mail entry & payment technology building the intelligent mail ® barcode: initial steps for...
TRANSCRIPT
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
Building the Intelligent Mail® Barcode: Initial Steps for Mailers
From POSTNET™…
…To IMb™
Alicia BrightChelsea Burnett
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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?
2
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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.
3
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
5
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
8
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
9
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
11
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
12
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)
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
13
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
14
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
15
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
16
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
17
How are MIDs used?
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
Mail Owner or Mail Service Provider
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
18
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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.
19
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
Register with BCG
Business Customer Gatewayhttps://gateway.usps.com
20
Click on the New User Registration link on BCG Main Page
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
Create a Business Account Profile
21
First, begin by creating a Business Account Profile. Enter the requested information, as shown above, to generate a business account username and password.
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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.
22
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
Completed Registration
23
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.
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
24
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.
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
25
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”.
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
26
Confirm Adding a Service
Review the information and confirm your selection to associate this service with this business location.
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
27
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
28
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.
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
29
BCG Welcome Screen
You may request a MID from the BCG welcome screen. Under the Design & Prepare section, select the “Mailer ID” link.
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
30
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.
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
31
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.
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
32
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
33
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
34
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.
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
35
Review Your MID Service Type
Your requested Mailer ID is displayed in blue.
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
Confirm (IMb Tracing) MID Selection
36
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
37
Request Format
Customer Source ID
Company Name Address 1 Address 2 City State ZIP Country
Delegate to MID#
(Optional)
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
38
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.
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
39
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
40
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.
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
41
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
Mail Owner or Mail Service Provider
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
42
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
43
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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.
44
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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.
45
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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.
46
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
47
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
48
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
49
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
50
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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.
51
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
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
52
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
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
53https://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/GuidetoIntelligentMailLettersandFlats.pdfSection 2.4
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
54
The following chart provides an overview of the most common STIDs per class:
Commonly Used Service Type IDs (STIDs)
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
55
*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*
https://ribbs.usps.gov/intelligentmail_guides/documents/tech_guides/GuidetoIntelligentMailLettersandFlats.pdf
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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)
56
Data Fields in the IMb – Service Type ID (STID)
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
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
57
Data Fields in the IMb – Mailer ID (MID)
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
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
58
Data Fields in the IMb – Serial Number
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
59
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
59
Data Fields in the IMb – Routing Code
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
60
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
EXAMPLE: 300 FORFIRST-CLASS MAIL®
MAILER ID EXAMPLE: 123456USPS® ASSIGNED
SERIAL NUMBEREXAMPLE: 200800001 MAILER ASSIGNED
ROUTING CODE
EXAMPLE: 6449 EARL CT, MEMPHIS, TN 38141834649
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
62
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
63
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
64
JMCXNM5 38141
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
66
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
67
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
EXAMPLE: 300 FORFIRST-CLASS MAIL®
MAILER ID EXAMPLE: 123456USPS® ASSIGNED
SERIAL NUMBEREXAMPLE: 200800001 MAILER ASSIGNED
ROUTING CODE
EXAMPLE: 6449 EARL CT, MEMPHIS, TN 38141834649
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
68
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
Navigate to the web page www.USPS.com/business
1. Click on Receive Business Mail
2. Click on Reply Mail
1
2
69
Instructions to access the ABRM Tool
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
3. Click on Create Reply Mail Online
3
70
Reply Mail
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
4. The interim link will take customers to the Business Customer Gateway homepage
71
Interim Link
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
5. New Users can click on New User Registration
6. Existing customers can log in using their user name and password
72
Business Customer Gateway Register
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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]
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
75
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
76
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
77
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…
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
78
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
Resources
Tools: Automation Template – Notice 67
80
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
Resources
Tools: Automation Barcode Gauge – Item 04A
81
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
82
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
Basic online decoder tool is available at:
https://ribbs.usps.gov/index.cfm?page=encoder
Resources
Tools: Basic Online Decoder Tool
83
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
84
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
You can view or download the Guides and Specifications from RIBBS
Resources
RIBBS
85
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
86
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
88
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
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
DADTATFFAFFTTTAFTAFDADFDDDDDTAFFDAAFFDAFDDFFTADFTFTTFDAAFTFTADTTT
89
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
90
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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™
91
Form the 31-digit Payload
Mailing ListDB
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
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
DADTATFFAFFTTTAFTAFDADFDDDDDTAFFDAAFFDAFDDFFTADFTFTTFDAAFTFTADTTT
Implementing the IMb™
92
Apply Encoding Algorithm
Mailing ListDB
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
Apply Encoding Algorithm
Encoder Library
Step 2
Form 31-digit Payload
USPS Technical Resource Guide
Step 1
0070012345620080000198765432101
DADTATFFAFFTTTAFTAFDADFDDDDDTAFFDAAFFDAFDDFFTADFTFTTFDAAFTFTADTTT
Print Intelligent Mail® Barcode
Printer-Specific Fonts
USPS or Vendor Developed Font
Package
Step 3
Implementing the IMb™
93
Mailing ListDB
Mail Entry & Payment Technology
Questions?