[Federal Register Volume 63, Number 208 (Wednesday, October 28, 1998)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 57597-57605]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 98-28802]


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POSTAL SERVICE

39 CFR Part 111

[Docket No. R97-1]


Amendments to the Rate, Fee, and Classification Changes and the 
Domestic Mail Manual Implementation Standards

AGENCY: Postal Service.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: This final rule sets forth revised rates, fees, and mail 
preparation standards for In-County Periodicals automation mail, 
Destination Delivery Unit Parcel Post, and Library Mail adopted by the 
Postal Service in the October 5, 1998, Decision of the Governors of the 
Postal Service in Postal Rate Commission Docket No. R97-1. It also 
contains corrections and additions to the implementation standards in 
the final rule published in the Federal Register on Tuesday, July 14, 
1998 (63 FR 37946).

EFFECTIVE DATE: This final rule is effective at 12:01 a.m. on January 
10, 1999.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lynn M. Martin, 202-268-6351.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: In their Decision on June 29, 1998, in 
Docket No. R97-1, the Governors of the Postal Service returned three 
matters to the Postal Rate Commission for reconsideration. On September 
24, 1998, the Commission issued its further Recommended Decision on 
those matters. The Governors approved the rate and classification 
changes included within the further Recommended Decision on October 5, 
1998, and the Board set the implementation date for these changes as 
January 10, 1999, to coincide with the other changes from Docket No. 
R97-1 being implemented on that date. The categories affected by these 
changes are In-County Periodicals automation mail, Destination Delivery 
Unit Parcel Post, and Library Mail.
    This rule contains the Domestic Mail Manual changes adopted by the 
Postal Service to implement the Governors' October 5, 1998, decision. 
This rule also contains clarifications, corrections, and additions to 
the final rule published in the Federal Register on July 14, 1998 (63 
FR 37946) that contained Domestic Mail Manual changes adopted by the 
Postal Service to implement the June 29, 1998, Decision of the 
Governors of the Postal Service in Postal Rate Commission Docket No 
R97-1. Part A of this rule contains revisions to portions of the July 
14, 1998, Federal Register that did not contain Domestic Mail Manual 
language. Part B describes the changes to the Domestic Mail Manual. 
Part C contains the revisions to the Domestic Mail Manual. The DMM 
amendments and revisions published in this rule reflect renumbering of 
the DMM based on revisions published subsequent to the July 14 final 
rule. The revised DMM standards will take effect on January 10, 1999.

A. Corrections to the Federal Register

    In the Federal Register issue of July 14, 1998 (63 FR 37946) on 
page 37950, third column, under 5a, delete the third sentence and 
replace it with the following: ``Nonprofit ECR pound rates will 
decrease. Nonprofit subclass pound rates will increase.''
    In the Federal Register issue of July 14, 1998 (63 FR 37946) on 
page 38033, third column, delete the last sentence and replace it with 
the following: ``An appropriate amendment to 39 CFR 111.3 will be 
published to reflect these changes.''

B. Domestic Mail Manual Amendments and Revisions

    1. C010.1.3 is amended to reflect the new oversized Parcel Post 
dimensions.
    2. C050.5.0 is amended to clarify that merchandise samples prepared 
with detached address labels are considered irregular parcels only if 
they are not letter-size and are not flat-size. This means that 
merchandise samples that are letter-size or flat-size as defined in 
C050 will not be subject to the residual shape surcharge.
    3. D100.2.1 is amended to change the phrase ``single-piece rate 
Priority Mail'' to ``Priority Mail.''
    4. D100.2.6 is amended to change the phrase ``single-piece rate 
Priority Mail'' to ``Priority Mail.''
    5. E630.2.5 concerning eligibility of Bound Printed Matter for the 
barcoded discount is revised to remove references to 5-digit bundles 
when preparing Presorted Bound Printed Matter under the sortation 
requirements for machinable parcels. This section is further corrected 
to refer to 5-digit bundles under the provisions for preparing 
bedloaded bundles, and to clarify that such 5-digit bundles may qualify 
for the barcoded discount. Other sortation levels of bedloaded bundles 
will not qualify for the barcoded discount.
    6. The requirements for eligibility of Special Standard Mail for 
barcoded discounts are moved from E630.4.7 to E630.3.1.
    7. E630.5.1 is revised to add requirements for eligibility of 
Library Mail for Presorted 5-digit rates and Presorted BMC rates. The 
requirements for eligibility of Library Mail for barcoded discounts are 
moved from E630.5.8 to E630.5.1. E630.5.3, which specified that 
mailings of 1,000 or more identical weight pieces of single-piece rate 
Library Mail must be presorted, is deleted. Single-piece rate Library 
Mail mailings of 1,000 or more identical-weight pieces will no longer 
be required to be presorted. E630.5.4 through E630.5.7 is renumbered as 
E630.5.3 through E630.5.6.
    8. Former E630.6.0, Bulk Parcel Post, is renumbered as E630.7.0.

