The R2001-1 implementation kit for field employees begins on page 197 of this Postal Bulletin. The kit includes a
number of different communications tools, such as standup
talks, frequently asked questions, letter templates, and fact
sheets.
The printed version of Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) 57,
which contains all rate and classification changes included
in this Postal Bulletin, will arrive at Post Offices beginning in
August 2002. DMM 57 will also contain all revisions published in the Postal Bulletin since the publication of Issue 56
(1-7-01) and through Postal Bulletin 22075 (5-9-02).
Electronic versions (in PDF and HTML formats) of DMM
57 will be posted on the Postal Explorer Web site
(http://pe.usps.gov) by the third week of May. Postal
Service employees should share this information throughout their districts and with customers so that everyone can
prepare for the new rate and classification changes.
DMM 57 will be included in Postal Explorer 14.0 (CD-
ROM and LAN versions).
If you have questions about rate implementation not answered by this Postal Bulletin or other materials, please
contact your R2001-1 district implementation coordinator. A
list of coordinators appears as part of the Implementation
Kit at the end of this Postal Bulletin and on the Postal
Service Web site at www.usps.com/ratecase.
If a postal facility receives too many copies of any
implementation resource (this Postal Bulletin, Domestic
Mail Manual, or other publications), please send them to
your district Marketing manager or district Business Mail
Entry manager. Those managers can redistribute the extra
copies to customers and employees as needed. Please do
not send extra copies back to Postal Service
Headquarters. Doing so does not help to get
implementation resources into the hands of those who
need them.
If you would like to change the quantity of implementation materials received at your facility, please send an e-
mail to: RATESINFO. In the subject line, type "Quantity." In
the body of the message, include the size of office (CAG
and level), the title of the publication, the quantity received,
and the quantity desired for future distributions.
- Pricing and Classification Implementation,
Pricing and Classification, 5-9-02
Mailings presented to any business mail entry unit
(BMEU), detached mail unit (DMU), or other acceptance
location will be verified for rate eligibility and mail
preparation using the existing procedures established by
the Office of Business Mail Acceptance, Postal Service
Headquarters.
A licensee of a postage metering system may have
pieces on hand that bear postage at old rates. The Postal
Service will accept these pieces for mailing until August 1,
2002, if the mailer pays the difference between the meter
postage affixed and the applicable new rates and fees (as
described below) before entering the mailing into the mailstream. When a date is required as part of the meter
impression, the date must appear as required in DMM
P030.9.12 and 9.13.
The difference in postage may be paid on individual
postage-affixed pieces (single-piece rate or presorted rate)
by applying a meter impression or meter strip in the correct
amount to each mailpiece. The date in the meter impression must appear as required in DMM P030.9.12 and 9.13.
The difference in postage for all pieces in a single mailing claimed at a presorted rate may be paid by affixing
postage stamps or meter tapes to the accompanying
postage statement in the amount of the total postage
difference for all pieces in the mailing, rounded up to the full
cent. Postal Service acceptance personnel must verify the
amount affixed and the computations on the postage statement to ensure that the correct additional postage is paid. If
a mailer affixes postage stamps to the postage statement,
the acceptance employee must cancel the stamps. Until
August 1, 2002, the total difference in postage may be paid
through an advance deposit account and reported on an
additional postage statement as described in Handbook
F-1, Post Office Accounting Procedures, section 723.
Until August 15, 2002, postmasters at offices other than
the office of origin who find metered pieces in the
mailstream that bear an old presort rate or precanceled
postage should assume that the difference in postage was
paid at the time of mailing.
A series of revised postage statements, along with
several new statements, have been issued. Complete information about the revised postage statements begins on
page 112 of this Postal Bulletin. Reproductions of all postage statements appear on pages 117-196 of this Postal
Bulletin and on the Postal Service Web site at
www.usps.com/ratecase.
Plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS) mailings will be
verified and accepted by Postal Service employees as
follows:
a. PVDS mailings verified and paid for before June 30,
2002, will be accepted into the mailstream at destination entry postal facilities through July 15, 2002, if
presented with appropriate documentation of verification and payment (PS Form 8125, Plant-Verified
Drop Shipment (PVDS) Verification and Clearance).
b. PVDS mailings may be verified and paid for beginning June 1, 2002, under the rates and preparation
standards that take effect June 30, 2002, provided
the shipments are not deposited at destination entry
postal facilities until June 30, 2002, or later.
- Business Mail Acceptance,
Marketing Technology and Channel Management, 5-9-02
Rate change diskettes for all integrated retail terminal
(IRT) types will be distributed in the same manner as all
other IRT software updates. The diskettes will be sent to
district IRT coordinators in bulk via Express Mail® service.
IRT coordinators will be advised by e-mail of the expected
mailing date.
IRT coordinators who do not receive their diskettes by
the expected date or who receive an insufficient quantity of
diskettes should contact the Unisys IRT hotline (see telephone number in the following section).
Each shipment will include release notes, which provide
software installation instructions and a summary of
changes in the software. The IRT coordinator will send one
diskette and one copy of the release notes to each IRT site.
Each retail site will install the IRT update after close of
business on Saturday, June 29, 2002, or before opening for
business on or after Sunday, June 30, 2002. Sites that do
not receive update diskettes by Friday, June 28, 2002,
should contact their district IRT coordinators for guidance.
Sites that have difficulty installing the update should
contact the appropriate IRT hotline. Any site that discovers
at the last minute that its update diskette is faulty should
consider borrowing an update diskette from a neighboring
retail unit. This will be faster than waiting for a diskette to be
mailed out by the district or hotline personnel.
Unisys hotline: 1-800-247-6478
IBM and NCR will distribute new software for the rate
change via a download over the network. Although the rate
changes will take effect on June 30, 2002, the downloads
will occur in advance of that date. More details will be provided to POS ONE sites as well as to area and district POS
ONE coordinators prior to the rate change. Help desk support will also be available, if necessary, at the number
shown below.
POS ONE help desk: 1-800-USPS-HELP
- Customer Service Systems Support,
Delivery and Retail, 5-9-02
The 12-1/2" x 9-1/2" Express Mail® and Priority Mail®
flat-rate cardboard envelopes for are revised to remove the
weight references (i.e., Two-Pound Flat Rate) from the
graphics. The Express Mail flat-rate envelope is supply
item EP 13F and the Priority Mail flat-rate envelope is supply item EP 14F. The new versions of both these flat-rate
envelopes are dated February 2002.
Post Offices should use all older versions of these products displaying the words "Two-Pound Flat Rate" prior to
June 30, 2002. Please do not return unused products to the
supply center. Recycle all unused Express Mail and Priority
Mail envelopes containing the words "Two-Pound Flat
Rate" after the June 30, 2002, rate implementation.
After the new rates take effect on June 30, 2002, the
need for Express Mail cardboard envelope item EP 13A
and Priority Mail cardboard envelope item EP 14G is expected to be reduced. Therefore, the production of the EP
13A and EP 14G will be limited unless the need dictates
otherwise.
- Package Services,
Product Development, 5-9-02
The following information details the R2001-1 changes
organized by class of mail or special service category. This
information is intended as an overview only and should not
be viewed as defining every DMM revision adopted.
a. Express Mail Rate Highlights
Overall, Express Mail® rates will increase an average
of 9.4 percent. The most significant change to the
Express Mail rate structure will be to the flat-rate
envelope. Currently, the rate for the Express Mail
flat-rate envelope is the same as the applicable
2-pound rate. The rate for the flat-rate envelope will
be the 1/2-pound rate, which is the lowest available
rate for each Express Mail service. The rate for the
flat-rate envelope will decrease for Post Office to
Addressee service from $16.25 to $13.65, but the
size of the envelope will remain the same. The
Express Mail flat-rate envelope will continue to be the
EP 13F envelope that is available from the Postal
Service.
The indemnity included in the price of Express Mail
service will be reduced from $500 to $100 for both
merchandise and document reconstruction. This adjustment will more closely align with general industry
practice. The fee for every $100 increment of additional merchandise insurance desired above the
standard $100 and up to $5,000 will be $1.
b. Express Mail Rate Structure
There will be no changes to the rate structure of
Express Mail service.
c. Express Mail Preparation Changes
There will be no changes to mail preparation requirements for Express Mail service.
a. Priority Mail Rate Highlights
Overall, Priority Mail® rates will increase an average
of 13.5 percent. Currently, the rate for the Priority Mail
flat-rate envelope is the same as the 2-pound rate.
Because of the rezoning of all rates from 2 to 5
pounds, the rate for the flat-rate envelope will be tied
to the 1-pound rate. The 1-pound rate will increase
from $3.50 to $3.85 and remain an unzoned rate. The
rate for the flat-rate envelope will decrease from
$3.95 to $3.85, but the size of the envelope will
remain the same. The Priority Mail flat-rate envelope
will continue to be the EP 14F envelope that is available from the Postal Service.
b. Priority Mail Rate Structure
Currently, Priority Mail rates are not zoned for pieces
weighing 5 pounds and under, but they are zoned for
pieces weighing more than 5 pounds. Weight increments over 1 pound and up to 5 pounds will be zoned
to more accurately reflect actual costs to the Postal
Service for transportation and handling.
c. Priority Mail Preparation Changes
There will be no changes to mail preparation requirements for Priority Mail service.
a. First-Class Mail Rate Highlights
Overall, First-Class Mail® rates will increase an
average of 7.9 percent. The single-piece 1-ounce
First-Class Mail rate will increase from $0.34 to
$0.37, and the single-piece card rate from $0.21 to
$0.23. The additional ounce rate for single-piece
First-Class Mail items will remain at $0.23. There will
be a lower additional ounce rate for Presorted and
automation First-Class Mail items.
Business mailers will see larger automation presort
discounts. The carrier route automation discount and
the nonautomation presort discount will remain at
current levels. The proposed increase in automation
discounts and the proposed half-cent reduction in the
workshare additional-ounce rate will result in more
attractive rate incentives, especially for large-volume
First-Class Mail service users who presort and mail
heavier pieces.
The presort mailing fee will increase from $125 to
$150.
b. First-Class Mail Rate Structure and Mail
Preparation
(1) Lower Additional Ounce for Presorted and
Automation Rates
Currently, there is a single additional ounce rate
for all pieces mailed at First-Class Mail rates. For
Presorted and automation pieces weighing more
than 2 ounces, a heavy piece discount is
deducted.
The Postal Service will implement a lower additional ounce rate for workshare First-Class Mail
items. Pieces mailed at single-piece rates will
pay $0.23 for each additional ounce; pieces
mailed at any workshare rate will pay $0.225 for
each additional ounce. This change affects only
postage rates.
(2) Automation Basic Rate Split Into Two New Rates
For automation cards and letters, the current
rate structure contains a 5-digit, 3-digit, and
basic rate. The new rate structure will split the
basic rate into an automated area distribution
center (AADC) rate (for all pieces in an AADC
tray) and a mixed AADC rate (for all pieces in a
mixed AADC tray). The AADC rate also will
apply to pieces in a less-than-full 3-digit tray.
There are no sortation changes for automation
cards and letters. The 5-digit sort level will still be
optional; all other sort levels will be required.
For automation flats, the current rate structure
contains a 5-digit, 3-digit, and basic rate. The
new rate structure will split the basic rate into an
area distribution center (ADC) rate (for all pieces
in an ADC package or tray) and a mixed ADC
rate (for all pieces in a mixed ADC package or
tray). The ADC rate also will apply to pieces in a
less-than-full 3-digit tray. There are no sortation
changes for automation flats. The 5-digit sort
level still will be optional; all other sort levels will
be required.
(3) Nonmachinable Surcharge
The definition of the current nonstandard
surcharge will be expanded to include certain
physical criteria that could make a mailpiece
nonmachinable. Pieces that are nonmachinable
are excluded from automated processing and
must be handled manually. Nonmachinable
pieces also may impede mail flow or damage the
mail or mail processing equipment. Manual
pieces are considerably more costly to process
than machinable letters.
The criteria for nonmachinable letter-size pieces
will be listed in DMM C050.2.2. The nonmachinable surcharge will apply to single-piece and
Presorted rate letters that weigh 1 ounce or less
and meet one or more of the criteria in that section. Machinable pieces are not subject to any
restrictions regarding the OCR read area or barcode clear zone.
The nonmachinable surcharge also will apply to
single-piece, Presorted, and automation rate
nonletters (flats and parcels) that weigh 1 ounce
or less if any one of the following applies:
(a) The piece is greater than 1/4-inch thick.
(b) The length is more than 11-1/2 inches or the
height is more than 6-1/8 inches.
(c) The aspect ratio (length divided by height) is
less than 1.3 or more than 2.5.
The nonmachinable surcharge will be $0.12 for
single-piece rate pieces and $0.055 for Presorted and automation rate pieces.
The nonmachinable criteria in C050.2.2 do not
apply to pieces mailed at any card rate.
The nonmachinable surcharge will apply to letter-size pieces (but not card-rate pieces) for
which the mailer has chosen the manual only (do
not automate) option. For card-rate pieces, a
mailer can specify manual handling, but they will
not be charged a surcharge.
This change is consistent with the addition of a
nonmachinable surcharge for Standard Mail
service.
In conjunction with this change, trays of machinable and nonmachinable letters will be prepared
and labeled differently. The preparation for
machinable letters will be similar to the current
preparation for upgradable letters (e.g., no
packaging, optional 5-digit sort level); the
preparation for nonmachinable pieces will be
similar to the current package-based preparation
for Presorted letters. The current weight limit for
upgradable letters (2.5 ounces) will be replaced
with a weight limit of 3.3 ounces for machinable
letters. Letters heavier than 3.3 ounces and less
than 1/4-inch thick will use the nonmachinable
preparation and labeling but will not pay the
surcharge (because it applies only to pieces that
weigh 1 ounce or less).
On tray labels, the current "NON BC" (not
barcoded) designation will be replaced with one
of two designations: "MACH" for machinable
pieces or "MANUAL" for nonmachinable pieces.
Although card-rate pieces will not be subject to
the surcharge, mailers will be required to show
on the tray label whether or not those pieces are
machinable (for instance, a double card that is
not tabbed is not machinable). The "MANUAL"
designation will help the Postal Service direct
trays of mail to the appropriate mail processing
operation. As is currently required, mailers who
choose the "do not automate" option will show
"MANUAL" on Line 2 of the tray label.
Barcoded tray labels are allowed, but are not required, for trays of First-Class Mail machinable
letters. Zebra codes must not be used on trays of
First-Class Mail machinable letters. (Zebra
codes indicate that the tray contains automation
rate prebarcoded mail.)
Software vendors should note that machinable
and nonmachinable (manual) letters will use different content identifier numbers (CINs) (see
M032 Exhibit 1.3a).
There are no preparation or labeling changes for
Presorted flats or parcels subject to the
surcharge.
Mail preparation instructions for Presorted letter-
size pieces subject to the nonmachinable surcharge will be included in DMM M130.
Preparation instructions for automation flats subject to the nonmachinable surcharge will not
change (see current DMM M820).
The nonmachinable surcharge will be assessed
on any piece mailed out as a different class of
mail and returned as a First-Class Mail item (for
instance, a Standard Mail item endorsed "Return
Service Requested") if the piece weighs 1 ounce
or less and meets the criteria for nonmachinability in C050.2.2. Pieces returned at First-Class
Mail card rates will not be subject to the
nonmachinable surcharge.
The nonmachinable surcharge will take effect
when new rates are implemented; however,
mailers have until January 1, 2003, to comply
with the mail preparation and tray labeling
changes.
(4) Delivery Confirmation and Signature Confirmation for First-Class Mail Parcels
The Postal Service will add two new special service options for First-Class Mail parcels: Delivery
ConfirmationTM service and Signature ConfirmationTM service. Both services will be available in
manual (retail) and electronic options. The fees
for Delivery Confirmation service will be $0.55
(retail) and $0.13 (electronic). The fees for Signature Confirmation service will be $1.80 (retail)
and $1.30 (electronic).
For the purposes of adding Delivery Confirmation service or Signature Confirmation service, a
First-Class Mail parcel is defined as any piece
that:
(a) Has an address side with enough surface
area to fit the delivery address, return
address, postage, markings and endorsements, and special service label; and
(b) Is in a box or, if not in a box, is greater than
3/4-inch thick at its thickest point.
This definition will provide mailers many different
packaging options for their First-Class Mail parcels.
(5) Containerization and Labeling
For letter-size pieces, a full tray will be defined
as one that is 100 percent full, with a range
between 75 percent and 100 percent. The
recommended default for presort software will
be 85 percent. In addition, after the minimum
volume for rate eligibility is reached (i.e., 150
pieces for a 3-digit area), overflow will be
optional for all sort levels of letter trays. Also,
mailers will be required to use as few trays as
possible: Under current standards, a mailer
could prepare one full 1-foot tray plus one
less-than-full 1-foot tray; new standards will
result in the preparation of a single less-than-full
2-foot tray.
On all First-Class Mail letter trays, "LTRS" will
change to "LTR" and "CR-RTS" will change to
"CR-RT." This change is necessary to allow
more room for other information on the tray label. Mailers have until January 1, 2003, to
comply with these labeling changes.
(6) Documentation
Mailers will no longer be required to present a
hard copy PS Form 3553, Coding Accuracy
Support System (CASS) Summary Report, with
their mailings. Instead, mailers or mailer agents
will continue to keep this documentation on file
for 1 year from the date of mailing and make it
available to the Postal Service on 24-hour
notice.
Software vendors and mailers should note that
changes will be made to manifest keyline rate
codes (DMM P910.3.0) and multiline optical
character reader (MLOCR) rate markings (DMM
P960.3.0) to reflect the new First-Class Mail rate
categories.
a. Periodicals Rate and Fees Highlights
The overall average increase for Periodicals items
will be 10 percent. Outside-County postage will increase on average 10.3 percent, while In-County
postage will increase on average 1.7 percent. The
destination delivery unit (DDU) discount will increase
(from $0.017 to $0.018), while the destination sectional center facility (DSCF) discount will remain at
$0.008. The new destination area distribution center
(DADC) discount will be $0.002. The new pallet
discount will be $0.015 per addressed piece for destination entry pallets and $0.005 per addressed piece
for all other pallets (nondestination entry).
Original entry and additional entry application fees
will increase from $350 to $375 and from $50 to $60,
respectively, while the fees for re-entry and news
agent registry will remain at $40.
b. Periodicals Rate Structure
(1) Changes
Changes to the rate design for Periodicals items
are as follows:
(a) There will be a new DADC advertising
pound rate and a per piece discount for
each Outside-County addressed piece.
(b) Destination rates and discounts will be
limited to mail entered at the actual
destination entry facility (DADC, DSCF, and
DDU), unless designated otherwise by the
Postal Service.
(c) There will be a new per piece pallet discount
for each addressed nonletter-size piece
(flat-size or irregular parcels) prepared in
packages on pallets (nondestination entry)
that contain at least 250 pounds of mail.
This discount will apply to all pallet levels.
The discount will not apply to pieces in
sacks on pallets or in trays on pallets.
(d) A new destination entry per piece pallet
discount will apply to each addressed piece
of nonletter-size mail (flat-size or irregular
parcels) prepared in packages on any
destination entry pallet of at least 250
pounds of mail. The discount is not available
for pieces in sacks or trays on pallets. For
DDUs that cannot accept pallets, mailers
may claim the pallet discount on DDU mail
of at least 250 pounds to the DDU when
presented as prescribed by the Postal
Service.
In conjunction with the nonmachinable
surcharge, a Periodicals mailpiece returned
to the sender at First-Class Mail rates is
subject to the nonmachinable surcharge if
the piece weighs 1 ounce or less and meets
one or more of the nonmachinable
characteristics in C050.2.2.
(2) Periodicals Ride-Along
The ride-along experiment will become a
permanent classification. There will be no
changes in the current eligibility standards.
However, publishers will no longer be required to
complete a data collection questionnaire,
provide a sample mailpiece in addition to the
marked copy, or submit PS Form 3541-X
(postage statement). PS Form 3541-X will be
discontinued and mailers will use PS Form 3541.
The standards for ride-along will be relocated to
new DMM E260. The ride-along rate will
increase from $0.10 to $0.124 per piece.
(3) Containerization
For letter-size pieces, a full tray will be defined
as one that is 100 percent full, with a range
between 75 percent and 100 percent. The
recommended default for presort software will
be 85 percent. In addition, after the minimum
volume for rate eligibility is reached (i.e., 150
pieces for a 3-digit area), overflow will be
optional for all sort levels of letter trays. Also,
mailers will be required to use as few trays as
possible. Under current standards, a mailer
could prepare one full 1-foot tray plus one
less-than-full 1-foot tray; new standards will
result in the preparation of a single less-than-full
2-foot tray.
We have added an option to measure the minimum volume of trays on pallets in linear feet.
The pallet minimum can be met with 3 layers of
trays or 36 linear feet of trays. A mailer must
make a pallet for a particular presort destination
when they have 6 layers of trays or 72 linear feet
of trays.
(4) Documentation
Mailers will no longer be required to present a
hard copy PS Form 3553, Coding Accuracy
Support System (CASS) Summary Report, with
their mailings. Instead, mailers or mailer agents
will continue to keep this documentation on file
for 1 year from the date of mailing and make it
available to the Postal Service on 24-hour
notice.
a. Standard Mail Rate Highlights
Overall, Standard Mail rates will increase an average
of 7.1 percent. On average, rates for flat-size mail will
increase more than rates for letter-size mail. Regular
and nonprofit rates will increase an average of 7.5
percent and Enhanced Carrier Route (ECR) rates will
increase an average of 6.2 percent. Greater destination entry discounts will provide an incentive for
mailers to use their own or third-party transportation
to move Standard Mail items closer to the point of
delivery.
The annual mailing fee will increase from $125 to
$150.
b. Standard Mail Rate Structure and Mail Preparation
(1) Automation Basic Letter Rate Split Into Two New
Rates
For automation letter-size pieces, the current
rate structure contains 5-digit, 3-digit, and basic
rates. The new rate structure splits the basic rate
into an AADC rate (for all pieces in an AADC
tray) and a mixed AADC rate (for all pieces in a
mixed AADC tray). The AADC rate also will apply to all pieces in any less-than-full origin or
entry 3-digit or 3-digit scheme tray. There will not
be any sortation changes for automation letter-
size pieces. The 5-digit sort level will still be
optional; all other sort levels will be required.
The DSCF discount is not available for pieces
mailed at the mixed AADC rate. This is because
mixed or working trays must be entered at the
origin facility, and no pieces in the mixed AADC
tray would be addressed for delivery within the
SCF service area. In addition, the DSCF discount is available for pieces mailed at the AADC
rate only when those pieces are in an origin or
entry 3-digit tray. It is not available for pieces
mailed at the AADC rate that are in an AADC
tray.
Unlike in First-Class Mail service, where the
ADC and mixed ADC rates will apply to automation flats, there will not be any changes to the
rate structure for Standard Mail automation flats.
(2) Nonmachinable Surcharge
A nonmachinable surcharge will apply to some
Standard Mail letter-size pieces mailed at Presorted rates; the definition will include certain
physical criteria that could make a mailpiece
nonmachinable. Pieces that are nonmachinable
are excluded from automated processing and
must be handled manually. Nonmachinable
pieces also may impede mail flow or damage the
mail or mail processing equipment. Manual letters are considerably more costly to process
than machinable letters.
The criteria for nonmachinable letter-size pieces
will be listed in DMM C050.2.2. The
nonmachinable surcharge will apply to Presorted rate letter-size pieces (including cards)
that weigh 3.3 ounces or less and meet one or
more of the criteria in that section. Machinable
pieces are not subject to any restrictions regarding the OCR read area or barcode clear zone.
This classification change is consistent with the
nonmachinable surcharge for First-Class Mail
items.
Unlike First-Class Mail service, where the nonmachinable surcharge will apply to flats,
Standard Mail service doesn't have a
nonmachinable surcharge on flats. The Standard Mail rate structure includes separate rates
for letters and nonletters and factors in the extra
costs of handling nonmachinable nonletters.
The nonmachinable surcharge will be $0.04 per
piece for regular Presorted rate pieces and
$0.02 per piece for nonprofit Presorted rate
pieces (see DMM R600).
The nonmachinable surcharge will apply to
Presorted rate letter-size pieces for which the
mailer has chosen the manual only (do not
automate) option.
The nonmachinable surcharge will not apply to
pieces mailed at any ECR rate or to automation
rate letters (which are by definition machinable).
In conjunction with this change, trays of machinable and nonmachinable letters will be prepared
and labeled differently.
The preparation for machinable letters will be
similar to the current preparation for upgradable
letters (e.g., no packaging, optional 5-digit sort
level); the preparation for nonmachinable pieces
will be similar to the current package-based
preparation for Presorted letters. The current
weight limit for upgradable letters (2.5 ounces)
will be replaced with a weight limit of 3.3 ounces
for machinable letters.
On tray labels, the current "NON BC" (not barcoded) designation will be replaced with one of
two designations: "MACH" for machinable
pieces or "MANUAL" for nonmachinable pieces.
The "MANUAL" designation will help the Postal
Service direct the trays of mail to the appropriate
mail processing operation. As is currently
required, mailers who choose the "do not
automate" option will show "MANUAL" on Line 2
of the tray label.
Barcoded tray labels are allowed, but are not
required, for trays of Standard Mail machinable
letters. Zebra codes must not be used on trays of
Standard Mail machinable letters. (Zebra codes
indicate that the tray contains automation rate
prebarcoded mail.)
Software vendors should note that machinable
and nonmachinable (manual) letters will use
different CINs (see M032 Exhibit 1.3a).
Mail preparation instructions for Standard Mail
pieces subject to the nonmachinable surcharge
will be included in DMM M610.
In a mailing of nonmachinable letter-size pieces,
residual Standard Mail pieces sent at First-Class
Mail rates will be subject to the First-Class Mail
nonmachinable surcharge only if the pieces
weigh 1 ounce or less. Heavier pieces will not be
subject to the First-Class Mail nonmachinable
surcharge, even though those same pieces
would have been subject to the Standard Mail
nonmachinable surcharge if they had remained
in the Standard Mail mailing. Additionally,
residual Standard Mail pieces mailed at
First-Class Mail card rates will not be subject to
the nonmachinable surcharge.
Mailers should note that residual pieces from a
Standard Mail automation flats mailing could be
subject to the nonmachinable surcharge if the
residual is mailed at Presorted letter piece rates.
For example, a barcoded piece that is 8-1/2 by
5-1/2 inches and bears an address parallel to the
shorter edge could be mailed as an automation
flat. Pieces in this job that cannot be barcoded
would fall to Presorted rates; the mailer would
then have the option of paying the letter piece
rate plus the nonmachinable surcharge
(because the address is parallel to the shorter
dimension) or the nonletter piece rate.
Standard Mail pieces that are returned as
First-Class Mail items (for instance, an
undeliverable piece endorsed "Return Service
Requested") will be charged the nonmachinable
surcharge if the piece weighs 1 ounce or less
and meets the criteria for nonmachinability in
C050.2.2. The nonmachinable surcharge also
will be figured into the calculation for the
weighted fee for pieces that weigh 1 ounce or
less. The nonmachinable surcharge will not be
charged on pieces returned at First-Class Mail
card rates.
The nonmachinable surcharge will take effect
when new rates are implemented; however,
mailers have until January 1, 2003, to comply
with the mail preparation and tray labeling
changes.
(3) Heavier Letters Are Eligible for Automation
Rates
The maximum weight limit for automation letters
will increase from 3.3 ounces to 3.5 ounces
(inclusive). These pieces will be charged
postage equal to the automation piece/pound
rate and receive a discount equal to the
automation nonletter piece rate (3.3 ounces or
less) minus the corresponding automation letter
piece rate (3.3 ounces or less) for the
appropriate sort level. This change applies to
regular and nonprofit automation letters, and to
automation carrier route letters.
Mailers who choose to take this discount for
heavy automation letters will be required to use
a new postage statement designed for this purpose. On the permit imprint postage statement,
the discount is precalculated and has been deducted from the piece rate. The example below
follows that same model. Mailers should note
that for nonprofit 5-digit automation letters the
discount is larger than the piece rate; therefore,
subtracting the discount from the piece rate results in a negative number.
Mailers who choose the postage affixed
(metered postage) option will be required to affix
the full postage amount to each piece (see DMM
P600.2.2).
As an example, a regular automation letter
weighing 3.45 ounces that is sorted in a 3-digit
tray for DSCF entry will be charged:
| blank |
Calculation
for 1 piece
|
Calculation for
10,000 pieces
|
|
Nonletter piece rate (more
than 3.3 ounces), 3/5 rate
|
$0.115
|
$1,150.00
|
|
Minus
|
blank |
blank |
|
A discount that equals the
3/5 nonletter piece rate
(3.3 ounces or less) for
DSCF entry minus the
3-digit letter piece rate (3.3
ounces or less) for DSCF
entry (0.235 minus 0.177)
|
- .058
|
- 580.00
|
|
Equals
|
blank |
blank |
|
Adjusted piece rate (as will
appear on permit imprint
postage statement)
|
0.057
|
570.00
|
|
Plus
|
blank |
blank |
|
Pound rate (more than 3.3
ounces), 3/5 rate, DSCF
entry (3.45 ounces divided
by 16 ounces equals
0.215625 pounds, rounded
to 0.2156 pounds,
multiplied by $0.583 per
pound)
|
0.1256948
|
1,256.948
|
|
Equals total postage
|
$0.1827
|
$1,826.948
|
This change will allow mailers to avoid the
substantial rate increase for letter-size pieces
exceeding 3.3 ounces. Under the current rate
schedule, once an automation letter exceeds the
3.3-ounce maximum weight, the piece becomes
subject to the piece/pound rates.
There are no mail preparation changes that accompany this change; these heavy letters will be
required to meet the current standards for heavy
automation letters in DMM C810.7.5 and will use
the existing mail preparation sequence and labeling for automation letters. Current standards
for mixed-rate mailings will not change. Residual
pieces from a heavy automation letter mailing
that cannot be barcoded can be mailed at single-
piece First-Class Mail rates or prepared as a
Presorted Standard Mail letter mailing with postage paid at the piece/pound rate (for pieces over
3.3 ounces). Like today, these residual pieces
will not need to meet a separate 200-piece or
50-pound minimum (see DMM E620.1.2) and
will be reported on separate postage
statements.
(4) Barcode Requirement for ECR Letter-Size
Pieces
ECR letter-size pieces mailed at high-density
and saturation piece (letter) rates will be
required to meet the physical standards for
automation-compatible mail in DMM C810 and
will be required to have a delivery point barcode.
Pieces using simplified address will not be required to have a delivery point barcode and
therefore will not need to meet the physical standards for automation-compatible mail to qualify
for letter rates.
This change will apply to both ECR and nonprofit
ECR.
Requiring high density and saturation letters to
be prebarcoded gives the Postal Service operational flexibility and eliminates the need to
barcode these pieces if they are sent to delivery
point sequencing (DPS). The requirement for
automation-compatibility corresponds to the requirement for a delivery point barcode. For the
Postal Service to read the barcode, the piece
must be compatible with automated mail sorting
equipment. These requirements will not apply to
detached address labels (DALs) that accompany flat-size pieces or irregular parcels. Even
though the DAL itself is letter-size, technically it
is the label for the larger piece.
Pieces that do not meet the physical standards
in C810 or that do not contain a delivery point
barcode will be subject to the corresponding
ECR high density or saturation nonletter rate.
Pieces that are letter-size but claimed at the
nonletter rates will be marked, sorted, and
trayed as letters.
There are no changes to the sequencing requirements, markings, or sortation for ECR
pieces. Tray labels will change to reflect whether
the pieces in the tray are barcoded ("BC"), not
barcoded but machinable ("MACH"), or
nonmachinable, regardless of whether the
pieces are barcoded ("MANUAL" or "MAN").
These designations help the Postal Service direct the trays of mail to the appropriate mail
processing operation. Mailers will be required to
use barcoded tray labels.
Pieces with a simplified address format do not
contain the necessary address elements to generate a delivery point barcode. To qualify for the
saturation letter rate, those pieces will not have
to bear a delivery point barcode, will not have to
be automation-compatible, and will be labeled
"MAN" (even if the pieces are machinable).
Pieces with exceptional or "occupant" addresses
(A040) do contain enough address elements to
generate a delivery point barcode and therefore
must be automation-compatible and must bear a
delivery point barcode in order to claim the high
density or saturation letter rates.
Software vendors should note that within each of
the three processing options (BC/MACH/MAN),
the same CIN will be used for all direct carrier
route trays (see DMM Exhibit M032.1.3a).
