1. Migrating to the Intelligent Mail® Barcode
Good morning everyone. Thank you for joining us today and welcome to the “Migrating to the Intelligent Mail Barcode” presented by the Greater Birmingham Postal Customer Council..
Greater Birmingham PCC
Lunch & Learn
Professional Certificate Program
April 18, 2013
Andrée D. Kater, Mgr.
Business Mail Entry
Alabama District 1 1

2. What is our Goal?
To discuss the foundation of Intelligent Mail Services
To discuss what you need to know to produce the IMb for letters and flats
To provide you with the knowledge and resources to assist your transition to the Intelligent Mail barcode
Let’s begin by defining the scope of our discussion.
This workshop is directly related to the Intelligent Mail Barcodes for Letters and Flats. We will provide you with the foundation of the Intelligent Mail Services. We will show you what you need to know to produce the Intelligent Mail barcode, and we will provide you with the knowledge and resources to assist your migration to the Intelligent Mail barcode.

3. Agenda Important Dates What is Intelligent Mail?
Intelligent Mail Barcodes
How do Mailers obtain MIDS/CRIDS?
Implementing Intelligent Mail Barcodes
Reply Mail
Resources
Let’s take a look at today’s agenda. We will discuss important dates; what is Intelligent Mail and the benefits associated with it; the Intelligent Mail barcode (or IMb) and how to implement it. We will briefly discuss Reply Mail. We will also provide you with a list of tools and resources that will assist you with your implementation strategy.

4. Important Dates January 2014 Requirements Important Dates
March 2, 2012 Proposal
POSTNET™ barcode discontinuation
Transition to the IMb™ will be required for automation price eligibility
January 2013 Requirements
Retirement of POSTNET barcode
IMb required for automation letters and flats
IMb required for QBRM and PRM letters
GS1-128 or IMpb required for Standard Mail parcels to avoid surcharge
POSTNET or IMb allowed in address block with exception of eVS
January 2014 Requirements
Full Service IMb required for automation letters and flats
On March 2, 2012, the POSTNET Barcode Discontinuation proposed rule was published in the Federal Register Notice.
The proposed rule includes the basis for discontinuing use of POSTNET™ barcodes and allowing only Intelligent Mail® barcodes (IMb™) for automation price eligibility by January The Postal Service™ understands that many mailers currently use POSTNET barcodes and we are committed to providing information to and working with individual mailers and software providers to ensure that the use of an Intelligent Mail barcode is achievable for all mailing customers.
We are proposing that the use of IMb would be required for all automation letters, including Business Reply Mail letters that qualify for Qualified Business Reply Mail prices and Permit Reply letters, and automation flats by January 2013.
We propose to eliminate the use of the POSTNET on parcels unless it is printed in the address block. eVS parcels would not be allowed to bear POSTNET barcodes in any location. 4

5. Agenda Important Dates Definition Classes of Mail
What is Intelligent Mail?
Definition
Classes of Mail
Options & Requirements
Benefits
Intelligent Mail Barcodes
How do Mailers Obtain MIDs & CRIDs
Implementing Intelligent Mail Barcodes
Reply Mail
Resources
Our first topic of discussion is Intelligent Mail. 5

6. What is Intelligent Mail®?
Defined
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.
Intelligent Mail is a technology that will support future generations of postal products, services, and associated features. Intelligent Mail is a technology platform made possible by the suite of Intelligent Mail barcodes.
Intelligent Mail barcodes have been developed for mailpieces, trays, sacks and containers. These barcodes carry more information, and enable more services than barcodes used earlier. Intelligent Mail barcodes allow for identifying the mailer as well as uniquely identifying each mailpiece, tray or sack and container in a mailing.
Intelligent Mail allows you to receive information about your mailings that wasn’t available with the POSTNET barcode.

7. What is Intelligent Mail®?
Classes of Mail
IMb™ services apply to the following classes of 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
Currently the Intelligent mail barcode can be used on:
First-Class letters and flats
Standard Mail letters and flats
Periodicals letters and flats
Bound printed flats
Reply Mail

8. IMb Service Options – Basic and Full-Service
What is Intelligent Mail®?
IMb Service Options – Basic and Full-Service
Let's review the differences between Basic and Full-Service:
The Basic option requires an Intelligent Mail barcode on mailpieces. The barcode data does not need to be unique. The use of Intelligent Mail tray and container barcodes is optional, as is the use of electronic documentation.
For the Full-Service option, the IM™ tray barcode is required on tray and sack labels, and the IM™ container barcode is required on container placards. In addition, electronic documentation is required.
When transitioning from Basic to Full-Service, each of these items may be implemented as the mailer is ready.
Start-the-Clock data and Full-Service ACS™, which is automated address correction at no additional charge, are available only with Full-Service.
Start-the-Clock at no charge and automated address corrections at no charge are available for the Full-Service option if all electronic documentation requirements are satisfied.
*Will not qualify for Automation Prices in Jan., 2014
**Only when containerization is required 8

