Package labels and tracking numbers (IMpb)

What do the numbers mean in a USPS tracking number?

In a domestic USPS tracking number, the first two digits name the channel, the next three the service, and the rest the mailer and the piece.1Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 50“The tracking number contains all of the following data elements: Channel Application Identifier, Service Type Code, MID, serial number and MOD10 check digit. … Service Type Code (STC): This three-digit field identifies the mail class, product, and/or extra service(s) combination.”USPS original2Parcel Labeling Guidepage 33“The Channel Application Identifier (AI) is a specific 2-digit application identifier used to identify both the business induction channel from which the mailpiece originated and to indicate where USPS may locate a payment record for the mailpiece.”USPS original The Service Type Code names the mail class, product and extra services, and the Mailer ID names the mailer.1Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 50“Service Type Code (STC): This three-digit field identifies the mail class, product, and/or extra service(s) combination.”USPS original3Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 474“MID is a unique 6- or 9-digit number that identifies the mailer or the mailer’s client.”USPS original The serial number stays unique for 120 days, and the check digit is computed from the digits before it.1Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 50“The serial number is required to remain unique for 120 days.”USPS original8Parcel Labeling Guidepage 34“The Mod 10 check digit is calculated using the package identification code (PIC) portion of the data, which includes the channel AI, STC, MID and serial number.”USPS original

How many numbers are there in a USPS tracking number?

A commercial USPS tracking number has 22 or 26 digits, depending on the length of its serial number.9Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode (IMpb) Specificationpage 13“Human Readable Representation of Barcode Data: 9212 3912 3456 7812 3456 71 (22 digits)”USPS original10Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode (IMpb) Specificationpage 14“Human Readable Representation of Barcode Data: 9212 3912 3456 7812 3456 7890 #1 (26 digits)”USPS original11Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 51“The serial number can also be of varied lengths depending on the barcode construct selected.”USPS original In the C01 construct, for example, a 2-digit channel application identifier, a 3-digit Service Type Code, a 9-digit Mailer ID, a 7-digit serial number and a check digit make 22.9Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode (IMpb) Specificationpage 13“Table 6: C01 - Commercial Mail Construct Format C01 Data Field “420” Postal Routing Code Application Identifier 9-digit Destination ZIP “92” Channel Application Identifier Service Type Code Mailer ID Serial # Mod 10 Check Digit TOTAL … Field Length 3 digits 9 digits 2 digits 3 digits 9 digits 7 digits 1 digit 34 digits … Human Readable Representation of Barcode Data: 9212 3912 3456 7812 3456 71 (22 digits)”USPS original Shippers with a 9-digit Mailer ID use a 7- or 11-digit serial number, and those with a 6-digit one a 10- or 14-digit serial number.12Parcel Labeling Guidepage 36“MID 9 9 9 9 6 6 6 6 6 9 … Serial Number 7 11 7 7 10 14 10 10 14 11”USPS original The whole barcode holds 22, 26, 30 or 34 digits, longer when it also holds the routing ZIP Code.12Parcel Labeling Guidepage 36“This variability in length allows the IMpb to be either 22, 26, 30, or 34 digits in length depending upon the channel AI, serial number, and length of the postal code data (ZIP or ZIP+4).”USPS original Every package must carry that routing ZIP Code, in the IMpb or in a separate routing barcode.13Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 30“The 5digit ZIP Code is required on all packages, either as part of the concatenated barcode or as a separate routing destinations barcode.”USPS original

What does a USPS tracking number look like?

A USPS tracking number prints in groups of four digits, such as 9212 3912 3456 7812 3456 70.4Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 62“For all labels (non-concatenated and concatenated), the human-readable representation of the barcode must be parsed in groups of four with any remaining digits grouped at the end.”USPS original14Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 59“Example: assume the PIC is 9212 3912 3456 7812 3456 70”USPS original It prints under the IMpb and leaves out the routing application identifier and the ZIP Code that the barcode holds.15Parcel Labeling Guidepage 14“The human readable text below the barcode should display the relevant data of the barcode as described below.”USPS original1Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 50“NOTE: The AI (420) and the ZIP Code (5- or 9-digit) are suppressed in the human-readable representation.”USPS original Over the barcode, the barcode banner text says whether delivery needs a signature.16Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 58“Mailers must use a “USPS TRACKING #” human-readable banner text above the barcode on items not requiring a signature at delivery, and a “USPS SIGNATURE TRACKING #” banner text above the barcode on items where a signature is required at delivery.”USPS original

How do USPS tracking numbers start?

