Employees (Continued)

Exhibit 5. FLSA CODE A REGULAR CARRIER

1. A regular carrier whose FLSA code is A is paid by the hour. Overtime is paid for all hours over 8 in a day or 40 in a week.

2. Carrier works 8.32 hours on Tuesday of Week 1. Enter 0.32 hours in the Daily Overtime block.

3. Carrier works relief day (Saturday) in Week 1. Include these hours in Actual Weekly Hours. Carrier is paid for these hours, so no X day is due.

4. Carrier works 39.88 total hours in Week 1.

5. Carrier works Christmas assistance (6 hours) on the relief day on the second Saturday. Record the Christmas assistance time in the Xmas Assist Work Hours block. Do not add to the Actual Weekly Work Hours. Overtime will be paid only if the carrier exceeds 40 hours for the week.

6. No manual computation for Christmas overtime is necessary. This is automatically computed. Carrier will receive 0.32 hours of overtime in Week 1, and 1.08 hours of overtime (35.08 + 06.00 = 41.08 hours) in Week 2.

Exhibit 6. DESIGNATION 74 WORKS DESIGNATED HOLIDAY

1. A rural carrier associate (RCA) is assigned to a vacant regular J route, with a relief day on Thursday of Week 2.

2. Carrier works the designated Christmas holiday on Wednesday, December 24th.

3. Do not enter V or H for working the Christmas holiday. Designation 74s are not entitled to holiday leave pay. Wednesday is a regular workday.

4. Include hours worked on Wednesday of Week 2 in Actual Weekly Hours.

5. Replacement carrier is not needed to crossfoot the card for the second week.

Exhibit 7. DESIGNATION 74 PROVIDES CHRISTMAS ASSISTANCE ON RELIEF DAY

1. The RCA is assigned to a vacant regular K route, with a relief day of Saturday.

2. On the first Saturday, the Des 74 carrier provides Christmas assistance for 7 hours. The replacement carrier works the route the entire day.

3. Enter K for the first Saturday.

4. Enter 7.00 hours in the Xmas Assist Work Hours block. Do not include these hours in the Actual Weekly Hours block.

5. Carrier will be paid 3.52 hours overtime (36.52 + 7.00 = 43.52).

6. Enter appropriate information for relief carrier in bottom section of time certificate.

Exhibit 8. REPLACEMENT CARRIER PROVIDES CHRISTMAS ASSISTANCE ON A REGULAR ROUTE

1. Regular carrier on Route K001 carries his/her route on regularly scheduled day.

2. Replacement carrier provides Christmas assistance on Route K001 for 3.25 hours on Tuesday, Week 1; 6.75 hours on Friday, Week 1; and 4.50 hours on Saturday, Week 2.

3. On each of these days, the replacement carrier spends 3 hours on the street and travels 40 miles each day (in his/her own vehicle).

4. Prepare PS Form 1314-A using the actual route number (K001) on which service was performed.

5. Enter 10.00 hours in the Xmas Assist Work Hours block for Week 1, and 4.50 hours for Week 2. Do not include these hours in Actual Weekly Work Hours.

6. Enter EMA data in the appropriate Equipment Allowance blocks.

7. Do not enter any information to the bottom (relief carrier) section of the card.

8. If the replacement carrier provides Christmas assistance on more than one regular route, complete a separate PS Form 1314-A for each route on which Christmas assistance is provided.

Exhibit 9. REPLACEMENT CARRIER PROVIDES CHRISTMAS ASSISTANCE ON AN AUXILIARY ROUTE

1. Replacement carrier provides 3.00 hours Christmas assistance on Route A003 on Monday, Week 1; 1.25 hours Christmas assistance on Route A009 on Thursday, Week 1; and 2.50 hours Christmas assistance on Route A003 on Saturday, Week 2. All hours are worked in the office, except 1 hour on the street on Saturday, Week 2 (10 miles).

2. Prepare one PS Form 1314-A using route number A998 for all Christmas assistance hours on auxiliary routes.

3. Enter hours worked in the Xmas Assist Work Hours block. Do not include in Actual Weekly Work Hours.

4. Enter EMA data in the appropriate Equipment Allowance blocks.

Exhibit 10. NONRURAL EMPLOYEE PROVIDES CHRISTMAS ASSISTANCE ON RURAL ROUTE (EMA ONLY)

1. Clerk works as a Christmas auxiliary assistant on Route J029 and provides her or his own vehicle.

2. Complete PS Form 1314-A, using Des Code 99 and the route number of the regular route. (Use A998 if assistance is provided on an auxiliary route.)

3. Enter the hours, trips, and miles in the Equipment Allowance blocks.

4. Do not enter any Actual Weekly Work Hours or Xmas Assist Work Hours. Work hours for nonrural employees are paid using their regular timekeeping system (e.g., manual timecards, TACS).

5. If Christmas assistance is provided on more than one regular route, complete a separate PS Form 1314-A for each employee and for each route on which they provide Christmas assistance.

6. If Christmas assistance is provided on more than one auxiliary route, combine the EMA data and enter the totals on one PS Form 1314-A using route number A998.

Exhibit 11. DESIGNATION 79 PROVIDES CHRISTMAS ASSISTANCE ON ASSIGNED AUXILLIARY ROUTE

1. Des 79 assigned to route A005 carried a regular route on Saturday, Week 2 and another replacement carrier worked on Saturday. Enter an N in the DACA block.

2. Des 79 provided 1.5 hours Christmas assistance on route A005 on Saturday, Week 2.

3. Des 79 took 4 hours of annual leave on Monday, Week 2.

4. Enter hours worked (1.5) in the Xmas Assist Work Hours block. Do not include in Actual Weekly Work Hours.

5. Enter the replacement carrier that carried route A005 on Saturday and Monday on the bottom of PS Form 1314-A.

- Payroll Accounting, Finance, 10-30-03

Handling Suspicious Mailpieces

Managers must continue to ensure that employees follow policies and procedures for handling suspicious mailpieces. The most recent incident involved the biotoxin ricin, a biochemical substance that is a potential terrorist threat.

