Zip barcodes

Question

Before I buy the 2016 Office for Mac, I would like to know if new Word version makes it possible to print zip barcodes on envelopes. For the money MS charges, this should be included, as it was in many previous versions...??

Dave

Answer 1

The truth is that the USPS switched from Postnet to Intelligent Mail in 2009 (although Postnet was supported until January of 2013). For some factual information on why Microsoft no longer includes Postnet Bar Codes please see:

The POSTNET **bar** **code** that Word generates no longer...

Your best source for current policy is the USPS, itself. I'm not sure of your need, but many don't realize that bar codes are intended for bulk mailing automation pricing purposes, not individual correspondence. Unless you do a significant amount of monthly billing, advertising, etc. it well may not be worth investing in the new system... It's my understanding that any mail not presented to the Post Office as part of a qualified bulk mailing isn't even scanned for a code.

Answer 2

And you'll also find personal size aerosol sprays that claim to dispel evil spirits :-)

I don't know anything about the OP's requirement, but the overriding point is that any organization which generates enough mail to qualify for bulk rate should already be on top of the matter. For anything other than qualifying bulk mailings, bar codes not only are not necessary, they're pointless. Moreover, my understanding is that use of them for individual piece mail is discouraged by the USPS. I very well could be wrong, but it seems quite unlikely that any for profit/non-profit/not-for-profit business or organization that qualifies for Bulk Rate Postage would be using Mac Word 2016 for the purpose :-)

Answer 3

If you search the web you will probably find a commercial add-in that gives Microsoft Word the ability to generate current bar codes.

Answer 4

Yes you are correct. But if the person does run a business and need the bulk mail, I did give an alternative. At one time I was Treasure of an Electronics Association and that is the reason I had to have the feature.  Although I still use the Label Printer I don't use the barcodes. But it is available for those that need it.

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Answer 5

At the Request of the Post Office. Microsoft was asked remove that. Its seems that for Residential Mail. It only for mass mails by Business. They don't want individuals to use Barcodes.

So to solve the issue the just removed the feature. It was in I believe, 2004 or 2008 But never was part of 2011.  

However, If you go to an Office Supply and buy a DYMO label writer, that uses roll labels it has an excellent program that provide Barcodes that can be printed either above or below the addresses. If your going to use Barcode I believe Proper placement is above the address now Years ago it was below. I've had one for years The one I have is older and uses USB-2. I am sure the new Turbo models probably use USB-3.

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Disclaimer:

The questions, discussions, opinions, replies & answers I create, are solely mine and mine alone, and do not reflect upon my position as a Community Moderator.