[[Page 57598]]

    9. E630.6.0 is added for the eligibility requirements for presorted 
Library Mail rates.
    10. E652.3.2c is added to include information previously located in 
P750.2.12 that requires a mailer of a Parcel Post mailing that contains 
pieces eligible for more than one destination entry discount to 
physically separate pieces into groups by destination entry discount at 
the time of verification.
    11. E651.3.3 and E652.3.4c are amended to specify that mailers must 
contact a destination delivery unit (DDU) by telephone at least 24 
hours in advance to make an appointment for a drop shipment. The 
language indicating that mailers desiring electronic confirmation of 
DDU mail entry must also schedule a DDU appointment through the 
district control center is deleted because electronic confirmation will 
not be available for all DDUs on January 10, 1999. It is expected that 
all DDUs will become part of the electronic appointment system (DSAS) 
by the summer of 1999 when the system will become web-based. Between 
January 10, 1999, and the implementation of the web-based system, 
mailers desiring appointments with electronic confirmation at those 
DDUs that are currently on the electronic system may continue to use 
DSAS for those DDU drop shipment appointments. However mailers 
scheduling DDU appointments using DSAS must also telephone the DDU at 
least 24 hours in advance to confirm the drop shipment.
    12. Amendments are made to Exhibits E652.5.0, E652.6.0, and 
E652.7.0.
    13. M012.3.5 is added to reflect the requirement for a 
``Presorted'' marking in addition to the ``Library Mail'' or ``Library 
Rate'' marking when mailing at presorted Library Mail rates.
    14. Exhibit M03.1.3, 3-Digit Content Identifier Numbers, is amended 
to add use of the content identifier numbers currently assigned for use 
with sacks of presorted Special Standard with presorted Library Mail.
    15. M033.1.7 is revised to note that origin/entry 3-digit/scheme 
tray and sack preparation is applicable to all mail except flat-size 
Periodicals. DMM M033.1.8 is added to describe mandatory/optional 
preparation of origin/entry SCF sacks for flat-size Periodicals.
    16. The heading of M045.4.3 is amended to show pallet presort 
levels for presorted Library Mail.
    17. M630.5.0 is revised to add provisions for marking and 
presorting mail to qualify for presorted Library Mail rates. These 
marking and sortation requirements are similar to those for presorted 
Special Standard Mail.
    18. Exhibit P710.3.3b, Rate Category Abbreviations Standard Mail 
(A), is amended to delete the code and rate category description ``SP 
Single-Piece Rate (when fewer than 200 pieces accompany automation rate 
mail)'' that appears at the bottom of this exhibit.
    19. P750.2.13 is revised for clarity and simplicity. Information 
concerning separation of Parcel Post destination entry discount mail at 
the time of verification previously contained in this section is moved 
to E652.3.2c.
    20. R200.2.2 is amended to reflect revised Periodicals In-County 
automation per-piece rates.
    21. R600.5.4 is amended to reflect revised Parcel Post destination 
delivery unit (DDU) rates.
    22. R600.6.0 is amended to delete former section 6.1a and to 
renumber 6.1b as 6.1. Renumbered R600.6.1 is further corrected by 
deleting footnote 1 and renumbering footnote 2 as footnote 1.
    23. R600.7.0 is amended to include Library Mail. The separate rate 
chart for single-piece Library Mail in R600.8.0 is deleted. Former 
R600.9.0 is renumbered R600.8.0 and new R600.8.1e is added for the $100 
annual fee for mailing presorted Library Mail.

C. Domestic Mail Manual Revisions

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 
follows:

C  Characteristics and Content

C010  General Mailability Standards

1.0  MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM DIMENSIONS
* * * * *

1.3  Maximum

[Revise 1.3 to read as follows:]
    No mailpiece may weigh more than 70 pounds. Except for Parcel Post 
(see C600), no mailpiece may measure more than 108 inches in length and 
girth combined. Parcel Post pieces measuring over 108 inches in 
combined length and girth, but not more than 130 inches in combined 
length and girth, are mailable at the applicable oversized rate. Length 
is the distance of the longest dimension as determined by 1.1, and 
girth is the distance around the thickest part.
* * * * *

C050  Mail Processing Categories

* * * * *
5.0  IRREGULAR PARCEL (NONMACHINABLE)
[Amend 5.0 by adding ``and are not letter-size or flat-size'' to the 
second sentence to read as follows.]
    An irregular parcel is a parcel not meeting the dimensional 
criteria in 4.1. This processing category also includes parcels that 
cannot be processed by BMC parcel sorters, including rolls and tubes up 
to 26 inches long; merchandise samples that are not individually 
addressed and are not letter-size or flat-size; unwrapped, paper-
wrapped, or sleeve-wrapped articles that are not letter-size or flat-
size; and articles enclosed in envelopes that are not letter-size, 
flat-size, or machinable parcels.
* * * * *

C810  Letters and Cards

* * * * *
2.0  DIMENSIONS
* * * * *

2.3  Maximum Weight

[Amend 2.3 by replacing the word ``nonautomation'' with the word 
``Presorted'' in 2.3a.]
* * * * *

D  Deposit, Collection, and Delivery

* * * * *

D100  First-Class Mail

* * * * *
2.0  MAIL DEPOSIT

2.1  Single-Piece and Card Rates

[Amend the first sentence of 2.1 by changing the phrase ``single-piece 
rate Priority Mail'' to ``Priority Mail.'']
* * * * *

2.6  Restriction

[Amend 2.6 by deleting the term ``single-piece rate'' in the first 
sentence.]
* * * * *

