Effective November 1, 2010, the Postal Service™ revised Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®) to provide standards for the optional use of Intelligent Mail® package barcodes (IMpb).
Currently, package barcodes are limited in their intelligence capabilities. Piece-level intelligence has become an important element in the Postal Service’s efforts to expand its package product lines and increase its competitiveness within the shipping industry. The IMpb provides this piece-level intelligence, providing mailers and the Postal Service with greater visibility of packages in the mailstream, and a more comprehensive service performance measurement tool.
The IMpb is a 22-digit to 34-digit modulated barcode that generally follows the specifications of the GS1-128 symbology. The IMpb makes use of the attributes of the GS1-128 symbology to allow for the unique identification and tracking of domestic packages from induction to delivery. Use of GS1-128 barcode symbology is a requirement for electronic Confirmation Services and the Electronic Verification System (eVS®). Customers participating in these programs who wish to start using the IMpb on their packages will not need to change the symbology of the barcode; however, some of the data elements within the barcode and layout may change.
The Postal Service is providing several barcode variations for commercial and retail use that will provide the flexibility to accommodate the diverse shipping needs of postal customers.
Mailers who opt to use the IMpb must transmit mailpiece data to USPS® via a new electronic file that is necessary to accommodate the additional data fields of the IMpb. The electronic files that are currently used with packages do not provide adequate space for supplemental fields, and are limited in their ability to support the additional piece-level information that will be provided by customers. The new electronic file format requires fewer file types to support any potential combination of products and services. The ZIP + 4® routing information is required in the electronic file for all records when using the IMpb. Its inclusion in the barcode is recommended, but not required. However, some USPS programs may require the use of IMpb constructs with 5-digit or 9-digit routing information. Technical specifications on IMpb use, including a listing of electronic file formats, are located in the addendum to Publication 91 — Addendum for Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) and 3-digit Service Type Code, available on the RIBBS® website at http://ribbs.usps.gov.
The data construct of the IMpb differs from that of the current Confirmation Services barcode, with the most significant difference being in the barcode data for the service type code. The current 2-digit service type code fails to support all combinations of mail classes and extra services, therefore limiting the combinations that can be integrated into a single barcode. Often, when two or more extra services are requested, a barcode representing each extra service is required on the mailpiece, resulting in multiple barcodes and the potential for missed scans at delivery. The IMpb uses a new set of 3-digit service type codes that identify each product and extra service(s) combinations, eliminating the need for separate barcodes and enabling greater efficiency in package handling.
The IMpb includes new features designed to improve efficiency within mail processing, delivery, payment, and reporting. These features include:
n A routing code to aid in processing packages on automated sorting equipment.
n A channel-specific Application Identifier (AI) that links the barcode with the payment method, supporting revenue assurance.
n The ability to use either a 6-digit or 9-digit numeric Mailer ID (MID).
n A 3-digit service type code, which will identify the exact mail class and service combination, reducing the number of barcodes on a package.
For additional information, mailers can access the following documents at http://ribbs.usps.gov:
n Publication 91, Addendum for Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) and 3-digit Service Type Code.
n Specification document, Barcode, Package, Intelligent Mail (USPS2000508).
Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM)
* * * * *
400 Commercial Parcels
401 Physical Standards
* * * * *
2.0 Additional Physical Standards by Class of Mail
* * * * *
2.3 First-Class Mail Parcels
* * * * *
2.3.2 Surcharge
Unless prepared in 5-digit/scheme containers or paid at a single-piece price, presorted parcels are subject to a surcharge if any of the following characteristics apply:
* * * * *
[Revise item 2.3.2b as follows:]
b. The parcels do not bear a GS1-128 routing barcode, an Intelligent Mail package barcode under 708.5.0, or a POSTNET barcode.
* * * * *
2.4 Standard Mail Parcels and Not Flat-Machinable Pieces
* * * * *
2.4.3 Surcharge
Unless prepared in carrier route or 5-digit/scheme containers, Standard Mail parcels and Not Flat-Machinable pieces are subject to a surcharge if:
[Revise items 2.4.3a through c as follows:]
a. The machinable parcels do not bear a GS1-128 routing barcode or an Intelligent Mail package barcode (see 708.5.0); or the irregular parcels do not bear a GS1-128 routing barcode, an Intelligent Mail package barcode, or a POSTNET barcode (see 708.4.0).
b. The Not Flat-Machinable pieces weigh 6 ounces or more and do not bear a GS1-128 routing barcode or an Intelligent Mail package barcode.
c. The Not Flat-Machinable pieces weigh less than 6 ounces and do not bear a GS1-128 routing barcode, an Intelligent Mail package barcode, or a POSTNET barcode.
