Parcel Return Service, 16043-16048 [06-3117]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 61 / Thursday, March 30, 2006 / Rules and Regulations 31 CFR Part 590 Administrative practice and procedure, Angola, Arms and munitions, Exports, Foreign trade, Penalties, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Transportation. 31 CFR Part 591 Administrative practice and procedure, Diamonds, Exports, Foreign trade, Imports, Liberia, Penalties, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements. PARTS 550, 590 AND 591—[REMOVED] For the reasons set forth in the preamble, and under the authority of 50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq. and Executive Orders 13298, 13324, and 13357, 31 CFR chapter V is amended by removing parts 550, 590, and 591. I Dated: March 6, 2006. Barbara C. Hammerle, Acting Director, Office of Foreign Assets Control. [FR Doc. 06–3024 Filed 3–29–06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4810–25–P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 117 [CGD01–06–025] Drawbridge Operation Regulations; Hutchinson River (Eastchester Creek), New York City, NY Coast Guard, DHS. Notice of temporary deviation from regulations. AGENCY: cprice-sewell on PROD1PC66 with RULES ACTION: SUMMARY: The Commander, First Coast Guard District, has issued a temporary deviation from the regulation governing the operation of the AMTRAK Pelham Bay railroad bridge, across the Hutchinson River at mile 0.5, at New York City, New York. This deviation allows the bridge to open on a limited daily schedule from March 27, 2006 through April 25, 2006. Vessels that can pass under the bridge without a bridge opening may do so at all times. This deviation is necessary to facilitate scheduled bridge maintenance. DATES: This deviation is effective from March 27, 2006 through April 25, 2006. ADDRESSES: Materials referred to in this document are available for inspection or copying at the First Coast Guard District, Bridge Branch Office, One South Street, New York, New York 10004, between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m., VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:18 Mar 29, 2006 Jkt 208001 Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The telephone number is (212) 668–7165. The First Coast Guard District Bridge Branch Office maintains the public docket for this temporary deviation. POSTAL SERVICE Judy Leung-Yee, Project Officer, First Coast Guard District, at (212) 668–7165. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The AMTRAK Pelham Bay railroad bridge, across the Hutchinson River at mile 0.5, has a vertical clearance in the closed position of 8 feet at mean high water and 15 feet at mean low water. The existing regulations are listed at 33 CFR 117.5 and 117.793. The owner of the bridge, National Railroad Passenger Corporation (AMTRAK), requested a temporary deviation to facilitate scheduled electrical bridge repairs. In order to perform the above repairs the bridge must operate on a limited opening schedule. Under this temporary deviation the AMTRAK Pelham Bay railroad bridge shall operate, from March 27, 2006 through April 25, 2006, as follows: On Tuesday through Saturday of each week of the effective period of this temporary deviation, the draw shall open on signal only two times during the high tide predicted at Hell Gate, New York, between 6:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. The period during which the draw shall open is from 45 minutes before the predicted high tide at Hell Gate to three and one half hours after the predicted high tide. On each Monday during the effective period of this temporary deviation, the draw shall open on signal only two times during each high tide, from 45 minutes before the predicted high tide at Hell Gate, New York, to three and one half hours after the predicted high tide. On each Sunday during the effective period of this temporary deviation, the bridge need not open. Vessels that can pass under the draw without a bridge opening may do so at all times. In accordance with 33 CFR 117.35(c), this work will be performed with all due speed in order to return the bridge to normal operation as soon as possible. This deviation from the operating regulations is authorized under 33 CFR 117.35. ACTION: 16043 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dated: March 22, 2006. Gary Kassof, Bridge Program Manager, First Coast Guard District. [FR Doc. 06–3043 Filed 3–29–06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–15–P PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 39 CFR Part 111 Parcel Return Service Postal Service. Final rule. AGENCY: SUMMARY: This final rule adopts new mailing standards to make Parcel Return Service a permanent classification. Parcel Return Service replaces the former Parcel Return Services experiment and is now open to all postal customers who meet the participation requirements. DATES: Effective Date: April 2, 2006. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Michael F. Lee, 202–268–7263. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background The Postal Service published a final rule in the Federal Register on September 18, 2003 (68 FR 54664), introducing a new service called Parcel Return Services (PRS). This experimental service allowed authorized permit holders or their agents to pick up parcels returned by consumers at return bulk mail centers and return delivery units across the country. We filed a Request for Recommended Decision with the Postal Rate Commission on October 17, 2005, to make the experimental classification permanent. On March 3, 2006, the Postal Rate Commission issued its Recommended Decision that PRS become a permanent service offering (Docket No. MC2006–1). The Governors of the Postal Service acted on the Recommended Decision in Resolution 06–3 on March 22, 2006, establishing PRS as a permanent mail classification. The Governors set April 2, 2006, as the effective date of the change. Summary of Changes We are changing the name of PRS from the plural ‘‘Parcel Return Services’’ to the singular ‘‘Parcel Return Service.’’ There are two major changes in the permanent PRS classification as compared with the experimental service offering. We are not offering Bound Printed Matter (BPM) Return Service as part of the permanent set of rates for PRS, because there was no reported BPM volume during the experiment. Consequently, only Parcel Select Return Service remains. At the request of PRS mailers, we will now offer Certificate of Mailing as an extra service for PRS parcels. A mailer returning a parcel using PRS can bring it to a local post office and purchase a Certificate of E:\FR\FM\30MRR1.SGM 30MRR1 16044 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 61 / Thursday, March 30, 2006 / Rules and Regulations Mailing as proof that the parcel was mailed. We chose to retain the name ‘‘Parcel Select Return Service’’ for labeling, rating, and data collection purposes. This continuity will allow mailers to use their existing label stock; no label redesign is necessary. We will use a similar naming convention for any future service offerings under the PRS umbrella. We provide the new standards, and how they are applied for Parcel Return Service, below. We adopt the following amendments 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: I permit holder or its designee. The permit holder has the option of retrieving parcels at a designated return delivery unit (a postal facility designated as a pickup location for PRS parcels, also known for PRS purposes as an ‘‘RDU’’) or at the return bulk mail center (also known for PRS purposes as an ‘‘RBMC’’) that serves the post office where returned parcels are deposited by customers. Payment for parcels returned under PRS is deducted from a separate advance deposit (postage-due) account funded through the Centralized Account Processing System (CAPS). 