New Mailing Standards for Domestic Mailing Services Products, 76533-76548 [2013-29879]
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 243 / Wednesday, December 18, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
(3) Intend to live in one household
after their arrival in the United States.
Thomas S. Winkowski,
Acting Commissioner, U.S. Customs and
Border Protection.
Approved: December 13, 2013.
Timothy E. Skud,
Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Treasury.
[FR Doc. 2013–30075 Filed 12–17–13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 9111–14–P
POSTAL SERVICE
39 CFR Part 111
New Mailing Standards for Domestic
Mailing Services Products
Postal ServiceTM.
Final rule.
AGENCY:
ACTION:
On September 26, 2013, the
Postal Service filed a notice of mailing
services price adjustments with the
Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC),
effective January 26, 2014. This final
rule contains the revisions to Mailing
Standards of the United States Postal
Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®)
that we will adopt to implement the
changes coincident with the price
adjustments.
DATES: Effective Date: January 26, 2014.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Bill
Chatfield at 202–268–7278, Lizbeth
Dobbins at 202–268–3789, or Steve
Monteith at 202–268–6983.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Prices are
available under Docket Nos. R2013–10
and R2010–4R on the Postal Regulatory
Commission’s Web site at www.prc.gov.
The Postal Service’s final rule
includes new pricing eligibility for retail
and commercial nonpresorted FirstClass Mail® letters, several mail
classification changes, and condensing
of current standards for Periodicals
publications. Directly below, we discuss
comments on proposed changes, and the
Postal Service response to those
comments, followed by a summary of all
the changes.
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SUMMARY:
Comments on Proposed Changes
The Postal Service received four
formal comments on our price-change
related proposal.
The Postal Service had proposed to
disallow adhesive labels on all sacks
and trays. We received one formal
comment and one informal comment
about this. We will be disallowing
adhesive labels only for trays. Also, we
are working with the mailing industry to
evaluate the technological and
operational feasibility of alternatives to
current labeling methods.
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A mailer association disagreed with
the 200-piece minimum for permit
imprint mailings of First-Class Mail
letters at the new metered price. The
200-piece minimum for permit imprint
mailings of letters is not a new standard
and is not being changed at this time.
First-Class Mail letters that are residual
from a presort or automation mailing
and are presented with that mailing are
not subject to a separate minimum.
Regarding flats sequencing system
(FSS), a mailer association suggested to
change the required minimum for an
FSS scheme pallet to 500 pounds
instead of 250 pounds. We note that
mailers who currently choose to prepare
FSS mail must make FSS scheme or FSS
facility pallets when the quantity
reaches 250 pounds, so that minimum is
not a change. Also, the FSS facility
pallet is currently required at 250
pounds for those choosing to prepare
FSS pallets, whereas it will not be a
required pallet level in January. While
the 250-pound requirement may result
in more pallets in some cases, it is very
important that the FSS mail be
separated from other mail for efficient
processing. Also, we are increasing the
allowed number of stacked pallets from
4 to 6, which will increase logistical
flexibility.
The same mailer association also
questioned specific FSS piece prices
that were developed for software
coding; other than Bound Printed Matter
pricing, those prices are placeholders
for possible future application. Except
for ADC and MADC pieces (which will
be eligible for 3-digit prices), pieces in
an FSS bundle will be eligible for the
price they would otherwise be eligible
for according to the qualification
documentation.
Regarding the price charts for
Standard Mail, FSS scheme pallets may
be entered at origin, or at DNDC, DSCF,
or DFSS entry points, but the tenth of
a cent discount price will be only for
flats placed on FSS scheme pallets
entered at DFSS entry points.
We received one comment about the
revision to the claims standards
requiring that a fair market value of
insured coins or stamps be current and
prior to the mailing date. The
commenter asked if the USPS® would
be advising each mailer mailing insured
items of this change. We consider that
this revision is primarily a clarification
and provides equal protection for the
mailer and the USPS regarding
potentially significant fluctuations in
the value of those items. The proposal
provides sufficient public notice.
We received three suggestions from
the same commenter regarding
handstamps with an addressee’s printed
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signature and address: one to allow
mechanical devices similar to
handstamps, one to declare that a
handstamp is legally binding, and the
other to state that handstamps must be
applied by the addressee (or agent). We
are not expanding this section to allow
similar devices; and we consider that
the current language, that a handstamp
is an optional way of providing the
signature, is sufficient. We do agree to
state that such handstamps must be
used by the addressee or agent.
A mailer association questioned how
we will check compliance with fullservice automation requirements. There
were no items regarding full-service as
part of this proposal. Questions about
compliance with full-service standards
should be directed to the Vice-President
of Mail Entry and Payment Technology.
We received one formal complaint about
the proposed disallowance of simplified
addresses on detached address labels
(DALs) used with Standard Mail flats,
thus requiring mailers to use complete
delivery addresses on such DALs. This
change would require complete
addresses on the DALs, or the mailer
could still use simplified addresses
directly on the flats. Although we are
not removing this change, mailers with
exceptional circumstances that preclude
them from transitioning to complete
delivery addresses by January while
retaining their customary volume of this
type of mail may request limited
exceptions (through their district
manager, business mail entry) from the
Pricing and Classification Service
Center.
Change for Letters
Retail and Commercial First-Class Mail
Letters
The Postal Service adds a new singlepiece nonpresorted First-Class Mail
letter price category to be called Metered
Mail. Prices for this category are
separate from other retail single-piece
First-Class Mail letters, and apply to
First-Class Mail letters when postage is
affixed or imprinted by the mailer for
metered indicia, PC Postage®,
precanceled stamps, or permit imprint.
There is no minimum volume, except
for pieces paid by permit imprint, for
which the existing minimum of 200
pieces would apply. These prices also
apply to residual pieces from
automation or presorted First-Class Mail
letter mailings, presented in letter trays.
When such residual pieces are part of a
permit imprint mailing for the presorted
or automation mailing, and claimed on
the same postage statement as the
primary mailing, there is no separate
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minimum number of pieces for the
commercial nonpresorted portion.
The Postal Service modifies the
current price structure for residual FirstClass Mail letters. Residuals from
uniform 1-ounce presort letter mailings
will pay the 1-ounce Metered letter
price. Residuals from uniform 2-ounce
presort letter mailings will pay the 2ounce Metered letter price Residuals
from mixed presort mailings of 1-ounce
and 2-ounce letters will pay the
‘‘blended’’ First-Class Mail Residual
letter price and not be subject to the
Metered Mail price.
Changes for Flats
Standard Mail® Flats
We will disallow the use of detached
address labels (DALs) with all Standard
Mail flats mailed with simplified
addresses (EDDM®). Therefore, all
EDDM flats (entered at BMEUs or Retail)
must bear simplified addresses directly
on the flats.
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Required Flats Sequencing System (FSS)
Preparation
The Postal Service introduced
optional FSS preparation standards in
the August 23, 2010 Federal Register
final rule (75 FR 51668–51671) which
were incorporated into the DMM on
January 2, 2011. These FSS preparation
standards were developed in
collaboration with the mailing industry
group, including both mail owners and
mail service providers. This industry
group determined that the preparation
of bundles and pallets specifically for
FSS processing could lead to greater
efficiencies and cost savings for both the
USPS and the mailing industry. In the
August 23, 2010 final rule, the Postal
Service also provided advance notice
that FSS-based mail preparation
requirements would become mandatory
at some point in the future. As of
January 26, 2014, the Postal Service
requires bundle and pallet preparation
of flat-size Standard Mail, Periodicals
and Bound Printed Matter mailpieces
prepared for delivery within the ZIP
CodesTM served by FSS processing.
With this revision, mailers are required
to place mailings of presorted and basic
carrier route Standard Mail flats, and
Periodicals and Bound Printed Matter
presorted and carrier route flats,
meeting the deflection standards and
the physical standards in DMM 301.3.2,
and combined mailings of Standard
Mail and Periodicals flats prepared
under DMM 705.15 into combined 5digit FSS scheme pools when addressed
for delivery to any FSS 5-digit scheme
combination per labeling list L006.
Optionally, mailers may include
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nonmachinable Periodicals flats no
more than 1-inch thick if they meet the
standards in 705.14.
Mailers place qualifying mailpieces
from all price categories into a separate
pool for each individual 5-digit FSSscheme combination. Mailings that
include 10 or more pieces of Standard
Mail flats, 6 or more pieces of
Periodicals flats or 10 or more pieces (or
10 or more pounds) of Bound Printed
Matter flats, to an FSS scheme must
make FSS scheme bundles for that 5digit FSS scheme. Mailers may
optionally prepare scheme pools with
less than 10 pieces of Standard Mail
flats, 6 pieces of Periodical flats, or 10
pieces (or 10 pounds) of Bound Printed
Matter flats, and may prepare an FSS
scheme bundle if they have a minimum
of 3 inches of mail. Mailings of Bound
Printed Matter flats not meeting the
eligibility standards for presort or
carrier route pricing also may be
included in FSS preparation, but are not
eligible for presorted or carrier route
prices. All pieces for each combined
mailpiece pool must be placed in
uniform bundles of between 3 inches
and 6.5 inches, except for one overflow
bundle that may be under the minimum
height. Bundles must be prepared in
accordance with the other conditions in
DMM 705.14.0.
Bundles must be identified as 5-digit
scheme presort, either with an optional
endorsement line (OEL) under 708.7.0
or with a ‘‘red Label 5 SCH’’ barcoded
pressure-sensitive bundle label.
However, mailpieces entered under a
combined mailing of Standard Mail and
Periodicals flats will continue to require
a unique OEL on each piece, as
described in DMM exhibit 708.7.1.1.
Mailers are reminded that every
mailpiece prepared under these
standards must still include class and
price markings, as described in DMM
302.3.0, applicable to the price paid, in
addition to the FSS bundle
identification.
Pallets prepared to the FSS scheme
level (previously termed ‘‘sort plan’’
level) all for the same 5-digit FSSscheme ZIP Code combination continue
to be required at 250 pounds, and
optional below 250 pounds. However,
FSS facility (all 5-digit FSS-scheme ZIP
Code combinations processed within
the same facility) pallets would be
optional at any level. Pallets would be
required to bear a pallet placard with an
Intelligent Mail® container barcode.
Mailers without the capacity to palletize
could request an exception to these
palletization requirements from the
local plant manager.
Mailpieces that meet the current
eligibility standards for basic carrier
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route prices would be included in FSS
preparation requirements. Saturation
price Standard Mail and Periodicals
flats are not eligible for this preparation.
Mailers may optionally include pieces
eligible for high density and high
density plus prices into FSS
preparation, but their inclusion will not
be required. The sequencing of
mailpieces within bundles is not
required or recommended when
preparing FSS bundles. Only saturation,
high density, and high density plus
mailpieces (not prepared under FSS
standards) are eligible for destination
delivery unit (DDU) entry within FSS
zones.
The Postal Service is adding a new
destination FSS (DFSS) price for
Standard Mail flats on FSS scheme
pallets entered at the correct FSS
facility. Initially, only FSS scheme
pallets (or approved alternate
containers) would be eligible for these
destination-entry prices. DFSS entry
piece pricing will be available for
Standard Mail flats qualifying for carrier
route and 5-digit piece prices.
Standard Mail flats properly included
in an FSS scheme pool, but qualifying
for 3-digit, ADC or mixed ADC prices,
claim 3-digit prices. However, these
pieces are not eligible for DFSS prices
when placed on an FSS scheme pallet
entered at a DFSS. These pieces are
eligible for DSCF entry prices.
FSS preparation is optional for
Periodicals flats mailed at In-County
prices and Periodicals mailings of 5,000
pieces or less mailed at Outside-County
prices. The 5-digit Outside-County
bundle charge continues to be assessed
on bundles of Outside-County
Periodicals prepared in accordance with
these standards, even though mailpieces
being claimed at the carrier route piece
price may be properly placed within
these bundles. FSS scheme pallets will
be assessed the Outside-County
container charge for a 3-digit level
pallet, and FSS facility sort level pallets
will be charged a container price for an
SCF pallet, except that there will be no
container charge when FSS scheme
pallets are entered at an FSS facility.
The Outside-County price is the same as
the DSCF price and the Inside-County
pound price is the price for the ‘‘none’’
entry level. We strongly discourage
unbound publications from being
placed in FSS scheme bundles until the
USPS further evaluates standards for
automation compatibility.
Bound Printed Matter (BPM) flats
prepared under these standards placed
on FSS scheme pallets, sacks or trays,
and entered at an FSS facility will be
eligible for DSCF prices.
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Changes for Letters, Flats, and Parcels
All Commercial Mail
To accommodate changes in facility
functions, the Postal Service has been
allowing destination sectional center
(DSCF) facility pricing at some former
SCFs. As advance notice, effective
January 2015, to qualify for DSCF
pricing, mailers would be required to
enter mail at an actual SCF.
Periodicals
We have made a few editorial
revisions to standards for Periodicals in
DMM 707.4.0, 707.6.0, 707.7.0, 707.9.0,
and 707.18.0 to simplify the text.
Tray and Sack Labels
We have revised standards for all tray
labels to formalize what has been a
practical restriction: That all tray labels
be non-adhesive. This enables quicker
turnaround of empty trays for customer
use.
Changes for Parcels
New Live Animal Transportation Fee
The Postal Service is currently
withdrawing the proposal to expand
application of the live animal
transportation fee.
To provide customers with more
flexibility to ship their packages using
the Postal Service, we are reducing the
minimum criteria of 200 pieces or 50
pounds, when paying postage by permit
imprint, to 50 pieces or 50 pounds for
manifest mailers using a manifest
mailing system (MMS) and eVS® for any
single-piece parcel mailings. The Postal
Service will allow a combination of any
domestic single-piece priced
(nonpresorted) parcels to meet the new
minimum criteria using one or more of
the following: Priority Mail ExpressTM
(PME), Priority Mail, First-Class Mail,
First-Class Package Service®, Parcel
Select® Nonpresort, nonpresorted
Bound Printed Matter, and single-piece
Media Mail® or Library Mail.
Extra Services and Other Services
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Collect on Delivery (COD) Changes
The Postal Service removes the option
for senders of nursery stock shipped
Collect on Delivery (COD) to include
special instructions for undeliverable
shipments to be auctioned off to the
highest bidder and the proceeds
remitted to the sender. Effective July 28,
2013, the holding period for COD
articles was reduced from 30 days to 10
days, resulting in the USPS being able
to return the nursery stock in less time
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Signature Handstamp Usage
The Postal Service clarifies the
standards for use of an addressee’s
signature handstamp for Priority Mail
Express or accountable mail items.
Specifically, we clarify that the use of a
handstamp is not exclusive to the Form
3849. Once approved by the Postmaster,
a handstamp may be used for Priority
Mail Express and other accountable
mail, including a Return Receipt (Form
3811) purchased with the applicable
extra service.
Although these revisions will not be
published in the DMM until January 26,
2014, mailers may now begin using
addressee’s signature handstamps under
the revised mailing standards.
Filing of Indemnity Claims
New Minimum Volume Criteria for
Manifested Parcels (MMS and eVS)
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than we previously would hold it for
delivery. Additionally, this option has
not been commonly used and has been
difficult to administer. Therefore, the
special instructions for auctions are no
longer needed.
The Postal Service also expands the
standards for COD mail to allow Hold
for Pickup service to be added when
COD mail is sent as Priority Mail, FirstClass Package Service, or Parcel Select
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issuer, are being added to those items
under non-payable claims.
Return Receipt for Merchandise
As advance notice, the Postal Service
plans to discontinue offering Return
Receipt for Merchandise service in July
2014, because Signature Confirmation
provides the same or equivalent service
for a lower price.
2014 Promotions
The Postal Service will offer
numerous mailing promotions in
calendar year 2014, and will share the
details of these promotions on the
RIBBS® Web site soon.
List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111
Administrative practice and
procedure, Postal Service.
For the reasons stated in the
preamble, the Postal Service adopts the
following changes to Mailing Standards
of the United States Postal Service,
Domestic Mail Manual (DMM),
incorporated by reference in the Code of
Federal Regulations. See 39 CFR 111.1.
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:
■
The Postal Service is continuing its
efforts to simplify the claims process
and reduce the adjudication period
when customers file indemnity claims.
In addition to further enhancements to
our online claims system, the Postal
Service is streamlining the filing periods
and manual processes associated with
claims processing for improved
efficiency. The claims filing periods for
indemnity claims will be 60 days from
the date of mailing, and subsequently,
the claims appeals timeline will be
reduced from 60 days to 30 days from
the date of the original decision.
Customers should file indemnity
claims online or, when no internet
access is available to the customer,
claims may be filed by mail directly to
the Postal Service Accounting Services
Center. A toll-free number will be
available to obtain Form 1000 for
customers filing by mail. The local Post
OfficeTM will no longer file the
indemnity claims for customers, thus
eliminating this extra time-consuming
step.
DMM language is revised for payable
claims for coins, and other collectibles
to require a sales receipt, invoice or bill
of sale, or statement of value from a
reputable dealer, and for firearms to
require a Form 1508 submission with
the claim. Also, gift cards, most of
which are replaceable through the
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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
Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual
(DMM), as follows:
■
Mailing Standards of the United States
Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual
(DMM)
100
Retail Mail
*
*
130
First-Class Mail
133
Prices and Eligibility
1.0
First-Class Mail Prices and Fees
*
*
*
1.1 First-Class Mail Single-Piece Price
Application
See Notice 123—Price List. The
single-piece prices for First-Class Mail
are applied as follows:
[Revise items 1.1a and 1.1b as
follows:]
a. The card price applies to a card
meeting the standards in 101.6.3.
b. The letter price applies to lettersize pieces meeting the standards in
101.1.1 and weighing 3.5 ounces or less,
and that are not eligible for the card
price. There are separate prices for
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stamped letters and for letters with
postage affixed (other than regular
stamps) or imprinted by the mailer
(Metered Mail price); see 134.1.1.
*
*
*
*
*
Personal information is any information
specific to the addressee.
*
*
*
*
*
134
1.0 Basic Standards for Postage
Payment
Postage Payment Methods
1.0 Postage Payment Methods for
First-Class Mail
1.1
Payment Method
[Revise the text of 1.1 as follows:]
Postage for single-piece First-Class
Mail must be paid with affixed postage
stamps (604.1.0), postage evidencing
system postage (604.4.0) or permit
imprint (604.5.0). When mailers affix
postage (other than regular stamps) or
use permit imprint on letters, such
pieces are eligible for the Metered Mail
price.
*
*
*
*
*
200
Commercial Letters and Cards
*
*
230
First-Class Mail
233
Prices and Eligibility
*
*
*
1.0 Prices and Fees for First-Class
Mail
*
*
*
*
*
1.2 Price Computation for First-Class
Mail Letters
[Revise the text of 1.2 as follows:]
Commercial First-Class Mail Presorted
letters are charged at one price for the
first 2 ounces, with separate prices for
pieces over 2 ounces up to 3 ounces and
for pieces over 3 ounces up to 3.5
ounces. Any fraction of an ounce is
considered a whole ounce. The pricing
per ounce is similar for automation
First-Class Mail letters, with pricing per
sortation level. Single-piece price letters
that are residual pieces from either a
Presorted or automation mailing are
charged the residual single-piece price
for letters up to 2 ounces, when the
mailing contains both 1-ounce and
2-ounce pieces and the pieces are
presented together, and the applicable
Metered Mail prices (see 234.1.0) for all
other residual pieces. See Notice 123—
Price List.
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2.0 Content Standards for First-Class
Mail Letters
*
*
*
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*
2.3
Personal Information
14:56 Dec 17, 2013
2.0 Postage Payment for Presorted and
Automation Letters
2.1 Payment Methods
[Revise the text of 2.1 as follows:]
First-Class Mail presorted and
automation postage must be paid with
postage evidencing system indicia,
permit imprints, or precanceled stamps.
All pieces in a mailing must be paid
with the same method unless otherwise
permitted by standard or Business
Mailer Support authorization. Permit
imprints may be used for mailings of
nonidentical-weight pieces only if
authorized by Business Mailer Support.
*
*
*
*
*
235
Mail Preparation
*
*
5.0
Preparing Nonautomation Letters
5.1
Basic Standards
*
*
*
*
*
*
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*
*
5.1.2 Single-Piece Price Pieces
Presented With Presort Mailings
* * * The following standards apply:
[Revise the first two sentences of the
introductory paragraph of item 5.1.2a as
follows:]
a. The mailer must prepare the singlepiece price pieces in separate trays from
the automation and presort pieces.
Mailers must label the trays under
708.6.0 using CIN code 260 on trays of
single-piece letters. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 5.1.2.a2 as follows:]
2. Line 2: Use the human-readable
content line corresponding to content
identifier number 260 (see Exhibit
708.6.2.4).
*
*
*
*
*
240
[Revise the text of 2.3 as follows:]
Mail containing personal information
must be mailed as First-Class Mail (or
Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail).
VerDate Mar<15>2010
1.1 Postage Payment Options
[Revise the text of 1.1 as follows:]
Postage for Presorted or automation
First-Class Mail letters must be paid
with affixed postage or permit imprint
as specified in 2.0. Residual letters
(from presorted or automation mailings)
with such postage may be eligible for
the Metered Mail price.
Standard Mail
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*
246
Enter and Deposit
*
*
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Destination Entry
*
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2.6
Deposit
*
234 Postage Payment and
Documentation
2.0
*
2.6.7
*
*
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*
*
*
Redirection at Mailer’s Request
[Revise the text of 2.6.7 as follows:]
A mailer may ask to transport
destination SCF price mail to a facility
other than the designated SCF. In very
limited circumstances, this exception
may be approved only by the manager,
Network Integration Support (see
608.8.0 for address). To qualify for the
SCF price in this situation, mail
deposited at a facility other than the
SCF must destinate for processing
within that facility and must not require
backhauling to the SCF.
