Mail Entry & Payment Technology Building the Intelligent Mail ® Barcode: Initial Steps for Mailers From POSTNET ™ … …To IMb ™ Alicia Bright Chelsea Burnett

Mail Entry & Payment Technology

Building the Intelligent Mail® Barcode: Initial Steps for Mailers

From POSTNET™…

…To IMb™

Alicia BrightChelsea Burnett


To discuss what you need to know to produce the Intelligent Mail barcode for letters and flats

To discuss the foundation of Intelligent Mail Services

To provide you with the knowledge and resources to assist your transition to the Intelligent Mail barcode

What is our Goal?

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Webinars

The Postal Service will host a series of webinars to assist mailers in transitioning from the POSTNET barcode to the Intelligent Mail Barcode. To get the most out of using the Intelligent Mail barcode, mailers are encouraged to attend all three sessions in the series.

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Webinar Schedule

Webinar Dates Webinar Title Webinar Description

June 20, 2012 and September 6, 2012

Building the Intelligent Mail barcode – Initial Steps

for Mailers:

To help you get ready for the January 2013 retirement of the POSTNET barcode, this webinar will provide an understanding of how you can continue to take advantage of automation pricing. The webinar will cover the steps for migration to the Intelligent Mail barcode. You will learn the building blocks for creating the Intelligent Mail barcode; This includes obtaining a Mailer ID, knowledge on the different Service Type Codes and how to use for your mailing needs.

June 28, 2012 and September 13, 2012

The World of MIDs, CRIDS, and the Business

Customer Gateway

Focus will be on Customer Registration IDs (CRIDs), Mailer IDs (MIDs), and how you can obtain MIDs and CRIDs. You will learn about the multiple ways Mail Owners and Mailing Agents can acquire an MID. , when and how it is used in the Intelligent Mail barcode, electronic mailing information and receipt of Full-Service data.

July 12, 2012 and September 20, 2012

Reaping the Benefits of Intelligent Mail

Learn how to reap the benefits of Intelligent Mail and Full-Service feedback. This webinar will cover Service Type IDs (STIDs) and how they can help you keep your address list up to date, the various Full-Service feedback reports available and where you can find them. 4


Important Dates What is Intelligent Mail? The Mailer ID Intelligent Mail Barcode for Mailpieces Changes to Regulations Reply Mail Resources Implementing the Intelligent Mail Barcode

Agenda

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On May 2012, Final Rule was published to advise the industry of Jan 2013 requirement for IMb for automation price eligibility

January 2013 Requirements The POSTNET barcode will be retired for automation discount

qualification IMb required for automation letters and flats IMb required for QBRM and PRM letters

Important Dates

Important Dates

6


Important Dates What is Intelligent Mail?

- Definition- Classes of Mail- Options & Requirements- Benefits

The Mailer ID Intelligent Mail Barcode for Mailpieces Changes to Regulations Reply Mail Resources Implementing the Intelligent Mail Barcode

Agenda

7


A technology that will support future generations of postal products, services, and associated features.

A technology platform made possible by the suite of Intelligent Mail barcodes.

Definition

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IMb™ services apply to the following mail and processing categories: First-Class Mail® letters and flats Standard Mail® letters and flats Periodicals letters and flats Bound Printed Matter flats Reply Mail

QBRM PRM

Classes of Mail


IMb Service Options: Basic and Full-Service

Description Basic Full-ServiceIM TM

Barcode on mailpiecesRequired Required

IM tray barcode on trays & sack labels

Optional Required

IM container barcode on container placards

Optional Required*

Electronic documentation (eDoc)

Optional (Recommended) Required

Start-the-Clock NA Available

Automated address correction at no additional charge

NA Available

10* Only when containerization is required


Intelligent Mail Basic Option Requirements

BARCODE ID

EXAMPLE: 50 FOR MIXED AADC

SERVICE TYPE ID

EXAMPLE: 300 FORFIRST-CLASS MAIL®

MAILER ID

EXAMPLE: 123456USPS® ASSIGNED

SERIAL NUMBEREXAMPLE: 200800001 MAILER ASSIGNED

ROUTING CODE

EXAMPLE: 6449 EARL CT, MEMPHIS, TN 38141834649

Apply Intelligent Mail barcodes on letter and flat mailpieces

Populate ALL fields in the barcode Barcode ID Service Type ID Mailer ID Serial Number Routing Code

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Intelligent Mail Full-Service Option Requirements Unique Intelligent Mail® barcodes on mailpieces,

trays, sacks and containers Electronic mailing Information which identifies mail

owner and mail preparer must be submitted using: Mail.dat® Postal Wizard Mail.XML®

Intelligent Mail barcode Intelligent Mail

tray barcode Intelligent Mail container barcode

SCF SAN FRANCISCO CA940

STD FLTS SCF BC/NBCXYZ CORPORATIONINTERNATIONAL FALLS, MN

(Mailer Area)


Continue to receive automation prices Sets the foundation for Full-Service Integrates value-added service in one barcode

Increases available marketing space on mailpieces Offers OneCode ACS® at less cost than traditional

ACS®

What is Intelligent Mail®?