11.1.2 Conditions for Mailing Parcels may be mailed as PRS when all of the following conditions apply: a. Parcels contain eligible matter as described in 153.3 and 153.4. b. Parcels bear a PRS label that meets the standards in 11.4. c. Parcels show the permit number, and the permit holder has paid the annual PRS permit fee and the annual PRS accounting fee. PART 111—[AMENDED] 11.1.3 1. The authority citation for 39 CFR part 111 continues to read as follows: Pieces using PRS may not bear an ancillary service endorsement (see 102.4.0 and 507.1.5). Only a Certificate of Mailing, when the fee is paid by the mailer returning the parcel, is available as an extra service. I Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 39 U.S.C. 101, 401, 403, 404, 414, 3001–3011, 3201–3219, 3403–3406, 3621, 3626, 5001. 2. Revise the following sections of the Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), as follows: I 500 Additional Services * * 507 Mailer Services * * * * * * * * [Remove mailing standards for the Parcel Return Services experiment in 709.5.0. Add new 507.11.0 to make Parcel Return Service a permanent classification as follows:] Basic Information 11.1.1 Description The Parcel Return Service (PRS) standards in 11.0 apply to parcels that are retrieved in bulk by authorized permit holders or their agents. The permit holder guarantees payment of postage and retrieval of all PRS parcels mailed with a PRS label. When a merchant or other party provides an approved PRS label to its customers or others, the merchant or other party designates the permit holder identified on the label as their agent for receipt of mail bearing that label, and authorizes the USPS to provide that mail to the VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:18 Mar 29, 2006 Jkt 208001 Customer Mailing Options Returned parcels may be deposited as follows: a. At any post office, station, or branch. b. In any collection box (except an Express Mail box). c. With any letter carrier. d. As part of a collection run for other mail (special arrangements may be required). e. At any place designated by the postmaster for the receipt of mail. 11.1.5 PARCEL RETURN SERVICE 11.1 cprice-sewell on PROD1PC66 with RULES 11.0 11.1.4 Services Application Companies who wish to participate in PRS must send a request on company letterhead to the manager, Business Mailer Support (see 608.8.0 for address). The request must contain the following information: a. Company name and address. b. An individual’s contact name, telephone number, fax number, and email address. c. The rate category or categories to be used, and the proposed retrieval locations (delivery units and bulk mail centers). d. A description of the electronic returns manifesting system to be used to document returns listed by location and rate eligibility. PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 11.1.6 Approval The manager, Business Mailer Support reviews each request and proceeds as follows: a. If the applicant meets the criteria, the manager, Business Mailer Support approves the letter of request. The USPS will require the customer to enter into a Service Agreement, may require additional documentation, and may conduct periodic review and inspection of each participant’s PRS processing and accounting operations. b. If the application does not meet the criteria, the manager, Business Mailer Support denies the request and sends a written notice to the applicant with the reason for denial. 11.1.7 Cancellation USPS may cancel a PRS permit for any of the following reasons: a. The permit holder fails to pay the required postage and fees for returned parcels. b. The permit holder does not maintain adequate available funds to cover postage and fees for returned parcels. c. The permit holder does not fulfill the terms and conditions of the PRS permit authorization. d. The return labels do not conform to the specifications in 11.4. 11.1.8 Reapplying After Cancellation To receive a new PRS permit after cancellation under 11.1.7 the mailer must: a. Submit a letter to the manager, Business Mailer Support requesting a permit and a new agreement. b. Pay a new permit fee. c. Provide evidence showing that the reasons for cancellation no longer exist. d. Maintain adequate available funds to cover the expected number of returns. 11.1.9 Pickup Schedule Permit holders or their agents must set up a recurring or standing appointment to retrieve PRS parcels. If the permit holder (or their agent) already has existing appointments to deliver Parcel Select parcels to a destination bulk mail center or to a destination delivery unit, those same appointments can be used for retrieving PRS parcels. Permit holders or their agents must retrieve parcels on a regular schedule as follows: a. From RBMCs, at a minimum of every 48 hours, excluding Sundays and USPS holidays. b. From RDUs, according to the Service Agreement. E:\FR\FM\30MRR1.SGM 30MRR1 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 61 / Thursday, March 30, 2006 / Rules and Regulations 11.1.10 Pickup Parcels Endorsed Hold for PRS participants must pay the appropriate Parcel Select RDU rate under 11.3 for any unclaimed, refused, undeliverable as addressed, or recalled parcels that are endorsed ‘‘Hold For Pickup’’ (under 455.4.6 and 508.1.3) and that bear the marking ‘‘PARCEL RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED’’ or ‘‘PRS REQUESTED’’ followed by a unique 569 prefix ZIP Code. 11.2 11.2.1 Postage and Fees Postage b. Parcel Select RBMC. Parcels returned as Parcel Post to, and retrieved in bulk from, a designated BMC. 11.2.2 Permit Fee The participant must pay a $160.00 permit fee annually at the post office where the PRS permit is held. 11.2.3 Advance Deposit Account and Annual Accounting Fee The participant must pay postage through an advance deposit account and must pay an annual accounting fee of $500.00. 11.3 There are two PRS rate categories: a. Parcel Select RDU. Parcels returned as Parcel Post to, and retrieved in bulk from, a designated delivery unit. Rates 11.3.1 Parcel Return Service—Return Delivery Unit Regardless of weight (up to the maximum weight of 70 pounds), any 16045 parcel that measures more than 108 inches (but not more than 130 inches) in combined length and girth must pay the oversized rate. Length plus girth Rate Not over 108 inches ............. Oversized (Over 108 inches up to 130 inches) .............. $2.11 7.92 11.3.2 Parcel Return Service—Return BMC Machinable Parcels that weigh less than 15 pounds but measure more than 84 inches in combined length and girth are charged the applicable rate for a 15pound parcel. See Exhibit 11.3.2, Parcel Return Service—Return BMC Machinable. EXHIBIT 11.3.2.—PARCEL RETURN SERVICE—RETURN BMC MACHINABLE Weight not over (pounds) Zones 1 & 2 1 ....................................................................................................................... 2 ....................................................................................................................... 3 ....................................................................................................................... 4 ....................................................................................................................... 5 ....................................................................................................................... 6 ....................................................................................................................... 7 ....................................................................................................................... 8 ....................................................................................................................... 9 ....................................................................................................................... 10 ..................................................................................................................... 11 ..................................................................................................................... 