[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 245 (Wednesday, December 21, 2011)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 79072-79090]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-32357]
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POSTAL SERVICE
39 CFR Part 111
New Standards for Domestic Mailing Services
AGENCY: Postal ServiceTM.
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: The Postal Service will revise Mailing Standards of the United
States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM[supreg]) throughout
various sections to reflect price adjustments and mailing requirements
changes associated with the October 2011 filing with the Postal
Regulatory Commission (PRC).
DATES: Effective January 22, 2012.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Bill Chatfield at (202) 268-7278.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On October 18, 2011, the Postal Service
filed a notice of mailing services price adjustments with the PRC,
effective on January 22, 2012. In addition, on October 24, 2011, the
USPSTM published a proposed rule in the Federal Register (FR
76 65640-65653) based on the PRC filing. This final rule conveys the
comments received on the proposal, our responses to comments, and the
final mailing standards.
Prices are available under Docket Number R2012-3 on the Postal
Regulatory Commission's Web site at www.prc.gov, and also on the Postal
Explorer[supreg] Web site at pe.usps.com.
The Postal Service's final rule includes: several mail
classification changes, modifications to mailpiece characteristics, and
changes in classification terminology.
Comments
The Postal Service received comments from eight submitters on
various aspects of the proposed changes. The comments and responses to
them are included in the applicable subject matter sections below.
Changes for Letters
Commercial First-Class Mail Letters
The pricing structure for presorted and automation First-Class
Mail[supreg] letters changes so that the minimum postage charge would
be for a 2-ounce letter instead of the current 1-ounce minimum postage
charge.
One commenter thought that the postage for 1-ounce presorted or
automation letters would be increasing to the 2-ounce prices; we
clarified that instead the prices for 2-ounce letters would be closer
to the current prices (with an increase as proposed) for 1-ounce
letters.
We received two sets of comments detailing the difficulties that
would ensue for some mailers to determine, and apply, proper postage to
residual pieces with single-piece postage if they were not also
eligible for the reduced postage for 2-ounce letters, and requesting
therefore that those single-piece letters also be eligible for reduced
postage. They asked multiple questions about postage payment and
separation of mail, since the free second ounce does not include
residual pieces.
Beginning on January 22, 2012, the Postal Service is revising
First-Class Mail pricing to change the first weight increment for
presort and automation First-Class Mail letters to include pieces
weighing up to two ounces. This is sometimes referred to as ``2nd ounce
free.'' This program was developed in conjunction with customers with
the goal of adding value to the mail. For example, customers may use
the additional weight for their operational or marketing purposes to
realize more value from their mailings. On average, the price of First-
Class Mail Presort letters and cards is increasing by 1.58 percent
while the price for First-Class Mail single-piece letters and cards
increases by 2.47 percent. The lower price increase for presorted
First-Class Mail is a direct result of the ``2nd ounce free'' program.
While the single-piece 1-ounce letter price increases by one cent, the
price increases for most automation First-Class Mail letters increases
by one cent or less.
Regarding residual letters, the standards for how additional
postage is paid for those pieces will not change. Regarding permit
imprint mailings, the current standards for identical weight pieces
will remain; if a mailing contains nonidentical weight pieces (even if
the postage for such may be the same) a special postage payment system
must be used to document the correct piece counts and postage. Residual
pieces that are not eligible for a free second ounce must be separated
by postage increment for verification purposes.
The Postal Service also removes standards for Reply Rides Free,
because the program ends on December 31, 2011.
Commercial First-Class Mail and Standard Mail Letters
The Postal Service modifies the process of submitting mailpieces to
the Pricing and Classification Service Center (PCSC) for testing and
deletes the provision that pieces with attached release cards be sent
to Engineering.
Standard Mail Letters
We clarify that overflow Standard Mail[supreg] nonmachinable
letters that mailers place into existing trays at another level require
matching documentation. We received a request to clarify whether there
are DSCF entry prices for nonmachinable Standard Mail letters weighing
over 3.3 ounces at the mixed ADC sort level. There will be no DSCF
entry prices for nonmachinable letters at mixed ADC prices.
We received a comment requesting that we confirm that the prices
for Standard Mail basic carrier route letters are the same for
automation-compatible and nonautomation letters. The prices are
currently the same, and will continue to be the same for both types of
letters. One commenter noted that the maximum weight for carrier route
letters is ``less than 16 ounces.'' This is currently the case and will
continue to be so.
Changes for Flats
Automation Flats
The USPS clarifies that automation flats must meet the standards
for all flats (such as flexibility) in 301.1.0 as well as the standards
in 301.3.0. We received two questions about whether the minimum size
for automation flats will remain as it is currently. The minimum size
for automation flats is not changing; the applicable dimensions for
automation flats continue to be in DMM 301.3.2.
[[Page 79073]]
Periodicals Flats
Currently, Periodicals flats are allowed on mixed area distribution
center (MADC) pallets only when the flats are sacked. We will allow
bundles of Periodicals flats to be placed directly on MADC pallets and
assign a specific price for MADC pallets as well. One commenter asked
if carrier route bundles would be permitted on MADC pallets; with this
final rule, we affirm that we will allow carrier route bundles to be
placed directly on MADC pallets. The bundle price for carrier route
bundles on mixed ADC pallets will be the 5-digit bundle price.
The Postal Service revises a price categorization under
nonmachinable flats to insert the correct categorization of
nonmachinable flats-nonbarcoded.
The Postal Service is adding language to the pending standards in
DMM 705.15. These standards relate to combined mailings of Standard
Mail and Periodicals flats, scheduled for implementation on January 22,
2012. This change will clarify that bundles formed in a combined
mailing of Standard Mail and Periodicals flats to the carrier route
level may be placed on mixed network distribution center (NDC) pallets.
The bundle price applicable to the 5-digit bundle placed on the mixed
ADC container level will be applied to these bundles. Mailers may
continue to claim the applicable carrier route piece price for pieces
placed in carrier route bundles, when these bundles are placed on mixed
NDC containers.
Detached Address Labels Used With Flats
The Postal Service adds a new term to identify detached address
labels (DALs) with advertising. Inclusion of advertising turns DALs
into dual-purpose pieces: optional addressing vehicles and marketing
vehicles. A DAL with advertising on either side will be named as a
detached marketing label (DML). Both DALs and DMLs may be used with
saturation flats or with Standard Mail Marketing parcels.
We received several comments unrelated to the standards that
suggested the proposed new prices for DALs with flats would be
detrimental to continued profitable use of DALs for advertising
purposes. As information, the USPS amended its filing to request that
the new proposed price be higher than the current price but lower than
the price originally proposed.
Changes for Parcels
Machinable Parcels
To align the standards for machinable parcels with current mail
processing equipment capability, the Postal Service changes the
dimensional criteria for all machinable parcels from the current 34
inches x 17 inches x 17 inches to 27 inches x 17 inches x 17 inches. We
additionally reduce the maximum weight of a machinable parcel from 35
pounds to 25 pounds for all parcels except those mailed as Parcel
Select[supreg] or Parcel Return Service. The maximum weight for
machinable parcels that contain books or other printed matter remains
at 25 pounds regardless of class of mail. We also modify the processes
by which parcels that do not fully meet the machinability standards are
evaluated for machinability. In addition, the Postal Service clarifies
that parcels that meet the lightweight machinable parcel standards are
definitively categorized as machinable parcels.
Standard Mail Parcels
Standard Mail regular parcels are separated into two groups:
Marketing parcels and parcels that will become Parcel Select
LightweightTM parcels. Nonprofit Standard Mail parcels have
separate standards for Nonprofit Marketing parcels and other Nonprofit
parcels.
Marketing parcels are defined as containing information and/or
product samples whose purpose is to encourage recipients to purchase a
product or service, make a contribution, support a cause, form a belief
or opinion, take an action, or provide information to recipients.
Marketing parcels will be required to bear an alternative addressing
format (occupant or exceptional addressing, or simplified addressing
when allowed for saturation mail), and must be presented for mailing in
carrier route (basic, high-density, or saturation sortation) or presort
separations. All Marketing parcels would have a maximum size of 12
inches by 9 inches by 2 inches thick. When DALs are used with Marketing
parcels, the weight of the DALs is added to the parcels in determining
postage, as is currently the case, but there will be no separate charge
for the DALs.
Included in this notice is a correction of a previously published
error (in Postal Bulletin 22319, 9-8-2011) that allowed Signature
Confirmation for Standard Mail parcels. This correction confirms that
Standard Mail parcels are not eligible for Signature Confirmation
service.
Not Flat-Machinables (NFMs)
In 2007, the USPS created a temporary NFM price category for
Standard Mail items that could not meet revised automation flats
standards. In the revised proposed rule Federal Register published on
February 6, 2009 (74 FR 6250-6257), the Postal Service announced our
intention to discontinue the NFM category in May 2010. In the March 25,
2010, Postal Bulletin (22281), we announced that the NFM price category
would be extended. We now will eliminate the NFM category as of January
2012. Pieces that would have been mailed as NFMs should qualify as
either Standard Mail Marketing parcels or Parcel Select Lightweight
parcels.
We received two comments noting that some residual standards that
mention NFMs still remained if the proposed new standards were to be
adopted. We are grateful for the feedback and have amended the DMM
changes to remove those references to NFMs.
One commenter also asked how pieces that have been mailed as NFMs
would qualify for new prices and what efforts have been made to
communicate with current NFM mailers. Marketing pieces (such as product
samples) currently in the NFM category should be able to easily
transition to the Marketing parcel category with little impact,
assuming they are currently using a form of alternative addressing. If
they are fulfillment pieces or the mailer is not willing to use an
alternative address, the likely alternative would be Parcel Select
Lightweight parcels. This has been communicated extensively through the
relevant customer associations and in several Federal Register notices.
The USPS will also attempt to contact current known NFM mailers to
ensure that they are aware of the new mailing options in January 22,
2012.
Package Services Pieces
The Postal Service eliminates the provision to provide free local
forwarding for Package Services pieces.
The USPS also will discontinue the 3-cent barcode discount for all
Bound Printed Matter (BPM), Media Mail[supreg], and Library Mail
parcels. We received a request to confirm this and to state whether the
barcode discount would continue for BPM flats. We will continue to
allow a barcode discount for BPM flats as of January 22, 2012.
Special, Extra, and Other Services
Mailing Dates for Dropshipments
Mailers may use plant-verified drop shipments (PVDS) during the
price change as follows:
[[Page 79074]]
Current Prices--Mailers may use the current prices for
PVDS mailings verified and paid for before January 22, 2012. We will
accept these mailings at destination entry postal facilities through
February 5, 2012 when presented with appropriate verification and
payment documentation.
New Prices--Mailers may use the new prices (effective
January 22, 2012) for PVDS mailings verified and paid for beginning
January 8, 2012, for deposit at destination facilities on or after
January 22, 2012. For mailings with electronic documentation, mailers
must enter a Mail Arrival Date that is on or after January 22, 2012.
For mailings with hard copy postage statements, USPS acceptance
employees must enter a Mail Arrival Date that is on or after January
22, 2012. The Postal Service will accept these mailings at destination
entry postal facilities beginning January 22, 2012 when presented with
appropriate verification and payment documentation.
Manifest Mailing System Clarification
In the June 2, 2011, Postal Bulletin (22312), the Postal Service
announced a change in the administrative support process for Special
Postage Payment Systems from formal agreements to authorizations. For
manifest mailing systems, we incorrectly stated that the authorization
document is a letter signed by the mailer and the Business Mail Support
(BMS) manager. We are revising DMM 705.2.0 to clarify that an
authorization letter is signed only by the BMS manager.
Delivery Confirmation and Signature Confirmation
We add clarifications in DMM 503.10 and 503.11 that Delivery
Confirmation and Signature Confirmation services are available for
First-Class Package Service parcels for only the electronic option.
Adult Signature
The Postal Service encourages and will permit the use of a hard
copy PS Form 3811, Domestic Return Receipt, with Adult Signature
service when used with Express Mail[supreg] or Priority Mail[supreg],
including shipments made under the Prevent All Tobacco Cigarettes
Trafficking (PACT) Act. A return receipt fee will be charged in
addition to regular postage and the Adult Signature fee.
Customers eligible to mail cigarettes and smokeless tobacco under
the business/regulatory purposes and consumer testing exceptions of the
PACT Act are currently limited to shipping via Express Mail with Hold
For Pickup service. In January 2012, we will offer additional options:
Express Mail with Adult Signature or Priority Mail with Adult
Signature.
