Seeking modern logistics transformation, the British Royal Mail launched barcode stamps

As part of its modernisation process, the Royal Mail is preparing to add unique barcodes to stamps to pave the way for better customer services in the future.

From March 23, Royal Mail will add barcodes to a limited number of Second Class stamps as part of a larger modernisation drive by the company. The unique barcode will pave the way for innovative customer services and benefits in the future.

The initial trial will see the new barcode appear on around 20 million Second Class stamps, in a colour matching the stamp colour, alongside the main body of the stamp, separated by simulated perforations. These stamps are being supplied to UK businesses through retailer Viking Direct and Royal Mail online channels.

The move is part of Royal Mail's ongoing modernisation programme to bring greater convenience to customers.

Royal Mail disrupted its daily postal service last October when it launched a Parcel Collection service across the UK. Parcel Collection enables posties to collect parcels and returns from customers for a fraction of the cost. In addition to offering a new level of convenience, the move also enables online sellers and online shoppers to post or return prepaid merchandise from the comfort of their homes.

Last November, Royal Mail introduced more air delivery services to provide greater convenience and flexibility to recipients. This will allow customers who are not at home to choose alternative delivery methods while their parcel is on the way. Under the new regulations, recipients can request delivery on another day or arrange to collect their mail from Royal Mail customer service points and post offices.

In December, Royal Mail joined forces with UK drone companies including DronePrep and Skyports and worked out the technical kinks to become the first national courier in the UK to deliver parcels to recipients via unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The consortium arranged for a drone delivery to a remote lighthouse on the Isle of Mull, a first for the UK.

The first batch of barcoded stamps will be issued from March 23 through Viking Direct and Royal Mail shops. "This initiative will make Royal Mail one of the first postal authorities in the world to add a unique barcode to stamps," said Nick Landon, chief commercial officer of Royal Mail. "We are looking to transform the humble stamp to provide our customers with new and more convenient services in the future."

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