Effective January 9, 2022, the Postal Service™ revised Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®), in various sections, to reflect changes to prices and certain mailing standards for the following competitive products:
n Priority Mail Express®.
n Priority Mail®.
n First-Class Package Service®.
n Parcel Select®.
n USPS Retail Ground®.
n Extra Services.
n Return Services.
n Mailer Services.
n Recipient Services.
n Other.
This article describes new prices and product features for competitive products established by the Governors of the United States Postal Service®. Information on new prices is available on the Postal Explorer® website at pe.usps.com.
Note: The Postal Service on December 3, 2021, notified the Postal Regulatory Commission of the intention to delay implementing “nonstandard” fees and the “dimension-noncompliance” fee (both detailed elsewhere in this article) until April 3, 2022. The delayed implementation of the dimension-noncompliance fee will also delay the requirement to provide dimensions for nonstandard pieces and dimensional weight pieces until April 3, 2022.
Competitive products changes include the following by product:
Dimensional Weight Pricing Dimension Standards
(Effective April 3, 2022)
The Postal Service will implement a standard under dimensional weight pricing for commercial Priority Mail Express pieces and commercial Priority Mail pieces to require that Shipping Services file manifests or other approved electronic documentation include the accurate dimensions (length, width, height) of all pieces that exceed 1 cubic foot. This standard will assist the Postal Service with compliance in pricing. Mailers of such pieces and with Shipping Services file manifests, or other approved electronic documentation, that do not meet the requirement to include the piece’s accurate dimensions will be assessed a dimension-noncompliance fee.
Dimensional Weight Pricing Dimension Standards
(Effective April 3, 2022)
The Postal Service will implement a standard under dimensional weight pricing for Parcel Select Destination Entry and Parcel Select Ground pieces to require that Shipping Services file manifests or other approved electronic documentation include the accurate dimensions (length, width, height) of all pieces that exceed 1 cubic foot. This standard will assist the Postal Service with compliance in pricing. Mailers of such pieces and with Shipping Services file manifests, or other approved electronic documentation, not meeting the requirement to include the piece’s accurate dimensions will be assessed a dimension-noncompliance fee.
Optional SCF Preparation for Parcel Select Destination Entry and Parcel Select Lightweight Machinable Parcels
The Postal Service implemented an optional Sectional Center Facility (SCF) preparation level that allows mailers to presort and dropship Parcel Select Destination Entry machinable parcels to an eligible destination SCF (DSCF) under Labeling List L051. The new SCF preparation level follows the current Parcel Select Destination Entry standards for requirements, mail preparation, entry, and pricing.
The Postal Service also implemented an optional SCF preparation level that allows mailers to presort and dropship Parcel Select Lightweight (PSLW) machinable parcels to an eligible DSCF under Labeling List L051. The new SCF preparation follows the current PSLW standards for requirements, mail preparation, entry, and pricing.
As a result of the new SCF preparation level for PSLW machinable parcels, the Postal Service deleted Customer Support Ruling (CSR) PS-348, Parcel Select Lightweight Machinable Parcel Optional SCF Presort and Entry.
USPS Connect Local
USPS Connect Local™ is a new Parcel Select price category offering designed to enhance access to the Postal Service delivery network at the local level to deliver items the same day or the next day via a local Post Office™ to every address served by that delivery unit. Participation in the USPS Connect Local program requires agreement to program terms. Customers must contact a USPS representative for details.
USPS Connect Local includes three USPS-produced Flat Rate container prices (2 bags and a box), variable weight prices for 1 pound through 25 pounds that are not subject to Dimensional Weight (DIM) pricing, and an oversized piece (108–130 inches) price.
USPS Click-N-Ship® is the required payment method, providing both the shipping label and postage payment.
Certain additional mailing services, such as Signature Confirmation™ and Insurance extra services, Pickup on Demand®, and USPS Tracking Plus®, are available for USPS Connect Local.
USPS Connect Local also includes Sunday delivery where available for a fee and has an automatic Sunday fee refund feature through USPS Click-N-Ship if the item is not delivered on Sunday, or Sunday delivery was not attempted.
USPS Retail Ground Prices Zones 1 through 4
The Postal Service eliminated the restriction that USPS Retail Ground prices in Zones 1 through 4 are only available to items that require surface transportation. Effective January 9, 2022, USPS Retail Ground prices are available for all eligible mailable items in Zones 1 through 9.
USPS Tracking Plus Service Expansion of Products
The Postal Service expanded the domestic product offering for USPS Tracking Plus to include Library Mail, Media Mail®, and Bound Printed Matter. The expansion also includes First-Class Mail® (letters and flats) with the purchase of a trackable extra service, USPS Marketing Mail® and Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail parcels with the purchase of USPS Tracking®, and Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail parcels with a trackable extra service.
The Postal Service also expanded USPS Tracking Plus service to include some International outbound products. For further information, see the Federal Register notice “International Competitive Services Product and Price Changes.”
Residential Delivery Indicator Application Program Interface (RDI-API) Eliminated
The Postal Service eliminated RDI-API due to low volume.
Nonstandard Fees (Effective April 3, 2022)
The Postal Service will implement nonstandard fees for the following types of mail if the mailpiece is operationally considered nonstandard:
n Priority Mail Express (domestic retail and commercial).
n Priority Mail (domestic retail and commercial).
n First-Class Package Service — Retail.
n USPS Retail Ground (including USPS Retail Ground Limited Overland Routes or LOR).
n Parcel Select (Destination Entry, Ground, PSLW, USPS Connect Local).
