USPSNEWS@WORK

National threat alert downgraded to Yellow from Orange

The U.S. Department of land Security has downgraded the nation's threat alert level to Yellow. While the change means that the likelihood of terrorist attack has been reduced, there is still a "significant threat."

• The Postal Service and its employees must remain vigilant about their own safety, and the safety of customers and the mail.

• Carriers and other employees involved in mail collection are urged to exercise caution in performing their duties. They should report suspicious mail items to local Inspection Service and law enforcement officials.

• Other protective measures include taking all necessary steps to ensure facility security, taking extra care when accepting mail at the counter and exercising caution when collecting and delivering mail.

• Casual employees who deliver mail must wear caps or shirts with the Postal Service logo. Carriers using satchel carts must keep them in view at all times. And employees who drive Postal Service vehicles must lock them if they are unable to keep them in view at all times.

• Field units should immediately notify the Postal Inspection Service, local police and vehicle maintenance facility (VMF) manager of any lost or missing vehicles or government license plates.

• Field units also are required to monitor and account for all USPS ID badges, Air Operations Area access badges and other access control cards. Lost and stolen access control cards must be deactivated. And, ID badges must be obtained from employees and contractors upon separation from the Postal Service.

• Lastly, ensure that updated Continuity of Operations Plans (COOP) and other contingency plans are available.

• On a weekly basis, field operational units must inventory all Postal Service-owned and -leased vehicles, ensuring that both front and rear GSA- or P-tags (commonly used on the administrative or "non-mail hauling" fleet) are accounted for.

• Continue any other weekly security or protective measures that were being performed prior to Feb. 7. Those measures will remain in effect until further notice.

President's Commission on USPS: No consensus, plenty of opinions

The President's Commission on the Postal Service recently held a marathon public meeting exploring the Postal Service's business model, the price-setting process and pricing discounts, pricing from the competitor's perspective, pricing in other regulated industries and, finally, corporate governance. The all-day session heard from 20 witnesses on seven different panels.

• Included were NRLCA President Gus Baffa; Postal Rate Commission Chairman George Omas; APWU President Bill Burrus; NALC President Bill Young; UPS Chairman and CEO Michael Eskew; S. David Fineman, USPS Board of Governors Chairman; and USPS Chief Financial Officer Richard Strasser. Also testifying were academics and numerous mailing industry representatives.

• Chairman Fineman credited the 1970 model for the Postal Service's significant achievements but said "We now need to move the ball further," toward a more commercial, businesslike structure. "One step in the right direction would be to change the current break-even financial target to one based on building retained earnings." CFO Strasser agreed.

• Given the range of topics covered and interests represented, there was no consensus on the issues. Richard Levin, the Commission's Business Model subcommittee chairman, said the group has reached no conclusion on the appropriate business model for the Postal Service.

• The Commission also announced the schedule of its next three public hearings: Mar. 18 at the Lyndon B. Johnson Library in Austin, TX; Apr. 4 in Los Angeles; and Apr. 29 in Chicago, IL. The current schedule calls for the Commission to submit its report by July 31.

Commission establishes response process

The President's Commission on the Postal Service adopted a policy for interested parties to respond to comments it has already received, with a deadline of Mar. 13 for these "rebuttals." Comments can be mailed, e-mailed or hand-delivered - either on paper or on disk. At the Commission's discretion, rebuttals could be posted on its web site www.treas.gov/offices/domestic-finance/usps.

USPSNEWS@WORK

Crowd-pleaser: The Postal Store is a hit with online customers

Online shoppers are discovering that The Postal Store at www.usps.com/shop is a satisfying, timesaving tool.

• Sales at The Postal Store during the past holiday season soared more than 96%, from $5.4 million in 2001 to $10.7 million in 2002.

• In 2002, some 1 million registered customers generated more than $38 million in sales for the Postal Service. Estimates call for a substantial increase, perhaps as high as 70%, by the end of FY 2003.

• "The Postal Service is pleased that more and more Americans are visiting The Postal Store for their postage and gift buying needs," said Public Affairs and Communications VP Azeezaly Jaffer. "Most important, recent surveys showed more than 90% of our online customers were satisfied with their shopping experience."

• The Postal Store is the nation's official online Post Office, featuring postage stamps and stationery, philatelic collectibles and other gift items.

• It also offers free shipping supplies to registered businesses. Collector's Corner offers philatelists the latest information on the U.S. commemorative stamp program and other resources to support the hobby.

IT system simplifies sign-on process: one password, many applications

USPS Information Technology is introducing a self- service system to reset forgotten or expired passwords for certain software applications - the Enterprise Password Reset System (EPRS).

• The benefits of EPRS are significant - fewer help desk calls, reduced operational costs and faster service for computer users.

• EPRS can be accessed from the Postal Service's intranet Blue page at https://eprs, or by phone at 800-USPS-HELP (800-877-7435, ask for "PASSWORD.") Users will be routed to EPRS where they can reset their passwords using a touch-tone telephone keypad.

• Currently, EPRS is available for these applications: CSDRS, District VAX, DOIS, eAccess, eAwards, eRMS, MyTraining, eTravel, POS, SAMS, TACS, TVR and WebBats.

• During FY 2002, savings attributed to EPRS exceeded $1.2 million. Questions about the EPRS system or the password reset process can be sent via e-mail to paprs@email.usps.gov.

Excelling at what they do: Performance Clusters achieve the Order of the Yellow Jersey

They didn't have to pedal up the Alps to wear this yellow jersey. These 22 performance clusters excel in customer service.

• Named after four-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong, the Order of the Yellow Jersey (OYJ) is based on three key elements of customer service: accuracy of delivery, consistency of delivery and professionalism in serving customers.

• Consumer Advocate Francia Smith recognizes top performers each quarter with the OYJ. Winners fly the OYJ flag in front of their facility as long as they maintain their service levels.

• "Our goal is to build a culture of success continuously providing our customers with the very best customer service," Smith said.

• This year's winners for Postal Quarter 1, FY 2003, by category are:

- Rural: Albany, Springfield, Maine, New Hampshire, Kentuckiana, Dakotas, Erie and Hawkeye.

- Mixed: Harrisburg, Central Plains, Spokane, Northland, Lakeland, Columbus and Mid-America.

- Urban: Middlesex-Central, Southeast New England, Western New York, Caribbean, Suncoast and Akron.

- Unique: Dallas.

A message that sticks: RPNs catch customers' attention, mailers' interest

Those little sticky notes work great around the office and for leaving messages. So why not on letters? That's what the Postal Service wanted to find out.

• The Postal Service has been conducting a pilot test of Repositionable Notes (RPNs) for the last year.

• RPNs allow direct mailers to enhance their messages with specially designed notes that are placed on the outside of their mailpieces.

• During the one-year trial, 35 mailers gave RPNs a try on 4.3 million mailpieces.

