Standards Governing the Design of Curbside Mailboxes, 48702-48718 [2015-20033]

Agencies

• Postal Service

[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 157 (Friday, August 14, 2015)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 48702-48718]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-20033]


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POSTAL SERVICE

39 CFR Part 111


Standards Governing the Design of Curbside Mailboxes

AGENCY: Postal ServiceTM.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The Postal Service is replacing USPS STD 7B, which governs the 
design of curbside mailboxes, with

[[Page 48703]]

new USPS STD 7C. The new STD 7C was developed internally to meet the 
operational requirements of the Postal Service.

DATES: Effective: September 14, 2015.

ADDRESSES: Written inquiries regarding the new standards should be 
mailed to U.S. Postal Service, Delivery Operations ATTN: Vanessa 
Lawrence, 475 L'Enfant Plaza, Room 7142, Washington, DC 20260-7142.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vanessa Lawrence, 
(deliveryoperations@usps.gov), (202) 268-2567.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Overview

    On April 14, 2015, at 80 FR 19914, the U.S. Postal Service proposed 
to adopt a new USPS STD 7C, to replace USPS STD 7B which currently 
governs the design of city and rural curbside mailboxes. Pursuant to 
the Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic 
Mail Manual (DMM[supreg]) 508.3.2.1, USPS STD 7 applies to mailboxes 
manufactured to be erected at the edge of a roadway or curbside of a 
street and to be served by a carrier from a vehicle on any city route, 
rural route, or highway contract route. Copies of USPS STD 7, or other 
information about the manufacture of curbside boxes may be obtained 
from USPS Engineering, 8403 Lee Highway, Merrifield, VA 22082-8101 (see 
DMM 608.8.0). We proposed this action because the current standard, 
effective February 8, 2001 (66 FR 9509-9522), prescribes designs that 
in several respects are no longer ideal for the operational 
requirements of the Postal Service. As detailed in our proposal, the 
design and performance requirements for new versions of both locking 
and non-locking curbside mailboxes were included in the proposed USPS 
STD 7C. As proposed, the new STD 7C most notably:
     Provided design parameters for a new version of locked and 
non-locked mailbox designs that can accommodate the insertion and 
removal of a test gauge measuring 7 inches high by 13 inches wide by 16 
inches deep.
     To thwart quick-strike attacks, introduced the requirement 
that the new locked mailbox designs must pass a 3-minute physical 
security test of the customer access door (using commonly available 
hand and pry tools) and a 3-minute manual test to ensure that no mail 
item can be removed through the front carrier access door.
     Reaffirmed the prohibition of any style of locks, locking 
devices, or inserts that require the carrier to use a key or restrict 
or reduce the interior opening of the mailbox, once the front door has 
been fully opened for any approved non-locked curbside mailbox. (To 
assure the effectiveness of the new minimum parcel capacity requirement 
under USPS STD 7C, internal obstructions that prevent this requirement 
from being met would result in a suspension of service when the 
situation is identified.)
     Introduced minimal door catch and signal flag force tests 
to ensure those components meet prescribed limits.
     Updated the provisions regarding Application Requirements 
and Approval or Disapproval to establish a new 180-day time limit for 
the submission of a mailbox for security testing (if applicable), and 
final review after the manufacturer has received approval of a design 
upon preliminary review.
     Provided updated quality requirements in a new section 
exclusively concerned with Quality Management System Provisions.
     Introduced provisions concerning the use of both USPS and 
third-party intellectual property, including the requirement that 
manufacturers agree not to use USPS marks without USPS approval, have 
sole responsibility for acquiring all necessary licenses for the use of 
third-party intellectual property, and bear all liability concerning 
the use of third-party intellectual property regarding any USPS 
approved mailboxes.
    We believe that instituting these mailbox design options will allow 
for improvement in the Postal Service's capacity for this mode of 
delivery as vendors choose to produce these curbside mailboxes, and the 
mailboxes come into widespread use.
    As a further matter, we note that the addition of these new design 
options would not have any impact on any currently approved USPS STD 7B 
product. Any mailbox manufacturer wishing to seek approval for either 
or both of the new locked and non-locked design options introduced by 
USPS STD 7C would follow the process detailed in the new standard.

Comments and Analysis

    We received comments from two firms involved in the manufacture of 
mailboxes. One set of comments focused on the security tests proposed 
for the new locked, large-capacity designs. The other set of comments 
covered a broader range of topics, including the timeframe established 
for the mailbox review process, the number and type of drawings 
required to accompany a mailbox submitted for approval, certain 
unintentional errors in the mailbox design figures, the dimensions and 
color of the mailbox flag, the design and dimensions of the slot for 
locked mailbox designs, and the need to provide information regarding 
how to obtain permission for the use of proprietary USPS marks. Our 
response to these comments is as follows.

Security Tests

    With regard to the security testing requirements for locked, large 
capacity mailboxes set forth in section 4.12 of the proposed standard, 
one set of comments suggested that we should further standardize the 
testing process by providing a specific list of ``pry tools, defined 
even by specific brands and model available in the marketplace,'' to be 
used in the tests. We declined to accept this suggestion, in the belief 
that the current, more generic description of ``tools such as 
screwdrivers, flat plates, knives, pry bars, vise grips, pliers, 
chisels, and punches'' was adequate for testing purposes.
    The same set of comments also suggested that the maximum length of 
pry tools used for testing should be reduced from 18 inches to reflect 
the more typical dimensions of such instruments (as well as establish a 
more reasonable balance between security and cost), and that the manual 
test for removal of items through an opened carrier access door should 
specify that no tools were to be used. These suggestions were accepted. 
The maximum length of pry tools for testing purposes was reduced to 12 
inches, and it is specified that no tools were to be used in the manual 
test.

Mailbox Review Process

    The second set of comments questioned certain aspects of the 
mailbox review process in section 6.1 of the proposed standard, 
including the 180-day time limit for submitting a mailbox for final 
review after receiving preliminary approval, and the requirement that 
two paper drawing sets be provided. These comments addressed the 
timeframe required to move from a conceptual design to a production 
unit that can be released for tooling, as well as complete the third-
party testing process. The comments also questioned the reliance on 2-D 
paper drawings, in view of the growing reliance on 3-D electronic 
drawings for the manufacturing process. These suggestions were 
accepted. The 180-day time limit was extended to one year, and the 
requirement for two paper drawings has been replaced by a requirement 
for one paper drawing set and one electronic drawing set.

Mailbox Design Figures

    This set of comments also questioned the width of the mailbox door 
handles

[[Page 48704]]

shown in design Figure 5 of the proposed standards, and suggested that 
they reflected a change from the current standards of USPS STD 7B. No 
such dimensional changes were intended, and Figure 5 has been reworked 
accordingly.

