USPS publishes new IMB standards in Federal Register

The US Postal Service has published an advanced copy of its new mailing standards for Intelligent Mail barcodes (IMBs) in the Federal Register.

The notice outlines the basic and full-service options for using IMBs. According to the notice, full-service users will also receive “start-the-clock” information documenting when the USPS takes possession of each mailing. And, pending USPS Board of Governors' approval, full-service users will also receive address correction information for letters and flats at no charge.

In addition, the USPS said it will recommend to the board of governors that mailers who use the full-service option for letters and flats should pay a lower automation price than those using the basic option or Postnet barcodes.