E  Eligibility

* * * * *

E600  Standard Mail

* * * * *

E630  Standard Mail (B)

* * * * *

[[Page 57599]]

2.0  BOUND PRINTED MATTER
* * * * *
[Revise 2.5 to read as follows:]

2.5  Barcoded Discount

    The barcoded discount applies to machinable parcels (C050) bearing 
a correct, readable barcode under C850 for the ZIP Code shown in the 
delivery address that are part of a mailing of at least 50 Bound 
Printed Matter pieces, and are mailed at the single-piece rates, or 
under the following conditions, mailed at the presorted rates. 
Presorted Bound Printed Matter that is prepared under the machinable 
parcel preparation standards in M045 and M630 is eligible for the 
barcoded discount. Bedloaded bundles of presorted Bound Printed Matter 
(that are required to be prepared under the sortation standards for 
flats and irregular parcels) are not eligible for barcoded discounts, 
with the exception that 5-digit bedloaded bundles are eligible for the 
barcoded discount. Carrier route Bound Printed Matter is not eligible 
for the barcoded discount.
* * * * *
3.0  SPECIAL STANDARD MAIL
[Amend 3.1 by inserting new 3.1d to read as follows.]

3.1  Qualification

    Special Standard Mail is Standard Mail matter meeting the standards 
in E611, E613, and those below. Special Standard Mail rates are based 
on the weight of the piece, without regard to zone. The rate categories 
and discounts are as follows:
* * * * *
    d. Barcoded Discount. The barcoded discount applies to machinable 
parcels (C050) mailed at single-piece rates and Presorted Special 
Standard Mail BMC rates that bear a correct, readable barcode under 
C850 for the ZIP Code shown in the delivery address and that are part 
of a mailing of at least 50 pieces of Special Standard Mail. The 
discount does not apply to pieces mailed at the presorted Special 
Standard mail 5-digit rates.
* * * * *
4.0  PRESORTED SPECIAL STANDARD MAIL
* * * * *
[Delete E630.4.7.]
5.0  LIBRARY MAIL

5.1  Qualification

[Revise 5.1 to read as follows:]
    Library Mail is Standard Mail matter meeting the standards in E611, 
E613, and those below. Library Mail rates are based on the weight of 
the piece, without regard to zone. The rate categories and discounts 
are as follows:
    a. Single-Piece Rate. The single-piece rate applies to Library Mail 
not mailed at a 5-digit or BMC rate.
    b. Presorted 5-Digit Rate. The 5-digit rate applies to Presorted 
Library Mail mailings of at least 500 pieces and meeting the other 
requirements of 6.0 and that are prepared and presorted to 5-digit 
destination ZIP Codes as specified in M630 or M041 and M045.
    c. Presorted BMC Rate. The BMC rate applies to Presorted Library 
Mail mailings of at least 500 pieces and meeting the other requirements 
of 6.0 and that are prepared and presorted to destination bulk mail 
centers as specified in M630 or M041 and M045.
    d. Barcoded Discount. The barcoded discount applies to machinable 
parcels (C050) mailed at single-piece rates and Presorted Library Mail 
BMC rates that bear a correct, readable barcode under C850 for the ZIP 
Code shown in the delivery address and that are part of a mailing of at 
least 50 pieces of Library Mail. The discount does not apply to pieces 
mailed at the Presorted Library Mail 5-digit rates.
* * * * *
[Delete E630.5.3. Redesignate former E630.5.4 through 5.7 as E630.5.3 
through E630.5.6 respectively. Delete former E630.5.8. Redesignate 
former E630.6.0 as E 630.7.0. Insert new E630.6.0 to read as follows:]
6.0 PRESORTED LIBRARY MAIL

6.1 Basic Information

    The Presorted Library Mail rates apply to Library Mail matter 
mailed in minimum quantities at a place and time designated by the 
postmaster, subject to the preparation standards in M630. The size and 
content of each piece in the mailing does not need to be identical. 
Nonidentical pieces may be merged, sorted together, and presented as a 
single mailing either with postage paid with a permit imprint if 
authorized by the RCSC serving the post office of mailing, or with the 
correct postage affixed to each piece in the mailing.

6.2 Mailing Fee

    A mailing fee must be paid once each 12-month period at each post 
office of mailing by or for any person who mails at the Presorted 
Library Mail rates. The fee may be paid in advance only for the next 
year and only during the last 30 days of the current service period. 
The fee charged is that in effect on the date of payment.

6.3 One Presort Level

    A Presorted Library Mail mailing receives only one level of presort 
rate. The mailer may, however, prepare two separate mailings in order 
to use both levels of presort rates and claim them on the same postage 
statement. Library Mail pieces that do not qualify for a presort rate 
must be presented separately from any presorted rate mailings, but may 
be claimed on the same postage statement as a 5-digit rate and BMC 
presort rate mailing.

6.4 Definitions

    For this standard:
    a. Full sack means either at least eight pieces or a quantity of 
pieces equaling at least 1,000 cubic inches of volume or weighing from 
20 to 70 pounds.
    b. Substantially full sack means either at least four pieces or a 
quantity of pieces equaling at least 1,000 cubic inches of volume or 
weighing from 20 to 70 pounds.

