USPSNEWS@WORK

True to LiteBlue: Employees keep the hits coming

LiteBlue at http://liteblue.usps.gov is the Postal ServiceTM Web site you can reach anywhere you have Internet access. The site has grown in popularity since PostalEASE was added during the open season in December.

Last week LiteBlue logged more than 2.5 million visits! And the numbers keep climbing. Usage peaked at almost 60,000 page views by more than 20,500 employees in a single day.

But LiteBlue's success is no bolt from the blue - it makes good sense. You can log on to LiteBlue from the comfort of your own or anywhere, any time you choose.

In addition to using PostalEASE, you can check out the latest employee deals, peruse internal job openings and read USPS News Link and other organization-wide communications. Just have your employee ID number and USPS PIN ready.

With all that convenience, it's no wonder employees are quickly clicking their way to LiteBlue!

Timeless honor: Commemorative stamp is tribute to former President Ronald Reagan

Our nation's 40th president, Ronald W. Reagan, will receive a timeless honor when the Postal Service issues a commemorative stamp bearing his image, Feb. 9 at first- day events across the nation.

The official first-day-of-issue event will take place at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, CA. Ceremonies also will be held in Sacramento, CA; Dixon, IL; and Washington, DC. The stamp will be available nationwide that day.

Announcing the stamp Postmaster General Jack Potter said, "The Postal Service is proud to add a commemorative postage stamp that recognizes the many honors that President Reagan, a man of diverse talents, accumulated throughout his life and beyond. The stamp will deliver a heart-warming message on letters and packages to Americans everywhere."

Reagan served as U.S. president, from 1981 until 1989. The Postal Service traditionally honors prominent Americans with a stamp no sooner than 10 years after their death. The one exception is for a U.S. president. Then a stamp may be issued on the first birth date following death. For Reagan that will be Feb. 6, 2005.

Former First Lady Nancy Reagan joined Potter for a special Nov. 9 unveiling. "My husband considered it the honor of a lifetime to serve as president," she said. "He would be touched by the special tribute bestowed upon him by the U.S. Postal Service."

The Ronald Reagan stamp issuance also will hold special meaning for USPS® Board of Governors Chairman James Miller. He served on President Reagan's cabinet as director of the Office of Management and Budget, and will serve as the dedicating USPS official at the Feb. 9 ceremony in Washington, DC.

In an interview for USPS-TV News, Miller remembers fondly the president known as "The Great Communicator," partly for the prodigious amount of personal correspondence he carried on during his lifetime.

"He wrote letters - more than 10,000 during his incredible lifetime - asked for copies of letters sent to the president and answered many of them in his own hand," Miller said. "It's a wonderful, appropriate thing for the Postal Service to honor him this way."

Reagan-themed stamps, keepsakes inside The Postal Store on USPS.com

Looking for a lasting way to mark this special occasion in history? The Postal Store on USPS.com® has keepsakes galore!

Choose from a variety of self-adhesive stamp packages, in addition to the official keepsake - 20 self-adhesive stamps and a collectible first-day cover.

Shop the wide selection of licensed Ronald Reagan commemorative merchandise - silver and gold key chains, a plaque, letter opener, canvas tote, mug, mouse pad and pen - plus a host of other patriotic collectibles and stamps. Buy one or collect them all while supplies last.

Be first in line to get stamps and postal cards by pre- ordering today. The Postal Store ships all orders the next business day - following the official release, of course. Don't wait - Feb. 9 will be here before you know it. Visit http://shop.usps.com/Reagan or call 800-STAMP-24.

Attention shoppers! USPS-branded shipping supplies available

Shipping Supplies: envelopes, tape, labels.

Stroll down the aisles of a K-Mart, Depot, Big Lots, Walmart and other retailers and you might be surprised to see a familiar logo on the shipping and mailing products available - the USPS eagle.

The Postal Service has licensed LePage's 2000 Inc. to sell quality USPS-branded shipping supplies at selected retail chains throughout the country. It makes sense when you think about it - the Postal Service has set the standard in shipping for more than 200 years.

And to drive that message , the USPS-branded packaging - which includes padded envelopes, tape, boxes, photo/document mailers, bubble wrap, bubble envelopes and even bubble CD-mailers - has the tagline "The Shipping Standard" right on it. In addition to getting the Postal Service brand wider exposure, the products have a great deal of revenue potential.

The products are intended to complement the ReadyPost® products already sold in Post OfficesTM, not replace them. "ReadyPost items are available for "convenience" shoppers to buy while they are in our offices," said Public Affairs and Communications Vice President Azeezaly Jaffer, "but many consumers stock up on shipping supplies while they're doing other shopping, so the LePage's products keep the USPS name in shoppers' minds when they're away from our Post Offices."

Now you're talking! The Postal Service is listening

Now you're talking - through your Voice of the Employee (VOE) survey.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of USPS employees take part in the survey. In fact, more people answered their VOE surveys in 2004 than ever before.

Please keep right on talking, because the next survey is here. If you're one of the 25 percent of USPS career employees who received a survey this quarter - speak up and let your voice be heard!

VOE is your chance to voice your opinion - about what we do well and what can be improved - about your workplace and the Postal Service overall. Every employee deserves a chance to be heard, and this is your chance.

Why fill out the survey? What we do for our customers is important. And, it's just as important that we work in an environment that helps us do our best for our customers. Knowing what you think about a wide range of job-related issues can help us do that.

As always, your response is confidential. Results are tabulated by an independent company, and no one from the Postal Service will see anyone's individual answers.

You have time on-the-clock- to complete the survey - it only takes about 15 minutes. When it's completed, you can return it to your survey administrator or mail it back yourself in the envelope provided.

VOE surveys are due back Feb. 28. Talk up a storm, talk shop - talk VOE. We're listening.

Sprinting to the top: Kansas postmaster takes early lead

Burdett, KS, Postmaster William Widiger sprinted to number one in the nation for the opening six days of the USPS Play the Zone contest.

"This is a small town, and the residents were buzzing about my being number one in the nation," Widiger says. "Some local business customers actually walked into the Post Office and asked me to give the presentation so I could get two points."

Two points at a time added up to a whopping 300-plus points for Widiger in Play the Zone - the contest to help promote USPS.com to business customers nationwide.

Postmasters and station or branch managers can score points now through March 11 based on the number of presentations they make to tell customers about USPS.com. Participants, who must be on My Post Office to play, can register anytime before the contest closing date. Top prize is a trip to the NCAA basketball finals, April 2-5.

Widiger also talked to everyone at the window or in the lobby, passed out USPS.com information cards and gave presentations to all interested customers. He talked to nearly 100 people in town during "Donut Days" in Burdett - population 407.

"It was a fun sprint," jokes Widiger, who held the number one spot until Jan. 26, when Orange, CT, Officer in Charge Laura Ambrogio moved into first.

As of Jan. 27, Ambrogio remained in first place with 404 points, followed closely by Widiger with 398 and Hampton, AR, Postmaster Dale Lindsey in third with 304 points. The Central Plains District is leading with the top district score so far.

Watch for more winning Play the Zone plays and check for updates on participants' scores on the USPS Business Connect Web site.

Projecting our future: Customer Connect hits all-time high

The holiday rush is behind us, but Customer Connect revenues for the first week of January held strong at more than $716,000. This brings fiscal year (FY) 2005 projected annualized Customer Connect revenues to $15.1 million, and $56 million since the program began. No surprise then that letter carrier participation also is at an all-time high - 25%.

The Pacific Area led the nation in sales for the week with more than $222,000 in projected sales revenue, followed by the Eastern Area, which topped $154,000.

The Western Area letter carriers submitted the most leads from Jan.1-7, and their leads totaled more than 3,700 so far this FY. That's a big chunk of the more than 23,000 total leads generated by the Customer Connect program.

Returning to center stage: Marian Anderson commemorative stamp

Marian Anderson stamp

The Marian Anderson stamp is the newest addition to the ongoing Black Heritage series. The stamp com- memorates one of the America's finest classical singers and a major figure in the struggle for racial equality.

The classically trained contralto was born in 1897 in Philadelphia, but first achieved success in Europe. Renowned conductor Arturo Toscanini called Anderson's "a voice one hears once in a hundred years."