* * * * *
2.6 Bound Printed Matter Parcels
2.6.1 General Standards
[Revise 2.6.1 as follows:]
The following standards apply to Bound Printed Matter parcels:
a. Pieces mailed at Bound Printed Matter prices may not weigh more than 15 pounds.
b. Bound Printed Matter parcels may be eligible for a barcode discount under 463 if the parcels bear a GS1-128 routing barcode or an Intelligent Mail package barcode (see 708.5.0).
402 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece
* * * * *
4.0 General Barcode Placement for Parcels
[Revise title of 4.1 as follows:]
4.1 GS1-128 Routing Barcode or Intelligent Mail Package Barcode Location
[Revise 4.1 by adding a new last sentence as follows:]
***Intelligent Mail package barcodes (see 708.5.0) may be used in lieu of GS1-128 routing barcodes, following the same placement standards.
[Revise title of 4.2 as follows:]
4.2 Clear Zone for GS1-128 Routing Barcode or Intelligent Mail Package Barcode
* * * * *
[Revise title of 4.3 as follows:]
4.3 POSTNET Barcodes, GS1-128 Routing Barcodes and Intelligent Mail Package Barcodes
[Revise text of 4.3 as follows:]
First-Class Mail parcels, Standard Mail irregular parcels, and Not Flat-Machinable pieces less than 6 ounces may bear POSTNET barcodes, GS1-128 routing barcodes, or Intelligent Mail package barcodes (see 708.5.0). First-Class Mail parcels, Standard Mail irregular parcels, and Not Flat-Machinable parcels less than 6 ounces bearing POSTNET barcodes representing only the postal routing barcode (destination ZIP Code) are eligible to be mailed using eVS. POSTNET barcodes may not be used on eVS parcels bearing concatenated GS1-128 barcodes. Place POSTNET barcodes on First-Class Mail parcels, Standard Mail irregular parcels, or Not Flat-Machinable pieces as described under 4.3.1 through 4.3.3.
* * * * *
420 Priority Mail
423 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees
* * * * *
1.2 Commercial Base Prices
For prices, see Notice 123, Price List. The commercial base prices are available for:
* * * * *
[Revise text of item 1.2c as follows:]
c. Customers using permit imprint when an Intelligent Mail package barcode or a postal routing barcode matching the ZIP Code is on the mailpiece (see 708.5.0). Flat-shaped mailpieces (see 301.1.1) with a permit imprint may bear a POSTNET or Intelligent Mail barcode (see 708.4.0) instead of the Intelligent Mail package barcode or postal routing barcode.
* * * * *
[Revise text of item 1.2e as follows:]
e. Customers who pay postage using information-based indicia (IBI) postage meters in conjunction with an approved shipping label that bears a confirmation services barcode with an Intelligent Mail package barcode or a postal routing code (see 708.5.0).
* * * * *
430 First-Class Mail
433 Price and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees for First-Class Mail
* * * * *
1.4 Surcharge
Unless prepared in 5-digit/scheme sacks or paid at the single-piece prices, presorted parcels are subject to a surcharge if any of the following characteristics apply:
* * * * *
[Revise text of item 1.4b as follows:]
b. The parcels do not bear a GS1-128 routing barcode, an Intelligent Mail package barcode, or a POSTNET barcode for the ZIP Code of the delivery address.
* * * * *
440 Standard Mail
443 Prices and Eligibility
* * * * *
3.0 Basic Standards for Standard Mail Parcels
* * * * *
3.3 Additional Basic Standards for Standard Mail Parcels
Each Standard Mail mailing is subject to these general standards:
* * * * *
[Revise text of item 3.3g as follows:]
g. Any Intelligent Mail package barcode or postal routing barcode on a machinable parcel must be correct for the delivery address and must meet the standards in 708.5.0.
* * * * *
4.0 Price Eligibility for Standard Mail
* * * * *
4.4 Surcharge
Unless prepared in carrier route (irregular parcels only) or 5-digit/scheme containers, Standard Mail parcels and Not Flat-Machinable pieces are subject to a surcharge if:
* * * * *
[Revise text of items 4.4b through d as follows:]
b. The machinable parcels do not bear a GS1-128 routing barcode or an Intelligent Mail package barcode, under 708.5.0, for the ZIP Code of the delivery address.
c. The Not Flat-Machinable pieces weigh 6 ounces or more and do not bear a GS1-128 routing barcode or an Intelligent Mail package barcode for the ZIP Code of the delivery address.
d. The irregular parcels weigh less than 16 ounces, or the Not Flat-Machinable pieces weigh less than 6 ounces, and those pieces do not bear a GS1-128 routing barcode, an Intelligent Mail package barcode, or a POSTNET barcode for the ZIP Code of the delivery address.