9. Intelligent Mail Basic Option Requirements
Barcode ID
Example: 50 for Mixed AADC
Service
Type ID
Example: 300 for
First-Class Mail®
Mailer ID
Example:
USPS® assigned
Serial Number
Example: Mailer assigned
Routing Code
Example: 6449 Earl CT, Memphis, TN
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

10. Intelligent Mail Full-Service Option Requirements
What is Intelligent Mail®?
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
Now, let’s discuss the Full-Service Option.
The first requirement for the Full-Service Option is to apply a unique Intelligent Mail® barcode on your mailpieces. The Intelligent Mail® barcode must remain unique for 45 days from the day the mail is inducted into the Postal Service™. Mailers are required to apply a unique Intelligent Mail® tray barcode on tray and sack labels.
In addition, mailers are required to apply a unique Intelligent Mail® container barcode on placards (labels) affixed to pallets, all purpose containers (APCs), and other rolling stock.
Mailers are also required to submit their mailing information electronically. This mailing information includes the details of the Intelligent Mail® barcodes applied to mailpieces, trays, sacks, and containers, and the nesting relationships between these items. This electronic documentation, or eDoc, is used for business mail verification, acceptance, and induction processes.
Mailers are required to use the FAST® (Facilities Access & Shipment Tracking) system to schedule appointments for drop shipment mailings (except for mailings entered at a DDU).

11. Agenda Intelligent Mail Barcodes
Important Dates
What is Intelligent Mail?
Intelligent Mail Barcodes
Comparison of IMb and POSTNET Barcodes
IMb Specifications
Data Fields in the IMb
Key Barcode Checklist
Barcode Placement
Implementing Intelligent Mail Barcodes
Reply Mail
Resources
Our next topic is the Intelligent Mail barcode. We will provide a comparison between the POSTNET and IMb, the IMb specifications, and the data fields. We will also review the checklist and look at the proper placement of the IMb on mailpieces. 11

12. Comparison of IMb and POSTNET Barcodes
Intelligent Mail Barcodes (IMb™)
Comparison of IMb and POSTNET Barcodes
The IM barcode is similar to earlier Postal barcodes.
Shares data fields with POSTNET (=Routing Code) and PLANET Code (=Tracking Code) barcodes
Similar footprint on the mailpiece, but with MUCH greater data capacity
The IM barcode is a vehicle for enabling services (on LETTERS and FLATS).
Allows Mail Processing Equipment to automatically route mailpieces
Allows for tracking of mailpieces through the mailstream
Data available through the IMb Tracing® program
Allows mailers to qualify for automation prices
When we compare the IMb and the POSTNET barcode we can see some similarities. The IMb shares data fields with the POSTNET and PLANET Code barcodes. They have a similar footprint, but the IMb has a much greater data capacity.
The IM barcode allows mail processing equipment to automatically route mailpieces; it allows for tracking of mailpieces through the IMb Tracing program and it allows mailers to qualify for automation prices.

13. Benefits of Transitioning to the IMb
Intelligent Mail Barcodes (IMb™)
Benefits of Transitioning to the IMb
IMb Tracing allows mailers to uniquely identify and receive mail processing data for outgoing mailings and incoming reply mailpieces.
The IMb replaces both the POSTNET barcode and the PLANET Code.
The POSTNET barcode routes the mailpiece during postal processing.
The PLANET Code provides tracking information and is used in conjunction with the POSTNET barcode to provide mailers with the date, time and location that outgoing IMb Tracing mail was inducted at a Postal facility. In addition, the date, time, location, and sort operation at which a mailpiece was processed at a Postal facility is also provided by this service.
IMb Tracing allows mailers to uniquely identify and receive mail processing data for outgoing mailings and incoming reply mailpieces.
The IMb replaces both the POSTNET barcode and the PLANET Code. The IMb has more data capacity and contains both the tracking and routing information in one barcode.

14. IMb Specifications F A T D Intelligent Mail Barcodes (IMb™)
For Letters and Flats
Height-modulated barcode
Encodes 31 digits of data into 65 bars
Uses 4-State symbology
Full bar, Ascender, Tracker, and Descender
Key Barcode Tolerances
Overall length between and inches
Overall height between and inch
Vertical clear zone at least inch
The POSTNET™ and PLANET® barcodes are 2-state barcodes as they only have two height bars – tall and short. The Intelligent Mail® Barcode, formerly called the 4-state customer barcode, consists of 4 different height bars.
The Intelligent Mail bars are named as follows:
Ascender
Descender
Full
Tracker
They are referred to as ADFTs. This information is used in encoding and decoding the IM™ barcode.
Other key tolerances of the barcode such as the bar width and pitch are also similar to the POSTNET and PLANET Code barcodes. 14

