[Federal Register Volume 67, Number 20 (Wednesday, January 30, 2002)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 4562-4640]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 02-2177]
[[Page 4561]]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Part IV
Postal Service
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
39 CFR Part 111
Proposed Changes to the Domestic Mail Manual To Implement Docket No.
R2001-1; Proposed Rule
Federal Register / Vol. 67, No. 20 / Wednesday, January 30, 2002 /
Proposed Rules
[[Page 4562]]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
POSTAL SERVICE
39 CFR Part 111
Proposed Changes to the Domestic Mail Manual To Implement Docket
No. R2001-1
AGENCY: Postal Service.
ACTION: Proposed rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: On September 24, 2001, the United States Postal Service, in
conformance with sections 3622 and 3623 of the Postal Reorganization
Act (39 U.S.C. 101 et seq.), filed a request for a recommended decision
by the Postal Rate Commission (PRC) on proposed rate, fee, and
classification changes. The PRC designated this filing as Docket No.
R2001-1 and issued a notice of filing in Order No. 1324 on September
26, 2001.
On October 25, 2001, the PRC directed the participants to consider
the possibility of a settlement. Noting the extraordinary national
events experienced during September, and the potential effects that
changed circumstances might have on the Postal Service's request, the
PRC requested all participants consider whether substantial agreement
on issues and objectives might permit a beneficial resolution of the
proceeding.
Counsel for the Postal Service, the Office of the Consumer
Advocate, and participating intervenors discussed the issues presented
by this case at conferences on October 30, and November 16, 2001, to
which all intervenors and the Office of the Consumer Advocate were
invited. The Postal Service also consulted with intervenors
individually and in smaller groups.
On December 17, 2001, the Postal Service filed a Stipulation and
Agreement for settlement of Docket No. R2001-1, together with a motion
for the establishment of preliminary procedures and a schedule. On
December 26, 2001, the Postal Service with concurrence of its Board of
Governors agreed to changes in the terms of the Stipulation and
Agreement. These changes included specifying June 30, 2002, rather than
June 2, 2002, as the earliest effective date for rate, fee, and
classification changes. The revision also restored the rates for intra-
and inter-BMC parcel post back to the levels originally proposed in the
September 24, 2001 request. Between December 26, 2001, and January 17,
2002, fifty parties adhered to the terms of the revised settlement by
signing the agreement.
On January 17, 2002, the Postal Service filed a second revised
Stipulation and Agreement that included several relatively minor
changes in the rates proposed for the Enhanced Carrier Route (ECR)
subclass of Standard Mail. In all other respects, the Stipulation and
Agreement remained the same. Subsequently, six additional parties
adhered to the settlement agreement. Only one participant opposed the
settlement.
The PRC will hold hearings to consider the opposition to the
settlement. It will then issue a recommended decision to the Postal
Service Board of Governors, who will act on it. If the recommendations
are approved, the Board of Governors will establish an effective date.
At this time, the Postal Service is publishing this proposed rule
which provides information on the implementing standards for the rate,
fee, and classification changes the Postal Service proposes to adopt if
the terms of the second revised Stipulation and Agreement are
consistent with the PRC's recommended decision on R2001-1 and if the
Governors of the Postal Service, acting pursuant to 39 U.S.C. 3625,
approve that recommended decision.
DATES: Comments must be received on or before March 1, 2002.
ADDRESSES: Send written comments to the Manager, Mail Preparation and
Standards, U.S. Postal Service, 1735 North Lynn Street, Room 3025,
Arlington, VA 22209-6038. Written comments may be submitted via fax to
703-292-4058. Copies of all written comments will be available for
inspection and photocopying between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through
Friday, at Postal Service Headquarters Library, 475 L'Enfant Plaza SW.,
Room 11800, Washington, DC 20260-1540.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
General contact for all subjects: Jane Stefaniak, 703-292-3548.
For Express Mail and Priority Mail: Karen Magazino, 703-292-3644.
For First-Class Mail and Standard Mail: Anne Emmerth, 703-292-3641.
For Periodicals: Joel Walker, 703-292-3652.
For Package Services: OB Akinwole, 703-292-3643.
For Special Services: Pat Bennett, 703-292-3639.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Postal Service's request in Docket No.
R2001-1 and as amended in the second revised Stipulation and Agreement
filed on January 17, 2002, includes classification and rate structure
changes, and increases in most existing rate and fee categories. This
proposed rule contains the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) standards the
Postal Service would adopt to implement R2001-1. Part A of this
document summarizes the proposed revisions to the DMM by class of mail
and special service category. Part B summarizes the proposed changes by
DMM module and section. The text of the proposed changes to the DMM
standards appear after Part B.
Comments are solicited on the proposed implementing of DMM
standards that appear in this proposed rule. As information, the DMM
language in this proposed rule incorporates all revisions to the DMM
from previously published Federal Register final rules that have taken
effect or will take effect on or before the implementation of the rates
resulting from the R2001-1 rate case. As a result, the numbering and
the language of the DMM sections in this proposed rule have been
synchronized with these final rules and may not match the numbering and
language in the current DMM 56.
A 6-month phase-in period is proposed for mailer implementation of
the requirements for formatting card-rate First-Class Mail; for mail
preparation and tray labeling of nonmachinable First-Class Mail and
Standard Mail; and, for the tray labeling changes affecting Standard
Mail Enhanced Carrier Route high density and saturation rate letters.
Mailers are asked to comment both on the language of these proposed
requirements and their ability to meet the proposed 6-month time frame.
Although proposed rates, rate categories, and rate structures are
included in this proposed rule, they are outside the scope of this
rulemaking process because they are still under review by the Postal
Rate Commission. Accordingly, comments on whether the current basic
automation rate for letter-size First-Class Mail and Standard Mail
should be split into an automated area distribution center (AADC) rate
and a mixed AADC rate, or offered at different rates, would not be
appropriate. However, comments suggesting changes to the way the Postal
Service would implement standards for the proposed AADC and mixed AADC
rates would be appropriate.
Part A--Summary of Changes by Class of Mail
The following information details the R2001-1 proposed changes
organized by class of mail and special service category. This
information is intended as an overview only and should not be viewed as
defining every proposed DMM revision.
[[Page 4563]]
1. Express Mail
a. Express Mail Rate Highlights
Overall, Express Mail rates would increase an average of 9.4%. The
most significant change to the Express Mail rate structure would be to
the flat-rate envelope. Currently, the rate for the Express Mail flat-
rate envelope is the same as the applicable 2-pound rate. The proposed
rate for the flat-rate envelope would be the \1/2\-pound rate, which is
the lowest available rate for each Express Mail service offering. The
rate for the flat-rate envelope would decrease for Post Office to
Addressee service from $16.25 to $13.65, but the size of the envelope
would remain the same.
The indemnity included in the price of Express Mail would be
reduced from $500 to $100 for both merchandise and document
reconstruction. This adjustment would more closely align with general
industry practice. The fee for every $100 increment of additional
merchandise insurance desired above the standard $100 and up to $5,000
would be $1.00.
b. Express Mail Rate Structure
There would be no changes to the rate structure of Express Mail.
c. Express Mail Preparation Changes
There would be no changes to mail preparation requirements for
Express Mail.
2. Priority Mail
a. Priority Mail Rate Highlights
Overall, Priority Mail rates would increase an average of 13.5%.
Currently, the rate for the Priority Mail flat-rate envelope is the
same as the 2-pound rate. The rate for the flat-rate envelope would be
tied to the 1-pound rate because of the proposed rezoning of all rates
from 2 to 5 pounds. The 1-pound rate would increase from $3.50 to $3.85
and remain an unzoned rate. The rate for the flat-rate envelope would
decrease from the current $3.95 to the proposed rate of $3.85. The
Priority Mail flat-rate envelope would continue to be the EP-14F
envelope available from the Postal Service.
b. Priority Mail Rate Structure
Currently, Priority Mail rates are not zoned for pieces weighing 2
through 5 pounds, but they are zoned for pieces weighing more than 5
pounds. The weight increments from more than 1 pound and up to 5 pounds
would be zoned to more accurately reflect actual costs to the Postal
Service for transportation and handling.
c. Priority Mail Preparation Changes
There would be no changes to mail preparation requirements for
Priority Mail.
3. First-Class Mail
a. First-Class Mail Rate Highlights
Overall, First-Class Mail rates would increase an average of 8.2%.
The single-piece 1-ounce First-Class Mail rate would increase from
$0.34 to $0.37, and the single-piece card rate from $0.21 to $0.23. The
additional ounce rate for single-piece First-Class Mail would remain at
$0.23. There would be a lower additional ounce rate for Presorted
First-Class Mail.
Business mailers would see larger automation presort discounts. The
carrier route automation discount and the nonautomation presort
discount would remain at the current levels. The proposed increase in
automation discounts and the proposed half-cent reduction in the
additional-ounce rate would result in more attractive incentives,
especially for large-volume First-Class Mail users who presort and mail
heavier pieces.
b. First-Class Mail Rate Structure and Mail Preparation Changes
(1) Lower Additional Ounce for Presorted and Automation Rates
Currently, there is a single additional ounce rate for all pieces
mailed at First-Class Mail rates. For presorted and automation pieces
weighing more than 2 ounces, a heavy piece discount is deducted.
The Postal Service is proposing a lower additional ounce rate for
First-Class Mail sent at Presorted and automation rates (including
automation carrier route). Pieces mailed at single-piece rates would
pay $0.23 for each additional ounce; pieces mailed at any discount rate
would pay $0.225 for each additional ounce. This change would affect
only postage rates; there would be no proposed eligibility or mail
preparation changes.
(2) Automation Basic Rate Split Into Two New Rates
For automation cards and letters, the current rate structure
contains a 5-digit, 3-digit, and basic rate. The proposed rate
structure would split the basic rate into an automated area
distribution center (AADC) rate (for all pieces in an AADC tray) and a
mixed AADC rate (for all pieces in a mixed AADC tray). The AADC rate
would also apply to pieces in a less-than-full origin 3-digit tray. In
addition, the 3-digit sort level, which is currently required, would
become optional. The first required sort level would be the AADC sort.
For automation flats, the current rate structure contains a 5-
digit, 3-digit, and basic rate. The proposed rate structure would split
the basic rate into an area distribution center (ADC) rate (for all
pieces in an ADC package or tray) and a mixed ADC rate (for all pieces
in a mixed ADC package or tray). The ADC rate also would apply to
pieces in a less-than-full origin 3-digit tray. There are no proposed
sortation changes for automation flats. The 5-digit sort level would
still be optional; all other sort levels would be required.
(3) Format Changes for Card Rate Pieces
Formatting standards for pieces mailed at card rates are currently
contained in the Domestic Mail Classification Schedule (DMCS).
Specifically, the language includes prohibitions against perforations
or tearing guides and restricts the kind and amount of nonaddress
information (e.g., account information or billing codes) that can
appear on the face of the card. Many utility companies and small
businesses use postcards to send bills to customers. The Postal Service
has received requests from these mailers to loosen and clarify these
standards. However, because the language was contained in the DMCS, no
DMM changes could be made without first revising the DMCS.
In Docket No. R2001-1, the Postal Service proposed to remove
section 222.2, Restrictions, from the DMCS. Subsequently, DMM C100.2.0,
which contains standards for physical construction and formatting of
First-Class Mail cards, would be revised to accommodate the proposed
DMCS change. The proposed DMM standards would offer more options to
mailers for placing billing information on the face of the card.
Specifically, the new standards require address information to be
placed within a certain space for cards claimed at the Presorted or
automation card rates. Perforated cards would be required to maintain a
minimum ratio of 50:50 (stock to perforations).
The Postal Service is proposing a 6-month phase-in period for
mailers to comply with these format changes (see new section C100.2.8).
After the phase-in period, Presorted and automation rate cards that do
not meet the standards in C100.2.0 would not be eligible for card
rates.
(4) Nonmachinable Surcharge
The definition of the current nonstandard surcharge would be
expanded to include any physical
[[Page 4564]]
criteria that could make a mailpiece nonmachinable. Pieces that are
nonmachinable are excluded from automated processing and must be
handled manually. Nonmachinable pieces also may impede mail flow or
damage the mail or mail processing equipment. Manual pieces are
considerably more costly to process than machinable letters.
The proposed criteria for the nonmachinable surcharge for letter-
size mail would be listed in DMM C050.2.2. The nonmachinable surcharge
would apply to single-piece and Presorted rate letters that weigh 1
ounce or less and meet one or more of the criteria in that section.
The nonmachinable surcharge also would apply to single-piece,
Presorted, and automation rate nonletters (flats and parcels) that
weigh 1 ounce or less if any one of the following applies:
(a) The piece is greater than \1/4\-inch thick.
(b) The length is more than 11\1/2\ inches or the height is more
than 6\1/8\ inches.
(c) The aspect ratio (length divided by height) is less than 1.3 or
more than 2.5.
The nonmachinable surcharge would be $0.12 for single-piece rate
pieces and $0.055 for Presorted and automation rate pieces.
The nonmachinable criteria in C050.2.2 would not apply to pieces
mailed at any card rate.
The nonmachinable surcharge also would apply to letter-size pieces
(including pieces mailed at the card rate) for which the mailer has
chosen the manual only (``do not automate'') option.
This proposed change is consistent with the proposed nonmachinable
surcharge for Standard Mail.
In conjunction with this change, trays of machinable and
nonmachinable letters would be prepared and labeled differently. The
preparation for machinable letters would be similar to the current
preparation for upgradable letters (including the optional 5-digit sort
level); the preparation for nonmachinable pieces would be similar to
the current package-based preparation for Presorted letters. The
current weight limit for upgradable letters (2.5 ounces) would be
replaced with a weight limit of 3.3 ounces for machinable letters.
Letters heavier than 3.3 ounces that are less than \1/4\-inch thick
would use the nonmachinable preparation and labeling but would not pay
the surcharge (because it would apply only to pieces that weigh 1 ounce
or less).
On tray labels, the current ``NON BC'' designation would be
replaced with one of two designations: ``MACH'' for machinable pieces
or ``MANUAL'' for nonmachinable pieces. Although Presorted cards would
not be subject to the surcharge, mailers would be required to show on
the tray label whether or not those pieces are machinable (for
instance, a double card that is not tabbed is nonmachinable). The
``MANUAL'' designation would help the Postal Service direct the trays
of mail to the appropriate mail processing operation. Mailers who
choose the ``do not automate'' option would show ``MANUAL'' on Line 2
of the tray label, as currently required.
Software vendors should note that, as proposed, machinable and
nonmachinable (manual) letters will use different content identifier
numbers (CINs).
There are no proposed preparation or labeling changes for Presorted
flats or parcels subject to the surcharge.
Mail preparation instructions for Presorted letter-size pieces
subject to the nonmachinable surcharge would be in DMM M130.
Preparation instructions for automation flats subject to the
nonmachinable surcharge would not change (see current DMM M820).
The nonmachinable surcharge would be assessed on any piece mailed
out as a different class of mail and returned as First-Class Mail (for
instance, Standard Mail endorsed ``Return Service Requested'') if the
piece weighs 1 ounce or less and meets the criteria for
nonmachinability in C050.2.2. Pieces returned at First-Class Mail card
rates would not be subject to the nonmachinable surcharge.
The surcharge would take effect when the new rates are implemented,
however, the Postal Service is proposing a 6-month phase-in period for
these mail preparation and tray labeling changes.
(5) Delivery Confirmation and Signature Confirmation for First-Class
Mail Parcels
The Postal Service would add two new special service options for
First-Class Mail parcels: Delivery Confirmation and Signature
Confirmation. Both services would be available in manual (retail) and
electronic options. The fees for Delivery Confirmation would be $0.55
(retail) and $0.13 (electronic). The fees for Signature Confirmation
would be $1.80 (retail) and $1.30 (electronic).
For the purposes of adding Delivery Confirmation and Signature
Confirmation, a First-Class Mail parcel is defined as any piece:
(a) That has an address side with enough surface area to fit the
delivery address, return address, postage, markings and endorsements,
and special service label; and
(b) Is in a box or, if not in a box, is greater than \3/4\-inch
thick at its thickest point.
This definition would provide mailers with different packaging
options for their First-Class Mail parcels.
(6) Containerization and Labeling
For letter-size pieces, the definition of a full tray would change
from the current threshold of 75% to 100%, with a range between 75% and
100%. The recommended default for presort software would be 85%. In
addition, after the minimum volume for rate eligibility is reached
(i.e., 150 pieces for a 3-digit area), overflow would be optional for
all sort levels of letter trays. Also, mailers would be required to use
as few trays as possible. Under current standards, a mailer could
prepare one full 1-foot tray plus one less-than-full 1-foot tray; new
standards would result in the preparation of a single less-than-full 2-
foot tray.
On all First-Class Mail letter trays, ``LTRS'' would change to
``LTR'' and ``CR-RTS'' would change to ``CR-RT.'' This change would be
necessary to allow more room for other information on the tray label.
(7) Documentation
Mailers would no longer be required to present a hard copy Form
3553, Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS) Summary Report, with their
mailings. Instead, mailers or mailer agents would be required to keep
this documentation on file for 1 year from the date of mailing and make
it available to the Postal Service on 24-hour notice.
Software vendors and mailers should note that changes are proposed
for manifest keyline rate codes (P910.3.0) and Multi-line Optical
Character Reader (MLOCR) rate markings (P960.3.0) to reflect the new
First-Class Mail rates.
4. Periodicals
a. Periodicals Rate Highlights
The overall proposed average increase for Periodicals would be 10%.
Outside-County postage would increase on average 10.4%, while In-County
postage would increase on average 1.7%. Automation discounts would
increase at the 5-digit (from $0.025 to $0.03), 3-digit (from $0.035 to
$0.041), and basic (from $0.042 to $0.048) presort levels. The
destination delivery unit (DDU) discount would increase (from $0.017 to
$0.018), while the destination sectional center facility (DSCF)
discount would remain at $0.008. The proposed new
[[Page 4565]]
destination area distribution center (DADC) discount would be $0.002.
Original entry and additional entry application fees are proposed
to increase from $350 to $375 and from $50 to $60, respectively, while
the fees for reentry and news agent registry would remain at $40.
b. Periodicals Rate Structure and Mail Preparation Changes
(1) Proposed Changes
Proposed changes to the rate design for Periodicals are as follows:
(a) New DADC discounts for Outside-County and Science-of-
Agriculture Periodicals that would be deducted from the pound and
addressed per piece rates.
(b) A change that would limit destination rates and discounts to
mail entered at destination facilities (DDU, DSCF, and DADC).
(c) A new per piece discount for each addressed nonletter-size
piece (flat-size and irregular parcel) prepared in packages on pallets
that contain at least 250 pounds of mail (except overflow pallets).
This discount would apply to all pallet levels. The discount would not
apply to pieces in sacks on pallets or in trays on pallets.
(d) In addition to the per piece pallet discount, a new destination
entry per piece pallet discount would apply to each addressed piece of
nonletter-size mail (flats and irregular parcels) prepared in packages
on any destination entry pallet of at least 250 pounds of mail (except
overflow pallets). The discount is not available for pieces in sacks or
trays on pallets.
In conjunction with the nommachinable surcharge, it is proposed
that any Periodical returned to the sender at First-Class Mail rates is
subject to the nonmachinable surcharge if the piece weighs 1 ounce or
less and meets any one of the nonmachinable criteria in C050.2.2.
(2) Periodicals Ride-Along
The Ride-Along experiment would become a permanent classification.
There would be no proposed changes in the current standards for
eligibility. However, publishers would no longer be required to
complete a data collection questionnaire, provide a sample in addition
to the marked copy, or submit an additional copy of Form 3541-X
(postage statement). Form 3541-X would be discontinued and mailers
would use Form 3541. The standards for Ride-Along would be relocated to
new DMM E260. The Ride-Along rate would increase from $0.10 to $0.124
per piece.
(3) Containerization
For letter-size pieces, the definition of a full tray would change
from the current threshold of 75% to 100%, with a range between 75% and
100%. The recommended default for presort software would be 85%. In
addition, after the minimum volume for rate eligibility is reached
(i.e., 150 pieces for a 3-digit area), overflow would be optional for
all sort levels of letter trays. Also, mailers would be required to use
as few trays as possible. Under current standards, a mailer could
prepare one full 1-foot tray plus one less-than-full 1-foot tray; new
standards would result in the preparation of a single less-than-full 2-
foot tray.
In addition, the measurement for the minimum volume of trays on
pallets would be measured in linear feet, not by the number of layers
of trays.
(4) Documentation
Mailers would no longer be required to present a hard copy Form
3553, Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS) Summary Report, with their
mailings. Instead, mailers or mailer agents would be required to keep
this documentation on file for 1 year from the date of mailing and make
it available to the Postal Service on 24-hour notice.
5. Standard Mail
a. Standard Mail Rate Highlights
Overall, Standard Mail rates would increase an average of 7.3%. On
average, within each subclass, rates for flat-size mail would increase
more than rates for letter-size mail. Regular rates would increase an
average of 8% and nonprofit rates would increase an average of 6.7%. As
proposed, greater destination entry discounts would provide an
incentive for mailers to use their own or third-party transportation to
move Standard Mail closer to the point of delivery.
b. Standard Mail Rate Structure and Mail Preparation Changes
(1) Automation Basic Letter Rate Split Into Two New Rates
For automation letter-size pieces, the current rate structure
contains a 5-digit, 3-digit, and basic rate. The proposed rate
structure would split the basic rate into an AADC rate (for all pieces
in an AADC tray) and a mixed AADC rate (for all pieces in a mixed AADC
tray). The AADC rate also would apply to all pieces in any less-than-
full origin or entry 3-digit or 3-digit scheme tray. There are no
proposed sortation changes for automation letter-size pieces. The 5-
digit sort level would still be optional; all other sort levels would
be required.
Unlike in First-Class Mail, where the proposed ADC and mixed ADC
rates would apply to automation flats, there are no proposed changes to
the rate structure for Standard Mail automation flats.
(2) Nonmachinable Surcharge
A nonmachinable surcharge is proposed for Standard Mail letter-size
pieces; the definition would include any physical criteria that could
make a mailpiece nonmachinable. Pieces that are nonmachinable are
excluded from automated processing and must be handled manually.
Nonmachinable pieces also may impede mail flow or damage the mail or
mail processing equipment. Manual letters are considerably more costly
to process than machinable letters.
The proposed criteria for nonmachinability for letter-size pieces
are in DMM C050.2.2. The nonmachinable surcharge would apply to
Presorted rate letter-size pieces (including cards) that weigh 3.3
ounces or less and meet one or more of the criteria in that section.
Unlike First-Class Mail, where the nonmachinable surcharge would
also apply to flats, the Postal Service is not proposing to add a
nonmachinable surcharge to Standard Mail flats. The Standard Mail rate
structure includes separate rates for letters and nonletters and
factors in the extra costs of handling nonmachinable nonletters.
The nonmachinable surcharge would be $0.04 per piece for regular
rate pieces and $0.02 per piece for nonprofit rate pieces.
The nonmachinable surcharge also would apply to Presorted rate
letter-size pieces for which the mailer has chosen the ``manual only''
(do not automate) option.
This proposed change is consistent with the proposed nonmachinable
surcharge for First-Class Mail.
In conjunction with this change, trays of machinable and
nonmachinable letters would be prepared and labeled differently. The
preparation for machinable letters would mirror the current preparation
for upgradable letters (including the optional 5-digit sort level). The
preparation for nonmachinable pieces would mirror the current package-
based preparation for Presorted letters. The current weight limit for
upgradable letters (2.5 ounces) would be replaced with a weight limit
of 3.3 ounces for machinable letters.
On tray labels, the current ``NON BC'' designation would be
replaced with one of two designations: ``MACH'' for machinable pieces
or ``MANUAL'' for nonmachinable pieces. The ``MANUAL''
[[Page 4566]]
designation would help the Postal Service direct the trays of mail to
the appropriate mail processing operation. Mailers who choose the ``do
not automate'' option would show ``MANUAL'' on Line 2 of the tray
label, as currently required.
Software vendors should note that, as proposed, machinable and
nonmachinable (manual) letters will use different content identifier
numbers (CINs).
Mail preparation instructions for Standard Mail pieces subject to
the nonmachinable surcharge are found in DMM M610.
In a mailing of nonmachinable letter-size pieces, residual pieces
sent at First-Class Mail rates would be subject to the First-Class Mail
nonmachinable surcharge only if the pieces weigh 1 ounce or less.
Heavier pieces would not be subject to the First-Class Mail
nonmachinable surcharge, even though those same pieces would have been
subject to the Standard Mail nonmachinable surcharge if they had
remained in the Standard Mail mailing. Additionally, residual pieces
that are mailed at First-Class Mail card rates would not be subject to
the nonmachinable surcharge.
Standard Mail pieces that are returned as First-Class Mail (for
instance, an undeliverable piece endorsed ``Return Service Requested'')
would be charged the nonmachinable surcharge if the piece weighs 1
ounce or less and meets the criteria for nonmachinability in C050.2.2.
The nonmachinable surcharge also would be figured into the calculation
for the weighted fee for pieces that weigh 1 ounce or less. The
nonmachinable surcharge would not be charged on pieces returned at
First-Class Mail card rates.
The surcharge would take effect when the new rates are implemented,
however, the Postal Service is proposing a 6-month phase-in period for
these mail preparation and tray labeling changes.
(3) Heavier Letters Are Eligible for Automation Rates
The maximum weight limit for automation letters would increase from
3.3 ounces to 3.5 ounces (inclusive). These pieces would be charged
postage equal to the automation piece/pound rate for that piece and
receive a discount equal to the automation nonletter piece rate (3.3
ounces or less) minus the corresponding automation letter piece rate
(3.3 ounces or less) for the appropriate sort level. This change
applies to regular and nonprofit automation letters.
For instance, each heavy automation letter sorted to a 5-digit tray
would receive a discount equal to the 3/5 automation nonletter rate
minus the 5-digit automation letter rate.
As an example, using the proposed postage rates, a regular
automation letter weighing 3.4 ounces that is sorted in a 3-digit tray
for DSCF entry would be charged:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonletter piece rate (more than 3.3 ounces), 3/5 rate...... $0.115
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Plus.......................................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonletter pound rate (more than 3.3 ounces), 3/5 rate, DSCF 0.1239
entry (3.4 ounces divided by 16 ounces equals 0.2125
pounds, multiplied by $0.583 per pound) (rounding off to
four decimal places)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Equals..................................................... 0.2389
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Minus a discount that equals the 3/5 nonletter piece rate -.058
(3.3 ounces or less) for DSCF entry minus the 3-digit
letter piece rate (3.3 ounces or less) for DSCF entry
(0.235 minus 0.177).......................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Equals postage per piece................................... 0.1809
------------------------------------------------------------------------
This proposed change would allow mailers to avoid the substantial
rate increase for letter-shaped pieces exceeding 3.3 ounces. Under the
current rate schedule, once an automation letter exceeds the 3.3-ounce
maximum weight, the piece become subject to the piece/pound rates.
There are no proposed mail preparation changes that accompany this
change; these heavy letters would be required to meet the current
standards for heavy automation letters in DMM C810.7.5 and would use
the existing mail preparation sequence and labeling for automation
letters. Mailers who choose to take this discount for heavy automation
letters would be required to use a new postage statement to be designed
for this purpose.
Current standards for mixed rate mailings would not change. Pieces
from a heavy letter mailing that cannot be barcoded would be mailed at
single-piece First-Class Mail rates or prepared as a Presorted Standard
Mail letter mailing with postage paid at the piece/pound rate (for
pieces over 3.3 ounces). Like today, these residual pieces would not
need to meet a separate 200-piece or 50-pound minimum (see DMM
E620.1.2).
(4) Barcode Requirement for ECR Letter-Size Pieces
Enhanced Carrier Route (ECR) letter-size pieces mailed at high-
density and saturation per piece rates would be required to meet the
physical standards for automation-compatible mail in DMM C810 and would
be required to have a delivery point barcode. Pieces using simplified
address would not be required to have a delivery point barcode, and
therefore, would not need to meet the physical standards for
automation-compatible mail.
This change would apply to both ECR and Nonprofit ECR.
Requiring high density and saturation letters to be barcoded would
give the Postal Service operational flexibility and would eliminate the
need to barcode these pieces before delivery point sequencing (DPS).
The Postal Service updates its DPS sort plans daily. Therefore, any
changes in route assignments between carriers are captured in the DPS
process daily; mailers are permitted to use carrier route information
that could be up to 90 days old.
The proposed automation-compatible requirement corresponds to the
requirement for a delivery point barcode--for the Postal Service to
read the barcode, the piece must be compatible with automated mail
sorting equipment. These requirements would not apply to detached
address labels (DALs) that accompany flat-size pieces or irregular
parcels. Even though the DAL itself is letter-sized, technically it is
the label for the larger piece.