Benefits of the Basic Option

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Important Dates What is Intelligent Mail? The Mailer ID (MID)

What is a Customer Registration ID (CRID)? What is a Mailer ID (MID)? Using a MID Acquiring a MID Registering on the BCG

Intelligent Mail Barcode for Mailpieces Changes to Regulations Reply Mail Resources Implementing the Intelligent Mail Barcode

Agenda

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What is a Customer Registration ID? Unique identifier created by the USPS to identify a company at a

business location address

Connects a business Location’s information across all USPS applications

Associates every Permit Number and Mailer ID issued (there may be multiple Permit Numbers or MIDs associated to a single CRID)

Used to identify submitter of electronic documentation

15• Identifies

company location• Created by USPS

• Assigned by USPS based on volume


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What is a Mailer ID? MIDs are required in the IM barcodes and used for identification of

the mailpiece, handling unit (trays and sacks) and containers.

For Basic or Full-Service it can be the mail owner’s, mail preparer’s, or stakeholder in the mail supply chain.

The MID is a 6- or 9-digit number assigned by the Postal Service® based primarily on documented historic mail volume.

A 6-digit MID may be issued based on annual volume of 10 million pieces. A single 9-digit MID may be issued regardless of annual volume. Additional 9-digit MIDs may be issued based on annual volume in increments of

one million pieces.

6-digit Mailer IDs begin with a 0 – 8

9-digit Mailer IDs begin with a 9


MIDs are used in the IMb for identification purposes. The MID will identify the mailpiece, handling unit (trays and sacks) and containers.

If you are doing Full-Service you can use the MID in the following ways:

MIDs can be used to identify the mail preparer (By) and mail owner (For)

By/For Relationship is used to determine the data recipients for Full-Service Feedback

Mail owner has the option to delegate the receipt of Full-Service ACS™ data by establishing MID profiles using the Mailer ID

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How are MIDs used?


What would you like to do? If you are a…

You will be able to…

You will receive…Use these

instructions

Acquire a single MID/CRID

Mail Owner Go to the USPS Web Portal on the Business Customer Gateway and request the MID/CRID

A MID and CRID from BCG

Single MID Generation via Business Customer Gateway

Acquire multiple MIDs/CRIDs using a manual process

Mail Owner or Mail Service Provider

Download the MID/CRID Excel spreadsheet from the RIBBS(?) webpage, enter in Mail Owner information and submit.

Up to 500 CRIDS and/or MIDs on behalf of others

Bulk Acquisition via Manual Data Request

Acquire multiple MIDs/CRIDs using Mail.XML


Submit a Mail.XML request message to acquire multiple MIDs/CRIDs

Multiple MIDs on behalf of others

Bulk Acquisition and Verification via Mail.XML

Acquiring a MID

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https://reg.usps.com/register?app=EadminAPP&appURL=https://gateway.usps.com/eAdminExternal/addService.htm



https://gateway.usps.com/bcg/login.htm




How can I obtain a single Mailer ID (MID)?

The following steps outline how to acquire a Mailer ID:1. Obtain a username and password from Business

Customer Gateway and login.

2. From the Welcome Screen of the Gateway, click on the link to “Mailer ID”.

3. Populate the requested information which will allow you to create a MID.

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Register with BCG

Business Customer Gatewayhttps://gateway.usps.com

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Click on the New User Registration link on BCG Main Page

https://gateway.usps.com/


Create a Business Account Profile

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First, begin by creating a Business Account Profile. Enter the requested information, as shown above, to generate a business account username and password.


Create a Business Account Profile, cont.

Once all the information has been entered, click the Create Account button located on the bottom right of the screen.

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Completed Registration

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Once you are registered, the above screen will appear. Wait a few seconds and the screen will automatically update so that you can then select the Business Services you wish to be accessible to your account.


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Adding Services to Your Account

You will see a list of the available business services. Click on “Mailer ID” to add the service to your account. This will allow you to request a MID.


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Associate the Service with a Location

The service you selected now appears. Notice that the CRID was automatically created behind the scenes when you selected your service(s) from the previous screen. Click on the checkbox to associate this service with this location and click on “Next”.


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Confirm Adding a Service

Review the information and confirm your selection to associate this service with this business location.


