Federal Register, Volume 61 Issue 159 (Thursday, August 15, 1996)

[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 159 (Thursday, August 15, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 42478-42489]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-20816]

[[Page 42477]]

_______________________________________________________________________

Part III

Postal Service

_______________________________________________________________________

39 CFR Part 111

Classification Reform; Implementation Standards; Final Rule

Federal Register / Vol. 61, No. 159 / Thursday, August 15, 1996 /
Rules and Regulations

[[Page 42478]]

POSTAL SERVICE

39 CFR Part 111

Classification Reform; Implementation Standards

AGENCY: Postal Service.

ACTION: Final rule with request for comments.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This final rule sets forth the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM)
standards adopted by the Postal Service to implement the Decision of
the Governors of the United States Postal Service on the Recommended
Decision of the Postal Rate Commission on Nonprofit Standard Mail,
Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail, Nonprofit Periodicals,
and Within County Periodicals, Docket No. MC96-2, Classification Reform
II. This final rule also contains the phased rates being implemented
both for those subclasses as well as for Classroom Periodicals and
Library Mail.

DATES: The final rule is effective October 6, 1996. Comments on the
standards for Classroom Periodicals as discussed in Supplementary
Information must be received on or before September 5, 1996.

ADDRESSES: Written comments should be mailed or delivered to the
Manager, Customer Mail Preparation and Standards, U.S. Postal Service,
475 L'Enfant Plaza SW, Room 6830, Washington DC 20260-2405. Copies of
all written comments will be available at the above address for
inspection and photocopying between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through
Friday.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Leo F. Raymond, (202) 268-5199.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On April 4, 1996, pursuant to its authority
under 39 U.S.C. 3621, et seq., the Postal Service filed with the Postal
Rate Commission (PRC) a request for a recommended decision on several
mail classification reform proposals for nonprofit Periodicals and
Standard Mail (Classification Reform II). The PRC designated the filing
as Docket No. MC96-2. On April 11, 1996, the PRC published a notice of
the filing, with a description of the Postal Service's proposals, in
the Federal Register (61 FR 16129-16146).
After an abbreviated proceeding that was made possible by
settlement between many of the intervenors and the Postal Service, the
PRC issued its Opinion and Recommended Decision on Docket No. MC96-2 on
July 19, 1996. In that document, the PRC favorably recommended what the
Postal Service had proposed, with the exception of those provisions in
the Classroom Periodicals rate schedule; the PRC reopened the record in
Docket No. MC96-2 for further proceedings on that category of mail. On
August 6, 1996, the Governors of the Postal Service accepted the
Recommended Decision and the Board of Governors set October 6, 1996, as
the date on which the provisions of Docket No. MC96-2 would take
effect. A notice of the Decision of the Governors is published
elsewhere in this issue of the Federal Register.
As stated in the Postal Service filing, the changes proposed in
Docket No. MC96-2 deliberately mirrored those adopted by the Governors
of the Postal Service in Docket No. MC95-1. The Postal Service
correctly believed that this feature of its proposal would expedite the
ratemaking process and facilitate simplified implementing standards if
the PRC's Recommended Decision substantially supported the Postal
Service's proposal and if that Recommended Decision were approved by
the Governors and implemented by the Board of Governors.
Until July 1, 1996 (the implementation date for Classification
Reform I), rate eligibility and mail preparation standards were
generally similar for both commercial and nonprofit mail. After that
date, new standards took effect for commercial rate categories, while
the preexisting rules were generally retained for the ``unreformed''
nonprofit categories pending the resolution of Docket No. MC96-2. In
line with its proposal in Docket No. MC96-2, the Postal Service
proposed revised Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) standards for nonprofit
rate categories that would substantively eliminate the preparation and
rate eligibility distinctions between commercial and nonprofit mail
that would exist after July 1, 1996.
The DMM standards that were proposed to take effect to implement
Docket No. MC96-2 were published for public comment in the Federal
Register on June 24, 1996 (61 FR 32606-32616).
No comments were received on the proposed rule. Accordingly, it is
adopted without change as the final rule, except that comments may be
submitted on the rate provisions for Classroom Periodicals.
Accordingly, the following units of the DMM are eliminated, having
been established solely to contain former general standards that were
applicable only to nonprofit rate categories during the interim period
beginning July 1: E239, E249, E639, E649, L001, L897, L898, L899, M690,
M692, M693, M695, M696, M697, M698, M890, M891, M892, M893, M894, M895,
M896, M897, and M898. Sections of other units are also eliminated for
the same reason, as shown in the detailed DMM text below.
In addition, the existing eligibility standards in E231 and E239
are consolidated into E230, and existing E241 and E249 are consolidated
into new E240. The basic mail preparation standards in M010 through
M070, as amended in the proposed rule, are also implemented as proposed
for all nonprofit mail.
The DMM text presented below reflects other organizational
revisions that do not constitute substantive changes: E621 through E625
are consolidated into E620; E631 through E634 are consolidated into
E630; and E641 is redesignated as E640.
Most of the rates described below in the revisions to DMM module R
are Step 4 rates, not the Step 6 ``full'' rates shown in the Postal
Service's Request, recommended by the PRC, and accepted by the
Governors. ``Full'' rates are subject to incremental implementation
(phasing) under the provisions of 39 U.S.C. 3642. For certain nonletter
Nonprofit Standard Mail, however, Step 4 rates would conflict with the
provisions of subsection (d) of section 3642. Consequently, the rates
for such mail (i.e., all pieces subject to Nonprofit 3/5 and Enhanced
Carrier Route nonletter rates) have been set at the Step 6 ``full''
rates. Compared with the tentative rates published in the June 24
Federal Register, this results in different rates for all Nonprofit 3/5
and Enhanced Carrier Route rate nonletter-size pieces. Within the
Nonprofit subclass, it also results in a difference in pound rates
between Basic rate and 3/5 rate pieces subject to nonletter rates.
The ``breakpoint'' for Nonprofit Standard Mail is also amended,
based on the rates in Docket No. MC96-2 and the implementation of Step
6 rates as discussed above. (Standard Mail (A) is subject to postage at
either a minimum rate per piece or a compound rate consisting of a flat
piece charge and a pound charge that varies according to the weight of
the piece, whichever is higher. The breakpoint is the calculated piece
weight at or below which the piece is subject to the minimum per piece
rate; above it, the piece/pound rate must be paid. Because the
breakpoint is based on the mathematical relationship of specific rate
elements, it is adjusted whenever rates are changed.) The
implementation of Step 6 rates has caused a slight decrease from the
breakpoint for Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail rates

[[Page 42479]]

