New Standards for Domestic Mailing Services, 65640-65653 [2011-27365]

Agencies

• Postal Service

[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 205 (Monday, October 24, 2011)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 65640-65653]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-27365]


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POSTAL SERVICE

39 CFR Part 111


New Standards for Domestic Mailing Services

AGENCY: Postal Service\TM\.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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SUMMARY: In October 2011, the Postal Service filed a notice of mailing 
services price adjustments with the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC), 
effective on January 22, 2012. This proposed rule contains the 
revisions to Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, 
Domestic Mail Manual (DMM[supreg]) that we would adopt to implement the 
changes coincident with the price adjustments.

DATES: We must receive comments on or before November 23, 2011.

ADDRESSES: Mail or deliver written comments to the manager, Product 
Classification, U.S. Postal Service[supreg], 475 L'Enfant Plaza, SW., 
Room 4446, Washington, DC 20260-5015. You may inspect and photocopy all 
written comments at USPS[supreg] Headquarters Library, 475 L'Enfant 
Plaza, SW., 11th Floor N, Washington, DC by appointment only between 
the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday by calling 1-202-
268-2906 in advance. E-mail comments, containing the name and address 
of the commenter, may be sent to: MailingStandards@usps.gov, with a 
subject line of ``January 2012 Domestic Mailing Services Proposal.'' 
Faxed comments are not accepted.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Bill Chatfield, 202-268-7278.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Proposed prices will be available under 
Docket Number(s) R2012-3 on the Postal Regulatory Commission's Web site 
at https://www.prc.gov.
    The Postal Service's proposed rule includes: Several mail 
classification changes, modifications to mailpiece characteristics, and 
changes in classification terminology.

Proposed Change for Letters

Commercial First-Class Mail Letters

    The pricing structure for presorted and automation First-Class 
Mail[supreg] letters is proposed to change so that the minimum postage 
charge would be for a 2-ounce letter instead of the current 1-ounce 
minimum postage charge.
    We also remove standards for Reply Rides Free, because the program 
ends on December 31, 2011.

Commercial First-Class Mail and Standard Mail Letters

    The Postal Service proposes to modify the process of submitting 
mailpieces to the Pricing and Classification Service Center (PCSC) for 
testing and to delete the provision that pieces with attached release 
cards be sent to Engineering.

Standard Mail Nonmachinable Letters

    The USPS proposes to clarify that overflow Standard Mail[supreg] 
nonmachinable letters that mailers place into existing trays at another 
level would require matching documentation.

Proposed Changes for Flats

Automation Flats

    The USPS proposes to clarify 301.3.0 to add that automation flats 
must meet the standards for all flats in 301.1.0 as well as the 
standards in 301.3.0.

Periodicals Flats

    Currently, Periodicals flats are allowed on mixed area distribution 
center (MADC) pallets only when the flats are sacked. This proposed 
rule would allow bundles of Periodicals flats to be placed directly on 
MADC pallets and would assign a specific price for MADC pallets as 
well.
    We propose to revise a price categorization under nonmachinable 
flats to insert the correct categorization of nonmachinable flats-
nonbarcoded.

Detached Address Labels Used With Flats

    The Postal Service proposes to add 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 would be a 
type of DAL named as a detached marketing label (DML). Both DALs and 
DMLs could be used with saturation flats or with Standard Mail 
Marketing parcels.

Proposed Changes for Parcels

Machinable Parcels

    To align the standards for machinable parcels with current mail 
processing equipment capability, the Postal Service proposes to change 
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

[[Page 65641]]

inches. We would additionally change 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. We also propose to 
modify the processes by which parcels that do not fully meet the 
machinability standards are evaluated for machinability. In addition, 
the Postal Service proposes to clarify that parcels that meet the 
lightweight machinable parcel standards are definitively categorized as 
machinable parcels.

Standard Mail Parcels

    Standard Mail regular parcels would be separated into two groups, 
Marketing parcels and parcels that will become Parcel Select 
Lightweight\TM\ parcels. Nonprofit Standard Mail parcels would have 
separate standards for Nonprofit Marketing parcels and other Nonprofit 
parcels.
    Marketing parcels are defined as containing information and/or 
product samples whose purposes are 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. These parcels would be required to bear an alternative 
addressing format (occupant or exceptional addressing, or simplified 
addressing when allowed for saturation mail), and would 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 
would be no separate charge for the DALs.

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 (No. 22281), we announced that the NFM price 
category would be extended. We now propose to end 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.