6.5 5-Digit Rate

    To qualify for the Presorted Library Mail 5-digit rate, a piece 
must be in a mailing of at least 500 pieces receiving identical 
service, prepared and sorted either under M630 to full 5-digit sacks or 
under M041 and M045 to 5-digit pallets. These conditions also apply:
    a. Mailings of at least 500 nonmachinable outside parcels may 
qualify for the Presorted Library Mail 5-digit rate if prepared to 
preserve sortation by 5-digit ZIP Code as prescribed by the mailing 
office postmaster. The postmaster may require a 24-hour notice before 
the mailing is presented.
    b. Mailings prepared as palletized packages must consist of 5-digit 
packages each containing at least eight pieces, or a quantity of pieces 
equaling 1,000 cubic inches of volume or weighing 20 pounds. No package 
may exceed 40 pounds. If there is more than 20 pounds of mail to a 5-
digit destination, the mailer must prepare the minimum number of 
packages that do not exceed 40 pounds each. If the pieces are 
machinable parcels under C050, the pieces must be placed directly on a 
5-digit pallet without packaging.

6.6 BMC Rate

    To qualify for the Presorted Library Mail BMC rate, a piece must be 
in a mailing of at least 500 pieces receiving identical service, 
prepared and sorted either under M630 to full or substantially full 
bulk mail center (BMC) sacks or under M041 and M045 to BMC pallets. 
These conditions also apply:

[[Page 57600]]

    a. Mailings of at least 500 nonmachinable outside parcels may 
qualify for the Presorted Library Mail BMC rate if prepared to preserve 
sortation by BMC as prescribed by the mailing office postmaster. The 
postmaster may require a 24-hour notice before the mailing is 
presented.
    b. Mailings prepared as palletized packages must consist of BMC 
packages each containing at least eight pieces, or a quantity of pieces 
equaling 1,000 cubic inches of volume or weighing 20 pounds. No package 
may exceed 40 pounds. If there is more than 20 pounds of mail to a BMC 
destination, the mailer must prepare the minimum number of packages 
that do not exceed 40 pounds each. If the pieces are machinable parcels 
under C050, the pieces must be placed directly on a BMC pallet without 
packaging.
* * * * *

E650 Destination Entry

E651 Regular, Nonprofit, and Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail

* * * * *
3.0 DEPOSIT
* * * * *

3.3 Advance Scheduling

[Amend 3.3 by revising scheduling for DDU deposit to read as follows:]
    Except under 4.0, a mailer must schedule deposit of destination 
rate mailings at least 24 hours in advance by contacting the proper 
district or BMC control center or destination delivery unit. 
Appointments at delivery units must be made by calling the delivery 
unit at least 24 hours in advance. Appointments for ASFs, SCFs, or for 
any multistop loads must be made through the USPS district control 
center. Appointments for BMC loads must be scheduled by the proper BMC 
control center. When contacting the USPS to make an appointment or as 
soon as available, the mailer must provide the following information:
    a. Mailer's name and address and the name and telephone number of 
the mailer's agent or local contact.
    b. Name of what is being mailed, number of mailings, volume of 
mail, how prepared and whether containerized (e.g., pallets).
    c. Where and how mailing was (or must be) verified.
    d. Method of postage payment.
    e. Requested date and destination facility for mailing.
    f. Vehicle identification number, size, and type.
* * * * *

E652 Parcel Post

* * * * *
3.0 DEPOSIT
* * * * *

3.2 Presentation

[Renumber E652.3.2c through f as E652.3.2d through g, respectively. 
Insert new E652.3.2c to read as follows:]
    Destination entry rate mailings must be verified under a plant-
verified drop shipment authorization by a detached mail unit (DMU) in 
the mailer's plant or at the origin post office business mail entry 
unit (BMEU) serving the mailer's plant. They also may be deposited for 
verification at a BMEU located at a destination BMC, destination 
sectional center facility, or other designated destination postal 
facility. Only plant-verified drop shipments may be deposited at a 
destination delivery unit not co-located with a post office or other 
postal facility having a BMEU. When presented to the USPS, destination 
entry mailings must meet the following requirements:
* * * * *
    c. When a mailer claims more than one destination entry discount 
for a mailing to be deposited at the same postal facility, the mail 
eligible for each destination entry discount must be physically 
separated at the time of verification.
* * * * *

3.4 Appointments

[Amend 3.4 by revising 3.4c to change and update appointment procedures 
as follows:]
    Appointments must be made for destination entry rate mail as 
follows:
* * * * *
    c. For deposit of DDU mailings, an appointment must be made by 
contacting the DDU at least 24 hours in advance. If the appointment 
must be canceled, a mailer must notify the DDU at least a day in 
advance of a scheduled appointment. Recurring (standing) appointments 
will be allowed if shipment frequency is weekly or more often.
* * * * *

Exhibit E652.5.0, BMC Deposit of DSCF Rate Pallets

[Amend Exhibit E652.5.0, by revising the entries for the Chicago and 
Des Moines BMCs to read as follows:]

