Promotions and Incentive Programs for First-Class Mail and Standard Mail, 12234-12238 [2013-03926]

Download as PDF 12234 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 36 / Friday, February 22, 2013 / Rules and Regulations Correction Emerging Technologies, Product Samples, and Mobile Buy-It-Now programs; and earnedvalue@usps.gov or picturepermit@usps.com for the two other programs. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Postal Service filed a notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) (Docket No. R2013–1) on October 11, 2012 to offer six new promotions in 2013 and the PRC approved the 2013 promotions on November 16, 2012. In this final rule, the Postal Service provides a description of the eligibility conditions for the various promotional programs and the revised mailing standards to implement the programs. The types of eligible mailpieces are listed in the descriptions for each promotion. EDDM-Retail® mailings are not eligible for participation in any of the promotions. OMAS and official government mailings are eligible for participation in the Earned Value Reply Mail promotion only. Registration for must be made separately for each promotion through the Business Customer Gateway. In rule document 2013–03121, appearing on pages 9811–9814 in the issue of Tuesday, February 12, 2013, make the following correction: Summary of Promotional Programs The six promotional programs, in calendar order are: by Section 821 of Public Law 112–95. The FAA will continuously update these conditions and limitations as necessary to best ensure these operations meet this equivalent level of safety. Issued in Washington, DC, on February 14, 2013. John M. Allen, Director, Flight Standards Service. [FR Doc. 2013–04052 Filed 2–21–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 110 [Docket No. USCG–2012–0159] RIN 1625–AA01 Anchorages; Captain of the Port Puget Sound Zone, WA § 110.230 [Corrected] On page 9813, in the third column, on the eighteenth line from the top, ‘‘latitude 47°7′30″ N’’ should read ‘‘latitude 47°47′30″ N’’. ■ [FR Doc. C1–2013–03121 Filed 2–21–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 1505–01–D POSTAL SERVICE 39 CFR Part 111 Promotions and Incentive Programs for First-Class Mail and Standard Mail Postal ServiceTM. Final rule. AGENCY: ACTION: The Postal Service will revise the Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®) 709.3 to include new promotions and incentive programs that will be offered at various time periods during calendar year 2013 for Presorted and automation First-Class Mail® cards, letters, and flats, and Standard Mail® letters, flats, or parcels. DATES: Effective date: March 4, 2013. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Krista Becker at 202–268–7345 or Bill Chatfield at 202–268–7278. Email contacts are: mobilebarcode@usps.gov for the Mobile Coupon/Click-to-Call, pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:17 Feb 21, 2013 Jkt 229001 1. Direct Mail Mobile Coupon and Click-toCall 2. Earned Value Reply Mail 3. Emerging Technologies 4. Picture Permit Imprint 5. Product Samples 6. Mobile Buy-It Now Postage Payment for Mobile Coupon/ Click-to-Call, Emerging Technologies, and Mobile Buy-It Now The following parameters apply to the Mobile Coupon/Click-to-Call, Emerging Technology, and Mobile Buy-It Now promotions. Mailing documentation and postage statements must be submitted electronically. Mailings entered by an entity other than the mail owner must identify the mail owner and mail preparer in the by/for fields. Fullservice mailings are limited to 9,999 pieces if submitted via Postal Wizard. If some pieces in a mailing are not claiming a promotion discount, separate postage statements must be used for pieces not claiming the discount and for pieces claiming the discount. All discounts must be claimed on the electronic postage statement at the time of mailing and will not be rebated at a later date. Postage payment methods will be restricted to permit imprint, metered postage, or precancelled stamps. Pieces with metered postage must bear an exact amount of postage as stipulated by the PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 class and shape of mail. Affixed postage values for metered mailings will be as follows: First-Class Mail postcards .................. First-Class Mail automation and (PRSTD) machinable letters ........... First-Class Mail nonmachinable letters .................................................. First-Class Mail automation and Presorted flats ................................. STD Mail Regular letters .................... STD Mail Regular flats ....................... STD Nonprofit letters .......................... STD Nonprofit flats ............................. $0.20 0.25 0.45 0.35 0.12 0.13 0.05 0.06 Mailings with postage paid by metered or precancelled stamp postage will have the percentage discount deducted from the additional postage due, except for Value Added Refund mailings, which may include the amount of the discount with the amount to be refunded. Description of Promotional Programs Mobile Coupon/Click-to-Call This promotion provides an upfront 2 percent postage discount for presort and automation mailings of First-Class Mail letters, postcards, or flats and Standard Mail (including Nonprofit) letters and flats that integrate mail with mobile technology and promote the value of direct mail. There are two separate ways to participate within the one overall program: Mobile Coupon and Click-toCall. Mailers may participate in one or both ways, but only one discount may apply per mailing. The Mobile Coupon option will encourage mailers to integrate hard-copy coupons in the mail with mobile platforms for redemption. The Click-to-Call option will drive consumer awareness and increase usage of mail with mobile barcodes that provide click-to-call functionality. For the Mobile Coupon program, at least one of the following options apply: 1. The mailpiece must be a coupon, entitling only the recipients to a discount off a product or service. 2. The mailpiece must contain either mobile-print technology (such as a 2D barcode or smart tag) that can be scanned by a mobile device linking to a mobile coupon or a short number to be used to initiate a text communication that then triggers a SMS/EMS or MMS message with a one-time coupon or code. Texts that allow an option for ongoing coupons via text are not eligible. Coupon recipients must be able to present physical coupons or coupons stored on mobile devices at any of the mailer’s retail locations that exist. For mailers who do not have retail E:\FR\FM\22FER1.SGM 22FER1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 36 / Friday, February 22, 2013 / Rules and Regulations pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES locations, the following conditions apply: 1. The mailpiece must contain a code to receive a discount online or via a call center. 2. The coupon discount is offered only to mailpiece recipients and is not a discount available to all customers. 3. The entire online shopping experience and path to purchase must be mobile-optimized. For the Click-to-Call program, the mailpiece must contain mobile technology that can be scanned by a mobile device and the scanned item (barcode, RFID chip, NFC Smart tag, etc.) must link directly to a mobileoptimized Web site with a ‘‘click to call’’ link or bring up a phone number on the user’s phone. The mailpiece must contain text near the barcode or image that guides the consumer to scan the image, or informs the consumer about the landing page. Registration is January 15–April 30, 2013. The program period is from March 1–April 30, 2013. Earned Value Reply Mail Promotion First-Class Mail Business Reply and Courtesy Reply mailers will receive a $0.02 postage credit for each machinable Business Reply Mail® (BRM) or Courtesy Reply MailTM (CRM) card or letter bearing a qualifying Intelligent Mail® barcode (IMbTM) that is scanned in the postal network. IMbs on reply pieces must be encoded with the correct Mailer ID, barcode ID, service type ID, and ZIP+4® routing code as assigned by the USPS. This promotion is designed to encourage mailers to promote First-Class Mail as a primary reply mechanism for their customers and to keep the BRM/CRM envelopes in their outgoing mail pieces by providing a financial benefit when the BRM/CRM envelopes are used. Registration is January 15 to March 31, 2013. Participants must register their Mailer IDs (MIDs) and permit account on the Incentive Programs Service area of the Business Customer Gateway. Participants also must agree to participate in a survey about the promotion. The program participation period is from April 1–June 30, 2013. There