Pieces that do not meet the physical standards in C810 or that do
not contain a delivery point barcode would be subject to the
corresponding ECR high density or saturation nonletter rate. Pieces
that are letter-size but claimed at the nonletter rates would be
marked, sorted, and trayed as letters. Mailers
[[Page 4567]]
also would have the option to pay the ECR basic letter rate (for which
barcodes are not required).
There are no proposed changes to the sequencing requirements,
markings, or sortation for ECR pieces. Tray labels would change to
reflect whether the pieces in the tray are barcoded (``BC''), not
barcoded but machinable (``MACH''), or nonmachinable, regardless of
whether the pieces are barcoded (``MANUAL'' or ``MAN''). These
designations help the Postal Service direct the trays of mail to the
appropriate mail processing operation. Mailers would be required to use
barcoded tray labels.
Pieces mailed with a simplified address format do not contain the
necessary address elements to generate a delivery point barcode for
that address. To qualify for the high density or saturation letter
rates, those pieces would not have to bear a delivery point barcode,
would not have to be automation-compatible, and would be labeled
``MAN'' (even if the pieces are automation-compatible).
Pieces mailed with an exceptional or occupant address format (A040)
do contain the enough address elements to generate a delivery point
barcode, and therefore, must be automation-compatible and must have a
delivery point barcode in order to claim the high density or saturation
letter rates.
Software vendors should note that, as proposed, within each of the
three processing categories, the same content identifier number (CIN)
would be used for all direct carrier route trays (full trays of mail
for a single carrier route).
Mailers would not be permitted to combine barcoded and nonbarcoded
pieces into the same mailing. As an example, a mailer has 200 pieces to
a single carrier route but was able to barcode only 175 of those
pieces. The barcoded pieces would be placed in a direct carrier route
tray and would qualify for the saturation letter rate. The remaining 25
nonbarcoded pieces would qualify for the saturation nonletter rate
(saturation because the density requirement has been met, nonletter
because the pieces do not meet the new barcode requirement) but cannot
be placed in the direct carrier route tray. Instead, the nonbarcoded
pieces would be packaged in walk sequence and placed in a 5-digit
carrier routes tray or a 3-digit carrier routes tray with other carrier
route packages of nonbarcoded mail. It is possible that, for a single
5-digit destination, a mailer could create two 5-digit carrier routes
trays: one that contains packages of barcoded mail, and one that
contains packages of nonbarcoded mail.
The new requirements for high density and saturation letters would
take effect when the new rates are implemented; however, the Postal
Service is proposing a 6-month phase-in period for the tray label
changes.
A minor change would be made to the wording in the DMM for how to
qualify for high density rates. Currently, there are two ways to meet
the density requirement: there must be at least 125 pieces for a single
carrier route or, if there are fewer than 125 possible deliveries on
the route, a piece must be addressed to every delivery on the route. To
qualify for saturation rates, pieces must be addressed to at least 90%
of the active residential deliveries or at least 75% of the total
active deliveries. If a customer is meeting the high density standard
by addressing a piece to each possible delivery (100%), then they also
would qualify for saturation rates under either the 90% standard or the
75% standard, and would of course claim the lower saturation rate.
Therefore, because no mailer would ever choose to qualify for the high
density rate via the 100% standard, it would be eliminated.
(5) Heavier ECR Saturation and High Density Letters Are Eligible for
Letter Rates
The maximum weight limit for automation-compatible ECR letters
would increase from 3.3 ounces to 3.5 ounces (inclusive). These pieces
would be charged postage equal to the nonletter piece/pound rate for
that piece and receive a discount equal to the nonletter piece rate
(3.3 ounces or less) minus the corresponding letter piece rate (3.3
ounces or less) for the appropriate sort level. This proposed change
would apply to regular and nonprofit ECR saturation and high density
letters.
For regular ECR, the discount would be $0.005 per piece for high
density letters and $0.008 per piece for saturation letters. For
nonprofit ECR, the discount would be $0.008 per piece for high density
letters and $0.009 per piece for saturation letters.
This change also would apply to pieces mailed at the ECR automation
basic rate, but the calculation is slightly different because there are
no corresponding nonletter rates with which to perform the calculation.
These pieces would be charged postage equal to the basic nonletter
piece/pound rate and receive a discount equal to the basic letter rate
minus the automation basic letter rate. For regular ECR, the discount
would be $0.023 per piece. For nonprofit ECR, the discount would be
$0.015 per piece.
In this proposal, all pieces mailed at high density and saturation
letter rates will be automation-compatible; therefore, this change is
consistent with the proposed change for regular Standard Mail heavy
automation letters. This change would not apply to letter-size pieces
that are mailed at the nonletter rates (because they are not automation
compatible or do not have a barcode).
This change would not apply to pieces mailed at the ECR basic
letter rate (because the letter and nonletter rates are the same, there
would be no discount to subtract) or to pieces mailed at the ECR
automation basic letter rate (because there are no corresponding
nonletter rates with which to perform the rate calculation) (see
R600.2.0 and R600.4.0).
As an example, using the proposed postage rates, a high density
letter weighing 3.4 ounces that is prepared for DSCF entry would be
charged:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonletter piece rate (more than 3.3 ounces), high density.. $0.043
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Plus.......................................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonletter pound rate (more than 3.3 ounces), high density, 0.1031
DSCF entry (3.4 ounces divided by 16 ounces equals 0.2125
pounds, multiplied by $0.485 per pound) (rounded off to
four decimal places)......................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Equals..................................................... 0.1461
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Minus a discount that equals the high density nonletter -.005
piece rate (3.3 ounces or less) for DSCF entry minus the
high density letter piece rate (3.3 ounces or less) for
DSCF entry (0.143 minus 0.138)............................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Equals postage per piece................................... $0.1411
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 4568]]
This proposed change would allow mailers to avoid the substantial
rate increase for letter-shaped pieces exceeding 3.3 ounces. Under the
current rate schedule, once an ECR letter exceeds the 3.3-ounce maximum
weight, the pieces become subject to the piece/pound rates.
There are no proposed mail preparation changes that accompany this
change; these heavy letters would be required to meet the current
standards for heavy automation letters in DMM C810.7.5 and would use
the existing mail preparation sequence and labeling for ECR letters.
Mailers who choose to take this discount for heavy letters would be
required to use a new postage statement to be designed for this
purpose.
(6) Containerization and Labeling
For letter-size pieces, the definition of a full tray would change
from the current threshold of 75% to 100%, with a range between 75% and
100%. The recommended default for presort software would be 85%. In
addition, after the minimum volume for rate eligibility is reached
(i.e., 150 pieces for a 3-digit area), overflow would be optional for
all sort levels of letter trays. Also, mailers would be required to use
as few trays as possible: Under current standards, a mailer could
prepare one full 1-foot tray plus one less-than-full 1-foot tray; new
standards would result in the preparation of a single less-than-full 2-
foot tray.
In addition, the minimum volume of trays on pallets would be
measured in linear feet, not by the number of layers of trays.
On all Standard Mail letter trays, ``LTRS'' would change to ``LTR''
and ``CR-RTS'' would change to ``CR-RT.'' This change would be
necessary to allow more room for other information on the tray label.
(7) Documentation
Mailers would no longer be required to present a hard copy Form
3553, Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS) Summary Report, with their
mailings. Instead, mailers or mailer agents would be required to keep
this documentation on file for 1 year from the date of mailing and make
it available to the Postal Service on 24-hour notice.
Software vendors and mailers should note that changes are proposed
for manifest keyline rate codes (P910.3.0) and Multi-line Optical
Character Reader (MLOCR) rate markings (P960.3.0) to reflect the new
Standard Mail rates.
6. Package Services
There are four subclasses of Package Services: Parcel Post, Bound
Printed Matter, Media Mail, and Library Mail. Each subclass is
addressed separately in items 7 through 10.
7. Parcel Post
a. Parcel Post Rate Highlights
Parcel Post rates would increase an average of 10%. The
nonmachinable surcharge for Inter-BMC Parcel Post would increase from
$2.00 to $2.75 per parcel. The Intra-BMC and DBMC nonmachinable
surcharges would remain at their current levels: $1.35 for Intra-BMC
parcels and $1.45 for DBMC parcels. The Parcel Post Origin BMC Presort
and BMC Presort discounts would increase from $0.90 to $1.17 and $0.23
to $0.28 per piece, respectively. The barcoded discount for qualifying
Parcel Post (including Parcel Select) machinable parcels would remain
at $0.03 per piece.
b. Parcel Post Rate Structure
Two changes are proposed. First, Parcel Select pieces would be
eligible for no-fee electronic Delivery Confirmation. The other change
would create a DSCF rate for nonmachinable parcels sorted to 3-digit
ZIP Code prefixes and entered at destination SCFs. The pieces would be
charged a surcharge of $1.09 per parcel in addition to the applicable
DSCF rate.
c. Parcel Post Mail Preparation Changes
Except for a new 3-digit nonmachinable parcel preparation option
added for DSCF rate mail, there would be no other changes to the
preparation requirements for Parcel Post and Parcel Select.
8. Bound Printed Matter
a. Bound Printed Matter Rate Highlights
The Bound Printed Matter (BPM) rates would increase an average of
9.1%. Destination entry mailings would be eligible for discounts that
encourage the deposit of mail at the destination BMC, SCF, or delivery
unit. There are two major changes to BPM rates: Separate rates for BPM
flats and parcels, and a new POSTNET barcoded discount for single-piece
rate and presorted rate BPM flats. The parcel barcoded discount for
presorted rate BPM single-piece and presorted rate machinable parcels
would remain at $0.03 per piece.
b. Bound Printed Matter Rate Structure
Rates for flat-size BPM would be lower than the rates for BPM
parcels in all three rate categories (single-piece, presorted, and
carrier route) and in the three available destination entry rates (DDU,
DSCF, and DBMC). A $0.03 discount would be available for single-piece
and presorted rate BPM flats prepared with a POSTNET barcode. To
qualify for the barcoded discount, BPM flats would be required to meet
the standards in DMM C820 for flat sorting machine (FSM) 881
processing.
c. Bound Printed Matter Mail Preparation Changes
BPM barcoded flats would be prepared using the standards in DMM
M820.
9. Media Mail
a. Media Mail Rate Highlights
Media Mail rates would increase an average of 4%.
b. Media Mail Rate Structure
There would be one fundamental change to the Media Mail rate
structure. The 5-digit rate would be retained, but the BMC rate would
be renamed the basic rate.
c. Media Mail Preparation Changes
There would be two changes to the preparation requirements for
Media Mail. The BMC sort level would be renamed the basic sort level.
This change would allow the Postal Service to adjust the presort
requirements for Media Mail to reflect current processing. Machinable
parcels would continue to be presorted to BMCs using the new basic rate
level.
The second change would eliminate the requirement for separate
minimum volumes for each presort level and would reduce the minimum
volume requirement for a mailing from 500 to 300 pieces. To qualify for
presorted Media Mail, mailers would be required to have a minimum of
300 properly prepared and presorted pieces. Pieces in the mailing that
meet 5-digit rate requirements would be eligible for the 5-digit rate.
The remaining pieces in the mailing would be eligible for the basic
rate.
10. Library Mail
a. Library Mail Rate Highlights
Library Mail rates would increase an average of 3.3%.
b. Library Mail Rate Structure
There would be one fundamental change to the Library Mail
structure. The 5-digit rate would be retained, but the BMC rate would
be renamed the basic rate.
c. Library Mail Preparation Changes
There would be two changes to the preparation requirements for
Library
[[Page 4569]]
Mail. The BMC sort level would be renamed the basic sort level. This
change would allow the Postal Service to adjust the presort
requirements for Library Mail to reflect current processing. Machinable
parcels would continue to be presorted to BMCs using the new basic rate
level.
The second change would eliminate the requirement for separate
minimum volumes for each presort level and would reduce the minimum
volume requirement for a mailing from 500 to 300 pieces. To qualify for
presorted Library Mail, mailers would be required to have a minimum of
300 properly prepared and presorted pieces. Pieces in the mailing that
meet the 5-digit rate requirements would be eligible for the 5-digit
rate. The remaining pieces in the mailing would be eligible for the
basic rate.
11. Special Services and Other Services
a. Special Services Highlights
(1) Bulk Parcel Return Service (DMM S924)
The annual accounting fee for bulk parcel return service (BPRS)
would increase from $375 to $475. The annual permit fee would increase
from $125 to $150 and the per piece charge would increase from $1.62 to
$1.80. See DMM R900.3.0.
(2) Business Reply Mail (DMM S922)
The per piece charge for high volume Qualified Business Reply Mail
(QBRM) with the optional quarterly fee would decrease from $0.01 to
$0.008. The QBRM quarterly fee of $1,800 for that category would remain
the same. The basic QBRM per piece charge for the category without the
optional quarterly fee would increase from $0.05 to $0.06. The annual
permit fee for all business reply mail (BRM) would increase from $125
to $150. The monthly fee for bulk weight averaged nonletter-size BRM
would increase from $600 to $750, while the per piece charge would
remain the same. The annual accounting fee for advanced deposit
accounts would increase from $375 to $475. The regular BRM per piece
charge without an annual accounting fee would increase from $0.35 to
$0.60 per piece. See DMM R900.4.0.
(3) Certificate of Mailing (DMM S914)
Certificate of mailing fees would increase. For individual pieces,
the original certificate would increase from $0.75 to $0.90, the firm
mailing book (Form 3877) would increase from $0.25 to $0.30 for each
piece listed, and the charge for a duplicate copy would increase from
$0.75 to $0.90.
For bulk pieces (Form 3606), fees for the first 1,000 pieces or
fraction thereof would increase from $3.50 to $4.50. Each additional
1,000 pieces or fraction thereof would increase from $0.40 to $0.50,
and the charge for a duplicate copy would increase from $0.75 to $0.90.
Additional mailpieces listed on Form 3877 and having postage paid with
a permit imprint would be permitted to pay the certificate of mailing
fee using a permit imprint account. See DMM R900.6.0.
(4) Certified Mail (DMM S912)
The certified mail fee would increase from $2.10 to $2.30. A new
service enhancement would be introduced to allow mailers to access
delivery information for certified mail over the Internet at
www.usps.com by providing the certified article number. See DMM
R900.7.0.
(5) Collect on Delivery (DMM S921)
There would be no change to the current collect on delivery (COD)
fees. See DMM R900.8.0.
(6) Delivery Confirmation (DMM S918)
Retail (manual) and electronic Delivery Confirmation options would
be extended to First-Class Mail parcels. For Package Services, Delivery
Confirmation would be restricted to parcels only and would no longer be
available for flat-size mail. For First-Class Mail parcels, the fee
would be $0.13 for the electronic option and $0.55 for the retail
option. The fee for the retail option for Priority Mail would increase
from $0.40 to $0.45. For Standard Mail, the fee for the electronic
option would increase from $0.12 to $0.13. For Parcel Select, the
electronic option would be included in postage. For all other Package
Services, the fee would increase from $0.12 to $0.13 for the electronic
option and from $0.50 to $0.55 for the retail option. See DMM R900.9.0.
For the purposes of adding Delivery Confirmation, a parcel would be
defined as any piece that has an address side with sufficient surface
area to fully display the delivery address, return address, postage,
markings and endorsements, and the Delivery Confirmation label. The
parcel would be required to be in a box, or if not in a box, would be
required to be more than \3/4\-inch thick at its thickest point.
(7) Express Mail Insurance (DMM S500)
Insurance coverage included with Express Mail service would be
lowered from $500 to $100. Incremental fees would be applied at $1.00
per each $100 of desired merchandise insurance coverage over $100.
Document reconstruction maximum liability would decrease from $500 to
$100. See DMM R900.11.0.
(8) Insurance (DMM S913)
The fee for unnumbered insurance of up to $50 (no insured number
applied) would increase from $1.10 to $1.30. The fee for numbered
insurance service over $50 and up to $100 (insured number applied)
would increase from $2.00 to $2.20. The incremental fee of $1.00 for
each $100 in value over $100 and up to $5,000 would remain the same.
See DMM R900.12.0.
(9) Merchandise Return Service (DMM S923)
The annual accounting fee for merchandise return service would
increase from $375 to $475. The annual permit fee would increase from
$125 to $150. See DMM R900.14.0.
(10) Money Orders (DMM S020)
There would be two classification changes for money orders. The
first change would increase the maximum amount from $700 to $1,000 for
both domestic and APO/FPO money orders. The second change would
introduce a two-level fee structure for domestic money orders. The fee
for amounts of $0.01 to $500 would be $0.90, and the fee for amounts of
$500.01 to $1,000 would be $1.25. The inquiry fee would increase from
$2.75 to $3.00. The fee for APO/FPO money orders would remain the same.
See DMM R900.16.0.
(11) Parcel Airlift (DMM S930)
Parcel Airlift (PAL) fees would increase. For parcels weighing not
more than 2 pounds, the fee would increase from $0.40 to $0.45. For
parcels not more than 3 pounds, the fee would increase from $0.75 to
$0.85. For parcels not more than 4 pounds, the fee would increase from
$1.15 to $1.25. For parcels over 4 pounds but not more than 30 pounds,
the fee would increase from $1.55 to $1.70. See DMM R900.17.0.
(12) Registered Mail (DMM S911)
All registered mail fees would increase. The fee for registered
mail without insurance would increase from $7.25 to $7.50. The
incremental fee for registered mail with insurance per declared value
level would increase from $0.75 to $0.85. The handling charge per
$1,000 in value or fraction thereof for items valued over $25,000 also
would increase from $0.75 to $0.85. A new service enhancement would be
introduced to allow mailers to access delivery information for
registered mail over the Internet at www.usps.com by
[[Page 4570]]
providing the registered article number. See DMM R900.21.0.
(13) Restricted Delivery (DMM S916)
The fee for restricted delivery would increase from $3.20 to $3.50.
See DMM R900.22.0.
(14) Return Receipt (DMM S915)
The fee for regular return receipt service would increase from
$1.50 to $1.75. The fee for return receipt after mailing would decrease
from $3.50 to $3.25. A new service option would offer an electronic
return receipt that includes delivery information and a copy of the
signature to mailers who furnish an e-mail address at the point of
purchase or preregister on the Internet at www.usps.com (available Fall
2002). Mailers would also have the option to purchase a return receipt
after mailing over the Internet using a credit card (available Fall
2002). The new electronic return receipt fee would be $1.30. See DMM
R900.23.0.
(15) Return Receipt for Merchandise (DMM S917)
The fee for return receipt for merchandise would increase from
$2.35 to $3.00. See DMM R900.24.0.
(16) Signature Confirmation (DMM S919)
Retail (manual) and electronic Signature Confirmation options would
be extended to First-Class Mail parcels. For Package Services,
Signature Confirmation would be restricted to parcels only and would no
longer be available for flat-size mail. For First-Class Mail parcels,
the fee would be $1.30 for the electronic option and $1.80 for the
retail option. The fee for the retail option for Priority Mail would
increase from $1.75 to $1.80. For Package Services parcels, the fee
would increase from $1.25 to $1.30 for the electronic option and from
$1.75 to $1.80 for the retail option. See DMM R900.26.0.
For the purposes of adding Signature Confirmation, a parcel would
be defined as any piece that has an address side with sufficient
surface area to fully display the delivery address, return address,
postage, markings and endorsements, and the Signature Confirmation
label. The parcel would be required to be in a box, or if not in a box,
would be required to be more than \3/4\-inch thick at its thickest
point.
(17) Special Handling (DMM S930)
The fees for special handling would increase from $5.40 to $5.95
for pieces weighing up to 10 pounds and from $7.50 to $8.25 for pieces
weighing over 10 pounds. See DMM R900.27.0.
b. Other Services Highlights
(1) Address Correction Service (DMM F030)
The fee for manual address correction service (ACS) notices would
increase from $0.60 to $0.70. The fee for automated ACS would remain
the same at $0.20. See DMM R900.1.0.
(2) Address Sequencing Service (DMM A920)
The fee for carrier sequencing of address cards service would
increase from $0.25 to $0.30 per card. See DMM R900.2.0.
(3) Caller Service (DMM D920)
The caller service fee for each separation provided per semiannual
period would increase from $375 to $412. The fee for each reserved call
number per calendar year would increase from $30 to $32. See DMM
R900.5.0.
(4) Mailing List Service (DMM A910)
The charge for correction of mailing lists would increase from
$0.25 to $0.30 per correction. The minimum per list charge also would
increase from $7.50 to $9.00 per list. The charge for sortation of
mailing lists on cards into groups labeled by 5-digit ZIP Code would
increase from $73 to $100. The charge for address changes for election
boards would increase from $0.23 to $0.27. See DMM R900.13.0.
(5) Meter Service (DMM P030)
The fee for on-site meter service (per employee, per visit) would
increase from $31 to $35. The fee for meter resetting and/or
examination would increase from $4.00 to $5.00 per meter. The fee for
check in/out of service (per meter) would remain the same. See DMM
R900.15.0.
(6) Permit Imprint (DMM P040)
The permit imprint application fee would increase from $125 to
$150.
(7) Pickup Service (DMM D010)
The fee for pickup service, available for Express Mail, Priority
Mail, and Parcel Post, would increase from $10.25 to $12.50 (per
pickup). See DMM R900.18.0.
(8) Post Office Box Service (DMM D910)
Overall, post office (PO) box fees would increase. A new PO box fee
category would be introduced for PO box service in the lowest-cost
cities and highest-cost rural areas. This new fee group would provide a
bridge to eventually move high-cost and low-cost ZIP Codes toward more
appropriate fee assignments. PO box key duplication or replacement
(after first two keys) would increase from $4.00 to $4.40 each. PO box
lock replacement would increase from $10 to $11.
There would be no proposed change to no-fee PO box service (Group
E). See DMM R900.20.0.
(9) Shipper Paid Forwarding (DMM F010)
The accounting fee would increase from $375 to $475. See DMM
R900.25.0.
(10) Stamped Cards and Stamped Envelopes
The fee for stamped cards would remain the same. Special stamped
envelopes (i.e., those with holograms or patch-in stamps) are no longer
offered. The fees for the other types of available stamped envelopes
would remain the same.
Part B--Summary of Changes to the Domestic Mail Manual
The following information details the R2001-1 proposed changes
organized by DMM module. This information is intended as an overview
only and should not be viewed as defining every proposed DMM revision.
The actual proposed DMM changes appear in this notice after Part B.
A Addressing
A010 would be amended to remove information about upgradable mail
(already included in C830) and to move Exhibit 4.5 to C830.1.0.
The title of A800 would be changed to show the standards apply to
all automation-compatible mail, not just mail claimed at automation
rates.
A950 would be revised to clarify that the mailer's signature on a
postage statement certifies the mail meets the requirements for the
rates claimed and to change the requirements for filing Form 3553,
Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS) Summary Report. Mailers would no
longer be required to submit Form 3553 with each mailing. They would
have to retain the form on file for 1 year from the date of mailing and
make it available to the Postal Service on 24-hour notice.
C Characteristics and Content
C010 would be amended to show that Standard Mail ECR pieces are
subject to the standards for mailpiece dimensions and to remove
information about the First-Class Mail nonstandard surcharge. C050
would be amended to add the nonmachinable criteria for letters.
[[Page 4571]]
Exhibit C050.2.0 would be renumbered as Exhibit C050.1.0.
C100.2.0 would be revised to implement proposed changes to the
Domestic Mail Classification Schedule (DMCS) for pieces mailed at
First-Class Mail card rates. This DMCS change would clarify the
standards for physical construction, formatting, and addressing for
card rate pieces. C100.4.0 would be revised to reflect changes to the
nonmachinable surcharge (formerly the nonstandard surcharge) for some
First-Class Mail letters and flats.
C810 would be amended to remove references to upgradable First-
Class Mail and Standard Mail, to increase the weight limit for Standard
Mail automation and ECR letters to 3.5 ounces, and to clarify that
signing a postage statement certifies the mail meets the requirements
for the rates claimed.
C820 would be amended to add a weight limit for Bound Printed
Matter flats claimed at automation flat rates.
C840 would be amended to remove references to add barcode standards
for ECR saturation and high density pieces and to remove references to
upgradable mail.
D Deposit, Collection, and Delivery
D210.3.4 would be amended to reflect the change that the
destination sectional center facility (DSCF) rate would apply to
eligible mail entered at the DSCF under exceptional dispatch. D210.4.0
would be revised to show that the DSCF rate would not apply to mail
entered at airport mail facilities (AMFs).
The provisions for Periodicals contingency entries would be deleted
in D230.2.2 and 4.6.
D500 would be amended to include several additional provisions that
affect postage refund requests for Express Mail when the service
guarantee is not met.
E Eligibility
E100
E110.3.0 would be amended to implement changes to the Domestic Mail
Classification Schedule (DMCS) for pieces mailed at First-Class Mail
card rates.
E120.2.2 would be amended to change the current Priority Mail flat
rate priced at the 2-pound rate to the new 1-pound rate, regardless of
the weight of the material placed in the flat-rate envelope. E120.2.4
reflects changes to the correct postage for keys and identification
devices. When they weigh more than 13 ounces but not more than 1 pound,
they would be returned at the 1-pound rate plus the fee shown in
R100.10.0. Keys and identification devices that weigh more than 1 pound
but not more than 2 pounds would be charged at the 2-pound Priority
Mail rate plus the fee in R100.10.0.
E130 would be amended to show that the nonmachinable surcharge
would apply to keys and identification devices, certain letter-size and
flat-size pieces mailed at single-piece and Presorted rates, and all
pieces where the mailer chooses the ``manual only'' (do not automate)
preparation option. It also would be amended to clarify that signing a
postage statement certifies the mail meets the requirements for the
rates claimed.
E140 would be amended to reorganize the information about rate
application into two separate sections: one for cards and letter-size
mail (2.0) and one for flat-size mail (3.0). E140.2.0, Rate Application
for Cards and Letters, would be amended to replace the basic rate with
the new AADC and mixed AADC rates. E140.3.0, Rate Application for
Flats, would be amended to replace the basic rate with the new ADC and
mixed ADC rates and to clarify the definition of a piece that is
subject to the nonmachinable surcharge. E140 would be amended to
clarify that signing a postage statement certifies the mail meets the
requirements for the rates claimed.
E200
E217.1.0 and 3.0 would be amended to reflect references to the new
destination area distribution center (DADC) rates and discounts for
Outside-County and Outside-County Science-of-Agriculture rates.
E217.5.0 would be restructured for clarity and amended to include
standards for the new per piece pallet and per piece destination entry
pallet discounts.
The standards for combining multiple publications or editions in
E220.3.0 and E230.4.0 would be consolidated into new M230. E220 and
E240 would be amended to clarify that signing a postage statement
certifies the mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed.
The proposal amends E250 by adding a new 1.0 that provides
standards for new DADC rate eligibility, and renumbering former 1.0
(DSCF) and 2.0 (DDU) as 2.0 and 3.0, respectively. New E250.2.0 would
reflect the change requiring DSCF rate mail to be entered at the SCF or
another postal-designated facility. It is proposed to further amend
E250.2.0 to clarify that DSCF rates do not apply to mail placed in an
ADC, AADC, mixed ADC or mixed AADC sack or tray, or on an ADC or mixed
ADC pallet.
New E260 (former G094) would describe the standards for the
Periodicals Ride-Along classification and rate, which is proposed to
become a permanent classification. All of G094 would be moved except
for 2.0 and 3.0. Former 2.0, which contains rate information, would
appear as part of R200. Former 3.0 would be deleted, as publishers
would no longer be required to submit additional documentation with
Ride-Along mailings.
E500
E500 would be amended to change the current 2-pound Express Mail
flat rate to the new \1/2\-pound rate regardless of the weight of the
material placed in the flat-rate envelope.
E600
E610.8.0 would be amended to remove references to upgradable
Standard Mail.
E620 would be amended to remove references to upgradable mail and
to show that the nonmachinable surcharge may apply to letter-size
pieces that weigh 3.3 ounces or less and to all pieces where the mailer
chooses the ``manual only'' (do not automate) option. New language
would be added to explain the discount for automation-compatible pieces
that weigh between 3.3 and 3.5 ounces.
E630 would be reorganized for clarity. Standards would be added to
show that letter-size pieces mailed at saturation and high density
letter rates must be automation-compatible and must have a delivery
point barcode.
E640 would be amended to replace the basic automation letter rate
with the new AADC and mixed AADC rates and to add the discount for
automation letters that weigh between 3.3 and 3.5 ounces. E640.2.0
would be amended to add the discount for ECR basic automation letters
that weigh between 3.3 and 3.5 ounces.
E620 and E640 would be amended to clarify that signing a postage
statement certifies the mail meets the requirements for the rates
claimed.
E700
E712.1.1b would be revised to add a weight limit for BPM flats
claiming the barcoded discount. E712.1.4, which excluded BPM flats from
eligibility to receive an automation rate, would be removed. E712.2
would be amended to add a new standard for BPM automation flats.