We received a comment suggesting that allowing Express Mail or
Priority Mail with Adult Signature under the PACT Act will make it
easier for underage smokers to obtain cigarettes and smokeless tobacco
products. The new standards have not changed insofar as it relates to
the statutory exceptions to the PACT Act. The labeling, acceptance, and
delivery requirements are not relaxed and still provide ample
opportunity to determine if mailings fit within the exceptions. The new
standards simply provide mailers other service options that fit within
the exceptions.
Confirm
The Postal Service discontinues Confirm service as a paid
subscription service and replaces it with ``IMbTM Tracing,''
which will provide scan data similar to that provided through Confirm
service, but with no paid subscription required. Under IMb Tracing
service, mailers will continue to receive the same raw scan data
through the same data-provisioning methods.
In response to requests for clarification of the transition
process, we provide the following scenarios.
For customers transitioning from Confirm to IMb Tracing, who are
using Intelligent Mail[supreg] barcodes and have no changes to their
profile, the account profile will remain the same and information will
flow as it does today. Future profile changes can be handled through
emails to the help desk at [email protected].
The change would have ended the use of PLANET[supreg] Code barcodes
for mailers when their current subscription expired. To provide more
time for mailers to transition to IMbs, existing Confirm customers who
wish to continue using PLANET Code barcodes after their current
subscription expires must submit a signed Confirm renewal application
and pay the applicable fees for the new subscription period prior to
January 22, 2012, for the PLANET code subscription IDs they would like
to continue using. No renewed subscription under this provision will
extend past January 2013. Subscription IDs associated with IMbs will
remain the same. Applications can be mailed, faxed, or emailed to the
help desk.
New customers not utilizing a third party must submit a signed IMb
Tracing application and complete the application process similar to
today's Confirm process.
Third-party service providers for data management currently
receiving Confirm or IMb Tracing information may submit a signed
application on behalf of new customers under these conditions:
The signature must be from a representative of the MID
owner.
If the mail pieces will be produced by a company qualified
to print the IMb, the customer will not have to submit samples to be
tested.
Applications can be mailed, faxed, or emailed to the help
desk.
Waiver of Annual Mailing Fees for Full-Service Automation Mailings
The Postal Service revises certain requirements for mailers who
present full-service (Intelligent Mail) automation mailings. When
mailers present only full-service automation mailings of First-Class
Mail or Standard Mail letters and flats or BPM flats with 90 percent or
more pieces qualifying for full-service automation prices, the Postal
Service will waive payment of the annual mailing fees for mailings
presented under specific permits. As an additional allowance, when
mailers present only qualifying full-service automation mailings with
permit imprint indicia, those mailings will be able to be presented at
any PostalOne![supreg] acceptance office without payment of an
additional permit imprint application fee or payment of an annual
mailing fee at the other office(s).
We received a group of questions from two associations regarding
how this initiative will be implemented, primarily about presenting
mailings at offices other than the office where a permit is held. A
recommendation was made about how to handle an instance of a mailing
being submitted that does not meet the 90 percent eligibility, to allow
later payment of the annual fee. Because of the many nuances involved
in this initiative, we will implementing both aspects--waiver of annual
presort fee and multiple entry points for permit imprint mailings--on
February 12, 2012 to assure that all processes for employees and
mailers are coordinated.
Paraphrased Comments and Responses
Comment: Is the 90% requirement for pieces per mailing or for all
pieces on all mailings for the year?
Response: The requirement applies to each mailing.
Comment: Is it for all mailings of a mailer or by the specific
permit, PC, PER account number?
Response: For each permit used with First-Class Mail, Standard
Mail, and Bound Printed Matter full-service mailings; Periodicals are
not eligible. There is no annual presort fee as long as each postage
statement charged to the
[[Page 79075]]
permit remains at 90% or greater full-service pieces.
Comment: Should a mailer open an additional permit (obtain a
separate permit number) for full-service mailings to mail all of their
full-service mailings under and use another for non-full service
mailings, which effectively negates the fee waiver.
Response: Management of permits is at the mailer's discretion.
Comment: Can a mailer present mail for a permit number from any
acceptance office in the nation to their local acceptance office?
Response: Mailers may present qualified full-service mailings with
mailpieces bearing a current valid permit imprint (that has been used
only to present eligible Full-Service mailings) for acceptance at any
USPS acceptance office that has PostalOne! acceptance functions.
Comment: What information needs to be used on the postage statement
for the mailing, the permit number of the origin Post
OfficeTM of mailing? Is any other information required?
Response: Hardcopy postage statements are not eligible for full-
service mailings and therefore will not qualify to mail at other
offices or waiver of fees. See the next comment and response for
electronic documentation.
Comment: How are the permits that are used to pay the postage
identified in Full Service eDocumentation? What records/fields are
supposed to contain what information regarding the Permit numbers?
Response: Mail.dat[supreg] file submission:
[squ] Use of single permit at multiple BMEU locations (verification
sites) requires use of account .
[squ] MPA Record:
[ssquf] Populate permit type, permit , and ZIP + 4[supreg]
fields to identify permit (authorization to mail).
[ssquf] Populate account field with CAPS number
(traditional or non-traditional).
[ssquf] Identification of Mail Preparer & Mail Owner by CRID or MID
(cannot identify with a permit).
[ssquf] Customer communications.
[squ] Segment Record--Verification Facility ZIP + 4 field (Pos 137-
145):
[ssquf] Populate with BMEU ZIP CodeTM (5 or 9 digit).
[ssquf] Drives the BMEU dashboard.
Comment: What information is required to be in the indicia on the
mailpiece?
Response: Issuing office permit number and city/state or company
imprint indicia may be printed in the permit imprint indicia on the
piece and entered at any location.
Comment: What are the requirements regarding the commingling of
permit imprint mail with permits outside the Post Office of mailing of
the mailer when using the mailer's permit to pay the postage, or using
the permit holder's permit to pay the postage? What will the 90% rule
be applied to, the entire mailing or the portion of the mailing under
the permit holder's permit?
Response: The 90% rule applies to single statements or the master
statement (when there are multiple child statements) as follows:
For single permit mailings, the statement must meet the
90% threshold.
For multiple permit mailings, the master statement must
meet the 90% threshold.
Individual permits within the master statement do not have
to meet the 90% threshold.
Comment: Can a mail service provider permit number be used for
permit mail pieces in a commingled mailing originating from offices
other than the mailer's acceptance office?
Response: The permit number used must be the number assigned to
permit holders at the issuing office.
Comment: How does this affect mailing into other Post Offices for
metered mail?
Response: The provision to mail at other offices under the waiver
of fee initiative is limited to permit imprint mailing.
Comment: To not accept the mailing on a first occurrence of failing
to meet the 90% rule would cause undue burden and costs on the mail
owner.
Recommendation: That if the mail presenter is unable to pay the fee
at that time, the mailing would be accepted on the first occurrence
with promise to pay later by the permit holder and no further mailings
would be accepted until the fee was paid.
Response: Our standards do not allow us to defer payment of fees
once they are due. However, we expect that Full-Service mailers will
know that their mailing will not meet the 90% requirement before they
present the mailing and be able to plan accordingly.
Comment: If a mailing is presented to any acceptance office under
the fee waiver provisions and fails to meet the 90% compliance rule,
will all subsequent mailings using or bearing that permit number not be
allowed entry at any other office other than the office where the
permit is held?
Response: Yes, once mailings under a permit number fall below the
established 90% full-service threshold, applicable fees must be paid
for all subsequent mailings.
Post Office Boxes
The Postal Service will add a new 3-month prepaid Post Office
BoxTM service payment option, which is only available via
recurring automatic payments.
Stamp Fulfillment Services
Currently, the Postal Service charges a standard fee for most Stamp
Fulfillment Services orders; however Stamp Fulfillment Services
shipping fees are not identified in the DMM nor listed in Notice 123--
Price List. However, the fees are subject to regulation by the PRC.
The USPS adds new DMM language to explain that there are fees
associated with Stamp Fulfillment Services and to refer customers to
Notice 123 for the prices. A single standard fee is charged for orders
up to $50, and a higher fee for larger orders.
Stationery
Currently, the USPS does not offer postcard stationery sheets that
easily fit on standard computer printers. We will offer four perforated
postcards on an 8\1/2\ inches x 11 inches sheet that can be fed readily
into computer printers. Once separated, each card will be 4\1/4\ inches
x 5\1/2\ inches in size.
Additionally, the USPS does not currently offer personalized
stamped postcards. In January 2012, we offer personalized stamped
postcards with pre-printed return addresses.
The Postal Service adopts the following changes to Mailing
Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual
(DMM), incorporated by reference in the Code of Federal Regulations.
See 39 CFR 111.1.
List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111
Administrative practice and procedure, Postal Service.
Accordingly, 39 CFR part 111 is amended as follows:
PART 111--[AMENDED]
0
1. The authority citation for 39 CFR part 111 continues to read as
follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 13 U.S.C 301-307; 18 U.S.C. 1692-
1737; 39 U.S.C. 101, 401, 403, 404, 414, 416, 3001-3011, 3201-3219,
3403-3406, 3621, 3622, 3626, 3632, 3633, and 5001.
0
2. Revise the following sections of Mailing Standards of the United
States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), as follows:
* * * * *
[[Page 79076]]
100 Retail Mail
101 Physical Standards
* * * * *
3.0 Physical Standards for Parcels
[Renumber current 3.1 through 3.6 as new 3.2 through 3.7 and add
new 3.1 as follows:]
3.1 Processing Categories
USPS categorizes parcels into one of three mail processing
categories: Machinable, irregular, or outside parcel. These categories
are based on the physical dimensions of the piece, regardless of the
placement (orientation) of the delivery address on the piece.
* * * * *
3.4 Machinable Parcels
[Revise the introductory text of renumbered 3.4 as follows:]
A machinable parcel is any piece that is not a letter or a flat and
that is (see Exhibit 3.4):
* * * * *
[Revise item 3.4b as follows:]
b. Not more than 27 inches long, or 17 inches high, or 17 inches
thick. Parcels cannot weigh more than 25 pounds, except Parcel Select
and Parcel Return parcels which have a maximum weight of 35 pounds,
except for those containing books or other printed matter (25 pound
maximum).
Exhibit 3.4 Machinable Parcel Dimensions
[Revise the current length dimension in to read 27 inches and
delete the sentences describing the minimum and maximum weights in
Exhibit 3.4.]
* * * * *
170 Media Mail and Library Mail
173 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Media Mail and Library Mail Prices
* * * * *
[Delete 1.4, Barcode Discount--Machinable Parcels, in its entirety,
and renumber current 1.5 and 1.6 as new 1.4 and 1.5.]
* * * * *
200 Commercial Letters and Cards
201 Physical Standards
* * * * *
2.0 Physical Standards for Nonmachinable Letters
* * * * *
2.3 Additional Criteria for Standard Mail Nonmachinable Letters
[Revise 2.3 to read as follows:]
The nonmachinable prices in 243.1.0 apply to Standard Mail letter-
size pieces that have one or more of the nonmachinable characteristics
in 2.1. Mailers must prepare all nonmachinable letters as described in
245.5.0.
* * * * *
3.0 Physical Standards for Machinable and Automation Letters and Cards
* * * * *
[Revise the titles of 3.4 and 3.4.1 as follows:]
3.4 Standards for Letter-Size Pieces Containing One Disc (CD or DVD)
3.4.1 Basic Standards for One Disc in a Letter-Size Mailpiece
[Revise the text of 3.4.1 as follows:]
A letter-size mailpiece containing one disc and meeting the general
standards in 3.0 and the specific standards in 3.4.3 is considered
automation-compatible. A mailpiece with one enclosed disc not meeting
these standards must be tested and approved for automation-
compatibility. For this purpose, mailers must submit 5 sample
mailpieces and a written request to the local postmaster or business
mail entry manager for submission to the Pricing and Classification
Service Center (PCSC).
* * * * *
3.12 Flexibility Standards for Automation Letters
* * * * *
3.12.2 USPS Services for Flexibility Testing
[Revise the text of 3.12.2 as follows:]
A mailer requesting flexibility testing for letter-size mailpieces
must submit at least 5 mailpieces and a written request to their local
postmaster or business mail entry manager for submission to the Pricing
and Classification Service Center (PCSC) at least 6 weeks before the
mailing date. The request must describe mailpiece contents and
construction, number of pieces being produced, and preparation level.
The PCSC will evaluate the piece and, if warranted, will instruct the
mailer to submit samples to USPS Engineering for testing. The PCSC
advises the mailer of its findings. If the mailpiece is approved, the
letter includes a unique number identifying the piece and serves as
evidence that the piece meets the relevant standards. A copy of the
letter must accompany each postage statement submitted for mailings of
the approved piece. If requested by the USPS, the mailer must show that
pieces presented for mailing are the same as those approved.