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BSA Administrator Role

When creating a new user account, if no one from this location has previously logged in and accepted the overall BSA role, you will be prompted to accept it. If you do not accept it, all requests for services will be pending and you will be unable to proceed until someone accepts this role.

Key contact for a Business Location for the management of the selected Service

Approves and deactivates all user requests for that Service at a business location

Establishes the business locations (CRIDs) where permits and Mailer IDs will be linked


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BSA Access Granted

After accepting the BSA role, the above screen will appear. Click “Continue” to advance to the BCG home page where you will be able to request a MID.


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BCG Welcome Screen

You may request a MID from the BCG welcome screen. Under the Design & Prepare section, select the “Mailer ID” link.


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MID Error Message

As a new user, there will be no MIDs associated with the CRID yet. The following message will appear. Click on OK and advance to the next screen.


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Request a MID

To request a new Mailer ID for the Business Location, select “Request a MID” button.

Displays the Mailer IDs that are associated with the selected business location from the Mailer ID. As a first time user, you have not associated a MID with this CRID yet but once an association with a MID and CRID had been made, this would be populated.


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Request a MID

Next, to apply for a MID, select the type of MID that you are eligible to receive: • A 6- digit MID is issued based on annual volume of 10

million pieces• A 9- digit MID is issued based on annual volume of 1

million pieces


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Request a MID

Next, select the quantity of MIDs you would like to request. Place that number in the rectangular box and click Request MID.

• Mail Owners/Preparers with sufficient volume can request five 6-Digit MIDS or ten 9-Digit MIDs


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Select MID Service Type

Scrolling down further on the page, you must also select the MID service type. To finish, click “Request MID”. Your Mailer ID will be displayed on the next screen in blue.


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Review Your MID Service Type

Your requested Mailer ID is displayed in blue.


Confirm (IMb Tracing) MID Selection

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Mail Service Providers to acquire MIDs on behalf of others, CRIDs and/or 9-digit MIDs may be generated one at a time, or in bulk

Mail Service Providers must submit applications and files to USPS in accordance with the following Excel format below. Additional details can be found on RIBBS at: https://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_mail_id_app/documents/tech_guides/MIDCRIDAgentExcelProcess.pdf

Each Excel spreadsheet may include requests for up to 500 CRIDs and/or nine-digit MIDs per spreadsheet. If additional CRIDs or nine-digit MIDs are needed, the customer may submit multiple spreadsheets, each with a maximum of 500 CRIDs and/or nine-digit MIDs per spreadsheet.

Bulk Acquisition via Manual Data Request

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Request Format

Customer Source ID

Company Name Address 1 Address 2 City State ZIP Country

Delegate to MID#

(Optional)

https://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_mail_id_app/documents/tech_guides/MIDCRIDAgentExcelProcess.pdf



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Bulk Acquisition Manual Process Once the Excel spreadsheet has been created and populated, the Mail

Service Provider should prepare and send an email to the PostalOne! Customer Care Center: [email protected]

The email must be submitted by the Mail Service Provider’s Business Service Administrator for the Mailer ID service.

The Subject line of the email should read “CRID / Mailer ID Application”.

The body of the email must contain the following elements: Name of Requesting Company (Mail Service Provider) Mailer ID Business Service Administrator Name and Number (for

questions or issues. Indicate if request is for both nine-digit Mailer IDs and CRIDs or CRID

Only.

mailto:[email protected]


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Bulk Acquisition Manual Process Requests are processed on a first-come, first-serve basis

Response spreadsheets will be emailed back to the originator

Response Format

Customer Source ID

Company Name

AddressLine 1

AddressLine 2 City State ZIP Country

Delegate to MID#

(Opt)

Pre-existing

MID CRID MID


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Bulk Acquisition Manual AuthorizatonThe Postal Service will consider the Mailer ID Business Service Administrator to be duly authorized by the Mail Owner to make required certifications to the Postal Service. The following authorization statement:

“This pertains to the Mailer ID (MID) and/or Customer Registration ID (CRID) requested on behalf of the Mail Owner(s) identified in the attached file to the United States Postal Service (USPS):We, (insert name of Mail Service Provider), certify to the United States Postal Service that we are acting as a Mail Service Provider with the US Postal Service to obtain the services requested for business mailing matters on a Mail Owners behalf. “

Privacy Notice: For information regarding our Privacy Policy visit www.usps.com.

http://www.usps.com/


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Bulk Acquisition and Verification via Mail.XML Mail Service Providers can acquire multiple MIDs on behalf of

others

Mail Service Providers can generate CRIDs and nine-digit MIDs in bulk or one at a time on behalf of others

