USPS is upgrading all postage meters to use a new system called Intelligent Mail Indicia (IMI). This replaces Information Based Indicia (IBI), an older system that has been in use for over 20 years. IMI has even more modern technology that has been slowly rolled out over the past decade.
What does this mean? And how will these changes affect your business? Let’s start with the basics. Intelligent Mail Seal (IMI) is technology postal meter Used to send information to USPS. After June 30, 2024, postage meters still using IBI will be decertified. However, USPS will accept postage from decertified meters until December 31, 2024. After this period, the postage meter must continue to use his IMI technology.
Fortunately, Stamps.com customers don’t need to worry about these changes. We are dedicated to making this transition as smooth as possible, and no changes are required on your end. No special action is required, but it is worth understanding IMI and its benefits.
Main dates and main points
- Stamps.com customers don’t need to do anything.
- USPS will decertify all mail meters on June 30, 2024.
- USPS will no longer accept uncertified mail after December 31, 2024.
- IBI has been in use for over 20 years, so IMI provides the latest technology in postage meters.
What is Intelligent Mail Indicia (IMI)?
seal, or permit sealis of the form printed postage This replaces traditional stamp and postage meter markings. IBI, similar to IMI, is a type of printed postage. It was created to provide more centralized data and enhanced security for the USPS.
After more than 20 years of IBI, USPS has been rolling out IMI over the past decade. IMI is built from IBI but has more modern technology.to conform to their opinion 10 years of effortsUSPS will now force all postage meters to adopt IMI.
Will these changes affect mailing and shipping?
If you are a Stamps.com customer, this change will occur automatically. Our team is already working on these changes and your workflow will not be interrupted. Additionally, these changes are expected to be implemented by December 30, 2024 to comply with the new regulations.
If you have any questions about these changes, please contact our support team via email or phone at 855-608-2677, MF, 8am to 8pm Central Time.
How will IMI benefit me?
IMI has several advantages. These include:
- Enhanced security
- Improve email efficiency
- Automated and streamlined returns
Enhanced security
IMI provides even stronger data encryption and fraud protection. Encrypted data prevents information from being accessed or stolen. Additionally, stronger security checks increase the likelihood of detecting fraudulent activity sooner.
Improve email efficiency
IMI lays the foundation for automating tasks that can cause delays. Avoiding such delays will speed up delivery times and reduce waiting times. This new technology also reduces the possibility of adjustments being made for inaccurate measurements.
Automated and efficient returns
IMI provides more detailed tracking so you can easily track your refund. The IMI barcode also includes information such as insurance, all in one place.
Need to update your postage meter?
If you use a postage meter, these changes can be unexpected, expensive, time-consuming, and complicated. You should also ask your provider about their IMI implementation plans. If you are a Stamps.com customer, these changes will take place.our net stamp® Postage rates are current and do not need to be updated. You can purchase and print postage online anytime, anywhere, as no special equipment is required.
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