E712.2.0e would be added to include a barcoded discount for automation
flats. E712.3.0 would be amended to clarify that the mailer's signature
on the postage statement
[[Page 4572]]
certifies the mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed.
E713 and E714 would be revised in their entirety to reflect the
format used for BPM in E712, E713 and E714 would be amended to change
references from ``BMC rate'' to ``basic rate'' and from ``500 pieces''
to ``300 pieces.'' E713 and E714 would be revised to allow preparation
of Media Mail and Library Mail mailings with two presort levels.
E751.1.1 would be amended to add provisions to require mail on
pallets for 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes to be entered at the SCF.
E751.1.4a would be amended to clarify that nonmachinable parcels sorted
to 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes must be entered at a designated SCF. In
E751.2.2c, d, and e, references would be added to allow the preparation
of ``3-digit sacks'' and ``3-digit pallets.'' E751.5 and E753 would be
amended to change the references from ``BMC rate'' to ``basic rate.''
F Forwarding and Related Services
F010.4.0 would be amended to remove references to nonstandard mail.
F010.5.2 would be amended to show the nonmachinable surcharge can be
charged on Periodicals returned at First-Class Mail single-piece rates.
F010.5.3 would be amended to show the First-Class Mail single-piece
nonmachinable surcharge is included in the calculation of the weighted
fee for returned pieces and is charged on some returned Standard Mail
pieces. F010.6.0 would be amended to include these same changes.
F030.1.6 would be amended to clarify the circumstances under which
address notices are not provided by the Postal Service.
G General Information
G091.4.0 would be revised to clarify that First-Class Mail
automation letter-size pieces and parcels, First-Class automation
cards, Standard Mail automation letter-size pieces, and Standard Mail
Nonprofit automation letter-size pieces, using NetPost Mailing Online
would be eligible for the mixed AADC rate. First-Class Mail automation
flat-size pieces and parcels would be eligible for the mixed ADC rate.
Flat-size pieces at the regular and nonprofit Standard Mail automation
rates would be eligible for the basic rates. First-Class Mail that is
not eligible for any automation rate would be subject to the applicable
single-piece rates.
The Ride-Along classification in G094 would be made a permanent
classification. Therefore, the standards currently in G094 would be
relocated to new E260.
L Labeling Lists
The titles and summaries, as appropriate, of labeling lists L001,
L800, L802, and L803 would be amended to reflect new mail preparation
options.
Note: New labeling list L006 and the accompanying 5-digit metro
pallet sort for packages of flats is effective on March 31, 2002.
Notice of this change was published in Postal Bulletin 22066 (12-27-
01).
M Mail Preparation and Sortation
M000
M011.1.3 would be amended to show that a full letter tray is
defined as one that is between 75% and 100% full. M011.1.4 would be
amended to remove references to upgradable mailings, to show that
machinable and nonmachinable pieces cannot be part of the same mailing,
and to show that ECR letter pieces cannot be part of the same mailing
as nonletter rate pieces. M012.2.0 would be revised to update
information about MLOCR markings. M012.3.3 would be revised to include
additional rate markings for BPM presorted automation flats and BPM
carrier route flats. M012.4.5 would be deleted to remove references to
upgradable mail.
The summary for M020 would be amended to include references to
Media Mail and Library Mail. M020.1.6 would be amended to add Media
Mail and Library Mail in the package size requirements. In addition,
the maximum weight for packages in sacks would be 20 pounds unless
otherwise noted, and packages of BPM automation flats would have to
meet the preparation requirements in M820. M020.2.0 would be amended to
include additional standards for packaging Media Mail and Library Mail.
M020.2.1 would be amended to remove references to the upgradable
preparation for First-Class Mail and Standard Mail and to show that
nonmachinable and ``manual only'' pieces must be packaged. M020.2.2
would be amended to require that Media Mail and Library Mail pieces
meet specific weight limits when placed in sacks or on pallets.
The container labeling requirements in M031.5.0 would be amended to
revise the Line 2 code for ``carrier routes,'' ``letters,'' and
``machinable'' and to add a new Line 2 code for ``manual.'' Exhibit
M032.1.3a would be amended to change the content identifier number
(CIN) codes for the new machinable and nonmachinable preparation for
First-Class Mail and Standard Mail letter-size pieces. The exhibit also
would be amended to add new CIN codes for Standard Mail ECR letters and
designate CIN codes for certain Package Services flat-size pieces.
M033.2.0 would be amended to clarify standards for filling letter
trays.
M041.5.0 and M041.5.6 would be amended to show that the minimum
volume for letter trays on pallets is measured in linear feet, not by
the number of layers of trays on the pallet. M041.5.5 would be amended
to clarify the maximum load of a pallet. M045.3.2 would be amended to
show that pallets of carrier route mail must show whether the mail is
barcoded, machinable, or manual. M045.3.3 through M045.3.5 would show
revised titles, including Media Mail and Library Mail. M045.6.0 would
be removed and included in aforementioned sections. M050.4.1 would be
amended to show that signing a postage statement certifies that the
mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed.
M100
M130 would be substantially revised to show the packaging, traying,
and labeling standards for machinable, nonmachinable, and ``manual
only'' letter-size mail.
M200
To reduce redundancy, the standards for combining multiple
publications or editions in M210.6.0 and M220.6.0 would be consolidated
and relocated in new M230.
M600
M610 would be substantially revised to show the packaging, traying,
and labeling standards for machinable, nonmachinable, and ``manual
only'' letter-size mail. M630 would be revised to show the new Line 2
labeling for trays of ECR letter-size pieces.
M700
M710.2.1 would be revised to add provisions for a 3-digit sort
level for nonmachinable parcels claiming DSCF rates.
M730 and M740 would be amended to change references from ``BMC
rate'' to ``basic rate.'' M730 and M740 would also be amended to
include separate preparation standards for Media Mail and Library Mail
flats, irregular parcels, and machinable parcels.
M800
M810.1.0 would be amended to replace references to the automation
basic rate for letter-size pieces with the new AADC and mixed AADC
rates. M810.2.0 would be amended to show the new Line 2 labeling
formats for First-Class Mail and Standard Mail automation letters.
[[Page 4573]]
M820.1.0 would be amended to replace references to the automation
basic rate for flat-size pieces with the new ADC and mixed ADC rates.
M820.6.1 would be revised to provide packaging and sacking standards
for flat-size pieces eligible for the Bound Printed Matter automation
rates.
P Postage and Payment Methods
P000
P011.1.0 would be amended to reflect that the nonstandard surcharge
would be replaced with the new nonmachinable surcharge. P012.2.0 would
be amended to add new rate level abbreviations for the AADC, ADC, mixed
AADC, and mixed ADC rates. P012.3.0 would be amended to reflect
references to the new DADC rate for Periodicals.
P013.2.0 would be amended to reflect the new zoning of Priority
Mail rates affecting all pieces over 1 pound and up to 5 pounds. This
section would also be amended to reflect that each addressed Express
Mail or Priority Mail flat-rate envelope would be charged the Express
Mail rate for 1/2-pound or the Priority Mail rate for 1 pound, as
applicable, regardless of the actual weight.
P013.8.0 would be amended to show how to calculate postage for
Standard Mail automation rate letter-size pieces and ECR automation-
compatible letter-size pieces that weigh more than 3.3 ounces.
P014.5.0 would be amended to expand the circumstances under which
the Postal Service may deny Express Mail postage refund requests when
the service guarantee is not met.
P021.3.1 would be amended to note the availability of stamped
cards.
P100
P100.4.0 and 5.0 would be amended to change ``nonstandard
surcharge'' to ``nonmachinable surcharge.''
P200
P200.1.5 would be amended to include requirements for separating
DADC entry pieces if the mailing is not presented with mailing
documentation at the time of postal verification. New P200.1.8 would
contain the standards for the waiving of nonadvertising rates relocated
from P200.2.4.
P600
P600.2.1 would be amended to include standards for the new
nonmachinable surcharge for Standard Mail.
P900
P910 would be amended to add new rate category abbreviations for
the AADC, ADC, mixed AADC, and mixed ADC rates for First-Class Mail and
Standard Mail.
P960 would be amended to clarify when MLOCR markings must appear on
mailpieces and to add new MLOCR markings for the AADC, ADC, mixed AADC,
and mixed ADC rates for First-Class Mail and Standard Mail.
R Rates and Fees
The entire R Module would be revised to reflect the proposed rates
and fees for all classes of mail and special services.
S Special Services
S020 would be amended to increase the maximum amount of a single
money order from $700 to $1,000.
S010 and S500 would be amended to reduce the indemnity included in
the base price of Express Mail service from $500 to $100.
S911 and S912 would be amended to add that mailers can access
delivery information over the Internet at www.usps.com. Mailers would
be required to provide the certified mail or registered mail article
number.
S915 would be amended to add a new service option, available in
Fall 2002, that would provide mailers with an electronic return receipt
if they provide an e-mail address at the point of purchase or
preregister on the Internet at www.usps.com. Also available in Fall
2002, is another option that would allow mailers to purchase a return
receipt after mailing via the Internet at www.usps.com.
S918 and S919 would be amended to extend Delivery Confirmation and
Signature Confirmation to First-Class Mail parcels, and also to limit
this service to parcels only in the Package Services mail class. S918
and S919 would also specify that for the purposes of adding Delivery
Confirmation or Signature Confirmation service, a parcel would be
required to meet the definition in C100.5.0 or C700.1.0, as
appropriate.
Although exempt from the notice and comment requirements of the
Administrative Procedures Act [5 U.S.C. 553 (b), (c)] regarding
proposed rulemaking by 39 U.S.C. 410(a), the Postal Service invites
comments on the following proposed revisions of the Domestic Mail
Manual (DMM) incorporated by reference in the Code of Federal
Regulations. See 39 CFR part 111.
List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111
Administrative practice and procedure, Postal Service.
PART 111--[AMENDED]
1. The authority citation for 39 CFR Part 111 continues to read as
follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 39 U.S.C. 101, 401, 403, 404, 414,
3001-3011, 3201-3219, 3403-3406, 3621, 3626, 5001.
2. Revise the following sections of the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM)
as follows:
A Addressing
A000 Basic Addressing
A010 General Addressing Standards
1.0 ADDRESS CONTENT AND PLACEMENT
* * * * *
[Amend the title and content of 1.3 to replace ``nonstandard'' with
``nonmachinable.'' No other changes to the text.]
* * * * *
2.0 ZIP CODE
* * * * *
[Amend the title and text of 2.3 to remove obsolete information about
the DPBC numeric equivalent to read as follows:]
2.3 Numeric DPBC
A numeric equivalent of a delivery point barcode (DPBC) consists of
five digits, a hyphen, and seven digits as specified in C840. The
numeric equivalent is formed by adding three digits directly after the
ZIP+4 code.
[Remove 2.4, Class and Rate Standards.]
* * * * *
4.0 RETURN ADDRESS
* * * * *
[Remove 4.5, Upgradable Mail.]
[Redesignate Exhibit 4.5, OCR Read Area and Barcode Clear Zone, as
Exhibit C830.1.1.]
* * * * *
[Amend the title of A800 to show that the unit contains standards that
apply to any barcoded pieces, not just mail claimed at automation
rates, to read as follows:]
A800 Addressing for Barcoding
1.0 Accuracy
* * * * *
1.3 Numeric DPBC
[Amend 1.3 to remove obsolete information about the DPBC numeric
sequivalent to read as follows:]
A numeric equivalent of the delivery point barcode (DPBC) consists
of five digits, a hyphen, and seven digits, as specified in C840. The
numeric
[[Page 4574]]
equivalent is formed by adding three digits directly after the ZIP+4
code.
* * * * *
A950 Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS)
* * * * *
3.0 DATE OF ADDRESS MATCHING AND CODING
3.1 Update Standards
[Amend 3.1 to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies that
the mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed to read as
follows:]
Unless Z4CHANGE is used, all automation and carrier route mailings
bearing addresses coded by any AIS product must be coded with current
CASS-certified software and the current USPS database. Coding must be
done within 90 days before the mailing date for all carrier route
mailings and within 180 days before the mailing date for all non-
carrier route automation rate mailings. All AIS products may be used
immediately on release. New product releases must be included in
address matching systems no later than 45 days after the release date.
The overlap in dates for product use allows mailers adequate time to
install the new data files and test their systems. Mailers are expected
to update their systems with the latest data files as soon as
practicable and need not wait until the ``last permissible use'' date
to include the new information in their address matching systems. The
mailer's signature on the postage statement certifies this standard has
been met when the corresponding mail is presented to the USPS. The
current USPS database product cycle is defined by the following matrix.
* * * * *
5.0 DOCUMENTATION
[Amend 5.1 to show that mailers must complete Form 3553 and to show
that signing a postage statement certifies that the mail meets the
requirements for the rates claimed to read as follows:]
5.1 Form 3553
Unless excepted by standard, the mailer must complete a Form 3553
for each mailing claimed at automation rates, carrier route Periodicals
rates, Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail rates, and carrier route
Bound Printed Matter rates. A computer-generated facsimile may be used
if it contains the required data elements in a format similar to the
USPS form. The data recorded on Form 3553 must refer only to the
address list used to produce the mailing with which it is presented.
The mailer certifies compliance with this standard when signing the
corresponding postage statement.
[Amend 5.2 to show that supporting documentation does not have to be
submitted with the mailing, but must be retained by the mailer or
mailer's agent for 1 year to read as follows:]
5.2 Retention Period
Form 3553 and other documentation must be kept by the mailer or the
mailer's agent for 1 year from the date of mailing and be made
available to the USPS on 24-hour notice.
* * * * *
5.5 Using a Single List
[Amend 5.5 by adding retention requirements to read as follows:]
When a mailing is produced using all or part of a single address
list, the mailer must retain one Form 3553 and other required
documentation reflecting the summary output information for the entire
list, as obtained when the list was coded. When the same address list
is used for other mailings within 180 days of the date it was matched
and coded, a copy of the Form 3553 must be retained with the
documentation for each mailing.
5.6 Using Multiple Lists
[Amend 5.6 by adding retention requirements to read as follows:]
When a mailing is produced using multiple address lists, the mailer
must retain a consolidated Form 3553 summarizing the individual summary
output and/or facsimile Forms 3553 for each list used (and other
required documentation). As an alternative, the mailer may combine the
addresses selected from the multiple lists into a single new list,
reprocess the addresses using CASS-certified address matching software,
and retain one Form 3553 for the summary output generated by that
process.
[Remove current 5.7, redesignate 5.8 as 5.7, and amend by adding
retention requirements to read as follows:]
5.7 Using CASS Certificate
If the name of the CASS-certified company entered on Form 3553 does
not appear on the list published by the USPS, a copy of the CASS
certificate for the software used also must be retained by the mailer
with the documentation.
* * * * *
C Characteristics and Content
C000 General Information
C010 General Mailability Standards
1.0 MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM DIMENSIONS
* * * * *
1.3 Length and Height
[Remove 1.3b and redesignate current 1.3c as 1.3b. There are no other
changes to the text. Standard Mail Enhanced Carrier Route pieces would
be subject to the standards pertaining to length and height.]
* * * * *
[Remove 1.6, Nonstandard Surcharge.]
* * * * *
C050 Mail Processing Categories
1.0 BASIC INFORMATION
[Amend 1.0 to add a reference to new Exhibit 1.0 (redesignated Exhibit
2.0) to read as follows:]
Every mailpiece is assigned to one of the mail processing
categories in the following sections. These categories are based on the
physical dimensions of the piece, regardless of the placement
(orientation) of the delivery address on the piece. Exhibit 1.0 shows
the minimum and maximum dimensions for some mail processing categories.
[Redesignate Exhibit 2.0, Mail Dimensions, as Exhibit 1.0 and insert
here.]
2.0 LETTER-SIZE MAIL
[Revise 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.1 Minimum and Maximum Size
Letter-size mail is:
a. Not less than 5 inches long, 3\1/2\ inches high, and 0.007 inch
thick.
b. Not more than 11\1/2\ inches long, 6\1/8\ inches high, and \1/
4\-inch thick.
2.2 Nonmachinable Criteria
A letter-size piece is nonmachinable if it has one or more of the
following characteristics (see C010.1.1 for how to determine the
length, height, top, bottom, and sides of a mailpiece):
a. Has an aspect ratio (length divided by height) of less than 1.3
or more than 2.5.
b. Is polybagged, polywrapped, or enclosed in any plastic material.
c. Has clasps, strings, buttons, or similar closure devices.
d. Contains items such as pens, pencils, keys, and loose coins that
cause the thickness of the mailpiece to be uneven.
e. Is too rigid (does not bend easily when subjected to a transport
belt tension of 40 pounds around an 11-inch diameter turn).
[[Page 4575]]
f. For pieces more than 4\1/4\ inches high or 6 inches long, the
thickness is less than 0.009 inch.
g. Has a delivery address parallel to the shorter dimension of the
mailpiece.
h. For folded self-mailers, the folded edge is perpendicular to the
address, regardless of the use of tabs, wafer seals, or other
fasteners.
i. For booklet-type pieces, the bound edge (spine) is the shorter
dimension of the piece or is at the top, regardless of the use of tabs,
wafer seals, or other fasteners.
2.3 Automation Rates
Letters and cards mailed at automation rates must meet the
standards in C810.
* * * * *
C100 First-Class Mail
* * * * *
2.0 CARDS CLAIMED AT CARD RATES
[Revise 2.0 to implement new Domestic Mail Classification Schedule
language for cards claimed at card rates to read as follows. The Postal
Service is proposing a 6-month phase-in period for compliance with
these standards (see sections 2.7 and 2.8). After the phase-in period,
cards that do not meet the standards in 2.0 would not be eligible for
card rates):]
2.1 Definition
Cards eligible for card rates are:
a. Stamped cards (cards with postage imprinted on them and supplied
by the USPS). Three types of stamped cards are available. See P021.3.1.
b. Postcards (commercially prepared mailing cards that meet the
criteria of this section).
c. Double cards (see 2.11). These cards consist of two attached
postcards, one of which is designed to be detached by the recipient and
mailed back as a reply. The reply half of a double card may be a
business reply card (S922) or a merchandise return service label
(S923.5.4).
2.2 Rates
Cards can be prepared and mailed at First-Class Mail single-piece,
Presorted, and automation rates. Cards that do not meet the applicable
standards in 2.0 are not eligible for card rates.
2.3 Dimensions
Each card or each half of a double card mailed at a card rate must
be:
a. Rectangular.
b. Not less than 3\1/2\ inches high, 5 inches long, and 0.007 inch
thick.
c. Not more than 4\1/4\ inches high, 6 inches long, and 0.016 inch
thick.
2.4 Paper Stock
A card must be of uniform thickness and made of unfolded and
uncreased paper from stock meeting the industry standard for a basis
weight of 75 pounds or greater (with a tolerance of 4-pound basis
weight). A card may be formed of one piece of paper or cardstock, or
two pieces of paper that are permanently and uniformly bonded together.
The cardstock may be of any light color that permits printing of
legible addresses and markings.
2.5 Perforations
A card may have perforations as long as they do not eliminate or
interfere with any address element, postage, or postal markings and do
not compromise the physical integrity of the card. A minimum ratio of
50:50 (stock to perforations) is required.
2.6 Attachments
A card may bear an attachment that is totally adhered to the card
surface, not an encumbrance to postal processing, and one of the
following:
a. Made of paper, such as a label, wafer seal, or decal and is
affixed by permanent adhesive, including an address label affixed by
permanent adhesive for the delivery or return address.
b. A small reusable seal or decal prepared with pressure-sensitive
and nonremovable adhesive, designed to be removed from the first half
of a double card and applied to the reply half.
2.7 Address Side and Delivery Address
Cards eligible for and claimed at the single-piece rate are not
subject to the standards in this section. The address side of the card
must be formatted so that the delivery address, return address,
postage, rate markings, and any ancillary service endorsement are
clearly distinguished from any message and other nondelivery
information. nondelivery information may not appear to the right of or
below the delivery address. The delivery address must appear within an
area:
a. \1/2\ inch from the right edge of the card.
b. \1/2\ inch from the left edge of the card.
c. \5/8\ inch from the bottom edge of the card.
d. The top line of the address block may be no more than 2\3/4\
inches from the bottom edge of the card.
2.8 Cards Divided Vertically
Cards eligible for and claimed at the single-piece rate are not
subject to the standards in this section. A card may be divided
vertically into a right side and a left side, with or without a
vertical rule. If used, a vertical rule may not extend lower than \5/8\
inch from the bottom edge of the card. The following standards also
apply:
a. The right side must measure at least 2\1/8\ inches wide from the
right edge of the card.
b. The postage, delivery address, and rate markings must appear on
the right side.
c. The delivery address lines must be uniformly left aligned; a
minimum \1/4\-inch clear space must be maintained between the delivery
address and the vertical rule, if used, or any nondelivery information
on the left side.
d. Nondelivery information may appear on the left side only, except
that the information may extend into the right side of the card above
the address block. Any such information extending into the right side
must be shaded, surrounded by a border, or separated with a minimum \1/
4\-inch clear space between the postage, delivery address, return
address, rate markings, and any ancillary service endorsement.
2.9 Postage and Rate Markings
Cards eligible for and claimed at the single-piece rate are not
subject to the standards in this section. Postage and rate markings
must appear in the upper right of the address area or in the upper
right corner of the card. A minimum \1/4\-inch clear space, with or
without a border, must be maintained between nondelivery information
and the postage, return address, rate markings, and any ancillary
service endorsement.
2.10 Return Address
If a mailer chooses to include a return address, it must be placed
in the upper left corner of the address area or the upper left corner
of the address side of the card.
2.11 Double Cards
A double card must be folded before mailing and prepared so that
the address on the reply half is on the inside when originally mailed.
Enclosures in double cards are prohibited at card rates. The following
standards apply:
a. The first half of a double card must be detached when the reply
half is mailed for return. The reply half must be used for reply only
and may not be used to convey a message to the original addressee or to
send statements of account. It may be formatted for reply purposes
(e.g., contain blocks for completion by the addressee).
b. Double cards that are not prepared in accordance with C810 are
considered
[[Page 4576]]
nonmachinable and must be prepared as nonmachinable pieces under M130.
c. Plain stickers, seals, or a single wire stitch (staple) may be
used to fasten the open edge of double cards.
* * * * *
[Amend the title and content of 4.0 to reflect the new nonmachinable
surcharge for some First-Class Mail letters and flats to read as
follows:]
4.0 NONMACHINABLE PIECES
Letter-size pieces that weigh 1 ounce or less and meet one or more
of the nonmachinable characteristics in C050.2.2 may be subject to the
nonmachinable surcharge (see E130 and E140). Nonletters (flats and
parcels) that weigh 1 ounce or less are subject to the nonmachinable
surcharge if any one of the following applies (see C010.1.1 for how to
determine the length and height of a mailpiece):
a. The piece is greater than \1/4\-inch thick.
b. The length is more than 11\1/2\ inches or the height is more
than 6\1/8\ inches.
c. The aspect ratio (length divided by height) is less than 1.3 or
more than 2.5.
[Redesignate section 5.0, Facing Identification Mark (FIM), as 6.0. Add
new 5.0, Parcels, to read as follows:]
5.0 Parcels
For the purposes of adding Delivery Confirmation and Signature
Confirmation, a First-Class Mail parcel is defined as any piece that:
a. Has an address side with enough surface area to fit the delivery
address, return address, postage, rate markings and endorsements, and
special service label; and,
b. Is in a box, or if not in a box, is more than \3/4\-inch thick
at its thickest point.
* * * * *
C200 Periodicals
Summary
[Revise the summary in C200 to read as follows:]
C200 describes permissible mailpiece components (e.g., enclosures,
attachments, and supplements) and impermissible or prohibited
components for Periodicals mail. It also describes mailpiece
construction and required printed features such as title, imprint, and
publication address.
* * * * *
C600 Standard Mail
1.0 DIMENSIONS
1.1 Basic Standards
These standards apply to Standard Mail:
* * * * *
[Redesignate 1.1c and 1.1d as 1.1d and 1.1e, respectively. Redesignate
Exhibit 1.1d as Exhibit 1.1e. Add new 1.1c to require that some ECR
letters must meet the physical standards for automation letters in C810
to read as follows:]
c. ECR pieces mailed at high-density and saturation letter rates
must meet the standards for automation-compatible mail in C810.
* * * * *
[Redesignate 3.0, Postal Inspection, and 4.0, Enclosures, as 4.0 and
5.0, respectively. Add new 3.0, Nonmachinable Pieces, to reflect the
new nonmachinable surcharge for some Standard Mail letters to read as
follows:]
3.0 NONMACHINABLE PIECES
Letter-size pieces that weigh 3.3 ounces or less and meet one or
more of the nonmachinable criteria in C050.2.2 may be subject to the
nonmachinable surcharge (see E620).
* * * * *
C700 Package Services
1.0 PACKAGE SERVICES
These standards apply to Package Services:
* * * * *
[Insert new 1.0h to read as follows:]
h. For the purposes of adding Delivery Confirmation and Signature
Confirmation, a Package Services parcel is defined as any piece that
meets the following standards:
(1) Has an address side with enough surface area to fit the
delivery address, return address, postage, markings and endorsements,
and special service label.
(2) Is in a box, or if not in a box, is more than \3/4\-inch thick
at its thickest point.
[Amend the title of 2.0 by adding ``Surcharge'' to read as follows:]
2.0 NONMACHINABLE SURCHARGE--PARCELS
* * * * *
[Amend the title of C800 by adding ``Machinable'' to read as follows:]
C800 Automation-Compatible and Machinable Mail
C810 Letters and Cards
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
[Amend 1.0 to show that some ECR letters must meet the standards for
automation-compatible mail to read as follows:]
Letters and cards claimed at automation rates and at some Standard
Mail Enhanced Carrier Route rates must meet the standards in 2.0
through 8.0. Pieces claimed at First-Class Mail automation card rates
also must meet the standards in C100. Unless prepared under 7.2 through
7.4, each mailpiece must be prepared either as a sealed envelope (the
preferred method) or, if unenveloped, must be sealed or glued on all
four sides.
2.0 DIMENSIONS
* * * * *
2.4 Maximum Weight
[Amend 2.4 to replace the weight limit for upgradable letters with the
weight limit for machinable letters, to raise the weight limit for
Standard Mail automation heavy letters to 3.5 ounces, and to add a
weight limit for ECR high density and saturation letters, to read as
follows:]
Maximum weight limits are as follows:
a. First-Class Mail:
(1) Machinable Presorted: 3.3 ounces (0.2063 pound).
(2) Automation (see 7.5 for pieces heavier than 3 ounces): 3.3
ounces (0.2063 pound).
b. Periodicals automation (see 7.5 for pieces heavier than 3
ounces): 3.3 ounces (0.2063 pound).
c. Standard Mail:
(1) Machinable Presorted: 3.3 ounces (0.2063 pound).
(2) Automation regular and carrier route (see 7.5 for pieces
heavier than 3 ounces): 3.5 ounces (0.2188 pound).
(3) Enhanced Carrier Route high density and saturation (see 7.5 for
pieces heavier than 3 ounces): 3.5 ounces (0.2188 pound).
* * * * *
8.0 ENCLOSED REPLY CARDS AND ENVELOPES
8.1 Basic Standard
[Amend the first paragraph of 8.1 to clarify that signing a postage
statement certifies the mail meets the requirements for the rates
claimed to read as follows:]
All letter-size reply cards and envelopes (business reply mail
(BRM), courtesy reply mail (CRM), and meter reply mail (MRM)) provided
as enclosures in automation First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard
Mail, and addressed for return to a domestic delivery address, must
meet the applicable automation-compatible mail standards in C810. The
mailer's
[[Page 4577]]
signature on the postage statement certifies that this standard, and
the standards listed below, have been met when the corresponding mail
is presented to the USPS: * * *
* * * * *
C820 Flats
* * * * *
2.0 DIMENSIONS AND CRITERIA FOR FSM 881 PROCESSING
* * * * *
2.4 Maximum Weight
[Amend 2.4 to add a weight limit for BPM flats by adding new 2.4d to
read as follows:]
d. For Bound Printed Matter pieces claiming the barcode discount,
16 ounces.
* * * * *
C830 OCR Standards
1.0 OCR READ AREA
1.1 Definition
[Amend 1.1 to add a reference to new Exhibit 1.1 (redesignated Exhibit
A010.4.5) to read as follows:]
The optical character reader (OCR) read area is a rectangular area
on the address side of the mailpiece formed by these boundaries (see
Exhibit 1.1):
a. Left: \1/2\ inch from the left edge of the piece.
b. Right: \1/2\ inch from the right edge of the piece.
c. Top: 2\3/4\ inches from the bottom edge of the piece.
d. Bottom: \5/8\ inch from the bottom edge of the piece.
[Insert Exhibit 1.1, OCR Read Area and Barcode Clear Zone (redesignated
Exhibit A010.4.5). There are no changes to the exhibit.]