• Several customers did repeat mailings because of the tremendous responses they received. In fact, the test was so successful, RPNs will become a full- fledged Postal Service product this spring.

USPSNEWS@WORK

• Learn more about RPNs in the Domestic Mail Manual this spring.

Many languages, one voice

As our customers' needs change, the Postal Service is there to help. USPS continues to develop materials for the benefit of non-English speaking customers.

• Important publications available in Spanish and/or Chinese can be accessed on the Postal Service PolicyNet Web site at http://blue.usps.gov/cpim; click on PUBs, and then Title to search alphabetically.

• Spanish materials include the following publications: Let's Do Business (also in Chinese, 5A-C), Consumer's Guide to Postal Services and Products, Don't Take the Bait, and Consumer and Business Guide to Preventing Mail Fraud. Also available is Poster 76-S, Some Things Were Never Meant to be Mailed.

• Publication 219S (Spanish) and 219C (Chinese), Your Guide to Completing Mailing Forms, is available through the Material Distribution Center.

Mailing seminars

The Postal Service is offering 52 seminars in 2003 to make "Direct Mail Easy" for small- and mid-sized businesses. The seminars are designed to educate businesses on how to achieve the proven response rates of direct mail. For a complete list, go to
www.usps.com/directmail/seminars/schedule.htm.

The Postal Bulletin - Your Source for Trusted Information

The Postal Bulletin was first published in March of 1880. Here we are, 123 years later, and the Postal Bulletin is still going strong. In fact, it's stronger than ever. And it's the most relied-upon, trusted source of information in the Postal Service.

The Postal Bulletin hasn't always looked the way it does now; nor has it presented information in the same way it does now. It has undergone a series of changes in name, publication frequency, size, format, and much more.

Name

Initially the Postal Bulletin was called the Daily Bulletin of Orders Affecting the Postal Service. With the March 20, 1918, issue, the name changed to the Postal Bulletin. That makes this month the 85th anniversary of the current name!

Publication Frequency

Through the years, as the amount of information provided grew, the Postal Bulletin staff needed more time to put the publication together in order to incorporate all the additional content.

The Postal Bulletin went from being published every day of the week (Monday through Friday), to three days a week (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday), to twice a week (Tuesday and Thursday), to weekly, and finally to biweekly, as we know it today.

Length

The first issue was only one page in length. Through the years, the length of the Postal Bulletin has expanded more than the original employees ever could have imagined. The publication grew as the demands and needs of the organization grew. Today we occasionally have issues that are as long as 136 pages!

Format and Layout

The format and layout have been altered more than any other aspects of the Postal Bulletin. The font and graphics have changed as times have changed. The publication had an Old English font in the early years, a Helvetica font with all capital letters in the 1950s, a bubble-type font with all lowercase letters in the 1970s, and the sans serif font with all capital letters that we have now, with many other variations in between.

Initially, in those one-page issues, the information was organized by states. Eventually, we started organizing information by topics, such as Domestic Mail or Supply Management, and we organize those sections alphabetically. Last year, we started including the Fraud Alert section in the middle of the publication, in the Pull-Out Section. That way, you can more easily tear out the fraud information and have it readily available at your retail counters.

This month, we're making an additional change to the format. We're including in that Pullout Section all items that you normally tear out - for example, copies of forms that you need to fill out, holiday closing posters that you post in lobbies, Thrift Savings Plan Fact Sheets that you post on bulletin boards, missing children posters that carriers take with them on their routes, and so on.

So if an article refers to an item that you need to tear out, look for it in the Pullout Section, rather than on the page immediately following the article.

Paper

Even the texture of the paper has changed. Since the 1970s, when our nation became more environmentally aware, the Postal Service has been using recycled paper to print the Postal Bulletin.

Technology

In the beginning, the Postal Bulletin was available only in print format. The Government Printing Office (GPO) was our printing source then, and it continues to be our source now. The GPO currently prints approximately 125,000 copies of the Postal Bulletin.

The Postal Service has kept up with the changing technology of the times, and we continue to be on the cutting edge today. In addition to the printed version, the Postal Bulletin is available electronically.

As you know, you can access the Postal Bulletin online via two routes:

• On the Intranet: Go to the Postal Service PolicyNet Web site at http://blue.usps.gov/cpim; click on View Postal Bulletins.

• On the Internet: Go to www.usps.com; click on About USPS & News, then Forms and Publications, then Postal Bulletin.

Online, you have the choice of viewing the publication in either the PDF version or the HTML version. The HTML version also allows persons with visual impairments to hear the document, by using software that scans the document and reads the articles to them.

Conclusion

You can see how the cover page of the Postal Bulletin has changed by taking a look at the collage we put together on the front cover of this issue.

Some interesting events are reflected in that collage. For example, the August 13, 1970, issue reflects the change of our organization from the Post Office Department to the Postal Service, a change that occurred as a result of the Postal Reorganization Act of 1970.

Like the Postal Service itself, the Postal Bulletin is an ever-changing, ever-evolving entity.

We've come a long way, and we'll continue to evolve with the times. Our job is to make your job easier. The Postal Bulletin is here to serve you, as it has been for almost 125 years.

- Policies and Procedures Information,
Public Affairs and Communications, 3-6-03

Administrative Services

Directives and Forms Update

Effective immediately, Publication 223, Directives and Forms Catalog (June 1999), is revised. The tables below contain the document ID, edition date, title, national stock number (NSN), and the postal and public supply source for all new, revised, and obsolete directives and forms. Use this article to keep Publication 223 current. Information on how to order directives and forms can be found in chapter 1 of Publication 223.

IWEB = Intranet = http://blue.usps.gov; click on Information, then Policies and Procedures.

WWW = USPS Web page = www.usps.com.

PE = Postal Explorer = http://pe.usps.gov.

F3 = F3 Fill Software.

New Directives

Posters

Revised Directives

Handbooks

Labels

Manuals

Notices

Posters

Publications

New Forms

Revised Forms

Obsolete Directives

Management Instructions

Posters

Publications

Signs

- Policies and Procedures Information,
Public Affairs and Communications, 3-6-03

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.

Domestic Mail

DMM REVISION

Labeling List Changes

Effective March 6, 2003, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) L001, L002, L004, L601, L603, L605, L606, and L801 are revised to reflect changes in mail processing operations. Mailers are encouraged to label according to these revised lists immediately, but must comply with these changes no later than May 18, 2003.