12 ..................................................................................................................... 13 ..................................................................................................................... 14 ..................................................................................................................... 15 ..................................................................................................................... 16 ..................................................................................................................... 17 ..................................................................................................................... 18 ..................................................................................................................... 19 ..................................................................................................................... 20 ..................................................................................................................... 21 ..................................................................................................................... 22 ..................................................................................................................... 23 ..................................................................................................................... 24 ..................................................................................................................... 25 ..................................................................................................................... 26 ..................................................................................................................... 27 ..................................................................................................................... 28 ..................................................................................................................... 29 ..................................................................................................................... 30 ..................................................................................................................... 31 ..................................................................................................................... 32 ..................................................................................................................... 33 ..................................................................................................................... 34 ..................................................................................................................... 35 ..................................................................................................................... cprice-sewell on PROD1PC66 with RULES 11.3.3 Parcel Return Service—Return BMC Nonmachinable Parcels that weigh less than 15 pounds but measure more than 84 VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:18 Mar 29, 2006 Jkt 208001 $2.21 2.81 3.39 3.60 3.78 3.95 4.11 4.71 4.85 5.03 5.16 5.32 5.46 5.59 5.70 5.82 5.96 6.05 6.18 6.28 6.38 6.49 6.58 6.67 6.76 6.86 6.95 7.02 7.11 7.20 7.28 7.38 7.44 7.53 7.59 inches in combined length and girth are charged the applicable rate for a 15pound parcel. Regardless of weight, any parcel that measures more than 108 inches (but not more than 130 inches) PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Zone 3 $2.25 2.85 3.43 3.96 4.38 4.76 5.09 5.40 5.65 5.98 6.20 6.41 6.58 6.70 6.88 7.06 7.23 7.39 7.55 7.69 7.84 7.97 8.14 8.26 8.39 8.51 8.64 8.77 8.90 9.00 9.09 9.21 9.32 9.40 9.52 Zone 4 $2.31 2.92 3.52 4.07 4.52 4.90 5.25 5.57 5.89 6.20 6.47 6.75 7.00 7.26 7.48 7.69 7.93 8.13 8.32 8.48 8.64 8.79 8.94 9.06 9.19 9.33 9.44 9.54 9.65 9.76 9.85 9.96 10.04 10.13 10.21 Zone 5 $2.40 3.04 3.65 4.22 4.73 5.21 5.64 6.05 6.42 6.77 7.08 7.39 7.66 7.93 8.18 8.41 8.63 8.83 9.03 9.21 9.39 9.55 9.71 9.87 10.00 10.14 10.27 10.39 10.51 10.61 10.73 10.82 10.93 11.01 11.11 in combined length and girth must pay the oversized rate. See Exhibit 11.3.3, Parcel Return Service—Return BMC Nonmachinable. E:\FR\FM\30MRR1.SGM 30MRR1 16046 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 61 / Thursday, March 30, 2006 / Rules and Regulations EXHIBIT 11.3.3.—PARCEL RETURN SERVICE—RETURN BMC NONMACHINABLE cprice-sewell on PROD1PC66 with RULES Weight not over (pounds) Zones 1&2 1 ....................................................................................................................... 2 ....................................................................................................................... 3 ....................................................................................................................... 4 ....................................................................................................................... 5 ....................................................................................................................... 6 ....................................................................................................................... 7 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Oversized ......................................................................................................... VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:18 Mar 29, 2006 Jkt 208001 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Zone 3 $3.63 4.23 4.81 5.02 5.20 5.37 5.53 6.13 6.27 6.45 6.58 6.74 6.88 7.01 7.12 7.24 7.38 7.47 7.60 7.70 7.80 7.91 8.00 8.09 8.18 8.28 8.37 8.44 8.53 8.62 8.70 8.80 8.86 8.95 9.01 9.11 9.19 9.23 9.29 9.33 9.40 9.43 9.47 9.53 9.56 9.63 9.68 9.71 9.77 9.78 9.85 9.89 9.90 9.95 9.99 10.03 10.08 10.12 10.15 10.20 10.24 10.27 10.31 10.35 10.38 10.43 10.47 10.47 10.53 10.56 27.39 E:\FR\FM\30MRR1.SGM $3.67 4.27 4.85 5.38 5.80 6.18 6.51 6.82 7.07 7.40 7.62 7.83 8.00 8.12 8.30 8.48 8.65 8.81 8.97 9.11 9.26 9.39 9.56 9.68 9.81 9.93 10.06 10.19 10.32 10.42 10.51 10.63 10.74 10.82 10.94 11.05 11.13 11.20 11.29 11.34 11.43 11.49 11.55 11.61 11.66 11.74 11.78 11.85 11.91 11.96 12.00 12.09 12.12 12.14 12.16 12.18 12.18 12.20 12.21 12.22 12.23 12.24 12.24 12.24 12.27 12.27 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 27.73 30MRR1 Zone 4 $3.73 4.34 4.94 5.49 5.94 6.32 6.67 6.99 7.31 7.62 7.89 8.17 8.42 8.68 8.90 9.11 9.35 9.55 9.74 9.90 10.06 10.21 10.36 10.48 10.61 10.75 10.86 10.96 11.07 11.18 11.27 11.38 11.46 11.55 11.63 11.74 11.80 11.85 11.90 11.94 11.98 12.03 12.08 12.12 12.27 12.30 12.33 12.35 12.38 12.40 12.43 12.46 12.47 12.50 12.53 12.55 12.55 12.57 12.59 12.59 12.61 12.66 12.71 12.74 12.78 12.83 12.89 12.91 12.96 13.00 28.46 Zone 5 $3.82 4.46 5.07 5.64 6.15 6.63 7.06 7.47 7.84 8.19 8.50 8.81 9.08 9.35 9.60 9.83 10.05 10.25 10.45 10.63 10.81 10.97 11.13 11.29 11.42 11.56 11.69 11.81 11.93 12.03 12.15 12.24 12.35 12.43 12.53 12.65 12.71 12.76 12.81 12.87 12.92 12.96 12.99 13.02 13.06 13.09 13.12 13.15 13.18 13.21 13.25 13.28 13.31 13.34 13.37 13.40 13.44 13.47 13.50 13.53 13.56 13.59 13.63 13.66 13.69 13.72 13.75 13.78 13.82 13.85 29.56 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 61 / Thursday, March 30, 2006 / Rules and Regulations 11.4 Label Formats 11.4.1 Label Preparation PRS labels must be certified by the USPS for use prior to distribution as defined in the Service Agreement. In addition, permit holders must obtain USPS certification for barcode symbologies. Any photographic, mechanical, or electronic process or any combination of these processes may be used to produce PRS labels. The background of the label may be any light color that allows the address, barcodes, and other required information to be easily distinguished. If labels are electronically transmitted to customers for their local printing, the permit holder must advise customers of these printing requirements as part of the instructions in 11.4.3. cprice-sewell on PROD1PC66 with RULES 11.4.2 Labeling Methods If all applicable contents and formats are approved (including instructions to the user), permit holders or their agents may distribute a PRS label by any of the following methods: a. As an enclosure with merchandise when initially shipped as part of the original invoice accompanying the merchandise, or as a separate label preprinted by the permit holder. If the reverse side of the label bears an adhesive, it must be strong enough to bond the label securely to the mailpiece. b. As an electronic file created by the permit holder for local printing by the customer. 