will be no requirement that the reply piece is mailed out during the promotion period, but it must be returned in the mail during that period. Rebate credit will not be earned for pieces scanned prior to April 1 or after June 30th. Rebate credits can be redeemed for postage for future mailings of First-Class Mail presort and automation letters, cards, or flats, or for Standard Mail letters or flats paid from the permit account to which the credit VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:17 Feb 21, 2013 Jkt 229001 was applied. The USPS encourages participants to schedule their mailings in the appropriate time frame to maximize the number of reply pieces coming back during the promotion period. Emerging Technologies By providing an upfront 2 percent postage discount, this promotion is designed to build on the successes of past mobile barcode promotions and promote awareness of how innovative technologies (such as Near-Field Communication, Augmented Reality, and Authentication) can be integrated with a direct mail strategy to enhance the value of direct mail. Registration is June 15 to Sept. 30, 2013. The program participation period is from August 1– September 30, 2013. Mailers and mail service providers must register on the Business Customer Gateway via the Incentive Programs Service and agree to the promotion terms at least 2 hours prior to the first qualifying mailing, including specifying the permits and CRIDs to be used in the promotion. Participants also must agree to complete a survey about their participation in the program. Eligible mailpieces are First-Class Mail presort and automation cards, letters, or flats, and Standard Mail letters or flats. All pieces must meet at least one of the following requirements: 1. Near-Field Communication (NFC) component: The mailpiece must contain a NFC smart tag or RFID chip that allows information to be transmitted to a mobile device. 2. Augmented Reality component: The mailpiece must contain print that allows the recipient to engage in an augmented reality experience facilitated by a mobile device or computer. The experience must combine real and virtual components, be interactive in real time, be registered in 2–D or 3–D, and be relevant to the contents of the mailpiece. 3. Authentication component: The mailpiece must integrate delivery of the physical mailpiece with mobile technology, allowing the user to complete authentication processes for customers and mail recipients. Mailers must obtain prior approval for their proposed authentication uses from the USPS program office. The 2 percent discount for eligible pieces is applied at the time of mailing. If multiple emerging technologies are used on the same mailpiece, the discount is only applied once. Picture Permit The Picture Permit promotion is designed to further promote the use of PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 12235 Picture Permit Imprint Indicia, which can improve a mailpiece’s visibility and impact as a marketing tool. For preapproved mailers, the Picture Permit fee of 1 cent per mailpiece for First-Class Mail automation letters and cards will be waived, and the current 2 cents fee for Standard Mail automation letters will be waived. Full-service Intelligent Mail barcodes are required on each piece. It is recommended that prospective participants allow 4 months before the first mailing date to complete the Picture Permit Imprint Indicia approval process and have proposed designs approved by the USPS Picture Permit program office. Registration for the Picture Permit promotion is allowed from June 1 to Sept. 30, 2013. The promotion participation period is from August 1–September 30, 2013. Mailers and mail service providers must first complete the initial program registration for Picture Permit at the Web site: www.usps.com/picturepermit. After completion of the 4-step authorization process, preapproved participants will be invited to register for the promotion. Approved mailers must agree to participate in a survey about the promotion. Postage must be paid by permit imprint, with documentation and postage statements submitted electronically. Participants must claim the waiver of fees on the electronic postage statement at the time of submission. All mailpieces in a mailing must be eligible for the promotion. Qualified plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS) mailings that are verified and paid for by September 30, 2013 may be entered at destination entry facilities through October 15, 2013. Questions may be sent by email to: picturepermit@usps.com. Product Samples Designed to re-invigorate product sampling via the mail, the Product Samples promotion will provide mailers with a 5 percent upfront postage discount on qualifying mail that contains product samples. The promotion will increase awareness of the new ‘‘Simple Samples’’ pricing in Standard Mail, which began Jan. 27, 2013. Mailers and mail service providers must register from May 1 to September 30, 2013 on the Incentive Programs Service area of the Business Customer Gateway. Mailers must agree to participate in a survey about the promotion. The program participation period is from August 1 to September 30, 2013. Qualified PVDS mailings that are verified and paid for by September 30, 2013 may be entered at destination E:\FR\FM\22FER1.SGM 22FER1 12236 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 36 / Friday, February 22, 2013 / Rules and Regulations pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES entry facilities through October 15, 2013. All qualifying parcels must contain a product sample, a physical product whose purpose is to encourage recipients to purchase a product or service, form a belief or opinion, or take an action. Postage must be paid by permit imprint, meter, or precancelled stamps; postage statements and documentation must be submitted electronically. Participants must claim the discount on the electronic postage statement at the time of submission. Questions may be sent by email to: mobilebarcode@usps.gov. Mobile Buy-It-Now This promotion provides mailers (of presort and automation First-Class Mail cards, letters, and flats and Standard Mail letters and flats) with an upfront 2 percent postage discount to encourage them to demonstrate how direct mail combined with mobile technology can be a convenient method for consumers to do their holiday shopping. To participate, mailers and mail service providers must register on the Incentive Programs Service area of the Business Customer Gateway and agree to promotion terms from September 15 to December 31, 2013, at least 2 hours before presenting the first qualifying mailing. The program participation period is from November 1 to December 31, 2013. Participants must agree to complete a survey about their participation in the promotion. Qualifying mailpieces must include a two-dimensional barcode or print/ mobile technology that can be read or scanned by a mobile device, directly leading the recipient to a mobileoptimized Web page that allows the purchase of an advertised product through a financial transaction on the mobile device. The mailpiece must also contain text near the barcode or image that guides the consumer to scan the image or informs the consumer about the landing page. These additional requirements apply: 1. The destination Web page must contain information relevant to the content of the mailpiece, and some of the products advertised must be available for purchase on a mobile device. 2. The purchase must be able to be completed through the mobile device via an electronic payment method, such as a credit card, debit card, or via PayPay, or by allowing an order to be placed on the mobile device through the Internet, leading to a subsequent invoice. 3. A product, for purposes of this promotion, is defined as a tangible and VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:17 Feb 21, 2013 Jkt 229001 physical item that can be shipped via a mailing or shipping product offered by the USPS (although delivery by the USPS is not required). The sale of a service without a tangible product does not qualify. 