* * * * *
C840 Barcoding Standards for Letters and Flats
* * * * *
2.0 BARCODE LOCATION FOR LETTER-SIZE PIECES
2.1 Barcode Clear Zone
[Amend the first paragraph in 2.1 to remove references to show that
Standard Mail Enhanced Carrier Route pieces must have a barcode clear
zone and to remove references to upgradable mail, to read as follows:]
Each letter-size piece in an automation rate mailing or claimed at
an Enhanced Carrier Route saturation or high density rate must have a
barcode clear zone unless the piece bears a DPBC in the address block.
The barcode clear zone and all printing and material in the clear zone
must meet the reflectance standards in 5.0. The barcode clear zone is a
rectangular area in the lower right corner of the address side of cards
and letter-size pieces defined by these boundaries: * * *
* * * * *
2.2 General Standards
[Amend 2.2 to show that these standards for delivery point barcodes
also would apply to Enhanced Carrier Route saturation and high density
rate pieces, to read as follows:]
Automation rate pieces and pieces claimed at an Enhanced Carrier
Route saturation or high density rate that weigh 3 ounces or less may
bear a DPBC either in the address block or in the barcode clear zone.
Pieces that weigh more than 3 ounces must bear a DPBC in the address
block.
* * * * *
5.0 REFLECTANCE
* * * * *
5.4 Dark Fibers and Background Patterns
[Amend 5.4 to include references to Enhanced Carrier Route saturation
and high density rate pieces and remove 5.4c to read as follows:]
Dark fibers or background patterns (e.g., checks) that produce a
print contrast ratio of more than 15% when measured in the red and
green portions of the optical spectrum are prohibited in these
locations:
a. The area of the address block or the barcode clear zone where
the barcode appears on a card-size or a letter-size piece mailed at
automation rates or at Enhanced Carrier Route saturation or high
density rates.
b. The area of the address block or the area of the mailpiece where
the barcode appears on a flat-size piece in an automation rate mailing.
* * * * *
[Amend the title and summary text of C850 by replacing ``Standard
Mail'' and ``Package Services'' with ``Parcels'' to read as follows:]
C850 Barcoding Standards for Parcels
Summary
C850 describes the technical standards for barcoded parcels. It
defines parcel barcode characteristics, location, and content.
1.0 GENERAL
1.1 Basic Requirement
[Amend 1.1 to remove references to specific classes of mail to read as
follows:]
Every parcel eligible for a barcode discount must bear a properly
prepared barcode that represents the correct ZIP Code information for
the delivery address on the mailpiece plus the appropriate verifier
character suffix or application identifier prefix characters as
described in 1.0 through 4.0. The combination of appropriate ZIP Code
and verifier or application identifier characters uniquely identifies
the barcode as the postal routing code.
* * * * *
1.4 Use With Delivery Confirmation and Signature Confirmation Services
[Amend 1.4 to remove references to specific classes of mail to read as
follows:]
A mailer may qualify for the machinable parcel barcode discount and
may apply Delivery Confirmation and Signature Confirmation barcodes in
one of the following ways:
* * * * *
[Amend 1.4c to delete references to specific classes of mail (to allow
integrated barcodes for First-Class Mail parcels) to read as follows:]
c. A single integrated barcode may be used by Delivery Confirmation
electronic option mailers who choose to combine Delivery Confirmation
or Signature Confirmation service with insurance. Mailers printing
their own barcodes and using the electronic option must meet the
specifications in S918, S919, and Publication 91 with these
modifications:
(1) The text above the barcode must identify the other service
requested.
(2) The service type code in the barcode must identify the class of
mail and/or type of special service combined with Delivery Confirmation
or Signature Confirmation.
* * * * *
D Deposit, Collection, and Delivery
* * * * *
D200 Periodicals
D210 Basic Information
* * * * *
3.0 EXCEPTIONAL DISPATCH
* * * * *
3.4 Destination Rates
[Amend 3.4 by removing the first sentence and revising the remaining
sentence to read as follows:]
Copies of Periodicals publications deposited under exceptional
dispatch may be eligible for and claimed at the destination sectional
center facility (DSCF) or destination delivery unit
[[Page 4578]]
(DDU) rates if the applicable standards in E250 are met.
* * * * *
4.0 DEPOSIT AT AMF
4.1 General
[Amend 4.1 by deleting the reference to SCF rates to read as follows:]
A publisher that airfreights copies of a Periodicals publication to
an airport mail facility (AMF) must be authorized additional entry at
the verifying office (i.e., the post office where the copies are
presented for postal verification). Postage must be paid at that office
unless an alternative postage payment method is authorized. Copies
presented at an AMF may be eligible for the delivery unit rate, subject
to the applicable standards.
* * * * *
D230 Additional Entry
* * * * *
2.0 DISTRIBUTION PLAN
* * * * *
[Remove 2.2, Contingency Entries, and remove the title ``2.1 Basic
Standards.'']
* * * * *
4.0 USE OF ENTRY
* * * * *
[Remove 4.6, Contingency Entry, and redesignate 4.7 as 4.6.]
* * * * *
D500 Express Mail
* * * * *
1.0 SERVICE OBJECTIVES AND REFUND CONDITIONS
* * * * *
1.6 Postage Not Refunded
[Revise 1.6 to add the additional limitations for Express Mail refunds
to read as follows:]
Postage is not refunded if an item is delayed because of an
incorrect ZIP Code or address, an item was improperly detained for law
enforcement purposes, forwarding or return service was provided after
the item was made available for claim, delivery was attempted within
the times required for the specific service; delay or cancellation of
flights, strike or work stoppage; or as authorized by USPS headquarters
when delay was caused by:
a. Governmental action beyond the control of the USPS or air
carriers.
b. War, insurrection, or civil disturbance.
c. Breakdown of a substantial portion of the USPS transportation
network resulting from events or factors outside the control of the
USPS.
d. Acts of God.
Attempted delivery occurs under any of these situations when the
delivery is physically attempted, but cannot be made; the shipment is
available for delivery, but the addressee made a written request that
the shipment be held for a specific day or days; the delivery employee
discovers that the shipment is undeliverable as addressed before
leaving on the delivery route.
* * * * *
E Eligibility
E000 Special Eligibility Standards
* * * * *
E070 Mixed Classes
* * * * *
2.0 ATTACHMENTS OF DIFFERENT CLASSES
* * * * *
2.2 Rate Qualification
If a Periodicals, Standard Mail, or Package Services host piece
qualifies for:
* * * * *
[Amend 2.2d by revising the first sentence and removing the second
sentence to read as follows:]
d. A destination rate (DDU, DSCF, DADC, or DBMC), a Standard Mail
attachment is eligible for the comparable destination entry rate. The
attachment need not meet the volume standard that would apply if mailed
separately. A rate including a destination entry discount may not be
claimed for an attachment unless a similar rate is available and
claimed for the host piece.
* * * * *
E100 First-Class Mail
E110 Basic Standards
* * * * *
[Revise 3.0 to read as follows:]
3.0 CARD RATE
To be eligible for a card rate, a stamped card, postcard, and each
part of a double (reply) card must meet the physical standards in C100.
The reply half of a double card need not bear postage when originally
mailed, but it must bear postage at the applicable rate when returned,
unless prepared with a business reply format (S922) or a merchandise
return service label (S923.5.4).
* * * * *
E120 Priority Mail
* * * * *
2.0 RATES
* * * * *
2.2 Flat-Rate Envelope
[Amend 2.2 by changing ``2-pound'' to ``1-pound'' to read as follows:]
Any amount of material that can be mailed in the special flat-rate
envelope available from the USPS is subject to the 1-pound Priority
Mail rate, regardless of the actual weight of the mailpiece.
* * * * *
2.4 Keys and Identification Devices
[Amend 2.4 to show that the 2-pound rate is a zoned rate to read as
follows:]
Keys and identification devices (e.g., identification cards or
uncovered identification tags) that weigh more than 13 ounces but not
more than 1 pound are returned at the 1-pound Priority Mail rate plus
the fee shown in R100.10.0. Keys and identification devices weighing
more than 1 pound but not more than 2 pounds are mailed at the 2-pound
Priority Mail zone rate plus the fee in R100.10.0. The key or
identification device must bear, contain, or have securely attached the
name and complete address of a person, organization, or concern, with
instructions to return the key or identification device to that address
and a statement guaranteeing payment of postage due on delivery.
E130 Nonautomation Rates
* * * * *
2.0 SINGLE-PIECE RATE
* * * * *
2.2 Keys and Identification Devices
[Amend 2.2 by adding the reference to R100.10.0 to read as follows:]
Keys and identification devices (e.g., identification cards or
uncovered identification tags) that weigh 13 ounces or less are mailed
at the applicable single-piece letter rate plus the fee in R100.10.0.
The keys and identification devices must bear, contain, or have
securely attached the name and complete address of a person,
organization, or concern, with instructions to return the piece to that
address and a statement guaranteeing payment of postage due on
delivery.
* * * * *
[Add new 2.4 to show that letter-size pieces may be subject to the
nonmachinable surcharge to read as follows:]
2.4 Nonmachinable Surcharge--Letter-Size Pieces
The nonmachinable surcharge in R100.11.0 applies to letter-size
pieces:
a. That weigh 1 ounce or less and meet one or more of the
nonmachinable criteria in C050.2.2. Pieces mailed at the
[[Page 4579]]
card rate are not subject to the nonmachinable surcharge.
b. For which the mailer chooses the manual only (``do not
automate'') option. This includes pieces mailed at the card rate.
[Add new 2.5 to show that flats may be subject to the nonmachinable
surcharge to read as follows:]
2.5 Nonmachinable Surcharge--Nonletters
Nonletters (flats and parcels) that weigh 1 ounce or less are
subject to the nonmachinable surcharge in R100.11.0 if any one of the
following applies (see C010.1.1 for how to determine the length and
height of a mailpiece):
a. The piece is greater than \1/4\-inch thick.
b. The length is more than 11\1/2\ inches or the height is more
than 6\1/8\ inches.
c. The aspect ratio (length divided by height) is less than 1.3 or
more than 2.5.
3.0 PRESORTED RATE
* * * * *
3.3 Address Quality
[Amend the first paragraph of 3.3 to clarify that signing a postage
statement certifies that the mail meets the requirements for the rates
claimed to read as follows:]
The move update standards for address quality are listed below. The
mailer's signature on the postage statement certifies that this
standard has been met when the corresponding mail is presented to the
USPS:* * *
3.4 ZIP Code Accuracy
[Amend 3.4 to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies that
the mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed to read as
follows:]
All 5-digit ZIP Codes included in addresses on pieces claimed at
the Presorted rate must be verified and corrected within 12 months
before the mailing date using a USPS-approved method. The mailer's
signature on the postage statement certifies that this standard has
been met when the corresponding mail is presented to the USPS. This
standard applies to each address individually, not to a specific list
or mailing. An address meeting this standard may be used in mailings at
any other rate to which the standard applies during the 12-month period
after its most recent update.
[Add new 3.5 to show that letter-size pieces may be subject to the
nonmachinable surcharge to read as follows:]
3.5 Nonmachinable Surcharge--Letter-Size Pieces
Letter-size pieces that weigh 1 ounce or less and meet one or more of
the nonmachinable criteria in C050.2.2 are subject to the nonmachinable
surcharge in R100.11.0. Pieces mailed at the card rate are not subject
to the nonmachinable surcharge. Double cards that are not prepared in
accordance with C810 are considered nonmachinable; they are not charged
the surcharge but must be prepared according to the standards for
nonmachinable pieces in M130.
[Add new 3.6 to show that flat-size pieces may be subject to the
nonmachinable surcharge:]
3.6 Nonmachinable Surcharge--Nonletters
Nonletters (flats and parcels) that weigh 1 ounce or less are
subject to the nonmachinable surcharge in R100.11.0 if any one of the
following applies (see C010.1.1 for how to determine the length and
height of a mailpiece):
a. The piece is greater than \1/4\-inch thick.
b. The length is more than 11\1/2\ inches or the height is more
than 6\1/8\ inches.
c. The aspect ratio (length divided by height) is less than 1.3 or
more than 2.5.
[Add new 3.7 to show that the nonmachinable surcharge applies to pieces
where the mailer chooses the manual only option to read as follows:]
3.7 Manual Only Option
The nonmachinable surcharge in R100.11.0 applies to any letter-size
piece (including card-rate pieces) for which a mailer chooses the
manual only (``do not automate'') option.
[Remove 4.0, Nonstandard Surcharge.]
E140 Automation Rates
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
1.3 Address Quality
[Amend the first paragraph of 1.3 to clarify that signing a postage
statement certifies the mail meets the requirements for the rates
claimed to read as follows:]
The move update standards for address quality are listed below. The
mailer's signature on the postage statement certifies that this
standard has been met when the corresponding mail is presented to the
USPS: * * *
1.4 Carrier Route Presort
[Amend 1.4 to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies the
mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed to read as follows:]
Carrier route rates are available only for letter-size mail and
only for those 5-digit ZIP Code areas identified with an ``A'' or ``B''
in the Carrier Route Indicators field of the USPS City State File used
for address coding. Carrier route codes must be applied to mailings
using CASS-certified software and the current USPS Carrier Route File
scheme or another AIS product containing carrier route information,
subject to A930 and A950. Carrier route and City State File information
must be updated within 90 days before the mailing date. The mailer's
signature on the postage statement certifies that this standard has
been met when the corresponding mail is presented to the USPS.
* * * * *
[Remove 1.6, Nonstandard Surcharge.]
[Amend the title and text of 2.0 to reorganize rate application
information for and to replace the basic rate with the AADC and mixed
AADC rates to read as follows:]
2.0 RATE APPLICATION--CARDS AND LETTERS
Automation rates apply to each piece that is sorted under M810 into
the corresponding qualifying groups:
a. Pieces in full carrier route trays, in carrier route groups of
10 or more pieces each placed in 5-digit carrier routes trays, or in
carrier route packages of 10 or more pieces each placed in 3-digit
carrier routes trays qualify for the carrier route rate. Preparation to
qualify for the carrier route rate is optional and need not be done for
all carrier routes in a 5-digit area.
b. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 5-digit or 5-digit scheme trays
qualify for the 5-digit rate. Preparation to qualify for the 5-digit
rate is optional and need not be done for all 5-digit or 5-digit scheme
destinations.
c. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 3-digit or 3-digit scheme trays
qualify for the 3-digit rate.
d. Groups of fewer than 150 pieces in origin 3-digit or origin 3-
digit scheme trays and all pieces in AADC trays qualify for the AADC
rate.
e. All pieces in mixed AADC trays qualify for the mixed AADC rate.
[Redesignate 2.2 and 2.3 into new 3.0 and revise to read as follows:]
3.0 RATE APPLICATION--FLATS AND OTHER NONLETTERS
3.1 Package-Based Preparation
Automation rates apply to each piece that is sorted under M820.2.0 or
M910.1.0 into the corresponding qualifying groups:
[[Page 4580]]
a. Pieces in 5-digit packages of 10 or more pieces qualify for the
5-digit rate. Preparation to qualify for the 5-digit rate is optional
and need not be done for all 5-digit destinations.
b. Pieces in 3-digit packages of 10 or more pieces qualify for the
3-digit rate.
c. Pieces in ADC packages of 10 or more pieces qualify for the ADC
rate.
d. Pieces in mixed ADC packages qualify for the mixed ADC rate.
3.2 Tray-Based Preparation
Automation rates apply to each piece that is sorted under M820.4.0
into the corresponding qualifying groups:
a. Groups of 90 or more pieces in 5-digit trays qualify for the 5-
digit rate. Preparation to qualify for the 5-digit rate is optional and
need not be done for all 5-digit destinations.
b. Groups of 90 or more pieces in 3-digit trays qualify for the 3-
digit rate.
c. Groups of fewer than 90 pieces in origin 3-digit trays and all
pieces in ADC trays qualify for the ADC rate.
d. All pieces in mixed ADC trays qualify for the mixed ADC rate.
[Add new 3.3 to show that flats may be subject to the nonmachinable
surcharge to read as follows:]
3.3 Nonmachinable Surcharge
Flats that weigh 1 ounce or less are subject to the nonmachinable
surcharge in R100.11.0 if any one of the following applies (see
C010.1.1 for how to determine the length and height of a mailpiece):
a. The piece is greater than \1/4\-inch thick.
b. The length is more than 11\1/2\ inches or the height is more
than 6\1/8\ inches.
c. The aspect ratio (length divided by height) is less than 1.3 or
more than 2.5.
* * * * *
E200 Periodicals
E210 Basic Standards
* * * * *
E217 Basic Rate Eligibility
[Revise 1.0 to read as follows:]
1.0 OUTSIDE-COUNTY RATES
1.1 Description
Outside-County rates apply to copies of an authorized Periodicals
publication mailed by a publisher or news agent that are not eligible
for In-County rates. Outside-County rates consist of an addressed per
piece charge, a zoned charge for the weight of the advertising portion
of the publication, and a charge for the weight of the nonadvertising
portion.
1.2 Nonrequester and Nonsubscriber Copies
For excess noncommingled mailings under E215, nonrequester and
nonsubscriber copies are not eligible for Periodicals rates unless the
publication is authorized under E212.2.0 and is not authorized to
contain general advertising. Nonrequester and nonsubscriber copies in
excess of the 10% allowance under E215 are subject to Outside-County
rates when commingled with requester or subscriber copies, as
appropriate.
* * * * *
3.0 OUTSIDE-COUNTY SCIENCE-OF-AGRICULTURE RATES
* * * * *
3.3 Other Rates
[Amend 3.3 by adding the new destination ADC rate, removing the last
sentence, and rearranging sentences two and three to read as follows:]
All Outside-County rates and discounts apply, except for separate
rates for DDU, DSCF, DADC, and zones 1 & 2. Nonsubscriber copies are
subject to E215. Each piece must meet the standards for the rates or
discounts claimed.
[Remove 3.4, Nonadvertising Discount, and redesignate 3.5 as 3.4.]
3.4 Application Procedures
[Amend redesignated 3.4 by revising the third and last sentences to
read as follows:]
The Science-of-Agriculture rate is available only after USPS
authorization. An application or written request for Science-of-
Agriculture rates must be filed at the publication's original entry
post office. Application may be made by completing the relevant part of
an application for Periodicals mailing privileges (Form 3500) or by
filing for reentry (Form 3510) after Periodicals mailing privileges are
authorized. The applicant must submit evidence to show eligibility
under the corresponding standards.
* * * * *
5.0 DISCOUNTS
[Revise 5.0 by restructuring for clarity adding information on the new
per piece pallet discount to read as follows:]
5.1 Nonadvertising
The nonadvertising discount applies to the Outside-County piece
rate and is computed under P013.
5.2 Presort and Automation
Presort and automation discounts are available under E220, E230,
and E240.
5.3 Destination Entry
Destination entry discounts are available under E250 for copies
entered at specific USPS facilities.
5.4 Per Piece Pallet
The per piece pallet discount applies to each addressed piece of
nonletter-size mail (flats and irregular parcels) prepared in packages
on any pallet level. The discount does not apply to pallets weighing
less than 250 pounds (except for overflow pallets) and is not available
for pieces in sacks or trays on pallets.
5.5 Destination Entry Per Piece Pallet
In addition to the per piece pallet discount in 5.4, the
destination entry per piece pallet discount applies to each addressed
piece of nonletter-size mail (flats and irregular parcels) prepared in
packages on any destination entry pallet. The discount does not apply
to pallets weighing less than 250 pounds (except overflow pallets) and
is not available for pieces in sacks or trays on pallets.
* * * * *
E220 Presorted Rates
1.0 BASIC INFORMATION
* * * * *
1.3 ZIP Code Accuracy
[Amend 1.3 to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies that
the mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed to read as
follows:]
All 5-digit ZIP Codes in addresses on pieces claimed at the 5-
digit, 3-digit, or basic rates must be verified and corrected within 12
months before the mailing date by a USPS-approved method. The mailer's
signature on the postage statement certifies that this standard has
been met when the corresponding mail is presented to the USPS. This
standard applies to each address individually, not to a specific list
or mailing. An address meeting this standard may be used in mailings at
any other rate to which the standard applies during the 12-month period
after its most recent update.
* * * * *
[Remove 3.0, Combining Multiple Publications or Editions.]
E230 Carrier Route Rates
* * * * *
3.0 WALK-SEQUENCE DISCOUNTS
* * * * *
3.4 Density Standards
[Amend 3.4a through 3.4e for clarity to read as follows:]
[[Page 4581]]
Walk-sequence rate mailings are subject to these density standards:
a. Density standards for walk-sequence rates apply to individual
carrier routes. Pieces need not be sent to all carrier routes within a
5-digit delivery area.
b. Except under 3.4c, pieces eligible and claimed at the high
density rate must meet the density requirement of at least 125 pieces
for each carrier route.
c. Pieces may qualify for In-County high density rates when there
are addressed pieces for a minimum of 25% of the total active possible
deliveries on a carrier route. If a route contains addresses both
within and outside the county, the number of pieces addressed to the
entire carrier route is used to determine the 25% requirement. Only
those pieces addressed to addresses within the county of original entry
are eligible for the In-County high density rates.
d. Pieces eligible for and claimed at the saturation rate must be
addressed to either 90% or more of the active residential addresses or
75% or more of the total number of active possible delivery addresses
on each carrier route receiving saturation rate mail. Pieces using the
simplified address format under A040 must be addressed to 100% of the
total number of active possible delivery addresses.
e. More than one addressed piece per delivery address may be
included in a high density rate mailing and may be counted for the
density standard in 3.4b for the high density rate. Only one piece per
delivery address may be counted toward the density standards for high
density in 3.4c and for the saturation rate in 3.4d.
[Remove 4.0, Combining Multiple Publications or Editions.]
E240 Automation Rates
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
1.2 Enclosed Reply Cards and Envelopes
[Amend 1.2 to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies that
the mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed to read as
follows:]
All letter-size reply cards and envelopes provided as enclosures in
automation rate Periodicals and addressed for return to a domestic
delivery address must meet the standards in C810 for enclosed reply
cards and envelopes. The mailer's signature on the postage statement
certifies that this standard has been met when the corresponding mail
is presented to the USPS.
* * * * *
E250 Destination Entry
[Redesignate 1.0 and 2.0 as 2.0 and 3.0, respectively. Add new 1.0 for
the new destination ADC rate to read as follows:]
1.0 DADC RATE
1.1 Eligibility
Addressed pieces not eligible for In-County rates can qualify for
the destination area distribution center (DADC) rates if the copies are
addressed for delivery in the same DADC service area, are deposited at
the DADC or a postal-designated facility, and are placed in any
container level except a mixed ADC sack or tray, a mixed AADC tray, or
a mixed ADC pallet.
1.2 Rates
DADC rates include a pound rate and a per piece discount off the
per piece rate. Pieces claimed at DADC rates also must meet the
standards for any discount or rate claimed and postage payment method
used.
1.3 Documentation
Subject to P012, the publisher must be able to show compliance with
1.1 and 1.2 (e.g., by package, sack, tray, or pallet destination) and
the number of pieces by presort level for each 3-digit ZIP Code
destination eligible for the DADC rates. Documentation of postage is
not required if each piece in the mailing is of identical weight and
the pieces are separated when presented for acceptance by rate, zone
(including separation by In-County and Outside-County rates), and entry
discount (i.e., DDU, DSCF, and DADC).
2.0 DSCF RATE
2.1 Eligibility
[Amend redesignated 2.1 to reflect that DSCF mail must be deposited at
the DSCF or a postal-designated facility and to add ineligible
container information to read as follows:]
Addressed pieces not eligible for In-County rates can qualify for
the destination sectional center facility (DSCF) rates if the copies
are addressed for delivery within the facility service area, are
deposited at the DSCF, a facility listed in L006, or a postal-
designated facility, and are placed in any container level except an
ADC (unless the SCF and ADC are co-located) or mixed ADC sack or tray,
an AADC (unless the SCF and AADC are co-located) or mixed AADC tray, or
an ADC or mixed ADC pallet.
* * * * *
[Add new E260 (former G094) and include minor editorial changes to read
as follows:]
E260 Ride-Along
Summary
E260 describes the standards for the Periodicals Ride-Along
classification.
1.0 BASIC ELIGIBILITY
1.1 Description
The standards in E260 apply to Standard Mail material paid at the
Periodicals Ride-Along rate that is attached to or enclosed with
Periodicals mail. All Periodicals subclasses may enclose eligible
matter at the Ride-Along rate.
1.2 Basic Standards
Only one Ride-Along piece may be attached to or enclosed with an
individual copy of Periodicals mail. If more than one Ride-Along piece
is attached or enclosed, mailers have the option of paying Standard
Mail postage for all the enclosures or attachments, or paying the Ride-
Along rate for the first attachment or enclosure and Standard Mail
rates for subsequent attachments and enclosures. Ride-Along pieces
eligible under E260 must be eligible as Standard Mail and must:
a. Not exceed any dimension of the host publication.
b. Not exceed 3.3 ounces and must not exceed the weight of the host
publication.
c. Not obscure the title of the publication or the address label.
1.3 Physical Characteristics
The host Periodicals piece and the Ride-Along piece must meet the
following physical characteristics:
a. Construction:
(1) Bound publications. If contained within the host publication
the Ride-Along piece must be securely affixed to prevent detachment
during postal processing. If loose, the Ride-Along piece and
publication must be enclosed together in a full wrapper, polybag, or
envelope.
(2) Unbound publications. If contained within the host publication
the Ride-Along piece must be securely affixed to prevent detachment
during postal processing. A loose Ride-Along enclosure with an unbound
publication must be combined with and inserted within the publication.
If the Ride-Along piece is included outside the unbound publication,
the publication and the Ride-Along piece must be enclosed in a full
wrapper, polybag, or envelope.
b. A Periodicals piece (automation and nonautomation) with the
addition
[[Page 4582]]
of a Ride-Along piece must remain uniformly thick and remain in the
same processing category (flat or letter) as before the addition of the
Ride-Along attachment or enclosure.
c. A Periodicals piece with a Ride-Along piece that claims
automation discounts must maintain the same processing category and,
for flat-size mail, the flat sorting machine criteria under C820 (FSM
881 flat, or FSM 1000 flat) and automation compatibility (C810 and
C820), as before the addition of the Ride-Along attachment or
enclosure. For example:
(1) If, due to the inclusion of a Ride-Along piece, an FSM 881-
compatible host piece can no longer be processed on the FSM 881, but
must be processed on an FSM 1000, then that piece must pay either the
appropriate Periodicals nonautomation rate plus the Ride-Along rate, or
the appropriate Periodicals automation rate for the host piece and the
appropriate Standard Mail rate for the attachment or enclosure.
(2) If, due to the inclusion of a Ride-Along piece, an FSM 1000-
compatible host piece can no longer be processed on the FSM 1000, but
must be processed manually, then that piece must pay either the
appropriate Periodicals nonautomation rate plus the Ride-Along rate, or
the appropriate Periodicals nonautomation rate for the host piece and
the appropriate Standard Mail rate for the attachment or enclosure.
(3) If, due to the inclusion of a Ride-Along piece, an automation
letter host piece can no longer be processed as an automation letter,
then that piece must pay the appropriate Periodicals nonautomation rate
plus the Ride-Along rate, or the appropriate Periodicals nonautomation
rate for the host piece and the appropriate Standard Mail rate for the
attachment or enclosure.
1.4 Marking
The marking ``Ride-Along Enclosed'' must be placed on or in the
host publication if it contains an enclosure or attachment paid at the
Ride-Along rate. If placed on the outer wrapper, polybag, envelope, or
cover of the host publication, the marking must be set in type no
smaller than any used in the required ``POSTMASTER: Send change of
address * * *'' statement. If placed in the identification statement,
the marking must meet the applicable standards. The marking must not be
on or in copies not accompanied by a Ride-Along attachment or
enclosure.
* * * * *
E500 Express Mail
1.0 STANDARDS FOR ALL EXPRESS MAIL
* * * * *
1.6 Flat-Rate Envelope
[Amend 1.6 by changing ``2-pound'' to ``\1/2\-pound'' to read as
follows:]
Material mailed in the special flat-rate envelope available from
the USPS is subject to the postage rate for a \1/2\-pound piece at the
service level requested by the customer, regardless of the actual
weight of the piece.
* * * * *
E600 Standard Mail
E610 Basic Standards
* * * * *
8.0 Preparation
Each Standard Mail mailing is subject to these general standards:
* * * * *
[Amend 8.0e to remove references to upgradable preparation to read as
follows:]
e. Each piece must bear the addressee's name and delivery address,
including the correct ZIP Code or ZIP+4 code, unless an alternative
address format is used subject to A040. Detached address labels may be
used subject to A060.