Mailers will not be permitted to combine barcoded and nonbarcoded pieces into the same
mailing. Therefore, nonbarcoded pieces will
have to be presented as a separate mailing, but
will not need to meet a separate 200-piece or
50-pound minimum volume requirement.
The new requirements for high density and saturation letter rates will take effect the day new
rates are implemented; however, mailers have
until January 1, 2003, to comply with the tray
labeling changes.
(5) Heavier Automation-Compatible ECR Letters
Are Eligible for Letter Rates
The maximum weight limit for automation-compatible ECR letters will increase from 3.3 ounces
to 3.5 ounces (inclusive). These pieces will be
charged postage equal to the nonletter piece/pound rate and receive a discount equal to the
nonletter piece rate (3.3 ounces or less) minus
the corresponding letter piece rate (3.3 ounces
or less) for the appropriate sort level. This
change applies to regular and nonprofit ECR
saturation and high density letters.
For regular ECR, the discount will be $0.005 per
piece for high density letters and $0.008 per
piece for saturation letters. For nonprofit ECR,
the discount will be $0.008 per piece for high
density letters and $0.009 per piece for
saturation letters.
This change also will apply to pieces mailed at
the ECR automation basic rate, but the calculation is slightly different because there are no corresponding piece/pound and nonletter rates with
which to perform the calculation. These pieces
will be charged postage equal to the basic ECR
piece/pound rate and receive a discount equal to
the basic nonletter rate minus the automation
basic letter rate. For regular ECR, the discount
will be $0.023 per piece. For nonprofit ECR, the
discount will be $0.015 per piece.
As a result of other classification changes (see
item 4 above), all pieces mailed at high density
and saturation letter rates will be barcoded and
automation-compatible; therefore, this change is
consistent with the change for Standard Mail
regular automation letters. This change will not
apply to letter-size pieces that are mailed at the
nonletter rates (i.e., pieces that are not automation-compatible or do not have a barcode).
This change will not apply to pieces mailed at the
ECR basic letter rate (because the letter and
nonletter rates are the same, there is no discount to subtract).
Mailers who choose to take this discount for
heavy ECR letters will be required to use a new
postage statement designed for this purpose.
On the permit imprint postage statement, the
discount is precalculated and has been deducted from the piece rate. The example below
follows that same model.
Mailers who choose the postage affixed (metered postage) option will be required to affix the
full postage amount to each piece (see
P600.2.2).
As an example, a high density letter weighing
3.45 ounces that is prepared for DSCF entry will
be charged:
| blank |
Calculation
for 1 piece
|
Calculation
for 10,000
pieces
|
|
Nonletter piece rate (more than
3.3 ounces), high density
|
$0.043
|
$430.00
|
|
Minus
|
blank |
blank |
|
A discount that equals the high
density nonletter piece rate (3.3
ounces or less) for DSCF entry
minus the high density letter piece
rate (3.3 ounces or less) for DSCF
entry (0.143 minus 0.138)
|
- .005
|
- 50.00
|
|
Equals
|
blank |
blank |
|
Adjusted piece rate (as will appear
on permit imprint postage
statement)
|
0.038
|
380.00
|
|
Plus
|
blank |
blank |
|
Pound rate (more than 3.3
ounces), high density, DSCF entry
(3.45 ounces divided by 16
ounces equals 0.215625 pounds,
rounded to 0.2156, multiplied by
$0.485 per pound)
|
0.104566
|
1,045.66
|
|
Equals postage per piece
|
$0.1426
|
$1,425.66
|
This change will allow mailers to avoid the substantial rate increase for letter-size pieces exceeding 3.3 ounces. Under the current rate
schedule, once an ECR letter exceeds the
3.3-ounce maximum weight, the piece becomes
subject to the piece/pound rates.
There are no mail preparation changes that
accompany this change; these heavy letters will
be required to meet the current standards for
heavy automation letters in DMM C810.7.5 and
will use the existing mail preparation sequence
and labeling for ECR letters.
(6) Containerization and Labeling
For letter-size pieces, a full tray will be defined
as one that is 100 percent full, with a range
between 75 percent and 100 percent. The recommended default for presort software will be 85
percent. In addition, after the minimum volume
for rate eligibility is reached (i.e., 150 pieces for a
3-digit area), overflow will be optional for all sort
levels of letter trays. Also, mailers will be
required to use as few trays as possible. Under
current standards, a mailer could prepare one
full 1-foot tray plus one less-than-full 1-foot tray;
new standards will result in the preparation of a
single less-than-full 2-foot tray.
We have added an option to measure the minimum volume of trays on pallets in linear feet.
The pallet minimum can be met with three layers
of trays or 36 linear feet of trays. A mailer must
make a pallet for a particular presort destination
when they have six layers of trays or 72 linear
feet of trays.
On all Standard Mail letter trays, "LTRS" will
change to "LTR" and "CR-RTS" will change to
"CR-RT." This change is necessary to allow
more room for other information on the tray label.
Mailers have until January 1, 2003, to comply
with these labeling changes.
(7) Documentation
Mailers will no longer be required to present a
hard copy PS Form 3553, Coding Accuracy
Support System (CASS) Summary Report, with
their mailings. Instead, mailers or mailer agents
will continue to keep this documentation on file
for 1 year from the date of mailing and make it
available to the Postal Service on 24-hour
notice.
Software vendors and mailers should note that
changes are proposed for manifest keyline rate
codes (DMM P910.3.0) and MLOCR rate
markings (DMM P960.3.0) to reflect the new
Standard Mail rate categories.
There are four subclasses of Package Services: Parcel
Post®, Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, and Library Mail.
Each subclass is addressed separately in items 7 through
10.
a. Parcel Post Rate Highlights
Parcel Post rates will increase an average of 6.4 percent. The nonmachinable surcharge for Inter-BMC
Parcel Post will increase from $2.00 to $2.75 per
parcel. The Intra-BMC and destination bulk mail center (DBMC) nonmachinable surcharges will remain at
their current levels: $1.35 for Intra-BMC parcels and
$1.45 for DBMC parcels. The Parcel Post Origin
BMC Presort and BMC Presort discounts will
increase from $0.90 to $1.17 and $0.23 to $0.28 per
piece, respectively. The barcoded discount for
qualifying Parcel Post (including Parcel Select®)
machinable parcels will remain at $0.03 per piece.
The destination entry mailing fee will increase from
$125 to $150. The Parcel Post pickup fee will
increase from $10.25 to $12.50.
b. Parcel Post Rate Structure
Three changes will be made. First, a separate rate
will be available for parcels weighing less than 1
pound. Second, Parcel Select pieces will be eligible
for no-fee electronic Delivery Confirmation service.
The final change will create a DSCF rate for nonmachinable parcels sorted to 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes
and entered at destination SCFs. Nonmachinable
DSCF Parcel Select pieces will be subject to a surcharge of $1.09 per parcel in addition to the
applicable DSCF rate.
c. Parcel Post Mail Preparation Changes
Except for a new 3-digit nonmachinable parcel preparation option added for DSCF rate mail, there will be
no other changes to the preparation requirements for
Parcel Post and Parcel Select.
a. Bound Printed Matter Rate Highlights
The Bound Printed Matter (BPM) rates will increase
an average of 9 percent. There are two major
changes to BPM rates: separate rates for BPM flats
and parcels, and a new POSTNET barcoded discount for single-piece rate and Presorted rate BPM
flats. The parcel barcode discount for BPM single-
piece and Presorted rate machinable parcels will
remain at $0.03 per piece. The destination entry
mailing fee will increase from $125 to $150.
b. Bound Printed Matter Rate Structure
Rates for flat-size BPM will be lower than the rates for
BPM parcels in all three rate categories (single-
piece, Presorted, and carrier route) and in the three
available destination entry rates (DDU, DSCF, and
DBMC). A $0.03 discount will be available for
single-piece and Presorted rate BPM flats prepared
with a POSTNET barcode. To qualify for the
barcoded discount, BPM flats will be required to meet
the standards in DMM C820 for flat sorting machine
(FSM) 881 processing.
c. Bound Printed Matter Mail Preparation Changes
BPM barcoded flats will be prepared using the
standards in DMM M820.
a. Media Mail Rate Highlights
Media Mail rates will increase an average of 4
percent. The mailing fee for Presorted Media Mail will
increase from $125 to $150.
b. Media Mail Rate Structure
There will be one fundamental change to the Media
Mail rate structure. The 5-digit rate will be retained,
but the BMC rate will be renamed the basic rate.
c. Media Mail Preparation Changes
There will be three changes to the preparation requirements for Media Mail. First, Media Mail will no
longer be sorted to the 5-digit and BMC levels. Media
Mail will now be sorted to the 5-digit, 3-digit, ADC or
BMC, and mixed ADC or mixed BMC levels, as appropriate. This adjusts the presort requirements for
Media Mail to reflect current postal processing. Machinable parcels will continue to be presorted to
BMCs using the new basic rate level.
The second change eliminates the requirement for
separate minimum volumes for each presort level
and reduces the minimum volume requirement for a
mailing from 500 to 300 pieces. To qualify for Presorted Media Mail rates, mailers will be required to
have a minimum of 300 properly prepared and presorted pieces. Pieces in the mailing that meet 5-digit
rate requirements will be eligible for the 5-digit rate.
The remaining pieces in the mailing will be eligible for
the basic rate.
The last change reinstates the option to allow mailers
to prepare sacks of Media Mail using a minimum of
1,000 cubic inches of mail.
a. Library Mail Rate Highlights
Library Mail rates will increase an average of 3.3 percent. The mailing fee for Presorted Library Mail will
increase from $125 to $150.
b. Library Mail Rate Structure
There will be one fundamental change to the Library
Mail rate structure. The 5-digit rate will be retained,
but the BMC rate will be renamed the basic rate.
c. Library Mail Preparation Changes
There will be three changes to the preparation requirements for Library Mail. First, Library Mail will no
longer be sorted to the 5-digit and BMC levels.
Library Mail will now be sorted to the 5-digit, 3-digit,
ADC or BMC, and mixed ADC or mixed BMC levels,
as appropriate. This adjusts the presort requirements
for Library Mail to reflect current postal processing.
Machinable parcels will continue to be presorted to
BMCs using the new basic rate level.
The second change eliminates the requirement for
separate minimum volumes for each presort level
and reduces the minimum volume requirement for a
mailing from 500 to 300 pieces. To qualify for Presorted Library Mail, mailers will be required to have a
minimum of 300 properly prepared and Presorted
pieces. Pieces in the mailing that meet the 5-digit rate
requirements will be eligible for the 5-digit rate. The
remaining pieces in the mailing will be eligible for the
basic rate.
The last change reinstates the option to allow mailers
to prepare sacks of Library Mail using a minimum of
1,000 cubic inches of mail.
a. Special Services Highlights
(1) Bulk Parcel Return Service (DMM S924)
The annual accounting fee for bulk parcel return
service (BPRS) will increase from $375 to $475.
The annual permit fee will increase from $125 to
$150 and the per piece charge will increase from
$1.62 to $1.80. See DMM R900.3.0.
(2) Business Reply Mail (DMM S922)
The per piece charge for the high volume qualified business reply mail (QBRM) category with
the quarterly fee will decrease from $0.01 to
$0.008. The QBRM quarterly fee of $1,800 for
that category will remain the same. The basic
QBRM per piece charge for the category without
the quarterly fee will increase from $0.05 to
$0.06. The non-QBRM per piece fee with an
advance deposit account will remain at $0.10.
The annual permit fee for all business reply mail
(BRM) will increase from $125 to $150. The
monthly fee for bulk weight averaged nonletter-
size BRM will increase from $600 to $750, while
the per piece charge of $0.01 will remain the
same. The annual accounting fee for advanced
deposit accounts will increase from $375 to
$475. The regular BRM per piece charge without
an annual accounting fee will increase from
$0.35 to $0.60 per piece. See DMM R900.4.0.
(3) Certificate of Mailing (DMM S914)
Certificate of mailing fees will increase. For individual pieces, the original certificate will increase
from $0.75 to $0.90, the firm mailing book (PS
Form 3877, Firm Mailing Book for Accountable
Mail) will increase from $0.25 to $0.30 for each
piece listed, and the charge for a duplicate copy
will increase from $0.75 to $0.90.
For bulk pieces (PS Form 3606, Certificate of
Bulk Mailing), fees for the first 1,000 pieces or
fraction thereof will increase from $3.50 to $4.50.
Each additional 1,000 pieces or fraction thereof
will increase from $0.40 to $0.50, and the charge
for a duplicate copy will increase from $0.75 to
$0.90. Additionally, mailpieces listed on PS Form
3877 and having postage paid with permit imprint will be permitted to pay the certificate of
mailing fee using the permit imprint account. Under this option mailers will no longer be required
to affix the fees to PS Form 3877. See DMM
R900.6.0.
(4) Certified Mail (DMM S912)
The Certified Mail fee will increase from $2.10 to
$2.30. A service enhancement will allow mailers
to access delivery information over the Internet
at www.usps.com. See DMM R900.7.0.
(5) Collect on Delivery (DMM S921)
There will be no change to the current collect on
delivery (COD) fees. See DMM R900.8.0.
(6) Delivery Confirmation (DMM S918)
Retail (manual) and electronic Delivery Confirmation options will be extended to First-Class
Mail parcels. For Package Services items,
Delivery Confirmation service will be restricted to
parcels only and will no longer be available for
flat-size mail. For First-Class Mail parcels, the
fee will be $0.13 for the electronic option and
$0.55 for the retail option. The fee for the retail
option for Priority Mail service will increase from
$0.40 to $0.45. For Standard Mail service, the
fee for the electronic option will increase from
$0.12 to $0.13. For Parcel Select service, the
electronic option will be included in postage. For
all other Package Services items, the fee will increase from $0.12 to $0.13 for the electronic
option and from $0.50 to $0.55 for the retail
option. See DMM R900.9.0.
For the purposes of adding Delivery Confirmation service to First-Class Mail items or Package
Services items, a parcel will be defined as any
piece that has an address side with sufficient
surface area to fully display the delivery address,
return address, postage, markings and endorsements, and Delivery Confirmation label. The
parcel will be required to be in a box or, if not in a
box, will be required to be more than 3/4-inch
thick at its thickest point.
(7) Express Mail Insurance (DMM S500)
Insurance coverage included with Express Mail
service will be lowered from $500 to $100. Incremental fees will be applied at $1 per each $100
of desired merchandise insurance coverage
over $100. Document reconstruction maximum
liability will decrease from $500 to $100. See
DMM R900.11.0.
(8) Insurance (DMM S913)
The fee for unnumbered insurance (value up to
$50) with no insured number applied will increase from $1.10 to $1.30. The fee for
numbered insurance service over $50 and up to
$100 (insured number applied) will increase
from $2.00 to $2.20. The incremental fee of $1
for each $100 in value over $100 and up to
$5,000 will remain the same. See DMM
R900.12.0.
(9) Merchandise Return Service (DMM S923)
The annual accounting fee for merchandise return service will increase from $375 to $475. The
annual permit fee will increase from $125 to
$150. See DMM R900.14.0.
(10) Postal Money Orders (DMM S020)
There will be two classification changes for
money orders. The first change will increase the
maximum amount from $700 to $1,000 for both
domestic and APO/FPO money orders. The
second change will introduce a two-level fee
structure for domestic money orders. The fee for
amounts of $0.01 to $500 will be $0.90, and the
fee for amounts of $500.01 to $1,000 will be
$1.25. The inquiry fee will increase from $2.75 to
$3.00. The $0.25 fee for APO/FPO money orders will remain the same. See DMM R900.16.0.
(11) Parcel Airlift (DMM S930)
Parcel Airlift (PAL) fees will increase. For parcels weighing not more than 2 pounds, the fee
will increase from $0.40 to $0.45. For parcels
not more than 3 pounds, the fee will increase
from $0.75 to $0.85. For parcels not more than 4
pounds, the fee will increase from $1.15 to
$1.25. For parcels that weigh more than 4
pounds and less than 30 pounds, the fee will increase from $1.55 to $1.70. See DMM
R900.17.0.
(12) Registered Mail (DMM S911)
All Registered Mail fees will increase. The fee
for Registered Mail service with no declared
value will increase from $7.25 to $7.50. The fee
for Registered Mail items valued between $0.01
and $100 will increase from $7.50 to $8.00. The
incremental fee for Registered Mail items with
insurance per declared value level will increase
from $0.75 to $0.85. The handling charge per
$1,000 in value or fraction thereof for items
valued over $25,000 also will increase from
$0.75 to $0.85. A service enhancement will
allow mailers to access delivery information
over the Internet at www.usps.com. See DMM
R900.21.0.
(13) Restricted Delivery (DMM S916)
The fee for restricted delivery will increase from
$3.20 to $3.50. See DMM R900.22.0.
(14) Return Receipt (DMM S915)
The fee for regular return receipt service will increase from $1.50 to $1.75. The fee for return
receipt after mailing will decrease from $3.50 to
$3.25. See DMM R900.23.0.
(15) Return Receipt for Merchandise (DMM S917)
The fee for return receipt for merchandise will increase from $2.35 to $3.00. See DMM
R900.24.0.
(16) Signature Confirmation (DMM S919)
Retail (manual) and electronic Signature Confirmation options will be extended to First-Class
Mail parcels. For Package Services items, Signature Confirmation service will be restricted to
parcels only and will no longer be available for
flat-size mail. The fees will increase from $1.25
to $1.30 for the electronic option and from $1.75
to $1.80 for the retail option.
For the purposes of adding Signature
Confirmation service to First-Class Mail items or
Packages Services items, a parcel will be defined as any piece that has an address side with
sufficient surface area to fully display the
delivery address, return address, postage,
markings and endorsements, and Signature
Confirmation label. The parcel will be required to
be in a box or, if not in a box, will be required to
be more than 3/4-inch thick at its thickest point.
See DMM R900.26.0.
(17) Special Handling (DMM S930)
The fees for special handling will increase from
$5.40 to $5.95 for pieces weighing up to 10
pounds and from $7.50 to $8.25 for pieces
weighing over 10 pounds. See DMM R900.27.0.
b. Other Services Highlights
(1) Address Correction Service (DMM F030)
The fee for manual address correction service
(ACS) notices will increase from $0.60 to $0.70.
The fee for automated ACS will remain the same
at $0.20. See DMM R900.1.0.
(2) Address Sequencing Service (DMM A920)
The fee for carrier sequencing of address cards
service will increase from $0.25 to $0.30 per
card. See DMM R900.2.0.
(3) Caller Service (DMM D920)
The caller service fee for each separation provided per semiannual period will increase from
$375 to $412. The fee for each reserved call
number per calendar year will increase from $30
to $32. See DMM R900.5.0.
(4) Mailing List Services (DMM A910)
The charge for correction of mailing lists will increase from $0.25 to $0.30 per correction. The
minimum per list charge also will increase from
$7.50 to $9.00 per list. The charge for sortation
of mailing lists on cards into groups labeled by
5-digit ZIP Code will increase from $73 to $100.
The charge for address changes for election
boards will increase from $0.23 to $0.27. See
DMM R900.13.0.
(5) Meter Service (DMM P030)
The fee for on-site meter service (per employee,
per visit) will increase from $31 to $35. The fee
for meter resetting and/or examination will increase from $4 to $5 per meter. The $4 fee for
checking in or out of service (per meter) will remain the same. See DMM R900.15.0.
(6) Permit Imprint (DMM P040)
The permit imprint application fee will increase
from $125 to $150.
(7) Pickup Service (DMM D010)
The fee for pickup service, available for Express
Mail, Priority Mail, and Parcel Post items, will increase from $10.25 to $12.50 (per pickup). See
DMM R900.18.0.
(8) Post Office Box Service (DMM D910)
Overall, Post Office (PO) box fees will increase.
A new PO box fee category will be introduced for
PO box service in the lowest-cost cities and
highest-cost rural areas. This new fee group will
provide a bridge to eventually move high-cost
and low-cost ZIP Codes toward more appropriate fee assignments. PO box key duplication or
replacement (after first two keys) will increase
from $4.00 to $4.40 each. PO box lock replacement will increase from $10 to $11.
There will be no change to the no-fee PO box
service (Group E). See DMM R900.20.0.
(9) Shipper Paid Forwarding (DMM F010)
The accounting fee will increase from $375 to
$475. See DMM R900.25.0.
(10) Stamped Cards and Stamped Envelopes
The fee for stamped cards will remain the same.
Special stamped envelopes (i.e., those with
holograms or patch-in stamps) are no longer offered. The fees for the other types of available
stamped envelopes will remain the same.
- Mail Preparation and Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 5-9-02
The following information details the R2001-1 changes
organized by DMM module. This information is intended as
an overview only and should not be viewed as defining
every DMM revision adopted.
A Addressing
A010 will be revised to remove references to upgradable
mail and to include a preferred location for addresses on
letter-size pieces.
The title of A800 will be changed to show that the standards apply to all automation-compatible mail, not just mail
claimed at automation rates.
A950 will be revised to clarify that the mailer's signature
on a postage statement certifies that the mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed and to change the
requirements for filing PS Form 3553, Coding Accuracy
Support System (CASS) Summary Report. Mailers will no
longer be required to submit PS Form 3553 with each mailing. They will have to retain the form on file for 1 year from
the date of mailing and make it available to the Postal
Service on 24-hour notice.
C010 will be revised to show that Standard Mail
Enhanced Carrier Route (ECR) letters are subject to the
standards for mailpiece dimensions and to remove information about the First-Class Mail® nonstandard surcharge.
C050 will be revised to add the nonmachinable
characteristics for letters. Exhibit C050.2.0 will be renumbered as Exhibit C050.1.0.
C100.2.7 will be revised to implement the change to the
Domestic Mail Classification Schedule (DMCS) for pieces
eligible for the First-Class Mail card rates. C100.4.0 will be
revised to reflect changes to the nonmachinable surcharge
(formerly the nonstandard surcharge) for some First-Class
Mail letters and flats.
C700 will be revised to note that mailpieces meeting any
of the characteristics listed in C700.2.0 and that are mailed
at the DSCF Parcel Select® rate will be subject to the $1.09
nonmachinable surcharge listed in R700.1.6.
C810 will be revised to remove references to upgradable First-Class Mail service and Standard Mail service, to
increase the weight limit for Standard Mail automation letters and ECR letters to 3.5 ounces, and to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies that the mail meets the
requirements for the rates claimed.
C820 will be revised to add a weight limit for Bound
Printed Matter flats claimed at automation flat rates.
C830 will be deleted. C830 contains standards for upgradable mail, including address placement, OCR read area,
fonts, and reflectance. Effective June 30, 2002, the
upgradable preparation for letters will be replaced with a machinable preparation; the machinable preparation has no
requirements for address placement, OCR read area, etc.
C840 will be revised to remove references to
upgradable mail.
D210.3.4 will be revised to reflect the change that the
destination sectional center facility (DSCF) rate will apply to
eligible mail entered at the DSCF under exceptional dispatch. D210.4.0 will be revised to show that the DSCF rate
will not apply to mail entered at airport mail facilities (AMFs).
The provisions for Periodicals contingency entries will
be deleted in D230.2.2 and 4.6.
D500 will be revised to include several additional provisions that affect postage refund requests for Express Mail®
service when the service guarantee is not met.
E110.3.0 will be revised to clarify the eligibility of pieces
mailed at First-Class Mail card rates.
E120.2.2 will be revised to change the current Priority
Mail® flat rate from the 2-pound rate to a 1-pound rate, regardless of the weight of the material placed in the flat-rate
envelope. E120.2.4 reflects changes to the postage for
keys and identification devices. When they weigh more
than 13 ounces and less than 1 pound, they will be returned
at the 1-pound Priority Mail rate plus the fee shown in
R100.10.0. Keys and identification devices that weigh more
than 1 pound but not more than 2 pounds will be charged
the 2-pound Priority Mail rate for zone 4 plus the fee in
R100.10.0.
E130 will be revised to show that the nonmachinable
surcharge will apply to keys and identification devices,
certain letter-size and flat-size pieces mailed at single-
piece and Presorted rates, and all pieces where the mailer
chooses the manual only (do not automate) preparation option. It also will be revised to clarify that signing a postage
statement certifies that the mail meets the requirements for
the rates claimed.
E140 will be revised to reorganize the information about
rate application into two separate sections: one for cards
and letter-size mail (2.0) and one for flat-size mail (3.0).
E140.2.0, Rate Application for Cards and Letters, will be revised to replace the basic rate with the new AADC and
mixed AADC rates. E140.3.0, Rate Application for Flats,
will be revised to replace the basic rate with the new ADC
and mixed ADC rates and to clarify the definition of a piece
that is subject to the nonmachinable surcharge. E140 will
be revised to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies that the mail meets the requirements for the rates
claimed.
E217.1.0 and 3.0 will be revised to reflect references to
the new destination area distribution center (DADC) rates
and discounts for Outside-County and Outside-County
Science-of-Agriculture rates. E217.5.0 will be restructured
for clarity and revised to include standards for the new per
piece pallet and per piece destination entry pallet
discounts.
The standards for combining multiple publications or
editions in E220.3.0 and E230.4.0 will be consolidated into
the new M230. E220 and E240 will be revised to clarify that
signing a postage statement certifies that the mail meets
the requirements for the rates claimed.
E250 is revised in its entirety to clarify standards for all
destination entry Periodicals mailings, to include the new
DADC entry rates and discounts, and to reflect that for rate
eligibility DSCF pieces must be deposited at the DSCF or a
Postal Service-designated facility. E250.1.1 clarifies that for
rate eligibility, an individual package, tray, sack, or pallet
may contain pieces claimed at different destination entry
rates and discounts.
New E260 (former G094) will describe the standards for
the Periodicals ride-along classification and rate, which will
become a permanent classification. All of G094 will be
moved except for 2.0 and 3.0. Former 2.0, which contains
the rate information, will appear as part of R200. Former
3.0 will be deleted, as publishers will no longer be required
to submit additional documentation with ride-along
mailings.
E500 will be revised to change the current 2-pound Express Mail flat rate to the new 1/2-pound rate regardless of
the weight of the material placed in the flat-rate envelope.
E610.8.0 will be revised to remove references to
upgradable Standard Mail service.
E620 will be revised to remove references to upgradable
mail and to show that the nonmachinable surcharge may
apply to letter-size pieces that weigh 3.3 ounces or less and
to all pieces where the mailer chooses the manual only (do
not automate) option. E620.1.2 is revised to remove the requirement that residual volumes must appear on the same
postage statement.
E630 will be reorganized for clarity. Standards will be
added to show that letter-size pieces mailed at saturation
and high density letter rates must be automation-compatible and must have a delivery point barcode. New language
will be added to explain the discount for automation-compatible pieces that weigh between 3.3 and 3.5 ounces.
E640 will be revised to replace the basic automation letter rate with the new AADC and mixed AADC rates and to
add the discount for automation letters that weigh between
3.3 and 3.5 ounces. E640.2.0 will be revised to add the discount for ECR basic automation letters that weigh between
3.3 and 3.5 ounces.
E620 and E640 will be revised to clarify that signing a
postage statement certifies that the mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed.
E712.1.1b will be revised to add a weight limit for BPM
flats claiming the barcoded discount. E712.1.4, which excluded BPM flats from eligibility to receive an automation
rate, will be removed. E712.2.0 will be revised to add a new
standard for BPM automation flats. E712.2.0e will be added
to include a barcoded discount for automation flats.
E712.3.0 will be revised to clarify that the mailer's signature
on the postage statement certifies that the mail meets the
requirements for the rates claimed.
E713 and E714 will be revised in their entirety to reflect
the format used for BPM in E712. E713 and E714 will be
revised to change references from "BMC rate" to "basic
rate" and from "500 pieces" to "300 pieces."
E751.1.1 will be revised to add provisions to require mail
on pallets for 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes to be entered at the
SCF. E751.1.4a will be revised to clarify that
nonmachinable parcels sorted to 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes
must be entered at a designated SCF. In E751.2.2c, d, and
e, references will be added to allow the preparation of
"3-digit sacks" and "3-digit pallets." E751.5.0 and E753 will
be revised to change the references from "BMC rate" to
"basic rate."
F010.4.0 will be revised to remove references to
nonstandard mail. F010.5.2 will be revised to show that the
nonmachinable surcharge can be charged on Periodicals
items returned at First-Class Mail single-piece rates.
F010.5.3 will be revised to show that the First-Class Mail
single-piece nonmachinable surcharge is included in the
calculation of the weighted fee for returned pieces and is
charged on some returned Standard Mail pieces. F010.6.0
will be revised to include these same changes.
F030.1.6 will be revised to clarify the circumstances under which address notices are not provided by the Postal
Service.
G091.4.0 will be revised to clarify that First-Class Mail
automation letter-size pieces and parcels, First-Class Mail
automation cards, Standard Mail automation letter-size
pieces, and Standard Mail nonprofit automation letter-size
pieces using NetPost Mailing Online will be eligible for the
mixed AADC rate. First-Class Mail automation flat-size
pieces will be eligible for the mixed ADC rate. Flat-size
pieces at the regular and nonprofit Standard Mail automation rates will be eligible for the basic rates. First-Class Mail
items that are not eligible for any automation rate will be
subject to the applicable single-piece rates.
The ride-along classification will be made a permanent
classification. Therefore, the standards currently in G094
will be relocated to new E260.
The titles and summaries of labeling lists L001, L800,
L802, and L803 will be revised, as appropriate, to reflect
new mail preparation options.
Note: New labeling list L006 and the accompanying 5-digit
metro pallet sort for packages of flats took effect on March
31, 2002. Notice of this change was published in Postal
Bulletin 22066 (12-27-01).
M011.1.3 will be revised to show that a full letter tray is
defined as one that is between 75 percent and 100 percent
full. M011.1.4 will be revised to remove references to upgradable mailings, to show that machinable and nonmachinable pieces cannot be part of the same mailing, and to
show that ECR letter rate pieces cannot be part of the same
mailing as nonletter rate pieces. M012.2.0 will be revised to
update information about multiline optical character reader
(MLOCR) markings. M012.3.3 will be revised to include
additional rate markings for BPM Presorted automation
flats and BPM carrier route flats. M012.4.5 will be deleted to
remove references to upgradable mail.
The summary for M020 will be revised to include references to Media Mail and Library Mail. M020.1.6 will be
revised to include Media Mail and Library Mail in the
package-size requirements. In addition, the maximum
weight for packages in sacks will be 20 pounds unless
otherwise noted, and packages of BPM automation flats
must meet the preparation requirements in M820.
M020.2.0 will be revised to include additional standards for
packaging Media Mail and Library Mail. M020.2.1 will be
revised to remove references to the upgradable preparation for First-Class Mail items and Standard Mail items and
to show that nonmachinable and "manual only" pieces must
be packaged. M020.2.2 will be revised to require that
Media Mail and Library Mail pieces meet specific weight
limits when placed in sacks or on pallets.
The container labeling requirements in M031.5.0 will
revise the Line 2 codes for "carrier routes," "letters," and
"machinable" and add a new Line 2 code for "manual."
Exhibit M032.1.3a will be revised to change the content
identifier number (CIN) codes for the new machinable and
nonmachinable preparation for First-Class Mail and Standard Mail letter-size pieces. The exhibit also will be revised
to add new CIN codes for Standard Mail ECR letters and
designate CIN codes for certain Package Services flat-size
pieces. M033.2.0 will be revised to clarify standards for
filling letter trays.
M041.5.0 will be revised to show that the minimum volume for letter trays on pallets is measured in linear feet, not
by the number of layers of trays on the pallet. M041.5.5 will
be revised to clarify the maximum load of a pallet. M045.3.2
will be revised to show that pallets with carrier route mail
must show whether the mail is barcoded, machinable, or
manual. M045.3.3 through 3.5 will show revised titles that
will additionally encompass Media Mail and Library Mail.
M045.6.0 will be removed and included in the aforementioned sections. M050.4.1 will be revised to show that
signing a postage statement certifies that the mail meets
the requirements for the rates claimed.
M130 will be substantially revised to show the
packaging, traying, and labeling standards for machinable,
nonmachinable, and "manual only" letter-size mail.
To reduce redundancy, the standards for combining
multiple publications or editions in M210.6.0 and M220.6.0
will be consolidated and relocated in new M230.
M610 will be substantially revised to show the packaging, traying, and labeling standards for machinable,
nonmachinable, and "manual only" letter-size mail. M630
will be revised to show the new Line 2 labeling for trays of
ECR letter-size pieces.
M710.2.1 will be revised to add provisions for a 3-digit
sort level for nonmachinable parcels claiming DSCF rates.
