NEW PUBLICATION

Because the Mail Matters

The Office of Congressional and Public Affairs published a new Postal Inspection Service promotional brochure, Publication 162, Because the Mail MattersTM on July 25, 2002. Intended as a guide for those unfamiliar with the Postal Inspection Service and its role as the federal law enforcement arm of the Postal Service, the 16-page color brochure is available for distribution to Postal Service employees who have contact with members of the public, consumer groups, other government agencies, or other law enforcement agencies. The phrase "Because the Mail Matters" is a trademark of the Postal Inspection Service.

You can order Publication 162 by one of the following methods:

• Touch Tone Order Entry (TTOE): Call 800-332-0317, choose option 1, and then choose option 2.

Note: You must be registered to use TTOE. To register, call 800-332-0317, choose option 8, extension 2925, and follow the prompts to leave a message (wait 48 hours after registering before you place your first order).

• E-mail: Complete PS Form 7380, MDC Supply Requisition (manually or using F3Fill), and send it as an attachment to the e-mail address MDC Customer Service or to mcustome@email.usps.gov.

• Mail: Mail a completed PS Form 7380 to the MDC at the following address:

SUPPLY REQUISITIONS
MATERIAL DISTRIBUTION CENTER
500 SW GARY ORMSBY DR
TOPEKA KS 66624-9702

Here's the information that you'll need to order Publication 162:

PSIN: PUB162
NSN: 7610-05-000-5085
Unit of Issue: EA
Bulk Pack Quantity: N/A
Quick Pick Number: N/A
Price: $0.625
Edition Date: 08/02

- Office of Congressional and Public Affairs,
Postal Inspection Service, 8-22-02

Administrative Services

ANNOUNCEMENT

Biweekly E-mail Message Announcing Online Postal Bulletin - Beginning
September 5, 2002

Beginning September 5, 2002, we will send an e-mail message every 2 weeks to all employees who have an e- mail account, announcing that the current issue of the Postal Bulletin is available online. On August 26, 2002, we will send a test e-mail message reminding you of the upcoming biweekly e-mail announcement.

Important note: This does not affect distribution of printed copies to the Field. Field organizations will continue to receive printed copies of the Postal Bulletin.

- Policies and Procedures Information,
Public Affairs and Communications, 8-22-02

NEW MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTION

Information Technology Change and Configuration Management

Information Technology has released a new Management Instruction (MI), MI AS-850-2002-10, Information Technology Change and Configuration Management. The MI applies to all individuals and organizations responsible for technology and business applications that operate within the Postal Service production computing environment managed by Information Technology, known as the PCE.

The MI provides a high-level view of how change to the PCE is managed. The MI explains roles and responsibilities

within the change and configuration management process and provides a reference list of Web sites and publications.

This MI obsoletes MOP IT-01-28-2000, Change/Configuration Management. Please discard/recycle all copies of the old MOP.

MI AS-850-2002-10 is available online through the Postal Service PolicyNet Web site at http://blue.usps.gov/cpim; click on MIs. We will not print/distribute this MI.

- Customer Care Operations,
Information Technology, 8-22-02

Postal Service Launches Online Telephone Directory

Information Technology (IT) announces the launch of the Postal Service Online Telephone Directory. The directory is available at http://contact.usps.gov.

The Online Telephone Directory is a searchable database of telephone numbers and addresses for 90,000 EAS and PCES employees throughout the Postal Service. It includes a printable Headquarters Telephone Directory, listing Headquarters EAS and PCES employees and contractors (click on Printable Directory, then Headquarters Directory). The site also includes organizational information (click on Printable Directory, then Headquarters Org Chart). We plan to make further enhancements during Phase II of the implementation process.

Information Technology will update the Online Telephone Directory periodically using automatic data feeds from several sources. We encourage employees to review and update their own records and to suggest changes when they notice errors in others' records.

To view a record, go to the directory page, enter search information in one or more of the fields provided, and click on Search. Click on the person's name to view the Employee Detail screen. If you are a Postal Service employee and you wish to make changes to your record, enter the last four digits of your Social Security Number in the space provided and click on Edit. If this is someone else's record or you are a contractor and you wish to report an error in the contact information, click on Suggest Change. You can make additional suggestions by going to the directory page and clicking on Feedback. All suggested changes will be reviewed and verified before the record is updated.

For more information on policies and procedures for using the Online Telephone Directory, see Management Instruction (MI) AS-880-2002-9, U.S. Postal Service Online Telephone Directory. The MI will be available online soon through the Postal Service PolicyNet Web site at http://blue.usps.gov/cpim; click on MIs. We will not print or distribute hard copies.

Please take a few moments to explore the Online Telephone Directory. To submit suggestions or comments, go to the directory page and click on Feedback.

- eBusiness Implementation Planning,
Information Technology, 8-22-02

Customer Relations

Mail Alert

The mailings below will be deposited in the near future. Offices should honor the requested delivery dates. Mailers wishing to participate in these alerts, for mailings of 1 million pieces or more, should contact Business Service Network Integration at 703-292-4041 at least 1 month preceding the requested delivery dates. The Postal Service also offers electronic Mail Alerts via ADVANCE. For more information, see the ADVANCE Notification & Tracking System Technical Guide on the Internet at http://www.ribbs.usps.gov/files/advance/ADVTECH.PDF or contact the National Customer Support Center at 800-458-3181.

- Business Service Network Integration,
Service and Market Development, 8-22-02

Domestic Mail

DMM REVISION

Optional Increase in Minimum Number of Pieces Required for Preparing 5-Digit Packages of Standard Mail Flats

Effective September 5, 2002, portions of Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) Module M are revised to allow mailers to select a number from 10 to 17 as the minimum number of pieces at which 5-digit packages are prepared in a Standard Mail job of flat-size pieces (DMM C050.3.0) that are not more than 3/4-inch thick. Currently mailers must prepare 5-digit packages whenever there are 10 or more pieces to a 5-digit ZIP Code destination. Anyone wanting to prepare 10-piece packages could continue to do so.

