[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 243 (Wednesday, December 18, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 76533-76548]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-29879]
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POSTAL SERVICE
39 CFR Part 111
New Mailing Standards for Domestic Mailing Services Products
AGENCY: Postal ServiceTM.
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: On September 26, 2013, the Postal Service filed a notice of
mailing services price adjustments with the Postal Regulatory
Commission (PRC), effective January 26, 2014. This final rule contains
the revisions to Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service,
Domestic Mail Manual (DMM[supreg]) that we will adopt to implement the
changes coincident with the price adjustments.
DATES: Effective Date: January 26, 2014.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Bill Chatfield at 202-268-7278,
Lizbeth Dobbins at 202-268-3789, or Steve Monteith at 202-268-6983.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Prices are available under Docket Nos.
R2013-10 and R2010-4R on the Postal Regulatory Commission's Web site at
www.prc.gov.
The Postal Service's final rule includes new pricing eligibility
for retail and commercial nonpresorted First-Class Mail[supreg]
letters, several mail classification changes, and condensing of current
standards for Periodicals publications. Directly below, we discuss
comments on proposed changes, and the Postal Service response to those
comments, followed by a summary of all the changes.
Comments on Proposed Changes
The Postal Service received four formal comments on our price-
change related proposal.
The Postal Service had proposed to disallow adhesive labels on all
sacks and trays. We received one formal comment and one informal
comment about this. We will be disallowing adhesive labels only for
trays. Also, we are working with the mailing industry to evaluate the
technological and operational feasibility of alternatives to current
labeling methods.
A mailer association disagreed with the 200-piece minimum for
permit imprint mailings of First-Class Mail letters at the new metered
price. The 200-piece minimum for permit imprint mailings of letters is
not a new standard and is not being changed at this time. First-Class
Mail letters that are residual from a presort or automation mailing and
are presented with that mailing are not subject to a separate minimum.
Regarding flats sequencing system (FSS), a mailer association
suggested to change the required minimum for an FSS scheme pallet to
500 pounds instead of 250 pounds. We note that mailers who currently
choose to prepare FSS mail must make FSS scheme or FSS facility pallets
when the quantity reaches 250 pounds, so that minimum is not a change.
Also, the FSS facility pallet is currently required at 250 pounds for
those choosing to prepare FSS pallets, whereas it will not be a
required pallet level in January. While the 250-pound requirement may
result in more pallets in some cases, it is very important that the FSS
mail be separated from other mail for efficient processing. Also, we
are increasing the allowed number of stacked pallets from 4 to 6, which
will increase logistical flexibility.
The same mailer association also questioned specific FSS piece
prices that were developed for software coding; other than Bound
Printed Matter pricing, those prices are placeholders for possible
future application. Except for ADC and MADC pieces (which will be
eligible for 3-digit prices), pieces in an FSS bundle will be eligible
for the price they would otherwise be eligible for according to the
qualification documentation.
Regarding the price charts for Standard Mail, FSS scheme pallets
may be entered at origin, or at DNDC, DSCF, or DFSS entry points, but
the tenth of a cent discount price will be only for flats placed on FSS
scheme pallets entered at DFSS entry points.
We received one comment about the revision to the claims standards
requiring that a fair market value of insured coins or stamps be
current and prior to the mailing date. The commenter asked if the
USPS[supreg] would be advising each mailer mailing insured items of
this change. We consider that this revision is primarily a
clarification and provides equal protection for the mailer and the USPS
regarding potentially significant fluctuations in the value of those
items. The proposal provides sufficient public notice.
We received three suggestions from the same commenter regarding
handstamps with an addressee's printed signature and address: one to
allow mechanical devices similar to handstamps, one to declare that a
handstamp is legally binding, and the other to state that handstamps
must be applied by the addressee (or agent). We are not expanding this
section to allow similar devices; and we consider that the current
language, that a handstamp is an optional way of providing the
signature, is sufficient. We do agree to state that such handstamps
must be used by the addressee or agent.
A mailer association questioned how we will check compliance with
full-service automation requirements. There were no items regarding
full-service as part of this proposal. Questions about compliance with
full-service standards should be directed to the Vice-President of Mail
Entry and Payment Technology. We received one formal complaint about
the proposed disallowance of simplified addresses on detached address
labels (DALs) used with Standard Mail flats, thus requiring mailers to
use complete delivery addresses on such DALs. This change would require
complete addresses on the DALs, or the mailer could still use
simplified addresses directly on the flats. Although we are not
removing this change, mailers with exceptional circumstances that
preclude them from transitioning to complete delivery addresses by
January while retaining their customary volume of this type of mail may
request limited exceptions (through their district manager, business
mail entry) from the Pricing and Classification Service Center.
Change for Letters
Retail and Commercial First-Class Mail Letters
The Postal Service adds a new single-piece nonpresorted First-Class
Mail letter price category to be called Metered Mail. Prices for this
category are separate from other retail single-piece First-Class Mail
letters, and apply to First-Class Mail letters when postage is affixed
or imprinted by the mailer for metered indicia, PC Postage[supreg],
precanceled stamps, or permit imprint. There is no minimum volume,
except for pieces paid by permit imprint, for which the existing
minimum of 200 pieces would apply. These prices also apply to residual
pieces from automation or presorted First-Class Mail letter mailings,
presented in letter trays. When such residual pieces are part of a
permit imprint mailing for the presorted or automation mailing, and
claimed on the same postage statement as the primary mailing, there is
no separate
[[Page 76534]]
minimum number of pieces for the commercial nonpresorted portion.
The Postal Service modifies the current price structure for
residual First-Class Mail letters. Residuals from uniform 1-ounce
presort letter mailings will pay the 1-ounce Metered letter price.
Residuals from uniform 2-ounce presort letter mailings will pay the 2-
ounce Metered letter price Residuals from mixed presort mailings of 1-
ounce and 2-ounce letters will pay the ``blended'' First-Class Mail
Residual letter price and not be subject to the Metered Mail price.
Changes for Flats
Standard Mail[supreg] Flats
We will disallow the use of detached address labels (DALs) with all
Standard Mail flats mailed with simplified addresses (EDDM[supreg]).
Therefore, all EDDM flats (entered at BMEUs or Retail) must bear
simplified addresses directly on the flats.
Required Flats Sequencing System (FSS) Preparation
The Postal Service introduced optional FSS preparation standards in
the August 23, 2010 Federal Register final rule (75 FR 51668-51671)
which were incorporated into the DMM on January 2, 2011. These FSS
preparation standards were developed in collaboration with the mailing
industry group, including both mail owners and mail service providers.
This industry group determined that the preparation of bundles and
pallets specifically for FSS processing could lead to greater
efficiencies and cost savings for both the USPS and the mailing
industry. In the August 23, 2010 final rule, the Postal Service also
provided advance notice that FSS-based mail preparation requirements
would become mandatory at some point in the future. As of January 26,
2014, the Postal Service requires bundle and pallet preparation of
flat-size Standard Mail, Periodicals and Bound Printed Matter
mailpieces prepared for delivery within the ZIP CodesTM
served by FSS processing. With this revision, mailers are required to
place mailings of presorted and basic carrier route Standard Mail
flats, and Periodicals and Bound Printed Matter presorted and carrier
route flats, meeting the deflection standards and the physical
standards in DMM 301.3.2, and combined mailings of Standard Mail and
Periodicals flats prepared under DMM 705.15 into combined 5-digit FSS
scheme pools when addressed for delivery to any FSS 5-digit scheme
combination per labeling list L006. Optionally, mailers may include
nonmachinable Periodicals flats no more than 1-inch thick if they meet
the standards in 705.14.
Mailers place qualifying mailpieces from all price categories into
a separate pool for each individual 5-digit FSS-scheme combination.
Mailings that include 10 or more pieces of Standard Mail flats, 6 or
more pieces of Periodicals flats or 10 or more pieces (or 10 or more
pounds) of Bound Printed Matter flats, to an FSS scheme must make FSS
scheme bundles for that 5-digit FSS scheme. Mailers may optionally
prepare scheme pools with less than 10 pieces of Standard Mail flats, 6
pieces of Periodical flats, or 10 pieces (or 10 pounds) of Bound
Printed Matter flats, and may prepare an FSS scheme bundle if they have
a minimum of 3 inches of mail. Mailings of Bound Printed Matter flats
not meeting the eligibility standards for presort or carrier route
pricing also may be included in FSS preparation, but are not eligible
for presorted or carrier route prices. All pieces for each combined
mailpiece pool must be placed in uniform bundles of between 3 inches
and 6.5 inches, except for one overflow bundle that may be under the
minimum height. Bundles must be prepared in accordance with the other
conditions in DMM 705.14.0.
Bundles must be identified as 5-digit scheme presort, either with
an optional endorsement line (OEL) under 708.7.0 or with a ``red Label
5 SCH'' barcoded pressure-sensitive bundle label. However, mailpieces
entered under a combined mailing of Standard Mail and Periodicals flats
will continue to require a unique OEL on each piece, as described in
DMM exhibit 708.7.1.1. Mailers are reminded that every mailpiece
prepared under these standards must still include class and price
markings, as described in DMM 302.3.0, applicable to the price paid, in
addition to the FSS bundle identification.
Pallets prepared to the FSS scheme level (previously termed ``sort
plan'' level) all for the same 5-digit FSS-scheme ZIP Code combination
continue to be required at 250 pounds, and optional below 250 pounds.
However, FSS facility (all 5-digit FSS-scheme ZIP Code combinations
processed within the same facility) pallets would be optional at any
level. Pallets would be required to bear a pallet placard with an
Intelligent Mail[supreg] container barcode. Mailers without the
capacity to palletize could request an exception to these palletization
requirements from the local plant manager.
Mailpieces that meet the current eligibility standards for basic
carrier route prices would be included in FSS preparation requirements.
Saturation price Standard Mail and Periodicals flats are not eligible
for this preparation. Mailers may optionally include pieces eligible
for high density and high density plus prices into FSS preparation, but
their inclusion will not be required. The sequencing of mailpieces
within bundles is not required or recommended when preparing FSS
bundles. Only saturation, high density, and high density plus
mailpieces (not prepared under FSS standards) are eligible for
destination delivery unit (DDU) entry within FSS zones.
The Postal Service is adding a new destination FSS (DFSS) price for
Standard Mail flats on FSS scheme pallets entered at the correct FSS
facility. Initially, only FSS scheme pallets (or approved alternate
containers) would be eligible for these destination-entry prices. DFSS
entry piece pricing will be available for Standard Mail flats
qualifying for carrier route and 5-digit piece prices.