CRIDs and nine-digit MIDs requests for customers is supported through the USPSMIDCreateRequest and USPSCRIDRequest Mail.xml messages

Mail Owners and Mail Service Providers must provide the company name and address information for the parties that need the CRID and/or nine-digit MID assignment If a CRID or nine-digit MID already exists, the USPSMIDQueryRequest

and USPSCRIDQueryRequest Mail.xml response messages will provide the existing CRID and nine-digit MID information

These messages can be used to validate mailer information prior to eDoc submission


What would you like to do? If you are a…

You will be able to…

You will receive…Use these

instructions

Validate MID/CRID ownership


Submit your request through BCG or Mail.XML message

Review of validation on screen or message from Mail.XML

Validating CRIDs and/or Nine-Digit MIDs

Validating a CRID

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A user can validate ownership (name and address) of a CRID by using the “Add a Service” tool.

1. Logon to the Business Customer Gateway and select “Request Access” link.

2. Select any existing service listed.

Note: The service selected has no impact on the validation process. It is just a means to access the CRID information.

3. Once a service has been selected, the “Select Business Locations” page is loaded.

4. Click the “Add Location” button.

Validating CRIDs

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5. This will load the “Add a Service” page. The page should default to “Search by Existing Business CRID”. If the associated radio button is not selected, be sure to select the radio button to enable the search by CRID.

6. Enter the CRID you wish to validate in the “CRID” text box and push the “Continue” button. The system will then display the name and address associated with that CRID.

7. Validated the information for the CRID, click “Cancel” to end the search.

Note: You do not want to add the service to your profile.

8. Repeat this process for each CRID you want to verify.

Validating CRIDs, cont.

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1. MIDs may be validated through the address book function in the “Mailer ID” tool.

2. To access the address book, login to the Business Customer Gateway and select “Mailer ID”.

3. At the top of the page, select the “Address Book: Add Data Recipients” link.

4. In the “Address Book”, enter the Mailer ID you wish to verify in the “MID” field and press the “Add Entry” button.

Validating MIDs, cont.

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5. The system will return a dialog box displaying the name and address associated with that Mailer ID.

6. Once you have validated the information for the MID, click “Cancel” to end the search. You do not want to add the entry to your Address Book.

7. Repeat this process for each MID you want to verify.

Validating MIDs, cont.

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Important Dates What is Intelligent Mail? The Mailer ID Intelligent Mail Barcode for Mailpieces

Comparison of IMb and POSTNET Barcodes Data Fields in the IMb Key IMb Checklist

Changes to Regulations Reply Mail Resources Implementing the Intelligent Mail Barcode

Agenda

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Comparison of IMb and POSTNET Barcodes

The Intelligent Mail barcode

The POSTNET barcode includes the Routing Code Only.

The Intelligent Mail barcode also includes the Routing Code, and four additional fields

1. Mailer ID (MID)

2. Service Type ID (STID)

3. Serial Number

4. Barcode ID


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Comparison of IMb and POSTNET Barcodes

The Intelligent Mail barcode

Is a vehicle for enabling services (on Postcards, Letters and Flats) by use of the STID

Allows for tracking of mailpieces through the mailstream Data available through the IMb Tracing® program (formerly known as

Confirm Service)

Allows mailers to qualify for automation prices


Comparison of IMb and POSTNET Barcodes Previous barcodes used by USPS:

Used image-based fonts Did not require encoding algorithms

POSTNET Example: 53594 = 53594 Visually determine the information….(74210)

Intelligent Mail barcode requires an encoding algorithm Bar-for-bar image Cannot be determined visually, requires conversion with

algorithms

INTELLIGENT MAIL BARCODE EXAMPLE: 0070012345620080000198765432101

DADTATFFAFFTTTAFTAFDADFDDDDDTAFFDAAFFDAFDDFFTADFTFTTFDAAFTFTADTTT

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Data Fields in the IMb

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Barcode ID (2N)

Barcode ID (2N)

Service Type ID

(3N)

Service Type ID

(3N)

Mailer ID (6N)

Mailer ID (9N)

Serial Number (9N) Routing Code (0, 5, 9 or 11N)

Routing Code (0, 5, 9 or 11N)

Intelligent Mail Barcode for Letters and Flats: 6-Digit and 9-Digit Mailer IDs

Serial Number (6N)

The Intelligent Mail barcode for mailpieces is a height-modulated barcode that encodes up to 31 digits of mailpiece data into 65 vertical bars using 4-state symbology.

The maximum 31-digit string contains a 20-digit Tracking Code representing the first 4 fields and a maximum 11-digit Routing Code.

The IMb is always 65 bars, regardless of ZIP Code® length, and does not require a check-digit or frame bars.