Under these new standards, mailers can select a minimum number of pieces greater than 10 at which 5-digit packages of automation rate and Presorted rate Standard Mail flat-size pieces not more than 3/4-inch thick, including co-packaged pieces (DMM M950), are prepared within a mailing job. Mailers must use a consistent minimum for 5-digit packages throughout a mailing job. The minimum may not be set higher than 17 pieces, which means that whenever there are 17 or more pieces to a 5-digit ZIP Code destination, those pieces must be prepared in 5-digit packages. The preparation standards for other package levels and for containers are unchanged, and mailers must continue to prepare 3-digit and area distribution center (ADC) packages whenever there are 10 or more pieces to those destinations. We expect that pieces now prepared in 5-digit packages using the current 10-piece minimum will move either to an existing 3-digit package or be consolidated into fewer new 3-digit packages when a higher minimum of 11 to 17 pieces is selected. In either case, the overall number of packages prepared by mailers and processed by the Postal Service should decrease. For example, a 4-ounce catalog prepared in four 5-digit packages for the same 3-digit destination that each contain 10 pieces could be combined in one new 3-digit package (that weighs less than 20 pounds) under the new standards if the minimum 5-digit package size is set at 17.

Any movement of pieces from 5-digit packages to 3-digit packages that results from this new option will not impact postage paid by mailers or Postal Service revenues because Standard Mail flats are eligible for the 3/5 presort rates whether prepared in 5-digit or 3-digit packages. Pieces moving from small 5-digit packages to larger 3-digit packages would not be subject to any additional postage, and mailers are encouraged to set their 5-digit package minimum at 17 pieces to prepare fewer packages. However, anyone wanting to use the current 10-piece package minimum, or to set the minimum between 10 and 17, could do so. Mailers are reminded that the 3/5 Presorted rate for Standard Mail flats is applicable to 5-digit or 3-digit packages prepared in 5-digit or 3-digit sacks containing a minimum of 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces or placed on any level pallet. Automation rates are always based on the package presort level and the 3/5 automation rate applies to any pieces in 5-digit and 3-digit packages. It is possible that the selection of a higher 5-digit package minimum may improve the presort level of some pieces that would otherwise fall to a lower package level after all 5-digit packages are prepared. For example, after all 5-digit packages are prepared using the current 10-piece package minimum, less than 10 pieces may remain for the 3-digit destination and the remaining pieces would be prepared in an ADC or mixed ADC package and be subject to the basic rate. When combined with pieces from one or more small 5-digit packages to the same 3-digit destination, these pieces could move to a 3-digit package and be subject to the 3/5 rates.

We expect that this optional change should help to reduce overall Postal Service processing costs as well as mailer production costs, and that it should not have a negative impact on service for pieces that move from 5-digit to 3-digit packages. We also expect that the net gain from reduced package handlings using a minimum higher than 10 pieces for 5-digit packages will be greatest for pieces that weigh less than 6 ounces and somewhat less for heavier pieces. This is because fewer 3-digit packages will be created when lighter weight pieces from multiple 5-digit packages are merged at the 3-digit level. In order to reduce the overall number of Postal Service package handlings and the costs associated with unnecessary additional handlings, mailers are encouraged to create packages as large as possible (e.g., up to 20 pounds) within applicable packaging standards related to package integrity. As with any change of this type, the impact on specific mailings will vary based on mail characteristics such as piece weight and presort density.

The expected benefits of this change are based, in large part, on productivities and piece processing efficiencies of the AFSM 100, which can process pieces up to 3/4-inch thick. Pieces greater than 3/4-inch thick may be processed on the FSM 1000, on the small parcel and bundle sorter (SPBS), or manually, all at lower productivities than if processed on the AFSM 100. Furthermore, very little incoming secondary processing of pieces to carrier routes occurs on FSM 1000s, and it is more desirable to have mail prepared in 5-digit packages that can be sent directly to the delivery office for distribution to carrier routes. For this reason, the optional higher minimums are limited to flat-size pieces likely to receive AFSM 100 processing, and mailers must continue to use the current 10-piece minimum when preparing 5-digit packages of automation rate flat-size pieces greater than 3/4-inch thick.

Although mailers who want to select a higher 5-digit package minimum than 10 pieces will not be required to use Presort Accuracy Validation and Evaluation (PAVE)-certified software, PAVE tests are available for presort software vendors who will support this option.

We are interested in receiving feedback about the volume shift in specific mailings from mailers who change their minimum package size. Send the information that follows to:

CHERYL BELLER
PRODUCT REDESIGN
US POSTAL SERVICE
ROOM 4039
1735 N LYNN ST
ARLINGTON VA 22209-6360

E-mail address: cbeller1@email.usps.gov:

• Total number of pieces in mailing.

• Mailpiece weight.

• Number of pieces prepared in 5-digit packages and the number of 5-digit packages.

• Number of pieces prepared in 3-digit packages and the number of 3-digit packages.

• The maximum package parameter (weight or number of pieces).

If the maximum package size setting reflects a total package weight lower than 20 pounds, please indicate the maximum package height that correlates to the maximum package size. The number of pieces and number of packages (5-digit and 3-digit) should be shown using both the current 10-piece minimum and the new minimum selected for presort (from 11 and 17).

We will incorporate these changes into the next printed version of DMM 58 and into the monthly update of the online DMM available via Postal Explorer at http://pe.usps.gov. This change includes updates of Quick Service Guides 045, Standard Mail - Packages of Flats on Pallets; 632, Standard Mail - Presorted Flats; and 641, Standard Mail - Automation Flats.

Domestic Mail Manual (DMM)

* * * * *

M Mail Preparation and Sortation

* * * * *

M600 Standard Mail (Nonautomation)

M610 Presorted Standard Mail

* * * * *

4.0 FLAT-SIZE PIECES AND IRREGULAR PARCELS

* * * * *

4.3 Package Preparation

Package size, preparation sequence, and labeling:

[Revise item a to read as follows:]

a. 5-digit:

(1) Flats: required with 17 pieces, optional with 10 to 16 pieces (use of a consistent minimum is required for a mailing job); red label D or optional endorsement line (OEL).

(2) Irregular Parcels: required (10-piece minimum); red label D or optional endorsement line (OEL).

* * * * *

M800 All Automation Mail

* * * * *

M820 Flat-Size Mail

* * * * *

5.0 STANDARD MAIL

5.1 Package Preparation

Package size, preparation sequence, and labeling:

[Revise item a to read as follows:]

a. 5-digit:

(1) Pieces not more than 3/4-inch thick: required with 17 pieces, optional with 10 to 16 pieces (use of a consistent minimum is required for a mailing job); red label D or optional endorsement line (OEL).

(2) Pieces not more than 3/4-inch thick: required with 10 pieces; red label D or optional endorsement line (OEL).

* * * * *

M900 Advanced Preparation Options for Flats

* * * * *

M950 Co-Packaging Automation Rate and Presorted Rate Pieces

* * * * *

3.0 STANDARD MAIL

* * * * *

3.2 Package Preparation

Package size, preparation sequence, and labeling:

[Revise item a to read as follows:]

a. 5-digit:

(1) Pieces not more than 3/4-inch thick: required with 17 pieces, optional with 10 to 16 pieces (use

of a consistent minimum is required for a mailing job); red label D or optional endorsement line (OEL).