We will incorporate these revisions 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)

* * * * *

L Labeling Lists

L000 General Use

L001 5-Digit Scheme-Periodicals Flats and Irregular Parcels, Standard Mail Flats, and BPM Flats

* * * * *

* * * * *

L002 3-Digit ZIP Code Prefix Matrix

* * * * *

* * * * *

L004 3-Digit ZIP Code Prefix Groups-ADC Sortation

* * * * *

* * * * *

L600 Standard Mail and Package Services

L601 BMCs

* * * * *

* * * * *

L603 ADCs-Irregular Standard Mail Parcels

* * * * *

* * * * *

L605 BMCs/ASFs-Nonmachinable Parcel Post BMC Presort and OBMC Presort

* * * * *

* * * * *

L606 5-Digit Scheme-Standard Mail and Package Services Parcels

* * * * *

* * * * *

L800 Automation Rate Mailings

L801 AADCs-Letter-Size Mailings

* * * * *

* * * * *

- Logistics, Network Operations Management, 3-6-03

DMM REVISION

Machinable Standard Mail Letters - Packaging Requirements

Effective March 6, 2003, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) M610.2.1b is revised to correct a minor error introduced on June 30, 2002, with the publication of DMM 57, which contains the new preparation standards for machinable letter- size Standard Mail items. These preparation standards - partly derived from the standards for the former upgradable option for Standard Mail letter-size pieces - are tray- based rather than package-based. As a consequence, packaging for these machinable pieces is required only for trays containing card-size pieces and for less-than-full trays.

Current standards in DMM M610.2.1b mistakenly indicate that machinable letter-size Standard Mail pieces in less-than-full 3-digit trays are not packaged unless the trays are for 3-digit origin or 3-digit entry. The corrected listing for required packaging for Standard Mail machinable letter-size pieces follows:

• Card-size pieces.

• All pieces in a less-than-full 3-digit, 3-digit origin, or 3-digit entry tray.

• All pieces in a less-than-full mixed automated area distribution center (AADC) tray.

We will incorporate these revisions into the printed version of DMM 58 and into the monthly update of the online DMM available via Postal Explorer at http://pe.usps.gov.

Domestic Mail Manual (DMM)

* * * * *

M Mail Preparation and Sortation

* * * * *

M600 Standard Mail (Nonautomation)

M610 Presorted Standard Mail

* * * * *

2.0 PREPARATION-MACHINABLE LETTER-SIZE PIECES

2.1 Packaging

Machinable pieces are not packaged, except for (see M020):

* * * * *

[Revise item b to read as follows:]

b. All pieces in a less-than-full 3-digit, 3-digit origin, or 3-digit entry tray.

* * * * *

- Mailing Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 3-6-03

DMM REVISION

Label Standards for Combined or Copalletized Periodicals Mailings

Effective March 6, 2003, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) E230, M031.1.7, M031.4.11, M032.1.3, M045.8.2, and M230 are revised to clarify when it is permissible to use the designation "NEWS" rather than the designation "PER" on Line 2 (the content line) of labels that identify sacks, trays, and pallets containing copies of Periodicals publications prepared in combined mailings or in copalletized mailings.

Combined mailings and copalletized mailings often consist of copies that would be eligible for the designation "NEWS" on the container label and other copies that would be eligible only for the designation "PER" on the container label.

This revision allows mailers to prepare and consolidate more than one Periodicals publication or edition of a publication into a single production mailstream by providing the following standards for applying these two designations in such cases:

(1) If at least 51% of the total number of copies (not number of addressed pieces) in the combined mailing or in the copalletized mailing can qualify for "NEWS" treatment, then all containers or pallets in such a mailing are labeled "NEWS" on Line 2, unless the mailer chooses to use "PER."

(2) If less than 51% of the total number of copies in the combined or in the copalletized mailing can qualify for "NEWS" treatment, then all containers or pallets in such a mailing are labeled "PER" on Line 2.

This revision also clarifies mailing standards for identifying the two different methods under which a Periodicals combined mailing may be prepared and notes the requirements for submitting postage statements under each method.

We will incorporate these revisions 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)

* * * * *

E Eligibility

* * * * *

E200 Periodicals

* * * * *

E230 Carrier Route Rates

* * * * *

[Delete 4.0.]

* * * * *

M Mail Preparation and Sortation

M000 General Preparation Standards

* * * * *

M030 Containers

M031 Labels

1.0 SACK AND TRAY LABELS

* * * * *

1.7 Periodicals Publications

[Revise 1.7 to read as follows:]

Except as provided in M230.2.0 for combined mailings, Periodicals publications must use one of the following for Line 2 class information:

a. "PER."

b. "NEWS" if published weekly or more often or if authorized newspaper treatment as of March 1, 1984.

* * * * *

4.0 PALLET LABELS

* * * * *

4.11 Periodicals Publications

[Revise 4.11 to read as follows:]

Except as provided in M045.8.0 for copalletized mailings, Periodicals publications must use one of the following for Line 2 class information:

a. "PER."

b. "NEWS" if published weekly or more often or if authorized newspaper treatment as of March 1, 1984.

* * * * *

M032 Barcoded Labels

1.0 BASIC STANDARDS-TRAY AND SACK LABELS

* * * * *

1.3 Content Line (Line 2)

The content line must meet these standards:

* * * * *

[Revise 1.3b to read as follows:]

b. Periodicals. Except as provided in M045.8.0 for copalletized mailings and in M230.2.0 for combined mailings, Periodicals publications must use one of the following for Line 2 class information:

(1) "PER."

(2) "NEWS" if published weekly or more often or if authorized newspaper treatment as of March 1, 1984.

* * * * *

M040 Pallets

* * * * *

M045 Palletized Mailings

* * * * *

[Revise heading of 8.0 to read as follows:]

8.0 COPALLETIZED FLAT-SIZE PIECES-PERIODICALS OR STANDARD MAIL

* * * * *

8.2 Periodicals

Additional standards are as follows:

[Revise 8.2a to read as follows:]

a. Periodicals eligible for preferred rates (In-County, Nonprofit, Classroom, and Science-of-Agriculture) may be combined with Periodicals eligible for Outside-County rates.

[Reletter current 8.2b as new 8.2c. Add new 8.2b to read as follows:]

b. All pallets in a copalletized mailing are identified on the content line (Line 2) of the label with only "NEWS" (see M031) or "PER" as the class designation under these conditions:

(1) If at least 51% of the total number of copies in the copalletized mailing can qualify for "NEWS" treatment, then all pallets in such a mailing are labeled "NEWS," unless the mailer chooses to use "PER."

(2) If less than 51% of the total number of copies in a copalletized mailing can qualify for "NEWS" treatment, then all pallets in such a mailing are labeled "PER."

* * * * *

M200 Periodicals (Nonautomation)

* * * * *

[Revise the heading of M230 to read as follows:]

M230 Combining Multiple Editions or Publications

1.0 DESCRIPTION

[Revise 1.0 to read as follows:]

1.1 Purpose

Periodicals publications may be prepared as a combined mailing by merging copies either during production or after finished copies are produced to achieve the finest presort level possible or to reduce the per piece charge.