11.4.3 Instructions Regardless of label distribution method, permit holders or their agents must always provide written instructions to the user of the PRS label that, at a minimum, direct the user to do the following: a. ‘‘If your name and address are not already printed in the return address area, please print them neatly in that area or attach a return address label there.’’ b. ‘‘Attach the label provided by the merchant squarely onto the largest side of the mailpiece, unless you need to use another side to make the parcel more stable. Place the label at least 1 inch from the edge of the parcel, so that it does not fold over to another side. If you are using tape to attach the new label, do not put tape over any barcodes on the label, even if the tape is clear.’’ c. ‘‘If you are reusing the original container to return the merchandise, use the label to cover your original delivery address, barcodes, and any other postal information on the container. If it is not possible to cover all that information with the label, remove the old labels, VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:18 Mar 29, 2006 Jkt 208001 mark them out completely with a permanent marker, or cover them completely with blank labels or paper that cannot be seen through. If that cannot be done, or if the original container is no longer sound, please use a new box to return the merchandise and attach the return label to the new box.’’ d. ‘‘Once repackaged and labeled, mail the parcel at a post office, deposit it in a collection box, or leave it with your letter carrier.’’ 11.4.4 Label Format Elements There is no minimum size for PRS labels; however, the label must be big enough to accommodate all of the label elements and standards in this section. All PRS label elements must be legible. Except where a specific type size is required, elements must be large enough to be legible from a normal reading distance and be separate from other elements on the label. See the PRS label format examples in 11.4.5a and 11.4.5b. The following elements are required: a. Postage guarantee. The imprint ‘‘No Postage Necessary If Mailed in the United States’’ must appear in the upper right corner. b. Horizontal bars. A minimum of three horizontal bars must appear directly below the imprint in the upper right corner. The bars must be uniform in length, at least 1 inch long, 1⁄16 inch thick, and evenly spaced. c. Parcel Return Service legend. The legend must be placed directly above the address and must include: 1. Line 1: In capital letters at least 3⁄16″ high, ‘‘PARCEL SELECT RETURN SERVICE’’ (or ‘‘PARCEL SELECT RTN SVC’’). 2. Line 2: In all capital letters, the permit holder’s name, left justified, followed by ‘‘PERMIT NO.’’, followed by the actual permit number. d. Customer’s return address. The return address of the customer using the label to mail the parcel back to the permit holder must appear in the upper left corner. If it is not preprinted by the permit holder or merchant, space must be provided for the customer to enter the return address. e. Address for Parcel Return Service labels. The address must contain the unique PRS ZIP Code (569 prefix) assigned by the USPS to the particular customer or agent. The address must consist of two or three lines in all capital letters, as specified below. The ZIP Code must be printed in at least 12point type on a line directly below the Parcel Return Service line. 1. Line 1: PRS AGENT’S OR MERCHANT’S NAME. PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 16047 2. Line 2: ‘‘PARCEL RETURN SERVICE’’ (or ‘‘PARCEL RETURN SVC’’). 3. Line 3: The unique PRS 569## ZIP Code assigned by the USPS in the service agreement. The unique ZIP Code may alternatively be located as part of the second line of the address. f. Parcel Return Service barcode. A PRS barcode must be printed directly on the label. The barcode may appear in any location on the label except the upper left, upper right, and lower right corners. The barcode must meet the standards for barcodes in Publication 91, Confirmation Services Technical Guide, with the following exceptions: 1. The barcode must be produced using the UCC/EAN Code 128 barcode symbology. 2. The service type code (STC) contained in the barcode on PRS labels must contain the value ‘‘58.’’ 3. Text above the barcode must read ‘‘USPS PARCEL RETURN SERVICE’’ (or ‘‘USPS PARCEL RTN SVC’’). If the barcode is a single concatenated barcode with the postal routing code described in 11.4.4g, the text above the barcode must read ‘‘BMC ZIP—USPS PARCEL RETURN SERVICE’’ (or ‘‘BMC ZIP— USPS PARCEL RTN SVC’’). In the text below the barcode, the leading application identifier (‘‘420’’), ZIP Code information, and subsequent numbers must be parsed as shown in 11.4.5b. 4. The clear zone between the barcode, the human-readable text, and the horizontal bar above and below the barcode must be at least 1⁄16 inch. g. Postal routing barcode. If a single concatenated barcode is not used for the PRS barcode, a postal routing barcode also must be printed directly on the label. The barcode may appear in any location on the label, except the upper left, upper right, and lower right corners. Postal routing barcodes must meet the standards in 708.5.0, except that the text below the barcode must read ‘‘BMC ZIP–,’’ followed by the unique PRS ZIP Code assigned by USPS in the service agreement. h. Mailer identification (ID). The permit holder assigns a mailer ID to each individual client (merchant). An individual mailer ID must appear in the lower right corner as follows: 1. The mailer ID must consist of a single, uppercase alpha character followed by a two-, three-, or four-digit number, with no spaces or dashes. For example: X0123. 2. The mailer ID must be at least 3⁄16 inch high and be surrounded by a box, with a clearance of at least 3⁄16 inch between the mailer ID characters and the edges of the box. E:\FR\FM\30MRR1.SGM 30MRR1 16048 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 61 / Thursday, March 30, 2006 / Rules and Regulations 3. The mailer ID may be reverseprinted. i. Additional information. Additional information (e.g., company logo, return authorization number, inventory barcode) is permitted on the PRS label if it does not interfere with any required format elements. Inventory barcodes must not resemble the barcodes described in 708.5.0, Barcoding Standards for Parcels. 11.4.5 PRS Label Format Examples The following are PRS label format examples. Note: The ZIP Code 56999 appears in each example for demonstration purposes only. a. Parcel Select Return Service label using a separate PRS barcode and postal routing barcode. b. Parcel Select Return Service label using a concatenated barcode. * * * Special Standards * cprice-sewell on PROD1PC66 with RULES 700 * [Delete 709.5.0, Parcel Return Services, and renumber sections 709.6.0 through 709.8.0 accordingly.] * * * * * * * * 709 Experimental Classifications and Rates * * * * * ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY Neva R. Watson, Attorney, Legislative. [FR Doc. 06–3117 Filed 3–29–06; 8:45 am] [EPA–R07–OAR–2005–0482; FRL–8050–2] BILLING CODE 7710–12–P 40 CFR Part 52 Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans; State of Iowa Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). AGENCY: VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:18 Mar 29, 2006 Jkt 208001 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\30MRR1.SGM 30MRR1 ER30MR06.001</GPH> * ER30MR06.000</GPH> *