All IMb fields must have numeric values only.

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Data Fields in the IMb – Barcode ID A 2-digit field reserved to encode the presort

identification printed in human-readable form on the Optional Endorsement Line (OEL)

Should be left as “00” if an OEL is not printed on the mailpiece

For automation flat-size mail, it must be populated with OEL coding corresponding to sortation level.

Use the Intelligent Mail Technical Resource Guide or the Intelligent Mail Barcode Specification to select the correct OEL code if producing auto flats.

https://ribbs.usps.gov/onecode_solution/documents/tech_guides/USPSIMB_Tech_Resource_Guide.pdfSection 3

BARCODE ID


SERVICE TYPE ID


MAILER ID



ROUTING CODE


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https://ribbs.usps.gov/onecode_solution/documents/tech_guides/USPSIMB_Tech_Resource_Guide.pdf


Data Fields in the IMb – Service Type ID (STID) A 3-digit field used to identify the class of

mail and any additional or special services requested for the piece such as OneCode ACS, IMb Tracing, or no service

Defines the mailpiece as Full-Service, Basic or Non-Automation

Used to determine the disposition of Undeliverable-As-Addressed (UAA) mail and the form of address correction desired by the mailer

BARCODE ID


SERVICE TYPE ID


MAILER ID



ROUTING CODE


53https://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/GuidetoIntelligentMailLettersandFlats.pdfSection 2.4

https://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/GuidetoIntelligentMailLettersandFlats.pdf


Class of Mail Address Correction OptionBasic Option

w/o IMb Tracing

Basic Option w/IMb

Tracing

Full-Service w/o IMb Tracing

Full-Service w/ IMb Tracing

Non-Auto w/o IMb Tracing

Non-Auto w/ IMb Tracing

First-Class

Mail®No Address Corrections 300 310 260 270 700 310

Standard

Mail®No Address Corrections 301 311 261 271 702 311

Periodicals® No Address Corrections 704 044 264 045 N/A N/A

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The following chart provides an overview of the most common STIDs per class:

Commonly Used Service Type IDs (STIDs)


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*Consult Page 115 of A Guide to Intelligent Mail for Letters and Flats document as well as the STID list, both located on RIBBS

Intelligent Mail Barcodes (IMb™)

EXAMPLE

ONLY

Data Fields in the IMb – STID*




No services Manual address correction Traditional ACS®

OneCode ACS®

IMb Tracing®

Manual address correction with IMb Tracing Traditional ACS with IMb Tracing OneCode ACS with IMb Tracing

Intelligent Mail Barcodes (IMb™)

Basic Option Services (separate fees & STIDs)

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Data Fields in the IMb – Service Type ID (STID)


Used to identify the mail owner, mail preparer, or any stakeholder in the supply chain

A 6-digit or 9-digit field that is USPS assigned

Required in the Intelligent Mail Barcode

https://gateway.usps.com

BARCODE ID


SERVICE TYPE ID


MAILER ID



ROUTING CODE


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Data Fields in the IMb – Mailer ID (MID)



A 6 or 9-digit field defined by the mailer If Mailer is using a 9 digit MID, the Serial Number will

be 6 digits. If Mailer is using a 6 digit MID, the Serial Number will be 9 digits

Not required to be unique when qualifying for Basic automation prices

Must be unique for the Full-Service option for 45 days from the date of induction into the Postal Service.

The uniqueness method is left up to the mailer. Uniqueness can be achieved by serializing the mailpieces. Can be zeroes or static non-sequential number for Basic

option Uniqueness is determined by the 6- or 9-digit MID and the

6- or 9-digit Serial Number, in conjunction with the class of mail as indicated by the STID.

BARCODE ID


SERVICE TYPE ID


MAILER ID



ROUTING CODE


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Data Fields in the IMb – Serial Number


5-digit, 9-digit, or 11-digit field that identifies the delivery ZIP Code data in the address (same routing information currently used in the POSTNET™ barcode)

Routes the mailpiece during processing When used on automation-price eligible

letters and flats, the routing code must contain an 11-digit delivery point code

11-digit delivery point routing codes are not permitted on Business Reply Mail

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BARCODE ID


SERVICE TYPE ID


MAILER ID



ROUTING CODE


59

Data Fields in the IMb – Routing Code


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Key IMb Checklist Barcode ID – A 2 digit field to encode an optional endorsement line on OEL. Must

use “00” if an OEL is not printed on the piece

Service Type ID - Annotates class of mail & additional services that were requested. At a minimum provide Mail Class. Do not use “000”.

Mailer ID – Populate with Mailer ID obtained from the USPS. For Basic or Full-Service it can be the mail owner, mail preparer, or stakeholder in the supply chain.

