed, the barcode is tested with a scanner to verify that it encodes the correct tracking data and is readable by USPS equipment. |
The mailpiece is then prepared for dispatch. |
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3. Example 3: Commercial Mail Piece with Bulk Mailing |
This example covers a bulk mailing (e.g., promotional materials, business letters) that needs to be sent out using Standard Mail with the Intelligent Mail barcode for sorting and tracking. |
Step-by-Step Design Process: |
1.Gather Data: |
Service Type Identifier (STID): For Standard Mail bulk mailing, the STID could be 200, indicating that it's a standard mailing. |
Mailer ID: For bulk mailers, the Mailer ID could be a series of numbers assigned to the business. Let's assume the Mailer ID is 112233445. |
Tracking Code: For bulk mail, the tracking code will be a unique number for each piece, for instance, 112233445001122334455. |
Checksum: The checksum will be calculated for error-checking. |
2.Barcode Encoding: The IMb barcode will encode: |
STID: 200 (Standard Mail) |
Mailer ID: 112233445 |
Tracking Code: 112233445001122334455 |
Checksum: Automatically computed by the barcode generation system. |
3.Format the IMb: The IMb will have 65 bars and 32 spaces, arranged in the required pattern for bulk mail pieces: |
Service Type Identifier: 3 digits |
Mailer ID: 9 digits |
Tracking Code: 18 digits |
Checksum: 1 digit |
4.Printing: |
Each mailpiece will have its own unique tracking code encoded in the barcode, ensuring each piece is individually trackable. |
The barcode will be printed in a high-resolution format to ensure legibility. |
It will be positioned in the bottom-right corner, in compliance with USPS standards. |
5.Testing: |
The bulk mailpieces are tested using scanners to ensure the IMb is scannable and that the data encoded is correct. |
The mailpieces are then sent for processing by the USPS. |
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4. Example 4: Return Address Tracking for Package |
In this example, we have a package that needs to be sent using Priority Mail with return tracking. |
Step-by-Step Design Process: |
1.Gather Data: |
Service Type Identifier (STID): Since this is a Priority Mail package, the STID would be 011, which indicates Priority Mail. |
Mailer ID: Let's say the Mailer ID for the sender is 654321987. |
Tracking Code: For this package, the tracking code could be 654321987654321987. |
Checksum: This will be automatically calculated. |
2.Barcode Encoding: The encoded data will consist of: |
STID: 011 (Priority Mail) |
Mailer ID: 654321987 |
Tracking Code: 654321987654321987 |
Checksum: Automatically calculated. |
3.Format the IMb: The IMb will be designed according to the USPS standard, with: |
STID: 3 digits |
Mailer ID: 9 digits |
Tracking Code: 18 digits |
Checksum: 1 digit |
4.Printing: |
The barcode will be printed in the top-right corner of the package label. |
It will be clear, with high contrast and a sufficient margin to ensure accurate scanning. |
5.Testing: |
The package is tested for scannability using barcode scanners. |
Once verified, the package is ready for mailing. |
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5. Example 5: Periodicals Mail Piece |
Consider a periodical mail piece (e.g., magazine or newsletter) that needs to be sorted and tracked using an IMb. |
Step-by-Step Design Process: |
1.Gather Data: |
Service Type Identifier (STID): Periodicals are often classified under 301, which represents Periodicals Mail. |
Mailer ID: The Mailer ID is 334455667. |
Tracking Code: For periodicals, the tracking code is typically a unique number, e.g., 334455667788990000. |
Checksum: The checksum is computed automatically by the software. |
2.Barcode Encoding: The IMb barcode encodes: |
STID: 301 (Periodicals Mail) |
Mailer ID: 334455667 |
Tracking Code: 334455667788990000 |
Checksum: Automatically calculated. |
3.Format the IMb: The IMb will be designed according to the USPS specifications, ensuring the following: |
STID: 3 digits |
Mailer ID: 9 digits |
Tracking Code: 18 digits |
Checksum: 1 digit |
4.Printing: |
The barcode will be placed in the bottom-right corner of the mailpiece, ensuring enough margin for scannability. |
It will be printed in black ink on a white background. |
5.Testing: |
The barcode is tested for readability and scannability. |
Once verified, the periodicals are ready for dispatch. |
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These are just a few practical examples that demonstrate how to design, print, and use Intelligent Mail barcodes in various USPS mailing scenarios. |
cs@easiersoft.com