Emergency action plans, as well as spill and leak standard operating procedures, must include instructions for handling suspicious mailpieces.

The recent tabletop exercises for "suspicious powder" contain guidance that you can apply to many incidents. See below for navigation information about where to find these tabletop exercises.

Members of the facility spill and leak teams have been trained at the OSHA First Responder operations level. Those team members must not take action beyond the defensive measures indicated in that training. If they suspect or confirm an emergency, they must retreat and call for expert assistance.

Actions to Take

Review emergency action plans (EAPs), continuity of operations plans (COOPs), and crisis management plans (CMPs), and other plans to ensure that they contain guidance for initial action, isolations, evacuations, notifications, and so on.

Use tabletop exercises (based on the suspicious powder exercises) to ensure everyone in management knows what to do.

Remind employees to be alert for suspicious mailpieces.

Post Poster 84, Suspicious Mail, which is available on the Postal Service PolicyNet Web site; go to http://blue.usps.gov; click on Posters. It is also available on the Internet; go to www.usps.com; click on About USPS & News, then Forms & Publications, then Browse All Periodicals & Publications, and then Posters (either PDF Format or Text Format).

Resources Available to You on the Safety Resources Web Site

In addition to Postal Service regulations and policies, the following resources are available on the Safety Resources Web site. (Go to the Intranet at http://blue.usps.gov; click on Headquarters, and under "Human Resources," click on Safety Performance Management, and then click on Safety Resources.)

• Emergency Action Plans (click on Emergency Management).

• Programs Guides for hazardous materials spill and leak programs at small and large facilities (click on Program Management).

• Suspicious powder tabletop exercises and checklists (click on Emergency Management).

• Links to OSHA and other web sites with information on emergency preparedness for all types of hazards, including biological and chemical terrorism (click on Useful Links).

- Safety Performance Management,
Employee Resource Management, 10-30-03

[D-Link]

Health Benefits Open Season

FEHB on PostaIEASE - New This Year!

The 2003 Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Open Season is scheduled for November 10 through December 9, 2003. For the first time, many open season changes may be made via self-service on PostaIEASE. During this open season, eligible employees may make any one, or a combination of, the following changes:

• Enroll if not enrolled.

• Change from one plan to another plan.

• Change from one option to another option.

• Change from Self Only to Self and Family.

• Change from Self and Family to Self Only.

• Cancel enrollment.

• Change from pre-tax to post-tax payment of health insurance premiums, or vice versa.

Enrollment changes and new enrollments made during the 2003 open season will be effective January 10, 2004 (Pay Period 03-04).

Distribution of Open Season Materials

Employees

Prior to the start of open season, the 2004 Guide to Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Plans for (1) Career employees (RI 70-2); (2) Postal Inspection Service and Office of Inspector General (OIG) employees (RI 70-2IN); and (3) Certain Temporary (Noncareer) employees (RI 70-8PS) will be mailed from the national level to each employee's address of record. Each 2004 Guide includes:

• Instructions for using PostaIEASE to make an Open Season election.

• An overview of FEHB Program eligibility requirements and election choices during open season.

• A table combining the FEHB permitting events that is shown on the current version of the SF 2809 and the IRS qualifying life status changes that allow pre-tax members to reduce or cancel FEHB coverage

• A comparison of biweekly premium costs of participating plans.

• An explanation of the pre-tax payment feature, including a revised listing of qualified life status changes.

• Enrollee survey results provided by the individual health plans.

• Information about accreditation of the key systems and processes that managed care organizations use.

Installations

Distribution of FEHB guides will be made as in previous years by Headquarters Compensation to customer service district offices, processing and distribution centers, airport mail centers, bulk mail centers, remote encoding centers, Office of the Inspector General and the Newark ISOSG.

Headquarters Compensation will arrange for personnel offices to receive an automatic distribution of the following:

• RI 70-2, 2004 Guide to FEHB Plans (postal career employees) - NSN 7690-03-000-3774.

• RI 70-21N, 2004 Guide to FEHB Plans (United States Postal Service (USPS) Inspectors and Office of Inspector General employees),

• RI 70-5, 2004 Guide to FEHB Plans (temporary continuation of coverage and former spouses) - NSN 7690-03-000-3772.

• Most fee-for-service plan brochures,

The Rural Carrier Benefit Plan will arrange to distribute to District and Area Human Resources offices the following:

• RI 72-5, Rural Carriers Benefit Plan (individual plan brochure for the Rural Carriers closed enrollment fee-for-service plan) - NSN 7690-03-000-3809.

Order from Topeka MDC:

• RI 70-8 PS, 2004 Guide to FEHB Plans (certain temporary/non-career employees) - NSN 7690-03-000-3754.

Offices may also requisition additional copies of all guides from the Topeka MDC.

Order from Headquarters Compensation Insurance Officer, if needed (limited supply):

• PS Form 8201, Pre-Tax Health Insurance Premium Waiver/Restoration Form for Career Employees.

• PS Form 8202, Pre-Tax Health insurance Premium Waiver/ Restoration Form for Non-career Employees.

Order directly from plan sponsors:

• Brochures for health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and Point of Service Plans (POSs).

Additional Information

Publication 12, Health Benefits Open Season Administrative and Processing Information, (November 2003) addresses FEHB open season administrative issues in more detail than the various guides. It contains information on:

• FEHB PostaIEASE requirements.

• Open season materials, including details of when and how to requisition a residual supply of materials.

• Eligibility requirements for coverage.

• A list of FEHB health plan terminations and other significant changes.

• Comprehensive medical plan (HMO) contact information.

• Personnel processing information.

• Open season publicity material.

Publication 12 may be found on the Postal Service Intranet web site at the following URL address: http://blue.usps.gov/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub12.pdf

- Compensation,
Employee Resource Management, 10-30-03

Finance

HANDBOOK F-1 REVISION

Credit and Debit Card Refunds, Retrievals, Chargebacks, Undercharges, and Overcharges

Effective October 1, 2003, Handbook F-1, Post Office Accounting Procedures, is revised to incorporate procedures for issuing refunds, retrievals, chargebacks, undercharges, and overcharges to credit card and debit card transactions.