Serial Number – A numbering sequence assigned by the Mailer. For the Basic service, the Serial Number does not need to be unique and can be the same on all the mailpieces. If using Full-Service, it must be unique.

Routing code – Must be a valid ZIP+4 Code; derived from CASS-certified software that accurately matches the delivery address. Must never be padded with zeroes, spaces or nulls. Same as POSTNET.

BARCODE

IDEXAMPLE: 50 FOR MIXED AADC

SERVICE TYPE ID


MAILER ID EXAMPLE: 123456USPS® ASSIGNED


ROUTING CODE



Important Dates What is Intelligent Mail? The Mailer ID Intelligent Mail Barcodes Changes to Regulations

Barcode Placement Reply Mail Implementing Intelligent Mail Barcodes Resources

Agenda

61


Letters and Postcards Automation Price and Enhanced Carrier Route (automation

letters) Saturation or High Density Must bear IMb with correct delivery point routing code May not bear a POSTNET barcode or IMb with 5-digit or 9-

digit routing code in the lower right corner (barcode clear zone)

May bear a POSTNET barcode or additional IMb in the address block only if qualifying IMb with delivery point routing code appears in the lower right

Non-automation letters may bear an IMb or POSTNET barcode

Changes to Regulations - Barcode Placement

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Flats Automation Price

Must bear IMb with a delivery point routing code Anywhere on the address side at least 1/8” away from any

edge May not bear a 5-digit or 9-digit barcode May bear a POSTNET barcode or additional IMb in the

address block when the qualifying IMb is not in the address block

Other non-USPS barcodes may appear on the address side if the barcode format is not recognizable to automated postal flat-sorting equipment

Changes to Regulations - Barcode Placement

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Non-Automation First-Class Mail or Standard Mail Letters and Flats Any Intelligent Mail barcode on non-automation First-Class Mail or

Standard Mail mailings must be correct for the delivery address and meet the DMM standards for barcoding

Barcode Clear Zone Letters and Postcards

Automation Price or Enhanced Carrier Route

Must have a barcode clear zone unless the piece bears an IMb with a delivery point routing code in the address block

Changes to Regulations - Miscellaneous

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JMCXNM5 38141


Important Dates What is Intelligent Mail? The Mailer ID Intelligent Mail Barcodes Changes to Regulations Reply Mail

Reminder: IMb Required Key IMb Checklist for Reply Mail IMb Artwork at No Charge

Resources Implementing Intelligent Mail Barcodes

Agenda

65


Qualified Business Reply Mail QBRM is a postcard or letter (up to 2 oz.)

QBRM requires payment of the annual account maintenance fee

All QBRM letters and cards that are returned to permit holders are required to bear an IMb effective January 2013

Permit Reply Mail All PRM letters and flats that mailers distribute, regardless of

method, are required to bear an IMb effective January 2013

Mailers are encouraged to use the IMb on Courtesy Reply Mail (CRM), Meter Reply Mail (MRM), and Business Reply Mail (BRM) but are not required to utilize it.

Reply Mail

Reply Mail

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Key IMb Checklist for Reply Mail Barcode ID - Must use “00”.

Service Type ID - Must use a valid STID for Reply Mail. Must not use “000”.

Mailer ID – May use Mail Owner or Service Provider MID. Do not populate with fictitious number or zeroes. Not required when using Origin IMb Tracing (formerly Confirm Service).

Serial Number – Does not need to be unique. Can be the same on all mailpieces or all zeroes. Can represent a mailing event or mailing frequency. https://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_mailpieces/documents/tech_guides/stid.pdf

Routing code – Must be a valid ZIP+4 Code assigned by USPS (size-specific for QBRM). Only 9-digit delivery point routing codes are permitted on BRM/QBRM. Must never be padded with zeroes or spaces; same as POSTNET. Must register with IMb Tracing Help Desk when using Origin IMb Tracing.

BARCODE

IDEXAMPLE: 50 FOR MIXED AADC

SERVICE TYPE ID


MAILER ID EXAMPLE: 123456USPS® ASSIGNED


ROUTING CODE


https://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_mailpieces/documents/tech_guides/stid.pdf

https://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_mailpieces/documents/tech_guides/stid.pdf


USPS offers online artwork capabilities utilizing the Automated Business Reply Mail (ABRM) tool The ABRM tool can provide artwork for letter and card-size pieces of

domestic Reply Mail ABRM can be used to produce:

Courtesy Reply Mail (CRM) Business Reply Mail (BRM) Qualified Business Reply Mail (QBRM) Meter Reply Mail (MRM) FIM & Barcode Only

Customers must create or have an existing account in BCG to access the ABRM tool.