The nonstandard fees will be based on two dimension components: length and cube. Two fees will be based on length. They include the following:
1. A fee for a piece that measures more than 22 inches up to 30 inches; and
2. A fee for a piece that measures more than 30 inches long.
Under the cube component, a fee will be charged for a piece that measures more than 2 cubic feet (3,456 cubic inches). Cube dimensions for rectangular pieces are determined by measuring the length, width, and height in inches (rounding off each measurement to the nearest whole inch) and multiplying the length by the width by the height. For nonrectangular pieces, the cube dimensions are calculated the same as above and the result multiplied by an adjustment factor of 0.785. If either calculation exceeds 3,456 cubic inches, the piece is subject to the cube dimension nonstandard fee.
A piece may be subject to both a length and a cube dimension nonstandard fee. The nonstandard fees do not apply to Flat Rate products, Regional Rate products, or returns (USPS Returns®, PRS).
In addition, the Postal Service will require for the following types of mail that the Shipping Services file manifests or other approved electronic documentation include the accurate dimensions (length, width, height) of all pieces that exceed 22 inches:
n Commercial Priority Mail Express.
n Commercial Priority Mail.
n Parcel Select (Destination Entry, Ground, PSLW).
Dimension-Noncompliance Fee (Effective April 3, 2022)
The Postal Service will implement a “dimension-noncompliance” fee for commercial Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail, and Parcel Select (Destination Entry, Ground, PSLW, and USPS Connect Local) mailpieces. The dimension-noncompliance fee will be assessed when the mailpiece’s dimensions (length, width, height) required by standard to be included in the Shipping Services file manifests or other approved electronic documentation are omitted or inaccurate. A mailpiece is only subject to one dimension-noncompliance fee.
No product changes are scheduled for the following competitive products:
n First-Class Package Service.
n Extra Services.
n Return Services.
n Recipient Services.
The Postal Service provides additional resources to assist customers with these price changes for competitive products. These tools include price lists, downloadable price files, and Federal Register notices, which are available on the Postal Explorer® website at pe.usps.com.
Unless otherwise stated in this article, these standards are effective January 9, 2022.
Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM)
* * * * *
100 Retail Mail Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels
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110 Retail Mail Priority Mail Express
113 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees
* * * * *
[Add new 1.6 to read as follows:]
1.6 Nonstandard Fees (Effective April 3, 2022)
The following provisions apply:
a. A Priority Mail Express piece is subject to a nonstandard fee (see Notice 123 — Price List) if it measures:
1. More than 22 inches up to 30 inches long;
2. More than 30 inches long; or
3. More than 2 cubic feet (3,456 cubic inches).
b. Cube dimensions are determined based on the following:
1. Rectangular pieces: Determined by measuring the length, width, and height in inches, rounding off (see 604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest whole inch, and multiplying the length by the width by the height.
2. Nonrectangular pieces: Calculated the same as above and the result multiplied by an adjustment factor of 0.785.
c. If either calculation above exceeds 3,456 cubic inches, the piece is subject to the nonstandard fee.
d. A piece may be subject to both a length and a cube nonstandard fee.
* * * * *
120 Retail Mail Priority Mail
123 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees
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[Add new 1.7 to read as follows:]
1.7 Nonstandard Fees (Effective April 3, 2022)
The following provisions apply:
a. Except for Flat Rate and Regional Rate packaging, a Priority Mail piece is subject to a nonstandard fee (see Notice 123 — Price List) if it measures:
1. More than 22 inches up to 30 inches long;
2. More than 30 inches long; or
3. More than 2 cubic feet (3,456 cubic inches).
b. Cube dimensions are determined based on the following:
1. Rectangular pieces: Determined by measuring the length, width, and height in inches, rounding off (see 604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest whole inch, and multiplying the length by the width by the height.
2. Nonrectangular pieces: Calculated the same as above and the result multiplied by an adjustment factor of 0.785.
c. If either calculation above exceeds 3,456 cubic inches, the piece is subject to the nonstandard fee.
d. A piece may be subject to both a length and a cube nonstandard fee.
* * * * *
130 Retail Mail First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service — Retail
133 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees
* * * * *
[Add new 1.6 to read as follows:]
1.6 Nonstandard Fees (Effective April 3, 2022)
The following provisions apply:
a. A First-Class Package Service — Retail piece is subject to a nonstandard fee (see Notice 123 — Price List) if it measures:
1. More than 22 inches up to 30 inches long;
2. More than 30 inches long; or
3. More than 2 cubic feet (3,456 cubic inches).
b. Cube dimensions are determined based on the following:
1. Rectangular pieces: Determined by measuring the length, width, and height in inches, rounding off (see 604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest whole inch, and multiplying the length by the width by the height.
2. Nonrectangular pieces: Calculated the same as above and the result multiplied by an adjustment factor of 0.785.
c. If either calculation above exceeds 3,456 cubic inches, the piece is subject to the nonstandard fee.
d. A piece may be subject to both a length and a cube nonstandard fee.