Mailbox Flag Requirements

    These comments also suggested the need for clarification of the 
requirements concerning the flag dimension for traditional mailboxes in 
Figure 1A, and more specificity regarding the requirement in section 
3.9 that the color of the flag present a ``clear contrast'' with the 
predominant color of the mailbox. These suggestions were not accepted. 
We believe that such changes to longstanding requirements for boxes 
already approved under former STD 7B would not be appropriate in this 
context.

Mailbox Slot Requirements

    These comments further questioned the requirement in section 
3.1.2.1 that the slot for a locked mailbox measure at least 1.75 inches 
high by 10 inches wide, suggesting that other shapes (such as a 
modified trapezoid) that allowed the insertion of the test gauges 
should be acceptable. This change was not accepted. We believe that the 
dimensions as proposed will facilitate the delivery of mail to the new 
boxes by simplifying the carrier's task.

Intellectual Property

    With regard to the rules concerning the use of intellectual 
property in section 3.14 of the proposed standard, these comments also 
inquired how a manufacturer might obtain a ``license'' to use USPS 
marks. In response, we have included the online address of the Postal 
Service's Rights and Permissions information in a footnote to that 
section.
    For these reasons, the Postal Service has determined to replace 
USPS STD 7B with USPS STD 7C as set forth in the Appendix to this 
document.

List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111

    Administrative practice and procedure, Postal Service.

Stanley F. Mires,
Attorney, Federal Compliance.

    The Postal Service adopts the following changes to Mailing 
Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual 
(DMM), incorporated by reference in the Code of Federal Regulations. 
See 39 CFR 111.1. Accordingly, for the reasons stated in the preamble, 
39 CFR part 111 is amended as follows:

PART 111--[AMENDED]

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

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


0
2. Remove U.S. Postal Service Standard 7B and add U.S. Postal Service 
Standard 7C in its place to read as follows:

Appendix

U.S. Postal Service Standard 7C

Mailboxes, Curbside

(USPS STD 7C)

1. Scope and Classification

    1.1 Scope--This standard covers all curbside mailboxes. Curbside 
mailboxes are defined as any design made to be served by a carrier 
from a vehicle on any city, rural, or highway contract route. This 
standard is not applicable to mailboxes intended for door delivery 
service (see 8.1).
    1.2 Classifications--Based on their design, curbside mailboxes 
are classified as either:
     Non-Locked Mailboxes:
    T--Traditional--Full or Limited Service (see 3.1.1, 3.1.1.1, and 
Figure 1A).
    C--Contemporary--Full or Limited Service (see 3.1.1 and 
3.1.1.2).
    LC--Large Capacity--Full or Limited Service (see 3.1.1, 3.1.1.3, 
and Figure 1B).
     Locked Mailboxes:
    LMS--Locked, Mail Slot Design--Full or Limited Service (see 
3.1.2, 3.1.2.1, and Figures 2A and 2B).
    LLC--Locked, Large Capacity/USPS Security Tested--Full or 
Limited Service (see 3.1.2, 3.1.2.2, and Figure 3).
    1.3 Approved Models
    1.3.1 Approved Models--A list of manufacturers whose mailboxes 
have been approved by the United States Postal Service (USPS) will 
be published annually in the Postal Bulletin. A copy of the most 
current list of approved models is also available from the office 
listed in 1.3.2.
    1.3.2 Interested Manufacturers-- Manufacturing standards and 
current information about the manufacture of curbside mailboxes may 
be obtained by writing to:

USPS ENGINEERING SYSTEMS, DELIVERY AND RETAIL TECHNOLOGY, 8403 LEE 
HIGHWAY, MERRIFIELD, VA 22082-8101.

2. Applicable Documents

    2.1 Specifications and Standards--Except where specifically 
noted, the specifications set forth herein apply to all curbside 
mailbox designs.
    2.2 Government Document--The following document of the latest 
issue is incorporated by reference as part of this standard: United 
States Postal Service Postal Operations Manual (POM).
    Copies of the applicable sections of the POM can be obtained 
from USPS Delivery and Retail, 475 L'Enfant Plaza SW., Washington, 
DC 20260-6200.
    2.3 Non-Government Documents--The following documents of the 
latest issue are incorporated by reference as part of this standard:

American Standards for Testing Materials (ASTM)
     ASTM G85 Standard Practice for Modified Salt Spray 
(Fog) Testing
     ASTM D968 Standard Test Methods for Abrasion Resistance 
of Organic Coatings by Falling Abrasive

Copies of the ASTM documents can be obtained from the American 
Society for Testing and Materials, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West 
Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.
Underwriters Laboratories (UL)
     UL 771 Night Depositories (Rain Test Only)

Copies of the UL document can be obtained from Underwriters 
Laboratories Inc., 333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 60062-2096.

3. Requirements

    3.1 General Design--Mailboxes must meet regulations and 
requirements as stipulated by USPS collection and delivery, 
operation, and policy (see 2.2). This includes carrier door 
operation (see 3.3), flag operation (see 3.6), incoming mail 
openings and the retrieval of outgoing mail (see below in 3.1). The 
manufacturer determines the opening style, design, and size; 
however, the carrier must be able to deposit the customer's mail. 
Outgoing mail for full service designs must be able to be pulled 
straight out of the mailbox without interference from protrusions, 
hardware, etc. Mailboxes must be capable of passing the applicable 
testing requirements (see Section 4). Mailboxes must not be made of 
any transparent, toxic, or flammable material (see 3.2). The mailbox 
must protect mail from potential water damage which may result from 
wet weather conditions (see 4.4). Any advertising on a mailbox or 
its support is prohibited. Additional specific requirements follow.
    3.1.1 Non-Locked Designs (Limited and Full Service)--Mailbox 
designs that conform to any of the three design types specified in 
3.1.1 will be classified as non-locked with the appropriate sub-
designation. Designs incorporating a carrier signal flag (see 3.6) 
will be classified as full-service mailboxes. Designs with no flag 
will be classified as limited service (see 3.11). As specified in 
3.4, a rear door is permitted to enable the customer to remove mail 
without standing in the street. The use of any ancillary items 
(i.e., locks, locking devices, or inserts) that either require the 
carrier to use a key to gain access to a non-locked mailbox or that 
restrict or reduce the interior opening of the mailbox, once the 
front door has been fully opened, is prohibited. There is no local 
Postmaster approval exception for this prohibition.
    3.1.1.1 Traditional Designs (Limited and Full Service)--Mailbox 
designs that conform to Figure 1A and meet the limited capacity 
requirements specified in 4.2.1 will be classified as Traditional 
(T).
    3.1.1.2 Contemporary Designs (Limited and Full Service)--Mailbox 
designs that do not conform to the dome-rectangular shape of 
Traditional designs but meet the limited

