Domestic Competitive Products Pricing and Mailing Standards Changes, 32824-32849 [2023-10353]
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32824
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
Service that will consolidate USPS
Retail Ground® and Parcel Select
Ground into the respective retail and
commercial price categories. The USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail and USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial
features are as follows:
POSTAL SERVICE
39 CFR Part 111
Domestic Competitive Products
Pricing and Mailing Standards
Changes
Postal ServiceTM.
Final rule.
AGENCY:
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
ACTION:
• Weight: 1 ounce to 70 pounds
(ounce pricing will be in 4 oz., 8 oz., 12
oz., and 15.999 oz., increments for USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail).
• Dimensions: Pieces up to 130
inches in length and girth (oversized
price).
• USPS Ground Advantage—Limited
Overland Route (LOR) prices.
• Dimensional weight (DIM) will
apply to USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail and USPS Ground Advantage—
LOR.
• Nonstandard Fees will apply to
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail and
USPS Ground Advantage—LOR.
• Sealed against inspection.
• $100 of insurance included with
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail and
USPS Ground Advantage—LOR (see
‘‘USPS Ground Advantage Insurance’’
below).
• USPS Click-N-Ship added as a
payment method.
• Extra Services: Certified Mail® and
Certificate of Mailing will no longer be
offered.
The Postal Service is
amending Mailing Standards of the
United States Postal Service, Domestic
Mail Manual (DMM®), to reflect changes
to prices and mailing standards for
competitive products.
DATES: Effective July 9, 2023.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Steven Jarboe at (202) 268–7690,
Margaret Pepe (202) 268–3078, or Garry
Rodriguez at (202) 268–7281.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This final
rule describes new prices and product
features for competitive products, by
class of mail, established by the
Governors of the United States Postal
Service®. New prices are available
under Docket Number CP2023–151 on
the Postal Regulatory Commission PRC
website at https://www.prc.gov, and on
the Postal Explorer® website at https://
pe.usps.com.
The Postal Service will revise Mailing
Standards of the United States Postal
Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM),
to reflect changes to certain prices and
mailing standards for the following
competitive products:
• Priority Mail Express®.
• Priority Mail®.
• USPS Ground AdvantageTM
(formerly First-Class Package Service®).
• Parcel Select®.
• Extra Services.
• Return Services.
• Mailer Services.
• Recipient Services.
• Other.
Competitive product prices and
changes are identified by product as
follows:
SUMMARY:
Priority Mail Express
There are no Priority Mail Express
retail or commercial price, or structural
changes scheduled for July 9, 2023.
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
Priority Mail
There are no Priority Mail retail or
commercial price, or structural changes
scheduled for July 9, 2023.
USPS Ground Advantage (Formerly
First-Class Package Service)
First-Class Package Service Rebranded
as USPS Ground Advantage
USPS Ground Advantage is a
rebranding of First-Class Package
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21:56 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
USPS Ground Advantage—Commercial
• Weight: 1 ounce to 70 pounds
(ounce pricing will be in 4 oz., 8 oz., 12
oz., and 15.999 oz., increments).
• Dimensions: Pieces up to 130
inches in length and girth (oversized
price).
• USPS Ground Advantage—Cubic
prices.
• Dimensional weight (DIM) will
apply to USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial.
• Nonstandard Fees will apply to
USPS Ground Advantage—Commercial.
• Not Sealed against inspection.
• $100 of insurance included with
USPS Ground Advantage—Commercial
and USPS Ground Advantage—Cubic
(see ‘‘USPS Ground Advantage
Insurance’’ below).
• USPS Click-N-Ship added as a
payment method.
• Extra Services: Certified Mail and
Certificate of Mailing will no longer be
offered.
USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial prices will decrease 0.7
percent.
USPS Ground Advantage Insurance
The Postal Service is including $100
of insurance with USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail and USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial product
offerings. See Federal Register notice,
New Mailing Standards for Domestic
Mailing Services Products, (87 FR
21601–21603) for additional
information.
Parcel Select
Prices
The prices for Parcel Select
Destination Entry will increase an
average of 2.1 percent. The prices for
Parcel Select Lightweight® will decrease
an average of 0.1 percent. The prices for
USPS Connect® Local will remain the
same.
Parcel Select Destination Entry Pricing
The Postal Service is revising the
Parcel Select Destination Entry pricing
structure to eliminate the
nonmachinable price table and have one
price table that will include price
increments for weights from 1 pound
through 70 pounds and oversized.
Parcel Select Destination Entry and
Parcel Select Lightweight Pricing
Component Restructuring
The Postal Service is revising the
pricing components of Parcel Select
Destination Entry and Parcel Select
Lightweight for consistency within the
products. Both products will now have
four pricing components, Destination
Delivery Unit (DDU), Destination Hub
(DHub), Destination Sectional Center
Facility (DSCF), and Destination
Network Distribution Center (DNDC).
This revision of pricing components
will now make Parcel Select
Lightweight consistent with Parcel
Select Destination Entry. Additionally,
Parcel Select Lightweight will be priced
at the 4 ounce, 8 ounce, 12 ounce, and
15.999 ounce increments.
Parcel Select Ground Discontinued
As a result of the rebranding and
enhancement of the USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial product, the
Postal Service has decided to
discontinue the Parcel Select Ground
price category offering.
Prices
USPS Retail Ground
Overall, USPS Ground Advantage
prices will decrease 1.4 percent.
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
prices will decrease 3.2 percent.
USPS Retail Ground Discontinued
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As a result of the rebranding and
enhancement of the USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail product, the Postal
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
Service has decided to discontinue the
USPS Retail Ground product offering.
Return Services
Address Enhancement Service
Address Enhancement Service
competitive product prices will remain
the same.
USPS Returns
Priority Mail Express Return Service
The Postal Service is adding Priority
Mail Express Return Service to the suite
of USPS Returns services. Priority Mail
Express standards will apply to Priority
Mail Express Return service pieces.
USPS Ground Advantage Return Service
(Formerly First-Class Package Return
Service)
The Postal Service is rebranding FirstClass Package Return Service as USPS
Ground Advantage Return Service.
USPS Ground Advantage Return Service
Insurance
The Postal Service is including
$100.00 of insurance with USPS Ground
Advantage Return service pieces. See
Federal Register notice, New Mailing
Standards for Domestic Mailing Services
Products, (87 FR 21601–21603) for
additional information.
Ground Return Service Discontinued
As a result of the rebranding and
enhancement to the USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial product and
the Postal Service discontinuing the
Parcel Select Ground price category
offering, the Postal Service is
discontinuing the Ground Return
Service (Parcel Select Ground) USPS
Returns product offering.
Small Parcel Forwarding Fee
The small parcel forwarding fee will
remain the same.
Physical Standards for Parcels
The Postal Service is revising the
maximum dimensions and weight for
machinable parcels. The maximum
dimensions for a machinable parcel are
22 inches x 18 inches x 15 inches. The
maximum weight for a machinable
parcel is 25 pounds.
Resources
The Postal Service provides
additional resources to assist customers
with this price change for competitive
products. These tools include price lists,
downloadable price files, and Federal
Register Notices, which may be found
on the Postal Explorer® website at
https://pe.usps.com.
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.
List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111
Administrative practice and
procedure, Postal Service.
Mailer Services
Accordingly, 39 CFR part 111 is
amended as follows:
Pickup on Demand Service
PART 111—[AMENDED]
The Pickup on Demand® service fee
will remain the same.
■
1. The authority citation for 39 CFR
part 111 continues to read as follows:
USPS Tracking Plus Service
The USPS Premium Tracking
ServiceTM prices will remain the same.
USPS Label Delivery Service
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 13 U.S.C. 301–
307; 18 U.S.C. 1692–1737; 39 U.S.C. 101,
401–404, 414, 416, 3001–3018, 3201–3220,
3401–3406, 3621, 3622, 3626, 3629, 3631–
3633, 3641, 3681–3685, and 5001.
2. Revise Mailing Standards of the
United States Postal Service, Domestic
Mail Manual (DMM) as follows:
■
The USPS Label Delivery ServiceTM
prices will remain the same.
Recipient Services
Mailing Standards of the United States
Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual
(DMM)
Post Office Box Service
The competitive Post Office BoxTM
service prices will remain the same.
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
Other
*
Premium Forwarding Service
Premium Forwarding Service® (PFS®)
prices will remain the same.
*
*
*
*
100 Retail Mail Letters, Cards, Flats,
and Parcels
101
Physical Standards
USPS Package Intercept
*
*
The USPS Package Intercept® fee will
remain the same.
3.0
Physical Standards for Parcels
*
*
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*
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3.2 Maximum Weight and Size
[Revise the third sentence and add a
new fourth sentence of 3.2 to read as
follows:]
* * * No mailpiece may weigh more
than 70 pounds. Except for USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail, which may
not measure more than 130 inches in
length and girth combined no mailpiece
may measure more than 108 inches in
length and girth combined. ***
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the heading of 6.0 to read as
follows:]
6.0 Additional Physical Standards for
First-Class Mail and USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail
6.1 Maximum Weight
[Revise the text of 6.1 by creating a
6.1.1 and 6.1.2 to read as follows:]
6.1.1 First-Class Mail
First-Class Mail (letters and flats)
cannot exceed 13 ounces.
6.1.2 USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
cannot exceed 70 pounds.
*
*
*
*
*
6.4 Parcels
[Revise the introductory text of 6.4 to
read as follows:]
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
parcels are eligible for USPS Tracking
and Signature Confirmation service. A
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail parcel
is:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item d to read as
follows:]
d. A mailpiece that does not exceed
130 inches in combined length and
girth.
[Delete 7.0, Additional Physical
Standards for USPS Retail Ground, in
its entirety and renumber 8.0 as 7.0.]
*
*
*
*
*
102 Elements on the Face of a
Mailpiece
*
*
*
*
*
3.0 Placement and Content of Mail
Markings
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the heading of 3.3 to read as
follows:]
3.3 First-Class Mail and USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail Markings
[Revise the first sentence of 3.3 to read
as follows:]
Each single-piece price First-Class
Mail and USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail piece must have a delivery
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
1.2 Price Computation for First-Class
Mail and USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail
address but is not required to bear a
price marking. * * *
[Revise the heading of 3.4 to read as
follows:]
3.4 Media Mail and Library Mail
Markings
[Revise the first sentence in the
introductory text of 3.4 to read as
follows:]
Mailers must print the basic required
Package Services subclass marking—
‘‘Media Mail,’’ or ‘‘Library Mail’’ on
each piece claimed at the respective
price. * * *
[Revise the text of item a to read as
follows:]
a. The service icon that will identify
all Package Services subclasses will be
a 1-inch solid black square. If the
service icon is used, it must appear in
the upper left corner of the shipping
label.
[Revise the second sentence of item b
to read as follows:]
b. * * * If the service banner is used,
the appropriate Package Services
subclass marking (e.g., ‘‘MEDIA MAIL,’’
‘‘LIBRARY MAIL’’) must be preceded by
the text ‘‘USPS’’ and must be printed in
minimum 20-point bold sans serif
typeface, uppercase letters, centered
within the banner, and bordered above
and below by minimum 1-point
separator lines. * * *
[Revise the heading of Exhibit 3.4 to
read as follows:]
Exhibit 3.4
Examples
Package Services Indicator
[Rename the class of mail in the first
example in Exhibit 3.4 ‘‘USPS Library
Mail’’.]
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the heading of 130 to read as
follows:]
Prices and Eligibility
1.0
Prices and Fees
[Revise the heading and introductory
text of 1.1 to read as follows:]
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
1.1 First-Class Mail Single-Piece and
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail Price
Application
The single-piece prices (see Notice
123—Price List) are applied as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item d to read as
follows:]
The USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
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.
[Revise the heading and introductory
text of 1.2 to read as follows:]
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
1.3 USPS Ground Advantage—Retail–
Limited Overland Routes Prices
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail—
LOR retail prices are only available
when mailing eligible items within
Alaska for pieces delivered to or from
the eligible intra-Alaska ZIP Codes not
connected by overland routes in Exhibit
1.3. USPS Ground Advantage—Retail—
LOR retail prices are not available
through online or commercial postage
payment.
Exhibit 1.3 USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail—LOR Eligible IntraAlaska ZIP Codes
130 Retail Mail First-Class Mail and
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
133
First-Class Mail and USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail prices are charged as
follows:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item b to read as
follows:]
b. USPS Ground Advantage—Retail—
Based on weight and zone and is
charged as follows:
1. Ounce pricing charged at the 4ounce, 8-ounce, 12-ounce, and 15.999ounce increments. Any fraction of an
ounce over the 4-ounce, 8-ounce, 12ounce, and 15.999-ounce increments is
rounded to the next price increment.
For example, if an item weighs 4.1
ounces, the next weight (price)
increment is 8 ounces, if an item weighs
12.1 ounces, the next weight (price)
increment is 15.999.
2. Per pound from more than 1 pound
through 70 pounds. Any fraction of a
pound is considered a whole pound. For
example, if an item weighs 1.25 pounds,
the weight (price) increment is 2
pounds.
[Renumber 1.3 through 1.6 as 1.5
through 1.8 and add new 1.3 and 1.4 to
read as follows:]
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail—
LOR eligible intra-Alaska ZIP Codes are
as follows:
99545, 99546, 99547, 99548, 99549,
99550, 99551, 99552, 99553, 99554,
99555, 99557, 99558, 99559, 99561,
99563, 99564, 99565, 99569, 99571,
99574, 99575, 99576, 99578, 99579,
99580, 99581, 99583, 99585, 99589,
99590, 99591, 99602, 99604, 99606,
99607, 99608, 99609, 99612, 99613,
99614, 99615, 99619, 99620, 99621,
99622, 99624, 99625, 99626, 99627,
99628, 99630, 99632, 99633, 99634,
99636, 99637, 99638, 99640, 99641,
99643, 99644, 99647, 99648, 99649,
99650, 99651, 99653, 99655, 99656,
99657, 99658, 99659, 99660, 99661,
99662, 99663, 99665, 99666, 99667,
PO 00000
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99668, 99670, 99671, 99675, 99677,
99678, 99679, 99680, 99681, 99682,
99684, 99685, 99689, 99690, 99691,
99692, 99695, 99697, 99720, 99721,
99722, 99723, 99724, 99726, 99727,
99730, 99732, 99733, 99734, 99736,
99738, 99739, 99740, 99741, 99742,
99745, 99746, 99747, 99748, 99749,
99750, 99751, 99752, 99753, 99754,
99756, 99757, 99758, 99759, 99761,
99762, 99763, 99765, 99766, 99767,
99768, 99769, 99770, 99771, 99772,
99773, 99774, 99777, 99778, 99781,
99782, 99783, 99784, 99785, 99786,
99788, 99789, 99790, 99791, 99801,
99802, 99803, 99811, 99812, 99820,
99821, 99824, 99825, 99826, 99827,
99829, 99830, 99832, 99833, 99835,
99836, 99840, 99841, 99850, 99901,
99903, 99918, 99919, 99921, 99922,
99923, 99925, 99926, 99927, 99928,
99929, 99950.
1.4 Dimensional Weight Price for
Low-Density Parcels
Postage for USPS Ground Advantage
parcels addressed for delivery to zones
1–9 and USPS Ground Advantage—LOR
parcels, exceeding 1 cubic foot (1,728
cubic inches) is based on the actual
weight or the dimensional weight (as
calculated in 1.4.1 or 1.4.2), whichever
is greater.
1.4.1 Determining Dimensional
Weight for Rectangular Parcels
Follow these steps to determine the
dimensional weight for a rectangular
parcel:
a. Measure the length, width, and
height in inches. Round off (see 604.7.0)
each measurement to the nearest whole
inch.
b. Multiply the length by the width
and then that total by the height.
c. If the result exceeds 1,728 cubic
inches, divide the result by 166 and
round up (see 604.7.0) to the next whole
number to determine the dimensional
weight in pounds.
d. If the dimensional weight exceeds
70 pounds, the customer pays the 70pound price.
1.4.2 Determining Dimensional
Weight for Nonrectangular Parcels
Follow these steps to determine the
dimensional weight for a nonrectangular
parcel:
a. Measure the length, width, and
height in inches at their extreme
dimensions. Round off (see 604.7.0)
each measurement to the nearest whole
inch.
b. Multiply the length by the width
and then that total by the height.
c. Multiply the result by an
adjustment factor of 0.785.
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
d. If the final result exceeds 1,728
cubic inches, divide the result by 166
and round up (see 604.7.0) to the next
whole number to determine the
dimensional weight in pounds.
e. If the dimensional weight exceeds
70 pounds, the customer pays the 70pound price.
*
*
*
*
*
1.8
Nonstandard Fees
2.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for
First-Class Mail and USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail
Description of Service
[Revise the text of 2.1 to read as
follows:]
First-Class Mail and USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail receive expeditious
handling and transportation. The USPS
does not guarantee the delivery of FirstClass Mail and USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail within a specified
time. Certain USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail pieces may receive
deferred handling.
2.2
2.2.1
Defining Characteristics
Inspection of Contents
[Revise the text of 2.2.1 to read as
follows:]
First-Class Mail and USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail are sealed against
postal inspection.
2.2.2
Forwarding and Return Service
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
Extra Services
[Revise the text of 2.2.3 to read as
follows:]
First-Class Mail and USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail are eligible to receive
the following extra services (See
information regarding additional extra
services in 503):
a. First Class Mail—Registered Mail
services and Certified Mail services.
b. USPS Ground Advantage—Retail—
Registered Mail services.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:39 May 19, 2023
3.1
General Eligibility
[Revise the text of 3.1 to read as
follows:]
With the exception of restricted
material as described in 601.8.0, any
mailable item may be mailed as FirstClass Mail and USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail.
Jkt 259001
Bills and Statements of Account
[Revise the introductory text of 3.2 to
read as follows:]
Bills and statements of account must
be mailed as First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail, Priority
Mail, or Priority Mail Express and are
defined as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
3.3
Personal Information
[Revise the text of 3.3 to read as
follows:]
Mail containing personal information
must be mailed as First-Class Mail,
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail,
Priority Mail, or Priority Mail Express.
Personal information is any information
specific to the addressee.
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, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, Priority Mail, or
Priority Mail Express.
*
*
*
*
*
3.6
[Revise the text of 2.2.2 to read as
follows:]
The price of First-Class Mail and
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
include forwarding service to a new
address for up to 12 months and return
service if the mailpiece is undeliverable.
2.2.3
Content Standards
3.2
[Revise the introductory text of
renumbered 1.8 to read as follows:]
A USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
and USPS Ground Advantage—LOR
piece is subject to a nonstandard fee (see
Notice 123—Price List) as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as
follows:]
2.1
3.0
Prohibited Air Transportation
[Revise the text of 3.6 to read as
follows:]
All First-Class Mail and USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail are subject to
limitations for air transportation in
601.8.0.
134
Postage Payment Methods
[Revise the heading of 1.0 to read as
follows:]
1.0 Postage Payment Methods for
First-Class Mail and USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail
1.1
Payment Method
[Delete the heading 1.1.1 General and
move the text under 1.1 to read as
follows:]
Postage for single-piece First-Class
Mail and USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail must be paid as follows:
a. First-Class Mail—with affixed
postage stamps (604.1.0), postage
evidencing system postage (604.4.0), or
precanceled stamps (604.3.0).
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b. USPS Ground Advantage—Retail—
In addition to the payment methods in
1.1a USPS Ground Advantage may be
paid with USPS Click-N-Ship.
[Delete 1.1.2 in its entirety.]
*
*
*
*
*
1.3
More Than One Mailer
[Revise the first sentence 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 USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
postage may be paid on the weight of
the entire package of aggregated mail.
* * *
1.4
More Than One Letter
[Revise the introductory text of 1.4 to
read as follows:]
An individual or organization may
mail in one package more than one of
the mailer’s own letters and pay FirstClass Mail or USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail postage on the
weight of the entire package of letters if:
*
*
*
*
*
1.5
Agent
[Revise the text of 1.5 to read as
follows:]
Any agent of a licensing authority
may forward completed applications in
one envelope to an office of the
licensing authority and pay First-Class
Mail or USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail postage on the weight of the
piece.
135 Mail Preparation
[Revise the heading and text of 1.0 to
read as follows:]
1.0 Preparation for First-Class Mail
and USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
The following standards apply to
retail single-piece First-Class Mail and
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail:
a. Each piece of First-Class Mail or
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail must
have a delivery address but is not
required to bear a price marking.
b. There are no sorting requirements
for retail single-piece First-Class Mail or
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail.
136
Deposit
[Revise the heading and introductory
text of 1.0 to read as follows:]
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
1.0 Deposit for First-Class Mail and
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
Retail First-Class Mail (letters, cards,
flats) and USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail must be deposited as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete Chapter 150, USPS Retail
Ground, in its entirety.]
*
*
*
*
*
200 Commercial Mail Letters, Flats,
and Parcels
*
*
*
*
201
Physical Standards
*
*
7.0
Physical Standards for Parcels
*
*
7.3
Maximum Weight and Size
*
*
*
*
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
7.5.1
*
*
Criteria
A machinable parcel is any piece that
is not a letter or a flat and that is (see
Exhibit 7.5.1b):
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item b to read as
follows:]
b. Not more than 22 inches long, or
18 inches high, or 15 inches thick.
Parcels cannot weigh more than 25
pounds.
*
*
*
*
*
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the heading of 8.3 to read as
follows:]
8.3.1 Weight
[Revise the text of 8.3.1 to read as
follows:]
USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial parcels must not weigh
more than 70 pounds.
Machinable Parcels
VerDate Sep<11>2014
8.0 Additional Physical Standards by
Class of Mail
8.3 USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial Parcels
*
[Revise the text of 7.3 to read as
follows:]
No mailpiece may weigh more than
70 pounds. Lower weight limits apply to
parcels mailed at Priority Mail cubic,
USPS Ground Advantage—Commercial
cubic, USPS Marketing Mail, and Bound
Printed Matter prices. Except for USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial and
Parcel Select, pieces may not measure
more than 108 inches in length and
girth combined. USPS Marketing Mail
Marketing parcels (see 8.4) may not be
larger than 12 inches long, 9 inches
high, and 2 inches thick. USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial and Parcel
Select parcels may not measure more
than 130 inches in length and girth
combined. For parcels, length is the
distance of the longest dimension and
girth is the distance around the thickest
part. Lower size or weight standards
apply to mail addressed to some APOs
and FPOs subject to 703.2.0 and 703.4.0
and for Department of State mail,
subject to 703.3.0.
*
*
*
*
*
7.5
Exhibit 7.5.1b Machinable Parcel
Dimensions
[Revise the maximum dimensions
shown in the graphic in Exhibit 7.5.1b
to be 22″ × 18″ × 15″.]
*
*
*
*
*
8.3.2 Size
[Revise the second sentence of the
introductory text under 8.3.2 to read as
follows:]
* * * A USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial parcel is:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item d to read as
follows:]
d. A mailpiece that does not exceed
130 inches in combined length and
girth.
*
*
*
*
*
202 Elements on the Face of a
Mailpiece
*
*
*
*
*
3.0 Placement and Content of Mail
Markings
of each mailpiece up to the defined
threshold, (for example, measurements
from .01 up to .10 for ‘‘Cubic .10’’ and
from .101 up to .20 for ‘‘Cubic .20’’).
Place the marking directly above,
directly below, or to the left of the
postage. Approved markings are as
follows:
a. ‘‘Cubic .10’’
b. ‘‘Cubic .20’’
c. ‘‘Cubic .30’’
d. ‘‘Cubic .40’’
e. ‘‘Cubic .50’’
f. ‘‘Cubic .60’’
g. ‘‘Cubic .70’’
h. ‘‘Cubic .80’’
i. ‘‘Cubic .90’’
j. ‘‘Cubic 1.00’’
3.6.3 Price Marking—Permit Imprint
USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial permit imprint pieces
claiming the cubic price must be
marked as provided under 3.6.1 and
bear the ‘‘cubic’’ marking printed on the
piece or produced as part of the permit
imprint indicia. Place the marking
directly above, directly below, or to the
left of the postage. The approved
marking is ‘‘Cubic’’ (or ‘‘CUBIC,’’ or
‘‘cubic’’).
3.6.4 Soft Pack and Padded Envelope
Markings
Regardless of the postage payment
method used, soft pack and padded
envelopes must be marked as provided
under 3.6.1 in addition to the tier price
markings in 3.6.2 and the dimensions
(length and width) of the original
packaging. Place the markings directly
above, directly below, or to the left of
the postage.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the heading and text of 3.6 to
read as follows:]
3.7 Parcel Select, Bound Printed
Matter, Media Mail, and Library Mail
Markings
3.6 USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial Markings
*
3.6.1 Basic Markings
The basic required marking ’’USPS
Ground Advantage’’ must be printed as
part of, directly below, or to the left of
the postage on all parcels. Optionally,
the basic required price marking may be
printed on a shipping address label as
a service indicator composed of a
service icon and service banner.
3.6.2 USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial Cubic Markings
USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial pieces claiming the cubic
price must be marked as provided under
3.6.1 and bear the applicable marking
that reflects the correct price tier printed
on the piece or produced as part of the
postage indicia. The cubic tiers are
determined by the cubic measurement
PO 00000
Frm 00006
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4700
*
*
*
*
3.7.2 Parcel Select Markings
[Revise the introductory text of 3.7.2
by deleting the third sentence
referencing ‘‘USPS Retail Ground.’’]
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete item b and renumber items c
and d as b and c.]
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete 3.8, Parcel Select Ground
Cubic Markings, in its entirety and
renumber 3.9 and 3.10 as 3.8 and 3.9.]
*
*
*
*
*
203 Basic Postage Statement,
Documentation, and Preparation
Standards
*
*
5.0
Letter and Flat Trays
*
*
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
*
*
22MYR2
*
*
*
*
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
5.12
3.4.3
Line 2 (Content Line)
Line 2 (content line) must meet these
standards:
*
*
*
*
*
b. Codes: The codes shown below
must be used as appropriate on Line 2
of tray, sack, and pallet labels.
[Delete the ‘‘First-Class Package
Service—Commercial entry from the list
of codes.]
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the last sentence of 3.4.3 to
read as follows:]
* * * Package Services, or Parcel
Select mail pieces may not be combined
with a Periodicals publication.
*
*
*
*
*
204
4.7.1
Barcode Standards
1.0 Standards for Intelligent Mail
Barcodes
*
*
1.3
Reflectance
1.3.1
*
*
*
Background Reflectance
A background reflectance of at least
50% in the red portion and 45% in the
green portion of the optical spectrum
must be produced in the following
locations when measured with a USPS
or USPS-licensed envelope reflectance
meter:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item b to read as
follows:]
b. The area surrounding the barcode
(within 1⁄8 inch of the leftmost and
rightmost bars and 1⁄25 inch above and
below the barcode) of a card-size, lettersize, or flat-size piece barcoded in the
address block and of a flat-size piece
barcoded elsewhere.
*
*
*
*
*
1.3.4 Dark Fibers and Background
Patterns
Dark fibers or background patterns
that produce a print contrast ratio of
more than 15% when measured in the
red and green portions of the optical
spectrum are prohibited in these
locations:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item b to read as
follows:]
b. The area of the address block or the
area of the mailpiece where the barcode
appears on a flat-size piece in an
automation mailing.
*
*
*
*
*
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
Exhibit 5.2.3
Products
207
Periodicals
*
*
*
*
*
3.0 Physical Characteristics and
Content Eligibility
*
*
*
*
*
3.4 Impermissible Mailpiece
Components
*
*
*
VerDate Sep<11>2014
*
Jkt 259001
Basic Eligibility Standards
*
*
4.7
Eligible Formats
*
*
*
Complete Copies
[Revise the last sentence of 4.7.1 to
read as follows:]
* * * Incomplete copies (for
example, those lacking pages or parts of
pages) are subject to the applicable
First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial, USPS
Marketing Mail, or Package Services
prices.
*
*
*
*
*
4.10
Back Issues and Reprints
[Revise the last sentence of 4.10 to
read as follows:]
* * * Other mailings of back issues
or reprint copies, including
permanently bound back issues or
reprint copies, are subject to the
applicable Priority Mail Express,
Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail, USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial, USPS
Marketing Mail, or Package Services
prices.
*
*
*
*
*
5.0 Applying for Periodicals
Authorization
*
*
*
*
*
5.2 Mailing While Application
Pending
*
*
5.2.2
*
*
*
Pending Prices
* * * Postage may be paid until final
action is taken on the application as
follows:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item b to read as
follows:]
b. For a refund after the application is
approved, at USPS Marketing Mail,
Bound Printed Matter, and Parcel Select
prices or at single-piece Priority Mail,
First-Class Mail, and USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail prices under the
exception in 5.3.6e.
*
*
*
*
*
5.2.3
*
*
19:39 May 19, 2023
4.0
PO 00000
Pending Postage
*
*
Frm 00007
*
Fmt 4701
*
Sfmt 4700
32829
Pending Postage
[Rename the ‘‘First-Class Package
Service—R’’ line item as ‘‘USPS Ground
Advantage—R’’ to read as follows:]
Pending class of mail
PCT.
USPS Ground Advantage—
R ........................................
%
*
*
5.3
Decision on Application
*
*
5.3.6
*
*
*
*
*
*
No Refund
No refund is made for:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item e to read as
follows:]
e. Postage paid at Priority Mail
Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail,
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail, or
USPS Ground Advantage—Commercial
prices. Exception: For a mailing
presorted and prepared as Periodicals
mail that is less than 200 pieces or 50
pounds, a refund may be authorized
when postage is paid at single-piece
Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, or USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail prices as
provided on the applicable postage
statement.
*
*
*
*
*
6.0
Qualification Categories
*
*
6.7
News Agent Registry
*
*
6.7.4
*
*
*
*
*
*
Parts Returned
[Revise the text of 6.7.4 to read as
follows:]
Parts of publications returned to
publishers to show that copies have not
been sold are subject to the applicable
USPS Marketing Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, or Package Services
prices.
*
*
*
*
*
10.0
*
Preferred Periodicals
*
*
*
*
10.6 Mailing While Application
Pending
10.6.1
Mailing Before Approval
[Revise the text of 10.6.1 to read as
follows:]
A publisher or news agent may not
mail at a Periodicals Preferred price
until the PCSC manager approves the
application. Until approval is given,
postage must be paid at the OutsideCounty prices (for authorized
Periodicals publications), or at the FirstClass Mail, USPS Ground Advantage—
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
22MYR2
32830
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
Retail, USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial, USPS Marketing Mail, or
Package Services prices (if the
publication is in a pending status for
Periodicals mailing privileges).
10.6.2
Record of Deposits
[Revise the last sentence of 10.6.2 to
read as follows:]
* * * No record is kept if First-Class
Mail, USPS Ground Advantage—Retail,
or USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial, postage is paid or if
postage is not paid by advance deposit
account.