PostalOne! users can access the ABRM Tool at: https://www.usps.com/business/reply-mail-solutions.htm

Customers in need of mailpiece design assistance may contact the MDA Support Center by dialing 855-593-6093 or sending a request via email to [email protected]

Reply Mail

Online IMb Artwork Offered by USPS

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https://www.usps.com/business/reply-mail-solutions.htm



Navigate to the web page www.USPS.com/business

1. Click on Receive Business Mail

2. Click on Reply Mail

1

2

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Instructions to access the ABRM Tool


3. Click on Create Reply Mail Online

3

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Reply Mail


4. The interim link will take customers to the Business Customer Gateway homepage

71

Interim Link


5. New Users can click on New User Registration

6. Existing customers can log in using their user name and password

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Business Customer Gateway Register


Important Dates What is Intelligent Mail? The Mailer ID Intelligent Mail Barcode for Mailpieces Changes to Regulations Reply Mail Resources

Personal and Online Assistance Tools & Validation RIBBS

Implementing the Intelligent Mail Barcode

Agenda

73


74

For Personal Assistance… Access tools, documentation and reference materials under

the Intelligent Mail menu on RIBBS https://ribbs.usps.gov/index.cfm?page=intelligentmail

Talk to Suppliers and Vendors that Generate Barcodes

Talk to USPS Representatives About Barcode Requirements

To find your local Business Mail Entry (BME) Manager, go to: https://ribbs.usps.gov/index.cfm?page=intellmailresources

For PostalOne! and Intelligent Mail support call the Help Desk at (800) 522-9085

To request assistance from a Mailpiece Design Analyst (MDA) contact the MDA Support Center at (855) 593-6093 or send a request via email to [email protected]

https://ribbs.usps.gov/index.cfm?page=intellmailresources



For Online Assistance… Review Guides and Specifications Online at the RIBBS Website:

For Owners, Developers & Software Developers

A Beginners Overview to Intelligent Mail Services http://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/BeginnersOve

rview.pdf

A Guide to Intelligent Mail for Letters and Flats http://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/GuidetoIntellig

entMailLettersandFlats.pdf

User Access to Electronic Mailing Information and Reports Guide https://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/user_access/

user_access.htm

A Resource Map to Intelligent Mail https://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/ResourceMa

pToIntelligentMail.pdf

Review the Latest Proposal & Federal Register News http://pe.usps.com/FederalRegisterNotices.asp

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http://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/BeginnersOverview.pdf




http://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/GuidetoIntelligentMailLettersandFlats.pdf



http://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/user_access/user_access.htm

https://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/user_access/user_access.htm

https://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/user_access/user_access.htm

https://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/ResourceMapToIntelligentMail.pdf

https://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/ResourceMapToIntelligentMail.pdf

http://pe.usps.com/FederalRegisterNotices.asp


For Online Assistance… Review Guides and Specifications Online:

For Software Developers

Postal Service Mail.dat Technical Specification http://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/datspec/dats

pec.htm

Postal Service Mail.XML Technical Specification http://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/xmlspec/xmls

pec.htm

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http://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/datspec/datspec.htm



http://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/xmlspec/xmlspec.htm




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To Apply for a Mailer ID using the Business Customer Gateway Go To: https://gateway.usps.com

To Download Windows and Mainframe Encoder Software and Fonts Go To: https://ribbs.usps.gov/onecodesolution/download.cfm

To Plan and Construct Your Barcode Review the Intelligent Mail Barcode Specification at:

https://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_mailpieces/documents/tech_guides/SPUSPSG.pdf

Review the Steps to Create the Intelligent Mail Barcode at: https://ribbs.usps.gov/index.cfm?page=intellmailmailpieces

Review Barcoding Regulations in Domestic Mail Manual http://pe.usps.com

For Online Assistance…


https://ribbs.usps.gov/onecodesolution/download.cfm



https://ribbs.usps.gov/index.cfm?page=intellmailmailpieces

http://pe.usps.com/


Summary of Tools Available to You Letter-Size Mail Dimensional Standard Template Notice 3-A

Provided to Mailers at no charge Automation Template – Notice 67

Provided to Mailers at no charge Automation Barcode Gauge – Item 04A

Provided to Mailers at no charge Optical Comparator – Eyepiece Reticle

Mailers can purchase from Vendor Basic Online Decoder Tool

Provided to Mailers at no charge

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This template is used to determine the size, shape, aspect ratio, and thickness requirements for letter processing.

Provided to mailers at no charge

Resources

79

Tools: Letter-Size Mail Dimensional Standard Template Notice 3-A


Multi-purpose template used to determine the automation compatibility of letter-size mailpieces.

