New Mailing Standards for Domestic Mailing Services Products, 6573-6615 [2015-01851]
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Vol. 80
Thursday,
No. 24
February 5, 2015
Part II
Postal Service
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39 CFR Part 111
New Mailing Standards for Domestic Mailing Services Products; Proposed
Rule
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Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
POSTAL SERVICE
39 CFR Part 111
New Mailing Standards for Domestic
Mailing Services Products
Postal ServiceTM.
Proposed rule.
AGENCY:
ACTION:
In January 2015, the Postal
ServiceTM filed a notice of mailing
services price adjustments with the
Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC),
effective April 26, 2015. This proposed
rule contains the revisions to Mailing
Standards of the United States Postal
Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®)
that we would adopt to implement the
changes coincident with the price
adjustments.
DATES: We must receive comments on or
before March 9, 2015.
ADDRESSES: Mail or deliver written
comments to the manager, Product
Classification, U.S. Postal Service®, 475
L’Enfant Plaza SW., Room 4446,
Washington DC 20260–5015. You may
inspect and photocopy all written
comments at USPS® Headquarters
Library, 475 L’Enfant Plaza SW., 11th
Floor N, Washington, DC, by
appointment only between the hours of
9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through
Friday, by calling 1–202–268–2906 in
advance. Email comments, containing
the name and address of the commenter,
may be sent to: ProductClassification@
usps.gov, with a subject line of ‘‘April
2015 Domestic Mailing Services
Proposal.’’ Faxed comments are not
accepted.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Karen Key, 202–268–7492, John Rosato,
202–268–8597, or Suzanne Newman,
202–695–0550.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Proposed
prices (CPI prices plus Exigent
surcharges) will be available in
Attachment A, Part II in the Postal
Service’s Notice, which was filed under
Docket Number R2015–4. Materials
related to this Docket are available on
the Postal Regulatory Commission’s
Web site at www.prc.gov.
The Postal Service’s proposed rule
includes: Changes to prices (not every
price being changed is highlighted, see
www.prc.gov for complete listing of the
proposed prices), several mail
classification and preparation changes,
modifications to mailpiece
characteristics and additional services,
multiple product and service
simplification efforts, and revisions to
the DMM to condense language and
eliminate redundancy to improve its
ease of use without changing the
mailing standards.
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
SUMMARY:
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Proposed Changes for First-Class Mail
Letters and Flats
To better manage the customer
experience, the Postal ServiceTM
proposes maintaining the First-Class
MailTM single-piece stamp price at 49
cents. Likewise, single-piece flats up to
one ounce will be kept at 98 cents,
preserving the convenience to
consumers of using two letter stamps for
postage. The single-piece additional
ounce and non-machinable surcharge
prices will increase one cent to 22 cents.
Last year, we introduced a Metered
Mail price to provide greater flexibility
to price stamps, single-piece Metered
Mail, and presort mail to reflect their
different costs and markets. The
Metered Mail price will increase
modestly but will still remain below the
single-piece stamp price.
Proposed Changes for Parcels
First-Class Mail Parcels
In November 2014, the Governors
approved filing for the transfer of FirstClass Mail parcels to a competitive
product. The pleading was filed with
the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC)
on November 14, 2014, Docket No.
MC2015–7. As discussed in the filing,
First-Class Mail parcels compete with
an assortment of comparable products
with fast delivery offered by competitors
for mailable matter weighing less than
13 ounces. Since First-Class Mail
parcels fulfill all of the criteria for
competitive products, and recognizing
the competitive nature of the
marketplace that these parcels fulfill,
the Postal Service plans to remove FirstClass Mail parcels from the market
dominant product list, and add it as a
retail subcategory of the existing FirstClass Package® Service competitive
product. If this is adopted, the new
First-Class Package Service category
would maintain First-Class Mail service
standards and pricing structure.
Because the Commission has not yet
ruled on this proposal, we propose an
above average price increase to improve
the cost coverage since First-Class Mail
parcels have an exceptionally low cost
coverage for a First-Class Mail product.
Package Services
Package Services now consists of
Alaska Bypass, Bound Printed Matter
flats, Bound Printed Mailer parcels,
Media Mail, and Library Mail. Bound
Printed Matter flats consist primarily of
heavy catalogs, and Bound Printed
Matter parcels consist primarily of
product order fulfillment. We are
proposing to increase Media Mail and
Library Mail (whose prices are linked by
law) by more than average because these
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products continue to not cover their
costs. We are proposing to increases to
Bound Printed Matter parcels prices,
(and minimally to Bound Printed Matter
flats prices as mentioned under
Proposed Changes for Flats).
Returns Simplification
The Postal Service proposes several
changes to our merchandise return
options to make it easier for customers
to do business with us. Changes will
include the ability for customers to
establish a single Return Services
permit, and pay a single Return Services
annual account maintenance fee at any
Post Office, to receive any one, or
combination of, the following returns
offerings: Merchandise return service
(MRS) (including USPS Returns paid
using a scan-based payment method), or
Parcel Return Service (PRS).
Further, upon annual renewal, the
Return Services permit and annual
accounting fees will be waived for those
mailers showing outbound package
volume paid using their outbound
permit imprint account within the prior
year. The Postal Service feels that this
waiver of fees will incentivize new
customers to use USPSTM for returns in
addition to their outbound shipments,
and will encourage our existing mailers
to continue doing business with us.
Additional changes proposed will
align the availability of insurance for
purchase with returns with that of
outbound as detailed under the extra
services section of this proposed rule.
Finally, in response to limited customer
use of the Parcel Return Service b Full
Network product made available
January 27, 2013, the Postal Service will
eliminate it as a general offering, but
will retain it as an option for customers
under a customized Negotiated Service
Agreement (NSA).
Merchandise Return Service
The Postal Service continues its
efforts to simplify and streamline its
product and service offerings. Currently,
merchandise return service (MRS)
provides multiple competitive and
market dominant products available to
business customers to transport their
return merchandise. With the expansion
and availability of various commercial
returns services including Parcel Return
Service, USPS Returns (a subcategory of
MRS paid using a scan based payment
method), Bulk Parcel Return Service,
and Business Reply Mail® parcels,
customers have multiple commercially
priced returns options. To that end, the
Postal Service is contemplating
replacing the use of market dominant
First-Class Mail parcels, Package
Services (Media Mail, Library Mail, and
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Bound Printed Matter), and Standard
PostTM (recently moved to competitive
but as a retail-only product) for MRS
with competitively priced First-Class
Package Service and Parcel Select®
Nonpresort (ground) products.
The Postal Service believes that our
business mailers using MRS today can
receive the same or more customized
handling and delivery options when
using our commercially priced
products, or one of the other existing
returns offerings. The Postal Service
also anticipates that this change would
result in the induction of more parcel
volumes priced to cover their costs,
unlike First-Class Mail parcels and most
of the Package Service products,
without compromising service.
Additional changes to MRS include
eliminating the ability to fax barcoded
MRS labels. Since MRS now requires an
Intelligent Mail® package barcode
(IMpb) with imbedded USPS Tracking®
on all labels, and standards already
prohibited faxing MRS labels with USPS
Tracking barcodes, this means of label
production would be removed as an
option.
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Bulk Parcel Return Service
The Postal Service proposes to revise
standards for Bulk Parcel Return Service
(BPRS) to eliminate the BPRS annual
permit and account maintenance fees as
a requirement for the service.
Additionally, in support of our visibility
initiatives, we propose requiring an
IMpb on all BPRS labels. This change
will align with the requirement of an
IMpb on all other return services labels
for parcels, and on all outbound
commercial parcels. All other
requirements for participation will
remain unchanged.
Return Call Tag (Print and Deliver
Return Label Service)
On September 7, 2014, the Postal
Service implemented a return call tag
(label) option for permit holders to
electronically request an applicable
USPS return label for their permit to be
generated and delivered by USPS to
their customer (label end-user). This
article serves to notify customers that
the Postal Service will now refer to Call
Tag Return Service as Print and Deliver
Return Label Service. Future
enhancements being considered within
this offering includes the ability for
outbound shipping labels to be
generated and delivered by USPS to a
permit holder’s customer (label enduser).
Extra Services
The focus of the Postal Service on
extra services is simplification, which is
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designed to reduce redundancy and
improve customer ease of use. To
accomplish this, we are proposing
changes to extra services as follows:
USPS Tracking
The Postal Service continues its
efforts to provide visibility and scan
data for mailers using USPS to send
their shipments. As a result, USPS
Tracking will be included at no
additional charge for the following
market dominant products: First-Class
Mail parcels, Media Mail, Library Mail,
and Bound Printed Matter. USPS
Tracking will still be available for
purchase with Standard Mail parcels.
An IMpb will be required on the
mailpiece in order to provide the
included tracking service.
Return Receipt for Merchandise
The Postal Service believes Return
Receipt for Merchandise no longer
provides a unique service otherwise
unavailable in the past. Signature
ConfirmationTM available for parcels
provides the same or equivalent service
for a lower price. Declining volumes of
Return Receipt for Merchandise coupled
with the increase of mailer use of
Signature Confirmation supports this
transition.
For these reasons, on December 18,
2013 (78 FR 76533), the Postal Service
provided advance notice of plans to
discontinue offering Return Receipt for
Merchandise service in July 2014.
Although the date for this change was
temporarily deferred, the Board of
Governors approved filing for the
elimination of Return Receipt for
Merchandise as a special service in
November 2014 and a pleading was
filed with the PRC on November 17,
2014 (Docket No. MC2015–8).
On January 15, 2015, the Postal
Service received conditional approval to
remove Return Receipt for Merchandise
from the Mail Classification Schedule.
The Postal Service is studying the order
and will evaluate whether or not Return
Receipt for Merchandise service will be
eliminated. Depending on the Postal
Service’s decision, Return Receipt for
Merchandise service may be eliminated
as an extra service on April 26, 2015.
The Postal Service shall notify the
Commission of its election no later than
January 28, 2015.
Insurance
The Postal Service proposes to
eliminate separate price tables for
domestic Priority Mail Express®
merchandise insurance and domestic
general insurance. By combining the
insurance price tables, it is expected
that mailer choices will be simplified.
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No changes will be made to insurance
included with Priority Mail Express and
Priority Mail®, or the options for
purchasing additional insurance for any
applicable outbound product. However,
plans are to also expand the availability
of insurance coverage for purchase to all
returns services. Currently, in some
cases only the sender may purchase
insurance for his or her return item, or
insurance is limited to coverage for
$200.00 or less, or no insurance option
is available at all. This change will align
insurance options available for purchase
for returns with that of outbound
shipments (excluding standards already
disallowing any ‘included’ insurance
coverage for returns).
Furthermore, the Postal Service plans
to adjust the insurance threshold for
capturing the recipient’s signature at the
time of delivery from items insured for
more than $200.00, to items insured for
more than $500.00. Additionally, the
delivery record (including a copy of the
recipient’s signature) would be provided
at no additional charge for items insured
for more than $500.00. Customers who
want a signature for items insured for
$500 or less can purchase Signature
Confirmation service.
Certified Mail
The Postal Service plans to introduce
three new combined offerings under
Certified Mail®: Certified Mail
Restricted Delivery (available through
all channels), and both Certified Mail
Adult Signature Required and Certified
Mail Adult Signature Restricted
Delivery (available online and to
commercial mailers). This change will
allow customers to choose the combined
service as opposed to purchasing the
services separately.
Restricted Delivery
The Postal Service plans to eliminate
restricted delivery service as a separate
add-on extra service with its own
separate price and instead offer
restricted delivery as a blended service
under the extra services with which it
can be purchased with today. Customers
will be able to choose from the
following combinations of services that
include restricted delivery:
• Certified Mail Restricted Delivery.
• Certified Mail Adult Signature
Restricted Delivery.
• Collect on Delivery (COD)
Restricted Delivery.
• Insurance (over $500.00) Restricted
Delivery.
• Registered MailTM Restricted
Delivery.
• Signature Confirmation Restricted
Delivery.
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Additionally, Signature Confirmation
Restricted Delivery will be expanded
from online only, to include availability
through retail and commercial channels.
identification showing who they are,
and that they are at least 21 years of age)
for these additional products.
Certificate of Mailing
Changes are being made to certificate
of mailing services to provide additional
piece level visibility by leveraging
technology advancements available
today and to minimize the
administrative costs associated with
providing these services. The Postal
Service plans to redesign the
commercial offering of certificate of
mailing by introducing a new firm
sheet, barcoded PS Form 3665,
Certificate of Mailing—Firm, for three or
more mailpieces presented at one time
and a new barcoded PS Form 3606–D,
Certificate of Bulk Mailing. The new PS
Form 3665 (or USPS-approved mailer
generated facsimile) and the PS Form
3606–D (or USPS-approved mailer
generated facsimile) will include an
IMpb appended to the IMb (or IMpb, for
parcels with included tracking only) on
the mailpieces manifested to the form.
Mailers must submit an electronic
manifest to USPS (using mail.dat or
mail.xml, or a shipping services file as
appropriate for the type of pieces
appending to the form) which reconciles
with all of the items represented, or
USPS Signature Services
listed, on the associated Form 3606–D.
Additional changes to certificate of
The Postal Service plans to introduce
mailing will limit PS Form 3817 use to
a USPS Signature service umbrella
which will encompass the various extra less than three pieces presented at retail
at one time and PS Form 3665–Firm to
services that provide electronic
signature data (including the recipient’s three or more pieces presented at one
time. Mailers will be permitted to
signature obtained at the time of
present Form 3665–Firm or Form 3606–
delivery). The basic standards for the
D at retail Post OfficeTM locations when
extra services will remain unchanged.
presenting less than 50 pieces or 50
The USPS Signature services umbrella
pounds (whichever amount is met first)
will encompass:
of corresponding articles at one time,
• Signature Confirmation.
and at a Business Mail Entry Unit
• Signature Confirmation Restricted
(BMEU) or USPSTM authorized DMU
Delivery.
(Detached Mail Unit) when at least 50
• Adult Signature Required.
• Adult Signature Restricted Delivery. pieces or 50 pounds (whichever amount
Except for Signature Confirmation
is met first) of corresponding articles are
and Signature Confirmation Restricted
presented at one time. Due to the
Delivery, the remaining USPS Signature electronic enhancements for PS Form
services are only available through
3665–Firm, duplicate copies of PS Form
online or commercial channels.
3665–Firm after mailing will not be
offered; however, duplicate copies of PS
Adult Signature
Form 3817 after mailing will still be
Adult Signature Required and Adult
offered.
Signature Restricted Delivery would be
Collect on Delivery (COD)
expanded to include availability with
First-Class Package Service and Parcel
The PS Form 3816, COD Mailing and
Select Lightweight® pieces purchased
Delivery Receipt, used for COD service
will be revised to include a Hold For
through commercial channels if this
Pickup and a Street Delivery option to
proposed rule is adopted. Customers
mailers using online and commercial
would be able to choose either Adult
payment methods. Additionally, mailers
Signature Required (delivery to an
will have the option to obtain electronic
individual with identification showing
they are at least 21 years of age) or Adult funds transfer (EFT), in lieu of a postal
money order, for remittance for COD
Signature Restricted Delivery (delivery
to an individual specified by name with payments made by cash. No fee is
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Return Receipt
The Postal Service plans to align the
availability of a domestic return receipt
from items insured for more than
$200.00, to items insured for more than
$500.00, which aligns with the changes
to obtaining the delivery record (that
includes the recipient’s signature) for
insured mail. Additionally, the
hardcopy return receipt (PS Form 3811,
Domestic Return Receipt), or any USPSapproved facsimile, would include an
IMpb that will be electronically linked
to the IMpb of the extra service on the
mailpiece. The IMpb on the return
receipt will provide the tracking
visibility to mailers similar to tracking
now provided for all other extra services
requiring an IMpb. Additionally, the
option for purchasing a return receipt
after mailing will be eliminated. Mailers
wishing to receive a copy of the delivery
record, including the recipient’s
signature obtained at the time of
delivery, will still be able to do so by
purchasing the applicable extra service
at the time of mailing.
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associated with obtaining the remittance
using an EFT; however, mailers must by
authorized by USPS to participate in the
EFT option.
Special Handling
The Postal Service will redesign
special handling service by eliminating
the weight threshold for special
handling, and creating content-specific
identifiers, and in some cases,
additional fees. If this proposed rule is
adopted, only the Fragile category will
include a fee; however, the Postal
Service expects to add the following
content-specific handling service codes
under the special handling umbrella:
• Hazardous Material Transportation.
• Fragile.
• Perishable.
Competitive Post Office (PO) Box
Services
The Postal Service plans to include
clarifying language to DMM standards
for competitive PO BoxTM service when
box holders in these locations use the
optional street addressing enhancement.
Customers who choose to use this
designation also have the option of
receiving packages from private carriers
at their Post Office BoxTM address.
Packages from private carriers being
delivered to a customer at a competitive
Post Office Box service location, when
using the street addressing designation
option, do not require U.S. Postage to be
affixed.
Changes to Flats
Incentivize Flats Sequencing System
Preparation
In order to incentivize flats
sequencing system (FSS) preparation in
Standard Mail, Periodicals and Bound
Printed Matter Flats, we are proposing
pricing for FSS Scheme Bundles entered
at an FSS facility. We are also proposing
pricing for FSS prepared mail entered at
non-FSS locations.
As background, the Postal Service
introduced optional flats sequencing
system (FSS) preparation standards
August 23, 2010 [75 FR 51668–51671]
effective January 2, 2011. These FSS
preparation standards were developed
in collaboration with the mailing
industry group; including mail owners
and mail service providers. The results
of the industry group efforts determined
that the preparation of the bundles and
pallets specifically for FSS processing
could lead to greater efficiencies and
cost savings for both the USPS and the
mailing industry. As of January 26,
2014, the Postal Service required bundle
and pallet preparation of flat-size
Standard Mail, Periodicals, and Bound
Printed Matter mailpieces prepared for
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delivery within the ZIP CodesTM served
by FSS processing. This allowed mailers
to optionally prepare qualified basic,
high density, and high density plus
carrier route flat mailpieces into the FSS
sortation. The mailers were charged a
‘‘default’’ price that required the FSS
sortation to be made for these ZIP
Codes, however, the FSS pieces were
charged the applicable CR, 5D, and 3D
price that they would have been charged
if they had not presorted to the FSS
requirements. There was also limited
FSS entry pricing that included
discount related pricing on Standard
Mail and Periodicals FSS-schemed flats
that were entered at FSS facilities on
pallets only.
Effective April 26, 2015, the Postal
Service will create an FSS piece price
for all FSS qualifying pieces. We are
proposing to add new FSS piece level
prices for machinable barcoded
(automation) flats and machinable nonbarcoded/nonautomation flats. Sorting
of saturation, high density and high
density plus carrier route flat mailpieces
may be included in FSS scheme bundles
and reported on either the FSS scheme
barcoded or non-barcoded postage lines.
Additionally, all FSS Scheme
containers (including sacks and flat
trays) entered at an FSS facility will be
eligible for the DFSS entry price for all
three mail classes of flats. We are also
allowing mailers that are preparing FSS
facility containers can now enter those
containers at FSS sites and the pieces on
these FSS facility containers would be
eligible for DSCF prices for all FSS ZIPs
processed at that site. The Postal Service
is also adding destination entry pricing
(DFSS) for eligible FSS scheme and
facility containers for qualifying FSS
Periodicals flats.
Periodicals In-County priced mail is
still optional to presort to the FSS sort
scheme. This includes up to 5,000
copies of outside-county pieces that are
also included in that mailing issue. We
also recommend that all unbound, nonstapled, newspaper-type, Periodicals,
and Standard Mail flat-sized mailpieces,
not be presorted to the FSS sort scheme.
FSS scheme bundles of Bound Printed
Matter (BPM) flats will also have the
DFSS entry with scheme bundles on/in
any container (FSS Sch Container) and
FSS scheme bundles on/in any facility
container. Also, a minor change to BPM
flats FSS Presorted to FSS scheme will
still permit BPM carrier route flats in
the FSS sortation, but will then be
reported as FSS scheme as either: Origin
entry (None) zones 1–9, DNDC entry
zones 1–5, DSCF entry; or DFSS entry
in a FSS scheme bundles in/on a FSS
scheme container; or in a FSS scheme
bundles in/on a FSS facility container.
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FSS scheme bundles of Standard Mail
flats will also still permit Standard Mail
Carrier Route mail in the FSS sortation
but will then be reported as FSS Scheme
Pallet, FSS Other, FSS Scheme
container or FSS Facility Container
depending on the Entry.
Incentivize 5-Digit Pallets of Carrier
Route Bundles
We also are proposing a new
incentive for Periodicals and Standard
Mail flats, 5-digit and/or 5-digit scheme
carrier routes pallets which consist
entirely of carrier route bundles for the
same 5-digit or 5-digit scheme.
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coverage while preventing price shock
from increasing prices too quickly.
Standard Mail Parcel Prices
Standard Mail parcels currently have
lower cost coverage than Standard Mail
flats. The price increases in the product
focus on Standard Mail Marketing
Parcels, which account for 98 percent of
the volume in the category. This price
increase is expected to improve cost
coverage.
We are proposing minimal increases
to Bound Printed Matter flats prices.
Standard Mail Marketing Parcels
Clarifying language will be added to
the standards for Standard Mail
Marketing Parcels that (bulk) insurance
does not extend to Marketing Parcels as
already excluded by standards for items
bearing alternate address format.
Standard Mail
Periodicals
Standard Mail® is primarily
advertising mail and includes some
lightweight parcels. Several changes to
Standard Mail are being proposed to
include:
Separate FSS Pricing Structure
In 2014, the Postal Service required
that flats that will be processed on FSS
machines comply with FSS preparation
guidelines. This year, we are proposing
a separate price structure for FSS that
provides the lowest combined price to
FSS scheme bundles on scheme
containers.
Bound Printed Matter Flats Prices
Separate Flats Sequencing System (FSS)
Pricing Structure
In 2014 the Postal Service required
that flats to be processed on FSS
machines comply with FSS preparation
guidelines. We now are proposing a
separate price structure for FSS that
provides the lowest per piece price to
FSS scheme bundles on scheme
containers, and prices for FSS facility
containers at the SCF price. These
prices will apply to all preparation
levels for FSS volume, including High
Density and High Density Plus.
Enhanced Carrier Route Bundle Pricing
for Non-FSS Flats
Approximately 86 percent of Carrier
Route bundles are entered at postal
facilities on 3-Digit pallets. These
pallets are more expensive to process
than Carrier Route bundles entered on
5-Digit and Carrier Route pallets. In
order to encourage mailers to prepare
more direct pallets, we propose a new
price for Standard Mail flats prepared in
Carrier Route bundles on a 5-Digit
Pallet. This will be the lowest price
available for Non-FSS Standard Mail
flats.
Standard Mail Flat Prices
We propose to exceed the PRC
requirement to increase Standard Mail
flats by at least 1.05 times the average
Standard Mail price increase. This
increase will improve the cost coverage
of Standard Mail flats; however, because
catalogs are ‘‘anchors in the mailbox’’
that customers look forward to
receiving, we want to improve cost
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Enhanced Carrier Route Bundle Pricing
for Non-FSS Flats
Approximately 88 percent of
Periodicals Carrier Route bundles are
entered at postal facilities on SCF and
3-Digit pallets. Carrier Route bundles on
these pallets are more expensive to
process than those entered on 5-Digit
and pure Carrier Route pallets.
Periodicals Prices
In FY 2013, the cost coverage for
Periodicals, which includes magazines
and newspapers, was well below 100
percent. The PRC asked the Postal
Service to use its pricing flexibility to
improve the efficiency of Periodicals
pricing. To that end, we are proposing
significantly higher than average
increases on bundles and pallets in
order to ensure that these elements
cover their costs. We expect modest
improvements in preparation, leading to
somewhat lower costs and improved
cost coverage. Under today’s high-speed
automation conditions, this option
merely provides for inefficiency and
higher processing and handling costs, as
these non-machinable flats must be
segregated from staging for automated
processing, and instead worked in a
single-piece manual operation. We are
also proposing a slightly higher than
average increase in piece prices and a
lower than average increase for both
advertising and editorial pound rates.
Combined together, we expect that these
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measures will improve the cost coverage
for Periodicals.
for the postage (not fee) paid by the
sender.
4. Earned Value Promotion; April 1–
June 30
Other Changes
Ancillary Service Endorsements
Advance Notices
Expedited Markings on Mailpieces
Clarifications will be made to the
mailing standards for use of expedited
attention, handling or delivery markings
(e.g., ‘‘Urgent,’’ ‘‘Rush Delivery,’’
‘‘Expedited,’’ ‘‘Time Sensitive’’) on
mailpieces. Over time, some mailers
have expanded the use of these
markings to classes of mail other than
Standard Mail paid by permit imprint,
as originally intended and described in
the standards. Additionally, in some
cases the wording used has been
expanded, risking or creating trademark
infringements and false advertising.
This rule change serves to provide all
mailers with more detailed standards for
use of expedited handling or delivery
markings across all products and
mailpieces.
Late Fees for Address Correction
Service Past Due
Periodicals-Pending
The Postal Service plans to improve
the costly, over-complicated calculation
process for mailers in a Periodicals
pending status to determine applicable
class postage costs. This improvement
will allow both the Postal Service and
Periodicals publishers to use a pro-rated
percent equation based on the difference
between Periodicals and the applicable
class and subclass prices, to then
determine the higher amount of pending
postage. Today, the complexity requires
hundreds of lines of costly coding and
programming each applicable price cell
for each price change, which provides
more detail than needed by the Postal
Service or the publishers.
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
Change of Address Orders by Phone
The DMM is being revised to update
standards for Change of Address Orders
made by phone. USPS no longer accepts
change of address orders, requiring
customer authorization using a credit
card, through the corporate call center.
Mailers may continue to make Change
of Address Orders online at https://
moversguide.usps.com (which requires
customer verification using a credit
card, with a minimal validation fee), by
submitting PS Form 3575, Change of
Address Order, or other written notice,
to any Post Office.
Indemnity Claims and Refunds
The Postal Service continues its
efforts to streamline and improve the
refunds and claims processes for our
customers. As a result, mailer’s paying
postage for extra services using any
payment method, will now file their
requests for any applicable extra service
fee refunds using the online application
at: www.usps.com/insuranceclaims/
online.htm, instead of submitting their
requests in hardcopy to the local
Postmaster for adjudication.
Additionally, we are proposing revised
DMM language to clarify claims
standards and to eliminate outdated or
duplicate claims information. For proof
of value: Invoices or bill of sales must
be paid receipts, not solely a customer’s
statement and a picture from a catalog
showing proof of value of an item. For
payable claims: The USPS is not
presumed to be at fault without any
physical damage to the package for live
bees, crickets and poultry. For complete
loss: If the insured, registered, or COD
article is lost (not damaged) the
payment includes an additional amount
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To provide consistency in covering
costs incurred from collecting Address
Correction Service (ACSTM) fee
deficiencies, the Postal Service proposes
to adopt an annual assessment of
approximately 10% per year on any
overdue charges for ACS notices
provided to the mailer for the preceding
billing period. The fee would be applied
on any ACS fees more than one month
overdue.
Change Service Requested Option 2
The standards for the treatment of
Standard Mail letters and flats, and
Bound Printed Matter flats will be
revised to allow mailers an additional
ancillary service endorsement option.
2015 Promotions
The Postal Service has been offering
seasonal and promotional prices to
increase the value of mail to both the
senders and receivers of mailpieces. The
Postal Service proposes to offer four
mailing promotions in three categories
in calendar year 2015, and will share
the details of these promotions on the
USPSTM RIBBS Web site soon. An
overview of the planned promotions
follows:
Mobile Technology
These two promotions will build
upon previous promotions and continue
our strategy to encourage mailers to
integrate direct mail with mobile
technology, using best practices in
mobile marketing.
1. Emerging and Advanced
Technologies Promotion; April 1–
September 30
2. Mail Drives Mobile Engagement
Promotion; July 1–December 31
Technology Drives Relevance
This promotion leverages the value of
innovative direct mail techniques that
are less widely used, but have been
shown to increase the effectiveness of
mail campaigns.
3. Color Transpromo Promotion; June 1–
November 30
Leverage Value of First-Class Mail
This promotion category is intended
to slow the declining volume trends for
First-Class Mail. As technology
continues to disrupt the mail volume,
the Postal Service will ensure Courtesy
Reply Mail remains a relevant part of
the First-Class Mail marketing mix.
PO 00000
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Periodicals and Bound Printed Matter
Flats
Additionally, the Postal Service is
contemplating changes to mailing
standards to reduce programming and
align the physical standards for ‘flats’
across all mail classes. The change
would remove the non-machinable
distinction for the Periodicals class and
the non-automation distinction for
Bound Printed Matter, and require all
‘flats’ not meeting the applicable flats
requirements in DMM 201 (including
weight by class and subclass), to be
considered as parcels.
List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111
Administrative practice and
procedure, Postal Service.
Although we are exempt from the
notice and comment requirements of the
Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C.
553(b), (c)) regarding proposed
rulemaking by 39 U.S.C. 410(a), we
invite public comments on the
following proposed revisions to Mailing
Standards of the United States Postal
Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM),
incorporated by reference in the Code of
Federal Regulations. See 39 CFR 111.1.
Accordingly, 39 CFR part 111 is
proposed to be amended as follows:
PART 111—[AMENDED]
1. The authority citation for 39 CFR
part 111 continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 13 U.S.C. 301–
307; 18 U.S.C. 1692–1737; 39 U.S.C. 101,
401, 403, 404, 414, 416, 3001–3011, 3201–
3219, 3403–3406, 3621, 3622, 3626, 3632,
3633, and 5001.
2. Revise the following sections of
Mailing Standards of the United States
Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual
(DMM), as follows:
■
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Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
Mailing Standards of the United States
Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual
(DMM)
*
*
*
*
*
100 Retail Letters, Cards, Flats, and
Parcels
*
*
*
*
*
102 Elements on the Face of a
Mailpiece
*
*
*
*
*
3.0 Placement and Content of Mail
Markings
*
*
*
*
*
[Insert new 3.5 to read as follows:]
3.5 Marking Expedited Handling on
Mail
Mailpieces bearing references to
expedited handling or delivery (e.g.,
‘‘Urgent,’’ ‘‘Rush Delivery,’’
‘‘Expedited,’’ ‘‘Time Sensitive’’) must
meet the same conditions as provided
under 604.5.3.5.
*
*
*
*
*
133
Prices and Eligibility
1.0
First-Class Mail Prices and Fees
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
1.1 First-Class Mail Single-Piece Price
Application
[Revise the entire text of 1.1 to read
as follows:]
The single-piece retail prices for FirstClass Mail and First-Class Package
Service are provided in Notice 123—
Price List and are applied as follows:
a. The First-Class Mail card price
applies to a card meeting the standards
in 101.6.2.
b. The First-Class Mail 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 stamped letters, and for letters
with postage affixed (other than regular
stamps) or imprinted (permit imprint)
by the mailer (Metered Mail price).
c. The First-Class Mail flat price
applies to flat-size pieces that meet the
standards in 101.2.0.
d. The First-Class Package Service
parcel price applies to parcel-size pieces
under 101.3.0 and to flat-size pieces that
do not meet the standards in 101.2.0.
1.2 Price Computation for First-Class
Mail
[Revise the text of 1.2 to read as
follows:]
Single-piece First-Class Mail and
First-Class Package Service retail prices
are charged per ounce or fraction
thereof; any fraction of an ounce is
considered a whole ounce. For example,
if a piece weighs 1.2 ounces, the weight
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
(postage) increment is 2 ounces. The
minimum postage per addressed piece
is that for a piece weighing 1 ounce. To
determine single-piece weight in any
mailing of nonidentical-weight pieces,
weigh each piece individually. To
determine single-piece weight in a
mailing of identical-weight pieces,
weigh a sample group of at least 10
randomly selected pieces and divide the
total sample weight by the number of
pieces in the sample. Express all singlepiece weights in decimal pounds
rounded off to four decimal places.
[Delete 1.3, Determining Single-Piece
Weight, in its entirety (text relocated to
1.2), then, renumber current 1.4 and 1.5
as new 1.3 and 1.4.]
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.4 to
read as follows:]
1.4 Nonmachinable Surcharge
The nonmachinable surcharge is
charged per piece and applies only to
letter-size pieces that meet one or more
of the nonmachinable characteristics in
101.1.2. An envelope weighing no more
than one ounce with one enclosed
standard optical disc no larger than 12
centimeters in diameter that is mailed as
letter-size BRM or PRM under 505 and
addressed to a company who sent the
disc and BRM or PRM envelope to a
subscriber as part of a round-tripmailing under 233.2.8 is not subject to
the nonmachinable surcharge.
2.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for
First-Class Mail
[Revise the text of 2.1 to read as
follows:]
2.1 Description of Service
First-Class Mail letters and flats and
First-Class Package Service parcels
receive expeditious handling and
transportation. Service objectives for
delivery are 1 to 3 days; however,
delivery time is not guaranteed.
2.2
Defining Characteristics
2.2.1 Inspection of Contents
[Revise the text of 2.2.1 to read as
follows:]
Except for First-Class Package Service
pieces paid at commercial base prices,
all other First-Class Mail is closed
against postal inspection.
*
*
*
*
*
2.2.3 Extra Services
[Revise the text of 2.2.3 to read as
follows:]
First-Class Mail (including First-Class
Package Service and Priority Mail) is the
only class of mail eligible to receive the
following extra services: Registered Mail
service and Certified Mail service (see
503 for additional information).
PO 00000
Frm 00007
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4702
3.0
6579
Content Standards
*
*
3.2
Bills and Statements of Account
*
*
*
[Revise introductory text of 3.2 to read
as follows:]
Bills and statements of account must
be mailed as First-Class Mail, First-Class
Package Service at retail prices, Priority
Mail, or Priority Mail Express and are
defined as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
3.3
Personal Information
[Revise the first sentence of 3.3 to read
as follows:]
Mail containing personal information
must be mailed as First-Class Mail,
First-Class Package Service at retail
prices, Priority Mail, or Priority Mail
Express.* * *
3.4 Handwritten and Typewritten
Material
[Revise the text of 3.4 to read as
follows:]
Mail containing handwritten or
typewritten material must be mailed as
First-Class Mail, First-Class Package
Service at retail prices, Priority Mail, or
Priority Mail Express.
*
*
*
*
*
134
Postage Payment Methods
1.0 Postage Payment Methods for
First-Class Mail
1.1
Payment Method
[Revise 1.1 by inserting a new second
sentence to read as follows:]
* * * Postage for single-piece FirstClass Package Service (parcels) must be
paid at a retail post office location,
station or branch, or with affixed
postage stamps, postage evidencing
system indicium, permit imprint, or
precanceled stamps, (see 604 for
additional information on postage
payment methods).
*
*
*
*
*
1.3
More Than One Mailer
[Revise the text of 1.3 to read as
follows:]
When two or more individuals or
organizations, or a party acting as their
agent, mail in one package the bills,
statements of account, or other letters of
the individuals or organizations, to an
addressee in common, First-Class Mail
or First-Class Package Service postage
may be paid based on the weight and
dimensions of the entire package of
aggregated mail. Postage is not required
on each individual piece of First-Class
Mail.
*
*
*
*
*
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135
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
Mail Preparation
1.0 Preparation for First-Class Mail
The following standards apply to
single-piece First-Class Mail:
[Revise the text of 1.0 item a to read
as follows:]
a. Each piece must have a delivery
address but is not required to bear the
marking ‘‘First-Class’’, ‘‘First-Class
Mail’’ or ‘‘First-Class Package Service’’,
as appropriate for the mailpiece,
(presuming the numerical value of
postage is affixed).
*
*
*
*
*
136
Deposit
1.0 Deposit for First-Class Mail
[Revise the first sentence of 1.0 to read
as follows:]
Single-piece First-Class Mail letters
and cards and single-piece retail priced
First-Class Package Services (parcels)
weighing less than 13 ounces may be
deposited into any collection box, mail
receptacle, or at any place where mail
is accepted if the full required postage
is paid with adhesive stamps.* * *
*
*
*
*
*
known as Metered Reply Mail) or
Courtesy Reply Mail (CRM) see 505.2.0.
200 Commercial Letters, Cards, Flats,
and Parcels
4.7 Flat-Size Pieces Not Eligible for
Flat-Size Prices
*
*
201
Physical Standards
*
*
Flat-size mailpieces that do not meet
the standards in 4.3 through 4.6 must
pay applicable higher prices as noted in
either 4.7a. or 4.7b. below.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item b of 4.7 to read as
follows:]
b. * * *Under the column heading
‘‘eligibility as presented,’’ flats will be
considered to be presented as
automation flats only if they meet all
other eligibility standards for
automation flats.
[Revise Exhibit 4.7b, Pricing for Flats
Exceeding Maximum Deflection, to read
as follows:]
*
*
*
*
*
*
3.0 Physical Standards for
Machinable and Automation Letters
and Cards
*
*
*
*
*
3.18 Enclosed Reply Cards and
Envelopes
[Revise the second sentence of 3.18 to
read as follows:]
* * * For Business Reply Mail (BRM)
see 505.1.0, for pre-paid reply mail (also
4.0
Physical Standards for Flats
*
*
*
*
*
EXHIBIT 4.7B PRICING FOR FLATS EXCEEDING MAXIMUM DEFLECTION
[see 4.6]
FIRST–CLASS MAIL AUTOMATION
*
*
*
*
*
*
FIRST–CLASS MAIL PRESORTED (NONAUTOMATION)
*
*
*
PERIODICALS OUTSIDE COUNTY
Piece price eligibility as presented ...........................................................
Basic Carrier Route flat, if not entered at a DDU ....................................
Machinable barcoded FSS .......................................................................
Machinable barcoded 5-digit flat ..............................................................
Machinable barcoded 3-digit flat ..............................................................
Machinable barcoded ADC flat .................................................................
Machinable barcoded MADC flat ..............................................................
Machinable nonbarcoded FSS .................................................................
Machinable nonbarcoded 5-digit flat ........................................................
Machinable nonbarcoded 3-digit flat ........................................................
Machinable nonbarcoded ADC flat ...........................................................
Machinable nonbarcoded MADC flat ........................................................
Nonmachinable barcoded or nonbarcoded flat ........................................
*
*
*
*
*
Piece price eligibility with failed deflection
Machinable 5-digit flat
Nonmachinable barcoded 5-digit flat
Nonmachinable barcoded 5-digit flat
Nonmachinable barcoded 3-digit flat
Nonmachinable barcoded ADC flat
Nonmachinable barcoded MADC flat
Nonmachinable nonbarcoded 5-digit flat
Nonmachinable nonbarcoded 5-digit flat
Nonmachinable nonbarcoded 3-digit flat
Nonmachinable nonbarcoded ADC flat
Nonmachinable nonbarcoded MADC flat
Price claimed, if otherwise eligible
PERIODICALS IN–COUNTY
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
*
*
*
*
STANDARD MAIL
Eligibility as presented ..............................................................................
Basic Carrier Route flat, if not entered at a DDU ....................................
Automation FSS Sch Pallet ......................................................................
Automation FSS Other .............................................................................
Automation FSS Sch Cont. ......................................................................
Automation FSS Facility Cont. .................................................................
Automation 5-digit flat ...............................................................................
Automation 3-digit flat ...............................................................................
Automation ADC flat .................................................................................
Automation MADC flat ..............................................................................
Nonautomation flat (all sort levels) ...........................................................
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*
*
Eligibility with failed deflection
Nonautomation 5-digit flat
Nonautomation FSS Sch Pallet
Nonautomation FSS Other
Nonautomation FSS Sch Cont.
Nonautomation FSS Facility Cont.
Nonautomation 5-digit flat
Nonautomation 3-digit flat
Nonautomation ADC flat
Nonautomation MADC flat
Nonautomation MADC flat
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Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
6581
EXHIBIT 4.7B PRICING FOR FLATS EXCEEDING MAXIMUM DEFLECTION—Continued
[see 4.6]
BOUND PRINTED MATTER
Eligibility as presented ..............................................................................
Carrier Route flat, if not entered at a DDU ..............................................
Barcoded presorted flat ............................................................................
Barcoded FSS Sch flat .............................................................................
FSS Sch Container ...................................................................................
FSS Facility Container ..............................................................................
Nonbarcoded nonpresorted flat ................................................................
*
*
*
*
*
charges, the bundle charges, the
container charges, and any Ride-Along
charges, minus all discounts, rounded
off to the nearest whole cent. Total InCounty postage is the sum of the per
pound and per piece charges, and any
Ride-Along charges, less all discounts,
rounded off to the nearest whole cent.
*
*
*
*
*
202 Elements on the Face of a
Mailpiece
*
*
*
*
*
3.0 Placement and Content of Mail
Markings
*
*
*
*
*
[Insert new 3.5 to read as follows:]
12.0 Nonbarcoded (Presorted)
Eligibility
3.5 Marking Expedited Handling on
Mail
*
Mailpieces bearing references to
expedited handling or delivery (e.g.,
‘‘Urgent,’’ ‘‘Rush Delivery,’’
‘‘Expedited,’’ ‘‘Time Sensitive’’) must
meet the same conditions as provided
under 604.5.3.5.
*
*
*
*
*
207
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Prices—In-County
12.3.1 Five-Digit Prices
5-digit prices apply to:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item 12.3.1c to read as
follows:]
c. Qualifying flats sorted to a FSS
scheme under 705.14.0.
*
*
2.0 Price Application and
Computation
[Delete 12.3.2 item c in its entirety]
2.1
Price Application
13.0
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
2.1.2 Applying Outside-County Piece
Prices
*
*
*
Carrier Route Eligibility
*
13.2
*
*
*
*
Sorting
2.2
Computing Postage
13.2.1 Basic Standards
* * *Carrier route prices apply to
copies that are prepared in carrier route
bundles of six or more addressed pieces
each, subject to these standards:
*
*
*
*
*
b. Nonletter-size mailings. Carrier
route prices apply to carrier route
bundles that are sorted in one of the
following ways:
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete 13.2.1b item 4 in its entirety]
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
13.3
* * *Apply piece prices for OutsideCounty mail as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
b. Machinable flats.
[Delete the second sentence of 2.1.2
item b.1.]
1. Apply the ‘‘Machinable Flats—
Barcoded’’ prices to pieces that meet all
of the standards for automation flats in
201.6.0 and include a barcode.
*
*
*
*
*
2.2.8
*
*
*
Total Postage
[Revise the text of 2.2.8 to read as
follows:]
Total Outside-County postage is the
sum of the per pound and per piece
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Walk-Sequence Prices
Frm 00009
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Sfmt 4702
14.0 Barcoded (Automation) Eligibility
14.1 Basic Standards
All pieces in a Periodicals barcoded
(automation) mailing must:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 14.1 item d to read as follows:]
d. Be marked, sorted, and
documented as specified in 705.8.0 (if
palletized); or 24.0 (for letters) or 25.0
(for flats) or; for nonletter-size mail,
705.9.0, 705.10.0, 705.12.0, or 705.13.0;
or for nonletter-size mail, bundles
prepared on or in pallets, trays, sacks or
other approved container under
705.14.0.
*
*
*
*
*
All pieces entered under the fullservice automation option must:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 14.2 item c to read as follows:]
c. Be scheduled for an appointment
through the Facility Access and
Shipment Tracking (FAST) system
when deposited as a DNDC, DADC,
DSCF, or DFSS drop shipment.
14.4
Prices—In-County
14.4.1
Five-Digit Prices
5-digit automation prices apply to:
*
*
*
*
[Revise 14.4.1 item c to read as
follows:]
c. Qualifying flats sorted to a FSS
scheme bundle under 705.14.0.
*
14.4.2 Three-Digit Prices
3-digit automation prices apply to:
*
*
*
*
[Delete 14.4.2 item c in its entirety]
*
*
*
*
*
*
13.3.1 Eligibility
[Revise the second sentence of 13.3.1
to read as follows:]
* * *High density and saturation
mailings must be prepared in carrier
PO 00000
walk sequence according to USPS
schemes see 23.8.
*
*
*
*
*
14.2 Eligibility Standards for FullService Automation Periodicals
12.3.2 Three-Digit Prices
3-digit prices apply to:
*
*
*
*
*
2.0 Price Application and
Computation
*
*
12.3
Periodicals
*
Eligibility with failed deflection
Carrier Route parcel
Presorted parcel
Presorted parcel
Presorted parcel
Presorted parcel
Price as claimed, if otherwise eligible
17.0
*
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*
*
05FEP2
*
*
6582
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
17.4 Detailed Zone Listing for
Periodicals
Codes processed by the USPS as one
scheme as shown in L006.
*
*
*
*
*
3.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for
Standard Mail
*
*
[Revise the first sentence of 17.4.1 to
read as follows:]
The publisher must be able to present
documentation to support the actual
number of copies of each edition of an
issue, by entry point, mailed to each
zone, at DDU, DSCF, DADC, DFSS and
In-County prices.
*
*
*
*
*
18.5
3.2
Defining Characteristics
*
*
17.4.2
26.0 Physical Criteria for
Nonmachinable Flat-Size Periodicals
17.4.1
Basic Standards
Format
Report the number of copies mailed to
each 3-digit ZIP Code area at zone prices
using one of the following formats:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the first sentence of 17.4.2
item b to read as follows:]
b. Report copies by zone (In-County
DDU, In-County others, Outside-County
DDU, Outside-County DFSS, OutsideCounty DSCF, and Outside-County
DADC) and by 3-digit ZIP Code, in
ascending numeric order, for each zone.
* * *
17.4.3
Zone Abbreviations
Zone abbreviation
Price equivalent
ICD ............................
IC ...............................
DDU ..........................
1–2 or 1/2 ..................
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 (as applicable).
M ...............................
In-County, DDU.
In-County, Others.
Outside-County,
DDU.
Outside-County,
DFSS.
Outside-County,
DSCF.
Outside-County,
DADC.
zones 1 and 2.
zones 3 through 8 (as
applicable).
mixed zones.
*
*
SCF ...........................
ADC ...........................
18.0
*
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
18.3
*
*
*
General Mail Preparation
*
*
*
*
Presort Terms
Terms used for presort levels are
defined as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
[Redesignate current items 18.3c
through 18.3t as new items 18.3d
through 18.3u, then, add new item18.3c
to read as follows:]
c. FSS scheme for flats: the ZIP Code
in the delivery address on all pieces in
the FSS bundle is one of the 5-digit ZIP
VerDate Sep<11>2014
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Jkt 235001
*
*
26.3
*
*
*
Flexibility and Deflection
[Revise the text of 26.3 to read as
follows:]
Nonmachinable flats (under 26.0) are
not subject to flexibility standards or
deflection standards in 201.4.0.
*
*
*
*
*
29.0
Destination Entry
29.1
Basic Standards
* * *The following standards apply:
*
*
*
*
[Revise 29.1 item c to read as follows:]
c. The advertising and nonadvertising
portions may be eligible for DADC,
DSCF, DFSS or DDU pound prices based
on the entry facility and the address on
the piece.
*
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of 17.4.3 to read as
follows:]
Use the actual price name or the
authorized zone abbreviation in the
listings in 17.3 and 17.4.2.
FSS ...........................
FSS Preparation
[Revise the text of 18.5 to read as
follows:]
Flat sized Periodicals In-County
priced mailings, and Outside-County
mailings of up to 5,000 pieces, may be
optionally sorted under FSS preparation
standards.
*
*
*
*
*
29.5 Destination Flat Sequencing
System (DFSS) Entry
29.5.1
Definition
[Revise 29.5.1 to read as follows:]
For this standard, destination Flat
Sequencing System (DFSS) refers to the
facilities listed in L006, Scheme,
Column B or Facility, Column C.
29.5.2
Eligibility
[Revise 29.5.2 to read as follows:]
DFSS prices apply to pieces deposited
at a USPS-designated FSS processing
facility and correctly placed in a flat
tray, sack, alternate approved container
or on a pallet, labeled to a FSS scheme
processed by that facility, under
labeling list L006. These pieces must
include a complete address and meet
the physical standards for machinable
flats in 201.
*
*
*
*
*
240
Commercial Mail Standard Mail
*
*
243
Prices and Eligibility
*
*
PO 00000
*
*
Frm 00010
*
*
Fmt 4701
*
*
Sfmt 4702
*
*
*
*
*
*
3.2.2 Standard Mail Marketing
Parcels
[Revise 3.2.2 by inserting a new last
sentence to read as follows:]
USPS Tracking is the only extra
service available for Standard Mail
Marketing parcels.
*
*
*
*
*
5.0 Additional Eligibility Standards
for Nonautomation Standard Mail
Letters, Flats, and Presorted Standard
Mail Parcels
*
*
*
*
*
5.6 Nonautomation Price
Application—Flats
[Redesignate current items 5.6.1, 5Digit Prices for Flats, through 5.6.4,
Mixed ADC Prices for Flats, as new
items 5.6.5 through 5.6.8, then, insert
new items 5.6.1 through 5.6.4 as
follows:]
5.6.1 FSS Scheme Pallet Prices for
Flats
The FSS Scheme Pallet price applies
to flat-sized pieces on a FSS Scheme
pallet with bundles of 10 or more FSS
scheme pieces prepared under 705.14.0.
5.6.2 FSS Other Container Prices for
Flats
The FSS Other container price applies
to flat-sized pieces in or on a container
in bundles of 10 or more FSS scheme
pieces properly prepared under
705.14.0.
5.6.3 FSS Scheme Container Price for
Flats
The FSS Scheme Container price
applies to flat-sized pieces in or on a
FSS scheme container, with bundles of
10 or more FSS schemed pieces
properly prepared under 705.14.0,
entered at a DFSS entry.
5.6.4 FSS Facility Container Prices for
Flats
The FSS Facility Container prices
applies to flat-sized pieces in or on a
FSS facility container, with bundles of
10 or more FSS schemed pieces
properly prepared under 705.14.0,
entered at a DFSS entry.
