IMpb v.s. IMb


So, what are the letters for? Well it turns out, the postal process is more technical than one might think. There is a rhyme and reason to the barcodes that can be located at the bottom of postcards or on packages. That long line of numbers contains a lot of information, hence the name, Intelligent Barcode. There are two different kinds of barcodes, one is used for packages and the other is used for flat mail. Each barcode is unique and has a very specific purpose.

The intelligent mail package barcode (IMpb) provides piece-level data which allows the postal service to increase efficiency and enhance package tracking capabilities.  

So, what are the letters for? Well it turns out, the postal process is more technical than one might think. There is a rhyme and reason to the barcodes that can be located at the bottom of postcards or on packages. That long line of numbers contains a lot of information, hence the name, Intelligent Barcode. There are two different kinds of barcodes, one is used for packages and the other is used for flat mail. Each barcode is unique and has a very specific purpose.

The intelligent mail package barcode (IMpb) provides piece-level data which allows the postal service to increase efficiency and enhance package tracking capabilities.  

What does an IMpb consist of?
Here is what the string of numbers represent:
●     The destination routing info (zip code and package identification code) linked together in a single barcode using specialized Code 128 barcodes.
●     The application identifier which is designated to a specific payment channel.
●     A six or nine digit mail Id
●     A three digit service type code that identifies a mail class and service such as, Priority Mail with Delivery Confirmation.

Then there’s the intelligent mail barcode (IMb). This barcode makes the mailing process more efficient. It allows mailers to use a single barcode to take part in various Postal Service programs at the same time. This allows mailers to track their individual mailpieces. This barcode is more for tracking mail like postcards and letters. The IMpb uses a Mailer Id while a IMb combines the information of both POSTNET (Postal Numeric Encoding Technique) and PLANET (Postal Alpha Numeric Encoding Technique) barcodes.

There is a lot to learn about Intelligent Mail Barcodes and all they have to offer. It’s more than just a line of numbers at the bottom of your mail and it shows yet another way of how technology and print can come together. 

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