*
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*
*
*
300
Commercial Flats
*
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*
*
*
330 First-Class Mail
333
Prices and Eligibility
*
*
*
*
*
2.0 Content Standards for First-Class
Mail Flats
*
*
*
*
*
2.3
Personal Information
[Revise the text of 2.3 as follows:]
Mail containing personal information
must be mailed as First-Class Mail (or
Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail).
Personal information is any information
specific to the addressee.
*
*
*
*
*
340
Standard Mail
343
Prices and Eligibility
*
*
*
*
*
5.0 Additional Eligibility Standards
for Nonautomation Standard Mail Flats
5.1
Basic Standards
All pieces in a Regular Standard Mail
or Nonprofit Standard Mail Presorted
price mailing must:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 5.1d as follows:]
d. Be marked, sorted and documented
as specified in 345 or 705.14.0.
*
*
*
*
*
5.3
5-Digit Prices for Flats
The 5-digit price applies to flat-size
pieces:
[Revise 5.3a as follows:]
a. In a 5-digit/scheme bundle of 10 or
more pieces, or 15 or more pieces, as
applicable; properly placed in a 5-digit/
scheme sack containing at least 125
pieces or 15 pounds of pieces; or 10 or
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more 5-digit pieces properly included in
a FSS 5-digit scheme pool prepared
under 705.14.
*
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*
*
*
6.4 High Density and High-Density
Plus (Enhanced Carrier Route)
Standards
345 Mail Preparation
1.0 General Information for Mail
Preparation
6.4.1 Basic Eligibility Standards for
High Density and High-Density Plus
Prices
*
1.6
6.0 Additional Eligibility Standards
for Enhanced Carrier Route Standard
Mail Flats
All pieces mailed at high density
prices must:
[Revise item 6.4.1a as follows:]
a. Be prepared in walk sequence
according to schemes prescribed by the
USPS (see 345.6.9), except when
prepared in FSS bundles under 705.14.
[Revise the third sentence of item
6.4.1b as follows:]
b. * * * Multiple pieces per delivery
address can count toward the density
standards, except for pieces with
simplified addresses as allowed under
602.3.0.
*
*
*
*
*
6.1 General Enhanced Carrier Route
Standards
6.4.2 High Density and High Density
Plus Prices for Flats
*
[Revise the introductory text of 6.4.2
as follows:]
High density or high density plus
prices apply to each piece meeting the
density standards in 6.4.1 and that is
properly prepared in an FSS bundle
under 705.14 or in a carrier route
bundle of 10 or more pieces that is:
*
*
*
*
*
5.4
3-Digit Prices for Flats
The 3-digit price applies to flat-size
pieces:
*
*
*
*
*
[Add new item 5.4c as follows:]
c. That are residual pieces not
qualifying for carrier route or 5-digit
prices, but properly included in a FSS
5-digit scheme pool prepared under
705.14.
*
*
*
*
*
6.1.2
*
*
*
*
Basic Eligibility Standards
All pieces in an Enhanced Carrier
Route or Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier
Route Standard Mail mailing must:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 6.1.2c as follows:]
c. Be sorted to carrier routes, marked,
and documented under 345.6.0 or
705.8.0; or prepared under 705.14.0.
*
*
*
*
*
6.3 Basic Price Enhanced Carrier
Route Standards
6.3.1
Sequencing
[Revise the text of 6.3.1 as follows:]
All pieces mailed at basic prices must
be prepared in walk sequence or in lineof-travel (LOT) sequence according to
LOT schemes prescribed by the USPS
(see 345.6.9 and 345.6.10), except when
prepared in FSS bundles under 705.14.
ehiers on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
6.3.2
Basic Price Eligibility
Basic prices apply to each piece in a
carrier route bundle of 10 or more
pieces that is:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 6.3.2a as follows:]
a. Palletized under 705.8.0, 705.10.0,
705.12.0, or 705.13.0.
*
*
*
*
*
[Add new item 6.3.2e as follows:]
e. Properly prepared to a FSS 5-digit
scheme pool prepared under 705.14.
*
*
*
*
*
VerDate Mar<15>2010
14:56 Dec 17, 2013
Jkt 232001
7.0 Additional Eligibility Standards
for Automation Standard Mail Flats
7.1 Basic Eligibility Standards for
Automation Standard Mail
All pieces in a Regular Standard Mail
or Nonprofit Standard Mail automation
mailing must:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 7.1f as follows:]
f. Be marked, sorted and documented
under 345.7.0 and 705.8.0 through
705.13.0; or prepared under 705.14.0.
*
*
*
*
*
7.3
Price Application
Automation prices apply to each
piece properly sorted into qualifying
groups:
[Revise 7.3a and 7.3b as follows:]
a. The 5-digit price applies to flat-size
pieces in a 5-digit/scheme bundle of 10
or more pieces, or 15 or more pieces, as
applicable; or 10 or more 5-digit pieces
properly prepared to a FSS 5-digit
scheme pool under 705.14.
b. The 3-digit price applies to flat-size
pieces in a 3-digit/scheme bundle of 10
or more pieces. It also applies to
residual pieces not qualifying for carrier
route or 5-digit prices but included in a
FSS 5-digit scheme pool under 705.14.
*
*
*
*
*
PO 00000
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*
*
*
*
[Add a new 1.6 as follows:]
FSS Preparation
Except for Standard Mail flats mailed
at saturation, High Density or HighDensity Plus prices, all Standard Mail
flats destinating to FSS zones in
accordance with labeling list L006 must
be prepared under 705.14.0. Flats
qualifying for High Density and HighDensity Plus prices also may be
included in FSS 5-digit scheme pools.
*
*
*
*
*
346
Enter and Deposit
*
*
2.0
Destination Entry
*
*
2.6
Deposit
*
*
2.6.7
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Redirection at Mailer’s Request
[Revise the text of 2.6.7 as follows:]
A mailer may ask to transport
destination SCF price mail to a facility
other than the designated SCF. In very
limited circumstances, this exception
may be approved only by the manager,
Network Integration Support (see
608.8.0 for address). To qualify for the
SCF price in this situation, mail
deposited at a facility other than the
SCF must destinate for processing
within that facility and must not require
backhauling to the SCF.
*
*
*
*
*
4.0 Destination Sectional Center
Facility (DSCF) Entry
*
*
*
4.2
*
*
Eligibility
Pieces in a mailing that meets the
standards in 2.0 and 4.0 are eligible for
the DSCF price, as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 4.2c as follows:]
c. DSCF prices apply to residual
pieces eligible for 3-digit prices that are
properly placed on a FSS scheme pallet,
and pieces from all eligible price
categories properly placed in a FSS
scheme sack or tray, when deposited at
a USPS-designated FSS processing
facility and labeled to a FSS scheme
processed by that facility or to a 5-digit
destination processed by that facility
under labeling list L006. These pieces
must include a full delivery address and
meet the physical standards for FSSmachinability in 705.14.0.
E:\FR\FM\18DER1.SGM
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[Delete item 4.2d in its entirety.]
*
*
*
*
[Renumber the current 5.0 as the new
6.0, and add a new 5.0 as follows:]
*
5.0 Destination Flat Sequencing
System (DFSS) Facility Entry
5.1
Definition
Destination Flat Sequencing System
Facility (DFSS) refers to the facilities
listed in L006, Column C.
5.2
Eligibility
DFSS prices apply to pieces deposited
at a USPS-designated FSS processing
facility and correctly placed on a pallet
labeled to a FSS scheme processed by
that facility or to a 5-digit destination
processed by that facility under labeling
list L006. These pieces must include a
full delivery address and meet the
physical standards for FSS
machinability in 705.14.0.
*
*
*
*
*
360
Bound Printed Matter
*
*
365
Mail Preparation
*
*
*
*
3.0
*
*
ehiers on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
*
Deposit
3.9.7
*
*
*
*
*
*
Redirection at Mailer’s Request
[Revise the text of 3.9.7 as follows:]
A mailer may ask to transport
destination SCF price mail to a facility
other than the designated SCF. In very
limited circumstances, this exception
may be approved only by the manager,
Network Integration Support (see
608.8.0 for address). To qualify for the
SCF price in this situation, mail
deposited at a facility other than the
SCF must destinate for processing
within that facility and must not require
backhauling to the SCF.
*
*
*
*
*
VerDate Mar<15>2010
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
14:56 Dec 17, 2013
Jkt 232001
Enter and Deposit
*
Destination Entry
*
Standard Mail
446
Enter and Deposit
3.9
*
*
2.0
366
*
Commercial Parcels
*
BPM flats claiming presort or carrier
route prices, meeting the standards in
301.3.2 and destinating to FSS zones in
accordance with labeling list L006, must
be prepared under 705.14.0.
*
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the introductory text of 5.1 as
follows:]
Bound Printed Matter pieces in a
mailing meeting the standards in 3.0 are
eligible for the DSCF price when they
meet all of the following additional
conditions:
*
*
*
*
*
b. Are deposited at:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 5.1b2 as follows:]
2. a USPS-designated FSS processing
facility and correctly placed in a flat
tray, sack, or on a pallet, labeled to a
FSS scheme processed by that facility or
to a 5-digit destination processed by that
facility under labeling list L006. These
pieces must include a full delivery
address and meet the physical standards
for FSS-machinability in 705.14.0.
*
*
*
*
*
440
FSS Preparation
*
Eligibility
*
*
*
*
*
[Add a new 1.6 as follows:]
1.6
5.1
400
*
1.0 General Information for Mail
Preparation
*
5.0 Destination Sectional Center
Facility (DSCF) Entry
Destination Entry
*
*
2.6
Deposit
*
*
2.6.7
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Bound Printed Matter
*
*
466
Enter and Deposit
*
*
3.0
Destination Entry
*
*
3.9
Deposit
*
*
PO 00000
*
*
*
*
Frm 00018
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Fmt 4700
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Extra Services
1.0
Registered Mail
*
*
1.6
Inquiry on Uninsured Article
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
1.6.2 When and How To File
[Revise the current third sentence and
add a new fourth sentence to 1.6.2 as
follows:]
* * * File an inquiry for Registered
Mail with no declared value by
completing a Form 1000. See
Publication 122 for additional
information.
*
*
*
*
*
12.2
[Revise the text of 2.6.7 as follows:]
A mailer may ask to transport
destination SCF price mail to a facility
other than the designated SCF. In very
limited circumstances, this exception
may be approved only by the manager,
Network Integration Support (see
608.8.0 for address). To qualify for the
SCF price in this situation, mail
deposited at a facility other than the
SCF must destinate for processing
within that facility and must not require
backhauling to the SCF.
*
*
*
*
*
Additional Mailing Services
503
*
Redirection at Mailer’s Request
460
500
12.0
*
*
3.9.7 Redirection at Mailer’s Request
[Revise the text of 3.9.7 as follows:]
A mailer may ask to transport
destination SCF price mail to a facility
other than the designated SCF. In very
limited circumstances, this exception
may be approved only by the manager,
Network Integration Support (see
608.8.0 for address). To qualify for the
SCF price in this situation, mail
deposited at a facility other than the
SCF must destinate for processing
within that facility and must not require
backhauling to the SCF.
*
*
*
*
*
Collect on Delivery (COD)
*
*
*
*
Basic Information
12.2.1 Description
[Revise the text of 12.2.1 as follows:]
Any mailer may use collect on
delivery (COD) service to mail an article
for which the mailer has not been paid
and have its price and the cost of the
postage collected (not to exceed
$1,000.00) from the addressee (or agent).
COD service provides the mailer with a
mailing receipt and the USPS maintains
a record of delivery (including the
recipient’s signature) for two years. The
recipient may pay the COD amount due
for a mailpiece (with one form of
payment) by cash, or a personal check
or money order made payable to the
mailer. The USPS forwards the check or
money order to the mailer. The Postal
Service cannot intervene in disputes
between mailers and recipients of COD
mail after payment was returned to the
mailer. Customers may obtain a delivery
record by purchasing a return receipt.
Bulk proof of delivery service (6.0) is
also available if purchasing electronic
return receipt service at the time of
mailing. A mailer must use a unique
COD number for each article mailed.
E:\FR\FM\18DER1.SGM
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 243 / Wednesday, December 18, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
12.2.2
Eligible Matter
[Revise the introductory text of 12.2.2
as follows:]
COD service may be used for Priority
Mail Express (1-day and 2-day service
only), Priority Mail (except Critical
Mail), First-Class Mail, First-Class
Package Service, Standard Post, and
Package Services or Parcel Select
(except Parcel Select Lightweight)
mailpieces if:
*
*
*
*
*
12.2.3
Additional Services
[Revise the text of 12.2.3 as follows:]
COD service may be used with Hold
For Pick Up service under 508.7.0, and
may also be combined with the
following services when the additional
service fees are paid:
a. Restricted delivery.
b. Return receipt.
c. USPS Tracking (except with
Priority Mail Express COD).
d. Registered Mail.
e. Signature Confirmation (except
with Priority Mail Express COD).
f. Special handling.
12.2.4
Registered COD Mail
[Revise 12.2.4 by deleting the current
last two sentences and inserting a new
last sentence as follows:]
* * * The label and form must be
affixed according to 12.4.1
12.2.5
Priority Mail Express COD
[Revise the text of 12.2.5 as follows:]
Any article sent COD also may be sent
by Priority Mail Express when a
delivery signature is requested. The
maximum amount collectible from the
addressee and the indemnity for an
individual article is limited to
$1,000.00. Priority Mail Express postage
and the COD fees must be paid. The
label and form must be affixed
according to 12.4.1.
*
*
*
*
*
12.2.7
Redirecting COD Articles
[Revise the text of 12.2.7 as follows:]
The mailer of a COD article may use
USPS Package Intercept service under
507.5.0 to redirect the article to a new
addressee at a designated Post Office
using Hold For Pickup service.
12.3
ehiers on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
12.3.1
Forms
Form 3816
[Revise the text of 12.3.1 as follows:]
Mailers must complete barcoded
Form 3816 (see Exhibit 12.3.1) or Form
3816–AS (see 12.3.2) and attach it above
the delivery address and to the right of
the return address, or to the left of the
delivery address on parcels.
*
*
*
*
*
VerDate Mar<15>2010
14:56 Dec 17, 2013
Jkt 232001
12.3.2
AS
Privately Printed Form 3816–
[Revise the text of 12.3.2 as follows:]
If authorized, a mailer may use a
privately printed Form 3816–AS in a 3ply or 5-ply format. If Form 3816–AS
does not provide detachable second and
third copies, use Form 3877 under
12.4.4. The privately printed form must
be nearly identical in text, design, and
color to postal Form 3816, with a COD
article number that can be read by
automated postal equipment and an
Intelligent Mail package barcode (IMpb)
prepared under 708.5.0. As stated in
Publication 199, available at https://
ribbs.usps.gov/, mailers must provide
pre-production barcoded COD labels to
the National Customer Service Center
(NCSC) for review and approval prior to
use.
12.3.3
Nursery Stock
[Revise the complete text of 12.3.3 as
follows:]
A firm that mails nursery stock may
use Form 3816–AS (see 12.3.2) and
include instructions for disposing of
shipments not delivered immediately
under the following conditions. The
firm’s instructions on the back of the
delivery office part of the COD form (1),
and on the remittance coupon (2),
should read as follows:
a. ‘‘If recipient refuses to pay charges
for any reason, deliver at once without
collecting the charges. If parcel is not
deliverable or not claimed by the
addressee after 10 days, destroy parcel.
See remittance coupon for further
instructions.’’
b. ‘‘Return this coupon with money
order. If parcel is delivered without
collection of charges, or is destroyed
after 10 days, check disposition and
send coupon to sender in penalty
envelope.’’
b Delivered to addressee without
collecting charges.
b Destroyed after 10 days.
12.4
12.4.1
Mailing
Identifying Number
[Revise the text of 12.4.1 as follows:]
COD articles are identified by a
number on each section of the COD
form. When COD is used with Priority
Mail Express, Registered Mail, Hold For
Pickup service or, a separate barcoded
shipping label, the mailer must place
both the label and the COD form on the
front of the article. The Priority Mail
Express article number or the Registered
Mail number is used for delivery receipt
and indemnity claims. When a separate
Hold For Pickup or barcoded shipping
label is used, the identifying tracking
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76539
numbers on the label and the COD form
must match.
[Delete item 12.4.2, Numbering for
Large Volumes, in its entirety (context of
text relocated into 12.2.1), and
renumber current items 12.4.3 through
12.4.8 as new items 12.4.2 through
12.4.7]
12.4.2 Completing COD Forms
[Revise the text of renumbered 12.4.2
as follows:]
The mailer must securely affix the
COD form to each COD article. The form
must show article number, names and
addresses of mailer and recipient,
amount due mailer, and amount of
money order fee. This information must
be handwritten with ink, typewritten, or
computer-printed. The mailer may not
stipulate ‘‘Cash Only’’ on the COD form.
The USPS is not responsible for errors
that a mailer makes in stating the
charges to be collected.
12.4.3 Addressing Forms
[Revise the second sentence of
renumbered 12.4.3 as follows:]
* * * The return address on the COD
form must be the same as the return
address on the COD article, except that
a mailer using a Form 3816–AS may
print a different address on the
remittance coupon where payments are
to be sent. * * *
12.4.4 Receipt
[Revise the text of renumbered 12.4.4
as follows:]
A mailer using Form 3816 receives a
section of this form as a receipt. If three
or more COD articles are presented for
mailing at one time, the mailer may use
Form 3877 (firm sheet) or privately
printed firm sheets in conjunction with
Form 3816. When a mailer uses a Form
3816–AS that does not provide
detachable second and third copies,
Form 3877 also must be used. Privately
printed or computer-generated firm
sheets that contain the same information
as Form 3877 may be approved by the
local Postmaster or manager, Business
Mail Entry. Mailers may omit columns
from Form 3877 that do not apply to
COD mail. The mailer must submit firm
sheets in duplicate and will receive one
copy of the postmarked form as a
mailing receipt (in lieu of Copy 3 of
Form 3816 or Form 3816–AS) after the
entries are verified by a postal
employee. The acceptance Post Office
retains the second copy. All entries on
Form 3877 or privately-printed firm
sheets must be made by typewriter,
printed in ink, or computer-generated.
Alterations must be initialed by the
mailer and accepting employee. All
unused portions of the addressee
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column must be obliterated with a
diagonal line.
*
*
*
*
*
12.5
Delivery
[Revise the text of 12.5 as follows:]
Delivery of COD mail is subject to
508.1.0 and 508.2.0. Except for Priority
Mail Express COD, a Postmaster may
restrict delivery of COD mail if the
amount to be collected makes the carrier
a potential target for theft or if it is
known that the addressee will be
unavailable to receive the article. If
payment is by check or a money order
made payable to the mailer, the
recipient must present adequate
identification. If payment is made by
cash, a money order fee is collected
from the recipient in addition to the
COD amount.
*
*
*
*
*
505
Return Services
*
*
2.0
Permit Reply Mail
*
2.1
General Information
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
2.1.5 Special Standards for PRM
Pieces With an Optical Disc
[Revise the second sentence of 2.1.5
as follows:]
* * *. A flat-size PRM piece
containing one standard optical disc
and weighing no more than 2 ounces
will be charged postage applicable for a
1-ounce First-Class Mail letter if the
piece meets the standards in 333.2.7.
*
*
*
*
*
to the first listing of ‘‘Change Service
Requested’’ from the current ‘‘1, 3’’ to
‘‘1, 4.’’]
*
*
*
*
*
[At the bottom of the table,
redesignate current footnotes 2 and 3 as
new 3 and 4, respectively, and add new
footnote 2 (restored from its intended
place where it was as of 1–27–2013) to
read as follows:]
1. The weighted (per piece) fee is the
First-Class Mail or Priority Mail singlepiece price and any nonmachinable
surcharge (see 133.1.0), multiplied by
2.472; rounding any fractions to the next
whole cent.
*
*
*
*
*
1.8
Returning Mail
*
*
*
*
*
1.8.5 Extra Services
[Revise 1.8.5 by revising the third and
fourth sentences and adding a new fifth
sentence as follows:]
* * * The sender must sign a
delivery receipt for returned Priority
Mail Express, Registered Mail, COD
articles, Adult Signature services, and
mail insured for more than $200.
Returned Priority Mail Express (when
waiver of signature is requested by the
sender), Certified Mail, and mail with
Signature Confirmation or return receipt
for merchandise service may be
returned to the sender without obtaining
a signature when those mailpieces are
returned as undeliverable.
*
*
*
*
*
4.0
Address Correction Services
*
*
*
*
*
507
Mailer Services
4.3
Sender Instructions
1.0
Treatment of Mail
*
*
*
*
4.3.2 Extra Services
[Revise the complete text of 4.3.2 as
follows:]
A change-of-address order to a
domestic address covers Certified Mail,
COD, insured, Registered Mail,
Signature Confirmation, Adult Signature
services, and return receipt for
merchandise mail unless the sender
gives other instructions.
This mail is treated as follows:
a. COD mail is not forwarded to
overseas military Post Offices.
b. Ordinary and insured parcels
marked with the mailer’s instructions
are treated following instructions, such
as: ‘‘Do not forward or return. If not
accepted within ll days, treat as
abandoned. Notify mailer of
disposition.’’
c. COD mail will be handled as
requested when marked under 503.12.
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
1.5 Treatment for Ancillary Services
by Class of Mail
*
*
*
*
*
1.5.3 Standard Mail and Parcel Select
Lightweight
*
*
*
*
*
Exhibit 1.5.3, Treatment of
Undeliverable Standard Mail and
Parcel Select Lightweight
MAILER ENDORSEMENT USPS
TREATMENT OF UAA PIECES
ehiers on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
*
*
*
*
*
[In the ‘‘MAILER ENDORSEMENT’’
column, change the footnote appended
to ‘‘Forwarding Service Requested’’ from
the current ‘‘2’’ to footnote ‘‘3.’’]
