[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 187 (Tuesday, September 27, 2011)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 59504-59512]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-24705]


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POSTAL SERVICE

39 CFR Part 111


Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation for 
Commercial Parcels

AGENCY: Postal Service \TM\.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The Postal Service is revising Mailing Standards of the United 
States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM[supreg]) throughout 
various sections to require the use of an Intelligent Mail unique 
tracking barcode on all commercial parcels, except Standard 
Mail[supreg] parcels, claiming presort or destination entry pricing; to 
encourage use of IMpb unique tracking barcodes by providing end-to-end 
tracking including confirmation of delivery on all commercial parcels 
except Standard Mail and Package Services parcels; and to require the 
use of an IMpb on parcels bearing PC Postage[supreg].

DATES: Effective date: January 22, 2012. The Postal Service will 
initially implement the standards referenced in this final rule on 
January 22, 2012, and will provide an optional-use transitional period 
for specific requirements until July 2, 2012. The Postal Service 
finalizes its implementation effective January 7, 2013.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Juliaann Hess at 202-268-7663 or Kevin 
Gunther at 202-268-7208.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Postal Service is enhancing its 
operational capability to track commercial parcels by scanning IMpbs 
and other extra services barcodes with automated processing equipment 
and Intelligent Mail scanning devices. Once all of the changes 
described in this final rule are fully implemented, tracking data, that 
includes acceptance, enroute, and delivery status data, will be 
available to commercial mailers who use extra services on their 
packages.
    Mailers using IMpb will receive piece-level visibility throughout 
USPS[supreg] processing and delivery operations. New IMpb enhancements 
include:
     Incorporation of a routing code to facilitate the 
processing of packages on automated sorting equipment.
     Use of a channel-specific Application Identifier (AI) that 
associates the barcode to the payment method, supporting revenue 
assurance.
     A 3-digit service type code, which will identify the mail 
class and extra service combination and eliminate the need for multiple 
barcodes on a package.
     The use of either a 6-digit or 9-digit numeric Mailer ID 
(MID), to accommodate all mailers.
     Inclusion of specific ``mail class only'' service type 
codes that may be used for packages without extra services.
    To promote the use of IMpb or other unique tracking barcodes, 
effective January 22, 2012 the Postal Service will provide end-to-end 
tracking, including confirmation of delivery, at no additional charge 
on all commercial parcels (except Standard Mail and Package Services 
parcels). Merchandise Return Service (MRS) parcels and Business Reply 
Mail[supreg] (BRM) parcels will also qualify for end-to-end tracking, 
including confirmation of delivery, at no extra charge.
    Also effective January 22, 2012, the Postal Service will require 
the use of a unique tracking barcode on all commercial parcels, except 
Standard Mail parcels, claiming presort or destination entry pricing; 
and will require all parcels shipped using PC Postage systems to bear 
an IMpb and to use version 1.6 of the electronic shipping services 
manifest files. The PC Postage requirement does not extend to users of 
PC Postage stamp products. The Postal Service considers these postage 
imprints to be in the same category as the imprints generated by 
postage meter systems.
    To allow commercial parcel and PC Postage mailers sufficient time 
to effect the necessary changes to their software and systems, the 
Postal Service will provide a transitional period, until July 2, 2012, 
during which the failure to comply with these new standards will not be 
penalized.
    On January 7, 2013, the Postal Service finalizes the implementation 
of this final rule by requiring an Intelligent Mail package barcode 
(IMpb) for all commercial mailpieces that include a tracking or extra 
service barcode and on all parcels (except Standard Mail parcels) 
claiming presort or destination entry pricing. This January 7, 2013 
IMpb requirement also applies to all domestic Express Mail[supreg] 
pieces, except those paying postage through an Express Mail corporate 
account (EMCA). In addition, the Postal Service will require the use of 
version 1.6 electronic shipping services manifest files and require 
that these files include each destination ZIP + 4[supreg] code, or each 
destination delivery address by January 7, 2013. This new file format 
will also require a new version of the customer extract file.
    The Postal Service recognizes that some mailers may have difficulty 
preparing their systems and processes in time to meet January 22, 2012 
implementation (required after July 2, 2012), and further recognizes 
that some mailers may be unable to meet the January 7, 2013 deadline 
for use of IMpb and the version 1.6 electronic manifest file. Therefore 
the Postal Service will provide limited exceptions for those mailers 
who may require additional time to finalize their transition to the use 
of unique tracking barcodes or IMpb. Mailers requiring an exception may 
direct their request to vice president, Product Information, USPS 
Headquarters, Room 3667, 475 L'Enfant Plaza, SW., Washington, DC 20260-
5626.
    The Postal Service will provide no charge end-to-end tracking, 
including confirmation of delivery, for all Parcel Select mailpieces 
(including the Parcel

[[Page 59505]]

Select barcoded nonpresort category). Since all nondestination entry 
and nonpresorted Parcel Select mailpieces are currently required to 
bear barcodes, this Parcel Select category will also be required to 
bear a unique tracking barcode no later than July 2, 2012, and will be 
required to bear an IMpb and to use version 1.6 of the electronic 
shipping services manifest files no later than January 7, 2013.
    To support future sorting efficiencies, the USPS strongly 
encourages mailers to place a ZIP+4 code or destination address in the 
electronic files for each mailpiece as soon as possible. Mailers using 
the IMpb are also encouraged to include the additional two-digit 
delivery point code in the electronic file.
    This final rule also requires a postal routing code on all parcels 
and all Express Mail pieces (except for EMCA mailers), preferably as a 
concatenated IMpb or extra service barcode. When a concatenated IMpb or 
extra service barcode is not used, a separate postal routing barcode 
must be included in addition to the IMpb. Flat-shaped or letter-shaped 
Priority Mail[supreg] or Critical Mail\TM\ pieces may use an 
Intelligent Mail barcode (IMb\TM\) or POSTNET\TM\ code for the Postal 
routing barcode. Otherwise, an IMb will not be permitted in lieu of the 
IMpb.
    Mailers of commercial parcels, who claim presort or destination 
entry pricing, but who do not purchase a trackable extra service, or 
make use of the no-fee end-to-end tracking, must use a ``mail-class 
only'' IMpb service type code that represents the class or subclass of 
the mailpiece that is being shipped.