* * * * *
E620 Presorted Rates
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 General
All pieces in a Presorted Regular or Presorted Nonprofit Standard
Mail mailing must:
* * * * *
[Amend 1.1c to remove references to upgradable mailings to read as
follows:]
c. Bear a delivery address that includes the correct ZIP Code or
ZIP+4 code, unless an alternative address format is used subject to
A040. Pieces prepared with detached address labels are subject to
additional standards in A060.
* * * * *
1.4 ZIP Code Accuracy
[Amend 1.4 to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies the
mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed to read as follows:]
All 5-digit ZIP Codes included in addresses on pieces claimed at
Presorted regular and Presorted Nonprofit rates must be verified and
corrected within 12 months before the mailing date, using a USPS-
approved method. The mailer's signature on the postage statement
certifies that this standard has been met when the corresponding mail
is presented to the USPS. This standard applies to each address
individually, not to a specific list or mailing. An address meeting
this standard may be used in mailings at any other rates to which the
standard applies during the 12-month period after its most recent
update.
2.0 RATES
[Amend 2.0 by combining 2.0a and 2.0b into new 2.0a and renumbering the
remaining items accordingly. This is revised to remove references to
upgradable mailings.]
Presorted Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail rates apply to Regular
or Nonprofit Standard Mail letters, flats, and machinable and irregular
parcels weighing less than 16 ounces that are prepared under M045,
M610, or (flat-size mail only) under M910, M920, M930, or M940. Basic
Presorted rates apply to pieces that do not meet the standards for the
3/5 Presorted rates described below. Basic rate and 3/5 rate pieces
prepared as part of the same mailing are subject to a single minimum
volume standard. Pieces that do not qualify for the 3/5 rate must be
paid at the basic rate and prepared accordingly. Pieces may qualify for
the 3/5 rate if they are presented:
a. In quantities of 150 or more letter-size pieces for a single 3-
digit area, prepared in 5-digit or 3-digit trays.
* * * * *
[Redesignate 4.0, Barcoded Discount, as 5.0, and add new 4.0 to show
that some Presorted letters are subject to the nonmachinable surcharge
to read as follows:]
4.0 NONMACHINABLE SURCHARGE
The nonmachinable surcharge in R600.6.0 applies to any letter-size
piece:
a. That weighs 3.3 ounces or less and meets one or more of the
nonmachinable criteria in C050.2.2.
b. For which a mailer chooses the manual only (``do not automate'')
option.
* * * * *
E630 Enhanced Carrier Route Rates
[Revise E630 in its entirety to reorganize and clarify the current
standards and to add standards that require letter-size pieces claimed
at high density or saturation rates to be automation-compatible and
have delivery point barcodes to read as follows.]
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 General
All pieces in an Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail mailing must:
[[Page 4583]]
a. Meet the basic standards for Standard Mail in E610.
b. Be part of a single mailing of at least 200 pieces or 50 pounds
of pieces of Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail. Automation basic
carrier route rate pieces are subject to a separate 200-piece or 50-
pound minimum volume standard and may not be included in the same
mailing as other Enhanced Carrier Route mail. Regular and Nonprofit
mailings must meet separate minimum volumes.
c. Be sorted to carrier routes, marked, and documented under M045
(if palletized), M620, M920, M930, or M940.
d. Have a complete delivery address or an alternate address format.
1.2 Maximum Size
Enhanced Carrier Route rate mail may not be more than 11\3/4\
inches high, 14 inches long, or \3/4\-inch thick. Exception:
Merchandise samples with detached address labels (DALs) may exceed
these dimensions if the labels meet the standards in A060.
1.3 Preparation
Preparation to qualify for any Enhanced Carrier Route rate is
optional and need not be performed for all carrier routes in a 5-digit
area. An Enhanced Carrier Route mailing may include pieces at basic,
high density, and saturation Enhanced Carrier Route rates. Automation
basic carrier route rate pieces must be prepared as a separate mailing
(see E640).
1.4 Carrier Route Information
Except for mailings prepared with a simplified address under A040,
a carrier route code must be applied to each piece in the mailing using
CASS-certified software and the current USPS Carrier Route File scheme,
hard copy Carrier Route Files, or another AIS product containing
carrier route information, subject to A930 and A950. Carrier route
information must be updated within 90 days before the mailing date.
2.0 BASIC RATES
2.1 All Pieces
All pieces mailed at basic rates must be prepared in walk sequence
or in line-of-travel (LOT) sequence according to LOT schemes prescribed
by the USPS (see M050).
2.2 Letter-Size Pieces
Basic rates apply to each piece sorted under M045 or M620 and in a
full carrier route tray or in a carrier route package of 10 or more
pieces placed in a 5-digit carrier routes or 3-digit carrier routes
tray.
2.3 Flat-Size Pieces
Basic rates apply to each piece in a carrier route package of 10 or
more pieces that is:
a. Palletized under M045, M920, M930, or M940.
b. Placed in a carrier route sack containing at least 125 pieces or
15 pounds of pieces.
c. Placed in a merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier
routes, merged 5-digit, or 5-digit carrier routes sack.
2.4 Irregular Parcels
Basic rates apply to each piece in a carrier route sack or carton
containing at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces, or in a 5-digit
carrier routes sack or carton. DALs must be in carrier route packages
of 10 or more pieces and prepared under A060.
3.0 HIGH DENSITY RATES
3.1 All Pieces
All pieces mailed at high density rates must:
a. Be prepared in walk sequence according to schemes prescribed by
the USPS (see M050).
b. Meet the density requirement of at least 125 pieces for each
carrier route. Multiple pieces per delivery address can count toward
this density standard.
3.2 Letter-Size Pieces
High density rates apply to each piece that is automation-
compatible according to C810, has a delivery point barcode under C840,
and is in a full carrier route tray or in a carrier route package of 10
or more pieces placed in a 5-digit carrier routes or 3-digit carrier
routes tray. Pieces bearing a simplified address do not need to meet
the standards in C810 and are not required to have a delivery point
barcode. Pieces not meeting the standards in this section may be mailed
at the high density nonletter rate or at the basic letter rate.
3.3 Discount for Heavy Letters
Pieces that otherwise qualify for the high density letter rate and
weigh more than 3.3 ounces but not more than 3.5 ounces pay postage
equal to the nonletter piece/pound rate and receive a discount equal to
the corresponding high density nonletter piece rate (3.3 ounces or
less) minus the corresponding high density letter piece rate (3.3
ounces or less). If claiming a destination entry rate, the discount is
calculated using the corresponding rates.
3.4 Flat-Size Pieces
High density rates apply to each piece in a carrier route package
of 10 or more pieces that is:
a. Palletized under M045, M920, M930, or M940.
b. Placed in a carrier route sack containing at least 125 pieces or
15 pounds of pieces.
c. Placed in a merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier
routes, merged 5-digit, or 5-digit carrier routes sack.
3.5 Irregular Parcels
High density rates apply to each piece in a carrier route sack or
carton containing at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces, or in a
5-digit carrier routes sack or carton. DALs must be in carrier route
packages of 10 or more pieces and prepared under A060.
4.0 SATURATION RATES
4.1 All Pieces
All pieces mailed at saturation rates must:
a. Be prepared in walk sequence according to schemes prescribed by
the USPS (see M050).
b. Meet the density requirement of at least 90% or more of the
active residential addresses or 75% or more of the total number of
active possible delivery addresses on each carrier route receiving this
mail. Pieces bearing a simplified address must be addressed to 100% of
the total number of active possible deliveries. Multiple pieces per
delivery address do not count toward this density standard. Sacks with
fewer than 125 pieces or less than 15 pounds of pieces may be prepared
to a carrier route when the saturation rate is claimed for the contents
and the applicable density standard is met.
4.2 Letter-Size Pieces
Saturation rates apply to each piece that is automation compatible
according to C810, has a delivery point barcode under C840, and is in a
full carrier route tray or in a carrier route package of 10 or more
pieces placed in a 5-digit carrier routes or 3-digit carrier routes
tray. Pieces bearing a simplified address do not need to meet the
standards in C810 and are not required to have a delivery point
barcode. Pieces not meeting the standards in this section may be mailed
at the high density nonletter rate or at the basic letter rate.
4.3 Discount for Heavy Letters
Pieces that otherwise qualify for the saturation letter rate and
weigh more than 3.3 ounces but not more than 3.5 ounces pay postage
equal to the nonletter piece/pound rate and receive a discount equal to
the corresponding saturation nonletter piece rate (3.3 ounces or less)
minus the corresponding saturation letter piece rate (3.3 ounces or
less). If claiming a destination entry
[[Page 4584]]
rate, the discount is calculated using the corresponding rates.
4.4 Flat-Size Pieces
Saturation rates apply to each piece in a carrier route package of
10 or more pieces that is:
a. Palletized under M045, M920, M930, or M940.
b. Placed in a carrier route sack containing at least 125 pieces or
15 pounds of pieces.
c. Placed in a merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier
routes, merged 5-digit, or 5-digit carrier routes sack.
4.5 Irregular Parcels
Saturation rates apply to each piece in a carrier route sack or
carton containing at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces, or in a
5-digit carrier routes sack or carton. DALs must be in carrier route
packages of 10 or more pieces and prepared under A060.
5.0 RESIDUAL SHAPE SURCHARGE
Any piece that is prepared as a parcel or is not letter-size or
flat-size as defined in C050 is subject to the residual shape
surcharge.
E640 Automation Rates
1.0 REGULAR AND NONPROFIT RATES
* * * * *
1.2 Enclosed Reply Cards and Envelopes
[Amend 1.2 to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies the
mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed to read as follows:]
All letter-size reply cards and envelopes (business reply, courtesy
reply, and meter reply mail) provided as enclosures in automation
Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail, and addressed for return to a
domestic delivery address, must meet the standards in C810 for enclosed
reply cards and envelopes. The mailer's signature on the postage
statement certifies that this standard has been met when the
corresponding mail is presented to the USPS.
1.3 Rate Application--Letters-Size Pieces
[Amend 1.3 to replace the basic rate with the AADC and mixed AADC rates
to read as follows:]
Automation rates apply to each piece that is sorted under M810 into
the corresponding qualifying groups:
a. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 5-digit or 5-digit scheme trays
qualify for the 5-digit rate. Preparation to qualify for that rate is
optional and need not be done for all 5-digit or 5-digit scheme
destinations.
b. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 3-digit or 3-digit scheme trays
qualify for the 3-digit rate.
c. Groups of fewer than 150 pieces in origin or entry 3-digit or 3-
digit scheme trays and groups of 150 or more pieces in AADC trays
qualify for the AADC rate.
d. All pieces in mixed AADC trays qualify for the mixed AADC rate.
[Redesignate 1.4, Rate Application--Flats, as 1.5. Add new 1.4 for
heavy automation letters to read as follows:]
1.4 Discount for Heavy Automation Letters
Automation letters that weigh more than 3.3 ounces but not more
than 3.5 ounces pay postage equal to the automation piece/pound rate
and receive a discount equal to the corresponding automation nonletter
piece rate (3.3 ounces or less) minus the corresponding automation
letter piece rate (3.3 ounces or less). If claiming a destination entry
rate, the discount is calculated using the corresponding rates.
* * * * *
2.0 ENHANCED CARRIER ROUTE RATES
* * * * *
[Add new 2.6 to include the discount for ECR automation basic letters
that weigh between 3.3 and 3.5 ounces to read as follows:]
2.6 Discount for Heavy Letters
Pieces that otherwise qualify for the ECR automation basic rate and
weigh more than 3.3 ounces but not more than 3.5 ounces pay postage
equal to the ECR regular basic nonletter piece/pound rate and receive a
discount equal to the regular basic nonletter piece rate (3.3 ounces or
less) minus the automation basic letter piece rate. If claiming a
destination entry rate, the discount is calculated using the
corresponding rates.
E700 Package Services
E710 Basic Standards
* * * * *
E712 Bound Printed Matter
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 Description
* * * * *
[Amend 1.1b by adding a new last sentence to read as follows:]
b. Weigh no more than 15 pounds. Pieces might be subject to other
minimum weights or dimensions based on the standards for specific
rates.
* * * * *
[Remove 1.4, POSTNET Barcodes on Flats.]
2.0 RATES
BPM rates are based on the weight of a single addressed piece or 1
pound, whichever is higher, and the zone (where applicable) to which
the piece is addressed. Rate categories are as follows:
* * * * *
[Amend the heading of 2.0d by adding ``Machinable Parcels'' and revise
the text to read as follows:]
d. Barcoded Discount--Machinable Parcels. The barcoded discount
applies only to BPM machinable parcels (C050.4.1) that bear a correct,
readable barcode under C850 for the ZIP Code of the delivery address
and are part of a single-piece rate mailing of 50 or more BPM parcels
or are part of a presorted rate mailing of at least 300 BPM parcels
prepared under M045 and M720. The barcoded discount is not available
for parcels mailed at Presorted DDU or DSCF rates, or for Presorted
DBMC rate mailings entered at an ASF other than the Phoenix, AZ, ASF.
Carrier route rate mail is not eligible for the barcoded discount.
[Add new item 2.0e to read as follows:]
e. Barcoded Discount--Flats. The barcoded discount applies only to
BPM flats that bear a correct, readable ZIP+4 or delivery point barcode
(DPBC) barcode under C840 for the ZIP+4 code, or numeric DPBC of the
delivery address. These pieces must be part of a presort rate mailing
of at least 300 BPM flats prepared under M045 and M820 or part of a
single-piece rate mailing of 50 or more pieces. The barcoded discount
is not available for flats mailed at presorted DDU rates or carrier
route rates. To qualify for the barcoded discount, the flat-size piece
must meet the flat sorting machine requirements under C820.2.0.
3.0 ADDITIONAL STANDARDS FOR PRESORTED RATES
3.1 ZIP Code Accuracy
[Amend 3.1 to clarify that signing a postage statement certifies that
the mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed to read as
follows:]
All 5-digit ZIP Codes included in addresses on pieces claimed at
presorted rates must be verified and corrected within 12 months before
the mailing date using a USPS-approved method. The mailer's signature
on the postage statement certifies that this standard has been met when
the
[[Page 4585]]
corresponding mail is presented to the USPS. This standard applies to
each address individually, not a specific list or mailing. An address
meeting this standard may be used in mailings at any other rates to
which the standard applies during the 12-month period after its most
recent update.
[Redesignate current 3.2 as 3.3 and add new 3.2 to show CASS
certification for automation rate mailings to read as follows:]
3.2 CASS Certification
Pieces claimed at automation rates for flats must meet the address
quality and coding standards in A800 and A950.
3.3 Preparation
[Amend redesignated 3.3 by adding reference to flats to read as
follows:]Pieces claiming the Presorted rates must be prepared under
M045 or M722 or, for flats claiming the barcode discount under M820.
* * * * *
E713 Media Mail
[Redesignate former 2.0 as new 1.0:]
[Redesignate former 1.0 as new 2.0 and revise to read as follows:]
2.0 RATES
Media Mail rates are based on the weight of the piece without
regard to zone.
The rate categories and discounts are as follows:
a. Single-Piece Rate. The single-piece rate applies to pieces not
mailed at a 5-digit or basic rate.
b. 5-Digit Presort Rate. The 5-digit rate applies to pieces that
meet the additional requirements in 3.0 and are prepared and presorted
to 5-digit scheme or 5-digit destinations as specified in M730 or M041
and M045.
c. Basic Presort Rate. The basic rate applies to pieces that meet
the additional requirements in 3.0 and are prepared and presorted as
specified in M730 or M041 and M045.
d. Barcoded Discount. The barcoded discount applies to Media Mail
machinable parcels (see C050) that are included in a mailing of at
least 50 pieces of Media Mail. The pieces must be entered either at
single-piece rates or basic rates and bear a correct, readable barcode
for the ZIP Code shown in the delivery address as required by C850. The
barcoded discount is not available for pieces mailed at 5-digit rates.
[Revise the title and text of 3.0 in its entirety to read as follows:]
3.0 ADDITIONAL STANDARDS FOR PRESORTED RATES
3.1 Basic Information
A presorted Media Mail mailing must contain a minimum of 300 pieces
claimed at any combination of 5-digit and basic rates. Those pieces in
the mailing that meet the 5-digit presort requirements are eligible for
the 5-digit presort rate and those pieces that meet the basic presort
requirements are eligible for the basic rates, subject to the
preparation standards in M730 or M045. The size and content of each
piece in the mailing does not need to be identical. Nonidentical pieces
may be merged, sorted together, and presented as a single mailing
either with postage paid with a permit imprint if authorized by
Business Mailer Support (BMS), USPS headquarters, or with the correct
postage affixed to each piece in the mailing.
3.2 5-Digit Rate
To qualify for the 5-digit rate, a piece must be prepared and
sorted to either 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks under M730 or to 5-
digit scheme and 5-digit pallets under M045. All logical 5-digit
packages on pallets must contain at least 10 pieces. Nonmachinable
parcels may qualify for the 5-digit rate if prepared to preserve
sortation by 5-digit ZIP Code as prescribed by the postmaster of the
mailing office.
3.3 Basic Rate
All pieces prepared and sorted under M730 or M045 that are not
eligible for the 5-digit rate qualify for the basic rate. Nonmachinable
parcels may qualify for the basic rate if prepared to preserve
sortation by BMC as prescribed by the postmaster of the mailing office.
[Redesignate former 3.2 as new 3.4 to read as follows:]
3.4 Mailing Fee
A mailing fee must be paid once each 12-month period at each post
office of mailing by or for any person who mails at the presorted Media
Mail rates. The fee may be paid in advance only for the next 12-month
period and only during the last 60 days of the current service period.
The fee charged is that in effect on the day of payment.
[Remove former 3.5 and 3.6.]
E714 Library Mail
[Redesignate former 2.0 as new 1.0: revise title to read as follows:]
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 Sender, Recipient, and Contents
[Amend 1.1 by revising the last sentence to read as follows:]
Each piece must show in the address or return address the name of a
school, college, university, public library, museum, or herbarium or
the name of a nonprofit religious, education, scientific, philanthropic
(charitable), agricultural, labor, veterans, or fraternal organization
or association. For Library Mail standards, these nonprofit
organizations are defined in E670. Only the articles described in 1.2
and 1.3 may be mailed at the Library Mail rate.
* * * * *
1.4 Enclosures in Books and Sound Recordings
[Amend 1.4 by changing the references 2.4a and 2.4b to 1.4a and 1.4b,
respectively, to read as follows:]
Books and sound recordings mailed at the Library Mail rate may
contain these enclosures as well as the additions and enclosures
permitted under E710:
a. Either one envelope or one addressed postcard. If also serving
as an order form, the envelope or card may be in addition to the order
form permitted by 1.4b.
b. One order form. If also serving as an envelope or postcard, the
order form may be in addition to the envelope or card permitted by
1.4a.
c. With books, announcements of books in book pages or as loose
enclosures. These announcements must be incidental and exclusively
devoted to books, without extraneous advertising of book-related
materials or services. Announcements may fully describe the conditions
and methods of ordering books (such as by membership in book clubs) and
may contain ordering instructions for use with either single order form
permitted in 1.4b.
d. With sound recordings, announcements of sound recordings on
title labels, on protective sleeves, on the carton or wrapper, or on
loose enclosures. These announcements of sound recordings must be
incidental and exclusively devoted to sound recordings. They may not
contain extraneous advertising of recording-related materials or
services. Announcements may fully describe the conditions and methods
of ordering sound recordings (such as by membership in sound recording
clubs) and may contain ordering instructions for use with the single
order form permitted in 1.4b.
* * * * *
[Redesignate former 1.0 as new 2.0 and revise to read as follows:]
2.0 RATES
Library Mail rates are based on the weight of the piece without
regard to
[[Page 4586]]
zone. The rate categories and discounts are as follows:
a. Single-Piece Rate. The single-piece rate applies to pieces not
mailed at a 5-digit or basic rate.
b. 5-Digit Presort Rate. The 5-digit rate applies to pieces that
meet the additional requirements of 3.0 and are prepared and presorted
to 5-digit scheme and 5-digit destinations as specified in M740 or M041
and M045.
c. Basic Presort Rate. The basic rate applies to pieces that meet
the additional requirement in 3.0 and are prepared and presorted as
specified in M740 or M041 and M045.
d. Barcoded Discount. The barcoded discount applies to Library Mail
machinable parcels (see C050) that are included in a mailing of at
least 50 pieces of Library Mail. The pieces must be entered either at
single-piece rates or basic rates and bear a correct, readable barcode
for the ZIP Code shown in the delivery address as required by C850. The
barcoded discount is not available for pieces mailed at 5-digit rates.
[Revise the title and text of 3.0 in its entirety to read as follows:]
3.0 ADDITIONAL STANDARDS FOR PRESORT RATES
3.1 Basic Information
A presorted Library Mail mailing must contain a minimum of 300
pieces claimed at any combination of 5-digit and basic rates. Those
pieces in the mailing that meet the 5-digit presort requirements are
eligible for the 5-digit presort rate, and those pieces that meet the
basic presort requirements are eligible for the basic rate, subject to
the preparation standards in M740 or M045. The size and content of each
piece in the mailing does not need to be identical. Nonidentical pieces
may be merged, sorted together, and presented as a single mailing
either with postage paid with a permit imprint if authorized by
Business Mailer Support (BMS), USPS headquarters, or with the correct
postage affixed to each piece in the mailing.
3.2 5-Digit Rate
To qualify for the 5-digit rate, a piece must be prepared and
sorted to either 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks under M740 or to 5-
digit scheme and 5-digit pallets under M045. All logical 5-digit
packages on pallets must contain at least 10 pieces. Nonmachinable
parcels may qualify for the 5-digit rate if prepared to preserve
sortation by 5-digit ZIP Code as prescribed by the postmaster of the
mailing office.
3.3 Basic Rate
All pieces prepared and sorted under M740 or M045 that are not
eligible for the 5-digit rate qualify for the basic rate. Nonmachinable
parcels may qualify for the basic rate if prepared to preserve
sortation by BMC as prescribed by the postmaster.
[Redesignate former 3.2 as new 3.4 to read as follows:]
3.4 Mailing Fee
A mailing fee must be paid once each 12-month period at each post
office of mailing by or for any person who mails at the presorted
Library Mail rates. The fee may be paid in advance only for the next
12-month period and only during the last 60 days of the current service
period. The fee charged is that in effect on the day of payment.
[Remove 3.5 and 3.6.]
[Remove E715, Bulk Parcel Post.]
E750 Destination Entry
E751 Parcel Select
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 Definitions
[Amend 1.1b by adding a sentence after the first one to read as
follows:]
b. * * * Those 5-digit machinable parcels not required to be
entered at a BMC under Exhibit 6.0 and all 3-digit nonmachinable
parcels sorted to the 3-digit level and claimed at the DSCF rate must
be deposited at an SCF listed in L005. * * *
* * * * *
1.4 DSCF and DDU Rates
For DSCF and DDU rates, pieces must meet the applicable standards
in 1.0 through 6.0 and the following criteria:
[Amend 1.4a by adding ``5-digit scheme'' and ``5-digit Parcel Post;''
to read as follows:]
a. For DSCF rates, be part of a mailing of parcels sorted to 5-
digit scheme or 5-digit destinations and deposited at a designated SCF
under L005 (or at a BMC under Exhibit 6.0); addressed for delivery
within the ZIP Code service area of that SCF under L005; and prepared
under with M041, M045, or M710. Nonmachinable parcels sorted to 3-digit
ZIP Code prefixes and claimed at a DSCF rate must be entered at a
designated SCF under L005. * * *
* * * * *
2.0 PREPARATION
* * * * *
2.2 Containers
[Amend 2.2c, 2.2d, and 2.2e by adding ``3-digit sack'' after each
occurrence of ``5-digit sack'' and adding ``3-digit pallet'' after each
occurrence of ``5-digit pallet.'']
* * * * *
E752 Bound Printed Matter
* * * * *
3.0 DESTINATION SECTIONAL CENTER FACILITY (DSCF) RATES
* * * * *
[Amend the title and text of 3.2 to add eligibility standards for
presorted automation flats to read as follows:]
3.2 Presorted and Automation Flats
Presorted flats and automation flats in sacks for the 5-digit, 3-
digit, and SCF sort levels or on pallets at the 5-digit scheme and 5-
digit, 3-digit, SCF, and ASF sort levels may claim DSCF rates. The mail
must be entered at the appropriate facility under 3.1.
* * * * *
E753 Combining Package Services Parcels
[Amend 1.1 by replacing ``BMC rates'' with ``basic rates.'']
* * * * *
F Forwarding and Related Services
F000 Basic Services
F010 Basic Information
* * * * *
4.0 BASIC TREATMENT
4.1 General
[Amend 4.1 to remove references to nonstandard mail to read as
follows:]
Mail that is undeliverable as addressed is forwarded, returned to
the sender, or treated as dead mail, as authorized for the particular
class of mail. Undeliverable-as-addressed mail is endorsed by the USPS
with the reason for nondelivery as shown in Exhibit 4.1. All
nonmailable pieces are returned to the sender.
* * * * *
5.0 CLASS TREATMENT FOR ANCILLARY SERVICES
* * * * *
5.2 Periodicals
Undeliverable Periodicals (including publications pending
Periodicals authorization) are treated as described in the chart below
and under these conditions:
* * * * *
[Amend 5.2e to show that the nonmachinable surcharge can be charged on
Periodicals returned at First-Class Mail single-piece rates to read as
follows:]
[[Page 4587]]
e. The publisher may request the return of copies of undelivered
Periodicals by printing the endorsement ``Address Service Requested''
on the envelopes or wrappers, or on one of the outside covers of
unwrapped copies, immediately preceded by the sender's name, address,
and ZIP+4 or 5-digit ZIP Code. This endorsement obligates the publisher
to pay return postage. Each returned piece is charged the single-piece
First-Class Mail or Priority Mail rate applicable for the weight of the
piece, plus the nonmachinable surcharge if it applies (see E130). When
the address correction is provided incidental to the return of the
piece, there is no charge for the correction.
* * * * *
5.3 Standard Mail
Undeliverable Standard Mail is treated as described in the chart
below and under these conditions:
* * * * *
[Amend 5.3g to show that the nonmachinable surcharge is included in the
calculation of the weighted fee for returned pieces to read as
follows:]
g. A weighted fee is charged when an unforwardable or undeliverable
piece is returned to the sender and the piece is endorsed ``Address
Service Requested'' or ``Forwarding Service Requested.'' The weighted
fee is the single-piece First-Class Mail or Priority Mail rate
applicable for the weight of the piece, multiplied by 2.472 and rounded
up to the next whole cent (if the computation yields a fraction of a
cent), plus the nonmachinable surcharge if it applies (see E130). The
weighted fee is computed (and rounded if necessary) for each piece
individually. Using ``Address Service Requested'' or ``Forwarding
Service Requested'' obligates the sender to pay the weighted fee on all
returned pieces.
[Redesignate current 5.3h as 5.3i, and add new 5.3h to show that the
First-Class Mail nonmachinable surcharge is charged on some returned
pieces to read as follows:]
h. Returned pieces endorsed ``Return Service Requested,'' are
charged the single-piece First-Class Mail or Priority Mail rate
applicable for the weight of the piece, plus the nonmachinable
surcharge if it applies (see E130).
* * * * *
6.0 ENCLOSURES AND ATTACHMENTS
6.1 Periodicals
[Amend 6.1 to show that the nonmachinable surcharge can be charged on
Periodicals returned at First-Class Mail single-piece rates to read as
follows:]
Undeliverable Periodicals (including publications pending
Periodicals authorization) with a nonincidental First-Class Mail
attachment or enclosure are returned at the single-piece First-Class
Mail or Priority Mail rate applicable for the weight of the piece, plus
the nonmachinable surcharge if it applies (see E130).
The weight of the attachment or enclosure is not included when
computing the charges for return of the mailpiece. Undeliverable
Periodicals (including publications pending Periodicals authorization)
with an incidental First-Class Mail attachment or enclosure are treated
as dead mail unless endorsed ``Address Service Requested.''
6.2 Standard Mail
[Amend 6.2 to show that the nonmachinable surcharge can be charged on
Standard Mail returned at First-Class Mail single-piece rates to read
as follows:]
Undeliverable, unendorsed Standard Mail with a nonincidental First-
Class Mail attachment or enclosure is returned at the single-piece
First-Class Mail or Priority Mail rate applicable for the weight of the
piece, plus the nonmachinable surcharge if it applies (see E130). The
weight of the First-Class Mail attachment or enclosure is not included
when computing the charges for return of the mailpiece. Undeliverable,
unendorsed Standard Mail with an incidental First-Class Mail attachment
or enclosure is treated as dead mail.