*
*
*
*
*
[In the MAILER ENDORSEMENT’’
column, change the footnotes appended
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*
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*
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*
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508
Recipient Services
1.0
Recipient Options
1.1
Basic Recipient Concerns
*
*
*
*
*
1.1.7 Priority Mail Express and
Accountable Mail
[Revise the introductory text of 1.1.7
as follows:]
The following conditions also apply
to the delivery of Priority Mail Express
and other accountable mail (Registered
Mail, Certified Mail, insured for more
than $200.00, COD, or Adult Signature
services as well as mail with return
receipt service, return receipt for
merchandise service, or restricted
delivery service:
[Revise item 1.1.7a as follows:]
a. The addressee (or representative)
may obtain the sender’s name and
address while held by the USPS
employee before accepting delivery and
endorsing the delivery receipt.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 1.1.7c as follows:]
c. Suitable identification may be
required of the recipient before delivery
of the mailpiece.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 1.1.7e as follows:]
e. USPS responsibility ends when the
mailpiece is delivered to the addressee
(or another party, subject to 1.0).
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise all of item 1.1.7g as follows:]
g. A hand stamp approved by the
Postmaster may be used by the
addressee (or authorized agent) to
provide the signature and name of the
individual or organization receiving the
mailpiece as follows:
1. The hand stamp imprint must fit
within the Signature and Printed Name
blocks on Form 3849, without
overlapping into other sections.
2. To obtain approval for a hand
stamp, the company must submit a
written statement to the postmaster that
the person whose name appears on the
stamp is authorized to accept
accountable mail, accompanied by a
sample of the authorized employee’s
signature. After approval, the
documentation is held by the
postmaster and the stamped signature
and name are acceptable only if a legible
impression is provided within the
Signature and Printed Name blocks on
Form 3849.
3. For mail addressed only to a federal
or state official, the stamp need show
only the name and location of the
accepting organization. In these cases,
the stamp imprint must fit within the
Printed Name and Delivery Address
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block of Form 3849 without overlapping
into other sections.
*
*
*
*
*
7.0
Hold For Pickup
*
*
7.2
Basic Information
7.2.1
*
*
*
Description
[Revise the text of 7.2.1 as follows:]
Hold For Pickup service allows
mailpieces to be held at a designated
Post Office for pickup by an addressee.
When the mailer has provided contact
information to the destination Post
Office, the customer is notified by email
that a package is available for pickup.
This service provides the shipper with
the date and time of delivery to the
addressee. If the item has not been
picked up within 5 days, the Post Office
makes a second notification attempt and
returns the item to the sender if not
picked up within 15 days.
7.2.2
Basic Eligibility
[Revise the complete text of 7.2.2 as
follows:]
Hold For Pickup service is available
with Priority Mail Express. It is also
available with commercial mailings of
Priority Mail (except Critical Mail),
First-Class Package Service parcels, and
Parcel Select Nonpresort parcels when:
a. Mailpieces bear the Hold For
Pickup label with an Intelligent Mail
package barcode under 708.5.0.
b. One of the extra services in 7.2.6 is
combined with Hold For Pickup service.
*
*
*
*
*
7.2.6
Extra Services
[Revise the introductory text of 7.2.6
as follows:]
Hold For Pickup service, except when
used with Priority Mail Express, must
be combined with one or more of the
following:
*
*
*
*
*
[Add new item 7.2.6e as follows:]
e. Collect on Delivery (COD).
ehiers on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
7.3 Preparation Definitions and
Instructions
Except for Priority Mail Express Hold
For Pickup presented at retail Post
Office locations, mailers must prepare
mailpieces bearing the ‘‘Hold For
Pickup’’ label as follows:
[Delete current item 7.3a in its
entirety, and redesignate current items b
through d as new items a through c;
additionally revise redesignated item
7.3a as follows:]
a. Exchange electronic files with
USPS through an approved file transfer
protocol to notify the addressee when a
parcel is available for pickup or to
VerDate Mar<15>2010
14:56 Dec 17, 2013
Jkt 232001
notify the mailer that items are available
to be picked up as ‘‘return to sender.’’
*
*
*
*
*
c. In addition to the markings defined
in 7.0, address labels on a Hold For
Pickup mailpiece must contain the
elements below:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise redesignated 7.3c7 as follows:]
7. The lower half of the address label
must contain a correct Intelligent Mail
package barcode under 708.5.0 or an
integrated barcode as defined in
Publication 199.
[Insert new item 7.3c8 as follows:]
8. If combined with COD service,
other information as required in 503.12.
*
*
*
*
*
600 Basic Standards for All Mailing
Services
*
*
*
*
*
602
Addressing
1.0
Elements of Addressing
*
*
1.5
Return Addresses
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
[Renumber current 1.5.4 as new 1.5.5;
add new 1.5.4 to read as follows:]
1.5.4 Use of Foreign Return Addresses
Regardless of destination, when U.S.
postage is applied to a mailpiece, only
a domestic return address is authorized,
except when the addressee’s permanent
residence is outside the United States or
its territories (e.g., a tourist who lives
abroad and is shipping an item home
from the United States). This exception
is applicable for only incidental noncommercial use for single-piece price
mailpieces.
*
*
*
*
*
4.1
DAL and DML Use
*
*
*
*
*
4.1.2 Periodicals or Standard Mail
Flats Saturation Mailings
[Revise the text of 4.1.2 as follows:]
Saturation mailings of only
unaddressed Periodicals or Standard
Mail flats may be mailed with detached
address labels (DALs), but DALs may
not bear simplified addresses when
used with Standard Mail flats. For this
standard, saturation mailing means a
mailing sent to at least 75% of the total
addresses on a carrier route or 90% of
the residential addresses on a route,
whichever is less. Saturation flats
presented with DALs that are not
automation-compatible and correctly
barcoded do not qualify for saturation
prices. Instead they may be entered at
PO 00000
Frm 00021
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
applicable basic carrier route prices.
This standard (for automationcompatible barcoded DALs) does not
apply to DALs with simplified
addressing when correctly used with
Periodicals flats.
*
*
*
*
*
4.2
Label Preparation
*
*
*
*
*
4.2.2 Addressing
[Revise the text of 4.2.2 as follows:]
The address for each item must be
placed on a DAL, parallel to the longest
dimension of the DAL, and may not
appear on the item it accompanies. The
DAL must contain the delivery address
and a return address. In addition, if
DALs accompany saturation mailings of
Periodicals or Standard Mail flats, a
correct Intelligent Mail barcode with an
11-digit routing code must be printed on
each DAL except when using a
simplified address for Periodicals flats
as allowed by standards.
*
*
*
*
*
4.5
Postage
*
*
*
*
*
4.5.2 Postage Computation and
Payment
* * * In addition, these methods of
postage payment apply:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 4.5.2b as follows:]
b. Standard Mail flats (except EDDM
flats) and parcels and Bound Printed
Matter pieces must be paid by permit
imprint, which must appear on each
DAL.
*
*
*
*
*
604
Postage Payment Methods
*
*
5.0
Permit Imprint (Indicia)
5.1
4.0 Detached Address Labels (DALs)
and Detached Marketing Labels (DMLs)
76541
*
General Standards
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
5.1.2 Minimum Volume
Permit imprint mailings must contain
at least 200 pieces or 50 pounds of mail,
except:
*
*
*
*
*
[Add new item 5.1.2g as follows:]
g. A mailing containing 50 pieces or
50 pounds of nonpresorted single-piece
domestic mail parcels submitted under
the terms of an approved Manifest
Mailing System (including eVS)
agreement under 705.2.0. Mailers may
include any combination of the
following products under this provision:
Priority Mail Express (eVS only),
Priority Mail, First-Class Package
Service parcels, First-Class Mail parcels,
E:\FR\FM\18DER1.SGM
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 243 / Wednesday, December 18, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
nonpresorted Bound Printed Matter
parcels, Parcel Select Nonpresort
parcels, and single-piece Media Mail
and Library Mail parcels. Parcels in
USPS-provided packaging, including
Flat Rate Envelopes and Boxes, may be
included.*
*
*
*
*
*
608
Postal Information and Resources
*
*
8.0
USPS Contact Information
8.1
Postal Service
*
*
*
*
*
*
[Add a new listing in alphabetical
order as follows:]
Network Integration Support, 475
L’Enfant Plz SW., Rm 7536,
Washington DC 20260–2806
*
*
*
*
*
1.4
609 Filing Indemnity Claims for Loss
or Damage
1.0
*
General Filing Instructions
1.1
*
Registered Mail with postal insurance,
or Priority Mail Express. See Publication
122, available on www.usps.com, for
additional information.
*
*
*
*
*
Extra Services With Indemnity
When To File
File claims as follows:
*
*
*
*
[Revise the chart in 1.4 as follows:]
[Revise the text of 1.1 as follows:]
A customer may file an indemnity
claim for insured mail, COD items,
*
When to file (from mailing date)
Mail type or service
No sooner than
Priority Mail Express ...............................................................................
Priority Mail Express COD ......................................................................
Registered Mail .......................................................................................
Registered Mail COD ..............................................................................
Insured Mail (including Priority Mail under 3.2) ......................................
COD .........................................................................................................
APO/FPO Priority Mail, Express Military Service ...................................
APO/FPO/DPO Insured Mail and Registered Mail (Priority Mail, FirstClass Mail, SAM, or PAL).
APO/FPO/DPO Insured Mail (Surface only) ...........................................
[Delete item 1.5, Where to File, in its
entirely and renumber current 1.6 and
1.7 as new item 1.5 and 1.6, then revise
the title of renumbered 1.5 as follows:]
1.5
1.5.1
Where and How To File
Claims Filed Online
[Revise the first and second sentences
of renumbered 1.5.1 as follows:]
Domestic indemnity claims should be
filed online (preferred) at
www.usps.com/domestic-claims for
domestic insured mail, COD, Registered
Mail with postal insurance, and Priority
Mail Express. Proof of value is required
and should be submitted online as an
uploaded file (.pdf or .jpeg). * * *
ehiers on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
1.5.2
Claims Filed by Mail
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.5.2
as follows:]
Customers may file a claim by
completing a Form 1000 and mailing it
to the address indicated on the form,
accompanied by proof of value. Obtain
Form 1000 by calling 1–800–332–0317,
option 9. For pieces with multiple extra
services, the customer must provide
original receipts for all services
purchased. Upon request by the USPS,
the customer must submit proof of
damage under 2.0 for damaged items or
missing contents.
[Delete renumbered 1.5.3, Claims
Filed at the Post Office and current 1.7,
Filing Duplicate Claims, in their
entirety.]
VerDate Mar<15>2010
14:56 Dec 17, 2013
Jkt 232001
2.0
7 days ............................................
15 days ..........................................
15 days ..........................................
15 days ..........................................
15 days ..........................................
15 days ..........................................
21 days ..........................................
45 days ..........................................
60 days.
60 days.
60 days.
60 days.
60 days.
60 days.
180 days.
1 year.
75 days ..........................................
1 year.
Providing Proof of Loss or Damage
[Delete the title of current 2.1, and
revise the text of current 2.1 as new 2.0
as follows:]
If a claim is filed because some or all
of the contents are missing or damaged,
the addressee must retain the mailing
container, including any damaged
articles, all packaging, and any contents
received. Upon written request by the
USPS, the addressee must make this
proof available to the local Post Office
for inspection, retention, and
disposition in accordance with the
claims decision. Failure to do so will
result in denial of the claim.
[Delete current 2.2, Proof of Damage,
in its entirety.]
3.0 Providing Evidence of Insurance
and Value
3.1
Evidence of Insurance
[Revise the complete text of 3.1 as
follows:]
For a claim involving articles listed in
1.1, the customer must retain evidence
showing that the specific USPS service
was purchased, until the claim is
resolved. Examples of acceptable
evidence are:
a. The original mailing receipt issued
at the time of mailing (retail insured
mail, Registered Mail, and COD receipts
must contain a USPS postmark). For
insured mail, a photocopy of the
original mailing receipt is acceptable.
PO 00000
Frm 00022
Fmt 4700
No later than
Sfmt 4700
b. The outer packaging showing the
names and addresses of the sender and
the addressee and the proper label
showing that the article was sent
insured, COD, Registered Mail with
postal insurance, or Priority Mail
Express. (If only the outer packaging is
submitted, indemnity can be limited to
$100 for insured, $50 for COD, $100 for
Registered Mail, and $100 for Priority
Mail Express.)
c. For Priority Mail Express items
accepted under a Priority Mail Express
Manifesting agreement in 705.2.0, a
copy of the manifest page showing the
Priority Mail Express label number for
the item; the manifest summary page for
the mailing date of the piece; a copy of
Form 3152–E round-dated by the
accepting Post Office; and a copy of the
USPSCA monthly statement that lists
the label number and postage for the
mailpiece. If the customer purchased
additional insurance, a copy of the
round-stamped Form 3877 also must be
submitted.
d. For insurance purchased online, a
printed electronic online label record or
a computer printout from the
application used to print the label and
purchase the insurance. The printout
must identify the USPS Tracking
number of the insured parcel, total
postage paid, insurance fee paid,
declared value, mailing date, origin ZIP
Code, and delivery ZIP Code.
E:\FR\FM\18DER1.SGM
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 243 / Wednesday, December 18, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
e. For insured mail or COD mail paid
using MMS or eVS under 705.2, the
mailer must use one of the following:
1. A Detail Record in their Shipping
Services file version 1.6 or higher, with
recipient name and address information
for the accountable extra services pieces
in the mailing.
2. A printout of the part of Form 3877
that identifies the parcel by article
number, the package identification code
(PIC) of the insured or COD parcel, total
postage paid, fee paid, declared insured
value, amount due sender if COD,
mailing date, origin ZIP Code, and
delivery ZIP Code reported in the parcel
record in the manifest file.
[Revise the title and introductory text
of 3.2 as follows:]
3.2 Proof of Value
Either the mailer or the addressee
must submit acceptable proof to
establish the cost or value of the article
at the time it was mailed. Proof of value
should be submitted electronically or
attached to the claim form under 1.6;
otherwise, the claim cannot be
processed. Other proof may be
requested to help determine an accurate
value. Examples are:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 3.2b as follows:]
b. For items valued up to $50, the
customer’s statement describing the lost
or damaged article and including the
date and place of purchase, the amount
paid, and whether the item was new or
used (if a receipt or invoice is not
available).
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 3.2g as follows:]
g. A copy of a credit card statement
or other documentation indicating the
amount paid.
*
*
*
*
*
ehiers on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
4.0
Claims
4.1 Payable Claim
[Revise the introductory sentence of
4.1 as follows:]
Insurance for loss or damage to
insured, COD, or Registered Mail within
the amount covered by the fee paid or
the indemnity limits for Priority Mail
Express (under 4.2) is payable for the
following:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 4.1g as follows:]
g. For stamps and coins of philatelic
or numismatic value; the fair market
value is determined by a recognized
stamp or coin dealer or current coin and
stamp collectors’ newsletters and trade
papers. The date of the fair market value
determination must be current and prior
to the mailing date.
*
*
*
*
*
VerDate Mar<15>2010
14:56 Dec 17, 2013
Jkt 232001
[Insert new items 4.1p and 4.1q as
follows:]
p. For firearms mailed by licensed
firearm dealers under 601.12, a Form
1508 must be submitted with the claim.
q. For collectible items, a sales
receipt, invoice or bill of sale, or
statement of value from a reputable
dealer must be provided as described in
3.2.a.
4.2 Payable Priority Mail Express
Claim
[Revise the introductory text of 4.2
and the introductory text of item 4.2a as
follows:]
In addition to the payable claims in
4.1, the following are payable for
Priority Mail Express mailpieces:
a. Nonnegotiable documents are
insured against loss, damage, or loss of
some contents while in transit. Coverage
is limited to $100 per mailpiece, subject
to a maximum limit per occurrence as
provided in 4.2a4. Claims for document
reconstruction insurance must be
supported by a statement of expense
incurred in reconstruction.
Nonnegotiable documents include audit
and business records, commercial
papers, and other written instruments
that cannot be negotiable or cannot be
converted into cash without forgery.
Articles such as artwork, collector or
antique items, books, pamphlets,
readers’ proofs, repro proofs, separation
negatives, engineering drawings,
blueprints, circulars, advertisements,
film, negatives, and photographs are
considered merchandise, not
documents. Indemnity for document
reconstruction is paid as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
4.3
Nonpayable Claims
Indemnity is not paid for insured
mail, Registered Mail, COD, or Priority
Mail Express in these situations:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 4.3f as follows:]
f. Loss resulting from delay of the
mail, except under 4.2a2 and 4.3ad
below.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 4.3k as follows:]
k. Death of honeybees, crickets, and
harmless live animals not the fault of
the USPS (mailability is subject to
601.9.0).
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 4.3r as follows:]
r. Consequential loss of Priority Mail
Express, except under 4.2a3 and 4.3ad.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 4.3aa as follows:]
PO 00000
Frm 00023
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
76543
aa. Lottery tickets, sweepstakes
tickets, contest entries, gift cards and
similar items.
*
*
*
*
*
6.0
Adjudication of Claims
*
*
6.2
Appealing a Claim Decision
*
*
*
[Revise the text of 6.2 as follows:]
A customer may appeal a claim
decision within 30 days from the date
of the original decision at
www.usps.com/insuranceclaims/online.
Customers who did not file their claim
online must send written appeals to
Accounting Services (see 608.8.0 for
address).
6.3
Final USPS Decision of Claims
[Revise the text of 6.3 as follows:]
If Accounting Services sustains the
denial of a claim, the customer may
submit an additional appeal within 30
days for final review and decision to the
Consumer Advocate (see 608.8.0 for
address).
*
*
*
*
*
700
Special Standards
*
*
*
*
*
705 Advanced Preparation and
Special Postage Payment Systems
*
*
8.0
Preparing Pallets
*
*
8.5
General Preparation
*
*
8.5.6
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Mail on Pallets
These standards apply to mail on
pallets:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 8.5.6h as follows:]
h. Heavier, fuller trays must be placed
at the bottom of the load, unless
excepted by other standards (such as
245.7.7) that may require placement on
the top of the pallet.
*
*
*
*
*
14.0 Combining Bundles of Flats on
Pallets Within FSS Zones
14.1
General
[Revise the introductory paragraph of
14.1 as follows:]
Presorted and basic carrier route
Standard Mail flats, and all Bound
Printed Matter (BPM) presorted and
carrier route flats and Periodicals flats
meeting the standards in 301.3.2, must
be consolidated into 5-digit FSS scheme
bundles and placed on pallets, in sacks,
or in approved alternate containers, for
5-digit FSS scheme ZIP Code
E:\FR\FM\18DER1.SGM
18DER1
ehiers on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
76544
Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 243 / Wednesday, December 18, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
combinations within the same facility.
Mailings that include 10 or more pieces
of Standard Mail flats, 6 or more pieces
of Periodicals flats or 10 or more pieces
(or 10 or more pounds) of BPM flats to
a FSS scheme, must be prepared in FSS
scheme bundles for that 5-digit FSS
scheme. Mailers may optionally prepare
scheme pools with less than those
minimums and may prepare an FSS
scheme bundle if there is a minimum of
3 inches per bundle. Mailings of
nonpresorted BPM flats may be
included in FSS preparation, but will
not be eligible for presorted or carrier
route prices. The Postal Service also
recommends the use of flat trays in lieu
of sacks for FSS bundles. Bundles of
flats prepared to FSS zones also may be
combined with bundles of flats not
intended for FSS processing when
prepared to less finely presorted
containers in accordance with these
standards and the standards in 8.0.
Mailers must place qualifying
mailpieces from all price categories into
a separate combined pool for each
individual 5-digit FSS-scheme
combination, and then prepare bundles
of uniform size from those pieces.
Mailpieces that meet the eligibility
standards for 5-digit prices, basic and
high density carrier route prices, or
BPM presort or carrier route prices will
continue to be eligible for these prices
when prepared in accordance with the
FSS preparation standards. Saturation
price Standard Mail and Periodicals
flats are not eligible for preparation
under this option. High Density and
High-Density Plus Standard Mail flats
that meet the physical requirements in
301.3 may be included when prepared
in accordance with these standards.
Mailpieces and bundles must also be
prepared as follows:
[Revise 14.1a and b as follows:]
a. Bundles for all FSS schemes must
be identified as a 5-digit scheme presort
with an optional endorsement line
under 708.7.0; or when authorized,
using a red Label 5 SCH barcoded
pressure-sensitive bundle label.
b. It is recommended that all Standard
Mail and Periodicals pieces placed into
an FSS pool be barcoded, and bear an
accurate delivery point Intelligent Mail
barcode with an accurate 11-digit
routing code.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 14.1j as follows:]
j. An FSS scheme pallet, or approved
alternate container, must be made when
250 pounds or more of bundles are
available for an individual FSS 5-digit
scheme. Bundles remaining after
VerDate Mar<15>2010
14:56 Dec 17, 2013
Jkt 232001
palletization may be placed in sacks (or
flat trays if approved).
*
*
*
*
*
14.2
Periodicals
14.2.1 Basic Standards
[Revise the introductory paragraph of
14.2.1 as follows:]
Except for Periodicals flats mailed at
In-County prices, Periodicals flats
mailings of 5,000 pieces or less mailed
at Outside-County prices, or otherwise
excepted Periodicals flats mailings, all
Periodicals flats meeting the standards
in 301.3.2 (nonmachinable flats up to 1inch thick may be included if they meet
the standards in 705.14) and destinating
to FSS zones as shown in L006, must be
prepared according to these standards.