Service Banners

    Beginning January 22, 2012, the Postal Service requires the use of 
new generic human-readable service banner text formats when printing an 
IMpb. Current standards require a different human-readable service 
banner text for each extra service selected by the mailer. The Postal 
Service will provide two generic text options for service banners, when 
used with an IMpb, for most of the extra services selected. Mailers 
must use a ``USPS[supreg] Tracking '' human-readable service 
banner text above the barcode on packages not requiring a signature at 
delivery, and a ``USPS Signature Tracking '' service banner 
text above the barcode on packages where a signature is required at 
delivery. These new service banner texts will not be used with 
Certified Mail[supreg], Registered Mail\TM\, Adult Signature service, 
Parcel Return Service, or Express Mail or Priority Mail Open and 
Distribute services. With these exceptions, mailers may also optionally 
use the new service banner texts in conjunction with all current USPS-
approved extra service barcodes. These new texts will simplify IMpb use 
for mailers and will more accurately describe future processing and 
tracking capabilities inherent to the IMpb.
    The Postal Service is also providing an exception process, for 
mailers of small First-Class Mail[supreg] and Standard Mail parcels 
lacking sufficient label space to apply an IMpb or extra service 
barcode meeting the \3/4\-inch height requirement, to submit barcodes 
of at least \1/2\ inch in height for USPS testing and approval. These 
exceptions will be administered by the National Customer Service Center 
(NCSC), as part of the normal barcode approval process.

Background

    On September 17, 2010, the Postal Service published an advance 
notice of proposed rulemaking in the Federal Register (75 FR 56922-
56923), announcing plans to provide interim IMpb optional-use standards 
and to require IMpb use for all commercial mailers at a later date.
    The IMpb optional-use standards were announced via Postal Bulletin 
22297, dated November 4, 2010, incorporated into the DMM, and were 
available for mailer use beginning November 1, 2010.
    On April 28, 2011, the Postal Service published a proposed rule in 
the Federal Register (75 FR 23749-23755) to provide its proposal for 
future IMpb implementation. The Postal Service received comments in 
response to this proposed rule, which are summarized later in this 
notice.

Descriptions of IMpb and Electronic Documentation

    For the purposes of this final rule, the term ``commercially 
shipped package'' is generally used to describe all domestic mailpieces 
meeting parcel characteristics, all Express Mail and Priority Mail 
mailpieces, regardless of shape, including commercially shipped flat-
rate items. It does not include EMCA pieces, Critical Mail pieces, some 
Priority Mail flat-size pieces prepared by high-volume mailers, or 
Package Service parcels mailed at USPS retail counters. The term 
``commercially shipped package'' will also encompass Parcel 
Post[supreg] pieces, within the Package Services category, bearing a 
permit imprint.
    Piece-level information will allow the Postal Service to improve 
its competitiveness within the commercial package shipping industry and 
to create a more comprehensive service performance measurement tool. 
Barcodes are not currently required on commercially shipped packages, 
except those entered under an Electronic Verification System 
(eVS[supreg]); and many barcodes now being used are unable to 
incorporate the data necessary to meet the future needs of the Postal 
Service. At present, commercially shipped packages can bear barcodes 
that are designed to provide delivery status information only, and do 
not always include a routing code (a barcode that represents the 
destination ZIP Code\TM\). These barcodes allow limited integration of 
multiple extra services and have limited revenue protection 
capabilities, due to the absence of information associating the piece 
with its specific payment method.
    The IMpb provides unique piece-level data to enable the Postal 
Service to increase efficiency, enhance package visibility and tracking 
capabilities, and provide a means to measure service performance. The 
IMpb is a width-modulated barcode containing up to 34 digits, which 
generally follows the specifications of the GS1-128 symbology. GS1-128 
barcodes are a special type of Code 128 barcodes, which make use of 
Application Identifiers (AI) to define the encoded data and their use. 
The IMpb leverages features of the GS1-128 symbology to allow for the 
unique identification and tracking of domestic packages from induction 
to delivery. The GS1-128 barcode symbology is already a requirement for 
users of electronic confirmation services and eVS. Customers 
participating in these programs will not need to change the symbology 
of the barcode; however the elements within the barcode and layout will 
change.
    There are several IMpb barcode variations for commercial and retail 
use that provide sufficient flexibility to accommodate the diverse 
mailing needs of customers. To improve routing, tracking, and service 
capabilities, mailers will be required to include the correct 5-digit 
routing code in the barcode on each commercially shipped package, 
either incorporated into a single concatenated barcode or as a separate 
postal routing barcode. The Postal Service will also require mailers to 
transmit the ZIP + 4 code information to the USPS via an electronic 
file. As an alternative mailers may include the destination address in 
the electronic file instead of the ZIP + 4 code.
    Mailers who generate their own barcoded labels will benefit from 
the enhancements to the electronic files, allowing the support of the 
additional

[[Page 59506]]

