Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMB) allows bills to be printed with a postal bar code, thereby reducing the cost of mailing utility bills by taking advantage of USPS automation rates. The address database must be CASS Certified periodically to receive USPS discounts.

IMB can be used with either bill cards or full page bills.

The Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMB) is for use on mail in the United States. The term “Intelligent Mail” refers to services offered by the United States Postal Service for domestic mail delivery. IMB is intended to provide greater information and functionality than its predecessors POSTNET and PLANET. It effectively incorporates the routing ZIP code and tracking information included in previously used postal barcode standards.

The Postal Service has required the use of the Intelligent Mail barcode to qualify for automation prices since May 2011. Some of the benefits include improved deliver-ability, new services and increased overall efficiency.

View UB-IMB PDF