Abstract: Sorting machine for sorting mail items according to destination codes, each mail item being provided with a destination address, includes: first and second sorting routes for sorting mail items of first and second format ranges, respectively, and an output station. The output station includes first output positions for the first sorting route for receipt of sorted mail items from the first format range, and a same number of second output positions for the second sorting route. Each first output position is arranged each time at one second output position to form a combined output position. Each combined output position is associated each time with one of the number of destination codes. Each destination code is associated with one or more destination addresses. Each combined output position is associated each time with one of the number of destination codes. Each destination code is associated with one or more destination addresses.

Abstract: Installation and method for updating an address database in a database memory (44) containing recorded address records, making use of the following steps: receiving and processing address data as shown on items of post; storing the address data; the determination of a quality rating for the address data on the basis of predefined criteria; comparison of the address data with the address records stored in the database memory (44); and updating the content of the database memory (44) on the basis of the quality rating and the comparison of the address data with the stored address records.

Abstract: A method and system for checking a franking mark (28), comprising at least an identification code and a unique bit string, said system comprising means for: a) reading the franking mark (28), b) decoding the franking mark (28), c) checking whether the identification code is correct by comparing it to data stored in a memory (40), d) checking whether the unique bit string is valid by comparing it to data stored in said memory (40).

Abstract: A method and device for printing a franking mark on a document by making available a unique bit string; establishing an identification code; and securely printing the franking mark on the document. The franking mark at least includes information relating to the bit string and the identification code. The bit string is selected from a centrally stored set of unique bit strings, and the unique bit strings which are made available for use are centrally registered.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a system for making up and managing a logistic chain for transporting goods, such as parcels. Such a chain may consist of a combination of collecting, delivery and packing/unpacking actions—elementary activities. The chain-management system breaks down a logistic chain chosen by a principal into the elementary activities required therefor, sees to the supply of orders to a transporter fitting the choice of the principal and indicated by the system, and makes it possible to collect information on the status of execution of the elementary activities.