The traditional bar code only reads the tracking number. The QR code (QR stands for Quick Response) can bring up massive amounts of information. Can't be sure exactly what the P O is using them for but they can be read by a computer to, for example, display a complete tracking history, along with the ship from and ship to information, the routing path, and the weight and size of the package, and who knows what else. All that information feeds instantly into a computer enabling automatic sorting. AI is taking over.
QR codes can also be used to instantly access a specific web site which is why you see them on TV ads, newspaper ads and who knows where else. You will note you are being prompted to scan them with your super fancy phone which gives the advertisers an immediate response to their ads.
"Laissez-faire capitalism (AKA The Great Material Continuum) is the only social system based on the recognition of individual rights and, therefore, the only system that bans force from social relationships." ~ Ayn Rand