We will incorporate these revisions into the next printed edition of Handbook F-1 and into the next update of the online version accessible on the Postal ServiceTM PolicyNet Web site at http://blue.usps.gov; click on More References; then HBKs.

Handbook F-1, Post Office Accounting Procedures

* * * * *

3 Managing Postal Funds

31 Acceptable Payment for Postal Goods and Services

* * * * *

317 Credit and Debit Cards

* * * * *

[Revise the title and text of 317.5 to read as follows:]

317.5 Credit and Debit Card Amount Discrepancy

The accounting service center (ASC) verifies daily credit and debit card transactions by comparing amounts reported on the unit's PS Form 1412 to the automated file generated by the card processor. Any difference requires an adjustment to the unit's expense account.

* * * * *

[Revise the title and text of 317.7 to read as follows:]

317.7 Issuing Refunds for Credit and Debit Cards

All refunds and exchanges are processed at the postal retail unit or Post Office per the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), Section PO14, Refunds and Exchanges. Postal Service refund and exchange policies are the same regardless of whether the payment method is cash, check, credit card, or debit card.

317.71 Retrieval Requests

A retrieval request is a request initiated by a customer's credit or debit card company for a legible copy of a credit or debit card receipt. The card company is required to fax a retrieval request to the ASC. The ASC, in turn, contacts the postal retail unit or Post Office where the original transaction occurred. The postal retail unit or Post Office must promptly locate the requested receipt, enlarge it on the photocopy machine, if possible, and fax or mail the photocopy of the information to the ASC.

Note: Processing a retrieval request is a time-sensitive procedure; the postal retail unit or Post Office postmaster, supervisor, or officer in charge must respond to the ASC immediately after receiving a request. Failure to do so could result in monetary loss of the sale and expense item for the postal retail unit or Post Office.

317.72 Chargebacks

A chargeback occurs when the bank debits the Postal Service for a previously settled credit/debit card transaction. If this occurs, the ASC will contact the postal retail unit or Post Office postmaster, supervisor, or officer in charge for documentation of the transaction. If the chargeback is not resolved, the ASC will expense the disputed amount to the postal retail unit or Post Office. If a Sales and Service associate (SSA) accepted the credit card incorrectly, the postal retail unit or Post Office is responsible for initiating collection procedures to clear the expense.

Note: Do not give the customer a copy of the Postal Service's credit or debit receipt. If a customer requests a copy of the receipt, refer the customer to his or her bank for assistance. A chargeback must be disputed within the time frame established by the credit card company. The postal retail unit or Post Office postmaster, supervisor, or officer in charge must respond to a chargeback immediately after receiving a request. Failure to do so could result in monetary loss of the sale and expense for the postal retail unit or Post Office.

317.8 Overcharges

[Revise the title and text of 317.81 to read as follows:]

317.81 Credit Card Overcharges

Same Day

If a customer reports an error on the day of the transaction, the transaction should be voided and the card reprocessed for the correct amount.

Note: A credit card void must be processed by the same SSA, on the same day, and on the same terminal as the original transaction.

If the original SSA is not available follow the procedures for Subsequent Day.

Subsequent Day

If a customer reports an error after the day of the transaction, then the postmaster, supervisor, or designated employee at the postal retail unit or Post Office verifies that the customer card was overcharged. If the customer card was overcharged, the postal employee who completed the original transaction enters the overcharged amount into AIC 247, Financial Difference-Overage. The postal retail unit or Post Office then calls the Accounting Help Desk to obtain information about the documentation required to process the adjustment.

Note: ASCs are the only facilities authorized to issue credit to card companies for transactions that originate at postal retail units and Post Offices.

[Revise the title and text of 317.82 to read as follows:]

317.82 Credit Card Undercharges

If a customer reports an error on the day of the transaction, then void the transaction and reprocess the card for the correct amount.

Note: A credit card void must be processed by the same SSA, on the same day, and on the same terminal as the original transaction.

If the original SSA is not available follow the procedures for Subsequent Day.

Subsequent Day

If a customer credit card undercharge error is identified on a subsequent day, there are no provisions to recharge the customer. It is a violation of credit card rules and regulations to charge a customer without his or her knowledge or consent.

[Insert 317.83 to read as follows:]

317.83 Debit Card Overcharges

Same Day

If a customer reports an error on the day of the transaction, the postmaster, supervisor, or designated employee of the postal retail unit or Post Office will verify the debit card transaction by reviewing customer transaction receipt with the Postal Service employee's debit card transaction receipt. If the customer's debit card was overcharged, the postal employee who completed the original transaction must follow these steps:

1> Complete PS Form 3533, Application and Voucher for Refund of Postage, Fees, and Services. Write "debit overcharge" on the form, and include the debit card receipt information, the amount overcharged, and the signature of the supervisor or designated employee.

2> Issue the customer a cash refund or no-fee postal money order for overcharged amount. If cash is given, write the amount on PS Form 3533. If a money order is issued, record the amount and money order number on PS Form 3533. Have the customer sign PS Form 3533. Note: Do not make refund or disbursement entries on PS Form 1412.

3> Staple original debit card receipt to PS Form 3533 and submit it at close of business with all documents associated with PS Form 1412.

4> Ensure that AIC 772 on the PS Form 1412 matches the debit transaction amount from the debit card terminal.

Example: (This example applies to both POS ONE and IRT offices.) A customer purchases $3.70 in stamps and the Postal Service employee enters $37.00 when completing the debit card transaction on the terminal. Debit card transaction receipt reflects $37.00. The Postal Service owes the customer an overcharge amount of $33.30. Complete PS Form 3533 and give the customer cash or issue a no-fee money order.

If the SSA issues a cash refund, then the charges are recorded as follows:

Note: AIC 752 will automatically decrease by $33.30. This will balance the PS Form 1412.

If the SSA issues a no-fee money order, then the charges are recorded as follows:

Note: This will not affect AIC 752, Cash Remitted.