4. Products must be offered for fulfillment via home delivery; products offered as shipments for in-store pickup only will not qualify. incorporated by reference in the Code of Federal Regulations. See 39 CFR 111.1. General Discount Information ■ Commingled, co-mailed, and combined mailings are allowed, but a separate postage statement is required for those mailpieces eligible to participate in the applicable promotion. Each price reduction will be taken off the eligible postage amount due at the time of mailing. Promotion discounts do not apply to single-piece First-Class Mail pieces including residual singlepiece First-Class Mail pieces claimed on a postage statement for Presorted and automation mailings. Price reductions also do not apply to any Standard Mail residual pieces paying single-piece First-Class Mail prices. Eligible mailings must be accompanied by electronic documentation, submitted via mail.dat, mail.xml, or Postal Wizard. The electronic documentation must identify the mail owner and mail preparer in the ‘‘by/for’’ fields for all mailings, either by the Customer Registration ID (CRID) or Mailer ID (MID) assigned by USPS. As a general reminder, mailings of automation flats or automation cards and letters, including Standard Mail letters (other than those with simplified addresses) claiming a carrier route automation letter price, must have Intelligent Mail barcodes. Full-service use of IMbs is required for some promotions as specified. Registration Before Participation and More General Information To participate in any of the promotional programs, customers must be registered on the Incentive Programs Service area of the Business Customer Gateway at https://gateway.usps.com/ bcg/login.htm. Customers must specify which permits and CRIDs will participate in which promotion(s). Registration opens as specified for each program above. Program requirements, including updated FAQs, are available on the RIBBS® Web site at https:// ribbs.usps.gov/ index.cfm?page=mobilebarcode or by email to mobilebarcode@usps.gov. The Postal Service adopts the following changes to Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), which is PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111 Administrative practice and procedure, Postal Service. Accordingly, 39 CFR part 111 is amended as follows: PART 111—[AMENDED.] 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 the Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM). ■ Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM): * * * * * 700 Special Standards * * * * * 709 Experimental and Temporary Classifications * * * * * [Revise the title and complete text of 3.0 as follows:] 3.0 Promotions for First-Class Mail and Standard Mail for 2013 3.1 Summary of Programs There will be six new promotional incentive programs offered during calendar year 2013 for Presorted and automation First-Class Mail cards, letters, and flats, and Standard Mail letters, flats, or parcels. EDDM-Retail mailings are not eligible for participation in any of the promotions; OMAS and official government mailings are eligible only for participation in the Earned Value Reply Mail promotion. Automation letters and flats must bear correct Intelligent Mail barcodes. Participants in each promotion also agree to participate in a survey about the promotion. See 3.2 for how to register. The six promotional programs, in calendar order, are: a. Direct Mail Mobile Coupon and Click-to-Call 1. Registration: January 15–April 30, 2013; 2. Program period: March 1–April 30, 2013. b. Earned Value Reply Mail 1. Registration: January 15–March 31, 2013; 2. Program period: April 1–June 30, 2013. E:\FR\FM\22FER1.SGM 22FER1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 36 / Friday, February 22, 2013 / Rules and Regulations pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES c. Emerging Technologies 1. Registration: June 15–September 30, 2013; 2. Program period: August 1– September 30, 2013. d. Picture Permit Imprint 1. Advance registration: 4 months or more before program period begins. 2. Enrollment: June 1–September 30, 2013; 3. Program period: August 1– September 30, 2013. e. Product Samples 1. Registration: May 1–September 30, 2013; 2. Program period: August 1– September 30, 2013. f. Mobile Buy-It Now 1. Registration: September 15– December 31, 2013; 2. Program period: November 1– December 31, 2013. 3.2 Registration and General Conditions for Documentation Customers must register for each promotion on the Incentive Programs Service through the Business Customer Gateway at https://gateway.usps.com/ bcg/login.htm, and specify which permits and CRIDs will participate in the promotion. Mailpieces must be mailed under the following conditions: a. Except for the Earned Value Reply Mail and Picture Permit promotions, postage must be paid by permit imprint or by affixing metered postage or a precanceled stamp to each piece of mail. Pieces with metered postage must bear an exact amount of postage as stipulated by the class and shape of mail, and according to the table published in the Federal Register notice under ‘‘postage payment methods.’’ Provisions for additional postage are in 234.2.2a and 334.2.2a for First-Class Mail pieces over 1 ounce, and in 244.2.2 and 344.2.2 for Standard Mail pieces over 3.3 ounces. b. The postage statement and mailing documentation must be submitted electronically. The mail owner’s identity must be indicated in the electronic documentation, which must identify the mail owner and mail preparer in the by/for fields, either by Customer Registration ID (CRID) or Mailer ID (MID) assigned by the USPS. All Presorted and automation pieces declared on a postage statement must qualify for the discount. c. The electronic equivalent of the mailer’s signature on the postage statement will certify that each mailpiece claimed on the postage statement qualifies for the applicable promotion. 3.3 Program Descriptions Each of the six promotions is briefly described below. More detailed VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:17 Feb 21, 2013 Jkt 229001 information, including updated FAQs, is available on the RIBBS Web site at https://ribbs.usps.gov/ index.cfm?page=mobilebarcode. 3.3.1 Direct Mail Mobile Coupon and Click-to-Call This promotion provides an upfront 2 percent postage discount for presort and automation mailings of First-Class Mail letters, postcards, or flats and Standard Mail (including Nonprofit) letters and flats that integrate mail with mobile technology. There are two separate ways to participate within the one overall program; mailers may participate in one or both, but only one discount applies per mailing. The Mobile Coupon option integrates hard-copy coupons in the mail with mobile platforms for redemption. Participation in the Clickto-Call option increases use of mail with mobile barcodes that provide click-tocall functionality. Conditions are as follows: a. For the Mobile Coupon program, the coupon is offered only to mailpiece recipients, the entire path to purchase must be mobile-optimized, and at least one of the following two options apply: 1. The mailpiece must be a coupon, entitling only the recipients to a discount off a product or service. 2. The mailpiece must contain either mobile-print technology that can be scanned by a mobile device linking to a mobile coupon or a short number to be used to initiate a text communication that triggers a text message with a onetime coupon or code. b. For both options in 3.3.1a, coupon recipients must be able to present physical coupons or coupons stored on mobile devices at retail locations or the mailpiece must contain a code to receive a discount online or via a call center. c. For the Click-to-Call program, the mailpiece must contain mobile technology that can be scanned by a mobile device and the scanned item must link directly to a mobile-optimized Web site with a ‘‘click to call’’ link or to a phone number on the user’s phone. The mailpiece must contain text near the image to guide the consumer to scan the image. 3.3.2 Earned Value Reply Mail First-Class Mail Business Reply Mail (BRM) and Courtesy Reply Mail (CRM) mailers will receive a $0.02 postage credit for each machinable BRM or CRM card or letter bearing a qualifying Intelligent Mail barcode (IMb) that is scanned in the postal network during the program period. IMbs on reply pieces must be encoded with the correct Mailer ID, barcode ID, service type ID, PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 12237 and correct ZIP+4 routing code as assigned by the USPS. Rebate credits can be redeemed for postage for future mailings of First-Class Mail presort and automation letters, cards, or flats, or for Standard Mail letters or flats paid from the permit account where the credit was applied. 3.3.3 Emerging Technologies If multiple emerging technologies are used on the same mailpiece, the 2% upfront discount is only applied once. To be eligible for the discount, all FirstClass Mail presort and automation cards, letters, or flats, and Standard Mail letters or flats must meet at least one of the following requirements: a. The mailpiece must contain a NearField Communication (NFC) smart tag or RFID chip that allows information to be transmitted to a mobile device. b. The mailpiece must contain print that allows the recipient to engage in an augmented reality experience, relevant to the contents of the mailpiece, facilitated by a mobile device or computer. c. The mailpiece must integrate delivery of the physical mailpiece with mobile technology, allowing the user to complete authentication processes for customers and mail recipients. Mailers must obtain prior approval from the USPS program office for each proposed process. 