Standard Mail flats properly included in an FSS scheme pool, but
qualifying for 3-digit, ADC or mixed ADC prices, claim 3-digit prices.
However, these pieces are not eligible for DFSS prices when placed on
an FSS scheme pallet entered at a DFSS. These pieces are eligible for
DSCF entry prices.
FSS preparation is optional for Periodicals flats mailed at In-
County prices and Periodicals mailings of 5,000 pieces or less mailed
at Outside-County prices. The 5-digit Outside-County bundle charge
continues to be assessed on bundles of Outside-County Periodicals
prepared in accordance with these standards, even though mailpieces
being claimed at the carrier route piece price may be properly placed
within these bundles. FSS scheme pallets will be assessed the Outside-
County container charge for a 3-digit level pallet, and FSS facility
sort level pallets will be charged a container price for an SCF pallet,
except that there will be no container charge when FSS scheme pallets
are entered at an FSS facility. The Outside-County price is the same as
the DSCF price and the Inside-County pound price is the price for the
``none'' entry level. We strongly discourage unbound publications from
being placed in FSS scheme bundles until the USPS further evaluates
standards for automation compatibility.
Bound Printed Matter (BPM) flats prepared under these standards
placed on FSS scheme pallets, sacks or trays, and entered at an FSS
facility will be eligible for DSCF prices.
[[Page 76535]]
Changes for Letters, Flats, and Parcels
All Commercial Mail
To accommodate changes in facility functions, the Postal Service
has been allowing destination sectional center (DSCF) facility pricing
at some former SCFs. As advance notice, effective January 2015, to
qualify for DSCF pricing, mailers would be required to enter mail at an
actual SCF.
Periodicals
We have made a few editorial revisions to standards for Periodicals
in DMM 707.4.0, 707.6.0, 707.7.0, 707.9.0, and 707.18.0 to simplify the
text.
Tray and Sack Labels
We have revised standards for all tray labels to formalize what has
been a practical restriction: That all tray labels be non-adhesive.
This enables quicker turnaround of empty trays for customer use.
Changes for Parcels
New Live Animal Transportation Fee
The Postal Service is currently withdrawing the proposal to expand
application of the live animal transportation fee.
New Minimum Volume Criteria for Manifested Parcels (MMS and eVS)
To provide customers with more flexibility to ship their packages
using the Postal Service, we are reducing the minimum criteria of 200
pieces or 50 pounds, when paying postage by permit imprint, to 50
pieces or 50 pounds for manifest mailers using a manifest mailing
system (MMS) and eVS[supreg] for any single-piece parcel mailings. The
Postal Service will allow a combination of any domestic single-piece
priced (nonpresorted) parcels to meet the new minimum criteria using
one or more of the following: Priority Mail ExpressTM (PME),
Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service[supreg],
Parcel Select[supreg] Nonpresort, nonpresorted Bound Printed Matter,
and single-piece Media Mail[supreg] or Library Mail.
Extra Services and Other Services
Collect on Delivery (COD) Changes
The Postal Service removes the option for senders of nursery stock
shipped Collect on Delivery (COD) to include special instructions for
undeliverable shipments to be auctioned off to the highest bidder and
the proceeds remitted to the sender. Effective July 28, 2013, the
holding period for COD articles was reduced from 30 days to 10 days,
resulting in the USPS being able to return the nursery stock in less
time than we previously would hold it for delivery. Additionally, this
option has not been commonly used and has been difficult to administer.
Therefore, the special instructions for auctions are no longer needed.
The Postal Service also expands the standards for COD mail to allow
Hold for Pickup service to be added when COD mail is sent as Priority
Mail, First-Class Package Service, or Parcel Select Nonpresort.
Signature Handstamp Usage
The Postal Service clarifies the standards for use of an
addressee's signature handstamp for Priority Mail Express or
accountable mail items. Specifically, we clarify that the use of a
handstamp is not exclusive to the Form 3849. Once approved by the
Postmaster, a handstamp may be used for Priority Mail Express and other
accountable mail, including a Return Receipt (Form 3811) purchased with
the applicable extra service.
Although these revisions will not be published in the DMM until
January 26, 2014, mailers may now begin using addressee's signature
handstamps under the revised mailing standards.
Filing of Indemnity Claims
The Postal Service is continuing its efforts to simplify the claims
process and reduce the adjudication period when customers file
indemnity claims. In addition to further enhancements to our online
claims system, the Postal Service is streamlining the filing periods
and manual processes associated with claims processing for improved
efficiency. The claims filing periods for indemnity claims will be 60
days from the date of mailing, and subsequently, the claims appeals
timeline will be reduced from 60 days to 30 days from the date of the
original decision.
Customers should file indemnity claims online or, when no internet
access is available to the customer, claims may be filed by mail
directly to the Postal Service Accounting Services Center. A toll-free
number will be available to obtain Form 1000 for customers filing by
mail. The local Post OfficeTM will no longer file the
indemnity claims for customers, thus eliminating this extra time-
consuming step.
DMM language is revised for payable claims for coins, and other
collectibles to require a sales receipt, invoice or bill of sale, or
statement of value from a reputable dealer, and for firearms to require
a Form 1508 submission with the claim. Also, gift cards, most of which
are replaceable through the issuer, are being added to those items
under non-payable claims.
Return Receipt for Merchandise
As advance notice, the Postal Service plans to discontinue offering
Return Receipt for Merchandise service in July 2014, because Signature
Confirmation provides the same or equivalent service for a lower price.
2014 Promotions
The Postal Service will offer numerous mailing promotions in
calendar year 2014, and will share the details of these promotions on
the RIBBS[supreg] Web site soon.
List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111
Administrative practice and procedure, Postal Service.
For the reasons stated in the preamble, the Postal Service adopts
the following changes to Mailing Standards of the United States Postal
Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), incorporated by reference in the
Code of Federal Regulations. See 39 CFR 111.1. Accordingly, 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)
100 Retail Mail
* * * * *
130 First-Class Mail
133 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 First-Class Mail Prices and Fees
1.1 First-Class Mail Single-Piece Price Application
See Notice 123--Price List. The single-piece prices for First-Class
Mail are applied as follows:
[Revise items 1.1a and 1.1b as follows:]
a. The card price applies to a card meeting the standards in
101.6.3.
b. The letter price applies to letter-size pieces meeting the
standards in 101.1.1 and weighing 3.5 ounces or less, and that are not
eligible for the card price. There are separate prices for
[[Page 76536]]
stamped letters and for letters with postage affixed (other than
regular stamps) or imprinted by the mailer (Metered Mail price); see
134.1.1.
* * * * *
134 Postage Payment Methods
1.0 Postage Payment Methods for First-Class Mail
1.1 Payment Method
[Revise the text of 1.1 as follows:]
Postage for single-piece First-Class Mail must be paid with affixed
postage stamps (604.1.0), postage evidencing system postage (604.4.0)
or permit imprint (604.5.0). When mailers affix postage (other than
regular stamps) or use permit imprint on letters, such pieces are
eligible for the Metered Mail price.
* * * * *
200 Commercial Letters and Cards
* * * * *
230 First-Class Mail
233 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees for First-Class Mail
* * * * *
1.2 Price Computation for First-Class Mail Letters
[Revise the text of 1.2 as follows:]
Commercial First-Class Mail Presorted letters are charged at one
price for the first 2 ounces, with separate prices for pieces over 2
ounces up to 3 ounces and for pieces over 3 ounces up to 3.5 ounces.
Any fraction of an ounce is considered a whole ounce. The pricing per
ounce is similar for automation First-Class Mail letters, with pricing
per sortation level. Single-piece price letters that are residual
pieces from either a Presorted or automation mailing are charged the
residual single-piece price for letters up to 2 ounces, when the
mailing contains both 1-ounce and 2-ounce pieces and the pieces are
presented together, and the applicable Metered Mail prices (see
234.1.0) for all other residual pieces. See Notice 123--Price List.
* * * * *
2.0 Content Standards for First-Class Mail Letters
* * * * *
2.3 Personal Information
[Revise the text of 2.3 as follows:]
Mail containing personal information must be mailed as First-Class
Mail (or Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail). Personal information
is any information specific to the addressee.
* * * * *
234 Postage Payment and Documentation
1.0 Basic Standards for Postage Payment
1.1 Postage Payment Options
[Revise the text of 1.1 as follows:]
Postage for Presorted or automation First-Class Mail letters must
be paid with affixed postage or permit imprint as specified in 2.0.
Residual letters (from presorted or automation mailings) with such
postage may be eligible for the Metered Mail price.
2.0 Postage Payment for Presorted and Automation Letters
2.1 Payment Methods
[Revise the text of 2.1 as follows:]
First-Class Mail presorted and automation postage must be paid with
postage evidencing system indicia, permit imprints, or precanceled
stamps. All pieces in a mailing must be paid with the same method
unless otherwise permitted by standard or Business Mailer Support
authorization. Permit imprints may be used for mailings of
nonidentical-weight pieces only if authorized by Business Mailer
Support.
* * * * *
235 Mail Preparation
* * * * *
5.0 Preparing Nonautomation Letters
5.1 Basic Standards
* * * * *
5.1.2 Single-Piece Price Pieces Presented With Presort Mailings
* * * The following standards apply:
[Revise the first two sentences of the introductory paragraph of
item 5.1.2a as follows:]
a. The mailer must prepare the single-piece price pieces in
separate trays from the automation and presort pieces. Mailers must
label the trays under 708.6.0 using CIN code 260 on trays of single-
piece letters. * * *
* * * * *
[Revise item 5.1.2.a2 as follows:]
2. Line 2: Use the human-readable content line corresponding to
content identifier number 260 (see Exhibit 708.6.2.4).
* * * * *
240 Standard Mail
* * * * *
246 Enter and Deposit
* * * * *
2.0 Destination Entry
* * * * *
2.6 Deposit
* * * * *
2.6.7 Redirection at Mailer's Request
[Revise the text of 2.6.7 as follows:]
A mailer may ask to transport destination SCF price mail to a
facility other than the designated SCF. In very limited circumstances,
this exception may be approved only by the manager, Network Integration
Support (see 608.8.0 for address). To qualify for the SCF price in this
situation, mail deposited at a facility other than the SCF must
destinate for processing within that facility and must not require
backhauling to the SCF.
* * * * *
300 Commercial Flats
* * * * *
330 First-Class Mail
333 Prices and Eligibility
* * * * *
2.0 Content Standards for First-Class Mail Flats
* * * * *
2.3 Personal Information
[Revise the text of 2.3 as follows:]
Mail containing personal information must be mailed as First-Class
Mail (or Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail). Personal information
is any information specific to the addressee.