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 61 (Thursday, March 30, 2006)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 16043-16048]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 06-3117]


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POSTAL SERVICE

39 CFR Part 111


Parcel Return Service

AGENCY: Postal Service.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This final rule adopts new mailing standards to make Parcel 
Return Service a permanent classification. Parcel Return Service 
replaces the former Parcel Return Services experiment and is now open 
to all postal customers who meet the participation requirements.

DATES: Effective Date: April 2, 2006.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Michael F. Lee, 202-268-7263.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    The Postal Service published a final rule in the Federal Register 
on September 18, 2003 (68 FR 54664), introducing a new service called 
Parcel Return Services (PRS). This experimental service allowed 
authorized permit holders or their agents to pick up parcels returned 
by consumers at return bulk mail centers and return delivery units 
across the country.
    We filed a Request for Recommended Decision with the Postal Rate 
Commission on October 17, 2005, to make the experimental classification 
permanent. On March 3, 2006, the Postal Rate Commission issued its 
Recommended Decision that PRS become a permanent service offering 
(Docket No. MC2006-1). The Governors of the Postal Service acted on the 
Recommended Decision in Resolution 06-3 on March 22, 2006, establishing 
PRS as a permanent mail classification. The Governors set April 2, 
2006, as the effective date of the change.

Summary of Changes

    We are changing the name of PRS from the plural ``Parcel Return 
Services'' to the singular ``Parcel Return Service.''
    There are two major changes in the permanent PRS classification as 
compared with the experimental service offering. We are not offering 
Bound Printed Matter (BPM) Return Service as part of the permanent set 
of rates for PRS, because there was no reported BPM volume during the 
experiment. Consequently, only Parcel Select Return Service remains. At 
the request of PRS mailers, we will now offer Certificate of Mailing as 
an extra service for PRS parcels. A mailer returning a parcel using PRS 
can bring it to a local post office and purchase a Certificate of

[[Page 16044]]

Mailing as proof that the parcel was mailed.
    We chose to retain the name ``Parcel Select Return Service'' for 
labeling, rating, and data collection purposes. This continuity will 
allow mailers to use their existing label stock; no label redesign is 
necessary. We will use a similar naming convention for any future 
service offerings under the PRS umbrella.
    We provide the new standards, and how they are applied for Parcel 
Return Service, below.
    We adopt the following amendments 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.



0
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); 39 U.S.C. 101, 401, 403, 404, 414, 
3001-3011, 3201-3219, 3403-3406, 3621, 3626, 5001.


0
2. Revise the following sections of the Mailing Standards of the United 
States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), as follows:

500 Additional Services

* * * * *

507 Mailer Services

* * * * *
[Remove mailing standards for the Parcel Return Services experiment in 
709.5.0. Add new 507.11.0 to make Parcel Return Service a permanent 
classification as follows:]
11.0 PARCEL RETURN SERVICE