Package Services Pieces

    The Postal Service proposes to eliminate the provision to provide 
free local forwarding for Package Services pieces.
    The USPS also proposes to discontinue the 3-cent barcode discount 
for all BPM, Media Mail[supreg], and Library Mail parcels.

Special, Extra, and Other Services

Adult Signature

    The Postal Service proposes to 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 would 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. This proposed rule will offer additional options: 
Express Mail with Adult Signature or Priority Mail with Adult 
Signature.

Confirm

    The Postal Service proposes to discontinue Confirm service as a 
paid subscription service and to replace it with ``IMb\TM\ Tracing,'' 
which will provide scan data similar to that provided through Confirm 
service, but with no paid subscription service required.

Waiver of Annual Mailing Fees for Full-Service Automation Mailings

    The Postal Service proposes to revise certain requirements for 
mailers who present full-service (Intelligent Mail[supreg]) 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 proposes to 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).

Post Office Boxes

    The Postal Service proposes to add a new 3-month prepaid payment 
option, only available via recurring automatic payments, for Post 
Office Box service.

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 proposes to add 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 propose to offer four 
perforated postcards on an 8\1/2\ inches x 11 inches sheet that would 
allow customers to feed them readily into computer printers. Once 
separated, each card will be 4\1/4\ inches x 5\1/2\ inches.
    Additionally, the USPS does not currently offer personalized 
stamped postcards. This proposed rule will allow customers to purchase 
stamped postcards with pre-printed return addresses.
    Although we are exempt from the notice and comment requirements of 
the Administrative Procedure Act [5 U.S.C. of 553(b), (c)] regarding 
proposed rulemaking by 39 U.S.C. 410(a), we invite public comments on 
the following proposed revisions 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 proposed to be amended as follows:

PART 111--[AMENDED]

    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.

    2. Revise the following sections of Mailing Standards of the United 
States

[[Page 65642]]

Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), as follows:
* * * * *

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.]
    [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.
* * * * *

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:
* * * * *

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 two ounces, with separate prices for pieces over 
two ounces up to three ounces and for pieces over three 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 adding a new second sentence as 
follows:]
    * * * 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. * * *
* * * * *

7.0 First-Class Mail Incentive Programs

* * * * *
    [Delete 7.2, Reply Rides Free Program, in its entirety.]
* * * * *

234 Postage Payment and Documentation

* * * * *

[[Page 65643]]

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 adding a new second sentence as 
follows:]
    * * * 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

* * * * *

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.
* * * * *

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 adding a new second sentence as 
follows:]
    * * * 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

* * * * *

3.4 Presort Mailing Fees

    [Revise the text of 3.4 by adding a new second sentence as 
follows:]
    * * * 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. * * *
* * * * *

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 adding 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

[[Page 65644]]

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.
* * * * *

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.
* * * * *

[[Page 65645]]

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 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 (0.2063 pound) 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.]

5.0 Additional Eligibility Standards for Presorted Standard Mail Pieces

* * * * *

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 in 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 irregular 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 item 1.3e, Origin/Entry 3-Digit, in its entirety 
and redesignate current item 1.3f as new item 1.3e.]

[[Page 65646]]

    [Delete current items 1.3g, Origin Optional Entry SCF, and 1.3h, 
ADC, in their entirety and redesignate current items 1.3i through1.3 l 
as new items 1.3f 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 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 quantity of 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.
* * * * *

[[Page 65647]]

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.
* * * * *

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.]

1.2.4 Bound Printed Matter Destination Entry Prices

    [Delete the second sentence of 1.2.4.]
* * * * *

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.]
* * * * *

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

* * * * *

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.
* * * * *

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.
* * * * *

10.0 Delivery Confirmation

* * * * *

[[Page 65648]]

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; 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

* * * * *

11.2 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; 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. * * *
* * * * *
    [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 is a replacement for 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 users 
must convert to the use of an IMb 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 https://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 https://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 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

[[Page 65649]]

Services mail, use 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 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 on 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 any time within the first 3 months of 
the service period, then one-half of the fee is refunded, except that 
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. * * *
* * * * *

600 Basic Standards for All Mailing Services

601 Mailability

* * * * *

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.
* * * * *

[[Page 65650]]

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.
    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. 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

* * * * *

[[Page 65651]]

705 Advanced Preparation and Special Postage Payment Systems

* * * * *

6.0 Combining Mailings of Standard Mail, Package Services, and Parcel 
Select Parcels

    [Revise 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 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 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 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