15. Maximum dot matrix spacing must not exceed 0.010 inch.
Intelligent Mail Barcodes (IMb™)
IMb Specifications
A minimum clear zone of inch between the left and right edges of the barcode is required.
A minimum clear zone of inch above and below the barcode is required.
A clear zone must be placed around the barcode to ensure that optical readers can locate and read the barcode. A minimum clear zone of inch is required above and below the Intelligent Mail® barcode and inch on the left and right side of the barcode.
Excessive ink application can cause a bar to exceed its maximum dimension and prevent successful barcode interpretation. Excessive or extraneous ink should not cause any bar to exceed the specified dimensions.
Insufficient ink application, common with inkjet and dot matrix printers, can cause a bar to fail minimum dimensions and prevent successful barcode interpretation. Insufficient ink and voids should not cause a bar to fail minimum specified dimensions.
Ideally, inkjet printing, dot matrix printing, or any other similar printing process should yield dots that touch or overlap. If the dots do not touch, the space between them must not exceed inch.
Maximum dot matrix spacing must not exceed inch.
0.010 15

16. All IMb fields must have numeric values only.
Data Fields in the IMb
Intelligent Mail Barcode for Letters and Flats: 6-Digit and 9-Digit Mailer IDs 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
Service Type ID (3N)
Barcode ID (2N)
Mailer ID (6N)
Serial Number (9N)
Routing Code (0, 5, 9 or 11N)
Service Type ID (3N)
Barcode ID (2N)
Mailer ID (9N)
Serial Number (6N)
Routing Code (0, 5, 9 or 11N)
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.

17. Data Fields in the IMb : Select the 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.
The Barcode ID field is a 2-digit field that is reserved to encode the presort identification as well as for future Postal Service use. Generally, this field should be left as “00” if an OEL is not printed on the mailpieces. The exception is for automation-price eligibility flat mail with an optional endorsement line, where the Intelligent Mail barcode must contain OEL coding corresponding to the correct sortation level of each piece.
Note that the human-readable OEL is required on bundles of flat-size mailpieces unless marked with barcoded pressure-sensitive bundle labels.
Currently, there are six Barcode ID codes designated for use on automation-price eligibility flats pieces with an Optional Endorsement Line.
You can reference the Intelligent Mail Barcode Specification, or the Intelligent Mail Technical Resource Guide available on
Barcode ID
Example: 50 for Mixed AADC
Service
Type ID
Example: 300 for
First-Class Mail®
Mailer ID
Example:
USPS® assigned
Serial Number
Example: Mailer assigned
Routing Code
Example: 6449 Earl CT, Memphis, TN

18. Data Fields in the IMb - Select the 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, OneCode Confirm, 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
The Barcode ID field is a 2-digit field that is reserved to encode the presort identification as well as for future Postal Service use. Generally, this field should be left as “00” if an OEL is not printed on the mailpieces. The exception is for automation-price eligibility flat mail with an optional endorsement line, where the Intelligent Mail barcode must contain OEL coding corresponding to the correct sortation level of each piece.
Note that the human-readable OEL is required on bundles of flat-size mailpieces unless marked with barcoded pressure-sensitive bundle labels.
Currently, there are six Barcode ID codes designated for use on automation-price eligibility flats pieces with an Optional Endorsement Line.
You can reference the Intelligent Mail Barcode Specification, or the Intelligent Mail Technical Resource Guide available on
Barcode ID
Example: 50 for Mixed AADC
Service
Type ID
Example: 300 for
First-Class Mail®
Mailer ID
Example:
USPS® assigned
Serial Number
Example: Mailer assigned
Routing Code
Example: 6449 Earl CT, Memphis, TN

19. Data Fields in the IMb - Use the MID
Used to identify the mail owner or mail preparer
A 6-digit or 9-digit field that is assigned by the USPS
Required in the Intelligent Mail Barcode
The Mailer ID is the 3rd field of the IM barcode. The Postal Service™ issues Mailer IDs to mail owners and mail preparers. This field could be 6 digits or 9 digits depending upon on the annual mail volume. It identifies the mail owner or the mail preparer and it is required in the Intelligent Mail barcode.
Barcode ID
Example: 50 for Mixed AADC
Service
Type ID
Example: 300 for
First-Class Mail®
Mailer ID
Example:
USPS® assigned
Serial Number
Example: Mailer assigned
Routing Code
Example: 6449 Earl CT, Memphis, TN