[[Page 48705]]

capacity requirements specified in 4.2.1, while not exceeding the 
maximum dimensions of Figure 1A, will be classified as Contemporary 
(C).
    3.1.1.3 Large Capacity Designs (Limited and Full Service)--
Mailbox designs that conform to Figure 1B and meet the expanded 
capacity requirements specified in 4.2.2 will be classified as Large 
Capacity (LC).
    3.1.2 Locked Designs--Mailbox designs that conform to either of 
the two design types specified in 3.1.2 will be classified as Locked 
with the appropriate sub-designation.
    3.1.2.1 Locked, Mail Slot Designs (Limited and Full Service)--
Mailbox designs that conform to either Figure 2A or 2B and meet the 
limited-capacity requirements specified in 4.2.1 will be classified 
as Locked, Mail Slot Design (LMS). This locking design option 
provides non-USPS-tested security for the customer's incoming mail. 
Although the shape and design are less restrictive, these Locked 
mailbox designs must meet the same applicable functional 
requirements. Designs having a slot for incoming mail must be at 
least 1.75 inches high by 10 inches wide. If a slot has a protective 
flap, it must operate inward to ensure mail can be inserted in a 
horizontal manner without requiring any additional effort by the 
carriers (see Figure 2B). The slot must be positioned on the front 
side of the mailbox facing the street. In addition, the slot must be 
clearly visible and directly accessible by mail carriers. Any 
designs that allow for outgoing mail must meet all applicable 
requirements of this standard.
    3.1.2.1.1 Full Service--Locked mailbox designs of this class 
allow for both incoming and outgoing mail as depicted in Figure 2A. 
Both incoming and outgoing mail functionality must be located behind 
a single carrier service door as shown in Figure 2A. While it is 
preferred \1\ that the outgoing mail function be handled via use of 
the backside of the front door, any alternate use of a separate 
outgoing mail compartment, such as beneath or side-by-side with the 
incoming mail compartment, is permitted provided that no additional 
carrier service is introduced. All designs must allow the carrier 
direct access to grasp and retrieve the outgoing mail.
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    \1\ The term `preferred' as used throughout this document in 
conjunction with any requirement implies that compliance is desired 
but not mandatory.
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    3.1.2.1.2 Limited Service--Locked mailbox designs of this class 
allow only for incoming mail as shown in Figure 2B.
    3.1.2.2 Locked, Large Capacity/USPS-Security-Tested Designs 
(Limited and Full Service)--Mailbox designs that conform to Figure 3 
and meet both the expanded capacity requirements specified in 4.2.2 
and security testing specified in 4.12 will be classified as Locked, 
Large Capacity/USPS-Security-Tested (LLC).
    3.1.2.2.1 Full Service--Locked mailbox designs of this class 
allow for both incoming and outgoing mail as depicted in Figure 3. 
Both incoming and outgoing mail functionality must be located behind 
a single carrier service door as shown in Figure 3. While it is 
preferred \1\ that the outgoing mail function be handled via use of 
the backside of the front door, any alternate use of a separate 
outgoing mail compartment, such as beneath or side-by-side with the 
incoming mail compartment, is permitted provided that no additional 
carrier service is introduced. All designs must allow the carrier 
direct access to grasp and retrieve the outgoing mail.
    3.1.2.2.2 Limited Service--Locked mailbox designs of this class 
allow only for incoming mail. Refer to the two Locked mailbox 
feature exceptions linked to Note 10 of Figure 3.
    3.1.3 Mailbox Accessories--Decorative art and devices can be 
attached to the exterior of approved mailbox designs, provided they 
do not interfere with mail delivery or present a safety hazard. 
Devices can also be mounted in the interior of approved mailboxes, 
provided they do not cause the intended mailbox to fail either 
capacity test described in 4.2, and do not interfere with mail 
delivery or present a safety hazard. Any advertising on a mailbox or 
its support is prohibited. Unrestricted spring-loaded devices and 
designs are prohibited. Auxiliary flags or devices used to signal 
the customer that the mail has arrived must operate automatically 
without requiring additional carrier effort.
    3.2 Materials--Ferrous or nonferrous metal, wood (restrictions 
apply), plastic, or other materials may be used, as long as their 
thickness, form, mechanical properties, and chemical properties 
adequately meet the operational, structural, and performance 
requirements set forth in this standard. Materials used must not be 
toxic, flammable or transparent.
    3.2.1 Mailbox Floor--The entire bottom area of all mailboxes, 
where mail would rest, must be fabricated to prevent mail from 
damage due to condensation or moisture. Except for the internal mail 
compartment of locked style mailboxes, all designs must not present 
a lip or protrusion that would prevent the mail from being inserted 
or pulled straight out of the mailbox. The surface of the floor 
cannot be made of wood material. The floor must be ribbed as shown 
in Figures 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B, and 3, or dimpled, embossed, or otherwise 
fabricated provided the resulting surface area (touching mail) does 
not exceed the boundary of a square with sides of 0.25 inch (per 
dimple or impression) and is a minimum of 0.12 inch high on centers 
not exceeding 1 inch. A mat insert having a raised surface contour 
may be used for the internal mail compartment of locked style 
mailboxes only (see Figures 2A, 2B, and 3).
    3.2.2 Carrier Signal Flag--The carrier signal flag cannot be 
made of wood. Plastic is the preferred material.
    3.2.3 Door Handle--The door handle cannot be made of wood. 
Plastic is the preferred material.
    3.3 Carrier Service Door -There must be only one carrier service 
door that must provide access for mail delivery and collection at 
the unit and meet USPS delivery operational requirements (see 2.2). 
The door must meet the applicable testing requirements specified in 
4.3. The carrier service door must operate freely and solely by 
pulling outward and downward with a convenient handle or knob. The 
design of the door, including hinges and handles must provide 
protection against wind, rain, sleet, or snow (see 4.4). Door 
latches must hold the door closed but allow easy opening and closing 
requiring no more than 5 pounds of force. The action of the latch 
must be a positive mechanical one not relying solely on friction of 
the hinge parts. The door must not be spring-loaded. Magnetic 
latches are acceptable provided adequate closure power is maintained 
during ambient conditions specified in 4.7 and applicable testing 
described in Section 4. It is preferred that by either tactile 
sensation or sound (i.e., a snap or click) carriers are alerted that 
the door is properly shut. The door, once opened, must remain in the 
open position until the carrier pushes it closed. The door must 
rotate a minimum of 100 degrees when opened and it is preferred that 
the maximum rotation be limited to 120 degrees or less. When in a 
fully opened and rest position, the opening angle of the door cannot 
measure more than 180 degrees. No protrusions other than the handle 
or knob, door catch, alternate flag design, decorative features or 
markings are permitted on the carrier service door. Protrusions of 
any kind that reduce the usable volume within the mailbox when 
closed are not acceptable. See 3.1.2 for carrier service door 
requirements for Locked mailbox designs.
    3.3.1 Handle or Knob--The handle or knob must have adequate 
accessibility to permit quickly grasping and pulling it with one 
hand (with or without gloves) to open the door. The handle or knob 
must be located within the top 1/3 of the door. Various acceptable 
handle and knob designs with required dimensions are depicted in 
Figure 5. Other designs may be acceptable provided they allow enough 
finger clearance and surface area for carriers to grasp.
    3.4 Rear Doors--Both locking and non-locking mailbox designs may 
have rear doors.
    3.4.1 Non-Locking Mailbox Designs--These mailbox designs may 
have a rear door, provided that it does not interfere with the 
normal delivery and collection operation provided by the carrier, 
require the carrier to perform any unusual operations, or prevent 
the applicable capacity test gauge from fully inserting. The rear 
door must not be susceptible to being forced open as a result of 
large mail items such as newspapers and parcels being inserted 
through the carrier service door. The rear door must meet the 
applicable testing requirements specified in 4.
    3.4.2 Locking Mailbox Designs--These designs must have a 
customer access door that may be located as shown in Figures 2A, 2B, 
and 3 on the rear wall of the mailbox. However, for locking mailbox 
designs, the customer access door may be located on a side wall. For 
locking designs submitted for approval under 3.1.2.2, this door must 
be subject to the security test requirement in 4.12.
    3.5 Locks--Locked mailbox designs, which are submitted for 
approval under 3.1.2.2, must meet the security test requirements of 
4.12 to ensure that incoming mail is accessible only by the customer 
to the