Anderson was the first African-American woman to perform at the Metropolitan Opera. Her many honors included the Presidential Medal of Honor and United Nations Peace Prize.

USPS signs response plan

The Postal Service has joined other federal agencies in signing the National Response Plan developed by the U.S. Department of land Security. The plan establishes standards for all levels of government to work together to protect citizens and manage land security incidents. "We support a unified approach to emergencies that could challenge our way of life," said USPS Emergency Preparedness VP Henry Pankey.

Stuff that works

Amtrak's Arrive magazine paid tribute to the Postal Service in a recent issue. Writer Clint Williams reminded readers, "A person comes by my house, picks something up and delivers it anywhere in the country? And will come by my house nearly every day just to see if I have anything that needs picked up? And I get change back from two quarters?"

It's about service

Starting this year, the Universal Postal Union modified its terminal dues system for industrialized countries to introduce incentives for quality performance and penalties for poor performance - linking payments to service quality. Terminal dues are payments made to a destination country for the cost of delivering international mail. The industrialized countries affected by the change generate an estimated 80% of the world's international mail.

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 202-268-2225 at least 1 month preceding the requested delivery dates. The Postal ServiceTM 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.

Title of Mailing	Class and Type of Mail	Requested Delivery Dates	Number of Pieces (Millions)	Distribution	Presort Level	Comments
Ginny's	Standard/ Catalog	2/7/05-2/10/05	2.9	Nationwide	Barcoded, Basic, 3/5-Digit, Car-Rt	Quad Graphics, Lomira, WI
Betty Crocker's	Standard/ Flat	2/9/05-2/11/05	3.0	Nationwide	3/5-Digit, Car-Rt	Rodale Press
Midnight Velvet	Standard/ Catalog	2/14/05-2/17/05	4.025	Nationwide	Barcoded, Basic, 3/5-Digit, Car-Rt	Quad Graphics, Lomira, WI
The Swiss Colony	Standard/ Catalog	2/14/05-2/17/05	1.425	Nationwide	Barcoded, Basic, 3/5-Digit, Car-Rt	Quad Graphics, Lomira, WI
Growing Younger	Standard/ Flat	2/16/05-2/18/05	2.0	Nationwide	3/5-Digit, Car-Rt	Rodale Press
— Business Service Network Integration, Service and Market Development, 2-3-05

Domestic Mail

DMM REVISION

Labeling List Changes

Effective February 3, 2005, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®) L001, L007, and L606 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 April 17, 2005.

We will incorporate these revisions into the printed version of DMM 59 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, Standard Mail, and Package Services Flats and Irregular Parcels

* * * * *

Column A Destination ZIP Codes	Column B Label Container To
Change From:
32224, 40, 50	JACKSONVILLE FL 32250
48302, 04	BLOOMFIELD HILLS MI 48302
48306-08	ROCHESTER MI 48308
48320, 21, 40-43	PONTIAC MI 48343
85364-67, 69	YUMA AZ 85364
blank	blank
Change To:
32240, 50	JACKSONVILLE FL 32250
48301-04	BLOOMFIELD HILLS MI 48302
48306-08, 63	ROCHESTER MI 48308
48320, 21, 40-43, 87	PONTIAC MI 48343
85364-66, 69	YUMA AZ 85364
blank	blank
Add:
32227, 33, 66	ATLANTIC BEACH FL 32233
blank	blank
Delete:
33605, 75	TAMPA FL 33605
50322, 23	DES MOINES IA 50322

* * * * *

L007 5-Digit Scheme-Periodicals, Standard Mail, and BPM Flats in Bundles

* * * * *

Column A Destination ZIP Codes	Column B Label Container To
Change From:
64150, 52, 68	RIVERSIDE MO 64150
85364-67, 69	YUMA AZ 85364
blank	blank
Change To:
64150, 68	RIVERSIDE MO 64150
85364-66, 69	YUMA AZ 85364
blank	blank
Delete:
23111, 12	MECHANICSVILLE VA 23111
33605, 19, 75	TAMPA FL 33605

* * * * *

L600 Standard Mail and Package Services

* * * * *

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

* * * * *

Column A Destination ZIP Codes	Column B Label Container To
Change From:
66727, 36	FREDONIA KS 66736
90601, 08	WHITTIER CA 90601
blank	blank
Change To:
66714, 36, 59	FREDONIA KS 66736
90601, 02, 07, 08	WHITTIER CA 90601
blank	blank
Add:
90603, 04, 09	WHITTIER CA 90603
90605, 06, 10	WHITTIER CA 90605
blank	blank
Delete:
50313, 16	DES MOINES IA 50316
85207, 15	MESA AZ 85215
90602-07, 09, 10	WHITTIER CA 90602

* * * * *

— Logistics,
Network Operations Management, 2-3-05

DMM REVISION

Periodicals Mail Enclosed With Merchandise Sent at Parcel Post or Bound Printed Matter Rates

Effective February 3, 2005, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®) E710.1.0 is revised to provide a limited exception to the general rule against mailing copies of authorized and pending Periodicals publications at Package Service rates. This provision allows Periodicals publications to be included with merchandise mailed at Parcel Post® or Bound Printed Matter rates.

This change does not affect any eligibility standards (e.g., circulation requirements) for Periodicals rates. To determine postage on mail entered under the new standard, postage at the Parcel Post or Bound Printed Matter rates is based on the combined weight of the sample publication and the host piece.

Publishers and the Postal ServiceTM both want this change because it provides another venue for promoting Periodicals and Package Services. The new standards benefit customers, printers, advertisers, and all affected parties by providing an opportunity to increase subscriptions, thereby creating more revenue and volume.

Since advertising is not permitted in items mailed at Library Mail and Media Mail rates, enclosures of Periodicals sample copies are limited to Parcel Post and Bound Printed Matter mailpieces.

We will incorporate these revisions into the printed version of DMM 59 and into the online version available via Postal Explorer® at http://pe.usps.gov.

Domestic Mail Manual (DMM)

* * * * *

E Eligibility

* * * * *

E700 Package Services

E710 Basic Standards

1.1 Definition

[Revise first sentence to read as follows:]

Package Services mail consists of mailable matter that is neither mailed or required to be mailed as First-Class Mail nor entered as Periodicals mail (except as permitted under 1.7) unless permitted or required by standard or as Customized MarketMail under E660.***

* * * * *

[Add new section 1.7 to read as follows:]

1.7 Attachments or Enclosures of Periodicals Sample Copies

Sample copies of authorized and pending Periodicals publications may be enclosed or attached with merchandise sent at Parcel Post or Bound Printed Matter rates. Postage at the Parcel Post or Bound Printed Matter rates is based on the combined weight of the host piece and the sample copies enclosed.

* * * * *

— Mailing Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 2-3-05

DMM REVISION

Signature Confirmation Service - Elimination of Signature Waiver

Effective February 3, 2005, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®) S919 is revised to reflect the elimination of the signature waiver option for Signature ConfirmationTM service.

Signature Confirmation service currently includes a signature waiver option that allows the sender to waive the signature requirement and accept the Postal ServiceTM delivery employee's signature and date and time of delivery as proof of delivery. If a mailer selects the signature waiver option, the mailer is provided with only the date and time of delivery in the delivery record. The signature waiver option is not available when Signature Confirmation service is combined with other special services.

Signature waiver was requested by Delivery ConfirmationTM service mailers who agreed to participate in testing the Signature Confirmation service, but who did not want to inconvenience their customers by requiring them to sign for their items. Now that Signature Confirmation service is fully implemented and widely recognized, the signature waiver feature is no longer necessary. PS Form 153, Signature Confirmation Service, has been modified to reflect these changes. See page 7 for a graphic of the revised PS Form 153. For ordering information, see the article "Revised Form: PS 153, Signature Confirmation" on page 23.

We will incorporate these revisions into the printed version of DMM 59 and into the online version available via Postal Explorer® at http://pe.usps.gov.

Domestic Mail Manual (DMM)

* * * * *

S Special Services

* * * * *

S900 Special Postal Services

* * * * *

S919 Signature Confirmation

1.0 BASIC INFORMATION

* * * * *

1.10 Signature Waiver

[Delete 1.10, Signature Waiver, in its entirety.]