10.7
*
Decision on Application
*
10.7.5
*
*
*
No Refund
No refund is made for:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item f to read as
follows:]
f. Postage paid at Priority Mail
Express, First-Class Mail or USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail prices.
*
*
*
*
*
11.0
*
11.5
*
*
[Revise the Text of 11.5 to read as
follows:]
The single-piece Priority Mail
Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail,
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail, or
Package Services price is charged on
copies of publications mailed by the
general public and on copies returned to
publishers or news agents.
*
*
*
*
*
210 Commercial Mail Priority Mail
Express
1.0
Prices and Fees
*
*
1.8
Nonstandard Fees
*
*
*
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
[Revise the introductory text of 1.8 to
read as follows:]
Except for Priority Mail Express
Return Service, a Priority Mail Express
piece is subject to a nonstandard fee (see
Notice 123—Price List) as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
230
Commercial Mail First-Class Mail
233
Prices and Eligibility
*
*
*
*
*
2.0 Content Standards for First-Class
Mail
*
*
*
VerDate Sep<11>2014
*
*
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
244 Postage Payment and
Documentation
243
Prices and Eligibility
*
1.0
Prices and Fees
5.0 Residual Pieces
[Revise the heading and introductory
text of 5.1 to read as follows:]
*
*
1.4
Fees
*
*
1.4.2
*
*
*
*
*
*
Weighted Fee
[Revise the text of 1.4.2 to read as
follows:]
For return of pieces bearing the
ancillary service markings ‘‘Address
Service Requested’’ and ‘‘Forwarding
Service Requested.’’ Weighted fee
equals single-piece First-Class Mail, or
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail, price
multiplied by 2.472.
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the heading and text of 3.7 to
read as follows:]
Copies Mailed by Public
Prices and Eligibility
240 Commercial Mail USPS
Marketing Mail
*
*
213
endorsements), provided the
requirements in 244.1.0, are met.
*
*
*
*
*
3.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for
USPS Marketing Mail
Basic Eligibility
*
[Delete 2.6 in its entirety and
renumber 2.7 and 2.8 as 2.6 and 2.7.]
*
*
*
*
*
3.7 Residual Mail Subject to FirstClass Mail or USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail Prices
Pieces prepared as USPS Marketing
Mail (i.e., that bear USPS Marketing
Mail price markings, ACS codes, etc.)
that do not qualify for Enhanced Carrier
Route, automation, or Presorted USPS
Marketing Mail prices are subject to the
single-piece First-Class Mail or USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail prices as
applicable for the weight of the
mailpiece. Metered pieces weighing
over 13 ounces but less than 16 ounces
that do not qualify for USPS Marketing
Mail prices and any pieces that do not
qualify for USPS Marketing Mail prices
for which First-Class Mail or USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail service is
desired must be re-enveloped or
otherwise prepared so that they do not
bear USPS Marketing Mail markings,
endorsements, and ACS codes and must
bear the proper First-Class Mail or USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail price
markings and ACS codes. Mailers who
have pieces (other than metered pieces
weighing over 13 ounces but less than
16 ounces) that do not qualify for USPS
Marketing Mail prices but that are
prepared as USPS Marketing Mail and
who do not desire to receive First-Class
Mail or USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail service for those pieces may enter
their mailpieces ‘‘as is’’ (i.e., bearing the
USPS Marketing Mail markings and
PO 00000
Frm 00008
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4700
*
*
*
*
5.1 Residual USPS Marketing Mail
Subject to First-Class Mail or USPS
Ground Advantage Prices
Mailers who have pieces weighing 13
ounces or less that do not qualify for
USPS Marketing Mail prices but that are
prepared as USPS Marketing Mail must
pay single-piece First-Class Mail or
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
postage for such pieces. If mailers do
not desire to receive First-Class Mail or
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
service for such pieces they may enter
the mailpieces ‘‘as is’’ (i.e., bearing the
USPS Marketing Mail markings and
endorsements), under the following
conditions:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the first sentence of item b to
read as follows:]
b. Mail bearing metered or
precanceled stamp postage must pay the
difference between the postage affixed
at the USPS Marketing Mail prices and
the single-piece First-Class Mail or
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail prices
by means of an advance deposit account
or by affixing a meter stamp for the
appropriate amount to Form 3600–FCM.
* * *
[Revise the first sentence of item c to
read as follows:]
c. Mail bearing permit imprints must
pay the appropriate single-piece FirstClass Mail or USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail prices by completing
Form 3600–FCM. * * *
[Revise the heading and introductory
text of 5.2 to read as follows:]
5.2 Residual USPS Marketing Mail
Subject to USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail Prices
Mailers who have permit imprint
pieces weighing over 13 ounces but less
than 16 ounces that do not qualify for
USPS Marketing Mail prices but that are
prepared as USPS Marketing Mail must
pay the USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail postage for such pieces.
Mailpieces paid with meters or permit
imprints must re-envelope or otherwise
prepare the pieces so that when mailed
they bear only the appropriate USPS
Ground Advantage markings, ancillary
service endorsements, and ACS codes
and do not bear USPS Marketing Mail
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
22MYR2
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
markings, endorsements, or ACS codes.
Mailpieces paid with permit imprints
for which mailers do not desire to
receive USPS Ground Advantage service
may enter the mailpieces ‘‘as is’’ (i.e.,
bearing the USPS Marketing Mail
markings and endorsements), under the
following conditions:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the first sentence of item b to
read as follows:]
b. The appropriate USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail prices must be paid
by completing the appropriate part of
Form 3600–FCM on the line titled
‘‘Pieces From USPS Marketing Mail
mailing’’ in the postage calculation
section. ***
*
*
*
*
*
245
Mail Preparation
*
*
*
*
*
6.0 Preparing Enhanced Carrier Route
Letters
*
*
*
*
*
6.3 Residual Pieces
[Revise the text of 6.3 to read as
follows:]
Pieces not sorted as a carrier route
mailing must be prepared as a separate
mailing at USPS Marketing Mail
automation or Presorted prices or at the
applicable single-piece First-Class Mail
or USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
prices.
*
*
*
*
*
8.0
Preparing Nonautomation Flats
*
*
*
*
*
8.10 Residual Pieces
[Revise the first sentence in the
introductory text of 8.10 to read as
follows:]
Mailers entering USPS Marketing
Mail residual pieces that do not qualify
for USPS Marketing Mail prices, and
paying the applicable single-piece FirstClass Mail or USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail prices (but prepared
‘‘as is’’ under 244.5.0), must separately
bundle and sack residual pieces from
the automation and presort pieces.
* * *
*
*
*
*
*
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
9.0 Preparing Enhanced Carrier Route
Flats
*
*
*
*
*
9.2 Residual Pieces
[Revise the text of 9.2 to read as
follows:]
Pieces not sorted as a carrier route
mailing must be prepared as a separate
mailing at USPS Marketing Mail
automation or Presorted prices or at the
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
applicable single-piece First-Class Mail
or USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
prices.
*
*
*
*
*
32831
exceeding 1 cubic foot (1,728 cubic
inches) is based on the actual weight or
the dimensional weight (as calculated in
1.2.1 or 1.2.2), whichever is greater.
*
*
*
*
*
250
Commercial Mail Parcel Select
253
Prices and Eligibility
1.7
1.0
Pricing
*
*
[Revise the introductory text of
renumbered 1.7 to read as follows:]
A Parcel Select Destination Entry,
Parcel Select Lightweight, or USPS
Connect Local mailpiece is subject to a
nonstandard fee (see Notice 123–Price
List) as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
1.1.2
*
*
*
Price Categories
The price categories for Parcel Select
are as follows:
[Revise the text of item a to read as
follows:]
a. Destination entry including
destination entry network distribution
center (DNDC), destination entry
sectional center facility (DSCF),
destination hub (DHub), and destination
entry delivery unit (DDU).
[Delete item b and renumber items c
and d as items b and c.]
[Revise renumbered item b to read as
follows:]
b. Lightweight includes DNDC, DSCF,
DHub, and DDU.
*
*
*
*
*
1.1.3
Price Application
The following price applications
apply:
[Revise the first sentence of item a to
read as follows:]
a. Prices for Destination Entry DNDC
are based on the weight increment and
the entry of each addressed piece. ***
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete item d and renumber item e as
item d. Revise the text of renumbered
item d to read as follows:]
d. Prices for Parcel Select Lightweight
are based on the weight increment and
the entry of each addressed piece. The
price is charged at the 4-ounce, 8-ounce,
12 ounce, and 15.999-ounce increments.
Any fraction of an ounce over the 4ounce, 8-ounce, 12-ounce and 15.999ounce increments is rounded to the next
price increment. For example, if an item
weighs 4.1 ounces, the next weight
(price) increment is 8 ounces, if an item
weighs 12.1 ounces, the next weight
(price) increment is 15.999 ounces.
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete 1.2, Parcel Select Ground
Cubic, in its entirety and renumber
items 1.3 through 1.9 as items 1.2
through 1.8.]
*
*
*
*
*
1.2 Dimensional Weight Price for
Low-Density Parcels to Zones 1–9
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.2 to
read as follows:]
Postage for Destination Entry parcels
addressed for delivery to Zones 1–9 and
PO 00000
Frm 00009
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4700
Nonstandard Fees
4.0 Price Eligibility for Parcel Select
and Parcel Select Lightweight
4.1
Destination Entry Price Eligibility
4.1.1
Definition
* * * For this standard, the following
destination facility definitions apply:
*
*
*
*
*
[Renumber item c as item d and add
new item c to read as follows:]
c. A destination hub (DHub) includes
all facilities in L014. See 4.1.4 for more
information.
[Revise the heading and introductory
text of 4.1.4 to read as follows:]
4.1.4
DSCF, DHub, and DDU Prices
For DSCF, DHub, and DDU prices,
pieces must meet the applicable
standards in 3.0 and the following
criteria:
*
*
*
*
*
[Renumber item b as item c and add
new item b to read as follows:]
b. For DHub prices, be part of a Parcel
Select destination entry mailing of
parcels deposited at an DHub in L014.
Mailers must not prepare mail on pallets
or pallet boxes if the delivery facility is
unable to handle pallets. See 255.4.2
and 255.6.0 for preparation
requirements.
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete 4.2, Parcel Select Ground
Price Eligibility, in its entirety and
renumber 4.3 through 4.6 as 4.2 through
4.5.]
4.2 Parcel Select Lightweight
*
4.2.2
*
*
*
*
Price Application
[Revise the text of renumbered 4.2.2 to
read as follows:]
Prices for Parcel Select Lightweight
apply to parcels that meet the eligibility
standards in 2.0 and 4.2 and the
preparation standards in 255.6.0,
705.6.0, or 705.8.0. When pieces are
combined under 705.6.0, pieces are
eligible for the applicable prices when
the combined total meets the eligibility
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
22MYR2
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
standards. For example, when there are
10 pounds of combined machinable
parcels and irregular parcels in a 5-digit
sack, all pieces are eligible for the
applicable prices.
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
4.2.3
Prices for Machinable Parcels
The following prices apply to Parcel
Select Lightweight machinable parcels:
[Revise the introductory text of item a
to read as follows:]
a. DDU Price; the DDU price applies
to qualifying machinable parcels that
are dropshipped to a DDU and
presented:
[Revise the text of item a1 to read as
follows:]
1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack
containing at least 10 pounds of pieces.
[Renumber item a2 as item a3 and
add new item a2 to read as follows:]
2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet,
according to standards in 705.8.10.
*
*
*
*
*
[Renumber items b through d as items
c through e and add new item b to read
as follows:]
b. Hub Price; the Hub price applies to
machinable parcels that are
dropshipped and presented to a Hub:
1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack
containing at least 10 pounds of pieces.
2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet,
according to standards in 705.8.10.
[Revise the introductory text of
renumbered item c to read as follows:]
c. DSCF Price; the DSCF price applies
to machinable parcels that are
dropshipped and presented to a DSCF:
[Renumber items c1 and c2 as items
c3 and c4 and add new items c1 and c2
to read as follows:]
1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack
containing at least 10 pounds of pieces.
2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet,
according to standards in 705.8.10.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the introductory text of
renumbered item d to read as follows:]
d. DNDC Price; the DNDC price
applies to qualifying machinable parcels
that are dropshipped and presented to
an NDC as follows:
[Renumber items 1 through 3 as items
5 through 7 and add new items 1
through 4 to read as follows:]
1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack
containing at least 10 pounds of pieces.
2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet,
according to standards in 705.8.10.
3. In an SCF sack containing at least
10 pounds of parcels.
4. On an SCF pallet, according to
705.8.10.
[Revise the text of renumbered item
d5 to read as follows:]
5. In an ASF or NDC sack containing
at least 10 pounds of parcels; or on an
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
ASF or NDC pallet, according to
standards in 705.8.10; or in an NDC/
ASF container prepared under 705.21.0.
[Delete renumbered item 6 and
renumber item 7 as item 6.]
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete renumbered item e in its
entirety.]
995–999, as indicated in labeling list
L601.
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete renumbered item e in its
entirety.]
*
*
*
*
*
4.2.4
[Revise the text of renumbered 4.5 to
read as follows:]
Parcel Select Lightweight parcels are
eligible for Hold For Pickup service
under 507.3.0.
*
*
*
*
*
Prices for Irregular Parcels
The following prices apply to Parcel
Select Lightweight irregular parcels:
a. DDU Price; the DDU price applies
to irregular parcels that are dropshipped
to a DDU and presented:
*
*
*
*
*
[Renumber items b through d as items
c through e and add new item b to read
as follows:]
b. Hub Price; the Hub price applies to
irregular parcels that are dropshipped
and presented to a Hub:
1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack
containing at least 10 pounds of pieces.
2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet,
according to standards in 705.8.10.
[Revise the introductory text of
renumbered item c to read as follows:]
c. DSCF Price; the DSCF price applies
to irregular parcels that are dropshipped
and presented to a DSCF:
[Renumber items c1 through c3 as
items c3 through c5 and add new items
c1 and c2 to read as follows:]
1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack
containing at least 10 pounds of pieces.
2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet,
according to standards in 705.8.10.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the introductory text of
renumbered item d to read as follows:]
d. DNDC Price; the DNDC price
applies to qualifying irregular parcels
that are dropshipped and presented to
an NDC as follows:
[Renumber items 1 and 2 as items 5
and 6 and add new items 1 through 4
to read as follows:]
1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack
containing at least 10 pounds of pieces.
2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet,
according to standards in 705.8.10.
3. In an SCF sack containing at least
10 pounds of parcels.
4. On an SCF pallet, according to
705.8.10.
[Revise the text of renumbered item 5
to read as follows:]
5. In an ASF or NDC sack containing
at least 10 pounds of parcels; or on an
ASF or NDC pallet, according to
standards in 705.8.10; or in an NDC/
ASF container prepared under 705.21.0.
[Delete renumbered item 6 in its
entirety and add new item 6 to read as
follows:]
6. DNDC prices are not available for
ZIP Code ranges 006–009, 967–969, and
PO 00000
Frm 00010
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4700
4.5
Hold For Pickup
254 Postage Payment and
Documentation
1.0 Basic Standards for Postage
Payment
1.1
Postage Payment Options
[Revise the heading of 1.1.1 to read as
follows:]
1.1.1
Parcel Select Destination Entry
[Revise the introductory text of 1.1.1
to read as follows:]
Parcel Select destination entry may be
paid as follows:
[Revise item a to read as follows:]
a. Metered postage may be used on
pieces as provided under 1.1.1c and
604.4.
[Delete items a1 and a2.]
*
*
*
*
*
255
Mail Preparation
1.0 General Information for Mail
Preparation
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete 1.6 and 1.7 in their entireties
and renumber 1.8 as 1.6.]
1.6
Parcel Select Markings
[Delete the last sentence of
renumbered 1.6.]
*
*
*
*
*
4.0 Preparing Destination Entry Parcel
Select
*
*
*
*
*
[Renumber 4.2 and 4.3 as 4.3 and 4.4
and add new 4.2 to read as follows:]
4.2 Preparing Destination Hub (DHub)
Parcel Select
4.2.1
Definition
A destination Hub (DHub) includes
all facilities in L014.
4.2.2
Basic Standards
Pieces must meet the applicable
standards in 4.0 and the following
criteria:
a. Must be part of a mailing of at least
50 Parcel Select pieces.
b. DHub pieces must be for the same
Hub area under L014.
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
22MYR2
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
c. Sorted to optional 5-digit scheme
destinations under L606, Column B, 5digit destinations, either in sacks or
directly on pallets or in pallet boxes.
Mailers must enter the pieces at the
designated Hub, under L014 that serves
the 5-digit ZIP Code destinations of the
pieces. The DHub price is not available
for palletized mail for facilities that are
unable to handle palletized mailings.
Refer to the Drop Shipment Product
available at the USPS FAST website:
https://fast.usps.com to determine if the
facility serving the 5-digit destination
can handle pallets.
[Revise the introductory text of item a
to read as follows:]
a. 5-digit/scheme (optional), see
definition in 1.4.; allowed only for mail
deposited at DNDC (or ASF when
claiming DNDC prices), DHub, DSCF, or
DDU. Sacks must contain a 10-pound
minimum except at DDU entry which
has no minimum; labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete items e and f in their
entireties.]
4.2.3
[Revise the first sentence of 6.3.1 to
read as follows:]
Mailers may prepare 5-digit sacks
only for parcels that will be
dropshipped to a DNDC (or ASF when
claiming DNDC prices), DHub, DSCF, or
DDU. See 6.3.3 for restrictions on SCF,
ASF, and NDC sacks. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
Sacking and Labeling
Sacking requirements for DHub entry:
a. Only 5-digit scheme and 5-digit
sacks are permitted.
b. Each 5-digit scheme and 5-digit
sack must contain a minimum of seven
pieces. Machinable and nonmachinable
pieces may be combined in the same
sack to meet this requirement. One
overflow sack per 5-digit ZIP Code is
permitted (no piece minimum).
c. 5-digit scheme sack labeling: Line
1, use L606, Column B; for Line 2,
‘‘PSVC PARCELS 5D SCH.’’
d. 5-digit sack labeling: Line 1, use
city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on mail
(see 203.5.11 for overseas military mail);
for Line 2, ‘‘PSVC PARCELS 5D.’’
*
*
*
*
*
5.0
Preparing Machinable Parcels
*
*
5.3
Sacking and Labeling
*
*
5.3.1
*
*
*
*
*
*
Sack Preparation
Sack size, preparation sequence, and
Line 1 labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete item f in its entirety.]
Preparing Irregular Parcels
6.3.1
Sacking
6.3.3
Sacking and Labeling
Preparation sequence, sack size, and
labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of item a
to read as follows:]
a. 5-digit/scheme (optional), see
definition in 1.4; allowed only for mail
deposited at DNDC (or ASF when
claiming DNDC prices), DHub, DSCF, or
DDU. Sacks must contain a 10-pound
minimum except at DDU entry which
has no minimum; labeling:
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete items e and f in their
entireties.]
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete 8.0, Preparing a Cubic
Mailing, in its entirety.]
256
Enter and Deposit
*
*
Line 2:
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete item f in its entirety.]
2.0
Deposit
*
*
2.2
Containers
6.0 Preparing Parcel Select
Lightweight
[Revise the introductory text and item
a of 2.2 to read as follows:]
DNDC mailings (if not bedloaded),
DDU mailings (if not bedloaded), and all
DHub, and DSCF mailings must be
prepared as follows:
a. Machinable parcels for which a
DNDC, DSCF, DHub, or DDU price is
claimed must be sacked under 255.4.0
or prepared on pallets under 705.8.0.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of 2.2 by adding a new
item g to read as follows:]
g. For DHub, 5-digit scheme and 5digit sacks may be bedloaded or be
5.3.2
6.2.1
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
6.3
Sack Line 2
Sacking
[Revise the first sentence of 6.3.1 to
read as follows:]
Mailers may prepare 5-digit sacks
only for parcels that will be
dropshipped to a DNDC (or ASF when
claiming DNDC prices), DHub, DSCF, or
DDU. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
6.2.2
Sacking and Labeling
Preparation sequence, sack size, and
labeling:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
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Jkt 259001
PO 00000
*
*
Frm 00011
*
*
*
*
Fmt 4701
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32833
placed on DHub pallets that are labeled
and otherwise prepared under 705.8.0.
*
*
*
*
*
2.5 Mail Separation and Presentation
of Destination Entry Mailings
* * * Mailers presenting destination
entry mailings to the Postal Service
must meet the following requirements:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item a to read as
follows:]
a. Mark each DNDC, DSCF, DHub, or
DDU Parcel Select piece as ‘‘Parcel
Select,’’ according to 202.3.7.2. If eVS is
used, include the marking ‘‘eVS’’ on
each piece as described in 604.5.0.
[Delete item b and renumber items c
through f as items b through e.]
*
*
*
*
*
2.11 Deposit Conditions
Deposit of mail also is subject to these
conditions:
[Revise the text of item a to read as
follows:]
a. Destination facilities may refuse
mailings that are unscheduled or late
(i.e., if vehicles arrive more than 2 hours
after the scheduled appointment at
ASFs, NDCs, SCFs, or DHubs, and more
than 20 minutes late at delivery units).
If a mailing is refused, a mailer is
permitted to make a new appointment.
*
*
*
*
*
2.13 Vehicle Unloading
Unloading of destination entry
mailings is subject to these conditions:
[Revise the first sentence of item a to
read as follows:]
a. Properly prepared containerized
loads (e.g., pallets) are unloaded by the
USPS at NDCs, ASFs, SCFs, and Hubs.
* * *
[Revise the first sentence of item b to
read as follows:]
b. The driver must unload bedloaded
shipments within 8 hours of arrival at
NDCs, ASFs, SCFs, and Hubs. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the heading of 280 to read as
follows:]
280 Commercial Mail USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial
283
Prices and Eligibility
1.0
Prices and Fees
1.1 Price Application
[Revise the text of 1.1 to read as
follows:]
Except under items 1.1c and 1.1d,
postage is based on the price (see Notice
123—Price List) that applies to the
weight and zone of each addressed
piece as follows:
a. The price is charged at the 4-ounce,
8-ounce, 12-ounce, and 15.999-ounce
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
22MYR2
32834
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
increments. Any fraction of an ounce
over the 4-ounce, 8-ounce, 12-ounce and
15.999-ounce increments is rounded to
the next price increment. For example,
if an item weighs 4.1 ounces, the next
weight (price) increment is 8 ounces, if
an item weighs 12.1 ounces, the next
weight (price) increment is 15.999
pound.
b. Per pound from 1 pound through
70 pounds. Any fraction of a pound is
considered a whole pound. For
example, if an item weighs 1.25 pounds,
the weight (postage) increment is 2
pounds.
c. The oversized price is based on the
zone and applies to pieces that measure
over 108 inches but not more than 130
inches in combined length and girth.
d. Cubic prices are based on the zone
and cubic measurement (Tier) of the
mailpiece with any fraction of a
measurement rounded down to the
nearest 1⁄4 inch. For example, if a
dimension of a cubic piece measures
123⁄8 inches, it is rounded down to 121⁄4
inches.
1.2
Commercial Prices
Commercial prices are available when
paid by one of the following methods:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item d to read as
follows:]
d. USPS Returns service used by
permit holders for USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial packages when
all requirements are met under 505.3.0).
[Delete 1.3, Surcharge, and renumber
1.4 as 1.6, and add new 1.3, 1.4, and 1.5
to read as follows:]
1.3 USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial Cubic
1.3.1 Eligibility
Cubic prices are available to eligible
USPS Ground Advantage—Commercial
customers including USPS Ground
Advantage Return service under 505.3.0.
Each cubic mailpiece, including soft
packs and padded envelopes under
1.3.4, must measure 1 cubic foot or less,
weigh 20 pounds or less, and the longest
dimension may not exceed 18 inches.
Cubic-priced mailpieces may not be
rolls or tubes.
1.3.2 Tiers
Cubic prices consist of the following
ten tiers:
a. Tier 0.10—mailpieces measuring up
to .10 cubic foot
b. Tier 0.20—mailpieces measuring
more than .10 up to .20 cubic foot
c. Tier 0.30—mailpieces measuring
more than .20 up to .30 cubic foot
d. Tier 0.40—mailpieces measuring
more than .30 up to .40 cubic foot
e. Tier 0.50—mailpieces measuring
more than .40 up to .50 cubic foot
f. Tier 0.60—mailpieces measuring
more than .50 up to .60 cubic foot
g. Tier 0.70—mailpieces measuring
more than .60 up to .70 cubic foot
h. Tier 0.80—mailpieces measuring
more than .70 up to .80 cubic foot
i. Tier 0.90—mailpieces measuring
more than .80 up to .90 cubic foot
j. Tier 1.00—mailpieces measuring
more than .90 up to 1.00 cubic foot
1.3.3 Determining Cubic Tier
Measurements for Rectangular and
Nonrectangular Parcels
Follow these steps to determine the
cubic tier measurement for rectangular
and nonrectangular parcels:
a. Measure the length, width, and
height at each dimension’s maximum
point, in inches. Round down (see
604.7.0) each measurement to the
nearest 1⁄4 inch. For example, 61⁄8″ ×
57⁄8″ × 63⁄8″ is rounded down to 6″ ×
53⁄4″ × 61⁄4″.
b. Multiply the length by the width by
the height and divide by 1728. For
example: 6″ × 53⁄4″ × 61⁄4″ = 215.6
divided by 1728 = 0.125 (This piece
exceeds 0.10—Tier 1 threshold). It is
calculated at Tier 2—0.101 to 0.20.
1.3.4 Determining Cubic Tier
Measurement for Soft Pack and Padded
Envelopes
Cubic tier measurements for soft pack
(poly, plastic, cloth, or similar soft
packaging) and padded envelopes are
based on the outside dimensions of
length plus width, in inches, of the
original packaging material. Mailpieces
that are pleated (e.g., expandable) must
follow the measurement guidelines in
1.3.3 to be eligible for cubic pricing.
Determine cubic tier measurements as
follows:
a. Measure the length and width
separately in inches.
b. Round down (see 604.7.0) each
measurement to the nearest 1⁄4 inch. For
example, 101⁄8 inches is rounded down
to 10 inches.
c. Add the two measurements
together. The maximum total of length
plus width cannot exceed 36 inches. See
Exhibit 1.3.4 for corresponding price
tiers.
Exhibit 1.3.4 Cubic Pricing Tiers for
Soft Pack & Padded Envelopes
Cubic price tiers
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
0.10
0.20
0.30
0.40
0.50
0.60
0.70
0.80
0.90
1.00
Length plus width
.............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
Mailpieces
Mailpieces
Mailpieces
Mailpieces
Mailpieces
Mailpieces
Mailpieces
Mailpieces
Mailpieces
Mailpieces
1.4 Dimensional Weight Price for
Low-Density Parcels to Zones 1–9
1.4.1 Determining Dimensional
Weight for Rectangular Parcels
Postage for USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial parcels
addressed for delivery to Zones 1–9 and
exceeding 1 cubic foot (1,728 cubic
inches) is based on the actual weight or
the dimensional weight (as calculated in
1.4.1 or 1.4.2), whichever is greater.
Follow these steps to determine the
dimensional weight for a rectangular
parcel:
a. Measure the length, width, and
height in inches. Round off (see 604.7.0)
each measurement to the nearest whole
inch.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
PO 00000
Frm 00012
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measuring
measuring
measuring
measuring
measuring
measuring
measuring
measuring
measuring
measuring
from 0″ up to 16″.
more than 16″ up to
more than 21″ up to
more than 24″ up to
more than 26″ up to
more than 28″ up to
more than 30″ up to
more than 32″ up to
more than 34″ up to
more than 35″ up to
21″.
24″.
26″.
28″.
30″.
32″.
34″.
35″.
36″.
b. Multiply the length by the width by
the height.
c. If the result exceeds 1,728 cubic
inches, divide the result by 166 and
round up (see 604.7.0) to the next whole
number to determine the dimensional
weight in pounds.
d. If the dimensional weight exceeds
70 pounds, the customer pays the 70pound price.
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
22MYR2
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
1.4.2 Determining Dimensional
Weight for Nonrectangular Parcels
Follow these steps to determine the
dimensional weight for a nonrectangular
parcel:
a. Measure the length, width, and
height in inches at their extreme
dimensions. Round off (see 604.7.0)
each measurement to the nearest whole
inch.
b. Multiply the length by the width by
the height.
c. Multiply the result by an
adjustment factor of 0.785.
d. If the final result exceeds 1,728
cubic inches, divide the result by 166
and round up (see 604.7.0) to the next
whole number to determine the
dimensional weight in pounds.
e. If the dimensional weight exceeds
70 pounds, the customer pays the 70pound price.
1.4.3 Dimensional Weight Dimension
Standard
Shipping Services file manifests or
other approved electronic
documentation must include the
accurate dimensions (length, width,
height) of all pieces that exceed 1 cubic
foot. Mailers of pieces exceeding 1 cubic
foot and with Shipping Services file
manifests, or other approved electronic
documentation, that do not meet the
requirement to include the piece’s
accurate dimensions will be assessed a
dimension-noncompliance fee under
1.8.
1.5
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
1.5.1
Computing Postage
Determining Single-Piece Weight
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. Except for mailers
using eVS, when determining singlepiece weight for USPS Ground
Advantage mailpieces, express all
weights in decimal pounds rounded off
to two decimal places. Mailers using
eVS may round off to four decimals, and
eVS will automatically round to the
appropriate decimal place. If a customer
is using a manifest mailing system, the
manifest weight field must be properly
completed by adhering to the rules
relative to the specific manifest.
1.5.2 Computing Postage for Affixed
Postage
For each piece, affix correct postage
for the weight (including any
surcharges) and, if applicable, the zone
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
to which the piece is addressed, as
shown in 1.2 through 1.4. To calculate
the total postage for the mailing, add all
of the affixed postage amounts for each
piece.
1.5.3 Computing Postage for Permit
Imprint
To compute the total postage for a
mailing, for each weight increment,
multiply the number of pieces by the
applicable price per piece. Round each
product off to four decimal places. Add
the products and round up the total
postage to the nearest whole cent.
1.6 eVS Unmanifested Fee
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.6 to
read as follows:]
Eligible eVS USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial pieces omitted
from the eVS manifest are subject to the
eVS unmanifested fee (see Notice 123–
Price List), unless the piece is subject to
the IMpb noncompliance fee specified
in 3.4.