* * * * *
150 Retail Mail USPS Retail Ground
153 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees
1.1 Price Eligibility
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item a. to read as follows:]
a. Except for items mailed under 1.3, USPS Retail Ground prices are available for eligible mailable items sent to Zones 1 through 9.
[Delete item b. and renumber current items c. and d. as items b. and c.]
* * * * *
1.3 USPS Retail Ground — Limited Overland Routes Prices
[Revise the text of 1.3 to read as follows:]
USPS Retail Ground — LOR retail prices are only available when mailing eligible items within Alaska for pieces delivered to or from the eligible intra-Alaska ZIP Codes not connected by overland routes in Exhibit 1.3. USPS Retail Ground — LOR retail prices are not available through online or commercial postage payment.
* * * * *
[Add new 1.5 to read as follows:]
1.5 Nonstandard Fees (Effective April 3, 2022)
The following provisions apply:
a. A USPS Retail Ground or USPS Retail Ground — Limited Overland Routes piece is subject to a nonstandard fee (see Notice 123 — Price List) if it measures:
1. More than 22 inches up to 30 inches long;
2. More than 30 inches long; or
3. More than 2 cubic feet (3,456 cubic inches).
b. Cube dimensions are determined based on the following:
1. Rectangular pieces: Determined by measuring the length, width, and height in inches, rounding off (see 604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest whole inch, and multiplying the length by the width by the height.
2. Nonrectangular pieces: Calculated the same as above and the result multiplied by an adjustment factor of 0.785.
c. If either calculation above exceeds 3,456 cubic inches, the piece is subject to the nonstandard fee.
d. A piece may be subject to both a length and a cube nonstandard fee.
* * * * *
200 Commercial Mail Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels
201 Physical Standards
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8.0 Additional Physical Standards by Class of Mail
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8.5 Parcel Select
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[Add new 8.5.4 to read as follows:]
8.5.4 USPS Connect Local
These standards apply to USPS Connect Local:
a. No piece may weigh more than 25 pounds.
b. USPS Connect Local pieces measuring more than 108 inches in combined length and girth, but not more than 130 inches in combined length and girth, are mailable at the USPS Connect Local oversized price.
* * * * *
202 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece
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3.0 Placement and Content of Mail Markings
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3.7 Parcel Select, Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, and Library Mail Markings
3.7.1 Basic Markings
[Revise the first sentence in the introductory text of 3.7.1 to read as follows:]
The basic required marking (i.e., “Parcel Select”, “Parcel Select Lightweight”, “USPS Connect Local”, “Bound Printed Matter”, “Media Mail”, and “Library Mail”) must be printed on each piece claimed at the respective price.***
* * * * *
3.7.2 Parcel Select Markings
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[Add new item d. to read as follows:]
d. USPS Connect Local — “USPS Connect Local”.
* * * * *
[Add new 3.7.3 to read as follows and renumber current 3.7.3 through 3.7.5 as 3.7.4 through 3.7.6.]
3.7.3 USPS Connect Local
In addition to the basic marking “USPS Connect Local”, each piece of USPS Connect Local must bear the 5-digit ZIP Code of the local mailing Post Office (i.e., USPS Connect Local — 12345) additional price marking. For USPS Connect Local Sunday delivery, in addition to the 5-digit ZIP Code additional price marking, the piece must include the marking “SUN” (i.e., USPS Connect Local — 12345 SUN).
* * * * *
210 Commercial Mail Priority Mail Express
213 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees
* * * * *
1.5 Dimensional Weight Price for Low-Density Parcels to Zones 1–9
* * * * *
[Add new 1.5.3 to read as follows:]
1.5.3 Dimensional Weight Pricing Dimension Standard (Effective April 3, 2022)
Shipping Services file manifests or other approved electronic documentation must include the accurate dimensions (length, width, height) of all pieces that exceed 1 cubic foot. Mailers of pieces exceeding 1 cubic foot and with Shipping Services file manifests, or other approved electronic documentation, that do not meet the requirement to include the piece’s accurate dimensions will be assessed a dimension-noncompliance fee under 1.10.
* * * * *
[Add new 1.9 to read as follows:]
1.9 Nonstandard Fees (Effective April 3, 2022)
The following provisions apply:
a. A Priority Mail Express piece is subject to a nonstandard fee (see Notice 123 — Price List) if it measures:
1. More than 22 inches up to 30 inches long;
2. More than 30 inches long; or
3. More than 2 cubic feet (3,456 cubic inches).
b. Cube dimensions are determined based on the following:
1. Rectangular pieces: Determined by measuring the length, width, and height in inches, rounding off (see 604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest whole inch, and multiplying the length by the width by the height.
2. Nonrectangular pieces: Calculated the same as above and the result multiplied by an adjustment factor of 0.785.
c. If either calculation above exceeds 3,456 cubic inches, the piece is subject to the nonstandard fee.
d. A piece may be subject to both a length and a cube nonstandard fee.
e. Shipping Services file manifests or other approved electronic documentation must include the accurate dimensions (length, width, height) of all pieces that exceed 22 inches.
f. Mailers of pieces exceeding 22 inches and with Shipping Services file manifests, or other approved electronic documentation, that do not meet the requirement to include the piece’s accurate dimensions will be assessed a dimension-noncompliance fee under 1.10.