Mailings of In-County Periodicals flats
and Outside-County Periodicals flats
mailings of 5,000 pieces or less also may
be prepared according to these
standards. Periodicals are subject to the
following:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 14.2.1a and 14.2.1b as
follows:]
a. Pricing eligibility is based on
707.11.0 through 707.14.0, except that
the 5-digit Outside-County bundle
charge will be assessed to bundles of
Outside-County Periodicals prepared in
accordance with these standards,
including bundles of flats claimed at the
carrier route piece price. All Periodicals
flats prepared under these standards
will be assessed the 3-digit bundle price
without regard to the piece prices
claimed. FSS bundles placed on FSS
scheme or FSS facility pallets, sacks or
trays will claim the 3-digit bundle price.
b. FSS 5-digit scheme pallets will be
assessed the Outside-County container
charge for the 3-digit level pallet, except
that there is no container charge for FSS
5-digit scheme pallets entered at a DFSS
facility. FSS facility sort level pallets
will be charged a container price for the
SCF pallet. FSS scheme sacks or trays
will continue to be assessed the 3-digit
price. Sacks and trays entered at a DFSS
will claim the DSCF entry price.
[Redesignate current 14.2.1c through f
as new 14.2.1d through g, and add new
item 14.2.1c to read as follows:]
c. The Outside-County pound price
will be the same as the DSCF price. The
Inside-County price will claim prices for
the ‘‘none’’ entry level.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise redesignated items 14.2.1e, f
and g as follows:]
e. Mailers must combine all 5-digit,
carrier route, and 5-digit scheme eligible
flat-size mailpieces into a combined
mailpiece pool for each FSS 5-digit
scheme combination according to L006.
PO 00000
Frm 00024
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
f. Each bundle must be identified with
a ‘‘SCH 5–DIGIT FSS’’ optional
endorsement line in accordance with
Exhibit 708.7.1.1; or when authorized,
using a red Label 5 SCH barcoded
pressure-sensitive bundle label.
g. All pooled Periodicals mailpieces
prepared on pallets to a single presort
destination must be prepared in uniform
size bundles, between 3 inches and 6.5
inches in height and secured under
601.2.0, except that one overflow
bundle per mailpiece pool may be under
the minimum size.
*
*
*
*
*
14.2.2 Pallet Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation sequence and
labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of
14.2.2a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required (optional
under 250 pounds), no minimum,
permitted only for FSS bundles
prepared for a single FSS scheme, as
shown in L006. Labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the introductory text of
14.2.2b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional, no
minimum, permitted only for FSS
bundles prepared for the FSS sort plans
processed within the same facility, as
shown in L006. Labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
14.2.3 Sack Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation and labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of
14.2.3a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required, permitted
only for 5-digit FSS scheme bundles
prepared for a single FSS scheme, as
shown in L006; labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the introductory text of
14.2.3b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional,
permitted only for FSS bundles
prepared for the FSS sort plans
processed within the same facility, as
shown in L006; labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
14.3
Standard Mail
14.3.1 Basic Standards
* * * Standard Mail flats are subject
to the following:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 14.3.1c and d as follows:]
c. Mailers must combine all 5-digit,
basic carrier route, and 5-digit scheme
eligible flat-size mailpieces into a
combined mailpiece pool for each FSS
5-digit scheme combination according
to L006.
d. Each bundle must be identified
with a ‘‘SCH 5–DIGIT FSS’’ optional
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76545
endorsement line in accordance with
Exhibit 708.7.1.1; or when authorized,
using a red Label 5 SCH barcoded
pressure-sensitive bundle label.
*
*
*
*
*
Exhibit 708.7.1.1; or when authorized,
using a red Label 5 SCH barcoded
pressure-sensitive bundle label.
*
*
*
*
*
707
14.4.2
14.3.2
* * * Preparation sequence and
labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of
14.4.2a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required (optional
under 250 pounds), no minimum,
permitted only for FSS bundles
prepared for a single FSS scheme, as
shown in L006. Labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the introductory text of
14.4.2b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional, no
minimum; permitted only for FSS
bundles prepared for the FSS schemes
processed within the same facility, as
shown in L006. Labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of 4.9.1 as follows:]
Regular issues must be published
according to the publication’s stated
frequency. Issues may include annual
reports, directories, buyers’ guides, lists,
and similar material if these issues bear
the publication title and are included in
the regular subscription price, if any.
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete 4.9.3, Content, in its entirety
(text moved into 4.9.1).]
[Renumber current 4.9.4 and 4.9.5 as
new 4.9.3 and 4.9.4.]
*
*
*
*
*
6.0
Qualification Categories
14.4.3
6.1
General Publication
*
*
Pallet Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation sequence and
labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of
14.3.2a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required (optional
under 250 pounds), no minimum,
permitted only for FSS bundles
prepared for a single FSS scheme, as
shown in L006. Labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the introductory text of
14.3.2b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional, no
minimum, permitted only for FSS
bundles prepared for the FSS scheme
processed within the same facility, as
shown in L006. Labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
14.3.3
Sack Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation and labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of
14.3.3a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required, permitted
only for 5-digit FSS scheme bundles
prepared for a single FSS scheme, as
shown in L006; labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the introductory text of
14.3.3b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional,
permitted only for 5-digit FSS bundles
prepared for the FSS schemes processed
within the same facility, as shown in
L006; labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
14.4
ehiers on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
14.4.1
Bound Printed Matter
Basic Standards
VerDate Mar<15>2010
14:56 Dec 17, 2013
Jkt 232001
Sack Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation and labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of
14.4.3a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required, permitted
only for 5-digit FSS scheme bundles
prepared for a single FSS scheme, as
shown in L006; labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the introductory text of
14.4.3b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional,
permitted only for FSS bundles
prepared for the FSS schemes processed
within the same facility, as shown in
L006; labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
15.0 Combining Standard Mail Flats
and Periodicals Flats
15.1
[Revise the introductory text of 14.4.1
as follows:]
Bound Printed Matter (BPM) flats
eligible for, and paid at, presorted prices
or carrier route prices, and that meet the
standards in 301.3.2, must be combined
in 5-digit FSS scheme bundles and
placed on pallets, or in flat trays, sacks
or approved alternate containers, for
delivery to ZIP Codes having FSS
processing capability, as shown in L006.
BPM flats are subject to the following:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 14.4.1c and d as follows:]
c. Mailers must combine all eligible
flat-size mailpieces into a combined
mailpiece pool for each FSS 5-digit
scheme combination according to L006.
d. Each bundle must be identified
with a ‘‘SCH 5–DIGIT FSS’’ optional
endorsement line in accordance with
Pallet Preparation and Labeling
Basic Standards
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the title and introductory text
of 15.1.11 as follows:]
15.1.11
Preparation for FSS Zones
Mailers authorized to combine
mailings of Standard Mail flats and
Periodicals flats must prepare these
mailings under 14.0, when the mailing
includes pieces destinating within one
or more of the FSS zones in L006.
Mailpieces eligible for High Density and
High-Density Plus prices are not
required to, but may be, prepared under
the standards in 14.0. The following
applies:
[Delete current items 15.1.11a through
c in their entirety and resequence
current items 15.11.1d through f as new
items 15.11.1a through 1c.]
*
*
*
*
*
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Periodicals
*
*
4.0
Basic Eligibility Standards
*
*
*
4.9
Issues
*
*
*
*
*
4.9.1 Regular Issues
6.1.2
*
*
*
Circulation Standards
General publications must meet these
circulation standards:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise items 6.12b through 6.1.2g as
follows:]
b. Records for subscriptions to a
publication must be kept so that
subscriptions to each publication can be
verified.
c. Persons whose subscriptions are
obtained at a nominal price and those
whose copies bear an alternative
address must not be included in the
legitimate list of subscribers. Such
copies must be treated as nonsubscriber
copies.
d. Subscriptions may be paid for with
dues or contributions, if the amount
paid for the subscription is stated. The
USPS may require evidence of
compliance; see 5.1.2 for more
information.
e. A subscription must be separated
from all other business transactions to
be evident as an independent act.
Publishers must be able to show that
subscriptions are voluntary and that the
subscription price is paid or promised.
f. At least 50% of a publication’s
distribution must be to persons who
have paid above a nominal price. (For
inclusion of electronic copies, see 6.5).
Nominal price subscriptions include
those sold at a price so low that it
cannot be considered a material
consideration; or at a reduction to the
subscriber (under a premium offer or
any other arrangement) of more than
70% of the basic annual subscription
E:\FR\FM\18DER1.SGM
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 243 / Wednesday, December 18, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
price. The value of a premium is its
actual cost to the publisher, its
recognized retail value, or its
represented value, whichever is highest.
g. Publications primarily designed for
free circulation or for circulation at
nominal prices do not qualify for the
general publications category.
[Delete items 6.1.2g1 through 6.1.2g4
in their entirety; the same substantive
information is included in items 6.1.2a
through 6.1.2f.]
*
*
*
*
*
6.7.3 Unsold Copies
[Revise the text of renumbered 6.7.3
as follows:]
Unsold copies returned to the
publishers or sent to other news agents
or sent to persons not having
subscriptions with news agents, are
subject to the Outside-County
Periodicals prices.
*
*
*
*
*
6.4
Requester Publications
*
*
7.1 Sample Copies
[Revise the text of 7.1 as follows:]
Sample copies are nonsubscriber or
nonrequester copies and may be mailed
at prices according to standards in 7.0
and 10.0.
*
*
*
6.4.2 Circulation Standards
Requester publications must meet
these circulation standards:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 6.4.2b as follows:]
b. Subscription copies of the
publications that are paid for or
promised to be paid for, including those
at or below a nominal price, may be
included in the 50% request
requirement. (For inclusion of electronic
copies, see 6.5.)
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise items 6.4.2d through 6.4.2f as
follows:]
d. Records of requests for a
publication must be kept so that
subscriptions or requests for each
publication can be verified.
e. Requests more than 3 years old are
not valid requests. Copies addressed
using an alternative address format are
not considered requested copies.
f. For a requester publication issued
by a membership organization, the
organization may adopt a resolution that
each member receives a copy of each
issue. Records must be kept to show that
the publication is sent to members.
Form 3500 must be accompanied by
a copy of the resolution and written
assurance that the required records are
kept.
*
*
*
*
*
ehiers on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
6.7
News Agent Registry
6.7.1 Definition
[Revise the text of 6.7.1 by including
text from current 6.7.2 as follows:]
The term news agent means a person
or concern selling two or more
Periodicals publications published by
more than one publisher. A news agent
must be authorized by the USPS before
the agent may mail publications at
Periodicals prices.
[Delete current 6.7.2, Authorization;
text is relocated to 6.7.1.]
[Renumber current 6.7.3 through 6.7.5
as new 6.7.2 through 6.7.4.]
*
*
*
*
*
VerDate Mar<15>2010
14:56 Dec 17, 2013
Jkt 232001
7.0 Mailing to Nonsubscribers or
Nonrequesters
7.2
Simplified Address
[Revise the text of 7.2 as follows:]
Copies addressed with simplified
addresses under 602.3.2 may be mailed
only to nonsubscribers or nonrequesters.
If a subscriber or requester receives a
simplified address copy in addition to
the subscriber or requester copy, the
additional copy is considered a
nonsubscriber or nonrequester copy.
*
*
*
*
*
7.4
9.0 Changing Title, Frequency, or
Known Office of Publication
9.1
9.1.1
[Revise the text of 7.4 as follows:]
Copies sent to persons whose
subscriptions were paid by other
individuals as gifts are considered
subscriber copies. Subscriptions paid by
advertisers or other persons promoting
their own interests, and subscriptions
given free by the publisher, are not gift
subscriptions, and are considered
nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies.
Exchange Copies
General
When Required
[Revise the text of 9.1.1 as follows:]
Except under 9.1.2, the publisher
must file an application for reentry on
Form 3510 to the original entry
Postmaster to change the title, frequency
of issue; or to change location of the
known office of publication of an
authorized Periodicals publication by
submitting Form 3510 to the Postmaster
whose service area oversees the new
location.
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete current 9.1.3, Where to File, in
its entirety (text moved to 9.1.1).]
[Renumber current 9.1.4 through 9.1.4
as new 9.1.3 through 9.1.4.]
[Delete current 9.1.6, Same County, in
its entirety; the same information
appears in 707.11.3.]
[Renumber current 9.1.7 as new 9.1.5
and revise as follows:]
9.1.5
Gift Subscriptions
7.57
sent to an advertiser (or agent) are
considered nonsubscriber or
nonrequester copies.
*
*
*
*
*
Filing Date
Publishers changing the title or
frequency of a publication must file
Form 3510 by the date on which copies
are to be issued with the new title or on
the new frequency.
[Delete current 9.1.8, Effective Date, in
its entirety; the same information is in
current 9.3.5.]
[Renumber current 9.1.9 through
9.1.12 as new 9.1.6 through 9.1.9.]
*
*
*
*
*
9.1.7 Application Fee
[Revise the text of 7.5 as follows:]
A small part of the distribution list
may contain publishers to whom one
copy each is sent in exchange for a copy
of the recipients’ publications. These
exchange copies are considered
subscriber or requester copies.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of renumbered 9.1.7
as follows:]
The correct (nonrefundable) fee must
accompany an application (Form 3510)
for reentry. No additional fee is required
when a revised Form 3500 is required
as part of a reentry application.
7.7
9.1.8
Complimentary Copies
[Revise the text of 7.7 as follows:]
All complimentary copies are
considered nonsubscriber or
nonrequester copies.
7.8
Proof Copies
[Revise the text of 7.8 as follows:]
One complete copy of each issue may
be mailed to each advertiser (or agent)
in the issue to prove that the
advertisements are printed. These
copies are considered subscriber or
requester copies. Any additional copies
PO 00000
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Multiple Reentry Requests
[Revise the text of renumbered 9.1.8
as follows:]
A publisher may file one Form 3510
and pay one fee to request multiple
reentry actions under 9.1 if all
documentation is submitted with the
Form 3510 under 9.1.3; and the effective
dates for the reentry actions do not
cover more than 30 calendar days. The
publisher must submit a separate Form
3510 (and pay the fee) for each reentry
action that cannot meet these
conditions.
E:\FR\FM\18DER1.SGM
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9.1.9
Other Actions
[Revise the text of renumbered 9.1.9
as follows:]
A publisher must submit a separate
Form 3510 (and pay the fee) for each
reentry action under 28.4, 30.0, 10.0 (no
fee), or 9.2. A publisher must file a
separate Form 3510 (and pay the fee) if
the publication’s distribution plan is
modified other than the frequency of
issuance or the location of the original
entry Post Office.
9.2
Changing Qualification Categories
[Revise the text of 9.2 as follows:]
To change the category under which
a publication is authorized Periodicals
mailing privileges, the publisher must
file a revised Form 3500 and an
application for reentry on Form 3510
with the original entry Postmaster and
pay the applicable fee. See 9.1.2 for
when a reentry application may not be
required.
[Delete current 9.2.1, 9.2.2, 9.2.3, and
9.2.4 in their entirety (the text of 9.2.1,
9.2.3, and 9.2.4 are merged into new text
in 9.2; the text of 9.2.2 is already
covered in current 9.1.2).]
9.3
9.3.1
Application for Reentry
deferred until sufficient transportation
or other resources are in place. If
deferral is due to USPS transportation
contract limitations, the publisher’s
requested date may be approved with
the publisher’s agreement to reimburse
the USPS for costs caused by modifying
contracted transportation.
[Delete current 9.3.6, Denial After
Verification, in its entirety; the same
information is in current 9.3.7.]
[Renumber current 9.3.7 through
9.3.12 as new 9.3.5 through 9.3.10.]
[Revise the title and text of
renumbered 9.3.5 as follows:]
9.3.5
Denial
If the PCSC manager denies an
application, a written notice of the
reasons is provided to the publisher.
The denial takes effect 15 days from the
publisher’s receipt of the notice, unless
the publisher files an appeal under 9.3.6
within that time. Alternatively, the
publisher may return to the publication
status before the application for reentry
was submitted.
*
*
*
*
*
12.0 Nonbarcoded (Presorted)
Eligibility
12.1
Pending
Basic Standards
While an application for reentry is
pending, copies of an authorized
Periodicals publication are accepted for
mailing at the Periodicals prices, subject
to 9.3.5.
[Delete current 9.3.2, Additional
Information, in its entirety; the same
information is in current 9.3.3.]
[Renumber current 9.3.3 through 9.3.5
as new 9.3.2 through 9.3.4, and revise
the text of renumbered 9.3.2 as follows:]
*
9.3.2
12.3.2
Proof of Compliance
ehiers on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
Jkt 232001
*
Prices—In-County
12.3.1
Five-Digit Prices
5-digit prices apply to:
*
*
*
*
[Add new item 12.3.1c as follows:]
c. Qualifying flats included in a FSS
5-digit scheme pool under 705.14.
*
*
*
*
*
*
13.0
Effective Date
14:56 Dec 17, 2013
*
Three-Digit Prices
*
[Revise the text of renumbered 9.3.4
as follows:]
An entry office may not be used
before authorization by the USPS. A
publisher may not pay postage at
another price to deposit copies at an
unauthorized entry office. Subject to the
restrictions in 9.1, the effective date of
a reentry authorization is the
application date or the eligibility date (if
the publication became eligible after the
application date). The requested date for
a change in original entry office may be
VerDate Mar<15>2010
12.3
*
3-digit prices apply to:
*
*
*
*
[Add new 12.3.2c as follows]
c. Flat-size pieces not qualifying for
carrier route or 5-digit prices, but
properly included in a FSS 5-digit
scheme pool prepared under 705.14.
*
*
*
*
*
The publisher must be able to show
(via circulation and other records) to
USPS satisfaction that the reentered
publication still meets all Periodicals
standards. Failure to provide this
evidence is sufficient grounds to deny
the reentry request.
*
*
*
*
*
9.3.4
*
*
Carrier Route Eligibility
*
13.2
*
*
*
*
*
*
Sorting
*
13.2.2
*
Sequencing Requirements
[Revise the introductory text of 13.2.2
as follows:]
Except for flats properly prepared
under FSS standards in 705.14, carrier
route mail must be prepared in delivery
sequence as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
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13.3
76547
Walk-Sequence Prices
13.3.1 Eligibility
[Revise the text of 13.3.1 as follows]
The high density or saturation prices
apply to each walk-sequenced piece in
a carrier route mailing, eligible under
13.2.1 and prepared under 705.8.0, 23.0,
or (nonletter-size mail only) 705.10.0,
705.12.0, or 705.13.0, that also meets the
corresponding addressing and density
standards in 13.3.4. High density and
saturation price mailings must be
prepared in carrier walk sequence
according to schemes prescribed by the
USPS (see 23.8), except for qualifying
high density flats that are properly
included in FSS 5-digit scheme pools
under 705.14.
14.0 Barcoded (Automation)
Eligibility
*
14.4
*
*
*
*
Prices—In-County
14.4.17 Five-Digit Prices
5-digit automation prices apply to:
*
*
*
*
*
[Add new item 14.4.1c as follows:]
c. Qualifying flats included in a FSS
5-digit scheme pool under 705.14.
*
*
*
*
*
14.4.2 Three-Digit Prices
3-digit automation prices apply to:
*
*
*
*
*
[Add new item 14.4.2c as follows]
c. Flat-size pieces not qualifying for
carrier route or 5-digit prices, but
properly included in a FSS 5-digit
scheme pool prepared under 705.14
*
*
*
*
*
18.0
General Mail Preparation
18.1 Definition of Presort
[Revise the text of 18.1 as follows:]
‘‘Presort’’ is the process by which a
mailer prepares mail so that it is sorted
to at least the finest extent required by
the standards.
18.2 Definition of Mailings
‘‘Mailings’’ are defined as:
[Revise item 18.2a as follows:]
a. A mailing is a group of pieces
within the same class of mail and the
same processing category that are sorted
together and presented under a
minimum volume mailing requirement.
Specific standards may define whether
separate mailings may be combined,
palletized, reported, or deposited
together.
*
*
*
*
*
[Add a new 18.5 as follows:]
18.5 FSS Preparation
Except for Periodicals flats mailed at
In-County prices, Periodicals flats
E:\FR\FM\18DER1.SGM
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 243 / Wednesday, December 18, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
mailings of 5,000 pieces or less mailed
at Outside-County prices, Periodicals
flats mailed at saturation, High Density
prices, or otherwise excepted
Periodicals flats mailings, all Periodicals
flats (including nonmachinable flats up
to 1-inch thick may be included if they
meet the standards in 705.14)
destinating to FSS zones as shown in
L006, must be prepared under 705.14.
Mailings of In-county Periodicals flats,
Outside-county Periodicals flats
mailings of 5,000 pieces or less, and
Periodicals qualifying for High-Density
prices may be included in FSS 5-digit
scheme pools.
*
*
*
*
*
29.0
*
Destination Entry
*
*
*
*
6.0 Standards for Barcoded Tray
Labels, Sack Labels, and Container
Placards
FSS scheme and FSS facility
STD FLTS 5D FSS SCH BC
*
*
*
*
*
*
PACKAGE SERVICES
*
*
*
*
6.2 Specifications for Barcoded Tray
and Sack Labels
6.2.1
Use
Exhibit 6.2.1 shows the types of mail
requiring barcoded tray or sack labels.
Barcoded labels must meet these general
standards:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item 6.2.1b as
follows:]
b. Mailer-produced barcoded labels
must meet the standards in 6.0, and tray
labels must be non-adhesive.
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
BPM Flats—Cosacked Barcoded and
Presorted
*
*
*
*
*
[Add a new second row as follows:]
FSS scheme and FSS facility 638
PSVC FLTS 5D FSS SCH BC
*
*
*
*
*
We will publish an appropriate
amendment to 39 CFR part 111 to reflect
these changes.
Stanley F. Mires,
Attorney, Legal Policy & Legislative Advice.
[FR Doc. 2013–29879 Filed 12–17–13; 8:45 am]
29.4 Destination Sectional Center
Facility
6.2.4 3-Digit Content Identifier
Numbers
BILLING CODE 7710–12–P
*
*
POSTAL SERVICE
*
29.4.2
*
*
*
Price Eligibility
Determine price eligibility as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete the last sentence of the
introductory text of 29.4.2b, and delete
29.4.2b1 and b2 in their entirety, so that
item b reads as follows:]
b. Container Prices. Mailers may
claim the DSCF container price for SCF
and more finely presorted containers
that are entered at and destined within
the service area of the SCF at which the
container is deposited.