[Add new 1.7 and 1.8 to read as
follows:]
1.7 Nonstandard Fees
A USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial mailpiece is subject to a
nonstandard fee (see Notice 123—Price
List) as follows:
a. A piece measures more than 22
inches up to 30 inches long.
b. A piece measures more than 30
inches long.
c. A piece measures more than 2 cubic
feet (3,456 cubic inches). Dimensions
for rectangular pieces are determined by
measuring the length, width, and height
in inches, rounding off (see 604.7.0)
each measurement to the nearest whole
inch and multiplying the length by the
width by the height. Dimensions for
nonrectangular pieces are calculated as
above and the result multiplied by an
adjustment factor of 0.785. If either
calculation exceeds 3,456 cubic inches,
the piece is subject to the nonstandard
fee.
d. A piece may be subject to both a
length (1.8a, 1.8b) and a cube (1.8c)
nonstandard fee.
e. Shipping Services file manifests or
other approved electronic
documentation must include the
accurate dimensions (length, width,
height) of all pieces that exceed 22
inches.
f. Mailers of pieces exceeding 22
inches and with Shipping Services file
manifests, or other approved electronic
documentation, that do not meet the
requirement to include the piece’s
accurate dimensions will be assessed a
dimension-noncompliance fee under
1.8.
PO 00000
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32835
1.8 Dimension-Noncompliance Fee
Mailers of USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial mailpieces required to
include the mailpiece’s dimensions
(length, width, height) in the Shipping
Services file manifest or other approved
electronic documentation under 1.4.3 or
1.7 will be charged a dimensionnoncompliance fee (see Notice 123—
Price List) if the piece’s dimensions are
omitted or inaccurate in the Shipping
Services file manifest or other approved
electronic documentation. A mailpiece
is subject to only one dimensionnoncompliance fee.
[Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as
follows:]
2.0 Content Standards for USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial
Parcels
2.1 General
[Revise the text of 2.1 to read as
follows:]
In addition to restricted material
described in 601.8.0, parcels mailed at
USPS Ground Advantage—Commercial
prices may not contain documents or
personal correspondence, except that
such parcels may contain invoices,
receipts, incidental advertising, and
other documents that relate in all
substantial respects to merchandise
contained in the parcels.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the heading of 3.0 to read as
follows:]
3.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for
USPS Ground Advantage—Commercial
3.1 Description of Service
[Revise the text of 3.1 to read as
follows:]
USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial parcels receive expeditious
handling and transportation. The USPS
does not guarantee the delivery of USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial within
a specified time. Certain USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial mailpieces
might receive deferred service.
3.2
Defining Characteristics
3.2.1 Inspection of Contents
[Revise the text of 3.2.1 to read as
follows:]
Articles mailed at USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial prices are not
sealed against postal inspection.
Regardless of physical closure, the
mailing of articles at USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial prices
constitutes consent by the mailer to
postal inspection of the contents.
3.2.2 Forwarding and Return Service
[Revise the text of 3.2.2 to read as
follows:]
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
22MYR2
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
The postage price of USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial parcels
includes forwarding service to a new
address for up to 12 months and return
of undeliverable parcels to the sender.
3.2.3
Additional and Extra Services
[Revise the text of 3.2.3 to read as
follows:]
Extra services are available for USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial
parcels under 503 and for Hold for
Pickup service under 507.3.0.
3.3
Additional Basic Standards
[Revise the introductory text of 3.3 to
read as follows:]
All USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial parcels must:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of 3.3 by adding a new
item c to read as follows:]
c. Bear a return address.
[Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as
follows:]
2.0 Postage Payment for USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial
2.1 Permit Imprint Postage
[Revise the first sentence of 2.1 to read
as follows:]
All USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial parcels may bear permit
imprint postage under 604.5.0. * * *
[Revise the heading and text of 2.2 to
read as follows:]
2.2 Affixed Postage for USPS Retail
Ground—Commercial
Each USPS Retail Ground—
Commercial parcel bearing postage
evidencing system indicia (IBI Meter or
PC Postage) must bear the full numerical
value of postage at the USPS Retail
Ground—Commercial price for which it
qualifies.
285 Mail Preparation
[Revise the heading and introductory
[Revise the first sentence of 3.4 to read text of 1.0 to read as follows:]
as follows:]
1.0 Preparation for USPS Ground
All USPS Ground Advantage—
Advantage—Commercial
Commercial parcels must bear an
Intelligent Mail package barcode (IMpb)
The following standards apply to
prepared under 204.2.0. * * *
single-piece USPS Ground Advantage—
[Revise the heading of 4.0 to read as
Commercial:
follows:]
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item b to read as
4.0 Price Eligibility for USPS Ground
follows:]
Advantage—Commercial
b. There are no sorting requirements
*
*
*
*
*
for single-piece USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial parcels paid
284 Postage Payment and
with postage evidencing system postage.
Documentation
*
*
*
*
*
1.0 Basic Standards for Postage
[Delete 3.0, Optional ADC Presort,
Payment
and add new 3.0 and 4.0 to read as
[Revise the first sentence of 1.0 to read follows:]
as follows:]
3.0 Preparing a Cubic Mailing
Postage for USPS Ground
Cubic mailpieces for multiple price
Advantage—Commercial parcels must
be paid with postage evidencing system tiers may be combined in the same
container.
postage or permit imprint as specified
*
*
*
*
*
below. * * *
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
3.4
IMpb Standards
Extra service
Eligible mail
[Revise Exhibit 1.4.1 under the
‘‘Eligible Mail’’ column by removing
‘‘USPS Retail Ground’’ in the Insurance,
Certificate of Mailing, Certificate of Bulk
Mailing, Return Receipt, Signature
Confirmation, Signature Confirmation
Restricted Delivery, and COD, line
items.]
*
*
*
*
*
Registered Mail
[Revise ‘‘Register Mail’’ services by
replacing First-Class Package Service—
Commercial with USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial and First-
Class Package—Retail with USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail under the
‘‘Eligible Mail’’ column.]
*
*
*
*
*
Certified Mail
[Revise 1.4.1 ‘‘Certified Mail’’ services
by deleting First-Class Package
Service—Commercial and First-Class
Package—Retail under the ‘‘Eligible
Mail’’ column.]
*
*
*
*
*
Insurance
[Revise ‘‘Insurance’’ services by
replacing First-Class Package Service—
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
PO 00000
Frm 00014
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4700
4.0
Pickup on Demand Service
Pickup on Demand service (507.7.0) is
available for a fee only from designated
ZIP Codes and can be requested online
at www.usps.com.
286
Enter and Deposit
1.0
Deposit
1.1
Time and Location of Deposit
[Revise the text of 1.1 to read as
follows:]
Mailers may deposit USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial with parcels
postage evidencing indicia at any Postal
Service facility, preferably near the
customer’s local Post Office. USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial
parcels bearing a permit imprint must
be deposited under 604.5.0 and 705.
1.2
Approved Collections
[Revise the introductory text of 1.2 to
read as follows:]
The USPS may collect USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial parcels at a
mailer‘s facility if part of an approved
collection service for other classes of
mail; space is available on the
transportation; and:
*
*
*
*
*
500
Additional Mailing Services
503
Extra Services
1.0 Basic Standards for All Extra
Services
*
*
1.4.1
*
*
*
Eligibility—Domestic Mail
*
*
*
Exhibit 1.4.1
Mail
*
*
Eligibility—Domestic
Additional combined extra services
Commercial with USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial and FirstClass Package—Retail with USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail under the
‘‘Eligible Mail’’ column.]
*
*
*
*
*
Certificate of Mailing
[Revise ‘‘Certificate of Mailing’’
services by deleting First-Class Package
Service—Commercial and First-Class
Package—Retail under the ‘‘Eligible
Mail’’ column.]
*
*
*
*
*
Certificate of Bulk Mailing
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
[Revise ‘‘Certificate of Bulk Mailing’’
services by deleting First-Class Package
Service—Commercial and First-Class
Package—Retail under the ‘‘Eligible
Mail’’ column.]
*
*
*
*
*
Return Receipt
[Revise ‘‘Return Receipt’’ services by
replacing First-Class Package Service—
Commercial with USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial and FirstClass Package—Retail with USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail under the
‘‘Eligible Mail’’ column.]
*
*
*
*
*
Signature Confirmation
[Revise ‘‘Signature Confirmation’’
service by replacing First-Class Package
Service—Commercial with USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial and
First-Class Package—Retail with USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail under the
‘‘Eligible Mail’’ column.]
*
*
*
*
*
Signature Confirmation Restricted
Delivery
[Revise ‘‘Signature Confirmation
Restricted Delivery’’ service by replacing
First-Class Package Service—
Commercial with USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial and FirstClass Package—Retail with USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail under the
‘‘Eligible Mail’’ column.]
*
*
*
*
*
Adult Signature Required
[Revise ‘‘Adult Signature Required’’
services by replacing First-Class
Package Service—Commercial with
USPS Ground Advantage—Commercial
under the ‘‘Eligible Mail’’ column.]
*
*
*
*
*
Collect on Delivery (COD)
[Revise ‘‘Collect on Delivery’’ services
by replacing First-Class Package
Service—Commercial with USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial and
First-Class Package—Retail with USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail under the
‘‘Eligible Mail’’ column.]
*
*
*
*
*
1.4.3
Eligibility—Domestic Returns
*
*
*
Exhibit 1.4.3
Returns
*
*
*
4.0
Insured Mail
*
*
4.3
Basic Standards
*
*
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
4.3.2
*
*
*
Insurance $500 or
less
Insurance more
than $500
1
1, 2, 3
201.7.0, the parcel must meet these
additional requirements:
*
*
*
*
*
7.0
USPS Tracking
505
Return Services
7.1
Basic Standards
1.0
Business Reply Mail (BRM)
*
*
1.1
BRM Postage and Fees
7.1.3
*
*
*
Additional Physical Standards
[Revise the last sentence in the
introductory text of 7.1.3 to read as
follows:]
* * * In addition to the applicable
standards in 101 and 201 and the
purposes of USPS Tracking with Media
Mail, Library Mail, Bound Printed
Matter, or Parcel Select, the parcel must
meet these additional requirements:
*
*
*
*
*
USPS Signature Services
Ineligible Matter
8.1
Basic Standards
*
*
The following types of mail may not
be insured:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item e to read as
follows:]
e. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial, and Priority
Mail may be insured, if it contains
matter that is eligible to be mailed at
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
Eligibility—Domestic
USPS Marketing Mail, or Package
Services prices.
*
*
*
*
*
8.0
*
*
Eligible extra services
(paid by EPS account or by permit
holder)
*
*
*
[Revise Exhibit 1.4.3 by adding a new
line item ‘‘Priority Mail Express Return
Service’’ at the top of the table to read
as follows:]
USPS Returns:
Priority Mail Express Return Service ...................................................................................................
*
*
*
*
[Revise the ‘‘First-Class Package
Return Service’’ line item by renaming
as ‘‘USPS Ground Advantage Return
Service’’.]
[Delete the ‘‘Ground Return Service’’
line item in its entirety.]
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of footnote #1 in
Exhibit 1.4.3 to read as follows:]
1. Insurance, up to a maximum of
$100.00, is included for Priority Mail
Express Return Service, Priority Mail
Return Service, and USPS Ground
Advantage Return Service.
*
*
*
*
*
*
Eligibility—Domestic
Exhibit 1.4.3
Returns
Return services
*
*
*
*
*
8.1.2 Standards for Signature
Confirmation
[Revise the introductory text of 8.1.2
to read as follows:]
For Signature Confirmation with
Media Mail, Library Mail, Bound
Printed Matter, or Parcel Select pieces
meeting the physical standards under
PO 00000
Frm 00015
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4700
1.1.1 Basic BRM
[Revise the first and second sentence
of 1.1.1 to read as follows:]
For basic BRM, a permit holder is
required to pay an annual permit fee as
provided under 1.2 and a per-piece fee
under 1.1.7 in addition to the applicable
Retail First-Class Mail (stamped for
letters), USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail, or Priority Mail postage for each
returned piece. For USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, or Priority Mail
BRM pieces exceeding 13 ounces in
weight, 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. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
1.1.5 Bulk Weight Averaged
Nonletter-Size BRM
[Revise the text of 1.1.5 to read as
follows:]
In addition to an annual permit fee
(which will apply under 1.2.3 for the
return of any flat-size pieces), per piece
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
fee and the applicable Retail First-Class
Mail, USPS Ground Advantage—Retail,
or Priority Mail postage, 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.
*
*
*
*
*
1.3
1.3.1
Basic Standards
Description
[Revise the first and second sentence
of 1.3.1 to read as follows:]
Business Reply Mail (BRM) service
enables a permit holder to receive FirstClass Mail, USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail, and Priority Mail back from
customers. The permit holder
guarantees payment of the applicable
Retail First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, 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, cartons, and
labels 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.
* * *
*
*
*
*
*
3.0
USPS Returns Service
3.1
Basic Standards
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
3.1.1
Description
[Revise the introductory text of 3.1.1
to read as follows:]
USPS Returns service allows an
authorized account holder to pay the
postage and fees on single-piece priced
commercial Priority Mail Express,
Priority Mail, or USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial, packages
returned to the account holder by
senders (mailers) via a return label,
meeting the standards in 3.1.4,
produced by the account holder. Unless
otherwise restricted, any mailable
matter may be mailed using any of the
USPS Returns service options (Priority
Mail Express Return Service, Priority
Mail Return Service, USPS Ground
Advantage Return Service). Any content
that constitutes First-Class Mail matter
may only be mailed using Priority Mail
Express Return Service or Priority Mail
Return Service. USPS Returns service is
subject to the following conditions:
*
*
*
*
*
3.1.3
Postage and Prices
Postage and prices are subject to the
following:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
[Revise the first sentence of item a to
read as follows:]
a. Postage is calculated based on the
weight of the return package and zone
associated with the point of origin and
delivery ZIP Code subject to the
eligibility for commercial prices and
fees based on the class of mail under
220 and 280, except that postage for
USPS Returns in flat-rate packaging is
based on the packaging type used and
the associated Universal Product Code
(UPC) on the packaging. * * *
[Revise the introductory text of item b
to read as follows:]
b. Prices for Priority Mail Express
Return Service, Priority Mail Return
Service and USPS Ground Advantage
Return Service packages are charged as
follows:
[Renumber items b1 though b3 as
items b2 through b4, and add new item
b1 to read as follows:]
1. Priority Mail Express commercial
prices are available for account holders
using Priority Mail Express Return
Service, when all applicable
requirements are met.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of renumbered b3 to
read as follows:]
2. USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial prices are available for
USPS Ground Advantage Return Service
packages when all applicable
requirements are met.
[Delete renumbered item b4 in its
entirety.]
*
*
*
*
*
c. The account holder or mailer may
obtain extra and additional services as
follows:
[Revise the text of item c1 to read as
follows:]
1. Insurance is available for USPS
Returns service (see 503.4). Insurance is
included with the postage for Priority
Mail Express Return service, Priority
Mail Return service, and USPS Ground
Advantage Return service (see 503.4.2).
Additional insurance for Priority Mail
Express Return service, Priority Mail
Return service, and USPS Ground
Advantage Return service is available to
the account holder for a fee on packages
that have the applicable STC imbedded
into the IMpb on the label, and for
which the account holder has provided
electronic data that supports the value
of the merchandise (see 503.4.3.1a).
Only the account holder may file a
claim (see 609). Mailers returning a
USPS Returns service package may not
obtain insurance at their own expense.
*
*
*
*
*
3.1.5 Noncompliant Labels
[Revise the second sentence of 3.1.5 to
read as follows:]
PO 00000
Frm 00016
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4700
* * * When noncompliant labels,
including discontinued labels, are
affixed to USPS Returns service
packages, the permit holder will be
assessed the appropriate USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail price calculated from
the package’s initial entry point (first
physical scan) in the USPS network to
its delivery address.
*
*
*
*
*
3.1.6 Enter and Deposit
The following standards apply:
a. The EPS account holder’s
customers may mail the USPS Returns
service package via the following:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item a3 to read as
follows:]
3. In any collection receptacle (e.g.,
collection box, lobby package drop unit)
as permitted by each receptacle’s
limitations (see 3.1.6b for USPS Returns
service packages with extra services);
*
*
*
*
*
3.2
Additional Standards
Additional mailing standards
applicable to each service option are as
follows:
[Renumber items a through c as items
b through d and add new item a to read
as follows:]
a. Priority Mail Express Return service
may contain any mailable matter
meeting the standards in 201.8.0 and
213.2.0. APO/FPO/DPO mail is subject
to standards in 703.2.0 and 703.4.0, and
Department of State mail is subject to
standards in 703.3.0. Priority Mail
Express Return service receives
expeditious handling and
transportation, with service standards in
accordance with Priority Mail Express.
Priority Mail Express Return service
mailed under a specific customer
agreement is charged postage according
to the individual agreement.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of renumbered item c
to read as follows:]
c. USPS Ground Advantage Return
service may contain mailable matter
meeting the standards in 201.8.0 and
283.2.0. USPS Ground Advantage
Return service handling, transportation,
and eligibility of contents are the same
as for outbound USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial parcels under
standards in 283.0. USPS Ground
Advantage Return service packages may
not contain documents or personal
correspondence, except that such
packages may contain invoices, receipts,
incidental advertising, and other
documents that relate in all substantial
respects to merchandise contained in
the package.
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
22MYR2
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
[Delete renumbered Item d in its
entirety.]
*
*
*
*
*
507
Mailer Services
1.0
Treatment of Mail
*
*
1.4.5
*
*
*
Extra Services
Mail with extra services is treated
according to the charts for each class of
mail in 1.5, except that:
[Revise the text of items a and b to
read as follows:]
a. Undeliverable-as-addressed
Certified Mail is treated as First-Class
Mail and USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail.
b. All insured First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail, USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial, and
Priority Mail, pieces are forwarded and
returned at no additional charge. All
insured USPS Marketing Mail, Package
Services, and Parcel Select pieces are
forwarded or returned.
*
*
*
*
*
1.5 Treatment for Ancillary Services
by Class of Mail
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
1.5.1 First-Class Mail, First-Class
Package Service—Retail, First-Class
Package Service—Commercial, and
Priority Mail
[Revise the introductory text of 1.5.1
to read as follows:]
Undeliverable-as-addressed FirstClass Mail (including postcards), USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail, USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial, and
Priority Mail pieces are treated under
Exhibit 1.5.1, with these additional
conditions:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the last sentence of item b to
read as follows:]
b. * * * Undeliverable First-Class
Mail, USPS Ground Advantage—Retail,
USPS Ground Advantage—Commercial,
or Priority Mail pieces with any
alternative addressing format are
returned with the reason for
nondelivery attached, only if the
address is incorrect or incomplete or the
mail is undeliverable for another reason
as shown in Exhibit 1.4.1; however, if
such mail is endorsed Change Service
Requested, piece is disposed of and an
ACS record is provided for the same
reasons.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item d to read as
follows:]
d. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial, or Priority
Mail pieces bearing USPS Marketing
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
Mail markings and endorsements under
202 and 244.5.1 for letters, flats, and
parcels, receives forwarding, return, and
address correction services for USPS
Marketing Mail under 1.5.3.
e. ‘‘Change Service Requested’’ is not
permitted for the following:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of items e2 and e3 to
read as follows:]
2. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial, or Priority
Mail pieces containing hazardous
materials under 601.8.0.
3. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial or Priority
Mail pieces with an extra service other
than USPS Tracking or Signature
Confirmation.
[Revise the introductory text of item f
to read as follows:]
f. Address Change Service under 4.0
is available for First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail, USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial, and
Priority Mail pieces with the ACS
participant code for an authorized ACS
participant and a valid ancillary service
endorsement. Mailers participating in
OneCode ACS under 4.2.6 may print an
Intelligent Mail barcode on First-Class
Mail automation letters instead of a
participant code and endorsement. The
only endorsements permitted on FirstClass Mail, USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail, USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial and Priority Mail valid ACS
pieces are ‘‘Address Service Requested’’,
‘‘Change Service Requested’’ or
‘‘Electronic Service Requested’’ subject
to the following:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the heading of Exhibit 1.5.1 to
read as follows:]
Exhibit 1.5.1 Treatment of
Undeliverable First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail, USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial and
Priority Mail
*
*
*
*
*
‘‘Change Service Requested’’
*
*
*
*
*
Restrictions (for Options 1 and 2)
[Revise the text of item 1 under
‘‘Restrictions (for Options 1 and 2)’’ to
read as follows:]
(1) This endorsement is limited to use
on valid mailpieces bearing a proper
ACS participant code and only for: (a)
Priority Mail containing perishable
matter (other than live animals) and the
marking ‘‘Perishable’’ and; (b) FirstClass Mail, USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage—
PO 00000
Frm 00017
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4700
32839
Commercial (excluding hazardous
materials).
*
*
*
*
*
1.5.2
Periodicals
Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA)
Periodicals publications (including
publications pending Periodicals
authorization) are treated as described
in Exhibit 1.5.2, with these additional
conditions:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the third sentence of item e to
read as follows:]
e. * * * Each returned piece is
charged the single-piece First-Class Mail
or USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
price for the weight and shape of the
piece, and the letter-size nonmachinable
surcharge if applicable. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
Exhibit 1.5.2 Treatment of
Undeliverable Periodicals
*
*
*
*
*
‘‘Address Service Requested’’
If no change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the text under ‘‘Address
Service Requested’’, If no change-ofaddress order on file:, to read as
follows:]
Piece returned with reason for
nondelivery attached (only return
postage charged at First-Class Mail or
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail singlepiece price as appropriate for weight of
piece).
If change-of-address order on file:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the second bullet under
‘‘Address Service Requested’’, If changeof-address order on file:, to read as
follows:]
D After 60-day period: Piece returned
with new address or reason for
nondelivery attached (in either case,
only return postage charged at FirstClass Mail or USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail single-piece price as
appropriate for weight of piece).
*
*
*
*
*
1.5.3 USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel
Select Lightweight
Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA)
USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel Select
Lightweight pieces are treated as
described in Exhibit 1.5.3, with these
additional conditions:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item h to read as
follows:]
h. A returned piece endorsed ‘‘Return
Service Requested’’ is charged the
applicable single-piece First-Class Mail
or USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
price for the weight and shape of the
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
22MYR2
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
piece, and the nonmachinable surcharge
if applicable.
*
*
*
*
*
Exhibit 1.5.3 Treatment of
Undeliverable USPS Marketing Mail
and Parcel Select Lightweight
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
*
*
*
*
*
‘‘Address Service Requested’’
(Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return
participants via ACS only)
*
*
*
*
*
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return
Option 2
If no change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the text under ‘‘Address
Service Requested’’ (Shipper Paid
Forwarding/Return Option 2), If no
change-of-address order on file:, to read
as follows:]
Piece returned with reason for
nondelivery attached; postage due
charged as follows: at applicable FirstClass Mail, or USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail single-piece price for
the weight of the piece. Separate notice
provided (electronic ACS fee is
charged).
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first bullet under ‘‘Address
Service Requested’’ (Shipper Paid
Forwarding/Return Option 2), If changeof-address order on file:, to read as
follows:]
D Months 1 through 12: Piece
forwarded. Forwarding postage is
charged to the mailer as follows: at
applicable First-Class Mail, or USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail single-piece
price for the weight of the piece.
Separate notice of new address provided
(electronic ACS fee charged).
*
*
*
*
*
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return
Option 3
If no change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the text under ‘‘Address
Service Requested’’ (Shipper Paid
Forwarding/Return Option 3), If no
change-of-address order on file:, to read
as follows:]
Piece returned with reason for
nondelivery attached; postage due
charged as follows: at applicable FirstClass Mail, or USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail single-piece price for
the weight of the piece. Separate notice
provided (electronic ACS fee is
charged).
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the bullets under ‘‘Address
Service Requested’’ (Shipper Paid
Forwarding/Return Option 3), If changeof-address order on file:, to read as
follows:]
D Months 1 through 12: Piece
forwarded. Forwarding postage is
charged to the mailer as follows: at
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
applicable First-Class Mail, or USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail single-piece
price for the weight of the piece.
Separate notice of new address provided
(electronic ACS fee charged).
D Months 13 through 18: Piece
returned with new address attached;
return postage is charged to mailer as
follows: at applicable First-Class Mail,
or USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
single-piece price for the weight of the
piece. Separate notice of new address
provided (electronic ACS fee is
charged).
D After month 18: Piece returned with
reason for nondelivery; return postage is
charged to mailer as follows: at
applicable First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail single-piece
price for the weight of the piece.
Separate notice of reason for
nondelivery provided (electronic ACS
fee is charged).
‘‘Address Service Requested—BPRS’’
(BPRS participants only)
*
*
*
*
*
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first bullet under ‘‘Address
Service Requested’’ (BPRS participants
only), If change-of-address order on file:,
to read as follows:]
D Months 1 through 12: Piece
forwarded (no charge to addressee);
separate ACS notice of new address
provided (ACS address correction fee
and forwarding postage charged at FirstClass Mail, or USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, single-piece price as
appropriate for weight of piece, via
mailer’s ACS participant code).
*
*
*
*
*
‘‘Return Service Requested’’ (Except
for BPRS participants)
Option 1
[Revise the text under ‘‘Return Service
Requested’’ (Except for BPRS
participants) Option 1, to read as
follows:]
Piece returned with new address or
reason for nondelivery attached. In
either case, only return postage is
charged at First-Class Mail, or USPS
Retail Ground—Retail single-piece
price, as appropriate for weight of piece.
Option 2 (Available via ACS only)
*
*
*
*
*
In all cases (regardless of whether a
change-of-address order is on file):
[Revise the text under ‘‘Return Service
Requested’’ (Except for BPRS
participants) Option 2, In all cases
(regardless of whether a change-ofaddress order is on file), to read as
follows:]
Piece returned with new address or
reason for non-delivery attached and
separate ACS notice of reason for
nondelivery provided. In either case,
PO 00000
Frm 00018
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4700
both the address correction fee is
charged, and return postage is charged
at First-Class Mail, or USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail single-piece price, as
appropriate for weight of piece.
*
*
*
*
*
‘‘Change Service Requested’’ (Shipper
Paid Forwarding participants via ACS
only)
*
*
*
*
*
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first bullet under ‘‘Change
Service Requested’’ (Shipper Paid
Forwarding participants via ACS only)
to read as follows:]
D Months 1 through 12: Piece
forwarded; postage due charged to the
mailer as follows; at applicable FirstClass Mail, or USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail single-piece price for
the weight of the piece; separate notice
of new address provided (electronic
ACS fee charged).
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise footnote #2 to read as follows:]
2. The weighted (per piece) fee is the
First-Class Mail, or USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail single-piece price
and any nonmachinable surcharge (see
133.1.0), multiplied by 2.472, rounding
any fractions to the next whole cent.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the heading and introductory
text of 1.5.4 to read as follows:]
1.5.4 Package Services and Parcel
Select
Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA)
Package Services and Parcel Select (see
1.5.3 for Parcel Select Lightweight)
mailpieces are treated as described in
Exhibit 1.5.4, with these additional
conditions:
[Revise the text of item a to read as
follows:]
a. Package Services and Parcel Select
mail is forwarded only to domestic
addresses.
[Revise the third sentence of item b to
read as follows:]
b. * * * Undeliverable Parcel Select,
Media Mail, and Library Mail with this
address format are returned with the
reason for nondelivery attached only if
the address is incorrect or incomplete,
or the mail is undeliverable for another
address-related reason. ***
[Revise the text of items c, d, and e,
to read as follows:]
c. The endorsement ‘‘Change Service
Requested’’ is not permitted for Package
Services or Parcel Select mailpieces
containing hazardous materials under
601.8.0.
d. If a Package Services (except for
unendorsed Bound Printed Matter) or
Parcel Select mailpiece and any
attachment are not opened by the
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
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a. Parcel Select: at the USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial price plus the
additional service fee.
b. Package Services: at the singlepiece price for the class of mail.
*
*
*
*
*
‘‘Address Service Requested’’ Shipper
Paid Forwarding/Return Option 1
(Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return
participants via ACS only)
If no change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the text under ‘‘Address
Service Requested,’’ Shipper Paid
Forwarding/Return Option 1 (Shipper
Paid Forwarding/Return participants via
ACS only) ‘‘If no change-of-address
order on file:’’ to read as follows:]
Parcel returned with reason for
nondelivery attached; postage due
charged as follows: at the applicable
Package Services single-piece price or
the USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial price plus the additional
service fee.
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first bullet under ‘‘Address
Service Requested,’’ Shipper Paid
Exhibit 1.5.4 Treatment of
Forwarding/Return Option 1 (Shipper
Undeliverable Package Services, and
Paid Forwarding/Return participants via
Parcel Select
ACS only) ‘‘If change-of-address order
on file:’’ to read as follows:]
Mailer Endorsement .. USPS Treatment of
D Months 1 through 12: Parcel
UAA Pieces.
forwarded. Forwarding postage is
*
*
*
*
*
charged to the mailer as follows; at the
‘‘Address Service Requested’’ 1
applicable Package Services single-piece
(Except for Shipper Paid Forwarding
price or the USPS Ground Advantage—
participants)
Commercial price plus the ACS &
If no change-of-address order on file:
Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional
Piece is returned with reason for
service fee. Separate notice of new
nondelivery attached (only return
address provided (electronic ACS fee
postage charged) as follows:
charged).
[Revise the two bullets under
*
*
*
*
*
‘‘Address Service Requested,’’ ‘‘If no
Shipper
Paid
Forwarding/Return
change-of-address order on file:’’ to read
Option 2
as follows:]
If no change-of-address order on file:
D Parcel Select: at the USPS Ground
[Revise the text under ‘‘Address
Advantage—Commercial price plus the
Service
Requested,’’ Shipper Paid
additional service fee.
D Package Services: at the appropriate Forwarding/Return Option 2 ‘‘If no
change-of-address order on file:’’ to read
single-piece price for the specific class
as follows:]
of mail.
Piece returned with reason for
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first bullet and items a and nondelivery attached; Postage due
charged as follows: at the applicable
b under ‘‘Address Service Requested,’’
Package Services single-piece price or
‘‘If change-of-address order on file:’’ to
the USPS Ground Advantage—
read as follows:]
D Months 1 through 12: Package
Commercial price plus the additional
Services forwarded postage due at the
service fee. Separate notice provided
single-piece price for the class of mail.
(electronic ACS fee is charged).
