>I have a requirement to print a barcode on my labels. THis is fine. I am using a Zebra Barcode label printer using the Z4000 200dpi printer driver. So I try to print the thing (It is 14 across in size on a 4x4 label)and first of all, in order to get the whole thing on the label I have to minimize the font(54 is what I want)to 24 and stretch the field out so that it is the full width of the label, then compile it and run it. Next I change the font size to the size I want and it then prints all 14 characters. If I don't do this then I get it truncated for some reason, even though the barcode does not use up the whole space. Does this have something to do with the alpha numeric representation of the characters being printed. However, that is not the problem. After doing this I can not get the darn barcode centered on the label. It stays to the left. I suspect this is the same problem as the above. Any suggestions?
>
>Thanks,
>Mike

It doesn't matter what you want to do with the fonts and spacing....if you can't match the USPS guidelines for a barcode, you're wasting your time. They can supply you with a plastic template which will allow you to construct your barcodes and if they fall within the template design, your fine.

Another thing about barcodes.....are you trying to get reduced postage rates? If not, then why bother with the expense of coding for barcodes? Because it looks good? Standard mail (new term for old "3rd class" mail) can be sent with as few as 200 pieces, 500 for 1st class. BUT...you need to have your mailing list CASS Certified and the list must be specifically presorted and then packed in trays that the USPS will supply. You also need a permit.

Most small businesses don't take the time with the above and if the company you're writing this barcode routine for isn't going to do it either, then why spend the money on barcode software? If you need any further assistance with barcoding for trying to get reduced postage, email me.

Steve