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                 BMC                         Destination ZIP code
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                  *        *        *        *        *
CHICAGO.............................  53140-44.
                                      53401-08.
                                      60016-17, 19, 25, 53, 56, 68, 70,
                                       76-77.
                                      60103, 05-07, 20-23, 31, 60-65,
                                       76.
                                      60409, 11-12, 15, 22, 25, 30-33,
                                       35-36, 38-41, 46, 53-58, 62, 64-
                                       65, 67, 73, 77-78, 82, 90.
                                      60504-05, 15-17, 21-23, 25-26, 40,
                                       42, 63-68, 98.
                                      60601, 05, 08-60, 67, 81, 90, 93-
                                       94.
                                      60714.
                                      60803-05.
                  *        *        *        *        *
Des Moines..........................  None.
                  *        *        *        *        *
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Exhibit E652.6.0, Delivery Facility Exceptions to the ``Majority of 
City Carriers'' Rule

[Amend Exhibit E652.6.0 by revising the facility name under KANSAS for 
ZIP Code 66619 from ``Hicrest'' to ``Pauline Station.'']
* * * * *

Exhibit E652.7.0, Delivery Facilities Different Than Those in the 
Drop Shipment Product

[Amend Exhibit E652.7.0 by adding the ZIP Code 10069 under New York--
Central Parcel Post Facility, and adding the following new ZIP Codes 
and DDU locations under New York:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            Destination delivery unit
            ZIP codes served                         location
------------------------------------------------------------------------
*                  *                  *                  *
                  *                  *                  *
New York
*                  *                  *                  *
                  *                  *                  *
10002-07, 09-14, 16, 19, 20, 23-25, 36,  New York--Central Parcel Post
 38, 41, 69.                              Facility, 341 9th Avenue, New
                                          York, NY 10199-9991.
10103-07, 10, 49, 58

[[Page 57601]]

10210, 56-60, 65, 70, 71, 79, 80-82,
 85, 86, 92.
*                  *                  *                  *
                  *                  *                  *
10453..................................  Bronx: Highbridge Station, 1315
                                          Inwood Avenue, Bronx, NY 10452-
                                          9998.
10458..................................  Bronx: Tremont Station, 575 E
                                          Tremont Avenue, Bronx, NY
                                          10457-9998.
*                  *                  *                  *
                  *                  *                  *
13088..................................  Bayberry Station: 7608 Oswego
                                          Road, Bayberry Plaza,
                                          Liverpool, NY 13090.
*                  *                  *                  *
                  *                  *                  *
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *

M  Mail Preparation and Sortation

* * * * *

M012  Markings and Endorsements

* * * * *
3.0  PLACEMENT OF MARKINGS--STANDARD MAIL (B)
* * * * *
[Insert new 3.5 to read as follows:]

3.5  Other Library Mail Markings

    The required marking ``Presorted'' or ``PRSRT'' for presorted 
Library Mail may be placed in the location specified in 3.1. 
Alternatively, it may be placed in the address area on the line 
directly above or two lines above the address if the marking appears 
alone (no other information appears on that line).
* * * * *

M030  Containers

* * * * *

M032  Barcoded Labels

1.0  BASIC STANDARDS--TRAY AND SACK LABELS
* * * * *

Exhibit 1.3  3-Digit Content Identifier Numbers

* * * * *
[Amend Exhibit 1.3a, Standard Mail (B), by changing the heading 
``Presorted Special Standard Flats--5-Digit and BMC'' to ``Presorted 
Special Standard and Presorted Library Mail Flats--5-Digit and BMC.'']

[Amend Exhibit 1.3a, Standard Mail (B), by changing the heading 
``Presorted Special Standard Irregular Parcels-- 5-Digit and BMC'' to 
``Presorted Special Standard and Presorted Library Mail Irregular 
Parcels--5-Digit and BMC.'']

[Amend Exhibit 1.3a, Standard Mail (B), by changing the heading 
``Presorted Special Standard Machinable Parcels-- 5-Digit and BMC'' to 
``Presorted Special Standard and Presorted Library Mail Machinable 
Parcels--5-Digit and BMC.'']
* * * * *

M033  Sacks and Trays

1.0  BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *

1.7  Origin/Entry 3-Digit/Scheme Trays and Sacks

[Revise 1.7 to read as follows:]
    Except for flat-size Periodicals under 1.8, after all required 
carrier route, 5-digit, 3-digit (and, for automation letters, 3-digit 
scheme) sacks or trays are prepared, a 3-digit tray or sack (or if 
applicable, 3-digit scheme tray) must be prepared to contain any 
remaining mail for each 3-digit (or 3-digit scheme) area serviced by 
the SCF (mail processing plant) serving the post office where the mail 
is verified, and may be prepared for each 3-digit (or 3-digit scheme) 
area served by the SCF/plant where mail is entered (if that is 
different from the SCF/plant serving the post office where the mail is 
verified, e.g., a PVDS deposit site). In all cases, only one less-than-
full sack or tray may be prepared for each 3-digit (or 3-digit scheme) 
area.

