U.S. Mail to become More Intelligent in 2009
The Intelligent Mail® barcode is the term used by the U.S. Post Office to describe the 65-bar code applied to mail in the United States, which provides detailed information and is beneficial to both mailers and postal officials, and that is used to used to track and sort letters and flat packages.
The Intelligent Mail initiative, which includes the OneCode Confirm and OneCode ACS (Address Change Service), was announced by the US Postal Service in 2003 and ultimately became available in 2006. Intelligent mail was expanded upon in 2007 and will be required beginning 2009 for companies who want to earn the maximum USPS automation discounts.
The Intelligent Mail barcode combines the POSTNETTM and PLANET® barcodes along with some additional information and is expected to raise the level of service the Post Office provides to its customers. Mailers participate in Intelligent Mail services on a voluntary basis, and must register and qualify for the service.
The use of the Intelligent Mail barcode is optional today. However, it offers significant advantages and is recommended for use. For anyone wanting to quality for automation discounts in 2009, use of the intelligent barcode system will be required.
Next month I am attending the necessary workshops to earn my USPS Professional Certificate in Intelligent Mail and I will be reporting more at that time.