M730 and M740 will be revised to change references
from "BMC rate" to "basic rate" and to include separate
preparation standards for Media Mail and Library Mail flats,
irregular parcels, and machinable parcels. The option to
prepare sacks based on a minimum of 1,000 cubic inches
of mail is restored for both Media Mail and Library Mail and
is reflected in M730 and M740.
M810.1.0 will be revised to replace references to the
automation basic rate for letter-size pieces with the new
AADC and mixed AADC rates. M810.2.0 will be revised to
show the new Line 2 labeling format for First-Class Mail
and Standard Mail carrier route automation letters.
M820.1.0 will be revised to replace references to the
automation basic rate for flat-size pieces with the new ADC
and mixed ADC rates. M820.6.1 will be revised to provide
packaging and sacking standards for flat-size pieces
eligible for the Bound Printed Matter automation rates.
P011.1.0 will be revised to reflect that the nonstandard
surcharge will be replaced with the new nonmachinable
surcharge. P012.2.0 will be revised to require standardized
documentation for Bound Printed Matter flats entered at
automation rates. P012.2.0 will be revised to add new rate
level abbreviations for the AADC, ADC, mixed AADC, and
mixed ADC rates. P012.3.0 will be revised to reflect references to the new DADC rate for Periodicals.
P012.4.0 will be revised to clarify the standards for
facsimile postage statements. P013.1.0 is revised to clarify
the rate calculation and computation standards. P013.2.0
will be revised to reflect the new zoning of Priority Mail rates
affecting all pieces that weigh more than 1 pound and less
than 5 pounds. This section will also be revised to reflect
that each addressed Express Mail or Priority Mail flat-rate
envelope will be charged the Express Mail rate for
1/2-pound or the Priority Mail rate for 1 pound, as applicable, regardless of the actual weight.
P013.8.0 will be revised to show how to calculate
postage for Standard Mail automation rate letter-size
pieces and ECR automation-compatible letter-size pieces
that weigh more than 3.3 ounces.
P014.5.0 will be revised to expand the circumstances
under which the Postal Service may deny Express Mail
postage refund requests when the service guarantee is not
met.
P021.3.1 will be revised to note the availability of
stamped cards.
P100.4.0 and 5.0 will be revised to change "nonstandard
surcharge" to "nonmachinable surcharge."
P200.1.5 will be revised to include requirements for
separating DADC entry pieces if the mailing is not
presented with mailing documentation at the time of postal
verification. New P200.1.8 will contain the standards relocated from P200.2.4 for the waiving of the nonadvertising
rates.
P600.2.0 will be revised to include standards for the new
nonmachinable surcharge for Standard Mail items and to
add calculations for automation and ECR heavy letters.
P910 will be revised to add new rate category abbreviations for the AADC, ADC, mixed AADC, and mixed ADC
rates for First-Class Mail items and Standard Mail items.
P950 will be revised in its entirety to clarify the standards
that apply to plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS).
P960 will be revised to clarify when MLOCR markings
must appear on mailpieces and to add new markings for
the AADC, ADC, mixed AADC, and mixed ADC rates for
First-Class Mail items and Standard Mail items.
The entire R Module will be revised to reflect the new
rates and fees for all classes of mail and special services.
S020 will be revised to increase the maximum amount of
a single postal money order from $700 to $1,000.
S010 and S500 will be revised to reduce the indemnity
included in the base price of Express Mail service from
$500 to $100.
S911 and S912 will be revised to include the new service enhancement for Registered Mail and Certified Mail.
This enhancement will allow mailers to obtain delivery information over the Internet at www.usps.com by entering the
article number shown on the mailing receipt.
S918 and S919 will be revised to extend Delivery ConfirmationTM service and Signature ConfirmationTM service to
First-Class Mail parcels, and also to limit this service to parcels only in the Package Services mail class. S918 and
S919 will also specify that for the purposes of adding Delivery Confirmation service or Signature Confirmation service
to First-Class Mail items or Package Services items, a parcel will be required to meet the definition in C100.5.0 or
C700.1.0, as appropriate.
- Mail Preparation and Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 5-9-02
Effective June 30, 2002, the Domestic Mail Manual
(DMM) is revised as follows:
A Addressing
A000 Basic Addressing
A010 General Addressing Standards
1.0 ADDRESS CONTENT AND PLACEMENT
* * * * *
[Renumber 1.3 through 1.6 as 1.4 through 1.7, respectively.
Add new 1.3 to show the preferred location for an address
on a letter-size piece (this information has been pulled out
of C830.1.1). Also renumber Exhibit A010.4.5 as A010.1.3
and rename it as "Recommended Address Placement."]
1.3 Recommended Placement
On a letter-size piece, the recommended address placement is within the optical character reader (OCR) read
area, which is a space on the address side of the mailpiece
defined by these boundaries (see Exhibit 1.3):
a. Left: 1/2 inch from the left edge of the piece.
b. Right: 1/2 inch from the right edge of the piece.
c. Top: 2-3/4 inches from the bottom edge of the piece.
d. Bottom: 5/8 inch from the bottom edge of the piece.
[In renumbered 1.4, revise the title and content to replace
"nonstandard" with "nonmachinable." No other changes to
the text.]
* * * * *
2.0 ZIP CODE
* * * * *
[Revise the title and text of 2.3 to remove obsolete information about the DPBC numeric equivalent.]
2.3 Numeric DPBC
A numeric equivalent of a delivery point barcode (DPBC)
consists of five digits followed by a hyphen and seven digits
as specified in C840. The numeric equivalent is formed by
adding three digits directly after the ZIP+4 code.
[Remove 2.4, Class and Rate Standards.]
* * * * *
4.0 RETURN ADDRESS
* * * * *
[Remove 4.5, Upgradable Mail.]
* * * * *
[Revise the title of A800 to show that the unit contains
standards that apply to any barcoded pieces, not just mail
claimed at automation rates.]
A800 Addressing for Barcoding
1.0 ACCURACY
* * * * *
1.3 Numeric DPBC
[Revise 1.3 to remove obsolete information about the
DPBC numeric equivalent.]
A numeric equivalent of the delivery point barcode (DPBC)
consists of five digits followed by a hyphen and seven digits
as specified in C840. The numeric equivalent is formed by
adding three digits directly after the ZIP+4 code.
* * * * *
A950 Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS)
* * * * *
3.0 DATE OF ADDRESS MATCHING AND CODING
3.1 Update Standards
[Revise 3.1 to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies that the mail meets the requirements for the rates
claimed to read as follows:]
Unless Z4CHANGE is used, all automation and carrier
route mailings bearing addresses coded by any AIS product must be coded with current CASS-certified software
and the current USPS database. Coding must be done
within 90 days before the mailing date for all carrier route
mailings and within 180 days before the mailing date for all
non-carrier route automation rate mailings. All AIS products
may be used immediately on release. New product releases must be included in address matching systems no
later than 45 days after the release date. The overlap in
dates for product use allows mailers adequate time to
install the new data files and test their systems. Mailers are
expected to update their systems with the latest data files
as soon as practicable and need not wait until the "last permissible use" date to include the new information in their
address matching systems. The mailer's signature on the
postage statement certifies that this standard has been met
when the corresponding mail is presented to the USPS.
The "current USPS database" product cycle is defined by
the following matrix.
* * * * *
5.0 DOCUMENTATION
5.1 Form 3553
[Revise 5.1 to show that mailers must complete and retain
Form 3553 and annotate the postage statement with the
date that address matching is performed, and to show that
signing a postage statement certifies that the mail meets
the requirements for the rates claimed.]
Unless excepted by standard, the mailer must complete a
Form 3553 for each mailing claimed at all automation rates
and all carrier route rates. A computer-generated facsimile
may be used if it contains the required data elements in a
format similar to the USPS form. The data recorded on
Form 3553 must refer only to the address list used to produce the mailing with which it is presented. The postage
statement must be annotated in the block(s) provided to
reflect the date when address matching and coding were
performed. When a mailing is produced using multiple lists,
the mailer must show the earliest (oldest) date of address
matching and coding (this information is shown on Form
3553, Section B2). The mailer certifies compliance with this
standard when signing the corresponding postage
statement.
5.2 Retention Period
[Revise 5.2 to show that Form 3553 does not have to be
submitted with the mailing, but must be retained by the
mailer or mailer's agent for 1 year.]
Form 3553 and other documentation must be retained by
the mailer or the mailer's agent for 1 year from the date of
mailing and be made available to the USPS on 24-hour
notice.
* * * * *
5.5 Using a Single List
[Revise 5.5 by adding retention requirements to read as
follows:]
When a mailing is produced using all or part of a single
address list, the mailer must retain one Form 3553 and
other required documentation reflecting the summary output information for the entire list, as obtained when the list
was coded. When the same address list is used for other
mailings within 180 days of the date it was matched and
coded, a copy of Form 3553 must be retained with the
documentation for each mailing.
5.6 Using Multiple Lists
[Revise 5.6 by adding retention requirements to read as
follows:]
When a mailing is produced using multiple address lists,
the mailer must retain a consolidated Form 3553
summarizing the individual summary output and/or
facsimile Forms 3553 for each list used (and other required
documentation). As an alternative, the mailer may combine
the addresses selected from the multiple lists into a single
new list, reprocess the addresses using CASS-certified
address matching software, and retain one Form 3553 for
the summary output generated by that process.
[Remove current 5.7, redesignate 5.8 as 5.7, and revise to
read as follows:]
5.7 Using CASS Certificate
If the name of the CASS-certified company entered on
Form 3553 does not appear on the list published by the
USPS, a copy of the CASS certificate for the software used
also must be retained by the mailer with the documentation.
* * * * *
C Characteristics and Content
C000 General Information
C010 General Mailability Standards
1.0 MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM DIMENSIONS
* * * * *
1.3 Length and Height
[Revise item b to replace "pieces" with "flats." There are no
other changes to the text. Standard Mail ECR high density
and saturation letters will be subject to the standards pertaining to length and height.]
* * * * *
[Remove 1.6, Nonstandard Surcharge.]
* * * * *
6.0 SPECIAL MAILING ENVELOPES
6.1 Window Envelope
[Revise 6.1 to remove references to upgradable mail:]
Any window envelope used for letter-size or flat-size mail
must meet the following standards and, for automation-
compatible mail, the physical standards in C800:
* * * * *
C020 Restricted or Nonmailable Articles and
Substances
* * * * *
C024 Other Restricted or Nonmailable Matter
* * * * *
[Delete 18.0, Odd-Shaped Items in Letter-Size Mailpieces.
Renumber 19.0 and 20.0 as 18.0 and 19.0, respectively.]
* * * * *
C050 Mail Processing Categories
1.0 BASIC INFORMATION
[Revise 1.0 to add a reference to new Exhibit 1.0 (redesignated Exhibit 2.0).]
Every mailpiece is assigned to one of the mail processing
categories in the following sections. These categories are
based on the physical dimensions of the piece, regardless
of the placement (orientation) of the delivery address on the
piece. Exhibit 1.0 shows the minimum and maximum dimensions for some mail processing categories.
[Redesignate Exhibit 2.0, Mail Dimensions, as Exhibit 1.0.]
2.0 LETTER-SIZE MAIL
[Revise section 2.0 to add the characteristics for nonmachinable letters and to clarify the requirements for
automation letters to read as follows:]
2.1 Minimum and Maximum Size
Letter-size mail is:
a. Not less than 5 inches long, 3-1/2 inches high, and
0.007-inch thick.
b. Not more than 11-1/2 inches long, 6-1/8 inches high,
and 1/4-inch thick.
2.2 Nonmachinable Criteria
A letter-size piece is nonmachinable if it has one or more of
the following characteristics (see C010.1.1 for how to determine the length, height, top, bottom, and sides of a
mailpiece):
a. Has an aspect ratio (length divided by height) of less
than 1.3 or more than 2.5.
b. Is polybagged, polywrapped, or enclosed in any
plastic material.
c. Has clasps, strings, buttons, or similar closure
devices.
d. Contains items such as pens, pencils, or loose keys
or coins that cause the thickness of the mailpiece to
be uneven.
e. Is too rigid (does not bend easily when subjected to a
transport belt tension of 40 pounds around an 11-inch
diameter turn).
f. For pieces more than 4-1/4 inches high or 6 inches
long, the thickness is less than 0.009 inch.
g. Has a delivery address parallel to the shorter
dimension of the mailpiece.
h. For folded self-mailers, the folded edge is perpendicular to the address, regardless of the use of tabs,
wafer seals, or other fasteners.
i. For booklet-type pieces, the bound edge (spine) is
the shorter dimension of the piece or is at the top, regardless of the use of tabs, wafer seals, or other
fasteners.
2.3 Automation Rates
Letters and cards mailed at automation rates must meet the
standards in C810.
* * * * *
C100 First-Class Mail
* * * * *
2.0 CARDS CLAIMED AT CARD RATES
* * * * *
2.7 Tearing Guides
[Revise 2.7 to read as follows:]
A card may have perforations as long as they do not eliminate or interfere with any address element, postage, or
postal markings and do not compromise the physical
integrity of the card.
* * * * *
[Revise the title and text of 4.0 to reflect the new nonmachinable surcharge for some First-Class Mail letters and
flats to read as follows:]
4.0 NONMACHINABLE PIECES
Letter-size pieces that weigh 1 ounce or less and meet one
or more of the nonmachinable characteristics in C050.2.2
may be subject to the nonmachinable surcharge (see E130
and E140). Nonletters (flats and parcels) that weigh 1
ounce or less are subject to the nonmachinable surcharge
if any one of the following applies (see C010.1.1 for how to
determine the length and height of a mailpiece):
a. The piece is greater than 1/4-inch thick.
b. The length is more than 11-1/2 inches or the height is
more than 6-1/8 inches.
c. The aspect ratio (length divided by height) is less
than 1.3 or more than 2.5.
[Redesignate section 5.0, Facing Identification Mark (FIM),
as 6.0. Add new 5.0, Parcels, to read as follows:]
5.0 PARCELS
For the purposes of adding Delivery Confirmation or Signature Confirmation, a First-Class Mail parcel is defined as
any piece that:
a. Has an address side with enough surface area to fit
the delivery address, return address, postage, markings and endorsements, and special service label;
and,
b. Is in a box or, if not in a box, is more than 3/4-inch
thick at its thickest point.
* * * * *
C200 Periodicals
Summary
[Revise the Summary in C200 to read as follows:]
C200 describes permissible mailpiece components (e.g.,
enclosures, attachments, and supplements), impermissible
or prohibited components, and mailpiece construction.
* * * * *
C600 Standard Mail
1.0 DIMENSIONS
1.1 Basic Standards
These standards apply to Standard Mail:
* * * * *
[Redesignate items 1.1c and 1.1d as items 1.1d and 1.1e,
respectively. Redesignate Exhibit 1.1d as Exhibit 1.1e. Add
new item 1.1c to require that ECR letters meet the physical
standards for automation-compatible mail in C810 and barcode readability in C840.]
c. ECR pieces mailed at high density and saturation
letter rates must meet the standards for automation-
compatible mail in C810 and barcoding in C840.
* * * * *
[Redesignate 3.0, Postal Inspection, and 4.0, Enclosures,
as 4.0 and 5.0, respectively. Add new 3.0, Nonmachinable
Pieces, to reflect the new nonmachinable surcharge for
some Standard Mail letters to read as follows:]
3.0 NONMACHINABLE PIECES
Letter-size pieces that weigh 3.3 ounces or less and meet
one or more of the nonmachinable characteristics in
C050.2.2 may be subject to the nonmachinable surcharge
(see E620).
* * * * *
C700 Package Services
1.0 PACKAGE SERVICES
These standards apply to Package Services:
* * * * *
[Insert new item 1.0h to read as follows:]
h. For the purposes of adding Delivery Confirmation or
Signature Confirmation, a Package Services parcel
is defined as any piece that:
(1) Has an address side with enough surface area
to fit the delivery address, return address, postage, markings and endorsements, and special
service label; and,
(2) Is in a box or, if not in a box, is more than
3/4-inch thick at its thickest point.
* * * * *
[Revise the title of 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 NONMACHINABLE SURCHARGE
[Revise the first sentence of 2.0 to read as follows:]
Mailpieces described in this section that are mailed at the
Inter-BMC/ASF Parcel Post, Intra-BMC/ASF Parcel Post,
DSCF Parcel Select, or DBMC Parcel Select rates are subject to the applicable nonmachinable surcharge in R700
unless the applicable special handling fee is paid.***
* * * * *
[Revise the title of C800 by adding "Machinable" to read as
follows:]
C800 Automation-Compatible and Machinable Mail
C810 Letters and Cards
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
[Revise 1.0 to show that some ECR letters must meet the
standards for automation-compatible mail in this unit.]
Letters and cards claimed at automation rates and at some
Standard Mail Enhanced Carrier Route rates must meet the
standards in 2.0 through 8.0. Pieces claimed at First-Class
Mail automation card rates also must meet the standards in
C100. Unless prepared under 7.2 through 7.4, each mailpiece must be prepared either as a sealed envelope (the
preferred method) or, if unenveloped, must be sealed or
glued on all four sides.
2.0 DIMENSIONS
* * * * *
2.4 Maximum Weight
[Revise 2.4 to replace the weight limit for upgradable letters
with the weight limit for machinable letters, to raise the
weight limit for Standard Mail automation heavy letters and
ECR heavy letters to 3.5 ounces, and to add a weight limit
for ECR high density and saturation letters.]
Maximum weight limits are as follows:
a. First-Class Mail:
(1) Machinable Presorted: 3.3 ounces (0.2063
pound).
(2) Automation (see 7.5 for pieces heavier than 3
ounces): 3.3 ounces (0.2063 pound).
b. Periodicals automation (see 7.5 for pieces heavier
than 3 ounces): 3.3 ounces (0.2063 pound).
c. Standard Mail:
(1) Machinable Presorted: 3.3 ounces (0.2063
pound).
(2) Automation (see 7.5 for pieces heavier than 3
ounces): 3.5 ounces (0.2188 pound).
(3) Enhanced Carrier Route high density and saturation and automation carrier route (see 7.5 for
pieces heavier than 3 ounces): 3.5 ounces
(0.2188 pound).
* * * * *
8.0 ENCLOSED REPLY CARDS AND ENVELOPES
8.1 Basic Standard
[Revise the first paragraph of 8.1 to clarify that signing a
postage statement certifies that the mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed to read as follows:]
All letter-size reply cards and envelopes (business reply
mail (BRM), courtesy reply mail (CRM), and meter reply
mail (MRM)) provided as enclosures in automation First-
Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail and addressed
for return to a domestic delivery address must meet the applicable standards for automation-compatible mail in C810.
The mailer's signature on the postage statement certifies
that this standard, and the standards listed below, have
been met when the corresponding mail is presented to the
USPS:
* * * * *
C820 Flats
* * * * *
2.0 DIMENSIONS AND CRITERIA FOR FSM 881
PROCESSING
* * * * *
2.4 Maximum Weight
[Revise 2.4 to add a weight limit for BPM flats by adding
new item d to read as follows:]
d. For Bound Printed Matter flat-size pieces claiming
the barcode discount, 16 ounces.
* * * * *
[Delete C830 in its entirety. C830 contains standards for
upgradable mail, including address placement, OCR read
area, fonts, and reflectance. Effective June 30, 2002, the
upgradable preparation for letters will be replaced with a
machinable preparation; the machinable preparation has
no requirements for address placement, OCR read area,
etc. References to C830 throughout the DMM will be
revised.]
C840 Barcoding Standards for Letters and Flats
* * * * *
2.0 BARCODE LOCATION FOR LETTER-SIZE
PIECES
2.1 Barcode Clear Zone
[Revise the first paragraph in 2.1 to remove references to
show that Standard Mail ECR pieces must have a barcode
clear zone and to remove references to upgradable mail.]
Each letter-size piece in an automation rate mailing or
claimed at an Enhanced Carrier Route saturation or high
density rate must have a barcode clear zone unless the
piece bears a DPBC in the address block. The barcode
clear zone and all printing and material in the clear zone
must meet the reflectance standards in 5.0. The barcode
clear zone is a rectangular area in the lower right corner of
the address side of cards and letter-size pieces defined by
these boundaries:
* * * * *
2.2 General Standards
[Revise 2.2 to show that these standards for delivery point
barcodes also would apply to ECR saturation and high
density rate pieces.]
Automation rate pieces and pieces claimed at an Enhanced
Carrier Route saturation or high density rate that weigh 3
ounces or less may bear a DPBC either in the address
block or in the barcode clear zone. Pieces that weigh more
than 3 ounces must bear a DPBC in the address block.
* * * * *
5.0 REFLECTANCE
5.1 Background Reflectance
[Revise 5.1 to delete item c to remove references to upgradable mail. No other changes to the text.]
* * * * *
5.4 Dark Fibers and Background Patterns
[Revise 5.4 to include references to ECR saturation and
high density rate pieces. Delete item c to remove references to upgradable mail.]
Dark fibers or background patterns (e.g., checks) that produce a print contrast ratio of more than 15% when
measured in the red and green portions of the optical spectrum are prohibited in these locations:
a. The area of the address block or the barcode clear
zone where the barcode appears on a card-size or a
letter-size piece mailed at automation rates or at Enhanced Carrier Route saturation or high density
rates.
b. The area of the address block or the area of the mailpiece where the barcode appears on a flat-size piece
in an automation rate mailing.
* * * * *
[Revise the title and summary text of C850 by replacing
"Standard Mail" and "Package Services" with "Parcels" to
read as follows:]
C850 Barcoding Standards for Parcels
Summary
C850 describes the technical standards for barcoded parcels. It defines parcel barcode characteristics, location, and
content.
1.0 GENERAL
1.1 Basic Requirement
[Revise 1.1 to remove references to specific classes of mail
to read as follows:]
Every parcel eligible for a barcode discount must bear a
properly prepared barcode that represents the correct ZIP
Code information for the delivery address on the mailpiece
plus the appropriate verifier character suffix or application
identifier prefix characters as described in 1.0 through 4.0.
The combination of appropriate ZIP Code and verifier or
application identifier characters uniquely identifies the barcode as the postal routing code.
* * * * *
1.4 Use With Delivery Confirmation and Signature
Confirmation Services
[Revise 1.4 to remove references to specific classes of mail
to read as follows:]
A mailer may qualify for the machinable parcel barcode discount and may apply Delivery Confirmation and Signature
Confirmation barcodes in one of the following ways:
* * * * *
[Revise item 1.4c to delete references to specific classes of
mail (to allow integrated barcodes for First-Class Mail
parcels) to read as follows:]
c. A single integrated barcode may be used by Delivery
Confirmation electronic option mailers who choose to
combine Delivery Confirmation or Signature
Confirmation service with insurance. Mailers printing
their own barcodes and using the electronic option
must meet the specifications in S918, S919, and
Publication 91 with these modifications:
(1) The text above the barcode must identify the
other service requested.
(2) The service-type code in the barcode must identify the class of mail and/or type of special
service combined with Delivery Confirmation or
Signature Confirmation.
* * * * *
D Deposit, Collection, and Delivery
* * * * *
D200 Periodicals
D210 Basic Information
* * * * *
3.0 EXCEPTIONAL DISPATCH
* * * * *
3.4 Destination Rates
[Revise 3.4 by deleting the first sentence and revising the
remaining sentence to read as follows:]
Copies of Periodicals publications deposited under exceptional dispatch may be eligible for and claimed at the
destination sectional center facility (DSCF) or destination
delivery unit (DDU) rates if the applicable standards in
E250 are met.
* * * * *
4.0 DEPOSIT AT AMF
4.1 General
[Revise 4.1 by deleting the reference to SCF rates to read
as follows:]
A publisher that airfreights copies of a Periodicals publication to an airport mail facility (AMF) must be authorized
additional entry at the verifying office (i.e., the post office
where the copies are presented for postal verification).
Postage must be paid at that office unless an alternative
postage payment method is authorized. Copies presented
at an AMF may be eligible for the delivery unit rate, subject
to the applicable standards.
* * * * *
D230 Additional Entry
* * * * *
2.0 DISTRIBUTION PLAN
* * * * *
[Remove 2.2, Contingency Entries, and redesignate 2.1 as
2.0 by deleting the words "Basic Standard" and section
number "2.1".]
* * * * *
4.0 USE OF ENTRY
* * * * *
[Remove 4.6, Contingency Entry and redesignate 4.7 as
4.6.]
* * * * *
D500 Express Mail
1.0 SERVICE OBJECTIVES AND REFUND
CONDITIONS
1.1 Express Mail Same Day Airport Service
[Revise 1.1 to read as follows:]
For Express Mail Same Day Airport Service, the USPS refunds the postage for an item not available for customer
pickup at destination by the time specified when the item
was accepted at origin, unless the delay was caused by
one of the situations in 1.6.
1.2 Express Mail Custom Designed Service
[Revise 1.2 to read as follows:]
For Express Mail Custom Designed Service, the USPS refunds the postage for an item not available for customer
pickup at destination or not delivered to the addressee within 24 hours of mailing, unless the item was mailed under a
service agreement that provides for delivery more than 24
hours after scheduled presentation at the point of origin or if
the delay was caused by one of the situations in 1.6.
1.3 Express Mail Next Day and Second Day
Services
[Revise 1.3 to read as follows:]
For Express Mail Next Day Service, the USPS refunds the
postage for an item not available for customer pickup at
destination or for which delivery to the addressee was not
attempted, subject to the standards for this service, unless
the delay was caused by one of the situations in 1.6.
1.4 Express Mail Military Service
[Revise 1.4 to read as follows:]
For Express Mail Military Service (EMMS), items presented
at APO/FPO facilities before the published cutoff time are
delivered the second day after acceptance. If presented after the published cut-off time, such items are delivered the
third day after acceptance. For EMMS, the USPS refunds
postage for an item not available for customer pickup at the
APO/FPO of address or for which delivery to the addressee
was not attempted domestically within the times specified
by the standards for this service, unless the item was
delayed by Customs; the item was destined for an APO/FPO that was closed on the intended day of delivery (delivery is attempted the next business day); or the delay was
caused by one of the situations in 1.6.
* * * * *
1.6 Postage Not Refunded
[Revise 1.6 to add the additional limitations for Express
Mail refunds to read as follows:]
Postage refunds may not be available if delivery was attempted within the times required for the specific service, or
if the item was:
a. Properly detained for law enforcement purposes.
b. Delayed because of a strike or work stoppage.
c. Delayed because of an incorrect Zip Code or
address.
d. Forwarded or returned after it was made available for
claim.
e. Unable to be delivered although attempts were made
to deliver the item within the times required for the
specific service.
f. Delayed because of a delayed or cancelled flight.
g. Delayed due to governmental action beyond the control of the USPS or air carriers.
h. Delayed by war, insurrection, or civil disturbance.
i. Delayed by a breakdown of a substantial portion of
the USPS transportation network resulting from
events or factors outside the control of the USPS.
j. Delayed by acts of God.
Attempted delivery occurs under any of these situations
when the delivery is physically attempted, but cannot be
made; when the shipment is available for delivery, but the
addressee made a written request that the shipment be
held for a specific day or days; or when the delivery employee discovers that the shipment is undeliverable as
addressed before leaving on the delivery route.
* * * * *
E Eligibility
E000 Special Eligibility Standards
* * * * *
E070 Mixed Classes
* * * * *
2.0 ATTACHMENTS OF DIFFERENT CLASSES
* * * * *
2.2 Rate Qualification
If a Periodicals, Standard Mail, or Package Services host
piece qualifies for:
* * * * *
[Revise item d by revising the first sentence and removing
the second sentence to read as follows:]
d. A destination entry rate (DDU, DSCF, DADC, or
DBMC), a Standard Mail attachment is eligible for the
comparable destination entry rate. The attachment
need not meet the volume standard that would apply
if mailed separately. A rate including a destination
entry discount may not be claimed for an attachment
unless a similar rate is available and claimed for the
host piece.
* * * * *
E100 First-Class Mail
E110 Basic Standards
* * * * *
[Revise 3.0 to read as follows:]
3.0 CARD RATE
To be eligible for a card rate, a stamped card, postcard, and
each part of a double (reply) card must meet the physical
standards in C100. The reply half of a double card need not
bear postage when originally mailed, but it must bear postage at the applicable rate when returned, unless prepared
as business reply mail (S922) or as a merchandise return
service label (S923.5.4).
* * * * *
E120 Priority Mail
* * * * *
2.0 RATES
* * * * *
2.2 Flat-Rate Envelope
[Revise 2.2 by changing "2-pound" to "1-pound" to read as
follows:]
Any amount of material that can be mailed in the special
flat-rate envelope available from the USPS is subject to the
1-pound Priority Mail rate, regardless of the actual weight of
the mailpiece.
* * * * *
2.4 Keys and Identification Devices
[Revise 2.4 to show that the 2-pound rate is a zoned rate, to
read as follows:]
Keys and identification devices (e.g., identification cards or
uncovered identification tags) that weigh more than 13
ounces but not more than 1 pound are returned at the
1-pound Priority Mail rate plus the fee shown in R100.10.0.
Keys and identification devices weighing more than 1
pound but not more than 2 pounds are mailed at the
2-pound Priority Mail rate for zone 4 plus the fee in
R100.10.0. The key or identification device must bear, contain, or have securely attached the name and complete address of a person, organization, or concern, with
instructions to return the key or identification device to that
address and a statement guaranteeing payment of postage
due on delivery.
E130 Nonautomation Rates
* * * * *
2.0 SINGLE-PIECE RATE
* * * * *
2.2 Keys and Identification Devices
[Revise 2.2 to change "nonstandard" to "nonmachinable" to
read as follows:]
Keys and identification devices (e.g., identification cards or
uncovered identification tags) that weigh 13 ounces or less
are mailed at the applicable single-piece letter rate plus the
fee in R100.10.0, and if applicable, the nonmachinable surcharge. The keys and identification devices must bear,
contain, or have securely attached the name and complete
address of a person, organization, or concern, with instructions to return the piece to that address and a statement
guaranteeing payment of postage due on delivery.
* * * * *
[Add new 2.4 to show that letter-size pieces may be subject
to the nonmachinable surcharge to read as follows:]
2.4 Nonmachinable Surcharge-Letter-Size
Pieces
The nonmachinable surcharge in R100.11.0 applies to
letter-size pieces:
a. That weigh 1 ounce or less and meet one or more of
the nonmachinable characteristics in C050.2.2.
Pieces mailed at the card rate are not subject to the
nonmachinable surcharge.
b. For which the mailer chooses the manual only (do not
automate) option. Pieces mailed at the card rate may
choose this option but are not subject to the
surcharge.
[Add new 2.5 to show that flats may be subject to the
nonmachinable surcharge to read as follows:]
2.5 Nonmachinable Surcharge-Nonletters
Nonletters (flats and parcels) that weigh 1 ounce or less are
subject to the nonmachinable surcharge in R100.11.0 if any
one of the following applies (see C010.1.1 for how to determine the length and height of a mailpiece):
a. The piece is greater than 1/4-inch thick.
b. The length is more than 11-1/2 inches or the height is
more than 6-1/8 inches.
c. The aspect ratio (length divided by height) is less
than 1.3 or more than 2.5.
3.0 PRESORTED RATE
* * * * *
3.3 Address Quality
[Revise the first paragraph of 3.3 to clarify that signing a
postage statement certifies the mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed. There are no other changes to
this section.]
The move update standards for address quality are listed
below. The mailer's signature on the postage statement
certifies that this standard has been met when the corresponding mail is presented to the USPS.***
3.4 ZIP Code Accuracy
[Revise 3.4 to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies that the mail meets the requirements for the rates
claimed to read as follows:]
All 5-digit ZIP Codes included in addresses on pieces
claimed at the Presorted rate must be verified and
corrected within 12 months before the mailing date using a
USPS-approved method. The mailer's signature on the
postage statement certifies that this standard has been met
when the corresponding mail is presented to the USPS.
This standard applies to each address individually, not to a
specific list or mailing. An address meeting this standard
may be used in mailings at any other rate to which the standard applies during the 12-month period after its most
recent update.
[Add new 3.5 to show that letter-size pieces may be subject
to the nonmachinable surcharge to read as follows:]
3.5 Nonmachinable Surcharge-Letter-Size
Pieces
Letter-size pieces that weigh 1 ounce or less and meet one
or more of the nonmachinable characteristics in C050.2.2
are subject to the nonmachinable surcharge in R100.11.0.
Pieces mailed at the card rate are not subject to the nonmachinable surcharge. Double cards that are not prepared in
accordance with C810 are considered nonmachinable;
they are not charged the surcharge but must be prepared
according to the standards for nonmachinable pieces in
M130. Pieces that weigh more than 3.3 ounces but still
meet the dimensions for a letter must be prepared
according to the standards for nonmachinable pieces in
M130.