features incorporated into the IMpb. The new version 1.6 electronic 
file format includes expanded package identification code fields to 
accommodate up to a 34-digit barcode string, and requires fewer file 
types to support various combinations of products and services. With 
the full implementation of this final rule, mailers will be required to 
include the destination ZIP + 4 code (or destination address) in the 
electronic file for all records. This additional ZIP Code information 
will assist in the routing and tracking of our package products. An 
optional field for the delivery point code of the destination address 
has been added to the electronic file to provide additional information 
to improve service. A listing of electronic file formats is located in 
the addendum to Publication 91, Addendum for Intelligent Mail Package 
Barcode (IMpb) and 3-digit Service Type Code, available on the 
RIBBS[supreg] Web site at http://ribbs.usps.gov. File formats are also 
provided in the newly released, Publication 199, Implementation Guide 
to Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) for Confirmation Services 
and Electronic Verification System (eVS) Mailers. Publication 199 is 
also available on the RIBBS Web site, and includes all information in 
the Publication 91 Addendum, but is more comprehensive. The Postal 
Service currently provides IMpb technical specifications in both 
publications, but expects to eliminate the Publication 91 Addendum at 
some point in the near future.
    The data construct of the IMpb barcode differs from that of the 
current confirmation services barcode. The IMpb uses unique 3-digit 
service type codes to identify the exact product and extra service 
combinations, eliminating the need for separate barcodes and enabling 
more efficient package handling and delivery. Detailed specifications 
for IMpb barcodes are available in the ``Barcode Data'' section of the 
specification document, Barcode, Package, Intelligent Mail 
(USPS2000508) on RIBBS. A list of the 3-digit service type codes is 
available in Publication 199 and the addendum to Publication 91. 
Technical specifications may be modified using an alternative approval 
process authorized by the vice president, Product Information.
    Mailers using IMpb can optionally increase package visibility by 
associating each package with the appropriate sack, or an approved 
equivalent container, which bears an accurately encoded Intelligent 
Mail tray label. Each sack or approved alternate container may then be 
electronically associated to a pallet (or equivalent container) that 
bears an accurately encoded Intelligent Mail container placard.
    The Postal Service also plans to assist Merchandise Return Service 
(MRS) and Business Reply Mail (BRM) parcel mailers in developing 
processes capable of generating unique tracking barcodes for their 
labels, and to replace the nonbarcoded labels many currently use. The 
use of unique tracking barcodes will be optional for these mailers, but 
when used, these mailpieces will qualify for end-to-end tracking, 
including confirmation of delivery, at no additional charge.
    The Postal Service has proposed creating two products from its 
existing Standard Mail parcels/not flat-machinable (NFMs) product. The 
two products proposed would be Standard Mail Fulfillment parcels and 
Standard Mail Marketing parcels. The Postal Service has also proposed 
to transfer all of its Standard Mail Fulfillment parcels (except 
nonprofit) to its competitive product line, where they would become a 
subcategory of the Parcel Select product. The Postal Service has 
obtained approval for this transfer, conditional on the January 22, 
2012 price change. If this transfer occurs as planned those transferred 
parcels would become eligible for end-to-end tracking, including 
confirmation of delivery, at no cost, would be required to bear a 
unique tracking barcode no later than July 2, 2012; and would be 
required to bear an IMpb and to use version 1.6 of the electronic 
shipping services manifest files no later than January 7, 2013.

Comments

    The Postal Service received three comments in response to the April 
28, 2011 proposed rule, with some commenters addressing more than one 
issue. These comments are summarized as follows:
    In general, commenters expressed support for the Postal Service's 
efforts to enhance its operational capability to track commercial 
parcels. Commenters were also generally in support of the proposal to 
provide end-to-end tracking, including confirmation of delivery, at no 
charge and a standardized service banner text.
    Comment: One commenter recommends that the ZIP + 4 barcode 
construct be supported as an option for IMpb, prior to the 
implementation date, in order to assist mailers in meeting the January 
7, 2013 requirement to place the ZIP + 4 code in the electronic 
shipping services manifest files.
    Response: The ZIP + 4 barcode construct is currently supported and 
customers may use this construct to comply with the ZIP + 4 code 
requirement. However, the readability for this barcode is not yet 
optimal on our passive scanners and mechanized parcel sorters. For this 
reason the USPS encourages mailers to use available constructs that do 
not include the ZIP + 4 code. When using a barcode construct that 
includes the ZIP + 4 code, mailers shipping small packages must also 
ensure sufficient label space exists to print a longer barcode that 
meets specifications.
    Comment: A commenter requested clarification on how the ZIP + 4 
code requirement pertains to the Parcel Return Service (PRS) manifest. 
This commenter requests an explicit statement as to whether the ZIP + 4 
code requirement would apply to PRS.
    Response: The ZIP + 4 code requirement will not apply to PRS and 
will not be required in PRS manifests or the barcodes on PRS pieces. 
PRS pieces have a different processing model than other parcels. PRS 
pieces are addressed to unique ZIP Codes and are picked up at 
participating Post Offices, plants, or Network Distribution Centers.
    Comment: Another commenter wished to confirm his understanding that 
mailers will have to provide the ZIP + 4 code or destination delivery 
address in the electronic shipping services manifest files by June 3, 
2013 to obtain destination entry or presort pricing.
    Response: This commenter is correct; mailers will be required to 
include the ZIP + 4 code or destination delivery address in the 
electronic manifest file to be eligible for destination entry or 
presort pricing. However, the effective date for this requirement has 
been changed to January 7, 2013.
    Comment: A commenter asserted that full IMpb implementation cannot 
occur until the ``Shipping Partner Events'' are supported by the USPS 
product tracking system (PTS).
    Response: The Postal Service understands the importance of 
supporting IMpb in the Shipping Partner Event files. On June 30, 2011, 
modifications were made to accommodate IMpb in the current version of 
the Shipping Partner Event file. To fully support IMpb, a new version 
of the Shipping Partner Event file and the corresponding Error/Warning 
file was implemented on August 28, 2011.
    Comment: A commenter encouraged the USPS to enable version 1.6 of 
the electronic shipping services manifest files to accept legacy 
barcodes, because this would provide mailers an

[[Page 59507]]