[[Page 48706]]

performance level required. The use of locks on all non-locked 
mailbox designs is prohibited. Manufacturers must include the 
following statement in their instructions to customers:

IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT IT IS NOT THE RESPONSIBILITY OF MAIL 
CARRIERS TO OPEN MAILBOXES THAT ARE LOCKED, ACCEPT KEYS FOR THIS 
PURPOSE, OR LOCK MAILBOXES AFTER DELIVERY OF THE MAIL.

    3.6 Carrier Signal Flag--Non-locked and locked mailbox designs 
classified as Full Service must have a carrier signal flag. While it 
is preferred that the flag design be one of the approved concepts 
depicted in Figures 1A, 1B, 2A, 3, and 4, alternates will be 
considered for approval if all other dimensional and test 
requirements are otherwise met. As shown in each figure, the flag 
must be mounted on the right side when facing the mailbox from the 
front. The flag must not require a lift of more than 2 pounds of 
force to retract. Additionally, when actuated (signaling outgoing 
mail), the flag must remain in position until retracted by the 
carrier. The color of the flag must be in accordance with the 
requirements described in 3.9. The operating mechanism of the flag 
must not require lubrication and must continue to operate properly 
and positively (without binding or excessive free play) after being 
subjected to the test described in Section 4. Optionally, the flag 
may incorporate a self-lowering feature that causes it to 
automatically retract when the carrier service door is opened 
provided no additional effort is required of the carrier. The self-
lowering feature cannot present protrusions or attachments and must 
not interfere with delivery operations in any manner or present 
hazardous features as specified in 3.1.
    3.7 Marking--The mailbox must bear two inscriptions on the 
carrier service door: ``U.S. MAIL'' in a minimum of 0.50 inch-high 
letters and ``Approved By The Postmaster General'' in a minimum of 
0.18 inch-high letters. These inscriptions may be positioned beneath 
the incoming mail slot for Limited Service Locked (Mail Slot Design) 
mailboxes as shown in Figure 2B. Markings must be permanent and may 
be accomplished by applying a decal, embossing on sheet metal, 
raised lettering on plastic, engraving on wood or other methods that 
are suitable for that particular unit. The manufacturer's name, 
address, date of manufacture (month and year), and model number or 
nomenclature must be legible and permanently marked or affixed on a 
panel (rear, backside of door, bottom or side interior near the 
carrier service door) of the mailbox that is readily accessible and 
not obscured.
    3.7.1 Modified Mailbox Marking--Mailboxes that use previously 
approved units in their design must include marking stating the new 
manufacturer's name address, date of manufacture, and model 
nomenclature in a permanent fashion and location as described in 
3.7. Additionally, the ``U.S. MAIL'' and ``Approved By The 
Postmaster General'' marking must be reapplied if it is obscured or 
obliterated by the new design.
    3.8 Coatings and Finishes--The choice of coatings and finishes 
is optional, provided all requirements of this standard are met. All 
coatings and finishes must be free from flaking, peeling, cracking, 
crazing, blushing, and powdery surfaces. Coatings and finishes must 
be compatible with the mailbox materials. Except for small 
decorative accents, mirror-like coatings or finishes are prohibited. 
The coating or finish must meet the applicable testing requirements 
described in 4.6.
    3.9 Color--The color of the mailbox and flag must be in 
accordance with the requirements stated in 3.9. The mailbox may be 
any color. The carrier signal flag can be any color except any shade 
of green, brown, white, yellow or blue. The preferred flag color is 
fluorescent orange. Also, the flag color must present a clear 
contrast with predominant color of the mailbox.
    3.10 Mounting--The mailbox must be provided with means for 
convenient and locked mounting that meets all applicable 
requirements. The manufacturer may offer various types of mounting 
accessories, such as a bracket, post or stand. Although the Postal 
Service does not regulate the design of mounting accessories, no 
part of the mounting accessory is permitted to project beyond the 
front of the mounted mailbox. Mounting accessories must not 
interfere with delivery operations as described in 3.1.3 or present 
hazardous features as described in 3.13. See Section 8 for 
additional important information.
    3.11 Instructions and Product Information
    3.11.1 Assembly and Installation--A complete set of instructions 
for assembling and mounting the mailbox must be furnished with each 
unit. The instructions must include the following conspicuous 
message:

CUSTOMERS ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE LOCAL POST OFFICE BEFORE 
INSTALLING THE MAILBOX TO ENSURE ITS CORRECT PLACEMENT AND HEIGHT AT 
THE STREET. GENERALLY, MAILBOXES ARE INSTALLED AT A HEIGHT OF 41-45 
INCHES FROM THE ROAD SURFACE TO EITHER THE INSIDE SURFACE OF THE 
MAILBOX THAT THE MAIL IS PLACED ON BY THE CARRIER OR TO THE LOWEST 
EDGE OF MAIL ENTRY (FOR LOCKED MAIL SLOT DESIGNS) AND ARE SET BACK 
6-8 INCHES FROM THE FRONT FACE OF CURB OR ROAD EDGE TO THE MAILBOX 
DOOR.

    3.11.2 Limited Service Mailboxes--The following conspicuous note 
must be included with each mailbox:

THIS IS A LIMITED SERVICE MAILBOX (WITHOUT FLAG) AND IT IS INTENDED 
ONLY FOR CUSTOMERS WHO DO NOT WANT POSTAL CARRIERS TO PICK UP THEIR 
OUTGOING MAIL. UNLESS POSTAL CARRIERS HAVE MAIL TO DELIVER, THEY 
WILL NOT STOP AT LIMITED SERVICE MAILBOXES.