Subsequent Day

If a customer reports an error after the day of the transaction, the postmaster, supervisor, or designated employee of the postal retail unit or Post Office verifies whether the debit card transaction was overcharged. If the customer's debit card was overcharged the Postal Service employee who completed the original transaction enters the overcharged amount into AIC 247, Financial Differences-Overage. The employee then processes the adjustment by following section 317.81, Credit Card Overcharges, Subsequent Day.

* * * * *

- Revenue and Field Accounting,
Finance, 10-30-03

HANDBOOK F-1 REVISION

Examining Stamp Vending Equipment

Effective October 1, 2003, Handbook F-1, Post Office Accounting Procedures, is revised to incorporate procedures for the examination of vending equipment located in postal retail units, Post OfficesTM, or offsite locations.

We will incorporate these revisions into the next printed edition of Handbook F-1 and into the next update of the online version accessible on the Postal ServiceTM PolicyNet Web site at http://blue.usps.gov; click on More References; then HBKs.

Handbook F-1, Post Office Accounting Procedures

* * * * *

4 Managing Accountable Paper

* * * * *

42 Managing Accountable Paper at Stations, Branches, and Post Offices With Stamp Accountability

* * * * *

429 Conducting Examinations

* * * * *

429.4 Examining Stamp Vending Equipment

[Revise the text of 429.4 to read as follows:]

Use PS Form 3293, Retail Vending Credit Examination, for counts.

See also Handbook PO-102, Self Service Vending Operational and Marketing Program, Chapter 6, Examining Self Service Vending Credit.

* * * * *

- Revenue and Field Accounting,
Finance, 10-30-03

HANDBOOK M-32 REVISION

Stand-by Operations

Effective October 30, 2003, Handbook M-32, Management Operating Data Systems, is revised to emphasize the need for accurate accounting and use of stand-by operations to record nonproductive bargaining unit guaranteed hours.

We will incorporate these revisions into the next printed edition of Handbook M-32 and also into the online version of the handbook, which is accessible at the Postal ServiceTM PolicyNet Web site; go to http://blue.usps.gov; click on More References, then HBKs.

Handbook M-32, Management Operating Data Systems

* * * * *

3 Work Hours

* * * * *

3-4 Specific Clocking Procedures

* * * * *

[Revise title and text of 3-4.4 to read as follows:]

3-4.4 Stand-by Hours and Operations

Paid hours guaranteed by contractual agreements with the bargaining units that cannot be applied to performance of work must be recorded as nonproductive work hours using stand-by operation numbers.

3-4.4.1 Definitions

Stand-by hours are hours recorded for which career bargaining unit employees are guaranteed work hours, as required by applicable national labor agreements, but for which there is insufficient work available. Normally, stand- by time is used for unplanned, low-work-volume periods on a particular day or days, or unplanned events such as equipment or communication breakdowns. Other examples include idle time as a result of storms, power failures, and lack of work. Stand-by hours do not include nonproductive time for temporary equipment breakdowns of 10 minutes or less.

Stand-by operations are designated by operation numbers specifically provided for recording nonproductive hours in Section 3-4.4.6 and Appendix A.

3-4.4.2 Applicability to Facilities

This policy applies to bargaining unit work hours in Function 1 processing facilities, such as processing and distribution centers/facilities, bulk mail centers, and air mail centers or facilities; in Function 2 installations, such as Post OfficesTM, stations, and delivery distribution units; and in Function 4 retail units and central forwarding units.

Generally, remote encoding centers must use staffing flexibilities provided by their transition employee workforce to adjust to workload fluctuations. However, equipment and communication failures that are expected to be overcome, but meet the definition of nonproductive time above, are appropriate conditions for stand-by operations at remote encoding centers.

3-4.4.3 Responsibility

The vice president of Network Operations Management provides the policy direction and the reporting systems and operation numbers for recording all types of workhours, including those for stand-by operations.

Field site managers and supervisors have responsibility for directing and ensuring the accurate recording of nonproductive hours.

3-4.4.4 Use of Stand-by Operations

Recording of stand-by time is encouraged, when necessary, to accurately account for employee paid hours that cannot be used for productive work activity. Accurate recording produces a true picture of workload and productivity and is preferred over the concept of "keep employees busy" during short periods of no work in a day or a portion of the day.

Stand-by operations are intended for short-term use in response to situations that are not likely to continue.

Field managers must monitor stand-by time use on an ongoing basis to ensure that staffing and scheduling match workload requirements and must make adjustments as necessary to minimize nonproductive time.

Regular use of stand-by time for groups of employees or at regular time periods, or frequent use of Article 7.2.C provisions in national agreements, indicates a need for staffing adjustments. In those situations, stand-by operations should be used as necessary while complying with contract notice periods related to employee schedule, category, or excessing changes.

3-4.4.5 Placing Employees on Stand-by Operations

Employees who are directed to clock onto stand-by operations are "on the clock" and subject to the same direction, supervision, and work rules as when assigned to productive operations. Employees on stand-by should remain in the work facility in an area removed from normal work activity, such as in a break or meeting room, cafeteria, or an area designated for stand-by use. Employees must remain ready to assume normal work activities as needed and directed by supervisors.

3-4.4.6 Stand-by Operation Numbers

The following operations numbers should be used to record stand-by hours:

* * * * *

- Operations Technical Support,
Network Operations Management, 10-30-03

Information Technology

HANDBOOK REVISION

Handbook AS-805, Information Security

Handbook AS-805, Information Security, Section 9-7.9.3, Time-out Requirements (Re-authentication), is revised as follows to address inactivity time-out standards for workstations, applications, and remote access.

We will incorporate these revisions into the online version of this handbook available on the Postal ServiceTM PolicyNet Web site; go to http://blue.usps.gov; click on More References, then HBKs.