20. Data Fields in the IMb – Use the MID
Intelligent Mail Barcodes (IMb™)
Data Fields in the IMb – Use the MID
MIDs are acquired and managed through the Mailer ID service on the Business Customer Gateway.
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
The Mailer ID is acquired and managed through the Mailer ID service on the Business Customer Gateway. The MID is issued based primarily on documented historic mail volume. A 6-digit MID is issued based on annual volume of 10 millions piece and the first 9-digit MID is issued regardless of annual volume. An additional 9-digit MID is issued based on annual volumes in increments of one million pieces.
The Business Customer Gateway system currently allows a Mailer to request five (5) six-digits and ten (10) nine-digit MIDs. Requests for more than five six-digit MIDs are considered an exception to the rule and must be requested through the Business Mail Entry Unit (BMEU) or Mailpiece Design Analyst (MDA) and forwarded to the Help Desk. All exception requests are handled by the Manager, Business Mail Acceptance, and United States Postal Service Headquarters. Requests for additional MIDs must be submitted in writing, identifying the issue or justification for requesting additional MIDs and how they will be implemented into mailing processes.
All 6-digit MID begin with digits 0 through 8. All 9-digit MIDs begin with the number 9. 20

21. Three ways to acquire a Mailer ID (MID)
Mailers requesting a Mailer ID (MID) must go to
Select the Business Customer Gateway located on the bottom right hand corner of the web page.
A mailer must logon as an existing user or register as a new user to gain access to the Business Customer Gateway.
Once logged on, select the "Mailer ID" link to obtain a MID.
Mailing Agents who require MIDs for their Mail Owner customers to obtain the benefits of Full Service mailing need to follow the MID/CRID process located at:
For mailers who cannot obtain the desired number or type of Mailer ID(s) through the Business Customer Gateway-MID Tool or if the mailing agent is acting in behalf of the mail owner,
The customer must read the Mailer ID Application Process and/or the CRID/Mailer ID Agent Application Process,
And the customer must print and complete the Mailer Application and the Additional Accounts Information Sheet (as applicable).
The forms must be submitted to the Business Mail Entry Unit (BMEU) or the Mailpiece Design Analyst for processing.

22. Obtaining a Mailer ID (MID)
In order to get a MIDs through the BCG, a new user must create a Business Account
Once registered, a CRID for the business location
New CRIDs will not be assigned to existing user

23. What is a Customer Registration ID (CRID)?
Mailer ID’s - 3/25/2017
What is a Customer Registration ID (CRID)?
Identifies customer at a unique? Business Location
Customer Identity across Postal Systems
Controls Access to Services, Applications, and Information
Used to identify mail owner or preparer in eDoc
A Customer Registration ID, or “CRID”, is up to a 12-digit unique number that is created by the Customer Registration system of the Postal Service. It allows the Postal Service to uniquely identify any customer by location.
A CRID connects company information by physical address across multiple Postal Service applications.
A CRID is associated to every customer regardless of having a Permit Number and Mailer ID that is issued. Additionally, a CRID is associated with any other type of account that is established with the Postal Service.
If a customer has multiple locations a separate CRID will be assigned to each location. CRID’s can be used instead of Mailer ID’s in the mail.dat files to help identify either the Mail Preparer or the Mail Owner.
A CRID can not be substituted for a MID in the actual IM™ barcode.
CRID’s are treated by the Postal Service like account numbers and are considered confidential information.
The Customer Registration ID (CRID) is a unique identifier created by the Customer Registration system to uniquely identify a business at a physical address
A Customer Registration ID:
Is up to a 12-digit number created by the Customer Registration system to uniquely identify a USPS Customer
Connects a company’s information at a physical address across USPS applications
May be assigned to a customer who does not have a Mailer ID
For example, a customer with one facility will have a single CRID. A customer with five different facilities will have five different CRIDs.
The By/For relationship between the Mail Owner and Mail Preparer may be identified in the electronic documentation (Mail.dat®) by using MIDs, CRIDs or local permit numbers
MIDs must be used to delegate data
CRIDs cannot be used for MIDs in the IM® barcode. 23

24. Data Fields in the IMb: Select the Serial Numbers
A 6 or 9-digit field defined by the mailer
Can be populated with a number that uniquely identifies each mailpiece becoming a unique Mailpiece ID
May be populated with a number that is unique to a mailing, becoming a unique Mailing ID
The Serial Number is the 4th field of the barcode and it can be 6 digits or 9 digits, depending on the number of digits in the Mailer ID.
The sum of MID and Serial Number is always 15 digits.
The Serial Number can be populated with a number that uniquely identifies each mailpiece, becoming a unique Mailpiece ID. Alternatively, the Serial Number may also be populated with a number that is unique to a mailing, becoming a unique Mailing ID.
Barcode ID
Example: 50 for Mixed AADC
Service
Type ID
Example: 300 for
First-Class Mail®
Mailer ID
Example:
USPS® assigned
Serial Number
Example: Mailer assigned
Routing Code
Example: 6449 Earl CT, Memphis, TN