5.6.5
5-Digit Prices for Flats
The 5-digit price applies to flat-size
pieces:
*
*
*
*
*
E:\FR\FM\05FEP2.SGM
05FEP2
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
[Revise the text of renumbered 5.6.5
item a to read 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.
*
*
*
*
*
5.6.6 3-Digit Prices for Flats
The 3-digit price applies to flat-size
pieces:
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete renumbered 5.6.6 item c in its
entirety]
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the title and text of
renumbered 5.6.8 to read as follows:]
5.6.8 Mixed ADC Prices for Flats
Mixed ADC prices apply to flat-size
pieces in bundles that do not qualify for
5-digit, 3-digit, or ADC prices; placed in
mixed ADC sacks or on ASF, NDC, or
mixed NDC pallets under 705.8.0.
*
*
*
*
*
6.3 Basic Price Enhanced Carrier
Route Standards
*
*
*
*
*
6.3.3 Basic Price Eligibility—Flats
Basic prices apply to each piece in a
carrier route bundle of 10 or more
pieces that is:
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete 6.3.3 item e in its entirety]
[Add new item 6.3.4 as follows:]
6.3.4 Basic Carrier Route Bundles on
a 5-Digit Pallet (Basic—CR Bundles/
Pallet) Price Eligibility—Flats
Basic—CR Bundles/Pallet prices
apply to each piece in a carrier route
bundle of 10 or more pieces that are
palletized under 705.8.0 to a 5-digit or
5-digit scheme destination and entered
at an Origin (None), DNDC, DSCF or
DDU entry.
*
*
*
*
*
7.0 Eligibility Standards for
Automation Standard Mail
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
*
*
*
*
VerDate Sep<11>2014
*
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
b. The FSS Other price applies to flatsized pieces in or on a container with
bundles of 10 or more FSS-schemed
pieces properly prepared under
705.14.0.
c. The FSS Scheme Container price
applies to flat-sized pieces on orin a FSS
scheme container with bundles of 10 or
more FSS- schemed pieces properly
prepared under 705.14.0 and dropped at
a DFSS.
d. The FSS Facility Container price
applies to flat-sized pieces in or on a
FSS facility container with bundles of
10 or more FSS-schemed pieces
properly prepared under 705.14.0 and
dropped at a DFSS.
[Revise text of renumbered item e to
read as follows:]
e. 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.
[Revise text of renumbered item f to
read as follows:]
f. 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.
*
*
*
*
*
facility and any of the pieces on or in
the container are addressed for delivery
within that DSCF’s service area.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the title of 6.0 to read as
follows:]
245
260 Commercial Mail Bound Printed
Matter
Mail Preparation
1.0 General Information for Mail
Preparation
*
*
1.6
*
*
FSS Preparation
*
[Revise the text of 1.6 to read as
follows:]
Except for Standard Mail flats mailed
at Saturation, High Density or HighDensity Plus prices, all Standard Mail
flats destinating to a FSS scheme in
accordance with labeling list L006 must
be prepared under 705.14.0.
*
*
*
*
*
246
Enter and Deposit
*
*
*
*
*
*
4.2
*
Eligibility
*
*
4.2.2
*
*
*
*
*
*
Flats
Pieces in a mailing that meets the
standards in 2.0 and 4.0 are eligible for
the DSCF price, as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise text of 4.2.2 item c to read as
follows:]
c. DSCF prices apply to all pieces on
or in a FSS Scheme or non-FSS
container when entered at a DSCF
PO 00000
Frm 00011
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4702
6.0 Destination Flat Sequencing
System (DFSS) Entry
6.1
Definition
[Revise the text of 6.1 to read as
follows:]
Destination Flat Sequencing System
(DFSS) refers to the facilities listed in
L006.
6.2
Eligibility
[Revise the text of 6.2 to read as
follows:]
DFSS prices apply to pieces deposited
at a USPS-designated FSS processing
site and correctly placed in or on a
container labeled to a FSS scheme or
FSS Facility processed by that site
under labeling list L006 (Column B or
Column C). These pieces must include
a full delivery address and meet the
physical standards for FSS
machinability in 705.14.0.
*
*
*
*
*
263
Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees for Bound Printed
Matter
4.0 Destination Sectional Center
Facility (DSCF) Entry
7.5 Price Application for Automation
Flats
Automation prices apply to each
piece properly sorted into qualifying
groups:
[Redesignate current 7.5 items a
through d as new items e through h,
then, insert new items a through d to
read as follows:]
a. The FSS Scheme Pallet price
applies to flat-sized pieces on a FSS
scheme pallet with bundles of 10 or
more FSS-schemed pieces properly
prepared under 705.14.0.
6583
1.1 Nonpresorted Bound Printed
Matter
[Delete item 1.1.4 in its entirety, then,
renumber current 1.1.5 as new 1.1.4.]
*
*
*
*
*
1.2
Commercial Bound Printed Matter
*
*
1.2.3
*
*
*
Price Application
[Revise the first sentence of 1.2.3 to
read as follows:]
The presorted, FSS scheme, FSS
scheme container and FSS facility
container Bound Printed Matter price
has a per piece charge and a per pound
charge.* * *
[Revise the title and text of 1.2.4 to
read as follows:]
1.2.4 Bound Printed Matter Carrier
Route Prices
Each piece is subject to both a piece
price and a pound price.
1.2.5 Bound Printed Matter
Destination Entry Prices
[Delete the second sentence of 1.2.5 in
its entirety.]
*
*
*
*
*
E:\FR\FM\05FEP2.SGM
05FEP2
6584
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
1.2.8 Computing Postage for Permit
Imprint
[Revise introductory text of 1.2.8 to
read as follows:]
Presorted, FSS scheme, FSS scheme
container and FSS facility container and
Carrier Route Bound Printed Matter
mailings paid with permit imprint are
charged a per pound price and a per
piece price as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
prices, meeting the standards in 201.0
and destinating to a FSS scheme in
accordance with labeling list L006, must
be prepared under 705.14.0.
*
*
*
*
*
4.0 Price Eligibility for Bound Printed
Matter
5.3.4 Cosacking Presorted Mail With
Barcoded Mail
4.1 Price Eligibility
* * * Price categories are as follows:
[Renumber current 4.1 items c and d
as new items d and e, then, insert new
item c to read as follows:]
*
*
*
*
*
c. FSS Scheme, FSS Container and
FSS Facility Container Price. These
prices apply to BPM flats prepared in a
mailing of at least 300 BPM pieces,
prepared and presorted as specified in
705.14.0.
[Delete renumbered item e in its
entirety.]
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the entire text of 5.3.4 to read
as follows:]
The following standards apply if the
mailing job contains a carrier route
mailing, and a Presorted mailing, then
the carrier route mailing must be
prepared under 6.0, and the Presorted
mailing must be co-sacked under
705.9.0. Bundled pieces must be cosacked under 705.9.0.
265
5.1
Mail Preparation
1.0 General Information for Mail
Preparation
*
*
*
*
*
1.6 FSS Preparation
[Revise text of 1.6 as follows:]
BPM flats claiming FSS scheme, FSS
Sch Container or FSS Facility Container
5.0
Preparing Presorted Flats
*
*
5.3
Sacking
*
*
*
500
Additional Mailing Services
503
Extra and Additional Services
1.0 Basic Standards for All Extra
Services
*
*
1.3
Paying Fees and Postage
*
*
Enter and Deposit
*
*
1.4
*
*
*
5.0 Destination Sectional Center
Facility (DSCF) Entry
Eligibility
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:
*
*
*
*
*
1.4.1
Certificate of Mailing
(Form 3817 or Form 3665–Firm) for individual
pieces only; Form 3665–Firm is for 3 or more
pieces presented at one time and requires an
IMpb linked to IMb on mailpieces (see 5.0).
PO 00000
Matter Eligible for Extra Services
Eligible Matter
One or more of the following extra or
additional services may be added at the
time of mailing, if the standards for the
services are met and the applicable fees
are paid, as follows:
Exhibit 1.4.1 Eligible Matter—
Domestic Destinations
[Revise the entire Exhibit 1.4.1,
Eligible Matter—Domestic Destinations,
to read as follows:]
Eligible mail class
Jkt 235001
*
266
Certified Mail
Certified Mail—Restricted Delivery
Certified Mail—Adult Signature 1
Certified Mail—Adult Signature Restricted 1
Insurance
Insurance
Restricted
Delivery
(If
insured
>$500.00.)
(Note: Priority Mail Express includes $100.00 of insurance and Priority Mail includes either $100.00
or $50.00 of insurance (see 503.4.0), insurance
>$500.00 includes Signature Confirmation.)
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
*
[Revise the first sentence of 1.3 to read
as follows:]
Except as provided under 604.6.1 and
for official mail of federal government
agencies collected under 703.7.0 (for
Department of State, see 703.3.0),
postage and extra service fees are paid
at the time of mailing.* * *
Registered Mail
Registered Mail Restricted Delivery
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
*
*
*
Extra service
VerDate Sep<11>2014
*
[Revise the text of 5.1b item 2 to read
as follows:]
2. DSCF prices apply to all pieces on
or in a FSS Scheme, FSS Facility, or
non-FSS container when entered at a
DSCF facility when the pieces on or in
the container are addressed for delivery
within that DSCF’s service area.
*
*
*
*
*
Additional combined services
Priority Mail
First-Class Mail
First-Class Package Service
Priority Mail
First-Class Mail
First-Class Package Service
Collect on Delivery (COD)
Return Receipt
Signature Confirmation.
Return Receipt (Form 3811 only if with Adult Signature options 1).
Priority Mail Express
Priority Mail
Critical Mail
First-Class Mail
First-Class Package Service
Standard Post
Bound Printed Matter
Library Mail
Media Mail
Parcel Select
Parcel Select
Lightweight (bulk insurance only)
Standard Mail (bulk insurance for (nonprofit) parcels only)
Priority Mail
First-Class Mail
First-Class Package Service
Bound Printed Matter
Library Mail
Media Mail
USPS Tracking
Signature Confirmation (available if insured for
<$500; included if insured for >$500.00.)
Adult Signature Requested 1
Adult Restricted Delivery 1
Return Receipt (if insured >$500.00, Form 3811
only.)
Fragile
Parcel Airlift (PAL).
Frm 00012
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4702
Fragile
Parcel Airlift (PAL).
E:\FR\FM\05FEP2.SGM
05FEP2
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
Extra service
Eligible mail class
Certificate of Bulk Mailing
(Form 3606; only evidence of number of identical
weight piece mailed, Form 3606 requires an
IMpb linked to IMb on mailpieces (see 5.0).
Priority Mail
First-Class Mail
First-Class Package Service
Parcel Select
Parcel Select
Lightweight
Standard Mail
Bound Printed Matter
Library Mail
Media Mail
Priority Mail Express (Form 3811 only)
Priority Mail 2
First-Class Mail 2
First-Class Package Service
Standard Mail (parcels only) 2 3
Parcel Select 4
Parcel Select
Lightweight 3
Standard Post 4
Bound Printed Matter 4
Library Mail 4
Media Mail 4
Return Receipt
(Form 3811 must bear an IMpb linked to the IMb
for the host extra service for the appended
mailpiece.)
6585
Additional combined services
Fragile
Parcel Airlift (PAL).
USPS Tracking (when purchased for Standard
Mail parcels 2)
Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery
Signature Confirmation Special Handling
Adult Signature Requested 1 (Form 3811)
Adult Signature Restricted Delivery 1 (Form 3811)
Parcel Airlift (PAL).
USPS Signature Services:
Signature Confirmation
Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery
Adult Signature Required 1
Adult Signature Restricted Delivery 1
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
USPS Tracking
(USPS Tracking is provided at no additional
charge for all class of mail, when the applicable
standards are met, except Standard Mail parcels; excludes Periodicals.)
Collect on Delivery (COD)
COD Restricted Delivery
Priority Mail
Critical Mail
First-Class Mail (parcels only; electronic option only)
First-Class Package Service (electronic
option only)
Standard Post
Parcel Select
Bound Printed Matter
Library Mail
Media Mail
Priority Mail 3
First-Class Mail 2 3
First-Class Package Service
Standard Mail 2 4
Standard Post 5
Parcel Select 5
Parcel Select Lightweight 4
Bound Printed Matter 5
Library Mail 5
Media Mail 5
Priority Mail Express
Priority Mail
Critical Mail
First-Class Mail 2
First-Class Package Service 3
Parcel Select Nonpresort
Bound Printed Matter 2
Library Mail 2
Media Mail 2
Standard Mail (parcels only; electronic
option only 1 2)
Priority Mail Express
(1-Day and 2-Day only)
Priority Mail
First-Class Mail
First-Class Package Service
Standard Post
Parcel Select
Bound Printed Matter
Library Mail
Media Mail
Collect on Delivery (COD)
Insurance
Registered Mail
Return Receipt (Form 3811 only)
Special Handling
Hold For Pickup
Special Handling.
Insurance
Return Receipt (Form 3811 only)
Hold For Pickup (under 508.7.0).
Insurance (bulk insurance (for Standard Mail
(nonprofit) parcels) only 1 2).
Registered Mail
Return Receipt
Signature Confirmation 2 (not available for purchase with Priority Mail Express COD)
Special Handling
Hold For Pickup.
Special Handling:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
PO 00000
Frm 00013
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4702
E:\FR\FM\05FEP2.SGM
05FEP2
6586
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
Extra service
Eligible mail class
Fragile
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Additional combined services
Priority Mail Express
Priority Mail
First-Class Mail
First-Class Package Service
Standard Post
Parcel Select
Bound Printed Matter
Library Mail
Media Mail
Collect On Delivery (COD)
Insurance
Signature Confirmation 2
Parcel Airlift (PAL).
Not at retail.
Parcels only.
If purchased with Certified Mail, COD, insurance over $500.00 or Registered Mail.
If purchased with bulk insurance over $500.00.
If purchased with COD or insurance over $500.00.
1.4.2
Offshore Domestic Destinations
As provided for the classes of mail
under 1.4.1, and unless otherwise
restricted (see ‘‘Overseas Military/
Diplomatic Mail’’ section of the Postal
Bulletin), extra services are available for
mail addressed to APO/FPO/DPO
destinations (also see 703), and to ZIP
Codes in U.S. territories and possessions
(also see 608.2.0), or Freely Associated
States (also see 608.2.0), as follows:
Exhibit 1.4.2 Eligible Matter—
Offshore Domestic Destinations
[Revise Exhibit 1.4.2, Eligible
Matter—Offshore Domestic
Destinations, to read as follows:]
Extra service
APO/FPO/DPO
U.S. Territories
and possessions
Registered Mail ...................................................
Limited 1 .................................
(Available only to select APO/
FPO/DPO destinations.).
Yes ........................................
Yes ........................................
No ..........................................
No ..........................................
Yes ........................................
Yes.
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
........................................
........................................
........................................
........................................
Yes.
Yes.
Limited.2
Limited.2
Yes ........................................
Limited 2 .................................
Yes ........................................
Limited 1 .................................
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
........................................
........................................
........................................
........................................
Yes.
Limited.3
Yes.
Limited 2
No
No
No
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
........................................
........................................
........................................
........................................
........................................
Limited.2
Limited.2
Limited.2
Limited.2
Yes (except for items sent to
Marshall Islands and the
Federated States of Micronesia).
Yes.
Yes (Form 3811 only).
Certified Mail .......................................................
Certified Mail Restricted Delivery ........................
Certified Mail Adult Signature Required ..............
Certified Mail Adult Signature Restricted Delivery.
Insurance .............................................................
Insurance Restricted Delivery .............................
Certificate of Mailing ............................................
USPS Tracking ....................................................
USPS Signature Service:
Signature Confirmation ................................
Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery
Adult Signature Requested ..........................
Adult Signature Restricted Delivery .............
COD .....................................................................
Special Handling .................................................
Return Receipt ....................................................
..........................................
..........................................
..........................................
..........................................
..........................................
Yes ........................................
Yes (Form 3811 only) ...........
Freely associated states
Yes ........................................
Yes (Form 3811 only) ...........
1. Availability of electronic information regarding an event scan may be limited.
2. Excludes Palau, Marshall Islands, and the Federated States of Micronesia (ZIP Codes 96939, 96944, 96960, 96970).
3. If insured for more than $500.00, signature service provided only if hardcopy return receipt (form 3811) is also purchased.
1.4.3
Domestic Returns
Eligible extra services
(paid by permit holder)
Merchandise Return Service ......................................................
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
Return service
Registered Mail ....................................
Insurance 1, 2 ........................................
Special Handling ..................................
Priority Mail Return Service ........................................................
First-Class Package Return Service
Ground Return Service
Parcel Return Service .................................................................
Insurance2 ............................................
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
PO 00000
Frm 00014
Insurance 2 ...........................................
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4702
E:\FR\FM\05FEP2.SGM
Eligible extra services
(paid by permit holder or sender)
Registered Mail
Insurance 1, 2
Special Handling
Certificate of Mailing 3
Insurance2
Insurance 2
Certificate of Mailing 3
05FEP2
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
Extra services for return mailpieces
are available as follows:
Exhibit 1.4.3 Eligible Matter—
Domestic Returns
1. Insurance may be combined with
USPS Tracking or Special Handling or
both.
2. Insurance must be purchased; no
included insurance is provided for
returns.
3. Individual pieces using Form 3817
or Form 3877 by sender only.
*
*
*
*
*
1.7
Forms and Labels
*
*
*
*
*
1.7.2 Privately Printed Forms or
Labels
[Revise the third sentence of 1.7.2 to
read as follows:]
* * *Customers affixing both a
barcoded address label and a barcoded
extra service label on the same
mailpiece must ensure that the barcodes
on both labels match.* * *
*
*
*
*
*
1.7.4
Acceptance
Customers must also meet the
following requirements when presenting
mail bearing an extra service IMpb for
acceptance:
[Revise the text of 1.7.4 item a to read
as follows:]
a. Certificates of mailing using Form
3655-Firm or Form 3606–D for more
than 49 pieces presented at one time, or
for presorted or permit imprint mailings
containing pieces with extra services,
must be presented to a Post Office
business mail entry unit (BMEU) or
authorized detached mail unit (DMU).
*
*
*
*
*
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
1.8 Obtaining Delivery Information
and Delivery Records
Delivery records for extra services are
available as follows:
[Revise the text of 1.8 items a and c
to read as follows:]
a. Information by article number can
be retrieved at www.usps.com or by
calling 1–800–222–1811. A proof of
delivery letter (including recipient’s
signature, when available) may be
provided by email.
*
*
*
*
*
c. A return receipt (hardcopy Form
3811) may be purchased at the time of
mailing and is received by mail.
*
*
*
*
*
1.10
Receipts
[Revise the text of the first and third
sentence of 1.10, then, insert a new final
sentence of 1.10 to read as follows:]
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
Except when using certificate of
mailing Form 3655–Firm and Form
3606–D for less than 50 pieces
presented at one time, the mailer
receives a USPS sales receipt and the
postmarked (round-dated) extra service
form for services purchased at retail
channels.* * * For three or more pieces
with extra or accountable services
presented for mailing at one time, the
mailer uses Form 3877 (firm sheet) or
USPS-approved privately printed firm
sheets in lieu of the receipt portion of
the individual form.* * * Except for
Registered Mail and COD items, the
USPS keeps no mailing records for
pieces bearing extra services.
[Delete current 1.11, USPS Mailing
Records, in its entirety (text relocated to
1.10).]
2.0
Registered Mail
2.1
Basic Standards
2.1.1
Description
[Revise the introductory text of 2.1.1
to read as follows:]
Registered Mail is subject to the basic
standards in 1.0; see 1.4 for eligible
matter. Registered Mail is the most
secure service that the USPS offers. It
incorporates a system of receipts to
monitor the movement of the mail from
the point of acceptance to delivery.
Registered Mail provides the sender
with a mailing receipt and, upon request
(see 1.8), electronic verification that an
article was delivered or that a delivery
attempt was made. Customers may
obtain a record of delivery (which
includes the recipient’s signature) by
purchasing a return receipt (6.0), at the
time of mailing. Customers may direct
delivery of Registered Mail only to the
addressee (or addressee’s authorized
agent) using Registered Restricted
Delivery (2.1.4). Postal insurance is
included in the fee for articles with a
value of at least $0.01 up to a maximum
insured value of $50,000.00. Postal
insurance is not available for articles
with no value ($0.00). The fees for
articles valued over $50,000.00 include
insurance up to $50,000.00, and
increasingly higher fees for handling
costs. The face (address side) of a
registered article must be at least 5
inches long and 31⁄2 inches high,
regardless of thickness. Registration may
not be obtained for the following item
if:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item c to read as
follows:]
c. Prepared improperly or packed
inadequately to withstand normal
handling (see 2.3.4).
*
*
*
*
*
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[Revise the text of item f. to read as
follows:]
f. A class of mail not listed under
eligible matter (see 1.4).
2.1.2 Label 200
[Revise the first sentence of 2.1.2 to
read as follows:]
Registered Mail must bear the
barcoded red Label 200 (see forms at
https://pe.usps.gov/), or a non-barcoded
red Label 200–N (when a mailergenerated shipping label bearing an
IMpb (under 708.5.0) is also affixed on
the same mailpiece). * * *
*
*
*
*
*
[Insert new items 2.1.4 and 2.1.5 to
read as follows:]
2.1.4 Additional Standards for
Registered Mail Restricted Delivery
Registered Mail Restricted Delivery
permits a mailer to direct delivery only
to the addressee (or addressee’s
authorized agent). The addressee must
be an individual (natural person)
specified by name. The mailer may
request Registered Mail Restricted
Delivery at the time of mailing by
advising the USPS clerk or by marking
the mail ‘‘Restricted Delivery’’ above the
address and to the right of the return
address, and paying the applicable fee.
A firm mailer must enter the proper fee
in the correct column of the firm sheet
and place the required endorsement on
the mail. Customers may obtain a record
of delivery (which includes the
recipient’s signature) by purchasing a
return receipt (6.0). If a return receipt is
requested, the correct block on Form
3811 must be checked to show that
restricted delivery is also required. Mail
marked ‘‘Restricted Delivery’’ is
delivered under the conditions in
508.1.1.7 and 1.1.8.
2.1.5 Registered COD Mail
Sealed domestic mail bearing FirstClass Mail, First-Class Package Service,
or Priority Mail postage may be sent as
registered COD mail when meeting the
standards in 9.0 and as follows:
a. Such mail is handled the same as
other Registered Mail.
b. The maximum amount collectible
from the recipient on one article is
$1,000.00. Indemnity is available up to
the registry limit of $50,000.00 by
paying the registry fee for the value
declared. The total fees charged for
registered COD service include the
proper registry fee for the value declared
plus the registered COD fee. The mailer
must declare the full value of the article
being mailed, regardless of the amount
to be collected from the recipient.
c. The registered label and the COD
form must be affixed to each article. The
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registration number is used for delivery
receipt and indemnity claims.
*
*
*
*
*
3.0
Certified Mail
3.1
Basic Standards
3.1.1
Description
[Revise the text of 3.1.1 to read as
follows:]
Certified Mail is subject to the basic
standards in 1.0; see 1.4 for eligible
matter. Certified Mail provides the
sender with a mailing receipt and, upon
request, electronic verification that an
article was delivered or that a delivery
attempt was made. Customers can
retrieve the delivery status as provided
in 1.9. Certified Mail is dispatched and
handled in transit as ordinary mail.
Except for Priority Mail pieces with
included insurance, no insurance
coverage is provided when purchasing
Certified Mail. USPS maintains a record
of delivery (which includes the
recipient’s signature). Customers may
obtain a delivery record by purchasing
a return receipt (6.0) at the time of
mailing. Customers may direct delivery
of Certified Mail only to the addressee
(or addressee’s authorized agent) using
Certified Mail Restricted Delivery
(3.2.2); or to an adult using Certified
Adult Signature Required or Certified
Adult Signature Restricted Delivery
when meeting the applicable standards
for Adult Signature under 8.1.1e and
8.1.3.
3.2
3.2.1
Mailing
Form 3800
* * * A mailer of Certified Mail
must:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of 3.2.1 item e to read
as follows:]
e. For Certified Mail Restricted
Delivery, meet the additional standards
under 3.2.2).
[Insert new item 3.2.2 to read as
follows:]
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
3.2.2 Additional Standards for
Certified Mail Restricted Delivery
Certified Mail Restricted Delivery
permits a mailer to direct delivery only
to the addressee (or addressee’s
authorized agent). The addressee must
be an individual (natural person)
specified by name. The mailer may
request Certified Mail Restricted
Delivery at the time of mailing by
advising the USPS clerk or by marking
the mail ‘‘Restricted Delivery’’ above the
address and to the right of the return
address and paying the applicable fee. A
firm mailer must enter the proper fee in
the correct column of the firm sheet and
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
place the required endorsement on the
mail. Customers may obtain a record of
delivery (which includes the recipient’s
signature) by purchasing a return receipt
(6.0). If a return receipt is requested, the
correct block on Form 3811 must be
checked to show that restricted delivery
is also required. Mail marked
‘‘Restricted Delivery’’ is delivered under
the conditions in 508.1.1.7 and 1.1.8.
4.0
Insured Mail
*
*
*
*
*
4.1.1 Additional Insurance—Priority
Mail Express
[Revise the text of 4.1.1 to read as
follows:]
Additional insurance, up to a
maximum coverage of $5,000.00, may be
purchased for merchandise valued at
more than $100.00 sent by Priority Mail
Express. The additional insurance fee is
in addition to postage and other fees.
See Notice 123—Price List. The
insurance fee is entered in the block
marked ‘‘Insurance’’ on the mailing
label. If the label does not contain this
block, the mailer uses the ‘‘COD’’ block
by crossing out ‘‘COD,’’ writing ‘‘INS’’ to
the right, and entering the fee for the
coverage. Coverage is limited to the
actual value of the contents, regardless
of the fee paid, or the highest insurance
value increment for which the fee is
fully paid, whichever is lower. When
‘‘signature required’’ service is not
requested or when ‘‘waiver of signature’’
is requested, additional insurance is not
available.
[Delete 4.1.2, Fees for Priority Mail
Express Insurance, in its entirety (text
relocated to 4.1.1).]
4.2
Insurance Coverage—Priority Mail
Priority Mail pieces bearing an
Intelligent Mail package barcode (IMpb)
or USPS retail tracking barcode (see
4.3.4) are insured against loss, damage,
or missing contents, up to a maximum
of $50.00 or $100.00, subject to the
following:
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete 4.2 item e in its entirety, then,
renumber current items f and g as new
items e and f.]
*
*
*
*
*
4.3
Basic Standards
4.3.1
Description
[Revise the introductory text of 4.3.1
to read as follows:]
Insured mail is subject to the basic
standards in 1.0; see 1.4 for eligible
matter. The following additional
standards apply to insured mail:
*
*
*
*
*
PO 00000
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[Revise the text of 4.3.1 item c to read
as follows:]
c. Insured mail provides the mailer
with a mailing receipt. No record of
insured mail is kept at the office of
mailing; however, the USPS maintains
insured mail delivery records for a
period of time. An item insured for
$500.00 or less receives a delivery scan.
An item insured for more than $500.00
receives a delivery scan and the USPS
obtains and provides the recipient’s
signature as the delivery record to the
mailer electronically. Customers may
obtain a delivery record by purchasing
a return receipt (6.0). Customers may
direct delivery of mail insured for more
than $500.00 only to the addressee (or
addressee’s authorized agent) using
Insurance Restricted Delivery (4.5);
*
*
*
*
*
4.3.2
Ineligible Matter
The following types of mail may not
be insured:
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete 4.3.2 item e in its entirety
(eligible matter provided under 1.4),
then, renumber item f as new item e.]
f. Matter mailed at First-Class Mail
prices (including Priority Mail) that
consists of items described in
123.3.0,133.3.0, 233.2.0, and 283.2.0,
and required to be mailed at First-Class
Mail prices.
*
*
*
*
*
4.3.4
Markings and Forms
[Revise the introductory text of 4.3.4
to read as follows.]
The treatment of pieces is determined
by the insurance amount as described in
4.3.1c and under the following
conditions:
[Revise the text of 4.3.4 items a and
b to read as follows:]
a. For retail pieces insured for $500.00
or less, the mailer must affix a barcoded
Form 3813 (see forms at https://
pe.usps.gov/) to each piece above the
delivery address and to the right of the
return address.
b. For retail pieces insured for more
than $500.00, the mailer must affix a
barcoded Form 3813–P (see forms at
https://pe.usps.gov/) to each piece above
the delivery address and to the right of
the return address.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the second sentence of 4.3.4
item d to read as follows:]
d. * * * Mailing receipts are
provided under 1.10.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the title of 4.4, Bulk Insurance
for Standard Mail, as follows:]
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4.4 Bulk Insurance for Standard Mail
and Parcel Select Lightweight
4.4.1 Eligibility
[Revise the introductory text of 4.4.1
to read as follows:]
To mail at the bulk insurance prices,
for Standard Mail (except Marketing
Parcels) and Parcel Select Lightweight,
mailers must obtain an authorization
under 4.4.2 and meet the following
criteria:
*
*
*
*
*
[Insert new 4.5 as follows:]
4.5 Additional Standards for
Insurance Restricted Delivery
Insurance Restricted Delivery permits
a mailer to direct delivery only to the
addressee (or addressee’s authorized
agent). The addressee must be an
individual (natural person) specified by
name. The mailer may request Insured
Restricted Delivery at the time of
mailing by advising the USPS clerk or
by marking the mail ‘‘Restricted
Delivery’’ above the address and to the
right of the return address and paying
the applicable fee. A firm mailer must
enter the proper fee in the correct
column of the firm sheet and place the
required endorsement on the mail.
Customers may obtain a record of
delivery (which includes the recipient’s
signature) by purchasing a return receipt
(6.0). If a return receipt is requested, the
correct block on Form 3811 must be
checked to show that restricted delivery
is also required. Mail marked
‘‘Restricted Delivery’’ is delivered under
the conditions in 508.1.1.7 and 1.1.8.
[Revise the title of 5.0 to read as
follows:]
Certificates of Mailing
5.1
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
5.0
Basic Standards
5.1.1 Description—Individual Pieces
[Revise the introductory text of 5.1.1
to read as follows:]
Certificates of mailing are subject to
the basic standards in 1.0, see 1.4 for
eligible matter. Certificates of mailing
(Form 3817 and barcoded Form 3665–
Firm, including USPS-approved
facsimiles) are available only at the time
of mailing and provide evidence that
individual mailpieces have been
presented to the USPS for mailing.
Certificates of mailing do not provide a
record of delivery, and the Postal
Service does not retain copies of either
form. Form 3817 is available for less
than three individual pieces, presented
at one time at a retail post office, station
or branch). Form 3665–Firm is available
for three or more pieces, but less than
50 pieces or 50 pounds (whichever
amount is met first), presented at one
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
time at a retail post office, station or
branch, or for three or more pieces, but
at least 50 pieces or 50 pounds
(whichever amount is met first),
presented at a BMEU or USPS
authorized DMU). Each individual Form
3817 or the Form 3665–Firm (in
addition to scanning the barcode) is
postmarked (round-dated) at the time of
mailing; the form(s) are then returned to
the mailer and become the mailer’s
receipt.
[Delete 5.1.2, Eligible Matter—Single
Piece, in its entirety (context of text
already under 1.4 for eligible matter),
then, renumber current 5.1.3 through
5.1.7 as new 5.1.2 through 5.1.6.]
5.1.2 Paying Fees
[Revise the first sentence of
renumbered 5.1.2 to read as follows:]
For certificate of mailing, in addition
to the correct postage, the applicable
certificate of mailing fee must be paid
for each article on Form 3817 or listed
on Form 3665–Firm and for duplicate
copies of either form.* * *
5.1.3 Mailer Preparation
[Revise the text of renumbered 5.1.3 to
read as follows:]
A certificate of mailing must be
completed by the mailer and all entries
must be typed or printed in ink, by
ballpoint pen, or computer-generated;
the form or firm sheets become the
mailer’s receipts. Individual certificate
and firm mailings must show the names
and addresses of the sender and
addressee (if Form 3665–Firm is being
used, the mailer must include the
corresponding IMb (for letters and flats)
or IMpb (for parcels) for each article
listed) and may show the amount of
postage paid. The mailer may also place
identifying invoice or order numbers on
the certificate as a reference.
[Revise the title of renumbered 5.1.4
to read as follows:]
5.1.4 Firm Mailings—Three or More
Pieces
When the number of articles
presented justifies such action, the
mailer must comply with these
standards:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of 5.1.4 item b to read
as follows:]
b. When the mailer describes and lists
three or more individual pieces on Form
3665–Firm, but does not present the
pieces in the order shown on the sheets,
the mailer must consecutively number
each entry line on the sheet and lightly
number each piece to show both the
corresponding sheet and line number.
[Insert a new item c under 5.1.4 to
read as follows:]
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6589
c. Firm mailers using Form 3665–
Firm, or USPS approved facsimiles,
must submit an electronic manifest to
USPS (using mail.dat or mail.xml, or a
shipping services file as appropriate for
the type of pieces appending to the
form) which reconciles with all of the
items listed on the associated Form
3665–Firm.
5.1.5 Duplicate Copies—After Mailing
[Revise the first sentence of
renumbered 5.1.5 to read as follows:]
To obtain a duplicate copy of the
certificate after mailing (Form 3817
only), the mailer must present the
original postmarked certificate and an
additional certificate endorsed
‘‘Duplicate’’ or a copy showing the
original dates of mailing. * * *
5.1.6 Presenting to Rural Carrier
[Revise the text of renumbered 5.1.6 to
read as follows:]
For certificate of mailing (Form 3817
only), a mailer may provide mail to the
rural carrier with the fee for the
certificate. The carrier obtains the
certificate at the Post Office, attaches the
stamps, obtains the postmark (rounddate) on the certificate on the day of
mailing, and delivers the certificate to
the mailer on the next trip.
5.2 Other Bulk Quantities—Certificate
of Bulk Mailing
5.2.1 Description
[Revise the text of 5.2.1 to read as
follows:]
Certificate of Bulk Mailing is subject
to the basic standards in 1.0, see 1.4 for
eligible matter. Barcoded Form 3606–D,
or USPS approved facsimile, is available
only at the time of mailing and is used
to specify only the number of identicalweight pieces mailed; it does not
provide evidence that a piece was
mailed to a particular address. The
Form 3606–D IMpb is scanned and
postmarked (round-dated) at the time
the mailing is presented and returned to
the mailer as their receipt. Bulk mailers
must submit an electronic manifest to
USPS (using mail.dat or mail.xml, or a
shipping services file as appropriate for
the type of pieces appending to the
form) which reconciles with all of the
items represented on the associated
Form 3606–D. Form 3606–D is available
for identical-weight mailings of less
than 50 pieces or 50 pounds (whichever
amount is met first) presented at any
retail Post Office, station or branch, or,
for mailings of at least 50 pieces or 50
pounds (whichever amount is met first)
presented at a BMEU or USPS
authorized DMU. Certificate of bulk
mailing service does not provide a
record of delivery and the Postal Service
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does not retain any copies of Form
3606–D. The Form 3606–D cannot be
used as a certificate of mailing of
individual mailpieces or itemized lists
or if presented in combination with
mailpieces already presented for
mailing under an approved manifested
mailing system under 705.
5.2.2 Paying Fees
[Revise the text of 5.2.2 to read as
follows:]
The applicable certificate of bulk
mailing fee must be paid for mailings of
identical-weight pieces reported on
Form 3606–D, or for additional copies of
the form if requested at the time of
mailing, in addition to the correct
postage. Mailers using Form 3606–D
may affix ordinary stamps or postage
evidencing indicia on the form to pay
the fee. When postage evidencing
indicia are used, they must bear the full
numerical value of the fee in the
imprint. Mailers using Form 3606–D
with a permit imprint mailing also may
pay certificate of mailing fees, at the
time of mailing, using the same permit
imprint.
6.0
Return Receipt
6.1
Basic Standards
6.1.1 Description
[Revise the text of 6.1.1 to read as
follows:]
Return Receipt service is subject to
the basic standards in 1.0; see 1.4 for
eligible matter. A return receipt may be
purchased at the time of mailing and
provides a mailer with evidence of
delivery (to whom the mail was
delivered and date of delivery), and
information about the recipient’s actual
delivery address. A mailer purchasing a
return receipt may choose to receive the
return receipt by mail (Form 3811) or
electronically (by email, or by signature
extract file format under 1.8). A
complete return address is required on
the mailpiece when a return receipt is
requested. For Priority Mail Express
(Form 3811 option only), the return
address on the Priority Mail Express
label meets this requirement.
*
*
*
*
*
6.2
Obtaining Service
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete items 6.2.2, After Mailing, and
6.2.3, Time Limit, in their entirety.]
6.3 Other Requests for Delivery
Information
6.3.1 Receipt Not Received
[Revise the text of 6.3.1 to read as
follows:]
A mailer who did not receive a return
receipt (Form 3811) for which the
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
mailer had paid may request
information from the delivery record
within 90 days of the date of purchase
using Form 3811–A. The mailer must
complete Form 3811–A, at any Post
Office, station or branch, and produce
their receipt showing that the applicable
return receipt fee was paid.
[Delete 6.3.2, Form 3811–A, in its
entirety (text relocated to 6.3.1).]
[Delete sections 7.0, Restricted
Delivery, through 9.0 Return Receipt for
Merchandise, in their entirety, then,
renumber current 10.0 through 15.0 as
new 7.0 through 12.0.]
*
*
*
*
*
purposes of USPS Tracking with
Standard Post, Media Mail, Library
Mail, Bound Printed Matter, or Parcel
Select, the parcel must meet these
additional requirements:
[Delete 7.1.3 item a in its entirety
(context of text relocated to introductory
text), then, renumber current items b
and c as new a and b.]
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete renumbered 7.1.4, Service
Options, in its entirety (appropriate text
relocated to either 7.1.2 or 7.2.1 as only
electronic option remains).]
7.0
USPS Tracking
7.2.1
7.1
Basic Standards
7.1.1 Description
[Revise the text of renumbered 7.1.1 to
read as follows:]
USPS Tracking is subject to the basic
standards in 1.0; see 1.4 for eligible
matter. USPS Tracking provides the
mailer with information about the date
and time an article was delivered or the
date and time of the delivery attempt.
See 1.9 to obtain delivery information.
USPS Tracking is available only at the
time of mailing. No record is kept at the
office of mailing. USPS Tracking does
not include insurance, but insurance
may be purchased as an additional
service unless otherwise restricted.
Some statutes governing the mailing of
legal documents may require the use of
Certified Mail or Registered Mail, rather
than USPS Tracking.
[Revise the title of and insert a new
first and second sentence to renumbered
7.1.2 as follows:]
7.1.2 Electronic Option USPS
Tracking for Standard Mail Parcels
Electronic option USPS Tracking may
be purchased for Standard Mail parcels
for mailers using privately printed forms
or labels, or Label 400, and who
establish an electronic link with the
USPS to exchange acceptance and
delivery data. Mailers wishing to obtain
a mailing receipt may use Form 3877.
* * *
*
*
*
*
*
7.1.3 Additional Physical Standards
[Revise the introductory text of
renumbered 7.1.3 to read as follows:]
In addition to the applicable
standards in 101, 201.7.0, and 201.8.0,
all parcels must be large enough to hold
the required delivery address, return
address, mailing labels, postage,
barcode, endorsements, and other mail
markings on the address side of the
parcel. In addition to the applicable
standards in 101 and 201 and for the
PO 00000
Frm 00018
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4702
7.2
Labels
Types of Labels
[Revise the text of renumbered 7.2.1 to
read as follows:]
Mailers using privately printed USPS
Tracking labels must meet the
requirements in 1.8. Mailers not
printing their own privately printed
labels must use one of the label options
as follows:
a. Label 400 may be used by:
Electronic option mailers, USPS retail
associates when affixed to mailpieces at
a Post Office, station, or branch, or by
mailers when affixed to mailpieces with
postage and fees prepaid by metered
indicia or ordinary stamps. A mailing
receipt is provided to mailers who
present mailpieces with an affixed Label
400 at a Post Office, branch, or station,
or to their USPS carrier. A mailer may
also present mailpieces to a retail
employee at a Post Office, station, or
branch; and the retail associate will affix
a USPS Tracking label to the item.
b. Unique, product specific USPSprovided tracking labels are for use by
electronic option mailers. The labels are
populated with the product service type
code and customer’s Mailer
Identification (MID) number in the
Intelligent Mail package barcode (IMpb).
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the title of renumbered 8.0 to
read as follows:]
8.0
USPS Signature Services
8.1
Basic Standards
8.1.1
Description
[Revise the entire text of renumbered
8.1.1 to read as follows:]
USPS Signature Services include
Signature Confirmation, Signature
Confirmation Restricted Delivery, Adult
Signature Required, and Adult
Signature Restricted Delivery, all of
which are subject to the basic standards
in 1.0; see 1.4 for eligible matter. Some
statutes governing the mailing of legal
documents may require the use of
Certified Mail or Registered Mail rather
than USPS Signature Services. USPS
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rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
Signature Services are available as
follows:
a. Signature Confirmation provides
the mailer with information about the
date and time an article was delivered
or the date and time of the delivery
attempt. A delivery record (including
the recipient’s signature) is maintained
by the USPS and is available
electronically or by email, upon request.
The Signature Confirmation is available
as a Retail option: Available at Post
Offices at the time of mailing; a mailing
receipt is provided. Electronic option:
Available to mailers who establish an
electronic link with the USPS to
exchange acceptance and delivery data;
no mailing receipt is provided.
b. Signature Confirmation Restricted
Delivery provides the same service as
provided under item a. and permits a
mailer to direct delivery only to the
addressee (or addressee’s authorized
agent). The addressee must be an
individual (natural person) specified by
name. The mailer may request Insured
Restricted Delivery at the time of
mailing by advising the USPS clerk or
by marking the mail ‘‘Restricted
Delivery’’ above the address and to the
right of the return address and paying
the applicable fee. A firm mailer must
enter the proper fee in the correct
column of the firm sheet and place the
required endorsement on the mailpiece.
c. Adult Signature service provides
electronic confirmation of the delivery
or attempted delivery of the mailpiece
and signature of the recipient, who must
be 21 years of age or older. Prior to
delivery, the recipient must furnish
proof of age via a driver’s license,
passport, or other government-issued
photo identification that lists age or date
of birth. The USPS maintains a record
of delivery (including the recipient’s
signature) for two years. The Adult
Signature options are:
1. Adult Signature Required—
provides delivery to a person who is 21
years of age or older. Upon delivery, an
adult who is 21 years of age or older
must provide one of the forms of
identification listed above and provide
a signature for receipt of the mailpiece.
2. Adult Signature Restricted
Delivery—provides Adult Signature
Required with the additional restriction
of limiting delivery to a specific
addressee or authorized agent who is 21
years of age or older. If the specific
individual is not 21 years of age or
older, the mailpiece will be returned to
sender.
[Revise the title and text of
renumbered 8.1.2 to read as follows:]
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6591
8.1.2 Additional Standards for
Signature Confirmation
For Signature Confirmation with
Standard Post, Media Mail, Library
Mail, Bound Printed Matter, or Parcel
Select, the parcel must meet these
additional requirements:
a. The surface area of the address side
of the parcel must be large enough to
contain completely and legibly the
delivery address, return address,
postage, and any markings,
endorsements, and extra service labels.
b. Except as provided in (12.1.2c.) for
machinable parcels, the parcel must be
greater than 3⁄4 inch thick at its thickest
point.
c. If the mailpiece is a machinable
parcel under 201.7.0 and no greater than
3⁄4 inch thick, the contents must be
prepared in a strong and rigid fiberboard
box or similar container or in a
container that becomes rigid after the
contents are enclosed and the container
is secured. The parcel must be able to
maintain its shape, integrity, and
rigidity throughout processing and
handling without collapsing into a
letter-size or flat-size piece.
d. Mailers must use one of the
following labels:
1. Form 153 (see forms at https://
pe.usps.gov/), obtained from the Post
Office at no charge, may be used only
with the retail option.
2. Label 315 electronic Signature
Confirmation is available to electronic
option mailers.
3. Privately printed barcoded labels
must meet the requirements in 1.8. On
the Priority Mail label, mailers must use
the registered trademark symbol
following the Priority Mail text or add
the following statement at the bottom of
the label in at least 6-point Helvetica
type: ‘‘Priority Mail is a registered
trademark of the U.S. Postal Service.’’
See Parcel Labeling Guide or
Publication 97 available on RIBBS.
e. The barcoded label section of Label
315 or Form 153 (see forms at https://
pe.usps.gov/) must be placed completely
on the address side either above the
delivery address and to the right of the
return address, or to the left of the
delivery address. A privately printed
Signature Confirmation label that is
separate from a privately printed
address label must be placed in close
proximity to the address label.
[Delete renumbered 8.1.3, Service
Options, in its entirety (context of text
relocated to 8.1.2), then insert new 8.1.3
as follows:]
Restricted Delivery by producing
qualified shipping labels with
Intelligent Mail package barcodes. The
Adult Signature Required or Adult
Signature Restricted Delivery fee must
be paid in addition to the correct
postage using Click-N-Ship, PC Postage,
Permit imprint (if the customer
electronically submits postage
statements and mailing documentation)
or IBI postage meter. Conditions in 8.3.1
and 8.3.2 also apply to Adult Signature
Restricted Delivery items. A shipment of
cigarettes and smokeless tobacco with
Adult Signature service, mailed by
certain individuals under 601.9.0,
requires the mailer to present items at
a retail counter.
[Delete renumbered 8.2, Labels, in its
entirety (context of text relocated to
8.1.2).]
8.1.3 Additional Standards for Adult
Signature Service
Customers may obtain Adult
Signature Required and Adult Signature
9.1.3 Registered COD Mail
[Revise the text of renumbered 9.1.3 to
read as follows (text relocated under
2.1.5, Registered COD):]
PO 00000
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9.0
Collect on Delivery (COD)
9.1
Basic Standards
9.1.1 Description
[Revise the text of renumbered 9.0 to
read as follows:]
Collect on delivery (COD) is subject to
the basic standards in 1.0; see 1.4 for
eligible matter. Any mailer may use
COD to mail an article (using a unique
COD number for each 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). The recipient has the option
to pay the COD charges (with one form
of payment) by cash, or a personal check
or money order made payable to the
mailer (accepted by the USPS employee
upon the recipient’s presentation of
adequate identification). The USPS
forwards the check or money order to
the mailer. If payment is made by cash,
a money order fee is included in the
amount collected from the recipient
(unless the mailer is authorized to
participate in EFT for the remittance), in
addition to the COD amount. 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 (7.0) is
also available if electronic return receipt
service is purchased at the time of
mailing.
*
*
*
*
*
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Sealed domestic mail bearing FirstClass Mail, First-Class Package Service,
or Priority Mail postage may be sent as
registered COD mail as provided under
9.0 and 2.1.5.
*
*
*
*
*
1.1.2 High-Volume Basic BRM
An annual account maintenance fee is
required for high-volume BRM.
[Revise the text of 1.1.3 (context of
deleted text relocated to 1.1.1) to read
as follows:]
10.0
Special Handling
10.1
Basic Standards
1.1.3 Basic Qualified BRM (QBRM)
In addition to prices and fees under
1.1.1, an annual account maintenance
fee is required for basic QBRM (which
applies to a card meeting the applicable
standards in 1.6 and 201.1 or a letter
meeting the applicable standards in 1.6
that is not eligible for and claimed at the
QBRM price for cards).
[Revise the text of 1.1.4 (context of
deleted text relocated to 1.1.2) to read
as follows:]
10.1.1
Description
[Revise the first and last sentences of
renumbered 10.1.1 to read as follows:]
Special Handling is subject to the
basic standards in 1.0; see 1.4 for
eligible matter.* * * There are unique
service codes included in the IMpb for
the content categories (Fragile,
Hazardous Material Transportation, Live
Animal Transportation, Perishables, and
Cremated Remains (only available with
Priority Mail Express)) of special
handling.
10.1.2
Bees and Poultry
[Revise the text of renumbered 10.1.2
to read as follows:]
Unless sent Priority Mail Express,
Priority Mail, First-Class Mail or FirstClass Package Service, special handling
is required for parcels containing
honeybees or baby poultry.
10.1.3
Marking
[Revise the text of renumbered 10.1.3
to read as follows:]
Except for cremated remains
(accordingly marked or with Label 139
affixed) the marking ‘‘Special Handling’’
must appear prominently above the
address and to the right of the return
address on each piece for which special
handling service is requested.
[Delete item 14.1.4, Parcel Select—
Nonmachinable Parcels, in its entirety
(the Parcel Select nonmachinable
surcharge was eliminated in a prior
price change).]
*
*
*
*
*
505
Return Services
1.0
Business Reply Mail (BRM)
1.1 Business Reply Mail (BRM) Prices
and Fees
[Revise the title and text of 1.1.1 to
read as follows:]
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
1.1.1
General BRM Charges
For BRM cards, letters and flats, an
annual permit fee under 1.2 is required,
and a per-piece fee under 1.1.8 is
applied to each mailpiece, in addition to
the applicable First-Class Mail or
Priority Mail postage. See Notice 123—
Price List for applicable prices and fees.
[Revise the title and text of 1.1.2
(context of deleted text relocated to
1.1.1) to read as follows:]
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1.1.4 High-Volume Qualified BRM
In additional to 1.1.1, annual permit
and account maintenance fees, and a
quarterly fee, are required for highvolume QBRM.
[Revise the text of 1.1.5 (context of
deleted text relocated to 1.1.1) to read
as follows:]
1.1.5 Bulk Weight Averaged
Nonletter-Size BRM
In addition to 1.1.1, permit holders
participating in bulk weight averaged
nonletter-size BRM under 1.8 must pay
an annual account maintenance fee, and
a monthly maintenance fee.
