[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 179 (Friday, September 13, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 48572-48578]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-23516]



[[Page 48571]]


_______________________________________________________________________

Part V





Postal Service





_______________________________________________________________________



39 CFR Part 111



Miscellaneous Revisions to Standards for Mail Preparation; Final Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 61, No. 179 / Friday, September 13, 1996 / 
Rules and Regulations  

[[Page 48572]]



POSTAL SERVICE

39 CFR Part 111


Miscellaneous Revisions to Standards for Mail Preparation

AGENCY: Postal Service.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: This final rule sets forth revised Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) 
standards regarding several aspects of mail preparation. Each of these 
revisions is a relaxation of current standards and allows mailers 
immediate access to a simplified preparation method not currently 
permitted.

EFFECTIVE DATE: August 23, 1996, for 3-digit carrier routes trays; 
October 15, 1996, for 5-digit scheme sortation; October 1, 1996, for 
all other revisions.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lynn M. Martin, (202) 268-6351, for 5-
digit scheme sort; Leo F. Raymond, (202) 268-5199, for other 
information.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On March 12, 1996, the Postal Service 
published a final rule in the Federal Register setting forth the 
Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) standards implementing phase one of 
Classification Reform as of July 1, 1996 (61 FR 10068-10217). 
Comparable standards for phase two were published on August 15, 1996, 
to be effective October 6, 1996 (61 FR 42464-42489).
    Included in each of these rules (which affected primarily 
commercial or nonprofit mailers, respectively) were extensive revised 
standards for mail preparation. Experience with those standards in the 
weeks since July 1 has enabled the Postal Service to identify aspects 
that can be simplified further, in part based on observations and 
suggestions presented by customers.
    All the DMM revisions described below amend both final rules noted 
earlier (i.e., for commercial mail as of July 1 and for nonprofit mail 
effective October 6) as of the dates shown. Nonprofit mailers using the 
option of preparing mail under the reformed rules (as announced in the 
March 12 final rule) may adopt these new options accordingly. Where 
noted, these amendments are implemented as options so that mailers can 
best determine how to balance production cost, rate eligibility, and 
service.
    Because the revisions described below often separately amend or 
redesignate the same sections of the DMM, this final rule has 
aggregated them for simultaneous announcement in order to avoid the 
confusion that would occur where the individual amendments conflicted.
    The Postal Service has determined not to issue a proposed rule for 
comment because the major DMM revisions implemented by this final rule 
represent added options for mailers that are relaxations of current 
standards and are neither new mail preparation burdens on mailers nor 
impediments to access to any rate of postage.
    Accordingly, the Postal Service is adopting the DMM revisions 
described below to allow the following simplified preparation options 
to customers.
    1. DMM E140.2.1a, E230.2.2a, E630.2.8a, E640.2.5, M020.2.1c, 
M032.1.3, M200.2.2, M200.4.1c, M200.4.2e, M620.2.2b, M620.3.1c, 
M620.3.2e, M810.1.4, M810.1.5, M810.2.1, M810.2.2c, M810.2.3c, 
P012.2.2c(2), P012.2.2c(3), and P012.2.4 are amended effective August 
23, 1996, to allow an option for the preparation of letter-size mail in 
3-digit carrier routes trays at the applicable carrier route presort 
rates. For letter-size mail, the standards implemented for 
Classification Reform specified the exclusive use of trays, ending the 
previously prescribed use of sacks for certain letter-size mailings. In 
general, Classification Reform also sought to apply identical standards 
to similar mail regardless of class; this objective was largely 
achieved for carrier route rate mail. As a result, all carrier route 
rate letter-size mail was subject to two-step preparation: first, the 
preparation of full trays for individual carrier routes, then 
preparation of remaining qualifying volume (subject to a six-piece 
minimum for Periodicals or a 10-piece minimum for First-Class Mail and 
Standard Mail) in carrier route packages that are placed in 5-digit 
trays. Under this standard, a 5-digit tray is required on each occasion 
that carrier route presort mail remains for any route in the 
corresponding 5-digit area, regardless of the physical volume that mail 
represents.
    In practice, the net effect of these standards has often been a 
significant increase in tray usage to transport relatively small 
amounts of mail because individual trays were prepared to carry one or 
two packages of carrier route sorted mail for a 5-digit area. In turn, 
this has impacted mailer production line speed and capacity, equipment 
supplies, and vehicle utilization.
    Although the Postal Service had implemented this rule to optimize 
the movement of carrier route mail deep into its network, thus 
minimizing the impact of package and tray handling costs on carrier 
route rates, and although it anticipated some increase in low-volume 
trays and an equivalent loss of vehicle cube utilization, actual 
experience has been less favorable than expected.
    In response, the Postal Service collaborated with mailers to 
formulate a solution to this condition to balance mailer production 
costs and postal processing efficiencies as much as possible. As a 
result of this collaboration, the Postal Service has decided to 
establish, through this final rule, a 3-digit level for tray 
preparation as an optional step available to all mailers preparing 
letter-size mail eligible for and claimed at any post-Classification 
Reform carrier route rate. This final rule also amends the preparation 
standards for 5-digit mixed carrier routes trays to optimize their 
preparation while retaining service-related choices for mailers.
    As shown in the DMM standards below, mailers will still be required 
to prepare a direct carrier route tray when sufficient pieces are 
available to physically fill such a tray. However, preparation of a 5-
digit mixed carrier routes tray will now be required only if there are 
sufficient pieces in carrier route packages to physically fill a 1-foot 
or 2-foot tray to the corresponding 5-digit ZIP Code destination. A 5-
digit mixed carrier routes tray with less volume, but at least one 
carrier route package, will be allowed at the mailer's option, such as 
for service reasons. Under the option effective with this final rule, 
mailers may prepare a 3-digit mixed carrier routes tray when it will 
contain at least one carrier route package for each of two or more 5-
digit ZIP Code areas. Because the objective of these revised standards 
is the reduction in the number of less-than-full trays, a 3-digit tray 
will be permissible only when it represents the consolidation of the 
content of two or more 5-digit trays that would be otherwise required. 
Therefore, a 3-digit mixed carrier routes tray that contains mail only 
for a single 5-digit area is not allowed.
    In addition, because the content of a 3-digit mixed carrier routes 
tray requires additional processing before reaching the delivery unit, 
mail placed in 3-digit carrier routes trays is not eligible for 
destination delivery unit discounts.
    2. DMM E140.2.1b, E240.2.1a, E240.2.1b, E240.3.2a, E640.1.3a, 
M011.1.2d, M011.1.3g, M032.1.3, M810.2.2d, M810.2.3d, M810.3.1a, 
M810.3.2a, and P012.2.4 are amended effective October 15, 1996, to make 
a 5-digit scheme sort option available for automation rate letter-size 
mail. Separate 5-digit ZIP Codes that are processed by the Postal 
Service on the same incoming secondary barcode sorter scheme, and that 
meet other Postal Service criteria will be identified as 5-

