Your go-to destination for all things postage!
Simplify your mailing operations, stay updated on USPS changes, and find expert tips to save time and money. Whether you're
managing domestic or international mail, our resources help you streamline every step of the process.
What is Intelligent Mail
Indicia (IMI) Compliance?
The USPS introduced Intelligent Mail Indicia (IMI) to replace the outdated Information Based Indicia Program (IBIP). IMI offers businesses a more secure, efficient way to manage postage with benefits like automated refunds, detailed reporting, and better regulatory compliance.
USPS Postage Rate Changes
The USPS will implement a nationwide rate increase on January 18, 2026 affecting several key shipping services. This update may impact your mailing equipment and workflows.
View Full DetailsShipping Services Increasing
- Priority Mail Express – ↑ 5.1%
- Priority Mail – ↑ 6.6%
- USPS Ground Advantage – ↑ 7.8%
- Parcel Select – ↑ 6.0%
Note: First-Class Mail rates will not increase.
What Do You Need to Do?
1. If Your Mailing System Is Connected via LAN:
✅ No action required.
Your IX-series or LAN-connected machine will automatically download and activate the new rate table before January 18, 2026.
2. If Your System Is Not Connected via LAN
Follow these steps:
- Connect your mailing machine to the internet.
- From the Main Menu, open Online Services.
- Select Generic Call.
- When complete, your device will confirm the new rate table download.
- The update will automatically activate on January 18, 2026.
3. Using Neoship, SMART, or Smart Essentials?
Good news — no action is needed.
Your software rates will automatically update.
- Press the “Menu” button.
- Select “Supervisor Mode” and press the “OK” button.
- Enter the code 09430 and press the “OK” button.
- Select “Online Services” and press the “OK” button.
- Restart the postal meter once the software update is complete.
- Press the “Menu” button.
- Select “Online Services“
- Select “Generic Call“
- Select “OK” to confirm.
- If the postage machine send you an error message, please call our team to assist you.
- Press the “Funding” button. This button looks like a stack of coins
- Select the “Audit” or “Postal Inspection” option from the menu.
- Select “OK” to confirm
How to Mail Smarter and Save Money
Even with postage rate increases, you can optimize your mailing operations to cut costs and
increase efficiency. Explore these practical tips to stay ahead:
Compare Rates
Shop around! Don’t feel obligated to stick with one carrier for all your shipments. Compare rates from various carriers to find the most cost-effective option that still meets your service needs. Think of it like any other purchase—find the best value for your budget.
Embrace Digital Solutions
Streamline your mailing process by using cloud-based mailing software like Quadient Impress. As a trusted Quadient dealer, CBS offers tools that allow you to send one or thousands of letters in minutes—all from the comfort of your desk. Your data is securely hosted in state-of-the-art data centers with redundant infrastructure and SSL encryption, ensuring safe and seamless operations.
Leverage Shape-Based Pricing
Mail pieces that exceed specific dimensions are classified as a larger shape, resulting in higher postage costs. Avoid surprises by ensuring your mail fits within USPS-approved dimensions. Access our free Shape-Based Pricing template to ensure accurate pricing for your mail.
Optimize Dimensional Weight
USPS calculates postage based on size, thickness, and weight, particularly for parcels. Reduce costs by using flat-rate boxes whenever possible, selecting the smallest box that fits your item, and utilizing USPS-compliant shipping software for accurate pricing and discounts.
Take Advantage of Commercial-Base Pricing
Unlock commercial-based discounts by adhering to USPS guidelines for mailing shapes and sizes. Our Shape-Based Pricing template can help you identify cost-saving opportunities while ensuring your mail is within specifications.
