USPS ONLINE SERVICES

Frequently Asked Questions

USPS.com

Why should I use the Postal Service's Web site?

The Web site is available whenever you are - 24/7. Our Web site gets hundreds of thousands of visits each day. Customers are discovering the ease and convenience of going online to access Postal Service information, products, and services.

What can I do at www.usps.com?

Almost anything you can do at the Post Office, you can do online at www.usps.com. Customers can send mail and packages, buy stamps, purchase items from The Postal Store, calculate rates, print labels, create greeting cards and newsletters, locate Post Offices, and find ZIP Codes. Customers also can ship and track packages, and place change-of-address and Hold Mail requests, and business mailers can access helpful suggestions on how to grow their business.

Carrier Pickup

How do I use Carrier Pickup?

• Properly address Express Mail or Priority Mail packages and apply appropriate postage.

• Request and schedule a carrier pickup online at www.usps.com/shipping/carrierpickup.

The carrier picks up the package the next delivery day when delivering mail on his or her regular route.

What are the valid methods to prepay postage for Carrier Pickup?

Postage can be prepaid with postage stamps (provided the pickup point is your residence or place of business and the return information matches the location where the pickup occurs), postage meter imprints, PC Postage products, online Click-N-Ship labels with postage, and prepaid Priority Mail Flat-Rate envelopes. However, if your mailpiece weighs 16 ounces or more, and you use stamps as postage, it may only be picked up from your residence or place of business. Additionally, the return address must match the address of the pick-up location.

Are there any weight restrictions?

Yes. The maximum weight per package is 70 pounds.

Is there a cut off time when I schedule a pickup?

Yes. For free package pickup, the regular letter carrier picks up the package(s) the next delivery day during normal mail delivery. Carrier Pickup requests must be received by 2 A.M. CST. You can schedule a pickup up to 3 months in advance. If you need your package picked up right away, Pickup on Demand is available for only $13.25 per pickup, regardless of the number of packages, and the packages are picked up within a specified 2-hour timeframe.

What if I decide against mailing the package? Can I cancel my request?

Yes. Customers may also edit or cancel a request online by entering the Carrier Pickup Confirmation Number and address.

What if I don't want to wait until the next business day?

If you want the package picked up the same day, Pickup on Demand is available. For only $13.25 per pickup, regardless of the number of packages, packages are picked up within a specified 2-hour timeframe.

Click-N-Ship

What is Click-N-Ship service?

Click-N-Ship is the Postal Service's quick, easy, and convenient online shipping service. Using Click-N-Ship, you can create and pay for shipping labels for Express Mail, Priority Mail, Global Express Guaranteed, Global Express Mail, Global Priority Mail, and Global Airmail Parcel Post with postage using your credit card, personal computer, and printer. You also have the option of printing Click-N- Ship labels without postage. Click-N-Ship will calculate postage rates; find ZIP Codes; and standardize and save addresses and a 6-month history on labels printed with postage.

How do I know the weight of my Click-N-Ship items?

It is recommended you use a scale. You can now purchase 5- and 10-pound scales online at The Postal Store (www.usps.com/shop). Please keep in mind that if your package weighs more than the weight you entered, it will require additional postage - either at the time of mailing or delivery. A convenient alternative to a scale is our Priority Mail Flat-Rate envelope or boxes or our Express Mail Flat- Rate envelopes. For one low price, you can mail any amount of material, regardless of weight, that fits comfortably inside the flat-rate shipping supplies. Priority Mail Flat- Rate envelopes require $4.05 in postage; Priority Mail Flat-Rate boxes require $8.10 in postage; and Express Mail Flat-Rate envelopes require $14.40 in postage.

For what destinations can I create Click-N-Ship labels?

You can create online Express Mail and Priority Mail labels for shipping to the 50 states, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and APO/FPO addresses. Global Express Mail, Global Express Guaranteed, Global Priority Mail, and Global Air Parcel Post labels are available to approximately 200 countries and territories.

Can I import or export my address list into an Address Book?

Yes. You can import or export an address list into the Address Book. Your address book can store up to 3,000 addresses.

Why was my address changed from what I entered?