opportunity to work through transition issues prior to the 
implementation date.
    Response: The Postal Service agrees and has received similar 
feedback from other mailers. In response, the Postal Service modified 
its systems on June 26, 2011 to accept the current USPS-approved 
barcode formats in the new electronic shipping services manifest files 
version 1.6.
    Comment: Another commenter asked if mailers could obtain 
destination entry or presort pricing by using an IMpb and providing 
version 1.6 of the electronic shipping services manifest files, but 
without including the ZIP + 4 code or destination delivery address in 
the manifest.
    Response: Until January 7, 2013, mailers who apply an IMpb, or a 
unique tracking barcode or extra services barcode to their parcels are 
eligible for destination entry or presort pricing. Mailers are not 
required to provide the ZIP + 4 code in the electronic file until 
January 7, 2013.
    Comment: A commenter requested a summary of the changes required by 
January 22, 2012, and those required by June 4, 2012.
    Response: On January 22, 2012, mailers will be required to apply a 
tracking or extra services barcode on all Parcel Select parcels and all 
other commercially shipped parcels (except Standard Mail) in order to 
receive presort or destination-entry pricing. Either an IMpb or one of 
the current USPS-approved unique tracking or extra services barcodes 
will fulfill this requirement. Mailers who are unable to modify their 
systems to apply tracking or extra services barcodes to their 
mailpieces will continue to receive presort or destination-entry 
pricing for parcels without barcodes until July 2, 2012. Effective July 
2, 2012, the transition period for mailers to modify their systems will 
be over. To continue to receive Parcel Select or presort or 
destination-entry pricing, mailers must apply unique tracking or extra 
services barcodes to their parcels. Beginning on January 22, 2012, 
mailers using a PC Postage system must apply an IMpb to their parcels, 
use version 1.6 of the electronic shipping services manifest files, and 
include each destination ZIP + 4 code, or each destination delivery 
address in the file. To allow PC Postage mailers sufficient time to 
effect the necessary changes to their software and systems, the Postal 
Service will also provide an optional-use transitional period until 
July 2, 2012.
    Comment: Another commenter asked if mailers are required to make 
any changes by June 3, 2013 if they are willing to forgo destination 
entry or presort pricing.
    Response: Mailers (except mailers of Parcel Select parcels) who are 
willing to forgo presort or destination entry pricing will not be 
required to apply an IMpb to their parcels or use electronic shipping 
services manifest files version 1.6, even after January 7, 2013. All 
Parcel Select mailers will be required to use IMpb and version 1.6 of 
the electronic shipping services manifest file by January 7, 2013.
    Comment: A commenter asked what type of barcode qualifies for 
Delivery Confirmation service at no charge as of January 22, 2012, and 
if mailers will be able to use the current USPS-approved Delivery 
Confirmation barcodes, with 2-digit Service Type IDs and unique serial 
numbers until June 3, 2013.
    Response: All IMpb and unique tracking or Extra Services barcodes 
will qualify for end-to-end tracking, including confirmation of 
delivery, at no charge on all commercially shipped parcels (excluding 
Standard Mail and Package Services parcels) beginning on January 22, 
2012. This includes parcels bearing the current USPS-approved barcodes 
with 2-digit service type codes and serial numbers that remain unique 
for 6 months. Mailers may use the current USPS-approved barcodes until 
January 7, 2013 to meet the barcode requirements to qualify for presort 
or destination entry pricing.
    Comment: A commenter asked if electronic shipping services manifest 
files, for mailers using unique tracking barcodes, will be required on 
commercial parcels before June 3, 2013.
    Response: To receive end-to-end tracking, including confirmation of 
delivery, at no charge, commercially shipped parcels bearing non-IMpb 
unique tracking barcodes or extra services barcodes must use either 
Version 1.3 or 1.4 of the electronic shipping services manifest files, 
or the new Version 1.6 file (or version 1.5 for existing customers 
using only this format). Mailers placing an IMpb on their parcels must 
use version 1.6 (or version 1.5 for existing customers using this 
format). Only programs that do not require a manifest file (such as 
MRS) will receive end-to-end tracking, including confirmation of 
delivery, at no charge without an electronic file.
    Comment: A commenter asked if the required use of version 1.6 of 
the electronic shipping services manifest files by June 3, 2013 applies 
only to commercial parcels, and not to MRS. This commenter stated that 
permit holders never know when their customers may choose to use a MRS 
label.
    Response: As is currently the case, MRS parcels bearing an IMpb 
will not be required to be accompanied by an electronic shipping 
service manifest file. However, when current (or future) programs or 
features require a manifest file, the electronic shipping services 
manifest file version 1.6 will be required. The Postal Service has also 
expressed its intent to assist Merchandise Return Service (MRS) and 
Business Reply Mail (BRM) parcel mailers in developing processes 
capable of generating unique tracking barcodes for their labels. 
Although the use of unique tracking barcodes will be optional for these 
mailers, the end-to-end tracking, including confirmation of delivery, 
at no additional charge should be a significant benefit to most 
mailers.
    Comment: Another commenter asked if a mailer can apply an IMpb to 
their parcels without using either version 1.5 or 1.6 of the electronic 
shipping services manifest files.
    Response: IMpb use requires version 1.5 or 1.6 of the electronic 
shipping services manifest files. Version 1.5 is no longer offered to 
new IMpb mailers, and is only available for mailers currently using 
this version. All new IMpb mailers must use version 1.6 of the 
electronic shipping services manifest files. The only exceptions for 
use of an electronic shipping services manifest files are for certain 
current (e.g. MRS) and future programs or products that do not require 
a manifest.
    Comment: A commenter asked how the Postal Service will 
differentiate between postage paid and postage due returns.
    Response: The Postal Service has developed a number of unique 3-
digit service type codes. In addition to various other capabilities, 
these new codes offer the capability to distinguish postage paid pieces 
from postage due returns.
    Comment: A commenter asked how the tracking of returns using 
Delivery Confirmation service will work, and if any of the parcel 
return processes will change as a result of these new standards.
    Response: In accordance with the new scanning policies, all parcels 
will receive acceptance, enroute, and delivered event scans. These 
additional event scans will appear in the mailer's extract files; and 
mailers will be able to track items online without additional fees. The 
processes for parcel return will not change as a result of these 
standards.
    Comment: A commenter asked if Parcel Post will be eligible for 
Delivery Confirmation service at no charge.

[[Page 59508]]