[Add new 3.6 to show that flat-size pieces may be subject to
the nonmachinable surcharge:]
3.6 Nonmachinable Surcharge-Nonletters
Nonletters (flats and parcels) that weigh 1 ounce or less are
subject to the nonmachinable surcharge in R100.11.0 if any
one of the following applies (see C010.1.1 for how to
determine the length and height of a mailpiece):
a. The piece is greater than 1/4-inch thick.
b. The length is more than 11-1/2 inches or the height is
more than 6-1/8 inches.
c. The aspect ratio (length divided by height) is less
than 1.3 or more than 2.5.
[Add new 3.7 to show that the nonmachinable surcharge
applies to pieces where the mailer chooses the manual
only option to read as follows:]
3.7 Manual Only Option
The nonmachinable surcharge in R100.11.0 applies to any
letter-size piece (except card-rate pieces) for which a mailer chooses the manual only (do not automate) option. For
card-rate pieces, a mailer can specify manual handling, but
a surcharge does not apply.
[Remove 4.0, Nonstandard Surcharge.]
E140 Automation Rates
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
1.3 Address Quality
[Revise the first paragraph of 1.3 to clarify that signing a
postage statement certifies that the mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed to read as follows:]
The move update standards for address quality are listed
below. The mailer's signature on the postage statement
certifies that this standard has been met when the corresponding mail is presented to the USPS.***
1.4 Carrier Route Presort
[Revise 1.4 to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies that the mail meets the requirements for the rates
claimed to read as follows:]
Carrier route rates are available only for letter-size mail and
only for those 5-digit ZIP Code areas identified with an "A"
or "B" in the Carrier Route Indicators field of the USPS City
State File used for address coding. Carrier route codes
must be applied to mailings using CASS-certified software
and the current USPS Carrier Route File scheme or another AIS product containing carrier route information, subject
to A930 and A950. Carrier route and City State File information must be updated within 90 days before the mailing
date. The mailer's signature on the postage statement
certifies that this standard has been met when the
corresponding mail is presented to the USPS.
* * * * *
[Remove 1.6, Nonstandard Surcharge.]
[Revise the title and text of 2.0 to reorganize rate application information for letters and to replace the basic rate with
the AADC and mixed AADC rates.]
2.0 RATE APPLICATION-CARDS AND LETTERS
Automation rates apply to each piece that is sorted under
M810 into the corresponding qualifying groups:
a. Pieces in full carrier route trays, in carrier route
groups of 10 or more pieces each placed in 5-digit
carrier routes trays, or in carrier route packages of 10
or more pieces each placed in 3-digit carrier routes
trays qualify for the carrier route rate. Preparation to
qualify for the carrier route rate is optional and need
not be done for all carrier routes in a 5-digit area.
b. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 5-digit or 5-digit
scheme trays qualify for the 5-digit rate. Preparation
to qualify for the 5-digit rate is optional and need not
be done for all 5-digit or 5-digit scheme destinations.
c. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 3-digit or 3-digit
scheme trays qualify for the 3-digit rate.
d. Groups of fewer than 150 pieces in origin 3-digit trays
or origin 3-digit scheme trays, and all pieces in AADC
trays qualify for the AADC rate.
e. All pieces in mixed AADC trays qualify for the mixed
AADC rate.
[Redesignate 2.2 and 2.3, describing rate application for
flats, as new 3.0 and revise to replace the basic automation
rate with the new AADC and mixed AADC rates and to add
the nonmachinable surcharge.]
3.0 RATE APPLICATION-FLATS AND OTHER
NONLETTERS
3.1 Package-Based Preparation
Automation rates apply to each piece that is sorted under
M820.2.0 or M910.1.0 into the corresponding qualifying
groups:
a. Pieces in 5-digit packages of 10 or more pieces qualify for the 5-digit rate. Preparation to qualify for the
5-digit rate is optional and need not be done for all
5-digit destinations.
b. Pieces in 3-digit packages of 10 or more pieces qualify for the 3-digit rate.
c. Pieces in ADC packages of 10 or more pieces qualify
for the ADC rate.
d. Pieces in mixed ADC packages qualify for the mixed
ADC rate.
3.2 Tray-Based Preparation
Automation rates apply to each piece that is sorted under
M820.4.0 into the corresponding qualifying groups:
a. Groups of 90 or more pieces in 5-digit trays qualify for
the 5-digit rate. Preparation to qualify for the 5-digit
rate is optional and need not be done for all 5-digit
destinations.
b. Groups of 90 or more pieces in 3-digit trays qualify for
the 3-digit rate.
c. Groups of fewer than 90 pieces in origin 3-digit trays
and all pieces in ADC trays qualify for the ADC rate.
d. All pieces in mixed ADC trays qualify for the mixed
ADC rate.
[Add new 3.3 to show that flats may be subject to the
nonmachinable surcharge to read as follows:]
3.3 Nonmachinable Surcharge
Pieces that weigh 1 ounce or less are subject to the nonmachinable surcharge in R100.11.0 if any one of the following
applies (see C010.1.1 for how to determine the length and
height of a mailpiece):
a. The piece is greater than 1/4-inch thick.
b. The length is more than 11-1/2 inches or the height is
more than 6-1/8 inches.
c. The aspect ratio (length divided by height) is less
than 1.3 or more than 2.5.
* * * * *
E200 Periodicals
E210 Basic Standards
* * * * *
E217 Basic Rate Eligibility
[Revise 1.0 by subdividing the section and revising the text
for clarity to read as follows:]
1.0 OUTSIDE-COUNTY RATES
1.1 Description
Outside-County rates apply to copies of an authorized
Periodicals publication mailed by a publisher or news agent
that are not eligible for In-County rates under 4.0. Outside-
County rates consist of an addressed per piece charge, a
zoned charge for the weight of the advertising portion of the
publication, and a unzoned charge for the weight of the
nonadvertising portion.
1.2 Nonrequester and Nonsubscriber Copies
For excess noncommingled mailings under E215, nonrequester and nonsubscriber copies are not eligible for
Periodicals rates unless the publication is authorized under
E212.2.0 and is not authorized to contain general
advertising. Nonrequester and nonsubscriber copies in
excess of the 10% allowance under E215 are subject to
Outside-County rates when commingled with requester or
subscriber copies, as appropriate.
* * * * *
3.0 OUTSIDE-COUNTY
SCIENCE-OF-AGRICULTURE RATES
* * * * *
3.3 Other Rates
[Revise 3.3 by adding the new destination ADC rate, removing the last sentence, and rearranging sentences two
and three to read as follows:]
All Outside-County rates and discounts apply, except for
separate rates for DDU, DSCF, DADC, and zones 1 and 2.
Nonsubscriber copies are subject to E215. Each piece
must meet the standards for the rates or discounts claimed.
[Remove 3.4, Nonadvertising Discount, and redesignate
3.5 as 3.4.]
* * * * *
5.0 DISCOUNTS
[Revise 5.0 by restructuring for clarity and adding a reference for the new per piece pallet discounts for
nonletter-size mail to read as follows:]
The following discounts are available:
a. Nonadvertising. The nonadvertising discount applies
to the Outside-County piece rate and is computed
under P013.
b. Destination Entry. Destination entry discounts are
available under E250 for copies entered at specific
USPS facilities.
c. Pallet. Outside-County rate nonletters (flats and
irregular parcels) packaged and placed directly on
pallets under the applicable standards in M045 are
eligible for one of the pallet discounts in R200.
Except for overflow pallets, each pallet must contain
a minimum of 250 pounds of addressed pieces.
Pieces taken to destination delivery units (DDUs)
under the applicable standards in E250, that cannot
accept pallets, need only meet the minimum weight
requirement. To determine whether a 5-digit delivery
facility can handle pallets, refer to the Drop Shipment
Product maintained by the National Customer Support Center (NCSC) (see G043).
* * * * *
E220 Presorted Rates
1.0 BASIC INFORMATION
* * * * *
1.3 ZIP Code Accuracy
[Revise 1.3 to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies that the mail meets the requirements for the rates
claimed to read as follows:]
All 5-digit ZIP Codes in addresses on pieces claimed at the
5-digit, 3-digit, or basic rates must be verified and corrected
within 12 months before the mailing date by a USPS-approved method. The mailer's signature on the postage
statement certifies that this standard has been met when
the corresponding mail is presented to the USPS. This
standard applies to each address individually, not to a specific list or mailing. An address meeting this standard may
be used in mailings at any other rate to which the standard
applies during the 12-month period after its most recent
update.
* * * * *
[Remove 3.0, Combining Multiple Publications or Editions.
This section has moved to M230.]
* * * * *
E240 Automation Rates
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
1.2 Enclosed Reply Cards and Envelopes
[Revise 1.2 to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies that the mail meets the requirements for the rates
claimed to read as follows:]
All letter-size reply cards and envelopes provided as
enclosures in automation rate Periodicals and addressed
for return to a domestic delivery address must meet the
standards in C810 for enclosed reply cards and envelopes.
The mailer's signature on the postage statement certifies
that this standard has been met when the corresponding
mail is presented to the USPS.
* * * * *
[Revise E250 in its entirety to clarify standards for all
destination entry Periodicals mailings; to include the new
DADC entry rates and discounts; and to reflect that DSCF
pieces must be deposited at the DSCF or a USPS-designated facility.]
E250 Destination Entry
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 Rate Application
Outside-County addressed pieces may qualify for
destination area distribution center (DADC) or destination
sectional center facility (DSCF) rates and discounts subject
to the standards in 2.0 and 3.0, respectively. Carrier route
rate addressed pieces may qualify for destination delivery
unit (DDU) rates and discounts subject to the standards in
4.0. Any advertising portion may be eligible for DADC,
DSCF, or DDU advertising pound rates based on the entry
facility and the address on the piece. For each addressed
piece, only one destination entry discount may be claimed.
An individual package, tray, sack, or pallet may contain
pieces claimed at different destination entry rates and discounts. Addressed pieces may also qualify for the destination entry pallet per piece discount in E217. In-County
carrier route rate addressed pieces may qualify for the DDU
discount subject to the standards in 4.0.
1.2 Documentation of Postage
Subject to P012, the mailer must be able to show compliance with eligibility requirements (e.g., by package, tray,
sack, or pallet), and list the number of addressed pieces by
presort level for each 5-digit and 3-digit ZIP Code destination as appropriate for the rates and discounts claimed.
Documentation is not required if each addressed piece in
the mailing is of identical weight and is separated by zone,
rate, and destination entry (if applicable) when presented
for mailing.
2.0 DESTINATION AREA DISTRIBUTION CENTER
(DADC)
2.1 Definition
For this standard, DADC includes the facilities listed in
L004, or a USPS-designated facility.
2.2 General Eligibility
Addressed pieces meeting the standards in 1.0 and 2.0 are
eligible for DADC rates when deposited at an ADC (or
USPS-designated facility) and addressed for delivery to
one of the 3-digit ZIP Codes served by the facility where
deposited.
2.3 Rates
DADC rates include a per piece discount off the addressed
piece rate and, if applicable, an advertising pound rate.
Pieces must meet the standards for any other rate and discount claimed.
3.0 DESTINATION SECTIONAL CENTER FACILITY
(DSCF)
3.1 Definition
For this standard, DSCF includes the facilities listed in L005
and L006, or a USPS-designated facility.
3.2 General Eligibility
Addressed pieces meeting the standards in 1.0 and 3.0 are
eligible for DSCF rates when deposited at an SCF (or
USPS-designated facility), and are addressed for delivery
to one of the 3-digit ZIP Codes served by the facility where
deposited.
3.3 Rates
DSCF rates include a per piece discount off the addressed
piece rate and, if applicable, an advertising pound rate.
Pieces must meet the standards for any other rate and
discount claimed.
4.0 DESTINATION DELIVERY UNIT (DDU)
4.1 Definition
For this standard, the DDU is the facility where the carrier
cases mail for delivery to the addresses on the pieces in the
mailing.
4.2 General Eligibility
Addressed pieces, including pieces under exceptional dispatch, meeting the standards in 1.0 and 4.0 are eligible for
DDU rates when deposited at the facility where the carrier
serving the delivery address on the mail is located.
4.3 Rates
DDU rates for Outside-County include a per piece discount
off the addressed piece rate and, if applicable, an advertising pound rate. DDU rates for In-County consist of a per
piece discount off the addressed piece rate and a pound
charge. Outside-County and In-County pieces must meet
the standards for any other rate and discount claimed.
4.4 Maximum Volume
The same mailer may not present for deposit more than
four DDU rate mailings at the same delivery unit (or another
acting as its agent) in any 24-hour period. This limit may be
waived if local conditions permit. A mailer may ask for such
a waiver when scheduling deposit of the mailings. There is
no maximum for plant-verified drop shipments made under
P950. This standard does not apply to mailings presented
to the publication's authorized original entry, or additional
entry, serving the place where the pieces were prepared for
mailing, if that entry post office is also the facility at which
the DDU rate pieces must be deposited.
4.5 Deposit Schedule
The mailer may schedule deposit of DDU rate mailings at
least 24 hours in advance by contacting the district office in
the service area the destination facility is located. The mailer must follow the scheduled deposit time provided. The
mailer may request standing appointments for renewable
6-month periods by written application to the district office
in the service area the destination facility is located. Mixed
loads of Periodicals and Standard Mail or Package Services mail require advance appointments for deposit. For
mail entered under exceptional dispatch, the application for
exceptional dispatch required under D210 also serves as a
request for standing appointments.
[Add new E260 (former G094) as follows:]
E260 Ride-Along
Summary
E260 describes the standards for the Periodicals Ride-
Along classification.
1.0 BASIC ELIGIBILITY
1.1 Description
The standards in E260 apply to Standard Mail material paid
at the Periodicals Ride-Along rate that is attached to or enclosed with Periodicals mail. All Periodicals subclasses
may enclose eligible matter at the Ride-Along rate.
1.2 Basic Standards
Only one Ride-Along piece may be attached to or enclosed
with an individual copy of Periodicals mail. The Ride-Along
rate must be paid on each copy in the mailing, not addressed copies. If more than one Ride-Along piece is
attached or enclosed, mailers have the option of paying
Standard Mail postage for all the enclosures or attachments, or paying the Ride-Along rate for the first
attachment or enclosure and Standard Mail rates for subsequent attachments and enclosures. Ride-Along pieces
eligible under E260 must be eligible as Standard Mail and
must:
a. Not exceed any dimension of the host publication.
b. Not exceed 3.3 ounces and must not exceed the
weight of the host publication.
c. Not obscure the title of the publication or the address
label.
1.3 Physical Characteristics
The host Periodicals piece and the Ride-Along piece must
meet the following physical characteristics:
a. Construction:
(1) Bound publications. If contained within the host
publication, the Ride-Along piece must be securely affixed to prevent detachment during
postal processing. If loose, the Ride-Along piece
and publication must be enclosed together in a
full wrapper, polybag, or envelope.
(2) Unbound publications. A loose Ride-Along
enclosure with an unbound publication must be
combined with and inserted within the publication in a manner that prevents detachment during postal processing. If the Ride-Along piece is
included outside the unbound publication, the
publication and the Ride-Along piece must be
enclosed in a full wrapper, polybag, or envelope.
b. A Periodicals piece (automation and nonautomation)
with the addition of a Ride-Along piece must remain
uniformly thick and remain in the same processing
category as before the addition of the Ride-Along attachment or enclosure.
c. A Periodicals piece with a Ride-Along that claims automation rates must meet the appropriate automation
requirements in C810 or C820, must maintain the
same processing category as before the addition of
the Ride-Along attachment or enclosure, and, for flat-
size mail, must meet the flat sorting machine criteria
under C820 (FSM 881 or FSM 1000). For example:
(1) If, due to the inclusion of a Ride-Along piece, an
FSM 881-compatible host piece can no longer
be processed on the FSM 881, but must be processed on an FSM 1000, then that piece must
pay either the appropriate Periodicals nonautomation rate plus the Ride-Along rate, or the
appropriate Periodicals automation rate for the
host piece and the appropriate Standard Mail
rate for the attachment or enclosure.
(2) If, due to the inclusion of a Ride-Along piece, an
FSM 1000-compatible host piece can no longer
be processed on the FSM 1000, but must be
processed manually, then that piece must pay either the appropriate Periodicals nonautomation
rate plus the Ride-Along rate, or the appropriate
Periodicals nonautomation rate for the host
piece and the appropriate Standard Mail rate for
the attachment or enclosure.
(3) If, due to the inclusion of a Ride-Along piece, an
automation letter host piece can no longer be
processed as an automation letter, then that
piece must pay the appropriate Periodicals nonautomation rate plus the Ride-Along rate, or the
appropriate Periodicals nonautomation rate for
the host piece and the appropriate Standard Mail
rate for the attachment or enclosure.
1.4 Marking
The marking "Ride-Along Enclosed" must be placed on or
in the host publication if it contains an enclosure or
attachment paid at the Ride-Along rate. If placed on the
outer wrapper, polybag, envelope, or cover of the host
publication, the marking must be set in type no smaller than
any used in the required "POSTMASTER: Send change of
address..." statement. If placed in the identification statement, the marking must meet the applicable standards. The
marking must not be on or in copies not accompanied by a
Ride-Along attachment or enclosure.
* * * * *
E500 Express Mail
1.0 STANDARDS FOR ALL EXPRESS MAIL
* * * * *
1.6 Flat-Rate Envelope
[Revise 1.6 by changing "2-pound" to "1/2-pound" to read
as follows:]
Material mailed in the special flat-rate envelope available
from the USPS is subject to the postage rate for a
1/2-pound piece at the service level requested by the customer, regardless of the actual weight of the piece.
* * * * *
E600 Standard Mail
E610 Basic Standards
* * * * *
8.0 PREPARATION
Each Standard Mail mailing is subject to these general
standards:
* * * * *
[Revise 8.0e to remove references to upgradable preparation to read as follows:]
e. Each piece must bear the addressee's name and delivery address, including the correct ZIP Code or
ZIP+4 code, unless an alternative address format is
used subject to A040. Detached address labels may
be used subject to A060.
* * * * *
E620 Presorted Rates
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 General
All pieces in a Presorted Regular or Presorted Nonprofit
Standard Mail mailing must:
* * * * *
[Revise 1.1c to remove references to upgradable mailings:]
c. Bear a delivery address that includes the correct ZIP
Code or ZIP+4 code, unless an alternative address
format is used subject to A040. Pieces prepared with
detached address labels are subject to additional
standards in A060.
1.2 Residual Volume Requirement
[Revise 1.2 to remove the requirement that residual volumes must appear on the same postage statement.]
Pieces in an Enhanced Carrier Route rate mailing that has
separately met a 200-piece or 50-pound minimum quantity
requirement may be counted toward the minimum quantity
requirement for a Presorted rate mailing, provided that the
Enhanced Carrier Route rate mailing and the Presorted
rate mailing are part of the same mailing job. Likewise,
pieces in an automation rate mailing that has separately
met a 200-piece or 50-pound minimum quantity
requirement may be counted toward the minimum quantity
requirement for a Presorted rate mailing, provided that the
automation rate mailing and the Presorted mailing are part
of the same mailing job. Pieces mailed at Presorted Standard Mail rates must not be counted toward the minimum
volume requirements for an Enhanced Carrier Route rate
or an automation rate mailing.
* * * * *
1.4 ZIP Code Accuracy
[Revise 1.4 to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies that the mail meets the requirements for the rates
claimed to read as follows:]
All 5-digit ZIP Codes included in addresses on pieces
claimed at Presorted Regular and Presorted Nonprofit
rates must be verified and corrected within 12 months before the mailing date, using a USPS-approved method. The
mailer's signature on the postage statement certifies that
this standard has been met when the corresponding mail is
presented to the USPS. This standard applies to each address individually, not to a specific list or mailing. An
address meeting this standard may be used in mailings at
any other rates to which the standard applies during the
12-month period after its most recent update.
2.0 RATES
[Revise 2.0 by combining 2.0a and 2.0b into new 2.0a and
renumbering the remaining items accordingly. This is revised to remove references to upgradable mailings.]
Presorted Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail rates apply to
Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail letters, flats, and machinable and irregular parcels weighing less than 16
ounces that are prepared under M045, M610, or (flat-size
mail only) under M910, M920, M930, or M940. Basic Presorted rates apply to pieces that do not meet the standards
for the 3/5 Presorted rates described below. Basic rate and
3/5 rate pieces prepared as part of the same mailing are
subject to a single minimum volume standard. Pieces that
do not qualify for the 3/5 rate must be paid at the basic rate
and prepared accordingly. Pieces may qualify for the 3/5
rate if they are presented:
a. In quantities of 150 or more letter-size pieces for a
single 3-digit area, prepared in 5-digit or 3-digit trays.
* * * * *
[Redesignate 4.0, Barcoded Discount, as 5.0. Add new 4.0
to show that some Presorted letters are subject to the nonmachinable surcharge to read as follows:]
4.0 NONMACHINABLE SURCHARGE
The nonmachinable surcharge in R600.6.0 applies to any
letter-size piece (including cards):
a. That weighs 3.3 ounces or less and meets one or
more of the nonmachinable characteristics in
C050.2.2.
b. For which a mailer chooses the manual only (do not
automate) option.
* * * * *
E630 Enhanced Carrier Route Rates
[Revise E630 in its entirety to reorganize and clarify the
current standards and to add standards that require letter-
size pieces claimed at high density or saturation rates to be
automation-compatible and have delivery point barcodes.
Please note that the exception to the sack minimum for
saturation rate pieces currently in E630 has been moved to
M620.4.1.]
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 General
All pieces in an Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail
mailing must:
a. Meet the basic standards for Standard Mail in E610.
b. Be part of a single mailing of at least 200 pieces or 50
pounds of pieces of Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail. Automation basic carrier route rate pieces
are subject to a separate 200-piece or 50-pound
minimum volume standard and may not be included
in the same mailing as other Enhanced Carrier Route
mail. Regular and Nonprofit mailings must meet separate minimum volumes.
c. Be sorted to carrier routes, marked, and documented
under M045 (if palletized), M620, M920, M930, or
M940.
d. Have a complete delivery address or an alternate address format.
e. Meet the address quality and coding standards in
A800 and A950.
1.2 Maximum Size
Enhanced Carrier Route rate mail may not be more than
11-3/4 inches high, 14 inches long, or 3/4-inch thick.
Exception: Merchandise samples with detached address
labels (DALs) may exceed these dimensions if the labels
meet the standards in A060.
1.3 Preparation
Preparation to qualify for any Enhanced Carrier Route rate
is optional and need not be performed for all carrier routes
in a 5-digit area. An Enhanced Carrier Route mailing may
include pieces at basic, high density, and saturation Enhanced Carrier Route rates. Automation basic carrier route
rate pieces must be prepared as a separate mailing (see
E640).
1.4 Carrier Route Information
Except for mailings prepared with a simplified address under A040, a carrier route code must be applied to each
piece in the mailing using CASS-certified software and the
current USPS Carrier Route File scheme, hard copy Carrier
Route Files, or another AIS product containing carrier route
information, subject to A930 and A950. Carrier route information must be updated within 90 days before the mailing
date.
2.0 BASIC RATES
2.1 All Pieces
All pieces mailed at basic rates must be prepared in walk
sequence or in line-of-travel (LOT) sequence according to
LOT schemes prescribed by the USPS (see M050).
2.2 Letter-Size Pieces
Basic rates apply to each piece sorted under M045 or M620
and in a full carrier route tray or in a carrier route package of
10 or more pieces placed in a 5-digit carrier routes or 3-digit
carrier routes tray.
2.3 Flat-Size Pieces
Basic rates apply to each piece in a carrier route package
of 10 or more pieces that is:
a. Palletized under M045, M920, M930, or M940.
b. Placed in a carrier route sack containing at least 125
pieces or 15 pounds of pieces.
c. Placed in a merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme
carrier routes, merged 5-digit, or 5-digit carrier routes
sack.
2.4 Irregular Parcels
Basic rates apply to each piece in a carrier route sack or
carton containing at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of
pieces, or in a 5-digit carrier routes sack or carton. DALs
must be in carrier route packages of 10 or more pieces and
prepared under A060.
3.0 HIGH DENSITY RATES
3.1 All Pieces
All pieces mailed at high density rates must:
a. Be prepared in walk sequence according to schemes
prescribed by the USPS (see M050).
b. Meet the density requirement of at least 125 pieces
for each carrier route. Multiple pieces per delivery address can count toward this density standard. Fewer
pieces may be prepared for routes with fewer than
125 possible deliveries if a piece is addressed to every possible delivery on the route.
3.2 Letter-Size Pieces
High density rates apply to each piece that is automation-
compatible according to C810, has a delivery point barcode
under C840, and is in a full carrier route tray or in a carrier
route package of 10 or more pieces placed in a 5-digit carrier routes or 3-digit carrier routes tray. Pieces that are not
automation-compatible or are not barcoded are mailable at
the high density nonletter rate. Pieces bearing a simplified
address do not need to meet the standards in C810 and are
not required to have a delivery point barcode.
3.3 Discount for Heavy Letters
Pieces that otherwise qualify for the high density letter rate
and weigh more than 3.3 ounces but not more than 3.5
ounces pay postage equal to the piece/pound rate and receive a discount equal to the high density nonletter piece
rate (3.3 ounces or less) minus the high density letter piece
rate (3.3 ounces or less). If claiming a destination entry
rate, the discount is calculated using the corresponding
rates.
3.4 Flat-Size Pieces
High density rates apply to each piece in a carrier route
package of 10 or more pieces that is:
a. Palletized under M045, M920, M930, or M940.
b. Placed in a carrier route sack containing at least 125
pieces or 15 pounds of pieces.
c. Placed in a merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme
carrier routes, merged 5-digit, or 5-digit carrier routes
sack.
3.5 Irregular Parcels
High density rates apply to each piece in a carrier route
sack or carton containing at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds
of pieces, or in a 5-digit carrier routes sack or carton. DALs
must be in carrier route packages of 10 or more pieces and
prepared under A060.
4.0 SATURATION RATES
4.1 All Pieces
All pieces mailed at saturation rates must:
a. Be prepared in walk sequence according to schemes
prescribed by the USPS (see M050).
b. Meet the density requirement of at least 90% or more
of the active residential addresses or 75% or more of
the total number of active possible delivery addresses on each carrier route receiving this mail. Pieces
bearing a simplified address must meet the coverage
standards in A040. Multiple pieces per delivery address do not count toward this density standard.
4.2 Letter-Size Pieces
Saturation rates apply to each piece that is automation-
compatible according to C810, has a delivery point barcode
under C840, and is in a full carrier route tray or in a carrier
route package of 10 or more pieces placed in a 5-digit carrier routes or 3-digit carrier routes tray. Pieces that are not
automation-compatible or are not barcoded are mailable at
the saturation nonletter rate. Pieces bearing a simplified
address do not need to meet the standards in C810 and are
not required to have a delivery point barcode.
4.3 Discount for Heavy Letters
Pieces that otherwise qualify for the saturation letter rate
and weigh more than 3.3 ounces but not more than 3.5
ounces pay postage equal to the piece/pound rate and receive a discount equal to the saturation nonletter piece rate
(3.3 ounces or less) minus the saturation letter piece rate
(3.3 ounces or less). If claiming a destination entry rate, the
discount is calculated using the corresponding rates.
4.4 Flat-Size Pieces
Saturation rates apply to each piece in a carrier route package of 10 or more pieces that is:
a. Palletized under M045, M920, M930, or M940.
b. Placed in a carrier route sack containing at least 125
pieces or 15 pounds of pieces.
c. Placed in a merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme
carrier routes, merged 5-digit, or 5-digit carrier routes
sack.
4.5 Irregular Parcels
Saturation rates apply to each piece in a carrier route sack
or carton containing at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of
pieces, or in a 5-digit carrier routes sack or carton. DALs
must be in carrier route packages of 10 or more pieces and
prepared under A060.
5.0 RESIDUAL SHAPE SURCHARGE
Any piece that is prepared as a parcel or is not letter-size or
flat-size as defined in C050 is subject to the residual shape
surcharge.
E640 Automation Rates
1.0 REGULAR AND NONPROFIT RATES
* * * * *
1.2 Enclosed Reply Cards and Envelopes
[Revise 1.2 to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies that the mail meets the requirements for the rates
claimed.]
All letter-size reply cards and envelopes (business reply,
courtesy reply, and meter reply mail) provided as enclosures in automation Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail,
and addressed for return to a domestic delivery address,
must meet the standards in C810 for enclosed reply cards
and envelopes. The mailer's signature on the postage
statement certifies that this standard has been met when
the corresponding mail is presented to the USPS.
[Revise the title and text of 1.3 to replace the basic rate with
the AADC and mixed AADC rates.]
1.3 Rate Application-Letter-Size Pieces
Automation rates apply to each piece that is sorted under
M810 into the corresponding qualifying groups:
a. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 5-digit or 5-digit
scheme trays qualify for the 5-digit rate. Preparation
to qualify for that rate is optional and need not be
done for all 5-digit or 5-digit scheme destinations.
b. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 3-digit or 3-digit
scheme trays qualify for the 3-digit rate.
c. Groups of fewer than 150 pieces in origin or entry
3-digit or 3-digit scheme trays and groups of 150 or
more pieces in AADC trays qualify for the AADC rate.
d. All pieces in mixed AADC trays qualify for the mixed
AADC rate.
[Redesignate 1.4, Rate Application-Flats, as 1.5. Add new
1.4 for heavy automation letters to read as follows:]
1.4 Discount for Heavy Automation Letters
Automation letters that weigh more than 3.3 ounces but not
more than 3.5 ounces pay postage equal to the automation
piece/pound rate and receive a discount equal to the automation nonletter piece rate (3.3 ounces or less) minus the
automation letter piece rate (3.3 ounces or less). If claiming
a destination entry rate, the discount is calculated using the
corresponding rates.
* * * * *
2.0 ENHANCED CARRIER ROUTE RATES
* * * * *
[Add new 2.6 to include the discount for ECR automation
basic letters that weigh between 3.3 and 3.5 ounces.]
2.6 Discount for Heavy Letters
Pieces that otherwise qualify for the ECR automation basic
letter rate and weigh more than 3.3 ounces but not more
than 3.5 ounces pay postage equal to the ECR regular basic nonletter piece/pound rate and receive a discount equal
to the regular basic nonletter piece rate (3.3 ounces or less)
minus the automation basic letter piece rate. If claiming a
destination entry rate, the discount is calculated using the
corresponding rates.
E700 Package Services
E710 Basic Standards
* * * * *
E712 Bound Printed Matter
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 Description
Bound Printed Matter (BPM) is a subclass of Package Services. BPM must:
* * * * *
[Revise 1.1b to read as follows:]
b. Weigh no more than 15 pounds. Pieces might be
subject to other minimum weights or dimensions
based on the standards for specific rates.
* * * * *
[Remove 1.4, POSTNET Barcodes on Flats.]
2.0 RATES
BPM rates are based on the weight of a single addressed
piece or 1 pound, whichever is higher, and the zone (where
applicable) to which the piece is addressed. Rate categories are as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of item 2.0d by adding "Machinable
Parcels" and revise the text to read as follows:]
d. Barcoded Discount-Machinable Parcels. The barcoded discount applies only to BPM machinable
parcels (see C050.4.1) that bear a correct, readable
barcode under C850 for the ZIP Code of the delivery
address. The pieces must be part of a single-piece
rate mailing of 50 or more BPM parcels or part of a
presort rate mailing of at least 300 BPM parcels prepared under M045 and M720. The barcoded discount
is not available for parcels mailed at Presorted DDU
or DSCF rates, or for Presorted DBMC rate mailings
entered at an ASF other than the Phoenix, AZ, ASF.
Carrier route rate mail is not eligible for the barcoded
discount.
[Add new item 2.0e to read as follows:]
e. Barcoded Discount-Flats. The barcoded discount applies only to BPM flat-size pieces that bear a correct,
readable ZIP+4 or delivery point barcode (DPBC) under C840 for the ZIP+4 Code, or numeric DPBC of
the delivery address. The pieces must be part of a
single-piece rate mailing of 50 or more flat-size
pieces or part of a presort rate mailing of at least 300
BPM flat-size pieces prepared under M045 and
M820. The barcoded discount is not available for flat-
size pieces mailed at Presorted DDU rates or carrier
route rates. To qualify for the barcoded discount, the
flat-size piece must meet the flat sorting machine
requirements under C820.2.0.