1.2 Methods

A Periodicals combined mailing may be prepared using either one of these methods:

a. Individually addressed copies of different editions of a Periodicals publication (one title) or individually addressed copies of different Periodicals publications (more than one title) are merged and sorted together to obtain a finer presort level.

b. Two or more copies of different Periodicals publications (two or more titles) are placed within the same mailing wrapper and presented as one addressed piece to a single recipient to reduce the per piece charge.

[Renumber current 2.0 as new 2.2; renumber current 3.0 as new 2.1; renumber current 4.0 as new 2.4; and renumber current 5.0 as new 2.5. Add new 2.3. Add new 2.0 and revise section to read as follows:]

2.0 BASIC STANDARDS

2.1 Eligibility and Mail Preparation

Each publication in a combined mailing must meet the basic eligibility standards in E211 and the specific standards for the rate claimed. In addition, the combined mailing must meet the eligibility and mail preparation standards for the rate claimed.

2.2 Minimum Volume

For combined mailings prepared under 1.2a, more than one Periodicals publication, or edition of a publication, may be combined to meet the required minimum volume per package, sack, or tray for the rate claimed. For combined mailings prepared under 1.2b, the appropriate minimum volume requirements in M210, M220, M810, or M820 apply for the rate claimed.

2.3 Labeling

All sacks or trays in a combined mailing are labeled the same, as either "NEWS" (see M031) or as "PER," depending on which of the following conditions is met:

a. If at least 51% of the total number of copies in the combined mailing can qualify for "NEWS" treatment, then all sacks or trays in such a mailing are labeled "NEWS," unless the mailer chooses to use "PER."

b. If less than 51% of the total number of copies in a combined mailing can qualify for "NEWS" treatment, then all sacks or trays in such a mailing are labeled "PER."

2.4 Documentation

Presort documentation required under P012 must show the total number of addressed pieces and total number of copies for each publication and each edition, if applicable, in the combined mailing claimed at the carrier route, 5-digit, 3-digit, and basic rates. The publisher must also provide a list, by 3-digit ZIP Code prefix, of the number of addressed pieces for each publication and each edition, if applicable, claimed at any destination entry and pallet discounts.

2.5 Postage Statements

Postage statements for a combined mailing must be prepared as follows:

a. Copy weight and advertising percentage determine whether separate postage statements are required for editions of the same publication:

(1) If the copy weight and advertising percentage for all editions of a publication are the same, all the editions may be reported on the same postage statement or each edition may be reported on a separate postage statement.

(2) If either the copy weight or the advertising percentage is different for each edition of a publication, each edition must be reported on a separate postage statement.

b. For a combined mailing prepared under 1.2a, a separate postage statement that claims all applicable per piece and per pound charges must be prepared for each publication or edition except as provided in 2.5a. The mailer must annotate on, or attach to, each postage statement, the title and issue date of each publication or edition included in the combined mailing and indicate that the pieces were prepared as part of a combined mailing under 1.2a.

c. For mailings prepared under 1.2b, a separate postage statement claiming the applicable per pound charges must be prepared for each publication or edition in the combined mailing except as provided in 2.5a. The mailer must annotate on, or attach to, each postage statement, the title and issue date of each publication or edition included in the combined mailing and indicate that the copies were prepared as part of a combined mailing under 1.2b. The per piece charges must be claimed as follows:

(1) If all copies in a combined mailing prepared under 1.2b are eligible for the Classroom or Nonprofit discount, the per piece charges must be claimed only on the postage statement for the publication that contains the highest amount of advertising.

(2) If all copies in a combined mailing prepared under 1.2b are not eligible for the Classroom or Nonprofit discount, the per piece charges must be claimed only on the postage statement for the publication that contains the highest amount of advertising.

(3) If a portion of the copies in a combined mailing prepared under 1.2b are eligible for the Classroom or Nonprofit discount and a portion are not eligible for those discounts, the per piece charges must be claimed only on the postage statement for the publication that contains the highest amount of advertising and is not eligible for the Classroom or Nonprofit discount. The Classroom or Nonprofit per piece discount must not be claimed.

* * * * *

- Mailing Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 3-6-03

DMM REVISION

Mail Preparation and Standards Renamed Mailing Standards

Effective March 6, 2003, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) C022.3.3, C023.2.2, C023.8.5, D230.3.9, D230.3.10, D230.6.0, E060.12.10, E213.3.0, E213.4.3, E214.3.0, E270.7.0, E670.10.0, E670.11.0, G020.3.0, G043, G091.2.2, G095.6.0, G900.2.0, P011.4.2, and P011.5.1 are revised to reflect the name change of the organization within the Postal Service that has the authority to issue final agency decisions on customer appeals of mailing standards as provided in DMM G020. Other minor revisions are also made to standardize wording and clarify the name of other organizations.

We will incorporate these revisions 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)

* * * * *

C Characteristics and Content

C000 General Information

* * * * *

C020 Restricted or Nonmailable Articles and Substances

* * * * *

C022 Perishables

* * * * *

3.0 LIVE ANIMALS

* * * * *

3.3 Adult Fowl

[Revise the first sentence of 3.3 by changing "Mail Preparation and Standards manager, USPS Headquarters" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)" to read as follows:]

Adult turkeys, guinea fowl, doves, pigeons, pheasants, partridges, and quail, as well as ducks, geese, and swans sent by Express Mail in biologically secure containers approved by the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address) are mailable if the number of birds per parcel follows the container manufacturer limits, and if each bird weighs more than 6 ounces. Under the applicable standards, indemnity may be paid only for loss, damage, or rifling, and not for death of the birds in transit if there is no visible damage to the mailing container.

* * * * *

C023 Hazardous Materials

* * * * *

2.0 EXPLOSIVES (HAZARD CLASS 1)

* * * * *

2.2 Mailability

[Revise the third sentence of 2.2 by changing "Mail Preparation and Standards manager, USPS Headquarters" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)" to read as follows:]

Explosives are prohibited in international mail. Explosives are prohibited in the domestic mail via air transportation. For domestic surface transportation, explosives are prohibited except for certain division 1.4 toy propellant devices and safety fuses specifically approved by the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address) before mailing. A mailable explosive must meet the packaging and marking requirements provided with the manager's approval. A shipping paper is required.

* * * * *

8.0 INFECTIOUS SUBSTANCES (HAZARD CLASS 6, DIVISION 6.2)

* * * * *

8.5 Sharps

The types of used sharps waste defined in 8.2d are permitted for mailing only using merchandise return service (see S923) in conjunction with First-Class Mail or Priority Mail, subject to these standards:

[Revise 8.5a by changing "Mail Preparation and Standards manager, USPS Headquarters (see G043 for address)" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)" to read as follows:]

a. Authorization. Each distributor or manufacturer of a complete sharps mailing kit or packaging assembly, including containers, cartons, and any other related material to be used to mail sharps to a storage or disposal facility, must obtain authorization from the USPS. Before applying for authorization, each type of mailing kit must be tested and certified against the standards in 8.5d by an independent party. A written request for authorization is sent to the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address). The request must contain the following:

* * * * *

D Deposit, Collection, and Delivery

* * * * *

D200 Periodicals

* * * * *

D230 Additional Entry

* * * * *

3.0 AUTHORIZATION

* * * * *

3.9 Information

[Revise the second sentence of 3.9 by changing "to give such information" to "to provide such information" to read as follows:]

The USPS reserves the right to ask for more information about the application. The publisher's failure to provide such information is sufficient grounds to deny the application.