[[Page 48573]]

digit schemes on the Postal Service's City State File that is provided 
with Address Information System products. If the mailer has 150 or more 
pieces in total for any or all of the 5-digit ZIP Codes that comprise a 
single 5-digit scheme group, those pieces may qualify for the 5-digit 
automation letter rate applicable to the class of the mailing if all 
pieces for the individual 5-digit ZIP Code areas that form the scheme 
group are sorted together in the same tray(s) labeled to the 5-digit 
scheme destination.
    The 5-digit ZIP Code to use on Line 1 of 5-digit scheme tray labels 
is also contained in the City State File; the city name used on Line 1 
must be the preferred last line for the 5-digit ZIP Code in the City 
State File. Line 2 of the label must contain the class of mail 
abbreviation ``LTRS BC'' and ``5D SCHEME.'' The applicable content 
identifier number (CIN) for the 5-digit scheme trays for each class 
must be used as shown in the revised DMM information below.
    The 5-digit scheme combinations will be updated with each bimonthly 
release of the City State File. Although monthly updates of the City 
State File will continue to be released, the 5-digit scheme information 
contained in the City State File will be revised only with the 
bimonthly updates.
    Mailings prepared according to the 5-digit schemes in the City 
State File must be entered into the mail no later than 90 days after 
the release date of the bimonthly City State File used to obtain the 
scheme information. For example, mail matched to the October release of 
the City State File (or the November 15 monthly file update) may be 
entered into the mail from October 15 through January 15. Beginning 
with mail entered on January 16, the 5-digit scheme sort information 
must be based on the December 15 release of the City State File, and so 
forth. The following table shows the dates of City State File releases 
and the periods during which mailings may be entered that were prepared 
using 5-digit scheme information contained in the corresponding 
releases.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Product release (bimonthly)          Product release (monthly)                    Mailing dates             
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
February 15........................  March 15.........................  February 15-May 15.                     
April 15...........................  May 15...........................  April 15-July 15.                       
June 15............................  July 15..........................  June 15-September 15.                   
August 15..........................  September 15.....................  August 15-November 15.                  
October 15.........................  November 15......................  October 15-January 15.                  
December 15........................  January 15.......................  December 15-March 15.                   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    As detailed by the DMM standards prescribed below, use of the 5-
digit scheme sortation is optional. The mailer may choose to prepare 
all possible 5-digit scheme sorts or any lesser number of scheme 
groups. Whenever the mailer can prepare 150 or more pieces to one or 
more of the 5-digit ZIP Codes that are part of a single 5-digit scheme 
group, those pieces are eligible for the 5-digit automation rate 
applicable to the class of mail. Documentation must correctly reflect 
5-digit scheme trays by using the abbreviation ``5DGS'' and 
individually listing each 5-digit ZIP Code and corresponding piece 
count under the group destination column.
    3. DMM E630.2.2 is amended effective October 1, 1996, to clarify 
the standard for the maximum size of nonautomation rate Enhanced 
Carrier Route Standard Mail. The language appearing in DMM Issue 50 
(the product of rulemaking related to Classification Reform but based 
on standards predating Reform) states that ``flats may not be more than 
11-\3/4\ inches wide, 14 inches long, or \3/4\ inch thick.'' Although 
this is true, the limitation actually applies generally to all 
nonautomation rate Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail other than 
merchandise samples mailed with detached address labels. Because of the 
current wording, some mailers have incorrectly concluded that pieces 
that are not flats are no longer subject to the cited size limits. The 
revised DMM section shown below does not represent a new or stricter 
standard, rather a more accurate restatement of the standard that has 
been in effect for many years.
    4. DMM M033.2.1f is amended effective October 1, 1996, to allow 
mailers the option of using a 1-foot or 2-foot MM tray when it is 
adequate to contain the mail that otherwise would be placed in a 2-foot 
EMM tray. The larger EMM tray is specified by standard as the correct 
tray to use for pieces whose height or width exceeds the corresponding 