2.0 LABELS

2.1 Types of Labels

* * * * *

Exhibit 2.1a Form 153

[Replace the graphic with the following:]

PS Form 153

* * * * *

— Mailing Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 2-3-05

DMM REVISION

Products Mailable at Nonprofit Standard Mail Rates

Effective January 1, 2005, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®) E670.5.11 is revised. Under statutory restrictions implemented in DMM E670, products may not be mailed at the Nonprofit Standard Mail rates unless the products meet at least one of three exceptions. Under the Internal Revenue Code, a low-cost item is one of these exceptions.

The value of a low-cost item - the actual cost to the authorized nonprofit organization - is determined each year by the Internal Revenue Service, based on cost of living. For 2005, the maximum value of a low-cost item has been adjusted from $8.20 in 2004 to $8.30.

We will incorporate this revision in the printed version of DMM 59 and into the online version available via Postal Explorer® at http://pe.usps.gov.

Domestic Mail Manual (DMM)

* * * * *

E Eligibility

* * * * *

E600 Standard Mail

* * * * *

E670 Nonprofit Standard Mail

* * * * *

5.0 ELIGIBLE AND INELIGIBLE MATTER

* * * * *

5.11 Products Mailable at Nonprofit Standard Mail Rates

The following products are mailable at Nonprofit Standard Mail rates:

[Revise item a to reflect a change in the maximum allowed value of low-cost items as follows:]

a. Low-cost items within the meaning of 26 USC 513(h)(2), Internal Revenue Code. At the beginning of each calendar year, the value of low-cost items is adjusted for cost of living. Effective January 1, 2005, the standard established that the cost of such items cannot exceed $8.30.This cost is the cost to the authorized organization that mails the items or on whose behalf the items are mailed.

* * * * *

— Mailing Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 2-3-05

DMM REVISION

Changes to Labeling Mixed ADC Bundles and Sacks

Effective February 3, 2005, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®) E650, L000, M013, M045, M210, M610, M700, M800, and M900 are revised to change the standards for labeling bundles and sacks of flats (except First-Class Mail® items) and certain irregular parcels sorted to the mixed area distribution center (ADC) level. These revisions affect information included in the optional endorsement line (OEL) of bundles and in line 1 (destination) of labels in sacks containing presorted and automation rate Periodicals flats and irregular parcels, presorted, and automation rate Standard Mail® flats, Standard Mail irregular parcels of uniform thickness, and Packages Services flats. These revisions do not affect bundles labeled with sensitive pressure labels.

New labeling list L009 is established to consolidate the processing of the relatively low volume of mail at the mixed ADC level. Mixed ADC sacks (and bundles labeled using OELs) for the types of mail noted above will be labeled to destinations indicated by list L009, which will result in more efficient utilization of the Postal ServiceTM processing network. This will concentrate processing of this mail at 35 processing facilities rather than the approximately 100 ADCs currently designated. This change to destination labeling does not create any additional mail preparation for mailers; mailers currently entering mail within the service area of the 35 processing facilities listed in new list L009 may not experience any changes at all in their labeling.

The lead-time provided by this notice is to allow mailers, software developers, and postal employees time to make adjustments and check stock of existing labels. Managers of business mail entry should ensure that all Postal Service acceptance employees have access to new mixed ADC sack labels and that obsolete labels are no longer used as of the effective date. Mailers may immediately begin labeling mixed ADC bundles and sacks of Periodicals, Standard Mail, Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, and Library Mail flats; Periodicals irregular parcels; and Standard Mail irregular parcels of uniform thickness, in accordance with these revisions, but they must incorporate these labeling changes no later than May 15, 2005.

Also effective February 3, 2005, DMM labeling lists L802 and L803 are moved to the general use sections and renumbered as L010 and L011.

We will incorporate these revisions into the printed version of DMM 59 and into the online version available via Postal Explorer® at http://pe.usps.gov.

Domestic Mail Manual (DMM)

* * * * *

E Eligibility

* * * * *

E600 Standard Mail

* * * * *

E650 Destination Entry

* * * * *

5.0 DBMC DISCOUNT

* * * * *

5.4 Eligibility in Mixed ADC Bundles, Sacks, or Trays or Mixed AADC Trays

* * * * *

[Revise item b to read as follows:]

b. The bundle, sack, or tray containing such pieces must be labeled using labeling list L009, effective May 15, 2005. Until then, labeling may be under either L010 or L009.

* * * * *

L Labeling Lists

L000 General Use

* * * * *

[Add new labeling list L009 to read as follows:]

L009 Mixed ADCs-Periodicals Flats and Irregular Parcels, Standard Mail and Package Services Flats, Standard Mail Irregular Parcels (of uniform thickness)

Effective May 15, 2005, L009 must be used (mailers may use this list immediately) to label mixed ADC bundles and sacks of Periodicals, Standard Mail, Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, and Library Mail flats. L009 must also be used to label mixed ADC bundles and sacks containing Periodicals irregular parcels and mixed ADC bundles and sacks containing Standard Mail irregular parcels of uniform thickness (under M610.5.0). Mail originating in the 3-digit ZIP Code areas in Column A must be labeled by using the corresponding destination line in Column B.

Column A 3-Digit ZIP Code Prefix Group	Column B Label to
005, 068-079, 085-089, 100-119, 124-127	MXD DV DANIELS NJ 07099
006-009	MXD SAN JUAN PR 006
010-067, 120-123, 128, 129	MXD SPRINGFIELD MA 010
080-084, 137-139, 169-199	MXD PHILADELPHIA PA 190
130-136, 140-149	MXD BUFFALO NY 140
150-168, 260-266, 439-447	MXD PITTSBURGH PA 150
200-212, 214-239, 244, 254, 267, 268	MXD JCTM WASH DC 20495
240-243, 245-249, 270-297, 376	MXD GREENSBORO NC 270
250-253, 255-259, 400-418, 421, 422, 425-427, 430-433, 437, 438, 448-462, 469-474	MXD CINCINNATI OH 450
298, 300-312, 317-319, 350-352, 354-368, 373, 374, 377-379, 398, 399	(PER only) MXD NORTH METRO GA 301
298, 300-312, 317-319, 350-352, 354-368, 373, 374, 377-379, 398, 399	(STD and PKG SVCS only) MXD ATLANTA GA 303
299, 313-316, 320-339, 341, 342, 344, 346, 347, 349	MXD JACKSONVILLE FL 320
369-372, 375, 380-397, 700, 701, 703-705, 707, 708, 713, 714, 716, 717, 719-729	MXD MEMPHIS TN 380
420, 423, 424, 475-479, 614-620, 622-631, 633-639	MXD ST LOUIS MO 630
434-436, 465-468, 480-497	MXD DETROIT MI 481
463, 464, 530-532, 534, 535, 537-539, 600-611, 613	MXD IRVING PARK RD IL 607
498, 499, 540-551, 553-564, 566	MXD MINNEAPOLIS MN 555
500-516, 520-528, 612, 680, 681, 683-689	MXD DES MOINES IA 500
565, 567, 580-588	MXD FARGO ND 580
570-577	MXD SIOUX FALLS SD 570
590-599, 821	MXD BILLINGS MT 590
640, 641, 644-658, 660-662, 664-679, 739	(PER only) MXD KANSAS CITY MO 64240
640, 641, 644-658, 660-662, 664-679, 739	(STD and PKG SVCS only) MXD KANSAS CITY MO 66340
690-693, 800-816, 820, 822-831, 856, 857	MXD DENVER CO 800
706, 710-712, 718, 733, 747, 750-799, 885	(PER only) MXD NORTH TEXAS TX 750
706, 710-712, 718, 733, 747, 760-799, 885	(STD and PKG SVCS only) MXD FT WORTH TX 760
730, 731, 734-738, 740, 741, 743-746, 748, 749	MXD OKLAHOMA CITY OK 730
750-759	(STD and PKG SVCS only) MXD DALLAS TX 752
832-834, 836, 837, 840-847, 898, 979	MXD SALT LAKE CITY UT 840
835, 838, 970-978, 980-986, 988-994, 998, 999	MXD SEATTLE WA 980
850, 852, 853, 855, 859, 860, 863, 864	MXD PHOENIX AZ 852
865, 870-875, 877-884	MXD ALBUQUERQUE NM 870
889-891, 893, 900-908, 910-928, 930-935	MXD LOS ANGELES CA 900
894, 895, 897, 936-961	MXD OAKLAND CA 945
967-969	MXD HONOLULU HI 967
995-997	MXD ANCHORAGE AK 995

* * * * *

[Renumber and relocate existing L802 as new L010 and revise heading and summary to read as follows:]

L010 BMC/ASF Entry-Standard Mail Letters and Package Services Irregular Parcels

L010 indicates the label destination (Column B) for mixed AADC and mixed ADC trays of Standard Mail letters and mixed sacks of Package Services irregular parcels placed on an ASF or BMC pallet, or entered at an ASF or BMC (Column A). This list also may be used for mixed ADC bundles and sacks of Periodicals, Standard Mail, Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, and Library Mail flats as well as mixed ADC bundles and sacks of Periodicals irregular parcels and mixed ADC bundles and sacks of Standard Mail irregular parcels of uniform thickness when these mailings are entered at a BMC/ASF facility. Effective May 15, 2005, L009 must be used when labeling ADC bundles and sacks of these types of mailings.