* * * * *
[Add new 1.10 to read as follows:]
1.10 Dimension-Noncompliance Fee
(Effective April 3, 2022)
Mailers of Priority Mail Express mailpieces required to include the mailpiece dimensions (length, width, height) in the Shipping Services file manifest or other approved electronic documentation under 1.5.3 or 1.9 will be charged a dimension-noncompliance fee (see Notice 123 — Price List) if the piece’s dimensions are omitted or inaccurate in the Shipping Services file manifest or other approved electronic documentation. A mailpiece is subject to only one dimension-noncompliance fee.
* * * * *
220 Commercial Mail Priority Mail
223 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees
* * * * *
1.5 Dimensional Weight Price for Low-Density Parcels to Zones 1–9
* * * * *
[Add new 1.5.3 to read as follows:]
1.5.3 Dimensional Weight Pricing Dimension Standard (Effective April 3, 2022)
Shipping Services file manifests or other approved electronic documentation must include the accurate dimensions (length, width, height) of all pieces that exceed 1 cubic foot. Mailers of pieces exceeding 1 cubic foot and with Shipping Services file manifests, or other approved electronic documentation, that do not meet the requirement to include the piece’s accurate dimensions will be assessed a dimension-noncompliance fee under 1.13.
* * * * *
[Add new 1.12 to read as follows:]
1.12 Nonstandard Fees (Effective April 3, 2022)
The following provisions apply:
a. Except for Flat Rate and Regional Rate packaging and Priority Mail Return service packages, a Priority Mail piece is subject to a nonstandard fee (see Notice 123 — Price List) if it measures:
1. More than 22 inches up to 30 inches long;
2. More than 30 inches long; or
3. More than 2 cubic feet (3,456 cubic inches).
b. Cube dimensions are determined based on the following:
1. Rectangular pieces: Determined by measuring the length, width, and height in inches, rounding off (see 604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest whole inch, and multiplying the length by the width by the height.
2. Nonrectangular pieces: Calculated the same as above and the result multiplied by an adjustment factor of 0.785.
c. If either calculation above exceeds 3,456 cubic inches, the piece is subject to the nonstandard fee.
d. A piece may be subject to both a length and a cube nonstandard fee.
e. Shipping Services file manifests or other approved electronic documentation must include the accurate dimensions (length, width, height) of all pieces that exceed 22 inches.
f. Mailers of pieces that exceed 22 inches and with Shipping Services file manifests, or other approved electronic documentation, that do not meet the requirement to include accurate dimensions will be assessed a dimension-noncompliance fee under 1.13.
* * * * *
[Add new 1.13 to read as follows:]
1.13 Dimension-Noncompliance Fee
(Effective April 3, 2022)
Mailers of Priority Mail mailpieces required to include the mailpiece dimensions (length, width, height) in the Shipping Services file manifest or other approved electronic documentation under 1.5.3 or 1.12 will be charged a dimension-noncompliance fee (see Notice 123 — Price List) if the piece’s dimensions are omitted or inaccurate in the Shipping Services file manifest or other approved documentation. A mailpiece is subject to only one dimension-noncompliance fee.
* * * * *
250 Commercial Mail Parcel Select
253 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees
1.1 Price Application
[Revise the text of 1.1 to read as follows:]
Postage is based on the price that applies to the weight increment of each addressed piece, and on the zone to which the piece is addressed, except for DDU and DSCF entered pieces and USPS Connect Local pieces. The price is charged per pound or fraction thereof; any fraction of a pound is considered a whole pound. The following also applies:
a. Except for Parcel Select Lightweight, the minimum price per piece is the 1-pound price.
b. For DDU, DSCF, and USPS Connect Local pieces, postage is based on the price that applies to the weight increment of each addressed piece.
c. USPS Connect Local Flat Rate prices are not based on weight and zone, but on a flat rate regardless of domestic destination and the actual weight (up to 25 pounds) of the mailpiece.
d. Parcel Select Lightweight postage is based on the price that applies to the weight increment of each addressed piece, charged per ounce or fraction thereof, with any fraction of an ounce being rounded to the next whole ounce.
e. The price categories for Parcel Select are as follows:
1. Destination entry including destination entry network distribution center (DNDC), destination entry sectional center facility (DSCF), and destination entry delivery unit (DDU).
2. Ground.
3. Lightweight.
4. USPS Connect Local.
1.2 Parcel Select Prices
[Revise the text of 1.2 to read as follows:]
Pricing is available for all Parcel Select price categories under 1.1. For prices, see Notice 123 — Price List.
1.3 Dimensional Weight Price for Low-Density Parcels to Zones 1–9
[Revise the text of 1.3 to read as follows:]
Postage for Destination Entry and Ground parcels addressed for delivery to Zones 1–9 and exceeding 1 cubic foot (1,728 cubic inches) is based on the actual weight or the dimensional weight (as calculated in 1.3.1 or 1.3.2), whichever is greater.
* * * * *
[Add new 1.3.3 to read as follows:]
1.3.3 Dimensional Weight Dimension Standard (Effective April 3, 2022)
Shipping Services file manifests or other approved electronic documentation must include the accurate dimensions (length, width, height) of all pieces that exceed 1 cubic foot. Mailers of pieces exceeding 1 cubic foot and with Shipping Services file manifests, or other approved electronic documentation, that do not meet the requirement to include the piece’s accurate dimensions will be assessed a dimension-noncompliance fee under 1.9.