*
*
*
*
*
[Insert new 1.1.7 through 1.1.11 as
follows (these relocated sections all
have to do with prices and fees):]
1.1.7 Postage
Each piece of returned BRM is
charged the applicable single-piece
First-Class Mail or Priority Mail postage
(423.1.0, and 133.1.0). Cards must meet
the standards in 201.1.0 to qualify for
card price postage. Any card larger than
those dimensions is charged the
applicable First-Class Mail letter price.
For Priority Mail or First-Class Mail
BRM pieces exceeding 13 ounces in
weigh, if the zone cannot be determined
from a return address or cancellation,
then the permit holder is charged zone
4 postage based on the weight of the
piece. For QBRM, see 1.6.3.
1.1.8 Per Piece Fees
Per piece fees listed in 1.1 are charged
for each piece of returned BRM
postcard, letter or flat (in addition to
postage in 1.1.1). If a permit holder has
not paid an annual account
maintenance fee and established a BRM
advance deposit account, then the basic
(higher) BRM per piece fee must be
paid. If a permit holder has paid the
annual account maintenance fee and has
PO 00000
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established a BRM advance deposit
account, then the high-volume (lower)
BRM per piece fee is paid. For QBRM,
see 1.6.4.
1.1.9 Advance Deposit Account and
Annual Account Maintenance Fee
A permit holder may choose to pay an
annual account maintenance fee and
establish an advance deposit account,
which qualifies returned BRM pieces for
the high-volume per piece fee. The
account maintenance fee must be paid
once each 12-month period at each Post
Office where a permit holder holds an
advance deposit account. Payment of
the account maintenance fee is based on
the anniversary date of the initial
payment. The fee may be paid in
advance only for the next 12-month
period and only during the last 60 days
of the current 12-month period. The fee
charged is that which is in effect on the
date of payment. A separate advance
deposit account solely for BRM is not
required. An advance deposit account
can be used for BRM under these
conditions:
a. For each withdrawal, only one
statement is provided for each annual
account maintenance fee paid.
b. If a permit holder distributes BRM
with different addresses (including Post
Office box numbers) under the same
permit number going to the same
delivery unit and has only one business
reply account, then the BRM is
separated by each different address but
only one statement is provided and only
one annual account maintenance fee is
paid.
c. The permit holder must pay an
annual account maintenance fee for
each separate statement (accounting)
requested. If only one annual account
maintenance fee is paid, then the permit
holder receives only one statement.
d. The permit holder must maintain a
sufficient balance in the BRM advance
deposit account to cover postage and
per piece fees for returned mailpieces.
The permit holder is notified if funds
are insufficient. After 3 calendar days, if
no funds are deposited, then the BRM
on hand is charged the basic BRM per
piece fee and postage and charges are
collected from the permit holder (e.g., in
cash) prior to delivery.
e. BRM addressed to several different
firms at the same delivery unit may be
delivered to an agent authorized by a
valid BRM permit holder. The agent
pays one annual account maintenance
fee for all the firms represented by the
agent in the same delivery unit. If the
agent, or any of the firms represented by
the agent, wants a separation of charges,
then separate (additional) account
maintenance fees must be paid.
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Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
1.1.10 Renewal of Annual Account
Maintenance Fee
An annual renewal notice is provided
to each BRM permit holder with a BRM
advance deposit account. The notice
and the payment for the next 12 months
must be returned by the expiration date
to the Post Office that holds the advance
deposit account. After the expiration
date, if the permit holder has not paid
the annual account maintenance fee but
still has a valid BRM permit, returned
BRM pieces no longer qualify for the
high-volume BRM per piece fee and are
charged the basic BRM per piece fee in
1.1.8.
1.1.11
Payment Options
Permit holders may pay for postage
and per piece fees on returned pieces by
cash or check upon delivery, through a
regular postage due account (604.6.3), or
through a BRM advance deposit account
(1.1.9). A regular postage due account is
not charged an annual account
maintenance fee and does not qualify
the permit holder for high-volume BRM
per piece fees.
[Delete 1.2 Qualified Business Reply
Mail (QBRM) Prices, and 1.3, Qualified
Business Reply Mail (QBRM), in their
entirety, (1.2 is already stated in 505.1.1
and 1.3 relocated to 1.10, Additional
Standards for QBRM.), then, insert new
1.2, Permits, (relocated from current 1.5)
to read as follows:]
1.2
1.2.1
Permits
Required
Any mailer who wants to distribute
BRM must apply for and receive a
permit. The permit number, city, and
state where the permit is held must
appear on all pieces of BRM.
1.2.2
Application Process
The mailer may apply for a BRM
permit by submitting a completed Form
3615 to the Post Office issuing the
permit and paying the annual permit
fee. If a completed Form 3615 is already
on file for the mailer for other permits
at that office, then the mailer must
submit the annual BRM permit fee and
the USPS amends Form 3615 by adding
the BRM authorization.
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
1.2.3
Annual Permit Fee
A permit fee must be paid once each
12-month period at each Post Office
where a BRM permit is held. Payment
of the permit fee is based on the
anniversary date of the permit’s
issuance. The fee may be paid in
advance only for the next 12 months
and only during the last 60 days of the
current service period. The fee charged
is that which is in effect on the date of
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
payment. Agents authorized by a permit
holder under 1.7 are not required to pay
an annual permit fee at the Post Office
where their BRM is received.
1.2.4 Renewal of Annual Permit Fee
An annual renewal notice is provided
to each BRM permit holder by the
USPS. The notice and the payment for
the next 12 months must be returned by
the expiration date to the Post Office
that issued the permit. After the
expiration date, if the permit holder has
not paid the annual permit fee, then
returned BRM pieces are treated as
follows:
a. Postcards of no obvious value are
treated as waste and disposed of at the
delivery unit.
b. Letter and flat pieces with a return
address are endorsed ‘‘Business Reply
Permit Canceled’’ and are returned to
the sender.
c. Pieces without a return address are
endorsed ‘‘Business Reply Permit
Canceled’’ and forwarded to the mail
recovery center for handling.
1.2.5 Other Post Offices
A permit holder may distribute BRM
through any Post Office for delivery at
any Post Office under 1.7.
1.2.6 Revocation of a Permit
The USPS may revoke a BRM permit
because of format errors or for refusal to
pay permit fees (annual, accounting,
quarterly, or monthly), postage, or per
piece fees. If the permit was revoked
due to format errors, then a former
permit holder may obtain a new permit
and permit number by completing and
submitting a new Form 3615, paying the
required BRM annual permit fee, paying
a new annual account maintenance fee
(if applicable), and, for the next 2 years,
submitting two samples of each BRM
format to the appropriate Post Office for
approval.
[Renumber current 1.4 through 1.12
as new 1.3 through 1.8.]
[Revise the title (to align with other
titles in 505) of renumbered 1.3 as
follows:]
1.3
Basic Standards
1.3.1 Description
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.3.1 to
read as follows:]
Business Reply Mail (BRM) service
enables a permit holder to receive FirstClass Mail and Priority Mail back from
customers. The permit holder
guarantees payment of the applicable
First-Class Mail or Priority Mail postage,
plus a per piece fee, on all returned
BRM which includes any incomplete,
blank, or empty BRM cards and
envelopes and any mailable matter with
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6593
a BRM label affixed. BRM cards,
envelopes, self-mailers, and flats may be
distributed by a BRM permit holder in
any quantity for return to any Post
Office in the United States and its
territories and possessions, including
military Post Offices overseas. HighVolume BRM under 1.1.2 is a subset of
BRM that qualify pieces for a reduced
per piece fee. QBRM, under 1.1.3, 1.1.4
and 1.6, is a subset of BRM available for
specific automation-compatible lettersize pieces that qualify for an
automation postage price and a reduced
per piece fee. Domestic BRM may not be
distributed to foreign countries (see the
International Mail Manual for
International Business Reply Service
(IBRS)). BRM may not be used for any
purpose other than that intended by the
permit holder, even when postage is
affixed. In cases where a BRM card or
letter is used improperly as a label, the
USPS treats the item as waste.
[Delete renumbered 1.3.2, Payment
Guarantee, in its entirety, (text relocated
under 1.3.1, Description), then,
renumber recently renumbered 1.3.3,
Services, through 1.3.8, Error
Notification, as new 1.3.2 through
1.3.7.]
[Revise the title and text of newly
renumbered 1.3.2 as follows:]
1.3.2 Extra Services
No extra services are permitted with
BRM, except for BRM parcels bearing an
Intelligent Mail package barcode with
imbedded USPS Tracking service.
[Delete renumbered 1.3.3, Address, in
its entirety, (text relocated more
appropriately under 1.8.6, Format
Elements), then, renumber recently
renumbered 1.3.4, through 1.3.7 as new
1.3.3 through 1.3.6.]
[Delete recently renumbered 1.3.4,
Intentions of the Permit Holder, in its
entirety, (text relocated in 1.3.1,
Description) and renumber recently
renumbered 1.3.5 through 1.3.6 as new
1.3.4 through 1.3.5.]
1.3.4
Samples
[Revise the text of newly renumbered
1.3.4 to read as follows:]
Prior to printing, permit holders are
encouraged, but not required, to submit
preproduction samples of BRM to the
USPS for approval. QBRM pieces
require USPS approval (1.6).
1.3.5 Error Notification
[Revise the text of newly renumbered
1.3.5 to read as follows:]
If the USPS discovers a BRM format
error, the responsible permit holder or
authorized agent receives written
notification of the error. The permit
holder must correct the error and make
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Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
sure that all future BRM pieces meet
appropriate specifications. The repeated
distribution of BRM with format errors
is grounds for revoking a BRM permit
(1.2.6).
[Delete renumbered 1.4, Permits, in its
entirety (relocated to new 1.2.]
[Delete renumbered 1.5, Postage, Per
Piece Fees, and Account Maintenance
Fees, and 1.5.1, Postage through 1.5.4,
Renewal of Annual Account
Maintenance Fee, (all text relocated
within 1.1) in their entirety.]
[Renumber 1.5.5 through 1.5.7 as new
1.3.6 through 1.3.8.]
1.3.6 Combined Pieces as a Single
Item
Two or more BRM pieces may be
mailed as a single piece if the BRM
pieces are identically addressed and
prepared for mailing in accordance with
201.1.0. The permit holder is charged
postage based on the total weight of the
combined piece plus one per piece fee.
If the combined pieces become
separated, then the permit holder must
pay postage and a per piece fee for each
individual piece. Combined pieces are
not eligible for QBRM postage prices or
per piece fees.
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
1.3.7 With Postage Affixed
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.3.7 to
read as follows:]
BRM with postage affixed is handled
the same as other BRM. No effort is
made to identify or separate BRM pieces
with postage affixed. The amount of
affixed postage is not deducted from the
postage or per piece fees owed. The
permit holder may request a credit or
refund for postage affixed to BRM under
604.9.2.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
[Delete newly renumbered 1.3.8 in its
entirety (context of text relocated to
1.1.11 under BRM Prices and Fees).]
1.4
Mailpiece Characteristics
*
*
1.4.5
*
*
*
Window Envelopes
The following standards apply to
BRM prepared in an open-panel or a
covered window envelope:
*
*
*
*
*
c. Open panel window envelopes:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of renumbered
1.4.5c.2 to read as follows:]
2. Other required and optional
elements in 1.5 may be printed on the
insert appearing through the address
window.
1.4.6 Self-Mailers and Reusable
Mailpieces
[Revise the first sentence of
renumbered 1.4.6 to read as follows:]
In addition to the standards in 1.4 and
1.5, self-mailers and reusable mailpieces
must meet the standards in 201.3.14 and
601.6.5 (or 601.6.6).* * *
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the title and text of
renumbered 1.4.8 to read as follows:]
1.4.8
Labels for Letter-Size Pieces
The minimum size of a BRM label for
use on letter-size pieces is 2 inches high
and 3 inches long. BRM labels on
ordinary letter-size pieces are not
required to have a FIM or a ZIP+4
barcode, but all other format standards
in 1.5 must be met. In cases where a
BRM card or letter is used improperly
as a label, the USPS treats the item as
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Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4725
waste. The following standards apply to
BRM labels for use on letter-size pieces:
a. The minimum size of a BRM label
is 25⁄8 inches high and 41⁄4 inches long.
All format elements, including a FIM,
must be printed on the label. Exception:
The vertical series of horizontal bars
must be at least 3⁄4-inch high. Horizontal
bars may be omitted on BRM letter-size
pieces bearing Intelligent Mail barcodes.
The back of the label must be coated
with a permanent adhesive strong
enough to firmly attach the label to an
envelope.
b. The permit holder must provide
instructions to the user describing how
the label should be applied to a
mailpiece and what precautions must be
observed when applying the label (see
Exhibit 1.4.8a). A pictorial diagram
showing proper placement of the label
must be included with the instructions.
At a minimum, the instructions must
include the following directions:
1. Place the label squarely in the
upper right corner of the envelope.
2. Do not write on the envelope or
label.
3. Do not use a window envelope, an
envelope that is less than 1 inch higher
than the label an envelope that is more
than 41⁄2 inches high, or an envelope
with any printing other than a return
address.
4. Do not use tape to affix the label.
c. When the label is affixed to an
envelope, the address must be placed
within the OCR read area (see 202.2.1).
d. Pieces with business reply labels
cannot qualify for QBRM prices.
Exhibit 1.4.8a Instructions for Affixing
Business Reply Label
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1.5
1.5.1
Format Elements
General
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.5.1 to
read as follows:]
1.5.2
Printing and Print Reflectance
[Revise the second sentence of
renumbered 1.5.2 to read as follows:]
* * *Handwriting, typewriting, and
hand stamping may not be used to
prepare BRM. Printed borders are not
permitted on letter-size BRM, but are
permitted on envelopes greater than 61⁄8
inches high or 111⁄2 inches long or 1⁄4
inch thick. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
1.5.4
Business Reply Legend
[Revise the first sentence of 1.5.4 to
read as follows:]
The legend ‘‘BUSINESS REPLY
MAIL’’ or ‘‘BUSINESS REPLY LABEL’’,
as appropriate, must appear on all
pieces. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
1.5.6
Delivery Address
[Add a new first sentence to and
revise item d of renumbered 1.5.6 to
read as follows:]
The delivery address on a piece of
BRM may not be altered to redirect the
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
Except for BRM parcels under 3.0, all
pieces of BRM are subject to these
format elements. The USPS may revoke
a BRM permit because of format errors
under 1.2.6. An Intelligent Mail barcode
(IMb) is not required, except for QBRM
prices; if an IMb is used, it must be
printed and placed under 1.5.10 and as
shown in Exhibit 1.5.1a. Pieces of
QBRM and bulk weight averaged
nonletter-size BRM are subject to
additional format standards listed in 1.6
and 1.8. BRM format elements are
shown in Exhibit 1.5.1a.
mailpiece to any address other than the
one preprinted on the piece. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
[Renumber current 1.9 as new 1.5.10,
then, revise the title and text of
renumbered 1.5.10 to read as follows:]
Qualified business reply mail (QBRM)
is a subset of business reply mail.
Permit holders distribute automationcompatible letter-size pieces that qualify
for automation postage prices and
reduced per piece fees. In addition to
meeting the eligibility requirements
below, the authorization to participate
in QBRM under 1.6.2, and the format
standards in 1.5, QBRM is First-Class
Mail that:
a. Is letter-size and is prepared to
meet the automation compatibility
requirements in 201.3.0 (except
201.3.13.1).
b. Meets all the Business Reply Mail
(BRM) standards in 1.3 through 1.8.
c. Has postage and per piece charges
deducted from a BRM advance deposit
account.
d. Is authorized to mail at QBRM
prices and fees under 1.6.2. During the
authorization process, a proper ZIP+4
Code is assigned to the mailer (under
1.6.2) for each price category of QBRM
to be returned under the system (one for
card priced pieces, one for letter-size
pieces weighing 1 ounce or less, and
1.5.10 Additional Standards for
Letter-Size and Flat-Size BRM Bearing
an IMb
When an Intelligent Mail barcode is
printed on any BRM pieces, it must
contain the barcode ID, service type ID,
and correct ZIP+4 routing code, as
specified under 708.4.3. The IMb must
be placed on the address side of the
piece and positioned as part of the
delivery address block under 202.5.7 or
within the barcode clear zone in the
lower right corner of the piece if printed
directly on the piece.
1.6 Additional Standards for
Qualified Business Reply Mail (QBRM)
1.6.1
Description
[Revise renumbered 1.6.1 to read as
follows:]
PO 00000
Frm 00023
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4702
Exhibit 1.5.1a
Format
E:\FR\FM\05FEP2.SGM
05FEP2
Business Reply Mail
EP05FE15.003</GPH>
[Delete 1.4.9, Labels for Letter-Size
Pieces, in its entirety (context of text
relocated to 1.4.8).]
6595
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Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
one for letter-size pieces weighing over
1 ounce up to and including 2 ounces).
e. Bears the proper ZIP+4 Code,
assigned by USPS for the appropriate
price category, in the address of each
piece. The ZIP+4 Codes assigned for this
program must be used only on the
organization’s appropriate QBRM
pieces.
f. Bears the correct Intelligent Mail
barcode, correctly prepared under 1.9
and 708.4.0, that corresponds to the
unique ZIP+4 code in the address on
each piece distributed.
g. Bears a properly prepared facing
identification mark (FIM) C on each
piece distributed (see 708.9.0).
[Delete renumbered 1.6.2, Eligibility,
in its entirety (text in ‘‘1.3’’ as reference
in 1.10.2 relocated to 1.10.1 (1.10.1
subsequently renumbered as new
1.6.1)), then, renumber recently
renumbered 1.6.3 through 1.6.8 as new
1.6.2 through 1.6.7.]
1.6.2 Authorization
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.6.2 to
read as follows:]
To participate in QBRM, a mailer with
a valid BRM permit and having paid the
annual account maintenance fee, must
submit Form 6805 to the Postmaster or
manager, Business Mail Entry for the
Post Office to which the QBRM pieces
are to be returned. USPS assigns to the
mailer a proper BRM ZIP+4 Code, as
applicable, reviews Form 6805 and
preproduction samples provided by the
mailer for compliance with relevant
standards, and if approved, issues the
mailer an authorization via the Form
6805.
*
*
*
*
*
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
1.6.4 Per Piece Fees
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.6.4 to
read as follows:]
Per piece fees are charged for each
piece of returned QBRM (in addition to
postage in 1.6.3). Pieces that do not
meet the format requirements for QBRM
cannot qualify for QBRM per piece fees
and are charged the high-volume BRM
per piece fees in 1.1.2.
1.6.5 Annual Account Maintenance
Fee and Advance Deposit Account
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.6.5 to
read as follows:]
Permit holders are required to pay
QBRM postage and per piece fees
through a BRM advance deposit
account, which requires payment of an
annual account maintenance fee (see
1.1.9).
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the complete text of
renumbered 1.7 to read as follows
(incorporating the text and sections
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
1.11.2 through 1.11.6 as new 1.7.1 items
a through e.):]
1.7 BRM Distributed and Received by
Agents of a Permit Holder
1.7.1
Description
Permit holders may give permission
to subsidiary offices, agents, or
authorized representatives to distribute
and receive BRM using a single
(corporate) permit number. BRM pieces
are distributed by and returned to
agents, who pay postage and per piece
fees on those returned pieces. Agents
may use any type of BRM service
meeting the applicable standards in 1.0
and under the following additional
conditions:
a. Permit—The main permit holder or
‘‘corporate’’ office applies for the permit
number and pays the permit fee. The
agent must present a letter of
authorization from the permit holder
showing the name, address, and
telephone number of the local agent
authorized to receive the BRM to the
Post Office where the BRM is to be
returned. Any time there is a change to
the original permit application or the
authorization letter, each agent must
provide an amended letter of
authorization to their local Post Office.
b. Annual Permit Fee—Agents do not
pay a separate annual permit fee but
must submit evidence (usually a copy of
Form 3544) to the local office once each
12-month period to show that the
annual permit fee has been paid. This
evidence is not required if-the permit
holder has a centralized account
processing system (CAPS) account,
through which the local Post Office can
determine that the permit fee has been
paid.
c. Postage, Per Piece Fees, and Annual
Account Maintenance Fees—Agents
receiving BRM or QBRM are responsible
for paying all the postage and per piece
fees, and applicable annual account
maintenance fees, under 1.1 for the type
of service received.
d. Payment Guarantee—The permit
holder is ultimately responsible for
postage and per piece fees for all pieces
returned under that permit number. If a
local agent refuses or neglects to pay
postage or per piece fees on returned
pieces, then those pieces are forwarded
to the Post Office that issued the
original permit for collection of postage
and per piece fees from the permit
holder. Once forwarded to the permit
holder, these pieces cannot qualify for
QBRM postage and per piece fees. The
permit holder’s refusal to accept and
pay the required postage and per piece
fees for BRM offered for delivery is
PO 00000
Frm 00024
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4702
grounds for immediate revocation of the
BRM permit (1.5.6).
e. Format—BRM distributed by agents
must meet all required format standards
in 1.4 and 1.5. Authorized
representatives distributing BRM on
behalf of a permit holder must have the
permit holder’s name and permit
number printed on the BRM and their
own names and addresses printed below
the permit holder’s name, except:
1. When the agent is a branch of an
authorized business.
2. The permit holder notifies a Post
Office that authorized representatives
may use the permit holder’s permit
number without printing the permit
holder’s name.
1.8 Bulk Weight Averaged Nonlettersize BRM
*
*
*
*
*
1.8.3 Postage, Per Piece Fees, and
Other Fees
[Revise the last sentence of
renumbered 1.8.3 to read as follows:]
* * * Permit holders participating in
bulk weight averaged nonletter-size
BRM must pay an annual account
maintenance fee and a monthly
maintenance fee (see 1.1.5).
[Revise the title of 1.8.4, Application
Procedures, to read as follows:]
1.8.4 Application Process
[Revise the introductory text of
renumbered 1.8.4 to read as follows:]
A permit holder who wants to use
bulk weight averaged BRM for nonlettersize pieces must submit a written
request to the Postmaster of the office
where the BRM permit is held. The
Postmaster forwards this information to
the manager, Customer Service
Standardization, USPS Headquarters
(see 608.8.0 for address). The request
must include the following information:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of 1.8.4d read as
follows:]
d. Based on the estimated volume in
1.8.4c, a 24-hour estimate and a 30-day
estimate of postage and per piece fees
using the postage and charges listed in
1.1.5.
*
*
*
*
*
1.8.7 Revoking Authorization
[Revise the introductory text of
renumbered 1.8.7 to read as follows:]
A Postmaster may terminate
authorization for bulk weight averaged
BRM by sending written notice to the
permit holder, for any of the following
reasons:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the heading of 2.0, Permit
Reply Mail, to read as follows:]
E:\FR\FM\05FEP2.SGM
05FEP2
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
2.1
Permit Reply Mail
2.1.1 Description
[Revise the second sentence of 2.1.1 to
read as follows:]
* * * Mailers must distribute PRM
pieces as part of the contents of an
outgoing First-Class Mail mailing (see
230) only by using a valid permit
imprint (604.5.0) account.
[Revise the title of 2.1.2, Services, as
follows;]
2.1.2
Extra Services
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete 2.1.3, Address, in its entirety
(text relocated to 2.3.6), then renumber
current 2.1.4 through 2.1.5 as new 2.1.3
through 2.1.4.]
*
*
*
*
*
2.3.6 Delivery Address
[Revise the text of 2.3.6 to read as
follows:]
The complete address (including the
permit holder’s name, delivery address,
city, state, and ZIP+4 Code) must be
printed on the piece. The delivery
address on a PRM mailpiece may not be
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
*
*
*
*
[Insert new 2.8 (context of text
relocated from 201.3.18) to read as
follows:]
2.8 Enclosed Reply Cards and
Envelopes
Jkt 235001
Prepaid (Metered) Reply Mail
2.6.1 Description
Mailers may use indicia generated by
any postage evidencing system (see
3.0 Merchandise Return Service
(MRS)
Mailers may enclose reply cards or
envelopes (i.e. BRM under 1.0; Permit
Reply Mail under 2.1 and 2.4, Prepaid
(Metered) Reply under 2.6, or Courtesy
Reply Mail under 2.7), addressed for
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
2.6
return to a domestic delivery address,
within automation mailings subject to
provisions in 201.3.0 for enclosures.
[Revise the title of 3.0 to read as
follows:]
*
VerDate Sep<11>2014
2.3.8 Company Logo
[Revise the text of 2.3.8 to read as
follows:]
A company logo is permitted on
letter-size PRM, provided the logo is
placed no lower than 5⁄8 inch from the
bottom edge of the piece and it does not
interfere with any required format
element.
[Delete 2.4, Permit Imprint Account,
in its entirety (relocated the last
sentence to 2.1.1, Description, and the
rest of this text is already stated in
2.1.1), then, renumber current 2.5 and
2.6 as new 2.4 and 2.5.]
*
*
*
*
*
[Renumber recently renumbered 2.5,
Courtesy Reply Mail, as new 2.7.]
[Insert new section 2.6 (relocated
more appropriately here from 604.4.5.2)
to read as follows:]
3.1
Prices and Fees
3.1.1 Permit Fee
[Revise the text of 3.1.1 to read as
follows:]
PO 00000
Frm 00025
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4702
604.4) to prepay reply postage on
Priority Mail Express, on Priority Mail
when the price is the same for all zones,
on First-Class Mail, and on single-piece
price Media Mail and Library Mail
under the following conditions.
a. The postage amount must be
sufficient to prepay the full postage due.
b. Print indicia directly on the
mailpiece or on a label, and place
indicia under 201.4.3.3.
c. Indicia used to prepay reply
postage must not show the date.
d. Pre-address the mailpiece for return
to the authorized user only.
e. Print the words ‘‘NO POSTAGE
STAMP NECESSARY POSTAGE HAS
BEEN PREPAID BY’’ directly above the
address.
f. Mailers may use FIM A on barcoded
letter-size First-Class Mail reply mail
except when using PC Postage.
g. When using PC Postage, mailers
must use FIM D for prepaid reply mail
when the indicium is printed directly
on the mailpiece.
h. The address side must appear as
described in this section and shown in
the illustration below. Nothing may be
added except a return address, FIM, or
barcode.
An annual Returns Services permit
fee must be paid once each 12-month
period at each Post Office where a
Merchandise Return Service (MRS)
permit is held. The fee (in effect on the
date of the payment) may be paid for the
next 12 months, during the last 60 days
of the service period, before the
anniversary of the permit’s issuance. An
approved merchandise return permit on
Form 3615 must be on file at every Post
Office to which parcels are returned.
E:\FR\FM\05FEP2.SGM
05FEP2
EP05FE15.004</GPH>
altered to redirect it to any address other
than the one preprinted on the piece.
PRM pieces must bear an Intelligent
Mail barcode meeting the standards in
202.5.0 and 708.4.0.
*
*
*
*
*
2.0 Permit, Pre-paid (Metered), and
Courtesy Reply Mail
[Revise the title of 2.1, General
Information, to read as follows;]
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Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
3.1.2 Advance Deposit Account and
Account Maintenance Fee
[Revise the entire text of 3.1.2
(including relocated text from 3.2.9,
Multiple Accounts) to read as follows:]
There is an annual Returns Services
account maintenance fee for the
advance deposit account. The permit
holder must pay postage and extra
service fees through an advance deposit
account and must pay an annual
account maintenance fee. When an
advance deposit account is kept at each
entry location, a separate permit (except
as provided under 3.2.11 and for
qualified national permit holders using
scan based payment for returns) is
needed and the annual merchandise
return service permit and annual
account maintenance fees must be paid
at each Post Office. The fee (in effect on
the date of the payment) may be paid for
the next 12 months, during the last 60
days of the service period, before the
anniversary date of the initial fee
payment. A separate advance deposit
account for MRS is not required; the
annual account maintenance fee is
charged if MRS postage and fees are
paid from an existing account:
a. For each withdrawal, only one
statement is provided for each annual
account maintenance fee paid.
b. The permit holder must pay an
annual account maintenance fee for
each separate statement (accounting)
requested.
*
*
*
*
*
3.1.5 Priority Mail Commercial Base
and Commercial Plus Prices
Priority Mail Commercial Base and
Commercial Plus prices are available to
MRS permit holders when the following
criteria are met:
[Revise the text of 3.1.5 item a by
deleting the second sentence.]
*
*
*
*
*
3.2
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
3.2.1
Basic Standards
Description
[Revise the text of 3.2.1 to read as
follows:]
Merchandise return service allows an
authorized Returns Services permit
holder to pay the postage and extra
service fees on single-piece priced
Priority Mail, or First-Class Package
Service or ground return service parcels
(Parcel Select Nonpresort) that are
returned to the permit holder by the
permit holder’s customers via a special
barcoded label (see 3.5.10) produced by
the permit holder.
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete 3.2.5, IMpb Standards, in its
entirety, (context of text in new item j.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
under 3.5.10, Label Format Elements)
then, renumber current 3.2.6 through
3.2.14 as new 3.2.5 through 3.2.13.]
*
*
*
*
*
3.2.6
Application Process
[Revise the text of 3.2.6 to read as
follows:]
The applicant must submit a
completed Form 3615 and the annual
permit fee to the Post Office issuing the
permit, or amend an existing Form 3615
on file at that office by adding the
merchandise return service
authorization to existing Returns
Service permit authorizations. Except
for MRS labels generated by the USPS
Application Program Interface (API),
Form 3615 must be accompanied by
copies of the MRS labels (including
printed copies of labels intended to be
faxed to customers or transmitted to
customers electronically) and the
instructions provided to the permit
holder’s customers. All MRS labels that
have preprinted USPS Tracking
barcodes must be approved by the
USPS. If articles are to be returned from
customers as Registered Mail, the
applicant must indicate ‘‘Registered
Mail’’ on the application. After a MRS
permit is obtained, any change to label
formats or customer instructions must
be approved by the Post Office where
the permit is held. The permit is valid
for 12 months after the approval date of
the application.
[Delete renumbered 3.2.7, Procedure,
(text relocated in 3.1.1), 3.2.8, Multiple
Accounts, (text relocated in 3.1.2) in
their entirety, then renumber recently
renumbered 3.2.9 through 3.2.13 as new
3.2.7 through 3.2.11.]
[Revise the title and text of newly
renumbered 3.2.7, Renewal, to read as
follows:]
3.2.7
Permit Renewal
To renew the MRS permit, the permit
holder must send the annual fees (under
3.1.1 and 3.1.2) to the issuing Post
Office by the expiration date of the
permit, or authorize the Postmaster to
deduct the fee from the advance deposit
account, or establish a CAPS link for
EFT. If a permit holder’s outbound
permit account shows any amount of
outbound parcel volumes, the annual
Returns Services permit and account
maintenance fees may be waived at the
time of renewal. Written authorization
is not needed for permit renewal if there
is no change to the authorization on file
at the delivery unit.
3.2.8
Nonrenewed Permit
[Revise the text of 3.2.8 to read as
follows:]
PO 00000
Frm 00026
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4702
If the permit is not renewed,
merchandise return mail bearing the
sender’s return address is returned to
the sender; otherwise, it is treated as
dead mail.
3.2.9
Permit Cancellation
[Revise the text of 3.2.9 to read as
follows:]
The USPS may cancel a MRS permit
if the permit holder refuses to accept
and pay postage and fees on
merchandise return service parcels, fails
to keep sufficient funds in the advance
deposit account to cover postage and
fees, or distributes merchandise return
labels or tags that do not meet USPS
standards.
3.2.10
Reapplying After Cancellation
[Revise the text of 3.2.10 to read as
follows:]
To receive a new MRS permit at the
same Post Office after a merchandise
return permit is canceled, the applicant
must amend the Form 3615 on file at
that office to reflect the new application
date; pay a new permit fee; submit for
approval two samples of any label
format to be used; provide evidence that
the reasons for the permit cancellation
are corrected; and provide and keep
funds in an advance deposit account to
cover normal returns for at least 2
weeks.
3.2.11
Using Other Post Offices
[Revise the text of 3.2.11 to read as
follows:]
The permit holder may distribute
merchandise return labels for return
through other Post Offices (i.e. stations
or branches under a Main Post Office)
without paying an additional permit fee
if the permit holder opens and keeps
their advance deposit account at the
Post Office where the permit is issued
and supplies that Postmaster the name,
address, and telephone number of a
representative in each additional station
or branch if different from the
information on the application.
[Revise the title of 3.3, Additional
Standards for Permit Holder, to read as
follows:]
3.3
Additional Standards for MRS
[Revise the title and text of 3.3.1 to
read as follows:]
3.3.1
Extra and Additional Services
The MRS permit holder may obtain
extra and additional services with MRS
as follows:
a. Insurance—Which may be
combined with special handling) for
MRS containing only matter not
required to be mailed at First-Class Mail
prices under 133.3.0. To request
E:\FR\FM\05FEP2.SGM
05FEP2
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
insurance, the permit holder must
preprint or rubber-stamp ‘‘Insurance
Desired by Permit Holder for $lll
(value)’’ to the left of and above the
‘‘Merchandise Return Label’’ legend and
below the ‘‘Total Postage and Fees Due’’
statement on the merchandise return
label. The value part of the
endorsement, showing the dollar
amount of insurance for the article, may
be handwritten by the permit holder. If
insurance is paid for by the MRS permit
holder, then only the MRS permit
holder may file a claim (609).
b. Registered Mail—May be obtained
by the MRS permit holder under the
following conditions:
1. The customer using the MRS label
must declare the full value of the article
to be registered when presented at the
Post Office. Registered Mail service may
be obtained only on articles returned at
Priority Mail or First-Class Package
Service prices and may not be combined
with any other extra service.
2. A permit holder wanting to add
Registered Mail service under an
existing permit must submit a written
request to the Post Office where the
permit is held, with samples of the
merchandise return labels and a copy of
the instructions to be provided to the
permit holder’s customers. The permit
holder must not distribute labels that
request Registered Mail service before
receiving USPS written approval.
c. Special Handling—The permit
holder may obtain special handling
service with MRS.
d. Pickup on Demand Service—The
permit holder may obtain Pickup on
Demand service with MRS. Pickup on
Demand service may be combined with
Certified Mail (Priority Mail only),
USPS Tracking, and special handling.
e. USPS Tracking—(which may be
combined with insurance and special
handling or both) is included with MRS
when the MRS labels are properly
formatted under 3.5.10.
f. Mailing Acknowledgment—The
permit holder may prepare a detachable
mailing acknowledgment form, subject
to these conditions:
1. The acknowledgment must not bear
adhesive but must be attached to the
label and perforated or designed for easy
separation at the time of mailing.
2. The acknowledgment establishes
no USPS liability for the parcel if
damaged, lost, or stolen.
3. The acknowledgment provides
documentation for account management
between the mailing customer and the
permit holder. The USPS charges no fee,
keeps no records, and does not provide
copies of or further information about
the acknowledgment.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
4. A merchandise return service
parcel containing the detachable
mailing acknowledgment form must be
presented to the USPS acceptance
employee at the time of mailing to be
executed.
5. Each mailing acknowledgment part
of the label must include a unique
parcel identification number assigned
by the permit holder; the return address
of the customer mailing the parcel, in
the upper part of the detachable form;
the permit holder’s address, in the lower
part of the form; an initials section in
the acknowledgment portion for use by
the USPS acceptance employee; and
space in the acknowledgment part
where the USPS acceptance employee
places the date stamp.
[Delete 3.3.2, Registered Mail, through
3.3.7, Mailing Acknowledgment, in their
entirety (context of text relocated to
3.3.1).]
3.4 Additional Standards for Permit
Holder’s Customer
3.4.1 Customer Options
[Revise the text of 3.4.1 to read as
follows:]
If the permit holder has not indicated
the extra services listed in 3.3.1a
through 3.3.1d a customer may request
the extra services listed in 3.3.1a
through 3.3.1d at their own expense.
3.4.2 Insurance
[Revise the text of 3.4.2 to read as
follows:]
If insurance is paid by the customer,
then only the customer may file a claim.
3.4.3
Certificate of Mailing
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the title of 3.5, Preparation, to
read as follows:]
3.5
Labels
3.5.1 Distribution of Labels
[Revise the text of 3.5.1 to read as
follows:]
Merchandise return service labels
may be distributed to customers as an
enclosure with merchandise, as a
separate item (including when
requested electronically through the
Business Customer Gateway for printing
and delivery to the end-user by USPS),
as part of a double postcard subject to
201.1.2.8 and the approval of the PCSC,
as an electronic transmission for
customer downloading and printing, or
through one of the permit holder’s
designated pickup facilities. Any such
label distributed to a customer must
meet the format standards in 3.5.10,
including the requirement to furnish
instructions.
[Delete 3.5.2, Labels, in its entirety
(text relocated to introductory text of
PO 00000
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Sfmt 4702
6599
renumbered 3.5.10, Label Format
Elements); then, renumber 3.5.3 through
3.5.14 as new 3.5.2 through 3.5.13.]
[Revise the title and text of
renumbered 3.5.2 to read as follows:]
3.5.2 Mailer Price Markings
It is recommended that permit holders
preprint a price marking on the
merchandise return service labels they
distribute to ensure that returned
parcels will be given service and
charged postage according to the wishes
of the permit holder. Regardless of
weight, all unmarked parcels will be
treated as Standard Post and charged
Parcel Select Nonpresort prices.
[Revise the title and text of
renumbered 3.5.3 to read as follows:]
3.5.3 Label Preparation
Any photographic, mechanical, or
electronic process or any combination of
such processes other than typewriting or
handwriting may be used to prepare the
MRS label and detachable
acknowledgment form. The background
may be any light color (excluding
brilliant colors) that allows the address,
postmark, and other endorsements to be
readily discerned. If labels are faxed to
customers or electronically transmitted
to customers for their local printing, the
permit holder must advise their
customers of these preparation
requirements as part of the required
instructions required under 3.5.5. All
MRS labels bearing the required IMpb
(with imbedded USPS Tracking) must
be certified for use by the USPS prior to
distribution. Labels with USPS Tracking
barcodes cannot be faxed to customers.
[Revise the title and text of
renumbered 3.5.4 to read as follows:]
3.5.4 Labeling Methods
If all applicable content and format
standards are met (including the written
instructions required by 3.5.5), a
merchandise return service label may be
produced by any of the following
methods:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of renumbered 3.5.4
item c to read as follows:]
c. Printed and delivered by USPS to
the customer (end-user) when requested
electronically by the permit holder or its
agents through the Business Customer
Gateway.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the title of renumbered 3.5.5
to read as follows:]
3.5.5 Labeling Instructions
Written instructions must be provided
with the label that, at a minimum,
directs the customer to do the following:
*
*
*
*
*
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[Revise renumbered 3.5.5 item d by
changing any blue colored text to black.]
d. ‘‘Mail the labeled parcel at a Post
Office, drop it in a collection box, leave
it with your letter carrier, or schedule a
package pickup at usps.com.’’
[Delete renumbered 3.5.6, Insured
Markings, in its entirety (context of text
relocated more appropriately under
3.5.8); then, insert new 3.5.6 to read as
follows:]
3.5.6
Special Handling Endorsement
To request special handling, the
permit holder must preprint or rubberstamp ‘‘Special Handling Desired by
Permit Holder’’ to the left of and above
the ‘‘Merchandise Return Label’’ legend
and below the ‘‘Total Postage and Fees
Due’’ statement on the merchandise
return label.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the title and text of
renumbered 3.5.8 to read as follows:]
3.5.8 Placement of Extra Service
Labels
The permit holder must either leave a
clear space on the merchandise return
label to the right of the return address
for the placement of the applicable extra
service label (see 503.1.7.2 for
additional standards for extra service
labels) or instruct the customer to affix
the merchandise return label to the
article so that the USPS acceptance
employee can place the extra service
label on the article directly above the
merchandise return label.
[Delete renumbered 3.5.9, Placement
of Return Receipt for Merchandise
Label, (context of text relocated more
appropriately under 3.5.8) and 3.5.10,
Special Handling Endorsement, (context
of text relocated to 3.5.6) in their
entirety; then, renumber newly
renumbered 3.5.11 through 3.5.13 as
new 3.5.9 through 3.5.11.]
[Revise the title and text of
renumbered 3.5.9 to read as follows:]
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
3.5.9 Additional Standards for Special
Handling Labels
In addition to meeting the standards
under 3.5.6 and 3.5.8, as applicable, the
permit holder must provide ‘‘Special
Handling’’ labels with instructions to
customers about their placement on the
parcel.
[Revise the title, complete text, and
exhibits, of newly renumbered 3.5.10 to
read as follows:]
3.5.10
Label Format Elements
The label used for merchandise return
service must meet the standards in the
Parcel Labeling Guide available on
RIBBS.
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[Delete renumbered 3.5.11, Certificate
of Mailing, in its entirety (already stated
in 505.3.4.3).]
3.6
Enter and Deposit
3.6.1 Customer Mailing Options
[Revise the last section of the first
sentence of 3.6.1 to read as follows:]
* * *; or at any place designated by
the Postmaster for the receipt of mail.
* * *
[Insert new 3.7 to read as follows:]
3.7 Additional Standards for USPS
Return Services
3.7.1 Permit and Account Fees
An annual Returns Services permit
fee, under 3.1.1, and annual account
maintenance under 3.1.2, are is required
for the USPS Return Services described
in 3.7.
3.7.2 Extra Services
USPS insurance is the only extra
service that can be purchased for USPS
Returns (Priority Mail Return Service,
First-Class Package Return Service and
Ground Return Service). There is no
included insurance provided for Priority
Mail Return Service pieces.
3.7.3 Prices
Commercial Base prices are available
for permit holders receiving Priority
Mail Return Service and First-Class
Package Return Service mailpieces
under 3.7. Permit holders may combine
cumulative volumes for Priority Mail
Return Service and First-Class Package
Return Service. Eligibility for
Commercial Plus prices are available to
permit holders who qualify for
Commercial Base prices, and at least
one of the following:
a. Have cumulative Priority Mail
Return Service, First-Class Package
Return Service, and Ground Return
Service volume exceeding a combined
total of 25,000 return pieces in the
previous calendar year.
b. Have cumulative returns
Commercial Plus cubic (see 1.1.4)
volume exceeding a combined total of
85,000 pieces returned in approved
packaging in the previous calendar year.
c. Have cumulative returns and
outbound volume exceeding a combined
total of 90,000 pieces in the previous
calendar year.
d. Have a signed Commercial Plus
returns customer commitment
agreement with USPS.
e. Have a signed commercial plus
Critical Mail commitment agreement
with USPS.
3.7.4 Postage
Postage is calculated based on the
weight of the parcel and zone, except for
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First-Class Package Return Service, for
which postage is based on the weight of
the parcel and Critical Mail returns, for
which postage is based on flat rate
pricing. Customers must pay postage
under a scan based payment program
(705.24.0) and using an eVS/CAPS
account.
3.7.5 Description
Priority Mail Return Service
(including Critical Mail), First-Class
Package Return Service and Ground
Return Service provide return service
options to customers who meet the
applicable standards in 3.0. Except for
restricted material described in
Publication 52, any mailable matter may
be mailed using any of the USPS Return
Service options. Any content that
constitutes First-Class Mail matter may
only be mailed using Priority Mail
Return Service or using First-Class
Package Return Service at Commercial
Plus prices.
3.7.6 Labels
USPS Return Service labels must meet
the standards in the Parcel Labeling
Guide available on RIBBS. USPS Return
Services standard label sizes are 3
inches by 6 inches, 4 inches by 4 inches,
or 4 inches by 6 inches and must be
certified by the USPS for use prior to
distribution. All other label sizes require
written approval from the National
Customer Support Center (NCSC). The
label must include an Intelligent Mail
package barcode, accommodate all
required elements, be legible, and be
prepared in accordance with 708.5.0
and Publication 205 at https://ribbs/evs/
documents/tech_guides/pubs/
Pub205.PDF. Permit holders or their
agents may distribute approved USPS
Return Service labels and instructions
by means listed under 3.5.4. Permit
holders or their agents must provide
written instructions to the label enduser (mailer) as provided under 3.5.5.
The label used for USPS Returns must
meet the standards in the Parcel
Labeling Guide available on RIBBS.
3.7.7 Additional Standards for
Priority Mail Return Service
Priority Mail Return Service may
contain any mailable matter weighing
no more than 70 pounds. Lower weight
limits apply to Commercial Plus cubic
(see 1.1.4), APO/FPO mail is subject to
703.2.0 and 703.4.0, and Department of
State mail is subject to 703.3.0. Priority
Mail Return Service receives
expeditious handling and
transportation, with service standards in
accordance with Priority Mail. Priority
Mail Return Service items mailed under
a specific customer agreement is
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charged postage according to the
individual agreement. Otherwise
Priority Mail Return Service eligibility
is under 3.7.3. Commercial Base and
Commercial Plus prices are the same as
for outbound Priority Mail in Notice
123—Price List.
3.7.8 Additional Standards for FirstClass Package Return Service
First-Class Package Return Service
handling, transportation, and eligibility
of contents is the same as for outbound
First-Class Package Service parcels
under 433. Parcels weighing more than
13 ounces but less than 16 ounces may
be included in the eligibility calculation
for Commercial Plus prices and parcels
weighing 13 ounces or less are eligible
for Commercial Base prices.
3.7.9 Additional Standards for
Ground Return Service
Ground Return Service provides
ground transportation for mailpieces
containing mailable matter weighing no
more than 70 pounds and meeting the
content standards in 153.3.0. Ground
Return Service assumes the handing and
transportation and service objectives for
delivery of Standard Post.
[Delete current 4.0, USPS Returns, in
its entirety; then, renumber current 5.0,
Parcel Return Service, as new 4.0.]
4.0 Parcel Return Service
[Deleted renumber 4.1, Basic
Information, in its entirety, (text
relocated to new 4.3).]
[Renumber and retitle the 4.2 heading
to read as follows:]
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
4.1 Prices and Fees
[Deleted 4.2.1, Postage, in its entirety
(text relocated to new 4.1.3).]
[Renumber and retitle 4.2.2 as
follows:]
4.1.1 Permit and Account Fees
[Revise renumbered 4.1.1 to read as
follows:]
The participant must pay an annual
permit fee at the Post Office where the
PRS permit is held, and must pay
postage through an advance deposit
account by paying an annual account
maintenance fee. See Notice 123—Price
List for applicable fees.
[Delete renumbered 4.2.3, Advance
Deposit Account and Annual Account
Maintenance Fee, in its entirety,
(context of text relocated to renumber
4.1.2).]
[Delete the renumbered heading 4.3,
Prices.]
[Renumber 4.3.1, Parcel Return
Service Prices, as 4.1.2; then, delete
4.3.2 through 4.3.3 (text relocated to
new 4.1.2); then revise the entire text to
read as follows:]
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
4.1.2
Parcel Return Service Prices
Parcel Return Service prices are based
on the price that applies to the weight
increment of each addressed piece, and
on the designated return facility, RDU,
RSCF, or RNDC. The price is charged
per pound or fraction thereof; any
fraction of a pound is considered a
whole pound. For example, if an item
weighs 4.225 pounds, the weight
increment is 5 pounds. The minimum
price per piece is the 1-pound price and
these additional standards apply:
a. Parcel Return Service—
Nonmachinable Prices: Parcels
exceeding the maximum machinable
dimensions in 401.1.5 or are considered
an outside parcel under 401.1.7 are
subject to nonmachinable prices.
b. Balloon and Oversized Prices:
RSCF and RNDC parcels that weigh less
than 20 pounds but measure more than
84 inches in combined length and girth
are charged the applicable price for a
20-pound parcel (balloon price).
Regardless of weight, any parcel that
measures more than 108 inches (but not
more than 130 inches) in combined
length and girth must pay the oversized
price.
c. Standard Post Prices: PRS-labeled
parcels shipped from origin ZIP Codes
006–009, 967–969, and 995–999 that are
picked up at an RNDC are subject to
retail Standard Post prices.
[Insert new 4.1.3 as follows:]
4.1.3
Postage
There are three PRS price categories:
a. Parcel Return Service—RDU.
Parcels returned as Standard Post to,
and retrieved in bulk from, a designated
delivery unit.
b. Parcel Return Service—RSCF.
Parcels returned as Standard Post to,
and retrieved in bulk from, a designated
SCF.
c. Parcel Return Service—RNDC.
Parcels returned as Standard Post to,
and retrieved in bulk from, a designated
NDC.
[Renumber current 4.3.5,
Noncompliant Labels, as new 4.3.11.]
[Insert new 4.2 to read as follows:]
4.2
Basic Standards
4.2.1
Description
Parcel Return Service (PRS) applies to
parcels that are picked up in bulk by
authorized permit holders or their
agents. Permit holders guarantee
payment of postage for all parcels
mailed with a PRS label. By providing
an approved PRS label to its customers,
the merchant or other party designates
the permit holder identified on the label
as their agent for receipt of mail bearing
that label, and authorizes the USPS to
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6601
provide that mail to the permit holder
or its designee. The permit holder must
retrieve parcels at each of the return
network distribution centers (RNDC).
For this purpose, an RNDC is each NDC
as noted in L601. PRS permit holders
also may retrieve parcels at one or more
designated return sectional center
facilities (RSCFs) or designated return
delivery units (RDUs). Payment for
parcels returned under PRS is deducted
from a separate advance deposit
(postage-due) account funded through
the Centralized Account Processing
System (CAPS). The permit holder must
be authorized to use eVS (see 705.2.9).
4.2.2 Conditions for Mailing
Parcels may be mailed as PRS when
all of the following conditions apply:
a. Parcels contain eligible matter as
described in 153.3.0 and 153.4.0.
b. Parcels bear a PRS label that meets
the standards in 5.4.
c. Parcels show the permit number,
and the permit holder has paid the
annual PRS permit fee and the annual
PRS account maintenance fee.
4.2.3 Customer Mailing Options
Returned parcels may be deposited as
follows:
a. At any Post Office, station, or
branch.
b. In any collection box (except a
Priority Mail Express box).
c. With any letter carrier.
d. As part of a collection run for other
mail (special arrangements may be
required).
e. At any place designated by the
postmaster for the receipt of mail.
4.2.4 Application Process
Companies who wish to participate in
PRS must send a request on company
letterhead to the manager, Business
Mailer Support (see 608.8.0 for address).