3.13 Labels, Stickers, Release Cards, and Perforated Pockets Affixed to
the Outside of Letter-Size Mailpieces
* * * * *
3.13.4 Letter-Size Piece With Attached Release Card
[Revise the introductory text of 3.13.4 as follows:]
A letter-size mailpiece, with one or two attached release cards,
must have the following characteristics:
* * * * *
[Revise item 3.13.4b, to reduce the required clearance from the
right edge from 1\1/2\ inches to 1 inch, as follows:]
b. No address element, including any address block barcode, may be
closer than 1 inch to the right edge of the mailpiece.
* * * * *
230 First-Class Mail
233 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees for First-Class Mail
* * * * *
1.2 Price Computation for First-Class Mail Letters
[Revise the text of 1.2 as follows:]
Commercial First-Class Mail presorted letters are charged at one
price for the first 2 ounces, with separate prices for pieces over 2
ounces up to 3 ounces and for pieces over 3 ounces up to 3.5 ounces.
Any fraction of an ounce is considered a whole ounce. For example, if a
piece weighs 2.2 ounces, the weight (postage) increment is 3 ounces.
The pricing per ounce is similar for automation First-Class Mail
letters, with pricing differences per sortation level.
* * * * *
3.0 Basic Standards for First-Class Mail Letters
* * * * *
3.4 Presort Mailing Fee
[Revise the text of 3.4 by inserting a new second sentence as
follows:]
* * * Effective February 12, 2012, payment of this fee is waived
for mailers who present only full-service automation mailings (under
705.23) containing 90% or more pieces qualifying for full-service
prices. * * *
* * * * *
[Delete 7.0, First-Class Mail Incentive Programs, in its entirety.]
* * * * *
234 Postage Payment and Documentation
* * * * *
[[Page 79077]]
2.0 Postage Payment for Presorted and Automation Letters
* * * * *
2.2 Affixing Postage for Presorted and Automation First-Class Mail
Unless permitted by other standards or authorization by Business
Mailer Support, 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:
[Revise item 2.2a as follows:]
a. Each metered piece weighing more than 2 ounces must bear the
correct additional postage to pay for the additional ounce(s).
* * * * *
[Revise item 2.2c as follows:]
c. Each metered piece must bear full postage at the lowest First-
Class Mail letter price (or card price as applicable) appropriate to
the mailing plus any additional ounce(s) or nonmachinable surcharge.
* * * * *
240 Standard Mail
243 Prices and Eligibility
* * * * *
3.0 Basic Standards for Standard Mail Letters
* * * * *
3.4 Presort Mailing Fees
[Revise the text of 3.4 by inserting a new second sentence as
follows:]
* * * Effective February 12, 2012, payment of this fee is waived
for mailers who present only full-service automation mailings (under
705.23) containing 90% or more pieces qualifying for full-service
prices. * * *
* * * * *
245 Mail Preparation
* * * * *
5.0 Preparing Nonautomation Letters
* * * * *
5.4 Nonmachinable Preparation
* * * * *
5.4.2 Traying and Labeling
[Revise the introductory text of 5.4.2 as follows:]
When all full trays for a destination have been prepared, mailers
may include a group of 10 or more overflow pieces for that destination
in a qualified tray at either of the next two tray levels. For example,
overflow pieces for a 5-digit destination may be placed into an
existing correct 3-digit tray; if a 3-digit tray that includes the 5-
digit destination does not exist, the overflow pieces may be placed
into the correct existing ADC tray. Bundle the overflow pieces
separately with the correct presort bundle label or OEL; the pieces
will still qualify for the 5-digit price. Mailers must note these trays
on standardized documentation (see 708.1.2). Preparation sequence, tray
size, and labeling:
* * * * *
300 Commercial Flats
301 Physical Standards
1.0 Physical Standards for Flats
* * * * *
1.7 Flat-Size Pieces Not Eligible for Flat-Size Prices
Flat-size mailpieces that do not meet the standards in 1.3 through
1.6 must pay applicable higher prices as noted in either 1.7a or 1.7b
below.
a. Flat-size pieces that do not meet flexibility, uniform
thickness, or polywrap standards in 1.3 through 1.5 must pay these
applicable prices:
* * * * *
[Revise item 1.7a3 as follows:]
3. Standard Mail--parcel prices.
* * * * *
2.0 Physical Standards for Nonautomation Flats
* * * * *
2.2 Standard Mail
2.2.1 Basic Physical Standards
These additional standards apply to Standard Mail flat-size pieces:
* * * * *
[Revise item 2.2.1b as follows:]
b. Flat-size pieces that do not meet the standards in 1.3 through
1.5 must be prepared as parcels and pay the parcel prices.
* * * * *
3.0 Physical Standards for Automation Flats
3.1 Basic Standards for Automation Flats
[Revise the text of 3.1 as follows:]
Flat-size pieces claimed at automation prices must meet the
standards in 1.0 and in 3.0, and the eligibility standards for the
class of mail and price claimed. For automation flats, the size
standards in 3.2 supersede the size standards in 1.1.
* * * * *
330 First-Class Mail
333 Prices and Eligibility
* * * * *
3.0 Eligibility Standards for First-Class Mail Flats
* * * * *
3.4 Presort Mailing Fee
[Revise the text of 3.4 by inserting a new second sentence as
follows:]
* * * Effective February 12, 2012, payment of this fee is waived
for mailers who present only full-service automation mailings (under
705.23) containing 90% or more pieces qualifying for full-service
prices. * * *
* * * * *
340 Standard Mail
343 Prices and Eligibility
* * * * *
3.0 Basic Standards for Standard Mail Flats
* * * * *
3.2 Defining Characteristics
3.2.1 Weight, Shape, Flexibility, and Uniform Thickness
[Revise the second sentence of 3.2.1 as follows:]
* * * Flat-size pieces that do not meet the standards in 301.1.3
through 301.1.4 must be prepared as parcels and pay parcel prices.
* * * * *
3.4 Presort Mailing Fees
[Revise the text of 3.4 by inserting a new second sentence as
follows:]
* * * Effective February 12, 2012, payment of this fee is waived
for mailers who present only full-service automation mailings (under
705.23) containing 90% or more pieces qualifying for full-service
prices. * * *
* * * * *
4.0 Price Eligibility for Standard Mail
* * * * *
4.2 Minimum Per Piece Prices
The minimum per piece prices (the minimum postage that must be paid
for each piece) apply as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.2b by incorporating items b1and b2 into the text of
item b and revising as follows:]
b. In applying the minimum per piece prices, if the piece meets
both the definition of a letter in 201.1.1.1 and the definition of an
automation flat in 301.3.0, the piece may be prepared and entered at an
automation flat price.
Pieces mailed as Customized MarketMail (CMM) under 705.1.0 must pay
CMM prices.
* * * * *
[[Page 79078]]
4.4 Shape, Flexibility, and Uniform Thickness
[Revise 4.4 as follows:]
Flat-size pieces that do not meet the standards in 301.1.3 through
301.1.4 must be prepared as parcels and pay parcel prices.
* * * * *
360 Bound Printed Matter
363 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees for Bound Printed Matter
1.1 Nonpresorted Bound Printed Matter
* * * * *
1.1.4 Barcoded Discount--Flats
[Revise the text of 1.1.4 as follows:]
The barcoded discount applies only to BPM flat-size pieces that
meet the requirements in 301.3.0 and bear a delivery point POSTNET
barcode or Intelligent Mail barcode encoded with the correct delivery
point routing code, matching the delivery address and meeting the
standards in 302.5.0 and 708.4.0. The pieces must be part of a
nonpresorted mailing of 50 or more flat-size pieces.
* * * * *
1.2 Commercial Bound Printed Matter
* * * * *
1.2.6 Destination Entry Mailing Fee
[Add a new second sentence to 1.2.6 as follows:]
* * * Payment of this fee is waived for mailers who present only
full-service automation mailings (under 705.23) containing 90 percent
or more pieces qualifying for full-service prices.
* * * * *
400 Commercial Parcels
401 Physical Standards
1.0 Physical Standards for Parcels
* * * * *
1.3 Maximum Weight and Size
[Revise text of 1.3 by inserting a new fourth sentence to read as
follows:]
* * * Standard Mail Marketing parcels (see 2.4) may not be larger
than 12 inches long, 9 inches high, and 2 inches thick. * * *
* * * * *
1.5 Machinable Parcels
1.5.1 Criteria
[Revise the introductory sentence to 1.5.1 as follows:]
A machinable parcel is any piece that is not a letter or a flat and
that is (see Exhibit 1.5.1):
* * * * *
[Revise item 1.5.1b as follows:]
b. Not more than 27 inches long, or 17 inches high, or 17 inches
thick. Parcels cannot weigh more than 25 pounds, except Parcel Select
and Parcel Return parcels which have a maximum weight of 35 pounds,
except for those containing books or other printed matter (25 pound
maximum).
Exhibit 1.5.1 Machinable Parcel Dimensions
[Revise the current length dimension to read 27 inches and delete
the sentences describing the minimum and maximum weights in Exhibit
1.5.1.]
* * * * *
[Revise the title and the introductory text of 1.5.2 as follows:]
1.5.2 Criteria for Lightweight Machinable Parcels
A parcel that weighs less than 6 ounces (but not less than 3.5
ounces) is machinable if it meets all of the following conditions:
* * * * *
1.5.4 Exception
[Revise 1.5.4 as follows:]
Mailers of parcels that do not conform to the machinability
criteria in 1.5.1 or 1.5.2 may request authorization to mail such
parcels as machinable parcels by contacting the manager, Pricing and
Classification Service Center (PCSC; see 608.8.1 for address). The
manager, PCSC, in conjunction with the manager, Operations Integration
and Support, may authorize such parcels as machinable if the parcels
are tested on NDC parcel sorters and prove to be machinable. Mailers
requesting testing of parcels for machinability must:
a. Submit a written request and two sample parcels to the PCSC. The
request must list the mailpiece characteristics for every shape,
weight, construction, and size to be considered. If the request
describes a mailpiece that falls within the specifications of pieces
that were tested previously, the mailpiece may not require testing.
b. State the estimated number of parcels to be mailed in the next
12 months, and the anticipated preparation level (e.g., destination NDC
pallets).
c. Upon acknowledgement from the manager, Operations Integration
and Support, the mailer may be required to send 100 mailpiece samples
to the designated test facility at least 6 weeks prior to the first
mailing date. The USPS may recommend changes to physical
characteristics of the mailpieces, and additional testing of the
redesigned pieces, before authorizing parcels as machinable.
* * * * *
2.0 Additional Physical Standards by Class of Mail
* * * * *
[Revise the title of 2.4 to read as follows:]
2.4 Standard Mail Parcels
* * * * *
[Revise title and text of 2.4.2 to delete references to Not Flat-
Machinables and add standards for Marketing parcels to read as
follows:]
2.4.2 Marketing Parcels
Marketing parcels do not meet letters or flats standards and have
the following characteristics:
a. Height not more than 9 inches high. Minimum height must be 3\1/
2\ inches if the parcel is \1/4\ inch thick or less.
b. Length not more than 12 inches long. Minimum length must be 5
inches if the parcel is \1/4\ inch thick or less.
c. Thickness at least 0.009 thick, but not more than 2 inches.
d. An alternative addressing format, according to 602.3.0.
* * * * *
2.6 Bound Printed Matter Parcels
2.6.1 General Standards
[Revise the text of 2.6.1 by moving the text of item 2.6.1a into
the introductory sentence and deleting item 2.6.1b in its entirety as
follows:]
Pieces mailed at Bound Printed Matter prices may not weigh more
than 15 pounds.
402 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece
1.0 All Mailpieces
* * * * *
1.2 Delivery and Return Address
[Revise 1.2 by reorganizing the text and adding a new last sentence
to read as follows:]
The delivery address specifies the location to which the USPS is to
deliver a mailpiece (see 602 for more information). Except for pieces
prepared with detached address labels under 602.4.0, each mailpiece
must have a visible and legible delivery address only on the side of
the piece bearing postage. A return address is required in specific
circumstances (see 3.2 and 602.1.5). Standard Mail Marketing parcels
(see 443) must use an alternative addressing format under 602.3.0.
