Direct Mail Gets Smarter!

In May, 2011, the United States Postal Service will be rolling out its next generation of mail delivery services – Intelligent Mail Barcodes (IMB) -- the "USPS Automation Initiative" for direct mail with advanced information technology. We've come a long way! The following information provided by Mike Jais of Graphics Plus.

By using the new Intelligent Mail Barcode, direct mail will now have the benefits that come with online tracking. From the moment a piece leaves your mail house to the moment it reaches your prospects, it will be connected to the USPS network via a unique barcode and this information will be available to you. What does this mean for marketers? Analytics! You will now have the power to test different types of direct mail media and obtain a detailed measure of the response. You will be able to learn more about your prospects and improve your targeted marketing. Use of the IMB will provide additional benefits:

• Improved delivery efficiency and less undeliverable mail while at the same time updating your mailing list


• Address changes for First Class Mail (while in the system!)


• Predictable mail piece delivery dates


• Uniquely identified mail, enabling end-to-end tracking of mail


• Savings by having access to all available postal discounts!

Envelope window sizes will change to accommodate the IMB code.

For more information, contact Mike Jais, Graphics Plus, 630-968-9073,

www.gpdelivers.com