* * * * *
340 Standard Mail
343 Prices and Eligibility
* * * * *
5.0 Additional Eligibility Standards for Nonautomation Standard Mail
Flats
5.1 Basic Standards
All pieces in a Regular Standard Mail or Nonprofit Standard Mail
Presorted price mailing must:
* * * * *
[Revise 5.1d as follows:]
d. Be marked, sorted and documented as specified in 345 or
705.14.0.
* * * * *
5.3 5-Digit Prices for Flats
The 5-digit price applies to flat-size pieces:
[Revise 5.3a as follows:]
a. In a 5-digit/scheme bundle of 10 or more pieces, or 15 or more
pieces, as applicable; properly placed in a 5-digit/scheme sack
containing at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces; or 10 or
[[Page 76537]]
more 5-digit pieces properly included in a FSS 5-digit scheme pool
prepared under 705.14.
* * * * *
5.4 3-Digit Prices for Flats
The 3-digit price applies to flat-size pieces:
* * * * *
[Add new item 5.4c as follows:]
c. That are residual pieces not qualifying for carrier route or 5-
digit prices, but properly included in a FSS 5-digit scheme pool
prepared under 705.14.
* * * * *
6.0 Additional Eligibility Standards for Enhanced Carrier Route
Standard Mail Flats
6.1 General Enhanced Carrier Route Standards
* * * * *
6.1.2 Basic Eligibility Standards
All pieces in an Enhanced Carrier Route or Nonprofit Enhanced
Carrier Route Standard Mail mailing must:
* * * * *
[Revise item 6.1.2c as follows:]
c. Be sorted to carrier routes, marked, and documented under
345.6.0 or 705.8.0; or prepared under 705.14.0.
* * * * *
6.3 Basic Price Enhanced Carrier Route Standards
6.3.1 Sequencing
[Revise the text of 6.3.1 as follows:]
All pieces mailed at basic prices must be prepared in walk sequence
or in line-of-travel (LOT) sequence according to LOT schemes prescribed
by the USPS (see 345.6.9 and 345.6.10), except when prepared in FSS
bundles under 705.14.
6.3.2 Basic Price Eligibility
Basic prices apply to each piece in a carrier route bundle of 10 or
more pieces that is:
* * * * *
[Revise item 6.3.2a as follows:]
a. Palletized under 705.8.0, 705.10.0, 705.12.0, or 705.13.0.
* * * * *
[Add new item 6.3.2e as follows:]
e. Properly prepared to a FSS 5-digit scheme pool prepared under
705.14.
* * * * *
6.4 High Density and High-Density Plus (Enhanced Carrier Route)
Standards
6.4.1 Basic Eligibility Standards for High Density and High-Density
Plus Prices
All pieces mailed at high density prices must:
[Revise item 6.4.1a as follows:]
a. Be prepared in walk sequence according to schemes prescribed by
the USPS (see 345.6.9), except when prepared in FSS bundles under
705.14.
[Revise the third sentence of item 6.4.1b as follows:]
b. * * * Multiple pieces per delivery address can count toward the
density standards, except for pieces with simplified addresses as
allowed under 602.3.0.
* * * * *
6.4.2 High Density and High Density Plus Prices for Flats
[Revise the introductory text of 6.4.2 as follows:]
High density or high density plus prices apply to each piece
meeting the density standards in 6.4.1 and that is properly prepared in
an FSS bundle under 705.14 or in a carrier route bundle of 10 or more
pieces that is:
* * * * *
7.0 Additional Eligibility Standards for Automation Standard Mail Flats
7.1 Basic Eligibility Standards for Automation Standard Mail
All pieces in a Regular Standard Mail or Nonprofit Standard Mail
automation mailing must:
* * * * *
[Revise 7.1f as follows:]
f. Be marked, sorted and documented under 345.7.0 and 705.8.0
through 705.13.0; or prepared under 705.14.0.
* * * * *
7.3 Price Application
Automation prices apply to each piece properly sorted into
qualifying groups:
[Revise 7.3a and 7.3b as follows:]
a. The 5-digit price applies to flat-size pieces in a 5-digit/
scheme bundle of 10 or more pieces, or 15 or more pieces, as
applicable; or 10 or more 5-digit pieces properly prepared to a FSS 5-
digit scheme pool under 705.14.
b. The 3-digit price applies to flat-size pieces in a 3-digit/
scheme bundle of 10 or more pieces. It also applies to residual pieces
not qualifying for carrier route or 5-digit prices but included in a
FSS 5-digit scheme pool under 705.14.
* * * * *
345 Mail Preparation
1.0 General Information for Mail Preparation
* * * * *
[Add a new 1.6 as follows:]
1.6 FSS Preparation
Except for Standard Mail flats mailed at saturation, High Density
or High-Density Plus prices, all Standard Mail flats destinating to FSS
zones in accordance with labeling list L006 must be prepared under
705.14.0. Flats qualifying for High Density and High-Density Plus
prices also may be included in FSS 5-digit scheme pools.
* * * * *
346 Enter and Deposit
* * * * *
2.0 Destination Entry
* * * * *
2.6 Deposit
* * * * *
2.6.7 Redirection at Mailer's Request
[Revise the text of 2.6.7 as follows:]
A mailer may ask to transport destination SCF price mail to a
facility other than the designated SCF. In very limited circumstances,
this exception may be approved only by the manager, Network Integration
Support (see 608.8.0 for address). To qualify for the SCF price in this
situation, mail deposited at a facility other than the SCF must
destinate for processing within that facility and must not require
backhauling to the SCF.
* * * * *
4.0 Destination Sectional Center Facility (DSCF) Entry
* * * * *
4.2 Eligibility
Pieces in a mailing that meets the standards in 2.0 and 4.0 are
eligible for the DSCF price, as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.2c as follows:]
c. DSCF prices apply to residual pieces eligible for 3-digit prices
that are properly placed on a FSS scheme pallet, and pieces from all
eligible price categories properly placed in a FSS scheme sack or tray,
when deposited at a USPS-designated FSS processing facility and labeled
to a FSS scheme processed by that facility or to a 5-digit destination
processed by that facility under labeling list L006. These pieces must
include a full delivery address and meet the physical standards for
FSS-machinability in 705.14.0.
[[Page 76538]]
[Delete item 4.2d in its entirety.]
* * * * *
[Renumber the current 5.0 as the new 6.0, and add a new 5.0 as
follows:]
5.0 Destination Flat Sequencing System (DFSS) Facility Entry
5.1 Definition
Destination Flat Sequencing System Facility (DFSS) refers to the
facilities listed in L006, Column C.
5.2 Eligibility
DFSS prices apply to pieces deposited at a USPS-designated FSS
processing facility and correctly placed on a pallet labeled to a FSS
scheme processed by that facility or to a 5-digit destination processed
by that facility under labeling list L006. These pieces must include a
full delivery address and meet the physical standards for FSS
machinability in 705.14.0.
* * * * *
360 Bound Printed Matter
* * * * *
365 Mail Preparation
1.0 General Information for Mail Preparation
* * * * *
[Add a new 1.6 as follows:]
1.6 FSS Preparation
BPM flats claiming presort or carrier route prices, meeting the
standards in 301.3.2 and destinating to FSS zones in accordance with
labeling list L006, must be prepared under 705.14.0.
* * * * *
366 Enter and Deposit
* * * * *
3.0 Destination Entry
* * * * *
3.9 Deposit
* * * * *
3.9.7 Redirection at Mailer's Request
[Revise the text of 3.9.7 as follows:]
A mailer may ask to transport destination SCF price mail to a
facility other than the designated SCF. In very limited circumstances,
this exception may be approved only by the manager, Network Integration
Support (see 608.8.0 for address). To qualify for the SCF price in this
situation, mail deposited at a facility other than the SCF must
destinate for processing within that facility and must not require
backhauling to the SCF.
* * * * *
5.0 Destination Sectional Center Facility (DSCF) Entry
5.1 Eligibility
[Revise the introductory text of 5.1 as follows:]
Bound Printed Matter pieces in a mailing meeting the standards in
3.0 are eligible for the DSCF price when they meet all of the following
additional conditions:
* * * * *
b. Are deposited at:
* * * * *
[Revise item 5.1b2 as follows:]
2. a USPS-designated FSS processing facility and correctly placed
in a flat tray, sack, or on a pallet, labeled to a FSS scheme processed
by that facility or to a 5-digit destination processed by that facility
under labeling list L006. These pieces must include a full delivery
address and meet the physical standards for FSS-machinability in
705.14.0.
* * * * *
400 Commercial Parcels
* * * * *
440 Standard Mail
* * * * *
446 Enter and Deposit
* * * * *
2.0 Destination Entry
* * * * *
2.6 Deposit
* * * * *
2.6.7 Redirection at Mailer's Request
[Revise the text of 2.6.7 as follows:]
A mailer may ask to transport destination SCF price mail to a
facility other than the designated SCF. In very limited circumstances,
this exception may be approved only by the manager, Network Integration
Support (see 608.8.0 for address). To qualify for the SCF price in this
situation, mail deposited at a facility other than the SCF must
destinate for processing within that facility and must not require
backhauling to the SCF.
* * * * *
460 Bound Printed Matter
* * * * *
466 Enter and Deposit
* * * * *
3.0 Destination Entry
* * * * *
3.9 Deposit
* * * * *
3.9.7 Redirection at Mailer's Request
[Revise the text of 3.9.7 as follows:]
A mailer may ask to transport destination SCF price mail to a
facility other than the designated SCF. In very limited circumstances,
this exception may be approved only by the manager, Network Integration
Support (see 608.8.0 for address). To qualify for the SCF price in this
situation, mail deposited at a facility other than the SCF must
destinate for processing within that facility and must not require
backhauling to the SCF.
* * * * *
500 Additional Mailing Services
503 Extra Services
1.0 Registered Mail
* * * * *
1.6 Inquiry on Uninsured Article
* * * * *
1.6.2 When and How To File
[Revise the current third sentence and add a new fourth sentence to
1.6.2 as follows:]
* * * File an inquiry for Registered Mail with no declared value by
completing a Form 1000. See Publication 122 for additional information.
* * * * *
12.0 Collect on Delivery (COD)
* * * * *
12.2 Basic Information
12.2.1 Description
[Revise the text of 12.2.1 as follows:]
Any mailer may use collect on delivery (COD) service to mail an
article for which the mailer has not been paid and have its price and
the cost of the postage collected (not to exceed $1,000.00) from the
addressee (or agent). COD service provides the mailer with a mailing
receipt and the USPS maintains a record of delivery (including the
recipient's signature) for two years. The recipient may pay the COD
amount due for a mailpiece (with one form of payment) by cash, or a
personal check or money order made payable to the mailer. The USPS
forwards the check or money order to the mailer. The Postal Service
cannot intervene in disputes between mailers and recipients of COD mail
after payment was returned to the mailer. Customers may obtain a
delivery record by purchasing a return receipt. Bulk proof of delivery
service (6.0) is also available if purchasing electronic return receipt
service at the time of mailing. A mailer must use a unique COD number
for each article mailed.