* * * * *
[[Page 79079]]
4.0 General Barcode Placement for Parcels
* * * * *
4.3 POSTNET Barcodes, GS1-128 Routing Barcodes and Intelligent Mail
Package Barcodes
[Revise text of 4.3 by deleting references to Not Flat-Machinable
pieces and revising other text to read as follows:]
First-Class Package Service parcels and Standard Mail irregular
parcels may bear POSTNET barcodes (under 4.3.1 through 4.3.3) or GS1-
128 routing barcodes. First-Class Package Service parcels and Standard
Mail irregular parcels bearing POSTNET barcodes representing only the
postal routing barcode (destination ZIP Code) are eligible to be mailed
using eVS under 705.2.9. POSTNET barcodes may not be used on eVS
parcels bearing concatenated GS1-128 barcodes.
4.3.1 General Placement of POSTNET Barcodes
[Revise text of 4.3.1 by deleting references to Not Flat-Machinable
piece under 6 ounces and revising other text to read as follows:]
On a First-Class Package Service parcel or Standard Mail irregular
parcel, the POSTNET barcode may be anywhere on the address side at
least \1/8\ inch from any edge of the piece. Print POSTNET barcodes
according to 708.4.0. Address block barcodes are subject to 4.3.2.
* * * * *
440 Standard Mail
443 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees for Standard Mail
* * * * *
[Revise title of 1.2 to read as follows:]
1.2 Regular and Nonprofit Standard Mail--Marketing Parcel Prices
* * * * *
[Revise title of 1.3 as follows:]
1.3 Nonprofit Standard Mail--Machinable and Irregular Parcel Prices
* * * * *
3.0 Basic Standards for Standard Mail Parcels
* * * * *
3.2 Defining Characteristics
* * * * *
[Renumber current 3.2.2 through 3.2.8 as 3.2.4 through 3.2.10 and
add new 3.2.2 and 3.2.3 as follows:]
3.2.2 Standard Mail Marketing Parcels
All Standard Mail Marketing parcels (both regular and nonprofit)
must bear an alternative addressing format (see 602.3.0) and are
subject to size restrictions in 401.2.4.2.
3.2.3 Nonprofit Standard Mail Machinable and Irregular Parcels
Nonprofit Standard Mail parcels that do not qualify as Marketing
parcels may be prepared and mailed as machinable or irregular parcels.
* * * * *
3.3 Additional Basic Standards for Standard Mail
Each Standard Mail mailing is subject to these general standards:
* * * * *
[Revise text of item 3.3d to read as follows:]
d. Each Marketing parcel must bear an alternative addressing format
subject to 602.3.0. Nonprofit Standard Mail machinable or irregular
parcels must bear the addressee's name and complete delivery address,
or may use an alternative addressing format. Detached address labels
may be used subject to 602.4.0.
* * * * *
4.0 Price Eligibility for Standard Mail
* * * * *
4.2 Minimum Per Piece Prices
The minimum per piece prices (i.e., the minimum postage that must
be paid for each piece) apply as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise text of item 4.2c as follows:]
c. Individual Prices. There are separate minimum per piece prices
for each product and, within each product, for the presort and
destination entry levels within each mailing. There are also separate
prices for regular Marketing parcels, for Nonprofit Marketing parcels,
and for Nonprofit machinable parcels and Nonprofit irregular parcels.
DDU prices are available for parcels entered only at 5-digit or one of
the Enhanced Carrier Route prices.
4.3 Piece/Pound Prices
[Revise the text of 4.3 as follows:]
Pieces that exceed 3.3 ounces are subject to a two-part piece/pound
price that includes a fixed charge per piece and a variable pound
charge based on weight. There are separate per piece prices for each
product and within each product for the type of mailing and the presort
and destination entry levels within each mailing. There are separate
per pound prices for each product. There are also separate prices for
Marketing parcels and for Nonprofit machinable parcels and Nonprofit
irregular parcels.
4.4 Surcharge
[Revise the introductory text of 4.4 to read as follows:]
Unless prepared in carrier route or 5-digit/scheme containers,
Standard Mail parcels are subject to a surcharge if:
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.4b as follows:]
b. The Marketing parcels or the machinable parcels do not bear a
GS1-128 routing barcode or Intelligent Mail package barcode, under
708.5.0, for the delivery address.
[Delete current item 4.4c in its entirety; redesignate current item
d as new item c and revise to read as follows:]
c. The irregular parcels do not bear a GS1-128 routing barcode,
Intelligent Mail package barcode or POSTNET barcode for the delivery
address.
4.5 Extra Services for Standard Mail
4.5.1 Available Services
[Revise the introductory text of 4.5.1 as follows:]
Only the following extra services may be used with Standard Mail
parcels, with restrictions as noted in 4.5.2:
* * * * *
[Delete 4.5.2, Eligible Matter, in its entirety and renumber
current 4.5.3 and 4.5.4 as new 4.5.2 and 4.5.3.]
* * * * *
4.5.3 Additional Preparation Requirements
[Revise the introductory text of renumbered 4.5.3 as follows:]
An eligible mailpiece with an extra service must bear a return
address under 602.1.0, and an ancillary service endorsement under
507.1.0 under the following conditions:
[Revise item 4.5.3b as follows:]
b. Except for Standard Mail Marketing parcels, pieces with Delivery
Confirmation must bear one of the required endorsements in 4.5.3a or
``Change Service Requested.'' Standard Mail Marketing parcels with
required alternative address formats may be mailed with Delivery
Confirmation, but must not bear an ancillary service endorsement (see
602.3.1.2).
* * * * *
5.0 Additional Eligibility Standards for Presorted Standard Mailpieces
* * * * *
[[Page 79080]]
5.2 Price Application
[Revise 5.2 as follows:]
Prices for Standard Mail and Nonprofit Standard Mail apply
separately to Marketing parcels that meet the eligibility standards in
2.0 through 4.0 and the preparation standards in 445.5.0, 705.6.0,
705.8.0, or 705.20. Prices for Nonprofit parcels not qualifying as
Marketing parcels apply separately to machinable parcels and irregular
parcels. When parcels are combined under 445.5.0, 705.6.0, or 705.20,
all pieces are eligible for the applicable prices when the combined
total meets the eligibility standards.
* * * * *
[Revise title of 5.4 to read as follows:]
5.4 Prices for Irregular Parcels and Marketing Parcels
5.4.1 5-Digit Price
[Revise the introductory text of 5.4.1 as follows:]
5-digit prices apply to irregular parcels and to Marketing parcels
that are dropshipped to a DNDC (or ASF when claiming DNDC prices),
DSCF, or DDU and presented:
* * * * *
[Delete item 5.4.1e in its entirety.]
5.4.2 SCF Price
[Revise the introductory text of 5.4.2 as follows:]
SCF prices apply to irregular parcels and to Marketing parcels that
are dropshipped and presented to a DSCF or DNDC:
* * * * *
5.4.3 NDC Price
[Revise the introductory text of 5.4.3 as follows:]
NDC prices apply to irregular parcels and to Marketing parcels as
follows under either of the following conditions:
* * * * *
5.4.4 Mixed NDC Price
[Revise the text of 5.4.4 as follows:]
Mixed NDC prices apply to irregular parcels and to Marketing
parcels in origin NDC or mixed NDC containers that are not eligible for
5-digit, SCF, or NDC prices. Place parcels at mixed NDC prices in
origin NDC or mixed NDC sacks under 445.5.4.4 or on origin NDC or mixed
NDC pallets under 705.8.10.
[Revise the title of 6.0 as follows:]
6.0 Additional Eligibility Standards for Enhanced Carrier Route
Standard Mail Marketing Parcels
6.1 General Enhanced Carrier Route Standards
* * * * *
6.1.2 Basic Eligibility Standards
[Revise the introductory text of 6.1.2 as follows:]
All pieces in an Enhanced Carrier Route or Nonprofit Enhanced
Carrier Route mailing of Standard Mail Marketing parcels must:
* * * * *
d. Bear a delivery address that includes the correct ZIP Code, ZIP
+ 4 code, or numeric equivalent to the delivery point barcode (DPBC)
and that meets these addressing standards:
* * * * *
[Revise item d2 to require alternative addressing to read as
follows:]
2. An alternative addressing format as described in 602.3.0.
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence of item 6.1.2f to indicate new size
restrictions to read as follows:]
f. Enhanced Carrier Route Marketing parcels may not be more than 9
inches high, 12 inches long, or 2 inches thick. * * *
* * * * *
445 Mail Preparation
1.0 General Information for Mail Preparation
* * * * *
1.3 Terms for Presort Levels
Terms used for presort levels are defined as follows:
* * * * *
[Delete current items 1.3e, Origin/Entry 3-Digit, 1.3g, Origin
Optional Entry SCF, and 1.3h, ADC, in their entirety and redesignate
current items 1.3f, 1.3i, 1.3j, 1.3k, and 1.3l as new items 1.3e
through 1.3i.]
1.4 Preparation Definitions and Instructions
For purposes of preparing mail:
* * * * *
[Delete current item 1.4d in its entirety and redesignate current
items e through j as new items d through i.]
2.0 Bundles
2.1 Definition of a Bundle
[Revise the last sentence in 2.1 by deleting the reference to 5-
digit bundles and Not Flat-Machinables to read as follows:]
* * * Bundling under 445 is allowed only for Marketing parcels
mailed at carrier route prices.
* * * * *
2.11 Facing Slips--All Carrier Route Mail
All facing slips used on carrier route bundles must show this
information:
* * * * *
[Revise item 2.11b as follows:]
b. Line 2: Content (appropriate to the class), followed by carrier
route type and route number (e.g., ``STD MKTG LOT CR R 012'').
* * * * *
4.0 Sack Labels
* * * * *
4.4 Line 2 (Content Line)
Line 2 (content line) must meet these standards:
* * * * *
b. Codes: The codes shown below must be used as appropriate in Line
2 of sack labels:
[Revise the table in item 4.4b by adding a new row after
``Machinable'' (seventh row) with ``Marketing Parcels'' (new eighth
row) in the ``CONTENT TYPE'' column and with ``MKTG'' in the ``CODE''
column as follows:]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Content type Code
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
Machinable................................. MACH
Marketing Parcels.......................... MKTG
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
5.0 Preparing Presorted Parcels
5.1 Basic Standards
[Revise the introductory sentence of 5.1 as follows:]
All mailings and all pieces in each mailing at Standard Mail and
Nonprofit Standard Mail parcel prices are subject to preparation
standards in 5.3 or 5.4, and to these general standards:
* * * * *
[Revise item 5.1b as follows:]
b. Marketing parcels, Nonprofit machinable parcels, and Nonprofit
irregular parcels must each be prepared as separate mailings, except
under 5.3.1.
* * * * *
5.2 Markings
[Revise the text of 5.2 as follows:]
All parcels must be marked according to 402.2.0.
[Revise the title of 5.3 as follows:]
5.3 Preparing Marketing Parcels (6 Ounces or More) and Machinable
Parcels
5.3.1 Sacking
[Revise the introductory text of 5.3.1 as follows:]
Prepare mailings of Marketing parcels weighing 6 ounces or more and
mailings
[[Page 79081]]
of machinable parcels under 5.3.0. Prepare 5-digit sacks only for
parcels dropshipped to a DNDC (or ASF when claiming DNDC prices), DSCF,
or DDU. Prepare ASF or NDC sacks only for parcels dropshipped to a DNDC
(or ASF when claiming DNDC prices). There is no minimum for parcels in
5-digit/scheme sacks entered at a DDU. Mailers combining irregular
parcels with machinable parcels placed in 5-digit/scheme sacks must
prepare those sacks under 5.3.2a. Mailers combining Marketing parcels
weighing 6 ounces or more with machinable parcels placed in ASF, NDC,
or mixed NDC sacks must prepare the sacks under 5.3.2. For mailings of
only Marketing parcels weighing 6 ounces or more, use ``MKTG'' on line
2 of sack labels instead of ``MACH'' under items 5.3.2a through e.
* * * * *
[Revise the title of 5.4 as follows:]
5.4 Preparing Marketing Parcels (Less Than 6 Ounces) and Irregular
Parcels
5.4.1 Bundling
[Revise the text of 5.4.1 as follows:]
Bundling is permitted only for bundles of carrier route Marketing
parcels under 7.0.
