Intelligent Mail Matrix Barcode (IMmb)

Shipping labels on irregularly shaped packages, softpacks, and polybags can easily become distorted or creased during automated parcel processing making reading the traditional, linear IMpb barcode challenging to scan.  USPS has developed the IMmb to help overcome these challenges and improve package visibility.  IMmb barcodes contain the same data as is in the IMpb barcode; however, they use a more robust, space-efficient robust barcode symbology for encodation. The addition of two (2) supplemental IMmbs to the IMpb on a USPS shipping label results in enhanced package visibility with less mail rework.

Description

A quality tracking barcode provides optimal enroute visibility for packages. The smaller barcode footprint allows two IMmb barcodes to be added within unused areas of existing standard shipping labels.  The result is redundancy of the barcode data giving sorters two additional chances to read the barcode thereby increasing the volume and quality of scan data collected on processing equipment. This boosts the potential for more complete enroute visibility, increased data payload, reduction in delays due to manual processing, increased customer satisfaction, and reduction in calls to call centers.

The IMmb enhances the data rich, digital trail created by the IMmb further enhancing the customer experience – customers know where their packages are and when they’ll arrive – and fueling business intelligence to provide world class service and help your business grow

        The IMmb enhances the data rich, digital trail created by the IMmb further enhancing the customer experience –                  customers know where their packages are and when they’ll arrive – and fueling business intelligence to provide world          class service and help your business grow. 

Featured Resources

FAQs
10/10/2024
Intelligent Mail Matrix Barcode (IMmb) FAQ Page

The IMmb is a two-dimensional, GS1 DataMatrix barcode used for routing and tracking of packages within the USPS processing network.  Presently the IMmb is used in combination with the Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) to improve processing efficiency. 

Technical Specifications
10/10/2024
Intelligent Mail Matrix Barcode (IMmb) Technical Specifications

Shipping labels on irregularly-shaped packages, softpacks, and polybags can easily become distorted or creased during automated parcel processing making reading the traditional, linear IMpb barcode challenging to scan.  USPS has developed the IMmb to help overcome these challenges and improve package visibility.  IMmb barcodes contain the same data as is in the IMpb barcode; however, they use a more robust, space-efficient robust barcode symbology for encodation.  The smaller barcode footprint allows two IMmb barcodes to be added within unused areas of existing standard shipping labels.  The result is redundancy of the barcode data giving sorters two additional chances to read the barcode.