(2) Packages containing pieces with a thickness greater than 3/4-inch: required with 10 pieces; red label D or optional endorsement line (OEL).

* * * * *

- Mail Preparation and Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 8-22-02

DMM REVISION

Confirm Service

Effective September 22, 2002, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) S940 and S941 are added and R900 is revised to reflect the implementation of a new service called Confirm® service as established by the decision of the Governors of the United States Postal Service on the Recommended Decision of the Postal Rate Commission Approving Stipulation and Agreement for Confirm service, Docket No. MC2002-1 (August 5, 2002).

In their decision, the Governors approved the Commission's recommendations adopting an unopposed settlement agreement concluded by all but one party in Docket No. MC2002-1. The settlement substantially incorporated the classification and fees for Confirm service, as proposed by the Postal Service in its request for a recommended decision, filed on April 24, 2002.

Confirm service represents a new technology-based service offering subscribers access to data and information concerning the processing of their specially prepared and barcoded automation-compatible letter-size and flat-size mail. The service combines barcode technology with the electronic infrastructure of automated Postal Service processing equipment to record and transmit data pertaining to mail prepared according to Confirm service specifications.

By using a unique mailer-applied barcode, called PLANET Code^®, along with the appropriate delivery address POSTNET barcode, Confirm service enables a mailer subscribing to the service to identify where and when barcodes printed on mail are scanned in various Postal Service operations. Confirm service can be used to provide this information for outgoing automation-compatible mail and for incoming automation-compatible reply mail.

A. Service Description

1. Subscription Levels

The Postal Service will offer this service in a three- tiered subscription format rather than a per-transaction rate format. The three subscription levels for this format are designated as Silver, Gold, and Platinum, with the following fees, terms of service, number of identification codes, and number of scans:

• The Silver subscription level, with a $2,000 fee and a term of 3 consecutive months, entitles the subscriber to one identification code and up to 15 million scans during the term of the subscription.

• The Gold subscription level, with a $4,500 fee and a term of 12 consecutive months, entitles the subscriber to one identification code and up to 50 million scans during the term of the subscription.

• The Platinum subscription level, with a $10,000 fee and a term of 12 consecutive months, entitles the subscriber to three identification codes and an unlimited number of scans during the term of the subscription.

2. Additional Identification Codes

Subscribers to the Silver, Gold, and Platinum subscription levels can license additional identification codes for $500 for 3-month intervals or until the expiration of the underlying subscription, whichever occurs first.

The additional identification codes are valid for only 3 months or to the end of the subscription period, whichever occurs first. At the renewal time of the underlying subscription, the same additional identification codes previously licensed may also be renewed at the subscriber's option.

Subscribers may, at their option, also license up to four 3-month periods at one time for the same additional identification codes if those 3-month periods are within the underlying subscription period.

3. Additional Scans

Subscribers to the Silver and Gold subscription levels, which have specific limits to the numbers of recorded and reported scans as part of the subscription, can also license additional scans at any time before the expiration of the underlying subscription. The blocks of additional scans are usable until the subscription period ends, however long that period. Additional blocks of scans are available as follows:

• Silver subscription level, in blocks of 2 million scans at $500.

• Gold subscription level, in blocks of 6 million scans for $750.

4. Subscription Upgrade

A Gold subscription level can also be upgraded to a Platinum subscription level any time before the expiration of the Gold subscription with the payment of the difference in the subscription fees of $5,500. Upgrading a subscription from the Gold level to the Platinum level does not extend the term of the initial subscription.

Confirm Subscription Fees and Additional Service Enhancements

B. Service Background and Development

1. Developmental Stages

The concept and initial development of Confirm service began 7 years ago and, over the course of those years, progressed through three sequential stages: (1) initial concept, (2) pilot program, and (3) production system launch.

2. Stage One: Initial Concept

Stage One emerged in 1995 when the concept of Confirm was envisioned as a way to provide mailers with near real-time information about moving automation-compatible mailpieces in the Postal Service mailstream. The Postal Service decided to build such a tracking system around PLANET Code barcode technology, which the Postal Service Engineering department had developed and refined earlier.

This barcode technology was considered both an effective and an expedient way to meet mailer and Postal Service requirements for these reasons:

• The technology would require minimal research and testing because it was a fully developed and validated technology.

• The technology would require minimal effort and expense for mailers to implement within the current mailing environment.

• The technology would require minimal effort and disruption for the Postal Service to modify its existing mail processing infrastructure, which already supports the similar POSTNET barcode used for delivery address barcoding.

3. Stage Two: Pilot Program

Stage Two came in 1998 when the Postal Service inaugurated a limited pilot program for Confirm service that permitted a small number of participating mailers to use the service without charge while it was under development. The Postal Service established a prototype system in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, to collect Confirm service data from major processing facilities and then transmit data files to participating mailers via an automated file transfer protocol (FTP) process. Later that same year, the Postal Service created a Web site that allowed participating mailers to view and download small amounts of data.

By 2000, however, the demand for this Web site outgrew its capacity. In response, the Postal Service moved the system to its data site in Raleigh, North Carolina, and implemented the first major system upgrade. At the same time, the Postal Service expanded customer service at its National Customer Support Center (NCSC) in Memphis, Tennessee.

4. Stage Three: Production System Launch

Stage Three came on October 1, 2001, when the Postal Service launched the Confirm service Production System with a redesign of the system itself and a transfer of its operations to the Postal Service data site in Eagan, Minnesota. By using the superior technological capabilities at that site, the Postal Service was able to make many new system improvements to Confirm service including the following:

• Near real-time access to Confirm service data on the Web site.

• Expanded PLANET Code functionality.

• Verification of mail induction times.

• Dedicated customer support.

Stage Three was also extremely important because it demonstrated the commitment of the Postal Service to develop activity-based costs for the program. Such a costing methodology helps determine the level of ongoing infrastructure maintenance and long-term customer support for Confirm service.

C. Product Uses

1. Strategic Alignment of Business Processes

Confirm service represents part of an overall integrated strategy of the Postal Service to provide greater added value to postal services and products for mailers and their customers. In keeping with this strategy, information from Confirm service can give participating mailers - whether actual subscribers or mailers contracting with third-party vendors that are subscribers - new opportunities to manage and, in some cases, improve their mailing operations. Moreover, information from Confirm service can help participating mailers modernize business practices, enhance decisionmaking, and improve related activities such as inventory control, invoicing, and remittance processing.