published in the proposed rule. As shown below, that breakpoint is set
at 0.2084 pound (3.3348 ounces), 0.0036 ounce less than in the proposed
rule.
Because the PRC's Recommended Decision, as accepted and implemented
by the Governors, excludes rate changes for Classroom Periodicals that
had been proposed by the Postal Service, the rates for Classroom
Periodicals in DMM module R are revised to reflect only the Step 4
rates separately scheduled to take effect October 6, 1996, as
prescribed by the Governors of the Postal Service. Under the same
scheduled advancement to Step 4, revised rates for Library Mail also
take effect October 6, 1996. Although not part of Docket No. MC96-2 or
this rulemaking, the revised Library Mail rates are shown below as
information to readers.
The PRC's Recommended Decision leaves the rate schedule for
Classroom Periodicals unchanged, retaining ZIP+4 Classroom rates.
Because of this difference from what the Postal Service had proposed in
its request and in the proposed rule, this final rule is amended to
retain access to ZIP+4 rates for Classroom Periodicals in a way that
minimizes the impact of those provisions on the Postal Service's
efforts to simplify DMM standards for rate eligibility and mail
preparation. Therefore, the Postal Service adopts standards for ZIP+4
Classroom rate mail that are different from those published in DMM
Issue 50. Because these standards were not part of the June 24 proposed
rule, the Postal Service will accept further comments on those
standards from interested parties for an additional 21 days.
In general, the Postal Service establishes eligibility standards
for ZIP+4 Classroom rate mail that parallel those for other automation
rate Periodicals. Mail preparation standards for ZIP+4 Classroom rate
mail would be essentially similar to those for upgradable mail in other
classes, except a ZIP+4 code would be required in the address. The
Postal Service anticipates minimal adverse impact from this proposal on
the mailing community, given the applicability of ZIP+4 rates to only
letter-size pieces and the likely absence of a significant volume of
letter-size mail in the Classroom Periodicals subclass.
The Postal Service is also revising the standard that prohibits the
use of certain nonpaper, plastic-like materials (such as spun-bonded
olefin) that do not accept the water-based ink used by the Postal
Service to spray barcodes on mail. The current prohibition applies to
pieces claimed at ZIP+4 rates, but ZIP+4 rates were eliminated for
First-Class Mail, Regular Periodicals, and Regular Standard Mail in
MC95-1, and a comparable proposal was advanced in MC96-2 for Preferred
Periodicals and Nonprofit Standard Mail. Nonetheless, the Postal
Service remains interested in optimizing its ability to ``upgrade''
(i.e., spray a barcode on) that volume of customer mail that was
formerly prepared to qualify for the ZIP+4 rates (e.g., compatible with
automated address recognition and automated processing) and that will
not hereafter be barcoded before entry into the mailstream. For that
reason, the implementing standards for MC95-1 and those adopted by this
notice for MC96-2 prescribe simpler preparation standards for
``upgradable'' mail than for other nonupgradable pieces. Because the
Postal Service seeks to barcode this mail by means similar to those
used for ZIP+4 rate mail, the Postal Service will continue to ban the
use of certain nonpaper envelope materials for ``upgradable'' mail as
it does now for ZIP+4 rate pieces. This ban is represented by the
revision to C830.6.2 shown below.
All references to DMM sections shown in this rule are based on DMM
Issue 50 (July 1, 1996).

List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111

Postal Service.

For the reasons discussed above, the Postal Service hereby adopts
the following amendments to the Domestic Mail Manual, which is
incorporated by reference in the Code of Federal Regulations (see 39
CFR part 111).

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, 3001-
3011, 3201-3219, 3403-3406, 3621, 3626, 5001.

2. Revise the following sections of the Domestic Mail Manual as set
forth below:
A Addressing

A000 Basic Addressing

A010 General Addressing Standards

* * * * *
4.0 Return Address
* * * * *
[Revise the heading and text of 4.5 to read as follows:]

4.5 Upgradable Mail

The return address on upgradable mail must be outside the OCR read
area. If placed on the front of the mailpiece, the return address must
be in the top left corner. It must extend no farther than half the
length of the piece from the left edge and no lower than one-third the
height of the piece from the top edge (see Exhibit 4.5).
* * * * *

A800 Addressing for Automation

1.0 Accuracy

1.1 Basic Standards

[Revise 1.1 to read as follows:]
To qualify for automation rates, addresses must be sufficiently
complete to enable matching to the current USPS ZIP+4 File when used
with current CASS-certified address matching software. Standardized
address elements are not required.
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of A900 to read as follows:]

A900 Customer Support

* * * * *

A950 Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS)

* * * * *
3.0 Date of Address Matching and Coding

3.1 Update Standards

[Amend 3.1 by revising the second sentence to read as follows:]
* * * 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. * * *
* * * * *
C Characteristics and Content
* * * * *

C800 Automation-Compatible Mail

C810 Letters and Cards

* * * * *
2.0 Dimensions
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 2.3 to read as follows:]

2.3 Maximum Weight

[Revise 2.3 to read as follows:]
Maximum weight limits are as follows:
a. 2.5 ounces: upgradable Presorted First-Class Mail, ZIP+4
Classroom Periodicals, and upgradable nonautomation Standard Mail.
b. 3 ounces: automation First-Class Mail, automation Periodicals,
and automation Standard Mail.
c. 3.3062 ounces: automation Enhanced Carrier Route heavy letters,
subject to 7.5.

[[Page 42480]]

d. 3.3087 ounces: automation Regular Standard Mail heavy letters,
subject to 7.5.
e. 3.3348 ounces: automation Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route heavy
letters, subject to 7.5.
f. 3.3407 ounces: automation First-Class Mail, automation
Periodicals, and automation Nonprofit Standard Mail heavy letters,
subject to 7.5.
* * * * *
8.0 Enclosed Reply Cards and Envelopes

8.1 Basic Standard

[Revise 8.1 to read as follows:]
Effective January 1, 1997 (or March 1, 1997, for Preferred
Periodicals and Nonprofit Standard Mail), all letter-size reply cards
and envelopes (business reply, courtesy reply, and metered reply mail)
provided as enclosures in automation First-Class Mail, automation
Periodicals, and automation Standard Mail (A), and addressed for return
to a domestic delivery address, must meet the applicable standards in
1.0 through 7.0, bear a facing identification mark (FIM) meeting the
standards in 8.2, and bear the correct delivery point barcode (or, for
business reply mail (BRM), the correct ZIP+4 barcode) for the delivery
address on the reply piece as defined by the USPS and subject to the
barcode standards in C840. The mailer must certify that these standards
have been met when the corresponding mail (in which the reply pieces
are enclosed) is presented to the USPS. BRM pieces must also meet the
applicable standards in S922.
* * * * *

C830 OCR Standards

* * * * *
6.0 USPS Water-based Barcode Ink
* * * * *

6.2 Nonpaper Material

[Revise 6.2 to read as follows:]
Certain nonpaper, plastic-like material (such as spun-bonded
olefin) is not acceptable for upgradable pieces unless approved by USPS
Engineering.
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of C840 to read as follows:]

C840 Barcoding Standards

* * * * *
2.0 Barcode Location--Letter-Size Pieces

2.1 Barcode Clear Zone

[Amend 2.1 by revising the first sentence to read as follows:]
Each letter-size piece in an automation rate mailing, each piece of
ZIP+4 Classroom Periodicals, and each piece of upgradable Presorted
First-Class Mail or upgradable Standard Mail (A) must have a barcode
clear zone unless the piece bears a DPBC in the address block. * * *

2.2 General Standards

[Replace 2.2, 2.2a, 2.2b, and 2.2c with new 2.2 to read as follows:]
In automation rate mailings, pieces weighing 3 ounces or less may
bear a DPBC either in the address block or in the barcode clear zone;
pieces weighing more than 3 ounces (up to the maximum weight permitted
by C810) must bear a DPBC in the address block.
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 8.0 to read as follows:]
8.0 5-Digit and ZIP+4 Barcodes

8.1 Automation Pieces

[Replace 8.1, 8.1a, 8.1b, and 8.1c with new 8.1 to read as follows:]
Except under 8.3, letter-size pieces in automation rate mailings
may not bear a 5-digit or ZIP+4 barcode in the lower right corner
(barcode clear zone); such pieces may bear a 5-digit or ZIP+4 barcode
in the address block only if a DPBC appears in the lower right corner.
Except under 8.3, flat-size pieces may not bear a 5-digit barcode.
* * * * *

8.3 Temporary Exception to Barcoding

[Revise 8.3 to read as follows:]
Until January 1, 1997, up to 10% of the pieces in an automation
Periodicals mailing of flat-size pieces may be prepared with only a 5-
digit barcode (subject to C840); and up to 10% of the pieces in an
automation Periodicals mailing of letter-size pieces may be prepared
without a barcode or with only a ZIP+4 barcode (subject to C840).
Pieces within this 10% allowance must be combined and presorted with
the rest of the mailing, with postage paid at the applicable
nonautomation Periodicals rate and supported by documentation under
former M893 (letters) or M897 (flats).
* * * * *
E Eligibility
* * * * *