The request must contain the following
information:
a. Company name and address.
b. An individual’s contact name,
telephone number, fax number, and
email address.
c. The price category or categories to
be used, and the proposed retrieval
locations (delivery units, sectional
center facilities, and network
distribution centers).
d. A description of the electronic
returns manifesting system to be used to
document returns listed by location and
price eligibility.
4.2.5 Approval
The manager, Business Mailer
Support reviews each request and
proceeds as follows:
a. If the applicant meets the criteria,
the manager, Business Mailer Support
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approves the letter of request and sends
an authorization letter outlining the
terms and conditions for the program.
b. If the application does not meet the
criteria, the manager, Business Mailer
Support denies the request and sends a
written notice to the applicant with the
reason for denial.
4.2.6
Permit Cancellation
USPS may cancel a PRS permit for
any of the following reasons:
a. The permit holder fails to pay the
required postage and fees for returned
parcels.
b. The permit holder does not
maintain adequate available funds to
cover postage and fees for returned
parcels.
c. The permit holder does not fulfill
the terms and conditions of the PRS
permit authorization.
d. The return labels do not conform to
the specifications in 5.4.
4.2.7
Reapplying After Cancellation
To receive a new PRS permit after
cancellation under 5.1.7, the mailer
must:
a. Submit a letter to the manager,
Business Mailer Support requesting a
permit and a new agreement.
b. Pay a new permit fee.
c. Provide evidence showing that the
reasons for cancellation no longer exist.
d. Maintain adequate available funds
to cover the expected number of returns.
4.2.8
Extra Services and Endorsement
Pieces using PRS may not bear an
ancillary service endorsement (see
102.4.0 and 507.1.5). See 503.0 for
available extra services for PRS.
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
4.2.9
Pickup Schedule and Location
Permit holders or their agents must
set up recurring or standing
appointments to retrieve PRS parcels. If
the permit holder (or agent) has existing
appointments to deliver Parcel Select
parcels to destination facilities and
those facilities are one of the NDCs,
designated RSCFs, or designated RDUs,
those appointments can be used for
retrieving PRS parcels at the same time.
Permit holders or their agents must
retrieve parcels on a regular schedule as
follows:
a. From RNDCs, at a minimum of
every 48 hours, excluding Sundays and
USPS holidays.
b. From all listed RSCFs, at a
minimum of every 24 hours, excluding
Saturdays, Sundays, and USPS
holidays. The Postal Service maintains
a list of active RSCFs and provides
permit holders 30-day notice of changes
to the list. This list is available on the
Facility Access and Shipment Tracking
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14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
system (FAST) at https://fast.usps.com/
fast/.
c. From RDUs, according to the
authorization letter. The USPS
maintains a list of active RDUs and
provides permit holders 30-day notice
of changes to the list. This list is
available on the Facility Access and
Shipment Tracking system (FAST) at
https://fast.usps.com/fast/.
d. For parcels picked up from RNDCs
and that are shipped from origin ZIP
Codes 006–009, 967–969, and 995–999,
see 5.3.
4.2.10 Parcels Endorsed Hold for
Pickup
PRS participants must pay the
appropriate Parcel Return Service RDU
price under 5.3 for any unclaimed,
refused, undeliverable as addressed, or
recalled parcels that are endorsed ‘‘Hold
For Pickup’’ (under 508.7.0) and that
bear the marking ‘‘PARCEL RETURN
SERVICE REQUESTED’’ or ‘‘PRS
REQUESTED’’ followed by a unique 569
prefix ZIP Code.
4.2.11
Noncompliant Labels
PRS permit holders must use USPScertified labels meeting the standards in
4.3. When noncompliant labels are
affixed to PRS parcels, which travel
through the Postal network to the
delivery address of the label, the permit
holder will be assessed the appropriate
Standard Post price, calculated from the
parcel’s entry point in the USPS
network to its delivery address. If the
parcel’s entry point cannot be
determined, then postage will be
calculated at zone 4.
[Revise the title of renumbered 4.3 as
follows:]
4.3
Labels
4.3.1
Label Preparation
[Revise renumbered 4.3.1 to read as
follows:]
PRS labels must be certified by the
USPS for use prior to distribution as
defined in the service agreement. In
addition, permit holders must obtain
USPS certification for barcode
symbologies. Except for by FAX, any
photographic, mechanical, or electronic
process or any combination of these
processes may be used to produce PRS
labels. The background of the label may
be any light color that allows the
address, barcodes, and other required
information to be easily distinguished. If
labels are electronically transmitted to
customers for their local printing, the
permit holder must advise customers of
these printing requirements as part of
the instructions in 4.3.3.
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4.3.2 Labeling Methods
[Revise renumbered 4.3.2 to read as
follows:]
If all applicable contents and formats
are approved (including instructions to
the user), permit holders or their agents
may distribute a PRS label by any of the
methods provided under 3.5.4.
[Revise the title and text of
renumbered 4.3.3 to read as follows:]
4.3.3 Labeling Instructions
Regardless of label distribution
method, permit holders or their agents
must always provide written
instructions to the user of the PRS label
as provided under 3.5.5.
4.3.4 Label Format Elements
[Revise renumbered 4.3.4 to read as
follows:]
PRS labels must meet the standards in
the Parcel Labeling Guide available on
RIBBS. There is no minimum size for
PRS labels; however, the label must be
big enough to accommodate all of the
label elements and standards in this
section. All PRS label elements must be
legible. Except where a specific type
size is required, elements must be large
enough to be legible from a normal
reading distance and be separate from
other elements on the label.
[Delete 6.0, Parcel Return Service-Full
Network, in its entirety.]
[Renumber current 7.0, Bulk Parcel
Return Service, as new 5.0.]
5.0 Bulk Parcel Return Service
[Retitle renumbered 5.1 to read as
follows:]
5.1 Bulk Parcel Return Service (BPRS)
Permit and Fees
[Delete renumbered 5.1.1, Permit Fee,
through 5.1.3, Per Piece Charge, in their
entirety (text relocated in new 5.1.1).]
[Delete the renumbered heading 5.2,
Charges and Fees.]
[Renumber 5.2.1 through 5.2.6 as new
5.1.1 through 5.1.6, then, revise the title
and text of renumbered 5.1.1 to read as
follows:]
5.1.1
Permit and Per Piece Fees
A BPRS permit is required to
participate in BPRS; no annual fee is
required to obtain a BPRS permit. Each
piece returned through BPRS is charged
only the per piece fee, not postage,
regardless of weight. See Notice 123—
Price List for applicable fees.
[Delete renumbered 5.1.2, Per Piece
Fee, in its entirety (context of text
relocated under 5.5.1); then, renumber
5.1.3 through 5.1.6 as new 5.1.2 through
5.1.5.]
[Revise the title and text of newly
renumbered 5.1.2 to read as follows:]
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5.1.2 Advance Deposit Account
The permit holder must pay BPRS
fees through an advance deposit
account. A separate advance deposit
account for BPRS is not required; the
annual account maintenance fee is
charged if BPRS fees are not paid from
an existing account and the permit
holder desires a single, separate
accounting of all charges deducted from
that account.
[Delete renumbered 5.1.3, Existing
Advance Deposit Account, (relocated to
5.1.2, Advance Deposit Account), and
5.1.4, Payment Guarantee, (relocated to
5.2.3 under Availability), in their
entirety; then, renumber 5.1.5, Postage
Due Weight Averaging, as new 5.1.3.]
*
*
*
*
*
[Renumber 5.3, General Information,
as new 5.2, then revise the title of
renumbered 5.2, General Information, to
read as follows:]
5.2
Basic Standards
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
5.2.1 Description
[Revise renumbered 5.2.1 to read as
follows:]
Bulk parcel return service (BPRS)
allows mailers of large quantities of
Standard Mail or Parcel Select
Lightweight machinable parcels that are
either undeliverable-as-addressed or unopened and refused by addressees to be
returned to designated postal facilities.
The mailer has the option of picking up
all returned parcels from a designated
postal facility at a predetermined
frequency specified by the USPS or
having them delivered by the USPS in
a manner and frequency specified by the
USPS. For this service, a mailer
establishes a BPRS permit and pays a
per piece charge for each parcel
returned from an advance deposit
account.
5.2.2 Availability
[Revise renumbered 5.2.2 to read as
follows:]
A mailer may be authorized to use
BPRS when the following conditions
apply:
a. All returned parcels are initially
prepared as regular or Nonprofit
Standard Mail, or Parcel Select
Lightweight, and are machinable parcels
as defined in 201.7.5.
b. At least 10,000 Standard Mail or
Parcel Select Lightweight machinable
parcels will be returned to a designated
postal facility during a 12-month period.
c. Parcels are returned to the mailer
either because they are undeliverableas-addressed or because they are unopened and refused by the addressee.
d. Parcels bear an approved BPRS
label or one of the following BPRS
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14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
endorsements (507.2.0) on the outbound
mailpiece:
‘‘Return Service Requested—BPRS’’
‘‘Address Service Requested—BPRS’’
e. Parcels have a return address that
is in the delivery area of the Post Office
that issued the BPRS permit.
f. The postal facility designated for
returned parcels is located in the United
States, its territories or possessions, or is
a U.S. military Post Office overseas
(APO or FPO).
g. The mailer has a valid postage due
advance deposit account and BPRS
permit.
h. BPRS parcels may be combined
with the shipper paid forwarding
service (507.4.2.9).
i. Standard Mail or Parcel Select
Lightweight parcels that qualify for a
Media Mail or Library Mail price under
the applicable standards, and that
contain the name of the Package Service
price in the mailer’s ancillary service
endorsement (507.1.5.3d.), are not
eligible for BPRS.
[Delete renumbered 5.2.3, Optional
Label, in its entirety (text relocated to
5.4.2); then, insert new 5.2.3, Payment
Guarantee, to read as follows:]
5.2.3 Payment Guarantee
The permit holder guarantees
payment of all applicable fees. The Post
Office returns BPRS items to the permit
holder only when there are sufficient
funds in the advance deposit account to
pay the fees on returned pieces.
[Delete renumbered 5.2.4, Extra
Services, in its entirety (text relocated to
New 5.2.4).]
[Delete renumbered heading 5.4,
Permits, in its entirety.]
[Renumber current 5.4.1, Application
Process, through 5.4.3, Postage Due
Service Agreement, as 5.2.4 through
5.2.6; then, retitle renumbered 5.2.4 to
read as follows:]
5.2.4 Application Process
[Revise the introductory text and
items a, b, and f, of renumbered 5.2.4 to
read as follows:]
To obtain a BPRS permit, a mailer
must send a written request to the
Postmaster at each Post Office where
parcels are to be returned that includes
the following:
a. Request for the BPRS permit.
b. Information pertinent to each
requested delivery point that documents
either the receipt of, or that there are
reasonable grounds to expect, at least
10,000 machinable parcels originally
mailed at regular or non-profit Standard
Mail or Parcel Select Lightweight prices
during the past, or next, 12 months.
*
*
*
*
*
f. If a label will be furnished for
returning opened parcels, the labels
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6603
must be USPS approved, prepared in
accordance with 5.5, and must be
accompanied by complete instructions
for its use as described in 3.5.5.
5.2.5
Authorization
[Revise the text of renumbered 5.2.5 to
read as follows:]
A BPRS mailer will be required to
sign a postage due service agreement
with each Post Office that issues a
permit for the return of BPRS parcels.
Upon approval of a mailer’s request, the
Post Office issues an authorization letter
and provides a postage due service
agreement with a BPRS permit number.
The permit number is used for account
administration and is required on BPRS
labels under 5.5, when used.
[Delete renumbered 5.2.6, Postage
Due Service Agreement, (text relocated
to 5.2.5), in its entirety.]
[Insert new heading, 5.3 Permits]
5.3
Permits
[Renumber 5.4.4 as new 5.3.1 and
revise text to read as follows:]
5.3.1
Permit Renewal
A Post Office provides BPRS permit
holders with annual renewal notices
advising that their permits are due to
expire. A notice must be returned to the
issuing Post Office with the fee payment
or authorization for the postmaster to
deduct the fee from the advance deposit
account by the permit expiration date.
Written authorization is not necessary
for renewal of a permit if there is no
change to the authorization on file at the
Post Office where the parcels are
returned. If a permit holder does not
renew a BPRS permit after having been
given notice, the USPS will endorse the
mail ‘‘Bulk Parcel Return Service
Canceled’’ and will charge postage due
at the single-piece First-Class Mail or
Priority Mail price as appropriate for the
weight of the piece. If the single-piece
First-Class Mail or Priority Mail price is
not paid, the mail is forwarded to the
nearest mail recovery center.
[Renumber 5.4.5 and 5.4.6 as new
5.3.2 and 5.3.3.]
5.3.2
Permit Cancellation
A BPRS permit may be canceled by
the USPS for any of the following
reasons:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of renumbered 5.3.2
item e to read as follows:]
e. Failure to conform return labels to
the specifications in section 5.5.
5.3.3
Reapplying After Cancellation
A mailer must do the following to
receive a new BPRS permit at the same
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Post Office where a permit was
previously canceled:
[Revise the text of renumbered 5.3.3
items a to read as follows; then, delete
item b in its entirety; then, renumber
items c and d and new items b and c:]
a. Submit a letter to that office
requesting a BPRS permit and new
agreement.
*
*
*
*
*
[Insert new section 5.3.4 as follows:]
5.5
5.3.4
507
Mailer Services
1.0
Treatment of Mail
*
*
Extra Services
Extra services cannot be added to
pieces returned via bulk parcel return
service.
[Revise the title and text of renumber
5.5, Label Requirements, to read as
follows:]
Optional BPRS Label
An authorized BPRS permit holder
has the option to use a label to identify
BPRS parcels for return to a designated
postal facility. The label is prepared at
the mailer’s expense and must meet all
format standards in the Parcel Labeling
Guide available on RIBBS, including an
IMpb meeting the standards in 708.5.0.
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Mailer endorsement
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
OPTION 2 .................................................................................................
‘‘Change Service Requested’’ ..................................................................
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
PO 00000
Exhibit 1.5.3 Treatment of
Undeliverable Standard Mail and
Parcel Select Lightweight
USPS Treatment of UAA pieces
No Endorsement 1 ....................................................................................
‘‘Electronic Service Requested’’ ...............................................................
‘‘Address Service Requested’’ ..................................................................
OPTION 1 .................................................................................................
OPTION 2 .................................................................................................
‘‘Address Service Requested’’ ..................................................................
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 1.
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 2.
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 3
‘‘Address Service Requested—BPRS’’ ....................................................
‘‘Forwarding Service Requested’’ 3 ...........................................................
‘‘Return Service Requested’’ ....................................................................
OPTION 1
OPTION 2
‘‘Return Service Requested—BPRS’’ .......................................................
‘‘Change Service Requested’’ 1 4.
OPTION 1 .................................................................................................
VerDate Sep<11>2014
Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA)
Standard Mail and Parcel Select
Lightweight pieces are treated as
described in Exhibit 1.5.3, with these
additional conditions:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise (only) the two designated
sections of Exhibit 1.5.3 titled Address
Service Requested (Option 1 and Option
2) and Change Service Requested1 4
(Option 1 and Option 2) to read as
follows:]
*
1.5 Treatment for Ancillary Services
by Class of Mail
*
1.5.3 Standard Mail and Parcel Select
Lightweight
Frm 00032
Fmt 4701
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
(Does not include Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return participants)
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
(Valid for all pieces, including ACS participating pieces) If no changeof-address order on file, or if change-of-address order is on file: Notice of new address or reason for non-delivery provided (address
correction fee charged); piece disposed of by USPS.
Restrictions:
The following restrictions apply:
(1) USPS Tracking is the only extra services permitted with this endorsement.
(2) This endorsement is not permitted for Standard Mail or Parcel Select Lightweight containing hazardous materials.
(Available via ACS only; for Standard Mail letters and flats only)
If no change-of-address order on file:
Reason for non-delivery provided to mailer (electronic ACS fee
charged); piece disposed of by USPS.
If change-of-address order on file:
• Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded; postage due charged to the
mailer at applicable Forwarding Fee based on the piece shape (letter
or flat); separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee
charged).
• Months 13 through 18: Piece disposed of by USPS; separate notice
of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
After month 18: Treatment same as noted under ‘‘If no change-of-address order on file’’.
Restrictions:
The following restrictions apply:
(1) USPS Tracking is the only extra services permitted with this endorsement.
(2) This endorsement is not permitted for Standard Mail containing
hazardous materials.
*
*
*
*
*
Sfmt 4702
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Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
*
*
*
*
*
1.5.4 Standard Post, Package Services
and Parcel Select
described in Exhibit 1.5.4, with these
additional conditions:
*
*
*
*
*
Exhibit 1.5.4 Treatment of
Undeliverable Standard Post, Package
Services, and Parcel Select
[Revise (only) the designated section
of Exhibit 1.5.4 titled Change Service
Requested2 (Option 1 and Option 2) to
read as follows:]
Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA)
Standard Post, Package Services, and
Parcel Select mailpieces are treated as
Mailer endorsement
USPS Treatment of UAA pieces
No Endorsement .......................................................................................
‘‘Electronic Service Requested’’ ...............................................................
‘‘Address Service Requested’’ ..................................................................
‘‘Address Service Requested’’ ..................................................................
‘‘Forwarding Service Requested’’1 ...........................................................
‘‘Return Service Requested’’ ....................................................................
Option 1
Option 2.
‘‘Change Service Requested’’ 2
Option 1 ....................................................................................................
Option 2 ....................................................................................................
‘‘Change Service Requested’’ ..................................................................
*
*
2.0
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
(Valid for all pieces, including ACS participating pieces)
If no change-of-address order on file, or if change-of-address order is
on file:
Notice of new address or reason for non-delivery provided (address
correction charged): piece disposed of by USPS.
Restrictions:
The following restrictions apply:
(1) USPS Tracking and Signature Confirmation are the only extra services permitted with this endorsement.
(2) This endorsement is not permitted for Standard Post or Package
Services containing hazardous materials.
(Available via ACS only; for Bound Printed Matter flats only)
If no change-of-address order on file:
Reason for non-delivery provided to mailer (electronic ACS fee
charged); piece disposed of by USPS.
If change-of-address order on file:
• Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded; postage due charged to the
mailer at applicable Forwarding Fee based on the piece shape (flat);
separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee
charged).
• Months 13 through 18: Piece disposed of by USPS; separate notice
of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
After month 18: Treatment same as noted under ‘‘If no change-of-address order on file’’.
*
*
*
*
*
the sender has specified restricted
delivery.
*
*
*
*
*
[Insert new 1.1.8 (relocated from
previously deleted 503.8.0) as follows:]
Recipient Services
Recipient Options
1.1
Methods of Filing
Basic Recipient Concerns
*
In additional to the standards
described under 1.1.7, mail marked
‘‘Restricted Delivery’’ is delivered only
to the addressee or to the person
authorized in writing as the addressee’s
agent (the USPS may require proof of
identification from the addressee (or
agent) to receive the mail, and under the
following conditions:
a. Mail for famous personalities and
executives of large organizations is
normally delivered to an agent
authorized to sign for such mail.
b. Mail for officials of executive,
legislative, and judicial branches of the
government of the United States or of
the states and possessions and their
Address Correction Services
*
*
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
4.0
*
4.2
Address Change Service (ACS)
1.1.7 Priority Mail Express and
Accountable Mail
*
*
4.2.8
*
*
*
*
Address Correction Service Fee
[Revise the text of 4.2.8 to read as
follows:]
Unless excepted, the applicable fee
for address correction is charged for
each separate notification of address
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
*
*
*
*
*
*
1.0
*
Customers may use one of the
following methods to file a change-ofaddress with the Post Office:
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete item c. in its entirety.]
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
508
Change-of-Address Order
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
correction or the reason for nondelivery
provided. Once the ACS fee charges
have been invoiced, any unpaid fees for
the prior invoice cycle (month) will be
assessed an annual administrative fee of
10% for the overdue amount.
*
*
*
*
*
Forwarding
2.1
2.1.4
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the introductory text of 1.1.7
to read as follows:]
The following conditions also apply
to the delivery of Priority Mail Express,
Registered Mail, Certified Mail, mail
insured for more than $500.00, Adult
Signature, or COD, as well as mail for
which a return receipt is requested or
PO 00000
Frm 00033
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4702
1.1.8 Additional Delivery Standards
for Restricted Delivery
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political subdivisions, or to members of
the diplomatic corps, may be delivered
to a person authorized by the addressee
or by regulations or procedures of the
agency or organization to receive the
addressee’s mail.
c. Mail for the commander or other
officials of military organizations by
name and title, is delivered to the unit
mail clerk, mail orderly, postal clerk,
assistant postal clerk, or postal finance
clerk, when such individuals are
designated on DD (Department of
Defense) Form 285 to receipt for all mail
addressed to the units for which they
are designated. If the person accepting
mail is designated on DD Form 285 to
receipt for ordinary mail only, then
restricted delivery mail addressed to the
commander, or other official by name
and title, is delivered to the mail clerk
only if authorized by the addressee.
d. Mail for an inmate of a city, state,
or federal penal institution, in cases
where a personal signature cannot be
obtained, is delivered to the warden or
designee.
e. Mail for minors or persons under
guardianship may be delivered to their
parents or guardians.
f. An addressee who regularly
receives restricted delivery mail may
authorize an agent on Form 3801 or by
letter to the Postmaster and must
include the notation ‘‘this authorization
is extended to include restricted
delivery (or Adult Signature Restricted
Delivery) mail’’. Form 3849 also may be
used for the authorization, if the Post
Office has no standing delivery order or
letter on file, when the addressee enters
the name of the agent on the back of
Form 3849 in the space provided and
signs the form. The agent must sign for
receipt of the article on the back of the
form.
g. When mail is addressed to two or
more persons jointly, all addressees or
their agents must be present to accept
delivery together. The delivery receipt
obtained and the return receipt, if any,
must be signed by all joint addressees or
their agents. The mail may then be
delivered to any of the addressees or
their agents unless one or more
addressees or their agents object, in
which case delivery is not made until
all the addressees or their agents sign a
statement designating who is to receive
the mail.
h. Either person may sign for mail
addressed to one person in care of
another (i.e. ‘‘In Care Of’’).
*
*
*
*
*
4.0
*
*
VerDate Sep<11>2014
*
*
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Fee Group Assignments
*
*
*
*
*
4.5.4 Additional Standards for
Competitive PO Box Services
* * * Customers in competitive
locations may also complete a customer
agreement in order to receive one or
more of the following enhancements:
[Revise 4.5.4 item a to read as
follows:]
a. Street Addressing—The option to
use the Post Office street address for
their mailing address along with
customer’s box number preceded by as
follows (customers who choose to use
this designation also have the option of
receiving packages from private carriers
at the customer’s Post Office Box
address): John Smith, 123 Main Street
#4567, Any Town, NY 10001.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 4.5.4 item c to read as
follows:]
c. Signature on File—the option to
simplify receipt of Priority Mail
Express, mail insured for more $500.00,
and Signature Confirmation items, all of
which may include an electronic Return
Receipt request, by providing a
signature kept on file by the Postmaster.
*
*
*
*
*
Jkt 235001
delivery (e.g., ‘‘Urgent,’’ ‘‘Rush
Delivery,’’ ‘‘Expedited,’’ ‘‘Time
Sensitive’’) must meet the following
conditions:
a. The indicia much show the class of
mail (e.g. ‘‘Standard’’ or ‘‘STD’’;
‘‘Presorted Standard’’ or ‘‘PRSRT STD’’;
or ‘‘Nonprofit Organization,’’ ‘‘Nonprofit
Org.,’’ or ‘‘Nonprofit’’ or as applicable
for the class of mail as provided under
5.3.6 or 5.3.7) more prominently than
other words in the indicia.
b. Include a clear space of at least 3/
8 inch around the entire indicia.
c. Pieces may not include markings
identical to or confusingly similar to
USPS trademarks (word marks or logos),
trade dress, or other words, symbols, or
designs used by the USPS to identify a
class of mail, price of postage, or level
of service, unless such markings are
correctly used under the applicable
standards for the mailpiece on which
they appear and the corresponding
postage and fees have been paid. Words,
symbols or designs that are unlawful or
legally actionable, or create a claim for
false advertisements or contributory
infringement (infringement of third
party rights) are not permitted.
*
*
*
*
*
Payment of Postage
Postage Payment Methods
6.1
Basic Standards
*
604
6.0
5.0
Permit Imprint (Indicia)
The mailer is responsible for proper
payment of postage. Postage on all mail
must be fully prepaid at the time of
mailing, except as specifically provided
by standard for:
[Revise 6.1 items a and b to read as
follows:]
a. Reply mail and return services
under 505.0.
b. Alternate Postage payment under
5.5.
*
*
*
*
*
[Insert new item g under 6.1 to read
as follows:]
g. Packages from private carriers being
delivered to a customer at a competitive
Post Office Box service location, when
using the street addressing designation
option, as provided under 508.4.5.4.
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
9.0
Exchanges and Refunds
5.3 Indicia Design, Placement, and
Content
*
*
9.2
Postage and Fee Refunds
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
4.0 Postage Meters and PC Postage
Products (‘‘Postage Evidencing
Systems’’)
*
*
4.5
Special Indicia
*
*
4.5.2
*
*
*
*
*
*
Reply Postage
[Revise the entire text of 4.5.2 (context
of text relocated to 505.2.6, Prepaid
Reply Mail), to read as follows:]
Mailers may use indicia generated by
any postage evidencing system to
prepay reply postage as provided under
505.2.0.
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the title and text of 5.3.5 to
read as follows:]
5.3.5 Marking Expedited Handling on
Permit Imprint Mail
Mailpieces bearing markings that
reference directly or indirectly
expedited attention, handling or
Post Office Box Service
*
4.5
PO 00000
Frm 00034
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4702
9.2.5
*
*
*
*
*
*
Applying for Refund
[Revise the first and the last sentences
of 9.2.5 to read as follows:]
For refunds under 9.2, excluding
postage refunds for extra service fees
under 9.2.7, the customer must apply
for a refund on Form 3533; submit it to
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Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
the postmaster; and provide the
envelope, wrapper (or a part of it)
showing the names and addresses of the
sender and addressee, canceled postage
and postal markings, or other evidence
of postage and fees paid.* * * Refunds
for postage evidencing systems postage,
excluding postage refunds for extra
service fees under 9.2.7, are submitted
under 9.3.
*
*
*
*
*
[Insert new 9.2.7 to read as follows:]
9.2.7 Applying for Extra Service
Refund
For refunds for fees paid for extra
services, as allowed under applicable
standards in 9.2, the customer must
apply for a refund online at
www.usps.com/domestic-claims.
*
*
*
*
*
609 Filing Indemnity Claims for Loss
or Damage
1.0
General Filing Instructions
*
*
1.5.2
*
*
*
Claims Filed by Mail
[Revise the first sentence of 1.5.2 to
read as follows:]
Customers may file a claim by
completing a Form 1000 and mailing the
original copy to the address indicated
on the form, accompanied by proof of
value.* * *
*
*
*
*
*
3.0 Providing Evidence of Insurance
and Value
3.1
Evidence of Insurance
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
* * * Examples are:
[Revise 3.2 item a to read as follows:]
a. A sales receipt, paid invoice or bill
of sale, or statement of value from a
reputable dealer.
[Delete current 3.2 items b and c in
their entirety; then, renumber current
items d through h as new items b
through f.]
*
*
*
*
*
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
4.1
Payable Claim
[Revise the introductory text of 4.1 to
read 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, or
Priority Mail Express (under 4.2), is
payable for the following:
[Revise 4.1 item a to read as follows:]
a. Article’s actual value when mailed.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 4.1 item k to read as follows:]
k. Cost of bees, crickets, or baby
poultry destroyed by physical damage to
the package, otherwise, the USPS is not
presumed to be at fault.
[Delete 4.1 items l and m in their
entirety; then, renumber current items n
through q as new l through o.]
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise newly renumbered item n to
read as follows:]
n. For firearms mailed by licensed
firearm dealers (under 601.8.0 and
Publication 52), 4, a Form 1508 must be
submitted with the claim.
[Revise newly renumbered item o to
read as follows:]
o. For collectible items, a sales
receipt, paid invoice or bill of sale, or
statement of value from a reputable
dealer (i.e., a licensed business owner
who is qualified to estimate value or
cost of repairs for the item) must be
provided as described in 3.2a.
4.2 Payable Priority Mail Express
Claim
4.3
Proof of Value
VerDate Sep<11>2014
Claims
In addition to the payable claims in
4.1, the following are payable for
Priority Mail Express mailpieces:
[Revise the second sentence of 4.2
item a to read as follows:]
a. * * * Coverage is limited to $100
per mailpiece, subject to a maximum
limit per occurrence as provided in
4.2a.4. ***
*
*
*
*
*
* * * Examples of acceptable
evidence are:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the second sentence of 3.1
item d to read as follows:]
d. * * * The printout must identify
the USPS Tracking number of the
insured parcel, total postage paid,
insurance fee paid, declared value (if
applicable), mailing date, origin ZIP
Code, and delivery ZIP Code.
*
*
*
*
*
3.2
4.0
Nonpayable Claims
[Revise the introductory text of 4.3 to
read as follows:]
Indemnity is not paid for insured mail
(including Priority Mail Express and
Priority Mail), Registered Mail, COD, or
Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express
in these situations:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 4.3 item d to read as follows:]
d. Requested replacement value
exceeded article’s actual value when
mailed.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 4.3 item f to read as follows:]
PO 00000
Frm 00035
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4702
6607
f. Loss resulting from delay of the
mail, except under 4.2a.2 and 4.3ad.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 4.3 item h to read as follows:]
h. Perishable contents frozen, melted,
spoiled, or deteriorated.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 4.3 item k to read as follows:]
k. Death of honeybees, crickets, and
harmless live animals not the fault of
the USPS (mailability is subject to
standards under 601.8.4 and Publication
52, Chapter 5).
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 4.3 item r to read as follows:]
r. Consequential loss of Priority Mail
Express claimed, except under 4.2a.3
and 4.3ad.
*
*
*
*
*
5.0
Compensation
5.1
Payment Limit
[Revise the first sentence of 5.1 to read
as follows:]
The USPS does not make payment for
more than the article’s actual value
when mailed or, for bulk insurance, for
more than the wholesale cost of the
contents to the sender if a lesser
amount.* * *
*
*
*
*
*
5.4
Loss
[Revise the title and text of 5.4 to read
as follows:]
If the insured, registered, or COD
article is lost the payment includes an
additional amount for the postage (not
fee) paid by the sender. Postage for
Priority Mail Express is refunded under
604.9.5.
*
*
*
*
*
6.0 Adjudication of Claims
*
*
*
*
*
6.3
Final USPS Decision of Claims
[Revise the text of 6.3 to read 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 at
www.usps.com/insuranceclaims/
online.htm. Customers who did not file
their claim online must send a written
appeal to the Consumer Advocate (see
608.8.0 for address).
*
*
*
*
*
705 Advanced Preparation and
Special Postage Payment Systems
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise heading of 14.0 to read as
follows:]
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Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
FSS Scheme Preparation
[Revise the entire text of 14.1 to read
as follows:]
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
14.1
General
All Standard Mail, Bound Printed
Matter (BPM), and Periodicals flats
meeting the standards in 201 must be
sorted to FSS schemes, properly
bundled and placed on/in pallets, trays,
sacks, or approved alternate containers,
for FSS scheme ZIP Code 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
an FSS scheme must be prepared in FSS
scheme bundles. The Postal Service also
recommends the use of authorized flat
trays in lieu of sacks for FSS bundles.
FSS scheme bundles that are not
required to be placed in a FSS scheme
or FSS facility container are combined
with bundles of non-FSS sorted bundles
and placed on an applicable SCF, 3-digit
or NDC container. Mailers must prepare
FSS scheme qualifying mailpieces for
each individual FSS scheme
combination, and then prepare bundles
of uniform size from those pieces.
Mailpieces and bundles must also be
prepared as follows:
a. Bundles for all FSS schemes must
be identified as an FSS 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 pieces
placed into an FSS scheme bundle be
barcoded, and bear an accurate delivery
point Intelligent Mail barcode with an
accurate 11-digit routing code.
c. All FSS scheme bundles must be
prepared in bundles with a 3-inch
minimum and a 6.5-inch maximum
height. ‘‘Leveling’’ (adjusting bundle
heights within an FSS Scheme to avoid
overflow bundles) of the bundles within
each scheme is encouraged. Bundles
must be placed on or in sacks, trays,
pallets or alternate authorized container
to form layers of consistent thickness;
bundles of uneven thickness must be
counter-stacked on pallets or approved
alternate container in accordance with
8.5.8. Except for one overflow bundle
that may be under the minimum size, all
bundles within each FSS scheme must
be of uniform size.
d. Pallets must be prepared under 8.0
and labeled under 8.6, with a pallet
placard bearing an Intelligent Mail
container barcode as described in
708.6.4.
e. An FSS scheme pallet, or approved
alternate container, must be made when
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
Jkt 235001
250 pounds or more of bundles are
available for an individual FSS scheme.
Bundles remaining after palletization
may be placed in sacks (or flat trays if
approved) or approved alternate
container.
f. FSS scheme bundles for multiple
schemes processed at one facility
according to column C, L006 may be
combined on an FSS facility pallet or
approved alternate container if
quantities are less than 250 pounds.
g. Sacks and trays containing flat-size
pieces prepared under FSS schemes
must meet the applicable sacking
standards in 14.2, 14.3, and 14.4 and be
labeled with Intelligent Mail tray or sack
label under 708.6.
14.2
14.2.1
Periodicals
Basic Standards
[Revise the entire text of 14.2.1 to read
as follows:]
All Periodicals flats meeting the
standards in 201 (nonmachinable flats
up to 3⁄4 inch thick may be included if
they meet the standards in 705.14) and
destinating to FSS sites as shown in
L006 must be prepared according to
these standards. Mailings of In-County
Periodicals flats and the associated
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:
a. Pricing eligibility is based on
207.11.0 through 207.14.0. All
Periodicals flats prepared under these
standards will be assessed the FSS
scheme price. FSS bundles placed on
FSS scheme or FSS facility pallets,
sacks, trays, or approved alternate
container will claim the FSS scheme
bundle price.
b. FSS scheme pallets will be assessed
the FSS scheme Pallet price. FSS facility
sort level pallets will be charged an FSS
Facility Pallet container price. FSS
scheme sacks or trays will be assessed
the FSS scheme Sack/Tray price.
Pallets, sacks and trays entered at a
DFSS will claim the DFSS entry price.
c. The Outside-County pound price
will be DFSS price. The Inside-County
price will claim prices for the ‘‘None’’
entry level.
d. Mailers must provide standardized
presort documentation under 708.1.0
that demonstrates eligibility for FSS
prices in accordance with 207.14.0 and
207.25.0.
e. 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.
PO 00000
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f. All FSS schemed Periodicals
mailpieces prepared on FSS scheme
pallets must be prepared in uniform size
bundles, between 3 inches and 6.5
inches in height and secured under
203.3.0, except that one overflow
bundle per mailpiece pool may be under
the minimum size. All Periodicals FSS
scheme mailpieces must meet the
standards in 705.14.0.
14.2.2
Pallet Preparation and Labeling
[Revise the second and third
sentences of the introductory text of
14.2.2 to read as follows:]
* * * Residual bundles may be
included with non-FSS bundles and
placed directly on 3-digit, SCF, or ADC
pallets in accordance with 8.10.2, or
placed in sacks or approved alternate
containers. Preparation sequence and
labeling is as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 14.2.2b and 14.2.2b1 to read
as follows:]
b. FSS facility, optional, no minimum,
permitted only for FSS scheme bundles
prepared for the FSS sort plans
processed within the same facility, as
shown in L006. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L006, column C.
*
*
*
*
*
14.2.3
Sack Preparation and Labeling
[Revise the first sentence of the
introductory text of 14.2.3 to read as
follows:]
Properly prepared flat-size mailpieces
in FSS scheme bundles may be placed
in sacks or approved alternate
containers when 250 pounds are not
available to a presort destination
(including DFSS sites).
* * * Preparation and labeling:
[Revise 14.2.3 item a to read as
follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required at 72 pieces,
optional at 24 pieces (fewer pieces not
permitted), permitted only for FSS
scheme bundles prepared for a single
FSS scheme, as shown in L006; labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 14.2.3 item b to read as
follows:]
b. FSS facility, optional with a
minimum of 24 pieces (fewer pieces not
permitted), permitted only for FSS
bundles prepared for the FSS sort plans
processed within the same facility, as
shown in L006; labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
14.3
14.3.1
Standard Mail
Basic Standards
*
*
*
*
*
* * * Standard Mail flats are subject
to the following:
E:\FR\FM\05FEP2.SGM
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Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
[Revise 14.3.1 item b to read as
follows:]
b. Mailers must provide standardized
presort documentation under 708.1.0
that demonstrates eligibility for FSS
scheme prices in accordance with 243.
[Delete 14.3.1 item c in its entirety;
then, renumber current items d and e as
new items c and d; then, and revise
renumbered item d to read as follows:]
d. Standard Mail FSS scheme
mailpieces must meet all the standards
in 705.14.1.
*
*
*
*
*
14.3.2 Pallet Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation sequence and
labeling:
[Revise 14.3.2 item a to read as
follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required (optional
under 250 pounds), no minimum,
permitted only for FSS scheme bundles
prepared for a single FSS scheme, as
shown in L006. Labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 14.3.2 items b and b1 to read
as follows:]
b. FSS facility, optional, no minimum,
permitted only for FSS scheme bundles
prepared for the FSS scheme processed
within the same facility, as shown in
L006. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L006, column C.
*
*
*
*
*
14.3.3 Sack Preparation and Labeling
[Revise the first sentence of the
introductory text of 14.3.3 to read as
follows:]
Properly prepared flat-size mailpieces
in FSS scheme bundles may be placed
in sacks or approved alternate
containers when 250 pounds are not
available to a FSS scheme, L006. * * *
Preparation and labeling:
[Revise 14.3.3 item a to read as
follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required at 125 pieces
or 15 pounds, permitted only for FSS
scheme bundles prepared for a single
FSS scheme, as shown in L006; labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 14.3.3 item b to read as
follows:]
b. FSS facility, optional with a
minimum of 125 pieces or 15 pounds,
permitted only for FSS scheme 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
to read as follows:]
Bound Printed Matter (BPM) flats
eligible for, and paid at FSS Scheme
prices and that meet the standards in
201, must be prepared in 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 14.4.1 item b to read as
follows:]
b. Mailers must provide standardized
presort documentation under 708.1.0
that demonstrates eligibility for FSS
scheme prices in accordance with 263.
[Revise 14.4.1 item c to read as
follows:]
c. Mailers must prepare all eligible
flat-size mailpieces into FSS scheme
bundles according to L006.
*
*
*
*
*
14.4.2 Pallet Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation sequence and
labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
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 14.4.2 item b1 to read as
follows:]
1. Line 1: L006, Column C.
*
*
*
*
*
14.4.3 Sack Preparation and Labeling
[Revise the introductory text of 14.4.3
to read as follows:]
Properly prepared flat-size mailpieces
in FSS scheme bundles may be placed
in trays, sacks, or approved alternate
containers when 250 pounds are not
available to an FSS scheme. FSS scheme
bundles may be placed in mixed NDC
sacks or alternate containers, or
combined with non-FSS bundles and
placed in 3-digit, SCF, ADC, and mixed
ADC sacks or alternate containers.
Preparation and labeling:
[Revise 14.4.3 item a to read as
follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required at 20 pieces,
permitted only for FSS scheme bundles
prepared for a single FSS scheme, as
shown in L006; labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of 14.4.3b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional with a
minimum of 20 pieces, permitted only
for FSS scheme bundles prepared for
the FSS schemes processed within the
same facility, as shown in L006.
*
*
*
*
*
708
Technical Specifications
1.0 Standardized Documentation for
First-Class Mail, Periodicals, Standard
Mail, and Flat-Size Bound Printed
Matter
*
*
*
*
*
1.2
Format and Content
For First-Class Mail, Periodicals,
Standard Mail, and Bound Printed
Matter, standardized documentation
includes:
*
*
*
*
*
c. For mail in trays or sacks, list these
required elements:
[Insert a new second sentence in the
text of 1.2c item 4 to read as follows:]
*
*
*
*
*
4. * * * For pieces prepared in FSS
scheme bundles, list by 5-digit ZIP Code
within each bundle. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
1.3
Price Level Column Headings
The actual name of the price level (or
abbreviation) is used for column
headings required by 1.2 and shown
below:
a. Automation First-Class Mail,
Standard Mail, and barcoded
Periodicals:
[Revise the table in 1.3 item a to read
as follows:]
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
Price
Abbreviation
FSS [Periodicals flats, Standard Mail flats] ...............................................................................................................................
5-Digit [First-Class Mail letters and flats, Periodicals letters and flats, and Standard Mail letters and flats] ...........................
3-Digit [First-Class Mail letters and flats, Periodicals letters and flats, and Standard Mail letters and flats] ...........................
AADC [First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail letters] ..............................................................................................
ADC [First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail Flats] ...................................................................................................
Mixed AADC [First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail letters] ....................................................................................
Mixed ADC [First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail flats] .........................................................................................
Basic [In-County Periodicals] .....................................................................................................................................................
Firm [Outside-County Periodicals] .............................................................................................................................................
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SB.
5B.
3B.
AB.
AB.
MB.
MB.
BB.
FB.
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Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
b. Presorted First-Class Mail,
barcoded and nonbarcoded Periodicals
flats, nonbarcoded Periodicals letters,
and machinable and nonmachinable
Standard Mail:
[Revise the table in 1.3 item b to read
as follows:]
Price
Abbreviation
Presorted [First-Class Mail letters/cards, flats, and parcels] .....................................................................................................
5-Digit [First-Class Mail parcels, all Standard Mail, and Periodicals letters] ............................................................................
FSS [Periodicals flats, Standard Mail flats] ...............................................................................................................................
3-Digit [First-Class Mail parcels, all Standard Mail and Periodicals letters] .............................................................................
SCF [for Standard Mail parcels] ................................................................................................................................................
AADC [Standard Mail machinable letters] .................................................................................................................................
ADC [First-Class Mail parcels, First-Class Mail Package Service parcels, Standard Mail nonmachinable letters, flats, and
irregular parcels and all Periodicals].
Basic [In-County Periodicals] .....................................................................................................................................................
Mixed AADC [Standard Mail machinable letters] ......................................................................................................................
Mixed ADC [Standard Mail nonmachinable letters, flats, irregular parcels; and all Periodicals] ..............................................
Mixed ADC [First-Class Mail parcels] ........................................................................................................................................
NDC [Standard Mail machinable parcels and Marketing parcels 6 ounces and over] .............................................................
Mixed NDC [Standard Mail machinable parcels and Marketing parcels 6 ounces and over] ..................................................
Firm [Outside-County Periodicals] .............................................................................................................................................
c. Carrier Route Periodicals and
Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail:
*
*
*
*
*
1.4
Sortation Level
The actual sortation level (or
corresponding abbreviation) is used for
Abbreviation
Carrier Route .............................................................................................................................................................................
5-Digit Carrier Routes ................................................................................................................................................................
5-Digit Scheme Carrier Routes [sacks and pallets, Periodicals flats and irregular parcels, Standard Mail flats] ....................
5-Digit Scheme [barcoded and machinable letters] ..................................................................................................................
5-Digit Scheme [pallets, Periodicals flats and irregular parcels, Standard Mail flats, Bound Printed Matter flats] ..................
Merged 5-Digit [sacks and pallets, Periodicals flats and irregular parcels, Standard Mail flats] ..............................................
Merged 5-Digit Scheme [sacks and pallets, Periodicals flats and irregular parcels, Standard Mail flats] ...............................
5-Digit .........................................................................................................................................................................................
FSS Scheme [bundle, tray, sack or other approved container, Periodicals flats, Standard Mail flats, Bound Printed Matter
flats].
3-Digit Carrier Routes ................................................................................................................................................................
3-Digit Scheme [barcoded letters, barcoded and co-bundled flats] ..........................................................................................
Merged 3-Digit [sacks, Periodicals flats and irregular parcels] .................................................................................................
3-Digit .........................................................................................................................................................................................
ADC ............................................................................................................................................................................................
ADC [pallets created from bundle reallocation] .........................................................................................................................
AADC .........................................................................................................................................................................................
Mixed ADC .................................................................................................................................................................................
Origin Mixed ADC ......................................................................................................................................................................
Mixed AADC ..............................................................................................................................................................................
SCF [sacks and pallets, Periodicals flats, Bound Printed Matter, Standard Mail irregular parcels less than 6 ounces] .........
SCF [pallets created from bundle reallocation] .........................................................................................................................
NDC ...........................................................................................................................................................................................
ASF ............................................................................................................................................................................................
NDC [pallets created from bundle reallocation] .........................................................................................................................
Mixed NDC [working] .................................................................................................................................................................
*
*
*
*
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
1.6 Detailed Zone Listing for
Periodicals
1.6.1 Definition and Retention
[Revise the first sentence of 1.6.1 to
read as follows:]
The publisher must be able to present
documentation to support the number of
copies of each edition of an issue, by
entry point, mailed to each zone, and at
DDU, DFSS, DSCF, DADC, DNDC, and
In-County prices.* * *
*
*
*
*
*
Zone abbreviation
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
1.6.3
PO 00000
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CR3.
3DGS.
M3D.
3DG.
ADC.
PADC.
AADC.
MADC.
OMX.
MAAD.
SCF.
PSCF.
NDC.
ASF.
PNDC.
MNDC.
Use the actual price name or the
authorized zone abbreviation in the
listings in 1.0 and 207.17.4.2:
[Revise the table in 1.6.3 to read as
follows:]
In-County, DDU.
In-County, Others.
Outside-County, DDU.
Outside-County, DFSS.
Jkt 235001
CRD.
CR5.
CR5S.
5DGS.
5DGS.
M5D.
M5DS.
5DG.
FSS.
Zone Abbreviations
Rate equivalent
ICD ..................................................
IC ....................................................
DDU ................................................
FSS .................................................
BS.
MB.
MD.
SP.
NDC.
MNDC.
FB.
the bundle, tray, sack, or pallet levels
required by 1.2 and shown below:
[Revise the table in 1.4 to read as
follows:]
Sortation level
*
Presort.
5D.
SB.
3D.
SCF.
AB.
AD.
E:\FR\FM\05FEP2.SGM
05FEP2
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
Zone abbreviation
Rate equivalent
SCF .................................................
ADC ................................................
1–2 or 1/2 .......................................
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 (as applicable) ........
M .....................................................
*
*
*
*
Outside-County, DSCF.
Outside-County, DADC.
zones 1 and 2.
zones 3 through 8 (as applicable)
mixed zones.
*
d. Container entry level (origin, DDU,
DFSS, DSCF, DADC, or DNDC).
*
*
*
*
*
1.7.2 Outside-County Container
Report
The container report must contain, at
a minimum, the following elements:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise 1.7.2 item d to read as
follows:]
6.0 Standards for Barcoded Tray
Labels, Sack Labels, and Container
Placards
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
6.2.4 3-Digit Content Identifier
Numbers
* * * See Exhibit 6.2.4.
Exhibit 6.2.4
Numbers
6.2 Specifications for Barcoded Tray
and Sack Labels
*
3-Digit Content Identifier
[Update Exhibit 6.2.4, 3-Digit Content
Identifier Numbers, to read as follows:]
*
Class and mailing
CIN
Human–Readable content line
Priority Mail Express OPEN AND DISTRIBUTE
*
*
*
*
*
PRIORITY MAIL OPEN AND DISTRIBUTE
*
*
*
First-Class Package Service, Parcels
*
*
*
*
All Other Classes, Parcels
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
FCM Letters—Nonautomation Machinable
*
*
*
*
*
FCM Letters—Presorted Nonmachinable
*
*
*
*
FCM Letters—Single-Piece
*
*
*
*
*
FCM Flats—Automation
*
*
*
*
*
FCM Flats—Presorted
*
*
*
*
*
FIRST–CLASS MAIL
FCM Letters—Automation
*
*
*
FCM Flats—Co-trayed Automation and Presorted
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
*
*
FCM Flats—Single-Piece
*
*
*
*
*
FC Parcels—Presorted
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
PERIODICALS (PER)
PER Letters—Carrier Route
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6611
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6612
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
Class and mailing
*
CIN
Human–Readable content line
*
*
PER Letters—Barcoded (Automation)
*
*
*
*
*
PER Letters—Nonbarcoded (Nonautomation)
*
*
*
*
PER Flats—Carrier Route
*
*
*
*
*
PER Flats—Barcoded
*
*
*
*
*
PER Flats—Nonbarcoded
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
PER Flats—Co-sacked Barcoded and Nonbarcoded
*
*
*
*
PER Flats—Merged Carrier Route, Barcoded, and Nonbarcoded
merged 5-digit sacks .............................................................................................................................
merged 5-digit scheme sacks ...............................................................................................................
FSS scheme ..........................................................................................................................................
FSS facility ............................................................................................................................................
merged 3-digit sacks .............................................................................................................................
PER Irregular Parcels—Merged Carrier Route and Presorted
*
339
349
707
703
352
PER
PER
PER
PER
PER
*
*
*
PER Irregular Parcels—Carrier Route
*
*
PER Irregular Parcels—Presorted
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
NEWS Letters—Barcoded (Automation)
*
*
*
*
*
NEWS Letters—Nonbarcoded (Nonautomation)
*
CR/5D.
CR/5D SCH.
5D FSS SCH BC.
5D FSS FAC BC.
CR/5D/3D.
*
*
FLTS
FLTS
FLTS
FLTS
FLTS
*
PERIODICALS (NEWS)
NEWS Letters—Carrier Route
*
*
NEWS Flats—Carrier Route
*
*
*
*
*
NEWS Flats—Barcoded
*
*
*
*
*
NEWS Flats—Nonbarcoded
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
NEWS Flats—Co-sacked Barcoded and Nonbarcoded
439
449
708
FSS facility ....................................................................................................................................................