Addresses are compared to the U.S. Postal Service current address database and then standardized. Standardized addresses help us process and deliver your mail more efficiently. This database is very accurate and is updated regularly to include new delivery addresses. Some military addresses (APOs/FPOs) are in the process of being standardized and have not yet been submitted to the Address Management System database. Packages for these addresses and certain war zones must be mailed at your local Post Office.

Why isn't there an additional fee for Delivery Confirmation when I print a Priority Mail online label?

When you print an online label, an electronic record of your transaction is sent to the Postal Service. This meets the requirements for electronic rate Delivery Confirmation service; no additional fees are required when used with Priority Mail service.

Can I print an online shipping label for First-Class Mail, Parcel Post, Media Mail, Bound Printed Matter, or Library Mail items using Click-N-Ship?

Click-N-Ship service offers only Priority Mail and Express Mail domestic services. We recommend you try a PC Postage service provider if you wish to print labels for all services. These companies offer a wide array of additional features and can be located at www.usps.com/onlinepostage.

Can I purchase insurance online?

Yes. You can insure your package up to $500 (domestic only).

What types of credit cards can I use with Click-N-Ship service?

The Postal Service accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover cards.

Can I place packages with online labels and postage in the blue Postal Service street mailboxes?

Yes. However, the package must:

• Have a domestic Express Mail or Priority Mail label complete with PC Postage.

• Have a return address.

• Be paid for with a credit card.

• Fit in the blue street mailbox opening.

You may drop larger packages at your local Post Office, hand them to your letter carrier, or you can schedule a pickup online.

Do I need to use Postal Service supplies to mail my item?

No. However, the Postal Service recommends that customers use Postal Service boxes and other packaging and stickers when using Click-N-Ship labels so that their package is clearly marked with the type of service purchased. You can order free Express Mail, Priority Mail, Global Express Guaranteed, and Global Express Mail shipping supplies from The Postal Store at www.usps.com/shop.

What size package can I mail with Click-N-Ship?

Click-N-Ship packages may measure up to 108 inches in length and width, and weigh a maximum of 70 pounds.

If I'm mailing several items to the same person, why can't I make photocopies of the same label?

Each label has a unique barcode and number assigned to it. If you use photocopied labels with identical numbers, you will not get valid delivery information. Labels are monitored for possible duplication. Intentional use of duplicate labels constitutes fraud.

How should I attach the labels to the package?

Place the labels on the address side of the package. Do not fold the labels over package edges. Use clear shipping tape to securely affix labels on all four sides and to cover address areas. Do not tape over the "Postal Use" area on the Express Mail label, the barcodes, or the stamps. You may use self-adhesive labels, which you can purchase online at The Postal Store (www.usps.com/shop).

Why can't I tape over the barcode?

Our equipment cannot scan barcodes with tape over them.

How does the Shipment Confirmation Acceptance Notice or SCAN Form work on Click-N-Ship?

Click-N-Ship's new SCAN Form (PS Form 5630, Shipment Tracking Acceptance Report) features a master barcode that represents multiple packages in a shipment; it is scanned when your shipment is received by the Postal Service. This single scan enters all of your associated packages into our Track & Confirm database as "Shipment Accepted" and allows both you and the recipient to see when the package entered the mailstream. Simply print the SCAN Form after printing your labels. You can use a SCAN Form for one or more packages, as long as they are shipped on the same date and from the same ZIP Code. Other online shipping services, such as PC Postage and eBay/PayPal, will soon have this same valuable feature. See our SCAN Form page at www.usps.com/clicknship/scan-form.htm to view a sample and for further details.

How do I get a Shipment Confirmation Acceptance Notice or SCAN Form?

When you print labels with postage on Click-N-Ship, you will have the option of associating them with a SCAN Form (PS Form 5630). At the end of the process, you will be able to close out your form and print it.

What SCAN events will I be able to see on Track and Confirm on USPS.com?

You will be able to view the "Shipment Accepted" event by entering the SCAN Form barcode number or the label barcode number on Track and Confirm. All other tracking events will be label and product specific.

Is there a limit on how many packages can be linked to the SCAN Form (PS Form 5630)?

No.

Do I need a SCAN Form (PS Form 5630) if I have only one package that I want scanned at acceptance?

Yes.

Is it available for all services on Click-N-Ship?