3.3.4 Picture Permit Imprint For pre-approved mailers, the Picture Permit fee for First-Class Mail automation letters and cards will be waived, and the fee for Standard Mail automation letters will be waived. Fullservice Intelligent Mail barcodes are required on each piece. Mailers and mail service providers must complete registration for Picture Permit at the Web site: www.usps.com/picturepermit. After completion of the authorization process, preapproved participants will be invited to register for the promotion. Postage must be paid by permit imprint; participants must claim the waiver of fees on the electronic postage statement at the time of submission. All mailpieces in a mailing must be eligible for the promotion. Qualified PVDS mailings that are verified and paid for by September 30, 2013 may be entered at destination entry facilities through October 15, 2013. 3.3.5 Product Samples The Product Samples promotion will provide mailers with a 5 percent upfront postage discount on qualifying mail that contains product samples. All qualifying parcels must contain a product sample. Qualified PVDS E:\FR\FM\22FER1.SGM 22FER1 12238 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 36 / Friday, February 22, 2013 / Rules and Regulations mailings that are verified and paid for by September 30, 2013 may be entered at destination entry facilities through October 15, 2013. 3.3.6 Mobile Buy-It Now The Mobile Buy-It-Now promotion provides mailers (of presort and automation First-Class Mail cards, letters, and flats and Standard Mail letters and flats) with an upfront 2 percent postage discount. Qualifying mailpieces must include a twodimensional barcode or print/mobile technology that can be read or scanned by a mobile device, directly leading the recipient to a mobile-optimized Web page that allows the purchase of an advertised product through a financial transaction on the mobile device. The mailpiece must also contain text near the image that guides the consumer to scan the image. These additional requirements apply: a. The destination Web page must contain information relevant to the content of the mailpiece and some of the products advertised must be available for purchase on a mobile device. b. The purchase must be able to be completed through the mobile device via an electronic payment method, or by allowing an order placed on the mobile device through the Internet leading to a subsequent invoice. c. A product, for purposes of this promotion, is defined as a tangible and physical item that can be shipped via a mailng or shipping product offered by the USPS (although delivery by the USPS is not required). d. Products must be offered for fulfillment via home delivery; products offered as shipments for in-store pickup only will not qualify. pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES 3.4 Discounts For all promotion providing an upfront postage discount, mailers must claim the postage discount on the postage statement at the time the statement is electronically submitted. Mailings with postage affixed will deduct the discount amount from the additional postage due, except that mail service providers authorized to submit Value Added Refund (‘‘VAR’’) mailings may include the discount in the amount to be refunded. See also 3.2. 3.5 Mobile Barcode or Image Placement For promotions that include printing of a mobile barcode or other scannable printed image, the image cannot be placed on a detached address label (DAL or DML) or card that is not attached to the mailpiece. The image cannot be placed in the (postage) indicia VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:17 Feb 21, 2013 Jkt 229001 zone or the (Intelligent Mail) barcode clear zone on the outside of the mailpiece. For letters, the barcode clear zone is defined in 202.5.1. For flats, the barcode clear zone for this purpose is the barcode itself and an area that extends an additional 1⁄8 inch from any part of the barcode. The indicia zone is defined as follows: a. The postage ‘‘indicia zone’’ is 2 inches from the top edge by 4 inches from the right edge of the mailpiece; b. When the postage indicium is not in the area described in 3.4a, the mobile barcode or image must not be placed within 2 inches of the actual postage indicium. * * * * * We will publish an appropriate amendment to 39 CFR part 111 to reflect these changes. Stanley F. Mires, Attorney, Legal Policy and Legislative Advice. [FR Doc. 2013–03926 Filed 2–21–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 7710–12–P ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY 40 CFR Part 52 [EPA–R04–OAR–2012–0961; FRL–9782–8] Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Charlotte, Raleigh/Durham and Winston-Salem Carbon Monoxide Limited Maintenance Plan Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Direct final rule. AGENCY: EPA is taking direct final action to approve a limited maintenance plan update submitted by the State of North Carolina, through the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NC DENR), on August 2, 2012. The limited maintenance plan update is for the Charlotte, Raleigh/Durham and Winston-Salem carbon monoxide (CO) maintenance areas. Specifically, the State submitted a limited maintenance plan update for CO, showing continued attainment of the 8-hour CO National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for the Charlotte, Raleigh/Durham and Winston-Salem Areas. The 8-hour CO NAAQS is 9 parts per million (ppm). EPA is taking direct final action to approve the limited maintenance plan update because it is consistent with the Clean Air Act (CAA or Act), and EPA’s policy for limited maintenance plans. DATES: This direct final rule is effective April 23, 2013 without further notice, SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 unless EPA receives adverse comment by March 25, 2013. If EPA receives such comments, it will publish a timely withdrawal of the direct final rule in the Federal Register and inform the public that the rule will not take effect. ADDRESSES: Submit your comments, identified by Docket ID No. EPA–R04– OAR–2012–0961, by one of the following methods: 1. www.regulations.gov: Follow the on-line instructions for submitting comments. 2. Email: R4-RDS@epa.gov. 3. Fax: (404) 562–9019. 4. Mail: EPA–R04–OAR–2012–0961, Regulatory Development Section, Air Planning Branch, Air, Pesticides and Toxics Management Division, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4, 61 Forsyth Street SW., Atlanta, Georgia 30303–8960. 5. Hand Delivery or Courier: Lynorae Benjamin, Chief, Regulatory Development Section, Air Planning Branch, Air, Pesticides and Toxics Management Division, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4, 61 Forsyth Street SW., Atlanta, Georgia 30303–8960. Such deliveries are only accepted during the Regional Office’s normal hours of operation. The Regional Office’s official hours of business are Monday through Friday, 8:30 to 4:30, excluding Federal holidays. Instructions: Direct your comments to Docket ID No. EPA–R04–OAR–2012– 0961. EPA’s policy is that all comments received will be included in the public docket without change and may be made available online at www.regulations.gov, including any personal information provided, unless the comment includes information claimed to be Confidential Business Information (CBI) or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Do not submit through www.regulations.gov or email, information that you consider to be CBI or otherwise protected. The www.regulations.gov Web site is an ‘‘anonymous access’’ system, which means EPA will not know your identity or contact information unless you provide it in the body of your comment. If you send an email comment directly to EPA without going through www.regulations.gov, your email address will be automatically captured and included as part of the comment that is placed in the public docket and made available on the Internet. If you submit an electronic comment, EPA recommends that you include your name and other contact information in the body of your comment and with any E:\FR\FM\22FER1.SGM 22FER1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 36 (Friday, February 22, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 12234-12238]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-03926]