E200 Periodicals

E210 Basic Standards

E211 All Periodicals

* * * * *
14.0 Basic Rate Eligibility
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 14.3 to read as follows:]

14.3 Adjustments and Discounts

[Replace 14.3, 14.3a, 14.3b, 14.3c, and 14.3d with new 14.3 to read as
follows:]
Postage for Periodicals is reduced by all applicable adjustments
and discounts. The nonadvertising adjustment applies to the outside-
county piece rate charges and is computed under P013. Presort and
automation discounts are available under E230 and E240, respectively.
Destination entry discounts are available under E250 for copies entered
at specific USPS facilities.
* * * * *

E230 Nonautomation Rates

[Remove E239 and redesignate E231 as E230.]
1.0 General Information

1.1 Standards

[Amend 1.1 by replacing the reference ``M210'' with ``M200'' to read as
follows:]
The standards for presort rates are in addition to the basic
standards for Periodicals in E210, the standards for other rates or
discounts claimed, and the applicable preparation standards in M200,
M810, or M820. Not all combinations of presort level, automation, and
destination entry discounts are permitted.
* * * * *
2.0 Carrier Route Rates
* * * * *

2.2 Eligibility

[Amend 2.2 by replacing the reference ``M210'' with ``M200'' in the
introductory text to read as follows:]
Preparation to qualify eligible pieces for carrier route rates is
optional and is subject to M200. Carrier route sort need not be done
for all carrier routes in a 5-digit area. Specific rate eligibility is
subject to these standards:
* * * * *
3.0 3/5 Rates
[Amend 3.0 by revising the introductory text to read as follows:]
Subject to M200, 3/5 rates apply to pieces not claimed at in-county
rates, as follows:
* * * * *
4.0 Basic Rates
[Revise 4.0 to read as follows:]

[[Page 42481]]

Basic rates apply to pieces prepared under M200 but not claimed at
Carrier Route or 3/5 rates.
[Redesignate current 5.0 and 6.0 as 6.0 and 7.0, respectively, and
revise internal references accordingly; add new 5.0 to read as
follows:]
5.0 In-County Rates
In-county Basic rates apply to all pieces eligible for in-county
rates that are not also eligible under 2.0 for in-county Carrier Route
rates.
* * * * *

E240 Automation Rates

[Remove E249 and redesignate E241 as E240.]
1.0 Basic Standards

1.1 All Pieces

[Amend 1.1 by revising the introductory text to read as follows:]
Except for Classroom Periodicals under 3.0, all pieces in an
automation Periodicals mailing must:
* * * * *

1.2 Enclosed Reply Cards and Envelopes

[Revise 1.2 to read as follows:]
Effective January 1, 1997 (or March 1, 1997, for Preferred
Periodicals), all letter-size reply cards and envelopes (business
reply, courtesy reply, and metered reply mail) provided as enclosures
in automation Periodicals, and addressed for return to a domestic
delivery address, must meet the standards in C810 for enclosed reply
cards and envelopes. The mailer must certify that this standard has
been met when the corresponding mail (in which the reply pieces are
enclosed) is presented to the USPS.

1.3 Temporary Exception to Barcoding

[Revise 1.3 to read as follows:]
Until January 1, 1997, up to 10% of the pieces in an automation
Periodicals mailing of flat-size pieces may be prepared with only a 5-
digit barcode (subject to C840); and up to 10% of the pieces in an
automation Periodicals mailing of letter-size pieces may be prepared
without a barcode or with only a ZIP+4 barcode (subject to C840).
Pieces within this 10% allowance must be combined and presorted with
the rest of the mailing, with postage paid at the applicable
nonautomation Periodicals rate and supported by documentation under
former M893 (letters) or M897 (flats).
[Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 Rate Application--Except Classroom Periodicals
[Redesignate current 2.1a, 2.1b, and 2.1c as 2.1b, 2.1d, and 2.1e,
respectively, and revise redesignated 2.1b and add new 2.1a and 2.1c to
read as follows:]

2.1 Letters

Automation rates apply to each letter-size piece that is sorted
under M810 into the corresponding qualifying groups:
a. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 5-digit trays qualify for the 5-
digit automation in-county rate.
b. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 5-digit or unique 3-digit trays
qualify for the 3/5 automation Regular or Nonprofit rate, as
applicable.
c. Groups of 150 or more pieces in unique 3-digit trays qualify for
the 3-digit automation in-county rate.
d. Pieces for a unique 3-digit destination that is part of a 3-
digit scheme group in L003 qualify for the 3/5 automation rate when
placed in a 3-digit scheme tray if grouped separately from pieces for
other 3-digit areas.
e. Groups of fewer than 150 pieces in origin/entry 3-digit/scheme
trays and groups of 150 or more pieces in other 3-digit, 3-digit
scheme, or AADC trays and all pieces in mixed AADC trays qualify for
the Basic automation rate.
* * * * *
[Add new 3.0 to read as follows:]
3.0 Classroom Periodicals

3.1 ZIP+4 Rates

ZIP+4 Classroom Periodicals must meet the basic standards in 1.1a
through 1.1f and 1.2, except each piece must meet the physical
standards for letter-size mail in C810 and the standards for OCR
processing in C830, must bear the correct ZIP+4 code in the address,
and must have address elements in the standardized format placed in the
OCR read area, under A010. ZIP+4 rates apply to each letter-size piece
that is sorted under M810 into the corresponding qualifying groups:
a. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 5-digit or unique 3-digit trays
qualify for the 3/5 ZIP+4 rate.
b. Groups of fewer than 150 pieces in origin/entry 3-digit trays
and groups of 150 or more pieces in other 3-digit or AADC trays, and
all pieces in mixed AADC trays qualify for the Basic ZIP+4 rate.

3.2 Barcoded Rates

Barcoded Classroom Periodicals must meet the basic standards in
1.0. Barcoded rates apply to each letter-size piece that is sorted
under M810 into the corresponding qualifying groups:
a. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 5-digit trays qualify for the 5-
digit Barcoded rate.
b. Groups of 150 or more pieces in unique 3-digit trays qualify for
the 3-digit Barcoded rate.
c. Pieces for a unique 3-digit destination that is part of a 3-
digit scheme group in L003 qualify for the 3-digit Barcoded rate when
placed in a 3-digit scheme tray if grouped separately from pieces for
other 3-digit areas.
d. Groups of fewer than 150 pieces in origin/entry 3-digit/scheme
trays and groups of 150 or more pieces in other 3-digit, 3-digit
scheme, or AADC trays and all pieces in mixed AADC trays qualify for
the Basic Barcoded rate.

E250 Destination Entry

[Amend 2.1 by replacing the reference ``M210'' with ``M200'' and by
removing the phrase ``or Level I or K''; no other change to text.]
* * * * *

E600 Standard Mail

E610 Basic Standards

* * * * *

E612 Additional Standards for Standard Mail (A)

* * * * *
4.0 Bulk Rates
* * * * *

4.2 Minimum Per Piece Rates

[Revise 4.2 to read as follows:]
The minimum per piece rates (i.e., the minimum postage that must be
paid for each piece) apply to Enhanced Carrier Route rate pieces
weighing no more than 0.2066 pound rounded (3.3062 ounces rounded);
Regular nonautomation and automation rate pieces weighing no more than
0.2068 pound rounded (3.3087 ounces rounded); Nonprofit Enhanced
Carrier Route rate pieces weighing no more than 0.2084 pound rounded
(3.3348 ounces rounded); and Nonprofit nonautomation and automation
rate pieces weighing no more than 0.2088 pound rounded (3.3407 ounces
rounded). The base postage rate applies to pieces meeting minimum
preparation standards (e.g., Basic rate) and may be reduced if
additional standards are met. In applying the minimum per piece rates,
mail is categorized as either letters or other than letters, based on
whether the mail meets the letter-size standard in C050. That standard
disregards address placement, except that, for automation rates, mail
may be assigned to the other than letters category based