* * * * *
450 Parcel Select
453 Prices and Eligibility
* * * * *
3.0 Price Eligibility for Parcel Select
* * * * *
3.3 Parcel Select Barcoded Nonpresort Price Eligibility
[Revise last sentence of the introductory text of 3.3 as follows:]
***Machinable parcels (401.1.5) must bear a correct, readable barcode under 708.5.0 for the ZIP Code of the delivery address under any of the following conditions:
* * * * *
460 Bound Printed Matter
463 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees for Bound Printed Matter
1.1 Nonpresorted Bound Printed Matter
* * * * *
1.1.3 Barcode Discount — Machinable Parcels
[Revise text of 1.1.3 as follows:]
The barcoded discount applies only to BPM machinable parcels (401.1.5.1) that bear a correct, readable barcode under 708.5.0 for the ZIP Code of the delivery address. The pieces must be part of a nonpresorted mailing of 50 or more BPM parcels.
* * * * *
4.0 Price Eligibility for Bound Printed Matter Parcels
4.1 Price Eligibility
BPM prices are based on the weight of a single addressed piece or 1 pound, whichever is higher, and the zone (where applicable) to which the piece is addressed. Price categories are as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence of item 4.1d as follows:]
d. Barcoded Discount—Machinable Parcels. The barcoded discount applies only to BPM machinable parcels (see 401.1.5) that bear a correct, readable barcode under 708.5.0 for the ZIP Code of the delivery address.***
* * * * *
500 Additional Mailing Services
503 Extra Services
* * * * *
9.0 Delivery Confirmation
* * * * *
9.4 Barcodes
[Revise title of 9.4.1 as follows:]
9.4.1 Barcode Use and Symbology
Labels printed by mailers must meet the following barcode symbology requirements:
* * * * *
[Add new item 9.4.1c as follows:]
c. Mailers have the option of using an Intelligent Mail package barcode, in accordance with 708.5.1.
* * * * *
9.4.3 Printing
[Revise the introductory text of 9.4.3 as follows:]
Labels with a confirmation services GS1-128 barcode that are printed by mailers must include a Delivery Confirmation PIC as specified in 9.4.2. Labels bearing an Intelligent Mail package barcode must meet the specifications in 708.5.0. Labels used for Delivery Confirmation must meet these additional specifications:
[Delete current item a in its entirety and reletter current items b through i as new items a through h.]
[Revise text of relettered item a as follows:]
a. Each label must bear a human-readable service banner with the text “USPS DELIVERY CONFIRMATION” (if using retail service option, as specified in 9.2.5) or “e/USPS DELIVERY CONFIRMATION” (if using electronic service option, as specified in 9.2.5, and the postage is evident on the mailpiece) that must be printed in accordance with Exhibit 708.5.1.4.
[Delete current items 1 through 8 in their entirety.]
[Revise text of relettered item b as follows:]
b. Human-readable characters that represent the barcode ID must be printed in accordance with Exhibit 708.5.1.4.
[Delete items 1 through 9 in their entirety.]
* * * * *
c. The barcode must meet the following specifications:
[Revise text of item c1 as follows:]
1. Barcode symbology must be GS1-128, or an Intelligent Mail package barcode may be used.
* * * * *
9.4.4 Integrated Barcodes
[Revise the introductory paragraph of 9.4.4 as follows:]
An integrated barcode may be used by mailers printing their own barcodes and using the electronic service option. Mailers may combine Delivery Confirmation and insurance services into a single barcode on the shipping label to eliminate multiple labels and barcodes on packages. Mailers who use the GS1-128 barcode symbology for confirmation services must still meet existing specifications in 9.4.1 and 9.4.2. Mailers using the Intelligent Mail package barcode should refer to 708.5.1. Minor modifications allow users to request multiple extra services on Priority Mail and Package Services parcels. Two required changes are:
* * * * *
10.0 Signature Confirmation
* * * * *
10.4 Barcodes
[Revise title for 10.4.1 as follows:]
10.4.1 Barcode Use and Symbology
Labels printed by mailers must meet the following barcode symbology requirements:
* * * * *
[Add new item c as follows:]
c. Mailers have the option of using an Intelligent Mail package barcode in accordance with 708.5.1.
10.4.3 Printing
[Revise the introductory text of 10.4.3 as follows:]
Labels with a confirmation services GS1-128 barcode that are printed by mailers must include a Signature Confirmation PIC as specified in 10.4.2. Labels bearing an Intelligent Mail package barcode must meet the specifications in 708.5.1. Labels used for Signature Confirmation must meet these additional specifications:
[Delete current item a in its entirety and reletter current items b through i as new items a through h.]