A domestic USPS tracking number starts with its channel application identifier, two digits that name the channel the package came from.1Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 50“The tracking number contains all of the following data elements: Channel Application Identifier, Service Type Code, MID, serial number and MOD10 check digit.”USPS original2Parcel Labeling Guidepage 33“The Channel Application Identifier (AI) is a specific 2-digit application identifier used to identify both the business induction channel from which the mailpiece originated and to indicate where USPS may locate a payment record for the mailpiece.”USPS original Numbers from online, PC Postage and meter shippers start with 94, while commercial shippers and USPS retail use other identifiers.17Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 55““94” (used by Online/PC Postage and Meter Mailers)”USPS original2Parcel Labeling Guidepage 33“Valid IMpb Channel Application Identifiers are “92”, “93”, “94”, and “95.” AI “92” and AI “93” are for use by commercial mailers. AI “94” is for USPS online channel mailings and AI “95” is reserved for the USPS retail environment.”USPS original An international shipment's tracking number is a 13-character customs barcode instead, and its first two characters are letters.18Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 38“For international mail items, in the Shipping Services File, provide the 24-character Mailer Label Barcode Convention in the Customer Reference Number and the 13-character Customs Barcode in the Tracking Number.”USPS original19Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 182“13-character barcode includes: • 2 character Service Indicator *A-Z*”USPS original20Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 335“IMpb required for domestic shipments, but “S10” type barcode is allowed for international shipments”USPS original

How big does a USPS shipping label need to be?

USPS prefers the shipping industry's standard 4x6 inch label.21Parcel Labeling Guidepage 16“The USPS preferred label size is the shipping industry standard of 4x6 inches.”USPS original Smaller 4x4 and 6x3 inch labels fit parcels that can't take a 4x6 label.21Parcel Labeling Guidepage 16“A 6x3 inch and a 4x4 inch label are described herein and are intended to assist shippers by defining smaller formats and sizes that may more readily fit parcels which do not support the standard 4x6 inch label.”USPS original Every size must meet the same requirements for the IMpb segment.21Parcel Labeling Guidepage 16“On all label sizes, the Intelligent Mail package barcode segment requirements must be adhered to as described in Section 2.4 above.”USPS original A USPS Returns label must be 4x6, 4x4 or 3x6 inches and certified by USPS before it is handed out, and any other size needs written approval from the National Customer Support Center.22Parcel Labeling Guidepage 21“USPS Returns label standard sizes are 4x6, 4x4, or 3x6 and must be certified by the USPS for use prior to distribution. … All other label sizes require written approval from the National Customer Support Center (NCSC).”USPS original

What does a USPS shipping label look like?

On a USPS shipping label, the service icon block should sit at upper left and postage at upper right, with the service banner under both.23Parcel Labeling Guidepage 8“The service icon block should appear in the upper left-hand corner of the shipping label. … The service banner is located directly below the postage payment area and service icon block and includes the class of mail and price marking.”USPS original24Parcel Labeling Guidepage 9“Evidence of postage payment should appear in the upper right-hand corner of the label.”USPS original On a 4x6 label, the payment and branding, address and IMpb segments sit together, with the shipper's own information at the top or bottom.21Parcel Labeling Guidepage 16“The 4x6 (4 inches wide and 6 inches high) label is the USPS recommended layout for parcel labels. … With this layout, the payment and branding, addressing, and barcode segments can be grouped together with user specific elements placed at the top and/or bottom of the label.”USPS original Labels should print in black ink on a white background, except the shipper's own segment, which may use color.5Parcel Labeling Guidepage 7“All USPS shipping labels should be printed in black ink on a white background with the exception of the additional information and user section which may include color if desired.”USPS original

How long is a USPS shipping label good for?

A meter or PC Postage label must be mailed by the date in its postage indicium, or else carry a second mark, a date correction indicium.25DMM 604: Postage Payment Methods and Refunds“Postage meters and PC Postage products are collectively identified as “postage evidencing systems.” … Postage evidencing systems print indicia such as information-based indicia (IBI) or intelligent mail indicia (IMI), to indicate postage payment. … [11-2-26] A date correction indicium is required for any mailpiece not deposited by the date of mailing in the indicium. Only one date correction indicium is permitted on a mailpiece.”USPS original Metered mail with a complete date must be mailed that day, but a piece entered after the day's last collection may bear the next one's date.25DMM 604: Postage Payment Methods and Refunds“The date or period when mailers may deposit or present metered mail for mailing is controlled by the mailing date in the indicia under the following conditions. … Mailpieces bearing a complete date in the indicia must be deposited or presented on that date, except that pieces entered after the day‘s last scheduled collection from the Post Office or collection box may bear the actual date of entry or the date of the next scheduled collection from the Post Office or collection box.”USPS original For a refund of an unused, dated PC Postage label with a tracking number, the user must ask its provider within 30 days of printing.25DMM 604: Postage Payment Methods and Refunds“9.3.10 Unused, Dated PC Postage Indicia With PIC … Requests must be submitted by authorized users to their provider electronically in accordance with procedures available from their provider. … Requests must be initiated for within thirty (30) days of printing the indicia.”USPS original

Can USPS print shipping labels for you?