With information obtained from Confirm service, mailers participating in the service can align various internal business functions with the appropriate resources based on the actual processing and expected delivery or return of mail. At the same time, information from Confirm service allows participating mailers to strengthen and enhance current long-term customer relationships as well as to initiate and build new ones.

The potential for participating mailers and the Postal Service to manage business practices is built on straightforward information technology that can report to participating mailers when their outgoing mail has neared delivery to their customers or, in reverse, when incoming customer-mailed reply pieces have entered the mailstream for return to the participating Confirm service mailers.

2. Service Applications

As a result of this possible two-way flow of outgoing mail and incoming reply mail, Confirm service has been developed with two distinct service applications:

• Destination Confirm service for outgoing mail such as invoices, solicitations, credit cards, and statements of account.

• Origin Confirm service for incoming reply mail such as payments, orders, and responses to solicitations.

Because of these two service applications, Confirm service can meet the needs of a variety of mailers, including large-volume mailers that are direct subscribers to the service as well as small-volume mailers that are not direct subscribers but can benefit from presort houses and other third-party providers that do subscribe to the service.

D. Product Technology

1. Barcoding

To generate optimal Confirm service information, two distinct barcodes are needed. One is a POSTNET barcode that identifies the ZIP Code, ZIP+4 code, or delivery point code corresponding to the delivery address; the other, a PLANET Code barcode that contains specific data relating to the participating subscriber and type of mailpiece.

This resulting combination of POSTNET and PLANET Code barcodes can, in certain cases, be used to identify and distinguish specific letter-size and flat-size automation-compatible mailpieces processed and scanned on Postal Service automation equipment.

In some cases, however, a PLANET Code barcode alone can provide some useful information to the subscriber. Because Postal Service letter-sorting and flat-sorting machines can read both POSTNET and PLANET Code barcodes in one pass, there is no adverse impact on mail processing throughput.

2. Confirm Data

Confirm service scan-data generated from a mailpiece at a given mail processing operation will consist of a 5-digit ZIP Code representing the facility processing the piece, a Postal Service operation number, processing date and time, and the numeric equivalents of the POSTNET barcode and the PLANET Code barcode.

Captured and recorded data are transmitted to a central Postal Service computer server and provided to the mailer electronically in near real-time, either through the Confirm service web site or directly to the mailer's computer.

Not every scan on automated processing equipment, however, necessarily equates into a Confirm service data record. Other conditions must be satisfied such as the validity or readability of identification codes in the PLANET Code barcodes.

3. PLANET Code Structure

The structure of the PLANET Code is similar to the POSTNET delivery point code. Subscribers can, however, choose whether to use a 12-digit or a 14-digit version of the PLANET Code. In terms of structure, the PLANET Code barcode currently consists of 12 or 14 digits, each represented by a combination of tall and short bars. The PLANET Code barcode symbology for each digit is therefore the inverse of each corresponding POSTNET Code digit.

For the POSTNET barcode, each of the 10 digits from 0 to 9 contains a unique combination of two tall and three short bars. For the PLANET Code barcode, on the other hand, the same 10 digits from 0 to 9 contain three tall and two short bars that form a reverse image of each POSTNET digit. For example, the POSTNET barcode representation for the digit zero is, from left to right, two tall bars followed by three short bars. The PLANET Code barcode for the same digit is two short bars followed by three tall bars.

The structure for the PLANET Code provides information that is unique to the participating subscriber and the mailpiece as follows:

• Digits 1 and 2. Starting from the left, the first digit of the PLANET Code represents Confirm service type - either Destination Confirm service or Origin Confirm service - and the second digit represents the class and shape of mail (for example, ID 40 signifies Destination Confirm service for First-Class Mail letters).

• Digits 3 through 11 (or 3 through 13). The current structure of the next 9 digits (or 11 digits for the expanded 14-digit PLANET Code) differs for Destination Confirm service and Origin Confirm service. For Destination Confirm service, these digits include a 5-digit ID Code assigned by the Postal Service plus 4 additional digits (or 6 for the 14-digit PLANET Code) for the mailer's use. For Origin Confirm service, mailers use all 9 of the remaining digits to identify either the mailpiece, the reply customer (the sender of the reply piece), or a combination of both the specific mailpiece and the reply customer. The specific POSTNET Code on the Origin Confirm service piece enables the Postal Service to identify the Confirm service subscriber.

• Digit 12 (or 14). For both the Destination Confirm service and Origin Confirm service applications, the last digit (the 12^th digit or, if the longer 14-digit PLANET Code, the 14^th digit) is always a check-sum digit to help mail processing equipment detect possible coding errors.

4. Data Records

The data records for each properly scanned mailpiece are compiled for importing into common database software. Depending on the subscriber's request, the Postal Service can automatically transmit the file containing the data records to the subscriber via FTP at times designated by the subscriber.

The Postal Service offers an alternative to automatic transmission by posting the data records on the Postal Service Confirm service web site. A subscriber can then view and download the data records for up to 15 days.

E. Advance Shipping Notice

Destination Confirm service mail requires the electronic submission of an Advance Shipping Notice (ASN) in a specific file format prior to or at the time of the mailing. ASN data include specific mailer-generated information about each Destination Confirm service mailing, such as drop location, drop date, and volume.

That data can be used to link Confirm service scan data captured during mail processing with the ASN mailing data. This linkage can, in turn, serve as an objective means to track the movement of specific mail at its entry point into the mailstream and at other subsequent points before delivery.

In addition to providing an electronic ASN file for each mailing, the mailer must print an associated ASN Shipment ID barcode on the documentation accompanying the mailing. This barcode is configured as a Uniform Symbology Specification (USS) Code 128 barcode, similar to the Postal Service Delivery Confirmation barcode. This ASN Shipment ID barcode ties the data contained in the uploaded ASN file with possibly thousands of properly prepared Confirm service pieces in the associated mailing.

Postal Service personnel scan the ASN Shipment ID barcode using Delivery Confirmation scanners at the time of induction. This entry scan "starts the clock" for the Destination Confirm service mailing and provides a base point for tracking the processing throughput used for the mail. At the same time, the participating subscriber receives an automatic electronic notification of where and when the subscriber's mail was inducted into the Postal Service.

F. Application Steps for Using Confirm Service

1. Application Process

A mailer seeking to become a subscriber of Confirm service must complete and submit an online or hardcopy application form. Information is available on the PLANET Code web site at http://www.planetcodes.com. New subscribers entering the program must first demonstrate the capability of generating compliant PLANET Code barcodes by producing and submitting sample mailpieces to the Postal Service.