[[Page 42482]]

on the standards in C820. Address placement is also used to apply the
aspect ratio standard in C810 to letter-size automation rates.
* * * * *

4.7 Annual Fees

[Replace 4.7, 4.7a, and 4.7b with new 4.7 to read as follows:]
Bulk rate Standard Mail (A) is subject to an annual mailing fee
once each 12-month period. The fee may be paid in advance only for the
next year and only during the last 30 days of the current service
period. The fee charged is that in effect on the date of payment. Each
mailer who enters mail at bulk rates paid with meter or precanceled
stamps must pay an annual bulk mailing fee at each post office of
mailing; a mailer paying this fee may enter clients' mail as well as
the mailer's own. The mailer whose permit imprint appears on pieces in
a mailing paid with a permit imprint must show that permit number on
the postage statement and must pay the annual bulk mailing fee for that
permit; this fee is in addition to the fee for an application to use
permit imprints.
* * * * *

4.9 Preparation

[Amend 4.9 by revising the introductory text and 4.9c to read as
follows:]
Each bulk rate mailing is subject to these general standards:
* * * * *
c. The same mailing may not contain both automation and
nonautomation rate pieces.
* * * * *

E620 Nonautomation Nonpresort Rates

[Redesignate E621 as E620.1.0; revise to read as follows:]
1.0 Single-Piece Standard Mail (A)
[Redesignate E621.1.1 through 1.6 as E620.1.1 through 1.6,
respectively; no other change to text.]
[Redesignate E622 as E620.2.0 and revise internal references
accordingly; revise to read as follows:]
2.0 Parcel Post
[Redesignate chart under 2.1 as Exhibit 2.4, with the heading ``BMC/ASF
Service Areas,'' and revise redesignated 2.1 to read as follows:]

2.1 Basic Standards

Any Standard Mail (B) matter may be mailed at parcel post rates,
subject to the basic standards in E611 and E613.
[Redesignate E622.1.2 and 1.3 as E620.2.2 and 2.3, respectively.]
* * * * *
[Redesignate E622.2.0, 3.0, and 4.0 as E620.2.4, 2.5, and 2.6,
respectively, and revise internal references accordingly; no other
change to text.]

2.4 Rate Eligibility

[Add introductory text to redesignated E620.2.4 to read as follows:]
Parcel post rates are based on the zone to which the parcel is
addressed; the weight of the parcel; and whether the parcel is mailed
and delivered either within the service area of the same bulk mail
center (BMC) or auxiliary service facility (ASF) (as shown in Exhibit
2.4) or within another designated service area. Specific rates and
discounts are subject to these additional standards:
[Redesignate E622.2.1 through 2.5 as E620.2.4a through 2.4e,
respectively, and revise internal references accordingly; no other
change to text.]
* * * * *

2.5 Nonmachinable Surcharge

[Add introductory text to redesignated E620.2.5 to read as follows:]
The nonmachinable surcharge applies only to the items listed in
2.5a through 2.5i if mailed at the inter-BMC/ASF parcel post rates and
no special delivery or special handling fee is paid. The nonmachinable
surcharge applies to items within these categories:
[Remove the introductory text of E622.3.2 and redesignate E622.3.2a
through 3.2i as E620.2.5a through 2.5i, respectively.]
* * * * *

2.6 Fees

[Add introductory text to redesignated E620.2.6 to read as follows:]
Parcel post is subject to these fees, as applicable:
[Redesignate E622.4.1 and 4.2 as E620.2.6a and 2.6b, respectively.]
* * * * *
[Redesignate E623 as E620.3.0.]
3.0 Bound Printed Matter
[Redesignate E623.1.1 through 1.4 as E620.3.1 through 3.4,
respectively.]
[Redesignate E624 as E620.4.0.] 4.0 Special Standard Mail
[Redesignate E624.1.1 through 1.4 as E620.4.1 through 4.4,
respectively, and revise internal references accordingly; no other
change to text.]
[Redesignate E625 as E620.5.0.]
5.0 Library Mail
[Redesignate E625.1.1 through 1.7 as E620.5.1 through 5.7,
respectively, and revise internal references accordingly; no other
change to text.]

E630 Nonautomation Presort Rates

[Remove E639; redesignate E631 through E634 as E630.1.0 through 4.0,
respectively, and revise as follows:]
1.0 Regular and Nonprofit Standard Mail
[Redesignate E631.1.0 through 3.0 as E630.1.1 through 1.3,
respectively; in redesignated 1.1 and 1.2, replace the term ``Regular
Standard Mail'' with ``Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail''; in
redesignated 1.3, replace the term ``Regular rates'' with ``Regular and
Nonprofit rates''; no other change to text.]
2.0 Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail
[Redesignate E632.1.1 through 1.7 as E630.2.1 through 2.7,
respectively; in redesignated 2.3, replace the reference ``E641'' with
``E640''; redesignate E632.2.1 and 2.2 as E630.2.8 and 2.9,
respectively; revise the heading of redesignated 2.8 to read as ``Basic
Rates''; in redesignated 2.9, replace the reference ``1.6 and 1.7''
with ``2.6 and 2.7''; no other change to text.]
3.0 Bulk Bound Printed Matter
[Redesignate E633.1.1 and 1.2 as E630.3.1 and 3.2, respectively; in
redesignated 3.1, replace the phrase ``basic standards in E623'' with
``basic standards for bound printed matter in E620''; in redesignated
3.2b, replace the reference ``1.2a'' with ``3.2a''; no other change to
text.]
4.0 Presorted Special Standard Mail
[Redesignate E634.1.0 and 2.1 through 2.5 as E630.4.1 and 4.2 through
4.6, respectively.]

E640 Automation Rates

[Remove E649; redesignate E641 as E640; in 1.3, replace the term
``Regular automation rates'' with ``Automation rates''; in 1.4, replace
the term ``Regular automation rates'' with ``Automation rates.'']
[Revise the heading of 1.0 to read as follows:]
1.0 Regular and Nonprofit Rates

1.1 All Pieces

[Amend 1.1 by revising the introductory text and 1.1b to read as
follows:]
All pieces in an automation rate Regular or Nonprofit Standard
mailing must:
* * * * *
b. Be part of a single mailing of at least 200 pieces or 50 pounds
of pieces of automation rate Standard Mail

[[Page 42483]]

(Regular and Nonprofit mailings must meet separate minimum volumes).
* * * * *

1.2 Enclosed Reply Cards and Envelopes

[Revise 1.2 to read as follows:]
Effective January 1, 1997 (or March 1, 1997, for Nonprofit Standard
Mail), all letter-size reply cards and envelopes (business reply,
courtesy reply, and metered 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 must certify that this
standard has been met when the corresponding mail (in which the reply
pieces are enclosed) is presented to the USPS.
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 Enhanced Carrier Route Rates

2.1 All Pieces

[Amend 2.1 by revising the introductory text and 2.1b to read as
follows:]
All pieces in an automation rate Enhanced Carrier Route Standard
mailing (available for letters only) must:
* * * * *
b. Be part of a single mailing of at least 200 pieces or 50 pounds
of pieces of automation rate Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail
(Regular and Nonprofit mailings must meet separate minimum volumes).
* * * * *

2.4 Enclosed Reply Cards and Envelopes

[Revise 2.4 to read as follows:]
Effective January 1, 1997 (or March 1, 1997, for Nonprofit Enhanced
Carrier Route Standard Mail), all letter-size reply cards and envelopes
(business reply, courtesy reply, and metered reply mail) provided as
enclosures in automation Enhanced Carrier Route 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
must certify that this standard has been met when the corresponding
mail (in which the reply pieces are enclosed) is presented to the USPS.
* * * * *

E650 Destination Entry

* * * * *

E652 Parcel Post

[In 1.4, replace the reference ``E622'' with ``E620''; no other change
to text.]