Yes, every USPS platform prints labels with the IMmb, among them retail units, self-service kiosks and Click-N-Ship.7 Intelligent Mail Matrix Barcode (IMmb) FAQ PagePDF page 1“Every USPS platform (Retail Units, Self Service Kiosks, Click-N-Ship, WebTools) prints the IMmb.”USPS original A Post Office can also print a label that a business stored for its customer in USPS Label Broker.26USPS: Label Broker (for business)“Once USPS has approved your shipping system, you can store customers’ prepaid or postage-guaranteed (return) labels in our secure Label Broker repository.”USPS original27Domestic Merchant Returns API: User Guidepage 60“It allows customers to print labels using a QR Code or Label Broker Label ID at a USPS® Post Office® or via USPS.com.”USPS original The customer shows the label's QR code or Label Broker ID, and the retail associate prints the label and applies it to the package.27Domestic Merchant Returns API: User Guidepage 60“It allows customers to print labels using a QR Code or Label Broker Label ID at a USPS® Post Office® or via USPS.com. … The consumer will need to show the Label Broker code to the USPS® Retail Associate at the Retail Counter who will print and apply the linked label to the shipment.”USPS original

The Intelligent Mail Package Barcode is a GS1-128 barcode that holds a package's tracking number and, in its preferred form, the routing ZIP Code too.1Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 50“The IMpb consists of a data string encoded in a GS1-128 format, subset C.”USPS original4Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 62“The IMpb requires all mailers to include a routing ZIP Code on their package labels and prefers the use of a concatenated barcode format.”USPS original USPS equipment reads the routing data to sort and track each package to the post office that delivers it.28PostalPro: Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode (IMpb)“The IMpb includes the routing information in the barcode which allows the Postal Service to use automated equipment to sort and track packages as they travel through our network to the post offices that will make final delivery at the respective destinations.”USPS original Every parcel shipped through USPS must carry the IMpb or another unique tracking barcode.29Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 17“The IMpb or unique tracking barcode is required for all parcels shipped through the Postal Service.”USPS original

The tracking number, which USPS calls the Package Identification Code, is unique to each mailpiece.30Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 475“A Package Identification Code or PIC is a unique data string that serves as a unique tracking number for a mailpiece.”USPS original Its channel application identifier names the channel the package came from and where USPS can find its payment record.2Parcel Labeling Guidepage 33“The Channel Application Identifier (AI) is a specific 2-digit application identifier used to identify both the business induction channel from which the mailpiece originated and to indicate where USPS may locate a payment record for the mailpiece.”USPS original Its three-digit Service Type Code names the package's mail class, product and extra services.1Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 50“Service Type Code (STC): This three-digit field identifies the mail class, product, and/or extra service(s) combination.”USPS original A shipper gets its Mailer ID from the Mailer ID tool on the Business Customer Gateway.3Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 474“The Mailer ID tool is the application on the Business Customer Gateway used by customers to obtain MIDs for use in either Confirmation Services or eVS programs.”USPS original The gateway is USPS's single entry point for its online business services.31PostalPro: Business Customer Gateway“gives you a single entry point for Postal Service online business services such as: Intelligent Mail Products and Services, Business Mailing Activity and Reports, Scheduling Mailing Appointments, Mailer IDs (MIDs), Incentive Programs and Information, and Shipping Service Programs.”USPS original