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
*
*
*
*
NEWS Flats—Merged Carrier Route, Barcoded, and Nonbarcoded
merged 5-digit ...............................................................................................................................................
merged 5-digit scheme .................................................................................................................................
FSS scheme .................................................................................................................................................
*
704
merged 3-digit sacks ....................................................................................................................................
NEWS Irregular Parcels—Merged Carrier Route and Presorted
452
NEWS
NEWS
NEWS
BC.
NEWS
BC.
NEWS
*
*
*
NEWS Irregular Parcels—Carrier Route
*
*
VerDate Sep<11>2014
*
*
*
14:53 Feb 04, 2015
*
*
NEWS Irregular Parcels—Presorted
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E:\FR\FM\05FEP2.SGM
05FEP2
FLTS CR/5D.
FLTS CR/5D SCH.
FLTS 5D FSS SCH
FLTS 5D FSS FAC
FLTS CR/5D/3D.
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 / Proposed Rules
Class and mailing
*
CIN
*
*
6613
Human–Readable content line
*
*
*
*
*
ECR Letters—Nonautomation (Machinable)
*
*
*
*
*
ECR Letters—Nonautomation (Nonmachinable)
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
STD Letters—Nonautomation Machinable
*
*
*
*
*
STD Letters—Presorted Nonmachinable
*
*
*
*
*
STD Letters—Residual Pieces Subject to FCM Single-Piece Prices
*
*
*
*
*
Enhanced Carrier Route Flats—Nonautomation
*
*
*
*
*
STD Flats—Co-sacked Automation and Nonautomation
*
*
STANDARD MAIL
ECR Letters—Barcoded
*
*
STD Letters—Automation
*
*
*
*
*
STD Flats—Merged Carrier Route, Automation, and Presorted
merged 5-digit .......................................................................................................................................
merged 5-digit scheme ..........................................................................................................................
FSS scheme ..........................................................................................................................................
FSS facility ............................................................................................................................................
STD Flats—Automation
*
*
STD Flats—Nonautomation
*
*
539
549
709
705
STD
STD
STD
STD
*
*
*
*
STD Flats—Residual Pieces Subject to FCM Single-Piece Prices
*
*
*
*
*
Customized MarketMail (CMM)
*
*
*
*
*
ECR Marketing Parcels
*
*
*
*
*
*
STD Marketing Parcels less than 6 oz. and Irregular Parcels
*
*
*
*
*
STD Marketing Parcels 6 oz. or more and Machinable Parcels
*
*
*
*
*
STD Machinable and Irregular Parcels—Presorted
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Presorted BPM—Automation Flats
*
*
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
*
*
*
PACKAGE SERVICES
Carrier Route BPM—Flats
*
*
VerDate Sep<11>2014
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*
Presorted BPM—Flats
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FLTS
FLTS
FLTS
FLTS
CR/5D.
CR/5D SCH.
5D FSS SCH BC.
5D FSS FAC BC.
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Class and mailing
CIN
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BPM Flats—Co-sacked Barcoded and Presorted
5-digit scheme sacks .............................................................................................................................
648
FSS scheme ..........................................................................................................................................
710
FSS facility ............................................................................................................................................
5-digit sacks ..................................................................................................................................................
3-digit sacks ..................................................................................................................................................
SCF sacks ....................................................................................................................................................
ADC sacks ....................................................................................................................................................
mixed ADC sacks .........................................................................................................................................
706
648
661
667
668
669
Human–Readable content line
*
PSVC FLTS
NBC.
PSVC FLTS
BC.
PSVC FLTS
PSVC FLTS
PSVC FLTS
PSVC FLTS
PSVC FLTS
PSVC FLTS
Carrier Route BPM—Irregular Parcels
*
*
Presorted BPM—Irregular Parcels
*
*
*
*
*
*
Carrier Route BPM—Machinable Parcels
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the following heading under PACKAGE SERVICES to read as follows:]
Media Mail and Library Mail Flats—Presorted
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the following heading under PACKAGE SERVICES to read as follows:]
Media Mail and Library Mail Irregular Parcels—Presorted
*
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*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Parcel Select—Irregular (Nonmachinable) Parcels
*
*
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*
*
Parcel Select Lightweight Machinable Parcels
*
*
*
*
*
Parcel Select Lightweight Irregular Parcels
*
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*
Combined Package Services and Parcel Select Parcels
*
*
*
*
*
*
Combined Package Services, Parcel Select, and Standard Machinable Parcels
*
*
*
*
Combined Package Services, Parcel Select, and Standard—All Parcels
*
*
*
Presorted BPM—Machinable Parcels
*
*
*
Media Mail and Library Mail Machinable Parcels—Presorted
*
*
*
PARCEL SELECT
Parcel Select Machinable Parcels
rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS2
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Parcel Select DSCF and DDU Prices
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*
Combined Package Services, Parcel Select, and Standard—Irregular Parcels 2 up to 6 oz.
(APPS-machinable)
*
*
*
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Combined PSVC & STD—Irregular Parcels less than 2 oz., and tubes and rolls (not APPSmachinable)
*
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SCF BC/NBC.
ADC BC/NBC.
BC/NBC WKG.
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We will publish an appropriate
amendment to 39 CFR part 111 to reflect
these changes if our proposal is
adopted.
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Stanley F. Mires,
Attorney, Federal Requirements.
[FR Doc. 2015–01851 Filed 2–4–15; 8:45 am]
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 24 (Thursday, February 5, 2015)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 6573-6615]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-01851]
[[Page 6573]]
Vol. 80
Thursday,
No. 24
February 5, 2015
Part II
Postal Service
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
39 CFR Part 111
New Mailing Standards for Domestic Mailing Services Products; Proposed
Rule
Federal Register / Vol. 80 , No. 24 / Thursday, February 5, 2015 /
Proposed Rules
[[Page 6574]]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
POSTAL SERVICE
39 CFR Part 111
New Mailing Standards for Domestic Mailing Services Products
AGENCY: Postal ServiceTM.
ACTION: Proposed rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: In January 2015, the Postal ServiceTM filed a
notice of mailing services price adjustments with the Postal Regulatory
Commission (PRC), effective April 26, 2015. This proposed rule contains
the revisions to Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service,
Domestic Mail Manual (DMM[supreg]) that we would adopt to implement the
changes coincident with the price adjustments.
DATES: We must receive comments on or before March 9, 2015.
ADDRESSES: Mail or deliver written comments to the manager, Product
Classification, U.S. Postal Service[supreg], 475 L'Enfant Plaza SW.,
Room 4446, Washington DC 20260-5015. You may inspect and photocopy all
written comments at USPS[supreg] Headquarters Library, 475 L'Enfant
Plaza SW., 11th Floor N, Washington, DC, by appointment only between
the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, by calling 1-
202-268-2906 in advance. Email comments, containing the name and
address of the commenter, may be sent to:
ProductClassification@usps.gov, with a subject line of ``April 2015
Domestic Mailing Services Proposal.'' Faxed comments are not accepted.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Karen Key, 202-268-7492, John Rosato,
202-268-8597, or Suzanne Newman, 202-695-0550.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Proposed prices (CPI prices plus Exigent
surcharges) will be available in Attachment A, Part II in the Postal
Service's Notice, which was filed under Docket Number R2015-4.
Materials related to this Docket are available on the Postal Regulatory
Commission's Web site at www.prc.gov.
The Postal Service's proposed rule includes: Changes to prices (not
every price being changed is highlighted, see www.prc.gov for complete
listing of the proposed prices), several mail classification and
preparation changes, modifications to mailpiece characteristics and
additional services, multiple product and service simplification
efforts, and revisions to the DMM to condense language and eliminate
redundancy to improve its ease of use without changing the mailing
standards.
Proposed Changes for First-Class Mail Letters and Flats
To better manage the customer experience, the Postal
ServiceTM proposes maintaining the First-Class
MailTM single-piece stamp price at 49 cents. Likewise,
single-piece flats up to one ounce will be kept at 98 cents, preserving
the convenience to consumers of using two letter stamps for postage.
The single-piece additional ounce and non-machinable surcharge prices
will increase one cent to 22 cents.
Last year, we introduced a Metered Mail price to provide greater
flexibility to price stamps, single-piece Metered Mail, and presort
mail to reflect their different costs and markets. The Metered Mail
price will increase modestly but will still remain below the single-
piece stamp price.
Proposed Changes for Parcels
First-Class Mail Parcels
In November 2014, the Governors approved filing for the transfer of
First-Class Mail parcels to a competitive product. The pleading was
filed with the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) on November 14, 2014,
Docket No. MC2015-7. As discussed in the filing, First-Class Mail
parcels compete with an assortment of comparable products with fast
delivery offered by competitors for mailable matter weighing less than
13 ounces. Since First-Class Mail parcels fulfill all of the criteria
for competitive products, and recognizing the competitive nature of the
marketplace that these parcels fulfill, the Postal Service plans to
remove First-Class Mail parcels from the market dominant product list,
and add it as a retail subcategory of the existing First-Class
Package[supreg] Service competitive product. If this is adopted, the
new First-Class Package Service category would maintain First-Class
Mail service standards and pricing structure.
Because the Commission has not yet ruled on this proposal, we
propose an above average price increase to improve the cost coverage
since First-Class Mail parcels have an exceptionally low cost coverage
for a First-Class Mail product.
Package Services
Package Services now consists of Alaska Bypass, Bound Printed
Matter flats, Bound Printed Mailer parcels, Media Mail, and Library
Mail. Bound Printed Matter flats consist primarily of heavy catalogs,
and Bound Printed Matter parcels consist primarily of product order
fulfillment. We are proposing to increase Media Mail and Library Mail
(whose prices are linked by law) by more than average because these
products continue to not cover their costs. We are proposing to
increases to Bound Printed Matter parcels prices, (and minimally to
Bound Printed Matter flats prices as mentioned under Proposed Changes
for Flats).
Returns Simplification
The Postal Service proposes several changes to our merchandise
return options to make it easier for customers to do business with us.
Changes will include the ability for customers to establish a single
Return Services permit, and pay a single Return Services annual account
maintenance fee at any Post Office, to receive any one, or combination
of, the following returns offerings: Merchandise return service (MRS)
(including USPS Returns paid using a scan-based payment method), or
Parcel Return Service (PRS).
Further, upon annual renewal, the Return Services permit and annual
accounting fees will be waived for those mailers showing outbound
package volume paid using their outbound permit imprint account within
the prior year. The Postal Service feels that this waiver of fees will
incentivize new customers to use USPSTM for returns in
addition to their outbound shipments, and will encourage our existing
mailers to continue doing business with us.
Additional changes proposed will align the availability of
insurance for purchase with returns with that of outbound as detailed
under the extra services section of this proposed rule. Finally, in
response to limited customer use of the Parcel Return Service [ballot]
Full Network product made available January 27, 2013, the Postal
Service will eliminate it as a general offering, but will retain it as
an option for customers under a customized Negotiated Service Agreement
(NSA).
Merchandise Return Service
The Postal Service continues its efforts to simplify and streamline
its product and service offerings. Currently, merchandise return
service (MRS) provides multiple competitive and market dominant
products available to business customers to transport their return
merchandise. With the expansion and availability of various commercial
returns services including Parcel Return Service, USPS Returns (a
subcategory of MRS paid using a scan based payment method), Bulk Parcel
Return Service, and Business Reply Mail[supreg] parcels, customers have
multiple commercially priced returns options. To that end, the Postal
Service is contemplating replacing the use of market dominant First-
Class Mail parcels, Package Services (Media Mail, Library Mail, and
[[Page 6575]]
Bound Printed Matter), and Standard PostTM (recently moved
to competitive but as a retail-only product) for MRS with competitively
priced First-Class Package Service and Parcel Select[supreg] Nonpresort
(ground) products.
The Postal Service believes that our business mailers using MRS
today can receive the same or more customized handling and delivery
options when using our commercially priced products, or one of the
other existing returns offerings. The Postal Service also anticipates
that this change would result in the induction of more parcel volumes
priced to cover their costs, unlike First-Class Mail parcels and most
of the Package Service products, without compromising service.
Additional changes to MRS include eliminating the ability to fax
barcoded MRS labels. Since MRS now requires an Intelligent Mail[supreg]
package barcode (IMpb) with imbedded USPS Tracking[supreg] on all
labels, and standards already prohibited faxing MRS labels with USPS
Tracking barcodes, this means of label production would be removed as
an option.
Bulk Parcel Return Service
The Postal Service proposes to revise standards for Bulk Parcel
Return Service (BPRS) to eliminate the BPRS annual permit and account
maintenance fees as a requirement for the service. Additionally, in
support of our visibility initiatives, we propose requiring an IMpb on
all BPRS labels. This change will align with the requirement of an IMpb
on all other return services labels for parcels, and on all outbound
commercial parcels. All other requirements for participation will
remain unchanged.
Return Call Tag (Print and Deliver Return Label Service)
On September 7, 2014, the Postal Service implemented a return call
tag (label) option for permit holders to electronically request an
applicable USPS return label for their permit to be generated and
delivered by USPS to their customer (label end-user). This article
serves to notify customers that the Postal Service will now refer to
Call Tag Return Service as Print and Deliver Return Label Service.
Future enhancements being considered within this offering includes the
ability for outbound shipping labels to be generated and delivered by
USPS to a permit holder's customer (label end-user).
Extra Services
The focus of the Postal Service on extra services is
simplification, which is designed to reduce redundancy and improve
customer ease of use. To accomplish this, we are proposing changes to
extra services as follows:
USPS Tracking
The Postal Service continues its efforts to provide visibility and
scan data for mailers using USPS to send their shipments. As a result,
USPS Tracking will be included at no additional charge for the
following market dominant products: First-Class Mail parcels, Media
Mail, Library Mail, and Bound Printed Matter. USPS Tracking will still
be available for purchase with Standard Mail parcels. An IMpb will be
required on the mailpiece in order to provide the included tracking
service.
Return Receipt for Merchandise
The Postal Service believes Return Receipt for Merchandise no
longer provides a unique service otherwise unavailable in the past.
Signature ConfirmationTM available for parcels provides the
same or equivalent service for a lower price. Declining volumes of
Return Receipt for Merchandise coupled with the increase of mailer use
of Signature Confirmation supports this transition.
For these reasons, on December 18, 2013 (78 FR 76533), the Postal
Service provided advance notice of plans to discontinue offering Return
Receipt for Merchandise service in July 2014. Although the date for
this change was temporarily deferred, the Board of Governors approved
filing for the elimination of Return Receipt for Merchandise as a
special service in November 2014 and a pleading was filed with the PRC
on November 17, 2014 (Docket No. MC2015-8).
On January 15, 2015, the Postal Service received conditional
approval to remove Return Receipt for Merchandise from the Mail
Classification Schedule. The Postal Service is studying the order and
will evaluate whether or not Return Receipt for Merchandise service
will be eliminated. Depending on the Postal Service's decision, Return
Receipt for Merchandise service may be eliminated as an extra service
on April 26, 2015. The Postal Service shall notify the Commission of
its election no later than January 28, 2015.
Insurance
The Postal Service proposes to eliminate separate price tables for
domestic Priority Mail Express[supreg] merchandise insurance and
domestic general insurance. By combining the insurance price tables, it
is expected that mailer choices will be simplified. No changes will be
made to insurance included with Priority Mail Express and Priority
Mail[supreg], or the options for purchasing additional insurance for
any applicable outbound product. However, plans are to also expand the
availability of insurance coverage for purchase to all returns
services. Currently, in some cases only the sender may purchase
insurance for his or her return item, or insurance is limited to
coverage for $200.00 or less, or no insurance option is available at
all. This change will align insurance options available for purchase
for returns with that of outbound shipments (excluding standards
already disallowing any `included' insurance coverage for returns).
Furthermore, the Postal Service plans to adjust the insurance
threshold for capturing the recipient's signature at the time of
delivery from items insured for more than $200.00, to items insured for
more than $500.00. Additionally, the delivery record (including a copy
of the recipient's signature) would be provided at no additional charge
for items insured for more than $500.00. Customers who want a signature
for items insured for $500 or less can purchase Signature Confirmation
service.
Certified Mail
The Postal Service plans to introduce three new combined offerings
under Certified Mail[supreg]: Certified Mail Restricted Delivery
(available through all channels), and both Certified Mail Adult
Signature Required and Certified Mail Adult Signature Restricted
Delivery (available online and to commercial mailers). This change will
allow customers to choose the combined service as opposed to purchasing
the services separately.
Restricted Delivery
The Postal Service plans to eliminate restricted delivery service
as a separate add-on extra service with its own separate price and
instead offer restricted delivery as a blended service under the extra
services with which it can be purchased with today. Customers will be
able to choose from the following combinations of services that include
restricted delivery:
Certified Mail Restricted Delivery.
Certified Mail Adult Signature Restricted Delivery.
Collect on Delivery (COD) Restricted Delivery.
Insurance (over $500.00) Restricted Delivery.
Registered MailTM Restricted Delivery.
Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery.
[[Page 6576]]
Additionally, Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery will be
expanded from online only, to include availability through retail and
commercial channels.
Return Receipt
The Postal Service plans to align the availability of a domestic
return receipt from items insured for more than $200.00, to items
insured for more than $500.00, which aligns with the changes to
obtaining the delivery record (that includes the recipient's signature)
for insured mail. Additionally, the hardcopy return receipt (PS Form
3811, Domestic Return Receipt), or any USPS-approved facsimile, would
include an IMpb that will be electronically linked to the IMpb of the
extra service on the mailpiece. The IMpb on the return receipt will
provide the tracking visibility to mailers similar to tracking now
provided for all other extra services requiring an IMpb. Additionally,
the option for purchasing a return receipt after mailing will be
eliminated. Mailers wishing to receive a copy of the delivery record,
including the recipient's signature obtained at the time of delivery,
will still be able to do so by purchasing the applicable extra service
at the time of mailing.
USPS Signature Services
The Postal Service plans to introduce a USPS Signature service
umbrella which will encompass the various extra services that provide
electronic signature data (including the recipient's signature obtained
at the time of delivery). The basic standards for the extra services
will remain unchanged. The USPS Signature services umbrella will
encompass:
Signature Confirmation.
Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery.
Adult Signature Required.
Adult Signature Restricted Delivery.
Except for Signature Confirmation and Signature Confirmation
Restricted Delivery, the remaining USPS Signature services are only
available through online or commercial channels.
Adult Signature
Adult Signature Required and Adult Signature Restricted Delivery
would be expanded to include availability with First-Class Package
Service and Parcel Select Lightweight[supreg] pieces purchased through
commercial channels if this proposed rule is adopted. Customers would
be able to choose either Adult Signature Required (delivery to an
individual with identification showing they are at least 21 years of
age) or Adult Signature Restricted Delivery (delivery to an individual
specified by name with identification showing who they are, and that
they are at least 21 years of age) for these additional products.
Certificate of Mailing
Changes are being made to certificate of mailing services to
provide additional piece level visibility by leveraging technology
advancements available today and to minimize the administrative costs
associated with providing these services. The Postal Service plans to
redesign the commercial offering of certificate of mailing by
introducing a new firm sheet, barcoded PS Form 3665, Certificate of
Mailing--Firm, for three or more mailpieces presented at one time and a
new barcoded PS Form 3606-D, Certificate of Bulk Mailing. The new PS
Form 3665 (or USPS-approved mailer generated facsimile) and the PS Form
3606-D (or USPS-approved mailer generated facsimile) will include an
IMpb appended to the IMb (or IMpb, for parcels with included tracking
only) on the mailpieces manifested to the form. Mailers must submit an
electronic manifest to USPS (using mail.dat or mail.xml, or a shipping
services file as appropriate for the type of pieces appending to the
form) which reconciles with all of the items represented, or listed, on
the associated Form 3606-D.
Additional changes to certificate of mailing will limit PS Form
3817 use to less than three pieces presented at retail at one time and
PS Form 3665-Firm to three or more pieces presented at one time.
Mailers will be permitted to present Form 3665-Firm or Form 3606-D at
retail Post OfficeTM locations when presenting less than 50
pieces or 50 pounds (whichever amount is met first) of corresponding
articles at one time, and at a Business Mail Entry Unit (BMEU) or
USPSTM authorized DMU (Detached Mail Unit) when at least 50
pieces or 50 pounds (whichever amount is met first) of corresponding
articles are presented at one time. Due to the electronic enhancements
for PS Form 3665-Firm, duplicate copies of PS Form 3665-Firm after
mailing will not be offered; however, duplicate copies of PS Form 3817
after mailing will still be offered.
Collect on Delivery (COD)
The PS Form 3816, COD Mailing and Delivery Receipt, used for COD
service will be revised to include a Hold For Pickup and a Street
Delivery option to mailers using online and commercial payment methods.
Additionally, mailers will have the option to obtain electronic funds
transfer (EFT), in lieu of a postal money order, for remittance for COD
payments made by cash. No fee is associated with obtaining the
remittance using an EFT; however, mailers must by authorized by USPS to
participate in the EFT option.
Special Handling
The Postal Service will redesign special handling service by
eliminating the weight threshold for special handling, and creating
content-specific identifiers, and in some cases, additional fees. If
this proposed rule is adopted, only the Fragile category will include a
fee; however, the Postal Service expects to add the following content-
specific handling service codes under the special handling umbrella:
Hazardous Material Transportation.
Fragile.
Perishable.
Competitive Post Office (PO) Box Services
The Postal Service plans to include clarifying language to DMM
standards for competitive PO BoxTM service when box holders
in these locations use the optional street addressing enhancement.
Customers who choose to use this designation also have the option of
receiving packages from private carriers at their Post Office
BoxTM address. Packages from private carriers being
delivered to a customer at a competitive Post Office Box service
location, when using the street addressing designation option, do not
require U.S. Postage to be affixed.
Changes to Flats
Incentivize Flats Sequencing System Preparation
In order to incentivize flats sequencing system (FSS) preparation
in Standard Mail, Periodicals and Bound Printed Matter Flats, we are
proposing pricing for FSS Scheme Bundles entered at an FSS facility. We
are also proposing pricing for FSS prepared mail entered at non-FSS
locations.
As background, the Postal Service introduced optional flats
sequencing system (FSS) preparation standards August 23, 2010 [75 FR
51668-51671] effective January 2, 2011. These FSS preparation standards
were developed in collaboration with the mailing industry group;
including mail owners and mail service providers. The results of the
industry group efforts determined that the preparation of the bundles
and pallets specifically for FSS processing could lead to greater
efficiencies and cost savings for both the USPS and the mailing
industry. As of January 26, 2014, the Postal Service required bundle
and pallet preparation of flat-size Standard Mail, Periodicals, and
Bound Printed Matter mailpieces prepared for
[[Page 6577]]
delivery within the ZIP Codes\TM\ served by FSS processing. This
allowed mailers to optionally prepare qualified basic, high density,
and high density plus carrier route flat mailpieces into the FSS
sortation. The mailers were charged a ``default'' price that required
the FSS sortation to be made for these ZIP Codes, however, the FSS
pieces were charged the applicable CR, 5D, and 3D price that they would
have been charged if they had not presorted to the FSS requirements.
There was also limited FSS entry pricing that included discount related
pricing on Standard Mail and Periodicals FSS-schemed flats that were
entered at FSS facilities on pallets only.
Effective April 26, 2015, the Postal Service will create an FSS
piece price for all FSS qualifying pieces. We are proposing to add new
FSS piece level prices for machinable barcoded (automation) flats and
machinable non-barcoded/nonautomation flats. Sorting of saturation,
high density and high density plus carrier route flat mailpieces may be
included in FSS scheme bundles and reported on either the FSS scheme
barcoded or non-barcoded postage lines.
Additionally, all FSS Scheme containers (including sacks and flat
trays) entered at an FSS facility will be eligible for the DFSS entry
price for all three mail classes of flats. We are also allowing mailers
that are preparing FSS facility containers can now enter those
containers at FSS sites and the pieces on these FSS facility containers
would be eligible for DSCF prices for all FSS ZIPs processed at that
site. The Postal Service is also adding destination entry pricing
(DFSS) for eligible FSS scheme and facility containers for qualifying
FSS Periodicals flats.
Periodicals In-County priced mail is still optional to presort to
the FSS sort scheme. This includes up to 5,000 copies of outside-county
pieces that are also included in that mailing issue. We also recommend
that all unbound, non-stapled, newspaper-type, Periodicals, and
Standard Mail flat-sized mailpieces, not be presorted to the FSS sort
scheme.
FSS scheme bundles of Bound Printed Matter (BPM) flats will also
have the DFSS entry with scheme bundles on/in any container (FSS Sch
Container) and FSS scheme bundles on/in any facility container. Also, a
minor change to BPM flats FSS Presorted to FSS scheme will still permit
BPM carrier route flats in the FSS sortation, but will then be reported
as FSS scheme as either: Origin entry (None) zones 1-9, DNDC entry
zones 1-5, DSCF entry; or DFSS entry in a FSS scheme bundles in/on a
FSS scheme container; or in a FSS scheme bundles in/on a FSS facility
container. FSS scheme bundles of Standard Mail flats will also still
permit Standard Mail Carrier Route mail in the FSS sortation but will
then be reported as FSS Scheme Pallet, FSS Other, FSS Scheme container
or FSS Facility Container depending on the Entry.
Incentivize 5-Digit Pallets of Carrier Route Bundles
We also are proposing a new incentive for Periodicals and Standard
Mail flats, 5-digit and/or 5-digit scheme carrier routes pallets which
consist entirely of carrier route bundles for the same 5-digit or 5-
digit scheme.
Bound Printed Matter Flats Prices
We are proposing minimal increases to Bound Printed Matter flats
prices.
Standard Mail
Standard Mail[supreg] is primarily advertising mail and includes
some lightweight parcels. Several changes to Standard Mail are being
proposed to include:
Separate Flats Sequencing System (FSS) Pricing Structure
In 2014 the Postal Service required that flats to be processed on
FSS machines comply with FSS preparation guidelines. We now are
proposing a separate price structure for FSS that provides the lowest
per piece price to FSS scheme bundles on scheme containers, and prices
for FSS facility containers at the SCF price. These prices will apply
to all preparation levels for FSS volume, including High Density and
High Density Plus.
Enhanced Carrier Route Bundle Pricing for Non-FSS Flats
Approximately 86 percent of Carrier Route bundles are entered at
postal facilities on 3-Digit pallets. These pallets are more expensive
to process than Carrier Route bundles entered on 5-Digit and Carrier
Route pallets. In order to encourage mailers to prepare more direct
pallets, we propose a new price for Standard Mail flats prepared in
Carrier Route bundles on a 5-Digit Pallet. This will be the lowest
price available for Non-FSS Standard Mail flats.
Standard Mail Flat Prices
We propose to exceed the PRC requirement to increase Standard Mail
flats by at least 1.05 times the average Standard Mail price increase.
This increase will improve the cost coverage of Standard Mail flats;
however, because catalogs are ``anchors in the mailbox'' that customers
look forward to receiving, we want to improve cost coverage while
preventing price shock from increasing prices too quickly.
Standard Mail Parcel Prices
Standard Mail parcels currently have lower cost coverage than
Standard Mail flats. The price increases in the product focus on
Standard Mail Marketing Parcels, which account for 98 percent of the
volume in the category. This price increase is expected to improve cost
coverage.
Standard Mail Marketing Parcels
Clarifying language will be added to the standards for Standard
Mail Marketing Parcels that (bulk) insurance does not extend to
Marketing Parcels as already excluded by standards for items bearing
alternate address format.
Periodicals
Separate FSS Pricing Structure
In 2014, the Postal Service required that flats that will be
processed on FSS machines comply with FSS preparation guidelines. This
year, we are proposing a separate price structure for FSS that provides
the lowest combined price to FSS scheme bundles on scheme containers.
Enhanced Carrier Route Bundle Pricing for Non-FSS Flats
Approximately 88 percent of Periodicals Carrier Route bundles are
entered at postal facilities on SCF and 3-Digit pallets. Carrier Route
bundles on these pallets are more expensive to process than those
entered on 5-Digit and pure Carrier Route pallets.
Periodicals Prices
In FY 2013, the cost coverage for Periodicals, which includes
magazines and newspapers, was well below 100 percent. The PRC asked the
Postal Service to use its pricing flexibility to improve the efficiency
of Periodicals pricing. To that end, we are proposing significantly
higher than average increases on bundles and pallets in order to ensure
that these elements cover their costs. We expect modest improvements in
preparation, leading to somewhat lower costs and improved cost
coverage. Under today's high-speed automation conditions, this option
merely provides for inefficiency and higher processing and handling
costs, as these non-machinable flats must be segregated from staging
for automated processing, and instead worked in a single-piece manual
operation. We are also proposing a slightly higher than average
increase in piece prices and a lower than average increase for both
advertising and editorial pound rates. Combined together, we expect
that these
[[Page 6578]]
measures will improve the cost coverage for Periodicals.
Other Changes
Expedited Markings on Mailpieces
Clarifications will be made to the mailing standards for use of
expedited attention, handling or delivery markings (e.g., ``Urgent,''
``Rush Delivery,'' ``Expedited,'' ``Time Sensitive'') on mailpieces.
Over time, some mailers have expanded the use of these markings to
classes of mail other than Standard Mail paid by permit imprint, as
originally intended and described in the standards. Additionally, in
some cases the wording used has been expanded, risking or creating
trademark infringements and false advertising. This rule change serves
to provide all mailers with more detailed standards for use of
expedited handling or delivery markings across all products and
mailpieces.
Change of Address Orders by Phone
The DMM is being revised to update standards for Change of Address
Orders made by phone. USPS no longer accepts change of address orders,
requiring customer authorization using a credit card, through the
corporate call center. Mailers may continue to make Change of Address
Orders online at https://moversguide.usps.com (which requires customer
verification using a credit card, with a minimal validation fee), by
submitting PS Form 3575, Change of Address Order, or other written
notice, to any Post Office.
Indemnity Claims and Refunds
The Postal Service continues its efforts to streamline and improve
the refunds and claims processes for our customers. As a result,
mailer's paying postage for extra services using any payment method,
will now file their requests for any applicable extra service fee
refunds using the online application at: www.usps.com/insuranceclaims/online.htm, instead of submitting their requests in hardcopy to the
local Postmaster for adjudication. Additionally, we are proposing
revised DMM language to clarify claims standards and to eliminate
outdated or duplicate claims information. For proof of value: Invoices
or bill of sales must be paid receipts, not solely a customer's
statement and a picture from a catalog showing proof of value of an
item. For payable claims: The USPS is not presumed to be at fault
without any physical damage to the package for live bees, crickets and
poultry. For complete loss: If the insured, registered, or COD article
is lost (not damaged) the payment includes an additional amount for the
postage (not fee) paid by the sender.
Ancillary Service Endorsements
Late Fees for Address Correction Service Past Due
To provide consistency in covering costs incurred from collecting
Address Correction Service (ACSTM) fee deficiencies, the
Postal Service proposes to adopt an annual assessment of approximately
10% per year on any overdue charges for ACS notices provided to the
mailer for the preceding billing period. The fee would be applied on
any ACS fees more than one month overdue.
Change Service Requested Option 2
The standards for the treatment of Standard Mail letters and flats,
and Bound Printed Matter flats will be revised to allow mailers an
additional ancillary service endorsement option.
2015 Promotions
The Postal Service has been offering seasonal and promotional
prices to increase the value of mail to both the senders and receivers
of mailpieces. The Postal Service proposes to offer four mailing
promotions in three categories in calendar year 2015, and will share
the details of these promotions on the USPSTM RIBBS Web site
soon. An overview of the planned promotions follows:
Mobile Technology
These two promotions will build upon previous promotions and
continue our strategy to encourage mailers to integrate direct mail
with mobile technology, using best practices in mobile marketing.
1. Emerging and Advanced Technologies Promotion; April 1-September 30
2. Mail Drives Mobile Engagement Promotion; July 1-December 31
Technology Drives Relevance
This promotion leverages the value of innovative direct mail
techniques that are less widely used, but have been shown to increase
the effectiveness of mail campaigns.
3. Color Transpromo Promotion; June 1-November 30
Leverage Value of First-Class Mail
This promotion category is intended to slow the declining volume
trends for First-Class Mail. As technology continues to disrupt the
mail volume, the Postal Service will ensure Courtesy Reply Mail remains
a relevant part of the First-Class Mail marketing mix.
4. Earned Value Promotion; April 1-June 30
Advance Notices
Periodicals-Pending
The Postal Service plans to improve the costly, over-complicated
calculation process for mailers in a Periodicals pending status to
determine applicable class postage costs. This improvement will allow
both the Postal Service and Periodicals publishers to use a pro-rated
percent equation based on the difference between Periodicals and the
applicable class and subclass prices, to then determine the higher
amount of pending postage. Today, the complexity requires hundreds of
lines of costly coding and programming each applicable price cell for
each price change, which provides more detail than needed by the Postal
Service or the publishers.
Periodicals and Bound Printed Matter Flats
Additionally, the Postal Service is contemplating changes to
mailing standards to reduce programming and align the physical
standards for `flats' across all mail classes. The change would remove
the non-machinable distinction for the Periodicals class and the non-
automation distinction for Bound Printed Matter, and require all
`flats' not meeting the applicable flats requirements in DMM 201
(including weight by class and subclass), to be considered as parcels.
List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111
Administrative practice and procedure, Postal Service.
Although we are exempt from the notice and comment requirements of
the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 553(b), (c)) regarding
proposed rulemaking by 39 U.S.C. 410(a), we invite public comments on
the following proposed revisions to Mailing Standards of the United
States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), incorporated by
reference in the Code of Federal Regulations. See 39 CFR 111.1.
Accordingly, 39 CFR part 111 is proposed to be amended as follows:
PART 111--[AMENDED]
0
1. The authority citation for 39 CFR part 111 continues to read as
follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 13 U.S.C. 301-307; 18 U.S.C. 1692-
1737; 39 U.S.C. 101, 401, 403, 404, 414, 416, 3001-3011, 3201-3219,
3403-3406, 3621, 3622, 3626, 3632, 3633, and 5001.
0
2. Revise the following sections of Mailing Standards of the United
States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), as follows:
[[Page 6579]]
Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail
Manual (DMM)
* * * * *
100 Retail Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels
* * * * *
102 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece
* * * * *
3.0 Placement and Content of Mail Markings
* * * * *
[Insert new 3.5 to read as follows:]
3.5 Marking Expedited Handling on Mail
Mailpieces bearing references to expedited handling or delivery
(e.g., ``Urgent,'' ``Rush Delivery,'' ``Expedited,'' ``Time
Sensitive'') must meet the same conditions as provided under 604.5.3.5.
* * * * *
133 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 First-Class Mail Prices and Fees
1.1 First-Class Mail Single-Piece Price Application
[Revise the entire text of 1.1 to read as follows:]
The single-piece retail prices for First-Class Mail and First-Class
Package Service are provided in Notice 123--Price List and are applied
as follows:
a. The First-Class Mail card price applies to a card meeting the
standards in 101.6.2.
b. The First-Class Mail 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
stamped letters, and for letters with postage affixed (other than
regular stamps) or imprinted (permit imprint) by the mailer (Metered
Mail price).
c. The First-Class Mail flat price applies to flat-size pieces that
meet the standards in 101.2.0.
d. The First-Class Package Service parcel price applies to parcel-
size pieces under 101.3.0 and to flat-size pieces that do not meet the
standards in 101.2.0.
1.2 Price Computation for First-Class Mail
[Revise the text of 1.2 to read as follows:]
Single-piece First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service
retail prices are charged per ounce or fraction thereof; any fraction
of an ounce is considered a whole ounce. For example, if a piece weighs
1.2 ounces, the weight (postage) increment is 2 ounces. The minimum
postage per addressed piece is that for a piece weighing 1 ounce. To
determine single-piece weight in any mailing of nonidentical-weight
pieces, weigh each piece individually. To determine single-piece weight
in a mailing of identical-weight pieces, weigh a sample group of at
least 10 randomly selected pieces and divide the total sample weight by
the number of pieces in the sample. Express all single-piece weights in
decimal pounds rounded off to four decimal places.
[Delete 1.3, Determining Single-Piece Weight, in its entirety (text
relocated to 1.2), then, renumber current 1.4 and 1.5 as new 1.3 and
1.4.]
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.4 to read as follows:]
1.4 Nonmachinable Surcharge
The nonmachinable surcharge is charged per piece and applies only
to letter-size pieces that meet one or more of the nonmachinable
characteristics in 101.1.2. An envelope weighing no more than one ounce
with one enclosed standard optical disc no larger than 12 centimeters
in diameter that is mailed as letter-size BRM or PRM under 505 and
addressed to a company who sent the disc and BRM or PRM envelope to a
subscriber as part of a round-trip-mailing under 233.2.8 is not subject
to the nonmachinable surcharge.
2.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for First-Class Mail
[Revise the text of 2.1 to read as follows:]
2.1 Description of Service
First-Class Mail letters and flats and First-Class Package Service
parcels receive expeditious handling and transportation. Service
objectives for delivery are 1 to 3 days; however, delivery time is not
guaranteed.
2.2 Defining Characteristics
2.2.1 Inspection of Contents
[Revise the text of 2.2.1 to read as follows:]
Except for First-Class Package Service pieces paid at commercial
base prices, all other First-Class Mail is closed against postal
inspection.
* * * * *
2.2.3 Extra Services
[Revise the text of 2.2.3 to read as follows:]
First-Class Mail (including First-Class Package Service and
Priority Mail) is the only class of mail eligible to receive the
following extra services: Registered Mail service and Certified Mail
service (see 503 for additional information).
3.0 Content Standards
* * * * *
3.2 Bills and Statements of Account
[Revise introductory text of 3.2 to read as follows:]
Bills and statements of account must be mailed as First-Class Mail,
First-Class Package Service at retail prices, Priority Mail, or
Priority Mail Express and are defined as follows:
* * * * *
3.3 Personal Information
[Revise the first sentence of 3.3 to read as follows:]
Mail containing personal information must be mailed as First-Class
Mail, First-Class Package Service at retail prices, Priority Mail, or
Priority Mail Express.* * *
3.4 Handwritten and Typewritten Material
[Revise the text of 3.4 to read as follows:]
Mail containing handwritten or typewritten material must be mailed
as First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service at retail prices,
Priority Mail, or Priority Mail Express.
* * * * *
134 Postage Payment Methods
1.0 Postage Payment Methods for First-Class Mail
1.1 Payment Method
[Revise 1.1 by inserting a new second sentence to read as follows:]
* * * Postage for single-piece First-Class Package Service
(parcels) must be paid at a retail post office location, station or
branch, or with affixed postage stamps, postage evidencing system
indicium, permit imprint, or precanceled stamps, (see 604 for
additional information on postage payment methods).
* * * * *
1.3 More Than One Mailer
[Revise the text of 1.3 to read as follows:]
When two or more individuals or organizations, or a party acting as
their agent, mail in one package the bills, statements of account, or
other letters of the individuals or organizations, to an addressee in
common, First-Class Mail or First-Class Package Service postage may be
paid based on the weight and dimensions of the entire package of
aggregated mail. Postage is not required on each individual piece of
First-Class Mail.
* * * * *
[[Page 6580]]
135 Mail Preparation
1.0 Preparation for First-Class Mail
The following standards apply to single-piece First-Class Mail:
[Revise the text of 1.0 item a to read as follows:]
a. Each piece must have a delivery address but is not required to
bear the marking ``First-Class'', ``First-Class Mail'' or ``First-Class
Package Service'', as appropriate for the mailpiece, (presuming the
numerical value of postage is affixed).
* * * * *
136 Deposit
1.0 Deposit for First-Class Mail
[Revise the first sentence of 1.0 to read as follows:]
Single-piece First-Class Mail letters and cards and single-piece
retail priced First-Class Package Services (parcels) weighing less than
13 ounces may be deposited into any collection box, mail receptacle, or
at any place where mail is accepted if the full required postage is
paid with adhesive stamps.* * *
* * * * *
200 Commercial Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels
* * * * *
201 Physical Standards
* * * * *
3.0 Physical Standards for Machinable and Automation Letters and Cards
* * * * *
3.18 Enclosed Reply Cards and Envelopes
[Revise the second sentence of 3.18 to read as follows:]
* * * For Business Reply Mail (BRM) see 505.1.0, for pre-paid reply
mail (also known as Metered Reply Mail) or Courtesy Reply Mail (CRM)
see 505.2.0.
4.0 Physical Standards for Flats
* * * * *
4.7 Flat-Size Pieces Not Eligible for Flat-Size Prices
Flat-size mailpieces that do not meet the standards in 4.3 through
4.6 must pay applicable higher prices as noted in either 4.7a. or 4.7b.
below.
* * * * *
[Revise item b of 4.7 to read as follows:]
b. * * *Under the column heading ``eligibility as presented,''
flats will be considered to be presented as automation flats only if
they meet all other eligibility standards for automation flats.
[Revise Exhibit 4.7b, Pricing for Flats Exceeding Maximum
Deflection, to read as follows:]
Exhibit 4.7b Pricing for Flats Exceeding Maximum Deflection
[see 4.6]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
FIRST-CLASS MAIL AUTOMATION
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * * * *
FIRST-CLASS MAIL PRESORTED (NONAUTOMATION)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * * * *
PERIODICALS OUTSIDE COUNTY
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Piece price eligibility as presented... Piece price eligibility with
failed deflection
Basic Carrier Route flat, if not Machinable 5-digit flat
entered at a DDU.
Machinable barcoded FSS................ Nonmachinable barcoded 5-digit
flat
Machinable barcoded 5-digit flat....... Nonmachinable barcoded 5-digit
flat
Machinable barcoded 3-digit flat....... Nonmachinable barcoded 3-digit
flat
Machinable barcoded ADC flat........... Nonmachinable barcoded ADC flat
Machinable barcoded MADC flat.......... Nonmachinable barcoded MADC
flat
Machinable nonbarcoded FSS............. Nonmachinable nonbarcoded 5-
digit flat
Machinable nonbarcoded 5-digit flat.... Nonmachinable nonbarcoded 5-
digit flat
Machinable nonbarcoded 3-digit flat.... Nonmachinable nonbarcoded 3-
digit flat
Machinable nonbarcoded ADC flat........ Nonmachinable nonbarcoded ADC
flat
Machinable nonbarcoded MADC flat....... Nonmachinable nonbarcoded MADC
flat
Nonmachinable barcoded or nonbarcoded Price claimed, if otherwise
flat. eligible
------------------------------------------------------------------------
PERIODICALS IN-COUNTY
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * * * *
STANDARD MAIL
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eligibility as presented............... Eligibility with failed
deflection
Basic Carrier Route flat, if not Nonautomation 5-digit flat
entered at a DDU.
Automation FSS Sch Pallet.............. Nonautomation FSS Sch Pallet
Automation FSS Other................... Nonautomation FSS Other
Automation FSS Sch Cont................ Nonautomation FSS Sch Cont.
Automation FSS Facility Cont........... Nonautomation FSS Facility
Cont.
Automation 5-digit flat................ Nonautomation 5-digit flat
Automation 3-digit flat................ Nonautomation 3-digit flat
Automation ADC flat.................... Nonautomation ADC flat
Automation MADC flat................... Nonautomation MADC flat
Nonautomation flat (all sort levels)... Nonautomation MADC flat
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 6581]]
BOUND PRINTED MATTER
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eligibility as presented............... Eligibility with failed
deflection
Carrier Route flat, if not entered at a Carrier Route parcel
DDU.
Barcoded presorted flat................ Presorted parcel
Barcoded FSS Sch flat.................. Presorted parcel
FSS Sch Container...................... Presorted parcel
FSS Facility Container................. Presorted parcel
Nonbarcoded nonpresorted flat.......... Price as claimed, if otherwise
eligible
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
202 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece
* * * * *
3.0 Placement and Content of Mail Markings
* * * * *
[Insert new 3.5 to read as follows:]
3.5 Marking Expedited Handling on Mail
Mailpieces bearing references to expedited handling or delivery
(e.g., ``Urgent,'' ``Rush Delivery,'' ``Expedited,'' ``Time
Sensitive'') must meet the same conditions as provided under 604.5.3.5.
* * * * *
207 Periodicals
* * * * *
2.0 Price Application and Computation
* * * * *
2.0 Price Application and Computation
2.1 Price Application
* * * * *
2.1.2 Applying Outside-County Piece Prices
* * *Apply piece prices for Outside-County mail as follows:
* * * * *
b. Machinable flats.
[Delete the second sentence of 2.1.2 item b.1.]
1. Apply the ``Machinable Flats--Barcoded'' prices to pieces that
meet all of the standards for automation flats in 201.6.0 and include a
barcode.
* * * * *
2.2 Computing Postage
* * * * *
2.2.8 Total Postage
[Revise the text of 2.2.8 to read as follows:]
Total Outside-County postage is the sum of the per pound and per
piece charges, the bundle charges, the container charges, and any Ride-
Along charges, minus all discounts, rounded off to the nearest whole
cent. Total In-County postage is the sum of the per pound and per piece
charges, and any Ride-Along charges, less all discounts, rounded off to
the nearest whole cent.
* * * * *
12.0 Nonbarcoded (Presorted) Eligibility
* * * * *
12.3 Prices--In-County
12.3.1 Five-Digit Prices
5-digit prices apply to:
* * * * *
[Revise item 12.3.1c to read as follows:]
c. Qualifying flats sorted to a FSS scheme under 705.14.0.
12.3.2 Three-Digit Prices
3-digit prices apply to:
* * * * *
[Delete 12.3.2 item c in its entirety]
* * * * *
13.0 Carrier Route Eligibility
* * * * *
13.2 Sorting
13.2.1 Basic Standards
* * *Carrier route prices apply to copies that are prepared in
carrier route bundles of six or more addressed pieces each, subject to
these standards:
* * * * *
b. Nonletter-size mailings. Carrier route prices apply to carrier
route bundles that are sorted in one of the following ways:
* * * * *
[Delete 13.2.1b item 4 in its entirety]
* * * * *
13.3 Walk-Sequence Prices
13.3.1 Eligibility
[Revise the second sentence of 13.3.1 to read as follows:]
* * *High density and saturation mailings must be prepared in
carrier walk sequence according to USPS schemes see 23.8.
* * * * *
14.0 Barcoded (Automation) Eligibility
14.1 Basic Standards
All pieces in a Periodicals barcoded (automation) mailing must:
* * * * *
[Revise 14.1 item d to read as follows:]
d. Be marked, sorted, and documented as specified in 705.8.0 (if
palletized); or 24.0 (for letters) or 25.0 (for flats) or; for
nonletter-size mail, 705.9.0, 705.10.0, 705.12.0, or 705.13.0; or for
nonletter-size mail, bundles prepared on or in pallets, trays, sacks or
other approved container under 705.14.0.
* * * * *
14.2 Eligibility Standards for Full-Service Automation Periodicals
All pieces entered under the full-service automation option must:
* * * * *
[Revise 14.2 item c to read as follows:]
c. Be scheduled for an appointment through the Facility Access and
Shipment Tracking (FAST) system when deposited as a DNDC, DADC, DSCF,
or DFSS drop shipment.
14.4 Prices--In-County
14.4.1 Five-Digit Prices
5-digit automation prices apply to:
* * * * *
[Revise 14.4.1 item c to read as follows:]
c. Qualifying flats sorted to a FSS scheme bundle under 705.14.0.
14.4.2 Three-Digit Prices
3-digit automation prices apply to:
* * * * *
[Delete 14.4.2 item c in its entirety]
* * * * *
17.0 Documentation
* * * * *
[[Page 6582]]
17.4 Detailed Zone Listing for Periodicals
17.4.1 Basic Standards
[Revise the first sentence of 17.4.1 to read as follows:]
The publisher must be able to present documentation to support the
actual number of copies of each edition of an issue, by entry point,
mailed to each zone, at DDU, DSCF, DADC, DFSS and In-County prices.
* * * * *
17.4.2 Format
Report the number of copies mailed to each 3-digit ZIP Code area at
zone prices using one of the following formats:
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence of 17.4.2 item b to read as follows:]
b. Report copies by zone (In-County DDU, In-County others, Outside-
County DDU, Outside-County DFSS, Outside-County DSCF, and Outside-
County DADC) and by 3-digit ZIP Code, in ascending numeric order, for
each zone. * * *
17.4.3 Zone Abbreviations
[Revise the text of 17.4.3 to read as follows:]
Use the actual price name or the authorized zone abbreviation in
the listings in 17.3 and 17.4.2.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zone abbreviation Price equivalent
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ICD....................................... In-County, DDU.
IC........................................ In-County, Others.
DDU....................................... Outside-County, DDU.
FSS....................................... Outside-County, DFSS.
SCF....................................... Outside-County, DSCF.
ADC....................................... Outside-County, DADC.
1-2 or 1/2................................ zones 1 and 2.
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 (as applicable).......... zones 3 through 8 (as
applicable).
M......................................... mixed zones.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
18.0 General Mail Preparation
* * * * *
18.3 Presort Terms
Terms used for presort levels are defined as follows:
* * * * *
[Redesignate current items 18.3c through 18.3t as new items 18.3d
through 18.3u, then, add new item18.3c to read as follows:]
c. FSS scheme for flats: the ZIP Code in the delivery address on
all pieces in the FSS bundle is one of the 5-digit ZIP Codes processed
by the USPS as one scheme as shown in L006.
* * * * *
18.5 FSS Preparation
[Revise the text of 18.5 to read as follows:]
Flat sized Periodicals In-County priced mailings, and Outside-
County mailings of up to 5,000 pieces, may be optionally sorted under
FSS preparation standards.
* * * * *
26.0 Physical Criteria for Nonmachinable Flat-Size Periodicals
* * * * *
26.3 Flexibility and Deflection
[Revise the text of 26.3 to read as follows:]
Nonmachinable flats (under 26.0) are not subject to flexibility
standards or deflection standards in 201.4.0.
