Mountain Mailing Blog

In a letter from Postmaster General John E. Potter, the USPS announced updates to the implementation schedule and other details regarding the new Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMB)

The IMB, also known as the 4-state barcode, is a replacement of the older Postnet barcode used to assist the post office in routing First Class, Standard Mail and Periodicals based letters, flats and some parcels. You probably have already received mail using the new IMB code. Where Postnet had short and tall bars that were level on the bottom, the IMB “sticks out” on both the top and bottom. The reason for this is to increase the amount of data that can be stored in the code. In the original implementation plan, mailers were to be required to switch over to the IMB by January 2009. While there are still many reasons for mailers to convert as soon as possible, the new plans are more flexible.

Here is the text of the letter from the Postmaster General…

Read the rest of this entry »

The results of our first round of analysis of the new rates are in. Taking several typical mailings, we have compared the 2007 postage rates with the new 2008 rates. As in previous USPS increases, there isn’t a set percentage across the board.

These examples are meant to give you a “first glance” of the amount of increase for major rate categories. It is not meant to be exhaustive. Your results may be different.

Details by rate. Unless otherwise noted, automation, bar coded rates are assumed.

Read the rest of this entry »

As per the Postal Act of 2006, the USPS is preparing for their annual rate increase. The new prices are going into effect on May 12, 2008. Both consumers and mailers would be well advised to check out the details.

Read the rest of this entry »

Here are some of the direct mail and USPS events coming up this year…

Read the rest of this entry »