E670 Nonprofit Standard Mail

1.0 Basic Standards

1.1 Organization Eligibility

[Revise 1.1 to read as follows:]

Only organizations that meet the standards in 2.0 or 3.0 and that
have received specific authorization from the USPS may mail eligible
matter at any Nonprofit Standard Mail rate, including Nonprofit
Enhanced Carrier Route rates.
* * * * *
L Labeling Lists
[Remove L001, L897, L898, and L899.]
M Mail Preparation and Sortation

M000 General Preparation Standards

M010 Mailpieces

M011 Basic Standards

[Revise the heading of 1.0 to read as follows:]
1.0 Terms and Conditions
* * * * *

1.2 Presort Levels

[Amend 1.2 by revising 1.2d, 1.2h, and 1.2i to read as follows:]
Terms used for presort levels are defined as follows:
* * * * *
d. 3-digit: the ZIP Code in the delivery address on all pieces
begins with the same three digits (see L002, Column A).
* * * * *
h. SCF: the separation includes pieces for two or more 3-digit
areas served by the same SCF (see L005), except that, where required or
permitted by standard, mail for a single 3-digit area may be prepared
in an SCF separation when no mail for other 3-digit ZIP Code areas is
available.
i. ADC/AADC: all pieces are addressed for delivery in the service
area of the same ADC or AADC (see L004 or L801).
* * * * *

1.4 Mailing

[Revise 1.4 to read as follows:]
A mailing is a group of pieces within the same class of mail and
processing category that may be sorted together under the applicable
standards. Other specific standards may define whether separate
mailings may be combined, palletized, reported, or deposited together.
The following types of mail may not be part of the same mailing despite
being in the same class and processing category: automation and
nonautomation mail; automation rate Enhanced Carrier Route and other
mail; any combination of Enhanced Carrier Route, Regular, Nonprofit,
and/or Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail.
* * * * *

M013 Optional Endorsement Lines

1.0 Use

1.1 Basic Standards

[Amend 1.1 by removing in the chart the entries for Optional City and
Working; by revising the parenthetical terms following the first entry
for Carrier Route to read as only ``(Periodicals)''; by revising the
parenthetical terms following the entry for SCF to read as only
``(bound printed matter)''; and by removing the parenthetical phrase
``(Except Preferred Periodicals and Nonprofit Standard Mail)''
following the entries for AADC and Mixed AADC.]
* * * * *

1.4 Rate Markings

[Amend 1.4 by replacing the term ``automation Regular Standard Mail''
with ``automation Standard Mail.'']
* * * * *

M014 Carrier Route Information Lines

1.0 Basic Information
[Amend 1.0 by replacing the terms ``carrier route and Level I/K
Periodicals'' with ``Carrier Route Periodicals.'']
* * * * *

M020 Packages and Bundles

[Remove 2.0; redesignate 3.0 and 4.0 as 2.0 and 3.0, respectively;
revise the heading of redesignated 2.0 as ``Additional Standards''
First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail (A)''; amend
redesignated 2.1c by replacing the terms ``Regular Standard Mail'' with
``Standard Mail (A)'' and ``Regular Periodicals'' with ``Periodicals'';
no other change to text.]

M030 Containers

M031 Labels

* * * * *
4.0 Pallet Labels
* * * * *

4.8 Delivery Unit, SCF, DDU, and DSCF Rates

[Revise 4.8 to read as follows:]
If a 5-digit, 3-digit, or SCF pallet contains copies claimed at
Periodicals delivery unit and SCF zone rates, or Standard Mail DDU and
DSCF rates, as applicable, the content line of the pallet label must
show the designation ``DDU/SCF,'' after the content description.
* * * * *

[[Page 42484]]

M032 Barcoded Labels

1.0 Barcoded Tray Labels

1.1 Standards

[Revise 1.1 to read as follows:]
Effective January 1, 1997, barcoded tray labels are required for
all mailings of automation rate First-Class Mail flat-size pieces and
automation rate First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail (A)
letter-size pieces. Barcoded tray labels may be used before that date
and may be used for other trayed mail. Mailer-produced barcoded tray
labels must meet the standards below. Revisions to preprinted barcoded
labels (e.g., handwritten changes) are not permitted.
* * * * *
2.0 Barcoded Sack Labels

2.1 Standards

[Revise 2.1 to read as follows:]
Effective January 1, 1997, barcoded sack labels are required for
all mailings of automation rate Periodicals and Standard Mail (A) flat-
size pieces prepared in sacks. Barcoded sack labels may be used before
that date and may be used for other sacked mail. Mailer-produced
barcoded sack labels must meet the standards below. Revisions to
preprinted barcoded labels (e.g., handwritten changes) are not
permitted.
* * * * *

M033 Sacks and Trays

[In 1.2a, replace the terms ``Regular Periodicals, and Regular and
Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail (A)'' with ``Periodicals, and bulk
rate Standard Mail (A)''; remove the last sentence of 1.2f; in 1.4,
remove the phrase and clause ``except for Preferred Periodicals and
Nonprofit Standard Mail, which are covered in 3.0 and 4.0''; in 1.7,
replace the phrase ``Except for Nonprofit Standard and Preferred
Periodicals mailings, after'' with ``After''; revise the heading of 2.0
to read as ``First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Bulk Rate Standard Mail
(A)''; remove 3.0 and 4.0; no other change to text.]

M040 Pallets

* * * * *

M045 Palletized Mailings

* * * * *
2.0 Packages
* * * * *

2.2 Size--Periodicals

[Amend 2.2 by replacing the references ``M210 and M290'' in 2.2a with
``M200'' to read as follows:]
Package size: Six-piece minimum, 20-pound maximum, except that:
a. Firm packages may contain as few as two copies of a publication
and do not have to be consolidated into bundles with other packages to
the same 5-digit destination. A firm ``package`` may be counted as one
piece for presort standards (see M200).
* * * * *
[Remove 8.0 and renumber 9.0 as 8.0 with no change to text.]
[Revise the heading of M050 to read as follows:]

M050 Delivery Sequence

[Amend 1.1 by replacing the references ``M290 or M693'' with ``M200 or
M620''; no other change to text.]

M070 Mixed Classes

* * * * *

M073 Combined Mailings of Standard Mail Machinable Parcels

[Amend 1.1 by replacing the term ``Regular Standard Mail (A)'' with
``Standard Mail (A).'']
* * * * *

M200 Periodicals (Nonautomation)

[Remove M290; redesignate M210 as M200; amend 1.1, 1.2, and 2.3
(heading and text) by replacing the term ``Regular Periodicals'' with
``Periodicals.'']
* * * * *

M600 Standard Mail (Nonautomation)

[Revise the heading of M610 to read as follows:]

M610 Single-Piece and Nonautomation Standard Mail (A)

* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 Basic Standards--Nonautomation Rates

2.1 All Mailings

[Amend 2.1 by revising the introductory text, 2.1a, and 2.1e to read as
follows:]
All nonautomation (Basic and 3/5) rate mailings are subject to
these general standards (automation rate Standard Mail must be prepared
under M810 or M820, as applicable):
a. Each mailing must meet the applicable standards in E630 and in
M010, M020, and M030.
* * * * *
e. Subject to M012, all pieces eligible for and claimed at
Nonprofit rates must be marked ``Nonprofit Organization'' (or
``Nonprofit Org.'' or ``Nonprofit''); all other pieces must be marked
``Bulk Rate'' (or ``Blk. Rt.''). In addition, pieces may be marked
``Single-Piece'' (or ``SNGLP'') under P600 to correct an incorrect rate
marking.
* * * * *

2.3 Exception--Standard Mail (A)

[In 2.3, replace the terms ``Regular Standard Mail'' with ``Standard
Mail'' and ``Regular nonletter nonautomation'' with ``nonletter
nonautomation.'']
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 3.0 to read as follows:]
3.0 Basic Preparation--Nonautomation Rate Letter-Size Pieces
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 4.0 to read as follows:]
4.0 Optional Preparation--Upgradable Nonautomation Rate Letter-Size
Pieces
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 5.0 to read as follows:]
5.0 Preparation--Nonautomation Rate Flat-Size Pieces and all Irregular
Parcels
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 6.0 to read as follows:]
6.0 Machinable Parcels
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 7.0 to read as follows:]
7.0 Bedloaded Bundles of Nonautomation Rate Flat-Size Pieces
[Amend 7.1 by replacing the term ``Regular nonautomation rate Standard
Mail (A)'' with ``nonautomation rate Standard Mail (A)''; no other
change to text.]

