Understanding Postal: Get Smart

Because two different levels of service are proposed, one with many more requirements, the USPS will probably propose different automation rates to accompany these options. We may see a lower rate for “full-service” IMB and a higher one for “basic.”

Catalogers should look at IMB conversion and the changes they need to make to comply with the proposed electronic documentation requirements now. This may be difficult in the short term since the requirements aren’t finalized, but it’s one of those times the USPS needs to hear from catalogers and other mail users, as well as their printers and service providers, about their ability to meet the requirements by January 2009. The USPS has set up an e-mail address for mail users to share their concerns and questions around the IMB/documentation requirements (imb@usps.gov).