[Revise text of relettered item a as follows:]
a. Each label must bear a human-readable service banner with the text "USPS SIGNATURE CONFIRMATION" (if using retail service option, as specified in 10.2.4) or "e/USPS SIGNATURE CONFIRMATION" (if using electronic service option, as specified in 10.2.4, and the postage is evident on the mailpiece) that must be printed in accordance with Exhibit 708.5.1.4.
[Delete current items 1 through 8 in their entirety.]
[Revise text of relettered item b as follows:]
b. Human-readable characters that represent the barcode ID must be printed in accordance with Exhibit 708.5.1.4.
[Delete items 1 through 9 in their entirety.]
c. The barcode must meet the following specifications:
[Revise text of relettered item c1 as follows:]
1. Barcode symbology must be GS1-128, or an Intelligent Mail package barcode may be used.
* * * * *
10.4.4 Integrated Barcodes
[Revise the introductory paragraph of 10.4.4 as follows:]
An integrated barcode may be used by mailers printing their own barcodes and using the electronic service option. Mailers may combine Signature Confirmation and insurance services into a single barcode on the shipping label to eliminate multiple labels and barcodes on packages. Mailers who use the GS1-128 barcode symbology for confirmation services must still meet existing specifications in 10.4.1 and 10.4.2. Mailers using the Intelligent Mail package barcode should refer to 708.5.1. Minor modifications allow users to request multiple extra services on Priority Mail and Package Services parcels. Two required changes are:
* * * * *
700 Special Standards
* * * * *
705 Advanced Preparation and Special Postage Payment Systems
* * * * *
16.0 Express Mail Open and Distribute and Priority Mail Open and Distribute
* * * * *
16.5 Preparation
* * * * *
16.5.7 Address Label Service Barcode Requirement
[Revise the first sentence of 16.5.7 as follows:]
An electronic service barcode using the concatenated GS1-128 barcode symbology or the Intelligent Mail package barcode symbology must be incorporated into the address label (see 708.5).***
* * * * *
708 Technical Specifications
* * * * *
[Retitle 708.5.0 as follows:]
5.0 Standards for Package and Extra Service Barcodes
[Renumber current items 1 through 12 as the new 2 through 13 and add new 1 describing the Intelligent Mail package barcode as follows:]
5.1 Intelligent Mail Package Barcode
5.1.1 Definition
An Intelligent Mail package barcode (IMpb) is the USPS-developed barcode that can be read by automated parcel processing equipment and scanning devices, and consists of a data string that generally follows the GS1-128 specification. These barcodes include a variable length format that is determined by the elements selected by the mailer, and supplies tracking and routing data for packages and extra service applications. Intelligent Mail package barcodes may be used on all packages, and on other mailpieces requesting extra services. All mailers generating Intelligent Mail package barcodes must also submit piece-level information to the USPS via an approved electronic file format (except for mailers generating barcodes for use on return services products, such as MRS). When using the IMpb, the ZIP + 4 routing information is required in the electronic file for all records; it is recommended, but not required in the barcode. However, some USPS programs may require the use of IMpb constructs with 5-digit or 9-digit routing information.
5.1.2 Barcode Location
See 402.4.1.for barcode location standards.
5.1.3 Barcode Data Fields
The following fields are used in conjunction with the Intelligent Mail package barcode. Not every barcode type will use every field, and some fields may be suppressed from the human-readable text. Detailed specifications are available on RIBBS at http://ribbs.usps.gov/.
a. Channel Application Identifier (AI). Identifies the business induction channel from which the mailpiece originated and the location of the payment record.
b. Channel Identifier. Identifies the retail system from which the barcode originates.
c. Destination ZIP Code.
d. Device Identifier: Used in conjunction with the AI to identify the exact printing source.
e. Julian Date. Used in conjunction with the AI to identify the print date.
f. Mailer Identifier (MID). Identifies the 6- or 9-digit MID of the mailer or mail service provider. A 6-digit MID must begin with a “0” through an “8” and a 9-digit MID must begin with a “9.”
g. Mod 10 Check Digit. Used as the final digit in the barcode string.
h. Postal Code Application Identifier. Identifies the presence of a routing code, when used.
i. Serial Number: Identifies the mailpiece, the length for which is determined by the induction channel for the mailer.
j. Service Type Code. A 3-digit code that identifies the mail class, product, and/or extra services.
k. Source Identifier. A 2-digit field that identifies the type of online source or platform that generated the barcode.