* * * * *
29.0 Destination Entry
29.1 Basic Standards
* * *The following standards apply:
* * * * *
[Revise 29.1 item c to read as follows:]
c. The advertising and nonadvertising portions may be eligible for
DADC, DSCF, DFSS or DDU pound prices based on the entry facility and
the address on the piece.
* * * * *
29.5 Destination Flat Sequencing System (DFSS) Entry
29.5.1 Definition
[Revise 29.5.1 to read as follows:]
For this standard, destination Flat Sequencing System (DFSS) refers
to the facilities listed in L006, Scheme, Column B or Facility, Column
C.
29.5.2 Eligibility
[Revise 29.5.2 to read as follows:]
DFSS prices apply to pieces deposited at a USPS-designated FSS
processing facility and correctly placed in a flat tray, sack,
alternate approved container or on a pallet, labeled to a FSS scheme
processed by that facility, under labeling list L006. These pieces must
include a complete address and meet the physical standards for
machinable flats in 201.
* * * * *
240 Commercial Mail Standard Mail
* * * * *
243 Prices and Eligibility
* * * * *
3.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for Standard Mail
* * * * *
3.2 Defining Characteristics
* * * * *
3.2.2 Standard Mail Marketing Parcels
[Revise 3.2.2 by inserting a new last sentence to read as follows:]
USPS Tracking is the only extra service available for Standard Mail
Marketing parcels.
* * * * *
5.0 Additional Eligibility Standards for Nonautomation Standard Mail
Letters, Flats, and Presorted Standard Mail Parcels
* * * * *
5.6 Nonautomation Price Application--Flats
[Redesignate current items 5.6.1, 5-Digit Prices for Flats, through
5.6.4, Mixed ADC Prices for Flats, as new items 5.6.5 through 5.6.8,
then, insert new items 5.6.1 through 5.6.4 as follows:]
5.6.1 FSS Scheme Pallet Prices for Flats
The FSS Scheme Pallet price applies to flat-sized pieces on a FSS
Scheme pallet with bundles of 10 or more FSS scheme pieces prepared
under 705.14.0.
5.6.2 FSS Other Container Prices for Flats
The FSS Other container price applies to flat-sized pieces in or on
a container in bundles of 10 or more FSS scheme pieces properly
prepared under 705.14.0.
5.6.3 FSS Scheme Container Price for Flats
The FSS Scheme Container price applies to flat-sized pieces in or
on a FSS scheme container, with bundles of 10 or more FSS schemed
pieces properly prepared under 705.14.0, entered at a DFSS entry.
5.6.4 FSS Facility Container Prices for Flats
The FSS Facility Container prices applies to flat-sized pieces in
or on a FSS facility container, with bundles of 10 or more FSS schemed
pieces properly prepared under 705.14.0, entered at a DFSS entry.
5.6.5 5-Digit Prices for Flats
The 5-digit price applies to flat-size pieces:
* * * * *
[[Page 6583]]
[Revise the text of renumbered 5.6.5 item a to read 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.
* * * * *
5.6.6 3-Digit Prices for Flats
The 3-digit price applies to flat-size pieces:
* * * * *
[Delete renumbered 5.6.6 item c in its entirety]
* * * * *
[Revise the title and text of renumbered 5.6.8 to read as follows:]
5.6.8 Mixed ADC Prices for Flats
Mixed ADC prices apply to flat-size pieces in bundles that do not
qualify for 5-digit, 3-digit, or ADC prices; placed in mixed ADC sacks
or on ASF, NDC, or mixed NDC pallets under 705.8.0.
* * * * *
6.3 Basic Price Enhanced Carrier Route Standards
* * * * *
6.3.3 Basic Price Eligibility--Flats
Basic prices apply to each piece in a carrier route bundle of 10 or
more pieces that is:
* * * * *
[Delete 6.3.3 item e in its entirety]
[Add new item 6.3.4 as follows:]
6.3.4 Basic Carrier Route Bundles on a 5-Digit Pallet (Basic--CR
Bundles/Pallet) Price Eligibility--Flats
Basic--CR Bundles/Pallet prices apply to each piece in a carrier
route bundle of 10 or more pieces that are palletized under 705.8.0 to
a 5-digit or 5-digit scheme destination and entered at an Origin
(None), DNDC, DSCF or DDU entry.
* * * * *
7.0 Eligibility Standards for Automation Standard Mail
* * * * *
7.5 Price Application for Automation Flats
Automation prices apply to each piece properly sorted into
qualifying groups:
[Redesignate current 7.5 items a through d as new items e through
h, then, insert new items a through d to read as follows:]
a. The FSS Scheme Pallet price applies to flat-sized pieces on a
FSS scheme pallet with bundles of 10 or more FSS-schemed pieces
properly prepared under 705.14.0.
b. The FSS Other price applies to flat-sized pieces in or on a
container with bundles of 10 or more FSS-schemed pieces properly
prepared under 705.14.0.
c. The FSS Scheme Container price applies to flat-sized pieces on
orin a FSS scheme container with bundles of 10 or more FSS- schemed
pieces properly prepared under 705.14.0 and dropped at a DFSS.
d. The FSS Facility Container price applies to flat-sized pieces in
or on a FSS facility container with bundles of 10 or more FSS-schemed
pieces properly prepared under 705.14.0 and dropped at a DFSS.
[Revise text of renumbered item e to read as follows:]
e. 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.
[Revise text of renumbered item f to read as follows:]
f. 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.
* * * * *
245 Mail Preparation
1.0 General Information for Mail Preparation
* * * * *
1.6 FSS Preparation
[Revise the text of 1.6 to read as follows:]
Except for Standard Mail flats mailed at Saturation, High Density
or High-Density Plus prices, all Standard Mail flats destinating to a
FSS scheme in accordance with labeling list L006 must be prepared under
705.14.0.
* * * * *
246 Enter and Deposit
* * * * *
4.0 Destination Sectional Center Facility (DSCF) Entry
* * * * *
4.2 Eligibility
* * * * *
4.2.2 Flats
Pieces in a mailing that meets the standards in 2.0 and 4.0 are
eligible for the DSCF price, as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise text of 4.2.2 item c to read as follows:]
c. DSCF prices apply to all pieces on or in a FSS Scheme or non-FSS
container when entered at a DSCF facility and any of the pieces on or
in the container are addressed for delivery within that DSCF's service
area.
* * * * *
[Revise the title of 6.0 to read as follows:]
6.0 Destination Flat Sequencing System (DFSS) Entry
6.1 Definition
[Revise the text of 6.1 to read as follows:]
Destination Flat Sequencing System (DFSS) refers to the facilities
listed in L006.
6.2 Eligibility
[Revise the text of 6.2 to read as follows:]
DFSS prices apply to pieces deposited at a USPS-designated FSS
processing site and correctly placed in or on a container labeled to a
FSS scheme or FSS Facility processed by that site under labeling list
L006 (Column B or Column C). These pieces must include a full delivery
address and meet the physical standards for FSS machinability in
705.14.0.
* * * * *
260 Commercial Mail Bound Printed Matter
263 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees for Bound Printed Matter
1.1 Nonpresorted Bound Printed Matter
[Delete item 1.1.4 in its entirety, then, renumber current 1.1.5 as
new 1.1.4.]
* * * * *
1.2 Commercial Bound Printed Matter
* * * * *
1.2.3 Price Application
[Revise the first sentence of 1.2.3 to read as follows:]
The presorted, FSS scheme, FSS scheme container and FSS facility
container Bound Printed Matter price has a per piece charge and a per
pound charge.* * *
[Revise the title and text of 1.2.4 to read as follows:]
1.2.4 Bound Printed Matter Carrier Route Prices
Each piece is subject to both a piece price and a pound price.
1.2.5 Bound Printed Matter Destination Entry Prices
[Delete the second sentence of 1.2.5 in its entirety.]
* * * * *
[[Page 6584]]
1.2.8 Computing Postage for Permit Imprint
[Revise introductory text of 1.2.8 to read as follows:]
Presorted, FSS scheme, FSS scheme container and FSS facility
container and Carrier Route Bound Printed Matter mailings paid with
permit imprint are charged a per pound price and a per piece price as
follows:
* * * * *
4.0 Price Eligibility for Bound Printed Matter
4.1 Price Eligibility
* * * Price categories are as follows:
[Renumber current 4.1 items c and d as new items d and e, then,
insert new item c to read as follows:]
* * * * *
c. FSS Scheme, FSS Container and FSS Facility Container Price.
These prices apply to BPM flats prepared in a mailing of at least 300
BPM pieces, prepared and presorted as specified in 705.14.0.
[Delete renumbered item e in its entirety.]
* * * * *
265 Mail Preparation
1.0 General Information for Mail Preparation
* * * * *
1.6 FSS Preparation
[Revise text of 1.6 as follows:]
BPM flats claiming FSS scheme, FSS Sch Container or FSS Facility
Container prices, meeting the standards in 201.0 and destinating to a
FSS scheme in accordance with labeling list L006, must be prepared
under 705.14.0.
* * * * *
5.0 Preparing Presorted Flats
* * * * *
5.3 Sacking
* * * * *
5.3.4 Cosacking Presorted Mail With Barcoded Mail
[Revise the entire text of 5.3.4 to read as follows:]
The following standards apply if the mailing job contains a carrier
route mailing, and a Presorted mailing, then the carrier route mailing
must be prepared under 6.0, and the Presorted mailing must be co-sacked
under 705.9.0. Bundled pieces must be co-sacked under 705.9.0.
266 Enter and Deposit
* * * * *
5.0 Destination Sectional Center Facility (DSCF) Entry
5.1 Eligibility
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 the text of 5.1b item 2 to read as follows:]
2. DSCF prices apply to all pieces on or in a FSS Scheme, FSS
Facility, or non-FSS container when entered at a DSCF facility when the
pieces on or in the container are addressed for delivery within that
DSCF's service area.
* * * * *
500 Additional Mailing Services
503 Extra and Additional Services
1.0 Basic Standards for All Extra Services
* * * * *
1.3 Paying Fees and Postage
[Revise the first sentence of 1.3 to read as follows:]
Except as provided under 604.6.1 and for official mail of federal
government agencies collected under 703.7.0 (for Department of State,
see 703.3.0), postage and extra service fees are paid at the time of
mailing.* * *
1.4 Matter Eligible for Extra Services
1.4.1 Eligible Matter
One or more of the following extra or additional services may be
added at the time of mailing, if the standards for the services are met
and the applicable fees are paid, as follows:
Exhibit 1.4.1 Eligible Matter--Domestic Destinations
[Revise the entire Exhibit 1.4.1, Eligible Matter--Domestic
Destinations, to read as follows:]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Extra service Eligible mail class Additional combined services
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Registered Mail Priority Mail Collect on Delivery (COD)
Registered Mail Restricted Delivery First-Class Mail Return Receipt
First-Class Package Service Signature Confirmation.
Certified Mail Priority Mail Return Receipt (Form 3811 only if with
Certified Mail--Restricted Delivery First-Class Mail Adult Signature options \1\).
Certified Mail--Adult Signature \1\ First-Class Package Service
Certified Mail--Adult Signature
Restricted \1\
Insurance Priority Mail Express USPS Tracking
Insurance Restricted Delivery (If Priority Mail Signature Confirmation (available if
insured >$500.00.) Critical Mail insured for <$500; included if insured
(Note: Priority Mail Express First-Class Mail for >$500.00.)
includes $100.00 of insurance and First-Class Package Service Adult Signature Requested \1\
Priority Mail includes either Standard Post Adult Restricted Delivery \1\
$100.00 or $50.00 of insurance Bound Printed Matter Return Receipt (if insured >$500.00,
(see 503.4.0), insurance >$500.00 Library Mail Form 3811 only.)
includes Signature Confirmation.) Media Mail Fragile
Parcel Select Parcel Airlift (PAL).
Parcel Select
Lightweight (bulk insurance only)
Standard Mail (bulk insurance for
(nonprofit) parcels only)
Certificate of Mailing Priority Mail Fragile
(Form 3817 or Form 3665-Firm) for First-Class Mail Parcel Airlift (PAL).
individual pieces only; Form 3665- First-Class Package Service
Firm is for 3 or more pieces Bound Printed Matter
presented at one time and requires Library Mail
an IMpb linked to IMb on Media Mail
mailpieces (see 5.0).
[[Page 6585]]
Certificate of Bulk Mailing Priority Mail Fragile
(Form 3606; only evidence of number First-Class Mail Parcel Airlift (PAL).
of identical weight piece mailed, First-Class Package Service
Form 3606 requires an IMpb linked Parcel Select
to IMb on mailpieces (see 5.0). Parcel Select
Lightweight
Standard Mail
Bound Printed Matter
Library Mail
Media Mail
Return Receipt Priority Mail Express (Form 3811 USPS Tracking (when purchased for
(Form 3811 must bear an IMpb linked only) Standard Mail parcels \2\)
to the IMb for the host extra Priority Mail \2\ Signature Confirmation Restricted
service for the appended First-Class Mail \2\ Delivery
mailpiece.) First-Class Package Service Signature Confirmation Special Handling
Standard Mail (parcels only) 2 3 Adult Signature Requested \1\ (Form
Parcel Select \4\ 3811)
Parcel Select Adult Signature Restricted Delivery \1\
Lightweight \3\ (Form 3811)
Standard Post \4\ Parcel Airlift (PAL).
Bound Printed Matter \4\
Library Mail \4\
Media Mail \4\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
USPS Signature Services:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Signature Confirmation Priority Mail Collect on Delivery (COD)
Critical Mail Insurance
First-Class Mail (parcels only; Registered Mail
electronic option only) Return Receipt (Form 3811 only)
First-Class Package Service Special Handling
(electronic option only) Hold For Pickup
Standard Post Special Handling.
Parcel Select
Bound Printed Matter
Library Mail
Media Mail
Signature Confirmation Restricted Priority Mail \3\
Delivery First-Class Mail 2 3
First-Class Package Service
Standard Mail 2 4
Standard Post \5\
Parcel Select \5\
Parcel Select Lightweight \4\
Bound Printed Matter \5\
Library Mail \5\
Media Mail \5\
Adult Signature Required \1\ Priority Mail Express Insurance
Adult Signature Restricted Delivery Priority Mail Return Receipt (Form 3811 only)
\1\ Critical Mail Hold For Pickup (under 508.7.0).
First-Class Mail \2\
First-Class Package Service \3\
Parcel Select Nonpresort
Bound Printed Matter \2\
Library Mail \2\
Media Mail \2\
USPS Tracking Standard Mail (parcels only; Insurance (bulk insurance (for Standard
(USPS Tracking is provided at no electronic option only 1 2) Mail (nonprofit) parcels) only 1 2).
additional charge for all class of
mail, when the applicable
standards are met, except Standard
Mail parcels; excludes
Periodicals.)
Collect on Delivery (COD) Priority Mail Express Registered Mail
COD Restricted Delivery (1-Day and 2-Day only) Return Receipt
Priority Mail Signature Confirmation \2\ (not
First-Class Mail available for purchase with Priority
First-Class Package Service Mail Express COD)
Standard Post Special Handling
Parcel Select Hold For Pickup.
Bound Printed Matter
Library Mail
Media Mail
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Special Handling:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 6586]]
Fragile Priority Mail Express Collect On Delivery (COD)
Priority Mail Insurance
First-Class Mail Signature Confirmation \2\
First-Class Package Service Parcel Airlift (PAL).
Standard Post
Parcel Select
Bound Printed Matter
Library Mail
Media Mail
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Not at retail.
2. Parcels only.
3. If purchased with Certified Mail, COD, insurance over $500.00 or Registered Mail.
4. If purchased with bulk insurance over $500.00.
5. If purchased with COD or insurance over $500.00.
1.4.2 Offshore Domestic Destinations
As provided for the classes of mail under 1.4.1, and unless
otherwise restricted (see ``Overseas Military/Diplomatic Mail'' section
of the Postal Bulletin), extra services are available for mail
addressed to APO/FPO/DPO destinations (also see 703), and to ZIP Codes
in U.S. territories and possessions (also see 608.2.0), or Freely
Associated States (also see 608.2.0), as follows:
Exhibit 1.4.2 Eligible Matter--Offshore Domestic Destinations
[Revise Exhibit 1.4.2, Eligible Matter--Offshore Domestic
Destinations, to read as follows:]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Territories and Freely associated
Extra service APO/FPO/DPO possessions states
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Registered Mail...................... Limited \1\............ Yes.................... Yes.
(Available only to
select APO/FPO/DPO
destinations.).
Certified Mail....................... Yes.................... Yes.................... Yes.
Certified Mail Restricted Delivery... Yes.................... Yes.................... Yes.
Certified Mail Adult Signature No..................... Yes.................... Limited.\2\
Required.
Certified Mail Adult Signature No..................... Yes.................... Limited.\2\
Restricted Delivery.
Insurance............................ Yes.................... Yes.................... Yes.
Insurance Restricted Delivery........ Limited \2\............ Yes.................... Limited.\3\
Certificate of Mailing............... Yes.................... Yes.................... Yes.
USPS Tracking........................ Limited \1\............ Yes.................... Limited \2\
USPS Signature Service:
Signature Confirmation........... No..................... Yes.................... Limited.\2\
Signature Confirmation Restricted No..................... Yes.................... Limited.\2\
Delivery.
Adult Signature Requested........ No..................... Yes.................... Limited.\2\
Adult Signature Restricted No..................... Yes.................... Limited.\2\
Delivery.
COD.................................. No..................... Yes.................... Yes (except for items
sent to Marshall
Islands and the
Federated States of
Micronesia).
Special Handling..................... Yes.................... Yes.................... Yes.
Return Receipt....................... Yes (Form 3811 only)... Yes (Form 3811 only)... Yes (Form 3811 only).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Availability of electronic information regarding an event scan may be limited.
2. Excludes Palau, Marshall Islands, and the Federated States of Micronesia (ZIP Codes 96939, 96944, 96960,
96970).
3. If insured for more than $500.00, signature service provided only if hardcopy return receipt (form 3811) is
also purchased.
1.4.3 Domestic Returns
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eligible extra
Eligible extra services (paid by
Return service services (paid by permit holder or
permit holder) sender)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Merchandise Return Service...... Registered Mail... Registered Mail
Insurance \1, 2\.. Insurance \1, 2\
Special Handling.. Special Handling
Certificate of
Mailing \3\
Priority Mail Return Service.... Insurance\2\...... Insurance\2\
First-Class Package Return
Service
Ground Return Service
Parcel Return Service........... Insurance \2\..... Insurance \2\
Certificate of
Mailing \3\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 6587]]
Extra services for return mailpieces are available as follows:
Exhibit 1.4.3 Eligible Matter--Domestic Returns
1. Insurance may be combined with USPS Tracking or Special Handling
or both.
2. Insurance must be purchased; no included insurance is provided
for returns.
3. Individual pieces using Form 3817 or Form 3877 by sender only.
* * * * *
1.7 Forms and Labels
* * * * *
1.7.2 Privately Printed Forms or Labels
[Revise the third sentence of 1.7.2 to read as follows:]
* * *Customers affixing both a barcoded address label and a
barcoded extra service label on the same mailpiece must ensure that the
barcodes on both labels match.* * *
* * * * *
1.7.4 Acceptance
Customers must also meet the following requirements when presenting
mail bearing an extra service IMpb for acceptance:
[Revise the text of 1.7.4 item a to read as follows:]
a. Certificates of mailing using Form 3655-Firm or Form 3606-D for
more than 49 pieces presented at one time, or for presorted or permit
imprint mailings containing pieces with extra services, must be
presented to a Post Office business mail entry unit (BMEU) or
authorized detached mail unit (DMU).
* * * * *
1.8 Obtaining Delivery Information and Delivery Records
Delivery records for extra services are available as follows:
[Revise the text of 1.8 items a and c to read as follows:]
a. Information by article number can be retrieved at www.usps.com
or by calling 1-800-222-1811. A proof of delivery letter (including
recipient's signature, when available) may be provided by email.
* * * * *
c. A return receipt (hardcopy Form 3811) may be purchased at the
time of mailing and is received by mail.
* * * * *
1.10 Receipts
[Revise the text of the first and third sentence of 1.10, then,
insert a new final sentence of 1.10 to read as follows:]
Except when using certificate of mailing Form 3655-Firm and Form
3606-D for less than 50 pieces presented at one time, the mailer
receives a USPS sales receipt and the postmarked (round-dated) extra
service form for services purchased at retail channels.* * * For three
or more pieces with extra or accountable services presented for mailing
at one time, the mailer uses Form 3877 (firm sheet) or USPS-approved
privately printed firm sheets in lieu of the receipt portion of the
individual form.* * * Except for Registered Mail and COD items, the
USPS keeps no mailing records for pieces bearing extra services.
[Delete current 1.11, USPS Mailing Records, in its entirety (text
relocated to 1.10).]
2.0 Registered Mail
2.1 Basic Standards
2.1.1 Description
[Revise the introductory text of 2.1.1 to read as follows:]
Registered Mail is subject to the basic standards in 1.0; see 1.4
for eligible matter. Registered Mail is the most secure service that
the USPS offers. It incorporates a system of receipts to monitor the
movement of the mail from the point of acceptance to delivery.
Registered Mail provides the sender with a mailing receipt and, upon
request (see 1.8), electronic verification that an article was
delivered or that a delivery attempt was made. Customers may obtain a
record of delivery (which includes the recipient's signature) by
purchasing a return receipt (6.0), at the time of mailing. Customers
may direct delivery of Registered Mail only to the addressee (or
addressee's authorized agent) using Registered Restricted Delivery
(2.1.4). Postal insurance is included in the fee for articles with a
value of at least $0.01 up to a maximum insured value of $50,000.00.
Postal insurance is not available for articles with no value ($0.00).
The fees for articles valued over $50,000.00 include insurance up to
$50,000.00, and increasingly higher fees for handling costs. The face
(address side) of a registered article must be at least 5 inches long
and 3\1/2\ inches high, regardless of thickness. Registration may not
be obtained for the following item if:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item c to read as follows:]
c. Prepared improperly or packed inadequately to withstand normal
handling (see 2.3.4).
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item f. to read as follows:]
f. A class of mail not listed under eligible matter (see 1.4).
2.1.2 Label 200
[Revise the first sentence of 2.1.2 to read as follows:]
Registered Mail must bear the barcoded red Label 200 (see forms at
https://pe.usps.gov/), or a non-barcoded red Label 200-N (when a mailer-
generated shipping label bearing an IMpb (under 708.5.0) is also
affixed on the same mailpiece). * * *
* * * * *
[Insert new items 2.1.4 and 2.1.5 to read as follows:]
2.1.4 Additional Standards for Registered Mail Restricted Delivery
Registered Mail Restricted Delivery permits a mailer to direct
delivery only to the addressee (or addressee's authorized agent). The
addressee must be an individual (natural person) specified by name. The
mailer may request Registered Mail Restricted Delivery at the time of
mailing by advising the USPS clerk or by marking the mail ``Restricted
Delivery'' above the address and to the right of the return address,
and paying the applicable fee. A firm mailer must enter the proper fee
in the correct column of the firm sheet and place the required
endorsement on the mail. Customers may obtain a record of delivery
(which includes the recipient's signature) by purchasing a return
receipt (6.0). If a return receipt is requested, the correct block on
Form 3811 must be checked to show that restricted delivery is also
required. Mail marked ``Restricted Delivery'' is delivered under the
conditions in 508.1.1.7 and 1.1.8.
2.1.5 Registered COD Mail
Sealed domestic mail bearing First-Class Mail, First-Class Package
Service, or Priority Mail postage may be sent as registered COD mail
when meeting the standards in 9.0 and as follows:
a. Such mail is handled the same as other Registered Mail.
b. The maximum amount collectible from the recipient on one article
is $1,000.00. Indemnity is available up to the registry limit of
$50,000.00 by paying the registry fee for the value declared. The total
fees charged for registered COD service include the proper registry fee
for the value declared plus the registered COD fee. The mailer must
declare the full value of the article being mailed, regardless of the
amount to be collected from the recipient.
c. The registered label and the COD form must be affixed to each
article. The
[[Page 6588]]
registration number is used for delivery receipt and indemnity claims.
* * * * *
3.0 Certified Mail
3.1 Basic Standards
3.1.1 Description
[Revise the text of 3.1.1 to read as follows:]
Certified Mail is subject to the basic standards in 1.0; see 1.4
for eligible matter. Certified Mail provides the sender with a mailing
receipt and, upon request, electronic verification that an article was
delivered or that a delivery attempt was made. Customers can retrieve
the delivery status as provided in 1.9. Certified Mail is dispatched
and handled in transit as ordinary mail. Except for Priority Mail
pieces with included insurance, no insurance coverage is provided when
purchasing Certified Mail. USPS maintains a record of delivery (which
includes the recipient's signature). Customers may obtain a delivery
record by purchasing a return receipt (6.0) at the time of mailing.
Customers may direct delivery of Certified Mail only to the addressee
(or addressee's authorized agent) using Certified Mail Restricted
Delivery (3.2.2); or to an adult using Certified Adult Signature
Required or Certified Adult Signature Restricted Delivery when meeting
the applicable standards for Adult Signature under 8.1.1e and 8.1.3.
3.2 Mailing
3.2.1 Form 3800
* * * A mailer of Certified Mail must:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of 3.2.1 item e to read as follows:]
e. For Certified Mail Restricted Delivery, meet the additional
standards under 3.2.2).
[Insert new item 3.2.2 to read as follows:]
3.2.2 Additional Standards for Certified Mail Restricted Delivery
Certified Mail Restricted Delivery permits a mailer to direct
delivery only to the addressee (or addressee's authorized agent). The
addressee must be an individual (natural person) specified by name. The
mailer may request Certified Mail Restricted Delivery at the time of
mailing by advising the USPS clerk or by marking the mail ``Restricted
Delivery'' above the address and to the right of the return address and
paying the applicable fee. A firm mailer must enter the proper fee in
the correct column of the firm sheet and place the required endorsement
on the mail. Customers may obtain a record of delivery (which includes
the recipient's signature) by purchasing a return receipt (6.0). If a
return receipt is requested, the correct block on Form 3811 must be
checked to show that restricted delivery is also required. Mail marked
``Restricted Delivery'' is delivered under the conditions in 508.1.1.7
and 1.1.8.
4.0 Insured Mail
* * * * *
4.1.1 Additional Insurance--Priority Mail Express
[Revise the text of 4.1.1 to read as follows:]
Additional insurance, up to a maximum coverage of $5,000.00, may be
purchased for merchandise valued at more than $100.00 sent by Priority
Mail Express. The additional insurance fee is in addition to postage
and other fees. See Notice 123--Price List. The insurance fee is
entered in the block marked ``Insurance'' on the mailing label. If the
label does not contain this block, the mailer uses the ``COD'' block by
crossing out ``COD,'' writing ``INS'' to the right, and entering the
fee for the coverage. Coverage is limited to the actual value of the
contents, regardless of the fee paid, or the highest insurance value
increment for which the fee is fully paid, whichever is lower. When
``signature required'' service is not requested or when ``waiver of
signature'' is requested, additional insurance is not available.
[Delete 4.1.2, Fees for Priority Mail Express Insurance, in its
entirety (text relocated to 4.1.1).]
4.2 Insurance Coverage--Priority Mail
Priority Mail pieces bearing an Intelligent Mail package barcode
(IMpb) or USPS retail tracking barcode (see 4.3.4) are insured against
loss, damage, or missing contents, up to a maximum of $50.00 or
$100.00, subject to the following:
* * * * *
[Delete 4.2 item e in its entirety, then, renumber current items f
and g as new items e and f.]
* * * * *
4.3 Basic Standards
4.3.1 Description
[Revise the introductory text of 4.3.1 to read as follows:]
Insured mail is subject to the basic standards in 1.0; see 1.4 for
eligible matter. The following additional standards apply to insured
mail:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of 4.3.1 item c to read as follows:]
c. Insured mail provides the mailer with a mailing receipt. No
record of insured mail is kept at the office of mailing; however, the
USPS maintains insured mail delivery records for a period of time. An
item insured for $500.00 or less receives a delivery scan. An item
insured for more than $500.00 receives a delivery scan and the USPS
obtains and provides the recipient's signature as the delivery record
to the mailer electronically. Customers may obtain a delivery record by
purchasing a return receipt (6.0). Customers may direct delivery of
mail insured for more than $500.00 only to the addressee (or
addressee's authorized agent) using Insurance Restricted Delivery
(4.5);
* * * * *
4.3.2 Ineligible Matter
The following types of mail may not be insured:
* * * * *
[Delete 4.3.2 item e in its entirety (eligible matter provided
under 1.4), then, renumber item f as new item e.]
f. Matter mailed at First-Class Mail prices (including Priority
Mail) that consists of items described in 123.3.0,133.3.0, 233.2.0, and
283.2.0, and required to be mailed at First-Class Mail prices.
* * * * *
4.3.4 Markings and Forms
[Revise the introductory text of 4.3.4 to read as follows.]
The treatment of pieces is determined by the insurance amount as
described in 4.3.1c and under the following conditions:
[Revise the text of 4.3.4 items a and b to read as follows:]
a. For retail pieces insured for $500.00 or less, the mailer must
affix a barcoded Form 3813 (see forms at https://pe.usps.gov/) to each
piece above the delivery address and to the right of the return
address.
b. For retail pieces insured for more than $500.00, the mailer must
affix a barcoded Form 3813-P (see forms at https://pe.usps.gov/) to each
piece above the delivery address and to the right of the return
address.
* * * * *
[Revise the second sentence of 4.3.4 item d to read as follows:]
d. * * * Mailing receipts are provided under 1.10.
* * * * *
[Revise the title of 4.4, Bulk Insurance for Standard Mail, as
follows:]
[[Page 6589]]
4.4 Bulk Insurance for Standard Mail and Parcel Select Lightweight
4.4.1 Eligibility
[Revise the introductory text of 4.4.1 to read as follows:]
To mail at the bulk insurance prices, for Standard Mail (except
Marketing Parcels) and Parcel Select Lightweight, mailers must obtain
an authorization under 4.4.2 and meet the following criteria:
* * * * *
[Insert new 4.5 as follows:]
4.5 Additional Standards for Insurance Restricted Delivery
Insurance Restricted Delivery permits a mailer to direct delivery
only to the addressee (or addressee's authorized agent). The addressee
must be an individual (natural person) specified by name. The mailer
may request Insured Restricted Delivery at the time of mailing by
advising the USPS clerk or by marking the mail ``Restricted Delivery''
above the address and to the right of the return address and paying the
applicable fee. A firm mailer must enter the proper fee in the correct
column of the firm sheet and place the required endorsement on the
mail. Customers may obtain a record of delivery (which includes the
recipient's signature) by purchasing a return receipt (6.0). If a
return receipt is requested, the correct block on Form 3811 must be
checked to show that restricted delivery is also required. Mail marked
``Restricted Delivery'' is delivered under the conditions in 508.1.1.7
and 1.1.8.
[Revise the title of 5.0 to read as follows:]
5.0 Certificates of Mailing
5.1 Basic Standards
5.1.1 Description--Individual Pieces
[Revise the introductory text of 5.1.1 to read as follows:]
Certificates of mailing are subject to the basic standards in 1.0,
see 1.4 for eligible matter. Certificates of mailing (Form 3817 and
barcoded Form 3665-Firm, including USPS-approved facsimiles) are
available only at the time of mailing and provide evidence that
individual mailpieces have been presented to the USPS for mailing.
Certificates of mailing do not provide a record of delivery, and the
Postal Service does not retain copies of either form. Form 3817 is
available for less than three individual pieces, presented at one time
at a retail post office, station or branch). Form 3665-Firm is
available for three or more pieces, but less than 50 pieces or 50
pounds (whichever amount is met first), presented at one time at a
retail post office, station or branch, or for three or more pieces, but
at least 50 pieces or 50 pounds (whichever amount is met first),
presented at a BMEU or USPS authorized DMU). Each individual Form 3817
or the Form 3665-Firm (in addition to scanning the barcode) is
postmarked (round-dated) at the time of mailing; the form(s) are then
returned to the mailer and become the mailer's receipt.
[Delete 5.1.2, Eligible Matter--Single Piece, in its entirety
(context of text already under 1.4 for eligible matter), then, renumber
current 5.1.3 through 5.1.7 as new 5.1.2 through 5.1.6.]
5.1.2 Paying Fees
[Revise the first sentence of renumbered 5.1.2 to read as follows:]
For certificate of mailing, in addition to the correct postage, the
applicable certificate of mailing fee must be paid for each article on
Form 3817 or listed on Form 3665-Firm and for duplicate copies of
either form.* * *
5.1.3 Mailer Preparation
[Revise the text of renumbered 5.1.3 to read as follows:]
A certificate of mailing must be completed by the mailer and all
entries must be typed or printed in ink, by ballpoint pen, or computer-
generated; the form or firm sheets become the mailer's receipts.
Individual certificate and firm mailings must show the names and
addresses of the sender and addressee (if Form 3665-Firm is being used,
the mailer must include the corresponding IMb (for letters and flats)
or IMpb (for parcels) for each article listed) and may show the amount
of postage paid. The mailer may also place identifying invoice or order
numbers on the certificate as a reference.
[Revise the title of renumbered 5.1.4 to read as follows:]
5.1.4 Firm Mailings--Three or More Pieces
When the number of articles presented justifies such action, the
mailer must comply with these standards:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of 5.1.4 item b to read as follows:]
b. When the mailer describes and lists three or more individual
pieces on Form 3665-Firm, but does not present the pieces in the order
shown on the sheets, the mailer must consecutively number each entry
line on the sheet and lightly number each piece to show both the
corresponding sheet and line number.
[Insert a new item c under 5.1.4 to read as follows:]
c. Firm mailers using Form 3665-Firm, or USPS approved facsimiles,
must submit an electronic manifest to USPS (using mail.dat or mail.xml,
or a shipping services file as appropriate for the type of pieces
appending to the form) which reconciles with all of the items listed on
the associated Form 3665-Firm.
5.1.5 Duplicate Copies--After Mailing
[Revise the first sentence of renumbered 5.1.5 to read as follows:]
To obtain a duplicate copy of the certificate after mailing (Form
3817 only), the mailer must present the original postmarked certificate
and an additional certificate endorsed ``Duplicate'' or a copy showing
the original dates of mailing. * * *
5.1.6 Presenting to Rural Carrier
[Revise the text of renumbered 5.1.6 to read as follows:]
For certificate of mailing (Form 3817 only), a mailer may provide
mail to the rural carrier with the fee for the certificate. The carrier
obtains the certificate at the Post Office, attaches the stamps,
obtains the postmark (round-date) on the certificate on the day of
mailing, and delivers the certificate to the mailer on the next trip.
5.2 Other Bulk Quantities--Certificate of Bulk Mailing
5.2.1 Description
[Revise the text of 5.2.1 to read as follows:]
Certificate of Bulk Mailing is subject to the basic standards in
1.0, see 1.4 for eligible matter. Barcoded Form 3606-D, or USPS
approved facsimile, is available only at the time of mailing and is
used to specify only the number of identical-weight pieces mailed; it
does not provide evidence that a piece was mailed to a particular
address. The Form 3606-D IMpb is scanned and postmarked (round-dated)
at the time the mailing is presented and returned to the mailer as
their receipt. Bulk mailers must submit an electronic manifest to USPS
(using mail.dat or mail.xml, or a shipping services file as appropriate
for the type of pieces appending to the form) which reconciles with all
of the items represented on the associated Form 3606-D. Form 3606-D is
available for identical-weight mailings of less than 50 pieces or 50
pounds (whichever amount is met first) presented at any retail Post
Office, station or branch, or, for mailings of at least 50 pieces or 50
pounds (whichever amount is met first) presented at a BMEU or USPS
authorized DMU. Certificate of bulk mailing service does not provide a
record of delivery and the Postal Service
[[Page 6590]]
does not retain any copies of Form 3606-D. The Form 3606-D cannot be
used as a certificate of mailing of individual mailpieces or itemized
lists or if presented in combination with mailpieces already presented
for mailing under an approved manifested mailing system under 705.
5.2.2 Paying Fees
[Revise the text of 5.2.2 to read as follows:]
The applicable certificate of bulk mailing fee must be paid for
mailings of identical-weight pieces reported on Form 3606-D, or for
additional copies of the form if requested at the time of mailing, in
addition to the correct postage. Mailers using Form 3606-D may affix
ordinary stamps or postage evidencing indicia on the form to pay the
fee. When postage evidencing indicia are used, they must bear the full
numerical value of the fee in the imprint. Mailers using Form 3606-D
with a permit imprint mailing also may pay certificate of mailing fees,
at the time of mailing, using the same permit imprint.
6.0 Return Receipt
6.1 Basic Standards
6.1.1 Description
[Revise the text of 6.1.1 to read as follows:]
Return Receipt service is subject to the basic standards in 1.0;
see 1.4 for eligible matter. A return receipt may be purchased at the
time of mailing and provides a mailer with evidence of delivery (to
whom the mail was delivered and date of delivery), and information
about the recipient's actual delivery address. A mailer purchasing a
return receipt may choose to receive the return receipt by mail (Form
3811) or electronically (by email, or by signature extract file format
under 1.8). A complete return address is required on the mailpiece when
a return receipt is requested. For Priority Mail Express (Form 3811
option only), the return address on the Priority Mail Express label
meets this requirement.
* * * * *
6.2 Obtaining Service
* * * * *
[Delete items 6.2.2, After Mailing, and 6.2.3, Time Limit, in their
entirety.]
6.3 Other Requests for Delivery Information
6.3.1 Receipt Not Received
[Revise the text of 6.3.1 to read as follows:]
A mailer who did not receive a return receipt (Form 3811) for which
the mailer had paid may request information from the delivery record
within 90 days of the date of purchase using Form 3811-A. The mailer
must complete Form 3811-A, at any Post Office, station or branch, and
produce their receipt showing that the applicable return receipt fee
was paid.
[Delete 6.3.2, Form 3811-A, in its entirety (text relocated to
6.3.1).]
[Delete sections 7.0, Restricted Delivery, through 9.0 Return
Receipt for Merchandise, in their entirety, then, renumber current 10.0
through 15.0 as new 7.0 through 12.0.]
* * * * *
7.0 USPS Tracking
7.1 Basic Standards
7.1.1 Description
[Revise the text of renumbered 7.1.1 to read as follows:]
USPS Tracking is subject to the basic standards in 1.0; see 1.4 for
eligible matter. USPS Tracking provides the mailer with information
about the date and time an article was delivered or the date and time
of the delivery attempt. See 1.9 to obtain delivery information. USPS
Tracking is available only at the time of mailing. No record is kept at
the office of mailing. USPS Tracking does not include insurance, but
insurance may be purchased as an additional service unless otherwise
restricted. Some statutes governing the mailing of legal documents may
require the use of Certified Mail or Registered Mail, rather than USPS
Tracking.
[Revise the title of and insert a new first and second sentence to
renumbered 7.1.2 as follows:]
7.1.2 Electronic Option USPS Tracking for Standard Mail Parcels
Electronic option USPS Tracking may be purchased for Standard Mail
parcels for mailers using privately printed forms or labels, or Label
400, and who establish an electronic link with the USPS to exchange
acceptance and delivery data. Mailers wishing to obtain a mailing
receipt may use Form 3877. * * *
* * * * *
7.1.3 Additional Physical Standards
[Revise the introductory text of renumbered 7.1.3 to read as
follows:]
In addition to the applicable standards in 101, 201.7.0, and
201.8.0, all parcels must be large enough to hold the required delivery
address, return address, mailing labels, postage, barcode,
endorsements, and other mail markings on the address side of the
parcel. In addition to the applicable standards in 101 and 201 and for
the purposes of USPS Tracking with Standard Post, Media Mail, Library
Mail, Bound Printed Matter, or Parcel Select, the parcel must meet
these additional requirements:
[Delete 7.1.3 item a in its entirety (context of text relocated to
introductory text), then, renumber current items b and c as new a and
b.]
* * * * *
[Delete renumbered 7.1.4, Service Options, in its entirety
(appropriate text relocated to either 7.1.2 or 7.2.1 as only electronic
option remains).]
7.2 Labels
7.2.1 Types of Labels
[Revise the text of renumbered 7.2.1 to read as follows:]
Mailers using privately printed USPS Tracking labels must meet the
requirements in 1.8. Mailers not printing their own privately printed
labels must use one of the label options as follows:
a. Label 400 may be used by: Electronic option mailers, USPS retail
associates when affixed to mailpieces at a Post Office, station, or
branch, or by mailers when affixed to mailpieces with postage and fees
prepaid by metered indicia or ordinary stamps. A mailing receipt is
provided to mailers who present mailpieces with an affixed Label 400 at
a Post Office, branch, or station, or to their USPS carrier. A mailer
may also present mailpieces to a retail employee at a Post Office,
station, or branch; and the retail associate will affix a USPS Tracking
label to the item.
b. Unique, product specific USPS-provided tracking labels are for
use by electronic option mailers. The labels are populated with the
product service type code and customer's Mailer Identification (MID)
number in the Intelligent Mail package barcode (IMpb).
* * * * *
[Revise the title of renumbered 8.0 to read as follows:]
8.0 USPS Signature Services
8.1 Basic Standards
8.1.1 Description
[Revise the entire text of renumbered 8.1.1 to read as follows:]
USPS Signature Services include Signature Confirmation, Signature
Confirmation Restricted Delivery, Adult Signature Required, and Adult
Signature Restricted Delivery, all of which are subject to the basic
standards in 1.0; see 1.4 for eligible matter. Some statutes governing
the mailing of legal documents may require the use of Certified Mail or
Registered Mail rather than USPS Signature Services. USPS
[[Page 6591]]
Signature Services are available as follows:
a. Signature Confirmation provides the mailer with information
about the date and time an article was delivered or the date and time
of the delivery attempt. A delivery record (including the recipient's
signature) is maintained by the USPS and is available electronically or
by email, upon request. The Signature Confirmation is available as a
Retail option: Available at Post Offices at the time of mailing; a
mailing receipt is provided. Electronic option: Available to mailers
who establish an electronic link with the USPS to exchange acceptance
and delivery data; no mailing receipt is provided.
b. Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery provides the same
service as provided under item a. and permits a mailer to direct
delivery only to the addressee (or addressee's authorized agent). The
addressee must be an individual (natural person) specified by name. The
mailer may request Insured Restricted Delivery at the time of mailing
by advising the USPS clerk or by marking the mail ``Restricted
Delivery'' above the address and to the right of the return address and
paying the applicable fee. A firm mailer must enter the proper fee in
the correct column of the firm sheet and place the required endorsement
on the mailpiece.
c. Adult Signature service provides electronic confirmation of the
delivery or attempted delivery of the mailpiece and signature of the
recipient, who must be 21 years of age or older. Prior to delivery, the
recipient must furnish proof of age via a driver's license, passport,
or other government-issued photo identification that lists age or date
of birth. The USPS maintains a record of delivery (including the
recipient's signature) for two years. The Adult Signature options are:
1. Adult Signature Required--provides delivery to a person who is
21 years of age or older. Upon delivery, an adult who is 21 years of
age or older must provide one of the forms of identification listed
above and provide a signature for receipt of the mailpiece.
2. Adult Signature Restricted Delivery--provides Adult Signature
Required with the additional restriction of limiting delivery to a
specific addressee or authorized agent who is 21 years of age or older.
If the specific individual is not 21 years of age or older, the
mailpiece will be returned to sender.
[Revise the title and text of renumbered 8.1.2 to read as follows:]
8.1.2 Additional Standards for Signature Confirmation
For Signature Confirmation with Standard Post, Media Mail, Library
Mail, Bound Printed Matter, or Parcel Select, the parcel must meet
these additional requirements:
a. The surface area of the address side of the parcel must be large
enough to contain completely and legibly the delivery address, return
address, postage, and any markings, endorsements, and extra service
labels.
b. Except as provided in (12.1.2c.) for machinable parcels, the
parcel must be greater than \3/4\ inch thick at its thickest point.
c. If the mailpiece is a machinable parcel under 201.7.0 and no
greater than \3/4\ inch thick, the contents must be prepared in a
strong and rigid fiberboard box or similar container or in a container
that becomes rigid after the contents are enclosed and the container is
secured. The parcel must be able to maintain its shape, integrity, and
rigidity throughout processing and handling without collapsing into a
letter-size or flat-size piece.
d. Mailers must use one of the following labels:
1. Form 153 (see forms at https://pe.usps.gov/), obtained from the
Post Office at no charge, may be used only with the retail option.
2. Label 315 electronic Signature Confirmation is available to
electronic option mailers.
3. Privately printed barcoded labels must meet the requirements in
1.8. On the Priority Mail label, mailers must use the registered
trademark symbol following the Priority Mail text or add the following
statement at the bottom of the label in at least 6-point Helvetica
type: ``Priority Mail is a registered trademark of the U.S. Postal
Service.'' See Parcel Labeling Guide or Publication 97 available on
RIBBS.
e. The barcoded label section of Label 315 or Form 153 (see forms
at https://pe.usps.gov/) must be placed completely on the address side
either above the delivery address and to the right of the return
address, or to the left of the delivery address. A privately printed
Signature Confirmation label that is separate from a privately printed
address label must be placed in close proximity to the address label.
[Delete renumbered 8.1.3, Service Options, in its entirety (context
of text relocated to 8.1.2), then insert new 8.1.3 as follows:]
8.1.3 Additional Standards for Adult Signature Service
Customers may obtain Adult Signature Required and Adult Signature
Restricted Delivery by producing qualified shipping labels with
Intelligent Mail package barcodes. The Adult Signature Required or
Adult Signature Restricted Delivery fee must be paid in addition to the
correct postage using Click-N-Ship, PC Postage, Permit imprint (if the
customer electronically submits postage statements and mailing
documentation) or IBI postage meter. Conditions in 8.3.1 and 8.3.2 also
apply to Adult Signature Restricted Delivery items. A shipment of
cigarettes and smokeless tobacco with Adult Signature service, mailed
by certain individuals under 601.9.0, requires the mailer to present
items at a retail counter.
[Delete renumbered 8.2, Labels, in its entirety (context of text
relocated to 8.1.2).]
9.0 Collect on Delivery (COD)
9.1 Basic Standards
9.1.1 Description
[Revise the text of renumbered 9.0 to read as follows:]
Collect on delivery (COD) is subject to the basic standards in 1.0;
see 1.4 for eligible matter. Any mailer may use COD to mail an article
(using a unique COD number for each 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). The recipient
has the option to pay the COD charges (with one form of payment) by
cash, or a personal check or money order made payable to the mailer
(accepted by the USPS employee upon the recipient's presentation of
adequate identification). The USPS forwards the check or money order to
the mailer. If payment is made by cash, a money order fee is included
in the amount collected from the recipient (unless the mailer is
authorized to participate in EFT for the remittance), in addition to
the COD amount. 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 (7.0) is also available if
electronic return receipt service is purchased at the time of mailing.
* * * * *
9.1.3 Registered COD Mail
[Revise the text of renumbered 9.1.3 to read as follows (text
relocated under 2.1.5, Registered COD):]
[[Page 6592]]
Sealed domestic mail bearing First-Class Mail, First-Class Package
Service, or Priority Mail postage may be sent as registered COD mail as
provided under 9.0 and 2.1.5.
* * * * *
10.0 Special Handling
10.1 Basic Standards
10.1.1 Description
[Revise the first and last sentences of renumbered 10.1.1 to read
as follows:]
Special Handling is subject to the basic standards in 1.0; see 1.4
for eligible matter.* * * There are unique service codes included in
the IMpb for the content categories (Fragile, Hazardous Material
Transportation, Live Animal Transportation, Perishables, and Cremated
Remains (only available with Priority Mail Express)) of special
handling.
10.1.2 Bees and Poultry
[Revise the text of renumbered 10.1.2 to read as follows:]
Unless sent Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail
or First-Class Package Service, special handling is required for
parcels containing honeybees or baby poultry.
10.1.3 Marking
[Revise the text of renumbered 10.1.3 to read as follows:]
Except for cremated remains (accordingly marked or with Label 139
affixed) the marking ``Special Handling'' must appear prominently above
the address and to the right of the return address on each piece for
which special handling service is requested.
[Delete item 14.1.4, Parcel Select--Nonmachinable Parcels, in its
entirety (the Parcel Select nonmachinable surcharge was eliminated in a
prior price change).]
* * * * *
505 Return Services
1.0 Business Reply Mail (BRM)
1.1 Business Reply Mail (BRM) Prices and Fees
[Revise the title and text of 1.1.1 to read as follows:]
1.1.1 General BRM Charges
For BRM cards, letters and flats, an annual permit fee under 1.2 is
required, and a per-piece fee under 1.1.8 is applied to each mailpiece,
in addition to the applicable First-Class Mail or Priority Mail
postage. See Notice 123--Price List for applicable prices and fees.
[Revise the title and text of 1.1.2 (context of deleted text
relocated to 1.1.1) to read as follows:]
1.1.2 High-Volume Basic BRM
An annual account maintenance fee is required for high-volume BRM.
[Revise the text of 1.1.3 (context of deleted text relocated to
1.1.1) to read as follows:]
1.1.3 Basic Qualified BRM (QBRM)
In addition to prices and fees under 1.1.1, an annual account
maintenance fee is required for basic QBRM (which applies to a card
meeting the applicable standards in 1.6 and 201.1 or a letter meeting
the applicable standards in 1.6 that is not eligible for and claimed at
the QBRM price for cards).
[Revise the text of 1.1.4 (context of deleted text relocated to
1.1.2) to read as follows:]
1.1.4 High-Volume Qualified BRM
In additional to 1.1.1, annual permit and account maintenance fees,
and a quarterly fee, are required for high-volume QBRM.
[Revise the text of 1.1.5 (context of deleted text relocated to
1.1.1) to read as follows:]
1.1.5 Bulk Weight Averaged Nonletter-Size BRM
In addition to 1.1.1, permit holders participating in bulk weight
averaged nonletter-size BRM under 1.8 must pay an annual account
maintenance fee, and a monthly maintenance fee.