3.0 ADDITIONAL STANDARDS FOR PRESORTED
RATES
3.1 ZIP Code Accuracy
[Revise 3.1 to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies that the mail meets the requirements for the rates
claimed to read as follows:]
All 5-digit ZIP Codes included in addresses on pieces
claimed at Presorted rates must be verified and corrected
within 12 months before the mailing date using a USPS-approved method. The mailer's signature on the postage
statement certifies that this standard has been met when
the corresponding mail is presented to the USPS. This
standard applies to each address individually, not a specific
list or mailing. An address meeting this standard may be
used in mailings at any other rates to which the standard
applies during the 12-month period after its most recent
update.
[Redesignate current 3.2 as 3.3 and add new 3.2 to show
CASS certification for automation rate mailings to read as
follows:]
3.2 CASS Certification
Pieces claiming the barcode discount for flat-size mail must
meet the address quality and coding standards in A800 and
A950.
[Revise redesignated 3.3 by adding reference to flats to
read as follows:]
3.3 Preparation
Pieces claiming the Presorted rates must be prepared under M045 or M722 or, for flats claiming the barcode
discount under M820.
* * * * *
E713 Media Mail
[Redesignate former 2.0 as new 1.0.]
[Redesignate former 1.0 as new 2.0 and revise the title and
text to read as follows:]
2.0 RATES
Media Mail rates are based on the weight of the piece without regard to zone. The rate categories and discounts are
as follows:
a. Single-Piece Rate. The single-piece rate applies to
pieces not mailed at a 5-digit or basic rate.
b. 5-Digit Presort Rate. The 5-digit rate applies to
pieces that meet the additional requirements in 3.0
and are prepared and presorted to 5-digit scheme
(machinable parcels only) or 5-digit destinations as
specified in M730 or M041 and M045.
c. Basic Presort Rate. The basic rate applies to pieces
that meet the additional requirements in 3.0 and are
prepared and presorted as specified in M730 or
M041 and M045.
d. Barcoded Discount. The barcoded discount applies
to Media Mail machinable parcels (see C050.4.1)
that are included in a mailing of at least 50 pieces of
Media Mail. The pieces must be entered either at
single-piece rates or basic rates and bear a correct,
readable barcode for the ZIP Code shown in the delivery address as required by C850. The barcoded
discount is not available for pieces mailed at 5-digit
rates.
[Revise the title of 3.0 to read as follows:]
3.0 ADDITIONAL STANDARDS FOR PRESORTED
RATES
3.1 Basic Information
[Revise 3.1 to read as follows:]
A Presorted Media Mail mailing must contain a minimum of
300 pieces claimed at any combination of 5-digit and basic
rates. Those pieces in the mailing that meet the 5-digit
presort requirements are eligible for the 5-digit presort rate
and those pieces that meet the basic presort requirements
are eligible for the basic rates, subject to the preparation
standards in M730 or M045. Pieces in a mailing do not
need to be identical in size and content. Such nonidentical
pieces may be merged, sorted together, and presented as
a single mailing either with the correct postage affixed to
each piece in the mailing or with postage paid with a permit
imprint if authorized by Business Mailer Support (BMS),
USPS Headquarters.
* * * * *
[Revise the title and text of 3.3 to read as follows:]
3.3 5-Digit Rate
To qualify for the 5-digit rate, a piece must be prepared and
sorted to either 5-digit scheme (machinable parcels only)
and 5-digit sacks under M730 or to 5-digit scheme (machinable parcels only) and 5-digit pallets under M045. All logical
5-digit packages on pallets must contain at least 10 pieces.
Nonmachinable parcels may qualify for the 5-digit rate if
prepared to preserve sortation by 5-digit ZIP Code as prescribed by the postmaster of the mailing office.
[Revise the title and text of 3.4 to read as follows:]
3.4 Basic Rate
All pieces prepared and sorted under M730 or M045 that
are not eligible for the 5-digit rate qualify for the basic rate.
Nonmachinable parcels may qualify for the basic rate if prepared to preserve sortation by a BMC as prescribed by the
postmaster of the mailing office.
[Remove former 3.5 and 3.6.]
E714 Library Mail
[Redesignate former 2.0 as 1.0.]
[Redesignate former 1.0 as new 2.0 and revise title and text
to read as follows:]
2.0 RATES
Library Mail rates are based on the weight of the piece without regard to zone. The rate categories and discounts are
as follows:
a. Single-Piece Rate. The single-piece rate applies to
pieces not mailed at a 5-digit or basic rate.
b. 5-Digit Presort Rate. The 5-digit rate applies to
pieces that meet the additional requirements of 3.0
and are prepared and presorted to 5-digit scheme
(machinable parcels only) and 5-digit destinations as
specified in M740 or M041 and M045.
c. Basic Presort Rate. The basic rate applies to pieces
that meet the additional requirement in 3.0 and are
prepared and presorted as specified in M740 or
M041 and M045.
d. Barcoded Discount. The barcoded discount applies
to Library Mail machinable parcels (see C050.4.1)
that are included in a mailing of at least 50 pieces of
Library Mail. The pieces must be entered either at
single-piece rates or basic rates and bear a correct,
readable barcode for the ZIP Code shown in the delivery address as required by C850. The barcoded
discount is not available for pieces mailed at 5-digit
rates.
[Revise the title of 3.0 to read as follows:]
3.0 ADDITIONAL STANDARDS FOR PRESORTED
RATES
3.1 Basic Information
[Revise 3.1 to read as follows:]
A Presorted Library Mail mailing must contain a minimum of
300 pieces claimed at any combination of 5-digit and basic
rates. Those pieces in the mailing that meet the 5-digit
presort requirements are eligible for the 5-digit presort rate,
and those pieces that meet the basic presort requirements
are eligible for the basic rate, subject to the preparation
standards in M740 or M045. Pieces in a mailing do not
need to be identical in size and content. Such nonidentical
pieces may be merged, sorted together, and presented as
a single mailing either with the correct postage affixed to
each piece in the mailing or with postage paid with a permit
imprint if authorized by Business Mailer Support (BMS),
USPS Headquarters.
* * * * *
[Revise the title and text of 3.3 to read as follows:]
3.3 5-Digit Rate
To qualify for the 5-digit rate, a piece must be prepared and
sorted to either 5-digit scheme (machinable parcels only)
and 5-digit sacks under M740 or to 5-digit scheme (machinable parcels only) and 5-digit pallets under M045. All logical
5-digit packages on pallets must contain at least 10 pieces.
Nonmachinable parcels may qualify for the 5-digit rate if
prepared to preserve sortation by 5-digit ZIP Code as prescribed by the postmaster of the mailing office.
[Revise the title and text of 3.4 to read as follows:]
3.4 Basic Rate
All pieces prepared and sorted under M740 or M045 that
are not eligible for the 5-digit rate qualify for the basic rate.
Nonmachinable parcels may qualify for the basic rate if prepared to preserve sortation by a BMC as prescribed by the
postmaster.
[Remove former 3.5 and 3.6.]
[Remove E715, Bulk Parcel Post.]
E751 Parcel Select
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 Definitions
[Revise item 1.1b by adding a sentence after the first one to
read as follows:]
b. ***Those 5-digit machinable parcels not required to
be entered at a BMC under Exhibit 6.0 and all 3-digit
nonmachinable parcels sorted to the 3-digit level and
claimed at the DSCF rate must be deposited at an
SCF listed in L005.***
* * * * *
1.4 DSCF and DDU Rates
For DSCF and DDU rates, pieces must meet the applicable
standards in 1.0 through 6.0 and the following criteria:
[Revise item 1.4a by adding "5-digit scheme" and "5-digit"
to the first sentence and adding a new sentence between
the first and second sentences, to read as follows. The
remainder of the text is unchanged.]
a. For DSCF rates, be part of a mailing of parcels sorted
to 5-digit scheme or 5-digit destinations and deposited at a designated SCF under L005 (or at a BMC
under Exhibit 6.0); addressed for delivery within the
ZIP Code service area of that SCF under L005; and
prepared under M041, M045, or M710. Nonmachinable parcels sorted to 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes and
claimed at a DSCF rate must be entered at a designated SCF under L005 and are subject to the
surcharge in R700.1.6.***
* * * * *
2.0 PREPARATION
* * * * *
2.2 Containers
[Revise 2.2c, 2.2d, and 2.2e by adding "3-digit sack" after
each occurrence of "5-digit sack" and adding "3-digit pallet"
after each occurrence of "5-digit pallet" to clarify the eligibility of these presort levels for nonmachinable parcels.]
* * * * *
E752 Bound Printed Matter
* * * * *
3.0 DESTINATION SECTIONAL CENTER FACILITY
(DSCF) RATES
* * * * *
[Revise the title and text of 3.2 to add eligibility standards
for Presorted automation flats to read as follows:]
3.2 Presorted and Automation Flats
Presorted flats and automation flats in sacks for the 5-digit,
3-digit, and SCF sort levels or on pallets at the 5-digit
scheme, 5-digit, 3-digit, SCF, and ASF sort levels may
claim DSCF rates. The mail must be entered at the appropriate facility under 3.1.
* * * * *
E753 Combining Package Services Parcels
* * * * *
1.0 COMBINING PARCELS
1.1 General
[Revise 1.1 by replacing "BMC rates" with "basic rates."]
* * * * *
F Forwarding and Related Services
F000 Basic Services
F010 Basic Information
* * * * *
4.0 BASIC TREATMENT
4.1 General
[Revise 4.1 to remove references to nonstandard mail to
read as follows:]
Mail that is undeliverable as addressed is forwarded, returned to the sender, or treated as dead mail, as authorized
for the particular class of mail. Undeliverable-as-addressed
mail is endorsed by the USPS with the reason for
nondelivery as shown in Exhibit 4.1. All nonmailable pieces
are returned to the sender.
* * * * *
5.0 CLASS TREATMENT FOR ANCILLARY
SERVICES
* * * * *
5.2 Periodicals
Undeliverable Periodicals (including publications pending
Periodicals authorization) are treated as described in the
chart below and under these conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise item 5.2e to show that the nonmachinable surcharge can be charged on Periodicals items returned at
First-Class Mail single-piece rates to read as follows:]
e. The publisher may request the return of copies of undelivered Periodicals by printing the endorsement
"Address Service Requested" on the envelopes or
wrappers, or on one of the outside covers of
unwrapped copies, immediately preceded by the
sender's name, address, and ZIP+4 or 5-digit ZIP
Code. This endorsement obligates the publisher to
pay return postage. Each returned piece is charged
the single-piece First-Class Mail or Priority Mail rate
applicable for the weight of the piece, plus the nonmachinable surcharge if it applies (see E130). When
the address correction is provided incidental to the
return of the piece, there is no charge for the
correction.
* * * * *
5.3 Standard Mail
Undeliverable Standard Mail is treated as described in the
chart below and under these conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise item 5.3g to show that the nonmachinable surcharge is included in the calculation of the weighted fee for
returned pieces to read as follows:]
g. A weighted fee is charged when an unforwardable or
undeliverable piece is returned to the sender and the
piece is endorsed "Address Service Requested" or
"Forwarding Service Requested." The weighted fee
is the single-piece First-Class Mail or Priority Mail
rate applicable for the weight of the piece, plus the
nonmachinable surcharge if it applies (see E130),
multiplied by 2.472 and rounded up to the next whole
cent (if the computation yields a fraction of a cent).
The weighted fee is computed (and rounded if necessary) for each piece individually. Using "Address
Service Requested" or "Forwarding Service Requested" obligates the sender to pay the weighted
fee on all returned pieces.
[Redesignate current item 5.3h as 5.3i, and add new item
5.3h to show that the First-Class Mail nonmachinable surcharge is charged on some returned pieces to read as
follows:]
h. Returned pieces endorsed "Return Service Requested," are charged the single-piece First-Class
Mail or Priority Mail rate applicable for the weight of
the piece, plus the nonmachinable surcharge if it applies (see E130).
* * * * *
6.0 ENCLOSURES AND ATTACHMENTS
6.1 Periodicals
[Revise 6.1 to show that the nonmachinable surcharge can
be charged on Periodicals returned at First-Class Mail
single-piece rates to read as follows:]
Undeliverable Periodicals (including publications pending
Periodicals authorization) with a nonincidental First-Class
Mail attachment or enclosure are returned at the single-
piece First-Class Mail or Priority Mail rate applicable for the
weight of the piece, plus the nonmachinable surcharge if it
applies (see E130). The weight of the attachment or enclosure is not included when computing the charges for return
of the mailpiece. Undeliverable Periodicals (including publications pending Periodicals authorization) with an incidental First-Class Mail attachment or enclosure are treated as
dead mail unless endorsed "Address Service Requested."
6.2 Standard Mail
[Revise 6.2 to show that the nonmachinable surcharge can
be charged on Standard Mail returned at First-Class Mail
single-piece rates to read as follows:]
Undeliverable, unendorsed Standard Mail with a nonincidental First-Class Mail attachment or enclosure is returned
at the single-piece First-Class Mail or Priority Mail rate
applicable for the weight of the piece, plus the nonmachinable surcharge if it applies (see E130). The weight of the
First-Class Mail attachment or enclosure is not included
when computing the charges for return of the mailpiece.
Undeliverable, unendorsed Standard Mail with an incidental First-Class Mail attachment or enclosure is treated as
dead mail.
* * * * *
F030 Address Correction, Address Change,
FASTforward, and Return Services
* * * * *
1.0 ADDRESS CORRECTION SERVICE
1.1 Purposes
[Add a new sentence after the first sentence in 1.1 to clarify
the conditions under which address notices are provided to
read as follows:]
***Address corrections and notices are not provided for
customers who file a temporary change of address or for
individuals at a business address (see F020.1.0).***
* * * * *
G General Information
G000 The USPS and Mailing Standards
* * * * *
G020 Mailing Standards
* * * * *
2.0 MAILER COMPLIANCE WITH STANDARDS
[Revise 2.1 to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies that the mail meets all standards for the rates claimed.]
2.1 Mailer Responsibility
A mailer must comply with all applicable postal standards.
Despite any statement in this document or by any USPS
employee, the burden rests with the mailer to comply with
the laws and standards governing domestic mail. For mailings that require a postage statement, the mailer certifies
compliance with all applicable postal standards when signing the corresponding postage statement. Questions on
mail classification and special mail services may be directed to local USPS representatives (e.g., business mail
entry managers). Rates and classification service centers
(RCSCs) can help local post offices answer customer
questions on mailing standards (G042 lists the areas
served by the RCSCs).
* * * * *
G090 Experimental Classifications and Rates
G091 NetPost Mailing Online
* * * * *
4.0 POSTAGE AND FEES
4.1 Postage
[Revise 4.1 to show the new automation rate categories for
First-Class Mail and Standard Mail.]
Documents mailed during the experiment are eligible for
the following rate categories only:
a. First-Class Mail automation letters and cards mixed
AADC rates.
b. First-Class Mail automation flats mixed ADC rates.
c. First-Class Mail single-piece rates.
d. Regular Standard Mail automation letters mixed
AADC rates.
e. Regular Standard Mail automation flats basic rates.
f. Nonprofit Standard Mail automation letters mixed
AADC rates.
g. Nonprofit Standard Mail automation flats basic rates.
* * * * *
[Delete G094 in its entirety. The ride-along becomes a permanent classification; the standards are moved to new
E260.]
* * * * *
L Labeling Lists
* * * * *
L800 Automation Rate Mailings
* * * * *
[Revise the title and the first sentence in the summary of
L802 by adding "Bound Printed Matter" to read as follows:]
L802 BMC/ASF Entry-Periodicals, Standard Mail,
and Bound Printed Matter
Summary
L802 describes the service area by individual 3-digit ZIP
Code prefix for mixed automation rate Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Bound Printed Matter mailings entered at an
ASF or BMC.
* * * * *
[Revise the title and the first sentence in the summary of
L803 by adding "Bound Printed Matter" to read as follows:]
L803 Non-BMC/ASF Entry-Periodicals, Standard
Mail, and Bound Printed Matter
Summary
L803 describes the service area by individual 3-digit ZIP
Code prefix for mixed automation rate Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Bound Printed Matter mailings.
* * * * *
M Mail Preparation and Sortation
* * * * *
M000 General Preparation Standards
M010 Mailpieces
M011 Basic Standards
* * * * *
1.0 TERMS AND CONDITIONS
* * * * *
1.2 Presort Levels
* * * * *
[Revise 1.2e and f by inserting "Bound Printed Matter flats"
to read as follows:]
e. 5-digit scheme carrier routes (sacks) for Periodicals
flats and irregular parcels, Standard Mail flats and
Bound Printed Matter flats:***
f. 5-digit scheme (pallets) for Periodicals flats and irregular parcels, Standard Mail flats, and Bound Printed
Matter flats:***
* * * * *
1.3 Preparation Instructions
For purposes of preparing mail:
* * * * *
[Revise item 1.3b to show that a full letter tray can be
anywhere between 75 percent and 100 percent full (the
preferred default for presort software is 85 percent):]
b. A full letter tray is one in which faced, upright pieces
fill the length of the tray between 75% and 100% full.
* * * * *
1.4 Mailing
Mailings are defined as:
* * * * *
[Revise item 1.4b to remove references to the upgradable
preparation and to show that machinable and nonmachinable pieces cannot be part of the same mailing. Combine
item 1.4c, First-Class Cards, with item 1.4b. Redesignate
items 1.4d through 1.4f as 1.4c through 1.4e, respectively.]
b. First-Class Mail. Cards and letters must be prepared
as separate mailings except that they may be sorted
together if each meets separate minimum volume
mailing requirements. The following types of First-
Class Mail may not be part of the same mailing
despite being in the same processing category:
(1) Automation rate and any other type of mail.
(2) Presorted rate and any other type of mail.
(3) Single-piece rate and any other type of mail.
(4) Machinable and nonmachinable pieces.
* * * * *
[Revise redesignated item 1.4d, Standard Mail, to remove
references to the upgradable preparation, to show that machinable and nonmachinable pieces cannot be part of the
same mailing, and to show that ECR letter rate pieces and
ECR nonletter rate pieces cannot be part of the same
mailing.]
d. Standard Mail. Except as provided in E620.1.2, the
types of Standard Mail listed below may not be part of
the same mailing. See M041, M045, M610, and
M620 for copalletized, combined, or mixed-rate
mailings.
(1) Automation Enhanced Carrier Route and any
other type of mail.
(2) Automation rate and any other type of mail.
(3) Enhanced Carrier Route and any other type of
mail.
(4) Enhanced Carrier Route letter rate pieces and
Enhanced Carrier Route nonletter rate pieces.
(5) Presorted rate mail and any other type of mail.
(6) Machinable and nonmachinable pieces.
(7) Except as provided by standard, Regular Mail
may not be in the same mailing as Nonprofit
mail, and Enhanced Carrier Route mail may not
be in the same mailing as Nonprofit Enhanced
Carrier Route mail.
* * * * *
M012 Markings and Endorsements
* * * * *
2.0 MARKINGS-FIRST-CLASS MAIL AND
STANDARD MAIL
* * * * *
2.2 Exceptions to Markings
[Revise item 2.2d to update the required MLOCR
markings:]
Exceptions are as follows:
* * * * *
d. MLOCR Prepared Automation Mailings. The basic
marking must appear in the postage area on each
piece as required in 2.1a. The other "AUTO" marking
described in 2.1b must be replaced by the appropriate identifier/rate code marking described in P960 on
those pieces that have the marking applied by an
MLOCR. This seven-character marking provides a
description of the Product Month Designator, MASS/FASTforward System Identifier, postage payment
method, and the rate of postage affixed for metered
and precanceled stamp mail or other postage information for permit imprint mail.
3.0 MARKINGS-PACKAGE SERVICES
* * * * *
3.3 Additional Bound Printed Matter Markings
[Revise the text of 3.3 to read as follows:]
In addition to the basic marking in 3.1, each piece of Bound
Printed Matter mailed at a presorted or carrier route rate
must bear additional rate markings. The additional markings may be placed in the postage area as specified in 3.1.
Alternatively, these markings may be placed in the address
area on the line directly above or two lines above the address if the marking appears alone, or if no other information appears on the line with the marking except postal
optional endorsement line information under M013 or postal carrier route package information under M014. The additional rate markings are:
a. For Presorted rate mail, the additional required marking is "Presorted" (or "PRSRT"). For presorted flats
claiming the barcoded discount prepared under
M820, the optional marking "AUTO" may be used in
place of "Presorted" (or "PRSRT"). If the "AUTO"
marking is not used, the automation rate flats must
bear the "Presorted" (or "PRSRT") rate marking.
b. For carrier route rate mail, the additional required
marking is "Carrier Route Presort" (or "CAR-RT
SORT").
* * * * *
4.0 ENDORSEMENTS-DELIVERY AND
ANCILLARY SERVICES
* * * * *
[Remove 4.5, OCR Read Area.]
* * * * *
M020 Packages
* * * * *
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
[Revise the title and text of 1.6 to include Media Mail and
Library Mail to read as follows:]
1.6 Package Size-Bound Printed Matter, Media
Mail, and Library Mail
Each logical package (the total group of pieces for a package destination) of Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, and
Library Mail must meet the applicable minimum and
maximum package size standards in M045, M722, M730,
M740, or M820. The pieces in the logical package must
then be secured in a physical package or packages. Wherever possible, each physical package for a logical package
destination should contain at least the minimum package
size. The size of each physical package for a specific
logical package destination may contain, however, the
exact package minimum, more pieces than the package
minimum, or fewer pieces than the package minimum
depending on the size of the pieces in the mailing or the
total quantity of the pieces to that destination. Unless
otherwise noted, the maximum weight for packages in
sacks is 20 pounds. Except for mixed ADC packages and
for carrier route packages prepared in sacks, each physical
package of Bound Printed Matter must contain at least two
pieces. For carrier route rate Bound Printed Matter
prepared in sacks, the last physical package to an
individual carrier route may consist of a single addressed
piece, provided that all other packages to that carrier route
destination contain at least two addressed pieces, and that
the total group of pieces to that carrier route (the logical
package) meets the carrier route rate eligibility minimum in
E712. Packages prepared on pallets must meet the
additional packaging requirements under M045 and each
physical package, including carrier route rate mail, must
always contain at least two pieces.
* * * * *
[Revise the title in 2.0 to show that the standards apply to
all classes of mail.]
2.0 ADDITIONAL STANDARDS
2.1 Cards and Letter-Size Pieces
Cards and letter-size pieces are subject to these packaging
standards:
* * * * *
[Revise item 2.1c to remove references to the upgradable
preparation for First-Class Mail and Standard Mail and to
show that nonmachinable and "manual only" pieces must
be packaged to read as follows:]
c. Packages must be prepared for mail in all less-than-
full trays and 3-digit carrier routes trays; for nonmachinable Presorted First-Class Mail; for
nonmachinable Presorted Standard Mail; for First-
Class Mail and Standard Mail pieces where the mailer has requested "manual only" processing; and for
nonautomation Periodicals.
* * * * *
2.2 Flat-Size Pieces
[Revise 2.2 to add references to Media Mail and Library
Mail to read as follows:]
Packages of flat-size pieces must be secure and stable
subject to the following:
a. If placed on pallets, the specific weight limits in M045.
b. If placed in sacks:
(1) For Periodicals and Standard Mail, the specific
weight and height limits in 1.8.
(2) For Bound Printed Matter, the specific weight
limits in M720.
(3) For Media Mail and Library Mail, the specific
weight limits in M730 and M740, as applicable.
* * * * *
M030 Containers
M031 Labels
* * * * *
4.0 PALLET LABELS
* * * * *
[Revise the title and text of 4.9 for clarity.]
4.9 Barcoded Status
Pallet labels must indicate whether the mail on the pallet is
barcoded, or not barcoded, or both. Specific Line 2 label information is in M045, M920, M930, and M940.
* * * * *
5.0 SECOND LINE CODES
The codes shown below must be used as appropriate on
Line 2 of sack, tray, and pallet labels.
[Revise the table in 5.0 to add a second line code for
manual letter-size pieces and nonmachinable parcels; to
revise the entries for carrier routes, letters, and machinable
parcelsl; and to add a new entry for manual processing.
Insert the entries in alphabetical order to read as follows:]
|
Content Type
|
Code
|
|
Carrier Routes
|
CR-RT or
CR-RTS
|
|
Letters
|
LTR or
LTRS
|
|
Machinable
|
MACH
|
|
Manual (cannot be processed on automated
equipment or mailer requests manual processing)
|
MAN or
MANUAL
|
|
Nonmachinable
|
NON
MACH
|
* * * * *
M032 Barcoded Labels
* * * * *
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS-TRAY AND SACK
LABELS
1.1 Use
[Revise 1.1 to reorganize the section and to show that
barcoded tray labels are required for Enhanced Carrier
Route high density and saturation letters and for Barcoded
Bound Printed Matter flats.]
Only tray labels may be used for trays; only sack labels
may be used for sacks. Mailer-produced barcoded tray and
sack labels must meet the standards in M032. Information
on labels must be machine-printed. Revisions to preprinted
barcoded labels (e.g., handwritten changes) are not permitted. Labels must be inserted completely into the label
holder to ensure that they do not fall out during processing.
The following types of mail must have barcoded tray or
sack labels:
a. Automation First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail letter-size and flat-size pieces.
b. First-Class Mail flat-size pieces co-trayed under
M910.
c. Periodicals and Standard Mail flat-size pieces co-
sacked under M910 or M920.
d. Standard Mail Enhanced Carrier Route high density
and saturation letter-size pieces. (Barcoded tray labels are not required for letter-size pieces mailed at
the nonletter rate.)
e. Barcoded Bound Printed Matter flat-size pieces.
* * * * *
Exhibit 1.3a 3-Digit Content Identifier Numbers
[Revise Exhibit 1.3a by adding new categories and Content
Identifier Numbers. Also, in the human-readable content
line for First-Class Mail and Standard Mail letters, replace
"LTRS" with "LTR" and "CR-RTS" with "CR-RT." The footnotes are unchanged.]
|
Class and Mailing
|
CIN
|
Human-Readable
Content Line
|
|
* * * * *
|
|
FIRST-CLASS MAIL
|
|
[For "FCM Letters - Automation," in the human-readable
content line, replace "LTRS" with "LTR" and "CR-RTS" with
"CR-RT" for all entries. Revise the human-readable content line
for the 5-digit carrier routes tray for consistency:]
|
|
FCM Letters - Automation
|
|
5-digit carrier routes trays
|
264
|
FCM LTR 5D CR-RT BC
|
|
* * * * *
|
|
[For "FCM Letters - Presorted (Basic Preparation)," change
the title and human-readable content line information.]
|
|
FCM Letters - Presorted Nonmachinable (requires or
requests manual processing)
|
|
5-digit trays
|
267
|
FCM LTR 5D MANUAL
|
|
3-digit trays
|
269
|
FCM LTR 3D MANUAL
|
|
ADC trays
|
270
|
FCM LTR ADC MANUAL
|
|
mixed ADC trays
|
268
|
FCM LTR MANUAL WKG
|
|
* * * * *
|
|
[For "FCM Letters - Presorted (Upgradable Preparation),"
change the title and human-readable content line information to
read as follows:]
|
|
FCM Letters - Presorted Machinable
|
|
5-digit trays
|
252
|
FCM LTR 5D MACH
|
|
3-digit trays
|
255
|
FCM LTR 3D MACH
|
|
AADC trays
|
258
|
FCM LTR AADC MACH
|
|
mixed AADC trays
|
261
|
FCM LTR MACH WKG
|
|
* * * * *
|
|
STANDARD MAIL
|
|
[For "Enhanced Carrier Route Letters - Automation," in the
human-readable content line, replace "LTRS" with "LTR" and
"CR-RTS" with "CR-RT" for all entries. Revise the
human-readable content line for the 5-digit carrier routes tray
for consistency:]
|
|
Enhanced Carrier Route Letters - Automation
|
|
5-digit carrier routes trays
|
564
|
STD LTR 5D CR-RT BC
|
|
* * * * *
|
|
[For "Enhanced Carrier Route Letters - Nonautomation,"
change the title and human-readable content line information to
show that saturation and high density letters must be barcoded
to read as follows:]
|
|
Enhanced Carrier Route Letters - Barcoded
|
|
saturation rate trays
|
557
|
STD LTR BC WSS (1)
|
|
high density rate trays
|
557
|
STD LTR BC WSH (1)
|
|
basic rate trays
|
557
|
STD LTR BC LOT (1)
|
|
5-digit carrier routes trays
|
564
|
STD LTR 5D CR-RT BC
|
|
3-digit carrier routes trays
|
565
|
STD LTR 3D CR-RT BC
|
|
* * * * *
|
|
[Add the following entry for ECR letters that are not barcoded
but are machinable (for mailers who choose not to barcode their
machinable pieces):]
|
|
Enhanced Carrier Route Letters - Nonautomation (Not
Barcoded but Machinable)
|
|
saturation rate trays
|
569
|
STD LTR MACH WSS (1)
|
|
high density rate trays
|
569
|
STD LTR MACH WSH (1)
|
|
basic rate trays
|
569
|
STD LTR MACH LOT (1)
|
|
5-digit carrier routes trays
|
567
|
STD LTR 5D CR-RT MACH
|
|
3-digit carrier routes trays
|
568
|
STD LTR 3D CR-RT MACH
|
|
* * * * *
|
|
[Add the following entry for ECR letters that are not machinable
(regardless of whether the pieces are barcoded):]
|
|
Enhanced Carrier Route Letters - Nonautomation
(Nonmachinable)
|
|
saturation rate trays
|
608
|
STD LTR MAN WSS (1)
|
|
high density rate trays
|
608
|
STD LTR MAN WSH (1)
|
|
basic rate trays
|
608
|
STD LTR MAN LOT (1)
|
|
5-digit carrier routes trays
|
609
|
STD LTR 5D CR-RT MAN
|
|
3-digit carrier routes trays
|
611
|
STD LTR 3D CR-RT MAN
|
|
* * * * *
|
[For "STD Letters - Automation," in the human-readable
content line, replace "LTRS" with "LTR" for all entries.]
* * * * *
[For "STD Letters - Presorted (Basic Preparation)" change the
title and the human-readable content line information to read as
follows:]
|
|
STD Letters - Presorted Nonmachinable (requires or
requests manual processing)
|
|
5-digit trays
|
604
|
STD LTR 5D MANUAL
|
|
3-digit trays
|
606
|
STD LTR 3D MANUAL
|
|
ADC trays
|
607
|
STD LTR ADC MANUAL
|
|
mixed ADC trays
|
605
|
STD LTR MANUAL WKG
|
|
* * * * *
|
[Delete the entry for "STD Letters - Presorted (Nonautomation
Processing)."]
[For "STD Letters - Presorted (Upgradable Preparation),"
change the title and the human-readable content lines
information to read as follows:]
|
|
STD Letters - Presorted Machinable
|
|
5-digit trays
|
552
|
STD LTR 5D MACH
|
|
3-digit trays
|
555
|
STD LTR 3D MACH
|
|
AADC trays
|
558
|
STD LTR AADC MACH
|
|
mixed AADC trays
|
560
|
STD LTR MACH WKG
|
|
* * * * *
|
|
PACKAGE SERVICES
|
|
[Add the following entries for "Bound Printed Matter Flats -
Automation" to read as follows:]
|
|
Bound Printed Matter Flats - Automation
|
|
5-digit sacks
|
635
|
PSVC FLTS 5D BC
|
|
3-digit sacks
|
636
|
PSVC FLTS 3D BC
|
|
SCF sacks
|
637
|
PSVC FLTS SCF BC
|
|
ADC sacks
|
638
|
PSVC FLTS ADC BC
|
|
mixed ADC sacks
|
639
|
PSVC FLTS BC WKG
|
|
* * * * *
|
|
[Replace the entries for Media Mail and Library Mail Flats to
read as follows:]
|
|
Media Mail and Library Mail Flats - Presorted
|
|
5-digit sacks
|
649
|
PSVC FLTS 5D NON BC
|
|
3-digit sacks
|
650
|
PSVC FLTS 3D NON BC
|
|
ADC sacks
|
651
|
PSVC FLTS ADC NON BC
|
|
mixed ADC sacks
|
653
|
PSVC FLTS NON BC WKG
|
|
* * * * *
|
|
[Replace the entries for Media Mail and Library Mail Irregular
Parcels to read as follows:]
|
|
Media Mail and Library Mail Irregular Parcels - Presorted
|
|
5-digit scheme sacks
|
690
|
PSVC IRREG 5D SCH
|
|
5-digit sacks
|
690
|
PSVC IRREG 5D
|
|
3-digit sacks
|
691
|
PSVC IRREG 3D
|
|
ADC sacks
|
692
|
PSVC IRREG ADC
|
|
mixed ADC sacks
|
694
|
PSVC IRREG WKG
|
|
* * * * *
|
|
[Replace the entries for Media Mail and Library Mail Machinable
Parcels to read as follows:]
|
|
Media Mail and Library Mail Machinable Parcels -
Presorted
|
|
5-digit scheme sacks
|
680
|
PSVC MACH 5D SCH
|
|
5-digit scheme
|
680
|
PSVC MACH 5D
|
|
ASF sacks
|
682
|
PSVC MACH ASF
|
|
BMC sacks
|
683
|
PSVC MACH BMC
|
|
mixed BMC sacks
|
684
|
PSVC MACH WKG
|
|
* * * * *
|
|
[Add the following entry for "Parcel Post - Irregular
(Nonmachinable) Parcels" to read as follows:]
|
|
Parcel Post - Irregular
|
|
3-digit sacks
|
691
|
PSVC IRREG 3D
|
|
* * * * *
|
2.0 ADDITIONAL STANDARDS-BARCODED
TRAY LABELS
* * * * *
2.4 Barcode
The label barcode must meet these specifications:
[Revise item 2.4b to replace references to upgradable mail
with references to machinable mail.]
b. Information. The barcode must represent:
(1) The 5-digit ZIP Code destination of the tray (for
trays with a 3-digit destination, this is the 3-digit
ZIP Code prefix followed by two zeros);
(2) The 3-digit content identifier number (CIN) applicable to the content of the tray in Exhibit 1.3a;
and
(3) The applicable 2-digit USPS processing code.
