Thanks for your interest in the Mobile Barcode Promotion from the U.S. Postal Service.^® The promotion ended on August 31, 2011. We hope you will continue to consider using mobile barcodes for your promotional mailings. While you are here, please take a moment to refer to the “Resources” link above and the article at the right for helpful information on the benefits of mobile barcodes.

So what is a "mobile barcode" anyway?

A mobile barcode or QR code (short for Quick Response code) is a specific two-dimensional code readable by dedicated QR code readers and smartphones. The code consists of black modules arranged in a square pattern on a white background. The information encoded can be text, URL or other data.

Learn more about mobile barcodes from these helpful articles:

What are other companies doing with mobile barcodes? Check out these case studies:

Mobile Barcode Tips & Tricks:

1. Search "2D barcode or QR code" While we can't make a specific recommendation on mobile barcode providers, we can help you look. A quick search will yield dozens of providers who can create your 2-D barcode. You can send your customers to any online destination, including landing pages, videos, and online catalogs.

2. Create your content. Your content and destinations must be mobile optimized. Marketers will sometimes make the mistake of sending consumers to an existing web page. However, if that page isn't designed with mobile devices in mind, the page could be difficult to read or even inaccessible. Provide an excellent customer experience by creating a destination made just for mobiles.

3. Provide directions. Not everyone is familiar with 2-D barcodes, so you'll need to give them simple instructions on what to do to access the content. Make sure to include something like "Scan this with your smartphone's QR Reader to see videos about our newest products." Also, include a URL below the 2-D barcode for them to follow so they know where they'll be going.

4. Track it. Use unique tracking codes for each 2-D barcode, so you know which media and creative was the most effective. By tracking customer behavior online, you can learn which messages are most relevant and what your customers do when they get to their destination.

So what is a "mobile barcode" anyway?

Learn more about mobile barcodes from these helpful articles:

QR Codes - Changing the Way We Access Information

Integrating QR Codes Into Your Marketing Mix

Taking Advantage of QR Codes

What is a 2D barcode?

5 Ways QR Codes Make Direct Mail Mobile and Interactive

What are other companies doing with mobile barcodes? Check out these case studies:

Papa John's

ScanLife for the Gap

Sir Speedy for Client

QR Codes: Integrating Traditional Print with Interactive Digital Media