11.1 Basic Information

11.1.1 Description
    The Parcel Return Service (PRS) standards in 11.0 apply to parcels 
that are retrieved in bulk by authorized permit holders or their 
agents. The permit holder guarantees payment of postage and retrieval 
of all PRS parcels mailed with a PRS label. When a merchant or other 
party provides an approved PRS label to its customers or others, the 
merchant or other party designates the permit holder identified on the 
label as their agent for receipt of mail bearing that label, and 
authorizes the USPS to provide that mail to the permit holder or its 
designee. The permit holder has the option of retrieving parcels at a 
designated return delivery unit (a postal facility designated as a 
pickup location for PRS parcels, also known for PRS purposes as an 
``RDU'') or at the return bulk mail center (also known for PRS purposes 
as an ``RBMC'') that serves the post office where returned parcels are 
deposited by customers. Payment for parcels returned under PRS is 
deducted from a separate advance deposit (postage-due) account funded 
through the Centralized Account Processing System (CAPS).
11.1.2 Conditions for Mailing
    Parcels may be mailed as PRS when all of the following conditions 
apply:
    a. Parcels contain eligible matter as described in 153.3 and 153.4.
    b. Parcels bear a PRS label that meets the standards in 11.4.
    c. Parcels show the permit number, and the permit holder has paid 
the annual PRS permit fee and the annual PRS accounting fee.
11.1.3 Services
    Pieces using PRS may not bear an ancillary service endorsement (see 
102.4.0 and 507.1.5). Only a Certificate of Mailing, when the fee is 
paid by the mailer returning the parcel, is available as an extra 
service.
11.1.4 Customer Mailing Options
    Returned parcels may be deposited as follows:
    a. At any post office, station, or branch.
    b. In any collection box (except an Express Mail box).
    c. With any letter carrier.
    d. As part of a collection run for other mail (special arrangements 
may be required).
    e. At any place designated by the postmaster for the receipt of 
mail.
11.1.5 Application
    Companies who wish to participate in PRS must send a request on 
company letterhead to the manager, Business Mailer Support (see 608.8.0 
for address). The request must contain the following information:
    a. Company name and address.
    b. An individual's contact name, telephone number, fax number, and 
e-mail address.
    c. The rate category or categories to be used, and the proposed 
retrieval locations (delivery units and bulk mail centers).
    d. A description of the electronic returns manifesting system to be 
used to document returns listed by location and rate eligibility.
11.1.6 Approval
    The manager, Business Mailer Support reviews each request and 
proceeds as follows:
    a. If the applicant meets the criteria, the manager, Business 
Mailer Support approves the letter of request. The USPS will require 
the customer to enter into a Service Agreement, may require additional 
documentation, and may conduct periodic review and inspection of each 
participant's PRS processing and accounting operations.
    b. If the application does not meet the criteria, the manager, 
Business Mailer Support denies the request and sends a written notice 
to the applicant with the reason for denial.
11.1.7 Cancellation
    USPS may cancel a PRS permit for any of the following reasons:
    a. The permit holder fails to pay the required postage and fees for 
returned parcels.
    b. The permit holder does not maintain adequate available funds to 
cover postage and fees for returned parcels.
    c. The permit holder does not fulfill the terms and conditions of 
the PRS permit authorization.
    d. The return labels do not conform to the specifications in 11.4.
11.1.8 Reapplying After Cancellation
    To receive a new PRS permit after cancellation under 11.1.7 the 
mailer must:
    a. Submit a letter to the manager, Business Mailer Support 
requesting a permit and a new agreement.
    b. Pay a new permit fee.
    c. Provide evidence showing that the reasons for cancellation no 
longer exist.
    d. Maintain adequate available funds to cover the expected number 
of returns.
11.1.9 Pickup Schedule
    Permit holders or their agents must set up a recurring or standing 
appointment to retrieve PRS parcels. If the permit holder (or their 
agent) already has existing appointments to deliver Parcel Select 
parcels to a destination bulk mail center or to a destination delivery 
unit, those same appointments can be used for retrieving PRS parcels. 
Permit holders or their agents must retrieve parcels on a regular 
schedule as follows:
    a. From RBMCs, at a minimum of every 48 hours, excluding Sundays 
and USPS holidays.
    b. From RDUs, according to the Service Agreement.

[[Page 16045]]

11.1.10 Parcels Endorsed Hold for Pickup
    PRS participants must pay the appropriate Parcel Select RDU rate 
under 11.3 for any unclaimed, refused, undeliverable as addressed, or 
recalled parcels that are endorsed ``Hold For Pickup'' (under 455.4.6 
and 508.1.3) and that bear the marking ``PARCEL RETURN SERVICE 
REQUESTED'' or ``PRS REQUESTED'' followed by a unique 569 prefix ZIP 
Code.

11.2 Postage and Fees

11.2.1 Postage
    There are two PRS rate categories:
    a. Parcel Select RDU. Parcels returned as Parcel Post to, and 
retrieved in bulk from, a designated delivery unit.
    b. Parcel Select RBMC. Parcels returned as Parcel Post to, and 
retrieved in bulk from, a designated BMC.
11.2.2 Permit Fee
    The participant must pay a $160.00 permit fee annually at the post 
office where the PRS permit is held.
11.2.3 Advance Deposit Account and Annual Accounting Fee
    The participant must pay postage through an advance deposit account 
and must pay an annual accounting fee of $500.00.

11.3 Rates

11.3.1 Parcel Return Service--Return Delivery Unit
    Regardless of weight (up to the maximum weight of 70 pounds), any 
parcel that measures more than 108 inches (but not more than 130 
inches) in combined length and girth must pay the oversized rate.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    Length plus girth                          Rate
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Not over 108 inches.....................................           $2.11
Oversized (Over 108 inches up to 130 inches)............            7.92
------------------------------------------------------------------------

11.3.2 Parcel Return Service--Return BMC Machinable
    Parcels that weigh less than 15 pounds but measure more than 84 
inches in combined length and girth are charged the applicable rate for 
a 15-pound parcel.
    See Exhibit 11.3.2, Parcel Return Service--Return BMC Machinable.

                          Exhibit 11.3.2.--Parcel Return Service--Return BMC Machinable
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            Weight not over  (pounds)               Zones 1 & 2       Zone 3          Zone 4          Zone 5
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1...............................................           $2.21           $2.25           $2.31           $2.40
2...............................................            2.81            2.85            2.92            3.04
3...............................................            3.39            3.43            3.52            3.65
4...............................................            3.60            3.96            4.07            4.22
5...............................................            3.78            4.38            4.52            4.73
6...............................................            3.95            4.76            4.90            5.21
7...............................................            4.11            5.09            5.25            5.64
8...............................................            4.71            5.40            5.57            6.05
9...............................................            4.85            5.65            5.89            6.42
10..............................................            5.03            5.98            6.20            6.77
11..............................................            5.16            6.20            6.47            7.08
12..............................................            5.32            6.41            6.75            7.39
13..............................................            5.46            6.58            7.00            7.66
14..............................................            5.59            6.70            7.26            7.93
15..............................................            5.70            6.88            7.48            8.18
16..............................................            5.82            7.06            7.69            8.41
17..............................................            5.96            7.23            7.93            8.63
18..............................................            6.05            7.39            8.13            8.83
19..............................................            6.18            7.55            8.32            9.03
20..............................................            6.28            7.69            8.48            9.21
21..............................................            6.38            7.84            8.64            9.39
22..............................................            6.49            7.97            8.79            9.55
23..............................................            6.58            8.14            8.94            9.71
24..............................................            6.67            8.26            9.06            9.87
25..............................................            6.76            8.39            9.19           10.00
26..............................................            6.86            8.51            9.33           10.14
27..............................................            6.95            8.64            9.44           10.27
28..............................................            7.02            8.77            9.54           10.39
29..............................................            7.11            8.90            9.65           10.51
30..............................................            7.20            9.00            9.76           10.61
31..............................................            7.28            9.09            9.85           10.73
32..............................................            7.38            9.21            9.96           10.82
33..............................................            7.44            9.32           10.04           10.93
34..............................................            7.53            9.40           10.13           11.01
35..............................................            7.59            9.52           10.21           11.11
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

11.3.3 Parcel Return Service--Return BMC Nonmachinable
    Parcels that weigh less than 15 pounds but measure more than 84 
inches in combined length and girth are charged the applicable rate for 
a 15-pound parcel. Regardless of weight, any parcel that measures more 
than 108 inches (but not more than 130 inches) in combined length and 
girth must pay the oversized rate.
    See Exhibit 11.3.3, Parcel Return Service--Return BMC 
Nonmachinable.