M620 Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail

1.0 Basic Standards

1.1 All Mailings

[Amend 1.1 by revising 1.1a and 1.1e to read as follows:]
All nonautomation rate Enhanced Carrier Route mailings are subject
to these general standards (automation rate Enhanced Carrier Route
mailings must be prepared under M810):
a. Each mailing must meet the applicable standards in E630 and in
M010, M020, and M030.
* * * * *
e. Subject to M012, all pieces eligible for and claimed at
Nonprofit rates must be marked ``Nonprofit Organization'' (or
``Nonprofit Org.'' or ``Nonprofit''); all other pieces must be marked
``Bulk Rate'' (or ``Blk. Rt.''). In addition, Basic, High Density, and
Saturation rate pieces must each be marked ``ECRLOT,'' ``ECRWSH,'' or
``ECRWSS,''

[[Page 42485]]

respectively. Pieces not claimed at the corresponding rate must not be
marked ``ECRLOT,'' ``ECRWSH,'' or ``ECRWSS'' unless single-piece rate
postage is affixed or a corrective single-piece rate marking is applied
under P600.
* * * * *

1.4 Exception--Standard Mail (A)

[Revise 1.4 to read as follows:]
When the size of the pieces in a Standard Mail (A) mailing job
enables them to qualify for Standard Mail automation rates as either
letters or flats, if part of the job is prepared as palletized flats at
automation rates for flats, the remainder may be prepared as palletized
flats at Enhanced Carrier Route nonletter rates and nonletter
nonautomation rates if the number of nonletter nonautomation rate
pieces does not exceed 10% of the total number of pieces in the entire
mailing job.
* * * * *
5.0 Residual Mail
[Amend 5.0 by replacing the term ``Regular Standard Mail rates'' with
``Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail rates, as appropriate'' to read as
follows:]
Pieces not sorted under 2.0 and either 3.0 or 4.0 must be prepared
as a separate mailing at Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail rates, as
appropriate.
* * * * *
[Remove M690, M692, M693, M695, M696, M697, and M698.]

M800 All Automation Mail

[Revise the heading of M810 to read as follows:]

M810 Letter-Size Mail

1.0 Basic Standards

1.1 Standards

[Amend 1.1 by replacing the term ``Regular Periodicals'' with
``Periodicals'' in the first sentence to read as follows:]
Letter-size automation rate First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and
Standard Mail (A) must be prepared under M810 and the eligibility
standards for the rate claimed.* * *

1.2 Mailings

[Amend 1.2 by adding the following sentence to the end of the section
to read as follows:]
* * * A Periodicals mailing may not contain both ZIP+4 Classroom
pieces and any other automation rate Periodicals.

1.3 Marking

[Revise 1.3 to read as follows:]
Except for Periodicals (which require no markings), all pieces must
be marked (subject to M012) ``AUTO'' or ``AUTOCR'' for carrier route
rate) and, as appropriate, ``Presorted'' and ``First-Class'' if First-
Class Mail; ``Nonprofit Organization'' (or ``Nonprofit Org.'' or
``Nonprofit'') if Nonprofit or Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route
Standard Mail; or ``Bulk Rate'' (or ``Blk. Rt.'') if Regular or
Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail. Pieces not claimed at automation
rates must not be marked ``AUTO'' or ``AUTOCR'' unless single-piece
rate postage is affixed or a corrective single-piece rate marking is
applied under P100 or P600.
* * * * *

1.5 Carrier Route

[Amend 1.5 by replacing the reference ``E641'' with ``E640.'']

1.6 Scheme Sortation

[Amend 1.6 by adding the following sentence to the end of the section
to read as follows:]
* * * Scheme sortation is not available for ZIP+4 Classroom
Periodicals.
* * * * *
3.0 Preparation--Periodicals

3.1 Tray Preparation

[Amend 3.1 by revising 3.1b to read as follows:]
Tray size, preparation sequence, and labeling:
* * * * *
b. 3-digit/scheme (3-digit only for ZIP+4 Classroom Periodicals):
required (150-piece minimum except no minimum for required origin/
optional entry 3-digit(s)/scheme); overflow allowed; for Line 1, use
L002, Column B (except use L002, Column A, for ZIP+4 Classroom
Periodicals).
* * * * *

3.2 Line 2

[Revise 3.2 to read as follows:]
Line 2: PER or NEWS (as appropriate) LTRS BC (except LTRS UPGR for
ZIP+4 Classroom Periodicals) and:
a. For scheme trays: SCHEME (or as shown in L002, Column B).
b. For mixed AADC trays: WKG.
4.0 Documentation
[Amend 4.0 by replacing the reference ``M210'' with ``M200.'']
[Revise the heading of M820 to read as follows:]

M820 Flat-Size Mail

1.0 Basic Standards

1.1 Standards

[Amend 1.1 by revising the first sentence to read as follows:]
Flat-size automation rate First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and
Standard Mail (A) must be prepared under M820 and the eligibility
standards for the rate claimed.* * *
* * * * *

1.4 Marking

[Revise 1.4 to read as follows:]
Except for Periodicals (which require no markings), all pieces must
be marked (subject to M012) ``AUTO'' and, as appropriate, ``Presorted''
and ``First-Class'' if First-Class Mail; ``Nonprofit Organization'' (or
``Nonprofit Org.'' or ``Nonprofit'') if Nonprofit Standard Mail; or
``Bulk Rate'' (or ``Blk. Rt.'') if Regular Standard Mail. Pieces not
claimed at automation rates must not be marked ``AUTO'' unless single-
piece rate postage is affixed or a corrective single-piece rate marking
is applied under P100 or P600.

1.5 Exception--Standard Mail (A)

[Revise 1.5 to read as follows:]
When the size of the pieces in a Standard Mail (A) mailing job
enables them to qualify for Standard Mail automation rates as either
letters or flats, if part of the job is prepared as palletized flats at
automation rates for flats, the remainder may be prepared as palletized
flats at Enhanced Carrier Route nonletter rates and nonletter
nonautomation rates if the number of nonletter nonautomation rate
pieces does not exceed 10% of the total number of pieces in the entire
mailing job.
* * * * *
5.0 Documentation
[Amend 5.0 by replacing the reference ``M210'' with ``M200.'']
[Remove M890, M891, M892, M893, M894, M895, M896, M897, and M898.]
P Postage and Payment Methods

P000 Basic Information

P010 General Standards

P011 Payment

1.0 Prepayment and Postage Due

1.1 Prepayment Conditions

[Amend 1.1 by revising 1.1e to read as follows:]
The mailer is responsible for proper payment of postage. Postage on
all mail must be fully prepaid at the time of

[[Page 42486]]

mailing, except as specifically provided by standard for:
* * * * *
e. Keys and identification devices returned to owners (see E620).
* * * * *

P012 Documentation

* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 Standardized Documentation--First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and
Standard Mail (A)