*
*
*
*
*
[Renumber current 29.5. as new 29.6,
and add a new 29.5 as follows:]
*
*
*
Exhibit 6.2.4
Numbers
3-Digit Content Identifier
CLASS AND
MAILING.
*
*
*
CIN
*
*
HUMAN–READABLE CONTENT LINER
*
*
*
*
*
*
PER Flats —
Merged Carrier Route, Barcoded, and
Nonbarcoded
*
*
*
*
*
[Add a new third row as follows:]
FSS scheme and FSS facility
PER FLTS 5D FSS SCH BC
*
*
*
*
*
29.5.1
PERIODICALS (NEWS)
Definition
*
For this standard, destination Flat
Sequencing System Facility (DFSS)
refers to the facilities listed in L006,
Column C.
29.5.2
*
Technical Specifications
*
*
VerDate Mar<15>2010
*
*
14:56 Dec 17, 2013
Jkt 232001
*
*
Merged Carrier Route, Barcoded, and
Nonbarcoded
DFSS prices apply to pieces deposited
at a USPS-designated FSS processing
facility and correctly placed in a flat
tray, sack, or on a pallet, labeled to a
FSS sort plan or labeled to a 5-digit
destination processed by that facility,
under labeling list L006. These pieces
must include a full delivery address and
meet the physical standards for FSSmachinability in 705.14.0.
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
349
NEWS Flats —
Eligibility
708
*
*
*
*
*
[Add a new third row as follows:]
FSS scheme and FSS facility
NEWS FLTS 5D FSS SCH BC
*
*
*
*
*
449
STANDARD MAIL
*
*
*
*
*
STD Flats —
Merged Carrier Route, Automation, and
Presorted
*
*
*
*
*
[Add a new third row as follows:]
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39 CFR Part 111
New Standards To Enhance Package
Visibility
Postal Service TM.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The Postal Service is revising
Mailing Standards of the United States
Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual
(DMM®) to require the use of Intelligent
Mail® package barcodes (IMpb) on all
commercial parcels, and to require the
transmission of supporting electronic
documentation including piece-level
address or ZIP+4® Code information.
Included in these new requirements is
a per-piece price adjustment for
mailpieces not complying with the
IMpb standards. The Postal Service is
also adding DMM reference to a future
requirement to use a complete
destination delivery address or an 11digit delivery point validated ZIP
Code TM in the mailer’s electronic
documentation.
DATES: Effective date: January 26, 2014.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Juliaann Hess at 202–268–7663 or
Rachel Devadas at 202–268–3881.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Postal
Service takes the next step in the
development of its package strategy by
enhancing its operational capability to
scan Intelligent Mail package barcodes
(IMpb) and other extra services barcodes
via automated processing equipment
and Intelligent Mail scanning devices.
Full implementation of the Postal
Service’s package strategy relies on the
availability of piece-level information
provided through the use of IMpb.
SUMMARY:
PERIODICALS (PER)
29.5. Destination Flat Sequencing
System (DFSS) Facility Entry
ehiers on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
549
E:\FR\FM\18DER1.SGM
18DER1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 243 (Wednesday, December 18, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 76533-76548]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-29879]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
POSTAL SERVICE
39 CFR Part 111
New Mailing Standards for Domestic Mailing Services Products
AGENCY: Postal ServiceTM.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: On September 26, 2013, the Postal Service filed a notice of
mailing services price adjustments with the Postal Regulatory
Commission (PRC), effective January 26, 2014. This final rule contains
the revisions to Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service,
Domestic Mail Manual (DMM[supreg]) that we will adopt to implement the
changes coincident with the price adjustments.
DATES: Effective Date: January 26, 2014.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Bill Chatfield at 202-268-7278,
Lizbeth Dobbins at 202-268-3789, or Steve Monteith at 202-268-6983.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Prices are available under Docket Nos.
R2013-10 and R2010-4R on the Postal Regulatory Commission's Web site at
www.prc.gov.
The Postal Service's final rule includes new pricing eligibility
for retail and commercial nonpresorted First-Class Mail[supreg]
letters, several mail classification changes, and condensing of current
standards for Periodicals publications. Directly below, we discuss
comments on proposed changes, and the Postal Service response to those
comments, followed by a summary of all the changes.
Comments on Proposed Changes
The Postal Service received four formal comments on our price-
change related proposal.
The Postal Service had proposed to disallow adhesive labels on all
sacks and trays. We received one formal comment and one informal
comment about this. We will be disallowing adhesive labels only for
trays. Also, we are working with the mailing industry to evaluate the
technological and operational feasibility of alternatives to current
labeling methods.
A mailer association disagreed with the 200-piece minimum for
permit imprint mailings of First-Class Mail letters at the new metered
price. The 200-piece minimum for permit imprint mailings of letters is
not a new standard and is not being changed at this time. First-Class
Mail letters that are residual from a presort or automation mailing and
are presented with that mailing are not subject to a separate minimum.
Regarding flats sequencing system (FSS), a mailer association
suggested to change the required minimum for an FSS scheme pallet to
500 pounds instead of 250 pounds. We note that mailers who currently
choose to prepare FSS mail must make FSS scheme or FSS facility pallets
when the quantity reaches 250 pounds, so that minimum is not a change.
Also, the FSS facility pallet is currently required at 250 pounds for
those choosing to prepare FSS pallets, whereas it will not be a
required pallet level in January. While the 250-pound requirement may
result in more pallets in some cases, it is very important that the FSS
mail be separated from other mail for efficient processing. Also, we
are increasing the allowed number of stacked pallets from 4 to 6, which
will increase logistical flexibility.
The same mailer association also questioned specific FSS piece
prices that were developed for software coding; other than Bound
Printed Matter pricing, those prices are placeholders for possible
future application. Except for ADC and MADC pieces (which will be
eligible for 3-digit prices), pieces in an FSS bundle will be eligible
for the price they would otherwise be eligible for according to the
qualification documentation.
Regarding the price charts for Standard Mail, FSS scheme pallets
may be entered at origin, or at DNDC, DSCF, or DFSS entry points, but
the tenth of a cent discount price will be only for flats placed on FSS
scheme pallets entered at DFSS entry points.
We received one comment about the revision to the claims standards
requiring that a fair market value of insured coins or stamps be
current and prior to the mailing date. The commenter asked if the
USPS[supreg] would be advising each mailer mailing insured items of
this change. We consider that this revision is primarily a
clarification and provides equal protection for the mailer and the USPS
regarding potentially significant fluctuations in the value of those
items. The proposal provides sufficient public notice.
We received three suggestions from the same commenter regarding
handstamps with an addressee's printed signature and address: one to
allow mechanical devices similar to handstamps, one to declare that a
handstamp is legally binding, and the other to state that handstamps
must be applied by the addressee (or agent). We are not expanding this
section to allow similar devices; and we consider that the current
language, that a handstamp is an optional way of providing the
signature, is sufficient. We do agree to state that such handstamps
must be used by the addressee or agent.
A mailer association questioned how we will check compliance with
full-service automation requirements. There were no items regarding
full-service as part of this proposal. Questions about compliance with
full-service standards should be directed to the Vice-President of Mail
Entry and Payment Technology. We received one formal complaint about
the proposed disallowance of simplified addresses on detached address
labels (DALs) used with Standard Mail flats, thus requiring mailers to
use complete delivery addresses on such DALs. This change would require
complete addresses on the DALs, or the mailer could still use
simplified addresses directly on the flats. Although we are not
removing this change, mailers with exceptional circumstances that
preclude them from transitioning to complete delivery addresses by
January while retaining their customary volume of this type of mail may
request limited exceptions (through their district manager, business
mail entry) from the Pricing and Classification Service Center.
Change for Letters
Retail and Commercial First-Class Mail Letters
The Postal Service adds a new single-piece nonpresorted First-Class
Mail letter price category to be called Metered Mail. Prices for this
category are separate from other retail single-piece First-Class Mail
letters, and apply to First-Class Mail letters when postage is affixed
or imprinted by the mailer for metered indicia, PC Postage[supreg],
precanceled stamps, or permit imprint. There is no minimum volume,
except for pieces paid by permit imprint, for which the existing
minimum of 200 pieces would apply. These prices also apply to residual
pieces from automation or presorted First-Class Mail letter mailings,
presented in letter trays. When such residual pieces are part of a
permit imprint mailing for the presorted or automation mailing, and
claimed on the same postage statement as the primary mailing, there is
no separate
[[Page 76534]]
minimum number of pieces for the commercial nonpresorted portion.
The Postal Service modifies the current price structure for
residual First-Class Mail letters. Residuals from uniform 1-ounce
presort letter mailings will pay the 1-ounce Metered letter price.
Residuals from uniform 2-ounce presort letter mailings will pay the 2-
ounce Metered letter price Residuals from mixed presort mailings of 1-
ounce and 2-ounce letters will pay the ``blended'' First-Class Mail
Residual letter price and not be subject to the Metered Mail price.
Changes for Flats
Standard Mail[supreg] Flats
We will disallow the use of detached address labels (DALs) with all
Standard Mail flats mailed with simplified addresses (EDDM[supreg]).
Therefore, all EDDM flats (entered at BMEUs or Retail) must bear
simplified addresses directly on the flats.
Required Flats Sequencing System (FSS) Preparation
The Postal Service introduced optional FSS preparation standards in
the August 23, 2010 Federal Register final rule (75 FR 51668-51671)
which were incorporated into the DMM on January 2, 2011. These FSS
preparation standards were developed in collaboration with the mailing
industry group, including both mail owners and mail service providers.
This industry group determined that the preparation of bundles and
pallets specifically for FSS processing could lead to greater
efficiencies and cost savings for both the USPS and the mailing
industry. In the August 23, 2010 final rule, the Postal Service also
provided advance notice that FSS-based mail preparation requirements
would become mandatory at some point in the future. As of January 26,
2014, the Postal Service requires bundle and pallet preparation of
flat-size Standard Mail, Periodicals and Bound Printed Matter
mailpieces prepared for delivery within the ZIP CodesTM
served by FSS processing. With this revision, mailers are required to
place mailings of presorted and basic carrier route Standard Mail
flats, and Periodicals and Bound Printed Matter presorted and carrier
route flats, meeting the deflection standards and the physical
standards in DMM 301.3.2, and combined mailings of Standard Mail and
Periodicals flats prepared under DMM 705.15 into combined 5-digit FSS
scheme pools when addressed for delivery to any FSS 5-digit scheme
combination per labeling list L006. Optionally, mailers may include
nonmachinable Periodicals flats no more than 1-inch thick if they meet
the standards in 705.14.
Mailers place qualifying mailpieces from all price categories into
a separate pool for each individual 5-digit FSS-scheme combination.
Mailings that include 10 or more pieces of Standard Mail flats, 6 or
more pieces of Periodicals flats or 10 or more pieces (or 10 or more
pounds) of Bound Printed Matter flats, to an FSS scheme must make FSS
scheme bundles for that 5-digit FSS scheme. Mailers may optionally
prepare scheme pools with less than 10 pieces of Standard Mail flats, 6
pieces of Periodical flats, or 10 pieces (or 10 pounds) of Bound
Printed Matter flats, and may prepare an FSS scheme bundle if they have
a minimum of 3 inches of mail. Mailings of Bound Printed Matter flats
not meeting the eligibility standards for presort or carrier route
pricing also may be included in FSS preparation, but are not eligible
for presorted or carrier route prices. All pieces for each combined
mailpiece pool must be placed in uniform bundles of between 3 inches
and 6.5 inches, except for one overflow bundle that may be under the
minimum height. Bundles must be prepared in accordance with the other
conditions in DMM 705.14.0.
Bundles must be identified as 5-digit scheme presort, either with
an optional endorsement line (OEL) under 708.7.0 or with a ``red Label
5 SCH'' barcoded pressure-sensitive bundle label. However, mailpieces
entered under a combined mailing of Standard Mail and Periodicals flats
will continue to require a unique OEL on each piece, as described in
DMM exhibit 708.7.1.1. Mailers are reminded that every mailpiece
prepared under these standards must still include class and price
markings, as described in DMM 302.3.0, applicable to the price paid, in
addition to the FSS bundle identification.
Pallets prepared to the FSS scheme level (previously termed ``sort
plan'' level) all for the same 5-digit FSS-scheme ZIP Code combination
continue to be required at 250 pounds, and optional below 250 pounds.
However, FSS facility (all 5-digit FSS-scheme ZIP Code combinations
processed within the same facility) pallets would be optional at any
level. Pallets would be required to bear a pallet placard with an
Intelligent Mail[supreg] container barcode. Mailers without the
capacity to palletize could request an exception to these palletization
requirements from the local plant manager.
Mailpieces that meet the current eligibility standards for basic
carrier route prices would be included in FSS preparation requirements.
Saturation price Standard Mail and Periodicals flats are not eligible
for this preparation. Mailers may optionally include pieces eligible
for high density and high density plus prices into FSS preparation, but
their inclusion will not be required. The sequencing of mailpieces
within bundles is not required or recommended when preparing FSS
bundles. Only saturation, high density, and high density plus
mailpieces (not prepared under FSS standards) are eligible for
destination delivery unit (DDU) entry within FSS zones.
The Postal Service is adding a new destination FSS (DFSS) price for
Standard Mail flats on FSS scheme pallets entered at the correct FSS
facility. Initially, only FSS scheme pallets (or approved alternate
containers) would be eligible for these destination-entry prices. DFSS
entry piece pricing will be available for Standard Mail flats
qualifying for carrier route and 5-digit piece prices.
Standard Mail flats properly included in an FSS scheme pool, but
qualifying for 3-digit, ADC or mixed ADC prices, claim 3-digit prices.
However, these pieces are not eligible for DFSS prices when placed on
an FSS scheme pallet entered at a DFSS. These pieces are eligible for
DSCF entry prices.
FSS preparation is optional for Periodicals flats mailed at In-
County prices and Periodicals mailings of 5,000 pieces or less mailed
at Outside-County prices. The 5-digit Outside-County bundle charge
continues to be assessed on bundles of Outside-County Periodicals
prepared in accordance with these standards, even though mailpieces
being claimed at the carrier route piece price may be properly placed
within these bundles. FSS scheme pallets will be assessed the Outside-
County container charge for a 3-digit level pallet, and FSS facility
sort level pallets will be charged a container price for an SCF pallet,
except that there will be no container charge when FSS scheme pallets
are entered at an FSS facility. The Outside-County price is the same as
the DSCF price and the Inside-County pound price is the price for the
``none'' entry level. We strongly discourage unbound publications from
being placed in FSS scheme bundles until the USPS further evaluates
standards for automation compatibility.
Bound Printed Matter (BPM) flats prepared under these standards
placed on FSS scheme pallets, sacks or trays, and entered at an FSS
facility will be eligible for DSCF prices.
[[Page 76535]]
Changes for Letters, Flats, and Parcels
All Commercial Mail
To accommodate changes in facility functions, the Postal Service
has been allowing destination sectional center (DSCF) facility pricing
at some former SCFs. As advance notice, effective January 2015, to
qualify for DSCF pricing, mailers would be required to enter mail at an
actual SCF.
Periodicals
We have made a few editorial revisions to standards for Periodicals
in DMM 707.4.0, 707.6.0, 707.7.0, 707.9.0, and 707.18.0 to simplify the
text.
Tray and Sack Labels
We have revised standards for all tray labels to formalize what has
been a practical restriction: That all tray labels be non-adhesive.
This enables quicker turnaround of empty trays for customer use.
Changes for Parcels
New Live Animal Transportation Fee
The Postal Service is currently withdrawing the proposal to expand
application of the live animal transportation fee.
New Minimum Volume Criteria for Manifested Parcels (MMS and eVS)
To provide customers with more flexibility to ship their packages
using the Postal Service, we are reducing the minimum criteria of 200
pieces or 50 pounds, when paying postage by permit imprint, to 50
pieces or 50 pounds for manifest mailers using a manifest mailing
system (MMS) and eVS[supreg] for any single-piece parcel mailings. The
Postal Service will allow a combination of any domestic single-piece
priced (nonpresorted) parcels to meet the new minimum criteria using
one or more of the following: Priority Mail ExpressTM (PME),
Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service[supreg],
Parcel Select[supreg] Nonpresort, nonpresorted Bound Printed Matter,
and single-piece Media Mail[supreg] or Library Mail.
Extra Services and Other Services
Collect on Delivery (COD) Changes
The Postal Service removes the option for senders of nursery stock
shipped Collect on Delivery (COD) to include special instructions for
undeliverable shipments to be auctioned off to the highest bidder and
the proceeds remitted to the sender. Effective July 28, 2013, the
holding period for COD articles was reduced from 30 days to 10 days,
resulting in the USPS being able to return the nursery stock in less
time than we previously would hold it for delivery. Additionally, this
option has not been commonly used and has been difficult to administer.
Therefore, the special instructions for auctions are no longer needed.
The Postal Service also expands the standards for COD mail to allow
Hold for Pickup service to be added when COD mail is sent as Priority
Mail, First-Class Package Service, or Parcel Select Nonpresort.
Signature Handstamp Usage
The Postal Service clarifies the standards for use of an
addressee's signature handstamp for Priority Mail Express or
accountable mail items. Specifically, we clarify that the use of a
handstamp is not exclusive to the Form 3849. Once approved by the
Postmaster, a handstamp may be used for Priority Mail Express and other
accountable mail, including a Return Receipt (Form 3811) purchased with
the applicable extra service.
Although these revisions will not be published in the DMM until
January 26, 2014, mailers may now begin using addressee's signature
handstamps under the revised mailing standards.
Filing of Indemnity Claims
The Postal Service is continuing its efforts to simplify the claims
process and reduce the adjudication period when customers file
indemnity claims. In addition to further enhancements to our online
claims system, the Postal Service is streamlining the filing periods
and manual processes associated with claims processing for improved
efficiency. The claims filing periods for indemnity claims will be 60
days from the date of mailing, and subsequently, the claims appeals
timeline will be reduced from 60 days to 30 days from the date of the
original decision.
Customers should file indemnity claims online or, when no internet
access is available to the customer, claims may be filed by mail
directly to the Postal Service Accounting Services Center. A toll-free
number will be available to obtain Form 1000 for customers filing by
mail. The local Post OfficeTM will no longer file the
indemnity claims for customers, thus eliminating this extra time-
consuming step.
DMM language is revised for payable claims for coins, and other
collectibles to require a sales receipt, invoice or bill of sale, or
statement of value from a reputable dealer, and for firearms to require
a Form 1508 submission with the claim. Also, gift cards, most of which
are replaceable through the issuer, are being added to those items
under non-payable claims.
Return Receipt for Merchandise
As advance notice, the Postal Service plans to discontinue offering
Return Receipt for Merchandise service in July 2014, because Signature
Confirmation provides the same or equivalent service for a lower price.
2014 Promotions
The Postal Service will offer numerous mailing promotions in
calendar year 2014, and will share the details of these promotions on
the RIBBS[supreg] Web site soon.
List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111
Administrative practice and procedure, Postal Service.
For the reasons stated in the preamble, the Postal Service adopts
the following changes to Mailing Standards of the United States Postal
Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), incorporated by reference in the
Code of Federal Regulations. See 39 CFR 111.1. Accordingly, 39 CFR part
111 is amended as follows:
PART 111--[AMENDED]
0
1. The authority citation for 39 CFR part 111 continues to read as
follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 13 U.S.C 301-307; 18 U.S.C. 1692-
1737; 39 U.S.C. 101, 401, 403, 404, 414, 416, 3001-3011, 3201-3219,
3403-3406, 3621, 3622, 3626, 3632, 3633, and 5001.
0
2. Revise the following sections of Mailing Standards of the United
States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), as follows:
Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail
Manual (DMM)
100 Retail Mail
* * * * *
130 First-Class Mail
133 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 First-Class Mail Prices and Fees
1.1 First-Class Mail Single-Piece Price Application
See Notice 123--Price List. The single-piece prices for First-Class
Mail are applied as follows:
[Revise items 1.1a and 1.1b as follows:]
a. The card price applies to a card meeting the standards in
101.6.3.
b. The letter price applies to letter-size pieces meeting the
standards in 101.1.1 and weighing 3.5 ounces or less, and that are not
eligible for the card price. There are separate prices for
[[Page 76536]]
stamped letters and for letters with postage affixed (other than
regular stamps) or imprinted by the mailer (Metered Mail price); see
134.1.1.
* * * * *
134 Postage Payment Methods
1.0 Postage Payment Methods for First-Class Mail
1.1 Payment Method
[Revise the text of 1.1 as follows:]
Postage for single-piece First-Class Mail must be paid with affixed
postage stamps (604.1.0), postage evidencing system postage (604.4.0)
or permit imprint (604.5.0). When mailers affix postage (other than
regular stamps) or use permit imprint on letters, such pieces are
eligible for the Metered Mail price.
* * * * *
200 Commercial Letters and Cards
* * * * *
230 First-Class Mail
233 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees for First-Class Mail
* * * * *
1.2 Price Computation for First-Class Mail Letters
[Revise the text of 1.2 as follows:]
Commercial First-Class Mail Presorted letters are charged at one
price for the first 2 ounces, with separate prices for pieces over 2
ounces up to 3 ounces and for pieces over 3 ounces up to 3.5 ounces.
Any fraction of an ounce is considered a whole ounce. The pricing per
ounce is similar for automation First-Class Mail letters, with pricing
per sortation level. Single-piece price letters that are residual
pieces from either a Presorted or automation mailing are charged the
residual single-piece price for letters up to 2 ounces, when the
mailing contains both 1-ounce and 2-ounce pieces and the pieces are
presented together, and the applicable Metered Mail prices (see
234.1.0) for all other residual pieces. See Notice 123--Price List.