* * * * *
F030 Address Correction, Address Change, FASTforward, and Return
Services
1.0 ADDRESS CORRECTION SERVICE
1.1 Purposes
[Add a new sentence after the first sentence to clarify the conditions
under which address notices are provided to read as follows:]
* * * Address corrections and notices are not provided for
customers who file a temporary change of address or for individuals at
a business address (see F020.1.0). * * *
* * * * *
G General Information
G000 The USPS and Mailing Standards
* * * * *
G090 Experimental Classifications and Rates
G091 NetPost Mailing Online
* * * * *
4.0 POSTAGE AND FEES
4.1 Postage
[Revise 4.1 to read as follows:]
Documents mailed during the experiment are eligible for the
following rate categories only:
a. First-Class Mail automation mixed AADC rates.
b. First-Class Mail automation mixed ADC rates.
c. First-Class Mail single-piece rates.
d. Regular Standard Mail automation letters mixed AADC rates.
e. Regular Standard Mail automation flats basic rates.
f. Nonprofit Standard Mail automation letters mixed AADC rates.
g. Nonprofit Standard Mail automation flats basic rates.
* * * * *
[Delete G094 in its entirety. The Ride-Along would become a permanent
classification and the standards would be moved to new E260.]
* * * * *
L Labeling Lists
* * * * *
L800 Automation Rate Mailings
* * * * *
[Amend the title and the first sentence in the summary of L802 by
adding ``Bound Printed Matter'' to read as follows:]
L802 BMC/ASF Entry--Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Bound Printed
Matter
Summary
L802 describes the service area by individual 3-digit ZIP Code
prefix for mixed automation rate Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Bound
Printed Matter mailings entered at an ASF or BMC. * * *
[Amend the title and the first sentence in the summary of L803 by
adding ``Bound Printed Matter'' to read as follows:]
L803 Non-BMC/ASF Entry--Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Bound Printed
Matter
Summary
L803 describes the service area by individual 3-digit ZIP Code
prefix for mixed automation rate Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Bound
Printed Matter mailings.* * *
* * * * *
[[Page 4588]]
M Mail Preparation and Sortation
M000 General Preparation Standards
M010 Mailpieces
M011 Basic Standards
1.0 TERMS AND CONDITIONS
* * * * *
1.3 Preparation Instructions
For purposes of preparing mail:
* * * * *
[Amend 1.3b to show that a full letter tray can be anywhere between 75%
and 100% full (the preferred default for presort software is 85%) full
to read as follows:]
b. A full letter tray is one in which faced, upright pieces fill
the length of the tray between 75% and 100% full.
* * * * *
1.4 Mailing
Mailings are defined as:
* * * * *
[Combine 1.4c with 1.4b. Redesignate 1.4d through 1.4f as 1.4c through
1.4e, respectively. Amend 1.4b to remove references to the upgradable
preparation and to show that machinable and nonmachinable pieces cannot
be part of the same mailing to read as follows:]
b. First-Class Mail. Cards and letters must be prepared as separate
mailings except that they may be sorted together if each meets separate
minimum volume mailing requirements. The following types of First-Class
Mail may not be part of the same mailing despite being in the same
processing category:
(1) Automation rate and any other type of mail.
(2) Presorted rate and any other type of mail.
(3) Single-piece rate and any other type of mail.
(4) Machinable and nonmachinable pieces.
* * * * *
[Amend redesignated 1.4d to remove references to the upgradable
preparation, to show that machinable and nonmachinable pieces cannot be
part of the same mailing, and to show that ECR letter rate pieces and
ECR nonletter rate pieces cannot be part of the same mailing.]
d. Standard Mail. Except as provided in E620.1.2, the types of
Standard Mail listed below may not be part of the same mailing. See
M041, M045, and M610, and M620 for copalletized, combined, or mixed
rate level mailings.
(1) Automation Enhanced Carrier Route and any other type of mail.
(2) Regular automation rate and any other type of mail.
(3) Enhanced Carrier Route and any other type of mail.
(4) Enhanced Carrier Route letter rate pieces and Enhanced Carrier
Route nonletter rate pieces.
(5) Presorted rate mail and any other type of mail.
(6) Machinable and nonmachinable pieces.
(7) Except as provided by standard, Regular rate mail may not be in
the same mailing as Nonprofit rate mail, and Enhanced Carrier Route
mail may not be in the same mailing as Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route
mail.
* * * * *
M012 Markings and Endorsements
* * * * *
2.0 MARKINGS--FIRST-CLASS MAIL AND STANDARD MAIL
* * * * *
2.2 Exceptions to Markings
[Amend 2.2d to update the required MLOCR markings:]Exceptions are as
follows:
* * * * *
d. MLOCR Prepared Automation Mailings. The basic marking must
appear in the postage area on each piece as required in 2.1a. The other
``AUTO'' marking described in 2.1b must be replaced by the appropriate
Identifier/Rate Code marking as described in P960 on those pieces that
have the marking applied by an MLOCR. This seven-character marking
provides a description of the Product Month Designator, MASS/
FASTforward System Identifier, postage payment method, and the rate of
postage affixed for metered and precanceled stamp mail or other postage
information for permit imprint mail.
3.0 MARKINGS--PACKAGE SERVICES
* * * * *
3.3 Additional Bound Printed Matter Markings
[Revise 3.3 to read as follows:]
In addition to the basic marking in 3.1, each piece of Bound
Printed Matter mailed at a presorted or carrier route rate must bear
additional rate markings. The additional markings may be placed in the
postage area as specified in 3.1. Alternatively, these markings may be
placed in the address area on the line directly above or two lines
above the address if the marking appears alone, or if no other
information appears on the line with the marking except postal optional
endorsement line information under M013 or postal carrier route package
information under M014. The additional rate markings are:
a. For presorted rate mail, the additional required marking is
``Presorted'' (or ``PRSRT''). For presorted automation rate flats
prepared under M820, the optional marking ``AUTO'' may be used in place
of ``Presorted'' (or ``PRSRT''). If the ``AUTO'' marking is not used,
the automation rate flats must bear the ``Presorted'' (or ``PRSRT'')
rate marking.
b. For carrier route rate mail, the additional required marking is
``Carrier Route Presort'' (or ``CAR-RT SORT'').
* * * * *
4.0 ENDORSEMENTS--DELIVERY AND ANCILLARY SERVICES
* * * * *
[Remove 4.5, OCR Read Area.]
* * * * *
M020 Packages
* * * * *
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
[Amend the title and text of 1.6 to include Media Mail and Library Mail
to read as follows:]
1.6 Package Size--Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, and Library Mail
Each logical package (the total group of pieces for a package
destination) of Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, and Library Mail must
meet the applicable minimum and maximum package size standards in M045,
M722, M730, or M740. The pieces in the logical package must then be
secured in a physical package or packages. Wherever possible, each
physical package for a logical package destination should contain at
least the minimum package size. The size of each physical package for a
specific logical package destination may, however, contain the exact
package minimum, more pieces than the package minimum, or fewer pieces
than the package minimum depending on the size of the pieces in the
mailing or the total quantity of the pieces to that destination. Unless
otherwise noted, the maximum weight for packages in sacks is 20 pounds.
Except for mixed ADC packages and for carrier route packages prepared
in sacks, each physical package of Bound Printed Matter must contain at
least two pieces. For carrier route rate Bound Printed Matter mail
prepared in sacks, the last physical package to an individual carrier
route destination may consist of a single addressed piece, provided
that all other packages to that carrier route destination contain at
least two addressed pieces, and that the total group of pieces to that
carrier route (the ``logical'' package) meets the carrier
[[Page 4589]]
route rate eligibility minimum in E712. Packages prepared on pallets
must meet the additional packaging requirements under M045 and each
physical package, including Carrier Route rate mail, must always
contain at least two pieces. Packages of Bound Printed Matter
automation flats must meet be prepared under M820.
* * * * *
[Amend the title in 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 ADDITIONAL STANDARDS
2.1 Cards and Letter-Size Pieces
Cards and letter-size pieces are subject to these packaging
standards:
* * * * *
[Amend 2.1c to remove references to the upgradable preparation for
First-Class Mail and Standard Mail and to show that nonmachinable and
``manual only'' pieces must be packaged to read as follows:]
c. Packages must be prepared for mail in all less-than-full trays
and 3-digit carrier routes trays; for nonmachinable Presorted First-
Class Mail; for nonmachinable Presorted Standard Mail; for First-Class
Mail and Standard Mail pieces where the mailer has requested manual
only processing; and for nonautomation Periodicals.
* * * * *
2.2 Flat-Size Pieces
[Amend 2.2 to add references to Media Mail and Library Mail to read as
follows:]
Packages of flat-size pieces must be secure and stable subject to
the following:
a. If placed on pallets, the specific weight limits in M045.
b. If placed in sacks:
(1) For Periodicals and Standard Mail, the specific weight and
height limits in 1.8.
(2) For Bound Printed Matter, the specific weight limits in M720
(3) For Media Mail and Library Mail, the specific weight limits in
M730 and M740, as applicable.
* * * * *
M030 Containers
M031 Labels
* * * * *
4.0 PALLET LABELS
* * * * *
[Amend the title and text of 4.9 for clarity to read as follows:]
4.9 Barcoded Status
Pallet labels must indicate whether the mail on the pallet is
barcoded, or not barcoded, or both. Specific Line 2 label information
is in M045, M920, M930, and M940.
* * * * *
5.0 SECOND LINE CODES
The codes shown below must be used as appropriate on Line 2 of
sack, tray, and pallet labels.
[Amend the table in 5.0 to add a second line code for manual letter-
size pieces and to revise the entries for carrier routes, letters, and
machinable parcels. The entries are to be inserted in alphabetical
order to read as follows:]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Content type Code
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Revise the code for Carrier Routes to CR-RT or CR-RTS.
add a new code:].
Carrier Routes..........................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Revise the code for Letters to add a LTR or LTRS.
new code:].
Letters.................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Revise the entry for Machinable to MACH.
apply to all classes and processing
categories:].
Machinable..............................
[Add a new entry for manual processing:] MAN or MANUAL.
Manual (cannot be processed on automated
equipment).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
M032 Barcoded Labels
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS--TRAY AND SACK LABELS
* * * * *
Exhibit 1.3a 3-Digit Content Identifier Numbers
[Amend Exhibit 1.3a by adding new categories and CINs. Also, in the
human-readable content line for First-Class Mail and Standard Mail
letters, replace ``LTRS'' with ``LTR'' and ``CR-RTS'' with ``CR-RT.''
The footnotes are unchanged.]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Human-readable content
Class and mailing CIN line
------------------------------------------------------------------------
FIRST-CLASS MAIL
[For ``FCM Letters--Automation,''
in the human-readable content
line, replace ``LTRS'' with
``LTR'' and ``CR-RTS'' with ``CR-
RT'' for all entries. Amend the
human-readable content line for
the 5-digit carrier routes trays
for consistency:]
5-digit carrier routes trays... 264 FCM LTR 5D CR-RT BC
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[For ``FCM Letters--Presorted
(Basic Preparation),'' change the
title and human-readable content
line information.]
FCM Letters--Presorted
Nonmachinable (requires or
requests manual processing)
5-digit trays.................. 267 FCM LTR 5D MANUAL
3-digit trays.................. 269 FCM LTR 3D MANUAL
ADC trays...................... 270 FCM LTR ADC MANUAL
Mixed ADC trays................ 268 FCM LTR MANUAL WKG
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Delete the entry for ``FCM
Letters--Presorted (Nonautomation
Processing).'']
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[For ``FCM Letters--Presorted
(Upgradable Preparation),'' change
the title and human-readable
content line information to read
as follows:]
FCM Letters--Presorted Machinable
[[Page 4590]]
5-digit trays.................. 252 FCM LTR 5D MACH
3-digit trays.................. 255 FCM LTR 3D MACH
AADC trays..................... 258 FCM LTR AADC MACH
Mixed AADC trays............... 260 FCM LTR MACH WKG
------------------------------------------------------------------------
STANDARD MAIL
[For ``Enhanced Carrier Route
Letters--Automation,'' in the
human-readable content line,
replace ``LTRS'' with ``LTR'' and
``CR-RTS'' with ``CR-RT'' for all
entries. Amend the human-readable
content line for the 5-digit
carrier routes trays for
consistency:]
5-digit carrier routes trays... 564 STD LTR 5D CR-RT BC
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[For ``Enhanced Carrier Route
Letters--Nonautomation,'' change
the title and human-readable
content line information to show
that saturation and high-density
letters must be barcoded to read
as follows:]
Enhanced Carrier Route Letters--
Barcoded
Saturation rate trays.......... 557 STD LTR BC WSS (1)
High density rate trays........ 557 STD LTR BC WSH (1)
Basic rate trays............... 557 STD LTR BC LOT (1)
5-digit carrier routes trays... 564 STD LTR 5D CR-RT BC
3-digit carrier routes trays... 565 STD LTR 3D CR-RT BC
[Add the following entry for ECR
letters that are not barcoded but
are machinable (for mailers who
choose not to barcode their
machinable pieces):]
Enhanced Carrier Route Letters--
Nonautomation (Not Barcoded but
Machinable)
Saturation rate trays.......... 569 STD LTR MACH WSS (1)
High density rate trays........ 569 STD LTR MACH WSH (1)
Basic rate trays............... 569 STD LTR MACH LOT (1)
5-digit carrier routes trays... 567 STD LTR 5D CR-RT MACH
3-digit carrier routes trays... 567 STD LTR 3D CR-RT MACH
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Add the following entry for ECR
letters that are not machinable
(regardless of whether the pieces
are barcoded):]
Enhanced Carrier Route Letters--
Nonautomation (Nonmachinable)
Saturation rate trays.......... 608 STD LTR MAN WSS (1)
High density rate trays........ 608 STD LTR MAN WSH (1)
Basic rate trays............... 608 STD LTR MAN LOT (1)
5-digit carrier routes trays... 609 STD LTR 5D CR-RT MAN
3-digit carrier routes trays... 611 STD LTR 3D CR-RT MAN
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[For ``STD Letters--Automation,''
in the human-readable content
line, replace ``LTRS'' with
``LTR'' for all entries.]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[For ``STD Letters--Presorted
(Basic Preparation)'' change the
title and the human-readable
content line information to read
as follows:]
STD Letters--Presorted
Nonmachinable (requires or
requests manual processing)
5-digit trays.................. 604 STD LTR 5D MANUAL
3-digit trays.................. 606 STD LTR 3D MANUAL
ADC trays...................... 607 STD LTR ADC MANUAL
Mixed ADC trays................ 605 STD LTR MANUAL WKG
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Delete the entry for ``STD
Letters--Presorted (Nonautomation
Processing).'']
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[For ``STD Letters--Presorted
(Upgradable Preparation),'' change
the title and the human-readable
content line information to read
as follows:]
STD Letters--Presorted Machinable
5-digit trays.................. 552 STD LTR 5D MACH
3-digit trays.................. 555 STD LTR 3D MACH
AADC trays..................... 558 STD LTR AADC MACH
Mixed AADC trays............... 560 STD LTR MACH WKG
------------------------------------------------------------------------
PACKAGES SERVICES
Bound Printed Matter Flats--
Automation
5-digit sacks.................. 635 PSVC FLTS 5D BC
3-digit sacks.................. 636 PSVC FLTS 3D BC
SCF sacks...................... 637 PSVC FLTS SCF BC
ADC sacks...................... 638 PSVC FLTS ADC BC
Mixed ADC sacks................ 639 PSVC FLTS BC WKG
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Media Mail and Library Mail Flats--
Presorted
5-digit sacks.................. 649 PSVC FLTS 5D NON BC
3-digit sacks.................. 650 PSVC FLTS 3D NON BC
ADC sacks...................... 651 PSVC FLTS ADC NON BC
[[Page 4591]]
Mixed ADC sacks................ 653 PSVC FLTS NON BC WKG
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Media Mail and Library Mail
Irregular Parcels--Presorted
5-digit sacks.................. 690 PSVC IRREG 5D
5-digit scheme sacks........... 690 PSVC IRREG 5D SCH
3-digit sacks.................. 691 PSVC IRREG 3D
ADC sacks...................... 692 PSVC IRREG ADC
Mixed ADC sacks................ 694 PSVC IRREG WKG
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Media Mail and Library Mail
Machinable Parcels--Presorted
5-digit sacks.................. 680 PSVC MACH 5D
5-digit scheme sacks........... 680 PSVC MACH 5D SCH
ASF sacks...................... 682 PSVC MACH ASF
BMC sacks...................... 683 PSVC MACH BMC
Mixed BMC sacks................ 684 PSVC MACH WKG
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
M033 Sacks and Trays
* * * * *
2.0 FIRST-CLASS MAIL, PERIODICALS, AND STANDARD MAIL
2.1 Letter Tray Preparation
[Revise 2.1 in its entirety to reorganize and clarify the standards for
letter trays to read as follows:]
Letter trays are prepared as follows:
a. Subject to availability of equipment, standard managed mail (MM)
trays must be used for all letter-size mail, except that extended MM
(EMM) trays must be used when available for letter-size mail that
exceeds the height or width (inside dimensions) of MM trays defined in
1.3. When EMM trays are not available for those larger pieces, they
must be placed in MM trays, angled back, or placed upright
perpendicular to the length of the tray in row(s) to preserve their
orientation.
b. Pieces must be ``faced'' (oriented with all addresses in the
same direction with the postage area in the upper right).
c. Each tray prepared must be filled before filling the next tray,
with the contents in multiple trays relatively balanced. When preparing
full trays, mailers must fill all possible 2-foot trays first; if there
is mail remaining for the presort destination, then mailers must use a
combination of 1-foot and 2-foot trays that results in the fewest total
number of trays.
d. For presort destinations that do not require full trays, pieces
are placed in a less-than-full tray.
e. Mailers must use as few trays as possible without jeopardizing
rate eligibility. For instance, a mailer will never have two 1-foot
trays to a single destination; that mail must be placed in a single 2-
foot tray. A 1-foot tray is prepared only if it is a full tray with no
overflow; or if there is less than 1 foot of mail for that destination;
or if the overflow from a full 2-foot tray is less than 1 foot of mail.
f. Each tray must bear the correct tray label.
g. Each tray must be sleeved and strapped under 1.5 and 1.6.
h. If a mailing is prepared using an MLOCR/barcode sorter and is
submitted with standardized documentation, then pieces do not have to
be grouped by 3-digit ZIP Code prefix (or by 3-digit scheme, if
applicable) in AADC trays, or by AADC in mixed AADC trays.
* * * * *
M040 Pallets
M041 General Standards
* * * * *
5.0 PREPARATION
* * * * *
5.3 Minimum Load
These standards apply to:
[Amend 5.3a to show that letter trays on pallets are measured by linear
feet, not by the number of layers of trays to read as follows:]
a. Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Package Services (except for
Parcel Post mailed at BMC Presort, OBMC Presort, DSCF, and DDU rates).
In a single mailing, the minimum load per pallet is 250 pounds of
packages, parcels, or sacks; or 36 linear feet letter trays. In a
mailing or mailing job presented for acceptance at a single postal
facility, one overflow pallet with less than the required minimum may
be prepared for mail destinating in the service area of the entry
facility; that pallet must be properly labeled under M045. Exceptions:
There is no minimum load for pallets entered at a DDU if the mail on
those pallets is for that DDU's service area. For mail entered at an
SCF, the SCF manager must authorize in writing preparation of any 5-
digit, 3-digit, or SCF pallet containing less than the minimum required
load if the mail on those pallets is for that SCF's service area.
* * * * *
5.5 Maximum Load
[Amend 5.5 to show that all pallets are measured in inches, not in the
number of layers of trays to read as follows:]
The maximum weight (mail and pallet) is 2,200 pounds. The maximum
height of a single pallet (pallet, mail, and top cap) is 77 inches.
Exception: A single pallet that is prepared for entry at Anchorage or
Fairbanks, AK, may not exceed a maximum height of 72 inches (pallet,
mail, and top cap).
5.6 Mail on Pallets
These standards apply to mail on pallets:
* * * * *
[Redesignate 5.6d through 5.6h as 5.6e through 5.6i, respectively. Add
new 5.6d to show that letter trays on pallets are measured by linear
feet, not by the number of layers of trays to read as follows:]
d. For determining minimum pallet volume, mail in letter trays is
measured in linear feet. A 2-foot tray equals 2 linear feet; a 1-foot
tray equals 1 linear foot.
* * * * *
M045 Palletized Mailings
* * * * *
3.0 PALLET PRESORT AND LABELING
* * * * *
3.2 Standard Mail Packages, Sacks, Irregular Parcels, or Trays on
Pallets
Mailers must prepare pallets in the sequence listed below, except
that mailings of sacks and trays must be prepared beginning with 3.2c
(because scheme sort is not permitted). Pallets must be labeled
according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and
[[Page 4592]]
under M031. At the mailer's option, packages of Standard Mail flats may
be palletized using the advanced presort options under M920, M930, or
M940.
* * * * *
[Amend 3.2c to show that pallets of carrier route letters must show on
Line 2 of the pallet label whether the pieces are barcoded or not
barcoded to read as follows:]
c. 5-Digit Carrier Routes. Required for sacks and packages;
optional for trays. May contain only carrier route rate mail for the
same 5-digit ZIP Code.
(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code on
mail, preceded for military mail by correct prefix in M031.
(2) Line 2: For flats and irregulars, ``STD FLTS'' or ``STD
IRREG''; followed by ``CARRIER ROUTES'' or ``CR-RTS.'' For trays, ``STD
LTRS''; followed by ``CARRIER ROUTES'' or ``CR-RTS''; followed by
``BC'' if the pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by ``MACH'' if
the pallet contains nonbarcoded machinable letters; followed by ``MAN''
if the pallet contains nonmachinable letters.
* * * * *
[Amend 3.2e through 3.2i to show that pallets must indicate on Line 2
of the pallet label whether the pieces are barcoded (``BC''), not
barcoded but machinable (``MACH''), or nonmachinable (``MAN'') to read
as follows:]
e. 3-Digit. Optional. May contain carrier route rate, automation
rate, and/or Presorted rate mail.
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: For flats and irregulars, ``STD FLTS 3D'' or ``STD
IRREG 3D''; followed by ``BARCODED'' or ``BC'' if the pallet contains
automation rate mail; followed by ``NONBARCODED'' or ``NBC'' if the
pallet contains Presorted rate and/or carrier route rate mail. For
letters, ``STD LTRS 3D''; followed by ``BC'' if the pallet contains
barcoded letters; followed by ``MACH'' if the pallet contains
nonbarcoded machinable letters; followed by ``MAN'' if the pallet
contains nonmachinable letters.
f. SCF. Required. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate,
and/or Presorted rate mail.
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column C.
(2) Line 2: For flats and irregulars, ``STD FLTS SCF'' or ``STD
IRREG SCF'; followed by ``BARCODED'' or ``BC'' if the pallet contains
automation rate mail; followed by ``NONBARCODED'' or ``NBC'' if the
pallet contains Presorted rate and/or carrier route rate mail. For
letters, ``STD LTRS SCF''; followed by ``BC'' if the pallet contains
barcoded letters; followed by ``MACH'' if the pallet contains
nonbarcoded machinable letters; followed by ``MAN'' if the pallet
contains nonmachinable letters.
g. ASF. Required, except that an ASF sort may not be required if
using package reallocation for flats to protect the BMC pallet under
5.0. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and/or Presorted
rate mail. Sort ADC packages, trays, or sacks to ASF pallets based on
the ``label to'' ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the package, tray,
or sack in L004 (letters or flats) or L603 (irregular parcels). Sort
AADC trays to ASF pallets based on the ``label to'' ZIP Code for the
AADC destination of the tray in L801. See E650.5.0 for additional
requirements for DBMC rate eligibility.
(1) Line 1: use L602.
(2) Line 2: For flats and irregulars, ``STD FLTS ASF'' or ``STD
IRREG ASF'; followed by ``BARCODED'' or ``BC'' if the pallet contains
automation rate mail; followed by ``NONBARCODED'' or ``NBC'' if the
pallet contains Presorted rate and/or carrier route rate mail. For
letters, ``STD LTRS ASF''; followed by ``BC'' if the pallet contains
barcoded letters; followed by ``MACH'' if the pallet contains
nonbarcoded machinable letters; followed by ``MAN'' if the pallet
contains nonmachinable letters.
h. BMC. Required. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate,
and/or Presorted rate mail. Sort ADC packages, trays, or sacks to BMC
pallets based on the ``label to'' ZIP Code for the ADC destination of
the package, tray, or sack in L004 (letters or flats) or L603
(irregular parcels). Sort AADC trays to BMC pallets based on the
``label to'' ZIP Code for the AADC destination of the tray in L801. See
E650.5.0 for additional requirements for DBMC rate eligibility.
(1) Line 1: use L601.
(2) Line 2: For flats and irregulars, ``STD FLTS BMC'' or ``STD
IRREG BMC'; followed by ``BARCODED'' or ``BC'' if the pallet contains
automation rate mail; followed by ``NONBARCODED'' or ``NBC'' if the
pallet contains Presorted rate and/or carrier route rate mail. For
letters, ``STD LTRS BMC''; followed by ``BC'' if the pallet contains
barcoded letters; followed by ``MACH'' if the pallet contains
nonbarcoded machinable letters; followed by ``MAN if the pallet
contains nonmachinable letters.
i. Mixed BMC (for sacks and trays on pallets only). Optional. May
contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate
mail.
(1) Line 1: use ``MXD'' followed by the information in L601, Column
B, for the BMC serving the 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of the entry post
office (label to plant serving entry post office if authorized by the
processing and distribution manager).
(2) Line 2: For flats and irregulars, ``STD FLTS'' or ``STD IRREG';
followed by ``BARCODED'' or ``BC'' if the pallet contains automation
rate mail; followed by ``NONBARCODED'' or ``NBC'' if the pallet
contains Presorted rate and/or carrier route rate mail; followed by
``WKG.'' For letters, ``STD LTRS''; followed by ``BC'' if the pallet
contains barcoded letters; followed by ``MACH'' if the pallet contains
nonbarcoded machinable letters; followed by ``MAN if the pallet
contains nonmachinable letters; followed by ``WKG.''
[Revise the title and text of 3.3a to read as follows:]
3.3 Package Services Flats--Packages and Sacks on Pallets
Mailers must prepare pallets in the sequence listed below, except
that mailings of sacks on pallets must be prepared beginning with 3.3c.
Pallets must be labeled according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information
listed below and under M031.
a. 5-Digit Scheme Carrier Routes. Required for packages of BPM
flats on pallets. Not permitted for sacks on pallets. May contain only
carrier route rate packages for the same 5-digit scheme under L001.
Scheme sort must be done for all 5-digit scheme destinations. For all
5-digit destinations that are not part of a scheme, prepare 5-digit
carrier routes pallets under 3.3c.
(1) Line 1: use L001, Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC FLTS,'' followed by ``CARRIER ROUTES'' or ``CR-
RTS'' and ``SCHEME'' or ``SCH.'' * * *
* * * * *
[Amend the title of 3.4 by replacing Bound Printed Matter with Package
Services Irregular Parcels to read as follows:]
3.4 Package Services Irregular Parcels--Packages and Sacks on Pallets
* * * * *
[Revise the title of 3.5 to read as follows:]
3.5 Machinable Parcels--Standard Mail and Package Services
* * * * *
[Remove section 3.6, Presorted Media Mail and Library Mail.]
* * * * *
M050 Delivery Sequence
* * * * *
4.0 DOCUMENTATION
4.1 General
[Amend the first paragraph of 4.1 to clarify that signing a postage
statement
[[Page 4593]]
certifies the mail meets the requirements for the rates claimed to read
as follows:]
For Periodicals, the postage statement must be annotated in the
``Sequencing Date'' block on each of the lines where carrier route
basic, high density, and saturation per piece rate postage is reported.
For Standard Mail, the postage statement must be annotated in the
``Sequencing Date'' block on the front of the postage statement where
total postage for Enhanced Carrier Route rates is reported. The mailer
must provide documentation to substantiate compliance with the
standards for carrier route sequencing. The mailer's signature on the
postage statement certifies that this standard has been met when the
corresponding mail is presented to the USPS. Unless the documentation
is submitted with the corresponding mailing, the mailer must be able to
provide the USPS with documentation of accurate sequencing or delivery
statistics for each carrier route to which walk-sequence and basic rate
pieces are mailed. The mailer must annotate the postage statement to
show the earliest (oldest) date of the method (in 4.1a through 4.1e)
used to obtain sequencing information for the mailing. Acceptable forms
of documentation are: * * *
* * * * *
M100 First-Class Mail (Nonautomation)
* * * * *
M130 Presorted First-Class Mail
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
[Revise the title and text of 1.5 to read as follows:]
1.5 Nonmachinable Pieces
Nonmachinable cards and letters must use the preparation sequence
in 3.0. Nonmachinable flats must use the preparation sequence in 4.0.
[Redesignate 1.6, Co-Traying With Automation Rate Mail, as 1.7. Add new
1.6 for the manual only option to read as follows:]
1.6 Manual Only Option
Mailers who prefer that the USPS not automate letter-size pieces
(including cards) must use the packaging and tray preparation sequence
for nonmachinable pieces in 3.0. The manual only option is not
available for flats.