[[Page 76539]]
12.2.2 Eligible Matter
[Revise the introductory text of 12.2.2 as follows:]
COD service may be used for Priority Mail Express (1-day and 2-day
service only), Priority Mail (except Critical Mail), First-Class Mail,
First-Class Package Service, Standard Post, and Package Services or
Parcel Select (except Parcel Select Lightweight) mailpieces if:
* * * * *
12.2.3 Additional Services
[Revise the text of 12.2.3 as follows:]
COD service may be used with Hold For Pick Up service under
508.7.0, and may also be combined with the following services when the
additional service fees are paid:
a. Restricted delivery.
b. Return receipt.
c. USPS Tracking (except with Priority Mail Express COD).
d. Registered Mail.
e. Signature Confirmation (except with Priority Mail Express COD).
f. Special handling.
12.2.4 Registered COD Mail
[Revise 12.2.4 by deleting the current last two sentences and
inserting a new last sentence as follows:]
* * * The label and form must be affixed according to 12.4.1
12.2.5 Priority Mail Express COD
[Revise the text of 12.2.5 as follows:]
Any article sent COD also may be sent by Priority Mail Express when
a delivery signature is requested. The maximum amount collectible from
the addressee and the indemnity for an individual article is limited to
$1,000.00. Priority Mail Express postage and the COD fees must be paid.
The label and form must be affixed according to 12.4.1.
* * * * *
12.2.7 Redirecting COD Articles
[Revise the text of 12.2.7 as follows:]
The mailer of a COD article may use USPS Package Intercept service
under 507.5.0 to redirect the article to a new addressee at a
designated Post Office using Hold For Pickup service.
12.3 Forms
12.3.1 Form 3816
[Revise the text of 12.3.1 as follows:]
Mailers must complete barcoded Form 3816 (see Exhibit 12.3.1) or
Form 3816-AS (see 12.3.2) and attach it above the delivery address and
to the right of the return address, or to the left of the delivery
address on parcels.
* * * * *
12.3.2 Privately Printed Form 3816-AS
[Revise the text of 12.3.2 as follows:]
If authorized, a mailer may use a privately printed Form 3816-AS in
a 3-ply or 5-ply format. If Form 3816-AS does not provide detachable
second and third copies, use Form 3877 under 12.4.4. The privately
printed form must be nearly identical in text, design, and color to
postal Form 3816, with a COD article number that can be read by
automated postal equipment and an Intelligent Mail package barcode
(IMpb) prepared under 708.5.0. As stated in Publication 199, available
at http://ribbs.usps.gov/, mailers must provide pre-production barcoded
COD labels to the National Customer Service Center (NCSC) for review
and approval prior to use.
12.3.3 Nursery Stock
[Revise the complete text of 12.3.3 as follows:]
A firm that mails nursery stock may use Form 3816-AS (see 12.3.2)
and include instructions for disposing of shipments not delivered
immediately under the following conditions. The firm's instructions on
the back of the delivery office part of the COD form (1), and on the
remittance coupon (2), should read as follows:
a. ``If recipient refuses to pay charges for any reason, deliver at
once without collecting the charges. If parcel is not deliverable or
not claimed by the addressee after 10 days, destroy parcel. See
remittance coupon for further instructions.''
b. ``Return this coupon with money order. If parcel is delivered
without collection of charges, or is destroyed after 10 days, check
disposition and send coupon to sender in penalty envelope.''
[squ] Delivered to addressee without collecting charges.
[squ] Destroyed after 10 days.
12.4 Mailing
12.4.1 Identifying Number
[Revise the text of 12.4.1 as follows:]
COD articles are identified by a number on each section of the COD
form. When COD is used with Priority Mail Express, Registered Mail,
Hold For Pickup service or, a separate barcoded shipping label, the
mailer must place both the label and the COD form on the front of the
article. The Priority Mail Express article number or the Registered
Mail number is used for delivery receipt and indemnity claims. When a
separate Hold For Pickup or barcoded shipping label is used, the
identifying tracking numbers on the label and the COD form must match.
[Delete item 12.4.2, Numbering for Large Volumes, in its entirety
(context of text relocated into 12.2.1), and renumber current items
12.4.3 through 12.4.8 as new items 12.4.2 through 12.4.7]
12.4.2 Completing COD Forms
[Revise the text of renumbered 12.4.2 as follows:]
The mailer must securely affix the COD form to each COD article.
The form must show article number, names and addresses of mailer and
recipient, amount due mailer, and amount of money order fee. This
information must be handwritten with ink, typewritten, or computer-
printed. The mailer may not stipulate ``Cash Only'' on the COD form.
The USPS is not responsible for errors that a mailer makes in stating
the charges to be collected.
12.4.3 Addressing Forms
[Revise the second sentence of renumbered 12.4.3 as follows:]
* * * The return address on the COD form must be the same as the
return address on the COD article, except that a mailer using a Form
3816-AS may print a different address on the remittance coupon where
payments are to be sent. * * *
12.4.4 Receipt
[Revise the text of renumbered 12.4.4 as follows:]
A mailer using Form 3816 receives a section of this form as a
receipt. If three or more COD articles are presented for mailing at one
time, the mailer may use Form 3877 (firm sheet) or privately printed
firm sheets in conjunction with Form 3816. When a mailer uses a Form
3816-AS that does not provide detachable second and third copies, Form
3877 also must be used. Privately printed or computer-generated firm
sheets that contain the same information as Form 3877 may be approved
by the local Postmaster or manager, Business Mail Entry. Mailers may
omit columns from Form 3877 that do not apply to COD mail. The mailer
must submit firm sheets in duplicate and will receive one copy of the
postmarked form as a mailing receipt (in lieu of Copy 3 of Form 3816 or
Form 3816-AS) after the entries are verified by a postal employee. The
acceptance Post Office retains the second copy. All entries on Form
3877 or privately-printed firm sheets must be made by typewriter,
printed in ink, or computer-generated. Alterations must be initialed by
the mailer and accepting employee. All unused portions of the addressee
[[Page 76540]]
column must be obliterated with a diagonal line.
* * * * *
12.5 Delivery
[Revise the text of 12.5 as follows:]
Delivery of COD mail is subject to 508.1.0 and 508.2.0. Except for
Priority Mail Express COD, a Postmaster may restrict delivery of COD
mail if the amount to be collected makes the carrier a potential target
for theft or if it is known that the addressee will be unavailable to
receive the article. If payment is by check or a money order made
payable to the mailer, the recipient must present adequate
identification. If payment is made by cash, a money order fee is
collected from the recipient in addition to the COD amount.
* * * * *
505 Return Services
* * * * *
2.0 Permit Reply Mail
2.1 General Information
* * * * *
2.1.5 Special Standards for PRM Pieces With an Optical Disc
[Revise the second sentence of 2.1.5 as follows:]
* * *. A flat-size PRM piece containing one standard optical disc
and weighing no more than 2 ounces will be charged postage applicable
for a 1-ounce First-Class Mail letter if the piece meets the standards
in 333.2.7.
* * * * *
507 Mailer Services
1.0 Treatment of Mail
* * * * *
1.5 Treatment for Ancillary Services by Class of Mail
* * * * *
1.5.3 Standard Mail and Parcel Select Lightweight
* * * * *
Exhibit 1.5.3, Treatment of Undeliverable Standard Mail and Parcel
Select Lightweight
MAILER ENDORSEMENT USPS TREATMENT OF UAA PIECES
* * * * *
[In the ``MAILER ENDORSEMENT'' column, change the footnote appended
to ``Forwarding Service Requested'' from the current ``2'' to footnote
``3.'']
* * * * *
[In the MAILER ENDORSEMENT'' column, change the footnotes appended
to the first listing of ``Change Service Requested'' from the current
``1, 3'' to ``1, 4.'']
* * * * *
[At the bottom of the table, redesignate current footnotes 2 and 3
as new 3 and 4, respectively, and add new footnote 2 (restored from its
intended place where it was as of 1-27-2013) to read as follows:]
1. The weighted (per piece) fee is the First-Class Mail or Priority
Mail single-piece price and any nonmachinable surcharge (see 133.1.0),
multiplied by 2.472; rounding any fractions to the next whole cent.
* * * * *
1.8 Returning Mail
* * * * *
1.8.5 Extra Services
[Revise 1.8.5 by revising the third and fourth sentences and adding
a new fifth sentence as follows:]
* * * The sender must sign a delivery receipt for returned Priority
Mail Express, Registered Mail, COD articles, Adult Signature services,
and mail insured for more than $200. Returned Priority Mail Express
(when waiver of signature is requested by the sender), Certified Mail,
and mail with Signature Confirmation or return receipt for merchandise
service may be returned to the sender without obtaining a signature
when those mailpieces are returned as undeliverable.
* * * * *
4.0 Address Correction Services
* * * * *
4.3 Sender Instructions
* * * * *
4.3.2 Extra Services
[Revise the complete text of 4.3.2 as follows:]
A change-of-address order to a domestic address covers Certified
Mail, COD, insured, Registered Mail, Signature Confirmation, Adult
Signature services, and return receipt for merchandise mail unless the
sender gives other instructions.
This mail is treated as follows:
a. COD mail is not forwarded to overseas military Post Offices.
b. Ordinary and insured parcels marked with the mailer's
instructions are treated following instructions, such as: ``Do not
forward or return. If not accepted within ---- days, treat as
abandoned. Notify mailer of disposition.''
c. COD mail will be handled as requested when marked under 503.12.
* * * * *
508 Recipient Services
1.0 Recipient Options
1.1 Basic Recipient Concerns
* * * * *
1.1.7 Priority Mail Express and Accountable Mail
[Revise the introductory text of 1.1.7 as follows:]
The following conditions also apply to the delivery of Priority
Mail Express and other accountable mail (Registered Mail, Certified
Mail, insured for more than $200.00, COD, or Adult Signature services
as well as mail with return receipt service, return receipt for
merchandise service, or restricted delivery service:
[Revise item 1.1.7a as follows:]
a. The addressee (or representative) may obtain the sender's name
and address while held by the USPS employee before accepting delivery
and endorsing the delivery receipt.
* * * * *
[Revise item 1.1.7c as follows:]
c. Suitable identification may be required of the recipient before
delivery of the mailpiece.
