The PLANET barcode (Postal Alpha Numeric Encoding Technique) is a type of barcode symbology used by the United States Postal Service (USPS) primarily for encoding delivery point information on mail pieces. It is used to improve the speed, accuracy, and efficiency of mail processing and delivery.
Purpose: The PLANET barcode is used to track and route mail within the USPS system. It typically encodes information related to the delivery point, such as the recipient's ZIP+4 code (which includes the basic ZIP code plus four additional digits) and other relevant data.
Numeric and Alphanumeric Encoding: PLANET barcodes can encode both numeric digits (0-9) and alphabetic characters (A-Z).
Barcode Structure: A PLANET barcode typically consists of a start character, data characters (representing the encoded information), and a check digit for error detection.
Generating PLANET Barcodes:
Printing:
Scanning:
PLANET barcodes are primarily used within the USPS for:
In this example, the barcode includes data characters representing the encoded delivery point information, along with a check digit for error detection.
PLANET barcodes play a crucial role in the postal industry by enabling automated processing, improving delivery accuracy, and providing tracking capabilities for mail pieces. They are essential tools used by the USPS to handle large volumes of mail efficiently and effectively.