Subscribers must also submit samples of the Advance Shipping Notice (ASN) Shipment ID barcode that would be scanned by the Postal Service at the time the corresponding mail is entered into the mailstream. After approving the mailpieces and barcodes and receiving the applicable subscription payment, the Postal Service establishes the subscriber's Confirm service account so that the subscriber can begin receiving Confirm service data files either from the special Confirm service web site or directly by FTP.

After processing the application, the Postal Service assigns the new subscriber a unique identification code. To assist new subscribers in the application process and to resolve technical issues, the Postal Service provides ongoing customer support.

2. Current Users

In order to ensure uninterrupted flow of Confirm service data for mailers currently participating in the program and to allow sufficient time to process orders before the effective date of September 22, 2002, the Postal Service must receive the completed application form, signed PS Form 1357, Request for Computer Access, and subscription payment by September 19, 2002. The completed documents and payment must be sent to:

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE ATTN CONFIRM
NATIONAL CUSTOMER SUPPORT CENTER
US POSTAL SERVICE
6060 PRIMACY PKWY SUITE 201
MEMPHIS TN 38188-0001

After September 22, 2002, access to the data will be provided to paid Confirm service subscribers only. Existing users whose payments and applications are not received by September 19 and processed in time will not have access to data until after their payments and applications have been received and processed.

If a user's payment is received after this September 19^th deadline, the Postal Service cannot assure that the application will be processed by the September 22 deadline. If the payment is not received and the application not processed by September 22, the user's account will be suspended until payment and application have been received and processed.

When a user's suspended account is reestablished after September 22, 2002, the user will receive only data that has been retained on the system - within the limits of the Confirm service 15-day retention window. Any current subscriber identification codes for which payment is not received by December 15, 2002, will be purged from the system.

3. Resources

For mailers interested in using Confirm service as part of their business process, the Postal Service has several sources for exploring the various uses of this technology-based service. Postal Service account representatives or account managers are available to help. Mailers can also obtain information and assistance from the NCSC at 1-800-238-3150.

The Postal Service maintains up-to-date information, applications, and forms on its special web site at http://www.planetcodes.com as follows:

• Confirm service Customer Service Guide is a helpful guide for new and experienced users of Confirm service. The guide includes an introduction to Confirm service and PLANET Codes as well as a host of information that shows mailers and business customers how to benefit from using Confirm service, how to participate in Confirm service, how to receive Confirm service data, how to generate PLANET Codes, and how to use Smart Seed mail.

• Confirm service application is available for downloading and completing. This application has been updated to allow both new and existing customers to set up their Confirm service subscription. Instructions for the revised application are also posted online with the form.

• PS Form 1357-C, Customer Request for Web Access, is also available online. Section A and parts one and two of section B of the form are completed by the mailer as part of the application process.

• ASN FTP instructions explain how to complete PS Form 1357, Request for Computer Access, and obtain access to the Confirm service FTP server, how to use the Confirm service FTP server, and how to review the ASN FTP log.

• Mail entry documents on the web site including the following Postal Service (PS) forms used for this process:

- PS Form 8125, Plant-Verified Drop Shipment (PVDS) Verification and Clearance, and PS Form 8125-C, Plant-Verified Drop Shipment (PVDS) Consolidated Verification and Clearance, are created in the Adobe Acrobat file format. Plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS) must be accompanied by the appropriate form.

- PS Form 3152-A, Confirm Advanced Shipping Notice (ASN) Shipment ID, is also created in the Adobe Acrobat file format. This form allows the Confirm service customer to create the ASN Shipment ID.

• Confirm service Smart Seed information describes this innovative program and includes Postal Service facility Smart Seed addresses for more than 31,000 ZIP Codes.

• Operation codes list provides a list of all valid operation numbers, descriptions of each operation, and the labor distribution code (LDC) for each Postal Service operation. The document also lists whether each operation is an originating operation or a destinating operation.

• AZI (Automated Zone Indicator) table tells how mail is processed at different ZIP Codes. This way, subscribers can know whether they can expect to receive PLANET Code scans from each of the respective ZIP Codes.

• PLANET Codes font instructions explain how to install the PLANET Codes font for both IBM- compatible personal computers and Macintosh computers.

These revisions will be incorporated into the printed version of DMM Issue 58 and into the monthly update of the online DMM available via Postal Explorer at http://pe.usps.gov.

Domestic Mail Manual (DMM)

* * * * *

R Rates and Fees

* * * * *

R900 Services

* * * * *

[Revise R900 by redesignating existing 9.0 through 26.0 as new 10.0 through 27.0, respectively, and adding new 9.0 to read as follows:]

9.0 CONFIRM (S941)

Fee, in addition to postage and other fees:

* * * * *

S Special Services

* * * * *

S900 Special Postal Services

* * * * *

[Revise S900 by adding new S940 to read as follows:]

S940 Mailpiece Information

S941 Confirm Service

1.0 BASIC INFORMATION

1.1 Description

Confirm service is a service that provides an authorized subscriber with data electronically collected from the optical scanning of specially barcoded mailpieces as they pass through certain automated mail processing operations. Scanned data can include the Postal Service facility where such pieces are processed, the Postal Service operation used to process the pieces, the date and time when the pieces are processed, and the numeric equivalent of two barcodes that help to identify the specific pieces. Any piece intended to generate scanned data must meet the appropriate physical characteristics and standards in S941, although not every properly prepared piece is guaranteed such data or complete data. Confirm service does not provide proof of delivery.

1.2 Available Service and Handling

Confirm service is available only to authorized subscribers as described in 1.3. Service applications are described in 1.6 and subscription levels in 1.7. Confirm service may be used for one or more pieces in a mailing. Mail prepared for Confirm service is dispatched and handled in transit as ordinary mail unless combined with a service available for the class of mail and rate claimed that requires different handling.

1.3 Authorization

Confirm service requires Postal Service authorization after applicable fees are paid and technical requirements for certification are met. For certification, a mailer must submit for evaluation and approval mailpieces bearing both PLANET Code barcodes and POSTNET barcodes to the National Customer Support Center (see G043 for address). Certification also includes, if applicable, evaluation and approval of the electronic format and uploading of the ASN file and the associated shipment identification barcode printed on required documentation accompanying mailings. Confirm service may be used only after authorization is received, and information generated from the service is provided only if the standards for participation are met.