dimensions of the smaller MM tray. However, unlike MM trays, EMM trays 
are available in only a 2-foot length, and some mailers have found them 
too large for the quantity of mail prepared to some destinations, such 
as overflow or less-than-full tray volumes prepared in packages. 
Although some mailers may find it undesirable to work with multiple 
tray sizes, whether for production or pallet preparation reasons, 
others have expressed a preference for the option to use a smaller tray 
when it would suffice to carry the available mail. Accordingly, the 
Postal Service is amending its standards to allow this option when 
useful from the customer's perspective, when it does not create 
processing inefficiencies for the Postal Service, and when use of the 
smaller tray does not require the mail to be bent or deformed to fit.
    5. DMM M120.2.8 is amended effective October 1, 1996, to correct 
the Line 2 label information for Priority Mail. This information is 
used by mailers to indicate the class, processing category, and 
preparation of the mail in the container to which the label is affixed. 
Although the standards in DMM M120 have long specified the use of 
``PRIORITY MAIL'' on the second line, the correct wording in that 
instance should be shown as ``PRIORITY.'' The correct marking on pieces 
claimed at that rate has been and remains either ``Priority'' or 
``Priority Mail'' as shown in DMM M120.2.2. Mailers whose label stock 
includes ``PRIORITY MAIL'' on the second line may exhaust that supply.
    6. DMM M200.1.4, M200.2.4, M200.3.1, M820.1.6, and M820.3.0 are 
amended effective October 1, 1996, to allow the optional preparation of 
Periodicals in packages and sacks containing fewer than six pieces each 
when such preparation is beneficial to service in the opinion of the 
publisher/mailer. The standards previously specified in the 
aforementioned final rules regarding Periodicals had consistently 
prescribed six pieces as the fewest that could be prepared as a package 
to any required or optional level of presort. Similarly, sacks in 
package-based mailings (i.e., all flat-size mailings) were generally 
required to contain at least one six-piece package.
    Under the revisions to M200 detailed below, publishers of sacked, 
package-based Periodicals have the option of preparing packages 
containing fewer

[[Page 48574]]

than six addressed pieces when those packages are sorted to the carrier 
route, 5-digit, or 3-digit level and correctly placed in carrier route, 
5-digit carrier routes, 5-digit, or 3-digit sacks. These pieces are 
subject to Basic rates, but may claim the destination delivery unit or 
destination SCF discount under the corresponding standards.
    This option is limited to sacked package-based (flat-size) 
publications because those criteria describe those publications 
typically prepared in sacks of fewer than six pieces each. It is not 
offered to publications prepared in trays because the use of a tray for 
five or fewer pieces would result in excessive transportation and 
handling costs. Further, automation letter-size mail is not allowed 
this option because the standards applicable to such mail do not 
include package preparation and specify a 150-piece minimum per tray. 
It is anticipated that automation letter-size Periodicals can 
experience satisfactory delivery performance without requiring the 
level of preparation being allowed to publications not as amenable to 
automated handling.
    This option is limited to the sortation levels cited above because 
finer levels of presort are consistent with the reduction of handling 
(and related delays and costs) that otherwise would inhibit attainment 
of the desired service. It is not being extended to other levels of 
packages or sacks because their preparation does not comport with the 
reduced handling that is fundamental to quicker service. This option 
was introduced at the customers' request to allow them to evaluate and 
balance their production costs and service requirements.
    7. DMM M630.4.2 is amended effective October 1, 1996, to establish 
an abbreviated rate marking for Special Standard Mail. Current 
standards prescribe using the full name of the subclass on each piece 
claimed at the corresponding rate, but customer systems commonly need 
to abbreviate rate markings based on equipment or space limitations. 
Therefore, to accommodate these circumstances while preserving a 
consistent and recognizable marking for the mail, the Postal Service is 
allowing the optional use of ``SPEC STD'' in lieu of the full ``Special 
Standard Mail'' marking. The optional abbreviation may be preceded by 
``Presorted'' on pieces claimed at the corresponding rate.
    8. Miscellaneous insubstantive revisions for conformance or clarity 
are also made in E140.2.1c, E240.2.1c, E240.2.1d, E240.3.2b, M011.1.3h, 
M011.1.3i, M200.4.1b, M620.1.5, M620.3.1b, M810.2.2b, M810.2.3e, and 
M810.3.2b.
    All the foregoing revisions will appear in DMM Issue 51.