Handbook AS-805, Information Security

* * * * *

9 Information Security Services

* * * * *

9-7 Authentication

* * * * *

9-7.9 Session Management

* * * * *

9-7.9.3 Time-out Requirements (Re-authentication)

[Revise 9-7.9.3 to read as follows:]

9-7.9.3.1 Workstations

The inactivity time-out standard for all Postal Service workstations is 15 minutes. After 15 minutes of inactivity, the time-out event must, where the platform permits, automatically engage the password-protected screen saver or blank the screen and lock the keyboard to allow only the keying of the appropriate password. Manual re-authentication must be required before access to the workstation is re-established.

9-7.9.3.2 Applications

The inactivity time-out standard for all application sessions must be set at a minimum of 30 minutes, unless business and operational necessities dictate an extension on the period of inactivity. The business and operational needs and the risks associated with any extension of the 30-minute standard must be reviewed, approved, and documented in the ISA process.

9-7.9.3.3 Remote Access

For remote access, the communications session will be limited to 2 hours. After 2 hours, the workstation will be disconnected from the network. The normal workstation inactivity time-out standard described above applies.

* * * * *

- Corporate Information Security Office,
Information Technology, 10-30-03

International Mail

IMM AND PUBLICATION 51 REVISIONS

Japan - New Weight Limit for Parcel Post

Effective October 30, 2003, the International Mail Manual (IMM) and Publication 51, International Postage Rates and Fees, are revised to reflect a new weight limit of 66 pounds for international airmail and economy (surface) mail parcel post to Japan. Previously, the weight limit was 44 pounds.

We will incorporate these revisions into the printed version of IMM 30 and into the next printed version of Publication 51, and also into the online versions of the IMM and Publication 51, both of which can be accessed via Postal Explorer at http://pe.usps.gov.

International Mail Manual (IMM)

* * * * *

Country Conditions for Mailing

* * * * *

Japan

* * * * *

Airmail Parcel Post Rates

[Revise the Airmail Parcel Post Rates table by adding weights and rates from 45 pounds to 66 pounds and by changing the last line, to read as follows:]

* * * * *

Economy Mail Parcel Post Rates

[Revise the Economy Mail Parcel Post Rates table by adding weights and rates from 45 pounds to 66 pounds and by changing the last line, to read as follows:]

* * * * *

Publication 51, International Postal Rates and Fees

* * * * *

Rate Tables

* * * * *

Table 9: Parcel Post

Table 9a: Airmail Parcel Post

[Revise the column for Rate Group 4, which is for Japan, by adding prices for weights from 45 pounds to 66 pounds, to read as follows:]

* * * * *

Table 9b: Economy (Surface) Parcel Post

[Revise the column for Rate Group 4, which is for Japan, by adding prices for weights from 45 pounds to 66 pounds, to read as follows:]

* * * * *

Country Listing

* * * * *

[Revise the entry for Japan to read as follows (showing a revision in the "Parcel Post Max. Weight Limit (lb.)" column):]

- Mailing Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 10-30-03

IMM REVISION

Revised U.S. Exchange Office Code

Effective October 30, 2003, International Mail Manual (IMM) 292.455 is revised to reflect a change to a U.S. exchange office code.

We will incorporate this revision into the printed version of IMM 30 and also into the online version of the IMM, which can be accessed via Postal Explorer at http://pe.usps.gov.

International Mail Manual (IMM)

* * * * *

2 Conditions for Mailing

* * * * *

290 Commercial Services

* * * * *

292 International Priority Airmail Service

* * * * *

292.4 Preparation Requirements for Individual Items

* * * * *

292.45 Sacking Requirements

* * * * *

292.455 Preparation Requirements for Canada

* * * * *

[Revise the example in 292.455a to read as follows:]

Example:

* * * * *

Exhibit 292.455 Canadian Labeling Information

[Revise Exhibit 292.455 by changing the U.S. Exchange Office Code in the first entry so that the entire first entry reads as follows:]

* * * * *

- International Network Operations,
Network Operations Management, 10-30-03

ICM UPDATES

International Customized Mail

We have combined ICM updates into one Postal Bulletin article to save space and paper. 8 ICM updates appear here.

On August 4, 2003, the Postal Service entered into an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement with a Qualifying Mailer. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service now makes public the following information concerning the Agreement:

a. Term: August 18, 2003, through August 17, 2006.

b. Type of mail: Global Express MailTM (EMS). Every item must conform to the mailing requirements set forth in the IMM for EMS.

c. Destination countries: Worldwide.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: The Postal Service has agreed to transport EMS to international destinations for delivery by the appropriate authorities.

e. Minimum volume commitments: The Mailer has agreed to meet an annualized minimum commitment of $60,000 in postage for EMS.

f. Worksharing: The Mailer has agreed to:

1. Comply with the terms and conditions for mailing EMS as set forth in the IMM.

2. Pay postage for EMS by means of a dedicated Express Mail Corporate Account (EMCA) in accordance with the EMCA requirements set forth in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM).

g. Rates: The Mailer has agreed to pay postage at a rate discounted at twelve (12) percent off nondiscounted published rates in effect on the date of mailing in accordance with Exhibit 1.

Exhibit 1

On August 4, 2003, the Postal Service amended an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement dated September 9, 2002. The Agreement was published on page 72 of Postal Bulletin 22086 (10-03-02). The Amendment modifies the term of the Agreement. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service previously announced entering into an International Customized Mail Service Agreement with this qualifying mailer and now makes public the following information regarding this Amendment:

a. Term: September 23, 2002, through September 24, 2004.

b. Type of mail: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

c. Destination countries: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

e. Minimum volume commitments: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

f. Worksharing: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

g. Rates: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

On August 18, 2003, the Postal Service entered into an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement with a Qualifying Mailer. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service now makes public the following information concerning the Agreement:

a. Term: September 1, 2003, through August 31, 2005.

b. Type of mail: Global Express MailTM (EMS). Every item must conform to the mailing requirements set forth in the IMM for EMS.

c. Destination countries: Worldwide.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: The Postal Service has agreed to transport EMS to international destinations for delivery by the appropriate authorities.

e. Minimum volume commitments: The Mailer has agreed to meet an annualized minimum commitment of $12,000 in postage for EMS.

f. Worksharing: The Mailer has agreed to:

1. Comply with the terms and conditions for mailing EMS as set forth in the IMM.

2. Pay postage for EMS by means of a dedicated Express Mail Corporate Account (EMCA) in accordance with the EMCA requirements set forth in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM).

g. Rates: The Mailer has agreed to pay postage at a rate discounted at eight (8) percent off nondiscounted published rates in effect on the date of mailing in accordance with Exhibit 1.