The Parcel Labeling Guide sets out how to design a domestic shipping label for a USPS parcel.32Parcel Labeling Guidepage 5“This document has been developed to facilitate the design and creation of domestic shipping labels for parcels shipped via the United States Postal Service (USPS).”USPS original A label's payment and branding segment shows the service and postage, and its address segment holds the return and delivery addresses.5Parcel Labeling Guidepage 7“The payment and branding segment of a USPS label consists of three sections: the service icon block, the service banner, and the postage payment area.”USPS original6Parcel Labeling Guidepage 10“The address and delivery information segment consists of the return address, any endorsements, the retail distribution code, delivery route code, and delivery address.”USPS original Directly left of the delivery address sits the Intelligent Mail Matrix Barcode, a two-dimensional barcode with the same data as the IMpb.33Parcel Labeling Guidepage 12“An Intelligent Mail matrix barcode (IMmb) is required in the Delivery Address Section directly to the left of the delivery address.”USPS original7 Intelligent Mail Matrix Barcode (IMmb) FAQ PagePDF page 1“The IMmb is a two-dimensional, GS1 DataMatrix barcode used for routing and tracking of packages within the USPS processing network. … Currently, the IMmb contains the exact same data payload as our IMpb.”USPS original

Each package also needs a version 1.6 or higher Shipping Services File record with its details.28PostalPro: Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode (IMpb)“Be accompanied by a version 1.6 (or higher) electronic Shipping Services File record populated with required details about the package.”USPS original USPS then sends the shipper a scan event extract file with tracking information about the package's movement through the mail stream.34Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 18“In return, USPS will provide mailers with two types of files: a scan event extract file and a confirmation/error/warning file. … The scan event extract file contains tracking information about the movement of packages through the USPS mail stream.”USPS original

The IMpb is a data string encoded in GS1-128, subset C.1Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 50“The IMpb consists of a data string encoded in a GS1-128 format, subset C.”USPS original GS1-128 is a kind of Code 128 barcode that uses application identifiers to say what each piece of data is and how to read it.35Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode (IMpb) Specificationpage 1“GS1-128 barcodes, formally known as UCC/EAN-128, are a special type of Code 128 (ISO/IEC 15417) barcodes that use Application Identifiers (AIs) to define the encoded data and how to interpret it.”USPS original

The routing application identifier, always 420, precedes the destination ZIP Code, which has five or nine digits.1Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 50“This field must always be “420” and precedes the Destination ZIP Code. … Destination ZIP Code: This field may be five- or nine-digits in length.”USPS original USPS requires a routing ZIP Code on every package label and prefers a concatenated barcode, which holds the ZIP Code and the tracking number together.4Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 62“The IMpb requires all mailers to include a routing ZIP Code on their package labels and prefers the use of a concatenated barcode format.”USPS original1Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 50“Concatenated barcode data constructs across all USPS channels that allow for destination routing information (i.e., ZIP Code) and package identification code (PIC) data in a single barcode”USPS original

An IMpb begins with a start character and then a Function 1 character, which the human-readable text doesn't show.3Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 474“FNC1 characters typically follow the start character at the beginning of the barcode and are part of the symbology overhead.”USPS original36DMM 204: Barcode Standards“The FNC1 numeric character for GS1-128 follows the symbol start character, is part of the symbology overhead, and is not shown in the human-readable text.”USPS original In a concatenated barcode, a second Function 1 character after the ZIP Code joins the routing data to the tracking number.37Parcel Labeling Guidepage 39“Concatenated barcodes use a second Function 1 (FNC1) character immediately following the ZIP Code to join the routing information with the traditional PIC.”USPS original

The channel application identifier names the channel a package came from and tells USPS where to find its payment record.2Parcel Labeling Guidepage 33“The Channel Application Identifier (AI) is a specific 2-digit application identifier used to identify both the business induction channel from which the mailpiece originated and to indicate where USPS may locate a payment record for the mailpiece.”USPS original Shippers must include it in the tracking number.1Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 50“Customers must include the channel application identifier as part of the tracking number.”USPS original

A tracking number with channel application identifier 94 adds a two-digit source identifier, which names the kind of online source.1Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 50“The source identifier is used only with Channel Application Identifier “94”. … Source Identifier: This two-digit field identifies the type of online source: PC Postage vendor, postage meter, or an internal USPS system such as Click-N-Ship.”USPS original USPS assigns each PC Postage or meter vendor its own source identifier.1Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 50“Source identifiers are assigned by the Postal Service and are unique to each PC Postage or Meter Vendor.”USPS original