* * * * *
2.0 Content Standards for First-Class Mail Letters
* * * * *
2.3 Personal Information
[Revise the text of 2.3 as follows:]
Mail containing personal information must be mailed as First-Class
Mail (or Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail). Personal information
is any information specific to the addressee.
* * * * *
234 Postage Payment and Documentation
1.0 Basic Standards for Postage Payment
1.1 Postage Payment Options
[Revise the text of 1.1 as follows:]
Postage for Presorted or automation First-Class Mail letters must
be paid with affixed postage or permit imprint as specified in 2.0.
Residual letters (from presorted or automation mailings) with such
postage may be eligible for the Metered Mail price.
2.0 Postage Payment for Presorted and Automation Letters
2.1 Payment Methods
[Revise the text of 2.1 as follows:]
First-Class Mail presorted and automation postage must be paid with
postage evidencing system indicia, permit imprints, or precanceled
stamps. All pieces in a mailing must be paid with the same method
unless otherwise permitted by standard or Business Mailer Support
authorization. Permit imprints may be used for mailings of
nonidentical-weight pieces only if authorized by Business Mailer
Support.
* * * * *
235 Mail Preparation
* * * * *
5.0 Preparing Nonautomation Letters
5.1 Basic Standards
* * * * *
5.1.2 Single-Piece Price Pieces Presented With Presort Mailings
* * * The following standards apply:
[Revise the first two sentences of the introductory paragraph of
item 5.1.2a as follows:]
a. The mailer must prepare the single-piece price pieces in
separate trays from the automation and presort pieces. Mailers must
label the trays under 708.6.0 using CIN code 260 on trays of single-
piece letters. * * *
* * * * *
[Revise item 5.1.2.a2 as follows:]
2. Line 2: Use the human-readable content line corresponding to
content identifier number 260 (see Exhibit 708.6.2.4).
* * * * *
240 Standard Mail
* * * * *
246 Enter and Deposit
* * * * *
2.0 Destination Entry
* * * * *
2.6 Deposit
* * * * *
2.6.7 Redirection at Mailer's Request
[Revise the text of 2.6.7 as follows:]
A mailer may ask to transport destination SCF price mail to a
facility other than the designated SCF. In very limited circumstances,
this exception may be approved only by the manager, Network Integration
Support (see 608.8.0 for address). To qualify for the SCF price in this
situation, mail deposited at a facility other than the SCF must
destinate for processing within that facility and must not require
backhauling to the SCF.
* * * * *
300 Commercial Flats
* * * * *
330 First-Class Mail
333 Prices and Eligibility
* * * * *
2.0 Content Standards for First-Class Mail Flats
* * * * *
2.3 Personal Information
[Revise the text of 2.3 as follows:]
Mail containing personal information must be mailed as First-Class
Mail (or Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail). Personal information
is any information specific to the addressee.
* * * * *
340 Standard Mail
343 Prices and Eligibility
* * * * *
5.0 Additional Eligibility Standards for Nonautomation Standard Mail
Flats
5.1 Basic Standards
All pieces in a Regular Standard Mail or Nonprofit Standard Mail
Presorted price mailing must:
* * * * *
[Revise 5.1d as follows:]
d. Be marked, sorted and documented as specified in 345 or
705.14.0.
* * * * *
5.3 5-Digit Prices for Flats
The 5-digit price applies to flat-size pieces:
[Revise 5.3a as follows:]
a. In a 5-digit/scheme bundle of 10 or more pieces, or 15 or more
pieces, as applicable; properly placed in a 5-digit/scheme sack
containing at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces; or 10 or
[[Page 76537]]
more 5-digit pieces properly included in a FSS 5-digit scheme pool
prepared under 705.14.
* * * * *
5.4 3-Digit Prices for Flats
The 3-digit price applies to flat-size pieces:
* * * * *
[Add new item 5.4c as follows:]
c. That are residual pieces not qualifying for carrier route or 5-
digit prices, but properly included in a FSS 5-digit scheme pool
prepared under 705.14.
* * * * *
6.0 Additional Eligibility Standards for Enhanced Carrier Route
Standard Mail Flats
6.1 General Enhanced Carrier Route Standards
* * * * *
6.1.2 Basic Eligibility Standards
All pieces in an Enhanced Carrier Route or Nonprofit Enhanced
Carrier Route Standard Mail mailing must:
* * * * *
[Revise item 6.1.2c as follows:]
c. Be sorted to carrier routes, marked, and documented under
345.6.0 or 705.8.0; or prepared under 705.14.0.
* * * * *
6.3 Basic Price Enhanced Carrier Route Standards
6.3.1 Sequencing
[Revise the text of 6.3.1 as follows:]
All pieces mailed at basic prices must be prepared in walk sequence
or in line-of-travel (LOT) sequence according to LOT schemes prescribed
by the USPS (see 345.6.9 and 345.6.10), except when prepared in FSS
bundles under 705.14.
6.3.2 Basic Price Eligibility
Basic prices apply to each piece in a carrier route bundle of 10 or
more pieces that is:
* * * * *
[Revise item 6.3.2a as follows:]
a. Palletized under 705.8.0, 705.10.0, 705.12.0, or 705.13.0.
* * * * *
[Add new item 6.3.2e as follows:]
e. Properly prepared to a FSS 5-digit scheme pool prepared under
705.14.
* * * * *
6.4 High Density and High-Density Plus (Enhanced Carrier Route)
Standards
6.4.1 Basic Eligibility Standards for High Density and High-Density
Plus Prices
All pieces mailed at high density prices must:
[Revise item 6.4.1a as follows:]
a. Be prepared in walk sequence according to schemes prescribed by
the USPS (see 345.6.9), except when prepared in FSS bundles under
705.14.
[Revise the third sentence of item 6.4.1b as follows:]
b. * * * Multiple pieces per delivery address can count toward the
density standards, except for pieces with simplified addresses as
allowed under 602.3.0.
* * * * *
6.4.2 High Density and High Density Plus Prices for Flats
[Revise the introductory text of 6.4.2 as follows:]
High density or high density plus prices apply to each piece
meeting the density standards in 6.4.1 and that is properly prepared in
an FSS bundle under 705.14 or in a carrier route bundle of 10 or more
pieces that is:
* * * * *
7.0 Additional Eligibility Standards for Automation Standard Mail Flats
7.1 Basic Eligibility Standards for Automation Standard Mail
All pieces in a Regular Standard Mail or Nonprofit Standard Mail
automation mailing must:
* * * * *
[Revise 7.1f as follows:]
f. Be marked, sorted and documented under 345.7.0 and 705.8.0
through 705.13.0; or prepared under 705.14.0.
* * * * *
7.3 Price Application
Automation prices apply to each piece properly sorted into
qualifying groups:
[Revise 7.3a and 7.3b as follows:]
a. The 5-digit price applies to flat-size pieces in a 5-digit/
scheme bundle of 10 or more pieces, or 15 or more pieces, as
applicable; or 10 or more 5-digit pieces properly prepared to a FSS 5-
digit scheme pool under 705.14.
b. The 3-digit price applies to flat-size pieces in a 3-digit/
scheme bundle of 10 or more pieces. It also applies to residual pieces
not qualifying for carrier route or 5-digit prices but included in a
FSS 5-digit scheme pool under 705.14.
* * * * *
345 Mail Preparation
1.0 General Information for Mail Preparation
* * * * *
[Add a new 1.6 as follows:]
1.6 FSS Preparation
Except for Standard Mail flats mailed at saturation, High Density
or High-Density Plus prices, all Standard Mail flats destinating to FSS
zones in accordance with labeling list L006 must be prepared under
705.14.0. Flats qualifying for High Density and High-Density Plus
prices also may be included in FSS 5-digit scheme pools.
* * * * *
346 Enter and Deposit
* * * * *
2.0 Destination Entry
* * * * *
2.6 Deposit
* * * * *
2.6.7 Redirection at Mailer's Request
[Revise the text of 2.6.7 as follows:]
A mailer may ask to transport destination SCF price mail to a
facility other than the designated SCF. In very limited circumstances,
this exception may be approved only by the manager, Network Integration
Support (see 608.8.0 for address). To qualify for the SCF price in this
situation, mail deposited at a facility other than the SCF must
destinate for processing within that facility and must not require
backhauling to the SCF.
* * * * *
4.0 Destination Sectional Center Facility (DSCF) Entry
* * * * *
4.2 Eligibility
Pieces in a mailing that meets the standards in 2.0 and 4.0 are
eligible for the DSCF price, as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.2c as follows:]
c. DSCF prices apply to residual pieces eligible for 3-digit prices
that are properly placed on a FSS scheme pallet, and pieces from all
eligible price categories properly placed in a FSS scheme sack or tray,
when deposited at a USPS-designated FSS processing facility and labeled
to a FSS scheme processed by that facility or to a 5-digit destination
processed by that facility under labeling list L006. These pieces must
include a full delivery address and meet the physical standards for
FSS-machinability in 705.14.0.
[[Page 76538]]
[Delete item 4.2d in its entirety.]
* * * * *
[Renumber the current 5.0 as the new 6.0, and add a new 5.0 as
follows:]
5.0 Destination Flat Sequencing System (DFSS) Facility Entry
5.1 Definition
Destination Flat Sequencing System Facility (DFSS) refers to the
facilities listed in L006, Column C.
5.2 Eligibility
DFSS prices apply to pieces deposited at a USPS-designated FSS
processing facility and correctly placed on a pallet labeled to a FSS
scheme processed by that facility or to a 5-digit destination processed
by that facility under labeling list L006. These pieces must include a
full delivery address and meet the physical standards for FSS
machinability in 705.14.0.
* * * * *
360 Bound Printed Matter
* * * * *
365 Mail Preparation
1.0 General Information for Mail Preparation
* * * * *
[Add a new 1.6 as follows:]
1.6 FSS Preparation
BPM flats claiming presort or carrier route prices, meeting the
standards in 301.3.2 and destinating to FSS zones in accordance with
labeling list L006, must be prepared under 705.14.0.
* * * * *
366 Enter and Deposit
* * * * *
3.0 Destination Entry
* * * * *
3.9 Deposit
* * * * *
3.9.7 Redirection at Mailer's Request
[Revise the text of 3.9.7 as follows:]
A mailer may ask to transport destination SCF price mail to a
facility other than the designated SCF. In very limited circumstances,
this exception may be approved only by the manager, Network Integration
Support (see 608.8.0 for address). To qualify for the SCF price in this
situation, mail deposited at a facility other than the SCF must
destinate for processing within that facility and must not require
backhauling to the SCF.
* * * * *
5.0 Destination Sectional Center Facility (DSCF) Entry
5.1 Eligibility
[Revise the introductory text of 5.1 as follows:]
Bound Printed Matter pieces in a mailing meeting the standards in
3.0 are eligible for the DSCF price when they meet all of the following
additional conditions:
* * * * *
b. Are deposited at:
* * * * *
[Revise item 5.1b2 as follows:]
2. a USPS-designated FSS processing facility and correctly placed
in a flat tray, sack, or on a pallet, labeled to a FSS scheme processed
by that facility or to a 5-digit destination processed by that facility
under labeling list L006. These pieces must include a full delivery
address and meet the physical standards for FSS-machinability in
705.14.0.
* * * * *
400 Commercial Parcels
* * * * *
440 Standard Mail
* * * * *
446 Enter and Deposit
* * * * *
2.0 Destination Entry
* * * * *
2.6 Deposit
* * * * *
2.6.7 Redirection at Mailer's Request
[Revise the text of 2.6.7 as follows:]
A mailer may ask to transport destination SCF price mail to a
facility other than the designated SCF. In very limited circumstances,
this exception may be approved only by the manager, Network Integration
Support (see 608.8.0 for address). To qualify for the SCF price in this
situation, mail deposited at a facility other than the SCF must
destinate for processing within that facility and must not require
backhauling to the SCF.
* * * * *
460 Bound Printed Matter
* * * * *
466 Enter and Deposit
* * * * *
3.0 Destination Entry
* * * * *
3.9 Deposit
* * * * *
3.9.7 Redirection at Mailer's Request
[Revise the text of 3.9.7 as follows:]
A mailer may ask to transport destination SCF price mail to a
facility other than the designated SCF. In very limited circumstances,
this exception may be approved only by the manager, Network Integration
Support (see 608.8.0 for address). To qualify for the SCF price in this
situation, mail deposited at a facility other than the SCF must
destinate for processing within that facility and must not require
backhauling to the SCF.
* * * * *
500 Additional Mailing Services
503 Extra Services
1.0 Registered Mail
* * * * *
1.6 Inquiry on Uninsured Article
* * * * *
1.6.2 When and How To File
[Revise the current third sentence and add a new fourth sentence to
1.6.2 as follows:]
* * * File an inquiry for Registered Mail with no declared value by
completing a Form 1000. See Publication 122 for additional information.
* * * * *
12.0 Collect on Delivery (COD)
* * * * *
12.2 Basic Information
12.2.1 Description
[Revise the text of 12.2.1 as follows:]
Any mailer may use collect on delivery (COD) service to mail an
article for which the mailer has not been paid and have its price and
the cost of the postage collected (not to exceed $1,000.00) from the
addressee (or agent). COD service provides the mailer with a mailing
receipt and the USPS maintains a record of delivery (including the
recipient's signature) for two years. The recipient may pay the COD
amount due for a mailpiece (with one form of payment) by cash, or a
personal check or money order made payable to the mailer. The USPS
forwards the check or money order to the mailer. The Postal Service
cannot intervene in disputes between mailers and recipients of COD mail
after payment was returned to the mailer. Customers may obtain a
delivery record by purchasing a return receipt. Bulk proof of delivery
service (6.0) is also available if purchasing electronic return receipt
service at the time of mailing. A mailer must use a unique COD number
for each article mailed.
[[Page 76539]]
12.2.2 Eligible Matter
[Revise the introductory text of 12.2.2 as follows:]
COD service may be used for Priority Mail Express (1-day and 2-day
service only), Priority Mail (except Critical Mail), First-Class Mail,
First-Class Package Service, Standard Post, and Package Services or
Parcel Select (except Parcel Select Lightweight) mailpieces if:
* * * * *
12.2.3 Additional Services
[Revise the text of 12.2.3 as follows:]
COD service may be used with Hold For Pick Up service under
508.7.0, and may also be combined with the following services when the
additional service fees are paid:
a. Restricted delivery.
b. Return receipt.
c. USPS Tracking (except with Priority Mail Express COD).
d. Registered Mail.
e. Signature Confirmation (except with Priority Mail Express COD).
f. Special handling.
12.2.4 Registered COD Mail
[Revise 12.2.4 by deleting the current last two sentences and
inserting a new last sentence as follows:]
* * * The label and form must be affixed according to 12.4.1
12.2.5 Priority Mail Express COD
[Revise the text of 12.2.5 as follows:]
Any article sent COD also may be sent by Priority Mail Express when
a delivery signature is requested. The maximum amount collectible from
the addressee and the indemnity for an individual article is limited to
$1,000.00. Priority Mail Express postage and the COD fees must be paid.
The label and form must be affixed according to 12.4.1.
* * * * *
12.2.7 Redirecting COD Articles
[Revise the text of 12.2.7 as follows:]
The mailer of a COD article may use USPS Package Intercept service
under 507.5.0 to redirect the article to a new addressee at a
designated Post Office using Hold For Pickup service.
12.3 Forms
12.3.1 Form 3816
[Revise the text of 12.3.1 as follows:]
Mailers must complete barcoded Form 3816 (see Exhibit 12.3.1) or
Form 3816-AS (see 12.3.2) and attach it above the delivery address and
to the right of the return address, or to the left of the delivery
address on parcels.
* * * * *
12.3.2 Privately Printed Form 3816-AS
[Revise the text of 12.3.2 as follows:]
If authorized, a mailer may use a privately printed Form 3816-AS in
a 3-ply or 5-ply format. If Form 3816-AS does not provide detachable
second and third copies, use Form 3877 under 12.4.4. The privately
printed form must be nearly identical in text, design, and color to
postal Form 3816, with a COD article number that can be read by
automated postal equipment and an Intelligent Mail package barcode
(IMpb) prepared under 708.5.0. As stated in Publication 199, available
at https://ribbs.usps.gov/, mailers must provide pre-production barcoded
COD labels to the National Customer Service Center (NCSC) for review
and approval prior to use.
12.3.3 Nursery Stock
[Revise the complete text of 12.3.3 as follows:]
A firm that mails nursery stock may use Form 3816-AS (see 12.3.2)
and include instructions for disposing of shipments not delivered
immediately under the following conditions. The firm's instructions on
the back of the delivery office part of the COD form (1), and on the
remittance coupon (2), should read as follows:
a. ``If recipient refuses to pay charges for any reason, deliver at
once without collecting the charges. If parcel is not deliverable or
not claimed by the addressee after 10 days, destroy parcel. See
remittance coupon for further instructions.''
b. ``Return this coupon with money order. If parcel is delivered
without collection of charges, or is destroyed after 10 days, check
disposition and send coupon to sender in penalty envelope.''
[squ] Delivered to addressee without collecting charges.
[squ] Destroyed after 10 days.
12.4 Mailing
12.4.1 Identifying Number
[Revise the text of 12.4.1 as follows:]
COD articles are identified by a number on each section of the COD
form. When COD is used with Priority Mail Express, Registered Mail,
Hold For Pickup service or, a separate barcoded shipping label, the
mailer must place both the label and the COD form on the front of the
article. The Priority Mail Express article number or the Registered
Mail number is used for delivery receipt and indemnity claims. When a
separate Hold For Pickup or barcoded shipping label is used, the
identifying tracking numbers on the label and the COD form must match.
[Delete item 12.4.2, Numbering for Large Volumes, in its entirety
(context of text relocated into 12.2.1), and renumber current items
12.4.3 through 12.4.8 as new items 12.4.2 through 12.4.7]
12.4.2 Completing COD Forms
[Revise the text of renumbered 12.4.2 as follows:]
The mailer must securely affix the COD form to each COD article.
The form must show article number, names and addresses of mailer and
recipient, amount due mailer, and amount of money order fee. This
information must be handwritten with ink, typewritten, or computer-
printed. The mailer may not stipulate ``Cash Only'' on the COD form.
The USPS is not responsible for errors that a mailer makes in stating
the charges to be collected.
12.4.3 Addressing Forms
[Revise the second sentence of renumbered 12.4.3 as follows:]
* * * The return address on the COD form must be the same as the
return address on the COD article, except that a mailer using a Form
3816-AS may print a different address on the remittance coupon where
payments are to be sent. * * *
12.4.4 Receipt
[Revise the text of renumbered 12.4.4 as follows:]
A mailer using Form 3816 receives a section of this form as a
receipt. If three or more COD articles are presented for mailing at one
time, the mailer may use Form 3877 (firm sheet) or privately printed
firm sheets in conjunction with Form 3816. When a mailer uses a Form
3816-AS that does not provide detachable second and third copies, Form
3877 also must be used. Privately printed or computer-generated firm
sheets that contain the same information as Form 3877 may be approved
by the local Postmaster or manager, Business Mail Entry. Mailers may
omit columns from Form 3877 that do not apply to COD mail. The mailer
must submit firm sheets in duplicate and will receive one copy of the
postmarked form as a mailing receipt (in lieu of Copy 3 of Form 3816 or
Form 3816-AS) after the entries are verified by a postal employee. The
acceptance Post Office retains the second copy. All entries on Form
3877 or privately-printed firm sheets must be made by typewriter,
printed in ink, or computer-generated. Alterations must be initialed by
the mailer and accepting employee. All unused portions of the addressee
[[Page 76540]]
column must be obliterated with a diagonal line.
* * * * *
12.5 Delivery
[Revise the text of 12.5 as follows:]
Delivery of COD mail is subject to 508.1.0 and 508.2.0. Except for
Priority Mail Express COD, a Postmaster may restrict delivery of COD
mail if the amount to be collected makes the carrier a potential target
for theft or if it is known that the addressee will be unavailable to
receive the article. If payment is by check or a money order made
payable to the mailer, the recipient must present adequate
identification. If payment is made by cash, a money order fee is
collected from the recipient in addition to the COD amount.
* * * * *
505 Return Services
* * * * *
2.0 Permit Reply Mail
2.1 General Information
* * * * *
2.1.5 Special Standards for PRM Pieces With an Optical Disc
[Revise the second sentence of 2.1.5 as follows:]
* * *. A flat-size PRM piece containing one standard optical disc
and weighing no more than 2 ounces will be charged postage applicable
for a 1-ounce First-Class Mail letter if the piece meets the standards
in 333.2.7.
* * * * *
507 Mailer Services
1.0 Treatment of Mail
* * * * *
1.5 Treatment for Ancillary Services by Class of Mail
* * * * *
1.5.3 Standard Mail and Parcel Select Lightweight
* * * * *
Exhibit 1.5.3, Treatment of Undeliverable Standard Mail and Parcel
Select Lightweight
MAILER ENDORSEMENT USPS TREATMENT OF UAA PIECES
* * * * *
[In the ``MAILER ENDORSEMENT'' column, change the footnote appended
to ``Forwarding Service Requested'' from the current ``2'' to footnote
``3.'']
* * * * *
[In the MAILER ENDORSEMENT'' column, change the footnotes appended
to the first listing of ``Change Service Requested'' from the current
``1, 3'' to ``1, 4.'']
* * * * *
[At the bottom of the table, redesignate current footnotes 2 and 3
as new 3 and 4, respectively, and add new footnote 2 (restored from its
intended place where it was as of 1-27-2013) to read as follows:]
1. The weighted (per piece) fee is the First-Class Mail or Priority
Mail single-piece price and any nonmachinable surcharge (see 133.1.0),
multiplied by 2.472; rounding any fractions to the next whole cent.