Yes, except for Global Express Guaranteed.

Online Change of Address

How do I find this service?

Online Change of Address is featured online at www.usps.com/moversguide.

Is there a charge to change my address online?

Yes. We charge a $1.00 processing fee. When you enter your credit card number and billing address, we electronically verify that information with the bank that issued your credit card. The $1.00 processing fee pays for this verification service, which helps us verify your address and to provide a secure online transaction.

If you prefer not to pay the $1.00 processing fee, you will be offered the option to print and mail a change-of-address order.

How long will it take before I get mail at my new address?

After you have notified the Postal Service of your change of address, it could take several days for mail to begin arriving at your new address. There are several factors to consider, such as:

• The date you requested the Postal Service begin forwarding your mail.

• The distance of your new address from your old address.

• When you notified the Postal Service of your move.

Will I still receive confirmation of my address change in the mail?

Yes. You will receive all of the official documentation as if you went in person to change your address at the Post Office. The Postal Service will promptly mail a Move Validation Letter to the address you are leaving. For your privacy, it will not mention your new mail forwarding address.

You will also receive a Confirmation Notification Letter or a Welcome Kit in the mail 7-10 days after your online change. Please retain this official change-of-address confirmation page for your records as local agencies and resources may require it for proof of your move.

The Postal Store

What can I do online at The Postal Store?

From the convenience of your home or office, simply go online to The Postal Store to buy stamps, order shipping supplies, and shop for licensed U.S. Postal Service merchandise. At The Postal Store you can search for stamps using convenient keywords or browsing categories, stock up on holiday stamps and other stamp collections, and also sign up for a stamp subscription such as Fast Stamps and have stamps delivered to you automatically at periodic intervals. You can also eliminate a step when mailing Priority Mail by purchasing Prepaid Priority Mail Flat-Rate envelopes, which are now available in convenient packs of 5 and 10. If you often order the same thing, set up a "My Favorites" list of your favorite items. You can even e-mail your list to a friend.

A variety of merchandise can be found at The Postal Store - from coin bank mailbox replicas to beautiful stamp artwork.

What is Fast Stamps?

Fast Stamps provides a simple way to rapidly place an order for basic First-Class Mail stamps in book and coil formats. Simply check the format and frequency you desire, click the BUY button and you're on your way to a speedy checkout!

How soon after I place my order will it arrive?

Please allow 3-5 business days for processing and delivery of stamp products and in-stock merchandise. Items that are made to order, such as philatelic framed art, usually take longer as those products are created when the order is placed. Pre-orders and back-orders will be shipped on the date specified on the product information page. Please allow 3 weeks for delivery of orders shipped to foreign addresses.

How will my order be shipped?

All orders are shipped via Priority Mail from the U.S. Postal Service.

Is there a shipping and handling fee in addition to the $1.00 charge for stamps?

There is not an additional charge for domestic orders. However, we will assess a $5.00 shipping and handling fee for international orders. Also, we will assess Postal Service shipping and handling fees based on weight and location for non-stamp items, such as philatelic framed art and Postal Service NASCAR apparel.

What types of business-related items are for sale at The Postal Store?

The Postal Store sells items that meet the needs of our business customers, including 5- and 10-pound digital scales, prepaid (stamped) Priority Mail envelopes, pre- inked rubber stamps, and adhesive Click-N-Ship labels.

What types of licensed products are for sale at The Postal Store?

The Postal Store sells books and games, stamp artwork, kids' items, stuffed animals, mugs, pins, apparel, DVDs, and NASCAR gear.

Online Insurance

Can I purchase insurance online?

Yes. Indemnity coverage is available online for up to $500 for lost, rifled, or damaged articles.

What classes of mail are insurable online?

Depending on the online postage solution (Click-N-Ship or eBay), domestic insurance is available with Express Mail, Priority Mail, Parcel Post, Media Mail, and First-Class Mail parcels. Express Mail provides insurance up to $100 at no additional cost.

Are the online insurance fees the same as at a Post Office?

Yes. Insurance purchased online costs the same and the fees are based on the amount of coverage needed up to $500 (domestic).

What if I need to purchase insurance for more than $500?

Visit any Post Office. Insurance can be purchased for up to $5,000. Insurance purchased online cannot be combined with insurance purchased at a Post Office.