The 2-digit processing code "01" is used for automation rate and machinable letters. The 2-digit
processing code "01" also is used for First-Class
Mail automation rate flats and for First-Class
Mail co-trayed automation rate and Presorted
rate flats. The processing code "07" is used for
all other mail.
* * * * *
M033 Sacks and Trays
* * * * *
2.0 FIRST-CLASS MAIL, PERIODICALS, AND
STANDARD MAIL
2.1 Letter Tray Preparation
[Revise 2.1 in its entirety to reorganize and clarify the standards for letter trays to read as follows:]
Letter trays are prepared as follows:
a. Subject to availability of equipment, standard managed mail (MM) trays must be used for all letter-size
mail, except that extended MM (EMM) trays must be
used when available for letter-size mail that exceeds
the inside dimensions of MM trays defined in 1.3.
When EMM trays are not available for those larger
pieces, they must be placed in MM trays, angled
back, or placed upright perpendicular to the length of
the tray in row(s) to preserve their orientation.
b. Pieces must be "faced" (oriented with all addresses
in the same direction with the postage area in the upper right).
c. Each tray prepared must be filled before filling the
next tray, with the contents in multiple trays relatively
balanced. When preparing full trays, mailers must fill
all possible 2-foot trays first; if there is mail remaining
for the presort destination, then mailers must use a
combination of 1-foot and 2-foot trays that results in
the fewest total number of trays.
d. For presort destinations that do not require full trays,
pieces are placed in a less-than-full tray.
e. Mailers must use as few trays as possible without
jeopardizing rate eligibility. For instance, a mailer will
never have two 1-foot trays to a single destination;
instead, that mail must be placed in a single 2-foot
tray. A 1-foot tray is prepared only if it is a full tray with
no overflow; or if there is less than 1 foot of mail for
that destination; or if the overflow from a full 2-foot
tray is less than 1 foot of mail.
f. Each tray must bear the correct tray label.
g. Each tray must be sleeved and strapped under 1.5
and 1.6.
h. If a mailing is prepared using an MLOCR/barcode
sorter and is submitted with standardized documentation, then pieces do not have to be grouped by
3-digit ZIP Code prefix (or by 3-digit scheme, if applicable) in AADC trays or by AADC in mixed AADC
trays.
* * * * *
M040 Pallets
M041 General Standards
* * * * *
5.0 PREPARATION
* * * * *
5.2 Required Preparation
These standards apply to:
[Revise item 5.2a to show that letter trays on pallets can be
measured by linear feet in addition to the number of layers
of trays.]
a. Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Package Services
(except for Parcel Post mailed at BMC Presort,
OBMC Presort, DSCF, and DDU rates). A pallet must
be prepared to a required sortation level when there
are 500 pounds of packages, sacks, or parcels or 72
linear feet or 6 layers of letter trays. For packages of
Periodicals flats and irregular parcels and packages
of Standard Mail flats on pallets that are prepared under the standards for package reallocation to protect
the SCF pallet (M045.4.0), not all mail for a 5-digit
scheme carrier routes, 5-digit scheme, 5-digit carrier
routes, or 5-digit pallet or for a merged 5-digit
scheme, merged 5-digit, or 3-digit pallet is required to
be on that corresponding pallet level. For packages
of Standard Mail flats on pallets prepared under the
standards for package reallocation to protect the
BMC pallet (M045.5.0), not all mail for a required ASF
pallet must be on an ASF pallet. Mixed ADC or mixed
BMC pallets of sacks, trays, or machinable parcels,
as appropriate, must be labeled to the BMC or ADC
(as appropriate) serving the post office where mailings are entered into the mailstream. The processing
and distribution manager of that facility may issue a
written authorization to the mailer to label mixed BMC
or mixed ADC pallets to the post office or processing
and distribution center serving the post office where
mailings are entered. These pallets contain all mail
remaining after required and optional pallets are prepared to finer sortation levels under M045, as
appropriate.
* * * * *
5.3 Minimum Load
These standards apply to:
[Revise item 5.3a to show that letter trays on pallets can be
measured by linear feet in addition to the number of layers
of trays.]
a. Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Package Services
(except for Parcel Post mailed at BMC Presort,
OBMC Presort, DSCF, and DDU rates). In a single
mailing, the minimum load per pallet is 250 pounds of
packages, parcels, or sacks; or 36 linear feet; or
three layers of letter trays. In a mailing or mailing job
presented for acceptance at a single postal facility,
one overflow pallet with less than the required minimum may be prepared for mail destinating in the
service area of the entry facility; that pallet must be
properly labeled under M045. Exceptions: There is
no minimum load for pallets entered at a destination
delivery unit if the mail on those pallets is for that
unit's service area. For mail entered at an SCF, the
SCF manager must authorize in writing preparation
of any 5-digit, 3-digit, or SCF pallet containing less
than the minimum required load if the mail on those
pallets is for that SCF's service area.
* * * * *
5.6 Mail on Pallets
These standards apply to mail on pallets:
* * * * *
[Redesignate items 5.6d through 5.6h as items 5.6e
through 5.6i, respectively. Add new item 5.6d to show that
letter trays on pallets are measured by linear feet or by the
number of layers of trays.]
d. For determining minimum pallet volume, mail in letter
trays is measured in full layers of trays or in linear
feet. A 2-foot tray equals 2 linear feet; a 1-foot tray
equals 1 linear foot.
* * * * *
M045 Palletized Mailings
* * * * *
3.0 PALLET PRESORT AND LABELING
* * * * *
3.2 Standard Mail Packages, Sacks, Irregular
Parcels, or Trays on Pallets
Mailers must prepare pallets in the sequence listed below,
except that mailings of sacks and trays must be prepared
beginning with 3.2c (because scheme sort is not permitted). Pallets must be labeled according to the Line 1 and
Line 2 information listed below and under M031. At the
mailer's option, packages of Standard Mail flats may be
palletized using the advanced presort options under M920,
M930, or M940.
* * * * *
[Revise item 3.2c to show that pallets of carrier route letters
must show on Line 2 of the pallet label whether the pieces
are barcoded or not barcoded to read as follows:]
c. 5-Digit Carrier Routes. Required for sacks and packages; optional for trays. May contain only carrier
route rate mail for the same 5-digit ZIP Code.
(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit
ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military
mail).
(2) Line 2: For flats and irregulars, "STD FLTS" or
"STD IRREG"; followed by "CARRIER
ROUTES" or "CR-RTS." For trays, "STD LTRS";
followed by "CARRIER ROUTES" or "CR-RTS";
followed by "BC" if the pallet contains barcoded
letters; followed by "MACH" if the pallet contains
machinable letters; followed by "MAN" if the pallet contains nonmachinable letters.
* * * * *
[Revise items 3.2f through 3.2j to show that pallets that
trays of letters must indicate on Line 2 of the pallet label
whether the pieces are barcoded ("BC"), machinable
("MACH"), or nonmachinable ("MAN"):]
f. 3-Digit. Optional. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate mail.
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: For flats and irregulars, "STD FLTS 3D"
or "STD IRREG 3D"; followed by "BARCODED"
or "BC" if the pallet contains automation rate
mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" or "NBC" if
the pallet contains Presorted rate and/or carrier
route rate mail. For letters, "STD LTRS 3D"; followed by "BC" if the pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by "MACH" if the pallet contains
machinable letters; followed by "MAN" if the pallet contains nonmachinable letters.
g. SCF. Required. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate mail.
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column C.
(2) Line 2: For flats and irregulars, "STD FLTS SCF"
or "STD IRREG SCF"; followed by "BARCODED" or "BC" if the pallet contains automation rate mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" or
"NBC" if the pallet contains Presorted rate and/or
carrier route rate mail. For letters, "STD LTRS
SCF"; followed by "BC" if the pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by "MACH" if the pallet
contains machinable letters; followed by "MAN"
if the pallet contains nonmachinable letters.
h. ASF. Required, except that an ASF sort may not be
required if using package reallocation for flats to protect the BMC pallet under 5.0. May contain carrier
route rate, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate
mail. Sort ADC packages, trays, or sacks to ASF pallets based on the "label to" ZIP Code for the ADC
destination of the package, tray, or sack in L004 (letters or flats) or L603 (irregular parcels). Sort AADC
trays to ASF pallets based on the "label to" ZIP Code
for the AADC destination of the tray in L801. See
E650.5.0 for additional requirements for DBMC rate
eligibility.
(1) Line 1: use L602.
(2) Line 2: For flats and irregulars, "STD FLTS ASF"
or "STD IRREG ASF"; followed by "BARCODED" or "BC" if the pallet contains automation rate mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" or
"NBC" if the pallet contains Presorted rate and/or
carrier route rate mail. For letters, "STD LTRS
ASF"; followed by "BC" if the pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by "MACH" if the pallet
contains machinable letters; followed by "MAN"
if the pallet contains nonmachinable letters.
i. BMC. Required. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate mail. Sort ADC
packages, trays, or sacks to BMC pallets based on
the "label to" ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the
package, tray, or sack in L004 (letters or flats) or
L603 (irregular parcels). Sort AADC trays to BMC
pallets based on the "label to" ZIP Code for the AADC
destination of the tray in L801. See E650.5.0 for additional requirements for DBMC rate eligibility.
(1) Line 1: use L601.
(2) Line 2: For flats and irregulars, "STD FLTS BMC"
or "STD IRREG BMC"; followed by "BARCODED" or "BC" if the pallet contains automation rate mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" or
"NBC" if the pallet contains Presorted rate and/or
carrier route rate mail. For letters, "STD LTRS
BMC"; followed by "BC" if the pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by "MACH" if the pallet
contains machinable letters; followed by "MAN"
if the pallet contains nonmachinable letters.
j. Mixed BMC (for sacks and trays on pallets only). Optional. May contain carrier route rate, automation
rate, and/or Presorted rate mail.
(1) Line 1: use "MXD" followed by the information in
L601, Column B, for the BMC serving the 3-digit
ZIP Code prefix of the entry post office (label to
plant serving entry post office if authorized by the
processing and distribution manager).
(2) Line 2: For flats and irregulars, "STD FLTS" or
"STD IRREG"; followed by "BARCODED" or
"BC" if the pallet contains automation rate mail;
followed by "NONBARCODED" or "NBC" if the
pallet contains Presorted rate and/or carrier
route rate mail; followed by "WKG." For letters,
"STD LTRS"; followed by "BC" if the pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by "MACH" if the
pallet contains machinable letters; followed by
"MAN" if the pallet contains nonmachinable letters; followed by "WKG."
[Revise the title of 3.3 and items a, b, c, and e to add BPM
in the first sentence in front of flats to show that this sort
level is for Bound Printed Matter only to read as follows:]
3.3 Package Services Flats-Packages and Sacks
on Pallets
* * * * *
[Revise the title of 3.4 to read as follows:]
3.4 Package Services Irregular
Parcels-Packages and Sacks on Pallets
* * * * *
[Revise the title of 3.5 to read as follows:]
3.5 Machinable Parcels-Standard Mail and
Package Services
* * * * *
[Remove 3.6, Presorted Media Mail and Library Mail.]
* * * * *
[Revise 12.0 by adding "and 3-digit" following each mention
of 5-digit scheme or 5-digit and revise to read as follows:]
12.0 PARCEL POST DSCF RATES-PARCELS ON
PALLETS
12.1 Basic Preparation, Parcels on Pallets
[Revise 12.1 to read as follows:]
Unless prepared under 12.2, or in sacks under M710, mail
must be prepared for the DSCF rate as follows:
a. General. Parcels for each SCF area must be sorted
to 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, or 3-digit (nonmachinable)
destinations on pallets. For purposes of this section,
the term "pallets" includes preparation of parcels
directly on pallets and in pallet boxes on pallets. Except when prepared under 12.2, each 5-digit
scheme, 5-digit, and 3-digit pallet must meet a minimum volume requirement under one of the criteria in
12.2b. Machinable and nonmachinable pieces may
be combined on the same pallet or in the same overflow sack when sorted to 5-digit scheme or 5-digit
destinations. In a single mailing mailers may prepare
some pallets under the minimum volume requirement
in 12.1b(1) and some pallets under the minimum
volume requirement in 12.1b(2). A mailing entered at
a destination SCF facility containing pallets prepared
under 12.1 also may include mail that is sacked for
the DSCF rate under M710. Double stacking is
permitted if the requirements of M041 are met.
b. Minimum volume. The minimum volume per 5-digit
scheme, 5-digit, and 3-digit pallet can be met in one
of the following ways:
(1) Pieces may be placed on 5-digit scheme, 5-digit,
and 3-digit pallets, each containing at least 50
pieces and 250 pounds.
(2) Pieces may be placed on 5-digit scheme, 5-digit,
and 3-digit pallets, each having a minimum
height of 36 inches of mail (excluding the height
of the pallet) (see M041).
c. Overflow. After filling a pallet(s) to a 5-digit scheme,
5-digit, or 3-digit destination, any remaining pieces
that do not meet the minimum pallet requirements
may be prepared in one of the following ways. One or
both methods may be used in a single mailing:
(1) Placed in 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, or 3-digit overflow sacks (no minimum number of pieces per
sack) that are labeled in accordance with the
5-digit scheme, 5-digit or 3-digit sacking requirements for the DSCF rate in M710. Overflow
pieces sacked in this manner are eligible for the
DSCF rates.
(2) Placed on a 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, or 3-digit pallet labeled under 12.1d that does not meet the
minimums for the DSCF rate. Overflow pieces
palletized in this manner are not eligible for the
DSCF rates but are eligible for the DBMC rates.
d. 5-digit scheme pallet labeling:
(1) Line 1: use L606, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC PARCELS 5D SCH."
e. 5-digit pallet labeling:
(1) Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination of contents.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC PARCELS 5D."
f. 3-digit pallet labeling:
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column C.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC PARCELS 3D."
g. Separation. If sacks prepared under M710 are included in the same mailing as pallets prepared under
this section, at the time of acceptance the mailer
must separate sacks that are overflow from palletized
mail from those sacks that are prepared under the
provisions of M710.
12.2 Alternate Preparation, Parcels on Pallets
[Revise 12.2 to read as follows:]
DSCF rate mailings not prepared under 12.1 may be prepared as follows:
a. General. All DSCF rate mail in the mailing must be
sorted to 5-digit-scheme, 5-digit, or 3-digit (nonmachinable) destinations under 12.2 (i.e., mail prepared
under 12.1 and mail sacked under M710 must not be
included in a mailing prepared under 12.2). For purposes of this section, the term "pallets" includes
preparation of parcels directly on pallets and preparation of parcels in pallet boxes on pallets. Machinable and nonmachinable pieces may be combined on
the same pallet when sorted to 5-digit scheme or
5-digit destinations. Double stacking is permitted if
the requirements of M041 are met.
b. Minimum volume. To qualify for the DSCF rate, no
pallet may contain fewer than 35 pieces and 200
pounds, and for the entire mailing the average number of DSCF rate pieces per 5-digit scheme, 5-digit,
or 3-digit (nonmachinable) must be at least 50.
c. Overflow. After filling pallets to a 5-digit scheme,
5-digit or 3-digit destinations, any remaining pieces
that do not meet the minimum pallet requirements
may be prepared in one of the following ways (one or
both methods may be used in a single mailing):
(1) Placed in 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, or 3-digit overflow sacks (no minimum number of pieces per
sack) that are labeled in accordance with the
DSCF sacking requirements in M710. Overflow
pieces sacked in this manner are eligible for the
DSCF rates.
(2) Placed on a 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, or 3-digit pallet labeled under 12.2d that does not meet the
minimums for the DSCF rate. Overflow pieces
palletized in this manner are not eligible for the
DSCF rates but are eligible for the DBMC rates.
d. 5-digit scheme pallet labeling:
(1) Line 1: use L606, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC PARCELS 5D SCH."
(3) In the mailer area below Line 3: use the pallet ID
number.
e. 5-digit pallet labeling:
(1) Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination of contents.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC PARCELS 5D."
(3) In the mailer area below Line 3: use the pallet ID
number.
f. 3-digit pallet labeling:
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column C.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC PARCELS 3D."
(3) In the mailer area below Line 3: use the pallet ID
number.
g. Documentation. A list of each 5-digit scheme, 5-digit,
and 3-digit pallet in the mailing that qualifies for the
DSCF rate must be submitted. The pallets in the
mailing that qualify for the DSCF rate must be renumbered sequentially, and this pallet identification
number must be printed below Line 3 on the pallet
label. The documentation must list each pallet in
sequential order by pallet identification number. For
each pallet, the listing must show: the pallet identification number; the applicable 5-digit scheme, 5-digit,
or 3-digit destination of the pallet; the total weight of
pieces on the pallet; the total number of pieces on the
pallet; and the running total pieces (i.e., the number
equal to the number of pieces for that pallet plus the
sum of the pieces on all pallets listed before it). This
documentation must not include pieces prepared in
overflow sacks at the DSCF rates, pieces prepared
on overflow pallets at the DBMC rates, or pieces
claimed at any other rate in the mailing.
* * * * *
M050 Delivery Sequence Changes
* * * * *
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
[Revise 1.2 to reinstate the option of placing pieces that
cannot be sequenced in ascending order by ZIP+4 sector
segments.]
1.2 Missing Addresses
If mailpieces cannot be sequenced because an exact
match for a name or address cannot be obtained, then
these pieces may be included in a sequenced mailing only
if they are placed behind or after the sequenced mail.
These pieces must be sequenced alphabetically by complete street name, numerically for numbered streets, and
then either in ascending order by ZIP+4 code sector
segments or numerically in ascending order by primary
address.
* * * * *
4.0 DOCUMENTATION
4.1 General
[Revise the first paragraph of 4.1 to clarify that signing a
postage statement certifies that the mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed to read as follows:]
The postage statement must be annotated in the "Carrier
Route Sequencing Date" block on page 1. The mailer must
annotate the postage statement to show the earliest (oldest) date of the method (in 4.1a through 4.1e) used to
obtain sequencing information for the mailing. The mailer's
signature on the postage statement certifies that this standard has been met when the corresponding mail is presented to the USPS. The mailer must maintain documentation
to substantiate compliance with the standards for carrier
route sequencing. Unless submitted with each corresponding mailing, the mailer must be able to provide the USPS
with documentation (if requested) of accurate sequencing
or delivery statistics for each carrier route to which pieces
are mailed. Acceptable forms of documentation are:
* * * * *
M100 First-Class Mail (Nonautomation)
* * * * *
M130 Presorted First-Class Mail
* * * * *
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
[Revise the title and text of 1.5 to account for the new
preparation for nonmachinable pieces.]
1.5 Nonmachinable Pieces
Nonmachinable cards and letters must use the preparation
sequence and tray labeling in 3.0. Nonmachinable flats
must use the preparation sequence and tray labeling in 4.0.
[Redesignate 1.6, Co-Traying With Automation Rate Mail,
as 1.7. Add new 1.6 for the manual only option to read as
follows:]
1.6 Manual Only Option
Mailers who prefer that the USPS not automate letter-size
pieces (including cards) must use the preparation sequence and tray labeling for nonmachinable pieces in 3.0.
The manual only option is not available for flats.
[Replace section 2.0 with the preparation for cards and
machinable letters to read as follows (this preparation is
very similar to the current upgradable preparation). Machinable pieces are packaged only to maintain their orientation
in the tray.]
2.0 PREPARATION-MACHINABLE LETTER-SIZE
PIECES
2.1 Packaging
Machinable pieces are not packaged, except for (see
M020):
a. Card-size pieces.
b. All pieces in a less-than-full origin 3-digit tray.
c. All pieces in a less-than-full mixed AADC tray.
2.2 Tray Preparation and Labeling
Preparation sequence, tray size, and labeling:
a. 5-digit: optional; full trays only; no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on
mail, preceded for military mail by prefixes under
M031.
(2) Line 2: "FCM LTR 5D MACH."
b. 3-digit: required; full trays only, except for one less-
than-full tray for each origin 3-digit(s); no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: "FCM LTR 3D MACH."
c. AADC: required; full trays only; no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use L801, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "FCM LTR AADC MACH."
d. Mixed AADC: required; no minimum.
(1) Line 1: use "MXD" followed by city, state, and
ZIP of facility serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of
entry post office, as shown in L002, Column C.
(2) Line 2: "FCM LTR MACH WKG."
[Replace section 3.0, Upgradable Preparation, with the
preparation instructions for nonmachinable and manual
only pieces to read as follows:]
3.0 PREPARATION-NONMACHINABLE
LETTER-SIZE PIECES
3.1 Packaging
Packaging is required. Mailers who prefer that the USPS
not automate letter-size pieces must identify each package
with a facing slip on which "MANUAL ONLY" is printed or
with a "MANUAL ONLY" optional endorsement line (see
M013). Preparation sequence, package size, and labeling:
a. 5-digit: required (10-piece minimum); red Label D or
optional endorsement line (OEL); labeling is not required for pieces in full 5-digit trays.
b. 3-digit: required (10-piece minimum); green Label 3
or OEL.
c. ADC: required (10-piece minimum); pink Label A or
OEL.
d. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum); tan Label MXD
or OEL.
3.2 Exception to Packaging
Under certain conditions, nonmachinable pieces may not
need to be packaged (see M020.1.9).
3.3 Tray Preparation and Labeling
Preparation sequence, tray size, and labeling:
a. 5-digit: required; full trays only; no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use 5-digit city, state, and ZIP Code on
mail, preceded for military mail by prefixes under
M031.
(2) Line 2: "FCM LTR 5D MANUAL."
b. 3-digit: required; full trays only, except for one less-
than-full tray for each origin 3-digit(s); no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: "FCM LTR 3D MANUAL."
c. ADC: required; full trays only; no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use L004, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "FCM LTR ADC MANUAL."
d. Mixed ADC: required; no minimum.
(1) Line 1: use "MXD" followed by city, state, and
ZIP of facility serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of
entry post office, as shown in L002, Column C.
(2) Line 2: "FCM LTR MANUAL WKG."
[Revise the title of 4.0 to read as follows:]
4.0 PREPARATION-FLATS
* * * * *
[Redesignate 4.2 and 4.3 as 4.3 and 4.4, respectively. Add
new 4.2 to show that flats do not have to be packaged
under certain conditions:]
4.2 Exception to Packaging
Under certain conditions, flat-size pieces may not need to
be packaged (see M020.1.9).
* * * * *
M200 Periodicals (Nonautomation)
[Revise the title of M210 to read as follows:]
M210 Presort Rates
* * * * *
[Remove 5.0, Combining Multiple Publications or Editions.
This section has moved to M230.]
M220 Carrier Route Rates
* * * * *
[Remove 5.0, Combining Multiple Publications or Editions.
This section has moved to M230.]
[Add new M230 to read as follows:]
M230 Combining Multiple Editions or Publications
of the Same Publisher
1.0 DESCRIPTION
A combined mailing is a mailing in which two or more Periodicals publications or editions are merged into a single
mailstream, during production or after finished copies are
produced, and all copies of all the publications or editions
are presorted together into packages to achieve the finest
presort level possible for the combined mailing.
2.0 VOLUME
More than one Periodicals publication, or edition of a publication, may be combined to meet the volume standard per
tray, sack, or package for the rate claimed.
3.0 EACH PIECE
Each piece must meet the basic standards in E211 and the
specific standards for the rate claimed.
4.0 DOCUMENTATION
Presort documentation required under P012 must also
show the total number of addressed pieces and copies of
each publication or edition mailed to each carrier route,
5-digit, and 3-digit destination. The publisher must also provide a list, by 3-digit ZIP Code prefix, of the number of addressed pieces and copies of each publication or edition
qualifying for each destination rate.
5.0 SEPARATE POSTAGE STATEMENTS
A separate postage statement must be prepared for the per
pound postage computations for each publication or edition
that is part of the combined mailing. The title and issue date
of the publications with which each publication or edition
was combined must be noted on, or attached to, the postage statements. The per piece postage computations for all
other than preferred rate publications must be calculated
on the postage statement for the publication containing the
higher (or highest) amount of advertising. The per piece
postage computations for all preferred rate publications
must be calculated on the postage statement for the publication containing the higher (or highest) amount of
advertising. The nonadvertising adjustment must be computed on the appropriate postage statement for each rate
category based on the publication (or edition, if applicable)
containing the higher (or highest) amount of advertising
matter for that rate category.
* * * * *
M600 Standard Mail (Nonautomation)
M610 Presorted Standard Mail
* * * * *
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
[Redesignate 1.5 and 1.6 as 1.6 and 1.7, respectively. Add
new 1.5 to account for the new preparation for nonmachinable pieces to read as follows:]
1.5 Nonmachinable Pieces
Nonmachinable cards and letters must use the preparation
sequence and tray labeling in 3.0.
[Revise the title and text of the redesignated 1.6 to read as
follows:]
1.6 Manual Only Option
Mailers who prefer that the USPS not automate letter-size
pieces (including cards) must use the packaging and tray
preparation sequence for nonmachinable pieces in 3.0.
The manual only option is not available for flats.
* * * * *
[Replace section 2.0 with the preparation instructions for
machinable cards and letters (this preparation is very similar to the current upgradable preparation). Machinable
pieces are packaged only to maintain their orientation in the
tray.]
2.0 PREPARATION-MACHINABLE LETTER-SIZE
PIECES
2.1 Packaging
Machinable pieces are not packaged, except for (see
M020):
a. Card-size pieces.
b. All pieces in a less-than-full origin or entry 3-digit tray.
c. All pieces in a less-than-full mixed AADC tray.
2.2 Tray Preparation and Labeling
Only mail eligible for the 3/5 rate (i.e., 150 or more pieces
for the 3-digit area) may be prepared in 5-digit and 3-digit
trays. Preparation sequence, tray size, and labeling:
a. 5-digit: optional (full trays); no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on
mail, preceded for military mail by correct prefix
under M031.
(2) Line 2: "STD LTR 5D MACH."
b. 3-digit: required (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: "STD LTR 3D MACH."
c. Origin 3-digit(s): required (no minimum); optional for
entry 3-digit(s) (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: "STD LTR 3D MACH."
d. AADC: required (full trays); no overflow; group pieces
by 3-digit ZIP Code prefix.
(1) Line 1: use L801.
(2) Line 2: "STD LTR AADC MACH."
e. Mixed AADC: required (no minimum); group pieces
by AADC.
(1) Line 1: use L802 (mail entered at an ASF or
BMC) or L803.
(2) Line 2: "STD LTR MACH WKG."
[Replace 3.0, Upgradable Preparation, with the new preparation instructions for nonmachinable pieces:]
3.0 PREPARATION-NONMACHINABLE
LETTER-SIZE PIECES
3.1 Packaging
Packaging is required. Mailers who prefer that the USPS
not automate their pieces must identify each package with
a facing slip on which "MANUAL ONLY" is printed or with a
"MANUAL ONLY" optional endorsement line (see M013).
Preparation sequence, package size, and labeling:
a. 5-digit: required (10-piece minimum); red Label D or
optional endorsement line (OEL); labeling is not required for pieces in full 5-digit trays.
b. 3-digit: required (10-piece minimum); green Label 3
or OEL.
c. ADC: required (10-piece minimum); pink Label A or
OEL.
d. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum); tan Label MXD
or OEL.
3.2 Exception to Packaging
Under certain conditions, nonmachinable pieces may not
need to be packaged (see M020.1.9).
3.3 Tray Preparation and Labeling
Preparation sequence, tray size, and labeling:
a. 5-digit: required (full trays); no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on
mail, preceded for military mail by correct prefix
under M031.
(2) Line 2: "STD LTR 5D MANUAL."
b. 3-digit: required (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: "STD LTR 3D MANUAL."
c. Origin 3-digit(s): required (one-package minimum);
optional for entry 3-digit(s) (no minimum).
(1) Line 1, use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: "STD LTR 3D MANUAL."
d. ADC: required (full trays); no overflow.
(1) Line 1, use L004.
(2) Line 2: "STD LTR ADC MANUAL."
e. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: use "MXD" followed by city, state, and
ZIP of ADC serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of
entry post office, as shown in L004.
(2) Line 2: "STD LTR MANUAL WKG."
* * * * *
M620 Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail
* * * * *
3.0 TRAY PREPARATION-LETTER-SIZE PIECES
[Revise current 3.1 and 3.2 into a single section 3.1 and
revise the Line 2 information to show the barcoded status:]
3.1 Required Tray Preparation
Preparation sequence, tray size, and labeling:
a. Carrier route: required; full trays only, no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on
package, preceded for military mail by correct
prefix under M031.
(2) Line 2:
(a) Saturation: "STD LTR BC WSS," followed
by route type and number.
(b) High density: "STD LTR BC WSH," followed
by route type and number.
(c) Basic: "STD LTR BC LOT," followed by
route type and number.
b. 5-digit carrier routes: required if full tray, optional with
minimum one 10-piece package.
(1) Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on
package, preceded for military mail by prefix under M031.
(2) Line 2: "STD LTR 5D CR-RT BC."
c. 3-digit carrier routes: optional with minimum one
10-piece package for each of two or more 5-digit
areas.
(1) Line 1: use city, state, and ZIP shown in L002,
Column A, that corresponds to 3-digit ZIP Code
prefix on package.
(2) Line 2: "STD LTR 3D CR-RT BC."
[Add new 3.2 to show the Line 2 information for trays containing mail that is machinable but is not barcoded.]
3.2 Tray Line 2 for Machinable Nonbarcoded
Pieces
For trays that contain letter-size pieces that are machinable
but not barcoded, use "MACH" on Line 2 in place of "BC."
[Add new 3.3 to show the Line 2 information for trays containing mail that is nonmachinable (barcoded or not):]
3.3 Tray Line 2 for Nonmachinable Pieces
For trays that contain letter-size pieces that are nonmachinable, use "MAN" on Line 2 in place of "BC."
[Add new 3.4 to show the Line 2 information for trays containing mail with a simplified address:]
3.4 Tray Line 2 for Pieces with Simplified Address
For trays that contain letter-size pieces with a simplified address, use "MAN" on Line 2 in place of "BC."
4.0 SACK PREPARATION-FLATS
4.1 Required Sack Minimums
A sack must be prepared when the quantity of mail for a required presort destination reaches either 125 pieces or 15
pounds of pieces, whichever occurs first, subject to these
conditions:
[Add new item d to show an exception to the sack minimum
for saturation rate pieces. This standard was moved from
E630.4.1.]
d. Sacks with fewer than 125 pieces or less than 15
pounds of pieces may be prepared to a carrier route
when the saturation rate is claimed for the contents
and the applicable density standard is met.
* * * * *
M700 Package Services
M710 Parcel Post
* * * * *
2.0 DSCF RATE
[Revise 2.1 to add DSCF rate 3-digit nonmachinable parcels to read as follows:]
2.1 General
To qualify for the DSCF rate, pieces must be for the same
SCF area under L005 and must be prepared as follows:
a. Sorted to optional 5-digit scheme destinations under
L606, Column B, and 5-digit destinations, either in
sacks under 2.2 or directly on pallets or in pallet
boxes on pallets under M041 and M045. Pieces must
be part of a mailing of at least 50 Parcel Post pieces.