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POSTAL SERVICE

39 CFR Part 111


Promotions and Incentive Programs for First-Class Mail and 
Standard Mail

AGENCY: Postal ServiceTM.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: The Postal Service will revise the Mailing Standards of the 
United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM[supreg]) 709.3 
to include new promotions and incentive programs that will be offered 
at various time periods during calendar year 2013 for Presorted and 
automation First-Class Mail[supreg] cards, letters, and flats, and 
Standard Mail[supreg] letters, flats, or parcels.

DATES: Effective date: March 4, 2013.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Krista Becker at 202-268-7345 or Bill 
Chatfield at 202-268-7278. Email contacts are: mobilebarcode@usps.gov 
for the Mobile Coupon/Click-to-Call, Emerging Technologies, Product 
Samples, and Mobile Buy-It-Now programs; and earnedvalue@usps.gov or 
picturepermit@usps.com for the two other programs.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Postal Service filed a notice with the 
Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) (Docket No. R2013-1) on October 11, 
2012 to offer six new promotions in 2013 and the PRC approved the 2013 
promotions on November 16, 2012.
    In this final rule, the Postal Service provides a description of 
the eligibility conditions for the various promotional programs and the 
revised mailing standards to implement the programs. The types of 
eligible mailpieces are listed in the descriptions for each promotion. 
EDDM-Retail[supreg] mailings are not eligible for participation in any 
of the promotions. OMAS and official government mailings are eligible 
for participation in the Earned Value Reply Mail promotion only. 
Registration for must be made separately for each promotion through the 
Business Customer Gateway.

Summary of Promotional Programs

    The six promotional programs, in calendar order are:

1. Direct Mail Mobile Coupon and Click-to-Call
2. Earned Value Reply Mail
3. Emerging Technologies
4. Picture Permit Imprint
5. Product Samples
6. Mobile Buy-It Now

Postage Payment for Mobile Coupon/Click-to-Call, Emerging Technologies, 
and Mobile Buy-It Now

    The following parameters apply to the Mobile Coupon/Click-to-Call, 
Emerging Technology, and Mobile Buy-It Now promotions.
    Mailing documentation and postage statements must be submitted 
electronically. Mailings entered by an entity other than the mail owner 
must identify the mail owner and mail preparer in the by/for fields. 
Full-service mailings are limited to 9,999 pieces if submitted via 
Postal Wizard. If some pieces in a mailing are not claiming a promotion 
discount, separate postage statements must be used for pieces not 
claiming the discount and for pieces claiming the discount. All 
discounts must be claimed on the electronic postage statement at the 
time of mailing and will not be rebated at a later date.
    Postage payment methods will be restricted to permit imprint, 
metered postage, or precancelled stamps. Pieces with metered postage 
must bear an exact amount of postage as stipulated by the class and 
shape of mail. Affixed postage values for metered mailings will be as 
follows:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
First-Class Mail postcards......................................   $0.20
First-Class Mail automation and (PRSTD) machinable letters......    0.25
First-Class Mail nonmachinable letters..........................    0.45
First-Class Mail automation and Presorted flats.................    0.35
STD Mail Regular letters........................................    0.12
STD Mail Regular flats..........................................    0.13
STD Nonprofit letters...........................................    0.05
STD Nonprofit flats.............................................    0.06
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Mailings with postage paid by metered or precancelled stamp postage 
will have the percentage discount deducted from the additional postage 
due, except for Value Added Refund mailings, which may include the 
amount of the discount with the amount to be refunded.

Description of Promotional Programs

Mobile Coupon/Click-to-Call

    This promotion provides an upfront 2 percent postage discount for 
presort and automation mailings of First-Class Mail letters, postcards, 
or flats and Standard Mail (including Nonprofit) letters and flats that 
integrate mail with mobile technology and promote the value of direct 
mail. There are two separate ways to participate within the one overall 
program: Mobile Coupon and Click-to-Call. Mailers may participate in 
one or both ways, but only one discount may apply per mailing. The 
Mobile Coupon option will encourage mailers to integrate hard-copy 
coupons in the mail with mobile platforms for redemption. The Click-to-
Call option will drive consumer awareness and increase usage of mail 
with mobile barcodes that provide click-to-call functionality.
    For the Mobile Coupon program, at least one of the following 
options apply:
    1. The mailpiece must be a coupon, entitling only the recipients to 
a discount off a product or service.
    2. The mailpiece must contain either mobile-print technology (such 
as a 2D barcode or smart tag) that can be scanned by a mobile device 
linking to a mobile coupon or a short number to be used to initiate a 
text communication that then triggers a SMS/EMS or MMS message with a 
one-time coupon or code. Texts that allow an option for ongoing coupons 
via text are not eligible.
    Coupon recipients must be able to present physical coupons or 
coupons stored on mobile devices at any of the mailer's retail 
locations that exist. For mailers who do not have retail

[[Page 12235]]

locations, the following conditions apply:
    1. The mailpiece must contain a code to receive a discount online 
or via a call center.
    2. The coupon discount is offered only to mailpiece recipients and 
is not a discount available to all customers.
    3. The entire online shopping experience and path to purchase must 
be mobile-optimized.
    For the Click-to-Call program, the mailpiece must contain mobile 
technology that can be scanned by a mobile device and the scanned item 
(barcode, RFID chip, NFC Smart tag, etc.) must link directly to a 
mobile-optimized Web site with a ``click to call'' link or bring up a 
phone number on the user's phone. The mailpiece must contain text near 
the barcode or image that guides the consumer to scan the image, or 
informs the consumer about the landing page.
    Registration is January 15-April 30, 2013. The program period is 
from March 1-April 30, 2013.