List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111

    Postal Service.

    For the reasons discussed above, the Postal Service hereby adopts 
the following amendments to the Domestic Mail Manual, which is 
incorporated by reference in the Code of Federal Regulations (see 39 
CFR part 111).

PART 111--[AMENDED]

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

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 39 U.S.C. 101, 401, 403, 404, 3001-
3011, 3201-3219, 3403-3406, 3621, 3626, 5001.

    2. Revise the following sections of the Domestic Mail Manual as set 
forth below:

E  ELIGIBILITY

* * * * *

E100  First-Class Mail

* * * * *

E140  Automation Rates

* * * * *
2.0  RATE APPLICATION

2.1  Letters or Cards

[Revise 2.1a through 2.1c to read as follows:]
    First-Class automation rates apply to each piece that is sorted 
under M810 into the corresponding qualifying groups:
    a. Pieces in full carrier route trays, in carrier route groups of 
10 or more pieces each placed in 5-digit carrier routes trays, or in 
carrier route packages of 10 or more pieces each placed in 3-digit 
carrier routes trays, qualify for the Carrier Route automation rate. 
(Preparation to qualify for that rate is optional and need not be done 
for all carrier routes in a 5-digit area.)
    b. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 5-digit or 5-digit scheme trays 
(and all pieces in one less-than-full overflow tray) qualify for the 5-
Digit automation rate. (Preparation to qualify for that rate is 
optional and need not be done for all 5-digit or 5-digit scheme 
destinations.)
    c. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 3-digit or 3-digit scheme trays 
(and all pieces in one less-than-full overflow tray) qualify for the 3-
Digit automation rate.
* * * * *

E200  Periodicals

* * * * *

E230  Nonautomation Rates

* * * * *
2.0  CARRIER ROUTE RATES
* * * * *

2.2  Eligibility

[Revise 2.2a to read as follows:]
    Preparation to qualify eligible pieces for carrier route rates is 
optional and is subject to M200. Carrier route sort need not be done 
for all carrier routes in a 5-digit area. Specific rate eligibility is 
subject to these standards:
    a. The basic carrier route rate applies to copies in carrier route 
packages of six or more letter-size pieces each that are sorted to 
carrier route, 5-digit carrier routes, or 3-digit carrier routes trays; 
and six or more flat-size pieces each that are sorted to carrier route 
or 5-digit carrier routes sacks.
* * * * *

E240  Automation Rates

* * * * *
2.0  RATE APPLICATION--EXCEPT CLASSROOM PERIODICALS

2.1  Letters

[Revise 2.1a through 2.1d to read as follows:]
    Automation rates apply to each piece that is sorted under M810 into 
the corresponding qualifying groups:
    a. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 5-digit or 5-digit scheme trays 
(and all pieces in one less-than-full overflow tray) qualify for the 5-
Digit automation in-county rate.
    b. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 5-digit, 5-digit scheme, or 
unique 3-digit trays (and all pieces in one less-than-full overflow 
tray) qualify for the 3/5 automation Regular or Nonprofit rate, as 
applicable.
    c. Groups of 150 or more pieces in unique 3-digit trays (and all 
pieces in one less-than-full overflow tray) qualify for the 3-Digit 
automation in-county rate.
    d. Pieces for a unique 3-digit destination that is part of a 3-
digit scheme group in L003 qualify for the 3-Digit automation in-county 
rate or the 3/5 automation Regular or Nonprofit rate, as applicable, 
when placed in a 3-digit scheme tray if grouped separately from pieces 
for other 3-digit areas.
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 3.0 to read as follows:]
3.0  RATE APPLICATION--CLASSROOM PERIODICALS ONLY
* * * * *

3.2  Barcoded Rates

[Revise 3.2a and 3.2b to read as follows:]

[[Page 48575]]

    Barcoded Classroom Periodicals must meet the basic standards in 
1.0. Barcoded rates apply to each letter-size piece that is sorted 
under M810 into the corresponding qualifying groups:
    a. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 5-digit or 5-digit scheme trays 
(and all pieces in one less-than-full overflow tray) qualify for the 5-
Digit Barcoded rate.
    b. Groups of 150 or more pieces in unique 3-digit trays (and all 
pieces in one less-than-full overflow tray) qualify for the 3-Digit 
Barcoded rate.
* * * * *

E600  Standard Mail

* * * * *

E630  Nonautomation Presort Rates

* * * * *
2.0  ENHANCED CARRIER ROUTE RATES
* * * * *

2.2  Flats and Merchandise Samples

[Revise 2.2 to read as follows:]
    Enhanced Carrier Route rate mail may not be more than 11\3/4\ 
inches wide, 14 inches long, or \3/4\ inch thick. Merchandise samples 
with detached address labels may exceed these dimensions if the labels 
meet the standards in A060.
* * * * *