A USPS retail barcode has no Mailer ID.44Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode (IMpb) Specificationpage 12“For example, commercial barcodes will always include the Mailer Identifier, while Retail barcodes will not include the mailer identifier, but will include a channel identifier to indicate the exact system from which the barcode originated.”USPS original Its channel identifier, a separate field from the channel application identifier, names the retail system that printed it.44Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode (IMpb) Specificationpage 12“For example, commercial barcodes will always include the Mailer Identifier, while Retail barcodes will not include the mailer identifier, but will include a channel identifier to indicate the exact system from which the barcode originated.”USPS original45Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode (IMpb) Specificationpage 4“The Channel Identifier indicates the retail system from which a barcode originated (e.g., POS, APC).”USPS original Retail systems include the Point of Service system, or POS, that Post Office counters use for retail sales.46Publication 32: Glossary of Postal TermsPDF page 168“The primary hardware and software system used to conduct retail sales transactions in Post Offices.”USPS original They also include Self-Service Kiosks, formerly called Automated Postal Centers, or APCs.47USPS news release: Post Offices Closed Monday, Nov. 11 to Observe Veterans Day (Vermont, Nov 2013)“But some post offices which have Self-Service Kiosks (SSKs), formerly known as Automated Postal Centers (APCs), provide mailing services to customers using a credit or debit card 24-hours a day, 365 days a year.”USPS original A device ID and a Julian date help keep each retail barcode unique.48Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode (IMpb) Specificationpage 5“The mailer shall use this field within the retail barcode construct to help maintain uniqueness and help with traceability to an exact printing source. … The mailer shall use this field within the retail barcode construct to aid in establishing uniqueness.”USPS original

Each combination of fields is a barcode construct, named by a three-digit code such as C01.11Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 51“Each barcode construct is identified by a three-digit code (e.g., “C01”).”USPS original Commercial shippers have ten constructs, and online, PC Postage and meter shippers have ten more.11Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 51“There are ten constructs for commercial mailers and ten constructs for online/PC postage/postage meter shippers.”USPS original A construct holds a five-digit, nine-digit or no ZIP Code, and a label whose construct holds none carries a separate routing barcode.11Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 51“For example, a 5-digit, 9-digit, or no routing ZIP Code are options for the barcode constructs.”USPS original13Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 30“The 5digit ZIP Code is required on all packages, either as part of the concatenated barcode or as a separate routing destinations barcode.”USPS original The barcode's length depends on its construct's fields: 22, 26, 30 or 34 digits.11Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 51“The total length of the barcode will depend on the elements that the shipper includes as part of a valid barcode construct.”USPS original12Parcel Labeling Guidepage 36“This variability in length allows the IMpb to be either 22, 26, 30, or 34 digits in length depending upon the channel AI, serial number, and length of the postal code data (ZIP or ZIP+4).”USPS original

The check digit is the last digit, a MOD 10 digit computed from the channel application identifier through the serial number.40Parcel Labeling Guidepage 35“A 1-digit, Mod 10 Check Digit is the final digit in the IMpb data string calculated using the package identification code portion of the data, which is the string from the channel AI through the serial number.”USPS original

A Service Type Code is the three-digit field that names a package's mail class, product and extra services together.1Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 50“Service Type Code (STC): This three-digit field identifies the mail class, product, and/or extra service(s) combination.”USPS original Some codes mark a package with no extra services.48Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode (IMpb) Specificationpage 5“This shall include identifying instances where no extra services have been purchased, e.g., Parcel Post with no extra services.”USPS original Others mark a special USPS program, such as Open and Distribute.48Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode (IMpb) Specificationpage 5“The service type code also identifies if the mailpiece belongs to a special Postal Service program, such as Open & Distribute or Merchandise Return Service.”USPS original Each code has a barcode banner text assigned to it, and many codes share one, such as USPS TRACKING #.16Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 58“Appendix I provides the barcode banner text applicable for each Service Type Code. … Mailers must use a “USPS TRACKING #” human-readable banner text above the barcode on items not requiring a signature at delivery, and a “USPS SIGNATURE TRACKING #” banner text above the barcode on items where a signature is required at delivery.”USPS original

USPS publishes the codes in the Intelligent Mail Package Barcode Service Type Code list.28PostalPro: Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode (IMpb)“This document provides the updated service type codes for Intelligent Mail® Package Barcodes.”USPS original They differ from the Service Type IDs in the Intelligent Mail barcode on letters and flats.1Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 50“NOTE: Service Type Codes (STCs) for the IMpb differ from the Service Type IDs (STIDs) that are part of the Intelligent Mail barcode (IMb) used for letters and flats.”USPS original

A shipping label is a transportation document, so it holds only transportation information.5Parcel Labeling Guidepage 7“The USPS shipping label is a transportation document, and as such, its content is restricted to transportation information.”USPS original Its design follows the Parcel Labeling Guide.32Parcel Labeling Guidepage 5“This document has been developed to facilitate the design and creation of domestic shipping labels for parcels shipped via the United States Postal Service (USPS).”USPS original The guide clarifies the Domestic Mail Manual, Publication 199 and the Intelligent Mail Package Barcode Specification but does not replace them.32Parcel Labeling Guidepage 5“The Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) as well as supporting documents such as Publication 199, Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systems and USPS2000508, Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Specification are the official sources for the standards described in this document. … The information in this guide is meant to clarify and enhance the information in these documents but does not supersede them.”USPS original