3.10 Application Denial

[Revise the first sentence of 3.10 by changing in "Memphis Nonprofit Service Center (NCS)" to "manager of the Nonprofit Service Center (NCS)"; and revise the second sentence by changing "Memphis NSC" to "NCS" and changing "Mail Preparation and Standards manager, USPS Headquarters" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)" to read as follows:]

Except for pending publications, the manager of the Nonprofit Service Center (NSC) rules on all applications requesting additional entry. If the application is denied, the denial takes effect 15 days from the publisher's receipt of the notice unless, within that time, the publisher files an appeal, through the NSC, with the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address), who issues the final agency decision.

* * * * *

6.0 CANCELLATION, REVOCATION, AND RESTORATION

6.1 Cancellation

[Revise the second sentence of 6.1 by changing "Manager, Memphis NSC will cancel" to "manager of the Nonprofit Service Center cancels" to read as follows:]

When a distribution plan modification results in nonuse of an additional entry, that entry must be canceled as part of the additional entry action. If a publisher fails to file Form 3510 to cancel an authorized additional entry, the manager of the Nonprofit Service Center cancels the additional entry upon notification by the additional entry postmaster that no mailings have been made for an entire calendar year.

6.2 Revocation

[Revise the second sentence of 6.2 by changing "is effective" to "takes effect"; by changing "Memphis NSC" to "Nonprofit Service Center"; and by changing "Mail Preparation and Standards manager, USPS Headquarters" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)" to read as follows:]

The USPS may revoke an additional entry authorization when the publication is found ineligible for such authorization. The revocation takes effect 15 days after the publisher receives notice, unless an appeal is filed through the Nonprofit Service Center with the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address), who issues the final agency decision.

* * * * *

E Eligibility

E000 Special Eligibility Standards

* * * * *

E060 Official Mail (Penalty)

* * * * *

12.0 PENALTY MERCHANDISE RETURN SERVICE

* * * * *

12.10 Registered Mail

[Revise the second sentence of 12.10 by changing "Mail Preparation and Standards manager, USPS Headquarters" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)" to read as follows:]

Only the permit holder may request that the piece receive registered mail service by preprinting the endorsement noted below. All applications for registered merchandise return service must be submitted to the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address). Registered mail service may be obtained only on articles returned at First-Class Mail or Priority Mail rates. Only registered mail service without postal insurance is available under penalty mail merchandise return procedures. An agency wanting to register merchandise return articles with postal insurance must follow the procedures in S923. When registered mail service is requested for single-piece First-Class Mail or Priority Mail, no other special service is available. The format in Exhibit 12.7b must be used for the merchandise return label, and the following endorsement must be preprinted to the left of and above the "Merchandise Return Label" legend and below the "Total Postage and Fees Due" statement: "Registered Mail Service Without Postal Insurance Desired by Permit Holder."

* * * * *

E200 Periodicals

E210 Basic Standards

* * * * *

E213 Periodicals Mailing Privileges

* * * * *

3.0 DECISION ON APPLICATION

* * * * *

3.2 Additional Information

[Revise the first sentence of 3.2 by changing "manager or designee" to "RCSC manager"; and revise the second sentence by changing "this information" to "such information" to read as follows:]

Before acting on an application, the RCSC manager may ask the publisher for more information or evidence to complete or clarify the application. Failure to provide such information is sufficient grounds to deny the application.

3.3 Mailability

[Revise 3.3 by changing "manager grants" to "RCSC manager grants" to read as follows:]

If the RCSC manager grants an application for original entry, this approval does not represent a USPS determination that a publication is mailable under 39 USC 3001(a) and 18 USC 1461 and 1463. (See Blount v. Rizzi, 400 U.S. 410 (1971).)

* * * * *

3.7 Denial and Appeal

[Revise the first sentence of 3.7 by changing "RCSC" to "RCSC manager"; revise the second sentence by changing "Mail Preparation and Standards manager, USPS Headquarters" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)"; and revise the third sentence by changing "manager" to "manager of Mailing Standards" to read as follows:]

If the RCSC manager denies an application, the applicant is notified in writing and given the reasons for the denial. The denial takes effect 15 days from receipt of the notice by the applicant, unless an appeal is filed through the RCSC with the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address). If the manager of Mailing Standards upholds the denial of an application for news agent registry, that is the final agency decision. For other applications, the manager's denial takes effect 15 days from the applicant's receipt of the notice unless, during that time, an appeal is filed with the USPS Recorder under 39 CFR 954, a copy of which is included with the notice of denial.

4.0 REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION OF PRIVILEGES

* * * * *

4.3 Appeal

[Revise the first sentence of 4.3 by changing "Mail Preparation and Standards manager, USPS Headquarters" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)" to read as follows:]

A ruling to suspend or revoke a publication's Periodicals mailing privileges takes effect 15 days from the publisher's receipt of the notice unless, during that time, an appeal is filed through the RCSC with the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address). If the manager upholds the denial of a news agent's appeal, that is the final agency decision. For other actions, the manager's decision takes effect 15 days from its receipt by the publisher unless, during that time, an appeal is filed with the USPS Recorder under 39 CFR 954, a copy of which is included with the notice.

E214 Reentry

* * * * *

3.0 APPLICATION FOR REENTRY

* * * * *

3.2 Additional Information

[Revise the first sentence of 3.2 by changing "Memphis Nonprofit Service Center (NCS)" to "manager of the Nonprofit Service Center (NCS)"; and revise the second sentence by changing "the information" to "such information" to read as follows:]

The manager of the Nonprofit Service Center (NSC) may ask for more information or evidence from the publisher to complete or clarify an application. Failure to provide such information is sufficient grounds to deny the application.

* * * * *

3.4 Ruling

[Revise 3.4 by changing "Memphis NCS" to "manager of the Nonprofit Service Center" to read as follows:]

The manager of the Nonprofit Service Center reviews and rules on an application for reentry.

* * * * *

3.6 Denial After Verification

[Revise the first sentence of 3.6 by changing "Memphis NCS" to "manager of the Nonprofit Service Center"; and revise the last sentence by changing "NCS" to "manager's" to read as follows:]

If a verification shows that the publication (as modified by the requested reentry) does not meet applicable Periodicals standards, the manager of the Nonprofit Service Center denies the reentry application and notifies the publisher in writing of the reasons for the denial. Within 15 days of receipt of such notice, the publisher may either return to the publication status before the application for reentry was submitted or appeal the denial under 3.8. If no appeal is filed, the denial takes effect 15 days from the publisher's receipt of the manager's decision.