* * * * *

[Renumber and relocate existing L803 as new L011, and revise heading and summary to read as follows:]

L011 Non-BMC/ASF Entry-Periodicals and Standard Mail Letters

L011 describes the service area by individual 3-digit ZIP Code prefix for mixed AADC and mixed ADC trays of Periodicals and Standard Mail letters.

This list also may be used for mixed ADC bundles and sacks of Periodicals, Standard Mail, Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, and Library Mail flats as well as mixed ADC bundles and sacks of Periodicals irregular parcels and mixed ADC bundles and sacks of Standard Mail irregular parcels of uniform thickness. Effective May 15, 2005, L009 must be used when labeling ADC bundles and sacks of these types of mailings.

* * * * *

M Mail Preparation and Sortation

M000 General Preparation Standards

M010 Mailpieces

* * * * *

M013 Optional Endorsement Lines

* * * * *

2.0 FORMAT

* * * * *

2.5 ZIP Code Information

* * * * *

Exhibit 2.5 OEL Labeling Lists

[Revise Exhibit 2.5 to read as follows:]

Mail Class	Processing Category and Presort Type	ADC/ AADC	Mixed ADC/ Mixed AADC
First-Class Mail	Letters, nonmachinable	L004	L002, Column C
blank	Letters, machinable	L801	L002, Column C
blank	Letters, automation	L801	L002, Column C
blank	Flats, nonautomation	L004	L002, Column C
blank	Flats, automation	L004	L002, Column C
blank	Parcels	L004	L002, Column C
Periodicals¹	Letters, nonautomation	L004	L004
blank	Letters, automation	L801	L011²
blank	Flats, nonautomation	L004	L009³
blank	Flats, automation	L004	L009³
blank	Irregular parcels	L004	L009³
Standard Mail¹	Letters, nonmachinable	L004	L004²
blank	Letters, machinable	L801	L011²
blank	Letters, automation	L801	L011²
blank	Flats, nonautomation	L004	L009³
blank	Flats, automation	L004	L009³
blank	Irregular parcels	L603⁴	L604⁴
Bound Printed Matter¹	Flats, nonbarcoded	L004	L009³
blank	Flats, barcoded	L004	L009³
blank	Irregular parcels	L004	L004²
Media Mail	Flats, nonautomation	L004	L009
blank	Irregular parcels	L004	L004²
Library Mail	Flats, nonautomation	L004	L009
blank	Irregular parcels	L004	L004²
1. For AFSM 100-compatible flats, label according to L007 for optional 5-digit scheme preparation. 2. L010 if mail entered by mailer at a destination ASF or BMC or for mail placed on an ASF or BMC pallets under M045. 3. Effective May 15, 2005, mailers must use L009, but until then may use either L009 or L011, or L010 if entered at a BMC or ASF facility. 4. For irregular parcels of uniform thickness (see M610.5.1), recommended use of L004 (for ADCs) and L009 (for mixed ADCs) immediately (required use of L004 and L009 effective May 15, 2005).

* * * * *

M040 Pallets

* * * * *

M045 Palletized Mailings

* * * * *

3.0 PALLET PRESORT AND LABELING

* * * * *

3.2 Standard Mail-Bundles, Sacks, or Trays

* * * * *

[Revise the introductory text of item i by changing the labeling list references for ASF & BMC pallets for letters and flats and adding a new fifth sentence concerning irregular parcels to read as follows:]

i. ASF (required, unless bundle reallocation used under 5.0). Permitted for bundles, sacks, and trays. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L602. ADC bundles, sacks, or trays are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L004 or L603, as appropriate. AADC trays are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L801. At the mailer's option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles and sacks of flats; and mixed ADC and mixed AADC trays of letters, may be sorted to ASF pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L010. Mixed ADC sacks of irregular parcels may be sorted to ASF pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L604. All mixed ADC bundles, sacks, and trays and mixed AADC trays must contain only pieces destinating within the ASF in Exhibit E650.5.1. Pallet labeling:

* * * * *

[Revise the introductory text of item j by changing the labeling list references for ASF & BMC pallets for letters and flats and adding a new fifth sentence concerning irregular parcels to read as follows:]

j. BMC (required). Permitted for bundles, sacks, and trays. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L601. ADC bundles, sacks, or trays are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L004 or L603, as appropriate. AADC trays are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L801. At the mailer's option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles and sacks of flats; and mixed ADC trays and mixed AADC trays of letters, may be sorted to BMC pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L010. Mixed ADC sacks of irregular parcels may be sorted to ASF pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L604. All mixed ADC bundles, sacks, and trays and mixed AADC trays must contain only pieces destinating within the BMC in Exhibit E650.5.1. Pallet labeling:

* * * * *

3.3 Package Services Flats-Bundles and Sacks

* * * * *

[Revise the introductory text of item j to change the labeling list references from L802 to L010 to read as follows:]

j. ASF (required). Permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet may contain carrier route and/or Presorted rate mail with or without a barcode for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L602. ADC bundles or sacks are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L004. At the mailer's option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles or sacks may be sorted to ASF pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L010. All mixed ADC bundles and sacks must contain only pieces destinating within the ASF in Exhibit E751.1.3. Pallet labeling:

* * * * *

[Revise the introductory text of item k to change the labeling list references from L802 to L010 to read as follows:]

k. BMC (required). Permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet may contain carrier route and/or Presorted rate mail with or without a barcode for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L601. ADC bundles or sacks are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L004. At the mailer's option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles or sacks may be sorted to BMC pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L010. All mixed ADC bundles and sacks must contain only pieces destinating within the BMC in Exhibit E751.1.3. Pallet labeling:

* * * * *

3.4 Package Services Irregular Parcels-Bundles and Sacks

* * * * *

[Revise the introductory text of item j to change the labeling list references from L802 to L010 to read as follows:]

j. ASF (required). Permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet may contain carrier route and/or Presorted rate mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L602. ADC bundles or sacks are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L004. At the mailer's option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles or sacks may be sorted to ASF pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L010. All mixed ADC bundles and sacks must contain only pieces destinating within the ASF in Exhibit E751.1.3. Pallet labeling:

* * * * *

[Revise the introductory text of item k to change the labeling list references from L802 to L010 to read as follows:]

k. BMC (required). Permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet may contain carrier route and/or Presorted rate mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L601. ADC (L004) bundles or sacks are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L004. At the mailer's option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles or sacks may be sorted to BMC pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L010. All mixed ADC bundles and sacks must contain only pieces destinating within the BMC in Exhibit E751.1.3. Pallet labeling:

* * * * *

M200 Periodicals (Nonautomation)

M210 Presorted Periodicals

* * * * *

4.0 SACK PREPARATION-FLAT-SIZE PIECES AND IRREGULAR PARCELS

* * * * *

[Revise item f(1) to read as follows:]

(1) Line 1: Use L009, effective May 15, 2005. Until then, use either L009, or L011.