25. Data Fields in the IMb: Select the Routing Code
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
The Routing Code field is the fifth and final field of the IMb. The routing code can have 5 digits, 9 digits, or 11 digits and it identifies the delivery ZIP Code data in the address.
This data is the same information currently used in the POSTNET barcode. The Routing Code portion of the IMb serves to route the mailpiece during processing.
When used on letters and flats for automation-price eligibility purposes, the routing code must contain a delivery point code that accurately matches the delivery address.
Barcode ID
Example: 50 for Mixed AADC
Service
Type ID
Example: 300 for
First-Class Mail®
Mailer ID
Example:
USPS® assigned
Serial Number
Example: Mailer assigned
Routing Code
Example: 6449 Earl CT, Memphis, TN 25

26. Key IM™ Barcode Component Review
Barcode ID
Service Type ID
Must be “00” if an OEL is not printed on the piece .
IM Barcode
Component Review
Barcode ID
Service Type ID
Mailer ID
Serial Number
Routing Code
Required for processing
At a minimum provide Mail Class; do not use “000”
Routing Code
MUST be a valid ZIP code
Derived from CASS-certified software that accurately matches the delivery address
Must never be padded with zeroes, spaces or nulls; same as POSTNET
Mailer ID
OneCode ACS, IMb Tracing, Basic and Full-Service options (can be yours or your mail preparer’s)
Do not populate with fictitious number or zeroes
Barcode ID must be “00” if an OEL is not printed on the piece.
Service Type ID is required for processing.
At a minimum provide Mail Class; do not use “000”!
Mailer ID is required for everyone. (can be yours or your mail preparer’s)
OneCode ACS, IMb Tracing, and Full-Service options (Do not populate with fictitious number or zeroes.
Serial Number
For the Full Service, the Serial number must be unique and can not be used at a frequency of less than forty-five (45) days.
Routing Code, MUST be a valid ZIP Code.
Derived from CASS-certified software that accurately matches the delivery address
Must never be padded with zeroes, spaces or nulls; same as POSTNET
Serial Number
For the Full Service, the Serial number must be unique and can not be used at a frequency of less than forty-five (45) days.

27. Key IM™ Barcode Checklist
Intelligent Mail Barcodes (IMb™)
Key IM™ Barcode Checklist
Barcode ID must be “00” if an OEL is not printed on the piece.
Service Type ID is required for processing.
At a minimum provide Mail Class; do not use “000”!
Mailer ID is required for everyone. (can be yours or your mail
preparer’s)
OneCode ACS, IMb Tracing, and Full-Service options (Do not populate with fictitious number or zeroes.
Serial Number
For the Full Service, the Serial number must be unique and can not be used at a frequency of less than forty-five (45) days.
Routing Code, MUST be a valid ZIP Code.
Derived from CASS-certified software that accurately matches the delivery address
Must never be padded with zeroes, spaces or nulls; same as POSTNET
Now let’s look at some important key elements that must be considered when populating the fields and producing your Intelligent Mail barcode.
The Service Type ID field must be populated with a valid number. Service Type Identifiers can be found in Guide to Intelligent Mail for Letters and Flats. Do not use zeroes in this field.
A Mailer ID is required and it must not be populated with fictitious numbers or zeroes.
The Routing Code must contain a valid ZIP Code, the same as POSTNET. Must never be padded the with zeroes, spaces, or nulls.

28. Placement Intelligent Mail Barcodes (IMb™)
Placement and processing rules are similar to POSTNET barcode
Placement on letters:
Address block or
Barcode clear zone in the lower right
Placement on flats:
On address side and
At least 1/8 inch from any edge of the piece
Only one IMb™ should be placed in the same area
May have an IMb™ on the non-automation portion of a machinable mailing
One last aspect of our key elements is knowing where to place the barcode.
On letters:
The IMb™ can be placed in one of two areas: the address block or the lower right corner, also known as the barcode clear zone. If placed in the address block, the barcode can be located above or below the address.
For automation mailings, the IMb™ must include an 11-digit delivery point Routing Code. The use of IMb is optional for the non-automation portion of the mailing. Non-automation pieces are not required to have an 11-digit delivery point Routing Code in the IMb; however, we encourage you to use barcodes with 11-digit delivery point Routing Codes.
Any barcode (IMb or POSTNET) placed in the lower right clear zone, will take precedence over a barcode placed in the address block.
FLATS:
Only one IMb™ should be placed on the flat piece.
The IMb™ must be in compliance with the clearance requirements which are defined in section 708 of the Domestic Mail Manual.    28

29. Agenda Important Dates What is Intelligent Mail?
Intelligent Mail Barcodes
Implementing Intelligent Mail Barcodes
What you need
IM Barcode Encoding
Reply Mail
Resources
Now that we understand how to construct the Intelligent Mail barcode, let’s focus our attention on creating the barcode. Let’s start with what you need first. 29