* * * * *
[Revise item 1.1.7e as follows:]
e. USPS responsibility ends when the mailpiece is delivered to the
addressee (or another party, subject to 1.0).
* * * * *
[Revise all of item 1.1.7g as follows:]
g. A hand stamp approved by the Postmaster may be used by the
addressee (or authorized agent) to provide the signature and name of
the individual or organization receiving the mailpiece as follows:
1. The hand stamp imprint must fit within the Signature and Printed
Name blocks on Form 3849, without overlapping into other sections.
2. To obtain approval for a hand stamp, the company must submit a
written statement to the postmaster that the person whose name appears
on the stamp is authorized to accept accountable mail, accompanied by a
sample of the authorized employee's signature. After approval, the
documentation is held by the postmaster and the stamped signature and
name are acceptable only if a legible impression is provided within the
Signature and Printed Name blocks on Form 3849.
3. For mail addressed only to a federal or state official, the
stamp need show only the name and location of the accepting
organization. In these cases, the stamp imprint must fit within the
Printed Name and Delivery Address
[[Page 76541]]
block of Form 3849 without overlapping into other sections.
* * * * *
7.0 Hold For Pickup
* * * * *
7.2 Basic Information
7.2.1 Description
[Revise the text of 7.2.1 as follows:]
Hold For Pickup service allows mailpieces to be held at a
designated Post Office for pickup by an addressee. When the mailer has
provided contact information to the destination Post Office, the
customer is notified by email that a package is available for pickup.
This service provides the shipper with the date and time of delivery to
the addressee. If the item has not been picked up within 5 days, the
Post Office makes a second notification attempt and returns the item to
the sender if not picked up within 15 days.
7.2.2 Basic Eligibility
[Revise the complete text of 7.2.2 as follows:]
Hold For Pickup service is available with Priority Mail Express. It
is also available with commercial mailings of Priority Mail (except
Critical Mail), First-Class Package Service parcels, and Parcel Select
Nonpresort parcels when:
a. Mailpieces bear the Hold For Pickup label with an Intelligent
Mail package barcode under 708.5.0.
b. One of the extra services in 7.2.6 is combined with Hold For
Pickup service.
* * * * *
7.2.6 Extra Services
[Revise the introductory text of 7.2.6 as follows:]
Hold For Pickup service, except when used with Priority Mail
Express, must be combined with one or more of the following:
* * * * *
[Add new item 7.2.6e as follows:]
e. Collect on Delivery (COD).
7.3 Preparation Definitions and Instructions
Except for Priority Mail Express Hold For Pickup presented at
retail Post Office locations, mailers must prepare mailpieces bearing
the ``Hold For Pickup'' label as follows:
[Delete current item 7.3a in its entirety, and redesignate current
items b through d as new items a through c; additionally revise
redesignated item 7.3a as follows:]
a. Exchange electronic files with USPS through an approved file
transfer protocol to notify the addressee when a parcel is available
for pickup or to notify the mailer that items are available to be
picked up as ``return to sender.''
* * * * *
c. In addition to the markings defined in 7.0, address labels on a
Hold For Pickup mailpiece must contain the elements below:
* * * * *
[Revise redesignated 7.3c7 as follows:]
7. The lower half of the address label must contain a correct
Intelligent Mail package barcode under 708.5.0 or an integrated barcode
as defined in Publication 199.
[Insert new item 7.3c8 as follows:]
8. If combined with COD service, other information as required in
503.12.
* * * * *
600 Basic Standards for All Mailing Services
* * * * *
602 Addressing
1.0 Elements of Addressing
* * * * *
1.5 Return Addresses
* * * * *
[Renumber current 1.5.4 as new 1.5.5; add new 1.5.4 to read as
follows:]
1.5.4 Use of Foreign Return Addresses
Regardless of destination, when U.S. postage is applied to a
mailpiece, only a domestic return address is authorized, except when
the addressee's permanent residence is outside the United States or its
territories (e.g., a tourist who lives abroad and is shipping an item
home from the United States). This exception is applicable for only
incidental non-commercial use for single-piece price mailpieces.
* * * * *
4.0 Detached Address Labels (DALs) and Detached Marketing Labels (DMLs)
4.1 DAL and DML Use
* * * * *
4.1.2 Periodicals or Standard Mail Flats Saturation Mailings
[Revise the text of 4.1.2 as follows:]
Saturation mailings of only unaddressed Periodicals or Standard
Mail flats may be mailed with detached address labels (DALs), but DALs
may not bear simplified addresses when used with Standard Mail flats.
For this standard, saturation mailing means a mailing sent to at least
75% of the total addresses on a carrier route or 90% of the residential
addresses on a route, whichever is less. Saturation flats presented
with DALs that are not automation-compatible and correctly barcoded do
not qualify for saturation prices. Instead they may be entered at
applicable basic carrier route prices. This standard (for automation-
compatible barcoded DALs) does not apply to DALs with simplified
addressing when correctly used with Periodicals flats.
* * * * *
4.2 Label Preparation
* * * * *
4.2.2 Addressing
[Revise the text of 4.2.2 as follows:]
The address for each item must be placed on a DAL, parallel to the
longest dimension of the DAL, and may not appear on the item it
accompanies. The DAL must contain the delivery address and a return
address. In addition, if DALs accompany saturation mailings of
Periodicals or Standard Mail flats, a correct Intelligent Mail barcode
with an 11-digit routing code must be printed on each DAL except when
using a simplified address for Periodicals flats as allowed by
standards.
* * * * *
4.5 Postage
* * * * *
4.5.2 Postage Computation and Payment
* * * In addition, these methods of postage payment apply:
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.5.2b as follows:]
b. Standard Mail flats (except EDDM flats) and parcels and Bound
Printed Matter pieces must be paid by permit imprint, which must appear
on each DAL.
* * * * *
604 Postage Payment Methods
* * * * *
5.0 Permit Imprint (Indicia)
5.1 General Standards
* * * * *
5.1.2 Minimum Volume
Permit imprint mailings must contain at least 200 pieces or 50
pounds of mail, except:
* * * * *
[Add new item 5.1.2g as follows:]
g. A mailing containing 50 pieces or 50 pounds of nonpresorted
single-piece domestic mail parcels submitted under the terms of an
approved Manifest Mailing System (including eVS) agreement under
705.2.0. Mailers may include any combination of the following products
under this provision: Priority Mail Express (eVS only), Priority Mail,
First-Class Package Service parcels, First-Class Mail parcels,
[[Page 76542]]
nonpresorted Bound Printed Matter parcels, Parcel Select Nonpresort
parcels, and single-piece Media Mail and Library Mail parcels. Parcels
in USPS-provided packaging, including Flat Rate Envelopes and Boxes,
may be included.*
* * * * *
608 Postal Information and Resources
* * * * *
8.0 USPS Contact Information
8.1 Postal Service
* * * * *
[Add a new listing in alphabetical order as follows:]
Network Integration Support, 475 L'Enfant Plz SW., Rm 7536, Washington
DC 20260-2806
* * * * *
609 Filing Indemnity Claims for Loss or Damage
1.0 General Filing Instructions
1.1 Extra Services With Indemnity
[Revise the text of 1.1 as follows:]
A customer may file an indemnity claim for insured mail, COD items,
Registered Mail with postal insurance, or Priority Mail Express. See
Publication 122, available on www.usps.com, for additional information.
* * * * *
1.4 When To File
File claims as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise the chart in 1.4 as follows:]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
When to file (from mailing date)
Mail type or service ---------------------------------------
No sooner than No later than
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Priority Mail Express........... 7 days............ 60 days.
Priority Mail Express COD....... 15 days........... 60 days.
Registered Mail................. 15 days........... 60 days.
Registered Mail COD............. 15 days........... 60 days.
Insured Mail (including Priority 15 days........... 60 days.
Mail under 3.2).
COD............................. 15 days........... 60 days.
APO/FPO Priority Mail, Express 21 days........... 180 days.
Military Service.
APO/FPO/DPO Insured Mail and 45 days........... 1 year.
Registered Mail (Priority Mail,
First-Class Mail, SAM, or PAL).
APO/FPO/DPO Insured Mail 75 days........... 1 year.
(Surface only).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Delete item 1.5, Where to File, in its entirely and renumber
current 1.6 and 1.7 as new item 1.5 and 1.6, then revise the title of
renumbered 1.5 as follows:]
1.5 Where and How To File
1.5.1 Claims Filed Online
[Revise the first and second sentences of renumbered 1.5.1 as
follows:]
Domestic indemnity claims should be filed online (preferred) at
www.usps.com/domestic-claims for domestic insured mail, COD, Registered
Mail with postal insurance, and Priority Mail Express. Proof of value
is required and should be submitted online as an uploaded file (.pdf or
.jpeg). * * *
1.5.2 Claims Filed by Mail
[Revise the text of renumbered 1.5.2 as follows:]
Customers may file a claim by completing a Form 1000 and mailing it
to the address indicated on the form, accompanied by proof of value.
Obtain Form 1000 by calling 1-800-332-0317, option 9. For pieces with
multiple extra services, the customer must provide original receipts
for all services purchased. Upon request by the USPS, the customer must
submit proof of damage under 2.0 for damaged items or missing contents.
[Delete renumbered 1.5.3, Claims Filed at the Post Office and
current 1.7, Filing Duplicate Claims, in their entirety.]
2.0 Providing Proof of Loss or Damage
[Delete the title of current 2.1, and revise the text of current
2.1 as new 2.0 as follows:]
If a claim is filed because some or all of the contents are missing
or damaged, the addressee must retain the mailing container, including
any damaged articles, all packaging, and any contents received. Upon
written request by the USPS, the addressee must make this proof
available to the local Post Office for inspection, retention, and
disposition in accordance with the claims decision. Failure to do so
will result in denial of the claim.
[Delete current 2.2, Proof of Damage, in its entirety.]
