What is a USPS PLANET barcode?
PLANET Code (Postal Alpha Numeric Encoding Technique) is a legacy USPS barcode that was used to track letters and flats through the mail stream. It looks like POSTNET but inverted: where POSTNET uses short bars, PLANET uses tall ones, and the reverse.
It holds 11 or 13 digits. USPS has retired PLANET Code, and its tracking role is now covered by the Intelligent Mail barcode (IMb), which combines tracking and ZIP routing in one symbol.
Use this generator to reproduce or test legacy layouts only. For real mail tracking today, use the USPS Intelligent Mail barcode.
What data can USPS PLANET hold?
Digits only: 11 or 13 digits. Spaces are ignored.
Recommended size
PLANET uses fixed bar heights and spacing defined by USPS. Print at the specified dimensions without stretching.
More Postal Codes barcodes
How to Create a Barcode in 3 Steps
Choose a barcode type
Select a category on the left (e.g. Linear Codes), then the exact type like Code-128.
Enter data & customise
Type your data — we check it live and add check digits. Adjust size, font and colors.
Download or print
Get PNG, JPG, SVG, PDF or EPS, or print a full sheet of labels in one click.
Why Use QRCodeChamp Barcode Generator
125+ barcode types
Linear, 2D, GS1, postal, healthcare and payment codes.
Live validation
Friendly errors with one-click fixes and automatic check digits.
Print-ready PDF
Exact mm sizes, label sheets (Avery, A4, 4×6 thermal).
Bulk barcodes
Paste a list or generate number sequences.
Choose the Type of Barcode You Need
Not sure which barcode to use? Start with what you need it for — we’ll pick the right type.
Frequently Asked Questions
USPS has retired PLANET Code, so use the Intelligent Mail barcode for tracking current mail.
PLANET was for tracking and POSTNET for ZIP routing, and their tall and short bars are inverted. IMb now does both jobs.
Not directly. IMb needs a USPS-assigned Mailer ID and its own tracking code structure.