30. Implementing the IMb™
What you need…
A USPS or vendor-developed barcode encoder and font for the Intelligent Mail Barcode. You will also need:
Barcode ID
Service Type
Mailer ID
Routing Code
Serial Number
Presort Software
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
As long as your checklist of the following items is complete, it’s easy to generate the suite of Intelligent Mail barcodes. The first item, the Intelligent Mail barcode encoder, is a piece of software that takes the string of numbers we discussed earlier and transforms them into a 65-character string that will form the Intelligent Mail barcode. It’s available at the RIBBS Website at no charge!
A font is also needed for the Intelligent Mail barcode to transform the output of your Intelligent Mail Barcode encoder into the barcode that will be printed on your mailpieces. The fonts are also available at no charge from the Postal Service.
The data elements of the barcode come from several different sources. The Barcode ID is dependent on presort software for flats as it shows the level of sortation (OEL or package type).
The Service Type ID is dependent on the class of mail and required services (none, OneCode ACS, IMb Tracing). There are many considerations in selecting the services. There is no difference between the STIDs for the Basic portion and the non-automation portion of a mailing.
The Mailer ID and Serial Number in conjunction with the STID are used to determine uniqueness. There are many configuration for this. Mailers and their Mail Preparers must have a data management plan. Some software may have functionality for maintaining uniqueness. Once again, uniqueness is not required for the Basic option.
The Routing Code is the same data as the current POSTNET Delivery Point Barcode data. It must be determined through CASS/DPV/LACs software processing within the current timeframes required for a discounted mailing.

31. 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:
DADTATFFAFFTTTAFTAFDADFDDDDDTAFFDAAFFDAFDDFFTADFTFTTFDAAFTFTADTTT 31

32. Language and Applications Supported*
Implementing the IMb™
Available Encoders
Yes
MS Office Version for Windows
Programmer Version for Windows
Mac OS X
HP/UX
Solaris
Linux
AIX
OS/400
VSE/ESA
MVS, z/OS, and OS/390
MS Excel
MS Access
PL/1
COBOL
Java 2 C
Operating System
Language and Applications Supported*
To facilitate the adoption of the Intelligent Mail barcode, the USPS has developed web-based tools and is making available to the customers at no charge, interactive encoder-decoder tools, and an extensive library of encoding software and fonts suitable for encoding and printing the Intelligent Mail barcode in mail production environments using selected operating systems and printing architectures. These resources are available from our RIBBS website.
The encoder software is available for numerous operating systems and languages. The Postal Service currently provides software, implemented in C, Java, Cobol, and PL1. The supported operating system are: MVS, z/OS, OS/390, VSE/ESA, OS/400, AIS, Linux, HP/UX, Solaris, Mac OS X, and Windows.
Proprietary applications and printing environments are the responsibility of the vendor, not the Postal Service.
* Support for 64-bit Windows, Linux, and Solaris as well as for Assembler on MVS/VSE

33. Implementing the IMb™
Generate the Barcode
There are three steps required to generate the Intelligent Mail® barcode on letters & flats:
Form the 31-digit payload
Encode the 31-digits
Print the barcode on mailpieces
Let’s construct the Intelligent Mail barcode by going through the three required steps. Forming up to 31-digit payload is the first step, followed by encoding of these digits into 65 bars, and the printing of the 65 bars.

34. Agenda Reply Mail Important Dates What is Intelligent Mail?
Intelligent Mail Barcodes
Implementing Intelligent Mail Barcodes
How do mailers obtain MIDs/CRIDs?
Reply Mail
Reminder: IMb Required
IMb Artwork at No Charge
Resources
Now that you know how to populate the field of the IMb and download fonts to create the IMb, let’s talk about Reply Mail. 34

35. IMb Requirements for Reply Mail
Business Reply Mail
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 mailers distribute 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
IMb will be required for all Business Reply Mail letters that qualify for Qualified Business Reply Mail prices, and Permit Reply letters by January 2013.
For Qualified Business Reply Mail
Any QBRM letters and cards that mailers distribute will be required to bear an IMb. QBRM is only a postcard and letter (up to 2 oz.) product
For Permit Reply Mail
Any PRM letters and flats that mailers distribute, regardless of method, will be required to bear an IMb 35

36. Online IMb Artwork Offered by USPS
Reply Mail
Online IMb Artwork Offered by USPS
USPS offers online artwork capabilities for PostalOne! users via the Automated Business Reply Mail (ABRM) tool at:
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)
Mailpiece Design Analysts may be able to assist with other artwork requests. Customers in need of Mailpiece Design assistance may contact the MDA Support Center by dialing or sending a request via to or locally by calling or by sending a request via to
Envelope Manager and Dazzle software used by USPS
Available for purchase by contacting manufacturer at Endicia.com
To assist mailers transition from the POSTNET barcode to the Intelligent Mail barcode, the USPS offers online artwork capabilities for PostalOne! users via the Automated Business Reply Mail (ABRM) tool at:
The ABRM tool can provide artwork for letter and card-size pieces of domestic Courtesy Reply Mail (CRM), Business Reply Mail (BRM), and Qualified Business Reply Mail (QBRM).
Mailpiece Design Analysts may be able to assist with other artwork requests. Customers in need of Mailpiece Design assistance may contact the MDA Support Center by dialing or sending a request via to or contact your local Mailing Requirements office for assistance.
Envelope Manager and Dazzle software used by USPS to generate artwork. This software is available for purchase by contacting manufacturer at Endicia.com