3.0 Providing Evidence of Insurance and Value
3.1 Evidence of Insurance
[Revise the complete text of 3.1 as follows:]
For a claim involving articles listed in 1.1, the customer must
retain evidence showing that the specific USPS service was purchased,
until the claim is resolved. Examples of acceptable evidence are:
a. The original mailing receipt issued at the time of mailing
(retail insured mail, Registered Mail, and COD receipts must contain a
USPS postmark). For insured mail, a photocopy of the original mailing
receipt is acceptable.
b. The outer packaging showing the names and addresses of the
sender and the addressee and the proper label showing that the article
was sent insured, COD, Registered Mail with postal insurance, or
Priority Mail Express. (If only the outer packaging is submitted,
indemnity can be limited to $100 for insured, $50 for COD, $100 for
Registered Mail, and $100 for Priority Mail Express.)
c. For Priority Mail Express items accepted under a Priority Mail
Express Manifesting agreement in 705.2.0, a copy of the manifest page
showing the Priority Mail Express label number for the item; the
manifest summary page for the mailing date of the piece; a copy of Form
3152-E round-dated by the accepting Post Office; and a copy of the
USPSCA monthly statement that lists the label number and postage for
the mailpiece. If the customer purchased additional insurance, a copy
of the round-stamped Form 3877 also must be submitted.
d. For insurance purchased online, a printed electronic online
label record or a computer printout from the application used to print
the label and purchase the insurance. The printout must identify the
USPS Tracking number of the insured parcel, total postage paid,
insurance fee paid, declared value, mailing date, origin ZIP Code, and
delivery ZIP Code.
[[Page 76543]]
e. For insured mail or COD mail paid using MMS or eVS under 705.2,
the mailer must use one of the following:
1. A Detail Record in their Shipping Services file version 1.6 or
higher, with recipient name and address information for the accountable
extra services pieces in the mailing.
2. A printout of the part of Form 3877 that identifies the parcel
by article number, the package identification code (PIC) of the insured
or COD parcel, total postage paid, fee paid, declared insured value,
amount due sender if COD, mailing date, origin ZIP Code, and delivery
ZIP Code reported in the parcel record in the manifest file.
[Revise the title and introductory text of 3.2 as follows:]
3.2 Proof of Value
Either the mailer or the addressee must submit acceptable proof to
establish the cost or value of the article at the time it was mailed.
Proof of value should be submitted electronically or attached to the
claim form under 1.6; otherwise, the claim cannot be processed. Other
proof may be requested to help determine an accurate value. Examples
are:
* * * * *
[Revise item 3.2b as follows:]
b. For items valued up to $50, the customer's statement describing
the lost or damaged article and including the date and place of
purchase, the amount paid, and whether the item was new or used (if a
receipt or invoice is not available).
* * * * *
[Revise item 3.2g as follows:]
g. A copy of a credit card statement or other documentation
indicating the amount paid.
* * * * *
4.0 Claims
4.1 Payable Claim
[Revise the introductory sentence of 4.1 as follows:]
Insurance for loss or damage to insured, COD, or Registered Mail
within the amount covered by the fee paid or the indemnity limits for
Priority Mail Express (under 4.2) is payable for the following:
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.1g as follows:]
g. For stamps and coins of philatelic or numismatic value; the fair
market value is determined by a recognized stamp or coin dealer or
current coin and stamp collectors' newsletters and trade papers. The
date of the fair market value determination must be current and prior
to the mailing date.
* * * * *
[Insert new items 4.1p and 4.1q as follows:]
p. For firearms mailed by licensed firearm dealers under 601.12, a
Form 1508 must be submitted with the claim.
q. For collectible items, a sales receipt, invoice or bill of sale,
or statement of value from a reputable dealer must be provided as
described in 3.2.a.
4.2 Payable Priority Mail Express Claim
[Revise the introductory text of 4.2 and the introductory text of
item 4.2a as follows:]
In addition to the payable claims in 4.1, the following are payable
for Priority Mail Express mailpieces:
a. Nonnegotiable documents are insured against loss, damage, or
loss of some contents while in transit. Coverage is limited to $100 per
mailpiece, subject to a maximum limit per occurrence as provided in
4.2a4. Claims for document reconstruction insurance must be supported
by a statement of expense incurred in reconstruction. Nonnegotiable
documents include audit and business records, commercial papers, and
other written instruments that cannot be negotiable or cannot be
converted into cash without forgery. Articles such as artwork,
collector or antique items, books, pamphlets, readers' proofs, repro
proofs, separation negatives, engineering drawings, blueprints,
circulars, advertisements, film, negatives, and photographs are
considered merchandise, not documents. Indemnity for document
reconstruction is paid as follows:
* * * * *
4.3 Nonpayable Claims
Indemnity is not paid for insured mail, Registered Mail, COD, or
Priority Mail Express in these situations:
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.3f as follows:]
f. Loss resulting from delay of the mail, except under 4.2a2 and
4.3ad below.
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.3k as follows:]
k. Death of honeybees, crickets, and harmless live animals not the
fault of the USPS (mailability is subject to 601.9.0).
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.3r as follows:]
r. Consequential loss of Priority Mail Express, except under 4.2a3
and 4.3ad.
* * * * *
[Revise item 4.3aa as follows:]
aa. Lottery tickets, sweepstakes tickets, contest entries, gift
cards and similar items.
* * * * *
6.0 Adjudication of Claims
* * * * *
6.2 Appealing a Claim Decision
[Revise the text of 6.2 as follows:]
A customer may appeal a claim decision within 30 days from the date
of the original decision at www.usps.com/insuranceclaims/online.
Customers who did not file their claim online must send written appeals
to Accounting Services (see 608.8.0 for address).
6.3 Final USPS Decision of Claims
[Revise the text of 6.3 as follows:]
If Accounting Services sustains the denial of a claim, the customer
may submit an additional appeal within 30 days for final review and
decision to the Consumer Advocate (see 608.8.0 for address).
* * * * *
700 Special Standards
* * * * *
705 Advanced Preparation and Special Postage Payment Systems
* * * * *
8.0 Preparing Pallets
* * * * *
8.5 General Preparation
* * * * *
8.5.6 Mail on Pallets
These standards apply to mail on pallets:
* * * * *
[Revise item 8.5.6h as follows:]
h. Heavier, fuller trays must be placed at the bottom of the load,
unless excepted by other standards (such as 245.7.7) that may require
placement on the top of the pallet.
* * * * *
14.0 Combining Bundles of Flats on Pallets Within FSS Zones
14.1 General
[Revise the introductory paragraph of 14.1 as follows:]
Presorted and basic carrier route Standard Mail flats, and all
Bound Printed Matter (BPM) presorted and carrier route flats and
Periodicals flats meeting the standards in 301.3.2, must be
consolidated into 5-digit FSS scheme bundles and placed on pallets, in
sacks, or in approved alternate containers, for 5-digit FSS scheme ZIP
Code
[[Page 76544]]
combinations within the same facility. Mailings that include 10 or more
pieces of Standard Mail flats, 6 or more pieces of Periodicals flats or
10 or more pieces (or 10 or more pounds) of BPM flats to a FSS scheme,
must be prepared in FSS scheme bundles for that 5-digit FSS scheme.
Mailers may optionally prepare scheme pools with less than those
minimums and may prepare an FSS scheme bundle if there is a minimum of
3 inches per bundle. Mailings of nonpresorted BPM flats may be included
in FSS preparation, but will not be eligible for presorted or carrier
route prices. The Postal Service also recommends the use of flat trays
in lieu of sacks for FSS bundles. Bundles of flats prepared to FSS
zones also may be combined with bundles of flats not intended for FSS
processing when prepared to less finely presorted containers in
accordance with these standards and the standards in 8.0. Mailers must
place qualifying mailpieces from all price categories into a separate
combined pool for each individual 5-digit FSS-scheme combination, and
then prepare bundles of uniform size from those pieces. Mailpieces that
meet the eligibility standards for 5-digit prices, basic and high
density carrier route prices, or BPM presort or carrier route prices
will continue to be eligible for these prices when prepared in
accordance with the FSS preparation standards. Saturation price
Standard Mail and Periodicals flats are not eligible for preparation
under this option. High Density and High-Density Plus Standard Mail
flats that meet the physical requirements in 301.3 may be included when
prepared in accordance with these standards. Mailpieces and bundles
must also be prepared as follows:
[Revise 14.1a and b as follows:]
a. Bundles for all FSS schemes must be identified as a 5-digit
scheme presort with an optional endorsement line under 708.7.0; or when
authorized, using a red Label 5 SCH barcoded pressure-sensitive bundle
label.
b. It is recommended that all Standard Mail and Periodicals pieces
placed into an FSS pool be barcoded, and bear an accurate delivery
point Intelligent Mail barcode with an accurate 11-digit routing code.
* * * * *
[Revise 14.1j as follows:]
j. An FSS scheme pallet, or approved alternate container, must be
made when 250 pounds or more of bundles are available for an individual
FSS 5-digit scheme. Bundles remaining after palletization may be placed
in sacks (or flat trays if approved).
* * * * *
14.2 Periodicals
14.2.1 Basic Standards
[Revise the introductory paragraph of 14.2.1 as follows:]
Except for Periodicals flats mailed at In-County prices,
Periodicals flats mailings of 5,000 pieces or less mailed at Outside-
County prices, or otherwise excepted Periodicals flats mailings, all
Periodicals flats meeting the standards in 301.3.2 (nonmachinable flats
up to 1-inch thick may be included if they meet the standards in
705.14) and destinating to FSS zones as shown in L006, must be prepared
according to these standards. Mailings of In-County Periodicals flats
and Outside-County Periodicals flats mailings of 5,000 pieces or less
also may be prepared according to these standards. Periodicals are
subject to the following:
* * * * *
[Revise 14.2.1a and 14.2.1b as follows:]
a. Pricing eligibility is based on 707.11.0 through 707.14.0,
except that the 5-digit Outside-County bundle charge will be assessed
to bundles of Outside-County Periodicals prepared in accordance with
these standards, including bundles of flats claimed at the carrier
route piece price. All Periodicals flats prepared under these standards
will be assessed the 3-digit bundle price without regard to the piece
prices claimed. FSS bundles placed on FSS scheme or FSS facility
pallets, sacks or trays will claim the 3-digit bundle price.
b. FSS 5-digit scheme pallets will be assessed the Outside-County
container charge for the 3-digit level pallet, except that there is no
container charge for FSS 5-digit scheme pallets entered at a DFSS
facility. FSS facility sort level pallets will be charged a container
price for the SCF pallet. FSS scheme sacks or trays will continue to be
assessed the 3-digit price. Sacks and trays entered at a DFSS will
claim the DSCF entry price.
[Redesignate current 14.2.1c through f as new 14.2.1d through g,
and add new item 14.2.1c to read as follows:]
c. The Outside-County pound price will be the same as the DSCF
price. The Inside-County price will claim prices for the ``none'' entry
level.
* * * * *
[Revise redesignated items 14.2.1e, f and g as follows:]
e. Mailers must combine all 5-digit, carrier route, and 5-digit
scheme eligible flat-size mailpieces into a combined mailpiece pool for
each FSS 5-digit scheme combination according to L006.
f. Each bundle must be identified with a ``SCH 5-DIGIT FSS''
optional endorsement line in accordance with Exhibit 708.7.1.1; or when
authorized, using a red Label 5 SCH barcoded pressure-sensitive bundle
label.
g. All pooled Periodicals mailpieces prepared on pallets to a
single presort destination must be prepared in uniform size bundles,
between 3 inches and 6.5 inches in height and secured under 601.2.0,
except that one overflow bundle per mailpiece pool may be under the
minimum size.