    3.12 Newspaper Receptacles--A receptacle for the delivery of 
newspapers may be attached to the post of a curbside mailbox 
provided no part of the receptacle interferes with the delivery of 
mail, obstructs the view of the flag, or presents a hazard to the 
carrier or the carrier's vehicle. The receptacle must not extend 
beyond the front of the box when the door is closed. No advertising 
may be displayed on the outside of the receptacle, except the name 
of the publication. If the mailbox design does not require a post, a 
separate mounting arrangement must be made.
    3.13 Workmanship--The mailbox must be properly assembled and 
utilize the best commercial practice workmanship standards in the 
fabrication of all components and assemblies. All movable parts must 
fit and operate properly with no unintended catch or binding points. 
The unit must be free from harmful projections or other hazardous 
devices. The unit must not have any sharp edges, sharp corners, 
burrs or other features (on any surfaces) that may be hazardous to 
carriers or customers, or that may interfere with delivery 
operations as described in 3.1.
    3.14 Intellectual Property--Under no circumstances does the 
Postal Service intend that manufacturers use third-party 
intellectual property without an appropriate license agreement 
between the manufacturer and the third party at issue. The 
manufacturer is solely responsible for obtaining any necessary 
licenses and is solely responsible for any liability incurred in 
connection with any intellectual property infringement allegations 
concerning devices that the USPS reviews and approves. The 
manufacturer agrees not to use any USPS marks, including but not 
limited to APPROVED BY THE POSTMASTER GENERAL or USPS-APPROVED, 
without prior USPS approval and a license from the USPS.\2\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \2\ For additional information concerning the use of USPS marks 
or intellectual property, see: https://about.usps.com/doing-business/rights-permissions/welcome.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

4. Testing Requirements

    4.1 Testing Requirements--Mailboxes will be subjected to all 
applicable testing described herein (specific requirements follow). 
A mailbox that fails to pass any test will be rejected. Testing will 
be conducted in sequence as listed herein and in Table III.
    4.2 Capacity--Non-locked and locked designs must meet the 
applicable minimum capacity requirements as tested by insertion and 
removal of a test gauge or appropriate mail test items as specified 
in 4.2.1 and 4.2.2.
    4.2.1 Capacity (Limited Capacity Test Gauge)--Traditional and 
Contemporary designs, submitted for approval under 3.1.1.1 and 
3.1.1.2, must meet minimum capacity requirements tested by insertion 
and removal of a standard test gauge which measures 18.50 inches 
long x 5.00 inches wide x 6.00 inches high. The test gauge is 
inserted with its 6-inch dimension aligned in the vertical axis 
(perpendicular to the mailbox floor). The gauge must be capable of 
easy insertion and removal; and while inserted, allow for all doors 
to be completely closed without interference.
    The capacity of Locked designs, submitted for approval under 
3.1.2.1, which have slots, chutes or similar features, will be 
tested and approved based upon whether standard USPS mail sizes (see 
Table I) can be easily inserted through the mail slot or opening. 
Retrieval of this mail from the locked compartment must be equally 
as easy.

[[Page 48707]]



                         Table I--Standard Mail
                            [Locked designs]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                         Size  (L x H x
                     Description                         Thk)  (inches)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Express & Priority Mail Envelopes....................   12\1/2\ x 9\1/2\
                                                                 x \1/2\
Priority Mail Box....................................  8\5/8\ x 5\3/8\ x
                                                                  1\5/8\
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    4.2.2 Capacity (Expanded Capacity Test Gauge)--Non-Locked and 
Locked designs, submitted for approval to either 3.1.1.3 or 3.1.2.2, 
must meet minimum capacity requirements tested by insertion and 
removal of a standard test gauge which measures 16.00 inches long x 
13.00 inches wide x 7.00 inches high. The test gauge is inserted 
with its 7-inch dimension aligned in the vertical axis 
(perpendicular to the mailbox floor). The gauge must be capable of 
easy insertion and removal; and while inserted, allow for all doors 
to be completely closed without interference. The capacity of Locked 
designs must also meet this capacity test requirement; however, any 
dimension may be aligned in the vertical axis. Retrieval of the test 
gauge from the locked compartment must be equally as easy.
    4.3 Operational Requirements--Carrier service doors, auxiliary 
doors, door catches or mechanisms, carrier signal flags, and 
applicable accessory devices must be capable of operating 7,500 
normal operating cycles (1 cycle = open/close) at room temperature, 
continuously and correctly, without any failures such as breakage of 
parts. Testing may be performed either manually or by means of an 
automated mechanically driven test fixture which essentially mimics 
a manual operation. This test applies to all mailbox designs.
    4. Water-Tightness--A rain test in accordance with UL 771, 
section 47.7, must be performed to determine a mailbox's ability to 
protect mail from water. The rain test must be operated for a period 
of 15 minutes for each side. At the conclusion of the test, the 
outside of the unit is wiped dry and all doors are opened. The 
inside of the compartment must contain no water other than that 
produced by high moisture condensation. This test applies to all 
mailbox designs.
    4.5 Salt Spray Resistance--A salt spray test must be conducted 
in accordance with method A5 of ASTM G85, Standard Practice for 
Modified Salt Spray (Fog) Testing. The salt test must be operated 
for 25 continuous cycles with each cycle consisting of 1-hour fog 
and 1-hour dry-off. The mailbox must be tested in a finished 
condition, including all protective coating, paint, and mounting 
hardware and must be thoroughly washed when submitted to remove all 
oil, grease, and other nonpermanent coatings. No part of the mailbox 
may show finish corrosion, blistering or peeling, or other 
destructive reaction upon conclusion of test. Corrosion is defined 
as any form of property change such as rust, oxidation, color 
changes, perforation, accelerated erosion, or disintegration. The 
build-up of salt deposits upon the surface will not be cause for 
rejection. However, any corrosion, paint blistering, or paint 
peeling is cause for rejection. This test is primarily applicable to 
ferrous metal mailbox designs. The test is also valid for mailbox 
designs made of plastic, wood, or other materials that use any metal 
hardware.
    4.6 Abrasion Resistance--The mailbox's coating or finish must be 
tested for resistance to abrasion in accordance with method A of 
ASTM D968. The rate of sand flow must be 2 liters of sand in 22 
3 seconds. The mailbox will have failed the sand 
abrasion test if it requires less than 15 liters of sand to 
penetrate its coating, or if it requires less than 75 liters of sand 
to penetrate its plating. This test applies to metal mailbox designs 
only.
    4.7 Temperature Stress Test--The mailbox under test must be 
placed in a cold chamber at -65[emsp14][deg]F for 24 hours. The 
chamber must first be stabilized at the test temperature. After 
remaining in the -65[deg] environment for the 24-hour period, the 
unit must be quickly removed from the cold chamber into room ambient 
temperature and tested for normal operation. The removal from the 
chamber and the testing for normal operation must be accomplished in 
less than 3 minutes. The room ambient temperature must be between 
65[deg] and 75[emsp14][deg]F. Normal operation is defined as 
operation required and defined by this document. The unit under test 
must undergo a similar temperature test, as described above, at a 
temperature of 140[emsp14][deg]F. This test applies to all mailbox 
designs.
    4.8 Structural Rigidity Requirements--Forces of specified 
magnitude (see Table II) must be slowly applied at specific points 
on the mailbox under test (see Figure 6). These forces must be held 
for a minimum of 1 minute and then released. After their release, 
the deformation caused by the forces must be measured. If the 
deformation exceeds the limit specified in Table II, the mailbox 
under test has failed to meet the structural rigidity requirement. 
The doors must remain closed for test positions 1 through 6. The 
forces at positions 1 and 2 must be applied with the mailbox in its 
normal upright position, supported by a horizontal board. The forces 
at positions 3, 4, and 5 must be applied with the mailbox lying on 
its side (flag side down). The mailbox must be supported, on the 
flag side, by a flat board that is relieved in the immediate area of 
the flag mechanism. The force at position 6 (Non-Locked mailbox 
flags only) must be applied with the mailbox lying on its side (flag 
side up). This load may be applied as shown in Figure 5 or from the 
other direction. If visible cracks in the material develop as a 
result of the testing, the mailbox under test has failed to meet the 
structural rigidity requirement. At the conclusion of the Structural 
Rigidity testing, if the mailbox under test fails to operate 
normally, as defined by this document, the mailbox under test has 
failed to meet the structural rigidity requirement. This test 
applies to all mailbox designs.