Earned Value Reply Mail Promotion

    First-Class Mail Business Reply and Courtesy Reply mailers will 
receive a $0.02 postage credit for each machinable Business Reply 
Mail[supreg] (BRM) or Courtesy Reply MailTM (CRM) card or 
letter bearing a qualifying Intelligent Mail[supreg] barcode 
(IMbTM) that is scanned in the postal network. IMbs on reply 
pieces must be encoded with the correct Mailer ID, barcode ID, service 
type ID, and ZIP+4[supreg] routing code as assigned by the USPS. This 
promotion is designed to encourage mailers to promote First-Class Mail 
as a primary reply mechanism for their customers and to keep the BRM/
CRM envelopes in their outgoing mail pieces by providing a financial 
benefit when the BRM/CRM envelopes are used.
    Registration is January 15 to March 31, 2013. Participants must 
register their Mailer IDs (MIDs) and permit account on the Incentive 
Programs Service area of the Business Customer Gateway. Participants 
also must agree to participate in a survey about the promotion. The 
program participation period is from April 1-June 30, 2013. There will 
be no requirement that the reply piece is mailed out during the 
promotion period, but it must be returned in the mail during that 
period. Rebate credit will not be earned for pieces scanned prior to 
April 1 or after June 30th. Rebate credits can be redeemed for postage 
for future mailings of First-Class Mail presort and automation letters, 
cards, or flats, or for Standard Mail letters or flats paid from the 
permit account to which the credit was applied. The USPS encourages 
participants to schedule their mailings in the appropriate time frame 
to maximize the number of reply pieces coming back during the promotion 
period.

Emerging Technologies

    By providing an upfront 2 percent postage discount, this promotion 
is designed to build on the successes of past mobile barcode promotions 
and promote awareness of how innovative technologies (such as Near-
Field Communication, Augmented Reality, and Authentication) can be 
integrated with a direct mail strategy to enhance the value of direct 
mail. Registration is June 15 to Sept. 30, 2013. The program 
participation period is from August 1-September 30, 2013. Mailers and 
mail service providers must register on the Business Customer Gateway 
via the Incentive Programs Service and agree to the promotion terms at 
least 2 hours prior to the first qualifying mailing, including 
specifying the permits and CRIDs to be used in the promotion. 
Participants also must agree to complete a survey about their 
participation in the program.
    Eligible mailpieces are First-Class Mail presort and automation 
cards, letters, or flats, and Standard Mail letters or flats. All 
pieces must meet at least one of the following requirements:
    1. Near-Field Communication (NFC) component: The mailpiece must 
contain a NFC smart tag or RFID chip that allows information to be 
transmitted to a mobile device.
    2. Augmented Reality component: The mailpiece must contain print 
that allows the recipient to engage in an augmented reality experience 
facilitated by a mobile device or computer. The experience must combine 
real and virtual components, be interactive in real time, be registered 
in 2-D or 3-D, and be relevant to the contents of the mailpiece.
    3. Authentication component: The mailpiece must integrate delivery 
of the physical mailpiece with mobile technology, allowing the user to 
complete authentication processes for customers and mail recipients. 
Mailers must obtain prior approval for their proposed authentication 
uses from the USPS program office.
    The 2 percent discount for eligible pieces is applied at the time 
of mailing. If multiple emerging technologies are used on the same 
mailpiece, the discount is only applied once.

Picture Permit

    The Picture Permit promotion is designed to further promote the use 
of Picture Permit Imprint Indicia, which can improve a mailpiece's 
visibility and impact as a marketing tool. For pre-approved mailers, 
the Picture Permit fee of 1 cent per mailpiece for First-Class Mail 
automation letters and cards will be waived, and the current 2 cents 
fee for Standard Mail automation letters will be waived. Full-service 
Intelligent Mail barcodes are required on each piece. It is recommended 
that prospective participants allow 4 months before the first mailing 
date to complete the Picture Permit Imprint Indicia approval process 
and have proposed designs approved by the USPS Picture Permit program 
office. Registration for the Picture Permit promotion is allowed from 
June 1 to Sept. 30, 2013. The promotion participation period is from 
August 1-September 30, 2013. Mailers and mail service providers must 
first complete the initial program registration for Picture Permit at 
the Web site: www.usps.com/picturepermit. After completion of the 4-
step authorization process, preapproved participants will be invited to 
register for the promotion. Approved mailers must agree to participate 
in a survey about the promotion.
    Postage must be paid by permit imprint, with documentation and 
postage statements submitted electronically. Participants must claim 
the waiver of fees on the electronic postage statement at the time of 
submission. All mailpieces in a mailing must be eligible for the 
promotion. Qualified plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS) mailings that 
are verified and paid for by September 30, 2013 may be entered at 
destination entry facilities through October 15, 2013. Questions may be 
sent by email to: picturepermit@usps.com.

Product Samples

    Designed to re-invigorate product sampling via the mail, the 
Product Samples promotion will provide mailers with a 5 percent upfront 
postage discount on qualifying mail that contains product samples. The 
promotion will increase awareness of the new ``Simple Samples'' pricing 
in Standard Mail, which began Jan. 27, 2013. Mailers and mail service 
providers must register from May 1 to September 30, 2013 on the 
Incentive Programs Service area of the Business Customer Gateway. 
Mailers must agree to participate in a survey about the promotion. The 
program participation period is from August 1 to September 30, 2013. 
Qualified PVDS mailings that are verified and paid for by September 30, 
2013 may be entered at destination

[[Page 12236]]

entry facilities through October 15, 2013.
    All qualifying parcels must contain a product sample, a physical 
product whose purpose is to encourage recipients to purchase a product 
or service, form a belief or opinion, or take an action. Postage must 
be paid by permit imprint, meter, or precancelled stamps; postage 
statements and documentation must be submitted electronically. 
Participants must claim the discount on the electronic postage 
statement at the time of submission. Questions may be sent by email to: 
mobilebarcode@usps.gov.