* * * * *
14.2.2 Pallet Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation sequence and labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of 14.2.2a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required (optional under 250 pounds), no minimum,
permitted only for FSS bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as
shown in L006. Labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise the introductory text of 14.2.2b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional, no minimum, permitted only for FSS
bundles prepared for the FSS sort plans processed within the same
facility, as shown in L006. Labeling:
* * * * *
14.2.3 Sack Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation and labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of 14.2.3a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required, permitted only for 5-digit FSS scheme
bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as shown in L006; labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise the introductory text of 14.2.3b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional, permitted only for FSS bundles
prepared for the FSS sort plans processed within the same facility, as
shown in L006; labeling:
* * * * *
14.3 Standard Mail
14.3.1 Basic Standards
* * * Standard Mail flats are subject to the following:
* * * * *
[Revise 14.3.1c and d as follows:]
c. Mailers must combine all 5-digit, basic carrier route, and 5-
digit scheme eligible flat-size mailpieces into a combined mailpiece
pool for each FSS 5-digit scheme combination according to L006.
d. Each bundle must be identified with a ``SCH 5-DIGIT FSS''
optional
[[Page 76545]]
endorsement line in accordance with Exhibit 708.7.1.1; or when
authorized, using a red Label 5 SCH barcoded pressure-sensitive bundle
label.
* * * * *
14.3.2 Pallet Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation sequence and labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of 14.3.2a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required (optional under 250 pounds), no minimum,
permitted only for FSS bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as
shown in L006. Labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise the introductory text of 14.3.2b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional, no minimum, permitted only for FSS
bundles prepared for the FSS scheme processed within the same facility,
as shown in L006. Labeling:
* * * * *
14.3.3 Sack Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation and labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of 14.3.3a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required, permitted only for 5-digit FSS scheme
bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as shown in L006; labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise the introductory text of 14.3.3b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional, permitted only for 5-digit FSS
bundles prepared for the FSS schemes processed within the same
facility, as shown in L006; labeling:
* * * * *
14.4 Bound Printed Matter
14.4.1 Basic Standards
[Revise the introductory text of 14.4.1 as follows:]
Bound Printed Matter (BPM) flats eligible for, and paid at,
presorted prices or carrier route prices, and that meet the standards
in 301.3.2, must be combined in 5-digit FSS scheme bundles and placed
on pallets, or in flat trays, sacks or approved alternate containers,
for delivery to ZIP Codes having FSS processing capability, as shown in
L006. BPM flats are subject to the following:
* * * * *
[Revise 14.4.1c and d as follows:]
c. Mailers must combine all eligible flat-size mailpieces into a
combined mailpiece pool for each FSS 5-digit scheme combination
according to L006.
d. Each bundle must be identified with a ``SCH 5-DIGIT FSS''
optional endorsement line in accordance with Exhibit 708.7.1.1; or when
authorized, using a red Label 5 SCH barcoded pressure-sensitive bundle
label.
* * * * *
14.4.2 Pallet Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation sequence and labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of 14.4.2a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required (optional under 250 pounds), no minimum,
permitted only for FSS bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as
shown in L006. Labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise the introductory text of 14.4.2b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional, no minimum; permitted only for FSS
bundles prepared for the FSS schemes processed within the same
facility, as shown in L006. Labeling:
* * * * *
14.4.3 Sack Preparation and Labeling
* * * Preparation and labeling:
[Revise the introductory text of 14.4.3a as follows:]
a. FSS scheme, required, permitted only for 5-digit FSS scheme
bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as shown in L006; labeling:
* * * * *
[Revise the introductory text of 14.4.3b as follows:]
b. FSS facility sort, optional, permitted only for FSS bundles
prepared for the FSS schemes processed within the same facility, as
shown in L006; labeling:
* * * * *
15.0 Combining Standard Mail Flats and Periodicals Flats
15.1 Basic Standards
* * * * *
[Revise the title and introductory text of 15.1.11 as follows:]
15.1.11 Preparation for FSS Zones
Mailers authorized to combine mailings of Standard Mail flats and
Periodicals flats must prepare these mailings under 14.0, when the
mailing includes pieces destinating within one or more of the FSS zones
in L006. Mailpieces eligible for High Density and High-Density Plus
prices are not required to, but may be, prepared under the standards in
14.0. The following applies:
[Delete current items 15.1.11a through c in their entirety and
resequence current items 15.11.1d through f as new items 15.11.1a
through 1c.]
* * * * *
707 Periodicals
* * * * *
4.0 Basic Eligibility Standards
* * * * *
4.9 Issues
4.9.1 Regular Issues
[Revise the text of 4.9.1 as follows:]
Regular issues must be published according to the publication's
stated frequency. Issues may include annual reports, directories,
buyers' guides, lists, and similar material if these issues bear the
publication title and are included in the regular subscription price,
if any.
* * * * *
[Delete 4.9.3, Content, in its entirety (text moved into 4.9.1).]
[Renumber current 4.9.4 and 4.9.5 as new 4.9.3 and 4.9.4.]
* * * * *
6.0 Qualification Categories
6.1 General Publication
* * * * *
6.1.2 Circulation Standards
General publications must meet these circulation standards:
* * * * *
[Revise items 6.12b through 6.1.2g as follows:]
b. Records for subscriptions to a publication must be kept so that
subscriptions to each publication can be verified.
c. Persons whose subscriptions are obtained at a nominal price and
those whose copies bear an alternative address must not be included in
the legitimate list of subscribers. Such copies must be treated as
nonsubscriber copies.
d. Subscriptions may be paid for with dues or contributions, if the
amount paid for the subscription is stated. The USPS may require
evidence of compliance; see 5.1.2 for more information.
e. A subscription must be separated from all other business
transactions to be evident as an independent act. Publishers must be
able to show that subscriptions are voluntary and that the subscription
price is paid or promised.
f. At least 50% of a publication's distribution must be to persons
who have paid above a nominal price. (For inclusion of electronic
copies, see 6.5). Nominal price subscriptions include those sold at a
price so low that it cannot be considered a material consideration; or
at a reduction to the subscriber (under a premium offer or any other
arrangement) of more than 70% of the basic annual subscription
[[Page 76546]]
price. The value of a premium is its actual cost to the publisher, its
recognized retail value, or its represented value, whichever is
highest.
g. Publications primarily designed for free circulation or for
circulation at nominal prices do not qualify for the general
publications category.
[Delete items 6.1.2g1 through 6.1.2g4 in their entirety; the same
substantive information is included in items 6.1.2a through 6.1.2f.]
* * * * *
6.4 Requester Publications
* * * * *
6.4.2 Circulation Standards
Requester publications must meet these circulation standards:
* * * * *
[Revise item 6.4.2b as follows:]
b. Subscription copies of the publications that are paid for or
promised to be paid for, including those at or below a nominal price,
may be included in the 50% request requirement. (For inclusion of
electronic copies, see 6.5.)
* * * * *
[Revise items 6.4.2d through 6.4.2f as follows:]
d. Records of requests for a publication must be kept so that
subscriptions or requests for each publication can be verified.
e. Requests more than 3 years old are not valid requests. Copies
addressed using an alternative address format are not considered
requested copies.
f. For a requester publication issued by a membership organization,
the organization may adopt a resolution that each member receives a
copy of each issue. Records must be kept to show that the publication
is sent to members.
Form 3500 must be accompanied by a copy of the resolution and
written assurance that the required records are kept.
* * * * *
6.7 News Agent Registry
6.7.1 Definition
[Revise the text of 6.7.1 by including text from current 6.7.2 as
follows:]
The term news agent means a person or concern selling two or more
Periodicals publications published by more than one publisher. A news
agent must be authorized by the USPS before the agent may mail
publications at Periodicals prices.
[Delete current 6.7.2, Authorization; text is relocated to 6.7.1.]
[Renumber current 6.7.3 through 6.7.5 as new 6.7.2 through 6.7.4.]
* * * * *
6.7.3 Unsold Copies
[Revise the text of renumbered 6.7.3 as follows:]
Unsold copies returned to the publishers or sent to other news
agents or sent to persons not having subscriptions with news agents,
are subject to the Outside-County Periodicals prices.
* * * * *
7.0 Mailing to Nonsubscribers or Nonrequesters
7.1 Sample Copies
[Revise the text of 7.1 as follows:]
Sample copies are nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies and may be
mailed at prices according to standards in 7.0 and 10.0.
7.2 Simplified Address
[Revise the text of 7.2 as follows:]
Copies addressed with simplified addresses under 602.3.2 may be
mailed only to nonsubscribers or nonrequesters. If a subscriber or
requester receives a simplified address copy in addition to the
subscriber or requester copy, the additional copy is considered a
nonsubscriber or nonrequester copy.
* * * * *
7.4 Gift Subscriptions
[Revise the text of 7.4 as follows:]
Copies sent to persons whose subscriptions were paid by other
individuals as gifts are considered subscriber copies. Subscriptions
paid by advertisers or other persons promoting their own interests, and
subscriptions given free by the publisher, are not gift subscriptions,
and are considered nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies.
7.57 Exchange Copies
[Revise the text of 7.5 as follows:]
A small part of the distribution list may contain publishers to
whom one copy each is sent in exchange for a copy of the recipients'
publications. These exchange copies are considered subscriber or
requester copies.
* * * * *
7.7 Complimentary Copies
[Revise the text of 7.7 as follows:]
All complimentary copies are considered nonsubscriber or
nonrequester copies.
7.8 Proof Copies
[Revise the text of 7.8 as follows:]
One complete copy of each issue may be mailed to each advertiser
(or agent) in the issue to prove that the advertisements are printed.
These copies are considered subscriber or requester copies. Any
additional copies sent to an advertiser (or agent) are considered
nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies.
* * * * *
9.0 Changing Title, Frequency, or Known Office of Publication
9.1 General
9.1.1 When Required
[Revise the text of 9.1.1 as follows:]
Except under 9.1.2, the publisher must file an application for
reentry on Form 3510 to the original entry Postmaster to change the
title, frequency of issue; or to change location of the known office of
publication of an authorized Periodicals publication by submitting Form
3510 to the Postmaster whose service area oversees the new location.
* * * * *
[Delete current 9.1.3, Where to File, in its entirety (text moved
to 9.1.1).]
