An IMb consists of a 20-digit tracking code field [Barcode Identifier, Service Type IDentifier (STID), Mailer ID (MID), and Serial Number] and a Routing Code (ZIP Code™) field of up to 11 digits. An encoder is required to convert the numeric digits into a 65-character string representing the bars of the IMb and a special font is required to convert the 65 alpha-character string into the IMb bars. Users can download the fonts and computer source code at https:// postalpro.usps.com/mailing/encoder-software-and-fonts.
Once the encoder and font are installed, verify the print quality by producing samples, as instructed in the encoder package. The Intelligent Mail Barcode 4-State Specification USPS-B-3200 and the Intelligent Mail Barcode Technical Resource Guide on PostalPro provide extensive technical information about IMbs and can be found at https:// postalpro.usps.com/mailing/intelligent-mail-barcode.