They must be entered at the designated SCF under
L005 that serves the 5-digit ZIP Code destinations of
the pieces except when palletized and entry is required at a BMC (see Exhibit E751.6.0). The DSCF
rate is not available for palletized mail for facilities
that are unable to handle palletized mailings. Refer to
the Drop Shipment Product available from the National Customer Support Center (NCSC) (see G043)
and Exhibits E751.7.0 and E751.8.0 to determine if
the facility serving the 5-digit destination can handle
pallets. There is a charge for the Drop Shipment
Product.
b. Any remaining nonmachinable parcels (as defined in
C700.2.0) sorted to 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes in L002,
Column C. Machinable parcels may not be sorted to
the 3-digit level.
* * * * *
2.2 DSCF Sack Preparation
[Revise 2.2 by redesignating "e" as "f" and adding new "e"
and revising "f" to add sack preparation requirements for
DSCF rate nonmachinable parcels to read as follows:]
e. 3-digit nonmachinable sack labeling: Line 1, use
L002, Column A; for Line 2, "PSVC IRREG 3D."
f. See M045 for option to place 5-digit scheme and
5-digit DSCF sacks and 3-digit nonmachinable sacks
on an SCF pallet.
* * * * *
M720 Bound Printed Matter
M721 Single-Piece Bound Printed Matter
* * * * *
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 General
[Revise 1.1 by adding a sentence at the end for barcoded
single-piece rate Bound Printed Matter to read as follows:]
***Bound Printed Matter claiming a barcoded discount must
meet the applicable standards in E712.
* * * * *
M730 Media Mail
* * * * *
[Replace section 1.0 to read as follows:]
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 General
There are no presort, sacking, or labeling standards for
single-piece Media Mail. All mailings of Presorted Media
Mail are subject to the standards in 2.0 through 4.0 and to
these general requirements:
a. Each mailing must meet the applicable standards in
E710, E713, and in M010, M020, and M030.
b. All pieces in a mailing must be within the same processing category as described in C050. A Media Mail
irregular parcel is a piece that is not a machinable
parcel as defined in C050.4.1 or a flat as defined in
C050.3.1. Pieces that meet the size and weight standards for a machinable parcel but are not individually
boxed or packaged to withstand processing on BMC
parcel sorters under C010 also are irregular parcels.
c. All pieces must be sorted to the finest extent possible
under 2.0 through 4.0 or palletized under M045.
d. Each piece claimed at Media Mail rates must be
marked "Media Mail" under M012. Each piece
claimed at Presorted Media Mail rates also must be
marked "Presorted" or "PRSRT" under M012.
1.2 Documentation
A complete, signed postage statement, using the correct
USPS form or an approved facsimile, must accompany
each mailing. Documentation of postage is not required if
the correct rate is affixed to each piece or if each piece is of
identical weight, and the pieces are separated by rate level
at the time of mailing.
[Replace section 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 PREPARATION-FLATS
2.1 Packaging
A package must be prepared when the quantity of addressed pieces for a required presort level reaches a minimum of 10 pieces. Smaller volumes are not permitted. The
maximum weight of each physical package is 20 pounds,
except that 5-digit packages placed in 5-digit sacks may
weigh a maximum of 40 pounds. Each physical package
must contain at least two addressed pieces.
2.2 Package Preparation
Packages must be prepared and labeled in the following required sequence:
a. 5-digit: optional, but required for 5-digit rate eligibility;
red Label D or optional endorsement line (OEL).
b. 3-digit: required; green Label 3 or OEL.
c. ADC: required; pink Label A or OEL.
d. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum); tan Label MXD
or OEL.
2.3 Sacking
A sack must be prepared when the quantity of mail for a required presort destination reaches the minimums specified
in 2.4 or 1,000 cubic inches. Smaller volumes are not permitted (except in mixed ADC sacks).
2.4 Sack Preparation
Sacks must be prepared and labeled in the following
sequence:
a. 5-digit: optional, but required for 5-digit rate eligibility
(10-piece minimum).
(1) Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on
packages, preceded for military mail by correct
prefix in M031.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC FLTS 5D NON BC."
b. 3-digit: required (20-piece minimum).
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC FLTS 3D NON BC."
c. ADC: required (20-piece minimum).
(1) Line 1: use L004, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC FLTS ADC NON BC."
d. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: use "MXD" followed by city, state, and
ZIP Code of ADC serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix
of entry post office, as shown in L004, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC FLTS NON BC WKG."
[Add new 3.0 to read as follows:]
3.0 PREPARATION-IRREGULAR PARCELS
3.1 Packaging
A package must be prepared when the quantity of addressed pieces for a required presort level reaches a minimum of 10 pieces, except that packaging is not required for
pieces placed in 5-digit scheme sacks and 5-digit sacks
when such pieces are enclosed in an envelope, full-length
sleeve, full-length wrapper, or polybag and the minimum
package volume is met. The maximum weight of each
physical package is 20 pounds, except that 5-digit packages placed in 5-digit sacks may weigh a maximum of 40
pounds. Each physical package must contain at least two
addressed pieces. Packaging is also subject to these conditions:
a. Identical-weight pieces that weigh 1 pound or less
must be prepared using the 10-piece minimum; those
that weigh more than 1 pound must be prepared using the 10-pound minimum.
b. For nonidentical-weight pieces, mailers must either
use the minimum that applies to the average piece
weight for the entire mailing (divide the net weight of
the mailing by the number of pieces; the resulting average single-piece weight determines whether the
10-piece or 10-pound minimum applies), or package
by the actual piece count or mail weight for each
sack, if documentation can be provided with the mailing that shows (specifically for each sack) the number of pieces in each package and their total weight.
c. Mailers must note on the postage statement which
sacking method was used.
3.2 Package Preparation
Packages must be prepared and labeled in the following
sequence:
a. 5-digit: optional, but required for 5-digit rate eligibility;
red Label D or optional endorsement line (OEL).
b. 3-digit: required; green Label 3 or OEL.
c. ADC: required; pink Label A or OEL.
d. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum); tan Label MXD
or OEL.
3.3 Sacking
A sack must be prepared when the quantity of mail for a required presort destination reaches 10 addressed pieces or
20 pounds, whichever occurs first. At the mailer's option, a
sack may be prepared when the quantity of mail reaches
1,000 cubic inches. Smaller volumes are not permitted (except in mixed ADC sacks). Optional 5-digit scheme sacks
may be prepared only when there are at least 10 addressed
pieces or 20 pounds. Smaller volumes are not permitted
(except in mixed ADC sacks). Sacking is also subject to
these conditions:
a. Identical-weight pieces weighing 2 pounds or less
must be sacked using the 10-piece minimum; those
that weigh more must be sacked using the 20-pound
or 1,000 cubic inch minimum.
b. For nonidentical-weight pieces, mailers must use either the minimum that applies to the average piece
weight for the entire mailing (divide the net weight of
the mailing by the number of pieces; the resulting
average single-piece weight determines whether the
10-piece or 20-pound minimum applies). Alternatively, mailers may sack by the actual piece count, mail
weight for each destination, or 1,000 cubic inch minimum, provided that documentation can be provided
with the mailing that shows (specifically for each
sack) the number of pieces in each sack and their total weight.
c. Mailers must note on the postage statement which
sacking method was used.
3.4 Sack Preparation
Sacks must be prepared and labeled in the following
sequence:
a. 5-digit scheme: optional.
(1) Line 1: use L606, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC IRREG 5D SCHEME" or "PSVC
IRREG 5D SCH."
b. 5-digit: optional, but required for 5-digit rate eligibility.
(1) Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on
packages, preceded for military mail by correct
prefix in M031.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC IRREG 5D."
c. 3-digit: required.
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC IRREG 3D."
d. ADC: required.
(1) Line 1: use L004, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC IRREG ADC."
e. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: use "MXD" followed by city, state, and
ZIP Code of ADC serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix
of entry post office, as shown in L004, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC IRREG WKG."
[Add new 4.0 to read as follows:]
4.0 PREPARATION-MACHINABLE PARCELS
4.1 Sacking
A sack must be prepared when the quantity of mail for a required presort destination reaches 10 addressed pieces or
20 pounds, whichever occurs first. At the mailer's option, a
sack may be prepared when the quantity of mail reaches
1,000 cubic inches. Smaller volumes are not permitted (except in mixed BMC sacks). Sacking is subject to these
additional conditions:
a. Identical-weight pieces that weigh 2 pounds or less
must be sacked using the 10-piece minimum; those
that weigh more must be sacked using the 20-pound
or 1,000 cubic inch minimum.
b. For nonidentical-weight pieces, mailers must use either the minimum that applies to the average piece
weight for the entire mailing (divide the net weight of
the mailing by the number of pieces; the resulting
average single-piece weight determines whether the
10-piece or 20-pound minimum applies). Alternately,
mailers may sack by the actual piece count, mail
weight for each package destination, or 1,000 cubic
inch minimum, provided that documentation can be
provided with the mailing that shows (specifically for
each sack) the number of pieces and their total
weight.
c. Mailers must note on the postage statement which
sacking method was used.
4.2 Sack Preparation
Sacks must be prepared and labeled in the following
sequence:
a. 5-digit scheme: optional.
(1) Line 1: use L606, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC MACH 5D SCHEME" or "PSVC
MACH 5D SCH."
b. 5-digit: optional, but required for 5-digit rate eligibility.
(1) Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on
parcels, preceded for military mail by correct
prefix in M031.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC MACH 5D."
c. BMC: required.
(1) Line 1: use L601, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC MACH BMC."
d. Mixed BMC: required (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: "MXD" followed by information in L601,
Column B, for BMC serving 3-digit ZIP Code of
entry post office.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC MACH WKG."
M740 Library Mail
* * * * *
[Replace section 1.0 to read as follows:]
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 General
There are no presort, sacking, or labeling standards for
single-piece Library Mail. All mailings of Presorted Library
Mail are subject to the standards in 2.0 through 4.0 and to
these general standards:
a. Each mailing must meet the applicable standards in
E710, E714, and in M010, M020, and M030.
b. All pieces in a mailing must be within the same processing category as described in C050. A Library Mail
irregular parcel is a piece that is not a machinable
parcel as defined in C050.4.1 or a flat as defined in
C050.3.1. Pieces that meet the size and weight
standards for a machinable parcel but are not individually boxed or packaged to withstand processing on
BMC parcel sorters under C010 are also considered
irregular parcels.
c. All pieces must be sorted to the finest extent possible
under 2.0 through 4.0 or palletized under M045.
d. Each piece claimed at Library Mail rates must be
marked "Library Mail" under M012. Each piece
claimed at Presorted Library Mail rates also must be
marked "Presorted" or "PRSRT" under M012.
1.2 Documentation
A complete, signed postage statement, using the correct
USPS form or an approved facsimile, must accompany
each mailing. Documentation of postage is not required if
the correct rate is affixed to each piece or if each piece is of
identical weight, and the pieces are separated by rate level
at the time of mailing.
[Replace section 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 PREPARATION-FLATS
2.1 Packaging
A package must be prepared when the quantity of
addressed pieces for a required presort level reaches a
minimum of 10 pieces. Smaller volumes are not permitted.
The maximum weight of each physical package is 20
pounds, except that 5-digit packages, placed in 5-digit
sacks may weigh a maximum of 40 pounds. Each physical
package must contain at least two addressed pieces.
2.2 Package Preparation
Packages must be prepared and labeled in the following
sequence:
a. 5-digit: optional, but required for 5-digit rate eligibility;
red Label D or optional endorsement line (OEL).
b. 3-digit: required; green Label 3 or OEL.
c. ADC: required; pink Label A or OEL.
d. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum); tan Label MXD
or OEL.
2.3 Sacking
A sack must be prepared when the quantity of mail for a required presort destination reaches the minimums specified
in 2.4 or 1,000 cubic inches. Smaller volumes are not permitted (except in mixed ADC sacks).
2.4 Sack Preparation
Sacks must be prepared and labeled in the following
sequence:
a. 5-digit: optional, but required for 5-digit rate eligibility
(10-piece minimum).
(1) Line 1, use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on
packages, preceded for military mail by correct
prefix in M031.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC FLTS 5D NON BC."
b. 3-digit: required (20-piece minimum).
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC FLTS 3D NON BC."
c. ADC: required (20-piece minimum).
(1) Line 1: use L004, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC FLTS ADC NON BC."
d. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: use "MXD" followed by city, state, and
ZIP Code of ADC serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix
of entry post office, as shown in L004, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC FLTS NON BC WKG."
[Add new 3.0 to read as follows:]
3.0 PREPARATION-IRREGULAR PARCELS
3.1 Packaging
A package must be prepared when the quantity of addressed pieces for a required presort level reaches a
minimum of 10 pieces, except that packaging is not required for pieces placed in 5-digit scheme sacks and 5-digit
sacks when such pieces are enclosed in an envelope, full-
length sleeve, full-length wrapper, or polybag and the
minimum package volume is met. The maximum weight of
each physical package is 20 pounds, except that 5-digit
packages placed in 5-digit sacks may weigh a maximum of
40 pounds. Each physical package must contain at least
two addressed pieces. Packaging is also subject to these
conditions:
a. Identical-weight pieces that weigh 1 pound or less
must be prepared using the 10-piece minimum; those
that weigh more than 1 pound must be prepared using the 10-pound minimum.
b. For nonidentical-weight pieces, mailers must use either the minimum that applies to the average piece
weight for the entire mailing (divide the net weight of
the mailing by the number of pieces; the resulting average single-piece weight determines whether the
10-piece or 10-pound minimum applies) or package
by the actual piece count or mail weight for each
sack, if documentation can be provided with the mailing that shows (specifically for each sack) the
number of pieces and their total weight.
c. Mailers must note on the postage statement which
sacking method was used.
3.2 Package Preparation
Packages must be prepared and labeled in the following
sequence:
a. 5-digit: optional, but required for 5-digit rate eligibility;
red Label D or optional endorsement line (OEL).
b. 3-digit: required; green Label 3 or OEL.
c. ADC: required; pink Label A or OEL.
d. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum); tan Label MXD
or OEL.
3.3 Sacking
A sack must be prepared when the quantity of mail for a required presort destination reaches 10 addressed pieces or
20 pounds, whichever occurs first. At the mailer's option, a
sack may be prepared when the quantity of mail reaches
1,000 cubic inches. Smaller volumes are not permitted (except in mixed ADC sacks). Sacking is also subject to these
conditions:
a. Identical-weight pieces weighing 2 pounds or less
must be sacked using the 10-piece minimum; those
that weigh more must be sacked using the 20-pound
or 1,000 cubic inch minimum.
b. For nonidentical-weight pieces, mailers must use either the minimum that applies to the average piece
weight for the entire mailing (divide the net weight of
the mailing by the number of pieces; the resulting average single-piece weight determines whether the
10-piece or 20-pound minimum applies). Alternatively, mailers may sack by the actual piece count, mail
weight for each package destination, or 1,000 cubic
inch minimum, if documentation can be provided with
the mailing that shows (specifically for each sack) the
number of pieces and their total weight.
c. Mailers must note on the postage statement which
sacking method was used.
3.4 Sack Preparation
Sacks must be prepared and labeled in the following
sequence:
a. 5-digit scheme: optional.
(1) Line 1: use L606, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC IRREG 5D SCHEME" or "PSVC
IRREG 5D SCH."
b. 5-digit: optional, but required for 5-digit rate eligibility.
(1) Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on
packages, preceded for military mail by correct
prefix in M031.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC IRREG 5D."
c. 3-digit: required.
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC IRREG 3D."
d. ADC: required.
(1) Line 1: use L004, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC IRREG ADC."
e. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: use "MXD" followed by city, state, and
ZIP Code of ADC serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix
of entry post office, as shown in L004, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC IRREG WKG."
[Add new 4.0 to read as follows:]
4.0 PREPARATION-MACHINABLE PARCELS
4.1 Sacking
A sack must be prepared when the quantity of mail for a required presort destination reaches 10 addressed pieces or
20 pounds, whichever occurs first. At the mailer's option, a
sack may be prepared when the quantity of mail reaches
1,000 cubic inches. Smaller volumes are not permitted (except in mixed BMC sacks). Sacking is subject to these
additional conditions:
a. Identical-weight pieces that weigh 2 pounds or less
must be sacked using the 10-piece minimum; those
that weigh more must be sacked using the 20-pound
or 1,000 cubic inch minimum.
b. For nonidentical-weight pieces, mailers must use either the minimum that applies to the average piece
weight for the entire mailing (divide the net weight of
the mailing by the number of pieces; the resulting average single-piece weight determines whether the
10-piece or 20-pound minimum applies). Alternately,
mailers may sack by the actual piece count, mail
weight for each package destination, or 1,000 cubic
inch minimum, provided that documentation can be
provided with the mailing that shows (specifically for
each sack) the number of pieces and their total
weight.
c. Mailers must note on the postage statement which
sacking method was used.
4.2 Sack Preparation
Sacks must be prepared and labeled in the following
sequence:
a. 5-digit scheme: optional.
(1) Line 1: use L606, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC MACH 5D SCHEME" or "PSVC
MACH 5D SCH."
b. 5-digit: optional, but required for 5-digit rate eligibility.
(1) Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on
parcels, preceded for military mail by correct
prefix in M031.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC MACH 5D."
c. BMC: required.
(1) Line 1: use L601, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC MACH BMC."
d. Mixed BMC: required (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: "MXD" followed by information in L601,
Column B, for BMC serving 3-digit ZIP Code of
entry post office.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC MACH WKG."
M800 All Automation Mail
M810 Letter-Size Mail
* * * * *
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
1.2 Mailings
The requirements for mailings are as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise items 1.2b and 1.2d to replace the automation
basic rate with the new AADC and mixed AADC rates.]
b. First-Class. A single automation rate First-Class Mail
mailing may include pieces prepared at carrier route,
5-digit, 3-digit, AADC, and mixed AADC rates.
* * * * *
d. Standard Mail. Automation carrier route pieces must
be prepared as a separate mailing (and meet a separate minimum volume requirement) from pieces
prepared at 5-digit, 3-digit, AADC, and mixed AADC
rates.
1.3 Documentation
[Revise 1.3 to remove references to the basic rate.]
A complete postage statement must accompany each mailing. Each mailing also must be accompanied by presort
and rate documentation produced by PAVE-certified or
MAC-certified software or by standardized documentation
under P012. Exception: For mailings of fewer than 10,000
pieces, presort and rate documentation is not required if
postage at the correct rate is affixed to each piece or if each
piece is of identical weight and the pieces are separated by
rate when presented for acceptance. Mailers may use a
single postage statement and a single documentation
report for all rate levels in a single mailing. Standard Mail
mailers may use a single postage statement and a single
documentation report (with a separate summary for carrier
route and a separate summary for all other rate levels) for
both an automation carrier route mailing and a mailing containing pieces prepared at other automation rates when
both mailings are submitted for entry at the same time.
Combined mailings of more than one Periodicals publication also must be documented under M210 and M220.
First-Class Mail and Standard Mail mailings prepared
under the value added refund procedures or as combined
mailings must meet additional standardized documentation
requirements under P014 and P960.
* * * * *
2.0 FIRST-CLASS MAIL AND STANDARD MAIL
* * * * *
2.3 Tray Line 2
Line 2: "FCM LTR" or "STD LTR" and:
* * * * *
[In 2.3, revise the introduction and items b and c to change
"LTRS" to "LTR," to change "CR-RTS" to "CR-RT," and to
add "5D" to the 5-digit carrier routes tray:]
b. 5-digit carrier routes: "5D CR-RT BC."
c. 3-digit carrier routes: "3D CR-RT BC."
* * * * *
M820 Flat-Size Mail
[Revise Summary to include Bound Printed Matter to read
as follows:]
Summary
M820 describes the preparation standards for flat-size automation rate First-Class Mail, Periodicals, Standard Mail,
and Bound Printed Matter.
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 Standards
[Revise the first sentence of 1.1 by adding text for Bound
Printed Matter flats to read as follows:]
Flat-size Bound Printed Matter pieces claiming the barcoded discount and flat-size automation rate First-Class
Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail must be prepared under M820 and the eligibility standards for the rate
claimed.***
1.2 Mailings
[Revise 1.2 to replace the First-Class Mail automation basic
rate with the new ADC and mixed ADC rates to read as
follows:]
All pieces in a mailing must meet the standards in C820
and must be sorted together to the finest extent required.
First-Class Mail mailings may include pieces prepared at
automation 5-digit, 3-digit, ADC, and mixed ADC rates. Periodicals mailings may include pieces prepared at automation 5-digit, 3-digit, and basic rates. Standard Mail mailings
may include pieces prepared at automation 3/5 and basic
rates. The definitions of a mailing and permissible combinations are in M011. Bound Printed Matter mailings may include presorted pieces claiming the barcode discount.
* * * * *
1.4 Marking
[Revise the last sentence of 1.4 by adding reference P700
to read as follows:]
***Pieces not claimed at an automation rate must not bear
"AUTO" unless single-piece rate postage is affixed or a corrective single-piece rate marking is applied under P100,
P600, or P700.
* * * * *
[Add new 6.0 for Bound Printed Matter to read as follows:]
6.0 BOUND PRINTED MATTER
6.1 Package Preparation
Packages must be prepared and labeled in the following
sequence:
a. 5-digit: (minimum 10 pieces or 10 pounds, fewer not
permitted, maximum weight 20 pounds); red Label D
or optional endorsement line (OEL).
b. 3-digit: (minimum 10 pieces or 10 pounds, fewer not
permitted, maximum weight 20 pounds); green Label
3 or OEL.
c. ADC: (minimum 10 pieces or 10 pounds, fewer not
permitted, maximum weight 20 pounds); pink Label A
or OEL.
d. Mixed ADC: (no minimum, maximum weight 20
pounds); tan Label MXD or OEL.
6.2 Sack Preparation and Labeling
A sack must be prepared when the quantity of mail for a required presort destination reaches 20 addressed pieces.
Preparation sequence, tray size, and labeling:
a. 5-digit: required.
(1) Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on
packages.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC FLTS 5D BC."
b. 3-digit: required.
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC FLTS 3D BC."
c. SCF: optional.
(1) Line 1: use L005, Column B.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC FLTS SCF BC."
d. ADC: required.
(1) Line 1: use L004.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC FLTS ADC BC."
e. Mixed ADC: required.
(1) Line 1: use "MXD" followed by origin facility in
L802 or L803 as appropriate.
(2) Line 2: "PSVC FLTS BC WKG."
* * * * *
P Postage and Payment Methods
P000 Basic Information
P010 General Standards
P011 Payment
* * * * *
1.0 PREPAYMENT AND POSTAGE DUE
* * * * *
[Revise 1.5 to change the "nonstandard" surcharge to the
"nonmachinable" surcharge to read as follows:]
1.5 Shortpaid Mail-Basic Standards
Mail of any class, including mail indicating special services
(except Express Mail, Registered Mail, and nonmachinable
First-Class Mail), that is received at either the office of mailing or office of address without enough postage is marked
to show the total (rounded off) deficiency of postage and
fees. Individual such pieces (or quantities fewer than 10)
are delivered to the addressee on payment of the charges
marked on the mail. For quantity mailings of 10 or more
pieces, the mailer is notified so that the postage charges
may be adjusted before dispatch.
* * * * *
[Revise title and text of 1.8 to show that the nonstandard
surcharge is replaced by the nonmachinable surcharge to
read as follows:]
1.8 Shortpaid Nonmachinable Mail
Shortpaid nonmachinable First-Class Mail is returned to the
sender for additional postage.
* * * * *
P012 Documentation
* * * * *
[Revise title and text of 2.0 to add Bound Printed Matter
flats to read as follows:]
2.0 STANDARDIZED DOCUMENTATION -
FIRST-CLASS MAIL, PERIODICALS,
STANDARD MAIL AND BOUND PRINTED
MATTER FLATS
2.1 Basic Standards
For First-Class Mail, Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Bound
Printed Matter Flats,***
2.2 Format and Content
For First-Class Mail, Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Bound
Printed Matter Flats,***
* * * * *
2.3 Rate Level Column Headings
The actual name of the rate level (or corresponding abbreviation) is used for column headings required by 2.2 and
shown below:
[Revise 2.3a to add the AADC and mixed AADC rates for
automation letters and the ADC and mixed ADC rates automation for flats and revise the entry for Basic.]
a. Automation First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail:
|
Rate
|
Abbreviation
|
|
* * * * *
|
|
AADC [First-Class Mail letters/cards and
Standard Mail letters]
|
AB
|
|
ADC [First-Class Mail flats]
|
AB
|
|
* * * * *
|
|
Basic [flats]
|
BB
|
|
Mixed AADC [First-Class Mail letters/cards and
Standard Mail letters]
|
MB
|
|
Mixed ADC [First-Class Mail flats]
|
MB
|
* * * * *
3.0 DETAILED ZONE LISTING FOR PERIODICALS
3.1 Definition and Retention
[Revise the first sentence of 3.1 by making minor edits and
adding DADC rates to read as follows:]
The publisher must be able to present documentation to
support the actual number of copies of each edition of an
issue, by entry point, mailed to each zone, at DDU, DSCF,
DADC, and In-County rates.***
3.2 Characteristics
Report the number of copies mailed to each 3-digit ZIP
Code prefix at applicable zone rates using one of the following formats:
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence of item 3.2b by making minor
edits and adding DADC to read as follows:]
b. Report copies by zone (In-County DDU, In-County
others, Outside-County DDU, Outside-County DSCF,
and Outside-County DADC) and by 3-digit ZIP Code
prefix, listed in ascending numeric order, for each
zone.***
3.3 Zone Abbreviations
Use the actual rate name or the authorized zone abbreviation in the listings in 2.0 and 3.2:
[Revise the table in 3.3 to include the zone abbreviation,
"ADC" and rate equivalent, "outside-county, DADC" to read
as follows:]
|
Zone Abbreviation
|
Rate Equivalent
|
|
* * * * *
|
|
SCF
|
Outside-County, DSCF
|
|
ADC
|
Outside-County, DADC
|
|
1-2 or 1/2
|
zones 1 and 2
|
|
* * * * *
|
4.0 POSTAGE STATEMENT
* * * * *
[Revise 4.2 for clarity adding relocated P950.5.5 and 6.11.
Add new 4.3 to clarify what is required for facsimile postage
statements.]
4.2 Completing Postage Statements
Any mailing claiming a discount, and all permit imprint
mailings must be accompanied by a postage statement
completed and signed by the mailer. The mailer may submit
a computer-generated facsimile (see 4.3). A change made
to any postage statement requires the mailer (agent) to correct the postage statement accordingly and document the
correction.
[Add new 4.3 to read as follows.]
4.3 Facsimile Postage Statements
Facsimile postage statements must contain data and elements in locations as close as possible to where they
appear on the USPS form. Data fields that do not pertain to
information and rates claimed in the mailing and other
extraneous information that appears on the USPS form do
not have to be included. Facsimiles must include all other
information pertaining to the mailing, including the class of
mail (or subclass as appropriate), postage payment method (e.g., permit imprint), and four-digit form number
(hyphen and suffix, optional). All parts, and line numbers
within each part, must reflect those on the USPS form(s). In
some cases, this can include fields from multiple USPS
forms onto a single facsimile. For example: Part A, lines A5,
A6, and total-Part A from Form 3602-R, and Part F, lines
F1, F2 and total-Part F from Form 3602-RS, can be consolidated onto a single Form 3602 (Facsimile). Most importantly, the facsimile must fully and exactly reproduce the
"Certification" and "USPS Use Only" fields that appear on
the USPS form. A facsimile postage statement produced by
software certified by the USPS Presort Accuracy Validation
and Evaluation (PAVE) or Manifest Analysis and
Certification (MAC) program is considered a USPS-approved form for these standards. Others may be approved
by the entry office postmaster. Periodicals mailers authorized centralized postage payment (CPP) procedures receive approval from the New York RCSC.
P013 Rate Application and Computation
* * * * *
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
1.2 Expression
[Revise 1.2 by adding new d and e, to read as follows:]
For these standards, express:
a. Piece counts in whole numbers.
b. Weights in decimal pounds (e.g., 1.125 pounds)
rounded as shown below.
c. Postage in decimal dollars (e.g., $0.162) rounded as
shown below.
d. Intermediate postage figures on all permit imprint and
Periodicals statements (rounded off) to four decimal
places. On all postage affixed statements (rounded
off) to three decimal places. An intermediate postage
figure is defined as follows: For First Class Mail,
Standard Mail, and Packages Services mailings, any
figure on any line of a postage statement, with the exception of the "Total Postage" line, is an intermediate
figure. For Periodicals mailings, any figure on any
line of a Form 3541, with the exception of the "Total
Outside County Postage," "Total In-County Postage,"
and "Total Foreign Postage" lines is an intermediate
figure.
e.Total postage figures (rounded off) to two decimal
places. A total postage figure is defined as follows:
For First Class Mail, Standard Mail, and Packages
Services mailings any figure on a "Total Postage"
line. For Periodicals mailings, any figure on a "Total
Outside County Postage," "Total In-County Postage,"
and "Total Foreign Postage" line.
* * * * *
2.0 RATE APPLICATION-EXPRESS MAIL,
FIRST-CLASS MAIL, AND PRIORITY MAIL
* * * * *
2.4 Priority Mail
[Revise 2.4 by replacing "5 pounds" with "1 pound" to read
as follows:]
Except under 2.5, Priority Mail rates are charged per pound
or fraction thereof; any fraction of a pound is rounded up to
the next whole pound. For example, if a piece weighs 1.2
pounds, the weight (postage) increment is 2 pounds. The
minimum postage amount per addressed piece is the
1-pound rate. The Priority Mail rate up to 1 pound is based
solely on weight; for pieces weighing more than 1 pound,
the rates are based on weight and zone.
2.5 Flat Rate Envelope
[Revise 2.5 by changing "2-pound" to "1-pound" to read as
follows:]
Each addressed Express Mail flat rate envelope is charged
the Express Mail rate applicable to a 1/2-pound piece, regardless of its actual weight. Each addressed Priority Mail
flat rate envelope is charged the Priority Mail rate applicable to a 1-pound piece, regardless of its actual weight.
2.6 Keys and Identification Devices
[Revise 2.6 by adding "zone rate" to the 2-pound weight to
read as follows:]
Keys and identification devices weighing 13 ounces or less
are charged First-Class Mail rates per ounce or fraction
thereof in accordance with 2.3, plus the fee in R100.10.0.
Keys and identification devices weighing more than 13
ounces but not more than 1 pound are mailed at the
1-pound Priority Mail flat rate plus the fee in R100.10.0.
Keys and identification devices weighing more than 1
pound but not more than 2 pounds are subject to the
2-pound Priority Mail rate for zone 4 plus the fee in
R100.10.0.
* * * * *
5.0 RATE APPLICATION-PACKAGE SERVICES
* * * * *
5.2 Parcel Post
[Revise 5.2 by changing "2 pounds" to "1 pound" in the last
sentence to read as follows:]
***The minimum postage rate per addressed piece is that
for an addressed piece weighing 1 pound.
5.3 Single-Piece Bound Printed Matter
[Revise 5.3 by changing "1.5 pounds" to "1 pound" in the
last sentence to read as follows:]
***The minimum postage rate per addressed piece is that
for an addressed piece weighing 1 pound.
* * * * *
7.0 COMPUTING POSTAGE-PERIODICALS
* * * * *
7.7 Total Postage
[Revise 7.7 to clarify total postage reporting by separate
Outside-County and In-County charges.]
Total Outside-County postage is the sum of the per pound
and per piece charges, and any ride-along charge, less all
discounts, rounded off to the nearest whole cent. Total
In-County postage is the sum of the per pound and per
piece charges, and any ride-along charge, less all discounts, rounded off to the nearest whole cent. For mailings
that include foreign copies, total foreign postage is the sum
of the per piece charges, less a discount, rounded off to the
nearest whole cent.
8.0 COMPUTING POSTAGE-STANDARD MAIL
* * * * *
[Revise 8.3 to include affixing any surcharge.]
8.3 Computing Affixed Postage
To compute postage to be affixed to each piece, multiply
the weight of the piece (in pounds) by the applicable rate
per pound; add the applicable per piece charge and any
surcharge; and round the sum up to the next tenth of a cent.
The applicable minimum per piece charge must be affixed if
it is more than the total computed per piece postage.
[Renumber current 8.4 as 8.5. Add new 8.4 to show how to
compute affixed postage for heavy automation and ECR
letters.]
8.4 Computing Affixed Postage-Heavy Letters
To compute postage to be affixed to each piece, multiply
the weight of the piece (in pounds) by the applicable rate
per pound; add the applicable per piece charge, subtract
the heavy letter discount (see 8.6. through 8.8); and round
the sum up to the next tenth of a cent.
* * * * *
[Add new 8.6 to show how to calculate the discount for
heavy automation letters.]