[Renumber current 9.1.4 through 9.1.4 as new 9.1.3 through 9.1.4.]
[Delete current 9.1.6, Same County, in its entirety; the same
information appears in 707.11.3.]
[Renumber current 9.1.7 as new 9.1.5 and revise as follows:]
9.1.5 Filing Date
Publishers changing the title or frequency of a publication must
file Form 3510 by the date on which copies are to be issued with the
new title or on the new frequency.
[Delete current 9.1.8, Effective Date, in its entirety; the same
information is in current 9.3.5.]
[Renumber current 9.1.9 through 9.1.12 as new 9.1.6 through 9.1.9.]
* * * * *
9.1.7 Application Fee
[Revise the text of renumbered 9.1.7 as follows:]
The correct (nonrefundable) fee must accompany an application (Form
3510) for reentry. No additional fee is required when a revised Form
3500 is required as part of a reentry application.
9.1.8 Multiple Reentry Requests
[Revise the text of renumbered 9.1.8 as follows:]
A publisher may file one Form 3510 and pay one fee to request
multiple reentry actions under 9.1 if all documentation is submitted
with the Form 3510 under 9.1.3; and the effective dates for the reentry
actions do not cover more than 30 calendar days. The publisher must
submit a separate Form 3510 (and pay the fee) for each reentry action
that cannot meet these conditions.
[[Page 76547]]
9.1.9 Other Actions
[Revise the text of renumbered 9.1.9 as follows:]
A publisher must submit a separate Form 3510 (and pay the fee) for
each reentry action under 28.4, 30.0, 10.0 (no fee), or 9.2. A
publisher must file a separate Form 3510 (and pay the fee) if the
publication's distribution plan is modified other than the frequency of
issuance or the location of the original entry Post Office.
9.2 Changing Qualification Categories
[Revise the text of 9.2 as follows:]
To change the category under which a publication is authorized
Periodicals mailing privileges, the publisher must file a revised Form
3500 and an application for reentry on Form 3510 with the original
entry Postmaster and pay the applicable fee. See 9.1.2 for when a
reentry application may not be required.
[Delete current 9.2.1, 9.2.2, 9.2.3, and 9.2.4 in their entirety
(the text of 9.2.1, 9.2.3, and 9.2.4 are merged into new text in 9.2;
the text of 9.2.2 is already covered in current 9.1.2).]
9.3 Application for Reentry
9.3.1 Pending
While an application for reentry is pending, copies of an
authorized Periodicals publication are accepted for mailing at the
Periodicals prices, subject to 9.3.5.
[Delete current 9.3.2, Additional Information, in its entirety; the
same information is in current 9.3.3.]
[Renumber current 9.3.3 through 9.3.5 as new 9.3.2 through 9.3.4,
and revise the text of renumbered 9.3.2 as follows:]
9.3.2 Proof of Compliance
The publisher must be able to show (via circulation and other
records) to USPS satisfaction that the reentered publication still
meets all Periodicals standards. Failure to provide this evidence is
sufficient grounds to deny the reentry request.
* * * * *
9.3.4 Effective Date
[Revise the text of renumbered 9.3.4 as follows:]
An entry office may not be used before authorization by the USPS. A
publisher may not pay postage at another price to deposit copies at an
unauthorized entry office. Subject to the restrictions in 9.1, the
effective date of a reentry authorization is the application date or
the eligibility date (if the publication became eligible after the
application date). The requested date for a change in original entry
office may be deferred until sufficient transportation or other
resources are in place. If deferral is due to USPS transportation
contract limitations, the publisher's requested date may be approved
with the publisher's agreement to reimburse the USPS for costs caused
by modifying contracted transportation.
[Delete current 9.3.6, Denial After Verification, in its entirety;
the same information is in current 9.3.7.]
[Renumber current 9.3.7 through 9.3.12 as new 9.3.5 through
9.3.10.]
[Revise the title and text of renumbered 9.3.5 as follows:]
9.3.5 Denial
If the PCSC manager denies an application, a written notice of the
reasons is provided to the publisher. The denial takes effect 15 days
from the publisher's receipt of the notice, unless the publisher files
an appeal under 9.3.6 within that time. Alternatively, the publisher
may return to the publication status before the application for reentry
was submitted.
* * * * *
12.0 Nonbarcoded (Presorted) Eligibility
12.1 Basic Standards
* * * * *
12.3 Prices--In-County
12.3.1 Five-Digit Prices
5-digit prices apply to:
* * * * *
[Add new item 12.3.1c as follows:]
c. Qualifying flats included in a FSS 5-digit scheme pool under
705.14.
* * * * *
12.3.2 Three-Digit Prices
3-digit prices apply to:
* * * * *
[Add new 12.3.2c as follows]
c. Flat-size pieces not qualifying for carrier route or 5-digit
prices, but properly included in a FSS 5-digit scheme pool prepared
under 705.14.
* * * * *
13.0 Carrier Route Eligibility
* * * * *
13.2 Sorting
* * * * *
13.2.2 Sequencing Requirements
[Revise the introductory text of 13.2.2 as follows:]
Except for flats properly prepared under FSS standards in 705.14,
carrier route mail must be prepared in delivery sequence as follows:
* * * * *
13.3 Walk-Sequence Prices
13.3.1 Eligibility
[Revise the text of 13.3.1 as follows]
The high density or saturation prices apply to each walk-sequenced
piece in a carrier route mailing, eligible under 13.2.1 and prepared
under 705.8.0, 23.0, or (nonletter-size mail only) 705.10.0, 705.12.0,
or 705.13.0, that also meets the corresponding addressing and density
standards in 13.3.4. High density and saturation price mailings must be
prepared in carrier walk sequence according to schemes prescribed by
the USPS (see 23.8), except for qualifying high density flats that are
properly included in FSS 5-digit scheme pools under 705.14.
14.0 Barcoded (Automation) Eligibility
* * * * *
14.4 Prices--In-County
14.4.17 Five-Digit Prices
5-digit automation prices apply to:
* * * * *
[Add new item 14.4.1c as follows:]
c. Qualifying flats included in a FSS 5-digit scheme pool under
705.14.
* * * * *
14.4.2 Three-Digit Prices
3-digit automation prices apply to:
* * * * *
[Add new item 14.4.2c as follows]
c. Flat-size pieces not qualifying for carrier route or 5-digit
prices, but properly included in a FSS 5-digit scheme pool prepared
under 705.14
* * * * *
18.0 General Mail Preparation
18.1 Definition of Presort
[Revise the text of 18.1 as follows:]
``Presort'' is the process by which a mailer prepares mail so that
it is sorted to at least the finest extent required by the standards.
18.2 Definition of Mailings
``Mailings'' are defined as:
[Revise item 18.2a as follows:]
a. A mailing is a group of pieces within the same class of mail and
the same processing category that are sorted together and presented
under a minimum volume mailing requirement. Specific standards may
define whether separate mailings may be combined, palletized, reported,
or deposited together.
* * * * *
[Add a new 18.5 as follows:]
18.5 FSS Preparation
Except for Periodicals flats mailed at In-County prices,
Periodicals flats
[[Page 76548]]
mailings of 5,000 pieces or less mailed at Outside-County prices,
Periodicals flats mailed at saturation, High Density prices, or
otherwise excepted Periodicals flats mailings, all Periodicals flats
(including nonmachinable flats up to 1-inch thick may be included if
they meet the standards in 705.14) destinating to FSS zones as shown in
L006, must be prepared under 705.14. Mailings of In-county Periodicals
flats, Outside-county Periodicals flats mailings of 5,000 pieces or
less, and Periodicals qualifying for High-Density prices may be
included in FSS 5-digit scheme pools.
* * * * *
29.0 Destination Entry
* * * * *
29.4 Destination Sectional Center Facility
* * * * *
29.4.2 Price Eligibility
Determine price eligibility as follows:
* * * * *
[Delete the last sentence of the introductory text of 29.4.2b, and
delete 29.4.2b1 and b2 in their entirety, so that item b reads as
follows:]
b. Container Prices. Mailers may claim the DSCF container price for
SCF and more finely presorted containers that are entered at and
destined within the service area of the SCF at which the container is
deposited.
* * * * *
[Renumber current 29.5. as new 29.6, and add a new 29.5 as
follows:]
29.5. Destination Flat Sequencing System (DFSS) Facility Entry
29.5.1 Definition
For this standard, destination Flat Sequencing System Facility
(DFSS) refers to the facilities listed in L006, Column C.
29.5.2 Eligibility
DFSS prices apply to pieces deposited at a USPS-designated FSS
processing facility and correctly placed in a flat tray, sack, or on a
pallet, labeled to a FSS sort plan or labeled to a 5-digit destination
processed by that facility, under labeling list L006. These pieces must
include a full delivery address and meet the physical standards for
FSS-machinability in 705.14.0.
* * * * *
708 Technical Specifications
* * * * *
6.0 Standards for Barcoded Tray Labels, Sack Labels, and Container
Placards
* * * * *
6.2 Specifications for Barcoded Tray and Sack Labels
6.2.1 Use
Exhibit 6.2.1 shows the types of mail requiring barcoded tray or
sack labels. Barcoded labels must meet these general standards:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item 6.2.1b as follows:]
b. Mailer-produced barcoded labels must meet the standards in 6.0,
and tray labels must be non-adhesive.
* * * * *
6.2.4 3-Digit Content Identifier Numbers
* * * * *
Exhibit 6.2.4 3-Digit Content Identifier Numbers
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS AND MAILING..................... CIN HUMAN-READABLE CONTENT
LINER
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
PERIODICALS (PER)
* * * * *
PER Flats --
Merged Carrier Route, Barcoded, and Nonbarcoded
* * * * *
[Add a new third row as follows:]
FSS scheme and FSS facility 349 PER FLTS 5D FSS SCH BC
* * * * *
PERIODICALS (NEWS)
* * * * *
NEWS Flats --
Merged Carrier Route, Barcoded, and Nonbarcoded
* * * * *
[Add a new third row as follows:]
FSS scheme and FSS facility 449 NEWS FLTS 5D FSS SCH BC
* * * * *
STANDARD MAIL
* * * * *
STD Flats --
Merged Carrier Route, Automation, and Presorted
* * * * *
[Add a new third row as follows:]
FSS scheme and FSS facility 549 STD FLTS 5D FSS SCH BC
* * * * *
PACKAGE SERVICES
* * * * *
BPM Flats--Cosacked Barcoded and Presorted
* * * * *
[Add a new second row as follows:]
FSS scheme and FSS facility 638 PSVC FLTS 5D FSS SCH BC
* * * * *
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. 2013-29879 Filed 12-17-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P