                 Table II--Permanent Deformation Limits
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                 Deformation      Load
                   Position                       (inches)      (pounds)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1............................................           \1/8\        200
2............................................           \1/8\        200
3............................................           \1/8\         50
4............................................           \1/8\         50
5............................................           \1/8\        100
6............................................           \1/2\          2
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    4.9 Impact Test--Refer to Figure 6 for load positions. 
Precondition the mailbox for 4 hours at -20[emsp14][deg]F. The 
following testing must be performed within 3 minutes of removing the 
mailbox from the temperature chamber. At both load positions 3 and 
4, with the mailbox lying on its side (flag side down) with all 
doors closed, apply an impact load force generated by a 10-pound 
weight dropped from a height of 3 feet above the mailbox surface 
onto a bolster plate having a surface not larger than 2 inches by 6 
inches. The mailbox must be supported, on the underside, by a flat 
board that is relieved in the immediate area of the flag mechanism. 
If any noticeable perforation, occurrence of sharp edges, or 
cracking of the material (either inside or outside the mailbox) 
develops as a result of the impact, or if the door becomes 
inoperable or fails to close normally, the mailbox under test has 
failed to meet the impact resistance requirement. This test applies 
to all mailbox designs.
    4.10 Door Catch or Mechanism Test--Door catches and mechanisms 
must be tested to demonstrate that a force not greater than 5 pounds 
or less than 1 pound is required to open and close them (see 3.3). A 
force measurement device must be attached to the front door's knob 
or handle. The load must be applied slowly in a direction 
perpendicular to the plane of the door. The device must allow for 
the measured force limits to be recorded accurately.
    4.11 Carrier Signal Flag Test--The mailbox flag must be tested 
to demonstrate that a force not exceeding 2 pounds is required to 
deploy, extend, raise, or retract it. The load must be applied at 
the flag edge furthest from the hinged end or at the leading edge, 
if the flag retracts and extends. A force measurement device must be 
attached to the flag so as to apply the load and allow for it to be 
recorded accurately.
    4.12 Security Test (Locked, Large Capacity Designs)--Locked 
design mailboxes, submitted for 3.1.2.2 approval, must be tested as 
described below for resistance to tampering and unauthorized entry 
through the use of tools such as screwdrivers, flat plates, knives, 
pry bars, vise grips, pliers, chisels, and punches for a period not 
to exceed 3 minutes for each feature tested. Pry tools used for 
testing must not exceed 12 inches in length.
    4.12.1 Customer Access Door--Gaps and seams around the perimeter 
of the customer access door must be tested using pry tools listed in 
4.12 for a period not to exceed 3 minutes to ensure that access to 
the compartment cannot be gained within that period of time.
    4.12.2 Carrier Access Door--A manual test must be conducted for 
a period of 3

[[Page 48708]]

minutes to ensure that no customer mail items can be accessed and 
removed through an opened carrier access door within that period of 
time. No tools are to be used in the performance of this test.

5. Quality Management System Provisions

    5.1 Quality System--The approved source must ensure and be able 
to substantiate that manufactured units conform to requirements and 
match the approved design.
    5.2 Inspection--The USPS reserves the right to inspect units for 
conformance at any stage of manufacture. Inspection by the USPS does 
not relieve the approved source of the responsibility to provide 
conforming product. The USPS, may, at its discretion, revoke the 
approval status of any product that does not meet the requirements 
of this standard.
    5.3 System--The approved source must use a documented quality 
management system acceptable to the USPS. The USPS has the right to 
evaluate the acceptability and effectiveness of the approved 
source's quality management system prior to approval, and during 
tenure as an approved source. At a minimum, the quality management 
system must include controls and record keeping in the areas 
described in 5.3.1 through 5.3.8.
    5.3.1 Document Control--Documents used in the manufacture of 
product must be controlled. The control process for documents must 
ensure the following:
     Documents are identified, reviewed, and approved prior 
to use.
     Revision status is identified.
     Documents of external origin are identified and 
controlled.
    5.3.2 Supplier Oversight--The approved source must use a 
documented process that ensures the following:
     Material requirements and specifications are clearly 
described in procurement documents.
     Inspection or other verification methods are 
established and implemented for validation of purchased materials.
    5.3.3 Inspection and Testing--The approved source must monitor 
and verify that product characteristics match approved design. This 
activity must be carried out at appropriate stages of manufacture to 
ensure that only acceptable products are delivered.
    5.3.4 Control of Nonconforming Product--The control method and 
disposition process must be defined and ensure that any product or 
material that does not conform to the approved design is identified 
and controlled to prevent its unintended use or delivery.
    5.3.5 Control of Inspection, Measuring, and Test Equipment--The 
approved source must ensure that all equipment used to verify 
product conformance is controlled, identified, and calibrated at 
prescribed intervals traceable to nationally recognized standards in 
accordance with documented procedures.
    5.3.6 Corrective Action--The approved source must maintain a 
documented complaint process. This process must ensure that all 
complaints are reviewed and that appropriate action is taken to 
determine cause and prevent reoccurrence. Action must be taken in a 
timely manner and be based on the severity of the nonconformance. In 
addition to outlining the approved source's approach to quality, the 
documentation must specify the methodology used to accomplish the 
interlinked processes and describe how they are controlled. The 
approved source must submit its quality documentation to the Postal 
Service for review along with the preliminary design review.