1.4 Availability

Confirm service is available to authorized subscribers for tracking automation-compatible letter-size or flat-size mail in applicable categories of the following classes of mail:

a. First-Class Mail (including Priority Mail).

b. Periodicals.

c. Standard Mail.

d. Package Services.

1.5 Additional Services

Confirm service does not preclude or require the use of any special service available for the class of mail and rate claimed.

1.6 Service Applications

Two service applications are available:

a. Origin Confirm service for incoming mail. This use notifies the subscribing mailer of various movements of individual reply pieces, such as business reply mail being returned by customers, before delivery to the Confirm service subscriber.

b. Destination Confirm service for outgoing mail. This use notifies the subscribing mailer of various movements of individual pieces, such as letter-size or flat- size pieces in a specific mailing, from the entry of the mailing to final automated processing steps of the pieces before delivery to the destination address.

1.7 Subscription Levels

Confirm service is available in three distinct subscription levels as defined below, and a mailer may subscribe to one or more of these levels at the same time, at different times, or at overlapping times:

a. Silver Subscription. The Silver subscription level has a term of 3 consecutive months, includes one 5-digit identification code assigned by the Postal Service, and provides up to 15 million scans. A mailer subscribing to this level may also:

(1) License additional identification codes for a term of 3 consecutive months or until the expiration of the underlying subscription, whichever occurs first.

(2) License additional scans in blocks of 2 million scans at any time before the underlying subscription expires. Unused scans expire at the end of the subscription term.

b. Gold Subscription. The Gold subscription level has a term of 12 consecutive months, includes one 5-digit identification code assigned by the Postal Service, and provides up to 50 million scans. A mailer subscribing to this level may also:

(1) License additional identification codes for a term of 3 consecutive months or until the expiration of the underlying subscription, whichever occurs first.

(2) License additional scans in blocks of 6 million scans at any time before the underlying subscription expires. Unused scans expire at the end of the subscription term.

(3) Raise the subscription level to a Platinum subscription level at any time before the expiration of the Gold subscription by paying the difference of the respective subscription fees. This change in service level does not extend the term of the underlying initial subscription.

c. Platinum Subscription. The Platinum subscription level has a term of 12 consecutive months, includes three 5-digit identification numbers assigned by the Postal Service, and provides an unlimited number of scans. A mailer subscribing to this level may also license additional identification codes for a term of 3 consecutive months or until the expiration of the underlying subscription, whichever occurs first.

1.8 Fees and Postage

The applicable Confirm service subscription fees as defined in 1.7 and shown in R900 must be paid in advance. These subscription fees are separate from the postage and any other applicable fees required for the piece being scanned under this service.

1.9 Deposit

The class of mail and rate claimed and the postage payment method used determine the point of deposit or entry.

2.0 BARCODES

2.1 General Barcode Requirement

At the time of mailing, each piece in a mailing that is intended to generate Confirm service information must bear a PLANET Code barcode. The Postal Service does not apply subscriber PLANET Code barcodes to mail after deposit by the subscriber. The use of POSTNET barcodes, which must meet the applicable specifications in C840, is as follows:

a. Origin Confirm service pieces must bear both a PLANET Code barcode and a POSTNET barcode at the time of mailing. For business reply mail, the POSTNET barcode must correspond to the subscriber's business reply mail ZIP+4 codes assigned by the Postal Service under S922. For all other reply mail, the POSTNET barcode must correspond to the appropriate 5-digit ZIP Code, ZIP+4 code, or delivery point code for the delivery address.

b. Destination Confirm service pieces must bear a PLANET Code barcode and, if required by the rate claimed at the time of mailing, an appropriate POSTNET barcode that corresponds to the delivery address. If a POSTNET barcode is not required by the rate claimed, the mailer has the option to apply the POSTNET barcode to such pieces for optimal Confirm service information if the barcode correctly corresponds to the delivery address.

2.2 POSTNET Barcode

The type of POSTNET barcode (e.g., ZIP+4 barcode or delivery point barcode) and the placement of the barcode on a Confirm service piece must meet the standards for the rate claimed. If two POSTNET barcodes are applied to the same piece, they must meet these standards:

a. Only one POSTNET barcode may be used in the address block as provided in 2.6.

b. The second POSTNET barcode must be placed outside the address block in a position meeting the applicable standards in C840 for letter-size mail or flat-size mail.

2.3 PLANET Code Barcode Use

Only one PLANET Code barcode may appear on a Confirm service piece. For letter-size mail, the PLANET Code barcode may be placed in any position permitted in C840 for a POSTNET barcode except the lower right corner barcode clear zone. For flat-size mail, the PLANET Code barcode may appear in any position of the piece permitted for a POSTNET barcode in C840. Any PLANET Code barcode printed on mail for Confirm service information must:

a. Be generated by the method used to receive Postal Service barcode certification during the application process in 1.3.

b. Meet the barcode specifications in 2.4.

c. Meet the format specifications in 2.5.

2.4 PLANET Code Barcode Specifications

The PLANET Code barcode symbology, which is the inverse of the POSTNET barcode symbology, uses a unique combination of three tall and two short bars to define each digit from 0 to 9. PLANET Code barcodes must meet the same dimensional specifications (including pitch, tilt, and baseline positioning) and print specifications (including reflectance) as required in C840 for POSTNET barcodes and in the Postal Service Publication 197, Customer Guide to Confirm Service. Publication 197 is available from the National Customer Support Center (see G043 for address).

2.5 PLANET Code Barcode Format

PLANET Code barcodes must meet the following format standards required in Publication 197 for service type:

a. Origin Confirm service mailpieces (incoming reply mail) require these data fields in the following order from left to right:

(1) Mailpiece type identification: two digits; identifies type of reply mail (courtesy reply mail, business reply mail (BRM), or qualified BRM) and physical characteristic of piece (letter, card, or flat); defined by the Postal Service.

(2) Customer identification: 9 or 11 digits; identifies mailpiece; defined by subscriber.

(3) Check digit: one digit; defined as the number which, when added to the sum of the other digits in the barcode, results in a total that is a multiple of 10.

b. Destination Confirm service mailpieces (outgoing mail) require these data fields in the following order from left to right:

(1) Mailpiece type identification: two digits; identifies class of mail and physical characteristic of piece (letter, card, or flat); defined by the Postal Service.

(2) Identification code: five digits; identifies mailer; assigned by the Postal Service.

(3) Mailing: four (or six) digits; identifies specific mailing; defined by subscriber.

(4) Check digit: one digit; defined as the number which, when added to the sum of the other digits in the barcode, results in a total that is a multiple of 10.