3.7 Denial-No Verification

[Revise the first sentence of 3.7 by changing "Memphis NCS" to "manager of the Nonprofit Service Center" to read as follows:]

If the manager of the Nonprofit Service Center denies an application not requiring verification, the publisher receives written notice of the reasons for denial. The denial takes effect 15 days from the publisher's receipt of the notice, unless the publisher files an appeal under 3.8 within that time.

3.8 Appeal

[Revise the first sentence of 3.8 by changing "Memphis NCS" to "Nonprofit Service Center" and by changing "Mail Preparation and Standards manager, USPS Headquarters" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)"; revise the second sentence by changing "manager or designee" to "manager of Mailing Standards"; and revise the third sentence by changing "this information" to "such information" to read as follows:]

An appeal must be filed through the Nonprofit Service Center with the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address). The manager of Mailing Standards may ask the publisher for more information or evidence to clarify the appeal. Failure to provide such information is sufficient grounds to deny the appeal.

* * * * *

3.11 Final Decision

[Revise 3.11 by changing "Mail Preparation and Standards manager" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)" to read as follows:]

The manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address) issues the final agency decision on appeals under 1.0.

* * * * *

E270 Preferred Periodicals

* * * * *

7.0 DECISION ON APPLICATION

7.1 Ruling

[Revise the second sentence of 7.1 by changing "Memphis NSC manger" to "the manager of the Nonprofit Service Center (NSC)" to read as follows:]

The RCSC manager serving the known office of publication rules on special rate applications that are filed concurrently with an original entry application. The manager of the Nonprofit Service Center (NSC) rules on requests for special rates made on Form 3510 for publications authorized Periodicals mailing privileges.

* * * * *

7.6 Denying Application

[Revise the first sentence of 7.6 by changing "RCSC or NCS manager" to "RCSC manager or NSC manager"; revise the second sentence by changing "Mail Preparation and Standards manager, USPS Headquarters" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)"; revise the third sentence by changing "manager" to "manager of Mailing Standards"; revise the fourth sentence by changing "this information" to "such information"; and revise the fifth sentence by changing "manager" to "manager of Mailing Standards" to read as follows:]

If the application to mail at special rates is denied, the RCSC manager or NSC manager, as appropriate, notifies the applicant in writing, giving the reasons for the denial. The denial takes effect 15 days from the publisher's receipt of the denial, unless within that time the publisher appeals to the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address). Before taking action, the manager of Mailing Standards may ask the publisher for more information or evidence to support the appeal. Failure to provide such information is sufficient grounds for denying the appeal. The manager of Mailing Standards issues the final agency decision.

* * * * *

E600 Standard Mail

* * * * *

E670 Nonprofit Standard Mail

* * * * *

10.0 RULING ON APPLICATION

10.1 Additional Information

[Revise the first sentence of 10.1 by changing "Memphis Nonprofit Service Center (NSC)" to "manager of the Nonprofit Service Center (NSC)"; and revise the second sentence by changing "the information" to "such information" and by changing "reason" to "grounds" to read as follows:]

The manager of the Nonprofit Service Center (NSC) may request additional information or evidence to support or clarify the application. Failure to provide such information is sufficient grounds to deny an application.

10.2 Rulings

[Revise 10.2 by changing "Memphis NSC manager" to "manager of the Nonprofit Service Center" to read as follows:]

The manager of the Nonprofit Service Center rules on Form 3624 and Form 3623 applications and notifies the applicant directly.

10.3 Appealing a Denial

[Revise the second sentence of 10.3 by changing "NCS manager" to "manager of the Nonprofit Service Center" and by changing "Mail Preparation and Standards manager, USPS Headquarters" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)" to read as follows:]

If the application is denied, the applicant may submit a written appeal to the postmaster where the application was filed within 15 days of the applicant's receipt of the decision. After reviewing the file, if the manager of the Nonprofit Service Center still believes that the organization does not qualify, the appeal is forwarded to the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address), who issues the final agency decision.

11.0 REVOCATION

11.1 USPS Review

[Revise the first sentence of 11.1 by changing "Memphis NSC manager" to "manager of the Nonprofit Service Center" and by changing "nonprofit Standard Mail" to "Nonprofit Standard Mail"; revise the second sentence by changing "Memphis NSC" to "manager of the Nonprofit Service Center"; and revise the third sentence by changing "this information" to "such information" to read as follows:]

The manager of the Nonprofit Service Center may initiate at any time a review of any organization authorized to mail at the Nonprofit Standard Mail rates. The manager of the Nonprofit Service Center may ask an organization for information or evidence to determine whether the organization is still qualified. Failure to provide such information is sufficient cause for revocation.

11.2 Revocation for Cause

[Revise 11.2 by changing "Memphis NSC" to "the manager of the Nonprofit Service Center" to read as follows:]

If it is found that authorization has been given to an organization that was not qualified at the time of application or later became unqualified, the manager of the Nonprofit Service Center notifies the organization of the proposed revocation and the reasons for it.

11.3 Appeal

[Revise the first sentence of 11.3 by changing "Revocation" to "Revocation for cause under 11.2", by changing "Memphis NSC" to "Nonprofit Service Center", and by changing "Mail Preparation and Standards manager, USPS Headquarters" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)"; revise the second sentence by changing "manager" to "manager of Mailing Standards"; revise the third sentence by changing "this information" to "such information"; and revise the fourth sentence by changing "manager" to "manager of Mailing Standards" to read as follows:]

Revocation for cause under 11.2 takes effect 15 days from the organization's receipt of the notice, unless the organization files a written appeal within that time through the Nonprofit Service Center with the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address). The manager of Mailing Standards may ask the organization for more information or evidence to determine the organization's eligibility. Failure to provide such information is sufficient grounds for denial of the appeal. The manager of Mailing Standards issues a written appeal decision directly to the organization.

[Revise the heading of 11.4 to read as follows:]

11.4 Revocation for Nonuse

[Revise the first sentence of 11.4 by changing "Memphis NSC" to "manager of the Nonprofit Service Center"; and revise the second sentence by changing "Memphis NSC" to "manager" to read as follows:]

The manager of the Nonprofit Service Center revokes an authorization to mail at the Nonprofit Standard Mail rates if no Nonprofit Standard Mail rate mailings are made by the authorized organization during a 2-year period. The manager notifies the organization of the revocation for nonuse.