A label should print in black ink on a white background, except in the shipper's own segment, which may use color.5Parcel Labeling Guidepage 7“All USPS shipping labels should be printed in black ink on a white background with the exception of the additional information and user section which may include color if desired.”USPS original Its fonts must be sans serif and clear enough for USPS optical character recognition equipment.5Parcel Labeling Guidepage 7“Fonts must be sans serif (e.g.: Arial, Helvetica, or Verdana) and of sufficient quality to be processed by USPS Optical Character Recognition (OCR) equipment.”USPS original Images that resemble a stamp, postmark or cancellation mark are prohibited.5Parcel Labeling Guidepage 7“Images that resemble a postage stamp, postmark, or cancellation mark are prohibited.”USPS original

On a 4x6 label, the payment and branding, address and IMpb segments sit together, with the shipper's own information at the top or bottom.21Parcel Labeling Guidepage 16“The 4x6 (4 inches wide and 6 inches high) label is the USPS recommended layout for parcel labels. … With this layout, the payment and branding, addressing, and barcode segments can be grouped together with user specific elements placed at the top and/or bottom of the label.”USPS original

The service icon block should sit in the upper left corner, and postage should appear in the upper right.23Parcel Labeling Guidepage 8“The service icon block should appear in the upper left-hand corner of the shipping label.”USPS original24Parcel Labeling Guidepage 9“Evidence of postage payment should appear in the upper right-hand corner of the label.”USPS original The service banner runs under both, with the class of mail and price marking.23Parcel Labeling Guidepage 8“The service banner is located directly below the postage payment area and service icon block and includes the class of mail and price marking.”USPS original A parcel mailed after the date in its meter or PC Postage indicium needs a date correction indicium next to the original.25DMM 604: Postage Payment Methods and Refunds“[11-2-26] A date correction indicium is required for any mailpiece not deposited by the date of mailing in the indicium. Only one date correction indicium is permitted on a mailpiece. … On flat-size mail or parcels: Next to the original indicium.”USPS original Only one is permitted on a piece.25DMM 604: Postage Payment Methods and Refunds“[11-2-26] A date correction indicium is required for any mailpiece not deposited by the date of mailing in the indicium. Only one date correction indicium is permitted on a mailpiece.”USPS original

The barcode banner text names the services and characteristics of the barcode, and it should be centered over the barcode.15Parcel Labeling Guidepage 14“The barcode banner identifies the services and characteristics of the barcode. … The barcode banner should be centered above the barcode.”USPS original USPS has called this text a service banner too, but on a label the service banner is the class-of-mail line under the service icon.45Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode (IMpb) Specificationpage 4“A service banner shall be printed in all uppercase letters centered above the barcode.”USPS original23Parcel Labeling Guidepage 8“The service banner is located directly below the postage payment area and service icon block and includes the class of mail and price marking.”USPS original A hazardous materials label should add HAZMAT to the banner.37Parcel Labeling Guidepage 39“When creating labels for packages which will carry hazardous materials, the text “HAZMAT” should be appended to the IMpb banner.”USPS original

USPS Ship labels should include USPS Ship in the banner text.16Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 58“The barcode banner text should include “USPS Ship” for USPS Ship customers.”USPS original The Parcel Labeling Guide covers USPS Ship labels, and its section 4.4 sets out the extra markings a USPS Ship Retail Entry label requires.52USPS Ship Frequently Asked Questionspage 1“The parcel labeling guide has been updated with information regarding USPS Ship label requirements.”USPS original53Parcel Labeling Guidepage 25“4.4. USPS Ship Retail Entry Labels Additional label markings are required when using USPS Ship Retail Entry.”USPS original Its Appendix F shows sample USPS Ship labels for USPS Ground Advantage and Priority Mail Express, in Figures 29 and 30.52USPS Ship Frequently Asked Questionspage 1“The parcel labeling guide has been updated with information regarding USPS Ship label requirements.”USPS original54Parcel Labeling Guidepage 49“10. Appendix F: Sample Labels Figure 29: USPS Ground Advantage USPS Ship Figure 30: Priority Mail Express USPS Ship”USPS original

