As we’ve mentioned in previous blog posts, we are working every day to find ways to get your direct mail piece into the mail stream for the maximum postal discounts. Here is one of the tools we use to do just that:
the Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMb)
You may have heard of the IMb, and because the setup of the barcode is done on our end, many people don’t understand the strength of its content. So what is the barcode and what does this barcode do for you?
The IMb provides a lot of information that helps the post office manage mail more efficiently through the use of automation. When you make mailing easy for the Post Office, you reap the benefits in the form of automation discounts.
In addition to better discounts, using IMb also allows our customers to use the “Mail Anywhere” service – one of the newer features of IMb. Simply put, because we are a full-service mailer using IMb, we can mail from our facility using your existing local permit (or dropship anywhere in the country to enjoy deeper discounts). The IMb introduces flexibility. For example, a mail piece with a NY indicia mails from Hartford with no additional permits needed and postage funds are withdrawn from the NY permit location.
How can you get started if you have never used IMb before?
All we need is your mailing permit number and post office, and from that, we can get your Mailer ID (MID) and retrieve your Customer Reference ID (CRID). With that information, we can set you up in our system, and you are ready to go.
If you have a question, always ask!
Regulations can be confusing when you’re starting out. To be sure your design will work, it’s a good idea to get in touch with us early in the process. We can tell you if the finished piece will be mailable and suggest ways to make it eligible for the lowest possible postage rates. By following these suggestions, you can design a mail piece that is cost-effective, and more importantly, reaches your prospective customers.