Mobile Buy-It-Now

    This promotion provides mailers (of presort and automation First-
Class Mail cards, letters, and flats and Standard Mail letters and 
flats) with an upfront 2 percent postage discount to encourage them to 
demonstrate how direct mail combined with mobile technology can be a 
convenient method for consumers to do their holiday shopping. To 
participate, mailers and mail service providers must register on the 
Incentive Programs Service area of the Business Customer Gateway and 
agree to promotion terms from September 15 to December 31, 2013, at 
least 2 hours before presenting the first qualifying mailing. The 
program participation period is from November 1 to December 31, 2013. 
Participants must agree to complete a survey about their participation 
in the promotion.
    Qualifying mailpieces must include a two-dimensional barcode or 
print/mobile technology that can be read or scanned by a mobile device, 
directly leading the recipient to a mobile-optimized Web page that 
allows the purchase of an advertised product through a financial 
transaction on the mobile device. The mailpiece must also contain text 
near the barcode or image that guides the consumer to scan the image or 
informs the consumer about the landing page. These additional 
requirements apply:
    1. The destination Web page must contain information relevant to 
the content of the mailpiece, and some of the products advertised must 
be available for purchase on a mobile device.
    2. The purchase must be able to be completed through the mobile 
device via an electronic payment method, such as a credit card, debit 
card, or via PayPay, or by allowing an order to be placed on the mobile 
device through the Internet, leading to a subsequent invoice.
    3. A product, for purposes of this promotion, is defined as a 
tangible and physical item that can be shipped via a mailing or 
shipping product offered by the USPS (although delivery by the USPS is 
not required). The sale of a service without a tangible product does 
not qualify.
    4. Products must be offered for fulfillment via home delivery; 
products offered as shipments for in-store pickup only will not 
qualify.

General Discount Information

    Commingled, co-mailed, and combined mailings are allowed, but a 
separate postage statement is required for those mailpieces eligible to 
participate in the applicable promotion.
    Each price reduction will be taken off the eligible postage amount 
due at the time of mailing. Promotion discounts do not apply to single-
piece First-Class Mail pieces including residual single-piece First-
Class Mail pieces claimed on a postage statement for Presorted and 
automation mailings. Price reductions also do not apply to any Standard 
Mail residual pieces paying single-piece First-Class Mail prices.
    Eligible mailings must be accompanied by electronic documentation, 
submitted via mail.dat, mail.xml, or Postal Wizard. The electronic 
documentation must identify the mail owner and mail preparer in the 
``by/for'' fields for all mailings, either by the Customer Registration 
ID (CRID) or Mailer ID (MID) assigned by USPS. As a general reminder, 
mailings of automation flats or automation cards and letters, including 
Standard Mail letters (other than those with simplified addresses) 
claiming a carrier route automation letter price, must have Intelligent 
Mail barcodes. Full-service use of IMbs is required for some promotions 
as specified.

Registration Before Participation and More General Information

    To participate in any of the promotional programs, customers must 
be registered on the Incentive Programs Service area of the Business 
Customer Gateway at https://gateway.usps.com/bcg/login.htm. Customers 
must specify which permits and CRIDs will participate in which 
promotion(s). Registration opens as specified for each program above. 
Program requirements, including updated FAQs, are available on the 
RIBBS[supreg] Web site at https://ribbs.usps.gov/index.cfm?page=mobilebarcode or by email to mobilebarcode@usps.gov.
    The Postal Service adopts the following changes to Mailing 
Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual 
(DMM), which is incorporated by reference in the Code of Federal 
Regulations. See 39 CFR 111.1.

List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111

    Administrative practice and procedure, Postal Service.
    Accordingly, 39 CFR part 111 is amended as follows:

PART 111--[AMENDED.]

0
1. The authority citation for 39 CFR part 111 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 13 U.S.C. 301-307; 18 U.S.C. 1692-
1737; 39 U.S.C. 101, 401, 403, 404, 414, 416, 3001-3011, 3201-3219, 
3403-3406, 3621, 3622, 3626, 3632, 3633, and 5001.


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

Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail 
Manual (DMM):

* * * * *

700 Special Standards

* * * * *

709 Experimental and Temporary Classifications

* * * * *
    [Revise the title and complete text of 3.0 as follows:]

3.0 Promotions for First-Class Mail and Standard Mail for 2013

3.1 Summary of Programs

    There will be six new promotional incentive programs offered during 
calendar year 2013 for Presorted and automation First-Class Mail cards, 
letters, and flats, and Standard Mail letters, flats, or parcels. EDDM-
Retail mailings are not eligible for participation in any of the 
promotions; OMAS and official government mailings are eligible only for 
participation in the Earned Value Reply Mail promotion. Automation 
letters and flats must bear correct Intelligent Mail barcodes. 
Participants in each promotion also agree to participate in a survey 
about the promotion. See 3.2 for how to register. The six promotional 
programs, in calendar order, are:
    a. Direct Mail Mobile Coupon and Click-to-Call
    1. Registration: January 15-April 30, 2013;
    2. Program period: March 1-April 30, 2013.
    b. Earned Value Reply Mail
    1. Registration: January 15-March 31, 2013;
    2. Program period: April 1-June 30, 2013.

[[Page 12237]]

    c. Emerging Technologies
    1. Registration: June 15-September 30, 2013;
    2. Program period: August 1-September 30, 2013.
    d. Picture Permit Imprint
    1. Advance registration: 4 months or more before program period 
begins.
    2. Enrollment: June 1-September 30, 2013;
    3. Program period: August 1-September 30, 2013.
    e. Product Samples
    1. Registration: May 1-September 30, 2013;
    2. Program period: August 1-September 30, 2013.
    f. Mobile Buy-It Now
    1. Registration: September 15-December 31, 2013;
    2. Program period: November 1-December 31, 2013.

3.2 Registration and General Conditions for Documentation

    Customers must register for each promotion on the Incentive 
Programs Service through the Business Customer Gateway at https://gateway.usps.com/bcg/login.htm, and specify which permits and CRIDs 
will participate in the promotion. Mailpieces must be mailed under the 
following conditions:
    a. Except for the Earned Value Reply Mail and Picture Permit 
promotions, postage must be paid by permit imprint or by affixing 
metered postage or a precanceled stamp to each piece of mail. Pieces 
with metered postage must bear an exact amount of postage as stipulated 
by the class and shape of mail, and according to the table published in 
the Federal Register notice under ``postage payment methods.'' 
Provisions for additional postage are in 234.2.2a and 334.2.2a for 
First-Class Mail pieces over 1 ounce, and in 244.2.2 and 344.2.2 for 
Standard Mail pieces over 3.3 ounces.
    b. The postage statement and mailing documentation must be 
submitted electronically. The mail owner's identity must be indicated 
in the electronic documentation, which must identify the mail owner and 
mail preparer in the by/for fields, either by Customer Registration ID 
(CRID) or Mailer ID (MID) assigned by the USPS. All Presorted and 
automation pieces declared on a postage statement must qualify for the 
discount.
    c. The electronic equivalent of the mailer's signature on the 
postage statement will certify that each mailpiece claimed on the 
postage statement qualifies for the applicable promotion.

3.3 Program Descriptions

    Each of the six promotions is briefly described below. More 
detailed information, including updated FAQs, is available on the RIBBS 
Web site at https://ribbs.usps.gov/index.cfm?page=mobilebarcode.