* * * * *

G General Information

G000 The USPS and Mailing Standards

* * * * *

G020 Mailing Standards

* * * * *

3.0 RULINGS ON MAILING STANDARDS

3.1 Local Decision

[Revise the second sentence of 3.1 by changing "RCSC" to "rates and classification service center (RCSC)"; and revise the third sentence by changing "RCSC manager (or designee)" to "RCSC manager" to read as follows:]

A mailer who disagrees with a classification decision by a local post office, whether on a pending or proposed mailing, may send a written appeal to the postmaster within 30 days. The appeal is forwarded to the appropriate rates and classification service center (RCSC), which issues the final agency decision. Only the RCSC manager may rule on such an appeal and on any appeal or initial request for a ruling on an exception to a USPS standard in the DMM.

3.2 Expedited Oral Decision

[Revise the third sentence of 3.2 by changing "RCSC manager (or designee)" to "RCSC manager" to read as follows:]

A mailer who receives an adverse ruling from a post office, whether on a pending or proposed mailing, may request the RCSC manager to provide an expedited oral decision on appeal, which is then confirmed in writing. This request for an expedited appeal may be made by telephone. The RCSC manager determines whether the appeal or individual questions in the appeal can be decided on an expedited basis.

* * * * *

3.4 RCSC Decision

[Revise 3.4 by changing "RCSC manager or designee" to "RCSC manager" and by changing "Mail Preparation and Standards manager" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)" to read as follows:]

Any mail classification decision made initially by the RCSC manager may be appealed within 15 days to the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address), who has sole authority to render a decision on such appeals.

* * * * *

G040 Information Resources

* * * * *

G043 Address List for Correspondence

POSTAL SERVICE

* * * * *

[Revise G043 by changing "MAIL PREPARATION AND STANDARDS" to "MAILING STANDARDS" and by changing "PRICING AND PRODUCT DESIGN" to "PRICING AND CLASSIFICATION" to read as follows:]

MAILING STANDARDS
US POSTAL SERVICE
1735 N LYNN ST RM 3025
ARLINGTON VA 22209-6038

* * * * *

PRICING AND CLASSIFICATION
US POSTAL SERVICE
1735 N LYNN ST RM 6029
ARLINGTON VA 22209-6003

* * * * *

G090 Experimental Classifications and Rates

G091 NetPost Mailing Online

* * * * *

2.0 MAIL CLASSIFICATION

* * * * *

2.2 Revenue Deficiency Procedures

[Revise the last sentence of 2.2 by changing "Manager, Mail Preparation and Standards, USPS Headquarters" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)" to read as follows:]

If a classification decision is made by the USPS that matter was ineligible for Standard Mail or Nonprofit Standard Mail rates because of a customer's failure to meet applicable standards, the USPS may take steps to recover the deficiency amount by advising the customer that the credit card account will be billed for the difference between the rate paid and the applicable First-Class Mail rate or Standard Mail rate paid, in accordance with the terms and conditions of use for the program. At such time, the customer also will be advised that the classification decision and related revenue deficiency may be appealed by submitting a letter to the NetPost Mailing Online Program Manager (see G043 for address). If the customer appeals, NetPost Mailing Online will refer the appeal to the Rates and Classification Service Center (RCSC) in Chicago, Illinois, for a final agency decision except in the case of Nonprofit Standard Mail. An RCSC decision upholding a revenue deficiency for Nonprofit Standard Mail may be appealed through the RCSC to the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address) for a final agency decision.

* * * * *

G095 Presorted Priority Mail

* * * * *

6.0 REVOCATION

6.1 Discontinued Eligibility

[Revise the introductory sentence of 6.1 by changing "Manager, Mail Preparation and Standards" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)" to read as follows:]

The manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address) may revoke a mailer's authorization to participate in the experiment if that mailer:

* * * * *

6.3 Appeal

[Revise the second sentence of 6.3 by adding "through the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)" to the end of the sentence to read as follows:]

The participant may file a written appeal of revocation within 15 days from the date of the receipt of the notice, with evidence explaining why the authorization should not be revoked. The appeal must be filed with the Presorted Priority Mail Experiment Management Review Board, through the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address). Decisions of the Board are final.

G900 Philatelic Services

* * * * *

2.0 SPECIAL CANCELLATIONS

* * * * *

2.3 Application

A written application for a special cancellation die hub must be submitted to the postmaster at the post office where the special cancellation is to be used. The application must be submitted by the sponsor at least 4 months before the date the special cancellation is to be used. The application must provide this information:

* * * * *

[Revise the second sentence of 2.3b by changing "Mail Preparation and Standards manager, USPS Headquarters" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)" to read as follows:]

b. The wording of the special cancellation, which must be standardized and approved by the sponsor's national headquarters when the sponsor is an affiliate or local chapter of a national organization. Standardized requests for national events must be forwarded to the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address). Space available for the wording is limited to three lines of not more than 20 letters, numbers, or spaces each. Illustrations or designs may not be used. The wording must directly reflect the event to be commemorated.

* * * * *

2.7 After Use

[Revise 2.7 by changing "Mail Preparation and Standards manager, USPS Headquarters" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)" to read as follows:]

Used die hubs may not be given to sponsors or transferred to another post office. A request from the sponsor that a special cancellation die hub be kept for an appropriate purpose (e.g., placement in a museum, library, or historical site) may be approved by the manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address).

* * * * *

P Postage and Payment Methods

P000 Basic Information

P010 General Standards

P011 Payment

* * * * *

4.0 REVENUE DEFICIENCY-GENERAL

* * * * *

4.2 Appeal of Ruling

Except as provided under 5.0 and E670, a mailer may appeal a revenue deficiency assessment by sending a written appeal within 30 days of receipt of the notification to:

* * * * *

[Revise the first sentence of 4.2c by changing "manager, Mail Preparation and Standards" to "manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address)"; and revise the second sentence by changing "manager, Mail Preparation and Standards" to "manager of Mailing Standards" to read as follows:]

c. The manager of Mailing Standards (see G043 for address), if the RCSC manager first assessed the deficiency. The manager of Mailing Standards issues the final USPS decision.

* * * * *

5.0 REVENUE DEFICIENCY-NONPROFIT STANDARD MAIL

5.1 Assessment and Appeal

[Revise 5.1 to read as follows:]

A revenue deficiency may be assessed in the amount of the unpaid postage against any person or organization that mailed, or caused to be mailed, ineligible matter at the Nonprofit Standard Mail rates in violation of E670. Nonprofit mailers have two levels of appeal for revenue deficiency assessments as shown in Exhibit 5.1. All appeals must be submitted in writing within 30 days of the previous USPS decision. Any decision that is not appealed as prescribed becomes the final agency decision, with no appeal available within the USPS beyond the second appeal.

Exhibit 5.1
Nonprofit Appeal Process

* * * * *

- Mailing Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 3-6-03

DMM Revision/Handbook DM-701 Obsoletion

Precanceled Stamps - Mailer Precancelation Authorization

Effective March 6, 2003, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) P023.3.1 and P023.3.2 are revised to clarify the approval process for mailer authorizations to preprint rate markings on precanceled stamps or to use a precancel postmark on adhesive stamps, stamped cards, and stamped envelopes. This additional information was derived from Handbook DM-701, Procedures for Mailer Applications.