[[Page 16046]]



                        Exhibit 11.3.3.--Parcel Return Service--Return BMC Nonmachinable
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            Weight not over  (pounds)               Zones 1 & 2       Zone 3          Zone 4          Zone 5
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1...............................................           $3.63           $3.67           $3.73           $3.82
2...............................................            4.23            4.27            4.34            4.46
3...............................................            4.81            4.85            4.94            5.07
4...............................................            5.02            5.38            5.49            5.64
5...............................................            5.20            5.80            5.94            6.15
6...............................................            5.37            6.18            6.32            6.63
7...............................................            5.53            6.51            6.67            7.06
8...............................................            6.13            6.82            6.99            7.47
9...............................................            6.27            7.07            7.31            7.84
10..............................................            6.45            7.40            7.62            8.19
11..............................................            6.58            7.62            7.89            8.50
12..............................................            6.74            7.83            8.17            8.81
13..............................................            6.88            8.00            8.42            9.08
14..............................................            7.01            8.12            8.68            9.35
15..............................................            7.12            8.30            8.90            9.60
16..............................................            7.24            8.48            9.11            9.83
17..............................................            7.38            8.65            9.35           10.05
18..............................................            7.47            8.81            9.55           10.25
19..............................................            7.60            8.97            9.74           10.45
20..............................................            7.70            9.11            9.90           10.63
21..............................................            7.80            9.26           10.06           10.81
22..............................................            7.91            9.39           10.21           10.97
23..............................................            8.00            9.56           10.36           11.13
24..............................................            8.09            9.68           10.48           11.29
25..............................................            8.18            9.81           10.61           11.42
26..............................................            8.28            9.93           10.75           11.56
27..............................................            8.37           10.06           10.86           11.69
28..............................................            8.44           10.19           10.96           11.81
29..............................................            8.53           10.32           11.07           11.93
30..............................................            8.62           10.42           11.18           12.03
31..............................................            8.70           10.51           11.27           12.15
32..............................................            8.80           10.63           11.38           12.24
33..............................................            8.86           10.74           11.46           12.35
34..............................................            8.95           10.82           11.55           12.43
35..............................................            9.01           10.94           11.63           12.53
36..............................................            9.11           11.05           11.74           12.65
37..............................................            9.19           11.13           11.80           12.71
38..............................................            9.23           11.20           11.85           12.76
39..............................................            9.29           11.29           11.90           12.81
40..............................................            9.33           11.34           11.94           12.87
41..............................................            9.40           11.43           11.98           12.92
42..............................................            9.43           11.49           12.03           12.96
43..............................................            9.47           11.55           12.08           12.99
44..............................................            9.53           11.61           12.12           13.02
45..............................................            9.56           11.66           12.27           13.06
46..............................................            9.63           11.74           12.30           13.09
47..............................................            9.68           11.78           12.33           13.12
48..............................................            9.71           11.85           12.35           13.15
49..............................................            9.77           11.91           12.38           13.18
50..............................................            9.78           11.96           12.40           13.21
51..............................................            9.85           12.00           12.43           13.25
52..............................................            9.89           12.09           12.46           13.28
53..............................................            9.90           12.12           12.47           13.31
54..............................................            9.95           12.14           12.50           13.34
55..............................................            9.99           12.16           12.53           13.37
56..............................................           10.03           12.18           12.55           13.40
57..............................................           10.08           12.18           12.55           13.44
58..............................................           10.12           12.20           12.57           13.47
59..............................................           10.15           12.21           12.59           13.50
60..............................................           10.20           12.22           12.59           13.53
61..............................................           10.24           12.23           12.61           13.56
62..............................................           10.27           12.24           12.66           13.59
63..............................................           10.31           12.24           12.71           13.63
64..............................................           10.35           12.24           12.74           13.66
65..............................................           10.38           12.27           12.78           13.69
66..............................................           10.43           12.27           12.83           13.72
67..............................................           10.47           12.28           12.89           13.75
68..............................................           10.47           12.28           12.91           13.78
69..............................................           10.53           12.28           12.96           13.82
70..............................................           10.56           12.28           13.00           13.85
Oversized.......................................           27.39           27.73           28.46           29.56
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 16047]]