5.1.4 Physical Barcode Requirements
Detailed specifications for constructing physical barcodes are provided in the resource documents, available on RIBBS at http://ribbs.usps.gov/.
Physical barcode requirements are as follows:
a. Barcode Symbology. Generally follows GS1-128 symbology.
b. X-Dimension. Defines the width of the narrowest bar or space element within the barcode and must be between 0.013 inch and 0.021 inch. X-Dimension must remain constant through the barcode.
c. Barcode Length. The overall length is a function of the number of characters encoded and the X-Dimension used.
d. Barcode Height. Unless otherwise specified by standards, the minimum height must be at least 0.75 inch.
e. Minimum Horizontal Barcode Quiet/Clear Zone. Must measure at least ten (10) times the X-Dimension to the left and right of the barcode. A clear zone of at least 0.25 inch is recommended.
f. Minimum Vertical Barcode Quiet/Clear Zone. A clear zone of at least 0.125 inch must be maintained directly above and below the barcode.
g. Human-Readable Representation of Barcode Data and Service Banner. Text must be printed in accordance with Exhibit 5.1.4 and as follows:
1. Human-readable text cannot extend beyond the length of the identification bars.
2. Service banner text shown in Exhibit 5.1.4 is an example. See Publication 91 (addendum appendix H) at http://ribbs.usps.gov/ for additional service banner text options applicable to the requested service.
h. Identification Bars. Horizontal black lines that extend at least the total combined width of the barcode and the minimum horizontal clearance to the left and right of the barcode, and may extend beyond this measurement to the width of the label are printed in accordance with Exhibit 5.1.4
i. ZIP Identifier for Concatenated Barcodes. Barcodes containing a postal routing code must include a “ZIP” marking above the barcode as shown in Exhibit 5.1.4.
[Add new Exhibit 5.1.4 as follows:]
Exhibit 5.1.4 Barcode Specifications
5.1.5 Print Quality Requirements
Detailed specifications for measuring print quality are defined in the Intelligent Mail Package Barcode Specification and Publication 91, Addendum for Intelligent Mail Package Barcode, available on RIBBS at http://ribbs.usps.gov/.
Print quality requirements are as follows:
a. Reflectance. Barcodes must be printed on substrate (e.g., shipping label) of uniform color and must meet requirements for reflectance as measured on a USPS-specified reflectance meter or barcode verifier.
b. Symbol Contrast. When measured in accordance with the Intelligent Mail Package Barcode Specification, must be greater than 40 percent.
c. Barcode Quality. Barcodes in each mailing must have an acceptable overall symbol grade.
5.1.6 Quality Assurance
Mailers must perform routine inspections and testing of labels and barcodes to ensure quality.
5.1.7 Electronic File
All mailers generating Intelligent Mail package barcodes must transmit piece-level information to the USPS in an approved electronic file format (except for mailers generating barcodes for use on return services products, such as MRS). Specifications for electronic files are available on RIBBS at http://ribbs.usps.gov/. Electronic files must include the following elements:
a. Header Record. Provides summary information regarding the entity transmitting the file and the nature of the mailing.
b. Detail Record 1. Defines the class and service type of the item, fees and postage, destination ZIP Code, and information related to containerization.
c. Detail Record 2. Provides detail on special products (e.g., Express Mail).
[Renumber 5.2 through 5.13 as new 5.2.1 through 5.2.12, and add a new 5.2 title heading as follows:]
5.2 Other Package Barcodes
[Revise title of renumbered 5.2.1 as follows:]
5.2.1 Basic Standards for Postal Routing Barcodes
* * * * *
[Revise title and text of renumbered 5.2.6 as follows:]
5.2.6 Location
See 402.4.1. for barcode location standards.
5.2.7 Clear Zone
[Revise the first sentence of renumbered 5.2.7 as follows:
The barcode must be located as specified in 402.4.1.***
5.2.8 Reflectance
[Revise the text of renumbered 5.2.8 as follows:]
Barcodes must be printed on substrate (e.g., shipping label) of uniform color and must meet requirements for reflectance as measured on a USPS-specified reflectance meter or barcode verifier.
5.2.9 Quality
[Revise the text of renumbered 5.2.9 as follows:]
All barcodes in each mailing must measure American National Standards Institute (ANSI) grade C or above. Information concerning ANSI guidelines X3.182-1990 may be obtained from the ANSI (see 608.8.3).
* * * * *
We will incorporate these revisions into the next printed version of the DMM and into the monthly update of the online DMM, which is available via Postal Explorer® at http://pe.usps.com.
— Mailing Standards,
Pricing, 11-4-10