The human-readable text under the barcode prints the tracking number in groups of four, without 420 or the ZIP Code.4Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 62“For all labels (non-concatenated and concatenated), the human-readable representation of the barcode must be parsed in groups of four with any remaining digits grouped at the end.”USPS original1Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 50“NOTE: The AI (420) and the ZIP Code (5- or 9-digit) are suppressed in the human-readable representation.”USPS original Black identification bars, 1/32 to 1/16 inch thick, should print over the banner and under the human-readable text.37Parcel Labeling Guidepage 39“Horizontal black lines with a thickness within the range of 1/32 to 1/16 inch thick should be printed above the USPS Banner and below the human readable representation of the IMpb data.”USPS original

The IMpb must be at least 3/4 inch tall.55Parcel Labeling Guidepage 40“The overall minimum height of the IMpb must measure at least 3/4 inch.”USPS original Its X-dimension, the width of its narrowest bar or space, must measure 0.013 to 0.021 inch.55Parcel Labeling Guidepage 40“The Intelligent Mail package barcode requires an X-dimension measuring between 0.013 inch (13.0 mils) and 0.021 inch (21.0 mils). … A GS1-128 barcode’s X-dimension is the nominal width of the narrowest bar or space element within the barcode.”USPS original A clear zone at least ten times the X-dimension must stay empty on its left and right.55Parcel Labeling Guidepage 40“A clear zone measuring at least ten times the X-dimension must be maintained immediately to the left and right of the IMpb.”USPS original USPS recommends a printer of at least 203 dots per inch.55Parcel Labeling Guidepage 40“USPS recommends a printer with a minimum resolution of 203 dots per inch (dpi) for printing the Intelligent Mail package barcode.”USPS original

The 4x6 inch label is USPS's recommended layout, with room for every element and the shipper's own information.21Parcel Labeling Guidepage 16“The 4x6 (4 inches wide and 6 inches high) label is the USPS recommended layout for parcel labels. … This layout allows for optimum spacing of all elements and still allows space for additional information and user elements to be defined by the mailer.”USPS original On smaller 4x4 and 6x3 inch labels, a 0.5-inch service icon beside the service banner is recommended.21Parcel Labeling Guidepage 16“A 6x3 inch and a 4x4 inch label are described herein and are intended to assist shippers by defining smaller formats and sizes that may more readily fit parcels which do not support the standard 4x6 inch label.”USPS original56Parcel Labeling Guidepage 17“In this case, a 0.5-inch service icon in parallel with the service banner is recommended as shown in Figure 11 below.”USPS original Every size must meet the same requirements for the IMpb segment.21Parcel Labeling Guidepage 16“On all label sizes, the Intelligent Mail package barcode segment requirements must be adhered to as described in Section 2.4 above.”USPS original

The IMmb is a two-dimensional barcode in the GS1 DataMatrix format.7 Intelligent Mail Matrix Barcode (IMmb) FAQ PagePDF page 1“The IMmb is a two-dimensional, GS1 DataMatrix barcode used for routing and tracking of packages within the USPS processing network.”USPS original It holds the same data as the IMpb.7 Intelligent Mail Matrix Barcode (IMmb) FAQ PagePDF page 1“Currently, the IMmb contains the exact same data payload as our IMpb.”USPS original It lets USPS still read a package when the IMpb becomes unreadable.7 Intelligent Mail Matrix Barcode (IMmb) FAQ PagePDF page 1“The IMmb provides redundancy to recover visibility should the traditional linear IMpb barcode become unreadable.”USPS original It needs no barcode banner, human-readable text or identification bars.57Parcel Labeling Guidepage 42“No barcode banner, human readable representation or identification bars are required.”USPS original Every USPS platform prints it, and so can mail service providers, shipping solution vendors and PC Postage companies.7 Intelligent Mail Matrix Barcode (IMmb) FAQ PagePDF page 1“Every USPS platform (Retail Units, Self Service Kiosks, Click-N-Ship, WebTools) prints the IMmb. … In addition, Mail Service Providers, Shipping Solution Vendors and PC Postage companies can also print the IMmb.”USPS original

Every class of parcel mail except Bound Printed Matter NonPresorted must carry both an IMpb and an IMmb.58IMpb/IMmb Electronic File Transmission RequirementsPDF page 1“All classes of parcel mail (with the exception of BPM NonPresorted) are required to apply IMpb & IMmb barcodes as defined in DMM 204.2.1.1.”USPS original The required IMmb sits directly left of the delivery address, which may need 3/5 inch more indentation for its clear zone.33Parcel Labeling Guidepage 12“An Intelligent Mail matrix barcode (IMmb) is required in the Delivery Address Section directly to the left of the delivery address. … This may require additional indentation of the delivery address (3/5 inch) to allow for the barcode’s required clear zone.”USPS original A second IMmb in the additional information and user segment is optional but recommended.57Parcel Labeling Guidepage 42“An IMmb is optional but recommended in the Additional Information and User segment.”USPS original On a 6x3 label, the required IMmb may move to the left of the return address.57Parcel Labeling Guidepage 42“On smaller labels, such as the 6x3 label, the IMmb in the address location may need to be relocated to left of the return address.”USPS original