2.8  Basic Rates

[Revise 2.8a to read as follows:]
    Basic (nonautomation) Carrier Route rates apply to each piece that 
is sorted under M620 into the corresponding qualifying groups:
    a. Letter-size pieces in a full carrier route tray, or in a carrier 
route package of 10 or more pieces placed in a 5-digit carrier routes 
or 3-digit carrier routes tray.
* * * * *

E640  Automation Rates

1.0  REGULAR AND NONPROFIT RATES
* * * * *

1.3  Rate Application--Letters and Cards

[Revise 1.3a to read as follows:]
    Automation rates apply to each piece that is sorted under M810 into 
the corresponding qualifying groups:
    a. Groups of 150 or more pieces in 5-digit or 5-digit scheme trays 
(and all pieces in one less-than-full overflow tray) qualify for the 5-
Digit automation rate. (Preparation to qualify for that rate is 
optional and need not be done for all 5-digit or 5-digit scheme 
destinations.)
* * * * *
2.0  ENHANCED CARRIER ROUTE RATES
* * * * *

2.5  Rate Application

[Revise 2.5 to read as follows:]
    Automation Basic Carrier Route rates apply to each piece that is 
sorted under M810 into full carrier route trays, in carrier route 
groups (or packages, where appropriate) of 10 or more pieces each 
placed in 5-digit carrier routes trays, or in carrier route packages of 
10 or more pieces each placed in 3-digit carrier routes trays. 
(Preparation to qualify for that rate is optional and need not be done 
for all carrier routes in a 5-digit area.)
* * * * *

M  MAIL PREPARATION AND SORTATION

M000  General Preparation Standards

M010  Mailpieces

M011  Basic Standards

1.0  TERMS AND CONDITIONS
* * * * *

1.2  Presort Levels

[Redesignate current 1.2d through 1.2l as 1.2e through 1.2m, 
respectively; change the reference in 1.2f from ``1.3g'' to ``1.3h''; 
and add new 1.2d to read as follows:]
    Terms used for presort levels are defined as follows:
* * * * *
    d. 5-digit scheme: the ZIP Code in the delivery address on all 
pieces is one of the 5-digit ZIP Code areas processed by the USPS as a 
single scheme, as shown in the USPS City State File (see 1.3g).
* * * * *

1.3  Preparation Instructions

[Redesignate current 1.3g through 1.3o as 1.3h through 1.3p, 
respectively; add new 1.3g; and revise redesignated 1.3h and 1.3i to 
read as follows:]
    For purposes of preparing mail:
* * * * *
    g. A 5-digit/scheme sort yields 5-digit scheme trays for those 5-
digit ZIP Codes identified in the USPS City State File and 5-digit 
trays for other areas. Mail prepared using 5-digit scheme sort must be 
entered no later than 90 days after the release date of the City State 
File used to obtain the scheme information (see A950). The 5-digit ZIP 
Codes in each scheme are treated as a single presort destination 
subject to a single minimum volume, with no further separation by 5-
digit ZIP Code required. Trays prepared for a 5-digit scheme 
destination that contain pieces for only one of the schemed 5-digit ZIP 
Codes are still considered 5-digit scheme sorted and are labeled 
accordingly. The 5-digit scheme sort is always optional, including when 
5-digit sortation is required for rate eligibility; need not be used 
for all 5-digit ZIP Codes that are part of a scheme; is available only 
for automation rate letter-size First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and 
Standard Mail; and may not be used by mail at other rates. Scheme 
sortation is not available for ZIP+4 Classroom Periodicals.
    h. A 3-digit/scheme sort yields 3-digit scheme trays for those 3-
digit ZIP Code prefixes listed in L003 and 3-digit trays for other 
areas. The 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes in each scheme are treated as a 
single presort destination subject to a single minimum tray volume, 
with no further separation by 3-digit prefix required. Trays prepared 
for a 3-digit scheme destination that contain pieces for only one of 
the schemed 3-digit areas are still considered 3-digit scheme sorted 
and are labeled accordingly. The 3-digit/scheme sort is required for 
automation rate letter-size First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard 
Mail and may not be used by mail at other rates. Scheme sortation is 
not available for ZIP+4 Classroom Periodicals.
    i. An origin 3-digit (or origin 3-digit/scheme) tray/sack contains 
all mail (regardless of quantity) for a 3-digit ZIP Code (or 3-digit/
scheme) area processed by the SCF in whose service area the mail is 
verified. If more than one 3-digit (or 3-digit/scheme) area is served, 
as indicated in L005, a separate tray must be prepared for each.
* * * * *

M020  Packages and Bundles

* * * * *
2.0  ADDITIONAL STANDARDS--FIRST-CLASS MAIL, PERIODICALS, AND STANDARD 
MAIL (A)