11.4 Label Formats

11.4.1 Label Preparation
    PRS labels must be certified by the USPS for use prior to 
distribution as defined in the Service Agreement. In addition, permit 
holders must obtain USPS certification for barcode symbologies. Any 
photographic, mechanical, or electronic process or any combination of 
these processes may be used to produce PRS labels. The background of 
the label may be any light color that allows the address, barcodes, and 
other required information to be easily distinguished. If labels are 
electronically transmitted to customers for their local printing, the 
permit holder must advise customers of these printing requirements as 
part of the instructions in 11.4.3.
11.4.2 Labeling Methods
    If all applicable contents and formats are approved (including 
instructions to the user), permit holders or their agents may 
distribute a PRS label by any of the following methods:
    a. As an enclosure with merchandise when initially shipped as part 
of the original invoice accompanying the merchandise, or as a separate 
label preprinted by the permit holder. If the reverse side of the label 
bears an adhesive, it must be strong enough to bond the label securely 
to the mailpiece.
    b. As an electronic file created by the permit holder for local 
printing by the customer.
11.4.3 Instructions
    Regardless of label distribution method, permit holders or their 
agents must always provide written instructions to the user of the PRS 
label that, at a minimum, direct the user to do the following:
    a. ``If your name and address are not already printed in the return 
address area, please print them neatly in that area or attach a return 
address label there.''
    b. ``Attach the label provided by the merchant squarely onto the 
largest side of the mailpiece, unless you need to use another side to 
make the parcel more stable. Place the label at least 1 inch from the 
edge of the parcel, so that it does not fold over to another side. If 
you are using tape to attach the new label, do not put tape over any 
barcodes on the label, even if the tape is clear.''
    c. ``If you are reusing the original container to return the 
merchandise, use the label to cover your original delivery address, 
barcodes, and any other postal information on the container. If it is 
not possible to cover all that information with the label, remove the 
old labels, mark them out completely with a permanent marker, or cover 
them completely with blank labels or paper that cannot be seen through. 
If that cannot be done, or if the original container is no longer 
sound, please use a new box to return the merchandise and attach the 
return label to the new box.''
    d. ``Once repackaged and labeled, mail the parcel at a post office, 
deposit it in a collection box, or leave it with your letter carrier.''
11.4.4 Label Format Elements
    There is no minimum size for PRS labels; however, the label must be 
big enough to accommodate all of the label elements and standards in 
this section. All PRS label elements must be legible. Except where a 
specific type size is required, elements must be large enough to be 
legible from a normal reading distance and be separate from other 
elements on the label. See the PRS label format examples in 11.4.5a and 
11.4.5b. The following elements are required:
    a. Postage guarantee. The imprint ``No Postage Necessary If Mailed 
in the United States'' must appear in the upper right corner.
    b. Horizontal bars. A minimum of three horizontal bars must appear 
directly below the imprint in the upper right corner. The bars must be 
uniform in length, at least 1 inch long, \1/16\ inch thick, and evenly 
spaced.
    c. Parcel Return Service legend. The legend must be placed directly 
above the address and must include:
    1. Line 1: In capital letters at least \3/16\'' high, ``PARCEL 
SELECT RETURN SERVICE'' (or ``PARCEL SELECT RTN SVC'').
    2. Line 2: In all capital letters, the permit holder's name, left 
justified, followed by ``PERMIT NO.'', followed by the actual permit 
number.
    d. Customer's return address. The return address of the customer 
using the label to mail the parcel back to the permit holder must 
appear in the upper left corner. If it is not preprinted by the permit 
holder or merchant, space must be provided for the customer to enter 
the return address.
    e. Address for Parcel Return Service labels. The address must 
contain the unique PRS ZIP Code (569 prefix) assigned by the USPS to 
the particular customer or agent. The address must consist of two or 
three lines in all capital letters, as specified below. The ZIP Code 
must be printed in at least 12-point type on a line directly below the 
Parcel Return Service line.
    1. Line 1: PRS AGENT'S OR MERCHANT'S NAME.
    2. Line 2: ``PARCEL RETURN SERVICE'' (or ``PARCEL RETURN SVC'').
    3. Line 3: The unique PRS 569 ZIP Code assigned 
by the USPS in the service agreement. The unique ZIP Code may 
alternatively be located as part of the second line of the address.
    f. Parcel Return Service barcode. A PRS barcode must be printed 
directly on the label. The barcode may appear in any location on the 
label except the upper left, upper right, and lower right corners. The 
barcode must meet the standards for barcodes in Publication 91, 
Confirmation Services Technical Guide, with the following exceptions:
    1. The barcode must be produced using the UCC/EAN Code 128 barcode 
symbology.
    2. The service type code (STC) contained in the barcode on PRS 
labels must contain the value ``58.''
    3. Text above the barcode must read ``USPS PARCEL RETURN SERVICE'' 
(or ``USPS PARCEL RTN SVC''). If the barcode is a single concatenated 
barcode with the postal routing code described in 11.4.4g, the text 
above the barcode must read ``BMC ZIP--USPS PARCEL RETURN SERVICE'' (or 
``BMC ZIP--USPS PARCEL RTN SVC''). In the text below the barcode, the 
leading application identifier (``420''), ZIP Code information, and 
subsequent numbers must be parsed as shown in 11.4.5b.
    4. The clear zone between the barcode, the human-readable text, and 
the horizontal bar above and below the barcode must be at least \1/16\ 
inch.
    g. Postal routing barcode. If a single concatenated barcode is not 
used for the PRS barcode, a postal routing barcode also must be printed 
directly on the label. The barcode may appear in any location on the 
label, except the upper left, upper right, and lower right corners. 
Postal routing barcodes must meet the standards in 708.5.0, except that 
the text below the barcode must read ``BMC ZIP-,'' followed by the 
unique PRS ZIP Code assigned by USPS in the service agreement.
    h. Mailer identification (ID). The permit holder assigns a mailer 
ID to each individual client (merchant). An individual mailer ID must 
appear in the lower right corner as follows:
    1. The mailer ID must consist of a single, uppercase alpha 
character followed by a two-, three-, or four-digit number, with no 
spaces or dashes. For example: X0123.
    2. The mailer ID must be at least \3/16\ inch high and be 
surrounded by a box, with a clearance of at least \3/16\ inch between 
the mailer ID characters and the edges of the box.

[[Page 16048]]

    3. The mailer ID may be reverse-printed.
    i. Additional information. Additional information (e.g., company 
logo, return authorization number, inventory barcode) is permitted on 
the PRS label if it does not interfere with any required format 
elements. Inventory barcodes must not resemble the barcodes described 
in 708.5.0, Barcoding Standards for Parcels.
11.4.5 PRS Label Format Examples
    The following are PRS label format examples. Note: The ZIP Code 
56999 appears in each example for demonstration purposes only.
    a. Parcel Select Return Service label using a separate PRS barcode 
and postal routing barcode.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR30MR06.000

    b. Parcel Select Return Service label using a concatenated barcode.
    [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR30MR06.001
    
* * * * *

700 Special Standards

* * * * *

709 Experimental Classifications and Rates

* * * * *
[Delete 709.5.0, Parcel Return Services, and renumber sections 709.6.0 
through 709.8.0 accordingly.]
* * * * *

Neva R. Watson,
Attorney, Legislative.
[FR Doc. 06-3117 Filed 3-29-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P
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