37. Agenda Important Dates What is Intelligent Mail?
Intelligent Mail Barcodes
Implementing Intelligent Mail Barcodes
Reply Mail
Resources
Validation and Tools
Summary with Online Information
Next, let’s talk about how to validate your barcodes and where to obtain further assistance. 37

38. Test & Validate Ensure the test plan has pre-established results.
Resources
Test & Validate
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 USPS® MDA / service providers.
Test & Validate the data content and the printing of the barcodes.
The key is to know the correct answers before you start. Prepare a test plan and determine the data in the 31 digits.
Scan or decode the printed barcode. Verify that what you printed is what you intended on printing. For example, have you used the correct STID, MID, Serial Number, etc?
Print the barcode and have it reviewed by the USPS Mailpiece Design Analyst. The mailpiece samples need to include the name and address so that the Routing Code portion can be verified. If doing Address Change Service (ACS®) be sure to include the Return Address on the mailpiece, and the Ancillary Service Endorsement if required.
Not all printers are the same, so if you use more than one printer model, have tests done for each one. If the barcode is not readable, contact your printer manufacturer representative.
Now, let’s look at the tools available at no charge. The next three etmplates are available free of charge through the B’ham BMEU. 38

39. Letter-Size Mail Dimensional Standard Template – Notice 3-A
Resources
Letter-Size Mail Dimensional Standard Template – Notice 3-A
This template is used to determine the size, shape, aspect ratio, and thickness requirements for letter processing.
Provided to mailers at no charge
This template is used to determine the size, shape, aspect ratio and thickness requirements for letter-size mailings.
This tool is used is used by Mailpiece Design Analysts and acceptance personnel at BMEUs and DMUs, and it is provided to mailers at no charge.

40. Automation Template – Notice 67
Resources
Automation Template – Notice 67
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
Provided to mailers at no charge
Notice 67 is a template used by mailers and USPS personnel to ascertain automation compatibility of letter-size mailpieces. It will provide guidelines for address location and readability, barcode location, and the Facing Identification Mark (or FIM) for reply mailpieces.
This template is available to mailers at no charge.

41. Automation Barcode Gauge – Item 04A
Resources
Automation Barcode Gauge – Item 04A
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
Provided to mailers at no charge
The automation barcode gauge, Item 04A, is used by Mailpiece Design Analysts and acceptance personnel at BMEUs and DMUs. This tool provides a quick and easy way to make a visual inspection of barcodes.
This template will measure barcode length, skew, pitch, clear zones and bar parameters of POSTNET™ and Intelligent Mail® barcodes.
The most current version of the Item 04A was produced in December 2009 (Rev. G).
This template is available to mailers at no charge. 41

42. Resources
Basic online decoder tool is available at:
Online tools include a very basic encoder and decoder.
The encoder requires the user to enter the 31 digits and the encoder will create a barcode.
With the decoder the user manually inputs the bar information for the 65 bars: A for the Ascender; D for the Descender; F for Full; and T for the Tracker – again the FATDs. The decoder application provides the 31 digits string of tracking and delivery point information. 42

43. In Summary… Talk to their business partners Build a team
Review guides and specs
Acquire a MID
Design and Test eDocs
Plan for feedback
Place the barcode
Migrate to the Production Environment

44. Talk to their business partners
In Summary, here’s what you should do…
Talk to your business partners – Find out from your software vendors and/or service providers what your Intelligent Mail Service plans are.
Just a few of the questions you may want to ask are:
What are their Mailer ID plans?
Will they use their own or their clients?
What additional features/services are available?
Does the software support Mail.dat, Mail.XML or both?
Can they create and track unique serial numbers?
Can they support the Full-Service options?
Talk to their business partners

45. In Summary, here’s what you should do…
Build a Team – Work to put together a team that will help their implement Intelligent Mail Services.
Customers should include, consider and start to plan the following:
Include key stakeholders: IT, Finance, Business, Business Partners
Define the Value/Return on Investment (ROI)
Re-engineer their mail supply chain
Develop budget
Develop implementation plan
Review materials and seek support from resources
Build a team

46. Review guides and specs
In Summary, here’s what you should do…
Review guides and specs
Review Guides and Specifications – Customers should access the information they need from the following resources:
A Beginners Overview to Intelligent Mail Services
A Guide to Intelligent Mail for Letters and Flats
Postal Service Mail.dat Technical Specification
Postal Service Mail.XML Technical Specification
User Access to Electronic Mailing Information and Reports Guide