* * * * *
[Insert new 1.1.7 through 1.1.11 as follows (these relocated
sections all have to do with prices and fees):]
1.1.7 Postage
Each piece of returned BRM is charged the applicable single-piece
First-Class Mail or Priority Mail postage (423.1.0, and 133.1.0). Cards
must meet the standards in 201.1.0 to qualify for card price postage.
Any card larger than those dimensions is charged the applicable First-
Class Mail letter price. For Priority Mail or First-Class Mail BRM
pieces exceeding 13 ounces in weigh, if the zone cannot be determined
from a return address or cancellation, then the permit holder is
charged zone 4 postage based on the weight of the piece. For QBRM, see
1.6.3.
1.1.8 Per Piece Fees
Per piece fees listed in 1.1 are charged for each piece of returned
BRM postcard, letter or flat (in addition to postage in 1.1.1). If a
permit holder has not paid an annual account maintenance fee and
established a BRM advance deposit account, then the basic (higher) BRM
per piece fee must be paid. If a permit holder has paid the annual
account maintenance fee and has established a BRM advance deposit
account, then the high-volume (lower) BRM per piece fee is paid. For
QBRM, see 1.6.4.
1.1.9 Advance Deposit Account and Annual Account Maintenance Fee
A permit holder may choose to pay an annual account maintenance fee
and establish an advance deposit account, which qualifies returned BRM
pieces for the high-volume per piece fee. The account maintenance fee
must be paid once each 12-month period at each Post Office where a
permit holder holds an advance deposit account. Payment of the account
maintenance fee is based on the anniversary date of the initial
payment. The fee may be paid in advance only for the next 12-month
period and only during the last 60 days of the current 12-month period.
The fee charged is that which is in effect on the date of payment. A
separate advance deposit account solely for BRM is not required. An
advance deposit account can be used for BRM under these conditions:
a. For each withdrawal, only one statement is provided for each
annual account maintenance fee paid.
b. If a permit holder distributes BRM with different addresses
(including Post Office box numbers) under the same permit number going
to the same delivery unit and has only one business reply account, then
the BRM is separated by each different address but only one statement
is provided and only one annual account maintenance fee is paid.
c. The permit holder must pay an annual account maintenance fee for
each separate statement (accounting) requested. If only one annual
account maintenance fee is paid, then the permit holder receives only
one statement.
d. The permit holder must maintain a sufficient balance in the BRM
advance deposit account to cover postage and per piece fees for
returned mailpieces. The permit holder is notified if funds are
insufficient. After 3 calendar days, if no funds are deposited, then
the BRM on hand is charged the basic BRM per piece fee and postage and
charges are collected from the permit holder (e.g., in cash) prior to
delivery.
e. BRM addressed to several different firms at the same delivery
unit may be delivered to an agent authorized by a valid BRM permit
holder. The agent pays one annual account maintenance fee for all the
firms represented by the agent in the same delivery unit. If the agent,
or any of the firms represented by the agent, wants a separation of
charges, then separate (additional) account maintenance fees must be
paid.
[[Page 6593]]
1.1.10 Renewal of Annual Account Maintenance Fee
An annual renewal notice is provided to each BRM permit holder with
a BRM advance deposit account. The notice and the payment for the next
12 months must be returned by the expiration date to the Post Office
that holds the advance deposit account. After the expiration date, if
the permit holder has not paid the annual account maintenance fee but
still has a valid BRM permit, returned BRM pieces no longer qualify for
the high-volume BRM per piece fee and are charged the basic BRM per
piece fee in 1.1.8.
1.1.11 Payment Options
Permit holders may pay for postage and per piece fees on returned
pieces by cash or check upon delivery, through a regular postage due
account (604.6.3), or through a BRM advance deposit account (1.1.9). A
regular postage due account is not charged an annual account
maintenance fee and does not qualify the permit holder for high-volume
BRM per piece fees.
[Delete 1.2 Qualified Business Reply Mail (QBRM) Prices, and 1.3,
Qualified Business Reply Mail (QBRM), in their entirety, (1.2 is
already stated in 505.1.1 and 1.3 relocated to 1.10, Additional
Standards for QBRM.), then, insert new 1.2, Permits, (relocated from
current 1.5) to read as follows:]
1.2 Permits
1.2.1 Required
Any mailer who wants to distribute BRM must apply for and receive a
permit. The permit number, city, and state where the permit is held
must appear on all pieces of BRM.
1.2.2 Application Process
The mailer may apply for a BRM permit by submitting a completed
Form 3615 to the Post Office issuing the permit and paying the annual
permit fee. If a completed Form 3615 is already on file for the mailer
for other permits at that office, then the mailer must submit the
annual BRM permit fee and the USPS amends Form 3615 by adding the BRM
authorization.
1.2.3 Annual Permit Fee
A permit fee must be paid once each 12-month period at each Post
Office where a BRM permit is held. Payment of the permit fee is based
on the anniversary date of the permit's issuance. The fee may be paid
in advance only for the next 12 months and only during the last 60 days
of the current service period. The fee charged is that which is in
effect on the date of payment. Agents authorized by a permit holder
under 1.7 are not required to pay an annual permit fee at the Post
Office where their BRM is received.
1.2.4 Renewal of Annual Permit Fee
An annual renewal notice is provided to each BRM permit holder by
the USPS. The notice and the payment for the next 12 months must be
returned by the expiration date to the Post Office that issued the
permit. After the expiration date, if the permit holder has not paid
the annual permit fee, then returned BRM pieces are treated as follows:
a. Postcards of no obvious value are treated as waste and disposed
of at the delivery unit.
b. Letter and flat pieces with a return address are endorsed
``Business Reply Permit Canceled'' and are returned to the sender.
c. Pieces without a return address are endorsed ``Business Reply
Permit Canceled'' and forwarded to the mail recovery center for
handling.
1.2.5 Other Post Offices
A permit holder may distribute BRM through any Post Office for
delivery at any Post Office under 1.7.
1.2.6 Revocation of a Permit
The USPS may revoke a BRM permit because of format errors or for
refusal to pay permit fees (annual, accounting, quarterly, or monthly),
postage, or per piece fees. If the permit was revoked due to format
errors, then a former permit holder may obtain a new permit and permit
number by completing and submitting a new Form 3615, paying the
required BRM annual permit fee, paying a new annual account maintenance
fee (if applicable), and, for the next 2 years, submitting two samples
of each BRM format to the appropriate Post Office for approval.
[Renumber current 1.4 through 1.12 as new 1.3 through 1.8.]
[Revise the title (to align with other titles in 505) of renumbered
1.3 as follows:]
1.3 Basic Standards
1.3.1 Description
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.3.1 to read as follows:]
Business Reply Mail (BRM) service enables a permit holder to
receive First-Class Mail and Priority Mail back from customers. The
permit holder guarantees payment of the applicable First-Class Mail or
Priority Mail postage, plus a per piece fee, on all returned BRM which
includes any incomplete, blank, or empty BRM cards and envelopes and
any mailable matter with a BRM label affixed. BRM cards, envelopes,
self-mailers, and flats may be distributed by a BRM permit holder in
any quantity for return to any Post Office in the United States and its
territories and possessions, including military Post Offices overseas.
High-Volume BRM under 1.1.2 is a subset of BRM that qualify pieces for
a reduced per piece fee. QBRM, under 1.1.3, 1.1.4 and 1.6, is a subset
of BRM available for specific automation-compatible letter-size pieces
that qualify for an automation postage price and a reduced per piece
fee. Domestic BRM may not be distributed to foreign countries (see the
International Mail Manual for International Business Reply Service
(IBRS)). BRM may not be used for any purpose other than that intended
by the permit holder, even when postage is affixed. In cases where a
BRM card or letter is used improperly as a label, the USPS treats the
item as waste.
[Delete renumbered 1.3.2, Payment Guarantee, in its entirety, (text
relocated under 1.3.1, Description), then, renumber recently renumbered
1.3.3, Services, through 1.3.8, Error Notification, as new 1.3.2
through 1.3.7.]
[Revise the title and text of newly renumbered 1.3.2 as follows:]
1.3.2 Extra Services
No extra services are permitted with BRM, except for BRM parcels
bearing an Intelligent Mail package barcode with imbedded USPS Tracking
service.
[Delete renumbered 1.3.3, Address, in its entirety, (text relocated
more appropriately under 1.8.6, Format Elements), then, renumber
recently renumbered 1.3.4, through 1.3.7 as new 1.3.3 through 1.3.6.]
[Delete recently renumbered 1.3.4, Intentions of the Permit Holder,
in its entirety, (text relocated in 1.3.1, Description) and renumber
recently renumbered 1.3.5 through 1.3.6 as new 1.3.4 through 1.3.5.]
1.3.4 Samples
[Revise the text of newly renumbered 1.3.4 to read as follows:]
Prior to printing, permit holders are encouraged, but not required,
to submit preproduction samples of BRM to the USPS for approval. QBRM
pieces require USPS approval (1.6).
1.3.5 Error Notification
[Revise the text of newly renumbered 1.3.5 to read as follows:]
If the USPS discovers a BRM format error, the responsible permit
holder or authorized agent receives written notification of the error.
The permit holder must correct the error and make
[[Page 6594]]
sure that all future BRM pieces meet appropriate specifications. The
repeated distribution of BRM with format errors is grounds for revoking
a BRM permit (1.2.6).
[Delete renumbered 1.4, Permits, in its entirety (relocated to new
1.2.]
[Delete renumbered 1.5, Postage, Per Piece Fees, and Account
Maintenance Fees, and 1.5.1, Postage through 1.5.4, Renewal of Annual
Account Maintenance Fee, (all text relocated within 1.1) in their
entirety.]
[Renumber 1.5.5 through 1.5.7 as new 1.3.6 through 1.3.8.]
1.3.6 Combined Pieces as a Single Item
Two or more BRM pieces may be mailed as a single piece if the BRM
pieces are identically addressed and prepared for mailing in accordance
with 201.1.0. The permit holder is charged postage based on the total
weight of the combined piece plus one per piece fee. If the combined
pieces become separated, then the permit holder must pay postage and a
per piece fee for each individual piece. Combined pieces are not
eligible for QBRM postage prices or per piece fees.
1.3.7 With Postage Affixed
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.3.7 to read as follows:]
BRM with postage affixed is handled the same as other BRM. No
effort is made to identify or separate BRM pieces with postage affixed.
The amount of affixed postage is not deducted from the postage or per
piece fees owed. The permit holder may request a credit or refund for
postage affixed to BRM under 604.9.2.
[Delete newly renumbered 1.3.8 in its entirety (context of text
relocated to 1.1.11 under BRM Prices and Fees).]
1.4 Mailpiece Characteristics
* * * * *
1.4.5 Window Envelopes
The following standards apply to BRM prepared in an open-panel or a
covered window envelope:
* * * * *
c. Open panel window envelopes:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.4.5c.2 to read as follows:]
2. Other required and optional elements in 1.5 may be printed on
the insert appearing through the address window.
1.4.6 Self-Mailers and Reusable Mailpieces
[Revise the first sentence of renumbered 1.4.6 to read as follows:]
In addition to the standards in 1.4 and 1.5, self-mailers and
reusable mailpieces must meet the standards in 201.3.14 and 601.6.5 (or
601.6.6).* * *
* * * * *
[Revise the title and text of renumbered 1.4.8 to read as follows:]
1.4.8 Labels for Letter-Size Pieces
The minimum size of a BRM label for use on letter-size pieces is 2
inches high and 3 inches long. BRM labels on ordinary letter-size
pieces are not required to have a FIM or a ZIP+4 barcode, but all other
format standards in 1.5 must be met. In cases where a BRM card or
letter is used improperly as a label, the USPS treats the item as
waste. The following standards apply to BRM labels for use on letter-
size pieces:
a. The minimum size of a BRM label is 2\5/8\ inches high and 4\1/4\
inches long. All format elements, including a FIM, must be printed on
the label. Exception: The vertical series of horizontal bars must be at
least \3/4\-inch high. Horizontal bars may be omitted on BRM letter-
size pieces bearing Intelligent Mail barcodes. The back of the label
must be coated with a permanent adhesive strong enough to firmly attach
the label to an envelope.
b. The permit holder must provide instructions to the user
describing how the label should be applied to a mailpiece and what
precautions must be observed when applying the label (see Exhibit
1.4.8a). A pictorial diagram showing proper placement of the label must
be included with the instructions. At a minimum, the instructions must
include the following directions:
1. Place the label squarely in the upper right corner of the
envelope.
2. Do not write on the envelope or label.
3. Do not use a window envelope, an envelope that is less than 1
inch higher than the label an envelope that is more than 4\1/2\ inches
high, or an envelope with any printing other than a return address.
4. Do not use tape to affix the label.
c. When the label is affixed to an envelope, the address must be
placed within the OCR read area (see 202.2.1).
d. Pieces with business reply labels cannot qualify for QBRM
prices.
Exhibit 1.4.8a Instructions for Affixing Business Reply Label
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP05FE15.002
[[Page 6595]]
[Delete 1.4.9, Labels for Letter-Size Pieces, in its entirety
(context of text relocated to 1.4.8).]
1.5 Format Elements
1.5.1 General
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.5.1 to read as follows:]
Except for BRM parcels under 3.0, all pieces of BRM are subject to
these format elements. The USPS may revoke a BRM permit because of
format errors under 1.2.6. An Intelligent Mail barcode (IMb) is not
required, except for QBRM prices; if an IMb is used, it must be printed
and placed under 1.5.10 and as shown in Exhibit 1.5.1a. Pieces of QBRM
and bulk weight averaged nonletter-size BRM are subject to additional
format standards listed in 1.6 and 1.8. BRM format elements are shown
in Exhibit 1.5.1a.
Exhibit 1.5.1a Business Reply Mail Format
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP05FE15.003
1.5.2 Printing and Print Reflectance
[Revise the second sentence of renumbered 1.5.2 to read as
follows:]
* * *Handwriting, typewriting, and hand stamping may not be used to
prepare BRM. Printed borders are not permitted on letter-size BRM, but
are permitted on envelopes greater than 6\1/8\ inches high or 11\1/2\
inches long or \1/4\ inch thick. * * *
* * * * *
1.5.4 Business Reply Legend
[Revise the first sentence of 1.5.4 to read as follows:]
The legend ``BUSINESS REPLY MAIL'' or ``BUSINESS REPLY LABEL'', as
appropriate, must appear on all pieces. * * *
* * * * *
1.5.6 Delivery Address
[Add a new first sentence to and revise item d of renumbered 1.5.6
to read as follows:]
The delivery address on a piece of BRM may not be altered to
redirect the mailpiece to any address other than the one preprinted on
the piece. * * *
* * * * *
[Renumber current 1.9 as new 1.5.10, then, revise the title and
text of renumbered 1.5.10 to read as follows:]
1.5.10 Additional Standards for Letter-Size and Flat-Size BRM Bearing
an IMb
When an Intelligent Mail barcode is printed on any BRM pieces, it
must contain the barcode ID, service type ID, and correct ZIP+4 routing
code, as specified under 708.4.3. The IMb must be placed on the address
side of the piece and positioned as part of the delivery address block
under 202.5.7 or within the barcode clear zone in the lower right
corner of the piece if printed directly on the piece.
1.6 Additional Standards for Qualified Business Reply Mail (QBRM)
1.6.1 Description
[Revise renumbered 1.6.1 to read as follows:]
Qualified business reply mail (QBRM) is a subset of business reply
mail. Permit holders distribute automation-compatible letter-size
pieces that qualify for automation postage prices and reduced per piece
fees. In addition to meeting the eligibility requirements below, the
authorization to participate in QBRM under 1.6.2, and the format
standards in 1.5, QBRM is First-Class Mail that:
a. Is letter-size and is prepared to meet the automation
compatibility requirements in 201.3.0 (except 201.3.13.1).
b. Meets all the Business Reply Mail (BRM) standards in 1.3 through
1.8.
c. Has postage and per piece charges deducted from a BRM advance
deposit account.
d. Is authorized to mail at QBRM prices and fees under 1.6.2.
During the authorization process, a proper ZIP+4 Code is assigned to
the mailer (under 1.6.2) for each price category of QBRM to be returned
under the system (one for card priced pieces, one for letter-size
pieces weighing 1 ounce or less, and
[[Page 6596]]
one for letter-size pieces weighing over 1 ounce up to and including 2
ounces).
e. Bears the proper ZIP+4 Code, assigned by USPS for the
appropriate price category, in the address of each piece. The ZIP+4
Codes assigned for this program must be used only on the organization's
appropriate QBRM pieces.
f. Bears the correct Intelligent Mail barcode, correctly prepared
under 1.9 and 708.4.0, that corresponds to the unique ZIP+4 code in the
address on each piece distributed.
g. Bears a properly prepared facing identification mark (FIM) C on
each piece distributed (see 708.9.0).
[Delete renumbered 1.6.2, Eligibility, in its entirety (text in
``1.3'' as reference in 1.10.2 relocated to 1.10.1 (1.10.1 subsequently
renumbered as new 1.6.1)), then, renumber recently renumbered 1.6.3
through 1.6.8 as new 1.6.2 through 1.6.7.]
1.6.2 Authorization
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.6.2 to read as follows:]
To participate in QBRM, a mailer with a valid BRM permit and having
paid the annual account maintenance fee, must submit Form 6805 to the
Postmaster or manager, Business Mail Entry for the Post Office to which
the QBRM pieces are to be returned. USPS assigns to the mailer a proper
BRM ZIP+4 Code, as applicable, reviews Form 6805 and preproduction
samples provided by the mailer for compliance with relevant standards,
and if approved, issues the mailer an authorization via the Form 6805.
* * * * *
1.6.4 Per Piece Fees
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.6.4 to read as follows:]
Per piece fees are charged for each piece of returned QBRM (in
addition to postage in 1.6.3). Pieces that do not meet the format
requirements for QBRM cannot qualify for QBRM per piece fees and are
charged the high-volume BRM per piece fees in 1.1.2.
1.6.5 Annual Account Maintenance Fee and Advance Deposit Account
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.6.5 to read as follows:]
Permit holders are required to pay QBRM postage and per piece fees
through a BRM advance deposit account, which requires payment of an
annual account maintenance fee (see 1.1.9).
* * * * *
[Revise the complete text of renumbered 1.7 to read as follows
(incorporating the text and sections 1.11.2 through 1.11.6 as new 1.7.1
items a through e.):]
1.7 BRM Distributed and Received by Agents of a Permit Holder
1.7.1 Description
Permit holders may give permission to subsidiary offices, agents,
or authorized representatives to distribute and receive BRM using a
single (corporate) permit number. BRM pieces are distributed by and
returned to agents, who pay postage and per piece fees on those
returned pieces. Agents may use any type of BRM service meeting the
applicable standards in 1.0 and under the following additional
conditions:
a. Permit--The main permit holder or ``corporate'' office applies
for the permit number and pays the permit fee. The agent must present a
letter of authorization from the permit holder showing the name,
address, and telephone number of the local agent authorized to receive
the BRM to the Post Office where the BRM is to be returned. Any time
there is a change to the original permit application or the
authorization letter, each agent must provide an amended letter of
authorization to their local Post Office.
b. Annual Permit Fee--Agents do not pay a separate annual permit
fee but must submit evidence (usually a copy of Form 3544) to the local
office once each 12-month period to show that the annual permit fee has
been paid. This evidence is not required if-the permit holder has a
centralized account processing system (CAPS) account, through which the
local Post Office can determine that the permit fee has been paid.
c. Postage, Per Piece Fees, and Annual Account Maintenance Fees--
Agents receiving BRM or QBRM are responsible for paying all the postage
and per piece fees, and applicable annual account maintenance fees,
under 1.1 for the type of service received.
d. Payment Guarantee--The permit holder is ultimately responsible
for postage and per piece fees for all pieces returned under that
permit number. If a local agent refuses or neglects to pay postage or
per piece fees on returned pieces, then those pieces are forwarded to
the Post Office that issued the original permit for collection of
postage and per piece fees from the permit holder. Once forwarded to
the permit holder, these pieces cannot qualify for QBRM postage and per
piece fees. The permit holder's refusal to accept and pay the required
postage and per piece fees for BRM offered for delivery is grounds for
immediate revocation of the BRM permit (1.5.6).
e. Format--BRM distributed by agents must meet all required format
standards in 1.4 and 1.5. Authorized representatives distributing BRM
on behalf of a permit holder must have the permit holder's name and
permit number printed on the BRM and their own names and addresses
printed below the permit holder's name, except:
1. When the agent is a branch of an authorized business.
2. The permit holder notifies a Post Office that authorized
representatives may use the permit holder's permit number without
printing the permit holder's name.
1.8 Bulk Weight Averaged Nonletter-size BRM
* * * * *
1.8.3 Postage, Per Piece Fees, and Other Fees
[Revise the last sentence of renumbered 1.8.3 to read as follows:]
* * * Permit holders participating in bulk weight averaged
nonletter-size BRM must pay an annual account maintenance fee and a
monthly maintenance fee (see 1.1.5).
[Revise the title of 1.8.4, Application Procedures, to read as
follows:]
1.8.4 Application Process
[Revise the introductory text of renumbered 1.8.4 to read as
follows:]
A permit holder who wants to use bulk weight averaged BRM for
nonletter-size pieces must submit a written request to the Postmaster
of the office where the BRM permit is held. The Postmaster forwards
this information to the manager, Customer Service Standardization, USPS
Headquarters (see 608.8.0 for address). The request must include the
following information:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of 1.8.4d read as follows:]
d. Based on the estimated volume in 1.8.4c, a 24-hour estimate and
a 30-day estimate of postage and per piece fees using the postage and
charges listed in 1.1.5.
* * * * *
1.8.7 Revoking Authorization
[Revise the introductory text of renumbered 1.8.7 to read as
follows:]
A Postmaster may terminate authorization for bulk weight averaged
BRM by sending written notice to the permit holder, for any of the
following reasons:
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 2.0, Permit Reply Mail, to read as follows:]
[[Page 6597]]
2.0 Permit, Pre-paid (Metered), and Courtesy Reply Mail
[Revise the title of 2.1, General Information, to read as follows;]
2.1 Permit Reply Mail
2.1.1 Description
[Revise the second sentence of 2.1.1 to read as follows:]
* * * Mailers must distribute PRM pieces as part of the contents of
an outgoing First-Class Mail mailing (see 230) only by using a valid
permit imprint (604.5.0) account.
[Revise the title of 2.1.2, Services, as follows;]
2.1.2 Extra Services
* * * * *
[Delete 2.1.3, Address, in its entirety (text relocated to 2.3.6),
then renumber current 2.1.4 through 2.1.5 as new 2.1.3 through 2.1.4.]
* * * * *
2.3.6 Delivery Address
[Revise the text of 2.3.6 to read as follows:]
The complete address (including the permit holder's name, delivery
address, city, state, and ZIP+4 Code) must be printed on the piece. The
delivery address on a PRM mailpiece may not be altered to redirect it
to any address other than the one preprinted on the piece. PRM pieces
must bear an Intelligent Mail barcode meeting the standards in 202.5.0
and 708.4.0.
* * * * *
2.3.8 Company Logo
[Revise the text of 2.3.8 to read as follows:]
A company logo is permitted on letter-size PRM, provided the logo
is placed no lower than \5/8\ inch from the bottom edge of the piece
and it does not interfere with any required format element.
[Delete 2.4, Permit Imprint Account, in its entirety (relocated the
last sentence to 2.1.1, Description, and the rest of this text is
already stated in 2.1.1), then, renumber current 2.5 and 2.6 as new 2.4
and 2.5.]
* * * * *
[Renumber recently renumbered 2.5, Courtesy Reply Mail, as new
2.7.]
[Insert new section 2.6 (relocated more appropriately here from
604.4.5.2) to read as follows:]
2.6 Prepaid (Metered) Reply Mail
2.6.1 Description
Mailers may use indicia generated by any postage evidencing system
(see 604.4) to prepay reply postage on Priority Mail Express, on
Priority Mail when the price is the same for all zones, on First-Class
Mail, and on single-piece price Media Mail and Library Mail under the
following conditions.
a. The postage amount must be sufficient to prepay the full postage
due.
b. Print indicia directly on the mailpiece or on a label, and place
indicia under 201.4.3.3.
c. Indicia used to prepay reply postage must not show the date.
d. Pre-address the mailpiece for return to the authorized user
only.
e. Print the words ``NO POSTAGE STAMP NECESSARY POSTAGE HAS BEEN
PREPAID BY'' directly above the address.
f. Mailers may use FIM A on barcoded letter-size First-Class Mail
reply mail except when using PC Postage.
g. When using PC Postage, mailers must use FIM D for prepaid reply
mail when the indicium is printed directly on the mailpiece.
h. The address side must appear as described in this section and
shown in the illustration below. Nothing may be added except a return
address, FIM, or barcode.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP05FE15.004
* * * * *
[Insert new 2.8 (context of text relocated from 201.3.18) to read
as follows:]
2.8 Enclosed Reply Cards and Envelopes
Mailers may enclose reply cards or envelopes (i.e. BRM under 1.0;
Permit Reply Mail under 2.1 and 2.4, Prepaid (Metered) Reply under 2.6,
or Courtesy Reply Mail under 2.7), addressed for return to a domestic
delivery address, within automation mailings subject to provisions in
201.3.0 for enclosures.
[Revise the title of 3.0 to read as follows:]
3.0 Merchandise Return Service (MRS)
3.1 Prices and Fees
3.1.1 Permit Fee
[Revise the text of 3.1.1 to read as follows:]
An annual Returns Services permit fee must be paid once each 12-
month period at each Post Office where a Merchandise Return Service
(MRS) permit is held. The fee (in effect on the date of the payment)
may be paid for the next 12 months, during the last 60 days of the
service period, before the anniversary of the permit's issuance. An
approved merchandise return permit on Form 3615 must be on file at
every Post Office to which parcels are returned.
[[Page 6598]]
3.1.2 Advance Deposit Account and Account Maintenance Fee
[Revise the entire text of 3.1.2 (including relocated text from
3.2.9, Multiple Accounts) to read as follows:]
There is an annual Returns Services account maintenance fee for the
advance deposit account. The permit holder must pay postage and extra
service fees through an advance deposit account and must pay an annual
account maintenance fee. When an advance deposit account is kept at
each entry location, a separate permit (except as provided under 3.2.11
and for qualified national permit holders using scan based payment for
returns) is needed and the annual merchandise return service permit and
annual account maintenance fees must be paid at each Post Office. The
fee (in effect on the date of the payment) may be paid for the next 12
months, during the last 60 days of the service period, before the
anniversary date of the initial fee payment. A separate advance deposit
account for MRS is not required; the annual account maintenance fee is
charged if MRS postage and fees are paid from an existing account:
a. For each withdrawal, only one statement is provided for each
annual account maintenance fee paid.
b. The permit holder must pay an annual account maintenance fee for
each separate statement (accounting) requested.
* * * * *
3.1.5 Priority Mail Commercial Base and Commercial Plus Prices
Priority Mail Commercial Base and Commercial Plus prices are
available to MRS permit holders when the following criteria are met:
[Revise the text of 3.1.5 item a by deleting the second sentence.]
* * * * *
3.2 Basic Standards
3.2.1 Description
[Revise the text of 3.2.1 to read as follows:]
Merchandise return service allows an authorized Returns Services
permit holder to pay the postage and extra service fees on single-piece
priced Priority Mail, or First-Class Package Service or ground return
service parcels (Parcel Select Nonpresort) that are returned to the
permit holder by the permit holder's customers via a special barcoded
label (see 3.5.10) produced by the permit holder.
* * * * *
[Delete 3.2.5, IMpb Standards, in its entirety, (context of text in
new item j. under 3.5.10, Label Format Elements) then, renumber current
3.2.6 through 3.2.14 as new 3.2.5 through 3.2.13.]
* * * * *
3.2.6 Application Process
[Revise the text of 3.2.6 to read as follows:]
The applicant must submit a completed Form 3615 and the annual
permit fee to the Post Office issuing the permit, or amend an existing
Form 3615 on file at that office by adding the merchandise return
service authorization to existing Returns Service permit
authorizations. Except for MRS labels generated by the USPS Application
Program Interface (API), Form 3615 must be accompanied by copies of the
MRS labels (including printed copies of labels intended to be faxed to
customers or transmitted to customers electronically) and the
instructions provided to the permit holder's customers. All MRS labels
that have preprinted USPS Tracking barcodes must be approved by the
USPS. If articles are to be returned from customers as Registered Mail,
the applicant must indicate ``Registered Mail'' on the application.
After a MRS permit is obtained, any change to label formats or customer
instructions must be approved by the Post Office where the permit is
held. The permit is valid for 12 months after the approval date of the
application.
[Delete renumbered 3.2.7, Procedure, (text relocated in 3.1.1),
3.2.8, Multiple Accounts, (text relocated in 3.1.2) in their entirety,
then renumber recently renumbered 3.2.9 through 3.2.13 as new 3.2.7
through 3.2.11.]
[Revise the title and text of newly renumbered 3.2.7, Renewal, to
read as follows:]
3.2.7 Permit Renewal
To renew the MRS permit, the permit holder must send the annual
fees (under 3.1.1 and 3.1.2) to the issuing Post Office by the
expiration date of the permit, or authorize the Postmaster to deduct
the fee from the advance deposit account, or establish a CAPS link for
EFT. If a permit holder's outbound permit account shows any amount of
outbound parcel volumes, the annual Returns Services permit and account
maintenance fees may be waived at the time of renewal. Written
authorization is not needed for permit renewal if there is no change to
the authorization on file at the delivery unit.
3.2.8 Nonrenewed Permit
[Revise the text of 3.2.8 to read as follows:]
If the permit is not renewed, merchandise return mail bearing the
sender's return address is returned to the sender; otherwise, it is
treated as dead mail.
3.2.9 Permit Cancellation
[Revise the text of 3.2.9 to read as follows:]
The USPS may cancel a MRS permit if the permit holder refuses to
accept and pay postage and fees on merchandise return service parcels,
fails to keep sufficient funds in the advance deposit account to cover
postage and fees, or distributes merchandise return labels or tags that
do not meet USPS standards.
3.2.10 Reapplying After Cancellation
[Revise the text of 3.2.10 to read as follows:]
To receive a new MRS permit at the same Post Office after a
merchandise return permit is canceled, the applicant must amend the
Form 3615 on file at that office to reflect the new application date;
pay a new permit fee; submit for approval two samples of any label
format to be used; provide evidence that the reasons for the permit
cancellation are corrected; and provide and keep funds in an advance
deposit account to cover normal returns for at least 2 weeks.
3.2.11 Using Other Post Offices
[Revise the text of 3.2.11 to read as follows:]
The permit holder may distribute merchandise return labels for
return through other Post Offices (i.e. stations or branches under a
Main Post Office) without paying an additional permit fee if the permit
holder opens and keeps their advance deposit account at the Post Office
where the permit is issued and supplies that Postmaster the name,
address, and telephone number of a representative in each additional
station or branch if different from the information on the application.
[Revise the title of 3.3, Additional Standards for Permit Holder,
to read as follows:]
3.3 Additional Standards for MRS
[Revise the title and text of 3.3.1 to read as follows:]
3.3.1 Extra and Additional Services
The MRS permit holder may obtain extra and additional services with
MRS as follows:
a. Insurance--Which may be combined with special handling) for MRS
containing only matter not required to be mailed at First-Class Mail
prices under 133.3.0. To request
[[Page 6599]]
insurance, the permit holder must preprint or rubber-stamp ``Insurance
Desired by Permit Holder for $___ (value)'' to the left of and above
the ``Merchandise Return Label'' legend and below the ``Total Postage
and Fees Due'' statement on the merchandise return label. The value
part of the endorsement, showing the dollar amount of insurance for the
article, may be handwritten by the permit holder. If insurance is paid
for by the MRS permit holder, then only the MRS permit holder may file
a claim (609).
b. Registered Mail--May be obtained by the MRS permit holder under
the following conditions:
1. The customer using the MRS label must declare the full value of
the article to be registered when presented at the Post Office.
Registered Mail service may be obtained only on articles returned at
Priority Mail or First-Class Package Service prices and may not be
combined with any other extra service.
2. A permit holder wanting to add Registered Mail service under an
existing permit must submit a written request to the Post Office where
the permit is held, with samples of the merchandise return labels and a
copy of the instructions to be provided to the permit holder's
customers. The permit holder must not distribute labels that request
Registered Mail service before receiving USPS written approval.
c. Special Handling--The permit holder may obtain special handling
service with MRS.
d. Pickup on Demand Service--The permit holder may obtain Pickup on
Demand service with MRS. Pickup on Demand service may be combined with
Certified Mail (Priority Mail only), USPS Tracking, and special
handling.
e. USPS Tracking--(which may be combined with insurance and special
handling or both) is included with MRS when the MRS labels are properly
formatted under 3.5.10.
f. Mailing Acknowledgment--The permit holder may prepare a
detachable mailing acknowledgment form, subject to these conditions:
1. The acknowledgment must not bear adhesive but must be attached
to the label and perforated or designed for easy separation at the time
of mailing.
2. The acknowledgment establishes no USPS liability for the parcel
if damaged, lost, or stolen.
3. The acknowledgment provides documentation for account management
between the mailing customer and the permit holder. The USPS charges no
fee, keeps no records, and does not provide copies of or further
information about the acknowledgment.
4. A merchandise return service parcel containing the detachable
mailing acknowledgment form must be presented to the USPS acceptance
employee at the time of mailing to be executed.
5. Each mailing acknowledgment part of the label must include a
unique parcel identification number assigned by the permit holder; the
return address of the customer mailing the parcel, in the upper part of
the detachable form; the permit holder's address, in the lower part of
the form; an initials section in the acknowledgment portion for use by
the USPS acceptance employee; and space in the acknowledgment part
where the USPS acceptance employee places the date stamp.
[Delete 3.3.2, Registered Mail, through 3.3.7, Mailing
Acknowledgment, in their entirety (context of text relocated to
3.3.1).]
3.4 Additional Standards for Permit Holder's Customer
3.4.1 Customer Options
[Revise the text of 3.4.1 to read as follows:]
If the permit holder has not indicated the extra services listed in
3.3.1a through 3.3.1d a customer may request the extra services listed
in 3.3.1a through 3.3.1d at their own expense.
3.4.2 Insurance
[Revise the text of 3.4.2 to read as follows:]
If insurance is paid by the customer, then only the customer may
file a claim.
3.4.3 Certificate of Mailing
* * * * *
[Revise the title of 3.5, Preparation, to read as follows:]
3.5 Labels
3.5.1 Distribution of Labels
[Revise the text of 3.5.1 to read as follows:]
Merchandise return service labels may be distributed to customers
as an enclosure with merchandise, as a separate item (including when
requested electronically through the Business Customer Gateway for
printing and delivery to the end-user by USPS), as part of a double
postcard subject to 201.1.2.8 and the approval of the PCSC, as an
electronic transmission for customer downloading and printing, or
through one of the permit holder's designated pickup facilities. Any
such label distributed to a customer must meet the format standards in
3.5.10, including the requirement to furnish instructions.
[Delete 3.5.2, Labels, in its entirety (text relocated to
introductory text of renumbered 3.5.10, Label Format Elements); then,
renumber 3.5.3 through 3.5.14 as new 3.5.2 through 3.5.13.]
[Revise the title and text of renumbered 3.5.2 to read as follows:]
3.5.2 Mailer Price Markings
It is recommended that permit holders preprint a price marking on
the merchandise return service labels they distribute to ensure that
returned parcels will be given service and charged postage according to
the wishes of the permit holder. Regardless of weight, all unmarked
parcels will be treated as Standard Post and charged Parcel Select
Nonpresort prices.
[Revise the title and text of renumbered 3.5.3 to read as follows:]
3.5.3 Label Preparation
Any photographic, mechanical, or electronic process or any
combination of such processes other than typewriting or handwriting may
be used to prepare the MRS label and detachable acknowledgment form.
The background may be any light color (excluding brilliant colors) that
allows the address, postmark, and other endorsements to be readily
discerned. If labels are faxed to customers or electronically
transmitted to customers for their local printing, the permit holder
must advise their customers of these preparation requirements as part
of the required instructions required under 3.5.5. All MRS labels
bearing the required IMpb (with imbedded USPS Tracking) must be
certified for use by the USPS prior to distribution. Labels with USPS
Tracking barcodes cannot be faxed to customers.
[Revise the title and text of renumbered 3.5.4 to read as follows:]
3.5.4 Labeling Methods
If all applicable content and format standards are met (including
the written instructions required by 3.5.5), a merchandise return
service label may be produced by any of the following methods:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of renumbered 3.5.4 item c to read as follows:]
c. Printed and delivered by USPS to the customer (end-user) when
requested electronically by the permit holder or its agents through the
Business Customer Gateway.
* * * * *
[Revise the title of renumbered 3.5.5 to read as follows:]
3.5.5 Labeling Instructions
Written instructions must be provided with the label that, at a
minimum, directs the customer to do the following:
* * * * *
[[Page 6600]]
[Revise renumbered 3.5.5 item d by changing any blue colored text
to black.]
d. ``Mail the labeled parcel at a Post Office, drop it in a
collection box, leave it with your letter carrier, or schedule a
package pickup at usps.com.''
[Delete renumbered 3.5.6, Insured Markings, in its entirety
(context of text relocated more appropriately under 3.5.8); then,
insert new 3.5.6 to read as follows:]
3.5.6 Special Handling Endorsement
To request special handling, the permit holder must preprint or
rubber-stamp ``Special Handling Desired by Permit Holder'' to the left
of and above the ``Merchandise Return Label'' legend and below the
``Total Postage and Fees Due'' statement on the merchandise return
label.
* * * * *
[Revise the title and text of renumbered 3.5.8 to read as follows:]
3.5.8 Placement of Extra Service Labels
The permit holder must either leave a clear space on the
merchandise return label to the right of the return address for the
placement of the applicable extra service label (see 503.1.7.2 for
additional standards for extra service labels) or instruct the customer
to affix the merchandise return label to the article so that the USPS
acceptance employee can place the extra service label on the article
directly above the merchandise return label.
[Delete renumbered 3.5.9, Placement of Return Receipt for
Merchandise Label, (context of text relocated more appropriately under
3.5.8) and 3.5.10, Special Handling Endorsement, (context of text
relocated to 3.5.6) in their entirety; then, renumber newly renumbered
3.5.11 through 3.5.13 as new 3.5.9 through 3.5.11.]
[Revise the title and text of renumbered 3.5.9 to read as follows:]
3.5.9 Additional Standards for Special Handling Labels
In addition to meeting the standards under 3.5.6 and 3.5.8, as
applicable, the permit holder must provide ``Special Handling'' labels
with instructions to customers about their placement on the parcel.
[Revise the title, complete text, and exhibits, of newly renumbered
3.5.10 to read as follows:]
3.5.10 Label Format Elements
The label used for merchandise return service must meet the
standards in the Parcel Labeling Guide available on RIBBS.
[Delete renumbered 3.5.11, Certificate of Mailing, in its entirety
(already stated in 505.3.4.3).]
3.6 Enter and Deposit
3.6.1 Customer Mailing Options
[Revise the last section of the first sentence of 3.6.1 to read as
follows:]
* * *; or at any place designated by the Postmaster for the receipt
of mail. * * *
[Insert new 3.7 to read as follows:]
3.7 Additional Standards for USPS Return Services
3.7.1 Permit and Account Fees
An annual Returns Services permit fee, under 3.1.1, and annual
account maintenance under 3.1.2, are is required for the USPS Return
Services described in 3.7.
3.7.2 Extra Services
USPS insurance is the only extra service that can be purchased for
USPS Returns (Priority Mail Return Service, First-Class Package Return
Service and Ground Return Service). There is no included insurance
provided for Priority Mail Return Service pieces.
3.7.3 Prices
Commercial Base prices are available for permit holders receiving
Priority Mail Return Service and First-Class Package Return Service
mailpieces under 3.7. Permit holders may combine cumulative volumes for
Priority Mail Return Service and First-Class Package Return Service.
Eligibility for Commercial Plus prices are available to permit holders
who qualify for Commercial Base prices, and at least one of the
following:
a. Have cumulative Priority Mail Return Service, First-Class
Package Return Service, and Ground Return Service volume exceeding a
combined total of 25,000 return pieces in the previous calendar year.
b. Have cumulative returns Commercial Plus cubic (see 1.1.4) volume
exceeding a combined total of 85,000 pieces returned in approved
packaging in the previous calendar year.
c. Have cumulative returns and outbound volume exceeding a combined
total of 90,000 pieces in the previous calendar year.
d. Have a signed Commercial Plus returns customer commitment
agreement with USPS.
e. Have a signed commercial plus Critical Mail commitment agreement
with USPS.
3.7.4 Postage
Postage is calculated based on the weight of the parcel and zone,
except for First-Class Package Return Service, for which postage is
based on the weight of the parcel and Critical Mail returns, for which
postage is based on flat rate pricing. Customers must pay postage under
a scan based payment program (705.24.0) and using an eVS/CAPS account.
3.7.5 Description
Priority Mail Return Service (including Critical Mail), First-Class
Package Return Service and Ground Return Service provide return service
options to customers who meet the applicable standards in 3.0. Except
for restricted material described in Publication 52, any mailable
matter may be mailed using any of the USPS Return Service options. Any
content that constitutes First-Class Mail matter may only be mailed
using Priority Mail Return Service or using First-Class Package Return
Service at Commercial Plus prices.
3.7.6 Labels
USPS Return Service labels must meet the standards in the Parcel
Labeling Guide available on RIBBS. USPS Return Services standard label
sizes are 3 inches by 6 inches, 4 inches by 4 inches, or 4 inches by 6
inches and must be certified by the USPS for use prior to distribution.
All other label sizes require written approval from the National
Customer Support Center (NCSC). The label must include an Intelligent
Mail package barcode, accommodate all required elements, be legible,
and be prepared in accordance with 708.5.0 and Publication 205 at
https://ribbs/evs/documents/tech_guides/pubs/Pub205.PDF. Permit holders
or their agents may distribute approved USPS Return Service labels and
instructions by means listed under 3.5.4. Permit holders or their
agents must provide written instructions to the label end-user (mailer)
as provided under 3.5.5. The label used for USPS Returns must meet the
standards in the Parcel Labeling Guide available on RIBBS.
3.7.7 Additional Standards for Priority Mail Return Service
Priority Mail Return Service may contain any mailable matter
weighing no more than 70 pounds. Lower weight limits apply to
Commercial Plus cubic (see 1.1.4), APO/FPO mail is subject to 703.2.0
and 703.4.0, and Department of State mail is subject to 703.3.0.
Priority Mail Return Service receives expeditious handling and
transportation, with service standards in accordance with Priority
Mail. Priority Mail Return Service items mailed under a specific
customer agreement is
[[Page 6601]]
charged postage according to the individual agreement. Otherwise
Priority Mail Return Service eligibility is under 3.7.3. Commercial
Base and Commercial Plus prices are the same as for outbound Priority
Mail in Notice 123--Price List.
3.7.8 Additional Standards for First-Class Package Return Service
First-Class Package Return Service handling, transportation, and
eligibility of contents is the same as for outbound First-Class Package
Service parcels under 433. Parcels weighing more than 13 ounces but
less than 16 ounces may be included in the eligibility calculation for
Commercial Plus prices and parcels weighing 13 ounces or less are
eligible for Commercial Base prices.
3.7.9 Additional Standards for Ground Return Service
Ground Return Service provides ground transportation for mailpieces
containing mailable matter weighing no more than 70 pounds and meeting
the content standards in 153.3.0. Ground Return Service assumes the
handing and transportation and service objectives for delivery of
Standard Post.
[Delete current 4.0, USPS Returns, in its entirety; then, renumber
current 5.0, Parcel Return Service, as new 4.0.]
4.0 Parcel Return Service
[Deleted renumber 4.1, Basic Information, in its entirety, (text
relocated to new 4.3).]
[Renumber and retitle the 4.2 heading to read as follows:]
4.1 Prices and Fees
[Deleted 4.2.1, Postage, in its entirety (text relocated to new
4.1.3).]
[Renumber and retitle 4.2.2 as follows:]
4.1.1 Permit and Account Fees
[Revise renumbered 4.1.1 to read as follows:]
The participant must pay an annual permit fee at the Post Office
where the PRS permit is held, and must pay postage through an advance
deposit account by paying an annual account maintenance fee. See Notice
123--Price List for applicable fees.
[Delete renumbered 4.2.3, Advance Deposit Account and Annual
Account Maintenance Fee, in its entirety, (context of text relocated to
renumber 4.1.2).]
[Delete the renumbered heading 4.3, Prices.]
[Renumber 4.3.1, Parcel Return Service Prices, as 4.1.2; then,
delete 4.3.2 through 4.3.3 (text relocated to new 4.1.2); then revise
the entire text to read as follows:]
4.1.2 Parcel Return Service Prices
Parcel Return Service prices are based on the price that applies to
the weight increment of each addressed piece, and on the designated
return facility, RDU, RSCF, or RNDC. The price is charged per pound or
fraction thereof; any fraction of a pound is considered a whole pound.
For example, if an item weighs 4.225 pounds, the weight increment is 5
pounds. The minimum price per piece is the 1-pound price and these
additional standards apply:
a. Parcel Return Service--Nonmachinable Prices: Parcels exceeding
the maximum machinable dimensions in 401.1.5 or are considered an
outside parcel under 401.1.7 are subject to nonmachinable prices.
b. Balloon and Oversized Prices: RSCF and RNDC parcels that weigh
less than 20 pounds but measure more than 84 inches in combined length
and girth are charged the applicable price for a 20-pound parcel
(balloon price). Regardless of weight, any parcel that measures more
than 108 inches (but not more than 130 inches) in combined length and
girth must pay the oversized price.
c. Standard Post Prices: PRS-labeled parcels shipped from origin
ZIP Codes 006-009, 967-969, and 995-999 that are picked up at an RNDC
are subject to retail Standard Post prices.
[Insert new 4.1.3 as follows:]
4.1.3 Postage
There are three PRS price categories:
a. Parcel Return Service--RDU. Parcels returned as Standard Post
to, and retrieved in bulk from, a designated delivery unit.
b. Parcel Return Service--RSCF. Parcels returned as Standard Post
to, and retrieved in bulk from, a designated SCF.
c. Parcel Return Service--RNDC. Parcels returned as Standard Post
to, and retrieved in bulk from, a designated NDC.
[Renumber current 4.3.5, Noncompliant Labels, as new 4.3.11.]
[Insert new 4.2 to read as follows:]
4.2 Basic Standards
4.2.1 Description
Parcel Return Service (PRS) applies to parcels that are picked up
in bulk by authorized permit holders or their agents. Permit holders
guarantee payment of postage for all parcels mailed with a PRS label.
By providing an approved PRS label to its customers, the merchant or
other party designates the permit holder identified on the label as
their agent for receipt of mail bearing that label, and authorizes the
USPS to provide that mail to the permit holder or its designee. The
permit holder must retrieve parcels at each of the return network
distribution centers (RNDC). For this purpose, an RNDC is each NDC as
noted in L601. PRS permit holders also may retrieve parcels at one or
more designated return sectional center facilities (RSCFs) or
designated return delivery units (RDUs). Payment for parcels returned
under PRS is deducted from a separate advance deposit (postage-due)
account funded through the Centralized Account Processing System
(CAPS). The permit holder must be authorized to use eVS (see 705.2.9).
4.2.2 Conditions for Mailing
Parcels may be mailed as PRS when all of the following conditions
apply:
a. Parcels contain eligible matter as described in 153.3.0 and
153.4.0.
b. Parcels bear a PRS label that meets the standards in 5.4.
c. Parcels show the permit number, and the permit holder has paid
the annual PRS permit fee and the annual PRS account maintenance fee.
4.2.3 Customer Mailing Options
Returned parcels may be deposited as follows:
a. At any Post Office, station, or branch.
b. In any collection box (except a Priority Mail Express box).
c. With any letter carrier.
d. As part of a collection run for other mail (special arrangements
may be required).
e. At any place designated by the postmaster for the receipt of
mail.
4.2.4 Application Process
Companies who wish to participate in PRS must send a request on
company letterhead to the manager, Business Mailer Support (see 608.8.0
for address). The request must contain the following information:
a. Company name and address.
b. An individual's contact name, telephone number, fax number, and
email address.
c. The price category or categories to be used, and the proposed
retrieval locations (delivery units, sectional center facilities, and
network distribution centers).
d. A description of the electronic returns manifesting system to be
used to document returns listed by location and price eligibility.
4.2.5 Approval
The manager, Business Mailer Support reviews each request and
proceeds as follows:
a. If the applicant meets the criteria, the manager, Business
Mailer Support
[[Page 6602]]
approves the letter of request and sends an authorization letter
outlining the terms and conditions for the program.
b. If the application does not meet the criteria, the manager,
Business Mailer Support denies the request and sends a written notice
to the applicant with the reason for denial.
4.2.6 Permit Cancellation
USPS may cancel a PRS permit for any of the following reasons:
a. The permit holder fails to pay the required postage and fees for
returned parcels.
b. The permit holder does not maintain adequate available funds to
cover postage and fees for returned parcels.
c. The permit holder does not fulfill the terms and conditions of
the PRS permit authorization.
d. The return labels do not conform to the specifications in 5.4.
4.2.7 Reapplying After Cancellation
To receive a new PRS permit after cancellation under 5.1.7, the
mailer must:
a. Submit a letter to the manager, Business Mailer Support
requesting a permit and a new agreement.
b. Pay a new permit fee.
c. Provide evidence showing that the reasons for cancellation no
longer exist.
d. Maintain adequate available funds to cover the expected number
of returns.
4.2.8 Extra Services and Endorsement
Pieces using PRS may not bear an ancillary service endorsement (see
102.4.0 and 507.1.5). See 503.0 for available extra services for PRS.