3.3.1 Direct Mail Mobile Coupon and Click-to-Call

    This promotion provides an upfront 2 percent postage discount for 
presort and automation mailings of First-Class Mail letters, postcards, 
or flats and Standard Mail (including Nonprofit) letters and flats that 
integrate mail with mobile technology. There are two separate ways to 
participate within the one overall program; mailers may participate in 
one or both, but only one discount applies per mailing. The Mobile 
Coupon option integrates hard-copy coupons in the mail with mobile 
platforms for redemption. Participation in the Click-to-Call option 
increases use of mail with mobile barcodes that provide click-to-call 
functionality. Conditions are as follows:
    a. For the Mobile Coupon program, the coupon is offered only to 
mailpiece recipients, the entire path to purchase must be mobile-
optimized, and at least one of the following two options apply:
    1. The mailpiece must be a coupon, entitling only the recipients to 
a discount off a product or service.
    2. The mailpiece must contain either mobile-print technology that 
can be scanned by a mobile device linking to a mobile coupon or a short 
number to be used to initiate a text communication that triggers a text 
message with a one-time coupon or code.
    b. For both options in 3.3.1a, coupon recipients must be able to 
present physical coupons or coupons stored on mobile devices at retail 
locations or the mailpiece must contain a code to receive a discount 
online or via a call center.
    c. For the Click-to-Call program, the mailpiece must contain mobile 
technology that can be scanned by a mobile device and the scanned item 
must link directly to a mobile-optimized Web site with a ``click to 
call'' link or to a phone number on the user's phone. The mailpiece 
must contain text near the image to guide the consumer to scan the 
image.

3.3.2 Earned Value Reply Mail

    First-Class Mail Business Reply Mail (BRM) and Courtesy Reply Mail 
(CRM) mailers will receive a $0.02 postage credit for each machinable 
BRM or CRM card or letter bearing a qualifying Intelligent Mail barcode 
(IMb) that is scanned in the postal network during the program period. 
IMbs on reply pieces must be encoded with the correct Mailer ID, 
barcode ID, service type ID, and correct ZIP+4 routing code as assigned 
by the USPS. Rebate credits can be redeemed for postage for future 
mailings of First-Class Mail presort and automation letters, cards, or 
flats, or for Standard Mail letters or flats paid from the permit 
account where the credit was applied.

3.3.3 Emerging Technologies

    If multiple emerging technologies are used on the same mailpiece, 
the 2% upfront discount is only applied once. To be eligible for the 
discount, all First-Class Mail presort and automation cards, letters, 
or flats, and Standard Mail letters or flats must meet at least one of 
the following requirements:
    a. The mailpiece must contain a Near-Field Communication (NFC) 
smart tag or RFID chip that allows information to be transmitted to a 
mobile device.
    b. The mailpiece must contain print that allows the recipient to 
engage in an augmented reality experience, relevant to the contents of 
the mailpiece, facilitated by a mobile device or computer.
    c. The mailpiece must integrate delivery of the physical mailpiece 
with mobile technology, allowing the user to complete authentication 
processes for customers and mail recipients. Mailers must obtain prior 
approval from the USPS program office for each proposed process.

3.3.4 Picture Permit Imprint

    For pre-approved mailers, the Picture Permit fee for First-Class 
Mail automation letters and cards will be waived, and the fee for 
Standard Mail automation letters will be waived. Full-service 
Intelligent Mail barcodes are required on each piece. Mailers and mail 
service providers must complete registration for Picture Permit at the 
Web site: www.usps.com/picturepermit. After completion of the 
authorization process, preapproved participants will be invited to 
register for the promotion. Postage must be paid by permit imprint; 
participants must claim the waiver of fees on the electronic postage 
statement at the time of submission. All mailpieces in a mailing must 
be eligible for the promotion. Qualified PVDS mailings that are 
verified and paid for by September 30, 2013 may be entered at 
destination entry facilities through October 15, 2013.

3.3.5 Product Samples

    The Product Samples promotion will provide mailers with a 5 percent 
upfront postage discount on qualifying mail that contains product 
samples. All qualifying parcels must contain a product sample. 
Qualified PVDS

[[Page 12238]]

mailings that are verified and paid for by September 30, 2013 may be 
entered at destination entry facilities through October 15, 2013.

3.3.6 Mobile Buy-It Now

    The Mobile Buy-It-Now promotion provides mailers (of presort and 
automation First-Class Mail cards, letters, and flats and Standard Mail 
letters and flats) with an upfront 2 percent postage discount. 
Qualifying mailpieces must include a two-dimensional barcode or print/
mobile technology that can be read or scanned by a mobile device, 
directly leading the recipient to a mobile-optimized Web page that 
allows the purchase of an advertised product through a financial 
transaction on the mobile device. The mailpiece must also contain text 
near the image that guides the consumer to scan the image. These 
additional requirements apply:
    a. The destination Web page must contain information relevant to 
the content of the mailpiece and some of the products advertised must 
be available for purchase on a mobile device.
    b. The purchase must be able to be completed through the mobile 
device via an electronic payment method, or by allowing an order placed 
on the mobile device through the Internet leading to a subsequent 
invoice.
    c. A product, for purposes of this promotion, is defined as a 
tangible and physical item that can be shipped via a mailng or shipping 
product offered by the USPS (although delivery by the USPS is not 
required).
    d. Products must be offered for fulfillment via home delivery; 
products offered as shipments for in-store pickup only will not 
qualify.

3.4 Discounts

    For all promotion providing an upfront postage discount, mailers 
must claim the postage discount on the postage statement at the time 
the statement is electronically submitted. Mailings with postage 
affixed will deduct the discount amount from the additional postage 
due, except that mail service providers authorized to submit Value 
Added Refund (``VAR'') mailings may include the discount in the amount 
to be refunded. See also 3.2.

3.5 Mobile Barcode or Image Placement

    For promotions that include printing of a mobile barcode or other 
scannable printed image, the image cannot be placed on a detached 
address label (DAL or DML) or card that is not attached to the 
mailpiece. The image cannot be placed in the (postage) indicia zone or 
the (Intelligent Mail) barcode clear zone on the outside of the 
mailpiece. For letters, the barcode clear zone is defined in 202.5.1. 
For flats, the barcode clear zone for this purpose is the barcode 
itself and an area that extends an additional \1/8\ inch from any part 
of the barcode. The indicia zone is defined as follows:
    a. The postage ``indicia zone'' is 2 inches from the top edge by 4 
inches from the right edge of the mailpiece;
    b. When the postage indicium is not in the area described in 3.4a, 
the mobile barcode or image must not be placed within 2 inches of the 
actual postage indicium.
* * * * *
    We will publish an appropriate amendment to 39 CFR part 111 to 
reflect these changes.

Stanley F. Mires,
Attorney, Legal Policy and Legislative Advice.
[FR Doc. 2013-03926 Filed 2-21-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P
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