How do you read a postmark barcode?

Every POSTNET barcode includes at least 32 lines. The first and last long lines mark the beginning and end of the code so it can easily be read by machines. The remaining lines are split into six groups of five bars. Each one of these five bars represents a single digit.

What does the barcode on the bottom of the envelope tell you?

This unique barcode is printed on envelopes with the recipient’s address. There’s a lot of data contained in those little black bars! They identify the distribution center, the carrier route, the sender’s business mailer ID, and even the type of mail being sent (first class, standard, etc).

Where is the barcode on a letter?

Where the IMb? On letters, the IMb is located in the address block or the barcode clear zone in the lower right of the envelope. On flats, it must be on the address side (or front side) of the mailpiece and at least 1/3-inch from any edge of the piece. The IMb is typically printed by the mailer or the presort house.

How can I track a letter without a tracking number?

Go to https://www.usps.com/help/missing-mail.htm and click “Start Your Missing Mail Search.” You’ll have to provide the sender and receiver’s address, the size of the package, and other identifying information.

How can I tell when an envelope was mailed?

If there is no postmark on the envelope then there is no way to tell when it was mailed. Unless the barcode is a tracking barcode, which would actually be a green and white stuck on addition to the envelope.

Is there a way to tell when a letter has been mailed?

There is no way to tell without that. Before I retired I ran those machines many times and I know that not all letters will get postmarked. When you are dealing with one million letters in one evening, it doesn’t always go perfectly. If there is no postmark on the envelope then there is no way to tell when it was mailed.

Why do envelopes have vertical bars on the bottom?

This small pattern of vertical bars plays an important role in speeding your envelope mail through the USPS system. You can see one type of FIM pattern on the envelope design in Figure 1 (in the upper right hand corner).

What does a green and white barcode on an envelope mean?

Unless the barcode is a tracking barcode, which would actually be a green and white stuck on addition to the envelope. You have to pay extra for this tracking, Most likely the barcode you are speaking of is a automation generated spray on barcode which denotes the address it is being delivered to.