    Response: Parcel Post is generally classified as a retail product, 
and as such, is not eligible for end-to-end tracking, including 
confirmation of delivery, at no charge. Commercially-entered Parcel 
Post pieces, defined as those bearing a permit imprint, are also not 
eligible for end-to-end tracking, including confirmation of delivery, 
at no charge.
    Comment: A commenter asked if the First-Class Mail commercials 
parcels that have moved to First-Class Package Service within the 
competitive product line will require different service type codes, and 
if Standard Mail parcels that may move to Parcel Select within the 
competitive product line will require different service type codes.
    Response: The Postal Service does not plan to introduce different 
service type codes for the new competitive First-Class Package Service 
parcels, but it will define new service type codes for Parcel Select 
Lightweight, if the transition from Standard Mail parcels to Parcel 
Select occurs as planned.
    Comment: A commenter asked if MRS mailers will still be able to 
access delivery status data from the Track & Confirm page on the 
USPS.com Web site, and if a data file of Delivery Confirmation dates by 
unique tracking number would be provided.
    Response: Mailers will continue to have the ability to access 
delivery status information on USPS.com, and customer extract files 
will be provided for certified MRS customers who apply an IMpb or 
unique tracking or extra service barcodes to their MRS labels.
    Comment: Another commenter asked if service type code 396 (which 
corresponds to no extra service) will be used for pre-printed MRS 
labels (since unique serial numbers cannot be used).
    Response: Unique serial numbers will be required for IMpb and 
tracking or extra services barcodes, including MRS labels. It is 
possible to print unique serial numbers for pre-printed labels; many 
MRS and PRS customers do so currently. Service type code 396 may be 
used; but unique serial numbers are still required.
    Comment: A commenter stated that required IMpb use by June 3, 2013 
will negatively impact current Express Mail and Priority Mail volume, 
particularly those pieces sent by small and medium size mailers (many 
of which are postage meter customers). This commenter states that if 
the Postal Service adopts these new standards, postage meter customers 
will be placed in a distinct competitive disadvantage. The commenter 
opines that changes can be made to the proposed standards that would 
enable postage meter customers to continue to use the USPS.
    Response: The Postal Service believes these new standards, 
including required use of an IMpb by January 7, 2013, to be equitable 
to all postage providers and that they do not favor server-based over 
distributed or client-based providers. This revision provides for a 
substantial implementation period. Once postage meter providers change 
their systems to enable the generation and manifesting of IMpb tracking 
and extra services barcodes, small and medium sized mailers using those 
systems will have the ability to create an IMpb and transmit electronic 
shipping services manifest files version 1.6 to the USPS. Those mailers 
who do not require tracking or extra services and do not wish to claim 
presort or destination entry pricing are not required to make any 
changes. In the proposed rule (75 FR 23749-23755) published April 28, 
2011, the Postal Service stated ``in consideration of the small and 
medium-size mailers primarily using postage meters, the Postal Service 
will consult with the meter and PC Postage industry to collaboratively 
agree on a date for these mailers to be required to use the IMpb.'' The 
Postal Service will consider this comment during future consultations 
with the postage meter industry. The Postal Service also considers 
users of PC Postage stamp products to be in this mailer category and 
looks forward to their participation in this consultation process.

Approval and Review

    The standards described in this final rule Federal Register are 
subject to approval by the Board of Governors and to regulatory review 
by the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC). The Postal Service will 
inform the mailing community through a DMM Advisory notice at the 
conclusion of this approval and review process.
    The Postal Service hereby adopts the following changes to Mailing 
Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual 
(DMM), incorporated by reference in the Code of Federal Regulations. 
See 39 CFR 111.1.

 List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111

    Administrative practice and procedure, Postal Service.

    Accordingly, 39 CFR part 111 is amended as follows:

PART 111--[AMENDED]

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

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

0
2. Revise the following sections of Mailing Standards of the United 
States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) as follows:

Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail 
Manual (DMM)

* * * * *

200 Commercial Letters and Cards

* * * * *

210 Express Mail

213 Prices and Eligibility

* * * * *

3.0 Basic Standards for Express Mail

* * * * *
[Renumber current 3.2 as 3.3 and add new 3.2 as follows:]

3.2 IMpb Standards

    Commercial Express Mail with postage paid through a PC Postage 
system must bear an Intelligent Mail package barcode (IMpb) prepared 
under 708.5.0. Effective January 7, 2013, all commercial Express Mail 
pieces (except for pieces paying postage through EMCA) must bear an 
IMpb.
* * * * *

220 Priority Mail

223 Prices and Eligibility

* * * * *

3.0 Basic Standards for Priority Mail

* * * * *
[Renumber current 3.3 and 3.4 as 3.4 and 3.5 and add new 3.3 as 
follows:]

3.3 IMpb Standards

    Priority Mail pieces (except Critical Mail pieces without an extra 
service) with postage paid through a PC Postage system must bear an 
Intelligent Mail package barcode prepared under 708.5.0.
* * * * *

300 Commercial Flats

* * * * *

310 Express Mail

313 Prices and Eligibility

* * * * *

3.0 Basic Standards for Express Mail

* * * * *
[Renumber current 3.2 as 3.3 and add new 3.2 as follows:]

[[Page 59509]]

3.3 IMpb Standards

    Commercial Express Mail with postage paid through a PC Postage 
system must bear an Intelligent Mail package barcode (IMpb) prepared 
under 708.5.0. Effective January 7, 2013, all commercial Express Mail 
pieces (except for pieces paying postage through EMCA) must bear an 
IMpb.
* * * * *

320 Priority Mail

323 Prices and Eligibility

* * * * *

3.0 Basic Standards for Priority Mail

* * * * *
[Renumber current 3.3 and 3.4 as 3.4 and 3.5 and add new 3.3 as 
follows:]

3.3 IMpb Standards

    Priority Mail pieces (except Critical Mail pieces without an extra 
service) with postage paid through a PC Postage system must bear an 
Intelligent Mail package barcode prepared under 708.5.0.
* * * * *

400 Commercial Parcels

* * * * *

410 Express Mail

413 Prices and Eligibility

* * * * *

3.0 Basic Standards for Express Mail

* * * * *
[Renumber current 3.2 as 3.3 and add new 3.2 as follows:]

3.3 IMpb Standards

    Commercial Express Mail with postage paid through a PC Postage 
system must bear an Intelligent Mail package barcode (IMpb) prepared 
under 708.5.0. Effective January 7, 2013, commercial Express Mail 
pieces (except for pieces paying postage through EMCA) must bear an 
IMpb.
* * * * *

420 Priority Mail

423 Prices and Eligibility

* * * * *

3.0 Basic Standards for Priority Mail

* * * * *
[Renumber current 3.2 and 3.3 as 3.3 and 3.4 and add new 3.2 as 
follows:]

3.2 IMpb Standards

    Priority Mail parcels with postage paid through a PC Postage system 
must bear an Intelligent Mail package barcode (IMpb) prepared under 
708.5.0.
* * * * *

430 First-Class Package Service Parcels

433 Prices and Eligibility

1.0 Prices and Fees for First-Class Package Service Parcels

* * * * *
[Revise title of 1.3 as follows:]

1.3 Commercial Base Prices

[Revise the introductory text of 1.3 as follows:]
    For prices, see Notice 123-Price List. Commercial base parcels may 
be presorted or nonpresorted. Presorted parcels must include a unique 
Intelligent Mail package barcode or extra services barcode, including a 
postal routing code, on each parcel. Effective January 7, 2013, 
presorted parcels must include a unique Intelligent Mail package 
barcode with a postal routing code on each parcel. Postage for 
presorted parcels must be paid under 434. Nonpresorted First-Class 
Package Service parcels mailed under the following conditions are 
eligible for single-piece commercial base parcel prices:
* * * * *

1.4 Commercial Plus Prices

    For prices, see Notice 123-Price List. First-Class Package Service 
machinable parcels less than 16 ounces and Merchandise Return Service 
parcels are eligible for commercial plus prices for customers that:
* * * * *
[Add a new 1.4e as follows:]
    e. Include a unique Intelligent Mail package barcode or extra 
services barcode, including a postal routing code, on each presorted 
parcel. Effective January 7, 2013, parcels must include a unique 
Intelligent Mail package barcode with a postal routing code.

