A Service Type IDentifier (STID) is a unique threedigit code that indicates the service type for an individual mailpiece. The service code denotes the mail class, address correction option, and whether Informed Visibility® Mail Tracking and Reporting (IV®-MTR) is being used.
As part of the Intelligent Mail® barcode (IMb®), STIDs offer mailers near-real-time tracking visibility on both outbound and return mailpieces. STIDs also provide the Postal Service™ with enhanced tracking capabilities that allow us to quickly identify and process on-hand Ballot Mail throughout the mail network. This helps the Postal Service ensure expeditious processing and delivery of Ballot Mail.
Use of the appropriate STIDs allows for IV-MTR to identify mailpieces, with all expected service combinations, during mail processing. The STIDs shared in this fact sheet are for use only on Ballot Mail. Ballot Mail consists of any mailpiece sent to or from an authorized election official containing a live ballot that may be used to cast a vote in an election.
For other Election Mail (e.g., sample ballots, voter registration applications, absentee applications, and polling place locations), use the appropriate STID for the mail class, ACS™ and IV®-MTR services desired that are identified for First-Class Mail® or USPS Marketing Mail® on the STID Table on PostalPro.