Parcel Select forwarded as postage due
If change-of-address order on file:
to addressee at the USPS Ground
[Revise the first bullet under ‘‘Address
Advantage—Commercial price plus the
Service Requested,’’ Shipper Paid
additional service fee. In both cases,
Forwarding/Return Option 2 ‘‘If changeseparate notice of new address is
of-address order on file:’’ to read as
provided (address correction fee
follows:]
charged). If addressee refuses to pay
D Months 1 through 12: Parcel
postage due, piece is returned with
forwarded. Forwarding postage is
reason for nondelivery attached and
charged to the mailer as follows; at the
postage charged as follows:
applicable Package Services single-piece
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
addressee, the addressee may refuse
delivery of the piece and have it
returned to the sender without affixing
postage. Pieces endorsed ‘‘Change
Service Requested’’ are not returned to
sender. If a Package Services or Parcel
Select piece or any attachment to that
piece is opened by the addressee, the
addressee must affix the applicable
postage to return the piece to the sender.
e. An undeliverable Package Services
(except for unendorsed Bound Printed
Matter) or a Parcel Select mailpiece that
bears postage with a postage evidencing
imprint and that has an illegible (or no)
return address is returned to the meter
licensee or PC Postage customer upon
payment of the return postage. The
reason for nondelivery is attached, with
no address correction fee. All Package
Services (except unendorsed Bound
Printed Matter) and Parcel Select pieces
must have a legible return address.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the heading of Exhibit 1.5.4 to
read as follows:]
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
PO 00000
Frm 00019
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4700
32841
price or the USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial price plus the ACS &
Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional
service fee. Separate notice of new
address provided (electronic ACS fee
charged).
*
*
*
*
*
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return
Option 3
If no change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the text under ‘‘Address
Service Requested,’’ Shipper Paid
Forwarding/Return Option 3 ‘‘If no
change-of-address order on file:’’ to read
as follows:]
Piece returned with reason for
nondelivery attached; Return postage is
charged to the mailer as follows: at the
Package Services single-piece price, or
the USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial price plus the ACS &
Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional
service fee. Separate notice provided
(electronic ACS fee is charged).
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first bullet under ‘‘Address
Service Requested,’’ Shipper Paid
Forwarding/Return Option 3 ‘‘If changeof-address order on file:’’ to read as
follows:]
D Months 1 through 12: Parcel
forwarded. Forwarding postage is
charged to the mailer as follows: at the
Package Services single-piece price or
the USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial price plus the ACS &
Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional
service fee. Separate notice of new
address provided (electronic ACS fee is
charged).
*
*
*
*
*
‘‘Forwarding Service Requested’’ 2
If no change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the text under ‘‘Forwarding
Service Requested,’’ ‘‘If no change-ofaddress order on file:’’ to read as
follows:]
Piece returned with reason for
nondelivery attached; return postage
charged as follows at the applicable
Package Services single-piece price or
the USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial price plus the additional
service fee.
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first bullet under
‘‘Forwarding Service Requested,’’ ‘‘If
change-of-address order on file:’’ to read
as follows:]
D Months 1 through 12: Package
Services forwarded postage due at the
single-piece price for the class of mail.
Parcel Select forwarded as postage due
to addressee at the USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial price plus the
additional service fee. If addressee
refuses to pay postage due, piece is
returned with reason for nondelivery
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
22MYR2
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
32842
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
attached; postage charged as follows: at
the applicable Package Services singlepiece price or the USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial price plus the
additional service fee.
*
*
*
*
*
‘‘Return Service Requested’’ Option 1
In all cases (regardless of whether a
change-of-address order is on file):
[Revise the text under ‘‘Return Service
Requested,’’ Option 1 ‘‘In all cases
(regardless of whether a change-ofaddress order is on file):’’ to read as
follows:]
Piece returned with new address or
reason for nondelivery attached. In
either case, only return postage is
charged as follows: at the Package
Services single-piece price or the USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial price
plus the additional service fee.
Option 2 (Available via ACS only)
In all cases (regardless of whether a
change-of-address order is on file):
[Revise the text under ‘‘Return Service
Requested,’’ Option 2 (Available via
ACS only) ‘‘In all cases (regardless of
whether a change-of-address order is on
file):’’ to read as follows:]
Piece returned with new address or
reason for non-delivery attached, return
postage is charged as follows: at the
applicable Package Services single-piece
price or the USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial price plus the additional
service fee. Separate ACS notice of
reason for nondelivery provided
(electronic ACS fee charged).
‘‘Change Service Requested’’ 3 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:
*
*
*
*
*
Restrictions:
The following restrictions apply:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item 2 to read as
follows:]
(2) This endorsement is not permitted
for Package Services containing
hazardous materials.
*
*
*
*
*
‘‘Change Service Requested’’ (For
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return
participants via ACS only)
*
*
*
*
*
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first bullet under ‘‘Change
Service Requested,’’ (For Shipper Paid
Forwarding/Return participants via ACS
only) ‘‘If change-of-address order on
file:’’ to read as follows:]
D Months 1 through 12: Parcel
forwarded; postage due charged to the
mailer as follows: at the Package
Services single-piece price for the
specific class of mail or the USPS
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
Ground Advantage—Commercial price
plus the ACS & Shipper Paid Forward/
Return additional service fee; separate
notice of new address provided
(electronic ACS fee charged).
*
*
*
*
*
Restrictions:
The following restrictions apply:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item 2 to read as
follows:]
(2) This endorsement is not permitted
for Package Services containing
hazardous materials.
*
*
*
*
*
1.6
Attachments and Enclosures
1.6.1
Periodicals
[Revise the first sentence of 1.6.1 to
read as follows:]
Undeliverable Periodicals (including
publications pending Periodicals
authorization) with a nonincidental
First-Class Mail attachment or enclosure
are returned at the single-piece FirstClass Mail price for the weight and
shape of the piece, and the
nonmachinable surcharge if applicable,
or USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
price for the weight and destination of
the piece. * * *
1.6.2
USPS Marketing Mail
[Revise the first sentence of 1.6.2 to
read as follows:]
Undeliverable, unendorsed USPS
Marketing Mail with a nonincidental
First-Class Mail attachment or enclosure
is returned at the single-piece FirstClass Mail price for the weight and
shape of the piece or USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail price for the weight
and destination of the piece. * * *
1.6.3 Package Services and Parcel
Select
Undeliverable, unendorsed
mailpieces with a First-Class Mail
attachment or enclosure are forwarded
or returned as follows:
[Revise the text of item a to read as
follows:]
a. Parcel Select at the USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial price plus the
additional service fee.
*
*
*
*
*
1.7
Mixed Classes
*
*
1.7.4
*
*
*
Parcel
[Revise the text of 1.7.4 to read as
follows:]
A combination parcel containing
Media Mail and Bound Printed Matter is
charged postage at the USPS Ground
PO 00000
Frm 00020
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4700
Advantage—Retail price when
forwarded or returned.
*
*
*
*
*
1.8
Returning Mail
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the heading of 1.8.3 to read as
follows:]
1.8.3 Priority Mail Express, Priority
Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, and USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial
[Revise the introductory text of 1.8.3
to read as follows:]
Mailpieces sent as Priority Mail
Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail,
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail, or
USPS Ground Advantage—Commercial
that cannot be delivered as addressed or
forwarded to a new address, unless
otherwise requested by the sender, are
returned to the sender at no additional
charge. Excluding pieces containing live
animals, the following are disposed of
by the USPS:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item b to read as
follows:]
b. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, or USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial pieces with a
valid ACS participant code and
endorsed ‘‘Change Service Requested.’’
*
*
*
*
*
1.9
Dead Mail
1.9.1 Basic Information
* * * The disposition of dead mail
items is as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item e to read as
follows:]
e. Except for unendorsed USPS
Marketing Mail, undeliverable USPS
Marketing Mail, Package Services, and
insured First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, or USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial pieces
containing USPS Marketing Mail, or
Package Services enclosures, that cannot
be returned because of an incorrect,
incomplete, illegible, or missing return
address is opened and examined to
identify the sender or addressee.
*
*
*
*
*
2.0
Forwarding
*
*
2.2
Forwardable Mail
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
2.2.3 Discontinued Post Office
[Revise the text of 2.2.3 to read as
follows:]
All Priority Mail Express, Priority
Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
Advantage—Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial, Periodicals,
and Package Services pieces addressed
to a discontinued Post Office may be
forwarded without added charge to a
Post Office that the addressee designates
as more convenient than the office to
which the USPS ordered the mail sent.
2.2.4 Rural Delivery
[Revise the text of 2.2.4 to read as
follows:]
When rural delivery service is
established or changed, a customer of
any office receiving mail from the rural
carrier of another office may have all
Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail,
First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial, Periodicals,
and Package Services pieces forwarded
to the latter office for delivery without
added charge, if the customer files a
written request with the postmaster at
the former office.
*
*
*
*
*
2.2.6 Mail for Military Personnel
[Revise the first sentence of 2.2.6 to
read as follows:]
All Priority Mail Express, First-Class
Mail, USPS Ground Advantage—Retail,
USPS Ground Advantage—Commercial,
Periodicals, and Package Services
mailpieces addressed to persons in the
U.S. Armed Forces (including civilian
employees) serving where U.S. mail
service operates is forwarded at no
added charge when the change of
address is caused by official orders.
* * *
*
*
*
*
*
2.3
Postage for Forwarding
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the heading and text of 2.3.3
to read as follows:]
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
2.3.3 Priority Mail, First-Class Mail,
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail, and
USPS Ground Advantage—Commercial
Priority Mail, First-Class Mail
(including postcards), USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, and USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial mailpieces are
forwarded without charge when postage
is fully prepaid by the sender.
*
*
*
*
*
2.3.5 USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel
Select Lightweight
[Revise the second sentence of 2.3.5 to
read as follows:]
* * * Shipper Paid Forwarding/
Return (under 4.2.9) provides mailers of
USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel Select
Lightweight parcels an option of paying
forwarding postage on those parcels, or
return postage if undeliverable, at the
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
applicable single-piece First-Class Mail,
or USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
price, instead of the addressee paying
postage due charges. * * *
[Revise the heading of 2.3.6 to read as
follows:]
2.3.6 Package Services, and Parcel
Select
[Revise the first and third sentence of
2.3.6 to read as follows:]
Package Services, and Parcel Select
pieces are subject to the collection of
additional postage at the applicable
price for forwarding; Parcel Select at the
USPS Ground Advantage—Commercial
price plus the additional service fee and
Package Services at the single-piece
price for the specific class of mail.
* * * * * * The addressee may refuse
any piece of Package Services or Parcel
Select that has been forwarded. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
3.0
Hold For Pickup
*
*
3.2
Basic Information
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
3.2.2 Basic Eligibility
[Revise the introductory text of 3.2.2
to read as follows:]
Hold For Pickup service is available at
retail Post Office locations for Priority
Mail Express presented under 113.4.2 or
113.4.3, with or without COD service,
Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, Library
Mail, and Media Mail, with COD
service, and for Priority Mail Express,
Priority Mail, and USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, using USPS Click-NShip. It is also available with
commercial mailings of Priority Mail
Express presented under 213.4.2 or
213.4.3, Priority Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial, Parcel Select
Lightweight, and Bound Printed Matter
parcels, when:
*
*
*
*
*
3.2.3 Additional Eligibility Standards
Parcels must meet these additional
physical requirements:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item b to read as
follows:]
b. Except as provided in 3.2.3c, Parcel
Select Lightweight parcels must be
greater than 3⁄4 inch thick at the thickest
point.
*
*
*
*
*
3.3 Preparation Definitions and
Instructions
[Revise the introductory text of 3.3 to
read as follows:]
When using Hold For Pickup service,
except for Priority Mail Express Hold
PO 00000
Frm 00021
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4700
32843
For Pickup with or without COD
service, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, Library Mail, and
Media Mail, with COD service presented
at retail Post Office locations, mailers or
their agents must prepare mailpieces
with the ‘‘Hold For Pickup’’ label as
follows:
*
*
*
*
*
4.0
Address Correction Services
4.1
Address Correction Service
*
*
*
*
*
4.1.3 Invalid Endorsement
[Revise the last sentence ‘‘Exception:’’
to read as follows:]
* * * Exception: Undeliverable
Media Mail, Library Mail, and Parcel
Select pieces that bear invalid or
conflicting ancillary service
endorsements are treated as if endorsed
‘‘Forwarding Service Requested.’’
*
*
*
*
*
4.1.5 Other Classes
[Revise the first sentence of 4.1.5 to
read as follows:]
When possible, ‘‘on-piece’’ address
correction is provided for Priority Mail
Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail,
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail, USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial, USPS
Marketing Mail, Package Services, and
Parcel Select pieces. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
5.0
Package Intercept
5.1
Description of Service
*
*
*
*
*
5.1.2 Eligibility
[Revise the first sentence of 5.1.2 to
read as follows:]
Except under 5.1.3, Package Intercept
service is available for Priority Mail
Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail,
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail, USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial, Parcel
Select, Bound Printed Matter, Media
Mail, or Library Mail mailpieces with a
tracking barcode (excluding COD Hold
For Pickup mailpieces), addressed to,
from, or between domestic destinations
(608.2.0) that do not require a customs
declarations label, and measuring not
more than 108 inches in length and
girth combined. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
5.2 Postage and Fees
[Revise the second and third
sentences in the introductory text of 5.2
to read as follows:]
* * * Priority Mail Express, Priority
Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, and USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial pieces being
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
redirected to the sender are not
relabeled or subject to additional
postage. Intercepted Parcel Select,
Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail or
Library Mail pieces that are redirected
to the sender, and all intercepted
mailpieces that are redirected to a new
delivery address or a Post Office as Hold
For Pickup (3.0), are relabeled and
handled as a new Priority Mail piece.
* * *
*
*
*
*
*
7.0
Pickup on Demand Service
*
*
7.2
Basic Standards
7.2.1
*
*
*
Availability
* * * Incidental amounts of other
postage-affixed, full-price mail also may
be collected when Pickup on Demand
service is provided for:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise items c and d to read as
follows:]
c. USPS Ground Advantage—Retail.
d. USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial.
[Delete item e and renumber items f
through n as items e through m.]
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete renumbered item g, USPS
Retail Ground, and renumber items h
through m as items g through l.]
*
*
*
*
*
11.0
*
11.2
USPS Tracking Plus Service
*
*
*
*
*
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
12.2
*
*
*
Eligibility
USPS Label Delivery Service is
available for the following:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of items b and c to
read as follows:]
b. USPS Ground Advantage—Retail.
c. USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial.
[Delete items d and e and renumber
item f as item d.]
*
*
*
*
*
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:39 May 19, 2023
1.0
Recipient Options
*
*
Jkt 259001
*
*
*
1.8 Commercial Mail Receiving
Agencies
*
*
*
*
*
1.8.4 Addressee and CMRA
Agreement
In delivery of the mail to the CMRA,
the addressee and the CMRA agree that:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the sixth sentence of item b to
read as follows:]
b. * * * At the end of the 6-month
remail period the CMRA may return to
the Post Office only First-Class Mail,
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail,
Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, or
accountable mail, received for the
former addressee (customer). * * *
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the third sentence of item c to
read as follows:]
c. * * * Upon approval, the CMRA
may return to the Post Office only FirstClass Mail, USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail, Priority Mail, Priority Mail
Express, and accountable mail, received
for the former customer. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
3. Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail,
Library Mail, and Parcel Select pieces
are rerouted separately and charged
postage due at the appropriate singlepiece price for the class or subclass of
mail in which the piece was originally
shipped.
*
*
*
*
*
d. Any mailpiece arriving postage due
at the Post Office serving a customer‘s
primary address is not included in the
weekly Priority Mail shipment and will
be rerouted separately as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of items d1 and d2 to
read as follows:]
1. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial, and Priority
Mail pieces are charged only for the
original postage due amount.
2. Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail,
Library Mail, and Parcel Select pieces
are rerouted postage due at the
appropriate single-piece price for the
class, or subclass, of mail the mailpiece
was originally shipped plus the postage
due amount already indicated on the
mailpiece.
*
*
*
*
*
7.3 Premium Forwarding Service
Commercial
7.0
Premium Forwarding Services
*
*
*
7.3.3
*
*
*
7.2 Premium Forwarding Service
Residential
*
7.2.6
USPS Label Delivery Service
*
Recipient Services
*
Scan Data Retention
USPS Tracking Plus service is
available for scan data retention on
mailpieces shipped via the following
products:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item d to read as
follows:]
d. USPS Ground Advantage Service.
*
*
*
*
*
12.0
508
*
*
*
Weekly Priority Mail Shipments
* * * Regardless of any mailer‘s
ancillary service endorsement on a
mailpiece, and provided it fits within
the shipment container, all mail is
included in the weekly Priority Mail
shipment, except as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
b. Mailpieces that do not fit in the
shipment container, or that require a
scan or signature at delivery, are
scanned (when applicable) and then
rerouted separately to the temporary
address, subject to the following:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of items b1 through b3
to read as follows:]
1. Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail,
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail, USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial pieces
and Periodicals parcels are rerouted
separately at no additional charge.
2. USPS Marketing Mail parcels and
Parcel Select Lightweight pieces are
rerouted separately and charged postage
due at the appropriate USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail price.
PO 00000
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*
*
*
*
Conditions
Only the authorized recipient (or legal
agent) of the business’ (or
organization’s) mail may activate the
request for PFS-Commercial service.
PFS-Commercial service is subject to
these conditions:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item e to read as
follows:]
e. Except under 7.3.3g, the following
products may be included in a PFSCommercial service container: Priority
Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, and USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial pieces.
*
*
*
*
*
600 Basic Standards for All Mailing
Services
*
*
602
Addressing
*
1.0
Elements of Addressing
*
*
1.3
Address Elements
*
*
*
*
*
All mail not bearing a simplified
address must bear a delivery address
that contains at least the following
elements in this order from the top line:
*
*
*
*
*
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
22MYR2
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
[Revise the text of item e to read as
follows:]
e. ZIP Codes are required on Priority
Mail Express, commercial First-Class
Mail, Periodicals, USPS Marketing Mail,
Package Services and Parcel Select
mailpieces, all mail sent to military
addresses within the United States and
to APO and FPO addresses, official
mail, Business Reply Mail, and USPS
Returns service packages.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the last sentence of item d to
read as follows:]
d. * * * Additional material must be
sent prepaid to the delivery Post Office
as First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, Priority Mail, or
Priority Mail Express.
*
*
*
*
*
1.5
Return Addresses
*
*
[Revise the first sentence of 4.6.3 to
read as follows:]
Postage for excess or undeliverable
DALs or DMLs that are properly
endorsed or for items being returned is
computed at the single-piece price
(First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, Priority Mail, or
Package Services) applicable to the
combined weight of the DAL or DML,
and the accompanying item, regardless
of whether both are returned. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
1.5.3 Required Use of Return
Addresses
The sender’s domestic return address
must appear legibly on:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item g to read as
follows:]
g. USPS Ground Advantage—Retail
and USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial.
*
*
*
*
*
Postage
*
*
4.6.3
*
*
*
Returns
3.0
Use of Alternative Addressing
604 Postage Payment Methods and
Refunds
3.1
General Information
*
*
*
4.0 Postage Meters and PC Postage
Products (‘‘Postage Evidencing
Systems’’)
*
*
*
3.1.2 Prohibited Use
Alternative addressing formats may
not be used on:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item b to read as
follows:]
b. Mail with any ancillary service
endorsement under 507.1.1 through
507.1.8, except as allowed for FirstClass Mail, USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial parcels, or Priority Mail
under 507.1.5.1b.
*
*
*
*
*
3.1.3 Treatment
[Revise the last sentence of 3.1.3 to
read as follows:]
* * * Undeliverable mail with any
alternative addressing format is
disposed of as waste under 507.1.9.1,
except for First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial
parcels, and Priority Mail under
507.1.5.1b.
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
4.5 Disposition of Excess or
Undeliverable Material
* * * The mailer must choose one of
the following options for each DAL or
DML mailing and the items:
*
*
*
*
*
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
*
*
*
*
*
4.6
Mailings
4.6.1
*
*
*
*
Deposit of Mail
Mailers must deposit or enter
mailpieces with metered or PC Postage
indicia according to the following
conditions:
[Revise the first sentence of item a to
read as follows:]
a. Mailers may deposit Priority Mail
Express (including Flat Rate), Priority
Mail (including Flat Rate), retail FirstClass Mail, USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail, retail Media Mail, and Library
Mail, with a postage evidencing indicia
at any Postal Service facility, preferably
near the customers’ local Post
Office. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
PO 00000
Frm 00023
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4700
Permit Imprint (Indicia)
5.1
General Standards
5.1.1
Definition
[Revise the second sentence of 5.1.1 to
read as follows:]
* * * This payment method may be
used for postage and extra service fees
for Priority Mail Express (‘‘eVS’’ only),
Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial, USPS
Marketing Mail, Package Services, and
Parcel Select mailpieces. * * *
5.1.2
Minimum Volume
Permit imprint mailings must contain
at least 200 pieces or 50 pounds of mail,
except:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item f to read as
follows:]
f. A mailing containing 50 or more
pieces for Parcel Select destination
entry under 253.4.1.2.
[Revise the second sentence of item g
to read as follows:]
g. * * * Mailers may include any
combination of the following products
under this provision: Priority Mail
Express (eVS only), Priority Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial
parcels, nonpresorted Bound Printed
Matter parcels, and single-piece Media
Mail and Library Mail parcels. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
5.3 Indicia Design, Placement, and
Content
Mailing Date Format
* * * The mailing date format used
in the indicia is also subject to the
following conditions.
a. Complete Date. Mailers must use a
complete date for the following:
[Revise the text of item a1 to read as
follows:]
1. All Priority Mail Express, Priority
Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, and USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial pieces.
*
*
*
*
*
4.6.3
4.0 Detached Address Labels (DALs)
and Detached Marketing Labels (DMLs)
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
4.6
5.0
32845
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the heading and introductory
text of 5.3.6 to read as follows:]
5.3.6 Priority Mail Express, Priority
Mail, First-Class Mail, and USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial
Format
A permit imprint indicia on Priority
Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class
Mail, or USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial mailpieces must be
formatted as follows:
[Revise the first sentence of item a to
read as follows:]
a. Except under items 5.3.6b through
5.3.6d, the permit imprint indicia must
show the basic price markings ‘‘Priority
Mail Express,’’ ‘‘Priority Mail’’ (or
‘‘Priority’’), ‘‘First-Class Mail,’’ or
‘‘USPS Ground Advantage’’ as
applicable; ‘‘U.S. Postage Paid’’; city
and state; and permit number. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item c to read as
follows:]
c. The ‘‘Priority Mail Express,’’
‘‘Priority Mail’’ (or ‘‘Priority’’), ‘‘FirstClass Mail, or ‘‘USPS Ground
Advantage’’ basic price marking may be
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22MYR2
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
omitted when using shipping address
labels under 202.3.0.
*
*
*
*
*
8.0
Insufficient or Omitted Postage
8.1
Insufficient Postage
*
*
8.1.2
*
*
*
Undeliverable and Refused Mail
Mail with insufficient postage that is
refused by the addressee or otherwise
undeliverable is:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item b to read as
follows:]
b. Returned to the sender and
delivered when the sender pays the total
deficient postage and additional postage
for forwarding or return if other than
First-Class Mail or USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, and with a return
address.
*
*
*
*
*
Postage and Fee Refunds
*
*
*
*
*
9.2.3 Full Refund
A full refund (100%) may be made
when:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the first sentence of item l to
read as follows:]
l. If a First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial, or Package
Services mailpiece is torn or defaced
during USPS handling so that the
addressee or intended delivery point
cannot be identified. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
*
1.0
Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail
*
*
*
*
*
7.0 Trademarks and Copyrights of the
USPS
Postal Zones
*
*
8.3.4
*
*
Partial Distribution
[Revise the text of 8.3.4 to read as
follows:]
If there is a distribution of pieces to
some, but not all, addresses on a route,
pieces are returned to the delivery unit
for use in computing the postage due.
First-Class Mail or USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail prices are applied to
matter that would require First-Class
Mail or USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail postage if mailed. For other
matter, if the piece weighs less than 16
ounces, the applicable single-piece
First-Class Mailor USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, price based on the
weight of the piece is applied, or an
applicable Package Services price is
applied, whichever is lower. If the piece
weighs 16 ounces or more, the USPS
Ground Advantage—Retail or applicable
Package Services price is applied.
*
*
*
*
*
9.0
Exchanges and Refunds
*
*
*
VerDate Sep<11>2014
*
*
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
Special Standards
*
9.0
*
700
703 Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail
and Other Unique Eligibility
*
*
MAIL TYPE OR SERVICE
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the ‘‘APO/FPO/DPO Insured
Mail and registered Mail’’ line item to
read as follows:]
APO/FPO/DPO Insured Mail and
registered Mail (Priority Mail, FirstClass Mail, USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail, SAM, or PAL))
*
*
*
*
*
Postal Information and Resources
8.3 Mailable Matter Without Postage
in or on Mail Receptacles
[Revise the first sentence of 8.1.6 to
read as follows:]
If shortpaid Registered Mail is found
in ordinary mail, with only the FirstClass Mail or USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, price of postage
paid, the piece is delivered to the
addressee as ordinary First-Class Mail or
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
b. Lost Articles: customers must file a
claim within the time limits in the chart
below.
608
7.1 USPS Trademarks
* * * Depending on the trademark,
the TM or ® symbol may be used after
these marks. Information on USPS
trademarks can be found on USPS.com
or by contacting General Counsel, USPS
Headquarters (see 8.1 for address).
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the list of trademarks by
deleting ‘‘First-Class Package’’ and
‘‘First-Class Package Service’’, and
‘‘USPS Retail Ground’’.]
[Revise the list of trademarks by
adding ‘‘USPS Ground Advantage’’
alphabetically.]
*
*
*
*
*
8.1.6 Registered Mail With
Insufficient Postage
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
9.2
*
*
9.2 Application
Zones are used to compute postage on
zoned mail sent between 3-digit ZIP
Code areas, including Military Post
Offices (MPOs), as follows:
a. For the purposes of computing
postal zone information, except for
items 9.2b and 9.2c, the following table
applies to MPOs listed in L002 Column
A.
[Revise the footnote under item a to
read as follows:]
* Chicago IL 606 serves Priority Mail
and USPS Ground Advantage mail
destinating to these ZIP Codes.
*
*
*
*
*
609 Filing Indemnity Claims for Loss
or Damage
1.0
General Filing Instructions
*
*
*
*
*
1.4 When To File
File claims as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
PO 00000
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*
*
1.9 Mailing While Application
Pending
*
*
1.9.2
*
*
*
Postage Record
[Revise the text of 1.9.2 to read as
follows:]
While an application or confirmation
of authorization is pending, postage
must be paid at the applicable USPS
Marketing Mail prices to qualify for a
refund. The USPS records the difference
between postage paid at regular USPS
Marketing Mail prices and the postage
that would have been paid at Nonprofit
USPS Marketing Mail prices.
1.9.3
*
*
Refund
* * * No refund is made:
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item b to read as
follows:]
b. If postage was paid at any eligible
price other than USPS Marketing Mail.
*
*
*
*
*
*
2.0 Overseas Military and Diplomatic
Post Office Mail
*
*
*
*
*
2.4
Military Ordinary Mail (MOM)
[Revise the first sentence in the
introductory text of 2.4 to read as
follows:]
Military ordinary mail (MOM) is DOD
official mail sent at USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial, Periodicals,
USPS Marketing Mail, Parcel Select, or
Package Services prices that requires
faster service than sealift transportation
to, from, and between military Post
Offices. * * *
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
*
*
2.5
Parcel Airlift (PAL)
*
*
2.5.2
*
*
*
*
*
*
Availability
[Revise the text of 2.5.2 to read as
follows:]
PAL is available for USPS Ground
Advantage—Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial, Package
Services, or Parcel Select pieces that do
not exceed 30 pounds in weight or 60
inches in length and girth combined,
when mailed at or addressed to any
overseas military Post Office outside the
48 contiguous states.
*
*
*
*
*
3.0
Department of State Mail
*
*
3.2
Conditions for Authorized Mail
*
*
3.2.3
*
*
*
*
*
*
Maximum weight or size dimensions
may not exceed any of the following:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of items e and f to
read as follows:]
e. Combined length and girth: 108
inches for all mail classes other than
USPS Ground Advantage—Retail.
f. Combined length and girth: 130
inches for USPS Ground Advantage—
Retail.
*
*
*
*
*
Mixed Classes
*
*
*
*
*
9.12 Postage Payment for Combined
Mailings of Media Mail and Bound
Printed Matter
*
*
9.12.4
*
*
*
Rating of Unmarked Parcel
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
[Revise the introductory text of 9.12.4
to read as follows:]
A parcel containing Media Mail and
Bound Printed Matter is charged postage
at USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial prices if it:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item a to read as
follows:]
a. First-Class Mail pieces may be sent
with Certified Mail service.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item d to read as
follows:]
d. Parcel Select and Package Services
parcels mail may be sent with USPS
Tracking or Signature Confirmation
service.
8.0
Preparing Pallets
18.4 Additional Standards for Priority
Mail Open and Distribute
*
*
*
8.6
Pallet Labels
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Content Type
Code
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the Line 2 ‘‘Content Type’’
and ‘‘Code’’ by deleting the First-Class
Package Service—Commercial entry in
its entirety.]
*
*
*
*
*
16.0
16.1
*
18.4.2
8.6.5 Line 2 (Content Line)
Line 2 (content line) must meet these
standards:
*
*
*
*
*
b. Codes. The codes shown below
must be used as appropriate on Line 2
of sack, tray, and pallet labels.
Weight and Size Limits
9.0
6.2.1 Eligible Prices
[Revise the first sentence of 6.2.1 to
read as follows:]
Combined parcels may be eligible for
USPS Marketing Mail, Parcel Select
Lightweight, Parcel Select DNDC/ASF,
single-piece and Presorted Media Mail,
single-piece and Presorted Library Mail,
Bound Printed Matter DNDC, and
Nonpresorted and Presorted Bound
Printed Matter prices. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
32847
*
*
Extra Services
No extra services are available for
Priority Mail Open and Distribute
containers.
Only the following services may be
added for mail in the enclosed
container:
[Revise the text of items a through c
to read as follows:]
a. First-Class Mail pieces may be sent
with Certified Mail service.
b. USPS Marketing Mail parcels
(except Customized MarketMail pieces)
may be sent with electronic option
USPS Tracking service.
c. Parcel Select and Package Services
parcels may be sent with USPS Tracking
or Signature Confirmation service.
*
*
*
*
*
Index
Plant Load Mailings
*
Basic Information
B
16.1.1 Purpose
* * * The USPS selects the
appropriate mode of transportation and
determines responsibility as shown
below.
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of footnote #3 to read
as follows:]
3, Priority Mail Express and Priority
Mail only.
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete the ‘‘balloon price’’ entry in its
entirety:]
*
*
*
*
*
C
*
*
*
*
*
Commercial Mail (Letters, Flats,
Parcels)
705 Advanced Preparation and
Special Postage Payment Systems
18.3 Additional Standards for Priority
Mail Express Open and Distribute
*
*
*
*
[Delete the ‘‘First-Class Package
Service—Commercial, 280’’ entry under
‘‘Commercial Mail’’.]
*
*
*
*
*
[Add ‘‘USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial 280’’ alphabetically under
‘‘Commercial Mail.’’]