8.6 Discount for Heavy Automation Letters
Automation letters that weigh more than 3.3 ounces but not
more than 3.5 ounces are charged postage equal to the
automation piece/pound rate for that piece and receive a
discount equal to the corresponding automation nonletter
piece rate (3.3 ounces or less) minus the corresponding automation letter piece rate (3.3 ounces or less). For automation ECR pieces, postage is calculated using the regular
basic piece/pound rate and the regular basic nonletter
piece rate. If a destination entry rate is claimed, the discount is calculated using the corresponding rates.
[Add new 8.7 to show how to calculate the discount for
heavy automation-compatible ECR letters.]
8.7 Discount for Heavy ECR Letters
Pieces that otherwise qualify for the high density or saturation letter rate and weigh more than 3.3 ounces but not
more than 3.5 ounces pay postage equal to the piece/pound rate and receive a discount equal to the nonletter
piece rate (3.3 ounces or less) minus the letter piece rate
(3.3 ounces or less). If a destination entry rate is claimed,
the discount is calculated using the corresponding rates.
[Add new 8.8 to show how to calculate the discount for
heavy ECR automation basic letters.]
8.8 Discount for Heavy ECR Basic Automation
Letters
Pieces that otherwise qualify for the automation basic rate
and weigh more than 3.3 ounces but not more than 3.5
ounces pay postage equal to the regular basic piece/pound
rate and receive a discount equal to the regular basic nonletter piece rate (3.3 ounces or less) minus the automation
basic piece rate (3.3 ounces or less). If a destination entry
rate is claimed, the discount is calculated using the corresponding rates.
* * * * *
P014 Refunds and Exchanges
* * * * *
2.0 POSTAGE AND FEES REFUNDS
* * * * *
2.7 Unallowable Refunds
* * * * *
[Add item e, which includes text relocated from P950.4.4, to
2.7 to read as follows:]
e. Postage for any failure to provide service caused by
any event that occurs before a PVDS shipment is deposited and accepted into the mailstream and
becomes mail at a destination postal facility.
* * * * *
5.0 EXPRESS MAIL POSTAGE REFUND
* * * * *
5.2 Conditions for Refund
[Revise 5.2 to read as follows:]
A refund request must be made within 90 days after the
date of mailing as shown in the "Date In" box on Label 11.
Except as provided in D500.1.6, a mailer may file for a postage refund only under one of the following circumstances.
a. The item was not delivered or made available for
claim as guaranteed under the applicable service
purchased.
b. The item was not delivered or made available for
claim by the guaranteed delivery time applicable to
the service purchased, and delivery was not
attempted by the guaranteed delivery time applicable
to the service purchased.
5.3 Refunds Not Given
[Revise 5.3 to read as follows:]
A refund claim will not be given if the guaranteed service
was not provided due to any of the circumstances in
D500.1.6.
* * * * *
P020 Postage Stamps and Stationery
P021 Stamped Stationery
* * * * *
3.0 OTHER STATIONERY
[Revise title of 3.1 to by adding "s" to "Card" to read as
follows:]
3.1 Stamped Cards
[Revise 3.1 by adding availability of stamped cards to read
as follows:]
Stamped cards are available as single stamped cards,
double (reply) stamped cards, and in sheets of 40 for customer imprinting. Single and double stamped cards are
3-1/2 inches high by 5-1/2 inches long. Sheets must be cut
to this size so that the stamp is in the upper right corner of
each card. The USPS does not offer personalized stamped
cards (cards imprinted with a return address).
* * * * *
P100 First-Class Mail
* * * * *
4.0 PRESORTED RATE
* * * * *
4.2 Affixed Postage
Unless permitted by other standards or by Business Mailer
Support, USPS headquarters, when precanceled postage
or meter stamps are used, only one payment method may
be used in a mailing and each piece must bear postage under one of these conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise 4.2b to change the "nonstandard" surcharge to the
"nonmachinable" surcharge to read as follows:]
b. A precanceled stamp or the full postage at the lowest
First-Class first ounce rate applicable to the mailing
job, and full postage on metered pieces for any additional ounce(s) or nonmachinable surcharge; postage documentation may be required by standard.
* * * * *
5.0 AUTOMATION RATES
* * * * *
5.2 Postage Affixed, Generally
Unless permitted by other standards or by Business Mailer
Support, USPS headquarters, when precanceled postage
or meter stamps are used, only one payment method may
be used in a mailing and each piece must bear postage under one of these conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise item 5.2b to change the "nonstandard" surcharge
to the "nonmachinable" surcharge to read as follows:]
b. Flat-size pieces must bear enough postage to include the nonmachinable surcharge if applicable.
* * * * *
P200 Periodicals
* * * * *
1.0 BASIC INFORMATION
* * * * *
1.5 Postage Statement and Documentation
[Revise the second sentence of 1.5 by adding "DADC" to
read as follows:]
***The postage statement must be supported by documentation as required by P012 unless each piece in the mailing
is of identical weight and the pieces are separated when
presented for acceptance by rate, by zone (including separation by In-County and Outside-County rates), and by
entry discount (i.e., DDU, DSCF, and DADC).***
* * * * *
[Redesignate 1.8 through 1.12 as 1.9 through 1.13, respectively. Add new 1.8 to read as follows:]
1.8 Waiving Nonadvertising Rates
Instead of marking a copy of each issue to show the advertising and nonadvertising portions, the publisher may pay
postage at the advertising zoned rates on both portions of
all issues or editions of a Periodicals publication (except a
requester publication). This option is not available if the rate
for advertising is lower than the rate for nonadvertising.
When the amount of advertising exceeds 75%, the copies
provided to the postmaster must be marked "Advertising
over 75%." When the amount of advertising is 75% or under, the copies provided to the postmaster must be marked
"Advertising not over 75%" on the first page. The entire
weight of the copy must be entered on the postage statement in the column provided for the advertising portion. The
words "Over 75%" or "Not over 75%" must be annotated on
the postage statement and the word "Waived" must be written in the space provided for the weight of the
nonadvertising portion.
* * * * *
2.0 MONTHLY POSTAGE STATEMENT
* * * * *
[Remove 2.3, Waiving Nonadvertising Rates, and redesignate 2.4 as 2.3.]
* * * * *
P600 Standard Mail
* * * * *
2.0 PRESORTED AND ENHANCED CARRIER
ROUTE RATES
2.1 Identical-Weight Pieces
[Revise 2.1 to include a reference to surcharges to read as
follows:]
Mailings of identical-weight pieces may have postage affixed to each piece at the exact rate for which the piece
qualifies, or each piece in the mailing may have postage
affixed at the lowest rate applicable to pieces in the mailing
or mailing job. Alternatively, a nondenominated precanceled stamp may be affixed to every piece in the mailing or
mailing job, or each piece may bear a permit imprint. If exact postage is not affixed, all additional postage and
surcharges must be paid at the time of mailing with an
advance deposit account or with a meter strip affixed to the
required postage statement. If exact postage is not affixed,
documentation meeting the standards in P012 must be
submitted to substantiate the additional postage unless the
pieces are identical weight and separated by rate when
presented for acceptance.
[Revise 2.2 to show that when affixing postage, heavy letters must have full postage affixed to every piece in the
mailing.]
2.2 Nonidentical-Weight Pieces
Postage for nonidentical-weight pieces subject to the minimum per piece rates may be paid by meter stamps,
precanceled stamps, or precanceled stamped envelopes.
Mailings of nonidentical-weight pieces subject to the piece/pound rates may have postage paid by permit imprint (if the
mailer is authorized by Business Mailer Support) or by meter or precanceled stamps (if each piece has the full
postage affixed). Alternatively, except for heavy automation
and Enhanced Carrier Route letters, the mailer may affix
the per piece rate to each piece and pay the pound rate for
the mailing through an advance deposit account. Under this
alternative, the mailer must provide a postage statement for
each payment method and mark each piece "Pound Rate
Pd via Permit," in the postage meter indicium or ad plate or
other means that ensures a legible endorsement. For mailings of nonidentical-weight pieces, "nonidentical" must be
shown as the weight of a single piece on the applicable
postage statement; other entries must be completed as
directed.
* * * * *
P900 Special Postage Payment Systems
P910 Manifest Mailing System (MMS)
* * * * *
3.0 KEYLINE
* * * * *
Exhibit 3.3a Rate Category Abbreviations - First-Class Mail
[Revise Exhibit 3.3a by removing the entry for automation
basic and by adding entries for the new AADC, ADC, mixed
AADC, and mixed ADC rates.]
|
Code
|
Rate Category
|
|
AB
|
Automation AADC
|
|
AB
|
Automation ADC
|
|
MB
|
Automation Mixed AADC
|
|
MB
|
Automation Mixed ADC
|
Exhibit 3.3b Rate Category Abbreviations - Standard Mail
[Revise Exhibit 3.3a by adding entries for the new AADC
and mixed AADC rates and by revising the entries for automation basic and basic:]
|
Code
|
Rate Category
|
|
BB
|
Automation Basic
|
|
BS
|
Basic
|
|
AB
|
Automation AADC
|
|
MB
|
Automation Mixed AADC
|
* * * * *
[P950 is revised in its entirety to clarify standards for PVDS.
In addition, current P950.4.4, which contained standards
regarding refunds, is relocated to P014.2.7. With the elimination of four (separate) Standard Mail Consolidated
Postage Statements and the addition of a single Form
3602-C, Consolidated Postage Statement Supplement
used with typical Standard Mail postage statements, the
separate postage reporting standards in P950 are no
longer needed. Also removed was redundant information
that appears elsewhere. This revision does not
substantially change PVDS standards.]
P950 Plant-Verified Drop Shipment (PVDS)
Summary
P950 describes the purpose, program participation, liability,
and options.
1.0 DESCRIPTION
1.1 Purpose
Plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS) enables origin verification and postage payment for shipments transported by a
mailer (or third party) at the mailer's expense on the
mailer's own or contracted vehicle, to destination USPS
facilities for acceptance as mail. The mailings may be
prepared for deposit at a destination entry rate, or they may
be claimed at the applicable rates from the destination
entry facility.
1.2 Function
Under PVDS:
a. Mailings are verified at origin by USPS employees
assigned either to a detached mail unit (DMU) at a
mailer's plant or to the business mail entry unit
(BMEU) at the origin post office serving the mailer's
plant. The shipments are then released for transportation to destination USPS facilities.
b. For Periodicals, postage is paid at a valid original
entry or additional entry post office, serving the mailer's plant, unless an alternative postage payment
method is authorized.
c. For Standard Mail and Package Services, postage
and fees are paid under a valid permit at the post office serving the mailer's plant, or as designated by
the district manager.
d. The shipment is deposited at the destination USPS
facility, by the mailer or the mailer's agent, where it is
verified and accepted as mail by USPS employees
and released for processing.
1.3 Other Mailings
The following mailings must be verified, accepted, and paid
for at the destination USPS facility:
a. Periodicals mailings not verified at origin under
PVDS or under the Centralized Postage Payment
System (see P200). The destination USPS facility
must be a valid original entry or additional entry post
office if mailings are submitted there for postal verification.
b. Standard Mail and Package Services mailings not
verified and paid for at origin under PVDS. Mailers
must have a valid permit (and fees) at the destination
USPS facility for postage payment.
1.4 Dates
The postage statement may be submitted before or at the
time a shipment is presented to the origin post office DMU
or BMEU. The date shown by the mailer and the post office
round stamp date on the postage statement and Form 8125
represents the date the origin post office DMU or BMEU
verified the shipment and cleared it for dispatch by the mailer to the destination USPS facility. It does not necessarily
represent the date the USPS accepts the PVDS at the
USPS destination facility as mail.
2.0 PROGRAM PARTICIPATION
2.1 Mailer Responsibility
A mailer participating in PVDS must comply with P950. If
the mailer does not meet these requirements, the mailer
may be prohibited from participating in PVDS by the local
postmaster. Any mailer denied a request for PVDS may file
an appeal under G020.
2.2 Verification at Mailer's Plant
Before PVDS verification can be performed at the mailer's
plant, the mailer must have either a USPS plant load authorization for that plant or a postage payment agreement with
the USPS that establishes a detached mail unit (DMU) at
that plant. The DMU must be separate from the mailer's
activities, in an enclosed, secure, and safe work area with a
telephone. The work area must be approved by the USPS.
The mailer may submit a letter to the postmaster serving
the plant and request PVDS verification at the plant. The
postmaster may agree to the mailer's request to verify
PVDS shipments at the plant on an as-needed basis, if an
approved DMU is established and staffing can be
accommodated.
2.3 Verification at Origin BMEU
PVDS verification can be performed at the origin business
mail entry unit (BMEU) under these conditions:
a. There is no detached mail unit (DMU) at the mailer's
plant.
b. The mailer is in the service area of the post office
where the PVDS is to be verified and where postage
is to be paid, unless another postal facility is designated by the district manager.
c. Each vehicle contains only one mailer's shipment(s),
each physically separated.
d. A completed postage statement and Form 8125 accompanies each PVDS (or segment, if the PVDS is
contained in more than one vehicle).
e. If an alternate method of paying postage with permit
imprint is used, in addition to item 2.3d, required documentation must accompany each PVDS (or
segment, if the PVDS is contained in more than one
vehicle).
f. The PVDS can be physically verified at the origin
BMEU. Shipments to be verified may not be wrapped
or otherwise prepared if a presort and postage verification cannot be performed without destroying the
physical integrity of the shipment.
g. The BMEU has enough space and staff to handle
verification, and scales to calculate per piece and
gross weights are available. If the post office serving
the mailer's plant lacks resources, another postal facility may be designated by the district manager.
h. The mailer must transport all shipments to the post
office and unload them for verification. When cleared
for dispatch, the mailer must reload the shipments
back onto the mailer's vehicle for transportation to
the destination USPS facility.
2.4 Periodicals
Periodicals postage must be paid at the post office verifying
the copies or as designated by the district. Advertising postage is zoned from the destination USPS facility where
deposited and accepted as mail (or from the destination facility for the Express Mail or Priority Mail drop shipment).
The publisher must ensure that sufficient funds are on
deposit to pay for all shipments before their release. (A
publisher authorized under an alternative postage payment
system must pay postage under corresponding standards.)
2.5 Standard Mail and Package Services
The mailer must pay any applicable permit fees, mailing
fees, and postage for Standard Mail and Package Services
PVDS at either the post office serving the mailer's plant or
the post office that does BMEU verification as designated
by the district. If permit imprints are used to pay postage,
the mailer must ensure that sufficient funds are on deposit
to pay for all shipments before their release. For Nonprofit
Standard Mail rates, a valid authorization must be on file at
the post office where postage is paid. No permit, fees, or
authorizations are required at the destination USPS facility
where PVDS mailings are deposited.
2.6 Postage Statement-Periodicals
The mailer must submit a Form 3541 for each edition of
each issue of each publication prepared for deposit at each
destination USPS facility, when the corresponding copies
are presented to the DMU or the post office BMEU for verification. When required by the USPS, the mailer must submit
consolidated postage statements and a postage statement
register.
2.7 Postage Statement-Standard Mail
At the time mail is presented for verification, the mailer
must submit an appropriate Form 3602 representing all the
pieces from the mailing job and Form 3602-C (or postage
statement register) for all PVDS verified at the mailer's
DMU or the post office BMEU. The mailer must enter the
required information on Form 3602-C for each PVDS to be
deposited at each destination USPS facility, in lieu of providing a separate Form 3602 for each PVDS.
2.8 Postage Statement-Package Services
At the time mail is presented for verification, the mailer
must submit an appropriate postage statement for each
PVDS mailing destined for each destination USPS facility,
When required by the USPS, the mailer must submit consolidated postage statements and a postage statement
register.
2.9 Form 8125 and Form 8125-C
Form 8125 is used to report a single PVDS that the mailer
will transport from origin to a destination USPS facility.
Computer-generated Form 8125-C, (format available at
www.usps.com), provides for reporting multiple PVDS mailings that are prepared by an individual mailer and that are
cleared at origin on the same day for entry at a single destination USPS facility on the same vehicle (see 2.11). The
mailer must submit a completed Form 8125 (signed and
dated by the DMU or BMEU) for each PVDS to the destination USPS facility. The form must be submitted in duplicate,
or in triplicate if the mailer desires a signed and dated copy
returned to its representative, when depositing the mail at
the destination USPS facility. Form 8125 is not required for
PVDS sent via Express Mail or Priority Mail drop shipment.
2.10 Facsimile Forms 8125 and 8125-C
Facsimile Forms 8125 may be used in lieu of the USPS
form. Formats must be approved in advance by the district
manager of Business Mail Entry or by a designee. Formats
must include all required information, including the correct
title (preceded by the word "facsimile") and edition date, in
locations as close as possible to where they appear on the
USPS form. Data fields that do not pertain to information relating to the PVDS, and other extraneous information that
appear on the USPS form, do not have to be included.
Form 8125-C must always be computer-generated. Form
8125-C, may omit the "Number of Pieces" and "Piece
Weight" columns for mailings prepared in sacks, trays, or
on pallets if there is sufficient information for the origin post
office and destination USPS facility to identify the mailings
and to compare the information on the form with the physical mail. The mailer must report the number of pieces in
each mailing on Form 8125-C if the mailings consist of individual mailpieces that are not prepared in containers (e.g.,
bedloaded parcels). For mailings consisting of identical
weight pieces, mailers should report the piece weight
where possible.
2.11 Mailer Transport of PVDS
Using any means of transportation, including Express Mail
or Priority Mail drop shipment, the mailer must transport
PVDS mailings from origin to the destination USPS facility.
The mailer must not transport PVDS mailings on the same
vehicle with shipments not entered as PVDS. For Standard
Mail and Package Services PVDS, the mailer must meet
the scheduling standards for mail deposited at destination
USPS facilities. If a vehicle contains mail paid at Parcel Select rates, the applicable standards for scheduling of deposits and unloading of vehicles apply to any other mail on
the same vehicle for the same destination USPS facility.
Any material classified as hazardous under C023 may not
be carried in the same vehicle as PVDS mailings.
2.12 Separation of PVDS Mailings
When a vehicle contains more than one PVDS for a single
destination USPS facility, the shipments must be separated
to allow reconciliation with each accompanying Form 8125.
Vehicles containing shipments for multiple destination
USPS facilities, must be kept physically separated. Where
applicable, a single Form 8125 that identifies all the mail for
a single facility must be prepared for a shipment of copalletized or combined mailings.
3.0 LIABILITY
The mailer assumes all responsibility and liability for any
loss or damage to PVDS before they are deposited and accepted as mail at destination USPS facilities, including third
party transportation.
4.0 STANDARD MAIL DOCUMENTATION
4.1 Same Day
All mailings or segments of the same job submitted for verification and release on the same day under PVDS must be
reported on a single postage statement and Form 3602-C
(or postage statement register) or on computer media
under Multiple Entry Point Processing System (MEPPS).
4.2 Documentation
In addition to the documentation required in P012, the mailer must also submit the following documentation at the time
the first mailing identified on Form 3602-C is presented for
verification:
a. Form 3602-C, which serves as the postage statement register, along with the appropriate postage
statement. All mailing volumes, weights, and postage
for each rate category are entered on the postage
statement and are used to debit the mailer's account
for permit imprint mailings and to enter data on postage-affixed mailings.
b. A separate Form 8125 for each PVDS listed on Form
3602-C (or postage statement register). Each PVDS
must be identified with a unique statement number
(e.g., the date and a sequential three-digit suffix) on
the Form 3602-C (or postage statement register) and
the corresponding Form 8125, as appropriate.
c. A separate postage statement showing the mailing
post office as the same office as post office of PVDS
origin for any portion of a job accepted by the local
verifying office under a standard plant load arrangement. Plant load mailings are not considered a PVDS
and are not reported on Form 3602-C and Form
8125.
5.0 PACKAGE SERVICES PVDS OPTION
5.1 General Standards
Under this option, in addition to the individual postage
statements required for each Package Services mailing,
the mailer may be required to submit postage statement
registers and consolidated postage statements for PVDS
mailings. A single, unique USPS mailing number must be
on all related individual postage statements, on the postage
statement register that lists these individual statements,
and on the associated consolidated postage statement.
When a mailer is required to submit consolidated postage
statements, the information on these statements is used to
debit the mailer's account.
5.2 Individual Postage Statements
The mailer must produce and submit a complete postage
statement for each mailing for each destination USPS facility when the mailing is presented for verification and
postage payment. In addition to the information required on
all individual postage statements, if the mailer is required to
submit consolidated postage statements (for three or more
entry post offices) for debiting of the advance deposit account, each individual postage statement must include a
uniquely assigned postage statement sequence number
that must not exceed nine digits. The numbers must be sequential within a job or mailing cycle for mailings verified,
paid for, and cleared for dispatch on the same day. The
statements must also include a unique USPS mailing
number corresponding to the number on the related postage statement register and consolidated postage
statement.
5.3 Postage Statement Register
A postage statement register is a computer-generated line
item listing of all individual postage statements for PVDS
permit imprint mailings verified and released for dispatch
on a single day from a job or mailing cycle. All postage
statements listed on a postage statement register must be
represented by a corresponding consolidated postage
statement. The total postage charge on the postage statement register must be identical with the total postage
charge on the corresponding consolidated statement. The
following information must appear on each postage statement register:
a. At the top of the first page the endorsement "Register
of Postage Statements"; name and location of the
mailing agent; date mailings are verified and cleared
for dispatch; the permit imprint number; the unique
USPS mailing number corresponding to the number
on related postage statements; and the related consolidated statement.
b. Each line item must include (based on the individual
postage statement on that line) the unique postage
statement sequence number; destination USPS facility; and, for that statement, total postage, weight, and
number of pieces.
c. The sum of the total postage charges must appear
with total weight, and total pieces must be listed from
each postage statement. The total postage charge
on the register must match total postage charge on
the related consolidated statement.
d. If necessary, manual corrections may be made to the
postage statement register that lists the data from
any revised individual statement. These corrections
must be documented by the DMU, and the corrected
register must be signed and dated by both the mailer
and the USPS representative approving the
changes. The changes on the register must be reflected on the associated consolidated postage
statement.
5.4 Submitting Register
The mailer must submit the postage statement register to
the DMU before or when presenting the first individual mailing on the register to the DMU for verification and dispatch.
5.5 Consolidated Postage Statement
The consolidated postage statement assembles data from
the individual postage statements representing permit imprint mailings verified, paid for, and released for dispatch on
a single day from a job or mailing cycle. The consolidated
statements are used to debit the mailer's account. The following information must be identical for each individual
statement consolidated onto a single (consolidated) postage statement:
a. Mailing date.
b. Name and location of mailing agent.
c. Processing category.
d. Permit imprint number.
e. Job or mailing cycle description.
f. Unique USPS mailing number corresponding to the
number on related individual postage statements.
5.6 Consolidated Postage Statement
The consolidated postage statement must be a computer-
generated facsimile similar in format to the appropriate
USPS postage statement. The mailer must sign and date
the consolidated statement. Certain data elements not on
the individual postage statements must be reflected on the
consolidated statement, including the range of unique individual statement sequence numbers, the number of
individual statements represented, and the endorsement
"Consolidated Postage Statement." Other data elements
on individual statements, such as each post office of deposit for PVDS mailings, are not shown on the consolidated
statement. Each individual statement must contain a USPS
mailing number that corresponds to the USPS mailing number on the related consolidated statement.
5.7 Calculating and Reporting Data
Each field on the consolidated postage statement represents the sum total of the figures in that field from the
individual postage statements. The figures reported on the
consolidated statement must be rounded in accordance
with P013. All fields containing data on the individual statements must be rolled up to the consolidated statement. The
total postage on the consolidated statement must be the
sum of the total postage for all individual postage statements. This total is used to debit the mailer's account.
5.8 Submitting Statement
The mailer must submit the consolidated postage statement to the DMU at or before the time the last individual
postage statement it represents is submitted to the DMU for
the day's mailing.
P960 First-Class or Standard Mail Mailings With
Different Payment Methods
* * * * *
3.0 PRODUCING THE COMBINED MAILING
3.1 Mailer Quality Control
Before merging different pieces into a combined presorted
mailing, the mailer must have quality control procedures to
ensure that:
* * * * *
[Revise item 3.1i to clarify which markings must appear on
mailpieces:]
i. When markings are applied by an MLOCR, they
properly show the applicable identifier/rate code described in 3.2 that specifies the product month
designator, MASS/FASTforward system identifier,
the method of postage payment, and the rate of postage affixed for metered and precanceled stamp mail
or other postage information for permit imprint mail.
These markings must be linked by the computer
system to the rate entered by the mailer when the
pieces are run through the MLOCR.
[Revise 3.2 to show how markings are applied to pieces in
a combined mailing and to add new codes for First-Class
Mail and Standard Mail:]
3.2 Rate and Postage Marking
The following markings must be applied to each piece in
the mailing when markings are applied by an MLOCR.
These seven-character markings provide the automation
rate marking information and additional information including the product month designator, MASS/FASTforward (FF)
system identifier, manufacturer code, and rate marking
information. The product month designator is the first
character position and represents the product month of the
ZIP+4 file installed with the system's lookup engine
responsible for the ZIP+4 assignment. Each product month
is designated by a character "A" through "L" (with "A"
meaning January, "B" meaning February, etc.). The
MASS/FF System Identifier is characters 2 through 4 and
represents the certified system identifier responsible for the
ZIP+4 assignment. There is a one-to-one relationship
between the certified system serial number and the
assigned identifier. The manufacturer code is the fifth
character and is assigned at the manufacturer's discretion
with one exception: the character "Z" is assigned when the
mailpiece contains a delivery point barcode in the address
block and the MLOCR does not perform a lookup but
simply reproduces the address block barcode. The rate
marking is represented in the last two characters according
to the chart below. The applicable marking must appear on
each mailpiece in one of the locations authorized under
M012.
a. First-Class Mail.
|
Rate Marking
|
Rate and Postage Category
|
|
Letters
|
Flats
|
blank |
|
P1
|
F1
|
Barcoded 1-ounce Permit Imprint
|
|
P2
|
F2
|
Barcoded 2-ounce Permit Imprint
|
|
P3
|
F3
|
Barcoded 3-ounce Permit Imprint
|
|
P4
|
F4
|
Barcoded 4-ounce Permit Imprint
|
| blank |
F5
|
Barcoded 5-ounce Permit Imprint
|
| blank |
F6
|
Barcoded 6-ounce Permit Imprint
|
| blank |
F7
|
Barcoded 7-ounce Permit Imprint
|
| blank |
F8
|
Barcoded 8-ounce Permit Imprint
|
| blank |
F9
|
Barcoded 9-ounce Permit Imprint
|
| blank |
FA
|
Barcoded 10-ounce Permit Imprint
|
| blank |
FB
|
Barcoded 11-ounce Permit Imprint
|
| blank |
FC
|
Barcoded 12-ounce Permit Imprint
|
| blank |
FD
|
Barcoded 13-ounce Permit Imprint
|
|
M5
|
MF
|
Barcoded 5-Digit Meter Postage Affixed
|
|
M3
|
MT
|
Barcoded 3-Digit Meter Postage Affixed
|
|
MA
|
MD
|
Barcoded AADC Meter Postage Affixed
|
|
MM
|
MX
|
Barcoded Mixed AADC Meter Postage
Affixed
|
|
MP
|
MP
|
Presorted Meter Postage Affixed
|
|
S1
|
blank |
Precanceled $0.15 Stamp Affixed (card)
|
|
S1
|
blank |
Precanceled $0.23 Stamp Affixed
|
|
S2
|
blank |
Precanceled $0.25 Stamp Affixed
|
b. Standard Mail (letters only).
|
Rate Marking
|
Rate and Postage Category
|
|
PI
|
Barcoded Regular Permit Imprint
|
|
NI
|
Barcoded Nonprofit Permit Imprint
|
|
M5
|
Barcoded 5-Digit Meter Regular Postage
Affixed
|
|
N5
|
Barcoded 5-Digit Meter Nonprofit Postage
Affixed
|
|
M3
|
Barcoded 3-Digit Meter Regular Postage
Affixed
|
|
N3
|
Barcoded 3-Digit Meter Nonprofit Postage
Affixed
|
|
MA
|
Barcoded AADC Meter Regular Postage
Affixed
|
|
NA
|
Barcoded AADC Meter Nonprofit Postage
Affixed
|
|
MM
|
Barcoded Mixed AADC Meter Regular Postage
Affixed
|
|
NM
|
Barcoded Mixed AADC Meter Nonprofit
Postage Affixed
|
|
M8
|
Presorted 3/5 Meter Regular Postage Affixed
|
|
N8
|
Presorted 3/5 Meter Nonprofit Postage Affixed
|
|
M9
|
Presorted Basic Meter Regular Postage Affixed
|
|
N9
|
Presorted Basic Meter Nonprofit Postage
Affixed
|
|
SR
|
Precanceled Regular Rate Stamp Affixed
|
|
SN
|
Precanceled Nonprofit Stamp Affixed
|
* * * * *
S Special Services
S000 Miscellaneous Services
S010 Indemnity Claims
* * * * *
2.0 GENERAL FILING INSTRUCTIONS
* * * * *
2.12 Payable Express Mail Claims
[Revise items 2.12a, 2.12a(4), and 2.12b, by replacing
$500 with $100. No other changes to text.]
* * * * *
S020 Money Orders and Other Services
* * * * *
1.0 ISSUING MONEY ORDERS
* * * * *
1.2 Purchase Restrictions
A postal customer may buy multiple money orders at the
same time, in the same or differing amounts, subject to
these restrictions:
[Revise item 1.2a by increasing the maximum amount of a
single money order from $700 to $1,000 to read as follows:]
a. The maximum amount of any single money order is
$1,000.
* * * * *
S500 Special Services for Express Mail
* * * * *
1.0 AVAILABLE SERVICES
* * * * *
1.5 Insurance and Indemnity
Express Mail is insured against loss, damage, or rifling,
subject to these standards:
* * * * *
[Revise item 1.5c by changing "$500" to "$100" to read as
follows:]
c. Merchandise insurance coverage is provided against
loss, damage, or rifling and is limited to a maximum
liability of $100. (Additional insurance under 1.6 may
be purchased up to a maximum coverage of $5,000
for merchandise valued at more than $100.) Nonnegotiable documents are insured against loss,
damage, or rifling, up to $100 per piece, subject to
the maximum limit per occurrence as defined in
S010.
* * * * *
1.6 Additional Insurance
[Revise the first sentence of 1.6 by replacing "$500" with
"$100" to read as follows:]
Additional insurance, up to a maximum coverage of $5,000,
may be purchased for merchandise valued at more than
$100 sent by Express Mail.***
* * * * *
S900 Special Postal Services
S910 Security and Accountability
S911 Registered Mail
* * * * *
1.0 BASIC INFORMATION
1.1 Description
[Add the following sentence at the end of 1.1 to read as
follows:]
***Delivery status information for a Registered Mail item
can be determined via the Internet at www.usps.com by entering the article number shown on the mailing receipt.
* * * * *
R2001-1
Final
Rates (Effective June 30, 2002)
* * * * *
S912 Certified Mail
* * * * *
1.0 BASIC INFORMATION
1.1 Description
[Add the following sentence after the first sentence in 1.1.
The remainder of the text is unchanged.]
***Delivery status information for a certified mail item can
be determined via the Internet at www.usps.com by entering the article number shown on the mailing receipt.***
* * * * *
S918 Delivery Confirmation
* * * * *
1.0 BASIC INFORMATION
* * * * *
1.2 Eligible Matter
[Revise 1.2 by adding First-Class Mail parcels and limiting
Package Services to parcels to read as follows:]
Delivery Confirmation service is available for First-Class
Mail parcels, Priority Mail items, Standard Mail pieces subject to the residual shape surcharge (electronic option
only), and Package Services parcels. For the purposes of
adding Delivery confirmation service, a First-Class Mail or
Package Services parcel must meet the definition in
C100.5.0 or C700.1.0h, as appropriate.
S919 Signature Confirmation
* * * * *
1.0 BASIC INFORMATION
* * * * *
1.2 Eligible Matter
[Revise 1.2 by adding First-Class Mail parcels and limiting
Package Services to parcels to read as follows:]
Signature Confirmation is available for First-Class Mail parcels, Priority Mail items, and Package Services parcels. For
the purposes of adding Signature Confirmation service, a
First-Class Mail or Package Services parcel must meet the
definition in C100.5.0 or C700.1.0h, as appropriate.
* * * * *
S922 Business Reply Mail (BRM)
* * * * *
3.0 POSTAGE, PER PIECE CHARGES, AND
ACCOUNTING FEES
3.1 Postage
[Revise 3.1 by changing "5 pounds" to "1 pound." No other
changes to text.]
* * * * *
- Mail Preparation and Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 5-9-02
|