4.2.9 Pickup Schedule and Location
Permit holders or their agents must set up recurring or standing
appointments to retrieve PRS parcels. If the permit holder (or agent)
has existing appointments to deliver Parcel Select parcels to
destination facilities and those facilities are one of the NDCs,
designated RSCFs, or designated RDUs, those appointments can be used
for retrieving PRS parcels at the same time. Permit holders or their
agents must retrieve parcels on a regular schedule as follows:
a. From RNDCs, at a minimum of every 48 hours, excluding Sundays
and USPS holidays.
b. From all listed RSCFs, at a minimum of every 24 hours, excluding
Saturdays, Sundays, and USPS holidays. The Postal Service maintains a
list of active RSCFs and provides permit holders 30-day notice of
changes to the list. This list is available on the Facility Access and
Shipment Tracking system (FAST) at https://fast.usps.com/fast/.
c. From RDUs, according to the authorization letter. The USPS
maintains a list of active RDUs and provides permit holders 30-day
notice of changes to the list. This list is available on the Facility
Access and Shipment Tracking system (FAST) at https://fast.usps.com/fast/.
d. For parcels picked up from RNDCs and that are shipped from
origin ZIP Codes 006-009, 967-969, and 995-999, see 5.3.
4.2.10 Parcels Endorsed Hold for Pickup
PRS participants must pay the appropriate Parcel Return Service RDU
price under 5.3 for any unclaimed, refused, undeliverable as addressed,
or recalled parcels that are endorsed ``Hold For Pickup'' (under
508.7.0) and that bear the marking ``PARCEL RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED''
or ``PRS REQUESTED'' followed by a unique 569 prefix ZIP Code.
4.2.11 Noncompliant Labels
PRS permit holders must use USPS-certified labels meeting the
standards in 4.3. When noncompliant labels are affixed to PRS parcels,
which travel through the Postal network to the delivery address of the
label, the permit holder will be assessed the appropriate Standard Post
price, calculated from the parcel's entry point in the USPS network to
its delivery address. If the parcel's entry point cannot be determined,
then postage will be calculated at zone 4.
[Revise the title of renumbered 4.3 as follows:]
4.3 Labels
4.3.1 Label Preparation
[Revise renumbered 4.3.1 to read as follows:]
PRS labels must be certified by the USPS for use prior to
distribution as defined in the service agreement. In addition, permit
holders must obtain USPS certification for barcode symbologies. Except
for by FAX, any photographic, mechanical, or electronic process or any
combination of these processes may be used to produce PRS labels. The
background of the label may be any light color that allows the address,
barcodes, and other required information to be easily distinguished. If
labels are electronically transmitted to customers for their local
printing, the permit holder must advise customers of these printing
requirements as part of the instructions in 4.3.3.
4.3.2 Labeling Methods
[Revise renumbered 4.3.2 to read as follows:]
If all applicable contents and formats are approved (including
instructions to the user), permit holders or their agents may
distribute a PRS label by any of the methods provided under 3.5.4.
[Revise the title and text of renumbered 4.3.3 to read as follows:]
4.3.3 Labeling Instructions
Regardless of label distribution method, permit holders or their
agents must always provide written instructions to the user of the PRS
label as provided under 3.5.5.
4.3.4 Label Format Elements
[Revise renumbered 4.3.4 to read as follows:]
PRS labels must meet the standards in the Parcel Labeling Guide
available on RIBBS. There is no minimum size for PRS labels; however,
the label must be big enough to accommodate all of the label elements
and standards in this section. All PRS label elements must be legible.
Except where a specific type size is required, elements must be large
enough to be legible from a normal reading distance and be separate
from other elements on the label.
[Delete 6.0, Parcel Return Service-Full Network, in its entirety.]
[Renumber current 7.0, Bulk Parcel Return Service, as new 5.0.]
5.0 Bulk Parcel Return Service
[Retitle renumbered 5.1 to read as follows:]
5.1 Bulk Parcel Return Service (BPRS) Permit and Fees
[Delete renumbered 5.1.1, Permit Fee, through 5.1.3, Per Piece
Charge, in their entirety (text relocated in new 5.1.1).]
[Delete the renumbered heading 5.2, Charges and Fees.]
[Renumber 5.2.1 through 5.2.6 as new 5.1.1 through 5.1.6, then,
revise the title and text of renumbered 5.1.1 to read as follows:]
5.1.1 Permit and Per Piece Fees
A BPRS permit is required to participate in BPRS; no annual fee is
required to obtain a BPRS permit. Each piece returned through BPRS is
charged only the per piece fee, not postage, regardless of weight. See
Notice 123--Price List for applicable fees.
[Delete renumbered 5.1.2, Per Piece Fee, in its entirety (context
of text relocated under 5.5.1); then, renumber 5.1.3 through 5.1.6 as
new 5.1.2 through 5.1.5.]
[Revise the title and text of newly renumbered 5.1.2 to read as
follows:]
[[Page 6603]]
5.1.2 Advance Deposit Account
The permit holder must pay BPRS fees through an advance deposit
account. A separate advance deposit account for BPRS is not required;
the annual account maintenance fee is charged if BPRS fees are not paid
from an existing account and the permit holder desires a single,
separate accounting of all charges deducted from that account.
[Delete renumbered 5.1.3, Existing Advance Deposit Account,
(relocated to 5.1.2, Advance Deposit Account), and 5.1.4, Payment
Guarantee, (relocated to 5.2.3 under Availability), in their entirety;
then, renumber 5.1.5, Postage Due Weight Averaging, as new 5.1.3.]
* * * * *
[Renumber 5.3, General Information, as new 5.2, then revise the
title of renumbered 5.2, General Information, to read as follows:]
5.2 Basic Standards
5.2.1 Description
[Revise renumbered 5.2.1 to read as follows:]
Bulk parcel return service (BPRS) allows mailers of large
quantities of Standard Mail or Parcel Select Lightweight machinable
parcels that are either undeliverable-as-addressed or un-opened and
refused by addressees to be returned to designated postal facilities.
The mailer has the option of picking up all returned parcels from a
designated postal facility at a predetermined frequency specified by
the USPS or having them delivered by the USPS in a manner and frequency
specified by the USPS. For this service, a mailer establishes a BPRS
permit and pays a per piece charge for each parcel returned from an
advance deposit account.
5.2.2 Availability
[Revise renumbered 5.2.2 to read as follows:]
A mailer may be authorized to use BPRS when the following
conditions apply:
a. All returned parcels are initially prepared as regular or
Nonprofit Standard Mail, or Parcel Select Lightweight, and are
machinable parcels as defined in 201.7.5.
b. At least 10,000 Standard Mail or Parcel Select Lightweight
machinable parcels will be returned to a designated postal facility
during a 12-month period.
c. Parcels are returned to the mailer either because they are
undeliverable- as-addressed or because they are un-opened and refused
by the addressee.
d. Parcels bear an approved BPRS label or one of the following BPRS
endorsements (507.2.0) on the outbound mailpiece:
``Return Service Requested--BPRS''
``Address Service Requested--BPRS''
e. Parcels have a return address that is in the delivery area of
the Post Office that issued the BPRS permit.
f. The postal facility designated for returned parcels is located
in the United States, its territories or possessions, or is a U.S.
military Post Office overseas (APO or FPO).
g. The mailer has a valid postage due advance deposit account and
BPRS permit.
h. BPRS parcels may be combined with the shipper paid forwarding
service (507.4.2.9).
i. Standard Mail or Parcel Select Lightweight parcels that qualify
for a Media Mail or Library Mail price under the applicable standards,
and that contain the name of the Package Service price in the mailer's
ancillary service endorsement (507.1.5.3d.), are not eligible for BPRS.
[Delete renumbered 5.2.3, Optional Label, in its entirety (text
relocated to 5.4.2); then, insert new 5.2.3, Payment Guarantee, to read
as follows:]
5.2.3 Payment Guarantee
The permit holder guarantees payment of all applicable fees. The
Post Office returns BPRS items to the permit holder only when there are
sufficient funds in the advance deposit account to pay the fees on
returned pieces.
[Delete renumbered 5.2.4, Extra Services, in its entirety (text
relocated to New 5.2.4).]
[Delete renumbered heading 5.4, Permits, in its entirety.]
[Renumber current 5.4.1, Application Process, through 5.4.3,
Postage Due Service Agreement, as 5.2.4 through 5.2.6; then, retitle
renumbered 5.2.4 to read as follows:]
5.2.4 Application Process
[Revise the introductory text and items a, b, and f, of renumbered
5.2.4 to read as follows:]
To obtain a BPRS permit, a mailer must send a written request to
the Postmaster at each Post Office where parcels are to be returned
that includes the following:
a. Request for the BPRS permit.
b. Information pertinent to each requested delivery point that
documents either the receipt of, or that there are reasonable grounds
to expect, at least 10,000 machinable parcels originally mailed at
regular or non-profit Standard Mail or Parcel Select Lightweight prices
during the past, or next, 12 months.
* * * * *
f. If a label will be furnished for returning opened parcels, the
labels must be USPS approved, prepared in accordance with 5.5, and must
be accompanied by complete instructions for its use as described in
3.5.5.
5.2.5 Authorization
[Revise the text of renumbered 5.2.5 to read as follows:]
A BPRS mailer will be required to sign a postage due service
agreement with each Post Office that issues a permit for the return of
BPRS parcels. Upon approval of a mailer's request, the Post Office
issues an authorization letter and provides a postage due service
agreement with a BPRS permit number. The permit number is used for
account administration and is required on BPRS labels under 5.5, when
used.
[Delete renumbered 5.2.6, Postage Due Service Agreement, (text
relocated to 5.2.5), in its entirety.]
[Insert new heading, 5.3 Permits]
5.3 Permits
[Renumber 5.4.4 as new 5.3.1 and revise text to read as follows:]
5.3.1 Permit Renewal
A Post Office provides BPRS permit holders with annual renewal
notices advising that their permits are due to expire. A notice must be
returned to the issuing Post Office with the fee payment or
authorization for the postmaster to deduct the fee from the advance
deposit account by the permit expiration date. Written authorization is
not necessary for renewal of a permit if there is no change to the
authorization on file at the Post Office where the parcels are
returned. If a permit holder does not renew a BPRS permit after having
been given notice, the USPS will endorse the mail ``Bulk Parcel Return
Service Canceled'' and will charge postage due at the single-piece
First-Class Mail or Priority Mail price as appropriate for the weight
of the piece. If the single-piece First-Class Mail or Priority Mail
price is not paid, the mail is forwarded to the nearest mail recovery
center.
[Renumber 5.4.5 and 5.4.6 as new 5.3.2 and 5.3.3.]
5.3.2 Permit Cancellation
A BPRS permit may be canceled by the USPS for any of the following
reasons:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of renumbered 5.3.2 item e to read as follows:]
e. Failure to conform return labels to the specifications in
section 5.5.
5.3.3 Reapplying After Cancellation
A mailer must do the following to receive a new BPRS permit at the
same
[[Page 6604]]
Post Office where a permit was previously canceled:
[Revise the text of renumbered 5.3.3 items a to read as follows;
then, delete item b in its entirety; then, renumber items c and d and
new items b and c:]
a. Submit a letter to that office requesting a BPRS permit and new
agreement.
* * * * *
[Insert new section 5.3.4 as follows:]
5.3.4 Extra Services
Extra services cannot be added to pieces returned via bulk parcel
return service.
[Revise the title and text of renumber 5.5, Label Requirements, to
read as follows:]
5.5 Optional BPRS Label
An authorized BPRS permit holder has the option to use a label to
identify BPRS parcels for return to a designated postal facility. The
label is prepared at the mailer's expense and must meet all format
standards in the Parcel Labeling Guide available on RIBBS, including an
IMpb meeting the standards in 708.5.0.
* * * * *
507 Mailer Services
1.0 Treatment of Mail
* * * * *
1.5 Treatment for Ancillary Services by Class of Mail
* * * * *
1.5.3 Standard Mail and Parcel Select Lightweight
Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) Standard Mail and Parcel Select
Lightweight pieces are treated as described in Exhibit 1.5.3, with
these additional conditions:
* * * * *
Exhibit 1.5.3 Treatment of Undeliverable Standard Mail and Parcel
Select Lightweight
[Revise (only) the two designated sections of Exhibit 1.5.3 titled
Address Service Requested (Option 1 and Option 2) and Change Service
Requested1 4 (Option 1 and Option 2) to read as follows:]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mailer endorsement USPS Treatment of UAA pieces
------------------------------------------------------------------------
No Endorsement \1\............... * * * * *
``Electronic Service Requested''. * * * * *
``Address Service Requested''.... (Does not include Shipper Paid
Forwarding/Return participants)
OPTION 1......................... * * * * *
OPTION 2......................... * * * * *
``Address Service Requested''.... * * * * *
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return
Option 1.
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return
Option 2.
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return
Option 3
``Address Service Requested-- * * * * *
BPRS''.
``Forwarding Service Requested'' * * * * *
\3\.
``Return Service Requested''..... * * * * *
OPTION 1
OPTION 2
``Return Service Requested-- * * * * *
BPRS''.
``Change Service Requested'' 1 4.
OPTION 1......................... (Valid for all pieces, including ACS
participating pieces) If no change-
of-address order on file, or if
change-of-address order is on file:
Notice of new address or reason for
non-delivery provided (address
correction fee charged); piece
disposed of by USPS.
Restrictions:
The following restrictions apply:
(1) USPS Tracking is the only extra
services permitted with this
endorsement.
(2) This endorsement is not permitted
for Standard Mail or Parcel Select
Lightweight containing hazardous
materials.
OPTION 2......................... (Available via ACS only; for Standard
Mail letters and flats only)
If no change-of-address order on
file:
Reason for non-delivery provided to
mailer (electronic ACS fee charged);
piece disposed of by USPS.
If change-of-address order on file:
Months 1 through 12: Piece
forwarded; postage due charged to
the mailer at applicable Forwarding
Fee based on the piece shape (letter
or flat); separate notice of new
address provided (electronic ACS fee
charged).
Months 13 through 18: Piece
disposed of by USPS; separate notice
of new address provided (electronic
ACS fee charged).
After month 18: Treatment same as
noted under ``If no change-of-
address order on file''.
Restrictions:
The following restrictions apply:
(1) USPS Tracking is the only extra
services permitted with this
endorsement.
(2) This endorsement is not permitted
for Standard Mail containing
hazardous materials.
``Change Service Requested''..... * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 6605]]
* * * * *
1.5.4 Standard Post, Package Services and Parcel Select
Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) Standard Post, Package Services,
and Parcel Select mailpieces are treated as described in Exhibit 1.5.4,
with these additional conditions:
* * * * *
Exhibit 1.5.4 Treatment of Undeliverable Standard Post, Package
Services, and Parcel Select
[Revise (only) the designated section of Exhibit 1.5.4 titled
Change Service Requested\2\ (Option 1 and Option 2) to read as
follows:]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mailer endorsement USPS Treatment of UAA pieces
------------------------------------------------------------------------
No Endorsement................... * * * * *
``Electronic Service Requested''. * * * * *
``Address Service Requested''.... * * * * *
``Address Service Requested''.... * * * * *
``Forwarding Service * * * * *
Requested''\1\.
``Return Service Requested''..... * * * * *
Option 1
Option 2.........................
``Change Service Requested'' \2\
Option 1......................... (Valid for all pieces, including ACS
participating pieces)
If no change-of-address order on
file, or if change-of-address order
is on file:
Notice of new address or reason for
non-delivery provided (address
correction charged): piece disposed
of by USPS.
Restrictions:
The following restrictions apply:
(1) USPS Tracking and Signature
Confirmation are the only extra
services permitted with this
endorsement.
(2) This endorsement is not permitted
for Standard Post or Package
Services containing hazardous
materials.
Option 2......................... (Available via ACS only; for Bound
Printed Matter flats only)
If no change-of-address order on
file:
Reason for non-delivery provided to
mailer (electronic ACS fee charged);
piece disposed of by USPS.
If change-of-address order on file:
Months 1 through 12: Piece
forwarded; postage due charged to
the mailer at applicable Forwarding
Fee based on the piece shape (flat);
separate notice of new address
provided (electronic ACS fee
charged).
Months 13 through 18: Piece
disposed of by USPS; separate notice
of new address provided (electronic
ACS fee charged).
After month 18: Treatment same as
noted under ``If no change-of-
address order on file''.
``Change Service Requested''..... * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
2.0 Forwarding
2.1 Change-of-Address Order
2.1.4 Methods of Filing
Customers may use one of the following methods to file a change-of-
address with the Post Office:
* * * * *
[Delete item c. in its entirety.]
* * * * *
4.0 Address Correction Services
* * * * *
4.2 Address Change Service (ACS)
* * * * *
4.2.8 Address Correction Service Fee
[Revise the text of 4.2.8 to read as follows:]
Unless excepted, the applicable fee for address correction is
charged for each separate notification of address correction or the
reason for nondelivery provided. Once the ACS fee charges have been
invoiced, any unpaid fees for the prior invoice cycle (month) will be
assessed an annual administrative fee of 10% for the overdue amount.
* * * * *
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 to read as follows:]
The following conditions also apply to the delivery of Priority
Mail Express, Registered Mail, Certified Mail, mail insured for more
than $500.00, Adult Signature, or COD, as well as mail for which a
return receipt is requested or the sender has specified restricted
delivery.
* * * * *
[Insert new 1.1.8 (relocated from previously deleted 503.8.0) as
follows:]
1.1.8 Additional Delivery Standards for Restricted Delivery
In additional to the standards described under 1.1.7, mail marked
``Restricted Delivery'' is delivered only to the addressee or to the
person authorized in writing as the addressee's agent (the USPS may
require proof of identification from the addressee (or agent) to
receive the mail, and under the following conditions:
a. Mail for famous personalities and executives of large
organizations is normally delivered to an agent authorized to sign for
such mail.
b. Mail for officials of executive, legislative, and judicial
branches of the government of the United States or of the states and
possessions and their
[[Page 6606]]
political subdivisions, or to members of the diplomatic corps, may be
delivered to a person authorized by the addressee or by regulations or
procedures of the agency or organization to receive the addressee's
mail.
c. Mail for the commander or other officials of military
organizations by name and title, is delivered to the unit mail clerk,
mail orderly, postal clerk, assistant postal clerk, or postal finance
clerk, when such individuals are designated on DD (Department of
Defense) Form 285 to receipt for all mail addressed to the units for
which they are designated. If the person accepting mail is designated
on DD Form 285 to receipt for ordinary mail only, then restricted
delivery mail addressed to the commander, or other official by name and
title, is delivered to the mail clerk only if authorized by the
addressee.
d. Mail for an inmate of a city, state, or federal penal
institution, in cases where a personal signature cannot be obtained, is
delivered to the warden or designee.
e. Mail for minors or persons under guardianship may be delivered
to their parents or guardians.
f. An addressee who regularly receives restricted delivery mail may
authorize an agent on Form 3801 or by letter to the Postmaster and must
include the notation ``this authorization is extended to include
restricted delivery (or Adult Signature Restricted Delivery) mail''.
Form 3849 also may be used for the authorization, if the Post Office
has no standing delivery order or letter on file, when the addressee
enters the name of the agent on the back of Form 3849 in the space
provided and signs the form. The agent must sign for receipt of the
article on the back of the form.
g. When mail is addressed to two or more persons jointly, all
addressees or their agents must be present to accept delivery together.
The delivery receipt obtained and the return receipt, if any, must be
signed by all joint addressees or their agents. The mail may then be
delivered to any of the addressees or their agents unless one or more
addressees or their agents object, in which case delivery is not made
until all the addressees or their agents sign a statement designating
who is to receive the mail.
h. Either person may sign for mail addressed to one person in care
of another (i.e. ``In Care Of'').
* * * * *
4.0 Post Office Box Service
* * * * *
4.5 Fee Group Assignments
* * * * *
4.5.4 Additional Standards for Competitive PO Box Services
* * * Customers in competitive locations may also complete a
customer agreement in order to receive one or more of the following
enhancements:
[Revise 4.5.4 item a to read as follows:]
a. Street Addressing--The option to use the Post Office street
address for their mailing address along with customer's box number
preceded by as follows (customers who choose to use this designation
also have the option of receiving packages from private carriers at the
customer's Post Office Box address): John Smith, 123 Main Street #4567,
Any Town, NY 10001.
* * * * *
[Revise 4.5.4 item c to read as follows:]
c. Signature on File--the option to simplify receipt of Priority
Mail Express, mail insured for more $500.00, and Signature Confirmation
items, all of which may include an electronic Return Receipt request,
by providing a signature kept on file by the Postmaster.
* * * * *
604 Postage Payment Methods
* * * * *
4.0 Postage Meters and PC Postage Products (``Postage Evidencing
Systems'')
* * * * *
4.5 Special Indicia
* * * * *
4.5.2 Reply Postage
[Revise the entire text of 4.5.2 (context of text relocated to
505.2.6, Prepaid Reply Mail), to read as follows:]
Mailers may use indicia generated by any postage evidencing system
to prepay reply postage as provided under 505.2.0.
* * * * *
5.0 Permit Imprint (Indicia)
* * * * *
5.3 Indicia Design, Placement, and Content
* * * * *
[Revise the title and text of 5.3.5 to read as follows:]
5.3.5 Marking Expedited Handling on Permit Imprint Mail
Mailpieces bearing markings that reference directly or indirectly
expedited attention, handling or delivery (e.g., ``Urgent,'' ``Rush
Delivery,'' ``Expedited,'' ``Time Sensitive'') must meet the following
conditions:
a. The indicia much show the class of mail (e.g. ``Standard'' or
``STD''; ``Presorted Standard'' or ``PRSRT STD''; or ``Nonprofit
Organization,'' ``Nonprofit Org.,'' or ``Nonprofit'' or as applicable
for the class of mail as provided under 5.3.6 or 5.3.7) more
prominently than other words in the indicia.
b. Include a clear space of at least 3/8 inch around the entire
indicia.
c. Pieces may not include markings identical to or confusingly
similar to USPS trademarks (word marks or logos), trade dress, or other
words, symbols, or designs used by the USPS to identify a class of
mail, price of postage, or level of service, unless such markings are
correctly used under the applicable standards for the mailpiece on
which they appear and the corresponding postage and fees have been
paid. Words, symbols or designs that are unlawful or legally
actionable, or create a claim for false advertisements or contributory
infringement (infringement of third party rights) are not permitted.
* * * * *
6.0 Payment of Postage
6.1 Basic Standards
The mailer is responsible for proper payment of postage. Postage on
all mail must be fully prepaid at the time of mailing, except as
specifically provided by standard for:
[Revise 6.1 items a and b to read as follows:]
a. Reply mail and return services under 505.0.
b. Alternate Postage payment under 5.5.
* * * * *
[Insert new item g under 6.1 to read as follows:]
g. Packages from private carriers being delivered to a customer at
a competitive Post Office Box service location, when using the street
addressing designation option, as provided under 508.4.5.4.
* * * * *
9.0 Exchanges and Refunds
* * * * *
9.2 Postage and Fee Refunds
* * * * *
9.2.5 Applying for Refund
[Revise the first and the last sentences of 9.2.5 to read as
follows:]
For refunds under 9.2, excluding postage refunds for extra service
fees under 9.2.7, the customer must apply for a refund on Form 3533;
submit it to
[[Page 6607]]
the postmaster; and provide the envelope, wrapper (or a part of it)
showing the names and addresses of the sender and addressee, canceled
postage and postal markings, or other evidence of postage and fees
paid.* * * Refunds for postage evidencing systems postage, excluding
postage refunds for extra service fees under 9.2.7, are submitted under
9.3.
* * * * *
[Insert new 9.2.7 to read as follows:]
9.2.7 Applying for Extra Service Refund
For refunds for fees paid for extra services, as allowed under
applicable standards in 9.2, the customer must apply for a refund
online at www.usps.com/domestic-claims.
* * * * *
609 Filing Indemnity Claims for Loss or Damage
1.0 General Filing Instructions
* * * * *
1.5.2 Claims Filed by Mail
[Revise the first sentence of 1.5.2 to read as follows:]
Customers may file a claim by completing a Form 1000 and mailing
the original copy to the address indicated on the form, accompanied by
proof of value.* * *
* * * * *
3.0 Providing Evidence of Insurance and Value
3.1 Evidence of Insurance
* * * Examples of acceptable evidence are:
* * * * *
[Revise the second sentence of 3.1 item d to read as follows:]
d. * * * The printout must identify the USPS Tracking number of the
insured parcel, total postage paid, insurance fee paid, declared value
(if applicable), mailing date, origin ZIP Code, and delivery ZIP Code.
* * * * *
3.2 Proof of Value
* * * Examples are:
[Revise 3.2 item a to read as follows:]
a. A sales receipt, paid invoice or bill of sale, or statement of
value from a reputable dealer.
[Delete current 3.2 items b and c in their entirety; then, renumber
current items d through h as new items b through f.]
* * * * *
4.0 Claims
4.1 Payable Claim
[Revise the introductory text of 4.1 to read 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, or Priority Mail Express (under 4.2), is payable for the
following:
[Revise 4.1 item a to read as follows:]
a. Article's actual value when mailed.
* * * * *
[Revise 4.1 item k to read as follows:]
k. Cost of bees, crickets, or baby poultry destroyed by physical
damage to the package, otherwise, the USPS is not presumed to be at
fault.
[Delete 4.1 items l and m in their entirety; then, renumber current
items n through q as new l through o.]
* * * * *
[Revise newly renumbered item n to read as follows:]
n. For firearms mailed by licensed firearm dealers (under 601.8.0
and Publication 52), 4, a Form 1508 must be submitted with the claim.
[Revise newly renumbered item o to read as follows:]
o. For collectible items, a sales receipt, paid invoice or bill of
sale, or statement of value from a reputable dealer (i.e., a licensed
business owner who is qualified to estimate value or cost of repairs
for the item) must be provided as described in 3.2a.
4.2 Payable Priority Mail Express Claim
In addition to the payable claims in 4.1, the following are payable
for
Priority Mail Express mailpieces:
[Revise the second sentence of 4.2 item a to read as follows:]
a. * * * Coverage is limited to $100 per mailpiece, subject to a
maximum limit per occurrence as provided in 4.2a.4. ***
* * * * *
4.3 Nonpayable Claims
[Revise the introductory text of 4.3 to read as follows:]
Indemnity is not paid for insured mail (including Priority Mail
Express and Priority Mail), Registered Mail, COD, or Priority Mail and
Priority Mail Express in these situations:
* * * * *
[Revise 4.3 item d to read as follows:]
d. Requested replacement value exceeded article's actual value when
mailed.
* * * * *
[Revise 4.3 item f to read as follows:]
f. Loss resulting from delay of the mail, except under 4.2a.2 and
4.3ad.
* * * * *
[Revise 4.3 item h to read as follows:]
h. Perishable contents frozen, melted, spoiled, or deteriorated.
* * * * *
[Revise 4.3 item k to read as follows:]
k. Death of honeybees, crickets, and harmless live animals not the
fault of the USPS (mailability is subject to standards under 601.8.4
and Publication 52, Chapter 5).
* * * * *
[Revise 4.3 item r to read as follows:]
r. Consequential loss of Priority Mail Express claimed, except
under 4.2a.3 and 4.3ad.
* * * * *
5.0 Compensation
5.1 Payment Limit
[Revise the first sentence of 5.1 to read as follows:]
The USPS does not make payment for more than the article's actual
value when mailed or, for bulk insurance, for more than the wholesale
cost of the contents to the sender if a lesser amount.* * *
* * * * *
5.4 Loss
[Revise the title and text of 5.4 to read as follows:]
If the insured, registered, or COD article is lost the payment
includes an additional amount for the postage (not fee) paid by the
sender. Postage for Priority Mail Express is refunded under 604.9.5.
* * * * *
6.0 Adjudication of Claims
* * * * *
6.3 Final USPS Decision of Claims
[Revise the text of 6.3 to read 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 at www.usps.com/insuranceclaims/online.htm. Customers who did
not file their claim online must send a written appeal to the Consumer
Advocate (see 608.8.0 for address).
* * * * *
705 Advanced Preparation and Special Postage Payment Systems
* * * * *
[Revise heading of 14.0 to read as follows:]
[[Page 6608]]
14.0 FSS Scheme Preparation
[Revise the entire text of 14.1 to read as follows:]
14.1 General
All Standard Mail, Bound Printed Matter (BPM), and Periodicals
flats meeting the standards in 201 must be sorted to FSS schemes,
properly bundled and placed on/in pallets, trays, sacks, or approved
alternate containers, for FSS scheme ZIP Code 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 an FSS scheme must be prepared in
FSS scheme bundles. The Postal Service also recommends the use of
authorized flat trays in lieu of sacks for FSS bundles. FSS scheme
bundles that are not required to be placed in a FSS scheme or FSS
facility container are combined with bundles of non-FSS sorted bundles
and placed on an applicable SCF, 3-digit or NDC container. Mailers must
prepare FSS scheme qualifying mailpieces for each individual FSS scheme
combination, and then prepare bundles of uniform size from those
pieces. Mailpieces and bundles must also be prepared as follows:
a. Bundles for all FSS schemes must be identified as an FSS 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 pieces placed into an FSS scheme
bundle be barcoded, and bear an accurate delivery point Intelligent
Mail barcode with an accurate 11-digit routing code.
c. All FSS scheme bundles must be prepared in bundles with a 3-inch
minimum and a 6.5-inch maximum height. ``Leveling'' (adjusting bundle
heights within an FSS Scheme to avoid overflow bundles) of the bundles
within each scheme is encouraged. Bundles must be placed on or in
sacks, trays, pallets or alternate authorized container to form layers
of consistent thickness; bundles of uneven thickness must be counter-
stacked on pallets or approved alternate container in accordance with
8.5.8. Except for one overflow bundle that may be under the minimum
size, all bundles within each FSS scheme must be of uniform size.
d. Pallets must be prepared under 8.0 and labeled under 8.6, with a
pallet placard bearing an Intelligent Mail container barcode as
described in 708.6.4.
e. An FSS scheme pallet, or approved alternate container, must be
made when 250 pounds or more of bundles are available for an individual
FSS scheme. Bundles remaining after palletization may be placed in
sacks (or flat trays if approved) or approved alternate container.
f. FSS scheme bundles for multiple schemes processed at one
facility according to column C, L006 may be combined on an FSS facility
pallet or approved alternate container if quantities are less than 250
pounds.
g. Sacks and trays containing flat-size pieces prepared under FSS
schemes must meet the applicable sacking standards in 14.2, 14.3, and
14.4 and be labeled with Intelligent Mail tray or sack label under
708.6.
14.2 Periodicals
14.2.1 Basic Standards
[Revise the entire text of 14.2.1 to read as follows:]
All Periodicals flats meeting the standards in 201 (nonmachinable
flats up to \3/4\ inch thick may be included if they meet the standards
in 705.14) and destinating to FSS sites as shown in L006 must be
prepared according to these standards. Mailings of In-County
Periodicals flats and the associated 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:
a. Pricing eligibility is based on 207.11.0 through 207.14.0. All
Periodicals flats prepared under these standards will be assessed the
FSS scheme price. FSS bundles placed on FSS scheme or FSS facility
pallets, sacks, trays, or approved alternate container will claim the
FSS scheme bundle price.
b. FSS scheme pallets will be assessed the FSS scheme Pallet price.
FSS facility sort level pallets will be charged an FSS Facility Pallet
container price. FSS scheme sacks or trays will be assessed the FSS
scheme Sack/Tray price. Pallets, sacks and trays entered at a DFSS will
claim the DFSS entry price.
c. The Outside-County pound price will be DFSS price. The Inside-
County price will claim prices for the ``None'' entry level.
d. Mailers must provide standardized presort documentation under
708.1.0 that demonstrates eligibility for FSS prices in accordance with
207.14.0 and 207.25.0.
e. 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.
f. All FSS schemed Periodicals mailpieces prepared on FSS scheme
pallets must be prepared in uniform size bundles, between 3 inches and
6.5 inches in height and secured under 203.3.0, except that one
overflow bundle per mailpiece pool may be under the minimum size. All
Periodicals FSS scheme mailpieces must meet the standards in 705.14.0.
14.2.2 Pallet Preparation and Labeling
[Revise the second and third sentences of the introductory text of
14.2.2 to read as follows:]
* * * Residual bundles may be included with non-FSS bundles and
placed directly on 3-digit, SCF, or ADC pallets in accordance with
8.10.2, or placed in sacks or approved alternate containers.
Preparation sequence and labeling is as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise 14.2.2b and 14.2.2b1 to read as follows:]
b. FSS facility, optional, no minimum, permitted only for FSS
scheme bundles prepared for the FSS sort plans processed within the
same facility, as shown in L006. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L006, column C.
* * * * *
14.2.3 Sack Preparation and Labeling
[Revise the first sentence of the introductory text of 14.2.3 to
read as follows:]
Properly prepared flat-size mailpieces in FSS scheme bundles may be
placed in sacks or approved alternate containers when 250 pounds are
not available to a presort destination (including DFSS sites). * * *
Preparation and labeling:
[Revise 14.2.3 item a to read as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces (fewer
pieces not permitted), permitted only for FSS scheme bundles prepared
for a single FSS scheme, as shown in L006; labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise 14.2.3 item b to read as follows:]
b. FSS facility, optional with a minimum of 24 pieces (fewer pieces
not permitted), 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:
[[Page 6609]]
[Revise 14.3.1 item b to read as follows:]
b. Mailers must provide standardized presort documentation under
708.1.0 that demonstrates eligibility for FSS scheme prices in
accordance with 243.
[Delete 14.3.1 item c in its entirety; then, renumber current items
d and e as new items c and d; then, and revise renumbered item d to
read as follows:]
d. Standard Mail FSS scheme mailpieces must meet all the standards
in 705.14.1.
* * * * *
14.3.2 Pallet Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation sequence and labeling:
[Revise 14.3.2 item a to read as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required (optional under 250 pounds), no minimum,
permitted only for FSS scheme bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme,
as shown in L006. Labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise 14.3.2 items b and b1 to read as follows:]
b. FSS facility, optional, no minimum, permitted only for FSS
scheme bundles prepared for the FSS scheme processed within the same
facility, as shown in L006. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L006, column C.
* * * * *
14.3.3 Sack Preparation and Labeling
[Revise the first sentence of the introductory text of 14.3.3 to
read as follows:]
Properly prepared flat-size mailpieces in FSS scheme bundles may be
placed in sacks or approved alternate containers when 250 pounds are
not available to a FSS scheme, L006. * * * Preparation and labeling:
[Revise 14.3.3 item a to read as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required at 125 pieces or 15 pounds, permitted only
for FSS scheme bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as shown in
L006; labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise 14.3.3 item b to read as follows:]
b. FSS facility, optional with a minimum of 125 pieces or 15
pounds, permitted only for FSS scheme 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 to read as follows:]
Bound Printed Matter (BPM) flats eligible for, and paid at FSS
Scheme prices and that meet the standards in 201, must be prepared in
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 14.4.1 item b to read as follows:]
b. Mailers must provide standardized presort documentation under
708.1.0 that demonstrates eligibility for FSS scheme prices in
accordance with 263.
[Revise 14.4.1 item c to read as follows:]
c. Mailers must prepare all eligible flat-size mailpieces into FSS
scheme bundles according to L006.
* * * * *
14.4.2 Pallet Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation sequence and labeling:
* * * * *
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 14.4.2 item b1 to read as follows:]
1. Line 1: L006, Column C.
* * * * *
14.4.3 Sack Preparation and Labeling
[Revise the introductory text of 14.4.3 to read as follows:]
Properly prepared flat-size mailpieces in FSS scheme bundles may be
placed in trays, sacks, or approved alternate containers when 250
pounds are not available to an FSS scheme. FSS scheme bundles may be
placed in mixed NDC sacks or alternate containers, or combined with
non-FSS bundles and placed in 3-digit, SCF, ADC, and mixed ADC sacks or
alternate containers. Preparation and labeling:
[Revise 14.4.3 item a to read as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required at 20 pieces, permitted only for FSS scheme
bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as shown in L006; labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of 14.4.3b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional with a minimum of 20 pieces,
permitted only for FSS scheme bundles prepared for the FSS schemes
processed within the same facility, as shown in L006.
* * * * *
708 Technical Specifications
1.0 Standardized Documentation for First-Class Mail, Periodicals,
Standard Mail, and Flat-Size Bound Printed Matter
* * * * *
1.2 Format and Content
For First-Class Mail, Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Bound Printed
Matter, standardized documentation includes:
* * * * *
c. For mail in trays or sacks, list these required elements:
[Insert a new second sentence in the text of 1.2c item 4 to read as
follows:]
* * * * *
4. * * * For pieces prepared in FSS scheme bundles, list by 5-digit
ZIP Code within each bundle. * * *
* * * * *
1.3 Price Level Column Headings
The actual name of the price level (or abbreviation) is used for
column headings required by 1.2 and shown below:
a. Automation First-Class Mail, Standard Mail, and barcoded
Periodicals:
[Revise the table in 1.3 item a to read as follows:]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Price Abbreviation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
FSS [Periodicals flats, Standard Mail SB.
flats].
5[dash]Digit [First-Class Mail 5B.
letters and flats, Periodicals
letters and flats, and Standard Mail
letters and flats].
3[dash]Digit [First-Class Mail 3B.
letters and flats, Periodicals
letters and flats, and Standard Mail
letters and flats].
AADC [First-Class Mail, Periodicals, AB.
and Standard Mail letters].
ADC [First-Class Mail, Periodicals, AB.
and Standard Mail Flats].
Mixed AADC [First-Class Mail, MB.
Periodicals, and Standard Mail
letters].
Mixed ADC [First-Class Mail, MB.
Periodicals, and Standard Mail
flats].
Basic [In-County Periodicals]........ BB.
Firm [Outside-County Periodicals].... FB.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 6610]]
b. Presorted First-Class Mail, barcoded and nonbarcoded Periodicals
flats, nonbarcoded Periodicals letters, and machinable and
nonmachinable Standard Mail:
[Revise the table in 1.3 item b to read as follows:]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Price Abbreviation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Presorted [First-Class Mail letters/ Presort.
cards, flats, and parcels].
5[dash]Digit [First-Class Mail 5D.
parcels, all Standard Mail, and
Periodicals letters].
FSS [Periodicals flats, Standard Mail SB.
flats].
3[dash]Digit [First-Class Mail 3D.
parcels, all Standard Mail and
Periodicals letters].
SCF [for Standard Mail parcels]...... SCF.
AADC [Standard Mail machinable AB.
letters].
ADC [First-Class Mail parcels, First- AD.
Class Mail Package Service parcels,
Standard Mail nonmachinable letters,
flats, and irregular parcels and all
Periodicals].
Basic [In-County Periodicals]........ BS.
Mixed AADC [Standard Mail machinable MB.
letters].
Mixed ADC [Standard Mail MD.
nonmachinable letters, flats,
irregular parcels; and all
Periodicals].
Mixed ADC [First-Class Mail parcels]. SP.
NDC [Standard Mail machinable parcels NDC.
and Marketing parcels 6 ounces and
over].
Mixed NDC [Standard Mail machinable MNDC.
parcels and Marketing parcels 6
ounces and over].
Firm [Outside-County Periodicals].... FB.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
c. Carrier Route Periodicals and Enhanced Carrier Route Standard
Mail:
* * * * *
1.4 Sortation Level
The actual sortation level (or corresponding abbreviation) is used
for the bundle, tray, sack, or pallet levels required by 1.2 and shown
below:
[Revise the table in 1.4 to read as follows:]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sortation level Abbreviation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carrier Route........................ CRD.
5[dash]Digit Carrier Routes.......... CR5.
5[dash]Digit Scheme Carrier Routes CR5S.
[sacks and pallets, Periodicals
flats and irregular parcels,
Standard Mail flats].
5[dash]Digit Scheme [barcoded and 5DGS.
machinable letters].
5[dash]Digit Scheme [pallets, 5DGS.
Periodicals flats and irregular
parcels, Standard Mail flats, Bound
Printed Matter flats].
Merged 5[dash]Digit [sacks and M5D.
pallets, Periodicals flats and
irregular parcels, Standard Mail
flats].
Merged 5[dash]Digit Scheme [sacks and M5DS.
pallets, Periodicals flats and
irregular parcels, Standard Mail
flats].
5[dash]Digit......................... 5DG.
FSS Scheme [bundle, tray, sack or FSS.
other approved container,
Periodicals flats, Standard Mail
flats, Bound Printed Matter flats].
3[dash]Digit Carrier Routes.......... CR3.
3[dash]Digit Scheme [barcoded 3DGS.
letters, barcoded and co-bundled
flats].
Merged 3-Digit [sacks, Periodicals M3D.
flats and irregular parcels].
3[dash]Digit......................... 3DG.
ADC.................................. ADC.
ADC [pallets created from bundle PADC.
reallocation].
AADC................................. AADC.
Mixed ADC............................ MADC.
Origin Mixed ADC..................... OMX.
Mixed AADC........................... MAAD.
SCF [sacks and pallets, Periodicals SCF.
flats, Bound Printed Matter,
Standard Mail irregular parcels less
than 6 ounces].
SCF [pallets created from bundle PSCF.
reallocation].
NDC.................................. NDC.
ASF.................................. ASF.
NDC [pallets created from bundle PNDC.
reallocation].
Mixed NDC [working].................. MNDC.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
1.6 Detailed Zone Listing for Periodicals
1.6.1 Definition and Retention
[Revise the first sentence of 1.6.1 to read as follows:]
The publisher must be able to present documentation to support the
number of copies of each edition of an issue, by entry point, mailed to
each zone, and at DDU, DFSS, DSCF, DADC, DNDC, and In-County prices.* *
*
* * * * *
1.6.3 Zone Abbreviations
Use the actual price name or the authorized zone abbreviation in
the listings in 1.0 and 207.17.4.2:
[Revise the table in 1.6.3 to read as follows:]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zone abbreviation Rate equivalent
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ICD............................... In-County, DDU.
IC................................ In-County, Others.
DDU............................... Outside-County, DDU.
FSS............................... Outside-County, DFSS.
[[Page 6611]]
SCF............................... Outside-County, DSCF.
ADC............................... Outside-County, DADC.
1-2 or 1/2........................ zones 1 and 2.
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 (as applicable).. zones 3 through 8 (as applicable)
M................................. mixed zones.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
1.7.2 Outside-County Container Report
The container report must contain, at a minimum, the following
elements:
* * * * *
[Revise 1.7.2 item d to read as follows:]
d. Container entry level (origin, DDU, DFSS, DSCF, DADC, or DNDC).
* * * * *
6.0 Standards for Barcoded Tray Labels, Sack Labels, and Container
Placards
* * * * *
6.2 Specifications for Barcoded Tray and Sack Labels
* * * * *
6.2.4 3-Digit Content Identifier Numbers
* * * See Exhibit 6.2.4.
Exhibit 6.2.4 3-Digit Content Identifier Numbers
[Update Exhibit 6.2.4, 3-Digit Content Identifier Numbers, to read
as follows:]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class and mailing CIN Human-Readable content line
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Priority Mail Express OPEN AND DISTRIBUTE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PRIORITY MAIL OPEN AND DISTRIBUTE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
First-Class Package Service, Parcels
* * * * *
All Other Classes, Parcels
* * * * *
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FIRST-CLASS MAIL
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FCM Letters--Automation
* * * * *
FCM Letters--Nonautomation Machinable
* * * * *
FCM Letters--Presorted Nonmachinable
* * * * *
FCM Letters--Single-Piece
* * * * *
FCM Flats--Automation
* * * * *
FCM Flats--Presorted
* * * * *
FCM Flats--Co-trayed Automation and Presorted
* * * * *
FCM Flats--Single-Piece
* * * * *
FC Parcels--Presorted
* * * * *
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PERIODICALS (PER)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER Letters--Carrier Route
[[Page 6612]]
* * * * *
PER Letters--Barcoded (Automation)
* * * * *
PER Letters--Nonbarcoded (Nonautomation)
* * * * *
PER Flats--Carrier Route
* * * * *
PER Flats--Barcoded
* * * * *
PER Flats--Nonbarcoded
* * * * *
PER Flats--Co-sacked Barcoded and Nonbarcoded
* * * * *
PER Flats--Merged Carrier Route, Barcoded, and
Nonbarcoded
merged 5-digit sacks....................... 339 PER FLTS CR/5D.
merged 5-digit scheme sacks................ 349 PER FLTS CR/5D SCH.
FSS scheme................................. 707 PER FLTS 5D FSS SCH BC.
FSS facility............................... 703 PER FLTS 5D FSS FAC BC.
merged 3-digit sacks....................... 352 PER FLTS CR/5D/3D.
PER Irregular Parcels--Merged Carrier Route and
Presorted
* * * * *
PER Irregular Parcels--Carrier Route
* * * * *
PER Irregular Parcels--Presorted
* * * * *
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PERIODICALS (NEWS)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NEWS Letters--Carrier Route
* * * * *
NEWS Letters--Barcoded (Automation)
* * * * *
NEWS Letters--Nonbarcoded (Nonautomation)
* * * * *
NEWS Flats--Carrier Route
* * * * *
NEWS Flats--Barcoded
* * * * *
NEWS Flats--Nonbarcoded
* * * * *
NEWS Flats--Co-sacked Barcoded and Nonbarcoded
* * * * *
NEWS Flats--Merged Carrier Route, Barcoded, and
Nonbarcoded
merged 5-digit................................. 439 NEWS FLTS CR/5D.
merged 5-digit scheme.......................... 449 NEWS FLTS CR/5D SCH.
FSS scheme..................................... 708 NEWS FLTS 5D FSS SCH BC.
FSS facility................................... 704 NEWS FLTS 5D FSS FAC BC.
merged 3-digit sacks........................... 452 NEWS FLTS CR/5D/3D.
NEWS Irregular Parcels--Merged Carrier Route
and Presorted
* * * * *
NEWS Irregular Parcels--Carrier Route
* * * * *
NEWS Irregular Parcels--Presorted
[[Page 6613]]
* * * * *
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STANDARD MAIL
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ECR Letters--Barcoded
* * * * *
ECR Letters--Nonautomation (Machinable)
* * * * *
ECR Letters--Nonautomation (Nonmachinable)
* * * * *
STD Letters--Automation
* * * * *
STD Letters--Nonautomation Machinable
* * * * *
STD Letters--Presorted Nonmachinable
* * * * *
STD Letters--Residual Pieces Subject to FCM
Single-Piece Prices
* * * * *
Enhanced Carrier Route Flats--Nonautomation
* * * * *
STD Flats--Co-sacked Automation and
Nonautomation
* * * * *
STD Flats--Merged Carrier Route, Automation,
and Presorted
merged 5-digit............................. 539 STD FLTS CR/5D.
merged 5-digit scheme...................... 549 STD FLTS CR/5D SCH.
FSS scheme................................. 709 STD FLTS 5D FSS SCH BC.
FSS facility............................... 705 STD FLTS 5D FSS FAC BC.
STD Flats--Automation
* * * * *
STD Flats--Nonautomation
* * * * *
STD Flats--Residual Pieces Subject to FCM
Single-Piece Prices
* * * * *
Customized MarketMail (CMM)
* * * * *
ECR Marketing Parcels
* * * * *
STD Marketing Parcels less than 6 oz. and
Irregular Parcels
* * * * *
STD Marketing Parcels 6 oz. or more and
Machinable Parcels
* * * * *
STD Machinable and Irregular Parcels--Presorted
* * * * *
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PACKAGE SERVICES
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carrier Route BPM--Flats
* * * * *
Presorted BPM--Flats
* * * * *
Presorted BPM--Automation Flats
[[Page 6614]]
* * * * *
BPM Flats--Co-sacked Barcoded and Presorted
5-digit scheme sacks....................... 648 PSVC FLTS 5D SCH BC/NBC.
FSS scheme................................. 710 PSVC FLTS 5D FSS SCH BC.
FSS facility............................... 706 PSVC FLTS 5D FSS FAC BC.
5-digit sacks.................................. 648 PSVC FLTS 5D BC/NBC.
3-digit sacks.................................. 661 PSVC FLTS 3D BC/NBC.
SCF sacks...................................... 667 PSVC FLTS SCF BC/NBC.
ADC sacks...................................... 668 PSVC FLTS ADC BC/NBC.
mixed ADC sacks................................ 669 PSVC FLTS BC/NBC WKG.
Carrier Route BPM--Irregular Parcels
* * * * *
Presorted BPM--Irregular Parcels
* * * * *
Carrier Route BPM--Machinable Parcels
* * * * *
Presorted BPM--Machinable Parcels
* * * * *
[Revise the following heading under PACKAGE
SERVICES to read as follows:]
Media Mail and Library Mail Flats--Presorted
* * * * *
[Revise the following heading under PACKAGE
SERVICES to read as follows:]
Media Mail and Library Mail Irregular Parcels--
Presorted
* * * * *
Media Mail and Library Mail Machinable Parcels--
Presorted
* * * * *
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PARCEL SELECT
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Parcel Select Machinable Parcels
* * * * *
Parcel Select DSCF and DDU Prices
* * * * *
Parcel Select--Irregular (Nonmachinable)
Parcels
* * * * *
Parcel Select Lightweight Machinable Parcels
* * * * *
Parcel Select Lightweight Irregular Parcels
* * * * *
Combined Package Services and Parcel Select
Parcels
* * * * *
Combined Package Services, Parcel Select, and
Standard Machinable Parcels
* * * * *
Combined Package Services, Parcel Select, and
Standard--All Parcels
* * * * *
Combined Package Services, Parcel Select, and
Standard--Irregular Parcels 2 up to 6 oz. (APPS-
machinable)
* * * * *
Combined PSVC & STD--Irregular Parcels less
than 2 oz., and tubes and rolls (not APPS-
machinable)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 6615]]
* * * * *
We will publish an appropriate amendment to 39 CFR part 111 to
reflect these changes if our proposal is adopted.
* * * * *
Stanley F. Mires,
Attorney, Federal Requirements.
[FR Doc. 2015-01851 Filed 2-4-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P