5.4.2 Sacking
[Revise the text of 5.4.2 as follows:]
Prepare mailings of Marketing parcels weighing less than 6 ounces
and mailings of irregular parcels under 5.4.0. Prepare 5-digit sacks
only for parcels dropshipped to a DNDC (or ASF when claiming DNDC
prices), DSCF, or DDU. See 5.4.3 for restrictions on SCF, ASF, and NDC
sacks. Mailers must prepare a sack when the mail for a required presort
destination reaches 10 pounds of pieces. There is no minimum for
parcels prepared in 5-digit/scheme sacks entered at a DDU. Mailers
combining irregular parcels with machinable parcels and Marketing
parcels weighing 6 ounces or more in 5-digit/scheme sacks must prepare
those sacks under 5.3.2. Mailers may not prepare sacks containing
irregular and machinable parcels to other presort levels. Mailers may
combine irregular parcels with Marketing parcels weighing less than 6
ounces in sacks under 5.4.3. For mailings of only Marketing parcels
weighing less than 6 ounces, use ``MKTG'' on line 2 of sack labels
instead of ``IRREG'' under items 5.4.3a through f.
* * * * *
[Delete 5.4.3, Drop Shipment, in its entirety and renumber current
5.4.4 as new 5.4.3.]
[Delete current 6.0 in its entirety and renumber all of current 7.0
as new 6.0.]
* * * * *
6.0 Preparing Enhanced Carrier Route Parcels
6.1 Basic Standards
[Revise the introductory text of renumbered 6.1 as follows:]
All mailings and all pieces in each mailing at an Enhanced Carrier
Route (ECR) parcel price are subject to specific preparation standards
in 6.4, and 6.5, and to these general standards:
[Revise items 6.1a through d as follows:]
a. All pieces must meet the standards for basic eligibility in
443.2.0 through 443.4.0 and specific eligibility in 443.6.0. Nonprofit
Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail must meet the additional
eligibility standards in 703.1.0.
b. All pieces in each mailing must be Marketing parcels as defined
in 443.3.2.2.
c. All pieces must meet the applicable general preparation
standards in 1.0 through 4.0, and the following:
1. Pieces must be sequenced according to 6.6 and 6.7.
2. Pieces with a simplified address format must meet the standards
in 602.3.0.
d. All pieces in the mailing must meet the specific sortation and
preparation standards in 6.0 or the palletization standards in 705.8.0.
* * * * *
6.3 Residual Pieces
[Revise the text of renumbered 6.3 as follows:]
Parcels not sorted as a carrier route mailing must be prepared as a
separate mailing at Standard Mail Presorted prices.
6.4 Bundling
* * * * *
6.4.2 Bundles and Sacks With Fewer Than the Minimum Number of Pieces
Required
[Revise the text of renumbered 6.4.2 as follows:
As a general exception to 6.4.1 and 6.5.1, mailers may prepare a
bundle with fewer than 10 pieces and a less-than-full sack with fewer
than 125 pieces or less than 15 pounds of pieces to a carrier route
when they are claiming the saturation price for the contents and the
applicable density standard is met. Mailers using Express Mail Open and
Distribute or Priority Mail Open and Distribute to dropship ECR parcels
also may prepare sacks of fewer than 125 pieces or less than 15 pounds
of mail.
[Revise the title of renumbered 6.5 as follows:]
6.5 Preparing Carrier Route Marketing Parcels
6.5.1 Sack Minimums
[Revise the introductory text of renumbered 6.5.1 as follows:]
Except under 6.4.1, a sack must be prepared when the quantity of
mail for a required presort destination reaches either 125 pieces or 15
pounds of pieces, whichever occurs first, subject to these conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise item 6.5.1b as follows:]
b. For nonidentical-weight pieces, mailers must use the minimum
that applies to either the average piece weight for the entire mailing
or 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.
* * * * *
6.5.2 Sacking and Labeling
Preparation sequence, sack size, and labeling:
a. Carrier route: Required (minimum of 125 pieces/15 pounds).
* * * * *
[Revise item a2 as follows:]
2. Line 2: ``STD MKTG WSS'' or ``STD MKTG WSH'' or ``STD MKTG LOT''
as applicable, followed by the route type and number.
b. 5-digit carrier routes: Required (no minimum).
* * * * *
[Revise item b2 as follows:]
2. Line 2: ``STD MKTG CR-RTS.''
* * * * *
446 Enter and Deposit
* * * * *
5.0 Destination Delivery Unit (DDU) Entry
* * * * *
5.2 Eligibility
Pieces in a mailing that meets the standards in 2.0 and 5.0 are
eligible for the DDU price when deposited at a DDU, addressed for
delivery within that facility's service area, and prepared as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise item 5.2b by deleting the reference to Not Flat-Machinable
pieces to read as follows:]
b. One or more parcels in 5-digit containers.
* * * * *
[[Page 79082]]
450 Parcel Select
* * * * *
456 Enter and Deposit
* * * * *
2.0 Deposit
* * * * *
2.17 DNDC Parcel Select--Acceptance at Designated SCF
* * * The following standards apply:
* * * * *
[Revise item 2.17b as follows:]
b. Bound Printed Matter machinable parcels under 466.4.3, and
Standard Mail and Parcel Select Lightweight machinable parcels under
705.6.0 may be included.
* * * * *
460 Bound Printed Matter
463 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees for Bound Printed Matter
1.1 Nonpresorted Bound Printed Matter
* * * * *
[Delete 1.1.3 Barcode Discount--Machinable Parcels in its entirety
and renumber current items 1.1.4 and 1.1.5 as new 1.1.3 and 1.1.4.]
1.2 Commercial Bound Printed Matter
* * * * *
1.2.3 Bound Printed Matter Presorted and Carrier Route Prices
[Delete the second sentence of 1.2.3 in its entirety.]
1.2.4 Bound Printed Matter Destination Entry Prices
[Delete the second sentence of 1.2.4 in its entirety.]
* * * * *
4.0 Price Eligibility for Bound Printed Matter Parcels
4.1 Price Eligibility
* * * Price categories are as follows:
* * * * *
[Delete item 4.1d in its entirety.]
* * * * *
466 Enter and Deposit
* * * * *
4.0 Destination Network Distribution Center (DNDC) Entry
* * * * *
4.2 Acceptance at Designated SCF--Mailer Benefit
* * * The following standards apply:
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.2c as follows:]
c. Parcel Select machinable parcels under 456.2.6, and Standard
Mail and Parcel Select Lightweight machinable parcels under 705.6.0 may
be included.
* * * * *
470 Media Mail and Library Mail
473 Prices and Eligibility
* * * * *
6.0 Price Eligibility for Media Mail and Library Mail Parcels
* * * * *
6.3 Price Categories for Media Mail and Library Mail Parcels
* * * The price categories and discounts are as follows:
[Delete item 6.3c in its entirety.]
* * * * *
500 Additional Mailing Services
503 Extra Services
* * * * *
4.0 Insured Mail
* * * * *
4.2 Basic Information
* * * * *
4.2.2 Eligible Matter
The following types of mail may be insured:
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.2.2b as follows:]
b. Standard Mail parcels (bulk insurance only).
* * * * *
4.2.3 Ineligible Matter
The following types of mail may not be insured:
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.2.3f as follows:]
f. Standard Mail letters and flats.
* * * * *
6.0 Return Receipt
* * * * *
6.2 Basic Information
* * * * *
6.2.4 Additional Services
[Revise the introductory text of 6.2.4 as follows:]
If return receipt service has been purchased with one of the
services listed in 6.2.2, one or more of the following extra services
may be added at the time of mailing if the standards for the services
are met and the additional service fees are paid:
* * * * *
[Add new item 6.2.4f as follows:]
f. Adult Signature (Express Mail and Priority Mail only), under
restrictions in 8.2.6.
* * * * *
7.0 Restricted Delivery
* * * * *
7.2 Basic Information
* * * * *
7.2.2 Eligible Matter
Restricted Delivery service is available for:
* * * * *
[Revise item 7.2.2b as follows:]
b. Standard Mail parcels when bulk insurance (for more than
$200.00) is purchased at the time of mailing.
* * * * *
8.0 Adult Signature
* * * * *
8.2 Basic Information
* * * * *
8.2.5 Confirmation of Delivery
Confirmation of delivery information for Adult Signature is
available as follows:
* * * * *
[Add new item 8.2.5c as follows:]
c. Return receipt service (hard copy PS Form 3811 option only),
under 6.0, may be purchased with Express Mail or Priority Mail pieces
requesting Adult Signature.
8.2.6 Additional Services
Adult Signature may be combined with:
* * * * *
[Add new item 8.2.6d as follows:]
d. Return receipt (hard copy PS Form 3811 only) for Express Mail
and Priority Mail pieces.
* * * * *
9.0 Return Receipt for Merchandise
* * * * *
9.2 Basic Information
* * * * *
9.2.2 Eligible Matter
[Revise the text of 9.2.2 as follows:]
Return receipt for merchandise is available for merchandise sent as
Priority Mail (excluding Critical Mail), Standard Mail machinable and
irregular parcels, Package Services, and Parcel Select pieces.
* * * * *
10.0 Delivery Confirmation
* * * * *
[[Page 79083]]
10.2 Basic Information
* * * * *
10.2.2 Eligible Matter
[Revise the first sentence of the introductory text of 10.2.2 as
follows:]
Delivery Confirmation is available for First-Class Mail parcels and
First-Class Package Service parcels (electronic option only); all
Priority Mail pieces; Standard Mail parcels (electronic option only);
Package Services, Parcel Select, and Parcel Select Regional Ground
parcels (electronic option only) under 401.1.0. * * *
* * * * *
10.2.3 Electronic Option Delivery Confirmation for Standard Mail
[Revise the first sentence of 10.2.3 as follows:]
If electronic option Delivery Confirmation is requested for all
pieces in the mailing and the pieces are of identical weight, then
postage may be paid with metered postage or permit imprint under the
applicable standards in 444.2.0 for parcels. * * *
* * * * *
11.0 Signature Confirmation
11.1 Signature Confirmation Fees
11.1.1 Fee
[Revise the text of 11.1 to delete the current first sentence in
its entirety, so that the complete text is as follows:]
Signature Confirmation fee is in addition to postage and other fees
and is charged per piece. See Notice 123--Price List.
* * * * *
11.2 Basic Information
* * * * *
11.2.2 Eligible Matter
[Revise the first sentence of the introductory text of 11.2.2 as
follows:]
Signature Confirmation is available for First-Class Mail parcels
and First-Class Package Service parcels (electronic option only); all
Priority Mail pieces; Package Services, Parcel Select, and Parcel
Select Regional Ground parcels (electronic option only) under 401.1.0.
* * *
* * * * *
[Revise the title of 14.0 as follows:]
14.0 Confirm Service and IMb Tracing
[Delete the current text of 14.1 through 14.4 and replace with the
following:]
14.1 Basic Information
14.1.1 General Information
IMb Tracing replaces Confirm service. Participation in Confirm
service is limited to those customers who have already paid for a
current subscription until the subscription expires. After the
expiration of a Confirm subscription, IMb Tracing provides the same
basic information as Confirm, but is available at no charge without a
subscription. Requirements for participation in IMb Tracing are the use
of the Intelligent Mail barcode, the use of a Mailer Identifier that
has been registered (via the Business Customer Gateway, accessible on
usps.com) to receive scan data, and verification by the Postal Service
that the Intelligent Mail barcode (IMb) as printed meets all applicable
postal standards.
14.1.2 Description of Service
IMb Tracing (and Confirm) provides a mailer with data
electronically collected from the scanning of barcoded mailpieces as
they pass through automated mail processing operations. Scanned data
can include the postal facility where such pieces are processed, the
postal operation used to process the pieces, the date and time when the
pieces are processed, and the numeric equivalent of a barcode(s) that
help to identify the specific pieces. Any piece intended to generate
scanned data must meet the physical characteristics and standards in
14.0, although not every piece is guaranteed such data or complete
data. This service does not provide proof of delivery. Existing Confirm
users must convert to the use of IMb Tracing to receive data once
existing subscriptions expire.
14.1.3 Availability
IMb Tracing is available to mailers for obtaining scan data for
automation-compatible letter-size and automation-compatible flat-size
mail.
14.2 Barcodes
14.2.1 General Barcode Requirements
Each piece in a mailing that is intended to generate IMb Tracing
information must bear an Intelligent Mail barcode under 14.2.2. Until
the time when their current Confirm subscription expires, mailers may
use PLANET Code barcodes and POSTNET barcodes under the provisions in
Publication 197, Confirm Service Featuring OneCode Confirm, accessible
online at http://ribbs.usps.gov/. Otherwise, mailers must apply
Intelligent Mail barcodes under 708.4.0 and the following standards:
a. Reply pieces must meet the following standards:
1. For Business Reply Mail, the piece must bear a barcode that
corresponds to the subscriber's Business Reply Mail ZIP+4 codes
assigned by the USPS under 507.9.0.