* * * * *

M600 Standard Mail (Nonautomation)

M610 Presorted Standard Mail

* * * * *

2.0 PREPARATION-MACHINABLE LETTER-SIZE PIECES

* * * * *

2.2 Traying and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise item e(1) to read as follows:]

(1) Line 1: L011. If entered at an ASF or BMC or for mail placed on an ASF or BMC pallet under option in M045.3.2, L010.

* * * * *

3.0 PREPARATION-NONMACHINABLE LETTER-SIZE PIECES

* * * * *

3.2 Traying and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise item e(1) to read as follows:]

(1) Line 1: "MXD" followed by city, state, and ZIP Code of ADC serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry post office, as shown in L004. If placed on an ASF or BMC pallet under option in M045.3.2, L010.

* * * * *

4.0 PREPARATION-FLAT-SIZE PIECES

* * * * *

4.6 Sacking and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise item e(1) to read as follows:]

(1) Line 1: Use L009, effective May 15, 2005. Until then, use either L009, or L011 or L010, as applicable.

* * * * *

5.0 PREPARATION-IRREGULAR PARCELS

5.1 Required Bundling

[Revise 5.1 to read as follows:]

Except as provided in 5.3 and 5.5, bundling is required before sacking. A bundle must be prepared when the quantity of addressed irregular parcels for a required presort level reaches the required minimum bundles size. Irregular parcels of nonuniform thickness must be prepared in accordance with 5.0. Irregular parcels of nonuniform thickness must be prepared in accordance with 5.0. Irregular parcels of uniform thickness (e.g., printed publications) and exceeding either 15 inches in length or 12 inches in height also must be bundled and sacked in accordance with 5.0 using the alternate labeling lists as specified in 5.8, or placed on pallets under M045. Smaller volumes are not permitted except for mixed ADC bundles and bundles prepared under 5.4.

* * * * *

5.8 Sacking and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise item e(1) to read as follows:]

(1) Line 1: L603 (recommended use of L004 when sacking pieces of uniform thickness; required use of L004 for such pieces effective May 15, 2005).

* * * * *

[Revise item f(1) to read as follows:]

(1) Line 1: L604 (recommended use of L009 when sacking pieces of uniform thickness; required use of L009 for such pieces effective May 15, 2005).

* * * * *

M700 Package Services

* * * * *

M720 Bound Printed Matter

* * * * *

M722 Presorted Bound Printed Matter

* * * * *

2.0 PREPARATION-FLATS

* * * * *

2.4 Sacking and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise item e(1) to read as follows:]

(1) Line 1: Use L009, effective May 15, 2005. Until then, use either L009, or L011 or L010, as applicable.

* * * * *

3.0 PREPARATION-IRREGULAR PARCELS WEIGHING LESS THAN 10 POUNDS

* * * * *

3.4 Sacking and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise item f(1) to read as follows:]

* * * * *

4.0 PREPARATION-IRREGULAR PARCELS WEIGHING 10 POUNDS OR MORE

* * * * *

4.3 Sacking and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise item f(1) to read as follows:]

* * * * *

M730 Media Mail

* * * * *

2.0 PREPARATION-FLATS

* * * * *

2.4 Sacking and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise item d(1) to read as follows:]

(1) Line 1: Use L009, effective May 15, 2005. Until then, use either L009, or L011 or L010, as applicable.

* * * * *

3.0 PREPARATION-IRREGULAR PARCELS

* * * * *

3.4 Sacking and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise item e(1) to read as follows:]

* * * * *

M740 Library Mail

* * * * *

2.0 PREPARATION-FLATS

* * * * *

2.4 Sacking and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise item d(1) to read as follows:]

(1) Line 1: Use L009, effective May 15, 2005. Until then, use either L009, or L011 or L010, as applicable.

* * * * *

3.0 PREPARATION-IRREGULAR PARCELS

* * * * *

3.4 Sacking and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise item e(1) to read as follows:]

* * * * *

M800 All Automation Mail

M810 Letter-Size Mail

* * * * *

2.0 FIRST-CLASS MAIL AND STANDARD MAIL

* * * * *

2.2 Tray Preparation

* * * * *

[Revise item g(2) to read as follows:]

(2) For Standard Mail, use L011. If entered at an ASF or BMC or for mail placed on an ASF or BMC pallet under option in M045.3.2, use L010.

* * * * *

3.0 PERIODICALS

3.1 Tray Preparation

* * * * *

[Revise item d to read as follows:]

d. Mixed AADC: required (no minimum); group pieces by AADC; for Line 1, use L011.

* * * * *

M820 Flat-Size Mail

* * * * *

4.0 PERIODICALS

* * * * *

4.2 Sacking and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise item g(1) to read as follows:]

(1) Line 1: L009, effective May 15, 2005. Until then, use either L009 or L011.

* * * * *

5.0 STANDARD MAIL

* * * * *

5.3 Sacking and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise item f(1) to read as follows:]

(1) Line 1: L009, effective May 15, 2005. Until then, use either L009, or L011 or L010, as applicable.

* * * * *

6.0 BOUND PRINTED MATTER

* * * * *

6.2 Sacking and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise item f(1) to read as follows:]

(1) Line 1: L009, effective May 15, 2005. Until then, use either L009, or L011 or L010, as applicable.

* * * * *

M900 Advanced Preparation Options for Flats

M910 Cotraying and Cosacking Bundles of Automation and Presorted Mailings

* * * * *

2.0 PERIODICALS

* * * * *

2.5 Sack Preparation and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise item f(1) to read as follows:]

(1) Line 1: Use L009, effective May 15, 2005. Until then, use either L009 or L011.

* * * * *

3.0 STANDARD MAIL

* * * * *

3.5 Sack Preparation and Labeling

[Revise item e(1) to read as follows:]

(1) Line 1: Use L009, effective May 15, 2005. Until then, use either L009, or L011 or L010, as applicable.

* * * * *

4.0 BOUND PRINTED MATTER

* * * * *

[Revise item e(1) to read as follows:]

(1) Line 1: L009, effective May 15, 2005. Until then, use either L009, or L011 or L010, as applicable.

* * * * *

M920 Merged Containerization of Bundles Using the City State Product

* * * * *

2.0 STANDARD MAIL

* * * * *

2.5 Pallet Preparation and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise the introductory text of item i to change the labeling list references from L802 to L010 to read as follows:]

i. ASF. Required, except that an ASF sort may not be required if using bundle reallocation under M045.5.0. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate bundles. Sort ADC bundles to ASF pallets based on the "label to" ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the bundle in L004. At the mailer's option, sort appropriate mixed ADC bundles to ASF pallets based on the "label to" ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the bundle in L010. All optional mixed ADC bundles on ASF pallets must contain only pieces destinating within the ASF as shown in E650 Exhibit 5.1. See E650.5.0 for additional requirements for DBMC rate eligibility.

* * * * *

[Revise the introductory text of item j to change the labeling list references from L802 to L010 to read as follows:]

j. BMC. Required. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate bundles. Sort ADC bundles to BMC pallets based on the "label to" ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the bundle in L004. At the mailer's option, sort appropriate mixed ADC bundles to BMC pallets based on the "label to" ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the bundle in L010. All optional mixed ADC bundles on BMC pallets must contain only pieces destinating within the BMC as shown in E650 Exhibit 5.1. See E650.5.0 for additional requirements for DBMC rate eligibility.

* * * * *

M930 Merged Palletization of Bundles Using a 5% Threshold

* * * * *

2.0 STANDARD MAIL

* * * * *

2.4 Pallet Preparation and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise the introductory text of item i to change the labeling list references from L802 to L010 to read as follows:]

* * * * *

[Revise the introductory text of item j to change the labeling list references from L802 to L010 to read as follows:]

* * * * *

M940 Merged Palletization of Bundles Using the City State Product and a 5% Threshold

* * * * *

2.0 STANDARD MAIL

* * * * *

2.4 Pallet Preparation and Labeling

* * * * *

[Revise the introductory text of item i to change the labeling list references from L802 to L010 to read as follows:]

* * * * *

[Revise the introductory text of item j to change the labeling list references from L802 to L010 to read as follows:]

* * * * *

— Mailing Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 2-3-05

DMM REVISION

Repositionable Notes on Letter-Size and Flat-Size Mailpieces

Effective February 3, 2005, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®) Modules C and G are revised to implement a 1-year provisional service that allows mailers to place a repositionable note (RPN) on letter-size and flat-size mailpieces mailed at First-Class Mail®, Standard Mail®, and Periodicals rates. This provisional classification does not change any of the current rate eligibility standards for discount First-Class Mail and Standard Mail letters.