* * * * *
[Add new 1.6 through 1.9 to read as follows:]
1.6 USPS Connect Local Flat Rate Packaging
Only USPS-produced USPS Connect Local Flat Rate packaging is eligible for USPS Connect Local Flat Rate prices. Mailers will be charged a flat rate regardless of the actual weight (up to 70 pounds) of the mailpiece. Customers must only use USPS-produced USPS Connect Local Flat Rate containers at the applicable USPS Connect Local Flat Rate price. USPS-produced USPS Connect Local Flat Rate packaging is not eligible for shipping live animals.
1.7 Sunday Delivery
A USPS Connect Local mailer may request Sunday delivery where available for a fee (see Notice 123 — Price List).
1.8 Nonstandard Fees (Effective April 3, 2022)
The following provisions apply:
a. Except for Ground Return service, a Parcel Select Destination Entry, Ground, Parcel Select Lightweight, or USPS Connect Local mailpiece is subject to a nonstandard fee (see Notice 123 — Price List) if it measures:
1. More than 22 inches up to 30 inches long;
2. More than 30 inches long; or
3. More than 2 cubic feet (3,456 cubic inches).
b. Cube dimensions are determined based on the following:
1. Rectangular pieces: Determined by measuring the length, width, and height in inches, rounding off (see 604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest whole inch, and multiplying the length by the width by the height.
2. Nonrectangular pieces: Calculated the same as above and the result multiplied by an adjustment factor of 0.785.
c. If either calculation above exceeds 3,456 cubic inches, the piece is subject to the nonstandard fee.
d. A piece may be subject to both a length and a cube nonstandard fee.
e. Shipping Services file manifests or other approved electronic documentation must include the accurate dimensions (length, width, height) of all pieces that exceed 22 inches.
f. Mailers of pieces exceeding 22 inches and with Shipping Services file manifests, or other approved electronic documentation, that do not meet the requirement to include the piece’s accurate dimensions will be assessed a dimension-noncompliance fee under 1.9.
1.9 Dimension-Noncompliance Fee
(Effective April 3, 2022)
Mailers of Parcel Select mailpieces required to include the mailpiece’s dimensions (length, width, height) in the Shipping Services file manifest or other approved electronic documentation under 1.3.3 or 1.8 will be charged a dimension-noncompliance fee (see Notice 123 — Price List) if the piece’s dimensions are omitted or inaccurate in the Shipping Services file manifest or other approved electronic documentation. A mailpiece is subject to only one dimension-noncompliance fee.
* * * * *
3.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for Parcel Select Parcels
3.1 Description of Service
[Revise the text of 3.1 to read as follows:]
Parcel Select is a Shipping Services ground product. USPS Local Connect is a price category of Parcel Select with an expected same-day or next-day delivery service. USPS does not guarantee the delivery of Parcel Select mailpieces within a specified time. Certain Parcel Select mailpieces might receive deferred service.
* * * * *
4.0 Price Eligibility for Parcel Select and Parcel Select Lightweight
4.1 Destination Entry Price Eligibility
4.1.1 Definition
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence of item b. to read as follows:]
b. A destination sectional center facility (DSCF) includes all facilities in L005 or L051 for DSCF machinable parcels.***
* * * * *
4.1.4 DSCF and DDU Prices
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence of item a. to read as follows:]
a. For DSCF prices, be part of a Parcel Select destination entry mailing of parcels deposited at an SCF in L005, L051, or a USPS-designated facility.***
* * * * *
4.3 Parcel Select Lightweight
* * * * *
4.3.3 Prices for Machinable Parcels
* * * * *
[Add new item b. to read as follows and renumber current items b. and c. as items c. and d.]
b. SCF Price; the SCF price applies to machinable parcels that are dropshipped and presented to a DSCF:
1. In an SCF sack containing at least 10 pounds of parcels.
2. On an SCF pallet, according to 705.8.10.
* * * * *
[Add new 4.4 to read as follows and renumber current 4.4 and 4.5 as 4.5 and 4.6.]
4.4 USPS Connect Local
USPS Connect Local mailings are subject to the following criteria:
a. Participation in the USPS Connect Local program requires agreement to program terms. Customers must speak with a USPS representative for details.
b. There is no minimum volume requirement.
c. Postage must be paid under 254.1.1.3.
d. Pieces are subject to specific marking requirements under 202.3.7.2 and 202.3.7.3.
e. Mailings must be addressed and entered at the local 5-digit Post Office by the designated critical entry time for same-day delivery within the local 5-digit Post Office service area.
f. Only the following extra services are available with USPS Connect Local and must be purchased through the Click-N-Ship application:
1. Insurance.
2. Signature Confirmation.
3. Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery.
g. Sunday delivery is offered where available for a fee (see 1.8).
* * * * *
254 Postage Payment and Documentation
1.0 Basic Standards for Postage Payment
* * * * *
[Add new 1.1.3 to read as follows:]
1.1.3 USPS Connect Local
USPS Connect Local mailings must be paid with USPS Click-N-Ship.
* * * * *
255 Mail Preparation
1.0 General Information for Mail Preparation
1.1 Basic Standards
[Revise the text of 1.1 (to include new sections 1.1.1 and 1.1.2) to read as follows:]
1.1.1 General
All mailings at Parcel Select prices are subject to these general standards:
a. Each mailing must meet the applicable standards in 201, 202, 253, 255, and 256.
b. All pieces that are palletized must be prepared under 705.8.0.