Exhibit 1

On August 11, 2003, the Postal Service entered into an International Customized Mail (ICM) service Agreement with a qualifying mailer. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the USPS hereby makes public the following information concerning the Agreement:

a. Term: August 9, 2003, through August 31, 2004.

b. Type of mail: Global Express MailTM (EMS). Every item must conform to the mailing requirements set forth in the IMM for Qualifying Mail.

c. Destination countries: Worldwide.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: The Postal Service has agreed to:

1. Furnish Mailer with the equipment and supplies necessary for the use of Qualifying Mail.

2. Provide Mailer with the preparation requirements for Qualifying Mail and any training necessary to prepare Qualifying Mail in conformity with Postal Service requirements.

3. Arrange with carriers to transport Qualifying Mail to international destinations for delivery by the appropriate authority.

4. Provide Mailer with a Corporate Account Mailing Statement at the end of each postal accounting period.

e. Minimum volume commitment: The Mailer has agreed to tender a minimum of 25,000 pieces of Qualifying Mail on an annualized basis.

f. Worksharing: The Mailer has agreed to:

1. Pay postage for EMS in accordance with the payment methods referenced in IMM 220 and DMM P500 except as those requirements conflict with the terms of the Agreement.

2. Use a dedicated EMCA for payment of all Qualifying Mail shipments under this Agreement.

3. Use the EMCA number on all EMS shipments in lieu of affixing postage.

4. Provide the Postal Service with notification of each dedicated EMCA number used for Qualifying Mail before the first date of mailing.

g. Rates: The Mailer has agreed to pay postage for Qualifying Mail at a discount of thirteen and one half percent (13.5%) off the nondiscounted published rate.

On August 8, 2003, the Postal Service entered into an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement with a Qualifying Mailer. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service now makes public the following information concerning the Agreement:

a. Term: August 22, 2003, through August 21, 2004.

b. Type of mail: Global Express MailTM (EMS). Every item must conform to the mailing requirements set forth in the IMM for EMS.

c. Destination countries: Worldwide.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: The Postal Service has agreed to transport EMS to international destinations for delivery by the appropriate authorities.

e. Minimum volume commitments: The Mailer has agreed to meet an annualized minimum of 1,000 pieces of EMS or $20,000 in postage for EMS..

f. Worksharing: The Mailer has agreed to:

1. Comply with the terms and conditions for mailing EMS as set forth in the IMM.

2. Pay postage for EMS by means of a dedicated Express Mail Corporate Account (EMCA) in accordance with the EMCA requirements set forth in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM).

g. Rates: The Mailer has agreed to pay postage at a rate discounted at ten (10) percent off of non-discounted published rates in effect on the date of mailing in accordance with Exhibit 1.

Exhibit 1

On August 18, 2003, the Postal Service entered into an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement with a Qualifying Mailer. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service now makes public the following information concerning the Agreement:

a. Term: September 1, 2003, through August 31, 2004.

b. Type of mail: Global Express MailTM (EMS). Every item must conform to the mailing requirements set forth in the IMM for EMS.

c. Destination countries: Worldwide.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: The Postal Service has agreed to transport EMS to international destinations for delivery by the appropriate authorities.

e. Minimum volume commitments: The Mailer has agreed to meet an annualized minimum commitment of $12,000 in postage for EMS.

f. Worksharing: The Mailer has agreed to:

1. Comply with the terms and conditions for mailing EMS as set forth in the IMM.

2. Pay postage for EMS by means of a dedicated Express Mail Corporate Account (EMCA) in accordance with the EMCA requirements set forth in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM).

g. Rates: The Mailer has agreed to pay postage at a rate discounted at eight (8) percent off nondiscounted published rates in effect on the date of mailing in accordance with Exhibit 1.

Exhibit 1

On August 18, 2003, the Postal Service entered into an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement with a Qualifying Mailer. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service now makes public the following information concerning the Agreement:

a. Term: September 1, 2003, through August 31, 2004.

b. Type of mail: Global Express MailTM (EMS). Every item must conform to the mailing requirements set forth in the IMM for EMS.

c. Destination countries: Worldwide.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: The Postal Service has agreed to transport EMS to international destinations for delivery by the appropriate authorities.

e. Minimum volume commitments: The Mailer has agreed to meet an annualized minimum commitment of $20,000 in postage for EMS.

f. Worksharing: The Mailer has agreed to:

1. Comply with the terms and conditions for mailing EMS as set forth in the IMM.

2. Pay postage for EMS by means of a dedicated Express Mail Corporate Account (EMCA) in accordance with the EMCA requirements set forth in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM).

g. Rates: The Mailer has agreed to pay postage at a rate discounted at ten (10) percent off nondiscounted published rates in effect on the date of mailing in accordance with Exhibit 1.

Exhibit 1

On July 29, 2003, the Postal Service entered into an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement with a Qualifying Mailer. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service now makes public the following information concerning the Agreement:

a. Term: August 12, 2003, through August 11, 2005.

b. Type of mail: Global Express Mail (EMS). Every item must conform to the mailing requirements set forth in the IMM for EMS.

c. Destination countries: Worldwide.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: The Postal Service has agreed to transport EMS to international destinations for delivery by the appropriate authorities.

e. Minimum volume commitments: The Mailer has agreed to meet an annualized minimum commitment of $12,000 in postage for EMS.

f. Worksharing: The Mailer has agreed to:

1. Comply with the terms and conditions for mailing EMS as set forth in the IMM.

2. Pay postage for EMS by means of a dedicated Express Mail Corporate Account (EMCA) in accordance with the EMCA requirements set forth in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM).

g. Rates: The Mailer has agreed to pay postage at a rate discounted at eight (8) percent off nondiscounted published rates in effect on the date of mailing in accordance with Exhibit 1.

