Mail.Dat for IMB

The question is whether you have to have Mail.dat in the Basic Category for IMB?

I don't know why end users think you have to have Mail.dat in order to use the IMB. There are two levels, Full Service IMB and Basic IMB. Basic isn't going away at all and will apply to most mailers. Full Service will continue to grow but isn't meant for all mailers. With lower volumes, Full Service is overkill.

May 2011 is the big date for IMB - so what people who have DTM and BCCLE need to know?

Those individuals that are not choosing to be Full Service should know that all "Lite Edition" product users have the Basic IMB available to them and can mail using that IMB. Somehow, somewhere, someone is scaring low volume mailers into thinking they CAN'T mail unless they are going with IMB FS, this is NOT accurate or true. The best place to find additional information related to the Basic IMB would be at ribbs.usps.gov.

IMB- New Mail Barcode for Intelligent Use

Intelligent Mail barcode is the result of the Postal Service’s efforts to develop more robust codes capable of encoding more information, while minimizing the space used on the mailpiece. The Intelligent Mail barcode (IMB) offers:

• Continue earning lowest postal rates
• Better customer intelligence
• Free Address Change Service
• Visibility into the mailstream
• More effective returned mail processing
• Better scan rates and improved deliverability
• Better looking mail pieces (fewer barcodes)
• Delivery ConfirmationTM
• Access to new services

What are the real concerns facing Mailers?

Price. In todays market, the biggest concern is how much this will cost or save. The savings can add up if you mail in quantity. Early compliance for the Intelligent Mail barcode discount offers:

• $.01 per 1000 pieces of mail Standard
• $.03 per 1000 pieces of mail First class

For smaller mailers, there are other incentives. Indirect savings through a more efficient mailing system also save everyone money and peace of mind. As you consider how to implement Intelligent Mail in your company, you should recognize that every approach offers unique solutions:

• Saving space on the envelope means less product waste
• Less undeliverable mail means higher ROI
• A forward thinking green approach will give you marketing advantage

Why should mailers care about the IMB?

Two reasons: First, mailers must be using the Intelligent Mail barcode on their mail as of May 2011 in order to qualify for automation prices. Planet Code bar codes will no longer be in effect after the May 2011 deadline.

The second reason is the extra data and tracking capabilities available through IMB. Even basic IMB can track mail and predict delivery dates. Those using Full-Service IMB will receive mail feedback about address quality and get automated address correction information.

Find out More IMB Specifics with the Q&A IMB

Call Us Today for more Information about how IMB can help!

888.970.9944
fti@freelancetech.com