1.1.2 USPS Connect Local
USPS Connect Local pieces include no sorting requirements.
* * * * *
1.4 Terms for Presort Level
* * * * *
[Add new item c. to read as follows and renumber current items c. and d. as items d. and e.]
c. SCF: the separation includes pieces for two or more 3-digit areas served by the same sectional center facility (SCF) (see L002 and L051).
* * * * *
4.0 Preparing Destination Entry Parcel Select
* * * * *
4.2 Preparing Destination SCF (DSCF) Parcel Select
4.2.1 Definition
[Revise the first sentence of 4.2.1 to read as follows:]
A destination sectional center facility (DSCF) includes all facilities in L005 for 5-digit/scheme sacks, or L051 for SCF sorted machinable parcel sacks.***
4.2.2 Basic Standards
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item b. to read as follows:]
b. DSCF pieces must be for the same SCF area under L005 for 5-digit/scheme sacks or L051 for SCF sorted machinable parcel sacks.
[Revise the first and second sentence of item c. to read as follows:]
c. Sorted to optional 5-digit scheme destinations under L606, Column B, 5-digit destinations, or SCF for machinable parcels under L051, either in sacks or directly on pallets or in pallet boxes. Mailers must enter the pieces at the designated SCF, under L605, that serves the 5-digit ZIP Code destinations of the pieces or designated SCF for machinable parcels under L051.***
* * * * *
4.2.3 Sacking and Labeling
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item a. to read as follows:]
a. Only 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, and SCF sacks are permitted.
* * * * *
[Add new items e. and f. to read as follows and renumber current items e. and f. as items g. and h.]
e. Each SCF sack must contain a minimum of seven pieces. One overflow sack per SCF is permitted (no piece minimum).
f. SCF sack labeling: Line 1, use L051; for Line 2, “PSVC PARCELS SCF.”
* * * * *
[Revise the text of renumbered item h. to read as follows:]
h. See 705.8.0 for the option to place 5-digit scheme and 5-digit DSCF sacks, SCF sacks, and 3-digit nonmachinable sacks on an SCF pallet.
* * * * *
5.0 Preparing Machinable Parcels
* * * * *
5.3 Sacking and Labeling
5.3.1 Sack Preparation
* * * * *
[Add new item c. to read as follows and renumber current items c. through e. as items d. through f.]
c. SCF: optional (minimum of 10 pieces or 20 pounds); for Line 1, use L051.
* * * * *
5.3.2 Sack Line 2
* * * * *
[Add new item c. to read as follows and renumber current items c. through e. as items d. through f.]
c. SCF: “PSVC MACH SCF.”
* * * * *
6.0 Preparing Parcel Select Lightweight
* * * * *
6.2 Preparing Machinable Parcels
6.2.1 Sacking
[Revise the text of 6.2.1 to read as follows:]
Mailers may prepare 5-digit sacks only for parcels that will be dropshipped to a DNDC (or ASF when claiming DNDC prices), DSCF, or DDU. Mailers may prepare SCF sacks only for parcels that will be dropshipped to a DSCF. Mailers may prepare ASF or NDC sacks only for parcels that will be dropshipped to a DNDC (or ASF when claiming DNDC prices). There is no minimum for parcels prepared in 5-digit/scheme sacks entered at a DDU. Mailers choosing to combine the preparation of irregular parcels with machinable parcels placed in 5-digit/scheme sacks must prepare those sacks under 6.2.2a.
6.2.2 Sacking and Labeling
* * * * *
[Add new item b. to read as follows and renumber current items b. through e. as items c. through f.]
b. SCF, allowed only for machinable parcels deposited at a DSCF to claim SCF price; 10-pound minimum; labeling:
1. Line 1: L051.
2. Line 2: “PSLW MACH SCF.”
* * * * *
[Add new 7.0 to read as follows:]
7.0 Preparing USPS Connect Local
7.1 USPS Connect Local Flat Rate Packaging Provided by USPS
USPS Connect Local Flat Rate packaging provided by USPS must be used only for USPS Connect Local mailings.
7.2 Sealing USPS Connect Local Flat Rate Packaging
The container flaps must close within the normal folds in a sealed USPS Connect Local Flat Rate bag or box. Tape may be applied to the flaps and seams to reinforce the container, provided that the container’s design is not enlarged by opening the sides and the container is not reconstructed in any way.
* * * * *
256 Enter and Deposit
1.0 Verification
* * * * *
1.2 Office of Mailing
[Revise the text of 1.2 (to include new 1.2.1 and 1.2.2) to read as follows:]
1.2.1 Parcel Select
Parcel Select must be mailed at the Post Office from which the zone-based postage was computed, except under 1.3 and 1.4.
1.2.2 USPS Connect Local
USPS Connect Local pieces must be mailed at the local Post Office designated by the 5-digit ZIP Code destination.
* * * * *
2.0 Deposit
* * * * *
2.2 Containers
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item d. to read as follows:]
d. For DSCF, 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, SCF, and 3-digit sacks may be bedloaded or be placed on SCF pallets that are labeled and otherwise prepared under 705.8.0.