The provisional classification allows mailers to affix a message note to the outside envelope or paper cover of their First-Class Mail, Standard Mail, or Periodicals rate mailpieces, calling added attention to a product or service. RPNs give mailers a unique way to enhance their direct marketing efforts and increase their "open and read" rates, which in turn may lead to increased customer response rates. In addition, repositionable notes extend the life of the marketing message by making it easy for a recipient to remove the note and, due to the notes' adhesiveness, reposition it to a convenient place to serve as a reminder or call to action well beyond the life of the original mailpiece.

The service will be implemented on April 3, 2005, and expire on April 3, 2006. The Postal ServiceTM will give notice before expiration on whether the service will be allowed to expire, made permanent, or extended.

The applicable rates are $0.005 (1/2 cent) per piece for attaching an RPN to a First-Class Mail piece and $0.015 (1 1/2 cents) per piece for attaching an RPN to a Standard Mail or Periodicals piece, in addition to the applicable postage for the host piece.

RPNs must measure 3 inches by 3 inches, plus or minus 1/8 inch for either dimension, and must be adhered with a 3/4 inch (plus 1/4 inch or minus 1/16 inch) adhesive strip across the top portion on the reverse side of the note. They must not contain phosphorescent or red fluorescent colorants; be manually affixed; be placed in a manner that interferes with the delivery address, rate markings, or postage; or display a specific address or ZIP CodeTM. References to general landmarks are permissible.

The written and graphic characteristics of the notes are considered when determining eligibility of mailpieces mailed at Standard Mail and Nonprofit Standard Mail rates.

We will incorporate these revisions into the printed version of DMM 59 and into the online version available via Postal Explorer® at http://pe.usps.gov.

Domestic Mail Manual (DMM)

* * * * *

C Characteristics and Content

* * * * *

C800 Automation-Compatible Mail

C810 Letters and Cards

* * * * *

7.0 REPOSITIONABLE NOTES

[Delete C810.7.0 and all subsections. The section will be moved to the G900 section in order to change this service to an experiment.]

* * * * *

G General Information

G000 The USPS and Mailing Standards

* * * * *

G040 Information Resources

* * * * *

G043 Address List for Correspondence

[Delete the address for Product Management-Correspondence and Transactions.]

* * * * *

G900 Experimental Classification and Rate Filings

* * * * *

G990 Experimental Classifications and Rates

* * * * *

[Add new G994 to read as follows:]

G994 Repositionable Notes

1.0 USE

a. Repositionable Notes (RPNs) may be attached to letter- and flat-size discount First-Class Mail, Standard Mail, and Periodicals mailpieces.

b. For letter-size mailpieces, a single RPN may be attached only to the address side of the mailpiece.

c. For flat-size mailpieces, a single RPN may be attached to either the address side or non-address side of the mailpiece and attached in the locations described and shown in Exhibits 3.0a and 3.0b.

d. RPNs are included as an integral part of the mailpiece for weight and postage rate computation purposes.

e. The written and graphic characteristics of the notes are considered when determining eligibility of mailpieces mailed at the Standard Mail and Nonprofit Standard Mail rates.

2.0 MAILPIECE CHARACTERISTICS

Each mailpiece must:

a. Not be in a plastic wrapper (e.g., polybag, polywrap, or shrinkwrap).

b. Be letter-size (including cards) or flat-size.

3.0 RPN CHARACTERISTIC

RPNs must:

a. Measure 3 inches by 3 inches, plus or minus 1/8 inch for either dimension.

b. Not contain phosphorescent or red fluorescent colorants.

c. Be adhered with a 3/4 inch (plus 1/4 inch or minus 1/16 inch) adhesive strip across the top portion on the reverse side of the note.

d. Not be placed in a manner that interferes with the delivery address, rate markings, or postage and must not display a specific address or ZIP Code. References to general landmarks are permissible.

e. Not be manually affixed.

f. On letter-size mailpieces, be positioned parallel with the length of the piece, affixed by standard labeling equipment, placed no closer than 3/8 inch from the left edge of the delivery address, and be at least 1/2 inch (plus or minus 1/8 inch) from the bottom and left edges of the mailpiece.

g. On flat-size mailpieces, be positioned according to Exhibit 3.0a if the RPN is placed on the address side of the flat or Exhibit 3.0b if the RPN is placed on the non-address side of the mailpiece.

Exhibit 3.0a Placing RPNs on Flats-Address
Side

Exhibit 3.0a, Placing RPNs on Flats-Address Side.

Exhibit 3.0b Placing RPNs on Flats-Non-Address
Side

Exhibit 3.0b, Placing RPNs on Flats-Non-Address Side.

4.0 RPNS ON AUTOMATION-RATE MAILPIECES

4.1 Letter-Size Pieces

Letter-size mailpieces with RPNs claiming automation rates must meet the standards in C810.1.0-C810.3.0 and the following additional standards:

a. Each mailpiece must be rectangular and have a surface smoothness of 195 Shefield Units or smoother.

b. Enveloped mailpieces. Each mailpiece prepared in an envelope must be constructed from paperstock having a basis weight of 20 pounds or greater. Window envelopes must have a closed panel made of polystyrene or glassine. Each enveloped mailpiece is limited to the following dimensions:

(1) For height, no less than 4-1/8 inches and no more than 6 inches high.

(2) For length, no less than 8 inches and no more than 9-1/2 inches long.

(3) For thickness, no less than 0.02 inch and no more than 0.125 inch thick.

c. Oversize cards. Each mailpiece prepared as an oversize card is limited to the following dimensions:

(1) For height, no less than 4-1/2 inches and no more than 6 inches high.

(2) For length, no less than 8-1/2 inches and no more than 9 inches long.

(3) For thickness, no less than 0.009 inch thick (cards 5-3/4 inches or more in height must be no less than 0.012 inch thick.)

4.2 Flat-Size Pieces

Flat-size mailpieces with RPNs claiming automation rates must meet the standards in C810.1.0-C810.3.0 and C820.

5.0 RATES

Discount First-Class Mail - $0.005

Standard Mail and Periodicals - $0.015

6.0 COMPLIANCE

Mailers must comply as follows:

a. Repositionable notes must be obtained from an approved repositionable notes vendor (see www.usps.com for a listing of approved vendors). Prospective vendors can obtain USPS standards and test procedures from USPS Engineering (see G043 for address). Testing must be performed by a certified independent laboratory.

b. Mailers must present evidence at the time of mailing to show that their repositionable notes have been supplied by an approved vendor. The vendor name on the reverse of the note will be sufficient as evidence; in lieu of the vendor name printed on the notes, an invoice from the approved vendor for purchase of the repositionable notes will constitute such evidence.

c. Each mailing must include, as part of the mailing, two pieces addressed to the manager, USPS Engineering Letter Tech (Attn: RPN Sample), and two pieces addressed to the Manager, Pricing and Classification Service Center (Attn: RPN Sample). See G043 for addresses.

* * * * *

— Mailing Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 2-3-05

DMM REVISION

New Terminology for Presorted Destination Mail

Effective February 3, 2005, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®) A030.1.4, A910.6.1, A950.1.3, and G912.2.1 are revised to change terminology from "National Change of Address" to "National Change of Address Linkage System" and from "NCOA" to "NCOA^LINK."

The NCOA text file version was discontinued October 1, 2004, and replaced with NCOA^LINK, a more-secure format. NCOA^LINK provides the same change-of-address information as NCOA.

This change affects terminology only and does not represent any change to mail preparation standards or Postal ServiceTM policy.

We will incorporate these revisions into the printed version of DMM 59 and into the online version available via Postal Explorer® at http://pe.usps.gov.