1.5 Surcharge

[Revise 1.5 as follows:]
    A surcharge applies for parcels with the following characteristics:
    a. Unless prepared in 5-digit/scheme containers, presorted parcels 
weighing less than 2 ounces or that are irregularly shaped, such as 
rolls, tubes, and triangles.
    b. Nonpresorted parcels (except those paid with PC Postage; see 
3.7) that do not bear a unique Intelligent Mail package barcode or 
extra services barcode, including a postal routing code, prepared under 
708.5.0. Effective January 7, 2013, parcels must include a unique 
Intelligent Mail package barcode with a postal routing code to avoid a 
surcharge.
* * * * *

3.0 Basic Standards for First-Class Package Service Parcels

* * * * *
[Revise title of 3.3 as follows:]

3.3 Additional Basic Standards

    All presorted First-Class Package Service parcels must:
* * * * *
[Add a new 3.3f as follows:]
    f. Bear a unique Intelligent Mail package barcode or extra services 
barcode, including a postal routing code, prepared under 708.5.0. 
Effective January 7, 2013, must include a unique Intelligent Mail 
package barcode with a postal routing code.
* * * * *
[Renumber current 3.6 as 3.7 and add new 3.6 as follows:]

3.6 IMpb Standards

    First Class Package Service parcels with postage paid through a PC 
Postage system must bear an Intelligent Mail package barcode prepared 
under 708.5.0.
* * * * *

450 Parcel Select

453 Prices and Eligibility

* * * * *

3.0 Price Eligibility for Parcel Select and Parcel Select Regional 
Ground

3.1 Destination Entry Price Eligibility

* * * * *

3.1.2 Basic Standards

    For Parcel Select destination entry, pieces must meet the 
applicable standards in 455.4.0 and the following criteria:
* * * * *
[Add a new 3.1.2f as follows:]
    f. Pieces must bear a unique Intelligent Mail package barcode or 
extra services barcode, including a postal routing code, prepared under 
708.5.0. Effective January 7, 2013, parcels must include a unique 
Intelligent Mail package barcode with a postal routing code on each 
parcel.
* * * * *

3.2 Parcel Select NDC and ONDC Presort Price Eligibility

[Revise 3.2 by adding two new last sentences as follows:]
    * * * Parcel Select NDC and ONDC Presort pieces must bear a unique 
Intelligent Mail package barcode or extra services barcode, including a

[[Page 59510]]

postal routing code, prepared under 708.5.0. Effective January 7, 2013, 
parcels must include a unique Intelligent Mail package barcode with a 
postal routing code on each parcel.

3.3 Parcel Select Barcoded Nonpresort Price Eligibility

[Revise 3.3 as follows:]
    Pieces mailed at Parcel Select Barcoded Nonpresort prices must be 
machinable parcels. Each parcel must bear a unique Intelligent Mail 
package barcode or extra services barcode, including a postal routing 
code, prepared under 708.5.0. There is a minimum volume of 50 pieces 
per mailing for parcels mailed at the Parcel Select Barcoded Nonpresort 
price, except for parcels with USPS-approved PC Postage, for which 
there is no minimum volume per mailing. Effective January 7, 2013, 
parcels must include a unique Intelligent Mail package barcode with a 
postal routing code on each parcel.
[Delete items 3.3a through 3c, and exhibit 3.3, in their entirety.]

3.4 Parcel Select Regional Ground

* * * * *

3.4.1 General Eligibility

    Parcel Select Regional Ground prices are available for machinable 
parcels (see 401.1.5), measure .35 cubic foot or less and weigh 5 
pounds or less when customers meet the following requirements:
* * * * *
[Revise 3.4.1d as follows:]
    Pieces must bear a unique Intelligent Mail package barcode or extra 
services barcode, including a postal routing code, prepared under 
708.5.0. Effective January 7, 2013, parcels must include a unique 
Intelligent Mail package barcode with a postal routing code on each 
parcel.
* * * * *

460 Bound Printed Matter

463 Prices and Eligibility

* * * * *

4.0 Price Eligibility for Bound Printed Matter Parcels

4.1 Price Eligibility

    BPM prices are based on the weight of a single addressed piece or 1 
pound, whichever is higher, and the zone (where applicable) to which 
the piece is addressed. Price categories are as follows:
* * * * *
[Add two new last sentences to 4.1b as follows:]
    b. * * * Each parcel must bear a unique Intelligent Mail package 
barcode or extra services barcode, including a postal routing code, 
prepared under 708.5.0. Effective January 7, 2013, parcels must include 
a unique Intelligent Mail package barcode with a postal routing code.
[Add two new last sentences to 4.1c as follows:]
    c. * * * Each parcel must bear a unique Intelligent Mail package 
barcode or extra services barcode, including a postal routing code, 
prepared under 708.5.0. Effective January 7, 2013, parcels must include 
a unique Intelligent Mail package barcode with a postal routing code.
* * * * *

466 Enter and Deposit

* * * * *

3.0 Destination Entry

3.1 General

[Revise the text of 3.1 as follows:]
    Destination entry prices apply to Presorted and Carrier Route Bound 
Printed Matter (BPM) that is deposited at a destination network 
distribution center (DNDC), destination sectional center facility 
(DSCF), or destination delivery unit (DDU) as specified below. Each 
piece can claim only one destination entry price; an individual pallet 
may contain pieces claimed at different destination entry prices. Each 
BPM parcel entered at a destination entry price must bear a unique 
Intelligent Mail package barcode or extra services barcode, including a 
postal routing code, prepared under 708.5.0. Effective January 7, 2013, 
parcels claiming destination entry prices must include a unique 
Intelligent Mail package barcode with a postal routing code on each 
parcel.
* * * * *