* * * * *
500 Additional Services
503 Extra Services
1.0 Basic Standards for All Extra Services
* * * * *
1.4 Eligibility for Extra Services
* * * * *
1.4.1 Eligibility — Domestic Mail
* * * * *
Exhibit 1.4.1 Eligibility — Domestic Mail
[In the “Insurance” line item (under column “EXTRA SERVICE”) add “USPS Connect Local” under column “ELIGIBLE MAIL” with a footnote “11” notation so the text reads as follows:]
* * * * *
* * * * *
[Under the “Signature Confirmation” line item (under column “EXTRA SERVICE”) add “USPS Connect Local” under the column “ELIGIBLE MAIL” so that the text reads as follows:]
* * * * *
* * * * *
[Under the “Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery” line item (under “EXTRA SERVICE”) add “USPS Connect Local” under the column “ELIGIBLE MAIL” so that the text reads as follows:]
* * * * *
* * * * *
[Add new footnote 11. to read as follows:]
11. Insurance Restricted Delivery is not available for USPS Connect Local items.
* * * * *
505 Return Services
* * * * *
4.0 Parcel Return Service
4.1 Prices and Fees
* * * * *
[Add new 4.1.4 to read as follows:]
4.1.4 Nonstandard Fee (Effective April 3, 2022)
Parcel Return Service parcels are not subject to a nonstandard fee.
* * * * *
507 Mailer Services
* * * * *
7.0 Pickup on Demand Service
7.1 Postage and Fees
* * * * *
7.1.2 Fee
[Revise the last sentence of 7.1.2 to read as follows:]
***The Pickup on Demand fee must be paid online at usps.com, or for USPS Connect Local through USPS Click-N-Ship.
* * * * *
7.2 Basic Standards
7.2.1 Availability
* * * * *
[Add new item f. to read as follows and renumber current items f. through m. as items g. through n.]
f. USPS Connect Local.
* * * * *
7.2.3 Extra Services
[Revise the text of 7.2.3 to read as follows:]
As applicable, the only Postal Service extra services that may be used with pieces that are picked up include:
a. Certified Mail.
b. USPS Tracking.
c. Adult Signature (not allowed for certain items under 503.8.0).
d. Insurance.
e. Signature Confirmation.
f. Return receipt.
* * * * *
7.2.6 Requesting Pickup on Demand Service
[Revise the text of 7.2.6 to read as follows:]
A customer may request Pickup on Demand service and schedule a pickup at usps.com, or for USPS Connect Local through USPS Click-N-Ship. Pickup on Demand service allows a customer to have pickup on a specific date within a 2-hour timeframe. Customers may schedule Pickup on Demand service up to one year in advance, or for USPS Connect Local up to three days in advance. A same-day request for pickup must be made before 5:00 a.m. local time on the requested day.
* * * * *
7.3 Scheduled Service
* * * * *
7.3.4 Customer Changes
[Revise the last sentence of 7.3.4 to read as follows:]
***Customers should make notifications of change to their requests through the usps.com Pickup on Demand application, or for USPS Connect Local through USPS Click-N-Ship.
* * * * *
11.0 USPS Tracking Plus Service
[Revise the text of 11.0 to read as follows:]
11.1 Description
USPS Tracking Plus service allows customers to request that the Postal Service retain scan data, or scan and signature data for their packages, beyond the Postal Service’s standard data retention period, for up to 10 years for a fee (see Notice 123 — Price List). Customers may request USPS Tracking Plus service online at usps.com or through a Shipping Services file.
11.2 Scan Data Retention
USPS Tracking Plus service is available for scan data retention on mailpieces shipped via the following products:
a. Priority Mail Express.
b. Priority Mail.
c. First-Class Mail (letters and flats) with a purchased trackable extra service.
d. First-Class Package Service.
e. Parcel Select.
f. Library Mail and Media Mail.
g. Bound Printed Matter.
h. USPS Marketing Mail and Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail parcels with purchased USPS Tracking and Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail parcels with a trackable extra service.
11.3 Scan and Signature Data Retention
USPS Tracking Plus service is available for Scan and Signature Retention on applicable products listed in 11.2. Except for Priority Mail Express, the customer must have purchased an underlying signature service (e.g., Signature Confirmation service, and Adult Signature service).
* * * * *
509 Other Services
1.0 Address Information System Services
* * * * *
1.3 Address Matching System Application Program Interface
* * * * *
[Delete items c. and d.]
* * * * *
600 Basic Standards For All Mailing Services
* * * * *
604 Postage Payment Methods and Refunds
* * * * *
9.0 Exchanges and Refunds
* * * * *
9.2 Postage and Fee Refunds
* * * * *
9.2.1 General Standards
* * * * *
Exhibit 9.2.1 Postage and Fees Refunds
[Revise the introductory text for Exhibit 9.2.1 to read as follows:]
Except for USPS Connect Local under 9.2.5c, customers must apply for a refund within the time limits in the chart below.
* * * * *
9.2.3 Full Refund
* * * * *
[Add new item n. to read as follows:]
n. For USPS Connect Local, an item is not delivered on Sunday or delivery of an item was not attempted on Sunday, and the customer paid the Sunday premium fee. USPS will refund the fee.