Domestic Mail Manual (DMM)

A Addressing

A000 Basic Addressing

* * * * *

A030 Address Quality

1.0 MOVE UPDATE

* * * * *

1.4 USPS-Approved Methods

The following methods are authorized for meeting the Move Update standard:

* * * * *

[Revise item b to read as follows:]

b. National Change of Address Linkage System (NCOA^LINK).

* * * * *

A900 Customer Support

A910 Mailing List Services

* * * * *

6.0 ELECTION BOARDS AND VOTER REGISTRATION COMMISSIONS

6.1 General

[Revise 6.1 to read as follows:]

Election boards or voter registration commissions may use the "Return Service Requested" endorsement and/or the National Change of Address Linkage System (NCOA^LINK) to maintain current address lists.

* * * * *

A950 Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS)

1.0 BASIC INFORMATION

* * * * *

1.3 Methods

[Revise 1.3 to read as follows:]

Delivery point or ZIP+4 coding may be obtained by using the National Change of Address Linkage System (NCOA^LINK); CASS-certified DPC address matching software; CASS-certified Z4CHANGE process; or Delivery Sequence File, Second Generation (DSF²) process.

* * * * *

G General Information

* * * * *

G900 Experimental Classification and Rate Filings

G910 Negotiated Service Agreements

* * * * *

G912 Capital One Services, Inc. NSA

* * * * *

2.0 FEATURES

2.1 Requirements

To be considered comparable to the NSA in 1.0, a proposed NSA must have the following features:

* * * * *

e. Adherence to the following address quality standards for the rates claimed:

* * * * *

[Revise item (2) to read as follows:]

(2) Use of National Change of Address Linkage System (NCOA^LINK), FASTforward, or other premailing USPS-approved method for meeting the move update standards in E130 for Presorted First- Class Mail and E140 for automation rate First- Class Mail. In addition to those standards, addresses used on mailings must be updated more frequently than 180 days or as required by the NSA.

* * * * *

— Mailing Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 2-3-05

DMM REVISION

Firm Bundles of Periodicals on Merged Pallets - Clarification

Effective October 6, 2004, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®) M930 and M940 were revised to exempt firm bundles (bundles of individual copies all for one delivery point) of Periodicals items, regardless of the sortation level claimed, from the 5% limitation imposed on 5-digit bundles merged with carrier route bundles on merged 5-digit scheme and merged 5-digit pallets.

Effective February 3, 2005, M930.1.4a and M940.1.4a are revised slightly to clarify that, for purposes of calculating the 5% threshold, firm bundles (regardless of the rate claimed) are added together with the number of addressed pieces in carrier route bundles. DMM M930.1.0 and M940.1.0 are also revised to reflect editorial changes. Effective immediately, DMM M930.1.4 and M940.1.4 also are revised to create consistent standards regarding when pieces in logical 5-digit bundles of Periodicals, in instances when the total pieces exceed the 5% limit (whether or not prepared under the cobundling option in M950), can be placed on a merged 5-digit or merged 5-digit scheme pallet.

Mailers may begin using these new standards effective immediately and are required to use these standards effective April 17, 2005. Delivery unit managers are reminded to handle all bundles received on merged pallets under M930 and M940 in a manner that ensures timely delivery.

We will incorporate these revisions into the printed version of DMM 59 and into the online version available via Postal Explorer® at http://pe.usps.gov.

Domestic Mail Manual (DMM)

* * * * *

M Mail Preparation and Sortation

M000 General Preparation Standards

* * * * *

M900 Advanced Preparation Options for Flats

* * * * *

M930 Merged Palletization of Bundles Using a 5% Threshold

1.0 PERIODICALS

1.1 Basic Standards

[Revise introductory text to read as follows:]

Five-digit scheme bundles (using L007) must be prepared, and effective April 17, 2005, 3-digit scheme bundles (using L008) also must be prepared, according to standards in 1.5. However, neither 5-digit scheme bundles nor 3-digit scheme bundles may be copalletized on any merged pallets. Five-digit bundles from an automation rate mailing and 5-digit bundles from a presorted rate mailing (including pieces cobundled under M950) may be placed on the same pallet as carrier route bundles under the following conditions:

[Revise item a by combining with item b to read as follows:]

a. A carrier route mailing must be part of the same mailing job as the automation rate mailing and/or the Presorted rate mailing.

[Combine items f and g as new item b and revise to read as follows:]

b. Each portion of the mailing job must meet the eligibility criteria (including rate eligibility) under the relevant DMM standards: E230 for the carrier route mailing, E240 for the automation rate mailing, and E220 for the Presorted rate mailing.

* * * * *

[Revise item d to read as follows:]

d. When firm bundles, carrier route bundles, and 5-digit bundles are placed together on the same merged 5-digit scheme or merged 5-digit pallet, pieces in 5-digit bundles (other than firm bundles) must not exceed the 5% limit described in 1.4.

[Revise item e to read as follows:]

e. All possible merged 5-digit scheme and 5-digit scheme pallets must be prepared according to standards in 1.5.

[Redesignate item h as new item f. Combine items i and j as new item g and revise to read as follows:]

g. A complete, signed postage statement, using the correct USPS form or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing job. In addition, documentation produced by PAVE-certified software must be submitted with each mailing job. Documentation, under P012, must describe for each "logical" pallet sortation level and each physical pallet the number of addressed pieces qualifying for each carrier route rate, each Presorted rate, and each automation rate. Within the body of the documentation beneath the listing for the last physical pallet for each logical pallet presort destination, a separate 5% threshold summary also must be provided for each merged 5-digit scheme and each merged 5-digit logical pallet destination. Note: The separate 5% threshold summary must be for the mail on all of the physical pallets (i.e., the "logical" pallet) for that presort destination. This summary must describe for each 5-digit ZIP Code:

(1) The total number of all addressed pieces.

(2) The total number of addressed pieces sorted in carrier route bundles and firm bundles (each firm bundle is claimed as one addressed piece).

(3) The total number of addressed pieces sorted in 5-digit bundles (other than firm bundles).

(4) Of the total number of all addressed pieces in (1), the percentage of addressed pieces sorted in 5-digit bundles (other than firm bundles).

[Redesignate item k as new item h.]

1.2 Bundle Preparation

[Revise text of 1.2 to read as follows:]

Bundles must be prepared under the standards in M020 and M045.

[Revise title and text of 1.3 to read as follows:]

1.3 Low-Volume Bundles

Carrier route and 5-digit bundles may contain fewer than six pieces when the publisher determines that such preparation improves service. Pieces in such low-volume bundles must be claimed at the basic rate.

[Revise title and introductory text of 1.4 to read as follows:]

1.4 5% Threshold

Firm bundles may be eligible for carrier route, 5-digit, or basic rates, as applicable. Firm bundles (claimed as one addressed piece), carrier route bundles, and 5-digit bundles may be placed together on the same merged 5-digit scheme or merged 5-digit logical pallet under 1.5 if all of the following conditions in items a through e below are met:

[Revise item a to read as follows:]

a. For the purpose of calculating the 5% threshold, firm bundles (regardless of the rate claimed) are added together with the number of addressed pieces in carrier route bundles.

[Revise item b to read as follows:]

b. The number of pieces prepared in 5-digit bundles (other than firm bundles) for any single 5-digit ZIP Code on a "logical" merged 5-digit scheme or merged 5-digit pallet must not exceed 5% of the total number of addressed pieces for the 5-digit ZIP Code on the logical pallet for that presort destination.

* * * * *

[Delete items d and e.]

[Redesignate item f as new item d and revise to read as follows:]

d. When firm bundles, other than those claimed at carrier route rates, are placed on a merged 5-digit scheme or a merged 5-digit pallet, addressed pieces in all corresponding 5-digit bundles up to 5% also must be merged. If the number of addressed pieces placed in 5-digit bundles (for an individual 5-digit ZIP Code) exceeds the 5% threshold, the mailer may place a portion of the addressed pieces (up to 5%) on a merged 5-digit scheme or a merged 5-digit pallet. Mailers are encouraged, but not required, to include such pieces on a merged pallet in this sequence: presorted rate bundles, followed by cobundles (if using M950), followed by automation rate bundles. Each 5-digit physical bundle placed on a merged 5-digit scheme or a merged 5-digit pallet must contain at least six addressed pieces, and any remaining 5-digit physical bundles placed on other pallets also must contain at least six addressed pieces, unless prepared under standards allowing lower volumes as specified in 1.3.