2. For other reply mail, the piece must bear a barcode that
correctly corresponds to the delivery address.
b. Outgoing pieces must bear an Intelligent Mail barcode that
correctly corresponds to the delivery address.
14.2.2 Intelligent Mail Barcode Requirements
To obtain IMb Tracing, mailers apply Intelligent Mail barcodes on
letter-size pieces or on flat-size pieces meeting automation-
compatibility standards in 201.3.0 (letters) or 301.3.0 (flats). No
other barcode use is acceptable on these pieces. Only one Intelligent
Mail barcode may appear on each piece, according to these standards:
a. Intelligent Mail barcodes must meet the barcode and format
standards in 708.4.0 and in Specification USPS-B-3200 at http://ribbs.usps.gov/.
b. Place barcodes on letters according to 202.5.0 and on flats
according to 302.5.0.
* * * * *
507 Mailer Services
1.0 Treatment of Mail
* * * * *
1.5 Treatment for Ancillary Services by Class of Mail
* * * * *
1.5.3 Standard Mail
Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) Standard Mail is treated as
described in Exhibit 1.5.3a and Exhibit 1.5.3k, with these additional
conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise item 1.5.3j as follows:]
j. A returned piece endorsed ``Return Service Requested'' is
charged the applicable single-piece First-Class Mail price for the
weight and shape of the piece, or the Priority Mail price for the
weight and destination of the piece.
* * * * *
1.5.4 Package Services and Parcel Select
Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) Package Services and Parcel Select
mailpieces are treated as described in Exhibit 1.5.4, with these
additional conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise item 1.5.4d as follows:]
d. If a Package Services (except for unendorsed Bound Printed
Matter) or a Parcel Select mailpiece and any attachment are not opened
by the addressee, the addressee may refuse delivery of the piece and
have it returned to the sender without affixing
[[Page 79084]]
postage. Pieces endorsed ``Change Service Requested'' are not returned
to sender. If a Package Services or Parcel Select piece or any
attachment to that piece is opened by the addressee, the addressee must
affix the applicable postage to return the piece to the sender. If the
addressee does not want to pay forwarding postage for all Package
Services mail, use PS Form 3546 to notify the postmaster of the old
address to discontinue the forwarding of Package Services mail.
[Revise item 1.5.4e as follows:]
e. An undeliverable Package Services (except for unendorsed Bound
Printer Matter) or a Parcel Select mailpiece that bears postage with a
postage evidencing imprint and that has no return address or illegible
return address is returned to the meter licensee or PC Postage customer
upon payment of the return postage. The reason for nondelivery is
attached, with no address correction fee. All Package Services and
Parcel Select pieces must have a legible return address.
* * * * *
Exhibit 1.5.4 Treatment of Undeliverable Package Services Mail and
Parcel Select
* * * * *
[Revise the text in the Exhibit 1.5.4 column ``USPS Treatment of
UAA Pieces'' endorsement ``Address Service Requested'' as follows:]
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first sentence of the introductory text in the first
bullet as follows:]
Months 1 through 12: Package Services forwarded at the
single-piece price for the class of mail.* * *
* * * * *
[Revise the text in the Exhibit 1.5.4 column ``USPS Treatment of
UAA Pieces'' endorsement ``Forwarding Service Requested as follows:]
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first sentence of the introductory text in the first
bullet as follows:]
Months 1 through 12: Package Services forwarded at the
single-piece price for the class of mail. * * *
* * * * *
2.0 Forwarding
* * * * *
2.3 Postage for Forwarding
* * * * *
2.3.6 Package Services and Parcel Select
[Delete the current second sentence of 2.3.6 and revise the entire
text to read as follows:]
Package Services and Parcel Select pieces are subject to the
collection of additional postage at the applicable price for
forwarding; Parcel Select at the Parcel Select nonpresort price plus
the additional service fee and Package Services at the single-piece
price for the specific class of mail. The addressee may refuse any
piece of Package Services or Parcel Select that has been forwarded.
Shipper Paid Forwarding, under provisions in 4.2.9, provides mailers an
option of paying forwarding postage for parcels instead of the
addressee paying postage due charges.
* * * * *
508 Recipient Services
* * * * *
4.0 Post Office Box Service
* * * * *
4.2 Basic Information for Post Office Box Service
* * * * *
4.2.7 Service Period
[Revise the text of 4.2.7 as follows:]
Post Office Box service is available in 3-, 6- or 12-month prepaid
periods. The 3-month option is available only through recurring
automatic payments. The 3-month option is not available at Post Office
locations using the semi-annual (April/October) payment schedule.
* * * * *
4.5 Basis of Fees and Payment
* * * * *
4.5.4 Payment
[Revise the first sentence of 4.5.4 as follows:]
All fees for Post Office Box service are for 3-, 6- or 12-month
prepaid periods, except as noted under 4.5.6, 4.5.7, and 4.5.10. * * *
* * * * *
4.7 Fee Refund
4.7.1 Calculation
When Post Office Box service is terminated or surrendered by the
customer, the unused portion of the fee may be refunded as follows:
[Revise item 4.7.1a as follows:]
a. If service is discontinued at any time within the first 3 months
of the 6-month or 12-month service period, then one-half of the fee is
refunded. None of the fee is refunded under the 3-month payment option.
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.7.1c as follows:]
c. If service is discontinued and the customer has prepaid for the
next quarterly or semiannual service period, then the entire fee for
that next period is refunded.
4.7.2 Discontinued Postal Facility
[Revise the second sentence of 4.7.2 as follows:]
* * * For this purpose, one-sixth of a semiannual fee is refunded
for each month left in the payment period. For the 3-month payment
option, one-third of a 3-month fee is refunded for each month left in
the payment. * * *
* * * * *
7.0 Hold for Pickup
* * * * *
7.2 Basic Information
* * * * *
7.2.2 Basic Eligibility
[Revise the second sentence of the introductory text of 7.2.2 as
follows:]
* * * Hold For Pickup service is also available with online and
commercial mailings of Priority Mail (except Critical Mail), First-
Class Package Service parcels, Parcel Select barcoded, nonpresorted
parcels, and Parcel Select Regional Ground parcels when: * * *
* * * * *
600 Basic Standards for All Mailing Services
601 Mailability
1.0 General Standards
* * * * *
1.2 Minimum Dimensions
For mailability, the following standards apply:
* * * * *
b. All mailpieces (except keys and identification devices) that are
\1/4\ inch thick or less must be:
[Revise item 1.1.2b4 as follows:]
4. Except for machinable parcels described in 401.1.5.2, pieces
mailed at parcel prices may have finished corners that do not exceed a
radius of 0.5 inch (\1/2\ inch). See Exhibit 1.2b4.
* * * * *
1.4 Length and Height
Determine the processing category (see 1.1) based on the physical
dimensions and characteristics of the mailpiece, without regard to
address placement. Then, determine length and height as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise item 1.4c as follows:]
c. Parcels: The length is the longest dimension.
* * * * *
[[Page 79085]]
11.0 Cigarettes and Smokeless Tobacco
* * * * *
11.5 Exception for Business/Regulatory Purposes
* * * * *
11.5.2 Mailing
* * * All mailings under the business/regulatory purposes exception
must:
[Revise 11.5.2a as follows:]
a. Be entered in a face-to-face transaction with a postal employee
(carrier pickup not permitted) as Express Mail with Hold for Pickup
service, Express Mail with an Adult Signature service (see 503.8.0), or
Priority Mail with an Adult Signature service;
* * * * *
11.6 Exception for Certain Individuals
* * * * *
11.6.2 Mailing
* * * Each mailing under the certain individuals exception must:
[Revise 11.6.2a as follows:]
a. Be entered (carrier pickup not permitted) as Express Mail with
Hold For Pickup service, Express Mail with an Adult Signature service
(see 503.8.0), or Priority Mail with an Adult Signature service; unless
shipped to APO/FPO/DPO addresses under 11.6.4.
* * * * *
[Revise 11.6.2c as follows:]
c. Bear the full name and mailing address of the sender and
recipient on the Express Mail or Priority Mail label;
* * * * *
11.6.3 Delivery
Delivery under the certain individuals exception is made under the
following conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise 11.6.3c as follows:]
c. For Express Mail or Adult Signature articles, once age is
established, the recipient must sign PS Form 3849 in the appropriate
signature block.
* * * * *
11.7 Consumer Testing Exception
* * * * *
11.7.2 Mailing
* * * Mailings must be tendered under the following conditions:
* * * * *
b. All mailings under the consumer testing exception:
[Revise 11.7.2b1 as follows:]
1. Be entered in a face-to-face transaction with a postal employee
(carrier pickup not permitted) as Express Mail with Hold For Pickup
service, Express Mail with Adult Signature Restricted Delivery service
(see 503.8.0), or Priority Mail with Adult Signature Restricted
Delivery service;
* * * * *
[Revise 11.7.2b4 as follows:]
4. Must bear the full mailing addresses of both the sender and
recipient on the Express Mail or Priority Mail label (the name and
address of the sender must match exactly those listed on the customer's
application on file with the PCSC);
* * * * *
11.7.3 Delivery
Mailings bearing the markings for consumer testing can only be
delivered to the named addressee under the following conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise 11.7.3c as follows:]
c. The name on the identification must match the name of the
addressee on the Express Mail or Priority Mail label.
602 Addressing
* * * * *
[Revise the title of 4.0 as follows:]
4.0 Detached Address Labels (DALs) and Detached Marketing Labels (DMLs)
[Revise the title of 4.1 as follows:]
4.1 DAL and DML Use
[Revise the title and text of 4.1.1 as follows:]
4.1.1 Definitions
For these standards, item(s) refers to the types of mail described
in 4.1.2 through 4.1.4. DALs in their basic form may be used by mailers
as an optional method of addressing and printing of postage indicia on
the DALs instead of printing addresses and postage on the items mailed
with the DALs. DMLs are types of DALs, but also include advertising.
For purposes of standards in 4.0, the term ``DALs'' (or ``DAL'') will
be used to mean both DALs and DMLs, unless a standard specifically
states that it applies only to DMLs.
* * * * *
[Revise the title and text of 4.1.3 as follows:]
4.1.3 Standard Mail Marketing Parcels
DALs may be used with Standard Mail Marketing parcels mailed at
carrier route, high density, or saturation parcel prices.
* * * * *
4.1.5 Alternative Addressing Format
[Revise the text of 4.1.5 as follows:]
DALs may have alternative addressing formats under 3.0, subject to
the applicable standards.
* * * * *
4.2 Label Preparation
* * * * *
4.2.5 Other Information
[Revise the text of 4.2.5 as follows:]
In addition to the information described in 4.2.2 and 4.2.4, and an
indicium of postage payment, only official pictures and data circulated
by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children may appear on
the front of a DAL. Advertising may appear on a DML, under the
following conditions:
a. The DMLs must meet the physical characteristics for DALs under
4.2.1 and have a correct POSTNET or Intelligent Mail barcode with an
11-digit routing code (see 708.4.0).
b. The advertising must not obstruct or overlap any of the required
elements on the front of a DML.
c. The advertising must be to the left of the delivery address and
placed to maintain required clear spaces around the address and postage
payment (see 202 and 1.0).
* * * * *
4.5 Postage
4.5.1 Prices
[Revise the text of 4.5.1 as follows:]
DAL mailings are not eligible for automation prices, but the pieces
may qualify for carrier route prices, subject to applicable standards.
Mailers must pay a surcharge for each DAL used with Standard Mail
flats. See Notice 123--Price List for prices.
4.5.2 Postage Computation and Payment
[Revise the introductory text of 4.5.2 as follows:]
Postage is computed based on the combined weight of the item and
the accompanying DAL. If the number of DALs and items mailed is not
identical, the number of pieces used to determine postage is the
greater of the two. No postage refund is allowed in these situations.
In addition, these methods of postage payment apply:
* * * * *
[Revise items 4.5.2b and 4.5.2c as follows:]
b. Standard Mail flats and parcels (at the applicable postage) and
Bound Printed Matter pieces must be paid by permit imprint, which must
appear on each DAL.
[[Page 79086]]
c. A surcharge applies to each DAL (including DMLs) used in a
Standard Mail flats mailing.
* * * * *
604 Postage Payment Methods
* * * * *
2.0 Stamped Stationery
* * * * *
2.3 Other Stationery
2.3.1 Stamped Cards
[Revise 2.3.1 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.
Stamped cards are also available in 8\1/2\ inches by 11 inches
perforated and non-perforated sheets with four 4\1/4\ inches by 5\1/2\
inches cards. Non-perforated sheets must be cut so that the stamp is in
the upper right corner of each card. The USPS offers personalized
stamped cards (cards imprinted with a return address).