* * * * *
9.2.5 Applying for Refund
* * * * *
[Add new item c. to read as follows:]
c. Automated: A refund for the USPS Connect Local Sunday delivery fee is applied automatically through USPS Click-N-Ship for customers eligible under 9.2.3n.
* * * * *
700 Special Standards
* * * * *
705 Advanced Preparation and Special Postage Payment Systems
* * * * *
8.0 Preparing Pallets
* * * * *
8.5 General Preparation
* * * * *
8.5.3 Minimum Load
* * * * *
[Revise the fourth sentence of item b. to read as follows:]
b. ***There is no minimum weight requirement for an SCF pallet containing 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, or SCF sacks prepared for the DSCF price.***
* * * * *
8.10.7 Machinable Parcels — USPS Marketing Mail, Including Marketing Parcels 6 Ounces or More, and Parcel Select Lightweight
* * * * *
[Add new item c. to read as follows and renumber current items c. through f. as items d. through g.]
c. SCF, optional. Allowed only for mail deposited at a DSCF to claim SCF price. Labeling:
1. Line 1: Use L051.
2. Line 2: “PSLW MACH SCF.”
* * * * *
8.18 Parcel Select DSCF Prices — Parcels on Pallets
8.18.1 Basic Preparation, Parcels on Pallets
[Revise the first and third sentence of item a. to read as follows:]
a. General. Parcels for each SCF area must be sorted to 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, SCF (machinable parcels only), or 3-digit (nonmachinable) destinations on pallets.***Except when prepared under 8.18.2, each 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, SCF, and 3-digit pallet must meet a minimum volume requirement under one of the criteria in 8.18.1.***
[Revise the text of items b. and c. to read as follows:]
b. Minimum volume. The minimum volume per 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, SCF, and 3-digit pallet can be met in one of the following ways:
1. Pieces may be placed on 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, SCF, and 3-digit pallets, each containing at least 50 pieces and 250 pounds.
2. Pieces may be placed on 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, SCF, and 3-digit pallets, each having a minimum height of 36 inches of mail (excluding the height of the pallet) (see 8.5.4).
c. Overflow. After a pallet(s) is filled to a 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, SCF, or 3-digit destination, any remaining pieces that do not meet the minimum pallet requirements may be prepared in one or both of the following ways:
1. Placed in 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, SCF, or 3-digit overflow sacks (no minimum number of pieces per sack) that are labeled in accordance with the 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, SCF, or 3-digit sacking requirements for the DSCF price in 255.4.2. Overflow pieces sacked in this manner are eligible for the DSCF prices.
2. Placed on a 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, SCF, or 3-digit pallet labeled under 8.18.1 that does not meet the minimums for the DSCF price. Overflow pieces palletized in this manner are not eligible for the DSCF prices but are eligible for the DNDC prices.
* * * * *
[Add new item f. to read as follows and renumber current items f. and g. as items g. and h.]
f. SCF. Pallet labeling:
1. Line 1: use L051.
2. Line 2: “PSVC PARCELS SCF.”
* * * * *
8.18.2 Alternate Preparation, Parcels on Pallets
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence of item a. to read as follows:]
a. General. All DSCF price mail in the mailing must be sorted to 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, SCF (machinable parcels only), or 3-digit (nonmachinable) destinations under 8.18.2 (i.e., mail prepared under 8.18.1 and mail sacked under 255.4.2 must not be included in a mailing prepared under 8.18.2).***
[Revise the text of items b. and c. to read as follows:]
b. Minimum volume. To qualify for the DSCF price, no pallet may contain fewer than 35 pieces and 200 pounds, and for the entire mailing the average number of DSCF price pieces per 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, SCF, or 3-digit destination must be at least 50.
c. Overflow. After pallets are filled to a 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, SCF, or 3-digit destination, any remaining pieces that do not meet the minimum pallet requirements may be prepared in one or both of the following ways:
1. Placed in 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, SCF, or 3-digit overflow sacks (no minimum number of pieces per sack) that are labeled in accordance with the DSCF sacking requirements in 255.4.2. Overflow pieces sacked in this manner are eligible for the DSCF prices.
2. Placed on a 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, SCF, or 3-digit pallet labeled under 8.18.2 that does not meet the minimums for the DSCF price. Overflow pieces palletized in this manner are not eligible for the DSCF prices but are eligible for the DNDC prices.
* * * * *
[Add new item f. to read as follows and renumber current items f. and g. as items g. and h.]
f. SCF. Pallet labeling:
1. Line 1: use L051.
2. Line 2: “PSVC PARCELS SCF.”
* * * * *
[Revise the first and fourth sentence of renumbered item h. to read as follows:]
h. Documentation. A list of each 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, SCF, and 3-digit pallet in the mailing that qualifies for the DSCF price must be submitted.***For each pallet, the listing must show: the pallet identification number, the applicable 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, SCF, or 3–digit destination of the pallet, the total weight of pieces on the pallet, the total number of pieces on the pallet, and the running total of pieces (i.e., the number equal to the number of pieces for that pallet plus the sum of the pieces on all pallets listed before it).***
* * * * *
Index
* * * * *
U
* * * * *
[Add “USPS Connect Local, 253” alphabetically under “U.”]
* * * * *
The Postal Service will incorporate these revisions into the next edition of the online DMM, which is available via Postal Explorer® at pe.usps.com.
— Product Classification,
Product Solutions, 1-13-22