* * * * *
1.8 Returning Mail
* * * * *
1.8.5 Extra Services
[Revise 1.8.5 by revising the third and fourth sentences and adding
a new fifth sentence as follows:]
* * * The sender must sign a delivery receipt for returned Priority
Mail Express, Registered Mail, COD articles, Adult Signature services,
and mail insured for more than $200. Returned Priority Mail Express
(when waiver of signature is requested by the sender), Certified Mail,
and mail with Signature Confirmation or return receipt for merchandise
service may be returned to the sender without obtaining a signature
when those mailpieces are returned as undeliverable.
* * * * *
4.0 Address Correction Services
* * * * *
4.3 Sender Instructions
* * * * *
4.3.2 Extra Services
[Revise the complete text of 4.3.2 as follows:]
A change-of-address order to a domestic address covers Certified
Mail, COD, insured, Registered Mail, Signature Confirmation, Adult
Signature services, and return receipt for merchandise mail unless the
sender gives other instructions.
This mail is treated as follows:
a. COD mail is not forwarded to overseas military Post Offices.
b. Ordinary and insured parcels marked with the mailer's
instructions are treated following instructions, such as: ``Do not
forward or return. If not accepted within ---- days, treat as
abandoned. Notify mailer of disposition.''
c. COD mail will be handled as requested when marked under 503.12.
* * * * *
508 Recipient Services
1.0 Recipient Options
1.1 Basic Recipient Concerns
* * * * *
1.1.7 Priority Mail Express and Accountable Mail
[Revise the introductory text of 1.1.7 as follows:]
The following conditions also apply to the delivery of Priority
Mail Express and other accountable mail (Registered Mail, Certified
Mail, insured for more than $200.00, COD, or Adult Signature services
as well as mail with return receipt service, return receipt for
merchandise service, or restricted delivery service:
[Revise item 1.1.7a as follows:]
a. The addressee (or representative) may obtain the sender's name
and address while held by the USPS employee before accepting delivery
and endorsing the delivery receipt.
* * * * *
[Revise item 1.1.7c as follows:]
c. Suitable identification may be required of the recipient before
delivery of the mailpiece.
* * * * *
[Revise item 1.1.7e as follows:]
e. USPS responsibility ends when the mailpiece is delivered to the
addressee (or another party, subject to 1.0).
* * * * *
[Revise all of item 1.1.7g as follows:]
g. A hand stamp approved by the Postmaster may be used by the
addressee (or authorized agent) to provide the signature and name of
the individual or organization receiving the mailpiece as follows:
1. The hand stamp imprint must fit within the Signature and Printed
Name blocks on Form 3849, without overlapping into other sections.
2. To obtain approval for a hand stamp, the company must submit a
written statement to the postmaster that the person whose name appears
on the stamp is authorized to accept accountable mail, accompanied by a
sample of the authorized employee's signature. After approval, the
documentation is held by the postmaster and the stamped signature and
name are acceptable only if a legible impression is provided within the
Signature and Printed Name blocks on Form 3849.
3. For mail addressed only to a federal or state official, the
stamp need show only the name and location of the accepting
organization. In these cases, the stamp imprint must fit within the
Printed Name and Delivery Address
[[Page 76541]]
block of Form 3849 without overlapping into other sections.
* * * * *
7.0 Hold For Pickup
* * * * *
7.2 Basic Information
7.2.1 Description
[Revise the text of 7.2.1 as follows:]
Hold For Pickup service allows mailpieces to be held at a
designated Post Office for pickup by an addressee. When the mailer has
provided contact information to the destination Post Office, the
customer is notified by email that a package is available for pickup.
This service provides the shipper with the date and time of delivery to
the addressee. If the item has not been picked up within 5 days, the
Post Office makes a second notification attempt and returns the item to
the sender if not picked up within 15 days.
7.2.2 Basic Eligibility
[Revise the complete text of 7.2.2 as follows:]
Hold For Pickup service is available with Priority Mail Express. It
is also available with commercial mailings of Priority Mail (except
Critical Mail), First-Class Package Service parcels, and Parcel Select
Nonpresort parcels when:
a. Mailpieces bear the Hold For Pickup label with an Intelligent
Mail package barcode under 708.5.0.
b. One of the extra services in 7.2.6 is combined with Hold For
Pickup service.
* * * * *
7.2.6 Extra Services
[Revise the introductory text of 7.2.6 as follows:]
Hold For Pickup service, except when used with Priority Mail
Express, must be combined with one or more of the following:
* * * * *
[Add new item 7.2.6e as follows:]
e. Collect on Delivery (COD).
7.3 Preparation Definitions and Instructions
Except for Priority Mail Express Hold For Pickup presented at
retail Post Office locations, mailers must prepare mailpieces bearing
the ``Hold For Pickup'' label as follows:
[Delete current item 7.3a in its entirety, and redesignate current
items b through d as new items a through c; additionally revise
redesignated item 7.3a as follows:]
a. Exchange electronic files with USPS through an approved file
transfer protocol to notify the addressee when a parcel is available
for pickup or to notify the mailer that items are available to be
picked up as ``return to sender.''
* * * * *
c. In addition to the markings defined in 7.0, address labels on a
Hold For Pickup mailpiece must contain the elements below:
* * * * *
[Revise redesignated 7.3c7 as follows:]
7. The lower half of the address label must contain a correct
Intelligent Mail package barcode under 708.5.0 or an integrated barcode
as defined in Publication 199.
[Insert new item 7.3c8 as follows:]
8. If combined with COD service, other information as required in
503.12.
* * * * *
600 Basic Standards for All Mailing Services
* * * * *
602 Addressing
1.0 Elements of Addressing
* * * * *
1.5 Return Addresses
* * * * *
[Renumber current 1.5.4 as new 1.5.5; add new 1.5.4 to read as
follows:]
1.5.4 Use of Foreign Return Addresses
Regardless of destination, when U.S. postage is applied to a
mailpiece, only a domestic return address is authorized, except when
the addressee's permanent residence is outside the United States or its
territories (e.g., a tourist who lives abroad and is shipping an item
home from the United States). This exception is applicable for only
incidental non-commercial use for single-piece price mailpieces.
* * * * *
4.0 Detached Address Labels (DALs) and Detached Marketing Labels (DMLs)
4.1 DAL and DML Use
* * * * *
4.1.2 Periodicals or Standard Mail Flats Saturation Mailings
[Revise the text of 4.1.2 as follows:]
Saturation mailings of only unaddressed Periodicals or Standard
Mail flats may be mailed with detached address labels (DALs), but DALs
may not bear simplified addresses when used with Standard Mail flats.
For this standard, saturation mailing means a mailing sent to at least
75% of the total addresses on a carrier route or 90% of the residential
addresses on a route, whichever is less. Saturation flats presented
with DALs that are not automation-compatible and correctly barcoded do
not qualify for saturation prices. Instead they may be entered at
applicable basic carrier route prices. This standard (for automation-
compatible barcoded DALs) does not apply to DALs with simplified
addressing when correctly used with Periodicals flats.
* * * * *
4.2 Label Preparation
* * * * *
4.2.2 Addressing
[Revise the text of 4.2.2 as follows:]
The address for each item must be placed on a DAL, parallel to the
longest dimension of the DAL, and may not appear on the item it
accompanies. The DAL must contain the delivery address and a return
address. In addition, if DALs accompany saturation mailings of
Periodicals or Standard Mail flats, a correct Intelligent Mail barcode
with an 11-digit routing code must be printed on each DAL except when
using a simplified address for Periodicals flats as allowed by
standards.
* * * * *
4.5 Postage
* * * * *
4.5.2 Postage Computation and Payment
* * * In addition, these methods of postage payment apply:
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.5.2b as follows:]
b. Standard Mail flats (except EDDM flats) and parcels and Bound
Printed Matter pieces must be paid by permit imprint, which must appear
on each DAL.
* * * * *
604 Postage Payment Methods
* * * * *
5.0 Permit Imprint (Indicia)
5.1 General Standards
* * * * *
5.1.2 Minimum Volume
Permit imprint mailings must contain at least 200 pieces or 50
pounds of mail, except:
* * * * *
[Add new item 5.1.2g as follows:]
g. A mailing containing 50 pieces or 50 pounds of nonpresorted
single-piece domestic mail parcels submitted under the terms of an
approved Manifest Mailing System (including eVS) agreement under
705.2.0. Mailers may include any combination of the following products
under this provision: Priority Mail Express (eVS only), Priority Mail,
First-Class Package Service parcels, First-Class Mail parcels,
[[Page 76542]]
nonpresorted Bound Printed Matter parcels, Parcel Select Nonpresort
parcels, and single-piece Media Mail and Library Mail parcels. Parcels
in USPS-provided packaging, including Flat Rate Envelopes and Boxes,
may be included.*
* * * * *
608 Postal Information and Resources
* * * * *
8.0 USPS Contact Information
8.1 Postal Service
* * * * *
[Add a new listing in alphabetical order as follows:]
Network Integration Support, 475 L'Enfant Plz SW., Rm 7536, Washington
DC 20260-2806
* * * * *
609 Filing Indemnity Claims for Loss or Damage
1.0 General Filing Instructions
1.1 Extra Services With Indemnity
[Revise the text of 1.1 as follows:]
A customer may file an indemnity claim for insured mail, COD items,
Registered Mail with postal insurance, or Priority Mail Express. See
Publication 122, available on www.usps.com, for additional information.
* * * * *
1.4 When To File
File claims as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise the chart in 1.4 as follows:]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
When to file (from mailing date)
Mail type or service ---------------------------------------
No sooner than No later than
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Priority Mail Express........... 7 days............ 60 days.
Priority Mail Express COD....... 15 days........... 60 days.
Registered Mail................. 15 days........... 60 days.
Registered Mail COD............. 15 days........... 60 days.
Insured Mail (including Priority 15 days........... 60 days.
Mail under 3.2).
COD............................. 15 days........... 60 days.
APO/FPO Priority Mail, Express 21 days........... 180 days.
Military Service.
APO/FPO/DPO Insured Mail and 45 days........... 1 year.
Registered Mail (Priority Mail,
First-Class Mail, SAM, or PAL).
APO/FPO/DPO Insured Mail 75 days........... 1 year.
(Surface only).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Delete item 1.5, Where to File, in its entirely and renumber
current 1.6 and 1.7 as new item 1.5 and 1.6, then revise the title of
renumbered 1.5 as follows:]
1.5 Where and How To File
1.5.1 Claims Filed Online
[Revise the first and second sentences of renumbered 1.5.1 as
follows:]
Domestic indemnity claims should be filed online (preferred) at
www.usps.com/domestic-claims for domestic insured mail, COD, Registered
Mail with postal insurance, and Priority Mail Express. Proof of value
is required and should be submitted online as an uploaded file (.pdf or
.jpeg). * * *
1.5.2 Claims Filed by Mail
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.5.2 as follows:]
Customers may file a claim by completing a Form 1000 and mailing it
to the address indicated on the form, accompanied by proof of value.
Obtain Form 1000 by calling 1-800-332-0317, option 9. For pieces with
multiple extra services, the customer must provide original receipts
for all services purchased. Upon request by the USPS, the customer must
submit proof of damage under 2.0 for damaged items or missing contents.
[Delete renumbered 1.5.3, Claims Filed at the Post Office and
current 1.7, Filing Duplicate Claims, in their entirety.]
2.0 Providing Proof of Loss or Damage
[Delete the title of current 2.1, and revise the text of current
2.1 as new 2.0 as follows:]
If a claim is filed because some or all of the contents are missing
or damaged, the addressee must retain the mailing container, including
any damaged articles, all packaging, and any contents received. Upon
written request by the USPS, the addressee must make this proof
available to the local Post Office for inspection, retention, and
disposition in accordance with the claims decision. Failure to do so
will result in denial of the claim.
[Delete current 2.2, Proof of Damage, in its entirety.]
3.0 Providing Evidence of Insurance and Value
3.1 Evidence of Insurance
[Revise the complete text of 3.1 as follows:]
For a claim involving articles listed in 1.1, the customer must
retain evidence showing that the specific USPS service was purchased,
until the claim is resolved. Examples of acceptable evidence are:
a. The original mailing receipt issued at the time of mailing
(retail insured mail, Registered Mail, and COD receipts must contain a
USPS postmark). For insured mail, a photocopy of the original mailing
receipt is acceptable.
b. The outer packaging showing the names and addresses of the
sender and the addressee and the proper label showing that the article
was sent insured, COD, Registered Mail with postal insurance, or
Priority Mail Express. (If only the outer packaging is submitted,
indemnity can be limited to $100 for insured, $50 for COD, $100 for
Registered Mail, and $100 for Priority Mail Express.)
c. For Priority Mail Express items accepted under a Priority Mail
Express Manifesting agreement in 705.2.0, a copy of the manifest page
showing the Priority Mail Express label number for the item; the
manifest summary page for the mailing date of the piece; a copy of Form
3152-E round-dated by the accepting Post Office; and a copy of the
USPSCA monthly statement that lists the label number and postage for
the mailpiece. If the customer purchased additional insurance, a copy
of the round-stamped Form 3877 also must be submitted.
d. For insurance purchased online, a printed electronic online
label record or a computer printout from the application used to print
the label and purchase the insurance. The printout must identify the
USPS Tracking number of the insured parcel, total postage paid,
insurance fee paid, declared value, mailing date, origin ZIP Code, and
delivery ZIP Code.
[[Page 76543]]
e. For insured mail or COD mail paid using MMS or eVS under 705.2,
the mailer must use one of the following:
1. A Detail Record in their Shipping Services file version 1.6 or
higher, with recipient name and address information for the accountable
extra services pieces in the mailing.
2. A printout of the part of Form 3877 that identifies the parcel
by article number, the package identification code (PIC) of the insured
or COD parcel, total postage paid, fee paid, declared insured value,
amount due sender if COD, mailing date, origin ZIP Code, and delivery
ZIP Code reported in the parcel record in the manifest file.
[Revise the title and introductory text of 3.2 as follows:]
3.2 Proof of Value
Either the mailer or the addressee must submit acceptable proof to
establish the cost or value of the article at the time it was mailed.
Proof of value should be submitted electronically or attached to the
claim form under 1.6; otherwise, the claim cannot be processed. Other
proof may be requested to help determine an accurate value. Examples
are:
* * * * *
[Revise item 3.2b as follows:]
b. For items valued up to $50, the customer's statement describing
the lost or damaged article and including the date and place of
purchase, the amount paid, and whether the item was new or used (if a
receipt or invoice is not available).
* * * * *
[Revise item 3.2g as follows:]
g. A copy of a credit card statement or other documentation
indicating the amount paid.
* * * * *
4.0 Claims
4.1 Payable Claim
[Revise the introductory sentence of 4.1 as follows:]
Insurance for loss or damage to insured, COD, or Registered Mail
within the amount covered by the fee paid or the indemnity limits for
Priority Mail Express (under 4.2) is payable for the following:
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.1g as follows:]
g. For stamps and coins of philatelic or numismatic value; the fair
market value is determined by a recognized stamp or coin dealer or
current coin and stamp collectors' newsletters and trade papers. The
date of the fair market value determination must be current and prior
to the mailing date.
* * * * *
[Insert new items 4.1p and 4.1q as follows:]
p. For firearms mailed by licensed firearm dealers under 601.12, a
Form 1508 must be submitted with the claim.
q. For collectible items, a sales receipt, invoice or bill of sale,
or statement of value from a reputable dealer must be provided as
described in 3.2.a.
4.2 Payable Priority Mail Express Claim
[Revise the introductory text of 4.2 and the introductory text of
item 4.2a as follows:]
In addition to the payable claims in 4.1, the following are payable
for Priority Mail Express mailpieces:
a. Nonnegotiable documents are insured against loss, damage, or
loss of some contents while in transit. Coverage is limited to $100 per
mailpiece, subject to a maximum limit per occurrence as provided in
4.2a4. Claims for document reconstruction insurance must be supported
by a statement of expense incurred in reconstruction. Nonnegotiable
documents include audit and business records, commercial papers, and
other written instruments that cannot be negotiable or cannot be
converted into cash without forgery. Articles such as artwork,
collector or antique items, books, pamphlets, readers' proofs, repro
proofs, separation negatives, engineering drawings, blueprints,
circulars, advertisements, film, negatives, and photographs are
considered merchandise, not documents. Indemnity for document
reconstruction is paid as follows:
* * * * *
4.3 Nonpayable Claims
Indemnity is not paid for insured mail, Registered Mail, COD, or
Priority Mail Express in these situations:
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.3f as follows:]
f. Loss resulting from delay of the mail, except under 4.2a2 and
4.3ad below.
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.3k as follows:]
k. Death of honeybees, crickets, and harmless live animals not the
fault of the USPS (mailability is subject to 601.9.0).
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.3r as follows:]
r. Consequential loss of Priority Mail Express, except under 4.2a3
and 4.3ad.
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.3aa as follows:]
aa. Lottery tickets, sweepstakes tickets, contest entries, gift
cards and similar items.
* * * * *
6.0 Adjudication of Claims
* * * * *
6.2 Appealing a Claim Decision
[Revise the text of 6.2 as follows:]
A customer may appeal a claim decision within 30 days from the date
of the original decision at www.usps.com/insuranceclaims/online.
Customers who did not file their claim online must send written appeals
to Accounting Services (see 608.8.0 for address).
6.3 Final USPS Decision of Claims
[Revise the text of 6.3 as follows:]
If Accounting Services sustains the denial of a claim, the customer
may submit an additional appeal within 30 days for final review and
decision to the Consumer Advocate (see 608.8.0 for address).
* * * * *
700 Special Standards
* * * * *
705 Advanced Preparation and Special Postage Payment Systems
* * * * *
8.0 Preparing Pallets
* * * * *
8.5 General Preparation
* * * * *
8.5.6 Mail on Pallets
These standards apply to mail on pallets:
* * * * *
[Revise item 8.5.6h as follows:]
h. Heavier, fuller trays must be placed at the bottom of the load,
unless excepted by other standards (such as 245.7.7) that may require
placement on the top of the pallet.
* * * * *
14.0 Combining Bundles of Flats on Pallets Within FSS Zones
14.1 General
[Revise the introductory paragraph of 14.1 as follows:]
Presorted and basic carrier route Standard Mail flats, and all
Bound Printed Matter (BPM) presorted and carrier route flats and
Periodicals flats meeting the standards in 301.3.2, must be
consolidated into 5-digit FSS scheme bundles and placed on pallets, in
sacks, or in approved alternate containers, for 5-digit FSS scheme ZIP
Code
[[Page 76544]]
combinations within the same facility. Mailings that include 10 or more
pieces of Standard Mail flats, 6 or more pieces of Periodicals flats or
10 or more pieces (or 10 or more pounds) of BPM flats to a FSS scheme,
must be prepared in FSS scheme bundles for that 5-digit FSS scheme.
Mailers may optionally prepare scheme pools with less than those
minimums and may prepare an FSS scheme bundle if there is a minimum of
3 inches per bundle. Mailings of nonpresorted BPM flats may be included
in FSS preparation, but will not be eligible for presorted or carrier
route prices. The Postal Service also recommends the use of flat trays
in lieu of sacks for FSS bundles. Bundles of flats prepared to FSS
zones also may be combined with bundles of flats not intended for FSS
processing when prepared to less finely presorted containers in
accordance with these standards and the standards in 8.0. Mailers must
place qualifying mailpieces from all price categories into a separate
combined pool for each individual 5-digit FSS-scheme combination, and
then prepare bundles of uniform size from those pieces. Mailpieces that
meet the eligibility standards for 5-digit prices, basic and high
density carrier route prices, or BPM presort or carrier route prices
will continue to be eligible for these prices when prepared in
accordance with the FSS preparation standards. Saturation price
Standard Mail and Periodicals flats are not eligible for preparation
under this option. High Density and High-Density Plus Standard Mail
flats that meet the physical requirements in 301.3 may be included when
prepared in accordance with these standards. Mailpieces and bundles
must also be prepared as follows:
[Revise 14.1a and b as follows:]
a. Bundles for all FSS schemes must be identified as a 5-digit
scheme presort with an optional endorsement line under 708.7.0; or when
authorized, using a red Label 5 SCH barcoded pressure-sensitive bundle
label.
b. It is recommended that all Standard Mail and Periodicals pieces
placed into an FSS pool be barcoded, and bear an accurate delivery
point Intelligent Mail barcode with an accurate 11-digit routing code.
* * * * *
[Revise 14.1j as follows:]
j. An FSS scheme pallet, or approved alternate container, must be
made when 250 pounds or more of bundles are available for an individual
FSS 5-digit scheme. Bundles remaining after palletization may be placed
in sacks (or flat trays if approved).
* * * * *
14.2 Periodicals
14.2.1 Basic Standards
[Revise the introductory paragraph of 14.2.1 as follows:]
Except for Periodicals flats mailed at In-County prices,
Periodicals flats mailings of 5,000 pieces or less mailed at Outside-
County prices, or otherwise excepted Periodicals flats mailings, all
Periodicals flats meeting the standards in 301.3.2 (nonmachinable flats
up to 1-inch thick may be included if they meet the standards in
705.14) and destinating to FSS zones as shown in L006, must be prepared
according to these standards. Mailings of In-County Periodicals flats
and Outside-County Periodicals flats mailings of 5,000 pieces or less
also may be prepared according to these standards. Periodicals are
subject to the following:
* * * * *
[Revise 14.2.1a and 14.2.1b as follows:]
a. Pricing eligibility is based on 707.11.0 through 707.14.0,
except that the 5-digit Outside-County bundle charge will be assessed
to bundles of Outside-County Periodicals prepared in accordance with
these standards, including bundles of flats claimed at the carrier
route piece price. All Periodicals flats prepared under these standards
will be assessed the 3-digit bundle price without regard to the piece
prices claimed. FSS bundles placed on FSS scheme or FSS facility
pallets, sacks or trays will claim the 3-digit bundle price.
b. FSS 5-digit scheme pallets will be assessed the Outside-County
container charge for the 3-digit level pallet, except that there is no
container charge for FSS 5-digit scheme pallets entered at a DFSS
facility. FSS facility sort level pallets will be charged a container
price for the SCF pallet. FSS scheme sacks or trays will continue to be
assessed the 3-digit price. Sacks and trays entered at a DFSS will
claim the DSCF entry price.