2.6 Address Block Barcoding

If both a PLANET Code barcode and a POSTNET barcode are used as part of the delivery address block, the following standards must be met:

a. One barcode must be placed in the upper part of the address block in one of two positions:

(1) Between the top address line (the first line of the delivery address block usually containing the recipient's name or attention line) and any keyline, optional endorsement line, or carrier route information line directly above the top address line.

(2) Directly above any keyline, optional endorsement line, or carrier route information line that is directly above the top address line.

b. The other barcode must always be placed directly below the bottom address line (the city, state, and ZIP Code line).

c. Both barcodes must maintain a minimum clearance of 1/25 inch directly above and below the barcodes.

d. The entire address block must be placed on the piece under the applicable standards in C840. The barcodes and address block, along with any keyline, optional endorsement line, or carrier route information line, must maintain the other applicable minimum clearances under C840, including clearances for inserts in window envelopes.

2.7 Reply Mail Barcodes

Reply pieces prepared for the Origin Confirm service application under 1.6 must meet any applicable format and barcode standards as follows:

a. For business reply mail (BRM), S922.

b. For qualified BRM, S922.

c. For courtesy reply mail (CRM), C100.

3.0 ADVANCE SHIPPING NOTICE

3.1 Purpose

Every mailing for which Destination Confirm service information is desired requires the electronic submission of an ASN, in a specific file format, before or at the time of the mailing. This electronic notice enables the Postal Service to match mailing data provided by the mailer with actual scans taken on Confirm service pieces in the mailing, and to generate various reports for analysis from the matched data. A test file transmission must be uploaded and approved before Confirm service mailings may be made as provided in 1.3.

3.2 Data Format

The ASN data file is a single data file in comma-delimited, flat-file format. Each record is made up of a single row of data consisting of 16 data elements (fields) as defined in Publication 197. ASN data include specific mailer-generated information about each Destination Confirm service mailing, such as drop location, drop date, mailer identification, volume, presort level, and number of pieces bearing PLANET Code barcodes.

3.3 Shipment ID Barcode

In addition to an electronic ASN transmission for each mailing, an ASN Shipment ID barcode (used as a means of shipment identification) must be printed on the documentation accompanying the mailing. This documentation is either PS Form 8125, Plant-Verified Drop Shipment (PVDS) Verification and Clearance, for mail prepared as a plant-verified drop shipment or PS Form 3152-A, Confirm Service Advanced Shipping Notice (ASN) Shipment ID, for mail entered and verified at a business mail entry unit. The Postal Service scans the ASN Shipment ID barcode to "start the clock" for the Destination Confirm service mailing and to provide the base point for recording the actual processing time used for the mail. ASN Shipment ID barcode symbology is USS Code 128 Subset B and must meet the technical specifications in Publication 197.

4.0 DELIVERY

Any mailpiece prepared for Confirm service is delivered as ordinary mail unless combined with any available service subject to D042.

* * * * *

- Mail Preparation and Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 8-22-02

DMM NOTICE

Mailing Magnets

Mailing refrigerator-type (flexible) magnets has never been more prevalent than in our present environment, as customers continue to tap their direct marketing creativity. Mailing magnets is often a source of concern because some magnetized materials as defined in Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) C023.11.5 are considered hazardous material.

Over the last 4 years, in conjunction with the Postal Service Engineering staff, we have performed extensive testing that provides guidelines for mailing some types of magnetized materials, such as refrigerator magnets. These reviews, along with the technical advancement in our processing equipment, now allow some flexibility in accepting certain magnets. The following does not change the standards in C023.11.5 regarding magnet field strength; rather, it should be used as guidance when accepting magnetic mailpieces:

1. Magnets (that do not exceed the magnetic field strength limits) may be mailed at First-Class Mail® and Standard Mail machinable or nonmachinable letter or nonletter rates, pending the applicable standards.

2. The maximum size of the magnet is 4 1/4 inches in height and 6 inches in length.

3. The magnetic side must face the reverse (nonaddress) side of the mailpiece, whether prepared card-style or enclosed in an envelope.

4. The magnet must be right-justified (leading edge) on the mailpiece. If the magnet is enclosed in an envelope it must be secured, right-justified, and inside the envelope.

5. Magnets prepared as card-style mailpieces will pay the appropriate letter rates. These card-style mailpieces are often enclosed in some type of plastic material that can make the mailpiece subject to the nonmachinable surcharge.

Mailpieces containing magnets prepared other than within the parameters stated above will require the mailer to contact their rates and classification service center to determine whether testing by Postal Service Engineering is necessary.

- Mail Preparation and Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 8-22-02

U.S. ARMED FORCES/REMINDER

"Any Service Member" Mail - Prohibited

This is a reminder that the "Any Service Member" program has been suspended indefinitely by the Department of Defense since October 2001. Therefore, retail associates must not accept mail that is presented at the retail counter and addressed to "Any Service Member" in lieu of the addressee by name. Inform mailers that such mail is prohibited and that the Department of Defense cancelled the Any Service Member program because of the concerns and risk of mail being introduced into the military mail system from sources unknown to the recipients.

Furthermore, addressing of mail to the men and women of the armed forces in foreign locations (APO/FPO) must comply with the Domestic Mail Manual, Section A010, Subsection 6.1, Overseas Address. The delivery line (i.e., the second line from the bottom in the address) must show one of the following: ship name, unit number, CMR or PSC number, and box number if assigned. The last line must contain the APO and FPO designation and the appropriate two-letter "state" abbreviation (AA, AE, or AP), followed by the 5-digit ZIP Code or ZIP + 4. In addition, addresses must include the name of the addressee as follows:

a. Mail addressed to Army personnel must show grade; full name, including first name and middle name or initial; and unit number.

b. Mail addressed to Air Force personnel must show grade; full name, including first name and middle name or initial; and PSC or unit number.

c. Mail addressed to Navy and Marine Corps personnel must show rank or rating; full name, including first name and middle name or initial; and PSC number for shore-based units, or ship name.

d. Mail sent to dependents residing in overseas areas must be addressed in care of the sponsor.

