As of Spring 2016, Royal Mail will start to scan barcodes on all domestic and international account mail, including parcels. As part of this new process, Royal Mail requires that labels now contain a 2D Smart Barcode. The new barcode requirement will make it easier for Royal Mail to track mail in its vast network. If you are currently printing Royal Mail PPI labels from Magento, Brightpearl or Shopify you may have some questions. We hope to answer those questions for you here.
If you are using Royal Mail and have questions regarding the barcodes changes coming up in October, read on. We have compiled a list of common questions and answers below.
Is Shiptheory 2D Barcode Ready?
Yes. Shiptheory's Royal Mail integration already provides 2D barcodes. There is nothing you need to do. If you do not already see 2D barcodes on your Shiptheory Royal Mail labels, you will soon.
Royal Mail PPI Labels
If you are currently using PPI labels, you should move to 2D barcodes to avoid being charged more for postage from Royal Mail. We understand that PPI labels will be subject to ongoing fractional cost increases not applicable to 2D barcoded labels.
Do Barcodes Cost Money?
No. The new barcodes will not carry an additional charge.
Whats The Barcode Ready Deadline?
Royal Mail are actively encouraging customers to adopt 2D Smart Barcodes from October 2015 and will start to scan the barcodes in Spring 2016.
We would recommend becoming barcode ready before the end of October 2015. If you need help getting barcode ready, please get in touch with us.
I'm Using OBA. What Do I Do?
OBA handles your Royal Mail billing. Its likely you use something else to generate your labels. If it's Shiptheory, you are covered. If it's not Shiptheory, please use your regular technical support channels to find out if you are barcode ready.
I'm Not Using Shiptheory. What Do I Do?
If you are not using Shiptheory you will need to find out if your current label integration supports 2D barcodes.
If you would like to try Shiptheory, we have a free account that never expires. Try for free here.