Will evaluate: Delivery address area Address & window

clearances Address print

characteristics Address block barcode

clearances Lower right barcode

placement Reply Mail guidelines


Resources

Tools: Automation Template – Notice 67

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Automation Barcode Gauge Template (Item #04A)

Measures barcode length skew, pitch, clear zones, and bar parameters of the POSTNET™ and Intelligent Mail® barcodes

Latest version produced December 2009, Revision G


Resources

Tools: Automation Barcode Gauge – Item 04A

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Optical Comparator 6X (Eye Gauge) by Gage-Line Technology

Complements Item 04A with ability to measure bar parameters, bar skew, bar pitch, etc.

Mailers can purchase from vendor

Resources

Tools: Optical Comparator – Eyepiece Reticle

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Basic online decoder tool is available at:

https://ribbs.usps.gov/index.cfm?page=encoder

Resources

Tools: Basic Online Decoder Tool

83

https://ribbs.usps.gov/index.cfm?page=encoder

Mail Entry & Payment TechnologyResources

Ensure the test plan has pre-established results Know the CORRECT results and use available tools to ensure outcomes

match them Validate input

Ensure all data elements for barcode content match either yours or your customer’s specifications

Validate output Print samples from each piece of equipment that could be used in actual

production Provide samples to your local Business Mail Entry Unit (BME), MDAs or

service providers

Test & Validate Your Barcodes

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You can view or download the Guides and Specifications from RIBBS

Resources

RIBBS

85


Weekly Updates New Features Release Information Tips Archive of Updates To sign up email go to

[email protected] http://pe.usps.gov/dmmAdvisory.

asp

DMM Advisory is published weekly and provides current information on Intelligent Mail®

Resources

RIBBS

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http://pe.usps.gov/dmmAdvisory.asp

http://pe.usps.gov/dmmAdvisory.asp


Important Dates What is Intelligent Mail? The Mailer ID Intelligent Mail Barcode for Mailpieces Changes to Regulations Reply Mail Resources Implementing the Intelligent Mail Barcode

What you need IM Barcode Encoding How to Generate a Barcode

Agenda

87


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What you need…

A USPS or vendor-developed barcode encoder and font for the Intelligent Mail Barcode

Must be “00” if an OEL is not printed on the piece

Class of Mail and Required Service (none, ACS, IMb Tracing)

Mailer or Mail Preparer – Assigned by USPS

Data Management Plan – Assigned by Mailer

CASS™-MASS™ /DPV®/LACSLink® software

Barcode ID

Service Type

Mailer ID

Routing Code

Serial Number


Intelligent Mail Barcode Encoding Created by downloading and installing the encoder

and font The encoder converts the 20-digit tracking code and routing

code, a maximum of 11-digit into a combined 65-character string representing the ADFT characters.

A special font is required to convert 65 ADFT character string into the IMb.

Height-modulated barcode and uses 4-state symbology: Full bar, Ascender, Tracker, and Descender

IMb™ example: 0070012345620080000198765432101


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Generate the Barcode

There are three steps required to generate the Intelligent Mail® barcode on letters & flats:

1. Generate the 31-digit code

2. Encode the 31-digits

3. Print the barcode on mailpieces

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Form 31-digit Payload

USPS Technical Resource

Guide

Step 1

5070012345620080000138141834649

Gather and assemble data to form the 31-digit Payload

Barcode ID

Ex. 50

for Mixed AADC

Service Type

Ex. 700 for

First-Class Mail

Mailer ID

Ex. 123456

USPS-assigned

Routing Code

Ex. 38141834649

Delivery Point ZIP

Serial Number

Ex: 200800001

Mailer-assigned

Implementing the IMb™

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Form the 31-digit Payload

Mailing ListDB


Download encoders and user guides from http://RIBBS.USPS.GOV/ONECODESOLUTION

Apply Encoding AlgorithmEncoder

Library

Step 2

Form 31-digit PayloadUSPS

Technical Resource

Guide

Step 1

0070012345620080000198765432101



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Apply Encoding Algorithm

Mailing ListDB

http://ribbs.usps.gov/ONECODESOLUTION


Apply Encoding Algorithm

Encoder Library

Step 2

Form 31-digit Payload

USPS Technical Resource Guide

Step 1

0070012345620080000198765432101


Print Intelligent Mail® Barcode

Printer-Specific Fonts

USPS or Vendor Developed Font

Package

Step 3


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Print

Mailing ListDB


Questions?

Documents

Mail Entry & Payment Technology Building the Intelligent Mail ® Barcode: Initial Steps for Mailers From POSTNET ™ … …To IMb ™ Alicia Bright Chelsea Burnett