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Computing Postage
*
*
*
*
6.0 Combining Mailings of USPS
Marketing Mail, Package Services, and
Parcel Select Parcels
*
*
*
6.2
Combining Parcels—DNDC Entry
*
*
*
VerDate Sep<11>2014
*
*
*
*
19:39 May 19, 2023
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18.0 Priority Mail Express Open and
Distribute and Priority Mail Open and
Distribute
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
18.3.2 Extra Services
No extra services may be added to the
Priority Mail Express segment of a
Priority Mail Express Open and
Distribute shipment, and the enclosed
mail may receive only the following
extra services:
PO 00000
Frm 00025
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4700
*
[Revise the ‘‘computing postage’’
entry by deleting the ‘‘USPS Retail
Ground’’ line item.]
*
*
*
*
*
D
*
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
*
*
22MYR2
*
*
32848
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
Deposit
Mixed Classes, 703.9.0
[Revise the ‘‘mixed classes’’ entry by
deleting the ‘‘USPS Retail Ground’’ line
item.]
*
*
*
*
*
‘‘commercial parcels’’, by replacing it
with USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial 284.3.0.]
*
*
*
*
*
N
*
*
*
*
*
*
commercial parcels
[Revise the ‘‘First-Class Package
Service—Commercial, 286’’ line item
under ‘‘deposit’’, ‘‘commercial parcels’’,
by replacing it with USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial 286.]
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the ‘‘deposit’’, ‘‘retail mail’’
entry by deleting the ‘‘USPS Retail
Ground’’ line item.]
*
*
*
*
*
E
*
*
*
*
*
O
*
*
*
*
*
commercial parcels
[Revise the ‘‘First-Class Package
Service—Commercial, 286’’ line item
under ‘‘Entry’’, ‘‘commercial parcels’’,
by replacing it with USPS Ground
Advantage—Commercial 286.]
*
*
*
*
*
*
F
P
*
*
*
*
*
*
Handwriting
*
*
*
*
*
commercial parcels
[Revise the ‘‘First-Class Package
Service—Commercial, 283’’ line item
under ‘‘handwriting’’, ‘‘commercial
parcels’’, by replacing it with USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial 283.]
*
*
*
*
*
M
*
*
*
*
*
Mail Preparation
*
*
*
*
*
commercial parcels
[Revise the ‘‘First-Class Package
Service—Commercial, 285’’ line item
under ‘‘mail Preparation’’, ‘‘commercial
parcels’’, by replacing it with USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial 285.]
[Revise the ‘‘mail preparation’’,
‘‘commercial parcels’’ entry by deleting
the ‘‘USPS Retail Ground’’ line item.]
*
*
*
*
*
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:39 May 19, 2023
Jkt 259001
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Oversized Price Eligibility
[Revise the ‘‘oversized price
eligibility’’ entry by replacing the ‘‘USPS
Retail Ground’’ line item with USPS
Ground Advantage.]
*
*
*
*
*
H
*
*
Network Distribution Center (NDC)
Acceptance
retail mail
[Revise the ‘‘Network Distribution
Center (NDC) acceptance’’ entry by
deleting the ‘‘USPS Retail Ground’’ line
item.]
*
*
*
*
*
Entry
*
*
*
*
[Delete the ‘‘First-Class Package
Service—Commercial parcels’’ line item
and in its entirety.]
*
*
*
*
*
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
*
*
*
*
*
Parcel Select
[Revise the ‘‘Parcel Select’’ entry by
deleting the ‘‘cubic 253.2.1’’ line item.]
*
*
*
*
*
Plant-Verified Drop Shipment (PVDS),
705.17.0
[Revise the ‘‘plant-verified drop
shipment (PVDS)’’ entry by deleting the
‘‘USPS Retail Ground’’ line item.]
*
*
*
*
*
Postage Payment
*
*
*
*
*
commercial parcels
[Revise the ‘‘First-Class Package
Service—Commercial, 284’’ line item
under ‘‘postage payment’’, ‘‘commercial
parcels’’, by replacing it with USPS
Ground Advantage—Commercial 284.]
*
*
*
*
*
retail mail
[Revise the ‘‘postage payment’’,
‘‘retail mail’’ entry by deleting the
‘‘USPS Retail Ground’’ line item.]
*
*
*
*
*
Postage Statement
*
*
*
*
*
commercial parcels
[Revise the ‘‘First-Class Package
Service—Commercial, 284.3.0’’ line
item under ‘‘postage statement’’,
PO 00000
Frm 00026
Fmt 4701
Sfmt 4700
Postal Inspection
*
*
*
*
commercial parcels
[Revise the ‘‘First-Class Package
Service—Commercial, 284.3.2.0’’ line
item under ‘‘postage statement’’,
‘‘commercial parcels’’, by replacing it
with USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial 284.3.2.0.]
*
*
*
*
*
retail mail
[Revise the ‘‘postal inspection’’,
‘‘retail mail’’ entry by deleting the
‘‘USPS Retail Ground’’ line item.]
*
*
*
*
*
U
*
*
*
*
*
[Add a ‘‘USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial parcels’’ line item to read
as follows:]
USPS Ground Advantage—Commercial
Parcels
computing postage, 283.1.1
content standards, 283.2.0
deposit of, 286.1.0
documentation, 284.3.0
eligibility standards, 283
incidental enclosure with another
class of mail, 703.9.5
mail preparation, 285
markings required on each mailpiece
general, 202.1.0
postage payment methods, 284
postage statements, 284.2.0
price eligibility, 283.4.0
size, 201.8.3
surcharge, 283.1.3
undeliverable mail, 507.1.5.1
weight, 201.8.3.1
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete the ‘‘USPS Retail Ground’’
entry in its entirety.]
*
*
*
*
*
V
*
*
*
*
*
Volume Requirements
*
*
*
*
*
commercial parcels
[Revise the ‘‘First-Class Package
Service—Commercial, 284.4.0’’ line
item under ‘‘volume requirements’’,
‘‘commercial parcels’’, by replacing it
with USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial 284.4.0.]
E:\FR\FM\22MYR2.SGM
22MYR2
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
*
*
*
*
[Revise the ‘‘First-Class Package
Service—Commercial, 283.3.0’’ line
item under ‘‘volume requirements’’,
‘‘commercial parcels’’, by replacing it
with USPS Ground Advantage—
Commercial 283.3.0.]
*
*
*
*
*
*
Z
*
*
*
*
*
ZIP Code Accuracy
*
*
*
*
*
commercial parcels
Notice 123 (Price List)
[Revise competitive prices as
applicable.]
*
*
*
*
*
Tram T. Pham,
Attorney, Ethics and Legal Compliance.
[FR Doc. 2023–10353 Filed 5–19–23; 8:45 am]
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES2
BILLING CODE P
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22MYR2
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 98 (Monday, May 22, 2023)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 32824-32849]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-10353]
[[Page 32823]]
Vol. 88
Monday,
No. 98
May 22, 2023
Part II
Postal Service
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
39 CFR Part 111
Domestic Competitive Products Pricing and Mailing Standards Changes;
Final Rule
Federal Register / Vol. 88 , No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules
and Regulations
[[Page 32824]]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
POSTAL SERVICE
39 CFR Part 111
Domestic Competitive Products Pricing and Mailing Standards
Changes
AGENCY: Postal ServiceTM.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The Postal Service is amending Mailing Standards of the United
States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM[supreg]), to reflect
changes to prices and mailing standards for competitive products.
DATES: Effective July 9, 2023.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Steven Jarboe at (202) 268-7690,
Margaret Pepe (202) 268-3078, or Garry Rodriguez at (202) 268-7281.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This final rule describes new prices and
product features for competitive products, by class of mail,
established by the Governors of the United States Postal
Service[supreg]. New prices are available under Docket Number CP2023-
151 on the Postal Regulatory Commission PRC website at https://www.prc.gov, and on the Postal Explorer[supreg] website at https://pe.usps.com.
The Postal Service will revise Mailing Standards of the United
States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), to reflect changes
to certain prices and mailing standards for the following competitive
products:
Priority Mail Express[supreg].
Priority Mail[supreg].
USPS Ground AdvantageTM (formerly First-Class
Package Service[supreg]).
Parcel Select[supreg].
Extra Services.
Return Services.
Mailer Services.
Recipient Services.
Other.
Competitive product prices and changes are identified by product as
follows:
Priority Mail Express
There are no Priority Mail Express retail or commercial price, or
structural changes scheduled for July 9, 2023.
Priority Mail
There are no Priority Mail retail or commercial price, or
structural changes scheduled for July 9, 2023.
USPS Ground Advantage (Formerly First-Class Package Service)
First-Class Package Service Rebranded as USPS Ground Advantage
USPS Ground Advantage is a rebranding of First-Class Package
Service that will consolidate USPS Retail Ground[supreg] and Parcel
Select Ground into the respective retail and commercial price
categories. The USPS Ground Advantage--Retail and USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial features are as follows:
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail
Weight: 1 ounce to 70 pounds (ounce pricing will be in 4
oz., 8 oz., 12 oz., and 15.999 oz., increments for USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail).
Dimensions: Pieces up to 130 inches in length and girth
(oversized price).
USPS Ground Advantage--Limited Overland Route (LOR)
prices.
Dimensional weight (DIM) will apply to USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail and USPS Ground Advantage--LOR.
Nonstandard Fees will apply to USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail and USPS Ground Advantage--LOR.
Sealed against inspection.
$100 of insurance included with USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail and USPS Ground Advantage--LOR (see ``USPS Ground Advantage
Insurance'' below).
USPS Click-N-Ship added as a payment method.
Extra Services: Certified Mail[supreg] and Certificate of
Mailing will no longer be offered.
USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial
Weight: 1 ounce to 70 pounds (ounce pricing will be in 4
oz., 8 oz., 12 oz., and 15.999 oz., increments).
Dimensions: Pieces up to 130 inches in length and girth
(oversized price).
USPS Ground Advantage--Cubic prices.
Dimensional weight (DIM) will apply to USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial.
Nonstandard Fees will apply to USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial.
Not Sealed against inspection.
$100 of insurance included with USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial and USPS Ground Advantage--Cubic (see ``USPS Ground
Advantage Insurance'' below).
USPS Click-N-Ship added as a payment method.
Extra Services: Certified Mail and Certificate of Mailing
will no longer be offered.
Prices
Overall, USPS Ground Advantage prices will decrease 1.4 percent.
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail prices will decrease 3.2 percent.
USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial prices will decrease 0.7 percent.
USPS Ground Advantage Insurance
The Postal Service is including $100 of insurance with USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail and USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial product
offerings. See Federal Register notice, New Mailing Standards for
Domestic Mailing Services Products, (87 FR 21601-21603) for additional
information.
Parcel Select
Prices
The prices for Parcel Select Destination Entry will increase an
average of 2.1 percent. The prices for Parcel Select
Lightweight[supreg] will decrease an average of 0.1 percent. The prices
for USPS Connect[supreg] Local will remain the same.
Parcel Select Destination Entry Pricing
The Postal Service is revising the Parcel Select Destination Entry
pricing structure to eliminate the nonmachinable price table and have
one price table that will include price increments for weights from 1
pound through 70 pounds and oversized.
Parcel Select Destination Entry and Parcel Select Lightweight Pricing
Component Restructuring
The Postal Service is revising the pricing components of Parcel
Select Destination Entry and Parcel Select Lightweight for consistency
within the products. Both products will now have four pricing
components, Destination Delivery Unit (DDU), Destination Hub (DHub),
Destination Sectional Center Facility (DSCF), and Destination Network
Distribution Center (DNDC). This revision of pricing components will
now make Parcel Select Lightweight consistent with Parcel Select
Destination Entry. Additionally, Parcel Select Lightweight will be
priced at the 4 ounce, 8 ounce, 12 ounce, and 15.999 ounce increments.
Parcel Select Ground Discontinued
As a result of the rebranding and enhancement of the USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial product, the Postal Service has decided to
discontinue the Parcel Select Ground price category offering.
USPS Retail Ground
USPS Retail Ground Discontinued
As a result of the rebranding and enhancement of the USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail product, the Postal
[[Page 32825]]
Service has decided to discontinue the USPS Retail Ground product
offering.
Return Services
USPS Returns
Priority Mail Express Return Service
The Postal Service is adding Priority Mail Express Return Service
to the suite of USPS Returns services. Priority Mail Express standards
will apply to Priority Mail Express Return service pieces.
USPS Ground Advantage Return Service (Formerly First-Class Package
Return Service)
The Postal Service is rebranding First-Class Package Return Service
as USPS Ground Advantage Return Service.
USPS Ground Advantage Return Service Insurance
The Postal Service is including $100.00 of insurance with USPS
Ground Advantage Return service pieces. See Federal Register notice,
New Mailing Standards for Domestic Mailing Services Products, (87 FR
21601-21603) for additional information.
Ground Return Service Discontinued
As a result of the rebranding and enhancement to the USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial product and the Postal Service discontinuing the
Parcel Select Ground price category offering, the Postal Service is
discontinuing the Ground Return Service (Parcel Select Ground) USPS
Returns product offering.
Mailer Services
Pickup on Demand Service
The Pickup on Demand[supreg] service fee will remain the same.
USPS Tracking Plus Service
The USPS Premium Tracking ServiceTM prices will remain
the same.
USPS Label Delivery Service
The USPS Label Delivery ServiceTM prices will remain the
same.
Recipient Services
Post Office Box Service
The competitive Post Office BoxTM service prices will
remain the same.
Premium Forwarding Service
Premium Forwarding Service[supreg] (PFS[supreg]) prices will remain
the same.
USPS Package Intercept
The USPS Package Intercept[supreg] fee will remain the same.
Other
Address Enhancement Service
Address Enhancement Service competitive product prices will remain
the same.
Small Parcel Forwarding Fee
The small parcel forwarding fee will remain the same.
Physical Standards for Parcels
The Postal Service is revising the maximum dimensions and weight
for machinable parcels. The maximum dimensions for a machinable parcel
are 22 inches x 18 inches x 15 inches. The maximum weight for a
machinable parcel is 25 pounds.
Resources
The Postal Service provides additional resources to assist
customers with this price change for competitive products. These tools
include price lists, downloadable price files, and Federal Register
Notices, which may be found on the Postal Explorer[supreg] website at
https://pe.usps.com.
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.
List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111
Administrative practice and procedure, Postal Service.
Accordingly, 39 CFR part 111 is amended as follows:
PART 111--[AMENDED]
0
1. The authority citation for 39 CFR part 111 continues to read as
follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 13 U.S.C. 301-307; 18 U.S.C. 1692-
1737; 39 U.S.C. 101, 401-404, 414, 416, 3001-3018, 3201-3220, 3401-
3406, 3621, 3622, 3626, 3629, 3631-3633, 3641, 3681-3685, and 5001.
0
2. Revise Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service,
Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) as follows:
Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail
Manual (DMM)
* * * * *
100 Retail Mail Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels
101 Physical Standards
* * * * *
3.0 Physical Standards for Parcels
* * * * *
3.2 Maximum Weight and Size
[Revise the third sentence and add a new fourth sentence of 3.2 to
read as follows:]
* * * No mailpiece may weigh more than 70 pounds. Except for USPS
Ground Advantage--Retail, which may not measure more than 130 inches in
length and girth combined no mailpiece may measure more than 108 inches
in length and girth combined. ***
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 6.0 to read as follows:]
6.0 Additional Physical Standards for First-Class Mail and USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail
6.1 Maximum Weight
[Revise the text of 6.1 by creating a 6.1.1 and 6.1.2 to read as
follows:]
6.1.1 First-Class Mail
First-Class Mail (letters and flats) cannot exceed 13 ounces.
6.1.2 USPS Ground Advantage--Retail
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail cannot exceed 70 pounds.
* * * * *
6.4 Parcels
[Revise the introductory text of 6.4 to read as follows:]
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail parcels are eligible for USPS
Tracking and Signature Confirmation service. A USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail parcel is:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]
d. A mailpiece that does not exceed 130 inches in combined length
and girth.
[Delete 7.0, Additional Physical Standards for USPS Retail Ground,
in its entirety and renumber 8.0 as 7.0.]
* * * * *
102 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece
* * * * *
3.0 Placement and Content of Mail Markings
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 3.3 to read as follows:]
3.3 First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail Markings
[Revise the first sentence of 3.3 to read as follows:]
Each single-piece price First-Class Mail and USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail piece must have a delivery
[[Page 32826]]
address but is not required to bear a price marking. * * *
[Revise the heading of 3.4 to read as follows:]
3.4 Media Mail and Library Mail Markings
[Revise the first sentence in the introductory text of 3.4 to read
as follows:]
Mailers must print the basic required Package Services subclass
marking--``Media Mail,'' or ``Library Mail'' on each piece claimed at
the respective price. * * *
[Revise the text of item a to read as follows:]
a. The service icon that will identify all Package Services
subclasses will be a 1-inch solid black square. If the service icon is
used, it must appear in the upper left corner of the shipping label.
[Revise the second sentence of item b to read as follows:]
b. * * * If the service banner is used, the appropriate Package
Services subclass marking (e.g., ``MEDIA MAIL,'' ``LIBRARY MAIL'') must
be preceded by the text ``USPS'' and must be printed in minimum 20-
point bold sans serif typeface, uppercase letters, centered within the
banner, and bordered above and below by minimum 1-point separator
lines. * * *
[Revise the heading of Exhibit 3.4 to read as follows:]
Exhibit 3.4 Package Services Indicator Examples
[Rename the class of mail in the first example in Exhibit 3.4
``USPS Library Mail''.]
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 130 to read as follows:]
130 Retail Mail First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail
133 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees
[Revise the heading and introductory text of 1.1 to read as
follows:]
1.1 First-Class Mail Single-Piece and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail
Price Application
The single-piece prices (see Notice 123--Price List) are applied as
follows:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]
The USPS Ground Advantage--Retail 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.
[Revise the heading and introductory text of 1.2 to read as
follows:]
1.2 Price Computation for First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail
First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail prices are
charged as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
b. USPS Ground Advantage--Retail--Based on weight and zone and is
charged as follows:
1. Ounce pricing charged at the 4-ounce, 8-ounce, 12-ounce, and
15.999-ounce increments. Any fraction of an ounce over the 4-ounce, 8-
ounce, 12-ounce, and 15.999-ounce increments is rounded to the next
price increment. For example, if an item weighs 4.1 ounces, the next
weight (price) increment is 8 ounces, if an item weighs 12.1 ounces,
the next weight (price) increment is 15.999.
2. Per pound from more than 1 pound through 70 pounds. Any fraction
of a pound is considered a whole pound. For example, if an item weighs
1.25 pounds, the weight (price) increment is 2 pounds.
[Renumber 1.3 through 1.6 as 1.5 through 1.8 and add new 1.3 and
1.4 to read as follows:]
1.3 USPS Ground Advantage--Retail-Limited Overland Routes Prices
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail--LOR retail prices are only available
when mailing eligible items within Alaska for pieces delivered to or
from the eligible intra-Alaska ZIP Codes not connected by overland
routes in Exhibit 1.3. USPS Ground Advantage--Retail--LOR retail prices
are not available through online or commercial postage payment.
Exhibit 1.3 USPS Ground Advantage--Retail--LOR Eligible Intra-Alaska
ZIP Codes
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail--LOR eligible intra-Alaska ZIP Codes
are as follows:
99545, 99546, 99547, 99548, 99549, 99550, 99551, 99552, 99553,
99554, 99555, 99557, 99558, 99559, 99561, 99563, 99564, 99565, 99569,
99571, 99574, 99575, 99576, 99578, 99579, 99580, 99581, 99583, 99585,
99589, 99590, 99591, 99602, 99604, 99606, 99607, 99608, 99609, 99612,
99613, 99614, 99615, 99619, 99620, 99621, 99622, 99624, 99625, 99626,
99627, 99628, 99630, 99632, 99633, 99634, 99636, 99637, 99638, 99640,
99641, 99643, 99644, 99647, 99648, 99649, 99650, 99651, 99653, 99655,
99656, 99657, 99658, 99659, 99660, 99661, 99662, 99663, 99665, 99666,
99667, 99668, 99670, 99671, 99675, 99677, 99678, 99679, 99680, 99681,
99682, 99684, 99685, 99689, 99690, 99691, 99692, 99695, 99697, 99720,
99721, 99722, 99723, 99724, 99726, 99727, 99730, 99732, 99733, 99734,
99736, 99738, 99739, 99740, 99741, 99742, 99745, 99746, 99747, 99748,
99749, 99750, 99751, 99752, 99753, 99754, 99756, 99757, 99758, 99759,
99761, 99762, 99763, 99765, 99766, 99767, 99768, 99769, 99770, 99771,
99772, 99773, 99774, 99777, 99778, 99781, 99782, 99783, 99784, 99785,
99786, 99788, 99789, 99790, 99791, 99801, 99802, 99803, 99811, 99812,
99820, 99821, 99824, 99825, 99826, 99827, 99829, 99830, 99832, 99833,
99835, 99836, 99840, 99841, 99850, 99901, 99903, 99918, 99919, 99921,
99922, 99923, 99925, 99926, 99927, 99928, 99929, 99950.
1.4 Dimensional Weight Price for Low-Density Parcels
Postage for USPS Ground Advantage parcels addressed for delivery to
zones 1-9 and USPS Ground Advantage--LOR parcels, exceeding 1 cubic
foot (1,728 cubic inches) is based on the actual weight or the
dimensional weight (as calculated in 1.4.1 or 1.4.2), whichever is
greater.
1.4.1 Determining Dimensional Weight for Rectangular Parcels
Follow these steps to determine the dimensional weight for a
rectangular parcel:
a. Measure the length, width, and height in inches. Round off (see
604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest whole inch.
b. Multiply the length by the width and then that total by the
height.
c. If the result exceeds 1,728 cubic inches, divide the result by
166 and round up (see 604.7.0) to the next whole number to determine
the dimensional weight in pounds.
d. If the dimensional weight exceeds 70 pounds, the customer pays
the 70-pound price.
1.4.2 Determining Dimensional Weight for Nonrectangular Parcels
Follow these steps to determine the dimensional weight for a
nonrectangular parcel:
a. Measure the length, width, and height in inches at their extreme
dimensions. Round off (see 604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest
whole inch.
b. Multiply the length by the width and then that total by the
height.
c. Multiply the result by an adjustment factor of 0.785.
[[Page 32827]]
d. If the final result exceeds 1,728 cubic inches, divide the
result by 166 and round up (see 604.7.0) to the next whole number to
determine the dimensional weight in pounds.
e. If the dimensional weight exceeds 70 pounds, the customer pays
the 70-pound price.
* * * * *
1.8 Nonstandard Fees
[Revise the introductory text of renumbered 1.8 to read as
follows:]
A USPS Ground Advantage--Retail and USPS Ground Advantage--LOR
piece is subject to a nonstandard fee (see Notice 123--Price List) as
follows:
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for First-Class Mail and USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail
2.1 Description of Service
[Revise the text of 2.1 to read as follows:]
First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail receive
expeditious handling and transportation. The USPS does not guarantee
the delivery of First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail
within a specified time. Certain USPS Ground Advantage--Retail pieces
may receive deferred handling.
2.2 Defining Characteristics
2.2.1 Inspection of Contents
[Revise the text of 2.2.1 to read as follows:]
First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail are sealed
against postal inspection.
2.2.2 Forwarding and Return Service
[Revise the text of 2.2.2 to read as follows:]
The price of First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail
include forwarding service to a new address for up to 12 months and
return service if the mailpiece is undeliverable.
2.2.3 Extra Services
[Revise the text of 2.2.3 to read as follows:]
First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail are eligible to
receive the following extra services (See information regarding
additional extra services in 503):
a. First Class Mail--Registered Mail services and Certified Mail
services.
b. USPS Ground Advantage--Retail--Registered Mail services.
3.0 Content Standards
3.1 General Eligibility
[Revise the text of 3.1 to read as follows:]
With the exception of restricted material as described in 601.8.0,
any mailable item may be mailed as First-Class Mail and USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail.
3.2 Bills and Statements of Account
[Revise the introductory text of 3.2 to read as follows:]
Bills and statements of account must be mailed as First-Class Mail,
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, Priority Mail, or Priority Mail Express
and are defined as follows:
* * * * *
3.3 Personal Information
[Revise the text of 3.3 to read as follows:]
Mail containing personal information must be mailed as First-Class
Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, Priority Mail, or Priority Mail
Express. Personal information is any information specific to the
addressee.
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, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, Priority Mail, or
Priority Mail Express.
* * * * *
3.6 Prohibited Air Transportation
[Revise the text of 3.6 to read as follows:]
All First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail are subject
to limitations for air transportation in 601.8.0.
134 Postage Payment Methods
[Revise the heading of 1.0 to read as follows:]
1.0 Postage Payment Methods for First-Class Mail and USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail
1.1 Payment Method
[Delete the heading 1.1.1 General and move the text under 1.1 to
read as follows:]
Postage for single-piece First-Class Mail and USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail must be paid as follows:
a. First-Class Mail--with affixed postage stamps (604.1.0), postage
evidencing system postage (604.4.0), or precanceled stamps (604.3.0).
b. USPS Ground Advantage--Retail--In addition to the payment
methods in 1.1a USPS Ground Advantage may be paid with USPS Click-N-
Ship.
[Delete 1.1.2 in its entirety.]
* * * * *
1.3 More Than One Mailer
[Revise the first sentence 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 USPS Ground Advantage--Retail postage may
be paid on the weight of the entire package of aggregated mail. * * *
1.4 More Than One Letter
[Revise the introductory text of 1.4 to read as follows:]
An individual or organization may mail in one package more than one
of the mailer's own letters and pay First-Class Mail or USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail postage on the weight of the entire package of
letters if:
* * * * *
1.5 Agent
[Revise the text of 1.5 to read as follows:]
Any agent of a licensing authority may forward completed
applications in one envelope to an office of the licensing authority
and pay First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail postage on
the weight of the piece.
135 Mail Preparation
[Revise the heading and text of 1.0 to read as follows:]
1.0 Preparation for First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail
The following standards apply to retail single-piece First-Class
Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail:
a. Each piece of First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail
must have a delivery address but is not required to bear a price
marking.
b. There are no sorting requirements for retail single-piece First-
Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail.
136 Deposit
[Revise the heading and introductory text of 1.0 to read as
follows:]
[[Page 32828]]
1.0 Deposit for First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail
Retail First-Class Mail (letters, cards, flats) and USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail must be deposited as follows:
* * * * *
[Delete Chapter 150, USPS Retail Ground, in its entirety.]
* * * * *
200 Commercial Mail Letters, Flats, and Parcels
* * * * *
201 Physical Standards
* * * * *
7.0 Physical Standards for Parcels
* * * * *
7.3 Maximum Weight and Size
[Revise the text of 7.3 to read as follows:]
No mailpiece may weigh more than 70 pounds. Lower weight limits
apply to parcels mailed at Priority Mail cubic, USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial cubic, USPS Marketing Mail, and Bound Printed Matter prices.
Except for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial and Parcel Select, pieces
may not measure more than 108 inches in length and girth combined. USPS
Marketing Mail Marketing parcels (see 8.4) may not be larger than 12
inches long, 9 inches high, and 2 inches thick. USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial and Parcel Select parcels may not measure more than 130
inches in length and girth combined. For parcels, length is the
distance of the longest dimension and girth is the distance around the
thickest part. Lower size or weight standards apply to mail addressed
to some APOs and FPOs subject to 703.2.0 and 703.4.0 and for Department
of State mail, subject to 703.3.0.
* * * * *
7.5 Machinable Parcels
7.5.1 Criteria
A machinable parcel is any piece that is not a letter or a flat and
that is (see Exhibit 7.5.1b):
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
b. Not more than 22 inches long, or 18 inches high, or 15 inches
thick. Parcels cannot weigh more than 25 pounds.
* * * * *
Exhibit 7.5.1b Machinable Parcel Dimensions
[Revise the maximum dimensions shown in the graphic in Exhibit
7.5.1b to be 22'' x 18'' x 15''.]
* * * * *
8.0 Additional Physical Standards by Class of Mail
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 8.3 to read as follows:]
8.3 USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial Parcels
8.3.1 Weight
[Revise the text of 8.3.1 to read as follows:]
USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels must not weigh more than
70 pounds.
8.3.2 Size
[Revise the second sentence of the introductory text under 8.3.2 to
read as follows:]
* * * A USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcel is:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]
d. A mailpiece that does not exceed 130 inches in combined length
and girth.
* * * * *
202 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece
* * * * *
3.0 Placement and Content of Mail Markings
* * * * *
[Revise the heading and text of 3.6 to read as follows:]
3.6 USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial Markings
3.6.1 Basic Markings
The basic required marking ''USPS Ground Advantage'' must be
printed as part of, directly below, or to the left of the postage on
all parcels. Optionally, the basic required price marking may be
printed on a shipping address label as a service indicator composed of
a service icon and service banner.
3.6.2 USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial Cubic Markings
USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial pieces claiming the cubic price
must be marked as provided under 3.6.1 and bear the applicable marking
that reflects the correct price tier printed on the piece or produced
as part of the postage indicia. The cubic tiers are determined by the
cubic measurement of each mailpiece up to the defined threshold, (for
example, measurements from .01 up to .10 for ``Cubic .10'' and from
.101 up to .20 for ``Cubic .20''). Place the marking directly above,
directly below, or to the left of the postage. Approved markings are as
follows:
a. ``Cubic .10''
b. ``Cubic .20''
c. ``Cubic .30''
d. ``Cubic .40''
e. ``Cubic .50''
f. ``Cubic .60''
g. ``Cubic .70''
h. ``Cubic .80''
i. ``Cubic .90''
j. ``Cubic 1.00''
3.6.3 Price Marking--Permit Imprint
USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial permit imprint pieces claiming
the cubic price must be marked as provided under 3.6.1 and bear the
``cubic'' marking printed on the piece or produced as part of the
permit imprint indicia. Place the marking directly above, directly
below, or to the left of the postage. The approved marking is ``Cubic''
(or ``CUBIC,'' or ``cubic'').
3.6.4 Soft Pack and Padded Envelope Markings
Regardless of the postage payment method used, soft pack and padded
envelopes must be marked as provided under 3.6.1 in addition to the
tier price markings in 3.6.2 and the dimensions (length and width) of
the original packaging. Place the markings directly above, directly
below, or to the left of the postage.
3.7 Parcel Select, Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, and Library Mail
Markings
* * * * *
3.7.2 Parcel Select Markings
[Revise the introductory text of 3.7.2 by deleting the third
sentence referencing ``USPS Retail Ground.'']
* * * * *
[Delete item b and renumber items c and d as b and c.]
* * * * *
[Delete 3.8, Parcel Select Ground Cubic Markings, in its entirety
and renumber 3.9 and 3.10 as 3.8 and 3.9.]