[Replace 2.0 with the preparation for cards and machinable letters to
read as follows: (this preparation is very similar to the current
upgradable preparation). Machinable pieces are packaged only to
maintain their orientation in the tray.]
2.0 PREPARATION--MACHINABLE LETTER-SIZE PIECES
2.1 Packaging
Machinable pieces are not packaged, except for (see M020):
a. Card-size pieces.
b. All pieces in a less-than-full origin 3-digit tray.
c. All pieces in a less-than-full mixed AADC tray.
2.2 Tray Preparation and Labeling
Preparation sequence, tray size, and labeling:
a. 5-digit: optional; full trays only; no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use 5-digit ZIP Code on mail, preceded for military
mail by correct prefix in M031.
(2) Line 2: ``FCM LTR 5D MACH.''
b. 3-digit: required; full trays only, except for one less-than-
full tray for each origin 3-digit(s); no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: ``FCM LTR 3D MACH.''
c. AADC: required; full trays only; no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use L801, Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``FCM LTR AADC MACH.''
d. Mixed AADC: required; no minimum.
(1) Line 1: use ``MXD'' followed by city/state/ZIP Code of facility
serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry post office, as shown in L002,
Column C.
(2) Line 2: ``FCM LTR MACH WKG.''
[Replace 3.0, Upgradable Preparation, with the preparation instructions
for nonmachinable and manual only cards and letters to read as
follows:]
3.0 PREPARATION--NONMACHINABLE LETTER-SIZE PIECES
3.1 Packaging
Packaging is required. Mailers who prefer that the USPS not
automate letter-size pieces must identify each package with a facing
slip on which ``MANUAL ONLY'' is printed or use a ``MANUAL ONLY''
optional endorsement line (see M013).
Preparation sequence, package size, and labeling:
a. 5-digit: required (10-piece minimum); red Label D or optional
endorsement line (OEL); labeling is not required for pieces in full 5-
digit trays.
b. 3-digit: required (10-piece minimum); green Label 3 or OEL.
c. ADC: required (10-piece minimum); pink Label A or OEL.
d. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum); tan Label MXD or OEL.
3.2 Exception to Packaging
Under certain conditions, nonmachinable pieces may not need to be
packaged (see M020.1.9).
3.3 Tray Preparation and Labeling
Preparation sequence, tray size, and labeling:
a. 5-digit: required; full trays only; no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use 5-digit ZIP Code on mail, preceded for military
mail by correct prefix in M031.
(2) Line 2: ``FCM LTR 5D MANUAL.''
b. 3-digit: required; full trays only, except for one less-than-
full tray for each origin 3-digit(s); no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: ``FCM LTR 3D MANUAL.''
c. ADC: required; full trays only; no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use L004, Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``FCM LTR ADC MANUAL.''
d. Mixed ADC: required; no minimum.
(1) Line 1: use ``MXD'' followed by city/state/ZIP Code of facility
serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry post office, as shown in L002,
Column C.
(2) Line 2: ``FCM LTR MANUAL WKG.''
[Revise the title of 4.0 to read as follows:]
4.0 PREPARATION--FLATS
* * * * *
[Redesignate 4.2 and 4.3 as 4.3 and 4.4, respectively. Add new 4.2 to
show that flats do not have to be packaged under certain conditions to
read as follows:]
4.2 Exception to Packaging
Under certain conditions, flat-size pieces may not need to be
packaged (see M020.1.9).
* * * * *
M200 Periodicals (Nonautomation)
M210 Presorted Rates
* * * * *
[Remove section 6.0, Combining Multiple Publications or Editions.]
M220 Carrier Route Rates
* * * * *
[Remove section 6.0, Combining Multiple Publications or Editions.][Add
new M230 to read as follows:]
M230 Combining Multiple Editions or Publications
1.0 DESCRIPTION
A combined mailing is a mailing in which two or more Periodicals
publications or editions are merged into a single mailstream, during
production or after finished copies are produced,
[[Page 4594]]
and all copies of all the publications or editions are presorted
together into packages to achieve the finest presort level possible for
the combined mailing.
2.0 VOLUME
More than one Periodicals publication, or edition of a publication,
may be combined to meet the volume standard per tray, sack, or package
for the rate claimed.
3.0 EACH PIECE
Each piece must meet the basic standards in E211 and the specific
standards of the rate claimed.
4.0 DOCUMENTATION
Presort documentation required under P012 must also show the total
number of addressed pieces and copies of each publication or edition
mailed to each carrier route, 5-digit, and 3-digit destination. The
publisher must also provide a list, by 3-digit ZIP Code prefix, of the
number of addressed pieces and copies of each publication or edition
qualifying for the DDU, DSCF, and DADC rate, as applicable.
5.0 SEPARATE POSTAGE STATEMENTS
A separate postage statement must be prepared for the per pound
postage computations for each publication or edition that is part of
the combined mailing. The title and issue date of the publications with
which each publication or edition was combined must be noted on, or
attached to, the postage statements. The per piece postage computations
for all other than preferred rate publications must be calculated on
the postage statement for the publication containing the higher (or
highest) amount of advertising. The per piece postage computations for
all preferred rate publications must be calculated on the postage
statement for the publication containing the higher (or highest) amount
of advertising. The nonadvertising adjustment must be computed on the
appropriate postage statement for each rate category based on the
publication (or edition, if applicable) containing the higher (or
highest) amount of advertising matter for that rate category.
* * * * *
M600 Standard Mail (Nonautomation)
M610 Presorted Standard Mail
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
[Redesignate 1.5 and 1.6 as 1.6 and 1.7, respectively. Add new 1.5 to
account for the new preparation for nonmachinable pieces to read as
follows:]
1.5 Nonmachinable Pieces
Nonmachinable cards and letters must use the preparation sequence
and tray labeling in 3.0.
[Revise the title and text of redesignated 1.6 to read as follows:]
1.6 Manual Only Option
Mailers who prefer that the USPS not automate letter-size pieces
(including cards) must use the packaging and tray preparation sequence
for nonmachinable pieces in 3.0. The manual only option is not
available for flats.
[Replace 2.0 with the preparation for machinable cards and letters
(this preparation is very similar to the current upgradable
preparation). Machinable pieces are packaged only to maintain their
orientation in the tray.]
2.0 PREPARATION--MACHINABLE LETTER-SIZE PIECES
2.1 Packaging
Machinable pieces are not packaged, except for (see M020):
a. Card-size pieces.
b. All pieces in a less-than-full origin 3-digit tray.
c. All pieces in a less-than-full mixed AADC tray.
2.2 Tray Preparation and Labeling
Only mail eligible for the 3/5 rate (i.e., 150 or more pieces for
the 3-digit area) may be prepared in 5-digit and 3-digit trays.
Preparation sequence, tray size, and labeling:
a. 5-digit: optional (full trays); no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use 5-digit ZIP Code on mail, preceded for military
mail by correct prefix in M031.
(2) Line 2: ``STD LTR 5D MACH.''
b. 3-digit: required (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: ``STD LTR 3D MACH.''
c. Origin 3-digit(s): required (no minimum); optional for entry 3-
digit(s) (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: ``STD LTR 3D MACH.''
d. AADC: required (full trays); no overflow; group pieces by 3-
digit ZIP Code prefix.
(1) Line 1: use L801.
(2) Line 2: ``STD LTR AADC MACH.''
e. Mixed AADC: required (no minimum); group pieces by AADC.
(1) Line 1: use L802 (for mail entered at an ASF or BMC) or L803.
(2) Line 2: ``STD LTR MACH WKG.''
[Replace 3.0, Upgradable Preparation, with the new preparation for
nonmachinable piece to read as follows:]
3.0 PREPARATION--NONMACHINABLE LETTER-SIZE PIECES
3.1 Packaging
Packaging is required for nonmachinable pieces and for any pieces
that mailers do not want the USPS to automate. Mailers who prefer that
the USPS not automate their pieces must identify each package with a
facing slip on which ``MANUAL ONLY'' is printed or use a ``MANUAL
ONLY'' optional endorsement line (see M013). Preparation sequence,
package size, and labeling:
a. 5-digit: required (10-piece minimum, fewer not permitted); red
Label D or optional endorsement line (OEL); labeling is not required
for pieces in full 5-digit trays.
b. 3-digit: required (10-piece minimum, fewer not permitted); green
Label 3 or OEL.
c. ADC: required (10-piece minimum, fewer not permitted); pink
Label A or OEL.
d. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum); tan Label MXD or OEL.
3.2 Exception to Packaging
Under certain conditions, nonmachinable pieces may not need to be
packaged (see M020.1.9).
3.3 Tray Preparation and Labeling
Only mail eligible for the 3/5 rate (i.e., 150 or more pieces for
the same 3-digit area) may be prepared in 5-digit and 3-digit trays.
Preparation sequence, tray size, and labeling:
a. 5-digit: required (full trays); no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use 5-digit ZIP Code on mail, preceded for military
mail by correct prefix in M031.
(2) Line 2: ``STD LTR 5D MANUAL.''
b. 3-digit: required (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: ``STD LTR 3D MANUAL.''
c. Origin 3-digit(s): required (one-package minimum); optional for
entry 3-digit(s) (no minimum).
(1) Line 1, use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: ``STD LTR 3D MANUAL.''
d. ADC: required (full trays); no overflow.
(1) Line 1, use L004.
(2) Line 2: ``STD LTR ADC MANUAL.''
e. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: use ``MXD'' followed by city/state/ZIP Code of ADC
serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry post office, as shown in L004.
(2) Line 2: ``STD LTR MANUAL WKG.''
* * * * *
[[Page 4595]]
M620 Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail
* * * * *
3.0 TRAY PREPARATION--LETTER-SIZE PIECES
[Merge current 3.1 and 3.2 into a single 3.1 and amend the Line 2
information to show the barcoded status to read as follows:]
3.1 Tray Preparation and Labeling
Preparation sequence, tray size, and labeling:
a. Carrier route: required; full trays only, no overflow.
(1) Line 1: use 5-digit ZIP Code on package, preceded for military
mail by correct prefix in M031.
(2) Line 2:
(a) Saturation: ``STD LTR BC WSS,'' followed by route type and
number.
(b) High density: ``STD LTR BC WSH,'' followed by route type and
number.
(c) Basic: ``STD LTR BC LOT,'' followed by route type and number.
b. 5-digit carrier routes: required if full tray, optional with
minimum one 10-piece package.
(1) Line 1: use 5-digit ZIP Code on package, preceded for military
mail by correct prefix in M031.
(2) Line 2: ``STD LTR 5D CR-RT BC.''
c. 3-digit carrier routes: optional with minimum one 10-piece
package for each of two or more 5-digit areas.
(1) Line 1: use city/state/ZIP Code shown in L002, Column A, that
corresponds to 3-digit ZIP Code prefix on package.
(2) Line 2: ``STD LTR 3D CR-RT BC.''
[Add new 3.2 to show the Line 2 information for trays containing mail
that is machinable but is not barcoded to read as follows:]
3.2 Tray Line 2 for Machinable Nonbarcoded Pieces
For trays that contain letter-size pieces that are machinable but
not barcoded, use ``MACH'' on Line 2 in place of ``BC.''
[Add new 3.3 to show the Line 2 information for trays containing mail
that is nonmachinable (barcoded or not) to read as follows:]
3.3 Tray Line 2 for Nonmachinable Pieces
For trays that contain letter-size pieces that are nonmachinable,
use ``MAN'' on Line 2 in place of ``BC.''
[Add new 3.4 to show Line 2 information for trays containing simplified
address pieces to read as follows:]
3.4 Tray Line 2 for Pieces with Simplified Address
For trays that contain letter-size pieces that bear a simplified
address, use ``MAN'' on Line 2 in place of ``BC.''
* * * * *
M700 Package Services
M710 Parcel Post
* * * * *
2.0 DSCF RATE
[Amend 2.1 to add DSCF rate 3-digit nonmachinable parcels to read as
follows:]
2.1 General
To qualify for the DSCF rate, pieces must be for the same SCF area
under L005 and must be prepared as follows:
a. Sorted to optional 5-digit scheme destinations under L606,
Column B, and 5-digit destinations, either in sacks under 2.2 or
directly on pallets or in pallet boxes on pallets under M041 and M045.
Pieces must be part of a mailing of at least 50 Parcel Post pieces.
They must be entered at the designated SCF under L005 that serves the
5-digit ZIP Code destinations of the pieces except when palletized and
entry is required at a BMC (see Exhibit E751.6.0). The DSCF rate is not
available for palletized mail for facilities that are unable to handle
palletized mailings. Refer to the Drop Shipment Product available from
the National Customer Support Center (NCSC) (see G043) and Exhibit
E751.7.0 and Exhibit E751.8.0 to determine if the facility serving the
5-digit destination can handle pallets. There is a charge for the Drop
Shipment Product.
b. Any remaining nonmachinable parcels (as defined in C700.2.0)
sorted to 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes L002; Column A. Machinable parcels
may not be sorted to the 3-digit level.
* * * * *
M720 Bound Printed Matter
M721 Single-Piece Bound Printed Matter
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 General
[Amend 1.1 by adding a sentence at the end for barcoded single-piece
rate Bound Printed Matter to read as follows:]
* * * Bound Printed Matter claiming a barcoded discount must meet
the applicable standards in E712.
* * * * *
M730 Media Mail
[Revise 1.0 to read as follows:]
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 General
There are no presort, sacking, or labeling standards for single-
piece Media Mail. All mailings of presorted Media Mail are subject to
the standards in 2.0 through 4.0 and to these general requirements:
a. Each mailing must meet the applicable standards in E710, E713,
and in M010, M020, and M030.
b. All pieces in a mailing must be within the same processing
category as described in C050. A Media Mail irregular parcel is a piece
that is not a machinable parcel as defined in C050.4.1 or a flat as
defined in C050.3.1. Pieces that meet the size and weight standards for
a machinable parcel but are not individually boxed or packaged to
withstand processing on BMC parcel sorters under C010 also are
irregular parcels.
c. All pieces must be sorted to the finest extent possible under
2.0 through 4.0 or palletized under M045.
d. Each piece claimed at Media Mail rates must be marked ``Media
Mail'' under M012. Each piece claimed at presorted Media Mail rates
also must be marked ``Presorted'' or ``PRSRT'' under M012.
1.2 Documentation
A complete, signed postage statement, using the correct USPS form
or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing. Documentation of
postage is not required if the correct rate is affixed to each piece or
if each piece is of identical weight, and the pieces are separated by
rate level at the time of mailing.
[Revise 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 PREPARATION--FLATS
2.1 Required Packaging
A package must be prepared when the quantity of addressed pieces
for a required presort level reaches a minimum of 10 pieces. Smaller
volumes are not permitted. The maximum weight of each physical package
is 20 pounds, except that 5-digit packages placed in 5-digit sacks may
weigh a maximum of 40 pounds. Each physical package must contain at
least two addressed pieces.
2.2 Package Preparation
Packages must be prepared and labeled in the following required
sequence:
a. 5-digit: required; red Label D or optional endorsement line
(OEL).
b. 3-digit: required; green Label 3 or OEL.
c. ADC: required; pink Label A or OEL.
[[Page 4596]]
d. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum); tan Label MXD or OEL.
2.3 Required Sacking
A sack must be prepared when the quantity of mail for a required
presort destination reaches the minimums specified in 2.4. Smaller
volumes are not permitted.
2.4 Sack Preparation and Labeling
Sacks must be prepared and labeled in the following sequence:
a. 5-digit: optional, except required for 5-digit rate (10 piece
minimum).
(1) Line 1: use 5-digit ZIP Code on packages, preceded for military
mail by correct prefix in M031.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC FLTS 5D NON BC.''
b. 3-digit: required (20 piece minimum).
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC FLTS 3D NON BC.''
c. ADC: required (20 piece minimum).
(1) Line 1: use L004, Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC FLTS ADC NON BC.''
d. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: use ``MXD'' followed by city/state/ZIP Code of ADC
serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry post office, as shown in L004,
Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC FLTS NON BC WKG.''
[Add new 3.0 to read as follows:]
3.0 PREPARATION--IRREGULAR PARCELS
3.1 Required Packaging
A package must be prepared when the quantity of addressed pieces
for a required presort level reaches a minimum of 10 pieces, except
that packaging is not required for pieces placed in 5-digit scheme
sacks and 5-digit sacks when such pieces are enclosed in an envelope,
full-length sleeve, full-length wrapper, or polybag and the minimum
package volume is met. The maximum weight of each physical package is
20 pounds, except that 5-digit packages placed in 5-digit sacks may
weigh a maximum of 40 pounds. Each physical package must contain at
least two addressed pieces. Packaging is also subject to these
conditions:
a. Identical-weight pieces that weigh 1 pound or less must be
prepared using the 10-piece minimum; those that weigh more than 1 pound
must be prepared using the 10-pound minimum.
b. For nonidentical-weight pieces, mailers must either use the
minimum that applies to the average piece weight for the entire mailing
(divide the net weight of the mailing by the number of pieces; the
resulting average single-piece weight determines whether the 10-piece
or 10-pound minimum applies), or package by the actual piece count or
mail weight for each sack, if documentation can be provided with the
mailing that shows (specifically for each sack) the number of pieces in
each package and their total weight.
c. Mailers must note on the accompanying postage statement whether
they applied the piece count, weight, or both.
3.2 Package Preparation
Packages must be prepared and labeled in the following sequence:
a. 5-digit: required; red Label D or optional endorsement line
(OEL).
b. 3-digit: required; green Label 3 or OEL.
c. ADC: required; pink Label A or OEL.
d. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum); tan Label MXD or OEL.
3.3 Required Sacking
A sack must be prepared when the quantity of mail for a required
presort destination reaches either 10 addressed pieces or 20 pounds,
whichever occurs first. Smaller volumes are not permitted (except in
mixed ADC sacks). Optional 5-digit scheme sacks may be prepared only
when there are at least 10 addressed pieces or 20 pounds. Smaller
volumes are not permitted. Sacking is also subject to these conditions:
a. Identical-weight pieces weighing 2 pounds or less must be sacked
using the 10-piece minimum; those that weigh more must be sacked using
the 20-pound minimum.
b. For nonidentical-weight pieces, mailers must use either the
minimum that applies to the average piece weight for the entire mailing
(divide the net weight of the mailing by the number of pieces; the
resulting average single-piece weight determines whether the 10-piece
or 20-pound minimum applies). Alternatively, mailers may sack by the
actual piece count or mail weight for each destination, provided that
documentation can be provided with the mailing that shows (specifically
for each sack) the number of pieces in each sack and their total
weight.
c. Mailers must note on the accompanying postage statement whether
they applied the piece count, weight, or both.
3.4 Sack Preparation and Labeling
Sacks must be prepared and labeled in the following sequence:
a. 5-digit scheme: optional.
(1) Line 1: use L606, Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC IRREG 5D SCHEME'' or ``PSVC IRREG 5D SCH.''
b. 5-digit: required.
(1) Line 1: use 5-digit ZIP Code on packages, preceded for military
mail by correct prefix in M031.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC IRREG 5D.''
c. 3-digit: required.
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC IRREG 3D.''
d. ADC: required.
(1) Line 1: use L004, Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC IRREG ADC.''
e. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: use ``MXD'' followed by city/state/ZIP Code of ADC
serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry post office, as shown in L004,
Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC IRREG WKG.''
[Add new 4.0 to read as follows:]
4.0 PREPARATION--MACHINABLE PARCELS
4.1 Sacking
A sack must be prepared when the quantity of mail for a required
presort destination reaches 7 addressed pieces or 20 pounds whichever
occurs first for optional 5-digit scheme or 5-digit sacks, or 10 pieces
or 20 pounds whichever occurs first for BMC sacks. Smaller volumes are
not permitted. Sacking also is subject to these conditions:
a. Identical-weight pieces that weigh 2 pounds or less must be
sacked using the 10-piece minimum; those that weigh more must be sacked
using the 20-pound minimum.
b. For nonidentical-weight pieces, mailers must use either the
minimum that applies to the average piece weight for the entire mailing
(divide the net weight of the mailing by the number of pieces; the
resulting average single-piece weight determines whether the 10-piece
or 20-pound minimum applies) or sack by the actual piece count or mail
weight for each package destination, provided that documentation can be
provided with the mailing that shows (specifically for each sack) the
number of pieces and their total weight.
c. Mailers must note on the accompanying postage statement whether
they applied the piece count, weight, or both.
4.2 Sack Preparation and Labeling
Sacks must be prepared and labeled in the following sequence:
a. 5-digit scheme: optional.
(1) Line 1: use L606, Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC MACH 5D SCHEME'' or ``PSVC MACH 5D SCH.''
b. 5-digit: required.
(1) Line 1: use 5-digit ZIP Code on parcels, preceded for military
mail by correct prefix in M031.
[[Page 4597]]
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC MACH 5D.''
c. BMC: required.
(1) Line 1: use L601, Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC MACH BMC.''
d. Mixed BMC: required (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: ``MXD'' followed by information in L601, Column B, for
BMC serving 3-digit ZIP Code of entry post office.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC MACH WKG.''
M740 Library Mail
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
[Revise 1.0 to read as follows:]
1.1 General
There are no presort, sacking, or labeling standards for single-
piece Library Mail. All mailings of Presorted Library Mail are subject
to the standards in 2.0 through 4.0 and to these general standards:
a. Each mailing must meet the applicable standards in E710, E714,
and in M010, M020, and M030.
b. All pieces in a mailing must be within the same processing
category as described in C050. A Library Mail irregular parcel is a
piece that is not a machinable parcel as defined in C050.4.1 or a flat
as defined in C050.3.1. Pieces that meet the size and weight standards
for a machinable parcel but are not individually boxed or packaged to
withstand processing on BMC parcel sorters under C010 are also
considered irregular parcels.
c. All pieces must be sorted to the finest extent possible under
2.0 through 4.0 or palletized under M045.
d. Each piece claimed at Library Mail rates must be marked
``Library Mail'' under M012. Each piece claimed at presorted Library
Mail rates also must be marked ``Presorted'' or ``PRSRT'' under M012.
1.2 Documentation
A complete, signed postage statement, using the correct USPS form
or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing. Documentation of
postage is not required if the correct rate is affixed to each piece or
if each piece is of identical weight, and the pieces are separated by
rate level at the time of mailing.
[Revise the title and text of 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 PREPARATION--FLATS
2.1 Required Packaging
A package must be prepared when the quantity of addressed pieces
for a required presort level reaches a minimum of 10 pieces. Smaller
volumes are not permitted. The maximum weight of each physical package
is 20 pounds, except that 5-digit packages, placed in 5-digit sacks may
weigh a maximum of 40 pounds. Each physical package must contain at
least two addressed pieces.
2.2 Package Preparation
Packages must be prepared and labeled in the following sequence:
a. 5-digit: optional; red Label D or optional endorsement line
(OEL).
b. 3-digit: required; green Label 3 or OEL.
c. ADC: required; pink Label A or OEL.
d. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum); tan Label MXD or OEL.
2.3 Required Sacking
A sack must be prepared when the quantity of mail for a required
presort destination reaches the minimums specified in 2.4. Smaller
volumes are not permitted.
2.4 Sack Preparation and Labeling
Sacks must be prepared and labeled in the following sequence:
a. 5-digit: optional, except required for 5-digit rate (10 piece
minimum).
(1) Line 1, use 5-digit ZIP Code on packages, preceded for military
mail by correct prefix in M031.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC FLTS 5D NON BC.''
b. 3-digit: required; (20 piece minimum).
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC FLTS 3D NON BC.''
c. ADC: required; (20 piece minimum).
(1) Line 1: use L004, Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC FLTS ADC NON BC.''
d. Mixed ADC: required; (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: use ``MXD'' followed by city/state/ZIP Code of ADC
serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry post office, as shown in L004,
Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC FLTS NON BC WKG.''
[Add new 3.0 to read as follows:]
3.0 PREPARATION--IRREGULAR PARCELS
3.1 Required Packaging
A package must be prepared when the quantity of addressed pieces
for a required presort level reaches a minimum of 10 pieces, except
that packaging is not required for pieces placed in 5-digit scheme
sacks and 5-digit sacks when such pieces are enclosed in an envelope,
full-length sleeve, full-length wrapper, or polybag and the minimum
package volume is met. The maximum weight of each physical package is
20 pounds, except that 5-digit packages placed in 5-digit sacks may
weigh a maximum of 40 pounds. Each physical package must contain at
least two addressed pieces. Packaging is also subject to these
conditions:
a. Identical-weight pieces that weigh 1 pound or less must be
prepared using the 10-piece minimum; those that weigh more than 1 pound
must be prepared using the 10-pound minimum.
b. For nonidentical-weight pieces, mailers must use either the
minimum that applies to the average piece weight for the entire mailing
(divide the net weight of the mailing by the number of pieces; the
resulting average single-piece weight determines whether the 10-piece
or 10-pound minimum applies) or package by the actual piece count or
mail weight for each sack, if documentation can be provided with the
mailing that shows (specifically for each sack) the number of pieces
and their total weight.
c. Mailers must note on the accompanying postage statement whether
they applied the piece count, weight, or both.
3.2 Package Preparation
Packages must be prepared and labeled in the following sequence:
a. 5-digit: required; red Label D or optional endorsement line
(OEL).
b. 3-digit: required; green Label 3 or OEL.
c. ADC: required; pink Label A or OEL.
d. Mixed ADC: required (no minimum); tan Label MXD or OEL.
3.3 Required Sacking
A sack must be prepared when the quantity of mail for a required
presort destination reaches either 10 addressed pieces or 20 pounds,
whichever occurs first. Smaller volumes are not permitted (except in
mixed ADC sacks). Optional 5-digit scheme sacks may be prepared only
when there are at least 10 addressed pieces or 20 pounds, whichever
occurs first. Smaller volumes are not permitted. Sacking is also
subject to these conditions:
a. Identical-weight pieces weighing 2 pounds or less must be sacked
using the 10-piece minimum; those that weigh more must be sacked using
the 20-pound minimum.
b. For nonidentical-weight pieces, mailers must use the minimum
that applies to the average piece weight for the entire mailing (divide
the net weight of the mailing by the number of pieces; the resulting
average single-piece weight determines whether the 10 piece or 20 pound
minimum applies). Alternatively, mailers may sack by the actual piece
[[Page 4598]]
count or mail weight for each package destination, if documentation can
be provided with the mailing that shows (specifically for each sack)
the number of pieces and their total weight.
c. Mailers must note on the accompanying postage statement whether
they applied the piece count, weight, or both.
3.4 Sack Preparation and Labeling
Sacks must be prepared and labeled in the following sequence:
a. 5-digit scheme: optional.
(1) Line 1: use L606, Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC IRREG 5D SCHEME'' or ``PSVC IRREG 5D SCH.''
b. 5-digit: required.
(1) Line 1: use 5-digit ZIP Code on packages, preceded for military
mail by correct prefix in M031).
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC IRREG 5D.''
c. 3-digit: required.
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC IRREG 3D.''
d. ADC: required.
(1) Line 1: use L004, Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC IRREG ADC.''
e. Mixed ADC: required; (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: use ``MXD'' followed by city/state/ZIP Code of ADC
serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry post office, as shown in L004,
Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC IRREG WKG.''
[Add new 4.0 to read as follows:]
4.0 PREPARATION--MACHINABLE PARCELS
4.1 Required Sacking
A sack must be prepared when the quantity of mail for a required
presort destination reaches 7 addressed pieces or 20 pounds whichever
occurs first for optional 5-digit scheme or 5-digit sacks, or 10 pieces
or 20 pounds whichever occurs first for BMC sacks. Smaller volumes are
not permitted. Sacking is also subject to these conditions:
a. Identical-weight pieces that weigh 2 pounds or less must be
sacked using the 10-piece minimum; those that weigh more must be sacked
using the 20-pound minimum.
b. For nonidentical-weight pieces, mailers must use either the
minimum that applies to the average piece weight for the entire mailing
(divide the net weight of the mailing by the number of pieces; the
resulting average single-piece weight determines whether the 10-piece
or 20-pound minimum applies) or sack by the actual piece count or mail
weight for each package destination, provided that documentation can be
provided with the mailing that shows (specifically for each sack) the
number of pieces and their total weight.
c. Mailers must note on the accompanying postage statement whether
they applied the piece count, weight, or both.
4.2 Sack Preparation and Labeling
Sacks must be prepared and labeled in the following sequence:
a. 5-digit scheme: optional.
(1) Line 1: use L606, Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC MACH 5D SCHEME'' or ``PSVC MACH 5D SCH.''
b. 5-digit: required.
(1) Line 1: use 5-digit ZIP Code on parcels, preceded for military
mail by correct prefix in M031.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC MACH 5D.''
c. BMC: required.
(1) Line 1: use L601, Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC MACH BMC.''
d. Mixed BMC: required; (no minimum).