[Add new 1.8 to read as follows:]

1.8  Periodicals Flats Origin/Entry SCF Sacks

    For flat-size periodicals, after all required carrier route, 5-
digit, 3-digit, and SCF sacks are prepared, an SCF sack must be 
prepared to contain any remaining 5-digit and 3-digit packages for the 
3-digit ZIP Code area(s) served by the SCF serving the post office 
where the mail is verified, and may be prepared for the area served by 
the SCF/plant where mail is entered (if that is different from the SCF/
plant serving the post office where the mail is verified, e.g., a PVDS 
deposit site). In all cases, only one less-than-full sack may be 
prepared for each SCF area.
* * * * *

M045  Palletized Mailings

* * * * *
4.0  PALLET PRESORT AND LABELING
[Amend the heading of 4.3 by adding ``Library Mail'' to read 
``Presorted Special Standard and Library Mail.'']
* * * * *

M630  Standard Mail (B)

* * * * *
5.0  LIBRARY MAIL

5.1  Basic Standards

[Revise 5.1 to read as follows:]
    There are no preparation standards for single-piece Library Mail. 
Presorted Library Mail must be prepared under 5.4, 5.5 and 5.6, unless 
palletized under M041 and M045 and E630.5. Mailings of nonmachinable 
(outside) pieces eligible for the presort rates must be prepared to 
preserve the required presort as instructed by the mailing office 
postmaster.

5.2  Marking

[Amend 5.2 by adding markings for presorted Library Mail to read as 
follows:]
    Each piece claimed at Library Mail rates must be marked ``Library 
Rate'' or ``Library Mail'' under M012. Each piece claimed at presorted 
Library Mail rates also must be marked ``Presorted'' or ``PRSRT'' under 
M012. Pieces not marked as required are treated as single-piece Parcel 
Post, subject to additional postage as necessary.

5.3  Documentation

[Amend 5.3 to read as follows:]
    A complete, signed postage statement, using the correct USPS form 
or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing at other than 
single-piece rates.
[Insert new 5.4 through 5.6 to add preparation requirements for 
presorted Library Mail to read as follows:]

[[Page 57602]]

5.4  Sack Preparation (5-Digit Rate)

    Sack size, preparation sequence, and labeling: 5-digit (only); 
required (minimum of eight pieces/20 pounds/1,000 cubic inches, smaller 
volume not permitted); for Line 1 use 5-digit ZIP Code destination of 
pieces, preceded for military mail by the prefixes under M031.

5.5  Sack Preparation (BMC Rate)

    Sack size, preparation sequence, and Line 1 labeling: destination 
BMC (only); required (minimum of four pieces/20 pounds/1,000 cubic 
inches, smaller volume not permitted); for Line 1, use L601.

5.6  Sack Line 2

Line 2:
    a. 5-digit: ``STD FLTS 5D NON BC,'' or ``STD B IRREG 5D,'' or ``STD 
B MACH 5D,'' as applicable.
    b. BMC ``STD FLTS BMC NON BC,'' or ``STD B IRREG BMC,'' or ``STD B 
MACH BMC,'' as applicable.
    c. Any line 2 processing code required by the labeling list must be 
right-justified.
* * * * *

P  Postage and Payment Methods

* * * * *

P700  Special Postage Payment Systems

P710  Manifest Mailing System (MMS)

* * * * *
3.0  KEYLINE
* * * * *

3.3  Rate Category Abbreviations

* * * * *

Exhibit 3.3b--Rate Category Abbreviations--Standard Mail (A)

[Amend Exhibit 3.3b, by deleting the code and rate category description 
``SP Single-Piece Rate (when fewer than 200 pieces accompany automation 
rate mail)'' that appears at the bottom of the exhibit.]
* * * * *

P750  Plant-Verified Drop Shipment (PVDS)

* * * * *
2.0  PROGRAM PARTICIPATION
* * * * *

2.13  Separation of PVDS Mailings

[Revise 2.13 to read as follows:]
    When a vehicle contains more than one PVDS for a single destination 
facility, the shipments must be separated to allow reconciliation with 
each accompanying Form 8125 and 8125-C. When a vehicle contains 
shipments for multiple destination facilities, the shipment for each 
destination must be physically separated. Where applicable, a single 
Form 8125 that identifies all the mail for a single facility must be 
prepared for a shipment of copalletized or combined mailings.
* * * * *

R  Rates and Fees

* * * * *

R200  Periodicals

2.0  PREFERRED--IN-COUNTY
* * * * *

2.2  Piece Rates

[Amend 2.2 by revising the automation rates to read as follows:]
    Per addressed piece:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                          Automation \1\
                          Presort level                            Nonautomation -------------------------------
                                                                                    Letter-size      Flat-size
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic...........................................................          $0.095          $0.046          $0.065
3-Digit.........................................................           0.088           0.044           0.062
5-Digit.........................................................           0.080           0.041           0.058
Carrier Route...................................................           0.043  ..............  ..............
High Density....................................................           0.029  ..............  ..............
Saturation......................................................           0.025  ..............  ..............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Lower maximum weight limits apply: letter-size at 3 ounces (or 3.3103 ounces for heavy letters); flat-size
  at 16 ounces (FSM 881) and 6 pounds (FSM 1,000).