470 Media Mail and Library Mail

473 Prices and Eligibility

* * * * *

6.0 Price Eligibility for Media Mail and Library Mail Parcels

* * * * *

6.2 Price Eligibility Standards

[Revise 3.2 by adding a new second and third sentence as follows:]
    * * * Each piece must bear a unique Intelligent Mail package 
barcode or extra services barcode, including a postal routing code, 
prepared under 708.5.0. Effective January 7, 2013, presorted parcels 
must include a unique Intelligent Mail package barcode with a postal 
routing code. * * *
* * * * *

6.3 Price Categories for Media Mail and Library Mail

    Media Mail and Library Mail prices are based on the weight of the 
piece without regard to zone. The price categories and discounts are as 
follows:
* * * * *
[Add a new 6.3d as follows:]
    d. Presorted Media Mail and Library Mail parcels with postage paid 
through a PC Postage system must bear an Intelligent Mail package 
barcode prepared under 708.5.0.
* * * * *

500 Additional Mailing Services

503 Extra Services

* * * * *

2.0 Registered Mail

* * * * *

2.4 Mailing

* * * * *

2.4.5 Privately Printed Label 200

[Revise 2.4.5 by adding a new third sentence as follows:]
    * * * Effective January 7, 2013, privately printed labels must 
include an Intelligent Mail package barcode prepared under 708.5.0, 
except that labels must retain the human-readable text, label design 
elements and color consistent with Label 200. * * *
* * * * *

3.0 Certified Mail

* * * * *

3.3 Mailing

* * * * *

3.3.4 Privately Printed Form 3800

[Revise 3.3.4 by adding a new third sentence as follows:]
    * * * Effective January 7, 2013, privately printed forms must 
include an Intelligent Mail package barcode prepared under 708.5.0, 
except that forms must retain the human-readable text, label design 
elements and color consistent with USPS Form 3800. * * *
* * * * *

4.0 Insured Mail

* * * * *

4.3 Mailing

* * * * *

4.3.4 Privately Printed Form 3813-P

[Revise 4.3.4 by adding new third and forth sentences as follows:]

[[Page 59511]]

    * * * Effective January 7, 2013, privately printed forms must 
include an Intelligent Mail package barcode prepared under 708.5.0. 
Unless printing integrated forms under 4.3.5, forms must retain the 
label design elements and color consistent with USPS Form 3813-P. * * *

4.3.5 Integrated Barcodes

    The following options are available for mailers who print their own 
labels:
* * * * *
[Resequence the current 4.3.5c as the new 4.3.5e and add a new 4.3.5c 
and 5d as follows:]
    c. Intelligent Mail package barcodes placed on insured packages 
with indemnity coverage of $200.00 or less must bear a human-readable 
service banner with the text ``USPS Tracking '' printed in 
accordance with Exhibit 708.5.1.4. Other approved extra services 
barcodes may bear the appropriate human-readable service banner text 
``USPS Delivery Confirmation,'' prepared under 708.5.0.
    d. Intelligent Mail package barcodes placed on insured packages 
with indemnity coverage greater than $200.00 and with electronic 
Signature Confirmation service must bear a human-readable service 
banner with the text ``USPS Signature Tracking '' printed in 
accordance with Exhibit 708.5.1.4. Other approved extra services 
barcodes may bear a human-readable service banner with the text ``USPS 
Insured,'' or ``USPS Signature Confirmation,'' prepared under 708.5.0.
[Add a new last sentence to the introductory paragraph of resequenced 
4.3.5e as follows:]
    e. * * * The following standards also apply:
[Delete resequenced 4.3.5e3 in its entirety and revise resequenced e1 
and e2 as follows:]
    1. Mailers may purchase insurance online for indemnity coverage of 
$200.00 or less with electronic option Delivery Confirmation service. 
Prepare barcodes under 4.3.5c.
    2. Mailers may purchase insurance online for indemnity coverage of 
more than $200, up to $500 (up to $5,000 online through Click-n-Ship), 
with electronic option Delivery Confirmation service or Signature 
Confirmation service. In both cases, prepare barcodes under 4.3.5d.
* * * * *

9.0 Return Receipt for Merchandise

* * * * *

9.3 Mailing

* * * * *

9.3.5 Privately Printed Form 3804

[Revise 9.3.5 by adding a new third sentence as follows:]
    * * * Effective January 7, 2013, privately printed forms must 
include an Intelligent Mail package barcode prepared under 9.3.6 and 
708.5.0, and must retain the label design elements and color consistent 
with USPS Form 3804. * * *
* * * * *
[Renumber current 9.3.6 and 9.3.7 as the new 9.3.7 and 9.3.8 and add a 
new 9.3.6 as follows:]

9.3.6 Barcodes

    Barcodes printed by mailers must meet the following standards:
    a. Intelligent Mail package barcodes and other approved extra 
services barcodes applied by mailers must be prepared in accordance 
with 708.5.0.
    b. Intelligent Mail package barcodes must include the human-
readable service banner with the text ``USPS Signature Tracking 
'' printed in accordance with Exhibit 708.5.1.4.
    c. Other approved extra services barcodes may bear a human-readable 
service banner with the text ``Return Receipt for Merchandise'' 
prepared in accordance with 708.5.0.
* * * * *

10.0 Delivery Confirmation

* * * * *

10.3 Labels

10.3.1 Types of Labels

    Mailers must use one of the label options shown below (for 
additional information see Publication 91, Confirmation Services 
Technical Guide):
* * * * *
[Revise 10.3.1b as follows:]
    b. Label 314 is available to electronic option mailers. Effective 
January 7, 2013, labels must include an Intelligent Mail package 
barcode prepared under 708.5.0.
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence and add a new second sentence for 10.3.1c as 
follows:]
    c. Privately printed barcoded labels must meet the requirements in 
10.3 and 10.4. Effective January 7, 2013, privately printed labels must 
include an Intelligent Mail package barcode prepared under 10.4 and 
708.5.0. * * *
[Delete Exhibit 10.3.1c, Privately Printed Label, in its entirety.]
* * * * *

10.4 Barcodes

* * * * *

10.4.3 Printing

    * * * Labels used for Delivery Confirmation service must meet these 
additional specifications:
[Revise 10.4.3a as follows:]
    a. Intelligent Mail package barcodes must bear a human-readable 
service banner with the text ``USPS Tracking '' printed in 
accordance with Exhibit 708.5.1.4. Other approved extra services 
barcodes may bear a human-readable service banner with the text ``USPS 
Delivery Confirmation,'' prepared in accordance with 708.5.0
* * * * *