USPS checks each barcode for readability and correct construction, and each label for proper content and use.59Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 21“Barcodes are validated for readability as well as their proper construction in the SSF. … Package labels are validated for proper content and use.”USPS original A barcode or label that fails gets the noncompliance code BQ, for Barcode Quality.59Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 21“Barcode data and package label contents that fail validation will be assigned a non-compliance code of “BQ” (Barcode Quality).”USPS original Barcode Quality checks catch mistakes such as these:59Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 21“Barcode data and package label contents that fail validation will be assigned a non-compliance code of “BQ” (Barcode Quality).”USPS original

• A tracking number reused within 120 days with a different destination ZIP Code, weight or Electronic File Number.59Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 21“120 Days Uniqueness, occurs when PTR receives a mailpiece with the same tracking number, with a different EFN, Destination ZIP Code, or weight within 120 days of receiving the tracking number”USPS original That number, in the Shipping Services File's header record, identifies each transmission of an electronic manifest.3Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 474“Electronic File Number uniquely identifies the transmission of an electronic manifest, and must be unique for a period of 120-days. It is located in the header record of the Shipping Services File.”USPS original
• A Mailer ID in the label that isn't valid and certified.59Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 21“Valid and Certified Mailer ID in the label that’s in Program Registration/Online Enrollment”USPS original
• A Service Type Code that isn't valid and active.59Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 21“Verify that the service type code in the barcode is a valid, active service type code”USPS original
• On a USPS Ground Advantage label, a service icon, service banner or indicia that doesn't match the Service Type Code.59Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 21“GRND ADVTG STC NO MATCHING SERVICE ICON BQ Verify the label has the correct service icon for the service type code … GRND ADVTG SERVICE BANNER NO MATCHING STC BQ Verify the label has the correct service banner for the service type code … GRND ADVTG INDICIA NO MATCHING STC BQ Verify the label has the correct indicia for the service type code”USPS original
• A weight outside the range for the Service Type Code.59Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 21“Verify that the mailer provided weight of the item being shipped falls within the range of weights for the service type code.”USPS original

Shippers pay a noncompliance fee when their noncompliant pieces pass the threshold for Barcode Quality, Manifest Quality or Address Quality.60IMpb (Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode & IMmb (Intelligent Mail® Matrix Barcode) Verification Fact SheetPDF page 1“Mailers are assessed IMpb/IMmb non-compliance fees for competitive products when non-compliant pieces exceed the threshold for one of these three requirement categories: Barcode Quality, Manifest Quality, and Address Quality.”USPS original Assessments for a missing or mismatched IMmb began January 19, 2025, for hazardous materials packages and April 1, 2025, for all others.61Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 63“Package Quality Noncompliance assessments for Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) packages with missing or mismatched IMmb will begin January 19, 2025. … Package Quality Noncompliance assessments for non-HAZMAT packages with missing or mismatched IMmb will begin April 1, 2025.”USPS original

Leaving out the second Function 1 character after the ZIP Code causes a format error.37Parcel Labeling Guidepage 39“Concatenated barcodes use a second Function 1 (FNC1) character immediately following the ZIP Code to join the routing information with the traditional PIC. … Accidentally omitting this character will cause a format error.”USPS original Improperly applied labels can cause scanning problems and weaken tracking data.62Parcel Labeling Guidepage 48“Improperly applied shipping labels can cause scanning problems and affect the quality of tracking data provided by USPS.”USPS original A label belongs fully on the address side, overlapping no side or other label, with no tape or plastic wrap over its barcodes.62Parcel Labeling Guidepage 48“Always place the label fully on the address side of the package without overlapping the side or any other label. … Do not cover USPS barcodes with tape or plastic wrap that may negatively impact readability of these barcodes.”USPS original Parcels sent without the required barcodes and electronic documentation may be rejected or intercepted.60IMpb (Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode & IMmb (Intelligent Mail® Matrix Barcode) Verification Fact SheetPDF page 1“Submitting parcels without the necessary barcodes and electronic documentation may lead to mail rejection or parcel interception.”USPS original