2.1  Cards and Letter-Size Pieces

[Revise 2.1c to read as follows:]
    Cards and letter-size pieces are subject to these specific 
packaging standards:
* * * * *
    c. Packages must be prepared for mail in all less-than-full and 3-
digit carrier routes trays; for nonupgradable Presorted First-Class 
Mail and nonupgradable Standard Mail (A); and for nonautomation 
Periodicals.
* * * * *

M030  Containers

* * * * *

[[Page 48576]]

M032  Barcoded Labels

1.0  BARCODED TRAY LABELS
* * * * *

1.3  Printed Text Lines

[Amend Exhibit 1.3c by adding the following content identifier numbers 
(CINs) and corresponding codes for mail type:]

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               CIN                               Mail type              
------------------------------------------------------------------------
023..............................  FCM LTRS 3D CR-RTS BC.               
079..............................  FCM LTRS BC 5D SCHEME.               
112..............................  NEWS LTRS 3D CR-RTS.                 
119..............................  NEWS LTR BC 5D SCHEME.               
219..............................  PER LTRS BC 5D SCHEME.               
229..............................  PER LTRS 3D CR-RTS.                  
406..............................  STD LTRS 3D CR-RTS.                  
408..............................  STD LTRS 3D CR-RTS BC.               
503..............................  STD LTRS BC 5D SCHEME.               
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *

M033  Sacks and Trays

* * * * *
2.0  FIRST-CLASS MAIL, PERIODICALS, AND BULK RATE STANDARD MAIL (A)

2.1  Letter Tray Preparation

[Revise 2.1f to read as follows:]
    Pieces must be prepared to result in the fewest practical number of 
packages (where required) and trays to contain the mail sorted to a 
destination. Letter tray preparation uses terms defined in M011 and is 
subject to these further standards:
* * * * *
    f. Subject to availability, standard MM trays must be used for all 
letter-size mail, except that extended MM (EMM) trays must be used when 
available for letter-size mail that exceeds the height or width (inside 
dimensions) of MM trays defined in 1.3. When EMM trays are not 
available, such pieces must be placed in MM trays, angled back and/or 
placed upright perpendicular to the length of the tray in row(s) to 
preserve their orientation. At the mailer's option, a 1-foot or 2-foot 
MM tray (as appropriate) may be used when adequate to contain mail that 
otherwise would be placed in a less-than-full 2-foot EMM tray if that 
mail fits without being bent or deformed.
* * * * *

M120  Priority Mail

* * * * *
2.0  PRESORTED RATE
* * * * *

2.8  Line 2

[Revise 2.8 to read as follows:]
    Line 2: ``PRIORITY'' followed by ``LTRS,'' ``FLTS,'' or 
``PARCELS,'' as applicable.
* * * * *

M200  Periodicals (Nonautomation)

1.0  BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
[Add new 1.4 to read as follows:]

1.4  Low-Volume Packages and Sacks

    As a general exception to 2.4b through 2.4d and 3.1a through 3.1d, 
Periodicals may be prepared in packages containing fewer than six 
pieces, and in sacks containing as few as one such package, when the 
publisher determines that such preparation improves service.
2.0  PACKAGE PREPARATION
* * * * *
2.2  Carrier Route Packages
[Revise 2.2 to read as follows:]
    Carrier route packages may be placed only in carrier route or 5-
digit carrier routes sacks or trays or 3-digit carrier routes trays. A 
mailer may choose to prepare carrier route packages at a higher level 
of route saturation (e.g., only if there are at least 15 pieces per 
route). Under this option, smaller packages of six or more pieces per 
carrier route not prepared for carrier route rates must be prepared for 
and paid at another applicable rate.
* * * * *

2.4  Package Preparation

[In 2.4b, 2.4c, and 2.4d, add ``except under 1.4'' after ``fewer not 
permitted.'']
3.0  SACK PREPARATION (FLAT-SIZE PIECES ONLY)

3.1  Sack Preparation

[In 3.1a through 3.1d, add ``except under 1.4`` after ``one six-piece 
package minimum.'']
* * * * *
4.0  TRAY PREPARATION (LETTER-SIZE PIECES ONLY)

4.1  Tray Preparation

[Revise 4.1b; redesignate 4.1c through 4.1f as 4.1d through 4.1g, 
respectively; and add new 4.1c to read as follows:]
    Tray size, preparation sequence, and labeling:
* * * * *
    b. 5-digit carrier routes (carrier route packages only): required 
for rate eligibility if full tray, optional with minimum one six-piece 
package; for Line 1, use 5-digit ZIP Code destination of packages, 
preceded for military mail by the prefixes under M031.
    c. 3-digit carrier routes (carrier route packages only): optional 
with minimum one six-piece package for each of two or more 5-digit 
areas; for Line 1, use the city/state/ZIP shown in L002, Column A, that 
corresponds to the 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of packages.
* * * * *

