The Postal Regulatory Commission has approved a 3% postage discount for First Class and Standard Mail containing QR Codes.  The discount is effective July 1st to August 31st, 2011.  Step into the future with a QR Code on your next direct mail project; everybody's doing it! 

I. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Postal Service proposes to implement a First-Class Mail and Standard Mail promotion with the intent to highlight the effective integration of direct mail with mobile technology. To qualify for the program, the following conditions must be met:

• Mailpieces must be First-Class Mail Presort letters or flats or Standard Mail commercial Letters or Flats, including Nonprofit Standard Mail.

• Mailpieces must include a two-dimensional mobile barcode inside or on the mailpiece, and the must be readable by a mobile smart phone. One dimensional barcodes, although readable by smart phones, do not qualify. If the mobile barcode is on the outside of the mailpiece, it must comply with all Domestic Mail Manual mail design requirements.
• The objective of the two-dimensional mobile barcode on eligible mail pieces must be to initiate interaction with consumers via mobile smart phones to market, promote, or educate. Two-dimensional barcodes used for other purposes – such as:
  • for internal corporate operational processes, or
  • for postage evidencing are not eligible for the discount.
• All mailpieces in the mailing must contain a qualifying two-dimensional mobile barcode. Each postage statement is considered a mailing for purposes of the promotion.
• Mailing documentation must be submitted electronically through mail.dat, mail.XML, or Postal Wizard, and mail must be sent with postage paid using a permit imprint. Mailings submitted via Postal Wizard cannot exceed 9,999 pieces.
• Except for the IMb full-service discount, the mailing may not claim any other incentive.
• Qualifying mailpieces will receive a three percent discount on postage.

QR Code is registered trademark of DENSO WAVE INCORPORATED