Abstract: Methods and systems consistent with the present invention facilitate mailpiece processing by processing a mailpiece using an Address Directory Link (ADL) format. The present invention allows for mail to be sent when the sender may not know the delivery address of the desired recipient. In one embodiment, a method includes recognizing the ADL format on a mailpiece; reading ADL formatted data from the mailpiece; and determining a delivery address based on the ADL formatted data using an ADL database. Consistent with the present invention, this method may further include delivering the mailpiece to the delivery address associated with the ADL formatted data.

Abstract: A material handling system which is particularly suitable for sorting mail is disclosed. The system involves tagging each piece or item with an item code linked to the electronic image of the item. After tagging, the items can be stored in trays, containers, or other temporary storage locations. The video image obtained from the items are then processed. In processing mail, the address is converted, e.g., to a destination code. The results of the processing (e.g., the destination code) are stored in an electronic random access memory along with the item code of the piece. The item is then scanned to read the item code, and the destination code is applied to the item.