[Redesignate current 14.2.1c through f as new 14.2.1d through g,
and add new item 14.2.1c to read as follows:]
c. The Outside-County pound price will be the same as the DSCF
price. The Inside-County price will claim prices for the ``none'' entry
level.
* * * * *
[Revise redesignated items 14.2.1e, f and g as follows:]
e. Mailers must combine all 5-digit, carrier route, and 5-digit
scheme eligible flat-size mailpieces into a combined mailpiece pool for
each FSS 5-digit scheme combination according to L006.
f. Each bundle must be identified with a ``SCH 5-DIGIT FSS''
optional endorsement line in accordance with Exhibit 708.7.1.1; or when
authorized, using a red Label 5 SCH barcoded pressure-sensitive bundle
label.
g. All pooled Periodicals mailpieces prepared on pallets to a
single presort destination must be prepared in uniform size bundles,
between 3 inches and 6.5 inches in height and secured under 601.2.0,
except that one overflow bundle per mailpiece pool may be under the
minimum size.
* * * * *
14.2.2 Pallet Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation sequence and labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of 14.2.2a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required (optional under 250 pounds), no minimum,
permitted only for FSS bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as
shown in L006. Labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise the introductory text of 14.2.2b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional, no minimum, permitted only for FSS
bundles prepared for the FSS sort plans processed within the same
facility, as shown in L006. Labeling:
* * * * *
14.2.3 Sack Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation and labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of 14.2.3a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required, permitted only for 5-digit FSS scheme
bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as shown in L006; labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise the introductory text of 14.2.3b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional, permitted only for FSS bundles
prepared for the FSS sort plans processed within the same facility, as
shown in L006; labeling:
* * * * *
14.3 Standard Mail
14.3.1 Basic Standards
* * * Standard Mail flats are subject to the following:
* * * * *
[Revise 14.3.1c and d as follows:]
c. Mailers must combine all 5-digit, basic carrier route, and 5-
digit scheme eligible flat-size mailpieces into a combined mailpiece
pool for each FSS 5-digit scheme combination according to L006.
d. Each bundle must be identified with a ``SCH 5-DIGIT FSS''
optional
[[Page 76545]]
endorsement line in accordance with Exhibit 708.7.1.1; or when
authorized, using a red Label 5 SCH barcoded pressure-sensitive bundle
label.
* * * * *
14.3.2 Pallet Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation sequence and labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of 14.3.2a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required (optional under 250 pounds), no minimum,
permitted only for FSS bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as
shown in L006. Labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise the introductory text of 14.3.2b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional, no minimum, permitted only for FSS
bundles prepared for the FSS scheme processed within the same facility,
as shown in L006. Labeling:
* * * * *
14.3.3 Sack Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation and labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of 14.3.3a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required, permitted only for 5-digit FSS scheme
bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as shown in L006; labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise the introductory text of 14.3.3b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional, permitted only for 5-digit FSS
bundles prepared for the FSS schemes processed within the same
facility, as shown in L006; labeling:
* * * * *
14.4 Bound Printed Matter
14.4.1 Basic Standards
[Revise the introductory text of 14.4.1 as follows:]
Bound Printed Matter (BPM) flats eligible for, and paid at,
presorted prices or carrier route prices, and that meet the standards
in 301.3.2, must be combined in 5-digit FSS scheme bundles and placed
on pallets, or in flat trays, sacks or approved alternate containers,
for delivery to ZIP Codes having FSS processing capability, as shown in
L006. BPM flats are subject to the following:
* * * * *
[Revise 14.4.1c and d as follows:]
c. Mailers must combine all eligible flat-size mailpieces into a
combined mailpiece pool for each FSS 5-digit scheme combination
according to L006.
d. Each bundle must be identified with a ``SCH 5-DIGIT FSS''
optional endorsement line in accordance with Exhibit 708.7.1.1; or when
authorized, using a red Label 5 SCH barcoded pressure-sensitive bundle
label.
* * * * *
14.4.2 Pallet Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation sequence and labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of 14.4.2a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required (optional under 250 pounds), no minimum,
permitted only for FSS bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as
shown in L006. Labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise the introductory text of 14.4.2b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional, no minimum; permitted only for FSS
bundles prepared for the FSS schemes processed within the same
facility, as shown in L006. Labeling:
* * * * *
14.4.3 Sack Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation and labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of 14.4.3a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required, permitted only for 5-digit FSS scheme
bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as shown in L006; labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise the introductory text of 14.4.3b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional, permitted only for FSS bundles
prepared for the FSS schemes processed within the same facility, as
shown in L006; labeling:
* * * * *
15.0 Combining Standard Mail Flats and Periodicals Flats
15.1 Basic Standards
* * * * *
[Revise the title and introductory text of 15.1.11 as follows:]
15.1.11 Preparation for FSS Zones
Mailers authorized to combine mailings of Standard Mail flats and
Periodicals flats must prepare these mailings under 14.0, when the
mailing includes pieces destinating within one or more of the FSS zones
in L006. Mailpieces eligible for High Density and High-Density Plus
prices are not required to, but may be, prepared under the standards in
14.0. The following applies:
[Delete current items 15.1.11a through c in their entirety and
resequence current items 15.11.1d through f as new items 15.11.1a
through 1c.]
* * * * *
707 Periodicals
* * * * *
4.0 Basic Eligibility Standards
* * * * *
4.9 Issues
4.9.1 Regular Issues
[Revise the text of 4.9.1 as follows:]
Regular issues must be published according to the publication's
stated frequency. Issues may include annual reports, directories,
buyers' guides, lists, and similar material if these issues bear the
publication title and are included in the regular subscription price,
if any.
* * * * *
[Delete 4.9.3, Content, in its entirety (text moved into 4.9.1).]
[Renumber current 4.9.4 and 4.9.5 as new 4.9.3 and 4.9.4.]
* * * * *
6.0 Qualification Categories
6.1 General Publication
* * * * *
6.1.2 Circulation Standards
General publications must meet these circulation standards:
* * * * *
[Revise items 6.12b through 6.1.2g as follows:]
b. Records for subscriptions to a publication must be kept so that
subscriptions to each publication can be verified.
c. Persons whose subscriptions are obtained at a nominal price and
those whose copies bear an alternative address must not be included in
the legitimate list of subscribers. Such copies must be treated as
nonsubscriber copies.
d. Subscriptions may be paid for with dues or contributions, if the
amount paid for the subscription is stated. The USPS may require
evidence of compliance; see 5.1.2 for more information.
e. A subscription must be separated from all other business
transactions to be evident as an independent act. Publishers must be
able to show that subscriptions are voluntary and that the subscription
price is paid or promised.
f. At least 50% of a publication's distribution must be to persons
who have paid above a nominal price. (For inclusion of electronic
copies, see 6.5). Nominal price subscriptions include those sold at a
price so low that it cannot be considered a material consideration; or
at a reduction to the subscriber (under a premium offer or any other
arrangement) of more than 70% of the basic annual subscription
[[Page 76546]]
price. The value of a premium is its actual cost to the publisher, its
recognized retail value, or its represented value, whichever is
highest.
g. Publications primarily designed for free circulation or for
circulation at nominal prices do not qualify for the general
publications category.
[Delete items 6.1.2g1 through 6.1.2g4 in their entirety; the same
substantive information is included in items 6.1.2a through 6.1.2f.]
* * * * *
6.4 Requester Publications
* * * * *
6.4.2 Circulation Standards
Requester publications must meet these circulation standards:
* * * * *
[Revise item 6.4.2b as follows:]
b. Subscription copies of the publications that are paid for or
promised to be paid for, including those at or below a nominal price,
may be included in the 50% request requirement. (For inclusion of
electronic copies, see 6.5.)
* * * * *
[Revise items 6.4.2d through 6.4.2f as follows:]
d. Records of requests for a publication must be kept so that
subscriptions or requests for each publication can be verified.
e. Requests more than 3 years old are not valid requests. Copies
addressed using an alternative address format are not considered
requested copies.
f. For a requester publication issued by a membership organization,
the organization may adopt a resolution that each member receives a
copy of each issue. Records must be kept to show that the publication
is sent to members.
Form 3500 must be accompanied by a copy of the resolution and
written assurance that the required records are kept.
* * * * *
6.7 News Agent Registry
6.7.1 Definition
[Revise the text of 6.7.1 by including text from current 6.7.2 as
follows:]
The term news agent means a person or concern selling two or more
Periodicals publications published by more than one publisher. A news
agent must be authorized by the USPS before the agent may mail
publications at Periodicals prices.
[Delete current 6.7.2, Authorization; text is relocated to 6.7.1.]
[Renumber current 6.7.3 through 6.7.5 as new 6.7.2 through 6.7.4.]
* * * * *
6.7.3 Unsold Copies
[Revise the text of renumbered 6.7.3 as follows:]
Unsold copies returned to the publishers or sent to other news
agents or sent to persons not having subscriptions with news agents,
are subject to the Outside-County Periodicals prices.
* * * * *
7.0 Mailing to Nonsubscribers or Nonrequesters
7.1 Sample Copies
[Revise the text of 7.1 as follows:]
Sample copies are nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies and may be
mailed at prices according to standards in 7.0 and 10.0.
7.2 Simplified Address
[Revise the text of 7.2 as follows:]
Copies addressed with simplified addresses under 602.3.2 may be
mailed only to nonsubscribers or nonrequesters. If a subscriber or
requester receives a simplified address copy in addition to the
subscriber or requester copy, the additional copy is considered a
nonsubscriber or nonrequester copy.
* * * * *
7.4 Gift Subscriptions
[Revise the text of 7.4 as follows:]
Copies sent to persons whose subscriptions were paid by other
individuals as gifts are considered subscriber copies. Subscriptions
paid by advertisers or other persons promoting their own interests, and
subscriptions given free by the publisher, are not gift subscriptions,
and are considered nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies.
7.57 Exchange Copies
[Revise the text of 7.5 as follows:]
A small part of the distribution list may contain publishers to
whom one copy each is sent in exchange for a copy of the recipients'
publications. These exchange copies are considered subscriber or
requester copies.
* * * * *
7.7 Complimentary Copies
[Revise the text of 7.7 as follows:]
All complimentary copies are considered nonsubscriber or
nonrequester copies.
7.8 Proof Copies
[Revise the text of 7.8 as follows:]
One complete copy of each issue may be mailed to each advertiser
(or agent) in the issue to prove that the advertisements are printed.
These copies are considered subscriber or requester copies. Any
additional copies sent to an advertiser (or agent) are considered
nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies.
* * * * *
9.0 Changing Title, Frequency, or Known Office of Publication
9.1 General
9.1.1 When Required
[Revise the text of 9.1.1 as follows:]
Except under 9.1.2, the publisher must file an application for
reentry on Form 3510 to the original entry Postmaster to change the
title, frequency of issue; or to change location of the known office of
publication of an authorized Periodicals publication by submitting Form
3510 to the Postmaster whose service area oversees the new location.
* * * * *
[Delete current 9.1.3, Where to File, in its entirety (text moved
to 9.1.1).]
[Renumber current 9.1.4 through 9.1.4 as new 9.1.3 through 9.1.4.]
[Delete current 9.1.6, Same County, in its entirety; the same
information appears in 707.11.3.]
[Renumber current 9.1.7 as new 9.1.5 and revise as follows:]
9.1.5 Filing Date
Publishers changing the title or frequency of a publication must
file Form 3510 by the date on which copies are to be issued with the
new title or on the new frequency.
[Delete current 9.1.8, Effective Date, in its entirety; the same
information is in current 9.3.5.]
[Renumber current 9.1.9 through 9.1.12 as new 9.1.6 through 9.1.9.]
* * * * *
9.1.7 Application Fee
[Revise the text of renumbered 9.1.7 as follows:]
The correct (nonrefundable) fee must accompany an application (Form
3510) for reentry. No additional fee is required when a revised Form
3500 is required as part of a reentry application.
9.1.8 Multiple Reentry Requests
[Revise the text of renumbered 9.1.8 as follows:]
A publisher may file one Form 3510 and pay one fee to request
multiple reentry actions under 9.1 if all documentation is submitted
with the Form 3510 under 9.1.3; and the effective dates for the reentry
actions do not cover more than 30 calendar days. The publisher must
submit a separate Form 3510 (and pay the fee) for each reentry action
that cannot meet these conditions.
[[Page 76547]]
9.1.9 Other Actions
[Revise the text of renumbered 9.1.9 as follows:]
A publisher must submit a separate Form 3510 (and pay the fee) for
each reentry action under 28.4, 30.0, 10.0 (no fee), or 9.2. A
publisher must file a separate Form 3510 (and pay the fee) if the
publication's distribution plan is modified other than the frequency of
issuance or the location of the original entry Post Office.
9.2 Changing Qualification Categories
[Revise the text of 9.2 as follows:]
To change the category under which a publication is authorized
Periodicals mailing privileges, the publisher must file a revised Form
3500 and an application for reentry on Form 3510 with the original
entry Postmaster and pay the applicable fee. See 9.1.2 for when a
reentry application may not be required.
[Delete current 9.2.1, 9.2.2, 9.2.3, and 9.2.4 in their entirety
(the text of 9.2.1, 9.2.3, and 9.2.4 are merged into new text in 9.2;
the text of 9.2.2 is already covered in current 9.1.2).]
9.3 Application for Reentry
9.3.1 Pending
While an application for reentry is pending, copies of an
authorized Periodicals publication are accepted for mailing at the
Periodicals prices, subject to 9.3.5.
[Delete current 9.3.2, Additional Information, in its entirety; the
same information is in current 9.3.3.]
[Renumber current 9.3.3 through 9.3.5 as new 9.3.2 through 9.3.4,
and revise the text of renumbered 9.3.2 as follows:]
9.3.2 Proof of Compliance
The publisher must be able to show (via circulation and other
records) to USPS satisfaction that the reentered publication still
meets all Periodicals standards. Failure to provide this evidence is
sufficient grounds to deny the reentry request.
* * * * *
9.3.4 Effective Date
[Revise the text of renumbered 9.3.4 as follows:]
An entry office may not be used before authorization by the USPS. A
publisher may not pay postage at another price to deposit copies at an
unauthorized entry office. Subject to the restrictions in 9.1, the
effective date of a reentry authorization is the application date or
the eligibility date (if the publication became eligible after the
application date). The requested date for a change in original entry
office may be deferred until sufficient transportation or other
resources are in place. If deferral is due to USPS transportation
contract limitations, the publisher's requested date may be approved
with the publisher's agreement to reimburse the USPS for costs caused
by modifying contracted transportation.
[Delete current 9.3.6, Denial After Verification, in its entirety;
the same information is in current 9.3.7.]
[Renumber current 9.3.7 through 9.3.12 as new 9.3.5 through
9.3.10.]
[Revise the title and text of renumbered 9.3.5 as follows:]
9.3.5 Denial
If the PCSC manager denies an application, a written notice of the
reasons is provided to the publisher. The denial takes effect 15 days
from the publisher's receipt of the notice, unless the publisher files
an appeal under 9.3.6 within that time. Alternatively, the publisher
may return to the publication status before the application for reentry
was submitted.
* * * * *
12.0 Nonbarcoded (Presorted) Eligibility
12.1 Basic Standards
* * * * *
12.3 Prices--In-County
12.3.1 Five-Digit Prices
5-digit prices apply to:
* * * * *
[Add new item 12.3.1c as follows:]
c. Qualifying flats included in a FSS 5-digit scheme pool under
705.14.
* * * * *
12.3.2 Three-Digit Prices
3-digit prices apply to:
* * * * *
[Add new 12.3.2c as follows]
c. Flat-size pieces not qualifying for carrier route or 5-digit
prices, but properly included in a FSS 5-digit scheme pool prepared
under 705.14.
* * * * *
13.0 Carrier Route Eligibility
* * * * *
13.2 Sorting
* * * * *
13.2.2 Sequencing Requirements
[Revise the introductory text of 13.2.2 as follows:]
Except for flats properly prepared under FSS standards in 705.14,
carrier route mail must be prepared in delivery sequence as follows:
* * * * *
13.3 Walk-Sequence Prices
13.3.1 Eligibility
[Revise the text of 13.3.1 as follows]
The high density or saturation prices apply to each walk-sequenced
piece in a carrier route mailing, eligible under 13.2.1 and prepared
under 705.8.0, 23.0, or (nonletter-size mail only) 705.10.0, 705.12.0,
or 705.13.0, that also meets the corresponding addressing and density
standards in 13.3.4. High density and saturation price mailings must be
prepared in carrier walk sequence according to schemes prescribed by
the USPS (see 23.8), except for qualifying high density flats that are
properly included in FSS 5-digit scheme pools under 705.14.
14.0 Barcoded (Automation) Eligibility
* * * * *
14.4 Prices--In-County
14.4.17 Five-Digit Prices
5-digit automation prices apply to:
* * * * *
[Add new item 14.4.1c as follows:]
c. Qualifying flats included in a FSS 5-digit scheme pool under
705.14.
* * * * *
14.4.2 Three-Digit Prices
3-digit automation prices apply to:
* * * * *
[Add new item 14.4.2c as follows]
c. Flat-size pieces not qualifying for carrier route or 5-digit
prices, but properly included in a FSS 5-digit scheme pool prepared
under 705.14
* * * * *
18.0 General Mail Preparation
18.1 Definition of Presort
[Revise the text of 18.1 as follows:]
``Presort'' is the process by which a mailer prepares mail so that
it is sorted to at least the finest extent required by the standards.
18.2 Definition of Mailings
``Mailings'' are defined as:
[Revise item 18.2a as follows:]
a. A mailing is a group of pieces within the same class of mail and
the same processing category that are sorted together and presented
under a minimum volume mailing requirement. Specific standards may
define whether separate mailings may be combined, palletized, reported,
or deposited together.
* * * * *
[Add a new 18.5 as follows:]
18.5 FSS Preparation
Except for Periodicals flats mailed at In-County prices,
Periodicals flats
[[Page 76548]]
mailings of 5,000 pieces or less mailed at Outside-County prices,
Periodicals flats mailed at saturation, High Density prices, or
otherwise excepted Periodicals flats mailings, all Periodicals flats
(including nonmachinable flats up to 1-inch thick may be included if
they meet the standards in 705.14) destinating to FSS zones as shown in
L006, must be prepared under 705.14. Mailings of In-county Periodicals
flats, Outside-county Periodicals flats mailings of 5,000 pieces or
less, and Periodicals qualifying for High-Density prices may be
included in FSS 5-digit scheme pools.
* * * * *
29.0 Destination Entry
* * * * *
29.4 Destination Sectional Center Facility
* * * * *
29.4.2 Price Eligibility
Determine price eligibility as follows:
* * * * *
[Delete the last sentence of the introductory text of 29.4.2b, and
delete 29.4.2b1 and b2 in their entirety, so that item b reads as
follows:]
b. Container Prices. Mailers may claim the DSCF container price for
SCF and more finely presorted containers that are entered at and
destined within the service area of the SCF at which the container is
deposited.
* * * * *
[Renumber current 29.5. as new 29.6, and add a new 29.5 as
follows:]
29.5. Destination Flat Sequencing System (DFSS) Facility Entry
29.5.1 Definition
For this standard, destination Flat Sequencing System Facility
(DFSS) refers to the facilities listed in L006, Column C.
29.5.2 Eligibility
DFSS prices apply to pieces deposited at a USPS-designated FSS
processing facility and correctly placed in a flat tray, sack, or on a
pallet, labeled to a FSS sort plan or labeled to a 5-digit destination
processed by that facility, under labeling list L006. These pieces must
include a full delivery address and meet the physical standards for
FSS-machinability in 705.14.0.
* * * * *
708 Technical Specifications
* * * * *
6.0 Standards for Barcoded Tray Labels, Sack Labels, and Container
Placards
* * * * *
6.2 Specifications for Barcoded Tray and Sack Labels
6.2.1 Use
Exhibit 6.2.1 shows the types of mail requiring barcoded tray or
sack labels. Barcoded labels must meet these general standards:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item 6.2.1b as follows:]
b. Mailer-produced barcoded labels must meet the standards in 6.0,
and tray labels must be non-adhesive.
* * * * *
6.2.4 3-Digit Content Identifier Numbers
* * * * *
Exhibit 6.2.4 3-Digit Content Identifier Numbers
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS AND MAILING..................... CIN HUMAN-READABLE CONTENT
LINER
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
PERIODICALS (PER)
* * * * *
PER Flats --
Merged Carrier Route, Barcoded, and Nonbarcoded
* * * * *
[Add a new third row as follows:]
FSS scheme and FSS facility 349 PER FLTS 5D FSS SCH BC
* * * * *
PERIODICALS (NEWS)
* * * * *
NEWS Flats --
Merged Carrier Route, Barcoded, and Nonbarcoded
* * * * *
[Add a new third row as follows:]
FSS scheme and FSS facility 449 NEWS FLTS 5D FSS SCH BC
* * * * *
STANDARD MAIL
* * * * *
STD Flats --
Merged Carrier Route, Automation, and Presorted
* * * * *
[Add a new third row as follows:]
FSS scheme and FSS facility 549 STD FLTS 5D FSS SCH BC
* * * * *
PACKAGE SERVICES
* * * * *
BPM Flats--Cosacked Barcoded and Presorted
* * * * *
[Add a new second row as follows:]
FSS scheme and FSS facility 638 PSVC FLTS 5D FSS SCH BC
* * * * *
We will publish an appropriate amendment to 39 CFR part 111 to
reflect these changes.
Stanley F. Mires,
Attorney, Legal Policy & Legislative Advice.
[FR Doc. 2013-29879 Filed 12-17-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P