* * * * *

R600  Standard Mail

* * * * *
5.0  PARCEL POST STANDARD MAIL (B)
* * * * *

5.4  Destination Entry Parcel Post (DDU/DSCF/DBMC)

[Amend 5.4 by revising DDU rates to read as follows:]
    Destination facility ZIP Codes only, discount included:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                               DBMC zone \1\ \2\ \3\
                Weight not over (pounds)                    DDU \1\ \2\    DSCF \1\ \2\  ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                              1 and 2            3               4               5
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 2......................................................           $1.21           $1.67           $2.23           $2.40           $2.40           $2.40
 3......................................................            1.26            1.78            2.40            2.86            2.87            2.89
 4......................................................            1.32            1.91            2.58            3.17            3.18            3.94
 5......................................................            1.37            2.02            2.74            3.45            3.48            4.40
 6......................................................            1.41            2.12            2.88            3.73            3.75            4.83
 7......................................................            1.45            2.21            3.02            3.97            4.00            5.22
 8......................................................            1.50            2.30            3.15            4.19            4.23            5.60
 9......................................................            1.55            2.40            3.28            4.37            4.46            5.95
10......................................................            1.59            2.48            3.40            4.51            4.68            6.29
11......................................................            1.63            2.56            3.51            4.67            4.87            6.59
12......................................................            1.67            2.64            3.62            4.81            5.07            6.89
13......................................................            1.72            2.72            3.73            4.93            5.25            7.16
14......................................................            1.74            2.78            3.82            5.08            5.43            7.42
15......................................................            1.78            2.84            3.91            5.20            5.59            7.67
16......................................................            1.82            2.92            4.01            5.32            5.75            7.91

[[Page 57603]]

17......................................................            1.85            2.98            4.09            5.43            5.91            8.13
18......................................................            1.90            3.04            4.18            5.54            6.05            8.35
19......................................................            1.92            3.10            4.26            5.64            6.19            8.55
20......................................................            1.96            3.16            4.34            5.75            6.34            8.74
21......................................................            1.99            3.22            4.42            5.85            6.47            8.94
22......................................................            2.02            3.27            4.49            5.94            6.60            9.12
23......................................................            2.06            3.32            4.56            6.05            6.73            9.30
24......................................................            2.08            3.38            4.63            6.14            6.84            9.46
25......................................................            2.12            3.43            4.70            6.21            6.96            9.62
26......................................................            2.15            3.47            4.76            6.31            7.07            9.78
27......................................................            2.19            3.53            4.83            6.38            7.18            9.92
28......................................................            2.21            3.57            4.89            6.47            7.29           10.07
29......................................................            2.25            3.63            4.96            6.57            7.40           10.21
30......................................................            2.27            3.67            5.01            6.63            7.49           10.35
31......................................................            2.31            3.72            5.08            6.70            7.59           10.48
32......................................................            2.33            3.76            5.13            6.79            7.69           10.61
33......................................................            2.36            3.81            5.19            6.85            7.79           10.73
34......................................................            2.40            3.86            5.25            6.92            7.87           10.84
35......................................................            2.43            3.90            5.31            6.99            7.97           10.96
36......................................................            2.46            3.94            5.36            7.05            8.06           11.08
37......................................................            2.47            3.97            5.40            7.11            8.14           11.19
38......................................................            2.51            4.02            5.46            7.19            8.22           11.29
39......................................................            2.54            4.06            5.51            7.24            8.31           11.39
40......................................................            2.57            4.10            5.56            7.31            8.38           11.50
41......................................................            2.60            4.14            5.61            7.38            8.47           11.59
42......................................................            2.62            4.17            5.65            7.44            8.54           11.68
43......................................................            2.65            4.22            5.71            7.49            8.62           11.79
44......................................................            2.67            4.26            5.75            7.54            8.70           11.87
45......................................................            2.70            4.29            5.79            7.61            8.76           11.96
46......................................................            2.74            4.34            5.85            7.67            8.84           12.04
47......................................................            2.77            4.37            5.89            7.72            8.90           12.13
48......................................................            2.79            4.40            5.93            7.77            8.98           12.22
49......................................................            2.82            4.45            5.98            7.83            9.04           12.29
50......................................................            2.84            4.48            6.02            7.88            9.11           12.38
51......................................................            2.87            4.51            6.06            7.93            9.17           12.45
52......................................................            2.90            4.55            6.11            8.00            9.24           12.52
53......................................................            2.92            4.58            6.14            8.05            9.30           12.60
54......................................................            2.94            4.61            6.18            8.09            9.36           12.67
55......................................................            2.98            4.65            6.23            8.13            9.42           12.74
56......................................................            3.01            4.69            6.27            8.19            9.49           12.80
57......................................................            3.03            4.71            6.30            8.24            9.54           12.88
58......................................................            3.07            4.76            6.35            8.28            9.59           12.94
59......................................................            3.07            4.78            6.38            8.33            9.66           13.01
60......................................................            3.10            4.82            6.42            8.39            9.71           13.07
61......................................................            3.13            4.85            6.46            8.42            9.77           13.14
62......................................................            3.16            4.88            6.50            8.46            9.82           13.19
63......................................................            3.18            4.91            6.53            8.52            9.88           13.25
64......................................................            3.21            4.94            6.57            8.55            9.93           13.31
65......................................................            3.24            4.98            6.61            8.61            9.98           13.37
66......................................................            3.27            5.01            6.65            8.66           10.04           13.43
67......................................................            3.29            5.04            6.68            8.70           10.09           13.48
68......................................................            3.31            5.07            6.71            8.74           10.14           13.54
69......................................................            3.34            5.10            6.75            8.76           10.19           13.59
70......................................................            3.38            5.14            6.79            8.83           10.24           13.64
Oversized...............................................            8.69           11.99           15.43           22.73           28.00          28.00
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Parcels that weigh less than 15 pounds but measure more than 84 inches (but not more than 108 inches) in combined length and girth are charged the
  applicable rate for a 15-pound parcel.
\2\ Pieces that measure more than 108 inches (but not more than 130 inches) in combined length and girth pay the oversized rate, regardless of the
  actual weight of the piece.
\3\ For barcoded discount, deduct $0.03 per piece (machinable parcels only). Barcoded discount is not available for DDU and DSCF rates and DBMC mail
  entered at an ASF. Barcoded discount is available for Parcel Post at the Phoenix, AZ, ASF.