* * * * *
[Add the new 2.3.4 as follows:]
2.3.4 Printing Specifications
The printing specifications for personalized stamped envelopes also
apply to stamped postcards (see 2.2.3).
* * * * *
[Add new item 2.4 as follows:]
2.4 Stamp Fulfillment Service
2.4.1 Description
Stamp Fulfillment Services provides the fulfillment of stamp orders
placed by customers via mail, phone, fax, or online to the Stamp
Fulfillment Services organization. Stamp Fulfillment Services charges
shipping and handling fees associated with fulfilling stamp orders. The
fees vary depending on the dollar amount of the order. All prices and
fees are listed on Notice 123--Price List.
* * * * *
700 Special Standards
* * * * *
705 Advanced Preparation and Special Postage Payment Systems
* * * * *
2.0 Manifest Mailing System
* * * * *
2.2 Basic Standards
2.2.1 Authorization Document
An MMS is established through a letter of authorization as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise item 2.2.1b as follows:]
b. An MMS approved by Business Mailer Support is authorized with a
letter (or previously-approved service agreement) signed by the
Business Mailer Support manager. The authorization letter contains
provisions regarding mailer and USPS responsibilities, including
document retention and quality control.
* * * * *
2.3 Keyline
* * * * *
2.3.3 Price Category Abbreviations
* * * * *
b. Standard Mail:
Exhibit 2.3.3b Price Category Abbreviations--Standard Mail
[Revise Exhibit 2.3.3b by deleting the row with ``NF * * * Not
Flat-Machinable'' text (fourth from the bottom) in its entirety.]
2.9 Electronic Verification System
* * * * *
2.9.2 Availability
eVS may be used only for mail paid with a permit imprint and the
following classes and subclasses of mail:
* * * * *
[Revise items 2.9.2d and 2.9.2e as follows:]
d. Regular Standard Mail. Presorted prices, destination network
distribution center (DNDC) prices, destination sectional center
facility (DSCF) prices, and destination delivery unit (DDU) prices;
machinable and irregular parcels.
e. Nonprofit Standard Mail. Presorted prices, DNDC prices, DSCF
prices, and DDU prices; machinable and irregular parcels.
* * * * *
6.0 Combining Mailings of Standard Mail, Package Services, and Parcel
Select Parcels
[Revise the title of 6.1 by deleting the reference to NFMs to read
as follows:]
6.1 Basic Standards for Combining Parcels
6.1.1 Basic Standards
[Revise text in the first sentence of 6.1.1 by deleting NFMs to
read as follows:]
Standard Mail parcels, Package Services, and Parcel Select parcels
in combined mailings must meet the following standards:
* * * * *
[Revise the title of 6.2 by deleting reference to NFMs to read as
follows:]
6.2 Combining Parcels--DNDC Entry
[Revise 6.2 by deleting reference to NFMs 6 ounces or more to read
as follows:]
Mailers may combine Standard Mail machinable parcels with Package
Services and Parcel Select machinable parcels for entry at an NDC when
authorized by the USPS under 6.1.4.
* * * * *
6.2.2 Additional Standards
[Revise the introductory text of 6.2.2 by deleting references to
NFMs 6 ounces or more to read as follows:]
Standard Mail machinable parcels and Package Services and Parcel
Select machinable parcels prepared for DNDC entry must meet the
following conditions in addition to the basic standards in 6.1:
[Revise the text of 6.2.2a by deleting references to NFMs to read
as follows:]
a. Each piece in a combined Standard Mail, Package Services, and
Parcel Select mailing must meet the criteria for machinable parcels in
401.1.5.
* * * * *
[Revise the text of 6.2.2e by deleting references to NFMs to read
as follows:]
e. Mailers must deposit combined machinable parcels at NDCs or ASFs
(see Exhibit 6.2.3) under applicable standards in 15.0.
* * * * *
6.3 Combining Parcels--Parcel Select ONDC Presort, NDC Presort, DSCF,
and DDU Prices
6.3.1 Qualification
Combination requirements for specific discounts and prices are as
follows:
[Revise items 6.3.1a through d by deleting references to NFMs 6
ounces or more to read as follows:]
a. When claiming Parcel Select ONDC Presort discounts, machinable
Standard Mail parcels may be combined with machinable Parcel Select and
Package Services parcels under 6.3 only if the mailpieces are
palletized and each pallet or pallet box contains a 200-pound minimum.
b. When claiming Parcel Select NDC Presort discounts, machinable
Standard Mail parcels may be combined with machinable Parcel Select and
Package Services parcels under 6.3 only if the mailpieces are
palletized and each pallet or pallet box contains a 200 pound minimum.
c. When claiming the DSCF price for Parcel Select or Bound Printed
Matter parcels, Standard Mail parcels may be combined with Package
Services and Parcel Select parcels under 6.3.
d. All Standard Mail parcels may be combined with Package Services
and
[[Page 79087]]
Parcel Select parcels prepared for DDU prices under 6.3.
* * * * *
6.4 Combining Package Services, Parcel Select, and Standard Mail--
Optional 3-Digit SCF Entry
* * * * *
6.4.2 Qualifications and Preparation
[Revise the introductory paragraph of 6.4.2 by deleting references
to NFMs to read as follows:]
Parcel Select, Bound Printed Matter machinable parcels, and
Standard Mail parcels may be prepared for entry at designated SCFs
under these standards:
[Revise item 6.4.2a by deleting references to NFMs to read as
follows:]
a. Standard Mail parcels that weigh less than 2 ounces and Standard
Mail parcels that are tubes, rolls, triangles, and similar pieces may
not be included.
[Revise item 6.4.2b as follows:]
b. Mailers must prepare pieces on 3-digit pallets or pallet boxes,
or unload and physically separate the pieces into containers as
specified by the destination facility.
* * * * *
[Revise item 6.4.2d by deleting references to NFMs to read as
follows:]
d. Standard Mail machinable parcels are eligible for the NDC
presort level, DNDC price; irregular parcels are eligible for the 3-
digit presort level, DSCF price.
* * * * *
8.0 Preparing Pallets
* * * * *
8.10 Pallet Presort and Labeling
* * * * *
8.10.2 Periodicals--Bundles, Sacks, or Trays
[Add a new last sentence in the introductory text to read as
follows:]
* * * Prepare pallets in the following sequence:
* * * * *
[Revise the introductory text of item 8.10.2j to read as follows:]
j. Origin Mixed ADC (OMX), optional, permitted for sacks and trays,
and bundles of flats. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation
price, and/or presorted price mail. Labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise the introductory text of item 8.10.2k to read as follows:]
k. Mixed ADC, optional, permitted for sacks and trays, and bundles
of flats. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation price, and/or
presorted price mail. Pallets must not contain origin mixed ADC (OMX)
sacks, bundles, or trays. Labeling:
* * * * *
8.10.3 Standard Mail--Bundles, Sacks, or Trays
[Revise the third sentence of the introductory text of 8.10.3 for
clarity, and add two new sentences at the end of the introductory text,
to read as follows:]
* * * Use this preparation only for irregular parcels in sacks or
Marketing parcels in carrier route bundles. * * * For Marketing parcel
mailings, use ``MKTG'' instead of ``IRREG'' on line 2 of the pallet
placard. Preparation sequence and labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise the title and introductory text of 8.10.6 to read as
follows:]
8.10.6 Combined Mailings of Standard Mail Marketing Parcels 6 Ounces or
More, Standard Mail, Package Services, and Parcel Select Machinable
Parcels
Prepare pallets under 8.0 in the sequence below. Unless indicated
as optional, all sort levels are required. Combined mailings of
Standard Mail Marketing parcels, Standard Mail, Parcel Select, and
Package Services machinable parcels also must meet the standards in 6.0
or 20.0. Label pallets under applicable standards in 8.6 and according
to Line 1 and Line 2 information below:
[Delete the reference to ``NFM'' and replace the reference to ``STD
MACH'' with ``STD/PSVC MACH'' to revise item 8.10.6a as follows:]
a. 5-digit scheme, required. Pallet must contain parcels for the
same 5-digit scheme under L606. For 5-digit destinations not part of
L606, or for which scheme sorts are not performed, prepare 5-digit
pallets under 8.10.6b. Labeling:
1. Line 1: Use L606.
2. Line 2: ``STD/PSVC MACH 5D;'' followed by ``SCHEME'' (or
``SCH'').
[Delete the reference to ``NFM'' and replace the reference to ``STD
MACH'' with ``STD/PSVC MACH'' to revise item 8.10.6b as follows:]
b. 5-digit, required. Pallet must contain parcels only for the same
5-digit ZIP Code. Labeling:
1. Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see
8.6.4c for overseas military mail).
2. Line 2: ``STD/PSVC MACH 5D''
[Delete the reference to ``NFM'' and replace the reference to ``STD
MACH'' with ``STD/PSVC MACH'' to revise item 8.10.6c as follows:]
c. ASF, optional, but required for DNDC prices. Not available for
the Buffalo NY ASF in L602. Pallets must contain only parcels for the
3-digit ZIP Code groups in L602. Labeling:
1. Line 1: Use L602.
2. Line 2: ``STD/PSVC MACH ASF.''
[Delete the reference to ``NFM'' and replace the reference to ``STD
MACH'' with ``STD/PSVC MACH'' to revise item 8.10.6d as follows:]
d. NDC, required. Pallets must contain only parcels for the 3-digit
ZIP Code groups in L601. Labeling:
1. Line 1: Use L601.
2. Line 2: ``STD/PSVC MACH NDC.''
[Delete the reference to ``NFM'' and replace the reference to ``STD
MACH'' with ``STD/PSVC MACH'' to revise item 8.10.6e as follows:]
e. Mixed NDC, optional. Labeling:
1. Line 1: ``MXD'' followed by information in L601, Column B, for
NDC serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry Post Office (or labeled to
plant serving entry Post Office if authorized by processing and
distribution manager).
2. Line 2: ``STD/PSVC MACH WKG.''
[Revise title and introductory text of 8.10.7 to remove references
to Not Flat-Machinables and NFMs and revise as follows:]
8.10.7 Machinable Parcels--Standard Mail, Including Marketing Parcels 6
Ounces or More, and Parcel Select Lightweight
Mailers who palletize machinable parcels must make pallets or
pallet boxes when there are 250 pounds or more for the destination
levels below for DNDC, DSCF, or DDU prices. When prepared at origin, a
200-pound minimum is required for the NDC price. Prepare pallets under
8.0 in the sequence below. Unless indicated as optional, all sort
levels are required. Label pallets under applicable standards in 8.6
and according to Line 1 and Line 2 information below:
[Revise items 8.10.7a through f by removing reference to NFMs and
revising as follows:]
a. 5-digit scheme, required. Pallet must contain parcels for the
same 5-digit scheme under L606. For 5-digit destinations not part of
L606, prepare 5-digit pallets under 8.10.7b, Labeling:
1. Line 1: Use L606.
2. Line 2: ``STD/PSLW MACH 5D.
b. 5-digit, required. Pallet must contain parcels only for the same
5-digit ZIP Code. Labeling:
1. Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see
8.6.4c for overseas military mail).
2. Line 2: ``STD/PSLW MACH 5D.''
c. ASF, optional, but required for DNDC prices. Not available for
the Buffalo NY ASF in L602. Pallets must contain only parcels for the
3-digit ZIP Code groups in L602. Labeling:
[[Page 79088]]
1. Line 1: Use L602.
2. Line 2: ``STD/PSLW MACH ASF.''
d. NDC, required. Pallets must contain only parcels for the 3-digit
ZIP Code groups in L601. Labeling:
1. Line 1: Use L601.
2. Line 2: ``STD/PSLW MACH NDC.''
e. Origin NDC (required); no minimum; labeling:
1. Line 1: L601, Column B.
2. Line 2: ``STD/PSLW MACH NDC.''
f. Mixed NDC, optional; no minimum. Labeling:
1. Line 1: ``MXD'' followed by information in L601, Column B, for
NDC serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry Post Office (or labeled to
plant serving entry Post Office if authorized by processing and
distribution manager).