11.0 Signature Confirmation

* * * * *

11.3 Labels

11.3.1 Types of Labels

    Mailers must use one of the label options shown below (for 
additional information see Publication 91, Confirmation Services 
Technical Guide):
* * * * *
[Revise 11.3.1b as follows:]
    b. Label 315 is available to electronic option mailers. Effective 
January 7, 2013, labels must include an Intelligent Mail package 
barcode prepared under 708.5.0.
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence and add a new second sentence for 10.3.1c as 
follows:]
    c. Privately printed barcoded labels must meet the requirements in 
11.3 and 11.4. Effective January 7, 2013, privately printed labels must 
include an Intelligent Mail package barcode prepared under 11.4 and 
708.5.0. * * *
[Delete Exhibit 11.3.1c, Privately Printed Label, in its entirety.]
* * * * *

11.4 Barcodes

* * * * *

11.4.3 Printing

    * * * Labels used for Signature Confirmation service must meet 
these additional specifications:
[Revise 10.4.3a as follows:]
    a. Intelligent Mail package barcodes must bear a human-readable 
service banner with the text ``USPS Signature Tracking '' 
printed in accordance with Exhibit 708.5.1.4. Other approved extra 
services barcodes may bear a human-readable service banner with the 
text ``USPS Signature Confirmation'' prepared in accordance with 
708.5.0
* * * * *

12.0 Collect on Delivery (COD)

* * * * *

[[Page 59512]]

12.3 Forms

* * * * *

12.3.2 Privately Printed Form 3816-AS

[Revise 12.3.2 by adding a new third sentence as follows:]
    * * * Effective January 7, 2013, privately printed forms must 
include an Intelligent Mail package barcode prepared under 9.3.6 and 
708.5.0, and must retain the human-readable text, label design elements 
and color consistent with USPS Form 3816-AS. * * *
* * * * *

507 Mailer Services

* * * * *

9.0 Business Reply Mail

* * * * *

9.4 General Information

* * * * *

9.4.3 Services

[Revise 9.4.3 as follows:]
    No extra services are permitted with BRM, except for BRM parcels 
bearing a USPS-approved Delivery Confirmation service label, or BRM 
parcels bearing an Intelligent Mail package barcode including Delivery 
Confirmation service.

700 Special Standards

* * * * *

705 Advanced Preparation and Special Postage Payment Systems

* * * * *

7.0 Combining Package Services and Parcel Select Parcels for 
Destination Entry

7.1 Combining Parcels--DSCF and DDU Entry

7.1.1 Qualification

[Revise the last sentence of 7.1.1 as follows:]
    * * * Parcels claiming destination entry pricing must bear a unique 
Intelligent Mail package barcode or extra services barcode, including a 
postal routing code, prepared under 708.5.0. Effective January 7, 2013, 
parcels claiming destination entry prices must include a unique 
Intelligent Mail package barcode with a postal routing code.
* * * * *

708 Technical Specifications

* * * * *

5.0 Standards for Package and Extra Service Barcodes

5.1 Intelligent Mail Package Barcode

* * * * *

5.1.4 Physical Barcode Requirements

[Revise the introductory paragraph of 5.1.4 as follows:]
    Detailed physical specifications for barcodes are provided in the 
resource documents, available on RIBBS at http://ribbs.usps.gov/. 
Physical barcode requirements are as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise 5.1.4d as follows:]
    d. Barcode Height: unless allowed by exception, the minimum height 
must be at least 0.75 inch.
* * * * *
    g. Human-Readable Representation of Barcode Data and Service 
Banner: text must be printed in accordance with Exhibit 5.1.4 and as 
follows:
* * * * *
[Revise 5.1.4g2 as follows:]
    2. Service Banners must include the human-readable text ``USPS 
Signature Tracking '' (or ``USPS Signature Tracking Number'') 
for mailpieces requiring a signature at delivery and ``USPS Tracking 
'' (or ``USPS Tracking Number'') for all other mailpieces. 
Service Banner text shown in Exhibit 5.1.4 is an example. See Appendix 
I in Publication 199 or Publication 91 (addendum appendix H) at http://ribbs.usps.gov/ for additional information.
* * * * *
[To reflect new barcode format, replace current Exhibit 5.1.4 with a 
new Exhibit 5.1.4 as follows:]

Exhibit 5.1.4 Barcode Specifications

[Placeholder for revised barcode exhibit.]
* * * * *

5.1.7 Electronic File

    * * * Electronic files must include the following elements:
* * * * *
[Add a new 5.1.7d and 5.1.7e as follows:]
    d. Effective January 7, 2013, mailers of commercial parcels, except 
Standard Mail parcels and parcels bearing PC Postage, claiming presort 
or destination entry pricing must use version 1.6 (or subsequent 
versions) of the electronic shipping services manifest files including 
each destination ZIP + 4 code, or each destination delivery address.
    e. Mailers using a PC Postage system must use version 1.6 (or 
subsequent versions) of the electronic shipping services manifest 
files, including each destination ZIP + 4 code, or each destination 
delivery address.
[Add a new 5.18 as follows:]

5.18 Alternate Approval

    Labels not meeting IMpb specifications or other label element 
standards, but are still able to demonstrate acceptable functionality 
within USPS processes, may be allowed using an alternative approval 
process authorized by the vice president, Product Information.
* * * * *

5.2 Other Package Barcodes

* * * * *
[Renumber current 5.2.11 and 5.2.12 as the new 5.2.12 and 5.2.13, and 
add a new 5.2.11 as follows:]

5.2.10 Service Banner Text

    Except with Certified Mail, Registered Mail, Adult Signature, 
Parcel Return Service, and Express Mail or Priority Mail Open and 
Distribute services, mailers preparing extra service barcodes under 5.2 
may optionally use a ``USPS Tracking '' human-readable service 
banner text above the barcode on packages not requiring a signature at 
delivery, and a ``USPS Signature Tracking '' service banner 
text above the barcode on packages where a signature is required at 
delivery.
* * * * *
    We will publish an appropriate amendment to 39 CFR part 111 to 
reflect these changes.

Stanley F. Mires,
Attorney, Legal Policy & Legislative Advice.
[FR Doc. 2011-24705 Filed 9-26-11; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P