2.1 Basic Standard

[Amend 2.1 by replacing in the first sentence the terms ``Regular
Periodicals'' with ``Periodicals'' and ``Regular and Enhanced Carrier
Route Standard Mail'' with ``Standard Mail (A)'' to read as follows:]
For First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail (A), subject
to the standards for the rate claimed, documentation must be produced
by software certified under the USPS Presort Accuracy Validation and
Evaluation (PAVE) or Manifest Analysis and Certification (MAC)
programs, appropriate for the accompanying class of mail and rate
claimed, or must be prepared to meet the criteria for standardized
documentation in this section.* * *

2.2 Format and Content

[Amend 2.2 by revising the introductory text to read as follows:]
For First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail (A),
standardized documentation includes:
* * * * *

2.5 Combined and Copalletized Mailings

[Amend 2.5 by revising the introductory text to read as follows:]
For combined or copalletized mailings of Periodicals and Standard
Mail (A) prepared under M045, the listing must show the following
additional information:
* * * * *
[Remove 3.0; redesignate 4.0 as 3.0.]
* * * * *

P013 Rate Application and Computation

* * * * *
4.0 Rate Application--Standard Mail (A)
* * * * *

4.3 Bulk Rates

[Revise 4.3 to read as follows:]
Bulk rates are based on the weight of the pieces and are applied
differently to pieces weighing less than or equal to a ``breakpoint''
(rounded to four decimal places) and those weighing more, as follows:
a. The appropriate minimum per piece rate applies to pieces
weighing 0.2066 pound (3.3062 ounces) or less (Enhanced Carrier Route
rates), 0.2068 pound (3.3087 ounces) or less (Regular rates), 0.2084
pound (3.3348 ounces) or less (Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route rates),
or 0.2088 pound (3.3407 ounces) or less (Nonprofit rates).
b. A rate determined by adding the appropriate fixed per piece
charge and the corresponding variable per pound charge (based on the
weight of the piece) applies to pieces weighing more than 0.2066 pound
(3.3062 ounces) (Enhanced Carrier Route rates), 0.2068 pound (3.3087
ounces) (Regular rates), 0.2084 pound (3.3348 ounces) (Nonprofit
Enhanced Carrier Route rates), or 0.2088 pound (3.3407 ounces)
(Nonprofit rates).
* * * * *

P014 Refunds and Exchanges

* * * * *
4.0 Refund Requests for Excess Postage--at Time of Mailing (``Value
Added Refunds'')
* * * * *

4.13 Standard Mail (A)

[Replace 4.13, 4.13a, 4.13b, and 4.13c with new 4.13 to read as
follows:]
If a value added refund request is submitted when a Standard Mail
(A) mailing is presented to the USPS, each piece must be letter-size,
weigh less than the applicable maximum weight for automation mail
prescribed in C810, be part of an automation rate mailing, and be
metered by the presenter or the presenter's customer at a 3/5
nonautomation rate or at any automation minimum per piece rate. Pieces
for each entry must be prepared as a separate mailing if the
destination entry rates are claimed.
* * * * *

P040 Permit Imprints

* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 Permit Imprint Preparation
* * * * *

2.5 References to Expedited Handling

[Amend 2.5 by revising 2.5a to read as follows:]
Except for postcard-size mail and imprints placed on address
labels, permit imprints on bulk rate Standard Mail (A) bearing
references to expedited handling or delivery (e.g., ``Priority,''
``Express,'' ``Overnight'') must:
a. Show the words ``Bulk Rate'' (``Blk. Rt.'') or ``Nonprofit
Organization'' (or ``Nonprofit Org.'' or ``Nonprofit'') more
prominently than other words in the imprint.
b. Include a clear space of at least 3/8 inch around the entire
permit imprint.
* * * * *
4.0 Formats

4.1 Basic Standard

[Amend the Nonprofit Standard Mail examples in Exhibit 4.1b by
replacing the endorsement ``Carrier Route Presort'' with ``AUTOCR.'']
* * * * *

P600 Standard Mail

* * * * *
3.0 Automation Rates
[Revise the heading of 3.1 to read as follows:]

3.1 Payment Methods

[Amend 3.1 by revising the first sentence to read as follows:]
Postage on any mailing made at an automation rate must be paid with
meter stamps, permit imprints, or precanceled postage, under applicable
standards. * * *
* * * * *

P710 Manifest Mailing System (MMS)

* * * * *
3.0 Keyline
* * * * *

3.3 Rate Category Abbreviations

[Revise 3.3 and Exhibit 3.3b to read as follows:]
Keylines on First-Class Mail or bulk Standard Mail (A) may use only
the rate category abbreviations in Exhibit 3.3a or Exhibit 3.3b,
respectively. All pieces that qualify for more than one postage rate
must show each rate category abbreviation, separated by a ``/'' (slash)
(e.g., EB/DS).
* * * * *

Exhibit 3.3b.--Rate Category Abbreviations--Standard Mail (A)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Code Rate category
------------------------------------------------------------------------
AV............................. Automation 5-Digit [letters only].
AT............................. Automation 3-Digit [letters only].
AF............................. Automation 3/5 [flats only].
AB............................. Automation Basic.
RA............................. 3/5.
RB............................. Basic.

[[Page 42487]]

EA............................. Enhanced Carrier Route Automation Basic
[letters only].
EB............................. Enhanced Carrier Route Basic.
EH............................. Enhanced Carrier Route High Density.
ES............................. Enhanced Carrier Route Saturation.
DB............................. Destination Bulk Mail Center (DBMC).
DD............................. Destination Delivery Unit (DDU).
DS............................. Destination Sectional Center Facility
(DSCF).
SP............................. Single-Piece Rate [when fewer than 200
pieces accompany automation rate
mail].
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *

P760 First-Class or Standard Mail Mailings With Different Payment
Methods

* * * * *
2.0 Postage
* * * * *

2.2 Metered Pieces--Standard Mail (A)

[Revise 2.2 to read as follows:]
Metered pieces in a combined mailing must bear postage at a
nonautomation presort or automation rate for which the pieces are
eligible. Additional postage due for metered pieces in a combined
mailing is deducted from the mailer's postage due advance deposit
account. Full postage must be affixed to accompanying single-piece rate
mail.
* * * * *

2.4 Precanceled Pieces--Standard Mail (A)

[Revise 2.4 to read as follows:]
Pieces with precanceled stamps in a combined mailing must bear
postage in any denomination of precanceled stamp permitted in an
automation rate mailing. Nonprofit postage may appear only on pieces in
a Nonprofit rate mailing that are eligible for and claimed at a
Nonprofit rate. Additional postage due for precanceled stamp pieces in
a combined mailing is deducted from the mailer's postage due advance
deposit account. Full postage must be affixed to accompanying single-
piece rate mail.
* * * * *
R Rates and Fees
* * * * *

R200 Periodicals

* * * * *
[Revise 2.0, 3.0, and 4.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 Preferred--In-County

2.1 Pound Rates

Per pound or fraction:

2.2 Piece Rates

Per addressed piece:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Automation \1\
------------------
Presort level Nonautomation Letter- Flat-
size size
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic................................. $0.081 $0.081 $0.081
3/5................................... ............. ........ 0.066
3-Digit............................... ............. 0.077 .......
5-Digit............................... ............. 0.064 .......
Carrier Route......................... 0.043 ........ .......
High Density.......................... 0.038 ........ .......
Saturation............................ 0.036 ........ .......
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Lower maximum weight limits apply: letter-size at 3 ounces (or
3.3407 ounces for heavy letters); flat-size at 16 ounces.