* * * * *
203 Basic Postage Statement, Documentation, and Preparation Standards
* * * * *
5.0 Letter and Flat Trays
* * * * *
[[Page 32829]]
5.12 Line 2 (Content Line)
Line 2 (content line) must meet these standards:
* * * * *
b. Codes: The codes shown below must be used as appropriate on Line
2 of tray, sack, and pallet labels.
[Delete the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial entry from
the list of codes.]
* * * * *
204 Barcode Standards
1.0 Standards for Intelligent Mail Barcodes
* * * * *
1.3 Reflectance
1.3.1 Background Reflectance
A background reflectance of at least 50% in the red portion and 45%
in the green portion of the optical spectrum must be produced in the
following locations when measured with a USPS or USPS-licensed envelope
reflectance meter:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
b. The area surrounding the barcode (within \1/8\ inch of the
leftmost and rightmost bars and \1/25\ inch above and below the
barcode) of a card-size, letter-size, or flat-size piece barcoded in
the address block and of a flat-size piece barcoded elsewhere.
* * * * *
1.3.4 Dark Fibers and Background Patterns
Dark fibers or background patterns that produce a print contrast
ratio of more than 15% when measured in the red and green portions of
the optical spectrum are prohibited in these locations:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
b. The area of the address block or the area of the mailpiece where
the barcode appears on a flat-size piece in an automation mailing.
* * * * *
207 Periodicals
* * * * *
3.0 Physical Characteristics and Content Eligibility
* * * * *
3.4 Impermissible Mailpiece Components
* * * * *
3.4.3 Products
[Revise the last sentence of 3.4.3 to read as follows:]
* * * Package Services, or Parcel Select mail pieces may not be
combined with a Periodicals publication.
* * * * *
4.0 Basic Eligibility Standards
* * * * *
4.7 Eligible Formats
4.7.1 Complete Copies
[Revise the last sentence of 4.7.1 to read as follows:]
* * * Incomplete copies (for example, those lacking pages or parts
of pages) are subject to the applicable First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, USPS Marketing
Mail, or Package Services prices.
* * * * *
4.10 Back Issues and Reprints
[Revise the last sentence of 4.10 to read as follows:]
* * * Other mailings of back issues or reprint copies, including
permanently bound back issues or reprint copies, are subject to the
applicable Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, USPS
Marketing Mail, or Package Services prices.
* * * * *
5.0 Applying for Periodicals Authorization
* * * * *
5.2 Mailing While Application Pending
* * * * *
5.2.2 Pending Prices
* * * Postage may be paid until final action is taken on the
application as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
b. For a refund after the application is approved, at USPS
Marketing Mail, Bound Printed Matter, and Parcel Select prices or at
single-piece Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, and USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail prices under the exception in 5.3.6e.
* * * * *
5.2.3 Pending Postage
* * * * *
Exhibit 5.2.3 Pending Postage
[Rename the ``First-Class Package Service--R'' line item as ``USPS
Ground Advantage--R'' to read as follows:]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pending class of mail PCT.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
USPS Ground Advantage--R............................... %
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
5.3 Decision on Application
* * * * *
5.3.6 No Refund
No refund is made for:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item e to read as follows:]
e. Postage paid at Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-
Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, or USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial prices. Exception: For a mailing presorted and prepared as
Periodicals mail that is less than 200 pieces or 50 pounds, a refund
may be authorized when postage is paid at single-piece Priority Mail,
First-Class Mail, or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail prices as provided
on the applicable postage statement.
* * * * *
6.0 Qualification Categories
* * * * *
6.7 News Agent Registry
* * * * *
6.7.4 Parts Returned
[Revise the text of 6.7.4 to read as follows:]
Parts of publications returned to publishers to show that copies
have not been sold are subject to the applicable USPS Marketing Mail,
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, or Package Services prices.
* * * * *
10.0 Preferred Periodicals
* * * * *
10.6 Mailing While Application Pending
10.6.1 Mailing Before Approval
[Revise the text of 10.6.1 to read as follows:]
A publisher or news agent may not mail at a Periodicals Preferred
price until the PCSC manager approves the application. Until approval
is given, postage must be paid at the Outside-County prices (for
authorized Periodicals publications), or at the First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage--
[[Page 32830]]
Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, USPS Marketing Mail, or
Package Services prices (if the publication is in a pending status for
Periodicals mailing privileges).
10.6.2 Record of Deposits
[Revise the last sentence of 10.6.2 to read as follows:]
* * * No record is kept if First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail, or USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, postage is
paid or if postage is not paid by advance deposit account.
10.7 Decision on Application
* * * * *
10.7.5 No Refund
No refund is made for:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item f to read as follows:]
f. Postage paid at Priority Mail Express, First-Class Mail or USPS
Ground Advantage--Retail prices.
* * * * *
11.0 Basic Eligibility
* * * * *
11.5 Copies Mailed by Public
[Revise the Text of 11.5 to read as follows:]
The single-piece Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class
Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, or Package Services price is
charged on copies of publications mailed by the general public and on
copies returned to publishers or news agents.
* * * * *
210 Commercial Mail Priority Mail Express
213 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees
* * * * *
1.8 Nonstandard Fees
[Revise the introductory text of 1.8 to read as follows:]
Except for Priority Mail Express Return Service, a Priority Mail
Express piece is subject to a nonstandard fee (see Notice 123--Price
List) as follows:
* * * * *
230 Commercial Mail First-Class Mail
233 Prices and Eligibility
* * * * *
2.0 Content Standards for First-Class Mail
* * * * *
[Delete 2.6 in its entirety and renumber 2.7 and 2.8 as 2.6 and
2.7.]
* * * * *
240 Commercial Mail USPS Marketing Mail
243 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees
* * * * *
1.4 Fees
* * * * *
1.4.2 Weighted Fee
[Revise the text of 1.4.2 to read as follows:]
For return of pieces bearing the ancillary service markings
``Address Service Requested'' and ``Forwarding Service Requested.''
Weighted fee equals single-piece First-Class Mail, or USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail, price multiplied by 2.472.
* * * * *
3.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for USPS Marketing Mail
* * * * *
[Revise the heading and text of 3.7 to read as follows:]
3.7 Residual Mail Subject to First-Class Mail or USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail Prices
Pieces prepared as USPS Marketing Mail (i.e., that bear USPS
Marketing Mail price markings, ACS codes, etc.) that do not qualify for
Enhanced Carrier Route, automation, or Presorted USPS Marketing Mail
prices are subject to the single-piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail prices as applicable for the weight of the mailpiece.
Metered pieces weighing over 13 ounces but less than 16 ounces that do
not qualify for USPS Marketing Mail prices and any pieces that do not
qualify for USPS Marketing Mail prices for which First-Class Mail or
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail service is desired must be re-enveloped
or otherwise prepared so that they do not bear USPS Marketing Mail
markings, endorsements, and ACS codes and must bear the proper First-
Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail price markings and ACS
codes. Mailers who have pieces (other than metered pieces weighing over
13 ounces but less than 16 ounces) that do not qualify for USPS
Marketing Mail prices but that are prepared as USPS Marketing Mail and
who do not desire to receive First-Class Mail or USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail service for those pieces may enter their mailpieces
``as is'' (i.e., bearing the USPS Marketing Mail markings and
endorsements), provided the requirements in 244.1.0, are met.
* * * * *
244 Postage Payment and Documentation
* * * * *
5.0 Residual Pieces
[Revise the heading and introductory text of 5.1 to read as
follows:]
5.1 Residual USPS Marketing Mail Subject to First-Class Mail or USPS
Ground Advantage Prices
Mailers who have pieces weighing 13 ounces or less that do not
qualify for USPS Marketing Mail prices but that are prepared as USPS
Marketing Mail must pay single-piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail postage for such pieces. If mailers do not desire to
receive First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail service for
such pieces they may enter the mailpieces ``as is'' (i.e., bearing the
USPS Marketing Mail markings and endorsements), under the following
conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence of item b to read as follows:]
b. Mail bearing metered or precanceled stamp postage must pay the
difference between the postage affixed at the USPS Marketing Mail
prices and the single-piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail prices by means of an advance deposit account or by affixing a
meter stamp for the appropriate amount to Form 3600-FCM. * * *
[Revise the first sentence of item c to read as follows:]
c. Mail bearing permit imprints must pay the appropriate single-
piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail prices by
completing Form 3600-FCM. * * *
[Revise the heading and introductory text of 5.2 to read as
follows:]
5.2 Residual USPS Marketing Mail Subject to USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail Prices
Mailers who have permit imprint pieces weighing over 13 ounces but
less than 16 ounces that do not qualify for USPS Marketing Mail prices
but that are prepared as USPS Marketing Mail must pay the USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail postage for such pieces. Mailpieces paid with meters
or permit imprints must re-envelope or otherwise prepare the pieces so
that when mailed they bear only the appropriate USPS Ground Advantage
markings, ancillary service endorsements, and ACS codes and do not bear
USPS Marketing Mail
[[Page 32831]]
markings, endorsements, or ACS codes. Mailpieces paid with permit
imprints for which mailers do not desire to receive USPS Ground
Advantage service may enter the mailpieces ``as is'' (i.e., bearing the
USPS Marketing Mail markings and endorsements), under the following
conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence of item b to read as follows:]
b. The appropriate USPS Ground Advantage--Retail prices must be
paid by completing the appropriate part of Form 3600-FCM on the line
titled ``Pieces From USPS Marketing Mail mailing'' in the postage
calculation section. ***
* * * * *
245 Mail Preparation
* * * * *
6.0 Preparing Enhanced Carrier Route Letters
* * * * *
6.3 Residual Pieces
[Revise the text of 6.3 to read as follows:]
Pieces not sorted as a carrier route mailing must be prepared as a
separate mailing at USPS Marketing Mail automation or Presorted prices
or at the applicable single-piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail prices.
* * * * *
8.0 Preparing Nonautomation Flats
* * * * *
8.10 Residual Pieces
[Revise the first sentence in the introductory text of 8.10 to read
as follows:]
Mailers entering USPS Marketing Mail residual pieces that do not
qualify for USPS Marketing Mail prices, and paying the applicable
single-piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail prices
(but prepared ``as is'' under 244.5.0), must separately bundle and sack
residual pieces from the automation and presort pieces. * * *
* * * * *
9.0 Preparing Enhanced Carrier Route Flats
* * * * *
9.2 Residual Pieces
[Revise the text of 9.2 to read as follows:]
Pieces not sorted as a carrier route mailing must be prepared as a
separate mailing at USPS Marketing Mail automation or Presorted prices
or at the applicable single-piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail prices.
* * * * *
250 Commercial Mail Parcel Select
253 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Pricing
* * * * *
1.1.2 Price Categories
The price categories for Parcel Select are as follows:
[Revise the text of item a to read as follows:]
a. Destination entry including destination entry network
distribution center (DNDC), destination entry sectional center facility
(DSCF), destination hub (DHub), and destination entry delivery unit
(DDU).
[Delete item b and renumber items c and d as items b and c.]
[Revise renumbered item b to read as follows:]
b. Lightweight includes DNDC, DSCF, DHub, and DDU.
* * * * *
1.1.3 Price Application
The following price applications apply:
[Revise the first sentence of item a to read as follows:]
a. Prices for Destination Entry DNDC are based on the weight
increment and the entry of each addressed piece. ***
* * * * *
[Delete item d and renumber item e as item d. Revise the text of
renumbered item d to read as follows:]
d. Prices for Parcel Select Lightweight are based on the weight
increment and the entry of each addressed piece. The price is charged
at the 4-ounce, 8-ounce, 12 ounce, and 15.999-ounce increments. Any
fraction of an ounce over the 4-ounce, 8-ounce, 12-ounce and 15.999-
ounce increments is rounded to the next price increment. For example,
if an item weighs 4.1 ounces, the next weight (price) increment is 8
ounces, if an item weighs 12.1 ounces, the next weight (price)
increment is 15.999 ounces.
* * * * *
[Delete 1.2, Parcel Select Ground Cubic, in its entirety and
renumber items 1.3 through 1.9 as items 1.2 through 1.8.]
* * * * *
1.2 Dimensional Weight Price for Low-Density Parcels to Zones 1-9
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.2 to read as follows:]
Postage for Destination Entry parcels addressed for delivery to
Zones 1-9 and exceeding 1 cubic foot (1,728 cubic inches) is based on
the actual weight or the dimensional weight (as calculated in 1.2.1 or
1.2.2), whichever is greater.
* * * * *
1.7 Nonstandard Fees
[Revise the introductory text of renumbered 1.7 to read as
follows:]
A Parcel Select Destination Entry, Parcel Select Lightweight, or
USPS Connect Local mailpiece is subject to a nonstandard fee (see
Notice 123-Price List) as follows:
* * * * *
4.0 Price Eligibility for Parcel Select and Parcel Select Lightweight
4.1 Destination Entry Price Eligibility
4.1.1 Definition
* * * For this standard, the following destination facility
definitions apply:
* * * * *
[Renumber item c as item d and add new item c to read as follows:]
c. A destination hub (DHub) includes all facilities in L014. See
4.1.4 for more information.
[Revise the heading and introductory text of 4.1.4 to read as
follows:]
4.1.4 DSCF, DHub, and DDU Prices
For DSCF, DHub, and DDU prices, pieces must meet the applicable
standards in 3.0 and the following criteria:
* * * * *
[Renumber item b as item c and add new item b to read as follows:]
b. For DHub prices, be part of a Parcel Select destination entry
mailing of parcels deposited at an DHub in L014. Mailers must not
prepare mail on pallets or pallet boxes if the delivery facility is
unable to handle pallets. See 255.4.2 and 255.6.0 for preparation
requirements.
* * * * *
[Delete 4.2, Parcel Select Ground Price Eligibility, in its
entirety and renumber 4.3 through 4.6 as 4.2 through 4.5.]
4.2 Parcel Select Lightweight
* * * * *
4.2.2 Price Application
[Revise the text of renumbered 4.2.2 to read as follows:]
Prices for Parcel Select Lightweight apply to parcels that meet the
eligibility standards in 2.0 and 4.2 and the preparation standards in
255.6.0, 705.6.0, or 705.8.0. When pieces are combined under 705.6.0,
pieces are eligible for the applicable prices when the combined total
meets the eligibility
[[Page 32832]]
standards. For example, when there are 10 pounds of combined machinable
parcels and irregular parcels in a 5-digit sack, all pieces are
eligible for the applicable prices.
4.2.3 Prices for Machinable Parcels
The following prices apply to Parcel Select Lightweight machinable
parcels:
[Revise the introductory text of item a to read as follows:]
a. DDU Price; the DDU price applies to qualifying machinable
parcels that are dropshipped to a DDU and presented:
[Revise the text of item a1 to read as follows:]
1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack containing at least 10 pounds of
pieces.
[Renumber item a2 as item a3 and add new item a2 to read as
follows:]
2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet, according to standards in
705.8.10.
* * * * *
[Renumber items b through d as items c through e and add new item b
to read as follows:]
b. Hub Price; the Hub price applies to machinable parcels that are
dropshipped and presented to a Hub:
1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack containing at least 10 pounds of
pieces.
2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet, according to standards in
705.8.10.
[Revise the introductory text of renumbered item c to read as
follows:]
c. DSCF Price; the DSCF price applies to machinable parcels that
are dropshipped and presented to a DSCF:
[Renumber items c1 and c2 as items c3 and c4 and add new items c1
and c2 to read as follows:]
1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack containing at least 10 pounds of
pieces.
2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet, according to standards in
705.8.10.
* * * * *
[Revise the introductory text of renumbered item d to read as
follows:]
d. DNDC Price; the DNDC price applies to qualifying machinable
parcels that are dropshipped and presented to an NDC as follows:
[Renumber items 1 through 3 as items 5 through 7 and add new items
1 through 4 to read as follows:]
1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack containing at least 10 pounds of
pieces.
2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet, according to standards in
705.8.10.
3. In an SCF sack containing at least 10 pounds of parcels.
4. On an SCF pallet, according to 705.8.10.
[Revise the text of renumbered item d5 to read as follows:]
5. In an ASF or NDC sack containing at least 10 pounds of parcels;
or on an ASF or NDC pallet, according to standards in 705.8.10; or in
an NDC/ASF container prepared under 705.21.0.
[Delete renumbered item 6 and renumber item 7 as item 6.]
* * * * *
[Delete renumbered item e in its entirety.]
4.2.4 Prices for Irregular Parcels
The following prices apply to Parcel Select Lightweight irregular
parcels:
a. DDU Price; the DDU price applies to irregular parcels that are
dropshipped to a DDU and presented:
* * * * *
[Renumber items b through d as items c through e and add new item b
to read as follows:]
b. Hub Price; the Hub price applies to irregular parcels that are
dropshipped and presented to a Hub:
1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack containing at least 10 pounds of
pieces.
2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet, according to standards in
705.8.10.
[Revise the introductory text of renumbered item c to read as
follows:]
c. DSCF Price; the DSCF price applies to irregular parcels that are
dropshipped and presented to a DSCF:
[Renumber items c1 through c3 as items c3 through c5 and add new
items c1 and c2 to read as follows:]
1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack containing at least 10 pounds of
pieces.
2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet, according to standards in
705.8.10.
* * * * *
[Revise the introductory text of renumbered item d to read as
follows:]
d. DNDC Price; the DNDC price applies to qualifying irregular
parcels that are dropshipped and presented to an NDC as follows:
[Renumber items 1 and 2 as items 5 and 6 and add new items 1
through 4 to read as follows:]
1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack containing at least 10 pounds of
pieces.
2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet, according to standards in
705.8.10.
3. In an SCF sack containing at least 10 pounds of parcels.
4. On an SCF pallet, according to 705.8.10.
[Revise the text of renumbered item 5 to read as follows:]
5. In an ASF or NDC sack containing at least 10 pounds of parcels;
or on an ASF or NDC pallet, according to standards in 705.8.10; or in
an NDC/ASF container prepared under 705.21.0.
[Delete renumbered item 6 in its entirety and add new item 6 to
read as follows:]
6. DNDC prices are not available for ZIP Code ranges 006-009, 967-
969, and 995-999, as indicated in labeling list L601.
* * * * *
[Delete renumbered item e in its entirety.]
* * * * *
4.5 Hold For Pickup
[Revise the text of renumbered 4.5 to read as follows:]
Parcel Select Lightweight parcels are eligible for Hold For Pickup
service under 507.3.0.
* * * * *
254 Postage Payment and Documentation
1.0 Basic Standards for Postage Payment
1.1 Postage Payment Options
[Revise the heading of 1.1.1 to read as follows:]
1.1.1 Parcel Select Destination Entry
[Revise the introductory text of 1.1.1 to read as follows:]
Parcel Select destination entry may be paid as follows:
[Revise item a to read as follows:]
a. Metered postage may be used on pieces as provided under 1.1.1c
and 604.4.
[Delete items a1 and a2.]
* * * * *
255 Mail Preparation
1.0 General Information for Mail Preparation
* * * * *
[Delete 1.6 and 1.7 in their entireties and renumber 1.8 as 1.6.]
1.6 Parcel Select Markings
[Delete the last sentence of renumbered 1.6.]
* * * * *
4.0 Preparing Destination Entry Parcel Select
* * * * *
[Renumber 4.2 and 4.3 as 4.3 and 4.4 and add new 4.2 to read as
follows:]
4.2 Preparing Destination Hub (DHub) Parcel Select
4.2.1 Definition
A destination Hub (DHub) includes all facilities in L014.
4.2.2 Basic Standards
Pieces must meet the applicable standards in 4.0 and the following
criteria:
a. Must be part of a mailing of at least 50 Parcel Select pieces.
b. DHub pieces must be for the same Hub area under L014.
[[Page 32833]]
c. Sorted to optional 5-digit scheme destinations under L606,
Column B, 5-digit destinations, either in sacks or directly on pallets
or in pallet boxes. Mailers must enter the pieces at the designated
Hub, under L014 that serves the 5-digit ZIP Code destinations of the
pieces. The DHub price is not available for palletized mail for
facilities that are unable to handle palletized mailings. Refer to the
Drop Shipment Product available at the USPS FAST website: https://fast.usps.com to determine if the facility serving the 5-digit
destination can handle pallets.
4.2.3 Sacking and Labeling
Sacking requirements for DHub entry:
a. Only 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks are permitted.
b. Each 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sack must contain a minimum of
seven pieces. Machinable and nonmachinable pieces may be combined in
the same sack to meet this requirement. One overflow sack per 5-digit
ZIP Code is permitted (no piece minimum).
c. 5-digit scheme sack labeling: Line 1, use L606, Column B; for
Line 2, ``PSVC PARCELS 5D SCH.''
d. 5-digit sack labeling: Line 1, use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP
Code on mail (see 203.5.11 for overseas military mail); for Line 2,
``PSVC PARCELS 5D.''
* * * * *
5.0 Preparing Machinable Parcels
* * * * *
5.3 Sacking and Labeling
* * * * *
5.3.1 Sack Preparation
Sack size, preparation sequence, and Line 1 labeling:
* * * * *
[Delete item f in its entirety.]
5.3.2 Sack Line 2
Line 2:
* * * * *
[Delete item f in its entirety.]
6.0 Preparing Parcel Select Lightweight
6.2.1 Sacking
[Revise the first sentence of 6.3.1 to read as follows:]
Mailers may prepare 5-digit sacks only for parcels that will be
dropshipped to a DNDC (or ASF when claiming DNDC prices), DHub, DSCF,
or DDU. * * *
* * * * *
6.2.2 Sacking and Labeling
Preparation sequence, sack size, and labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of item a to read as follows:]
a. 5-digit/scheme (optional), see definition in 1.4.; allowed only
for mail deposited at DNDC (or ASF when claiming DNDC prices), DHub,
DSCF, or DDU. Sacks must contain a 10-pound minimum except at DDU entry
which has no minimum; labeling:
* * * * *
[Delete items e and f in their entireties.]
6.3 Preparing Irregular Parcels
6.3.1 Sacking
[Revise the first sentence of 6.3.1 to read as follows:]
Mailers may prepare 5-digit sacks only for parcels that will be
dropshipped to a DNDC (or ASF when claiming DNDC prices), DHub, DSCF,
or DDU. See 6.3.3 for restrictions on SCF, ASF, and NDC sacks. * * *
* * * * *
6.3.3 Sacking and Labeling
Preparation sequence, sack size, and labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of item a to read as follows:]
a. 5-digit/scheme (optional), see definition in 1.4; allowed only
for mail deposited at DNDC (or ASF when claiming DNDC prices), DHub,
DSCF, or DDU. Sacks must contain a 10-pound minimum except at DDU entry
which has no minimum; labeling:
* * * * *
[Delete items e and f in their entireties.]
* * * * *
[Delete 8.0, Preparing a Cubic Mailing, in its entirety.]
256 Enter and Deposit
* * * * *
2.0 Deposit
* * * * *
2.2 Containers
[Revise the introductory text and item a of 2.2 to read as
follows:]
DNDC mailings (if not bedloaded), DDU mailings (if not bedloaded),
and all DHub, and DSCF mailings must be prepared as follows:
a. Machinable parcels for which a DNDC, DSCF, DHub, or DDU price is
claimed must be sacked under 255.4.0 or prepared on pallets under
705.8.0.
* * * * *
[Revise the text of 2.2 by adding a new item g to read as follows:]
g. For DHub, 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks may be bedloaded or
be placed on DHub pallets that are labeled and otherwise prepared under
705.8.0.
* * * * *
2.5 Mail Separation and Presentation of Destination Entry Mailings
* * * Mailers presenting destination entry mailings to the Postal
Service must meet the following requirements:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item a to read as follows:]
a. Mark each DNDC, DSCF, DHub, or DDU Parcel Select piece as
``Parcel Select,'' according to 202.3.7.2. If eVS is used, include the
marking ``eVS'' on each piece as described in 604.5.0.
[Delete item b and renumber items c through f as items b through
e.]
* * * * *
2.11 Deposit Conditions
Deposit of mail also is subject to these conditions:
[Revise the text of item a to read as follows:]
a. Destination facilities may refuse mailings that are unscheduled
or late (i.e., if vehicles arrive more than 2 hours after the scheduled
appointment at ASFs, NDCs, SCFs, or DHubs, and more than 20 minutes
late at delivery units). If a mailing is refused, a mailer is permitted
to make a new appointment.
* * * * *
2.13 Vehicle Unloading
Unloading of destination entry mailings is subject to these
conditions:
[Revise the first sentence of item a to read as follows:]
a. Properly prepared containerized loads (e.g., pallets) are
unloaded by the USPS at NDCs, ASFs, SCFs, and Hubs. * * *
[Revise the first sentence of item b to read as follows:]
b. The driver must unload bedloaded shipments within 8 hours of
arrival at NDCs, ASFs, SCFs, and Hubs. * * *
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 280 to read as follows:]
280 Commercial Mail USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial
283 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees
1.1 Price Application
[Revise the text of 1.1 to read as follows:]
Except under items 1.1c and 1.1d, postage is based on the price
(see Notice 123--Price List) that applies to the weight and zone of
each addressed piece as follows:
a. The price is charged at the 4-ounce, 8-ounce, 12-ounce, and
15.999-ounce
[[Page 32834]]
increments. Any fraction of an ounce over the 4-ounce, 8-ounce, 12-
ounce and 15.999-ounce increments is rounded to the next price
increment. For example, if an item weighs 4.1 ounces, the next weight
(price) increment is 8 ounces, if an item weighs 12.1 ounces, the next
weight (price) increment is 15.999 pound.
b. Per pound from 1 pound through 70 pounds. Any fraction of a
pound is considered a whole pound. For example, if an item weighs 1.25
pounds, the weight (postage) increment is 2 pounds.
c. The oversized price is based on the zone and applies to pieces
that measure over 108 inches but not more than 130 inches in combined
length and girth.
d. Cubic prices are based on the zone and cubic measurement (Tier)
of the mailpiece with any fraction of a measurement rounded down to the
nearest \1/4\ inch. For example, if a dimension of a cubic piece
measures 12\3/8\ inches, it is rounded down to 12\1/4\ inches.
1.2 Commercial Prices
Commercial prices are available when paid by one of the following
methods:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]
d. USPS Returns service used by permit holders for USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial packages when all requirements are met under
505.3.0).
[Delete 1.3, Surcharge, and renumber 1.4 as 1.6, and add new 1.3,
1.4, and 1.5 to read as follows:]
1.3 USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial Cubic
1.3.1 Eligibility
Cubic prices are available to eligible USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial customers including USPS Ground Advantage Return service
under 505.3.0. Each cubic mailpiece, including soft packs and padded
envelopes under 1.3.4, must measure 1 cubic foot or less, weigh 20
pounds or less, and the longest dimension may not exceed 18 inches.
Cubic-priced mailpieces may not be rolls or tubes.
1.3.2 Tiers
Cubic prices consist of the following ten tiers:
a. Tier 0.10--mailpieces measuring up to .10 cubic foot
b. Tier 0.20--mailpieces measuring more than .10 up to .20 cubic
foot
c. Tier 0.30--mailpieces measuring more than .20 up to .30 cubic
foot
d. Tier 0.40--mailpieces measuring more than .30 up to .40 cubic
foot
e. Tier 0.50--mailpieces measuring more than .40 up to .50 cubic
foot
f. Tier 0.60--mailpieces measuring more than .50 up to .60 cubic
foot
g. Tier 0.70--mailpieces measuring more than .60 up to .70 cubic
foot
h. Tier 0.80--mailpieces measuring more than .70 up to .80 cubic
foot
i. Tier 0.90--mailpieces measuring more than .80 up to .90 cubic
foot
j. Tier 1.00--mailpieces measuring more than .90 up to 1.00 cubic
foot
1.3.3 Determining Cubic Tier Measurements for Rectangular and
Nonrectangular Parcels
Follow these steps to determine the cubic tier measurement for
rectangular and nonrectangular parcels:
a. Measure the length, width, and height at each dimension's
maximum point, in inches. Round down (see 604.7.0) each measurement to
the nearest \1/4\ inch. For example, 6\1/8\'' x 5\7/8\'' x 6\3/8\'' is
rounded down to 6'' x 5\3/4\'' x 6\1/4\''.
b. Multiply the length by the width by the height and divide by
1728. For example: 6'' x 5\3/4\'' x 6\1/4\'' = 215.6 divided by 1728 =
0.125 (This piece exceeds 0.10--Tier 1 threshold). It is calculated at
Tier 2--0.101 to 0.20.
1.3.4 Determining Cubic Tier Measurement for Soft Pack and Padded
Envelopes
Cubic tier measurements for soft pack (poly, plastic, cloth, or
similar soft packaging) and padded envelopes are based on the outside
dimensions of length plus width, in inches, of the original packaging
material. Mailpieces that are pleated (e.g., expandable) must follow
the measurement guidelines in 1.3.3 to be eligible for cubic pricing.
Determine cubic tier measurements as follows:
a. Measure the length and width separately in inches.
b. Round down (see 604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest \1/4\
inch. For example, 10\1/8\ inches is rounded down to 10 inches.
c. Add the two measurements together. The maximum total of length
plus width cannot exceed 36 inches. See Exhibit 1.3.4 for corresponding
price tiers.
Exhibit 1.3.4 Cubic Pricing Tiers for Soft Pack & Padded Envelopes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cubic price tiers Length plus width
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0.10................................... Mailpieces measuring from 0'' up to 16''.
0.20................................... Mailpieces measuring more than 16'' up to 21''.
0.30................................... Mailpieces measuring more than 21'' up to 24''.
0.40................................... Mailpieces measuring more than 24'' up to 26''.
0.50................................... Mailpieces measuring more than 26'' up to 28''.
0.60................................... Mailpieces measuring more than 28'' up to 30''.
0.70................................... Mailpieces measuring more than 30'' up to 32''.
0.80................................... Mailpieces measuring more than 32'' up to 34''.
0.90................................... Mailpieces measuring more than 34'' up to 35''.
1.00................................... Mailpieces measuring more than 35'' up to 36''.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.4 Dimensional Weight Price for Low-Density Parcels to Zones 1-9
Postage for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels addressed for
delivery to Zones 1-9 and exceeding 1 cubic foot (1,728 cubic inches)
is based on the actual weight or the dimensional weight (as calculated
in 1.4.1 or 1.4.2), whichever is greater.
1.4.1 Determining Dimensional Weight for Rectangular Parcels
Follow these steps to determine the dimensional weight for a
rectangular parcel:
a. Measure the length, width, and height in inches. Round off (see
604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest whole inch.
b. Multiply the length by the width by the height.
c. If the result exceeds 1,728 cubic inches, divide the result by
166 and round up (see 604.7.0) to the next whole number to determine
the dimensional weight in pounds.
d. If the dimensional weight exceeds 70 pounds, the customer pays
the 70-pound price.