4.2  Line 2

[Redesignate 4.2e and 4.2f as 4.2f and 4.2g, respectively; and add new 
4.2e to read as follows:]
    Line 2: PER or NEWS (as applicable), LTRS, and:
* * * * *
    e. 3-digit carrier routes trays: 3D CR-RTS.
* * * * *

M620  Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail

1.0  BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
[Add new 1.5 to read as follows:]

1.5  Low-Volume Destinations

    As a general exception to 2.0 through 4.0, a package with fewer 
than 10 pieces and either a less-than-full tray or a sack with fewer 
than 125 pieces and less than 15 pounds of pieces may be prepared to a 
carrier route when the Saturation rate is claimed for the contents and 
the applicable density standard is met.
2.0  PACKAGE PREPARATION
* * * * *

2.2  Package Preparation

[Revise 2.2b to read as follows:]
    Package size: carrier route; required (10-piece minimum, fewer not 
permitted). Carrier route package labels are based on the sack or tray 
level in which placed:
* * * * *
    b. Packages in 5-digit carrier routes trays and sacks and in 3-
digit carrier routes trays must have a facing slip unless the pieces in 
the package show a carrier route information line or an optional 
endorsement line.
3.0  TRAY PREPARATIONLETTER-SIZE PIECES

3.1  Tray Preparation

[Revise 3.1b and add new 3.1c to read as follows:]
    Tray size, preparation sequence, and labeling:
* * * * *

[[Page 48577]]

    b. 5-digit carrier routes: required if full tray, optional with 
minimum one 10-piece package; for Line 1, use 5-digit ZIP Code 
destination of packages, preceded for military mail by the prefixes 
under M031.
    c. 3-digit carrier routes: optional with minimum one 10-piece 
package for each of two or more 5-digit areas; for Line 1, use the 
city/state/ZIP shown in L002, Column A, that corresponds to the 3-digit 
ZIP Code prefix of packages.

3.2  Line 2

[Add new 3.2e to read as follows:]
    Line 2: STD LTRS and:
* * * * *
    e. 3-digit carrier routes trays: 3D CR-RTS.
* * * * *

M630  Standard Mail (B)

* * * * *
4.0  SPECIAL STANDARD MAIL
* * * * *

4.2  Marking

[Revise 4.2 to read as follows:]
    Each piece claimed at Special Standard Mail single-piece rates must 
be marked ``Special Standard Mail'' or ``SPEC STD.'' Each piece claimed 
at Presorted Special Standard Mail rates must be marked ``Presorted 
Special Standard Mail'' or ``Presorted SPEC STD.'' Pieces not marked as 
required are treated as single-piece parcel post, subject to additional 
postage as necessary.
* * * * *

M800  All Automation Mail

M810  Letter-Size Mail

1.0  BASIC STANDARDS
[Remove 1.6 and redesignate current 1.7 as 1.6; revise 1.4 and 1.5 to 
read as follows:]
* * * * *

1.4  General Preparation

    Grouping, packaging, and labeling are not generally required or 
permitted, except packaging is required in any mailing consisting 
entirely of card-size pieces and for pieces in overflow, less-than-
full, and 3-digit carrier routes trays; pieces must be grouped (or 
packaged, if applicable) as specified in 2.0 and 3.0; package labels 
are required only for Periodicals.

1.5  Carrier Route

    Carrier route groups (or packages, if applicable) may be placed 
only in carrier route, 5-digit carrier routes, or 3-digit carrier 
routes trays. Preparation of mail to qualify for automation carrier 
route rates is optional for First-Class Mail under E140 and Standard 
Mail (A) under E640.
* * * * *
2.0  PREPARATION--FIRST-CLASS MAIL AND STANDARD MAIL (A)

2.1  Carrier Route Pieces

[Revise 2.1 to read as follows:]
    Grouping size, preparation sequence, and labeling: carrier route 
(only); required (10-piece minimum; fewer not permitted); use an 
optional endorsement line or carrier route information line. Group 
pieces by carrier route in full 5-digit carrier routes trays, using 
separator cards under M020, not packaging. Package pieces by carrier 
route in less-than-full 5-digit carrier routes trays and in all 3-digit 
carrier routes trays.

2.2  Tray Preparation

[Revise 2.2b; redesignate 2.2c through 2.2f as 2.2d through 2.2g, 
respectively; add new 2.2c; and revise redesignated 2.2d to read as 
follows:]
    Tray size, preparation sequence, and labeling:
* * * * *
    b. 5-digit carrier routes (carrier route pieces/packages only): 
required for rate eligibility if full tray, optional with minimum one 
10-piece package; for Line 1, use 5-digit ZIP Code destination of 
packages, preceded for military mail by the prefixes under M031.
    c. 3-digit carrier routes (carrier route packages only): optional 
with minimum one 10-piece package for each of two or more 5-digit 
areas; for Line 1, use the city/state/ZIP shown in L002, Column A, that 
corresponds to the 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of packages.
    d. 5-digit/scheme: optional, but 5-digit trays required for rate 
eligibility (150-piece minimum); overflow allowed; for 5-digit trays, 
use 5-digit ZIP Code destination of pieces for Line 1, preceded for 
military mail by the prefixes under M031; for optional 5-digit scheme 
trays, use destination shown in the current City State File for Line 1.
* * * * *