Is everything insurable?

No. Coverage is not provided for consequential losses, delay, concealed damage, spoilage of perishable items, articles improperly packaged, articles too fragile to withstand normal handling in the mail, or prohibited articles. These policies can be found on the How to File Insurance Claims page on USPS.com at www.usps.com/insuranceclaims. For additional information please see the Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®).

How and where do I file a claim?

You may file a claim in one of the following ways:

• Visit the How to File Insurance Claims page on USPS.com at www.usps.com/insuranceclaims for instructions on how to file a claim for insurance purchased online.

• Download and complete PS Form 1000, Domestic Claim or Registered Mail Inquiry.

• Take a completed PS Form 1000, proof of insurance (i.e., online label record or shipping history printout), and evidence of value (i.e., sales receipt or invoice) to any Post Office for processing.

Is Carrier Pickup service available for items insured online?

Yes. This is available with Priority Mail and Express Mail. After purchasing an online label with insurance, please visit www.usps.com/carrierpickup to request a pickup for your item(s). Just prepare your package with postage before your carrier arrives. Your carrier will pick it up the next Postal Service delivery day.

EVENTS GUIDE

Helpful Hints for Off-Site Events

Step 1 - Prepare for the Event

Estimate Audience Size

Determine how many customers will be coming to your event and use this information to plan your setup and order appropriate materials and refreshments. There is generally a 1-2 percent response rate to direct mail campaigns.

Order Enough Materials

Depending on the number of participants, you will need to order an appropriate amount of literature for handout materials, giveaways (if applicable), and so forth. You may order the USPS.com Tip Sheet and "Take-Ones" through the Business Connect Data Center. These handouts are also available through MessageMaker. Contact your district marketing manager or small business specialist for assistance with MessageMaker orders.

Plan Your Demonstration - How to Make Your Audience Pay Attention

• Keep in mind that beginnings and endings are peak attention times for the audience and merit special attention.

• Identify the purpose or goal of your presentation.

• Tie the purpose or goal to a relevant real-life experience, such as an example using one of your customers.

• Ask questions to stimulate thinking or encourage audience participation.

• When closing, keep in mind that your audience needs a sense of closure, including key takeaways, such as the theme of the meeting - Go to USPS.com and Skip the Trip.

Step 2 - Set Up Computers

Be sure you arrange for computers well in advance of your event and that you have the appropriate hook-ups. Also be sure you have trained employees who are helping you with the demonstrations. It's important to have local presence whenever possible in order to engage as many customers as possible. By leveraging your local resources, the event becomes a team effort. Some possible representatives include:

• Other postmasters, station or branch managers, or postal ambassadors.

• Small business specialists or business development team members.

• A Customer Relations coordinator to assist with presentation and customer-relationship building.

Make sure you discuss the roles of the Postal Service representatives prior to your event.

Step 3 - Conduct the Demonstration

Set Up

You can display the literature or materials and set up the refreshments in advance. It will take some time to make sure things are properly set up. People will start to arrive up to 15 minutes early and you want to make sure you are prepared to greet them.

Welcome Participants

This will create a more relaxed atmosphere and give you the opportunity to learn about individual business challenges so you can better address real customer objectives.

Make a sign-in sheet (see the Business Connect chart on page 5) available to your attendees prior to the start of your session. This sheet also has a column to record any specific product or service interest a customer may have. Bring a stack of your business cards to hand out. Ask your small business specialist for suggestions or assistance.

Network/Question and Answer Session

Allow time for customers to network with each other and ask you questions.

Step 4 - Conduct Follow-up

Ensure timely followup to any customer requests or inquiries that were not resolved at your meeting.

Step 5 - Document Your Activities in Business Connect

To receive credit for your USPS.com Week event, document your activities in the Business Connect Data Center. Follow these steps to access Business Connect from the Postal Service Intranet (http://blue.usps.gov):

• Under "Hot Topics" in the lower middle of the page, click on Business Connect.

• On the right of the page, under "Access Business Connect Data Center", click on Go to the Business Connect Data Center.

• On the Business Connect Data Center page, enter your user name and password.

• Under "Select Type of Event/Topic," chose USPS.com week (BC Contest) for a Group Activity.