[[Page 32835]]
1.4.2 Determining Dimensional Weight for Nonrectangular Parcels
Follow these steps to determine the dimensional weight for a
nonrectangular parcel:
a. Measure the length, width, and height in inches at their extreme
dimensions. Round off (see 604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest
whole inch.
b. Multiply the length by the width by the height.
c. Multiply the result by an adjustment factor of 0.785.
d. If the final result exceeds 1,728 cubic inches, divide the
result by 166 and round up (see 604.7.0) to the next whole number to
determine the dimensional weight in pounds.
e. If the dimensional weight exceeds 70 pounds, the customer pays
the 70-pound price.
1.4.3 Dimensional Weight Dimension Standard
Shipping Services file manifests or other approved electronic
documentation must include the accurate dimensions (length, width,
height) of all pieces that exceed 1 cubic foot. Mailers of pieces
exceeding 1 cubic foot and with Shipping Services file manifests, or
other approved electronic documentation, that do not meet the
requirement to include the piece's accurate dimensions will be assessed
a dimension-noncompliance fee under 1.8.
1.5 Computing Postage
1.5.1 Determining Single-Piece Weight
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. Except for mailers using eVS,
when determining single-piece weight for USPS Ground Advantage
mailpieces, express all weights in decimal pounds rounded off to two
decimal places. Mailers using eVS may round off to four decimals, and
eVS will automatically round to the appropriate decimal place. If a
customer is using a manifest mailing system, the manifest weight field
must be properly completed by adhering to the rules relative to the
specific manifest.
1.5.2 Computing Postage for Affixed Postage
For each piece, affix correct postage for the weight (including any
surcharges) and, if applicable, the zone to which the piece is
addressed, as shown in 1.2 through 1.4. To calculate the total postage
for the mailing, add all of the affixed postage amounts for each piece.
1.5.3 Computing Postage for Permit Imprint
To compute the total postage for a mailing, for each weight
increment, multiply the number of pieces by the applicable price per
piece. Round each product off to four decimal places. Add the products
and round up the total postage to the nearest whole cent.
1.6 eVS Unmanifested Fee
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.6 to read as follows:]
Eligible eVS USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial pieces omitted from
the eVS manifest are subject to the eVS unmanifested fee (see Notice
123-Price List), unless the piece is subject to the IMpb noncompliance
fee specified in 3.4.
[Add new 1.7 and 1.8 to read as follows:]
1.7 Nonstandard Fees
A USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial mailpiece is subject to a
nonstandard fee (see Notice 123--Price List) as follows:
a. A piece measures more than 22 inches up to 30 inches long.
b. A piece measures more than 30 inches long.
c. A piece measures more than 2 cubic feet (3,456 cubic inches).
Dimensions for rectangular pieces are determined by measuring the
length, width, and height in inches, rounding off (see 604.7.0) each
measurement to the nearest whole inch and multiplying the length by the
width by the height. Dimensions for nonrectangular pieces are
calculated as above and the result multiplied by an adjustment factor
of 0.785. If either calculation exceeds 3,456 cubic inches, the piece
is subject to the nonstandard fee.
d. A piece may be subject to both a length (1.8a, 1.8b) and a cube
(1.8c) nonstandard fee.
e. Shipping Services file manifests or other approved electronic
documentation must include the accurate dimensions (length, width,
height) of all pieces that exceed 22 inches.
f. Mailers of pieces exceeding 22 inches and with Shipping Services
file manifests, or other approved electronic documentation, that do not
meet the requirement to include the piece's accurate dimensions will be
assessed a dimension-noncompliance fee under 1.8.
1.8 Dimension-Noncompliance Fee
Mailers of USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial mailpieces required to
include the mailpiece's dimensions (length, width, height) in the
Shipping Services file manifest or other approved electronic
documentation under 1.4.3 or 1.7 will be charged a dimension-
noncompliance fee (see Notice 123--Price List) if the piece's
dimensions are omitted or inaccurate in the Shipping Services file
manifest or other approved electronic documentation. A mailpiece is
subject to only one dimension-noncompliance fee.
[Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 Content Standards for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial Parcels
2.1 General
[Revise the text of 2.1 to read as follows:]
In addition to restricted material described in 601.8.0, parcels
mailed at USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial prices may not contain
documents or personal correspondence, except that such parcels may
contain invoices, receipts, incidental advertising, and other documents
that relate in all substantial respects to merchandise contained in the
parcels.
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 3.0 to read as follows:]
3.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial
3.1 Description of Service
[Revise the text of 3.1 to read as follows:]
USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels receive expeditious
handling and transportation. The USPS does not guarantee the delivery
of USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial within a specified time. Certain
USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial mailpieces might receive deferred
service.
3.2 Defining Characteristics
3.2.1 Inspection of Contents
[Revise the text of 3.2.1 to read as follows:]
Articles mailed at USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial prices are not
sealed against postal inspection. Regardless of physical closure, the
mailing of articles at USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial prices
constitutes consent by the mailer to postal inspection of the contents.
3.2.2 Forwarding and Return Service
[Revise the text of 3.2.2 to read as follows:]
[[Page 32836]]
The postage price of USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels
includes forwarding service to a new address for up to 12 months and
return of undeliverable parcels to the sender.
3.2.3 Additional and Extra Services
[Revise the text of 3.2.3 to read as follows:]
Extra services are available for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial
parcels under 503 and for Hold for Pickup service under 507.3.0.
3.3 Additional Basic Standards
[Revise the introductory text of 3.3 to read as follows:]
All USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels must:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of 3.3 by adding a new item c to read as follows:]
c. Bear a return address.
3.4 IMpb Standards
[Revise the first sentence of 3.4 to read as follows:]
All USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels must bear an
Intelligent Mail package barcode (IMpb) prepared under 204.2.0. * * *
[Revise the heading of 4.0 to read as follows:]
4.0 Price Eligibility for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial
* * * * *
284 Postage Payment and Documentation
1.0 Basic Standards for Postage Payment
[Revise the first sentence of 1.0 to read as follows:]
Postage for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels must be paid
with postage evidencing system postage or permit imprint as specified
below. * * *
[Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 Postage Payment for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial
2.1 Permit Imprint Postage
[Revise the first sentence of 2.1 to read as follows:]
All USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels may bear permit
imprint postage under 604.5.0. * * *
[Revise the heading and text of 2.2 to read as follows:]
2.2 Affixed Postage for USPS Retail Ground--Commercial
Each USPS Retail Ground--Commercial parcel bearing postage
evidencing system indicia (IBI Meter or PC Postage) must bear the full
numerical value of postage at the USPS Retail Ground--Commercial price
for which it qualifies.
285 Mail Preparation
[Revise the heading and introductory text of 1.0 to read as
follows:]
1.0 Preparation for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial
The following standards apply to single-piece USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
b. There are no sorting requirements for single-piece USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial parcels paid with postage evidencing system
postage.
* * * * *
[Delete 3.0, Optional ADC Presort, and add new 3.0 and 4.0 to read
as follows:]
3.0 Preparing a Cubic Mailing
Cubic mailpieces for multiple price tiers may be combined in the
same container.
* * * * *
4.0 Pickup on Demand Service
Pickup on Demand service (507.7.0) is available for a fee only from
designated ZIP Codes and can be requested online at www.usps.com.
286 Enter and Deposit
1.0 Deposit
1.1 Time and Location of Deposit
[Revise the text of 1.1 to read as follows:]
Mailers may deposit USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial with parcels
postage evidencing indicia at any Postal Service facility, preferably
near the customer's local Post Office. USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial parcels bearing a permit imprint must be deposited under
604.5.0 and 705.
1.2 Approved Collections
[Revise the introductory text of 1.2 to read as follows:]
The USPS may collect USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels at a
mailer`s facility if part of an approved collection service for other
classes of mail; space is available on the transportation; and:
* * * * *
500 Additional Mailing Services
503 Extra Services
1.0 Basic Standards for All Extra Services
* * * * *
1.4.1 Eligibility--Domestic Mail
* * * * *
Exhibit 1.4.1 Eligibility--Domestic Mail
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Extra service Eligible mail Additional combined extra services
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Revise Exhibit 1.4.1 under the ``Eligible Mail'' column by
removing ``USPS Retail Ground'' in the Insurance, Certificate of
Mailing, Certificate of Bulk Mailing, Return Receipt, Signature
Confirmation, Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery, and COD, line
items.]
* * * * *
Registered Mail
[Revise ``Register Mail'' services by replacing First-Class Package
Service--Commercial with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial and First-
Class Package--Retail with USPS Ground Advantage--Retail under the
``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Certified Mail
[Revise 1.4.1 ``Certified Mail'' services by deleting First-Class
Package Service--Commercial and First-Class Package--Retail under the
``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Insurance
[Revise ``Insurance'' services by replacing First-Class Package
Service--Commercial with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial and First-
Class Package--Retail with USPS Ground Advantage--Retail under the
``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Certificate of Mailing
[Revise ``Certificate of Mailing'' services by deleting First-Class
Package Service--Commercial and First-Class Package--Retail under the
``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Certificate of Bulk Mailing
[[Page 32837]]
[Revise ``Certificate of Bulk Mailing'' services by deleting First-
Class Package Service--Commercial and First-Class Package--Retail under
the ``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Return Receipt
[Revise ``Return Receipt'' services by replacing First-Class
Package Service--Commercial with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial and
First-Class Package--Retail with USPS Ground Advantage--Retail under
the ``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Signature Confirmation
[Revise ``Signature Confirmation'' service by replacing First-Class
Package Service--Commercial with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial and
First-Class Package--Retail with USPS Ground Advantage--Retail under
the ``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery
[Revise ``Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery'' service by
replacing First-Class Package Service--Commercial with USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial and First-Class Package--Retail with USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail under the ``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Adult Signature Required
[Revise ``Adult Signature Required'' services by replacing First-
Class Package Service--Commercial with USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial under the ``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Collect on Delivery (COD)
[Revise ``Collect on Delivery'' services by replacing First-Class
Package Service--Commercial with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial and
First-Class Package--Retail with USPS Ground Advantage--Retail under
the ``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
1.4.3 Eligibility--Domestic Returns
* * * * *
Exhibit 1.4.3 Eligibility--Domestic Returns
* * * * *
Exhibit 1.4.3 Eligibility--Domestic Returns
[Revise Exhibit 1.4.3 by adding a new line item ``Priority Mail
Express Return Service'' at the top of the table to read as follows:]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eligible extra services (paid by EPS
account or by permit holder)
Return services ---------------------------------------
Insurance $500 or Insurance more
less than $500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
USPS Returns:
Priority Mail Express Return 1 1, 2, 3
Service....................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
[Revise the ``First-Class Package Return Service'' line item by
renaming as ``USPS Ground Advantage Return Service''.]
[Delete the ``Ground Return Service'' line item in its entirety.]
* * * * *
[Revise the text of footnote #1 in Exhibit 1.4.3 to read as
follows:]
1. Insurance, up to a maximum of $100.00, is included for Priority
Mail Express Return Service, Priority Mail Return Service, and USPS
Ground Advantage Return Service.
* * * * *
4.0 Insured Mail
* * * * *
4.3 Basic Standards
* * * * *
4.3.2 Ineligible Matter
The following types of mail may not be insured:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item e to read as follows:]
e. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial, and Priority Mail may be insured, if it contains
matter that is eligible to be mailed at USPS Marketing Mail, or Package
Services prices.
* * * * *
7.0 USPS Tracking
7.1 Basic Standards
* * * * *
7.1.3 Additional Physical Standards
[Revise the last sentence in the introductory text of 7.1.3 to read
as follows:]
* * * In addition to the applicable standards in 101 and 201 and
the purposes of USPS Tracking with Media Mail, Library Mail, Bound
Printed Matter, or Parcel Select, the parcel must meet these additional
requirements:
* * * * *
8.0 USPS Signature Services
8.1 Basic Standards
* * * * *
8.1.2 Standards for Signature Confirmation
[Revise the introductory text of 8.1.2 to read as follows:]
For Signature Confirmation with Media Mail, Library Mail, Bound
Printed Matter, or Parcel Select pieces meeting the physical standards
under 201.7.0, the parcel must meet these additional requirements:
* * * * *
505 Return Services
1.0 Business Reply Mail (BRM)
1.1 BRM Postage and Fees
1.1.1 Basic BRM
[Revise the first and second sentence of 1.1.1 to read as follows:]
For basic BRM, a permit holder is required to pay an annual permit
fee as provided under 1.2 and a per-piece fee under 1.1.7 in addition
to the applicable Retail First-Class Mail (stamped for letters), USPS
Ground Advantage--Retail, or Priority Mail postage for each returned
piece. For USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, or Priority Mail BRM pieces
exceeding 13 ounces in weight, 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. * * *
* * * * *
1.1.5 Bulk Weight Averaged Nonletter-Size BRM
[Revise the text of 1.1.5 to read as follows:]
In addition to an annual permit fee (which will apply under 1.2.3
for the return of any flat-size pieces), per piece
[[Page 32838]]
fee and the applicable Retail First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail, or Priority Mail postage, 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.
* * * * *
1.3 Basic Standards
1.3.1 Description
[Revise the first and second sentence of 1.3.1 to read as follows:]
Business Reply Mail (BRM) service enables a permit holder to
receive First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, and Priority
Mail back from customers. The permit holder guarantees payment of the
applicable Retail First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, 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, cartons, and labels 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. * * *
* * * * *
3.0 USPS Returns Service
3.1 Basic Standards
3.1.1 Description
[Revise the introductory text of 3.1.1 to read as follows:]
USPS Returns service allows an authorized account holder to pay the
postage and fees on single-piece priced commercial Priority Mail
Express, Priority Mail, or USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, packages
returned to the account holder by senders (mailers) via a return label,
meeting the standards in 3.1.4, produced by the account holder. Unless
otherwise restricted, any mailable matter may be mailed using any of
the USPS Returns service options (Priority Mail Express Return Service,
Priority Mail Return Service, USPS Ground Advantage Return Service).
Any content that constitutes First-Class Mail matter may only be mailed
using Priority Mail Express Return Service or Priority Mail Return
Service. USPS Returns service is subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
3.1.3 Postage and Prices
Postage and prices are subject to the following:
[Revise the first sentence of item a to read as follows:]
a. Postage is calculated based on the weight of the return package
and zone associated with the point of origin and delivery ZIP Code
subject to the eligibility for commercial prices and fees based on the
class of mail under 220 and 280, except that postage for USPS Returns
in flat-rate packaging is based on the packaging type used and the
associated Universal Product Code (UPC) on the packaging. * * *
[Revise the introductory text of item b to read as follows:]
b. Prices for Priority Mail Express Return Service, Priority Mail
Return Service and USPS Ground Advantage Return Service packages are
charged as follows:
[Renumber items b1 though b3 as items b2 through b4, and add new
item b1 to read as follows:]
1. Priority Mail Express commercial prices are available for
account holders using Priority Mail Express Return Service, when all
applicable requirements are met.
* * * * *
[Revise the text of renumbered b3 to read as follows:]
2. USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial prices are available for USPS
Ground Advantage Return Service packages when all applicable
requirements are met.
[Delete renumbered item b4 in its entirety.]
* * * * *
c. The account holder or mailer may obtain extra and additional
services as follows:
[Revise the text of item c1 to read as follows:]
1. Insurance is available for USPS Returns service (see 503.4).
Insurance is included with the postage for Priority Mail Express Return
service, Priority Mail Return service, and USPS Ground Advantage Return
service (see 503.4.2). Additional insurance for Priority Mail Express
Return service, Priority Mail Return service, and USPS Ground Advantage
Return service is available to the account holder for a fee on packages
that have the applicable STC imbedded into the IMpb on the label, and
for which the account holder has provided electronic data that supports
the value of the merchandise (see 503.4.3.1a). Only the account holder
may file a claim (see 609). Mailers returning a USPS Returns service
package may not obtain insurance at their own expense.
* * * * *
3.1.5 Noncompliant Labels
[Revise the second sentence of 3.1.5 to read as follows:]
* * * When noncompliant labels, including discontinued labels, are
affixed to USPS Returns service packages, the permit holder will be
assessed the appropriate USPS Ground Advantage--Retail price calculated
from the package's initial entry point (first physical scan) in the
USPS network to its delivery address.
* * * * *
3.1.6 Enter and Deposit
The following standards apply:
a. The EPS account holder's customers may mail the USPS Returns
service package via the following:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item a3 to read as follows:]
3. In any collection receptacle (e.g., collection box, lobby
package drop unit) as permitted by each receptacle's limitations (see
3.1.6b for USPS Returns service packages with extra services);
* * * * *
3.2 Additional Standards
Additional mailing standards applicable to each service option are
as follows:
[Renumber items a through c as items b through d and add new item a
to read as follows:]
a. Priority Mail Express Return service may contain any mailable
matter meeting the standards in 201.8.0 and 213.2.0. APO/FPO/DPO mail
is subject to standards in 703.2.0 and 703.4.0, and Department of State
mail is subject to standards in 703.3.0. Priority Mail Express Return
service receives expeditious handling and transportation, with service
standards in accordance with Priority Mail Express. Priority Mail
Express Return service mailed under a specific customer agreement is
charged postage according to the individual agreement.
* * * * *
[Revise the text of renumbered item c to read as follows:]
c. USPS Ground Advantage Return service may contain mailable matter
meeting the standards in 201.8.0 and 283.2.0. USPS Ground Advantage
Return service handling, transportation, and eligibility of contents
are the same as for outbound USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels
under standards in 283.0. USPS Ground Advantage Return service packages
may not contain documents or personal correspondence, except that such
packages may contain invoices, receipts, incidental advertising, and
other documents that relate in all substantial respects to merchandise
contained in the package.
[[Page 32839]]
[Delete renumbered Item d in its entirety.]
* * * * *
507 Mailer Services
1.0 Treatment of Mail
* * * * *
1.4.5 Extra Services
Mail with extra services is treated according to the charts for
each class of mail in 1.5, except that:
[Revise the text of items a and b to read as follows:]
a. Undeliverable-as-addressed Certified Mail is treated as First-
Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail.
b. All insured First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail,
USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, and Priority Mail, pieces are
forwarded and returned at no additional charge. All insured USPS
Marketing Mail, Package Services, and Parcel Select pieces are
forwarded or returned.
* * * * *
1.5 Treatment for Ancillary Services by Class of Mail
1.5.1 First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, First-
Class Package Service--Commercial, and Priority Mail
[Revise the introductory text of 1.5.1 to read as follows:]
Undeliverable-as-addressed First-Class Mail (including postcards),
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, and
Priority Mail pieces are treated under Exhibit 1.5.1, with these
additional conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the last sentence of item b to read as follows:]
b. * * * Undeliverable First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, or Priority Mail pieces with
any alternative addressing format are returned with the reason for
nondelivery attached, only if the address is incorrect or incomplete or
the mail is undeliverable for another reason as shown in Exhibit 1.4.1;
however, if such mail is endorsed Change Service Requested, piece is
disposed of and an ACS record is provided for the same reasons.
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]
d. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial, or Priority Mail pieces bearing USPS Marketing
Mail markings and endorsements under 202 and 244.5.1 for letters,
flats, and parcels, receives forwarding, return, and address correction
services for USPS Marketing Mail under 1.5.3.
e. ``Change Service Requested'' is not permitted for the following:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of items e2 and e3 to read as follows:]
2. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial, or Priority Mail pieces containing hazardous
materials under 601.8.0.
3. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial or Priority Mail pieces with an extra service
other than USPS Tracking or Signature Confirmation.
[Revise the introductory text of item f to read as follows:]
f. Address Change Service under 4.0 is available for First-Class
Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial,
and Priority Mail pieces with the ACS participant code for an
authorized ACS participant and a valid ancillary service endorsement.
Mailers participating in OneCode ACS under 4.2.6 may print an
Intelligent Mail barcode on First-Class Mail automation letters instead
of a participant code and endorsement. The only endorsements permitted
on First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial and Priority Mail valid ACS pieces are ``Address
Service Requested'', ``Change Service Requested'' or ``Electronic
Service Requested'' subject to the following:
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of Exhibit 1.5.1 to read as follows:]
Exhibit 1.5.1 Treatment of Undeliverable First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial and Priority Mail
* * * * *
``Change Service Requested''
* * * * *
Restrictions (for Options 1 and 2)
[Revise the text of item 1 under ``Restrictions (for Options 1 and
2)'' to read as follows:]
(1) This endorsement is limited to use on valid mailpieces bearing
a proper ACS participant code and only for: (a) Priority Mail
containing perishable matter (other than live animals) and the marking
``Perishable'' and; (b) First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial (excluding hazardous
materials).
* * * * *
1.5.2 Periodicals
Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) Periodicals publications
(including publications pending Periodicals authorization) are treated
as described in Exhibit 1.5.2, with these additional conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the third sentence of item e to read as follows:]
e. * * * Each returned piece is charged the single-piece First-
Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail price for the weight and
shape of the piece, and the letter-size nonmachinable surcharge if
applicable. * * *
* * * * *
Exhibit 1.5.2 Treatment of Undeliverable Periodicals
* * * * *
``Address Service Requested''
If no change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the text under ``Address Service Requested'', If no change-
of-address order on file:, to read as follows:]
Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (only return
postage charged at First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail
single-piece price as appropriate for weight of piece).
If change-of-address order on file:
* * * * *
[Revise the second bullet under ``Address Service Requested'', If
change-of-address order on file:, to read as follows:]
[ssquf] After 60-day period: Piece returned with new address or
reason for nondelivery attached (in either case, only return postage
charged at First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail single-
piece price as appropriate for weight of piece).
* * * * *
1.5.3 USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel Select Lightweight
Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel
Select Lightweight pieces are treated as described in Exhibit 1.5.3,
with these additional conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item h to read as follows:]
h. A returned piece endorsed ``Return Service Requested'' is
charged the applicable single-piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail price for the weight and shape of the
[[Page 32840]]
piece, and the nonmachinable surcharge if applicable.
* * * * *
Exhibit 1.5.3 Treatment of Undeliverable USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel
Select Lightweight
* * * * *
``Address Service Requested'' (Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return
participants via ACS only)
* * * * *
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 2
If no change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the text under ``Address Service Requested'' (Shipper Paid
Forwarding/Return Option 2), If no change-of-address order on file:, to
read as follows:]
Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached; postage due
charged as follows: at applicable First-Class Mail, or USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail single-piece price for the weight of the piece.
Separate notice provided (electronic ACS fee is charged).
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first bullet under ``Address Service Requested''
(Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 2), If change-of-address order
on file:, to read as follows:]
[ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded. Forwarding postage is
charged to the mailer as follows: at applicable First-Class Mail, or
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail single-piece price for the weight of the
piece. Separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee
charged).
* * * * *
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 3
If no change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the text under ``Address Service Requested'' (Shipper Paid
Forwarding/Return Option 3), If no change-of-address order on file:, to
read as follows:]
Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached; postage due
charged as follows: at applicable First-Class Mail, or USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail single-piece price for the weight of the piece.
Separate notice provided (electronic ACS fee is charged).
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the bullets under ``Address Service Requested'' (Shipper
Paid Forwarding/Return Option 3), If change-of-address order on file:,
to read as follows:]
[ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded. Forwarding postage is
charged to the mailer as follows: at applicable First-Class Mail, or
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail single-piece price for the weight of the
piece. Separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee
charged).
[ssquf] Months 13 through 18: Piece returned with new address
attached; return postage is charged to mailer as follows: at applicable
First-Class Mail, or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail single-piece price
for the weight of the piece. Separate notice of new address provided
(electronic ACS fee is charged).
[ssquf] After month 18: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery;
return postage is charged to mailer as follows: at applicable First-
Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail single-piece price for the
weight of the piece. Separate notice of reason for nondelivery provided
(electronic ACS fee is charged).
``Address Service Requested--BPRS'' (BPRS participants only)
* * * * *
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first bullet under ``Address Service Requested'' (BPRS
participants only), If change-of-address order on file:, to read as
follows:]
[ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded (no charge to
addressee); separate ACS notice of new address provided (ACS address
correction fee and forwarding postage charged at First-Class Mail, or
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, single-piece price as appropriate for
weight of piece, via mailer's ACS participant code).
* * * * *
``Return Service Requested'' (Except for BPRS participants)
Option 1
[Revise the text under ``Return Service Requested'' (Except for
BPRS participants) Option 1, to read as follows:]
Piece returned with new address or reason for nondelivery attached.
In either case, only return postage is charged at First-Class Mail, or
USPS Retail Ground--Retail single-piece price, as appropriate for
weight of piece.
Option 2 (Available via ACS only)
* * * * *
In all cases (regardless of whether a change-of-address order is on
file):
[Revise the text under ``Return Service Requested'' (Except for
BPRS participants) Option 2, In all cases (regardless of whether a
change-of-address order is on file), to read as follows:]
Piece returned with new address or reason for non-delivery attached
and separate ACS notice of reason for nondelivery provided. In either
case, both the address correction fee is charged, and return postage is
charged at First-Class Mail, or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail single-
piece price, as appropriate for weight of piece.
* * * * *
``Change Service Requested'' (Shipper Paid Forwarding participants
via ACS only)
* * * * *
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first bullet under ``Change Service Requested''
(Shipper Paid Forwarding participants via ACS only) to read as
follows:]
[ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded; postage due charged
to the mailer as follows; at applicable First-Class Mail, or USPS
Ground Advantage--Retail single-piece price for the weight of the
piece; separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee
charged).
* * * * *
[Revise footnote #2 to read as follows:]
2. The weighted (per piece) fee is the First-Class Mail, or USPS
Ground Advantage--Retail single-piece price and any nonmachinable
surcharge (see 133.1.0), multiplied by 2.472, rounding any fractions to
the next whole cent.
* * * * *
[Revise the heading and introductory text of 1.5.4 to read as
follows:]
1.5.4 Package Services and Parcel Select
Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) Package Services and Parcel Select
(see 1.5.3 for Parcel Select Lightweight) mailpieces are treated as
described in Exhibit 1.5.4, with these additional conditions:
[Revise the text of item a to read as follows:]
a. Package Services and Parcel Select mail is forwarded only to
domestic addresses.
[Revise the third sentence of item b to read as follows:]
b. * * * Undeliverable Parcel Select, Media Mail, and Library Mail
with this address format are returned with the reason for nondelivery
attached only if the address is incorrect or incomplete, or the mail is
undeliverable for another address-related reason. ***
[Revise the text of items c, d, and e, to read as follows:]
c. The endorsement ``Change Service Requested'' is not permitted
for Package Services or Parcel Select mailpieces containing hazardous
materials under 601.8.0.
d. If a Package Services (except for unendorsed Bound Printed
Matter) or Parcel Select mailpiece and any attachment are not opened by
the
[[Page 32841]]
addressee, the addressee may refuse delivery of the piece and have it
returned to the sender without affixing postage. Pieces endorsed
``Change Service Requested'' are not returned to sender. If a Package
Services or Parcel Select piece or any attachment to that piece is
opened by the addressee, the addressee must affix the applicable
postage to return the piece to the sender.
e. An undeliverable Package Services (except for unendorsed Bound
Printed Matter) or a Parcel Select mailpiece that bears postage with a
postage evidencing imprint and that has an illegible (or no) return
address is returned to the meter licensee or PC Postage customer upon
payment of the return postage. The reason for nondelivery is attached,
with no address correction fee. All Package Services (except unendorsed
Bound Printed Matter) and Parcel Select pieces must have a legible
return address.
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of Exhibit 1.5.4 to read as follows:]
Exhibit 1.5.4 Treatment of Undeliverable Package Services, and Parcel
Select
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mailer Endorsement........................ USPS Treatment of UAA
Pieces.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
``Address Service Requested'' \1\ (Except for Shipper Paid
Forwarding participants)
If no change-of-address order on file:
Piece is returned with reason for nondelivery attached (only return
postage charged) as follows:
[Revise the two bullets under ``Address Service Requested,'' ``If
no change-of-address order on file:'' to read as follows:]
[ssquf] Parcel Select: at the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial
price plus the additional service fee.
[ssquf] Package Services: at the appropriate single-piece price for
the specific class of mail.
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first bullet and items a and b under ``Address Service
Requested,'' ``If change-of-address order on file:'' to read as
follows:]
[ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Package Services forwarded postage due
at the single-piece price for the class of mail. Parcel Select
forwarded as postage due to addressee at the USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial price plus the additional service fee. In both cases,
separate notice of new address is provided (address correction fee
charged). If addressee refuses to pay postage due, piece is returned
with reason for nondelivery attached and postage charged as follows:
a. Parcel Select: at the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price
plus the additional service fee.
b. Package Services: at the single-piece price for the class of
mail.
* * * * *
``Address Service Requested'' Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option
1 (Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return participants via ACS only)
If no change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the text under ``Address Service Requested,'' Shipper Paid
Forwarding/Return Option 1 (Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return participants
via ACS only) ``If no change-of-address order on file:'' to read as
follows:]
Parcel returned with reason for nondelivery attached; postage due
charged as follows: at the applicable Package Services single-piece
price or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price plus the
additional service fee.
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first bullet under ``Address Service Requested,''
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 1 (Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return
participants via ACS only) ``If change-of-address order on file:'' to
read as follows:]
[ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Parcel forwarded. Forwarding postage
is charged to the mailer as follows; at the applicable Package Services
single-piece price or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price plus
the ACS & Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional service fee. Separate
notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
* * * * *
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 2
If no change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the text under ``Address Service Requested,'' Shipper Paid
Forwarding/Return Option 2 ``If no change-of-address order on file:''
to read as follows:]
Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached; Postage due
charged as follows: at the applicable Package Services single-piece
price or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price plus the
additional service fee. Separate notice provided (electronic ACS fee is
charged).
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first bullet under ``Address Service Requested,''
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 2 ``If change-of-address order on
file:'' to read as follows:]
[ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Parcel forwarded. Forwarding postage
is charged to the mailer as follows; at the applicable Package Services
single-piece price or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price plus
the ACS & Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional service fee. Separate
notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
* * * * *
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 3
If no change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the text under ``Address Service Requested,'' Shipper Paid
Forwarding/Return Option 3 ``If no change-of-address order on file:''
to read as follows:]
Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached; Return postage
is charged to the mailer as follows: at the Package Services single-
piece price, or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price plus the
ACS & Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional service fee. Separate
notice provided (electronic ACS fee is charged).
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first bullet under ``Address Service Requested,''
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 3 ``If change-of-address order on
file:'' to read as follows:]
[ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Parcel forwarded. Forwarding postage
is charged to the mailer as follows: at the Package Services single-
piece price or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price plus the ACS
& Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional service fee. Separate notice
of new address provided (electronic ACS fee is charged).
* * * * *
``Forwarding Service Requested'' \2\
If no change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the text under ``Forwarding Service Requested,'' ``If no
change-of-address order on file:'' to read as follows:]
Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached; return postage
charged as follows at the applicable Package Services single-piece
price or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price plus the
additional service fee.
