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To encode the POSTNET (Postal Numeric Encoding Technique) barcode, we need to understand its structure, encoding rules, and how numeric data is transformed into the barcode format. POSTNET is primarily used by the United States Postal Service (USPS) for encoding ZIP codes and ZIP+4 codes on mailpieces to facilitate automated sorting and delivery. Here's a detailed explanation of how POSTNET encoding works:

POSTNET Structure

POSTNET barcodes consist of a series of tall and short bars, representing binary digits (0s and 1s). These bars are grouped into 5 bars per character, where each character typically encodes one digit of the ZIP code. A full ZIP code consists of 5, 9, or 11 digits (ZIP+4). The encoding of each digit involves translating it into a specific pattern of bars.

Encoding Rules

1.Digit Encoding: Each decimal digit (0-9) is represented by a unique combination of bars. Specifically:

A '0' is encoded as '11000'.

A '1' is encoded as '00011'.

A '2' is encoded as '00101'.

A '3' is encoded as '00110'.

A '4' is encoded as '01001'.

A '5' is encoded as '01010'.

A '6' is encoded as '01100'.

A '7' is encoded as '10001'.

A '8' is encoded as '10010'.

A '9' is encoded as '10100'.

2.Start and Stop Bars: POSTNET barcodes begin and end with a full bar (either '1' or '0'), depending on the parity (even or odd) of the total number of bars in the barcode. This ensures proper detection and decoding of the barcode.

3.Check Digit: For ZIP codes longer than 5 digits (ZIP+4 or ZIP+4+Delivery Point), a check digit is appended to the end of the code. This digit is calculated based on a specific algorithm involving modulo 10 arithmetic. The check digit ensures data integrity by verifying the accuracy of the encoded ZIP code.

Example Encoding

Let's encode a ZIP code to illustrate the process:

Example ZIP Code: 90210 (Beverly Hills, CA)

1.Separate Digits: Split the ZIP code into individual digits: 9, 0, 2, 1, 0.

2.Encode Each Digit:

'9' is encoded as '10100'.

'0' is encoded as '11000'.

'2' is encoded as '00101'.

'1' is encoded as '00011'.

'0' is encoded as '11000'.

So, the encoded bars for the ZIP code '90210' would be: '1010011000001001100011000'.

3.Add Start and Stop Bars:

Determine the parity (odd or even) of the total number of bars.

Based on parity, add a full bar ('1' or '0') at the beginning and end of the barcode sequence to mark the start and stop of the barcode.

For example, if the total sequence length is odd, the start and stop would typically be '1'. If even, they would be '0'.

4.Include Check Digit (if applicable):

For ZIP+4 or ZIP+4+Delivery Point codes, calculate the check digit and append it to the end of the barcode sequence.

Practical Considerations

Barcode Printing: POSTNET barcodes must be printed with sufficient resolution and quality to ensure accurate scanning by postal sorting machines.

Error Correction: The design of POSTNET includes redundancy in bar patterns to tolerate minor printing imperfections and ensure reliable scanning under various conditions.

Conclusion

POSTNET encoding transforms numeric ZIP codes into a series of binary bars, each representing a specific digit according to standardized encoding rules. Understanding these rules allows postal services and businesses to accurately generate and print POSTNET barcodes for efficient mail sorting and delivery.

EasierSoft Barcode Label Design & Bulk Printing Software

---- Use Excel Data to Batch Print Barcodes on Label Sheets or Roll Labels  

---- How to use this barcode software

Download:  Free Barcode Software + Barcode Label Designer Download Free Barcode Software at Softonic      Download at CNET

Once you obtain a GS1/UPC/EAN barcode, or other barcode type and QR code, you can use our free software to batch print barcode labels onto Roll label paper using a professional label printer, or to batch print barcodes onto Avery 5160 label sheets using a regular laser or inkjet printer. Our software has free and paid versions.

The free version fully meets your needs for batch printing GS1/UPC/EAN barcodes. The paid version can import data from Excel and databases to batch print barcode labels with different values.

How to Use & FAQ:

Highlights

Excel integration: Import data directly from Excel to generate and print barcodes in bulk.

Label designer: Create complex labels with multiple barcodes, text, logos, and shapes.

Batch printing: Print thousands of barcodes at once using standard inkjet/laser printers or professional barcode printers.

Flexible editions:

Standard Edition: Simple batch printing with Excel data.

Professional Edition: Adds command-line automation for workflow integration.

Label Designer Edition: Advanced design features for complex labels.

Why Choose Our Barcode Solutions?

Cost-effective: Free online generator and permanent free desktop version available.

Easy to use: No technical expertise required—just input data and print.

Versatile: Supports nearly all 1D and 2D barcode types, including QR codes.

Trusted: Recommended by CNET and widely downloaded by users worldwide.

Suitable Use Cases

Small businesses and startups needing quick barcode labels for products.

Retailers and online sellers managing inventory with batch barcode printing.

Manufacturers requiring sequential or custom barcode labels for packaging.

Educational and testing environments where barcodes are used for tracking.