2. Line 2: ``STD/PSLW MACH WKG.''
[Revise the title and introductory text of 8.10.8 as follows:]
8.10.8 Irregular Parcels Weighing 2 Ounces or More--Standard Mail,
Including Marketing Parcels, and Parcel Select Lightweight
Mailers who palletize unbundled or unsacked irregular parcels must
make pallets or pallet boxes when there are 250 pounds or more for the
destination levels below for DNDC, DSCF, or DDU prices. When prepared
at origin, a 200 pound minimum is required for the NDC price. Prepare
pallets or pallet boxes of irregular parcels (except tubes, rolls, and
similar pieces) weighing 2 ounces or more under 8.0 and in the sequence
listed below. Label pallets or pallet boxes according to the Line 1 and
Line 2 information listed below and under 8.6. Mailers may not prepare
tubes, rolls, and similar pieces or pieces that weigh less than 2
ounces on pallets or in pallet boxes, except for pieces in carrier
route bundles or in sacks under 8.10.3. Preparation sequence and
labeling:
[Revise items 8.10.8a through g by deleting references to NFMs and
changing line 2 content as follows:]
a. 5-digit scheme, required. Pallet or pallet box must contain
parcels only for the same 5-digit scheme under L606. For 5-digit
destinations not part of L606 prepare 5-digit pallets under 8.10.8b.
Labeling:
1. Line 1: Use L606.
2. Line 2: ``STD/PSLW IRREG 5D; followed by ``SCHEME'' (or
``SCH'').
b. 5-digit, required. * * *. Labeling:
1. Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see
8.6.4c for overseas military mail).
2. Line 2: ``STD/PSLW IRREG 5D.''
c. SCF, required. * * * Labeling:
1. For Line 1, L002, Column C.
2. For Line 2, ``STD/PSLW IRREG SCF.''
d. ASF, optional, but required for DNDC prices. Not available for
the Buffalo NY ASF in L602. Pallets must contain only parcels for the
3-digit ZIP Code groups in L602. Labeling:
1. Line 1: Use L602.
2. Line 2: ``STD/PSLW IRREG ASF''.
e. NDC, required. Pallets must contain only parcels for the 3-digit
ZIP Code groups in L601. Labeling:
1. Line 1: Use L601.
2. Line 2: ``STD/PSLW IRREG NDC''.
f. Origin NDC (required); no minimum; labeling:
1. Line 1: L601, Column B.
2. Line 2: ``STD/PSLW IRREG NDC''.
g. Mixed NDC, optional. Labeling:
1. Line 1: ``MXD'' followed by information in L601, Column B, for
NDC serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry Post Office (or labeled to
plant serving entry Post Office if authorized by processing and
distribution manager).
2. Line 2: ``STD/PSLW IRREG WKG''.
* * * * *
[Delete current 8.10.9, Standard Mail Not Flat-Machinable Pieces
Weighing Less Than 6 Ounces, in its entirety.]
* * * * *
15.0 Combining Standard Mail Flats and Periodicals Flats
15.1 Basic Standards
* * * * *
15.1.9 Other Periodicals Pricing
Other prices for Periodicals flats in a combined mailing of
Standard Mail and Periodicals flats on pallets will be assessed as
follows:
* * * * *
[Add a new 15.1.9e as follows:]
e. The bundle price applicable to the 5-digit bundle for the mixed
ADC container level will apply to carrier route bundles placed on mixed
NDC pallets.
* * * * *
21.0 Optional Combined Parcel Mailings
21.1 Basic Standards for Combining Parcel Select, Package Services, and
Standard Mail Parcels
21.1.1 Basic Standards
[Revise the first sentence in 21.1.1 by deleting the references to
NFMs to read as follows:]
Package Services parcels, Parcel Select parcels, and Standard Mail
parcels in a combined parcel mailing must meet the following standards:
* * * * *
d. Combined mailings must meet the following minimum volume
requirements:
[Revise item d1 to delete the reference to NFMs to read as
follows:]
1. Standard Mail--Minimum 200 pieces or 50 pounds of Standard Mail
parcels.
* * * * *
21.2 Price Eligibility
* * * * *
21.2.2 Price Application
Apply prices based on the criteria in 400 and the following
standards:
[Revise item 21.2.2a by deleting the reference to NFMs to read as
follows:]
a. Standard Mail parcels are based on the container level and entry
(see 443.5.0.
* * * * *
21.3 Mail Preparation
21.3.1 Basic Standards
Prepare combined mailings as follows:
a. Different parcel types must be prepared separately for combined
parcel mailings as indicated below:
[Revise item a1 through a4 by deleting the references to NFMs to
read as follows:]
1. Standard Mail, Parcel Select, and Package Services machinable
parcels. Use ``STD/PSVC MACH'' for line 2 content labeling.
2. Standard Mail, Parcel Select, and Package Services irregular
parcels at least 2 ounces and up to (but not including) 6 ounces,
except for tubes, rolls, triangles, and other similarly irregularly-
shaped pieces. Use ``STD/PSVC'' for line 2 content labeling.
3. Standard Mail, Parcel Select, and Package Services tubes, rolls,
triangles, and similarly irregularly-shaped parcels; and all parcels
weighing less than 2 ounces. Use ``STD/PSVC IRREG'' for line 2 content
labeling.
4. Combine all parcel types in 5-digit and 5-digit scheme
containers. Use ``STD/PSVC PARCELS'' for line 2 content labeling.
* * * * *
[Revise the title of 21.3.2 to read as follows:]
21.3.2 Combining Standard Mail, Parcel Select, and Package Services
Machinable Parcels
* * * * *
[Revise the title of 21.3.3 to read as follows:]
21.3.3 Combining Standard Mail, Parcel Select, and Package Services
Apps-Machinable Parcels
* * * * *
[Revise the title of 21.3.4 to read as follows:]
[[Page 79089]]
21.3.4 Combining Standard Mail (Under 2 Ounces), Parcel Select, and
Package Services Other Irregular Parcels
* * * * *
23.0 Full-Service Automation Option
* * * * *
[Revise the title of 23.2 as follows:]
23.2 General Eligibility Standards
[Renumber current 23.3 and 23.4 as new 23.4 and 23.5, and add new
23.3 as follows:]
23.3 Eligibility for Waiver of Annual Fees and Waiver of Deposit of
Permit Imprint Mail Restrictions
Effective February 12, 2012, mailers who present only full-service
automation mailings (of First-Class Mail cards, letters, and flats,
Standards Mail letters and flats, or Bound Printed Matter flats) that
contain 90 percent or more pieces eligible for full-service automation
prices are eligible for the following exceptions to standards:
a. The annual presort mailing or destination entry fees, as
applicable, will be waived for qualified full-service mailings.
b. Mailers may present qualified full-service mailings with
mailpieces bearing a current valid permit imprint for acceptance at any
USPS acceptance office that has PostalOne! acceptance functions without
payment of any additional permit imprint application or annual mailing
fees.
c. If any mailing (of the classes and shapes of mail in 23.3)
presented under a mailing permit does not contain at least 90 percent
of the pieces qualifying for full-service automation prices:
1. The mailer must pay the applicable annual fee before that
mailing may be accepted.
2. The provision in 23.3b for presentation of mailings at multiple
offices is discontinued for all mailings presented under the applicable
permit imprint.
* * * * *
707 Periodicals
* * * * *
2.0 Price Application and Computation
2.1 Price Application
* * * * *
2.1.2 Applying Outside-County Piece Prices
* * * Apply piece prices for Outside-County mail as follows:
* * * * *
c. Nonmachinable flats:
* * * * *
[Revise item 2.1.2c2 as follows:]
2. Apply the ``Nonmachinable Flats--Nonbarcoded'' prices to pieces
that meet the standards for nonmachinable flats in 707.26 but do not
include a barcode.
* * * * *
708 Technical Specifications
1.0 Standardized Documentation for First-Class Mail, Periodicals,
Standard Mail, and Flat-Size Bound Printed Matter
* * * * *
1.3 Price Level Column Headings
[Revise the introductory text of 1.3 as follows:]
The actual name of the price level (or abbreviation) is used for
column headings required by 1.2 and shown below:
* * * * *
b. Presorted First-Class Mail, barcoded and nonbarcoded Periodicals
flats, nonbarcoded Periodicals letters, and machinable and
nonmachinable Standard Mail:
[Revise the table in 1.3b by revising the rows 4, 6, 9, 11, and 12
as follows:]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
SCF [for Standard Mail parcels]............. SCF
* * * * *
ADC [First-Class Mail parcels, First-Class AD
Mail.
Package Service parcels, Standard Mail
nonmachinable letters, flats, and irregular
parcels and all Periodicals].
* * * * *
Mixed ADC [Standard Mail nonmachinable MD
letters, flats, and irregular parcels; and
all Periodicals].
* * * * *
NDC [Standard Mail machinable parcels and NDC
Marketing parcels 6 ounces and over].
* * * * *
Mixed NDC [Standard Mail machinable parcels MNDC
and Marketing parcels 6 ounces and over].
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
1.4 Sortation Level
The actual sortation level (or corresponding abbreviation) is used
for the bundle, tray, sack, or pallet levels required by 1.2 and shown
below:
[Revise row 19 (fifth from the bottom) of the table in 1.4 as
follows:]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
SCF [sacks and pallets, Periodicals flats, SCF
Bound Printed Matter, Standard mail
irregular parcels less than 6 ounces].
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
4.0 Standards for POSTNET and Intelligent Mail Barcodes
* * * * *
4.4 Reflectance
4.4.1 Background Reflectance
A background reflectance of at least 50% in the red portion and 45%
in the green portion of the optical spectrum must be produced in the
following locations when measured with a USPS or USPS-licensed envelope
reflectance meter:
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.4.1-b as follows:]
b. The area surrounding the barcode (within \1/8\ inch of the
leftmost and rightmost bars and \1/25\ inch above and below the
barcode) of a card-size, letter-size, or flat-size piece barcoded in
the address block and of a flat-size, First-Class Mail parcel, or
First-Class Package Service parcel barcoded elsewhere.
* * * * *
4.4.4 Dark Fibers and Background Patterns
Dark fibers or background patterns 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:
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.4.4b as follows:]
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 mailing or on
a First-Class Mail parcel or a First-Class Package Service parcel.
* * * * *
4.5 Skew and Baseline Shift
* * * * *
[Revise the title and text of 4.5.2 as follows:]
4.5.2 Flat-Size Pieces, First-Class Mail Parcels, First-Class Package
Service Parcels, and Standard Mail Irregular Parcels
The maximum rotational skew (slant or tilt of the individual
barcode bars) for barcodes is 10 degrees from a
perpendicular to the baseline of the barcode. There is no positional
skew requirement. The individual bars of a barcode must not shift (be
vertically
[[Page 79090]]
offset) more than 0.015 inch from the average baseline of the barcode.
For information on barcode placement for flat-size pieces, see 302.5.0.
For information on barcode placement on parcels weighing less than 6
ounces, see 402.4.0.
* * * * *
5.0 Standards for Package and Extra Service Barcodes
* * * * *
5.2 Other Package Barcodes
5.2.1 Basic Standards for Postal Routing Barcodes
[Revise the first sentence of 5.2.1 as follows:]
Mailers may use a postal routing barcode on parcels that meet the
applicable eligibility requirements in 433 for First-Class Package
Service, 443 for Standard Mail, 453 for Parcel Select, 463 for Bound
Printed Matter, or 473 for Media Mail or Library Mail. * * *
* * * * *
6.0 Standards for Barcoded Tray Labels, Sack Labels, and Container
Placards
* * * * *
6.2 Specifications for Barcoded Tray and Sack Labels
* * * * *
6.2.4 3-Digit Content Identifier Numbers
* * * * *
Exhibit 6.2.4 3-Digit Content Identifier Numbers
CLASS AND MAILING CIN HUMAN-READABLE CONTENT LINE
* * * * *
STANDARD MAIL
* * * * *
[Delete the following heading and the six rows beneath it in their
entirety.]
STD Not Flat-Machinable Pieces Less Than 6 Ounces--Nonautomation
[Delete the following heading and the five rows beneath it in their
entirety.]
STD Not Flat-Machinable Pieces 6 Ounces Or More--Nonautomation
* * * * *
PACKAGE SERVICES
* * * * *
[Revise the 18th heading under ``PACKAGE SERVICES'' as follows:]
Combined Package Services, Parcel Select, and Standard--All Parcels
[Revise the 19th heading under ``PACKAGE SERVICES'' as follows:]
Combined Package Services, Parcel Select, and Standard--Irregular
Parcels 2 up to 6 oz (APPS-Machinable)
[Revise the 20th (last) heading under ``PACKAGE SERVICES'' as
follows:]
Combined PSVC & STD--Irregular Parcels Less Than 2 oz, and Tubes and
Rolls (Not APPS-Machinable)
* * * * *
We will publish an appropriate amendment to 39 CFR part 111 to
reflect these changes.
Stanley F. Mires,
Attorney, Legal Policy & Legislative Advice.
[FR Doc. 2011-32357 Filed 12-20-11; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P