[[Page 57604]]

6.0  BOUND PRINTED MATTER STANDARD MAIL (B)

6.1  Single-Piece Rate

[Amend 6.1 by deleting section 6.1a. Redesignate 6.1b as 6.1. In 
redesignated 6.1, delete footnote 1 and redesignate footnote 2 as 
footnote 1.]
* * * * *

6.2  Presorted Rate

[Amend 6.2 by revising the column heading ``Weight Not Over (pounds)'' 
to read ``Weight (pounds)'' in 6.2b.]
* * * * *
7.0  SPECIAL STANDARD MAIL AND LIBRARY MAIL

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   Single-piece
                    Weight not over (pounds)                            \1\           5-digit         BMC \1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 1..............................................................           $1.13           $0.64           $0.95
 2..............................................................            1.58            1.09            1.40
 3..............................................................            2.03            1.54            1.85
 4..............................................................            2.48            1.99            2.30
 5..............................................................            2.93            2.44            2.75
 6..............................................................            3.38            2.89            3.20
 7..............................................................            3.83            3.34            3.65
 8..............................................................            4.11            3.62            3.93
 9..............................................................            4.39            3.90            4.21
10..............................................................            4.67            4.18            4.49
11..............................................................            4.95            4.46            4.77
12..............................................................            5.23            4.74            5.05
13..............................................................            5.51            5.02            5.33
14..............................................................            5.79            5.30            5.61
15..............................................................            6.07            5.58            5.89
16..............................................................            6.35            5.86            6.17
17..............................................................            6.63            6.14            6.45
18..............................................................            6.91            6.42            6.73
19..............................................................            7.19            6.70            7.01
20..............................................................            7.47            6.98            7.29
21..............................................................            7.75            7.26            7.57
22..............................................................            8.03            7.54            7.85
23..............................................................            8.31            7.82            8.13
24..............................................................            8.59            8.10            8.41
25..............................................................            8.87            8.38            8.69
26..............................................................            9.15            8.66            8.97
27..............................................................            9.43            8.94            9.25
28..............................................................            9.71            9.22            9.53
29..............................................................            9.99            9.50            9.81
30..............................................................           10.27            9.78           10.09
31..............................................................           10.55           10.06           10.37
32..............................................................           10.83           10.34           10.65
33..............................................................           11.11           10.62           10.93
34..............................................................           11.39           10.90           11.21
35..............................................................           11.67           11.18           11.49
36..............................................................           11.95           11.46           11.77
37..............................................................           12.23           11.74           12.05
38..............................................................           12.51           12.02           12.33
39..............................................................           12.79           12.30           12.61
40..............................................................           13.07           12.58           12.89
41..............................................................           13.35           12.86           13.17
42..............................................................           13.63           13.14           13.45
43..............................................................           13.91           13.42           13.73
44..............................................................           14.19           13.70           14.01
45..............................................................           14.47           13.98           14.29
46..............................................................           14.75           14.26           14.57
47..............................................................           15.03           14.54           14.85
48..............................................................           15.31           14.82           15.13
49..............................................................           15.59           15.10           15.41
50..............................................................           15.87           15.38           15.69
51..............................................................           16.15           15.66           15.97
52..............................................................           16.43           15.94           16.25
53..............................................................           16.71           16.22           16.53
54..............................................................           16.99           16.50           16.81
55..............................................................           17.27           16.78           17.09
56..............................................................           17.55           17.06           17.37
57..............................................................           17.83           17.34           17.65
58..............................................................           18.11           17.62           17.93
59..............................................................           18.39           17.90           18.21
60..............................................................           18.67           18.18           18.49
61..............................................................           18.95           18.46           18.77
62..............................................................           19.23           18.74           19.05
63..............................................................           19.51           19.02           19.33
64..............................................................           19.79           19.30           19.61

[[Page 57605]]

65..............................................................           20.07           19.58           19.89
66..............................................................           20.35           19.86           20.17
67..............................................................           20.63           20.14           20.45
68..............................................................           20.91           20.42           20.73
69..............................................................           21.19           20.70           21.01
70..............................................................           21.47           20.98          21.29
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ For barcoded discount, deduct $0.03 per piece (machinable parcels only). Barcoded discount is not available
  for parcels mailed at the 5-digit rate.

[Delete current 8.0 and renumber current 9.0 as 8.0.]
8.0  FEES

8.1  Mailing

[Add new 8.1e as follows:]
    Fee, as appropriate, per 12-month period:
* * * * *
    e. Presorted Library Mail: $100.00.
* * * * *
    An appropriate amendment to 39 CFR 111.3 will be published to 
reflect these changes.
Neva R. Watson,
Attorney, Office of Legal Policy.
[FR Doc. 98-28802 Filed 10-27-98; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P