NOTE: It is recognized that each approved source functions 
individually. Consequently, the quality system of each approved 
source may differ in the specific methods of accomplishment. It is 
not the intent of this standard to attempt to standardize these 
systems, but to present the basic functional concepts that when 
conscientiously implemented will provide assurance that the approved 
source's product meets the requirements and fully matches the 
approved design.

    5.3.7 Documentation Retention--All of the approved source's 
documentation pertaining to the approved product must be kept for a 
minimum of 3 years after shipment of product.
    5.3.8 Documentation Submittal--The approved source must submit a 
copy of its quality system documentation relevant to the manufacture 
of curbside mailboxes for review as requested during the approval 
process and tenure as an approved source.

6. Application Requirements

    6.1 Application Requirements--All correspondence and inquiries 
must be directed to the address in 1.3.2. The application process 
consists of the steps described in 6.1.1 through 6.1.3.4.
    6.1.1 Preliminary Review--Manufacturers must first satisfy 
requirements of a preliminary review prior to submitting samples of 
any sample mailboxes or accessories. The preliminary review consists 
of a review of the manufacturer's conceptual design drawings for 
each mailbox for which the manufacturer is seeking approval. 
Computer-generated drawings are preferred, but hand-drawn sketches 
are acceptable provided they adequately depict the overall shape and 
interior size of the proposed mailbox design. Drawings must also 
include details about the design of applicable features such as the 
carrier service door (including the mail drop design and mechanism, 
for locking mailboxes), latch, handle, flag, floor, and mail 
induction opening size. If drawings show that the proposed mailbox 
design appears likely to comply with the requirements of this 
standard, manufacturers will be notified in writing and may then 
continue with the application requirements described in 6.1.2. Do 
NOT submit any sample units to the USPS prior to complying with the 
requirements of 6.1.2. Notification that a manufacturer's drawings 
satisfy the requirements of the preliminary review does NOT 
constitute USPS approval of a design and must NOT be relied upon as 
an assurance that a design will ultimately be approved.
    6.1.2 Independent Lab Testing--Upon receiving written 
notification from the USPS that a submitted design satisfies 
requirements of the preliminary review, manufacturers must, at their 
own expense, submit one representative sample of their mailbox or 
accessory for which the vendor seeks USPS approval to an independent 
laboratory for testing along with a copy of the preliminary review 
letter from the USPS. Manufacturers with more than one unique model 
must have each one tested independently. Models that are generally 
of the same size, shape, and material of previously approved designs 
but only have different decorative features (i.e., color scheme and 
surface contours) are not considered unique and do not require any 
testing. Manufacturers seeking approval of models that are not 
unique must submit documentation for each model in accordance with 
6.1.3.2. This documentation must be reviewed and the proposed model 
must either be approved or disapproved (see Section 7). All tests 
must be performed by an approved independent test lab, except for 
the security tests, which must be performed by the Postal Service. 
See Appendix A for information on how to receive the list of USPS-
approved independent test labs.
    6.1.3 Final Review--Within one year of receipt of USPS 
preliminary review approval, manufacturers must submit one sample 
mailbox or accessory to the USPS for security testing (if 
applicable), final review, and approval. The sample must be 
accompanied with a certificate of compliance and a copy of the 
laboratory test results (see 6.1.3.3). Mailboxes submitted to the 
USPS (see 1.3.2) for final evaluation must be identical in every way 
to the mailboxes to be marketed, and must be marked as specified in 
3.7. Manufacturers may be subject to a verification of their quality 
system prior to approval. This may consist of a review of the 
manufacturer's quality manual (see 6.1.3.4) and an onsite quality 
system evaluation (see 5.2). If this final review submission does 
not occur within the prescribed timeframe, the preliminary review 
approval will be rescinded.
    6.1.3.1 Installation Instructions--Manufacturers must furnish a 
written copy of their installation instructions for review. These 
instructions must contain all information as detailed in 3.11.
    6.1.3.2 Documentation--Units submitted for approval must be 
accompanied by one complete set of manufacturing drawings consisting 
of black on white prints (blueprints or sepia are unacceptable). The 
drawings must be dated and signed by the manufacturer's 
representatives. In addition, a second complete drawing set must be 
provided in electronic form. This drawing set does not have to be 
images of the signed drawings. The drawings must completely document 
and represent the design of the unit tested. If other versions of 
the approved mailbox are to be offered, the drawings must include 
the unique or differing design items of these versions. The drawings 
must include sufficient details to allow the USPS to inspect all 
materials, construction methods, processes, coatings, treatments, 
finishes (including paint types), control specifications, parts, and 
assemblies used in the construction of the unit. Additionally, the 
drawings must fully describe any purchased materials, components, 
and hardware including their respective finishes. The USPS

[[Page 48709]]

may request individual piece parts to verify drawings.
    6.1.3.3 Certification of Compliance and Test Results--
Manufacturers must furnish a written certificate of compliance 
indicating that their design fully complies with the requirements of 
this standard. In addition, the manufacturer must submit the lab's 
original report which clearly shows results of each test conducted 
(see Table III). The manufacturer bears all responsibility for its 
units meeting these requirements and the USPS reserves the right to 
retest any and all units submitted, including those which are 
available to the general public. Any changes to the design after 
approval and certification must be submitted to the USPS for 
evaluation.

                                          Table III--Test Requirements
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                Test                      Requirement          Reference             Applicable document
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capacity...........................  Insertion of test                4.2   ....................................
                                      gauge.
Operational Requirements...........  7,500 cycles.........            4.3   ....................................
Water-Tightness....................  No appreciable                   4.4   UL 771, Section 47.7.
                                      moisture.
Salt Spray Resistance..............  25 cycles............            4.5   ASTM G85.
Abrasion Resistance................  75 liters............            4.6   ASTM D968.
Temperature Stress Test............  Must function between            4.7   ....................................
                                      -65[deg] F and
                                      140[deg] F.
Structural Rigidity Requirements...  Refer to Table II for            4.8   ....................................
                                      loads and points,
                                      maximum \1/8\ inch
                                      permanent
                                      deformation.
Impact Test........................  10 lbs. dropped from             4.9   ....................................
                                      3 feet.
Door Catch/Mechanism Test..........  Max 5 lbs./Min 1 lb.             4.10  ....................................
                                      to open/close door.
Carrier Signal Flag Test...........  Max 2 lbs. required              4.11  ....................................
                                      to use flag.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    6.1.3.4 Quality Policy Manual--The manufacturer must submit its 
quality policy manual to the address listed in 1.3.2.