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first bullet under ``Forwarding Service Requested,''
``If change-of-address order on file:'' to read as follows:]
[ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Package Services forwarded postage due
at the single-piece price for the class of mail. Parcel Select
forwarded as postage due to addressee at the USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial price plus the additional service fee. If addressee refuses
to pay postage due, piece is returned with reason for nondelivery
[[Page 32842]]
attached; postage charged as follows: at the applicable Package
Services single-piece price or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial
price plus the additional service fee.
* * * * *
``Return Service Requested'' Option 1
In all cases (regardless of whether a change-of-address order is on
file):
[Revise the text under ``Return Service Requested,'' Option 1 ``In
all cases (regardless of whether a change-of-address order is on
file):'' to read as follows:]
Piece returned with new address or reason for nondelivery attached.
In either case, only return postage is charged as follows: at the
Package Services single-piece price or the USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial price plus the additional service fee.
Option 2 (Available via ACS only)
In all cases (regardless of whether a change-of-address order is on
file):
[Revise the text under ``Return Service Requested,'' Option 2
(Available via ACS only) ``In all cases (regardless of whether a
change-of-address order is on file):'' to read as follows:]
Piece returned with new address or reason for non-delivery
attached, return postage is charged as follows: at the applicable
Package Services single-piece price or the USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial price plus the additional service fee. Separate ACS notice
of reason for nondelivery provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
``Change Service Requested'' \3\ 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:
* * * * *
Restrictions:
The following restrictions apply:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item 2 to read as follows:]
(2) This endorsement is not permitted for Package Services
containing hazardous materials.
* * * * *
``Change Service Requested'' (For Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return
participants via ACS only)
* * * * *
If change-of-address order on file:
[Revise the first bullet under ``Change Service Requested,'' (For
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return participants via ACS only) ``If change-
of-address order on file:'' to read as follows:]
[ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Parcel forwarded; postage due charged
to the mailer as follows: at the Package Services single-piece price
for the specific class of mail or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial
price plus the ACS & Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional service
fee; separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee
charged).
* * * * *
Restrictions:
The following restrictions apply:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item 2 to read as follows:]
(2) This endorsement is not permitted for Package Services
containing hazardous materials.
* * * * *
1.6 Attachments and Enclosures
1.6.1 Periodicals
[Revise the first sentence of 1.6.1 to read as follows:]
Undeliverable Periodicals (including publications pending
Periodicals authorization) with a nonincidental First-Class Mail
attachment or enclosure are returned at the single-piece First-Class
Mail price for the weight and shape of the piece, and the nonmachinable
surcharge if applicable, or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail price for the
weight and destination of the piece. * * *
1.6.2 USPS Marketing Mail
[Revise the first sentence of 1.6.2 to read as follows:]
Undeliverable, unendorsed USPS Marketing Mail with a nonincidental
First-Class Mail attachment or enclosure is returned at the single-
piece First-Class Mail price for the weight and shape of the piece or
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail price for the weight and destination of
the piece. * * *
1.6.3 Package Services and Parcel Select
Undeliverable, unendorsed mailpieces with a First-Class Mail
attachment or enclosure are forwarded or returned as follows:
[Revise the text of item a to read as follows:]
a. Parcel Select at the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price
plus the additional service fee.
* * * * *
1.7 Mixed Classes
* * * * *
1.7.4 Parcel
[Revise the text of 1.7.4 to read as follows:]
A combination parcel containing Media Mail and Bound Printed Matter
is charged postage at the USPS Ground Advantage--Retail price when
forwarded or returned.
* * * * *
1.8 Returning Mail
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 1.8.3 to read as follows:]
1.8.3 Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage--Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial
[Revise the introductory text of 1.8.3 to read as follows:]
Mailpieces sent as Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-
Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, or USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial that cannot be delivered as addressed or forwarded to a new
address, unless otherwise requested by the sender, are returned to the
sender at no additional charge. Excluding pieces containing live
animals, the following are disposed of by the USPS:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
b. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, or USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial pieces with a valid ACS participant code and
endorsed ``Change Service Requested.''
* * * * *
1.9 Dead Mail
1.9.1 Basic Information
* * * The disposition of dead mail items is as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item e to read as follows:]
e. Except for unendorsed USPS Marketing Mail, undeliverable USPS
Marketing Mail, Package Services, and insured First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage--Retail, or USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial pieces
containing USPS Marketing Mail, or Package Services enclosures, that
cannot be returned because of an incorrect, incomplete, illegible, or
missing return address is opened and examined to identify the sender or
addressee.
* * * * *
2.0 Forwarding
* * * * *
2.2 Forwardable Mail
* * * * *
2.2.3 Discontinued Post Office
[Revise the text of 2.2.3 to read as follows:]
All Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground
[[Page 32843]]
Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, Periodicals, and
Package Services pieces addressed to a discontinued Post Office may be
forwarded without added charge to a Post Office that the addressee
designates as more convenient than the office to which the USPS ordered
the mail sent.
2.2.4 Rural Delivery
[Revise the text of 2.2.4 to read as follows:]
When rural delivery service is established or changed, a customer
of any office receiving mail from the rural carrier of another office
may have all Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail,
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial,
Periodicals, and Package Services pieces forwarded to the latter office
for delivery without added charge, if the customer files a written
request with the postmaster at the former office.
* * * * *
2.2.6 Mail for Military Personnel
[Revise the first sentence of 2.2.6 to read as follows:]
All Priority Mail Express, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, Periodicals, and
Package Services mailpieces addressed to persons in the U.S. Armed
Forces (including civilian employees) serving where U.S. mail service
operates is forwarded at no added charge when the change of address is
caused by official orders. * * *
* * * * *
2.3 Postage for Forwarding
* * * * *
[Revise the heading and text of 2.3.3 to read as follows:]
2.3.3 Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail,
and USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial
Priority Mail, First-Class Mail (including postcards), USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial mailpieces are
forwarded without charge when postage is fully prepaid by the sender.
* * * * *
2.3.5 USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel Select Lightweight
[Revise the second sentence of 2.3.5 to read as follows:]
* * * Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return (under 4.2.9) provides mailers
of USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel Select Lightweight parcels an option
of paying forwarding postage on those parcels, or return postage if
undeliverable, at the applicable single-piece First-Class Mail, or USPS
Ground Advantage--Retail price, instead of the addressee paying postage
due charges. * * *
[Revise the heading of 2.3.6 to read as follows:]
2.3.6 Package Services, and Parcel Select
[Revise the first and third sentence of 2.3.6 to read as follows:]
Package Services, and Parcel Select pieces are subject to the
collection of additional postage at the applicable price for
forwarding; Parcel Select at the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial
price plus the additional service fee and Package Services at the
single-piece price for the specific class of mail. * * * * * * The
addressee may refuse any piece of Package Services or Parcel Select
that has been forwarded. * * *
* * * * *
3.0 Hold For Pickup
* * * * *
3.2 Basic Information
* * * * *
3.2.2 Basic Eligibility
[Revise the introductory text of 3.2.2 to read as follows:]
Hold For Pickup service is available at retail Post Office
locations for Priority Mail Express presented under 113.4.2 or 113.4.3,
with or without COD service, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, Library
Mail, and Media Mail, with COD service, and for Priority Mail Express,
Priority Mail, and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, using USPS Click-N-
Ship. It is also available with commercial mailings of Priority Mail
Express presented under 213.4.2 or 213.4.3, Priority Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial, Parcel Select Lightweight, and Bound Printed
Matter parcels, when:
* * * * *
3.2.3 Additional Eligibility Standards
Parcels must meet these additional physical requirements:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
b. Except as provided in 3.2.3c, Parcel Select Lightweight parcels
must be greater than \3/4\ inch thick at the thickest point.
* * * * *
3.3 Preparation Definitions and Instructions
[Revise the introductory text of 3.3 to read as follows:]
When using Hold For Pickup service, except for Priority Mail
Express Hold For Pickup with or without COD service, First-Class Mail,
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, Library Mail, and Media Mail, with COD
service presented at retail Post Office locations, mailers or their
agents must prepare mailpieces with the ``Hold For Pickup'' label as
follows:
* * * * *
4.0 Address Correction Services
4.1 Address Correction Service
* * * * *
4.1.3 Invalid Endorsement
[Revise the last sentence ``Exception:'' to read as follows:]
* * * Exception: Undeliverable Media Mail, Library Mail, and Parcel
Select pieces that bear invalid or conflicting ancillary service
endorsements are treated as if endorsed ``Forwarding Service
Requested.''
* * * * *
4.1.5 Other Classes
[Revise the first sentence of 4.1.5 to read as follows:]
When possible, ``on-piece'' address correction is provided for
Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, USPS Marketing
Mail, Package Services, and Parcel Select pieces. * * *
* * * * *
5.0 Package Intercept
5.1 Description of Service
* * * * *
5.1.2 Eligibility
[Revise the first sentence of 5.1.2 to read as follows:]
Except under 5.1.3, Package Intercept service is available for
Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, Parcel Select,
Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, or Library Mail mailpieces with a
tracking barcode (excluding COD Hold For Pickup mailpieces), addressed
to, from, or between domestic destinations (608.2.0) that do not
require a customs declarations label, and measuring not more than 108
inches in length and girth combined. * * *
* * * * *
5.2 Postage and Fees
[Revise the second and third sentences in the introductory text of
5.2 to read as follows:]
* * * Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage--Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial pieces
being
[[Page 32844]]
redirected to the sender are not relabeled or subject to additional
postage. Intercepted Parcel Select, Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail or
Library Mail pieces that are redirected to the sender, and all
intercepted mailpieces that are redirected to a new delivery address or
a Post Office as Hold For Pickup (3.0), are relabeled and handled as a
new Priority Mail piece. * * *
* * * * *
7.0 Pickup on Demand Service
* * * * *
7.2 Basic Standards
7.2.1 Availability
* * * Incidental amounts of other postage-affixed, full-price mail
also may be collected when Pickup on Demand service is provided for:
* * * * *
[Revise items c and d to read as follows:]
c. USPS Ground Advantage--Retail.
d. USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial.
[Delete item e and renumber items f through n as items e through
m.]
* * * * *
[Delete renumbered item g, USPS Retail Ground, and renumber items h
through m as items g through l.]
* * * * *
11.0 USPS Tracking Plus Service
* * * * *
11.2 Scan Data Retention
USPS Tracking Plus service is available for scan data retention on
mailpieces shipped via the following products:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]
d. USPS Ground Advantage Service.
* * * * *
12.0 USPS Label Delivery Service
* * * * *
12.2 Eligibility
USPS Label Delivery Service is available for the following:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of items b and c to read as follows:]
b. USPS Ground Advantage--Retail.
c. USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial.
[Delete items d and e and renumber item f as item d.]
* * * * *
508 Recipient Services
1.0 Recipient Options
* * * * *
1.8 Commercial Mail Receiving Agencies
* * * * *
1.8.4 Addressee and CMRA Agreement
In delivery of the mail to the CMRA, the addressee and the CMRA
agree that:
* * * * *
[Revise the sixth sentence of item b to read as follows:]
b. * * * At the end of the 6-month remail period the CMRA may
return to the Post Office only First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail, Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, or accountable
mail, received for the former addressee (customer). * * *
* * * * *
[Revise the third sentence of item c to read as follows:]
c. * * * Upon approval, the CMRA may return to the Post Office only
First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, Priority Mail,
Priority Mail Express, and accountable mail, received for the former
customer. * * *
* * * * *
7.0 Premium Forwarding Services
* * * * *
7.2 Premium Forwarding Service Residential
* * * * *
7.2.6 Weekly Priority Mail Shipments
* * * Regardless of any mailer`s ancillary service endorsement on a
mailpiece, and provided it fits within the shipment container, all mail
is included in the weekly Priority Mail shipment, except as follows:
* * * * *
b. Mailpieces that do not fit in the shipment container, or that
require a scan or signature at delivery, are scanned (when applicable)
and then rerouted separately to the temporary address, subject to the
following:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of items b1 through b3 to read as follows:]
1. Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial pieces and Periodicals
parcels are rerouted separately at no additional charge.
2. USPS Marketing Mail parcels and Parcel Select Lightweight pieces
are rerouted separately and charged postage due at the appropriate USPS
Ground Advantage--Retail price.
3. Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, Library Mail, and Parcel
Select pieces are rerouted separately and charged postage due at the
appropriate single-piece price for the class or subclass of mail in
which the piece was originally shipped.
* * * * *
d. Any mailpiece arriving postage due at the Post Office serving a
customer`s primary address is not included in the weekly Priority Mail
shipment and will be rerouted separately as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of items d1 and d2 to read as follows:]
1. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial, and Priority Mail pieces are charged only for
the original postage due amount.
2. Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, Library Mail, and Parcel
Select pieces are rerouted postage due at the appropriate single-piece
price for the class, or subclass, of mail the mailpiece was originally
shipped plus the postage due amount already indicated on the mailpiece.
* * * * *
7.3 Premium Forwarding Service Commercial
* * * * *
7.3.3 Conditions
Only the authorized recipient (or legal agent) of the business' (or
organization's) mail may activate the request for PFS-Commercial
service. PFS-Commercial service is subject to these conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item e to read as follows:]
e. Except under 7.3.3g, the following products may be included in a
PFS-Commercial service container: Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage--Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial pieces.
* * * * *
600 Basic Standards for All Mailing Services
* * * * *
602 Addressing
1.0 Elements of Addressing
* * * * *
1.3 Address Elements
All mail not bearing a simplified address must bear a delivery
address that contains at least the following elements in this order
from the top line:
* * * * *
[[Page 32845]]
[Revise the text of item e to read as follows:]
e. ZIP Codes are required on Priority Mail Express, commercial
First-Class Mail, Periodicals, USPS Marketing Mail, Package Services
and Parcel Select mailpieces, all mail sent to military addresses
within the United States and to APO and FPO addresses, official mail,
Business Reply Mail, and USPS Returns service packages.
* * * * *
1.5 Return Addresses
* * * * *
1.5.3 Required Use of Return Addresses
The sender's domestic return address must appear legibly on:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item g to read as follows:]
g. USPS Ground Advantage--Retail and USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial.
* * * * *
3.0 Use of Alternative Addressing
3.1 General Information
* * * * *
3.1.2 Prohibited Use
Alternative addressing formats may not be used on:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
b. Mail with any ancillary service endorsement under 507.1.1
through 507.1.8, except as allowed for First-Class Mail, USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial parcels, or Priority Mail under 507.1.5.1b.
* * * * *
3.1.3 Treatment
[Revise the last sentence of 3.1.3 to read as follows:]
* * * Undeliverable mail with any alternative addressing format is
disposed of as waste under 507.1.9.1, except for First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels, and Priority Mail under
507.1.5.1b.
* * * * *
4.0 Detached Address Labels (DALs) and Detached Marketing Labels (DMLs)
* * * * *
4.5 Disposition of Excess or Undeliverable Material
* * * The mailer must choose one of the following options for each
DAL or DML mailing and the items:
* * * * *
[Revise the last sentence of item d to read as follows:]
d. * * * Additional material must be sent prepaid to the delivery
Post Office as First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail,
Priority Mail, or Priority Mail Express.
* * * * *
4.6 Postage
* * * * *
4.6.3 Returns
[Revise the first sentence of 4.6.3 to read as follows:]
Postage for excess or undeliverable DALs or DMLs that are properly
endorsed or for items being returned is computed at the single-piece
price (First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, Priority Mail,
or Package Services) applicable to the combined weight of the DAL or
DML, and the accompanying item, regardless of whether both are
returned. * * *
* * * * *
604 Postage Payment Methods and Refunds
* * * * *
4.0 Postage Meters and PC Postage Products (``Postage Evidencing
Systems'')
* * * * *
4.6 Mailings
4.6.1 Mailing Date Format
* * * The mailing date format used in the indicia is also subject
to the following conditions.
a. Complete Date. Mailers must use a complete date for the
following:
[Revise the text of item a1 to read as follows:]
1. All Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage--Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial pieces.
* * * * *
4.6.3 Deposit of Mail
Mailers must deposit or enter mailpieces with metered or PC Postage
indicia according to the following conditions:
[Revise the first sentence of item a to read as follows:]
a. Mailers may deposit Priority Mail Express (including Flat Rate),
Priority Mail (including Flat Rate), retail First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage--Retail, retail Media Mail, and Library Mail, with a
postage evidencing indicia at any Postal Service facility, preferably
near the customers' local Post Office. * * *
* * * * *
5.0 Permit Imprint (Indicia)
5.1 General Standards
5.1.1 Definition
[Revise the second sentence of 5.1.1 to read as follows:]
* * * This payment method may be used for postage and extra service
fees for Priority Mail Express (``eVS'' only), Priority Mail, First-
Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, USPS Marketing Mail,
Package Services, and Parcel Select mailpieces. * * *
5.1.2 Minimum Volume
Permit imprint mailings must contain at least 200 pieces or 50
pounds of mail, except:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item f to read as follows:]
f. A mailing containing 50 or more pieces for Parcel Select
destination entry under 253.4.1.2.
[Revise the second sentence of item g to read as follows:]
g. * * * Mailers may include any combination of the following
products under this provision: Priority Mail Express (eVS only),
Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels, nonpresorted
Bound Printed Matter parcels, and single-piece Media Mail and Library
Mail parcels. * * *
* * * * *
5.3 Indicia Design, Placement, and Content
* * * * *
[Revise the heading and introductory text of 5.3.6 to read as
follows:]
5.3.6 Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, and USPS
Ground Advantage--Commercial Format
A permit imprint indicia on Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail,
First-Class Mail, or USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial mailpieces must
be formatted as follows:
[Revise the first sentence of item a to read as follows:]
a. Except under items 5.3.6b through 5.3.6d, the permit imprint
indicia must show the basic price markings ``Priority Mail Express,''
``Priority Mail'' (or ``Priority''), ``First-Class Mail,'' or ``USPS
Ground Advantage'' as applicable; ``U.S. Postage Paid''; city and
state; and permit number. * * *
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item c to read as follows:]
c. The ``Priority Mail Express,'' ``Priority Mail'' (or
``Priority''), ``First-Class Mail, or ``USPS Ground Advantage'' basic
price marking may be
[[Page 32846]]
omitted when using shipping address labels under 202.3.0.
* * * * *
8.0 Insufficient or Omitted Postage
8.1 Insufficient Postage
* * * * *
8.1.2 Undeliverable and Refused Mail
Mail with insufficient postage that is refused by the addressee or
otherwise undeliverable is:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
b. Returned to the sender and delivered when the sender pays the
total deficient postage and additional postage for forwarding or return
if other than First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, and
with a return address.
* * * * *
8.1.6 Registered Mail With Insufficient Postage
[Revise the first sentence of 8.1.6 to read as follows:]
If shortpaid Registered Mail is found in ordinary mail, with only
the First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, price of postage
paid, the piece is delivered to the addressee as ordinary First-Class
Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail. * * *
* * * * *
8.3 Mailable Matter Without Postage in or on Mail Receptacles
* * * * *
8.3.4 Partial Distribution
[Revise the text of 8.3.4 to read as follows:]
If there is a distribution of pieces to some, but not all,
addresses on a route, pieces are returned to the delivery unit for use
in computing the postage due. First-Class Mail or USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail prices are applied to matter that would require
First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail postage if mailed.
For other matter, if the piece weighs less than 16 ounces, the
applicable single-piece First-Class Mailor USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail, price based on the weight of the piece is applied, or an
applicable Package Services price is applied, whichever is lower. If
the piece weighs 16 ounces or more, the USPS Ground Advantage--Retail
or applicable Package Services price is applied.
* * * * *
9.0 Exchanges and Refunds
* * * * *
9.2 Postage and Fee Refunds
* * * * *
9.2.3 Full Refund
A full refund (100%) may be made when:
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence of item l to read as follows:]
l. If a First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS
Ground Advantage--Commercial, or Package Services mailpiece is torn or
defaced during USPS handling so that the addressee or intended delivery
point cannot be identified. * * *
* * * * *
608 Postal Information and Resources
* * * * *
7.0 Trademarks and Copyrights of the USPS
7.1 USPS Trademarks
* * * Depending on the trademark, the TM or [supreg]
symbol may be used after these marks. Information on USPS trademarks
can be found on USPS.com or by contacting General Counsel, USPS
Headquarters (see 8.1 for address).
* * * * *
[Revise the list of trademarks by deleting ``First-Class Package''
and ``First-Class Package Service'', and ``USPS Retail Ground''.]
[Revise the list of trademarks by adding ``USPS Ground Advantage''
alphabetically.]
* * * * *
9.0 Postal Zones
* * * * *
9.2 Application
Zones are used to compute postage on zoned mail sent between 3-
digit ZIP Code areas, including Military Post Offices (MPOs), as
follows:
a. For the purposes of computing postal zone information, except
for items 9.2b and 9.2c, the following table applies to MPOs listed in
L002 Column A.
[Revise the footnote under item a to read as follows:]
* Chicago IL 606 serves Priority Mail and USPS Ground Advantage
mail destinating to these ZIP Codes.
* * * * *
609 Filing Indemnity Claims for Loss or Damage
1.0 General Filing Instructions
* * * * *
1.4 When To File
File claims as follows:
* * * * *
b. Lost Articles: customers must file a claim within the time
limits in the chart below.
MAIL TYPE OR SERVICE
* * * * *
[Revise the ``APO/FPO/DPO Insured Mail and registered Mail'' line
item to read as follows:]
APO/FPO/DPO Insured Mail and registered Mail (Priority Mail, First-
Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, SAM, or PAL))
* * * * *
700 Special Standards
703 Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail and Other Unique Eligibility
1.0 Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail
* * * * *
1.9 Mailing While Application Pending
* * * * *
1.9.2 Postage Record
[Revise the text of 1.9.2 to read as follows:]
While an application or confirmation of authorization is pending,
postage must be paid at the applicable USPS Marketing Mail prices to
qualify for a refund. The USPS records the difference between postage
paid at regular USPS Marketing Mail prices and the postage that would
have been paid at Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail prices.
1.9.3 Refund
* * * No refund is made:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
b. If postage was paid at any eligible price other than USPS
Marketing Mail.
* * * * *
2.0 Overseas Military and Diplomatic Post Office Mail
* * * * *
2.4 Military Ordinary Mail (MOM)
[Revise the first sentence in the introductory text of 2.4 to read
as follows:]
Military ordinary mail (MOM) is DOD official mail sent at USPS
Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial,
Periodicals, USPS Marketing Mail, Parcel Select, or Package Services
prices that requires faster service than sealift transportation to,
from, and between military Post Offices. * * *
[[Page 32847]]
* * * * *
2.5 Parcel Airlift (PAL)
* * * * *
2.5.2 Availability
[Revise the text of 2.5.2 to read as follows:]
PAL is available for USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground
Advantage--Commercial, Package Services, or Parcel Select pieces that
do not exceed 30 pounds in weight or 60 inches in length and girth
combined, when mailed at or addressed to any overseas military Post
Office outside the 48 contiguous states.
* * * * *
3.0 Department of State Mail
* * * * *
3.2 Conditions for Authorized Mail
* * * * *
3.2.3 Weight and Size Limits
Maximum weight or size dimensions may not exceed any of the
following:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of items e and f to read as follows:]
e. Combined length and girth: 108 inches for all mail classes other
than USPS Ground Advantage--Retail.
f. Combined length and girth: 130 inches for USPS Ground
Advantage--Retail.
* * * * *
9.0 Mixed Classes
* * * * *
9.12 Postage Payment for Combined Mailings of Media Mail and Bound
Printed Matter
* * * * *
9.12.4 Rating of Unmarked Parcel
[Revise the introductory text of 9.12.4 to read as follows:]
A parcel containing Media Mail and Bound Printed Matter is charged
postage at USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial prices if it:
* * * * *
705 Advanced Preparation and Special Postage Payment Systems
* * * * *
6.0 Combining Mailings of USPS Marketing Mail, Package Services, and
Parcel Select Parcels
* * * * *
6.2 Combining Parcels--DNDC Entry
* * * * *
6.2.1 Eligible Prices
[Revise the first sentence of 6.2.1 to read as follows:]
Combined parcels may be eligible for USPS Marketing Mail, Parcel
Select Lightweight, Parcel Select DNDC/ASF, single-piece and Presorted
Media Mail, single-piece and Presorted Library Mail, Bound Printed
Matter DNDC, and Nonpresorted and Presorted Bound Printed Matter
prices. * * *
* * * * *
8.0 Preparing Pallets
* * * * *
8.6 Pallet Labels
* * * * *
8.6.5 Line 2 (Content Line)
Line 2 (content line) must meet these standards:
* * * * *
b. Codes. The codes shown below must be used as appropriate on Line
2 of sack, tray, and pallet labels.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Content Type Code
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
[Revise the Line 2 ``Content Type'' and ``Code'' by deleting the
First-Class Package Service--Commercial entry in its entirety.]
* * * * *
16.0 Plant Load Mailings
16.1 Basic Information
16.1.1 Purpose
* * * The USPS selects the appropriate mode of transportation and
determines responsibility as shown below.
* * * * *
[Revise the text of footnote #3 to read as follows:]
3, Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail only.
* * * * *
18.0 Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute and Priority Mail Open
and Distribute
* * * * *
18.3 Additional Standards for Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute
* * * * *
18.3.2 Extra Services
No extra services may be added to the Priority Mail Express segment
of a Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute shipment, and the
enclosed mail may receive only the following extra services:
[Revise the text of item a to read as follows:]
a. First-Class Mail pieces may be sent with Certified Mail service.
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]
d. Parcel Select and Package Services parcels mail may be sent with
USPS Tracking or Signature Confirmation service.
18.4 Additional Standards for Priority Mail Open and Distribute
* * * * *
18.4.2 Extra Services
No extra services are available for Priority Mail Open and
Distribute containers.
Only the following services may be added for mail in the enclosed
container:
[Revise the text of items a through c to read as follows:]
a. First-Class Mail pieces may be sent with Certified Mail service.
b. USPS Marketing Mail parcels (except Customized MarketMail
pieces) may be sent with electronic option USPS Tracking service.
c. Parcel Select and Package Services parcels may be sent with USPS
Tracking or Signature Confirmation service.
* * * * *
Index
* * * * *
B
* * * * *
[Delete the ``balloon price'' entry in its entirety:]
* * * * *
C
* * * * *
Commercial Mail (Letters, Flats, Parcels)
* * * * *
[Delete the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 280'' entry
under ``Commercial Mail''.]
* * * * *
[Add ``USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 280'' alphabetically under
``Commercial Mail.'']
* * * * *
Computing Postage
[Revise the ``computing postage'' entry by deleting the ``USPS
Retail Ground'' line item.]
* * * * *
D
* * * * *
[[Page 32848]]
Deposit
* * * * *
commercial parcels
[Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 286'' line
item under ``deposit'', ``commercial parcels'', by replacing it with
USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 286.]
* * * * *
[Revise the ``deposit'', ``retail mail'' entry by deleting the
``USPS Retail Ground'' line item.]
* * * * *
E
* * * * *
Entry
* * * * *
commercial parcels
[Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 286'' line
item under ``Entry'', ``commercial parcels'', by replacing it with USPS
Ground Advantage--Commercial 286.]
* * * * *
F
* * * * *
[Delete the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial parcels''
line item and in its entirety.]
* * * * *
H
* * * * *
Handwriting
* * * * *
commercial parcels
[Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 283'' line
item under ``handwriting'', ``commercial parcels'', by replacing it
with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 283.]
* * * * *
M
* * * * *
Mail Preparation
* * * * *
commercial parcels
[Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 285'' line
item under ``mail Preparation'', ``commercial parcels'', by replacing
it with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 285.]
[Revise the ``mail preparation'', ``commercial parcels'' entry by
deleting the ``USPS Retail Ground'' line item.]
* * * * *
Mixed Classes, 703.9.0
[Revise the ``mixed classes'' entry by deleting the ``USPS Retail
Ground'' line item.]
* * * * *
N
* * * * *
Network Distribution Center (NDC) Acceptance
retail mail
[Revise the ``Network Distribution Center (NDC) acceptance'' entry
by deleting the ``USPS Retail Ground'' line item.]
* * * * *
O
* * * * *
Oversized Price Eligibility
[Revise the ``oversized price eligibility'' entry by replacing the
``USPS Retail Ground'' line item with USPS Ground Advantage.]
* * * * *
P
* * * * *
Parcel Select
[Revise the ``Parcel Select'' entry by deleting the ``cubic
253.2.1'' line item.]
* * * * *
Plant-Verified Drop Shipment (PVDS), 705.17.0
[Revise the ``plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS)'' entry by
deleting the ``USPS Retail Ground'' line item.]
* * * * *
Postage Payment
* * * * *
commercial parcels
[Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 284'' line
item under ``postage payment'', ``commercial parcels'', by replacing it
with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 284.]
* * * * *
retail mail
[Revise the ``postage payment'', ``retail mail'' entry by deleting
the ``USPS Retail Ground'' line item.]
* * * * *
Postage Statement
* * * * *
commercial parcels
[Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 284.3.0''
line item under ``postage statement'', ``commercial parcels'', by
replacing it with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 284.3.0.]
* * * * *
Postal Inspection
* * * * *
commercial parcels
[Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 284.3.2.0''
line item under ``postage statement'', ``commercial parcels'', by
replacing it with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 284.3.2.0.]
* * * * *
retail mail
[Revise the ``postal inspection'', ``retail mail'' entry by
deleting the ``USPS Retail Ground'' line item.]
* * * * *
U
* * * * *
[Add a ``USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels'' line item to
read as follows:]
USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial Parcels
computing postage, 283.1.1
content standards, 283.2.0
deposit of, 286.1.0
documentation, 284.3.0
eligibility standards, 283
incidental enclosure with another class of mail, 703.9.5
mail preparation, 285
markings required on each mailpiece general, 202.1.0
postage payment methods, 284
postage statements, 284.2.0
price eligibility, 283.4.0
size, 201.8.3
surcharge, 283.1.3
undeliverable mail, 507.1.5.1
weight, 201.8.3.1
* * * * *
[Delete the ``USPS Retail Ground'' entry in its entirety.]
* * * * *
V
* * * * *
Volume Requirements
* * * * *
commercial parcels
[Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 284.4.0''
line item under ``volume requirements'', ``commercial parcels'', by
replacing it with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 284.4.0.]
[[Page 32849]]
* * * * *
Z
* * * * *
ZIP Code Accuracy
* * * * *
commercial parcels
[Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 283.3.0''
line item under ``volume requirements'', ``commercial parcels'', by
replacing it with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 283.3.0.]
* * * * *
Notice 123 (Price List)
[Revise competitive prices as applicable.]
* * * * *
Tram T. Pham,
Attorney, Ethics and Legal Compliance.
[FR Doc. 2023-10353 Filed 5-19-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE P
