Abstract: Mail can be sorted automatically to point of delivery level by deriving from the address including postal code on a piece of mail a suffix which together with the postal code forms routing data which uniquely identifies the final delivery address. This is achieved automatically at the Post office sorting facility by means of an optical character reader which reads the addresses on mail items and a computer arranged to generate a suffix based on the address read. The routing data is printed as a bar code on the mail item and this allows the complete sortation to be effected automatically. Also contemplated is a progressive encoding system which can be applied as bar codes by customers as desired to mail pieces. The basic data is the routing data set to which can be added a shipment number which allows automatic revenue accounting control and a piece number which allows automatic track and trace.

Abstract: An envelope assembly for manufacture as a prestuffed, continuous form comprises two outer panels, a partition panel and an envelope flap on one of the panels. The panels having matching, glued together pin hole feed strips along sides, between which the flap extends, and line perforations for the removal of the pin hole feed strips. The partition panel is sealed along all four sides to one of the outer panels to provide a sealed, prestuffable compartment which may be opened by tear line perforations adjacent one pin hole feed strip, and has a glue line on the other side so that the compartment on the other side remains sealed when the sealed, prestuffable compartment is opened. The envelope assembly may be used as a certified mail assembly in which case the sealed compartment is used to contain a proof-of-delivery panel, for return to the mailer, which is removed with a portion of an outer panel for retention by the Post Office, while the remainder is handed to the addressee.