2.3  Line 2

[Redesignate 2.3c and 2.3d as 2.3e and 2.3f, respectively; add new 2.3c 
and 2.3d; and revise redesignated 2.3e to read as follows:]
    Line 2: FCM or STD (as appropriate), LTRS BC, and:
    a. For carrier route trays: route type and number.
    b. For 5-digit carrier routes trays: CR-RTS.
    c. For 3-digit carrier routes trays: 3D CR-RTS.
    d. For 5-digit scheme trays: 5D SCHEME.
    e. For 3-digit scheme trays: SCHEME (or as shown in L002, Column 
B).
    f. For mixed AADC trays: WKG.
3.0  PREPARATION--PERIODICALS

3.1  Tray Preparation

[Revise 3.1a to read as follows:]
    Tray size, preparation sequence, and labeling:
    a. 5-digit/scheme: 5-digit trays required (150-piece minimum), 5-
digit scheme trays optional (150-piece minimum) except for ZIP+4 
Classroom Periodicals; overflow allowed; for required 5-digit trays and 
ZIP+4 Classroom Periodicals, use 5-digit ZIP Code destination of pieces 
for Line 1, preceded for military mail by the prefixes under M031; for 
optional 5-digit scheme trays, use destination shown in the current 
City State File for Line 1.
* * * * *

3.2  Line 2

[Redesignate 3.2a and 3.2b as 3.2b and 3.2c, respectively; add new 
3.2a; and revise redesignated 3.2b to read as follows:]
    Line 2: PER or NEWS (as appropriate), LTRS BC (except LTRS UPGR for 
ZIP+4 Classroom Periodicals), and:
    a. For 5-digit scheme trays: 5D SCHEME.
    b. For 3-digit scheme trays: SCHEME (or as shown in L002, Column 
B).
    c. For mixed AADC trays: WKG.
* * * * *

M820  Flat-Size Mail

1.0  BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
[Add new 1.6 to read as follows:]

1.6  Exception--Periodicals

    As a general exception to 3.1a, 3.1b, 3.2a, and 3.2b, Periodicals 
may be prepared in packages containing fewer than six pieces, and in 
sacks containing as few as one such package, when the publisher 
determines that such preparation improves service.
* * * * *
3.0  PREPARATION--PERIODICALS
[In 3.1a and 3.1b, add ``except under 1.6'' after ``fewer not 
permitted''; in 3.2a and 3.2b, add ``except under 1.6'' after ``one 
six-piece package minimum.'']
* * * * *

P  POSTAGE AND PAYMENT METHODS

P000  Basic Information

P010  General Standards

* * * * *

[[Page 48578]]

P012  Documentation

* * * * *
2.0  STANDARDIZED DOCUMENTATION--FIRST-CLASS MAIL, PERIODICALS, AND 
STANDARD MAIL (A)
* * * * *

2.2  Format and Content

[Revise 2.2c(2) and 2.2c(3) to read as follows:]
    For First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail (A), 
standardized documentation includes:
* * * * *
    c. For mail in trays or sacks, the body of the listing reporting 
these required elements:
* * * * *
    (2) Tray/sack destination ZIP Code (use destination on top line of 
tray/sack label except that, for 3-digit carrier routes trays, list the 
individual 5-digit ZIP Codes contained in each tray).
    (3) Group destination for automation letter mail (number of pieces 
for each carrier route in carrier routes trays, for each 5-digit ZIP 
Code in 5-digit scheme trays, for each 3-digit ZIP Code prefix in 3-
digit scheme and AADC trays, and for each AADC in mixed AADC trays), or 
package level and package destination for automation flats and regular 
nonautomation presort mail (use the presort destination as described in 
M011).
* * * * *

2.4  Sortation Level

[Revise 2.4 to read as follows:]
    The actual sortation level (or corresponding abbreviation) is used 
for the tray, sack, pallet, or package sortation levels required by 2.2 
and shown below:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Sortation level                        Abbreviation       
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carrier Route..............................  CRD                        
5-Digit Carrier Routes.....................  CR5                        
5-Digit....................................  5DG                        
5-Digit Scheme [barcoded letters]..........  5DGS                       
3-Digit Carrier Routes.....................  CR3                        
3-Digit....................................  3DG                        
3-Digit Scheme [barcoded letters]..........  3DGS                       
ADC........................................  N/A                        
AADC.......................................  N/A                        
Mixed ADC..................................  MADC                       
Mixed AADC.................................  MAAD                       
SCF [pallets]..............................  N/A                        
BMC or ASF.................................  N/A                        
Mixed BMC [working]........................  MBMC                       
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
Stanley F. Mires,
Chief Counsel, Legislative.
[FR Doc. 96-23516 Filed 9-12-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P