- International Network Operations,
Network Operations Management, 8-22-02

U.S. ARMED FORCES

Free Mail Program

Effective August 22, 2002, under the provisions of Section 3401 (a)(1) of Title 39, U.S.C., and pursuant to Executive Order 12556, dated April 16, 1986, the Secretary of Defense has authorized free mail privileges for members of the U.S. Armed Forces and designated civilians directly supporting "Operation Enduring Freedom" in the following locations:

• Djibouti

• Jordan

• Yemen

In addition, free mail privileges remain in effect for the following military operations/locations:

Operation Enduring Freedom

• Afghanistan

• Bahrain

• Diego Garcia

• Kazakhstan

• Kyrgyzstan

• Kuwait

• Oman

• Pakistan

• Qatar

• Saudi Arabia

• Tajikistan

• United Arab Emirates

• Uzbekistan

• Aboard ships in the Gulf of Aden

• Aboard ships in the Gulf of Oman

• Aboard ships in the North Arabian Sea (that portion of the Arabian sea that lies north of 10 degrees north latitude and west of 68 degrees east longitude)

• Aboard ships in the Persian Gulf

• Aboard ships in the Red Sea

Operation Freedom Eagle

• All of the islands of the Republic of Philippines south of the island of Luzon within the following described limits: 08-00N/116-30E; 04-45N/119-30E; 05-00N/128-00E; 13-00N/129-00E; 12-30N/116-00E.

Other

• Albania

• Hungary

• Kabal, Kuwait

• Zakho, Iraq

• Former Republic of Yugoslavia

- Bosnia-Herzegovina

- Croatia (including Zagreb)

- Macedonia

- Serbia-Montenegro (including Kosovo and Vojvodina)

- Slovenia

• Aboard ships in the Adriatic Sea

• Aboard ships in the Ionian sea north of the 39th parallel

In accordance with 39 U.S.C. 3401(a)(1)(B), free mail privileges will also be extended to individuals hospitalized for disease or injury in a facility under the jurisdiction of the Armed Forces as a result of service in these designated areas.

Personnel authorized this privilege may mail, without postage, letters, postcards, and sound recordings (audio and videotapes) having the character of personal correspondence to any place in the United States, its possessions or territories, or to any military post office (APO/FPO).

Free mail must have a complete APO or FPO return address, the word "Free" in the upper right corner with an APO or FPO postmark, and a complete delivery address. Free mail may not be registered, insured, or certified.

All employees who handle and deliver mail should be made aware of this free mail privilege. Do not collect postage upon delivery, or return this mail to the sender for postage. Mail having the appearance of free mail under this program should never be returned to sender. Address questions regarding the legitimacy of users of this program to:

MILITARY POSTAL SERVICE AGENCY
2461 EISENHOWER AVENUE
ALEXANDRIA VA 22331-0006

Toll free: 800-810-6098,
Monday-Friday, 7:30 A.M.-4:30 P.M.
Fax: 703-325-9534
DSN Prefix: 221
E-mail: mpsawebcontacts@hqda.army.mil

- International Network Operations,
Network Operations Management, 8-22-02

POM REVISION/CORRECTION

Mail Recovery Center Service Area Changes

In the article "POM Revision: Mail Recovery Center Service Area Changes" in Postal Bulletin 22082 (8-8-02, pages 22-24), three ZIP Codes for MRCs were incorrect. The correct ZIP Codes appear in bold in this revised article (see 692.23).

Effective Friday, September 13, 2002, the San Francisco Mail Recovery Center (MRC) will be closed with the existing operations being consolidated into the remaining facilities in Atlanta, Georgia, and St. Paul, Minnesota. Send all undeliverable and nonreturnable mail to the following addresses:

ATLANTA MAIL RECOVERY CENTER
US POSTAL SERVICE
5345 FULTON INDUSTRIAL BOULEVARD SW
ATLANTA GA 30378-2400

ST PAUL MAIL RECOVERY CENTER
US POSTAL SERVICE
PO BOX 69001
ST PAUL MN 55169-9001

The redirection of the mail flow will be conducted in two phases - Phase 1 begins on August 10, 2002, and Phase 2 begins on September 1, 2002. On the effective dates for the service area changes, facilities within the states or territories listed below should ensure that all existing labels for undeliverable and nonreturnable mail are recycled and replaced with the label for their new servicing MRC.

The service area changes listed revise those currently found in Postal Operations Manual 692.1 and 692.2.

Phase 1 - Effective August 10, 2002

If your facility is in one of the states listed on page 17, begin sending undeliverable and nonreturnable mail to your new servicing MRC on Saturday, August 10, 2002.

Note: If the state or territory in which your facility is located is not shown, no changes are being made to your current processes.

Letter Mail

Atlanta, Georgia, MRC

• Connecticut

• Maine

• Massachusetts

• Michigan

• New Hampshire

• Ohio

• Rhode Island

• Texas - (add ZIP Codes 797-799)

• Vermont

St. Paul, Minnesota, MRC

• Alaska

• Colorado

• Idaho

• Montana

• New Mexico

• Oregon

• Washington

• Wyoming

Parcel Mail (BMCs)

Atlanta, Georgia, MRC

• Cincinnati

• Detroit

• Springfield

St. Paul, Minnesota, MRC

• Denver

• Seattle

Phase 2 - Effective September 1, 2002

If your facility is in one of the states listed below, begin sending undeliverable and nonreturnable mail to your new servicing MRC on Sunday, September 1, 2002.

Note: If the state or territory in which your facility is located is not shown, no changes are being made to your current processes.

Letter Mail

Atlanta, Georgia, MRC

• New Jersey

• New York

St. Paul, Minnesota, MRC

• Arizona

• California

• Guam

• Hawaii

• Nevada

• Samoa

• Utah

Parcel Mail (BMCs)

Atlanta, Georgia, MRC

• New Jersey

St. Paul, Minnesota, MRC

• Los Angeles

• San Francisco

Accordingly, the Postal Operations Manual (POM) is revised as follows.

Postal Operations Manual (POM)

* * * * *

6 Delivery Services

* * * * *

69 Dead Mail

* * * * *

692 Mail Recovery Centers

692.1 Letter Mail

692.11 Addresses

The MRC addresses for administrative mail and undeliverable mail processing are as follows.

692.12 MRC Service Areas

The MRC service areas are as follows.

¹ Effective August 10, 2002

² Effective September 1, 2002

* * * * *

692.2 Parcel Mail

* * * * *

692.22 Addresses

Complete addresses for the MRCs are as follows:

ATLANTA MAIL RECOVERY CENTER
US POSTAL SERVICE
5345 FULTON INDUSTRIAL BLVD
ATLANTA GA 30378-2400

ST PAUL MAIL RECOVERY CENTER
US POSTAL SERVICE
PO BOX 69001
ST PAUL MN 55169-9001

692.23 Service Areas

The MRC service areas are as follows.

¹ Effective August 10, 2002

² Effective September 1, 2002

* * * * *

- Consumer Affairs Operations,
Consumer Advocate, 8-22-02