The Benefits and Implications of Adding USPS Barcodes to Envelopes
Is adding a USPS barcode to your envelopes a wise move? This article explores the pros and cons of manually adding a barcode to your mail, detailing why it might not be beneficial for the average mail sender.
Understanding USPS Mail Processing
The United States Postal Service (USPS) has a highly advanced and efficient mail processing system. The barcode you see on commercial mail is not something you can replicate by printing it yourself. The machines used for processing mail are incredibly fast, capable of scanning and processing barcodes in just 1/16 of a second. This means that adding your own barcode would not provide any additional benefit in terms of processing time or efficiency.
Why You Won't Get a Postage Discount
Many people wonder if adding a USPS barcode to their mail might result in a postage discount. Unfortunately, this is not the case. The barcode on your envelope does not carry a discount; it only serves as a means for the USPS to efficiently track and process your mail. If you try to add your own barcode, it could potentially interfere with the USPS's system, leading to processing delays and other complications.
Equipment and Bulk Mail
While adding a barcode yourself might be beneficial for large-scale mailers sending hundreds or thousands of letters daily, it requires specialized equipment. Bulk mailers can use high-speed barcode printers and encoding systems to save time and ensure that every letter is processed quickly and accurately. However, for individual mailers, using the postal service’s standard address formatting is recommended. Simply print your address clearly and in the proper format to ensure it is read easily by the processing machines.
User-Generated Barcodes
Some sources suggest that Microsoft Word can print USPS standard barcodes on envelopes. While this might have been possible in the past, it is not a reliable or recommended practice. In most cases, the USPS assists in encoding the barcodes after the stamps are affixed, ensuring that the barcodes are accurately and efficiently scanned. Manual attempts to add barcodes could result in errors, leading to delays or non-delivery of your mail.
Saving Money with Meter Machines
If you frequently send a high volume of mail, there is an alternative that can save you money: the meter system. Meter machines, available from companies like Pitney Bowes, allow you to purchase pre-printed indicium that can be affixed to your envelopes. This method can save you a few cents per letter and is more environmentally friendly. Metered mail is still processed and tracked just like regular mail but offers financial benefits for frequent mailers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, adding a USPS barcode to your envelopes is not beneficial for the average mailer. It does not provide any additional processing time savings or cost benefits. For bulk mailers, specialized equipment and processes are necessary. For individual mailers, following proper address formatting guidelines is the key to ensuring efficient and accurate mail processing. If you are a frequent mailer, consider investing in a meter machine for cost savings and environmental benefits.