47. In Summary, here’s what you should do…
Acquire a MID
Mailers requesting a Mailer ID (MID) must go to
Select the Business Customer Gateway located on the bottom right hand corner of the web page.
A mailer must logon as an existing user or register as a new user to gain access to the Business Customer Gateway.
Once logged on, select the "Mailer ID" link to obtain a MID.
Mailing Agents who require MIDs for their Mail Owner customers to obtain the benefits of Full Service mailing need to follow the MID/CRID process located at:
For mailers who cannot obtain the desired number or type of Mailer ID(s) through the Business Customer Gateway-MID Tool or if the mailing agent is acting in behalf of the mail owner,
The customer must read the Mailer ID Application Process and/or the CRID/Mailer ID Agent Application Process,
And the customer must print and complete the Mailer Application and the Additional Accounts Information Sheet (as applicable).
The forms must be submitted to the Business Mail Entry Unit (BMEU) or the Mailpiece Design Analyst for processing.

48. In Summary, here’s what our customers should do…
Place the Barcode - To generate the IMb mailpiece barcode, tray label barcode, and container label barcode they will need to do the following:
Plan for barcode data management
Services (Service Type Identifiers)
USPS provided Mailer ID (MID)
IMb encoder/decoder
USPS-developed font for the Imb
Content Identification Number (CIN) List
Code 128 subset C font for the IMb tray and container barcodes
Endorsements for address correction
Validate and test barcode
Place the barcode

49. In Summary, here’s what you should do…
Design and Test Electronic Documentation – Electronic documentation is a crucial step in the process.
There are different requirements and uses for Basic and Full-Service options.
Basic: electronic documentation is optional
Electronic documentation includes postage statement
Aggregate mailing data such as a USPS Qualification Report
Full-Service: electronic documentation is required
Aggregate mailing data and piece detail mailing data
Mail owner, mail preparers
Intelligent Mail barcodes on mailpieces, trays and containers
Nesting relationships
Options:
Mail.dat
Mail.XML
Intelligent Mail Small Business Tool
Postal Wizard (9999 pieces maximum for Full-Service and documentation is not required)
Design and
Test eDocs

50. Migrate to the Production Environment
In Summary, here’s what our customers should do…
Plan for Feedback
How will you use the Start-the-Clock and address correction information?
Who will receive the data?
How will you receive the data?
How will you update your address lists?
Migrate to the Production Environment
Test barcodes
Test electronic submission of eDoc in the Test Environment
for Mailers
Receive validation for Full-Service prior to migrating to the Production Environment
Plan for feedback
Feedback is information that is collected from the suite of Intelligent Mail Barcodes.
Migrate to the Production Environment

51. Finally… – Validate Your Barcodes & Submit for Testing to MDA
Use the Online Encoder / Decoder
Review the List of Resources at:
For Additional Assistance
Contact the National Customer Support Center at (877)
For PostalOne!® Information:
To request assistance from a Mailpiece Design Analyst (MDA) contact the MDA Support Center at or send a request via to or locally call or via to
To Review the Latest Proposal & News Go To:
Federal Register Notices
Mailers can use pre-defined encoder and decoder sets for validation of IMb™ by down loading Encoder and Decoder sets from the RIBBS website.
The List of Resources, provides information about barcode verification tools and scanning equipment that can be purchased directly from the manufacturer.
Contact the local Mailpiece Design Analyst to have barcodes tested.
For additional assistance, please contact the National Customer Support Center. To review the latest proposals and news review the Federal Register Notices.

52. The RIBBS Website provides extensive resources on Intelligent Mail®
On the RIBBS website, you will find the Intelligent Mail® Mailer ID Application; all pertinent information to help generate the Intelligent Mail® barcode; a collection of guides and educational materials to help you learn all that Intelligent Mail services has to offer.
The guides will help you prepare and walk you through the steps in the process. 52

53. You can view or download the Guides and Specifications from RIBBS
Resources
You can view or download the Guides and Specifications from RIBBS
From the Intelligent Mail Services tab on the RIBBS website you will find detailed information about the Intelligent Mail barcode specifications, how to download free software and fonts, OneCode ACS, IMb Tracing information, and much more. 53

54. Resources
DMM Advisory is published weekly and provides current information on Intelligent Mail®
Weekly Updates
New Features
Release Information
Tips
Archive of Updates
To sign up go to
and in the subject line, type “SUBSCRIBE”
To obtain the latest information in a quick and convenient format, please subscribe to the DMM Advisory.
The DMM Advisory is published weekly and provides current information on Intelligent Mail. Just type in the address and in the “subject Line” type “SUBSCRIBE” 54

55. Questions? We have reached the end of our presentation.
Do you have any questions? 55