(1) Line 1: ``MXD'' followed by information in L601, Column B, for
BMC serving 3-digit ZIP Code of entry post office.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC MACH WKG.''
M800 All Automation Mail
M810 Letter-Size Mail
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
1.2 Mailings
The requirements for mailings are as follows:
* * * * *
[Amend 1.2b and 1.2d to replace the automation basic rate with the new
AADC and mixed AADC rates to read as follows:]
b. First-Class. A single automation rate First-Class mailing may
include pieces prepared at carrier route, 5-digit, 3-digit, AADC, and
mixed AADC rates.
* * * * *
d. Standard Mail. Automation carrier route pieces must be prepared
as a separate mailing (and meet a separate minimum volume requirement)
from pieces prepared at 5-digit, 3-digit, AADC, and mixed AADC rates.
1.3 Documentation
[Amend 1.3 to remove references to the basic rate to read as follows:]
A complete, signed postage statement, using the correct USPS form
or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing. Each mailing
also must be accompanied by presort and rate documentation produced by
PAVE-certified (or, except for Periodicals, MAC-certified) software or
by standardized documentation under P012. Exception: For mailings of
fewer than 10,000 pieces, presort and rate documentation is not
required if postage at the correct rate is affixed to each piece or if
each piece is of identical weight and the pieces are separated by rate
level when presented for acceptance. Mailers may use a single postage
statement and a single documentation report for all rate levels in a
single mailing. Standard Mail mailers may use a single postage
statement and a single documentation report (with a separate summary
for carrier route and a separate summary for all other rate levels) for
both an automation carrier route mailing and a mailing containing
pieces prepared at other automation rates when both mailings are
submitted for entry at the same time. Combined mailings of more than
one Periodicals publication also must be documented under M230. First-
Class Mail and Standard Mail mailings prepared under the value added
refund procedures or as combined mailings must meet additional
standardized documentation requirements under P014 and P960.
* * * * *
2.0 FIRST-CLASS MAIL AND STANDARD MAIL
* * * * *
2.3 Tray Line 2
[Amend the text of 2.3, 2.3b, and 2.3c, to change ``LTRS'' to ``LTR,''
``CAR-RT'' to ``CR-RT,'' and to add 5-D'' to the 5-digit carrier routes
tray, to read as follows:]
Line 2: ``FCM LTR'' or ``STD LTR'' and:
* * * * *
b. 5-digit carrier routes: ``5D CR-RT BC.''
c. 3-digit carrier routes: ``3D CR-RT BC.''
* * * * *
M820 Flat-Size Mail
[Amend the Summary to include Bound Printed Matter to read as follows:]
Summary
M820 describes the preparation standards for flat-size automation
rate First-Class Mail, Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Bound Printed
Matter.
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 Standards
[Amend the first sentence of 1.1 by adding Bound Printed Matter to read
as follows:]
Flat-size automation rate First-Class Mail, Periodicals, Standard
Mail, and Bound Printed Matter must be prepared under M820 and the
eligibility standards for the rate claimed. * * *
[[Page 4599]]
1.2 Mailings
[Amend 1.2 to replace the First-Class Mail automation basic rate with
the new ADC and mixed ADC rates to read as follows:]
All pieces in a mailing must meet the standards in C820 and must be
sorted together to the finest extent required. First-Class Mail
mailings may include pieces prepared at automation 5-digit, 3-digit,
ADC, and mixed ADC rates. Periodicals mailings may include pieces
prepared at automation 5-digit, 3-digit, and basic rates. Standard Mail
mailings may include pieces prepared at automation 3/5 and basic rates.
The definition of a mailing and permissible combinations are in M011.
Bound Printed Matter mailings may include presorted pieces claiming the
barcoded discount.
* * * * *
1.4 Marking
[Amend the last sentence of 1.4 by adding the reference P700 to read as
follows:]
* * * Pieces not claimed at an automation rate must not bear
``AUTO'' unless single-piece rate postage is affixed or a corrective
single-piece rate marking is applied under P100, P600, or P700.
* * * * *
[Add new 6.0 for Bound Printed Matter to read as follows:]
6.0 BOUND PRINTED MATTER
6.1 Package Preparation
Packages must be prepared and labeled in the following sequence:
a. 5-digit: (minimum 10-pieces or 10 pounds, fewer not permitted,
maximum weight 20 pounds); red Label D or optional endorsement line
(OEL).
b. 3-digit: (minimum 10 pieces or 10 pounds, fewer not permitted,
maximum weight 20 pounds); green Label 3 or OEL.
c. ADC: (minimum 10 pieces or 10 pounds, fewer not permitted,
maximum weight 20 pounds); pink Label A or OEL.
d. Mixed ADC: (no minimum, maximum weight 20 pounds); tan Label MXD
or OEL.
6.2 Sack Preparation and Labeling
A sack must be prepared when the quantity of mail for a required
presort destination reaches 20 addressed pieces. Preparation sequence
and sack labeling:
a. 5-digit: required.
(1) Line 1: use 5-digit ZIP Code on packages.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC FLTS 5D BC.''
b. 3-digit: required.
(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC FLTS 3D BC.''
c. SCF: optional.
(1) Line 1: use L005, Column B.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC FLTS SCF BC.''
d. ADC: required.
(1) Line 1: use L004.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC FLTS ADC BC.''
e. Mixed ADC: required.
(1) Line 1: use ``MXD'' followed by origin facility in L802 or
L803, as appropriate.
(2) Line 2: ``PSVC FLTS BC WKG.''
* * * * *
P Postage and Payment Methods
P000 Basic Information
P010 General Standards
P011 Payment 1.0
Prepayment and Postage Due
* * * * *
[Amend title and text of 1.8 to read as follows:]
1.8 Shortpaid Nonmachinable Mail
Shortpaid nonmachinable First-Class Mail is returned to the sender
for additional postage.
* * * * *
P012 Documentation
* * * * *
2.0 STANDARDIZED DOCUMENTATION--FIRST-CLASS MAIL, PERIODICALS, AND
STANDARD MAIL
* * * * *
2.3 Rate Level Column Headings
The actual name of the rate level (or corresponding abbreviation)
is used for column headings required by 2.2 and shown below:
[Amend 2.3a to add the AADC and mixed AADC rates for automation letters
and the ADC and mixed ADC rates automation for flats (the entries are
added after the 3/5 rate and before the basic rate) to read as
follows:]
a. Automation First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rate Abbreviation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
AADC [First-Class Mail letters/cards and AB
Standard Mail letters].
ADC [First-Class Mail flats]............... AB
Mixed AADC [First-Class Mail letters/cards MB
and StandardMail letters].
Mixed ADC [First-Class Mail flats]......... MB
[Amend the entry for basic as follows:] BB
Basic [flats].
* * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
3.0 DETAILED ZONE LISTING FOR PERIODICALS
3.1 Definition and Retention
[Amend the first sentence of 3.1 by making minor edits and adding DADC
rates to read as follows:]
The publisher must be able to present documentation to support the
actual number of copies of each edition of an issue, by entry point,
mailed to each zone, at DDU, DSCF, DADC, and In-County rates. * * *
3.2 Characteristics
Report the number of copies mailed to each 3-digit ZIP Code prefix
at applicable zone rates using one of the following formats:
* * * * *
[Amend the first sentence of 3.2b by making minor edits and adding DADC
to read as follows:]
b. Report copies by zone (In-County DDU, In-County others, Outside-
County DDU, Outside-County DSCF, and Outside-County DADC) and by 3-
digit ZIP Code prefix, listed in ascending numeric order, for each
zone. * * *
3.3 Zone Abbreviations
Use the actual rate name or the authorized zone abbreviation in the
listings in 2.0 and 3.2:
[Amend the table in 3.3 to include the zone abbreviation, ``ADC'' and
rate equivalent, ``outside-county, DADC'' to read as follows:]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zone abbreviation Rate equivalent
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
SCF................................. Outside-county, DSCF
ADC................................. Outside-county, DADC
1-2 or 1/2.......................... Zones 1 and 2
* * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
P013 Rate Application and Computation
* * * * *
2.0 RATE APPLICATION--EXPRESS MAIL, FIRST-CLASS MAIL, AND PRIORITY
MAIL
* * * * *
[[Page 4600]]
2.4 Priority Mail
[Amend 2.4 by replacing ``5 pounds'' with ``1 pound'' to read as
follows:]
Except under 2.5, Priority Mail rates are charged per pound or
fraction thereof; any fraction of a pound is considered a whole pound.
For example, if a piece weighs 1.2 pounds, the weight (postage)
increment is 2 pounds. The minimum postage amount per addressed piece
is the 1-pound rate. The Priority Mail rate up to 1 pound is based
solely on weight; for pieces weighing more than 1 pound, the rates are
based on weight and zone.
2.5 Flat-Rate Envelope
[Amend 2.5 by changing ``2-pound'' to ``1-pound'' to read as follows:]
Each addressed Express Mail flat-rate envelope is charged the
Express Mail rate applicable to a \1/2\-pound piece regardless of its
actual weight. Each addressed Priority Mail flat-rate envelope is
charged the Priority Mail rate applicable to a 1-pound piece regardless
of its actual weight.
2.6 Keys and Identification Devices
[Amend 2.6 by adding ``zone rate'' to the 2-pound weight to read as
follows:]
Keys and identification devices weighing 13 ounces or less are
charged First-Class Mail rates per ounce or fraction thereof in
accordance with 2.3, plus the fee in R100.10.0. Keys and identification
devices weighing more than 13 ounces but not more than 1 pound are
mailed at the 1-pound Priority Mail flat rate plus the fee in
R100.10.0. Keys and identification devices weighing more than 1 pound
but not more than 2 pounds are subject to the 2-pound zoned rate plus
the fee in R100.10.0. When the ZIP Code of mailing cannot be determined
from the return address or cancellation mark for pieces subject to the
Priority Mail rates, the zone 4 rate is charged for the weight of the
piece.
* * * * *
5.0 RATE APPLICATION--PACKAGE SERVICES
* * * * *
5.2 Parcel Post
[Amend 5.2 by changing ``2 pounds'' to ``1 pound'' in the last sentence
to read as follows:]
* * * The minimum postage rate per addressed piece is that for an
addressed piece weighing 1 pound.
5.3 Single-Piece Bound Printed Matter
[Amend 5.3 by changing ``1.5 pounds'' to ``1 pound'' in the last
sentence to read as follows:]
* * * The minimum postage rate per addressed piece is that for an
addressed piece weighing 1 pound.
* * * * *
8.0 COMPUTING POSTAGE--STANDARD MAIL
* * * * *
[Add new 8.5 citing how to calculate the discount for heavy automation
letters to read as follows:]
8.5 Discount for Heavy Automation Letters
Automation letters that weigh more than 3.3 ounces but not more
than 3.5 ounces are charged postage equal to the automation piece/pound
rate for that piece and receive a discount equal to the corresponding
automation nonletter piece rate (3.3 ounces or less) minus the
corresponding letter automation letter piece rate (3.3 ounces or less).
For automation ECR pieces, postage is calculated using the regular
basic piece/pound rate and the regular basic nonletter piece rate. If
claiming a destination entry rate, the discount is circulated using the
corresponding rates.
[Add new 8.6 citing how to calculate the discount for heavy automation-
compatible letters to read as follows:]
8.6 Discount for Heavy ECR Letters
Pieces that otherwise qualify for the high density or saturation
letter rate and weigh more than 3.3 ounces but not more than 3.5 ounces
pay postage equal to the nonletter piece/pound rate and receive a
discount equal to the corresponding nonletter piece rate (3.3 ounces or
less) minus the corresponding letter piece rate (3.3 ounces or less).
If claiming a destination entry rate, the discount is calculated using
the corresponding rates.
* * * * *
P014 Refunds and Exchanges
* * * * *
5.0 EXPRESS MAIL POSTAGE REFUND
* * * * *
5.2 Conditions for Refund
[Revise 5.2 to read as follows:]
A refund request must be made within 90 days after the date of
mailing as shown in the ``Date In'' box on Label 11. Except as provided
in D500.1.6, a mailer may file for a postage refund only under one of
the following circumstances.
a. The item was not delivered or made available for claim as
guaranteed under the applicable service purchased.
b. The item was not delivered or made available for claim by the
guaranteed delivery time applicable to the service purchased, and
delivery was not attempted by the guaranteed delivery time applicable
to the service purchased.
5.3 Refunds Not Given
[Amend 5.3 to read as follows:]
A refund claim will not be given if the guaranteed service was not
provided due to any of the circumstances in D500.1.6.
* * * * *
P020 Postage Stamps and Stationery
P021 Stamped Stationery
* * * * *
3.0 OTHER STATIONERY
[Amend the title of 3.1 to by adding ``s'' to ``Card'' to read as
follows:]
3.1 Stamped Cards
[Amend 3.1 by adding availability of stamped cards to read as
follows:]Stamped cards are available as single stamped cards, double
(reply) stamped cards, and in sheets of 40 for customer imprinting.
Single and double stamped cards are 3\1/2\ inches high by 5\1/2\ inches
long. Sheets must be cut to this size so that the stamp is in the upper
right corner of each card. The USPS does not offer personalized stamped
cards (cards imprinted with a return address).
* * * * *
P100 First-Class Mail
* * * * *
4.0 PRESORTED RATE
* * * * *
4.2 Affixed Postage
Unless permitted by other standards or by Business Mailer Support
(BMS), USPS headquarters, when precanceled postage or meter stamps are
used, only one payment method may be used in a mailing and each piece
must bear postage under one of these conditions:
* * * * *
[Amend 4.2b to change the ``nonstandard'' surcharge to the
``nonmachinable'' surcharge to read as follows:]
b. A precanceled stamp or the full postage at the lowest First-
Class first ounce rate applicable to the mailing job, and full postage
on metered pieces for any additional ounce(s) or nonmachinable
surcharge; postage documentation may be required by standard.
* * * * *
[[Page 4601]]
5.0 AUTOMATION RATES
* * * * *
5.2 Postage Affixed, Generally
Unless permitted by other standards or by Business Mailer Support
(BMS), USPS headquarters, when precanceled postage or meter stamps are
used, only one payment method may be used in a mailing and each piece
must bear postage under one of these conditions:
[Amend 5.2b to change the ``nonstandard'' surcharge to the
``nonmachinable'' surcharge to read as follows:]
* * * * *
b. Flat-size pieces must bear enough postage to include the
nonmachinable surcharge if applicable.
* * * * *
P200 Periodicals
1.0 BASIC INFORMATION
* * * * *
1.5 Postage Statement and Documentation
[Amend the second sentence of 1.5 by adding ``DADC'' to read as
follows:]
* * * The postage statement must be supported by documentation as
required by P012 and the rate claimed unless each piece in the mailing
is of identical weight and the pieces are separated when presented for
acceptance by rate, by zone (including separation by In-County and
Outside-County rates), and by entry discount (i.e., DDU, DSCF, and
DADC). * * *
* * * * *
[Redesignate 1.8 through 1.12 as 1.9 through 1.13, respectively. Add
new 1.8 to read as follows:]
1.8 Waiving Nonadvertising Rates
Instead of marking a copy of each issue to show the advertising and
nonadvertising portions, the publisher may pay postage at the
advertising zoned rates on both portions of all issues or editions of a
Periodicals publication (except a requester publication). This option
does not apply if the rate for advertising is lower than the rate for
nonadvertising. When the amount of advertising exceeds 75%, the copies
provided to the postmaster must be marked ``Advertising over 75%.''
When the amount of advertising is under 75%, the copies provided to the
postmaster must be marked ``Advertising not over 75%'' on the first
page. The entire weight of the copy must be entered on the postage
statement in the column provided for the advertising portion. The words
``Over 75%'' or ``Not over 75%'' (as applicable) must be entered on the
postage statement. The word ``Waived'' must be written in the space
provided for the weight of the nonadvertising portion on the postage
statement.
* * * * *
2.0 MONTHLY POSTAGE STATEMENT
* * * * *
[Remove 2.4 and redesignate 2.5 as 2.4.]
* * * * *
P600 Standard Mail
* * * * *
2.0 PRESORTED AND ENHANCED CARRIER ROUTE RATES
2.1 Identical-Weight Pieces
[Amend 2.1 to include a reference to surcharges to read as follows:]
Mailings of identical-weight pieces may have postage affixed to
each piece at the exact rate for which the piece qualifies, or each
piece in the mailing may have postage affixed at the lowest rate
applicable to pieces in the mailing or mailing job. Alternatively, a
nondenominated precanceled stamp may be affixed to every piece in the
mailing or mailing job, or each piece may bear a permit imprint. If
exact postage is not affixed, all additional postage and surcharges
must be paid at the time of mailing with an advance deposit account or
with a meter strip affixed to the required postage statement. If exact
postage is not affixed, documentation meeting the standards in P012
must be submitted to substantiate the additional postage unless the
pieces are identical weight and separated by rate level at the time of
mailing.
* * * * *
P900 Special Postage Payment Systems
P910 Manifest Mailing System (MMS)
* * * * *
3.0 KEYLINE
* * * * *
Exhibit 3.3a Rate Category Abbreviations--First-Class Mail
[Amend Exhibit 3.3a by removing the entry for automation basic; adding
entries for the new AADC, ADC, mixed AADC, and mixed ADC rates to read
as follows:]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Code Rate category
------------------------------------------------------------------------
AA..................................... Automation AADC.
AD..................................... Automation ADC.
AM..................................... Automation Mixed AADC.
AZ..................................... Automation Mixed ADC.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exhibit 3.3b Rate Category Abbreviations--Standard Mail
[Amend Exhibit 3.3b by adding entries for the new AADC and mixed AADC
rates to read as follows:]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Code Rate category
------------------------------------------------------------------------
AA..................................... Automation AADC.
AM..................................... Automation Mixed AADC.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
P960 First-Class or Standard Mail Mailings With Different Payment
Methods
* * * * *
3.0 PRODUCING THE COMBINED MAILING
3.1 Mailer Quality Control
Before merging different pieces into a combined presorted mailing,
the mailer must have quality control procedures to ensure that:
* * * * *
[Amend 3.1i to clarify which markings must appear on mailpieces to read
as follows:]
When markings are applied by an MLOCR, they properly show the
applicable Identifier/Rate Code described in 3.2 that specifies the
Product Month Designator, MASS/FASTforward system identifier, the
method of postage payment, and the rate of postage affixed for metered
and precanceled stamp mail or other postage information for permit
imprint mail. These markings must be linked by the computer system to
the rate entered by the mailer when the pieces are run through the
MLOCR.
[Amend the title and contents of 3.2 to show how markings are applied
to pieces in a combined mailing and to add new codes for First-Class
Mail and Standard Mail to read as follows:]
3.2 Rate and Postage Marking
The following markings must be applied to each piece in the mailing
when markings are applied by an MLOCR. These seven character markings
provide the automation rate marking information and additional
information including the Product Month Designator, MASS/FASTforward
(FF) System Identifier, Manufacturer Code, and Rate Marking
information. The Product Month Designator is the first character
position and represents the product month of the ZIP+4 file installed
with the system's lookup engine responsible for the ZIP+4 assignment.
Each product month is designated by a character ``A'' through ``L''
(with ``A'' meaning January, ``B''
[[Page 4602]]
meaning February, etc.). The MASS/FF System Identifier is characters 2
through 4 and represents the certified system identifier responsible
for the ZIP+4 assignment. There is a one-to-one relationship between
the certified system serial number and the assigned identifier. The
Manufacturer Code is the fifth character and is assigned at the
manufacturer's discretion with one exception; the character ``Z'' is
assigned when the mailpiece contains a delivery point barcode in the
address block and the MLOCR does not perform a lookup but simply
reproduces the address block barcode. The Rate Marking is represented
in the last two characters according to the chart below. The applicable
marking must appear on each mailpiece in one of the locations
authorized under M012.
a. First-Class Mail.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rate marking
--------------------------------------------- Rate and postage category
Letters Flats
------------------------------------------------------------------------
P1................... F1................... Barcoded 1-ounce Permit
Imprint.
P2................... F2................... Barcoded 2-ounce Permit
Imprint.
P3................... F3................... Barcoded 3-ounce Permit
Imprint.
P4................... F4................... Barcoded 4-ounce Permit
Imprint.
F5................... Barcoded 5-ounce Permit
Imprint.
F6................... Barcoded 6-ounce Permit
Imprint.
F7................... Barcoded 7-ounce Permit
Imprint.
F8................... Barcoded 8-ounce Permit
Imprint.
F9................... Barcoded 9-ounce Permit
Imprint.
F10.................. Barcoded 10-ounce Permit
Imprint.
F11.................. Barcoded 11-ounce Permit
Imprint.
F12.................. Barcoded 12-ounce Permit
Imprint.
F13.................. Barcoded 13-ounce Permit
Imprint.
M5................... MF................... Barcoded 5-Digit Meter
Postage Affixed.
M3................... MT................... Barcoded 3-Digit Meter
Postage Affixed.
MA................... MD................... Barcoded AADC Meter
Postage Affixed.
MM................... MX................... Barcoded Mixed AADC Meter
Postage Affixed.
MP................... MP................... Presorted Meter Postage
Affixed.
S1................... ..................... Precanceled $0.15 Stamp
Affixed (card).
S1................... ..................... Precanceled $0.23 Stamp
Affixed.
S2................... ..................... Precanceled $0.25 Stamp
Affixed.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
b. Standard Mail (letters only).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rate marking Rate and postage category
------------------------------------------------------------------------
PI............................... Barcoded Regular Permit Imprint.
NI............................... Barcoded Nonprofit Permit Imprint.
M5............................... Barcoded 5-Digit Meter Regular
Postage Affixed.
N5............................... Barcoded 5-Digit Meter Nonprofit
Postage Affixed.
M3............................... Barcoded 3-Digit Meter Regular
Postage Affixed.
N3............................... Barcoded 3-Digit Meter Nonprofit
Postage Affixed.
MA............................... Barcoded AADC Meter Regular Postage
Affixed.
NA............................... Barcoded AADC Meter Nonprofit Postage
Affixed.
MM............................... Barcoded Mixed AADC Meter Regular
Postage Affixed.
NM............................... Barcoded Mixed AADC Meter Nonprofit
Postage Affixed.
M8............................... Presorted 3/5 Meter Regular Postage
Affixed.
N8............................... Presorted 3/5 Meter Nonprofit Postage
Affixed.
M9............................... Presorted Basic Meter Regular Postage
Affixed.
N9............................... Presorted Basic Meter Nonprofit
Postage Affixed.
SR............................... Precanceled Regular Rate Stamp
Affixed.
SN............................... Precanceled Nonprofit Stamp Affixed.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
R Rates and Fees
The proposed rates and fees are printed at the end of this notice.
* * * * *
S Special Services
S000 Miscellaneous Services
S010 Indemnity Claims
* * * * *
2.0 GENERAL FILING INSTRUCTIONS
* * * * *
2.12 Payable Express Mail Claims
[Amend 2.12a and 2.12a(4) by replacing $500 with $100. No other changes
to text.]
* * * * *
S020 Money Orders and Other Services
1.0 ISSUING MONEY ORDERS
* * * * *
1.2 Purchase Restrictions
A postal customer may buy multiple money orders at the same time,
in the same or differing amounts, subject to these restrictions:
[Amend item 1.2a by increasing the maximum amount of a single money
order from $700 to $1,000 to read as follows:]
a. The maximum amount of any single money order is $1,000.
* * * * *
S500 Special Services for Express Mail
1.0 AVAILABLE SERVICES
* * * * *
1.5 Insurance and Indemnity
Express Mail is insured against loss, damage, or rifling, subject
to these standards:
* * * * *
[Amend 1.5c by changing ``$500'' to ``$100'' to read as follows:]
c. Merchandise insurance coverage is provided against loss, damage,
or rifling and is limited to a maximum liability of $100. (Additional
insurance under 1.6 may be purchased up to a maximum coverage of $5,000
for merchandise valued at more than $100.) Nonnegotiable documents are
insured against loss, damage, or rifling, up to $100 per piece, subject
to the maximum limit per occurrence as defined in S010.
* * * * *
1.6 Additional Insurance
[Amend the first sentence of 1.6 by replacing ``$500'' with ``$100'' to
read as follows:]
Additional insurance, up to a maximum coverage of $5,000, may be
purchased for merchandise valued at more than $100 sent by Express
Mail. * * *
* * * * *
S900 Special Postal Services
S910 Security and Accountability
S911 Registered Mail
1.0 BASIC INFORMATION
* * * * *
[Redesignate 1.5 as 1.6. Add new 1.5 to read as follows:]
1.5 Service Option
Mailers can access delivery information on the Internet at
www.usps.com by providing the article number of the registered
mailpiece.
* * * * *
S912 Certified Mail
1.0 BASIC INFORMATION
* * * * *
[Redesignate 1.3 through 1.7 as 1.4 through 1.8, respectively, and add
new 1.3 to read as follows:]
1.3 Service Option
Mailers can access delivery information on the Internet at
[[Page 4603]]
www.usps.com by providing the article number of the certified
mailpiece.
* * * * *
S915 Return Receipt
1.0 BASIC INFORMATION
* * * * *
[Redesignate 1.3 through 1.7 as 1.4 through 1.8, respectively, and add
new 1.3 to read as follows:]
1.3 Service Option
Electronic return receipts are available to mailers who provide an
e-mail address at the point of purchase, or preregister on the Internet
at www.usps.com. The delivery date, time, ZIP Code, and a digitized
image of the recipient's signature are sent automatically to the sender
by secure e-mail after delivery of the mail (available Fall 2002).
* * * * *
2.0 OBTAINING SERVICE
* * * * *
2.2 After Mailing
[Amend the first paragraph of 2.2 to read as follows:]
The mailer may request a delivery record after mailing for Express
Mail, certified mail, registered mail, COD mail, and mail insured for
more than $50. When a delivery record is available, the USPS provides
the mailer information from that record, including to whom the mail was
delivered, the signature, and the date of delivery. The mailer requests
a delivery record by completing Form 3811-A, paying the appropriate fee
in R900, and submitting the request to the appropriate office as
follows: * * *
* * * * *
[Delete 2.2b, redesignate item 2.2c as 2.2b, and revise to read as
follows:]
b. For all other items, send the form to any post office.
[Redesignate 2.3 as 2.4 and add new 2.3 to read as follows:]
2.3 Internet Purchase of Return Receipt After Mailing
Return receipts after mailing will be available for purchase over
the Internet at www.usps.com using a credit card. The mailer initiates
the request and fills out the necessary information on the Internet.
Once the request is made, delivery and signature information is sent to
the mailer via fax or mail (available Fall 2002).
* * * * *
S918 Delivery Confirmation
1.0 BASIC INFORMATION
* * * * *
1.2 Eligible Matter
[Amend 1.2 by adding First-Class Mail parcels and limiting Package
Services to parcels to read as follows:]
Delivery Confirmation service is available for First-Class Mail
parcels, Priority Mail items, Standard Mail pieces subject to the
residual shape surcharge (electronic option only), and Package Services
parcels (electronic option only). For the purposes of adding Delivery
Confirmation service, a First-Class Mail or Package Services parcel
must meet the definition in C100.5.0 or C700.1.0, as appropriate.
* * * * *
S919 Signature Confirmation
1.0 BASIC INFORMATION
* * * * *
1.2 Eligible Matter
[Amend 1.2 by adding First-Class Mail parcels and limiting Package
Services to parcels to read as follows:]
Signature Confirmation is available for First-Class Mail parcels,
Priority Mail items, and Package Services parcels. For the purposes of
adding Signature Confirmation service, a First-Class Mail or Package
Services parcel must meet the definition in C100.5.0 or C700.1.0, as
appropriate.
* * * * *
The proposed rate and fees that would be printed as the R Module
follow:
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P
[[Page 4604]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.005
[[Page 4605]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.006
[[Page 4606]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.007
[[Page 4607]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.008
[[Page 4608]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.009
[[Page 4609]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.010
[[Page 4610]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.011
[[Page 4611]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.012
[[Page 4612]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.013
[[Page 4613]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.014
[[Page 4614]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.015
[[Page 4615]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.016
[[Page 4616]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.017
[[Page 4617]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.018
[[Page 4618]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.019
[[Page 4619]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.020
[[Page 4620]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.021
[[Page 4621]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.022
[[Page 4622]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.023
[[Page 4623]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.024
[[Page 4624]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.025
[[Page 4625]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.026
[[Page 4626]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.027
[[Page 4627]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.028
[[Page 4628]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.029
[[Page 4629]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.030
[[Page 4630]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.031
[[Page 4631]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.032
[[Page 4632]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.033
[[Page 4633]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.034
[[Page 4634]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.035
[[Page 4635]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.036
[[Page 4636]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.037
[[Page 4637]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.038
[[Page 4638]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.039
[[Page 4639]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.040
[[Page 4640]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP30JA02.041
[FR Doc. 02-2177 Filed 1-29-02; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-C