[Redesignate item g as new item e and revise to read as follows:]

e. For the purpose of determining the 5% threshold, addressed pieces in low-volume carrier route bundles count as carrier route sorted pieces, and addressed pieces in low-volume 5-digit bundles count as 5-digit sorted pieces, even though the basic rate is paid for all such pieces.

* * * * *

M940 Merged Palletization of Bundles Using the City State Product and a 5% Threshold

1.0 PERIODICALS

1.1 Basic Standards

[Revise introductory text to read as follows:]

[Revise item a by combining with item b to read as follows:]

a. A carrier route mailing must be part of the same mailing job as the automation rate mailing and/or the Presorted rate mailing.

[Combine items g and h as new item b and revise to read as follows:]

* * * * *

[Revise item e to read as follows:]

e. When firm bundles, carrier route bundles, and 5-digit bundles are placed together on the same merged 5-digit scheme or merged 5-digit pallet according to standards in 1.4 and 1.5, the following conditions also apply:

(1) For 5-digit ZIP Codes identified with an "A" or "C" indicator in the City State Product, merged 5-digit scheme and merged 5-digit pallets may be prepared with no limit to the number of addressed pieces placed in 5-digit bundles.

(2) For 5-digit ZIP Codes identified with a "B" or "D" indicator in the City State Product, the number of addressed pieces placed in 5-digit bundles (other than firm bundles) must not exceed 5% of the total number of addressed pieces placed on the merged 5-digit scheme or merged 5-digit pallet, for each corresponding 5-digit ZIP Code. For merged 5-digit scheme pallets, the 5% threshold is calculated separately for each individual 5-digit ZIP Code.

[Revise item f to read as follows:]

f. All possible merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, and 5-digit scheme pallets must be prepared according to standards in 1.5.

[Redesignate item i as new item g. Combine items j and k as new item h and revise to read as follows:]

h. A complete, signed postage statement, using the correct USPS form or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing job. In addition, documentation produced by PAVE-certified software must be submitted with each mailing job. Documentation, under P012, must describe for each "logical" pallet sortation level and each physical pallet the number of addressed pieces qualifying for each carrier route rate, each Presorted rate, and each automation rate. Within the body of the documentation beneath the listing for the last physical pallet for each logical pallet presort destination, a separate 5% threshold summary also must be provided for each merged 5-digit scheme and each merged 5-digit logical pallet destination that contains mail for one or more 5-digit ZIP Codes with a "B" or "D" indicator in the City State Product. Note: The separate 5% threshold summary must be for the mail on all of the physical pallets (i.e., the "logical" pallet) for that presort destination. This summary must describe for each 5-digit ZIP Code:

(1) The total number of all addressed pieces.

(2) The total number of addressed pieces sorted in carrier route bundles and firm bundles (each firm bundle is claimed as one addressed piece).

(3) The total number of addressed pieces sorted in 5-digit bundles (other than firm bundles).

(4) Of the total number of all addressed pieces in (1), the percentage of addressed pieces sorted in 5-digit bundles (other than firm bundles).

[Redesignate item l as new item i.]

1.2 Bundle Preparation

[Revise text of 1.2 to read as follows:]

Bundles must be prepared under the standards in M020 and M045.

[Revise title and text of 1.3 to read as follows:]

1.3 Low-Volume Bundles

[Revise title and introductory text of 1.4 to read as follows:]

1.4 5% Threshold-5-Digit ZIP Codes Identified with a "B" or "D" Indicator

[Revise item a to read as follows:]

a. For the purpose of calculating the 5% threshold, firm bundles (regardless of the rate claimed) are added together with the number of addressed pieces in carrier route bundles.

[Revise item b to read as follows:]

b. The number of pieces prepared in 5-digit bundles (other than firm bundles) for any single 5-digit ZIP Code with a "B" or "D" indicator (in the City State Product) on a "logical" merged 5-digit scheme or merged 5-digit pallet must not exceed 5% of the total number of addressed pieces for the 5-digit ZIP Code on the logical pallet for that presort destination. Five-digit ZIP Codes with an "A" or "C" indicator (in the City State Product) are not subject to the 5% limit.

* * * * *

[Delete items d and e.]

[Redesignate item f as new item d and revise to read as follows:]

[Redesignate item g as new item e and revise to read as follows:]

* * * * *

— Mailing Standards,
Pricing and Classifications, 2-3-05

REVISED FORM

PS Form 153, Signature Confirmation

PS Form 153, Signature Confirmation, allows customers to purchase Signature ConfirmationTM service for First- Class Mail®, Priority Mail®, and Package Services parcels. PS Form 153 is revised so that it no longer includes the Waiver of Signature option - that option is no longer available for Signature Confirmation service as of February 1, 2005. For more information on the elimination of Signature Waiver and to see a graphic of the revised PS Form 153, see the article titled "DMM Revision: Signature Confirmation Service - Elimination of Signature Waiver" on page 6.

The revised edition of PS Form 153 is dated January 2005. All offices must destroy prior versions of PS Form 153 and must order a new supply of the revised PS Form 153 from the Material Distribution Center (MDC) by using 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.)

Use the following information to order PS Form 153:

PSIN: PS153
PSN: 7530-05-000-4046
Unit of Measure: EA
Maximum Order Quantity: 500
Quick Pick Number: 512
Bulk Pack Quantity: N/A
Price: $0.0050

We expect that the software in the Mobile Data Collection Device (MDCD) will be updated in April 2005 to reflect that the Waiver of Signature option is no longer available with Signature Confirmation service. If a customer uses an old form and requests a Waiver of Signature before the MDCD software is updated, the Postal ServiceTM will honor that request - however, a Postal Service employee may never waive a signature for any mailed item without the mailer's request on PS Form 153.

— Product Information Requirements,
Product Development, 2-3-05

NOTICE

Clarification of the Nonmachinable Surcharge for Shrubs, Trees, and Other Nursery Stock

Each spring, Postal ServiceTM personnel have to determine whether to assess a nonmachinable surcharge for shrubs, trees, and other nursery stock placed in the mailstream. We offer the following information for clarification and to promote consistency.

The nonmachinable surcharge in Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®) R700 applies to Parcel Post® mailpieces that cannot be processed mechanically and require more costly manual sortation. The Postal Service assesses a nonmachinable surcharge for a Parcel Post item that does not meet the machinable criteria in DMM C050.4.0 or that meets the nonmachinable criteria in DMM C700.2.0.

• DMM C050.4.0 defines a machinable parcel, in part, as follows (see the DMM for more details):

- Length: Minimum 6 inches, maximum 34 inches.

- Height: Minimum 3 inches, maximum 17 inches.

- Thickness: Minimum 1/4 inch, maximum 17 inches.

- Weight: Minimum 6 ounces, maximum 35 pounds.

• DMM C700.2.0a-j lists nonmachinable criteria for Parcel Post, including the following: "j. Parcels with characteristics (such as inadequate packaging) that could result in damage to the contents of the mailpiece, other parcels, or postal machinery if mechanical sortation is used."

Based on the requirements in DMM C050.4.0 and C700.2.0, use the following guidelines to determine whether to assess a nonmachinable surcharge for shrubs, trees, and other nursery stock items:

• Assess a nonmachinable surcharge if an item does not meet the machinable criteria in DMM C050.4 or if an item meets any of the nonmachinable criteria in DMM C700.2 - for example, nursery stock being mailed with inadequate packaging, such as plastic, vinyl, or paper bags (sealed or unsealed).

• Don't assess a nonmachinable surcharge if an item meets either one of the following criteria:

1. The item meets the machinable criteria in DMM C050.4 and is mailed completely enclosed in a box or carton that constitutes adequate packaging.

2. The item is mailed as follows:

• At Express Mail® or Priority Mail® rates.

• At oversized rates.

• With special handling service.

• At the following Parcel Select® discount rates:

- Destination sectional center facility (DSCF) discount rates sorted to 5-digit containers.

- Destination delivery unit (DDU) discount rates.

— Mailing Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 2-3-05

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Clarification of the Nonmachinable Surcharge for Shrubs, Trees, and Other Nursery Stock

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