What are Intelligent Mail Barcodes?

The Intelligent Mail® barcode is the next generation of USPS barcode technology used to sort and track mail pieces. IMb replaces previous barcodes and expands the ability to track individual letters and flats in the mail stream and improves delivery. In the future, Intelligent Mail will expand to include new and exciting information services designed to keep you informed about your mail.

Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMb) Example

Transition from POSTNET Barcode to Intelligent Mail Barcode

Effective January 28, 2013, the USPS will retire POSTNET™ barcodes and replace them with the new Intelligent Mail® (IM) barcodes. This change impacts any mailer who currently uses or wishes to take advantage of discounted prices for barcoded mail. Xpressdocs will no longer print POSTNET barcodes after January 28, 2013 and will only print IMbs.

What This Means for You?

If you wish to take advantage of Intelligent Mail barcodes or currently use POSTNET barcodes you will need to start the process of transitioning to IMbs. First you will need to obtain a Mailer ID from the USPS. In order to obtain a Mailer ID you will need to visit the USPS Business Customer Gateway website at https://gateway.usps.com/bcg/login.htm to create an account and request a Mailer ID. Once you receive your Mailer ID you will need to add it to your Xpressdocs account in order for Xpressdocs to start printing your IMbs.

For step-by-step instructions on how to get a
Mailer ID, visit:

View Quick Step Guide to Nine-Digit MID and/or CRID Acquisition PDF

Resources

1. Mail Service Updates
2. The United States Postal Service (U.S. Postal Service) Homepage
3. Business Customer Gateway