[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 98 (Monday, May 22, 2023)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 32824-32849]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-10353]



[[Page 32823]]

Vol. 88

Monday,

No. 98

May 22, 2023

Part II





Postal Service





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





39 CFR Part 111





Domestic Competitive Products Pricing and Mailing Standards Changes; 
Final Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 88 , No. 98 / Monday, May 22, 2023 / Rules 
and Regulations  

[[Page 32824]]


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

POSTAL SERVICE

39 CFR Part 111


Domestic Competitive Products Pricing and Mailing Standards 
Changes

AGENCY: Postal ServiceTM.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: The Postal Service is amending Mailing Standards of the United 
States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM[supreg]), to reflect 
changes to prices and mailing standards for competitive products.

DATES: Effective July 9, 2023.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Steven Jarboe at (202) 268-7690, 
Margaret Pepe (202) 268-3078, or Garry Rodriguez at (202) 268-7281.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This final rule describes new prices and 
product features for competitive products, by class of mail, 
established by the Governors of the United States Postal 
Service[supreg]. New prices are available under Docket Number CP2023-
151 on the Postal Regulatory Commission PRC website at http://www.prc.gov, and on the Postal Explorer[supreg] website at http://pe.usps.com.
    The Postal Service will revise Mailing Standards of the United 
States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), to reflect changes 
to certain prices and mailing standards for the following competitive 
products:
     Priority Mail Express[supreg].
     Priority Mail[supreg].
     USPS Ground AdvantageTM (formerly First-Class 
Package Service[supreg]).
     Parcel Select[supreg].
     Extra Services.
     Return Services.
     Mailer Services.
     Recipient Services.
     Other.
    Competitive product prices and changes are identified by product as 
follows:

Priority Mail Express

    There are no Priority Mail Express retail or commercial price, or 
structural changes scheduled for July 9, 2023.

Priority Mail

    There are no Priority Mail retail or commercial price, or 
structural changes scheduled for July 9, 2023.

USPS Ground Advantage (Formerly First-Class Package Service)

First-Class Package Service Rebranded as USPS Ground Advantage

    USPS Ground Advantage is a rebranding of First-Class Package 
Service that will consolidate USPS Retail Ground[supreg] and Parcel 
Select Ground into the respective retail and commercial price 
categories. The USPS Ground Advantage--Retail and USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial features are as follows:

USPS Ground Advantage--Retail

     Weight: 1 ounce to 70 pounds (ounce pricing will be in 4 
oz., 8 oz., 12 oz., and 15.999 oz., increments for USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail).
     Dimensions: Pieces up to 130 inches in length and girth 
(oversized price).
     USPS Ground Advantage--Limited Overland Route (LOR) 
prices.
     Dimensional weight (DIM) will apply to USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail and USPS Ground Advantage--LOR.
     Nonstandard Fees will apply to USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail and USPS Ground Advantage--LOR.
     Sealed against inspection.
     $100 of insurance included with USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail and USPS Ground Advantage--LOR (see ``USPS Ground Advantage 
Insurance'' below).
     USPS Click-N-Ship added as a payment method.
     Extra Services: Certified Mail[supreg] and Certificate of 
Mailing will no longer be offered.

USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial

     Weight: 1 ounce to 70 pounds (ounce pricing will be in 4 
oz., 8 oz., 12 oz., and 15.999 oz., increments).
     Dimensions: Pieces up to 130 inches in length and girth 
(oversized price).
     USPS Ground Advantage--Cubic prices.
     Dimensional weight (DIM) will apply to USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial.
     Nonstandard Fees will apply to USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial.
     Not Sealed against inspection.
     $100 of insurance included with USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial and USPS Ground Advantage--Cubic (see ``USPS Ground 
Advantage Insurance'' below).
     USPS Click-N-Ship added as a payment method.
     Extra Services: Certified Mail and Certificate of Mailing 
will no longer be offered.

Prices

    Overall, USPS Ground Advantage prices will decrease 1.4 percent.
    USPS Ground Advantage--Retail prices will decrease 3.2 percent.
    USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial prices will decrease 0.7 percent.

USPS Ground Advantage Insurance

    The Postal Service is including $100 of insurance with USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail and USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial product 
offerings. See Federal Register notice, New Mailing Standards for 
Domestic Mailing Services Products, (87 FR 21601-21603) for additional 
information.

Parcel Select

Prices

    The prices for Parcel Select Destination Entry will increase an 
average of 2.1 percent. The prices for Parcel Select 
Lightweight[supreg] will decrease an average of 0.1 percent. The prices 
for USPS Connect[supreg] Local will remain the same.

Parcel Select Destination Entry Pricing

    The Postal Service is revising the Parcel Select Destination Entry 
pricing structure to eliminate the nonmachinable price table and have 
one price table that will include price increments for weights from 1 
pound through 70 pounds and oversized.

Parcel Select Destination Entry and Parcel Select Lightweight Pricing 
Component Restructuring

    The Postal Service is revising the pricing components of Parcel 
Select Destination Entry and Parcel Select Lightweight for consistency 
within the products. Both products will now have four pricing 
components, Destination Delivery Unit (DDU), Destination Hub (DHub), 
Destination Sectional Center Facility (DSCF), and Destination Network 
Distribution Center (DNDC). This revision of pricing components will 
now make Parcel Select Lightweight consistent with Parcel Select 
Destination Entry. Additionally, Parcel Select Lightweight will be 
priced at the 4 ounce, 8 ounce, 12 ounce, and 15.999 ounce increments.