With this DMM revision, Handbook DM-701 will be eliminated because the information included in that handbook - such as information on authorizations for permit imprints, precanceled postage, postage payment systems, plant-verified drop shipments, and Periodicals mailing privileges - has now been updated and transferred to other Postal Service handbooks and publications.

We will incorporate these revisions 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)

* * * * *

P Postage and Payment Methods

P000 Basic Information

* * * * *

P020 Postage Stamps and Stationery

* * * * *

P023 Precanceled Stamps

* * * * *

3.0 MAILER PRECANCELATION

3.1 Authorization

[Revise 3.1 to read as follows:]

A mailer must request authorization to preprint rate markings on precanceled stamps or to use a precancel postmark on adhesive stamps, stamped cards, and stamped envelopes. The applicant must submit a specimen mailpiece showing the preprinting method or proposed precancel postmark. If more than one preprinted marking is prepared or more than one format is used, a specimen for each must be submitted. Form 3615 must be endorsed "Preprinting of Rate Markings," or "Mailer's Precancel Postmark," or both, as appropriate. The application and format samples must be submitted to the postmaster of the office where the precanceled mailings are to be deposited for approval by the district Business Mail Entry manager. If the application and samples are approved, the applicant receives written notice of approval from the postmaster and a unique permit number assigned by the postmaster.

3.2 Denial

[Revise 3.2 to read as follows:]

If the application and format samples are not approved by the district Business Mail Entry manager, the applicant receives written notice from the postmaster stating the reasons for the denial and the applicant's appeal rights. The applicant may file a written appeal with the rates and classification service center (RCSC) serving the applicant's post office.

* * * * *

- Mailing Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 3-6-03

DMM REVISION

Five-Digit Scheme for Flats - Standard Mail Packaging

Effective March 6, 2003, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) M820.5.1a is revised to clarify the packaging requirements for automation rate Standard Mail flat-size pieces sorted using the 5-digit scheme under DMM L007.

Postal Bulletin 22092 (12-26-02, pages 26-41) introduced the standards for 5-digit scheme preparation for automation rate Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Bound Printed Matter flat-size pieces. Only pieces meeting the criteria for the automated flat sorting machine (AFSM) 100 can qualify for this 5-digit scheme preparation option. As a consequence, the dimensions of such pieces must fall within the inclusive ranges specified in DMM C820.2.0:

• Length: From 6 to 15 inches.

• Height: From 5 to 12 inches.

• Thickness: From 0.009 to 3/4 inch.

The revision to DMM M820.5.1 published in Postal Bulletin 22092 correctly identified that 5-digit scheme packages required a minimum number of pieces that could range from 10 to 17 pieces, if a consistent minimum number of pieces is used throughout a mailing job.

Current online DMM M820.5.1a, however, inadvertently implies that 5-digit scheme flat-size pieces may exceed the maximum thickness of 3/4 inch by providing a 10-piece minimum packaging standard for pieces thicker than 3/4 inch. Although that particular standard can apply to 5-digit packages if the prepared pieces meet the criteria for the FSM 1000 (which allow pieces, in certain cases, to be as thick as 1.25 inches), that same standard is not permitted for pieces prepared in the optional 5-digit scheme packages (which must meet the criteria for the AFSM 100).

We will incorporate these revisions 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

* * * * *

M Mail Preparation and Sortation

* * * * *

M800 All Automation Mail

* * * * *

M820 Flat-Size Mail

* * * * *

5.0 STANDARD MAIL

5.1 Packaging

Preparation sequence, package size, and labeling:

[Revise 5.1a to read as follows:]

a. 5-digit scheme (optional); 17-piece minimum, optional 10- to 16-piece minimum (one consistent minimum required for a mailing job); optional endorsement line (OEL) required.

* * * * *

- Mailing Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 3-6-03

REVISION

Mailpieces to Guam Weighing 16 Ounces or More

The article titled "Notice: Mailpieces to Guam Weighing 16 Ounces or More" in Postal Bulletin 22094 (1-23-03, page 29) related specifically to mail addressed to ZIP Codes beginning with 969 for Guam. This article is revised to include all mail addressed to ZIP Codes beginning with 969.

The Postal Service requests that customers affix either PS Form 2976, Customs Sender's Declaration, or PS Form 2976-A, Customs Declaration and Dispatch Note, on all mailpieces addressed to ZIP Codes starting with 969 weighing 16 ounces or more.

Express MailŪ service items and registered mailpieces to ZIP Codes beginning with 969 do not require PS Form 2976 or PS Form 2976-A.

If a customer refuses to complete and sign PS Form 2976 or PS Form 2976-A, as prescribed, the mailpiece could travel via ocean surface transportation during part of its trip to destination. Advise customers that the Postal Service will retain a copy of the declaration as a record of mailing for 30 days.

- Commercial Air Operations,
Network Operations Management, 3-6-03

U.S. ARMED FORCES

Free Mail Program

All employees who handle and deliver mail should be aware of the military free mail privilege in which mail as described below is processed and delivered without postage applied to the mailpiece. For such mail, employees must not collect postage upon delivery, or return mail to the sender for postage.

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

Under the provisions of Section 3401 (a)(1) of Title 39, United States Code (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 military operations in the following locations:

Operation Enduring Freedom

• Afghanistan

• Bahrain

• Diego Garcia

• Djibouti

• Ethiopia

• Jordan

• Kazakhstan

• Kuwait

• Kyrgyzstan

• Oman

• Pakistan

• Qatar

• Saudi Arabia

• Tajikistan

• United Arab Emirates

• Uzbekistan

• Yemen

• 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

• 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.

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, 3-6-03

NOTICE

Air Transportation Surcharge for Day-Old Poultry

This article provides information additional to the article in Postal Bulletin 22078 (6-13-02, page 12) titled "Notice: Air Transportation Surcharge on Day-Old Poultry."

Effective February 21, 2003, retail clerks are to collect a surcharge of $0.20 per pound (or a fraction thereof) on all day-old poultry transported by air. Retail clerks must calculate the surcharge manually or use the IRT or POS ONE calculator function and include the surcharge in the postage affixed to the day-old poultry shipment. They may use a separate PVI label or postage stamps for the surcharge. IRT users have an additional alternative. They may use the MISC Postage Key (the "M" key) to add the amount of the surcharge to the postage owed before printing the PVI label.

For destination ZIP Codes in Zones 4-8, day-old poultry shippers presenting a shipment must be notified that the surcharge of $0.20 per pound (or fraction thereof) will be applied.

For destination ZIP Codes in Zones 0-3, there is no surcharge. We expect that shippers will use only surface transportation in these zones.

Airport mail centers and airport mail facilities must assign the "L" alpha designator on the routing tags for day-old poultry.

- Commercial Air Operations,
Network Operations Management, 3-6-03