Australia Post barcode in Python via Java

About Australia Post Symbology

Australia Post symbology, also known as Australia Post 4-State (4SB), is a linear barcode type introduced by Australia Post for mail and parcel services. It was developed to improve the efficiency and accuracy of mail sorting and delivery processes. The Australia Post barcode specification has been designed to meet the requirements of the Australian postal system and is widely used across the country for domestic and international mail services.

Australia Post Features

• Barcode Structure: Australia Post barcodes consist of four bars, each representing one of four possible states: full bar, ascender, tracker, and descender. These states can encode data in the alphanumeric format, including postal codes, delivery point identifiers, and routing information.
• Intelligent Mail Indicia (IMI): Australia Post barcodes contain an Intelligent Mail Indicia (IMI) section, which provides additional information, such as postage paid, service level, and machine identification.
Compatibility with Postnet: The Australia Post barcode standard is compatible with the Postnet specification used in some other countries, facilitating international mail processing and delivery.

Applications:

• Mail Sorting and Delivery: The primary application of the Australia Post symbology corresponds to postal services, such as sorting and delivering mail and parcels. It enables automated processing and sorting of items, thus reducing manual operations and increasing efficiency.
• Postal Services: This barcode type is often used to perform various postal services, including letter post, parcel post, registered mail, and express delivery. It facilitates tracking and delivery of postal items and ensures accurate and timely delivery.
• E-commerce and Retail: Australia Post barcodes are widely utilized in e-commerce and retail sectors on shipping labels and tracking packages. It enables integration with postal systems and improves end-to-end visibility of shipments.

The structure of Australia Post barcodes ensures efficient mail processing and delivery. Its compatibility with Postnet facilitates international mail services and enables connectivity with other postal systems. Implementation of this barcode standard allowed improving the accuracy of postal services and enabling reliable tracking and delivery.