* * * * *
3.0 Preferred--Nonprofit

3.1 Pound Rates

Per pound or fraction:
a. For the nonadvertising portion: $0.138.
b. For the advertising portion:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zone Rate
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delivery Unit.................................................. $0.169
SCF............................................................ 0.190
1 & 2.......................................................... 0.214
3.............................................................. 0.224
4.............................................................. 0.251
5.............................................................. 0.292
6.............................................................. 0.336
7.............................................................. 0.388
8.............................................................. 0.432
------------------------------------------------------------------------

3.2 Piece Rates

Per addressed piece:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Automation \1\
------------------
Presort level Nonautomation Letter- Flat-
size size
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic................................. $0.216 $0.186 $0.192
3/5................................... 0.171 ........ 0.147
3-Digit............................... ............. 0.148 .......
5-Digit............................... ............. 0.148 .......
Carrier Route......................... 0.104 ........ .......
High Density.......................... 0.097 ........ .......
Saturation............................ 0.083 ........ .......
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Lower maximum weight limits apply: letter-size at 3 ounces (or
3.3407 ounces for heavy letters); flat-size at 16 ounces.

3.3 Discounts

Piece rate discounts:
* * * * *
b. Delivery unit zone piece discount for each addressed piece
claimed in the pound rate portion at the delivery unit zone rate:
$0.012.
c. SCF zone piece discount for each addressed piece claimed in the
pound rate portion at the SCF zone rate: $0.006.
4.0 Preferred--Classroom

4.1 Pound Rates

Per pound or fraction:
a. For the nonadvertising portion: $0.110.
b. For the advertising portion:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zone Rate
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delivery Unit.................................................. $0.180
SCF............................................................ 0.191
1 & 2.......................................................... 0.212
3.............................................................. 0.223
4.............................................................. 0.250
5.............................................................. 0.292
6.............................................................. 0.335
7.............................................................. 0.388
8.............................................................. 0.432
------------------------------------------------------------------------

4.2 Piece Rates

Per addressed piece:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Barcoded \1\
Presort level Nonautomation ZIP+4 Letter- -------------------------------
size Letter-Size Flat-Size
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic........................................... $0.169 $0.162 $0.152 $0.146
3/5............................................. 0.126 0.122 .............. 0.111
3-Digit......................................... .............. .............. 0.116 ..............
5-Digit......................................... .............. .............. 0.109 ..............
Carrier Route................................... 0.088 .............. .............. ..............
High Density.................................... 0.086 .............. .............. ..............
Saturation...................................... 0.081 .............. .............. ..............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Lower maximum weight limits apply: letter-size at 3 ounces (or 3.3407 ounces for heavy letters); flat-size
at 16 ounces.

[[Page 42488]]

* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 5.0 to read as follows:]
5.0 Preferred--Science-of-Agriculture
* * * * *

R600 Standard Mail

* * * * *
[Revise 5.0 to read as follows:]
5.0 Nonprofit

5.1 Letter-Size Minimum Per Piece Rates--Pieces 0.2088 lb. (3.3407
oz.) or Less

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonautomation Automation \1\
Entry discount -----------------------------------------------------------
Basic 3/5 Basic 3-Digit 5-Digit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
None................................................ $0.132 $0.114 $0.099 $0.095 $0.082
DBMC................................................ 0.119 0.101 0.086 0.082 0.069
DSCF................................................ 0.114 0.096 0.081 0.077 0.064
DDU
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Pieces weighing over 3 ounces subject to additional standards.

5.2 Nonletter-Size Minimum Per Piece Rates--Pieces 0.2088 lb.
(3.3407 oz.) or Less

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonautomation Automation \1\
Entry discount ---------------------------------------------------
Basic 3/5 Basic 3/5
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
None........................................................ $0.195 $0.149 $0.171 $0.125
DBMC........................................................ 0.182 0.136 0.158 0.112
DSCF........................................................ 0.177 0.131 0.153 0.107
DDU
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Available only for automation-compatible flats.

5.3 Piece/Pound Rates--Pieces More Than 0.2088 lb. (3.3407 oz.)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonautomation Automation \2\
Piece/pound rate \1\ ---------------------------------------------------
Basic 3/5 Basic 3/5
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Per Piece................................................... $0.100 $0.048 $0.076 $0.024
Per Pound (includes entry discount if applicable) Plus Plus Plus Plus
None.................................................... $0.455 $0.484 $0.455 $0.484
DBMC.................................................... 0.393 0.422 0.393 0.422
DSCF.................................................... 0.367 0.396 0.367 0.396
DDU
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Each piece is subject to both a piece rate and a pound rate.
\2\ Available only for automation-compatible flats.

[Redesignate 6.0 through 11.0 as 7.0 through 12.0, respectively, with
no change to text; add new 6.0 to read as follows:]
6.0 Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route

6.1 Letter-Size Minimum Per Piece Rates--Pieces 0.2084 lb. (3.3348
oz.) or Less

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonautomation Automation
---------------------------------------------\1\-----
Entry discount High
Basic density Saturation Basic
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
None...................................................... $0.087 $0.081 $0.075 $0.079
DBMC...................................................... 0.074 0.068 0.062 0.066
DSCF...................................................... 0.069 0.063 0.057 0.061
DDU....................................................... 0.063 0.057 0.051 0.055
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Pieces weighing over 3 ounces subject to additional standards.

6.2 Nonletter-Size Minimum Per Piece Rates--Pieces 0.2084 lb.
(3.3348 oz.) or Less

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Entry discount Basic High density Saturation
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
None...................................................... $0.107 $0.100 $0.094
DBMC...................................................... 0.094 0.087 0.081
DSCF...................................................... 0.089 0.082 0.076
DDU....................................................... 0.083 0.076 0.070
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[[Page 42489]]

6.3 Piece/Pound Rates--Pieces More Than 0.2084 lb. (3.3348 oz.)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Piece/pound rate \1\ Basic High density Naturation
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Per Piece................................................. $0.013 $0.006 $0.000
Per Pound (includes entry discount if applicable) Plus Plus Plus
None.................................................. $0.451 $0.451 $0.451
DBMC.................................................. 0.389 0.389 0.389
DSCF.................................................. 0.363 0.363 0.363
DDU 0.337 0.337 0.337
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Each piece is subject to both a piece rate and a pound rate.

* * * * *
[Revise redesignated 10.0 to read as follows:]

10.0 Library Mail

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Weight not over Weight not over
Weight not over (pounds) Single-piece (pounds) Single-piece (pounds) Single-piece
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1........................... $1.12 24............. $7.32 47............. $12.38
2........................... 1.53 25............. 7.54 48............. 12.60
3........................... 1.94 26............. 7.76 49............. 12.82
4........................... 2.35 27............. 7.98 50............. 13.04
5........................... 2.76 28............. 8.20 51............. 13.26
6........................... 3.17 29............. 8.42 52............. 13.48
7........................... 3.58 30............. 8.64 53............. 13.70
8........................... 3.80 31............. 8.86 54............. 13.92
9........................... 4.02 32............. 9.08 55............. 14.14
10.......................... 4.24 33............. 9.30 56............. 14.36
11.......................... 4.46 34............. 9.52 57............. 14.58
12.......................... 4.68 35............. 9.74 58............. 14.80
13.......................... 4.90 36............. 9.96 59............. 15.02
14.......................... 5.12 37............. 10.18 60............. 15.24
15.......................... 5.34 38............. 10.40 61............. 15.46
16.......................... 5.56 39............. 10.62 62............. 15.68
17.......................... 5.78 40............. 10.84 63............. 15.90
18.......................... 6.00 41............. 11.06 64............. 16.12
19.......................... 6.22 42............. 11.28 65............. 16.34
20.......................... 6.44 43............. 11.50 66............. 16.56
21.......................... 6.66 44............. 11.72 67............. 16.78
22.......................... 6.88 45............. 11.94 68............. 17.00
23.......................... 7.10 46............. 12.16 69............. 17.22
............... ............... ............... 70............. 17.44
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
Stanley F. Mires,
Chief Counsel, Legislative.
[FR Doc. 96-20816 Filed 8-12-96; 1:21 pm]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P