Mailing & Fulfillment — Looming Changes for Mailers

"Unenhanced" letterpress meters (those without an automatic shut-off capability) were removed from use by December 31, 2006; "enhanced" letterpress meters (those with an automatic shut-off capability) are the ones that must be out of use by the end of 2008.

The biggest single event--or set of events--will be those surrounding the May 2009 implementation of the Intelligent Mail Barcode. In addition to eventually replacing the current Postnet format with the IMB on letters and flats, the Postal Service proposes that the transition include adoption of IMB-based container and pallet labels, heightened emphasis on electronic submission of postage statements and documentation, and electronic scheduling of mail entry.