Barcoding - Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the barcode that appears on letters?

The 4-state barcode is a series of vertical lines, each of which contains encrypted information. In the case of Post's barcode format, the key element is the Delivery Point Identifier (DPID), which comprises 16 bars of the barcode, and which is linked to the delivery address.

The 4-state barcode is used to increase efficiency in mail sorting, and allows companies to access PreSort Letters Service pricing.

Find out more about the 4-state Barcode by downloading the Barcoding Guides available in the Library.

What is the PAF?

The Postal Address File (PAF) is an extract from Australia Post's core addressing database: the National Address File (NAF), which has been developed for the purpose of supporting Post's mail processing and delivery operations.

The PAF is only made available through the AMAS Program.

What is a DPID?

A DPID (Delivery Point Identifier) is an unique eight-digit number which has been randomly allocated to each address maintained in Australia Post's National Address File (NAF). The NAF is the source database for the Postal Address File (PAF) used in AMAS-approved address matching software. The DPID is the key component of the printed barcode that makes the barcode unique.

What is 'AMAS'?

AMAS stands for Address Matching Approval System. The AMAS Program certifies Address-Matching software to ensure that DPIDs are assigned in accordance with the address matching rules devised by Post. To correctly assign DPIDs, companies need to use AMAS-approved software.

How can I obtain a copy of the PAF?

The PAF (Postal Address File) is only made available through the Address Matching Approval System (AMAS) Program to software developers wanting to produce AMAS approved software. Therefore, the only way to access the PAF data is either by becoming a licensee, or by accessing it via an AMAS-approved software product.

How do I barcode my mail?

A step-by-step process is outlined in the Barcoding for PreSort pages

What does AMAS-approved software do?

Address-matching software compares address data on customer databases against the data stored in the Postal Address File (PAF). When an address match is achieved, the assigned DPID will be appended to the customer record. If software is unable to find a corresponding address in the PAF, address matching rules allow some modifications to the customer record in order to match to a record in the PAF. Sometimes a DPID will not be able to be assigned because there are too many differences between the customer database record and the addresses contained within the PAF.

Why does barcoding software need to be AMAS-certified?

The PAF contains DPIDs that can only be assigned to an address through AMAS-approved software. The DPID is used in the mail sorting process, and barcodes need to be assigned correctly within the given rules to minimise the chance of mail being sorted incorrectly, resulting in mail delays, or mail pieces being returned to sender.

The matching process used in AMAS software allows some changes to a customer address record in order to match to a corresponding address record in the PAF, and assign the PAF DPID for that record. The software is tested and certified by Australia Post through the AMAS Program to ensure that the rules are applied correctly in the software, to avoid unintended assignment of DPID where possible.

What if I want to develop my own AMAS-software?

If you wish to develop Address Matching software, you are required to register with the AMAS Program. There are direct and indirect costs that apply. See the AMAS Program Overview page for more information about becoming an AMAS Participant.

When I process my database through the AMAS-software, do I have to use the PAF address on the mailpiece if it's different to the address in my database?

No, it is no longer a requirement of the PreSort Letters Service to print the PAF address on the mail piece.

The key thing to remember is: if your customer record is 'good enough' to get a DPID assigned through AMAS software, it's good enough to be printed - you are allowed to keep your input record, but assign the PAF DPID on the envelope. Of course, we also recommend that you check with your customer to ensure that the customer record is still correct.