Exhibit 1

- Pricing Strategy,
Pricing and Classification, 10-30-03

Global Customs Forms Web Tools

The United States Postal ServiceŽ now has two new Web Tools designed to provide internet customers with the ability to generate and print customs forms from their personal computers.

The first of these new applications produces a black- and-white copy of PS Form 2976, Customs Declaration CN 22 - Sender's Declaration, which has an edition date of January 2004 and has the legend "Letter-Post" printed on it. PS Form 2976 is slightly modified from the printed Postal ServiceTM version that has an edition date of June 1997.

The second of these new applications produces a version of PS Form 2976-A, Customs Declaration and Dispatch Note - CP 72 (October 2001). The Web Tool- produced version is unchanged from the printed Postal Service version with the required number of copies.

Users can view images of the customs forms (which are similar to the Web Tool-produced versions) at www.usps.com/global/customs.htm - click on the links under "Declaration Forms."

At this time, users can print out only copies of these forms. At a later date, the Postal Service will offer the ability to complete and print out these customs forms online.

The criteria for using these customs forms are unchanged and appear in section 123 of the International Mail Manual (IMM), which is available online at http://pe.usps.gov. Retail offices must handle these Web- based customs forms the same way they do the Postal Service-printed versions of the customs forms.

Mailers who want information on how to integrate the online customs forms applications can go to the Web Tools site at www.uspswebtools.com or may e-mail their request to webtools@usps.com.

The Postal Service will revise PS Form 2976 and PS Form 2976-A next year to comply with Universal Postal Union (UPU) and World Customs Organizations (WCO) requirements. Look for a future Postal Bulletin notice announcing these changes.

- International Product Development,
Product Development, 10-30-03

Philately

Pictorial Cancellations Announcement

As a community service, the Postal ServiceTM offers pictorial cancellations to commemorate local events celebrated in communities throughout the nation. A list of events for which pictorial cancellations are authorized appears below. If available, the sponsor of the pictorial cancellation appears in italics under the date. Also provided, as space permits, are illustrations of those cancellations that were reproducible and available at press time.

People attending these local events may obtain the cancellation in person at the temporary Post OfficeTM station established there. Those who cannot attend the event, but who wish to obtain the cancellation, may submit a mail order request. Pictorial cancellations are available only for the dates indicated, and requests must be postmarked no later than 30 days following the requested pictorial cancellation date.

All requests must include a stamped envelope or postcard bearing at least the minimum First-Class MailŽ postage. Items submitted for cancellation may not include postage issued after the date of the requested cancellation. Such items will be returned unserviced.

Customers wishing to obtain a cancellation should affix stamps to any envelope or postcard of their choice, address the envelope or postcard to themselves or others,insert a card of postcard thickness in envelopes for sturdiness, and tuck in the flap. Place the envelope or postcard in a larger envelope and address it to: PICTORIAL CANCELLATIONS, followed by the NAME OF THE STATION,ADDRESS, CITY, STATE, ZIP+4 CODE, exactly as listed below (using all capitals and no punctuation, except the hyphen in the ZIP+4 code).

Customers can also send stamped envelopes and postcards without addresses for cancellation, as long as they supply a larger envelope with adequate postage and their return address. After applying the pictorial cancellation, the Postal Service returns the items (with or without addresses) under addressed protective cover.

The following cancellation contained the incorrect state abbreviation in the address to the right of the graphic (in Postal Bulletin 22113, 10-16-03, page 74). The corrected address appears here.

October 25-26, 2003

Madisonville Wooden Boat Festival

MADISONVILLE WOODEN BOAT FESTIVAL STATION

POSTMASTER

100 COVINGTON ST

MADISONVILLE LA 70447-9998

The following cancellations have been extended for 30 days.

September 22, 2003

Sociedad Filatelica de Puerto Rico Capitulo 342 de la American Philatelic Society

PURIPEX 2003 CENTENNIAL STATION

POSTMASTER

PICTORIAL CANCELLATION COORDINATOR

585 AVE FD ROOSEVELT STE 223

SAN JUAN PR 00936-9996

September 27-28, 2003

Howard Co. Antique Farm Machinery Club

FARM HERITAGE DAYS STATION

POSTMASTER

10501 OLD FREDERICK RD

WOODSTOCK MD 21163-9998

October 2, 2003

Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico Departamento de Recursos Naturales y Ambientales Administracion de Asuntos de Energia

CONSERVACION DE ENERGIA STATION

POSTMASTER

PICTORIAL CANCELLATION COORDINATOR

585 AVE FD ROOSEVELT STE 223

SAN JUAN PR 00936-9996

October 4-5, 2003

Postal Service

FALL FESTIVAL STATION

CRC

101 25TH ST

NEWPORT NEWS VA 23607-9998

October 6, 2003

200TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY STATION

POSTMASTER

101 RAILROAD AVE

EAST NEW MARKET MD 21631-9998

October 6, 2003

Postal Service

CELEBRATION STATION

POSTMASTER

20512 TODD AVE

BATTERY PARK VA 23304-9998

October 9, 2003

Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Puerto Rico

MUSEO DE ARTE CONTEMPORANEO DE PUERTO RICO STATION

POSTMASTER

PICTORIAL CANCELLATION COORDINATOR

585 AVE FD ROOSEVELT STE 223

SAN JUAN PR 00936-9996

October 10, 2003

GLEN ROCK STATION

POSTMASTER

143 EAST RIDGEWOOD AVE

RIDGEWOOD NJ 07451-9998

October 11-13, 2003

Postal Service

VAPEX STATION

CRC

PO BOX 2156

VIRGINIA BEACH VA 23450-9998

October 12, 2003

Postal Service

VAPEX STATION

CRC

PO BOX 2156

VIRGINIA BEACH VA 23450-9998

- Stamp Services,
Government Relations, 10-30-03

CORRECTION

Stamp Announcement 03-28, Stop Family Violence Semipostal Stamp

The article titled "Stamp Announcement 03-28: Stop Family Violence Semipostal Stamp" in Postal Bulletin 22111 (9-18-03, pages 104-106) stated that the first day of issue and city for this stamp were October 11, 2003, and Denver, Colorado. This information was modified after we published the article.