7. Approval or Disapproval

    7.1 Disapproval--Written notification, including reasons for 
disapproval, will be sent to the manufacturer within 30 days of 
completion of the final review of all submitted units. All 
correspondence and inquiries must be directed to the address listed 
in 1.3.2.
    7.1.1 Disapproved Mailboxes--Mailboxes disapproved will be 
disposed of in 30 calendar days from the date of the written 
notification of disapproval or returned to the manufacturer, if 
requested, provided the manufacturer pays shipping costs.
    7.2 Approval--One set of manufacturing drawings with written 
notification of approval will be returned to the manufacturer. The 
drawings will be stamped and identified as representing each unit.
    7.2.1 Approved Mailboxes--Mailboxes that are approved will be 
retained by the USPS.
    7.2.2. Rescission--The manufacturer's production units must be 
constructed in accordance with the USPS-certified drawings and the 
provisions of this specification and be of the same materials, 
construction, coating, workmanship, finish, etc., as the approved 
units. The USPS reserves the right at any time to examine and retest 
units obtained either in the general marketplace or from the 
manufacturer. If the USPS determines that a mailbox model is not in 
compliance with this standard or is out of conformance with approved 
drawings, the USPS may, at its discretion, rescind approval of the 
mailbox as described in 7.2.2.1 through 7.2.2.5.
    7.2.2.1 Written Notification--The USPS will provide written 
notification to the manufacturer that a mailbox is not in compliance 
with this standard or is out of conformance with approved drawings. 
This notification will include the specific reasons that the unit is 
noncompliant or out of conformance and will be sent via Registered 
Mail\TM\.
    7.2.2.1.1 Health and Safety--If the USPS determines that the 
noncompliance or nonconformity constitutes a danger to the health or 
safety of customers or letter carriers, the USPS may, at its 
discretion, immediately rescind approval of the unit. In addition, 
the USPS may, at its discretion, order that production of the 
mailbox cease immediately, that any existing inventory not be sold 
for receipt of U.S. Mail, and that USPS Approved corrective design 
changes be applied to sold and unsold units.
    7.2.2.2 Manufacturer's Response--In all cases of noncompliance 
or nonconformity other than those determined to constitute a danger 
to the health or safety of customers or letter carriers, the 
manufacturer must confer with the USPS and must submit one sample of 
a corrected mailbox to the USPS for approval no later than 45 
calendar days after receipt of the notification described in 
7.2.2.1. Failure to confer or submit a corrected mailbox within the 
prescribed period will constitute grounds for immediate rescission.
    7.2.2.3 Second Written Notification--The USPS will respond to 
the manufacturer in writing, via Registered Mail, no later than 30 
calendar days after receipt of the corrected mailbox with a 
determination of whether the manufacturer's submission is accepted 
or rejected and with specific reasons for the determination.
    7.2.2.4 Manufacturer's Second Response--If the USPS rejects the 
corrected mailbox, the manufacturer may submit a second sample of 
the corrected mailbox to the USPS for approval no later than 45 
calendar days after receipt of the notification described in 
7.2.2.3. Failure to confer or submit a corrected mailbox within the 
prescribed period will constitute grounds for immediate rescission.
    7.2.2.5 Final USPS Rescission Notification--The USPS will 
provide a final response to the manufacturer in writing no later 
than 30 calendar days after receipt of the second sample corrected 
mailbox with a determination of whether the manufacturer's 
submission is accepted or rejected and with specific reasons for the 
determination. If the second submission is rejected, the USPS may, 
at its discretion, rescind approval of the mailbox. In addition, the 
USPS may, at its discretion, order that production of the mailbox 
cease immediately, and that any existing inventory not be sold or 
used for receipt of U.S. Mail. If the USPS rescinds approval, the 
manufacturer is not prohibited from applying for a new approval 
pursuant to the provisions of 6.
    7.2.3 Revisions, Product or Drawings--Changes that affect the 
form, fit, or function (e.g., dimensions, material, and finish) of 
approved products or drawings must not be made without written USPS 
approval. Any proposed changes must be submitted with the affected 
documentation reflecting the changes (including a notation in the 
revision area), and a written explanation of the changes. One unit, 
incorporating the changes, may be required to be resubmitted for 
testing and evaluation for approval.
    7.2.3.1 Corporate or Organizational Changes--If any substantive 
part of the approved manufacturer's structure changes from what 
existed when the manufacturer became approved, the manufacturer must 
promptly notify the USPS and will be subject to a reevaluation of 
its approved products and quality system. Examples of substantive 
structural changes include the following: Change in ownership, 
executive or quality management; major change in quality policy or 
procedures; relocation of manufacturing facilities; and major 
equipment or manufacturing process change (e.g., outsourcing vs. in-
plant fabrication). Notification of such changes must be sent to the 
address given in 1.3.
    7.2.4 Product Brochure--Within 60 days upon sale to the public, 
manufacturers must submit one copy of their product brochures 
representing approved mailbox designs to the address listed in 1.3.2 
and to: USPS, Delivery Program Support, 475 L'Enfant Plaza SW., Rm. 
7142, Washington, DC 20260-7142.

8. Notes

    8.1 Mailboxes intended to be used in delivery to customers' 
doors are not currently ``approved'' by the United States Postal 
Service as referenced in this standard. However, it is recommended 
that these boxes

[[Page 48710]]

conform to the intentions of this specification, particularly the 
safety of the carrier and customer and the protection of the mail. 
The local postmaster must be contacted prior to the installation and 
use of any door mailbox.
    8.2 The United States Postal Service does not approve mailbox 
posts or regulate mounting of mailboxes other than the requirements 
specified in 3.10 and 3.11. Please note that mailbox posts are often 
subject to local restrictions, state laws, and federal highway 
regulations. Further information may be obtained from:

American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, 
444 N. Capitol St. NW., Suite 249, Washington, DC 20001-1512, https://www.transportation.org
Federal Highway Administration, Office of Safety, 1200 New Jersey 
Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590-0001, safety.fhwa.dat.gov
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P
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[[Page 48717]]


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[[Page 48718]]



Appendix A

USPS-APPROVED INDEPENDENT TEST LABORATORIES

    To obtain the latest list of USPS-approved test labs, contact:

USPS ENGINEERING SYSTEMS, DELIVERY AND RETAIL TECHNOLOGY, 8403 LEE 
HIGHWAY, MERRIFIELD, VA 22082-8101

    Additional test laboratories may be added provided they satisfy 
USPS certification criteria. Interested laboratories should contact:

USPS ENGINEERING, TEST EVALUATION AND QUALITY, 8403 LEE HIGHWAY, 
MERRIFIELD, VA 22082-8101

[FR Doc. 2015-20033 Filed 8-13-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P