The actual first day of issue and city are October 8, 2003, and Washington, DC.

- Stamp Services,
Government Relations, 10-30-03

Post Offices

MOVER'S GUIDE NEWS

Publication 75, Mover's Guide - January 2004 Edition

The January 2004 edition of Publication 75, Mover's Guide, will begin arriving at your facility by the first week of December. Please do not use the January 2004 edition before January 1, 2004. The advertisers included in the January edition are not expecting to receive consumer requests until after that date.

If you run out of the September 2003 Mover's Guide before the next print cycle, you can order additional copies (up to 100) from the Material Distribution Center as follows:

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

Note: You must be registered to use TTOE. To register, call 800-332-0317, option 1, extension 2925, and follow the prompts to leave a message. (Wait 48 hours after registering before placing your first order.)

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

Use the following information to order the September 2003 edition of Publication 75:

PSIN: PUB 75
NSN: 7610-03-000-4795
Unit of Measure: EA
Bulk Pack Quantity: 100
Minimum Order Quantity: N/A
Quick Pick Number: 441
Price: N/A
Edition Date: 09/03

If you need more than 100 additional copies or would like to request any changes in the number of copies that your Post OfficeTM presently receives, contact Imagitas at 800-816-6837.

If Mover's Guide is not usually shipped directly to your facility, please begin placing your orders for the January 2004 edition by the last week of December. Follow the instructions given above for ordering from the MDC.

- Address Management,
Intelligent Mail and Address Quality, 10-30-03

Retail

CORRECTION

Priority Mail Service for Guam, APO/FPO

The article "What's in Store" in Postal Bulletin 22112 (10-2-03, page 82) included incorrect information. In the Retail Coaches Corner segment of What's in Store, under the heading "Priority Mail Service for Guam, APO/FPO," some qualifying information was omitted. The current text states "Domestic Priority Mail items to Army Post Offices, Fleet Post Offices, and Guam (plus other U.S. territories and possessions) weighing 16 ounces or more must include either PS Form 2976 or PS Form 2976-A." However, only U.S. territories and possessions with ZIP Code 969 must include PS Form 2976 or PS Form 2976-A.

Retail associates must reference the "Overseas Military Mail" article in the current edition of the Postal Bulletin to be sure of the latest conditions or restrictions of mailing regarding content, preparation, and handling.

The original article was in reference to Priority MailŽ service only. Other mail classes were not mentioned and the service information for those classes should not be assumed based on this article.

- Retail Operations,
Delivery and Retail, 10-30-03

Supply Management

FY 2004-2006 Investment Recovery Plan

Supply Management announces its Investment Recovery Plan (the "Plan"), the first strategic plan centered on investment recovery. The 2004-2006 Plan provides a strategic approach for completing the final phase of the life cycle of Postal ServiceTM equipment and material.

This dynamic plan provides guidance to the Postal Service for managing its excess, nonrepairable, or obsolete equipment and material. And it continues to evolve with the implementation of industry's best practices and the issuance of management instructions (MIs) for commodity- specific processes.

The Plan, which is cross-functional within the Postal Service and encompasses all category management centers (CMCs), takes a green logistics approach and ensures the Postal Service is consistent with the Environmental Protection Agency's requirements for decomposition, recycling, and material disposal.

The investment recovery process adds immense value by maximizing the return on inactive assets and realizing significant cost savings, cost avoidance, and revenue while providing for the environmentally safe disposal of material assets. Results from Fiscal Year 2003 show a significant increase in revenue, cost avoidance, and reallocation: $98 million (including $5.4 million in revenue), compared with $68 million (including $3.1 million in revenue) in the same period last year (SPLY).

The Plan is available on the Supply Management site at http://blue.usps.gov/purchase/material/IR/irpframes.htm (please note that this URL is case sensitive). Please take the time to review the contents of this plan and to understand the significance of your role. The success of the Plan lies with the user's understanding and compliance with the policies and procedures identified within.

- SCM Strategies,
Supply Management, 10-30-03

Industrial Equipment Supply Chain Initiative

The Delivery and Industrial Equipment Category Management Center (CMC) prequalified suppliers in the following four categories of industrial lifting equipment on August 1, 2003:

• Aerial lifts

• Dock lifts

• Container unloaders

• Work positioners

Experts from maintenance, engineering, and facilities and operations conducted a 6-month evaluation process of potential suppliers. These suppliers were evaluated in critical areas such as product line, program management, production capacity, maintenance/service capabilities, and financial responsibility. The Postal ServiceTM will award contracts by the end of November with the intent of forming a strategic partnership for industrial lifting equipment with one or more of the following prequalified suppliers:

Category A (Aerial Lifts)
JLG Industries Inc.
Lift-A-Loft Corp.
United Rentals

Category B (Dock Lifts)
Advance Lifts, Inc.
Autoquip Corporation (Werres)
Bishamon
Southworth

Category C (Container Unloaders)
Advance Lifts, Inc.
Haynes Enterprises
Lockheed Martin
Southworth
Systems & Electronics Inc. (SEI)

Category D (Work Positioners)
Advance Lifts, Inc.
Autoquip Corporation (Werres)
Bishamon
Southworth

If you have any questions regarding this initiative, contact Patrick J. Freeman, Purchasing and Supply Management Specialist, Delivery and Industrial Equipment CMC, 336-665-2876.

- SCM Strategies, Supply Management, 10-30-03

NEW NOTICE 23

28-Day HCR Transportation Pay Cycles Calendar, 2004-2005

Notice 23, 28-Day HCR Transportation Pay Cycles Calendar - 2004-2005, is printed on page 42. It is also available on the Postal ServiceTM PolicyNet Web site; go to http://blue.usps.gov; click on More References, then Notices.

- Surface Transportation CMC,
Supply Management, 10-30-03