Parcel Select Ground Discontinued

    As a result of the rebranding and enhancement of the USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial product, the Postal Service has decided to 
discontinue the Parcel Select Ground price category offering.

USPS Retail Ground

USPS Retail Ground Discontinued

    As a result of the rebranding and enhancement of the USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail product, the Postal

[[Page 32825]]

Service has decided to discontinue the USPS Retail Ground product 
offering.

Return Services

USPS Returns

Priority Mail Express Return Service

    The Postal Service is adding Priority Mail Express Return Service 
to the suite of USPS Returns services. Priority Mail Express standards 
will apply to Priority Mail Express Return service pieces.

USPS Ground Advantage Return Service (Formerly First-Class Package 
Return Service)

    The Postal Service is rebranding First-Class Package Return Service 
as USPS Ground Advantage Return Service.

USPS Ground Advantage Return Service Insurance

    The Postal Service is including $100.00 of insurance with USPS 
Ground Advantage Return service pieces. See Federal Register notice, 
New Mailing Standards for Domestic Mailing Services Products, (87 FR 
21601-21603) for additional information.

Ground Return Service Discontinued

    As a result of the rebranding and enhancement to the USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial product and the Postal Service discontinuing the 
Parcel Select Ground price category offering, the Postal Service is 
discontinuing the Ground Return Service (Parcel Select Ground) USPS 
Returns product offering.

Mailer Services

Pickup on Demand Service

    The Pickup on Demand[supreg] service fee will remain the same.

USPS Tracking Plus Service

    The USPS Premium Tracking ServiceTM prices will remain 
the same.

USPS Label Delivery Service

    The USPS Label Delivery ServiceTM prices will remain the 
same.

Recipient Services

Post Office Box Service

    The competitive Post Office BoxTM service prices will 
remain the same.

Premium Forwarding Service

    Premium Forwarding Service[supreg] (PFS[supreg]) prices will remain 
the same.

USPS Package Intercept

    The USPS Package Intercept[supreg] fee will remain the same.

Other

Address Enhancement Service

    Address Enhancement Service competitive product prices will remain 
the same.

Small Parcel Forwarding Fee

    The small parcel forwarding fee will remain the same.

Physical Standards for Parcels

    The Postal Service is revising the maximum dimensions and weight 
for machinable parcels. The maximum dimensions for a machinable parcel 
are 22 inches x 18 inches x 15 inches. The maximum weight for a 
machinable parcel is 25 pounds.

Resources

    The Postal Service provides additional resources to assist 
customers with this price change for competitive products. These tools 
include price lists, downloadable price files, and Federal Register 
Notices, which may be found on the Postal Explorer[supreg] website at 
http://pe.usps.com.
    The Postal Service adopts the following changes to Mailing 
Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual 
(DMM), incorporated by reference in the Code of Federal Regulations. 
See 39 CFR 111.1.

List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111

    Administrative practice and procedure, Postal Service.

    Accordingly, 39 CFR part 111 is amended as follows:

PART 111--[AMENDED]

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

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 13 U.S.C. 301-307; 18 U.S.C. 1692-
1737; 39 U.S.C. 101, 401-404, 414, 416, 3001-3018, 3201-3220, 3401-
3406, 3621, 3622, 3626, 3629, 3631-3633, 3641, 3681-3685, and 5001.


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

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

* * * * *

100 Retail Mail Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels

101 Physical Standards

* * * * *

3.0 Physical Standards for Parcels

* * * * *

3.2 Maximum Weight and Size

    [Revise the third sentence and add a new fourth sentence of 3.2 to 
read as follows:]
    * * * No mailpiece may weigh more than 70 pounds. Except for USPS 
Ground Advantage--Retail, which may not measure more than 130 inches in 
length and girth combined no mailpiece may measure more than 108 inches 
in length and girth combined. ***
* * * * *
    [Revise the heading of 6.0 to read as follows:]

6.0 Additional Physical Standards for First-Class Mail and USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail

6.1 Maximum Weight

    [Revise the text of 6.1 by creating a 6.1.1 and 6.1.2 to read as 
follows:]

6.1.1 First-Class Mail

    First-Class Mail (letters and flats) cannot exceed 13 ounces.

6.1.2 USPS Ground Advantage--Retail

    USPS Ground Advantage--Retail cannot exceed 70 pounds.
* * * * *

6.4 Parcels

    [Revise the introductory text of 6.4 to read as follows:]
    USPS Ground Advantage--Retail parcels are eligible for USPS 
Tracking and Signature Confirmation service. A USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail parcel is:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]
    d. A mailpiece that does not exceed 130 inches in combined length 
and girth.
    [Delete 7.0, Additional Physical Standards for USPS Retail Ground, 
in its entirety and renumber 8.0 as 7.0.]
* * * * *

102 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece

* * * * *

3.0 Placement and Content of Mail Markings

* * * * *
    [Revise the heading of 3.3 to read as follows:]

3.3 First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail Markings

    [Revise the first sentence of 3.3 to read as follows:]
    Each single-piece price First-Class Mail and USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail piece must have a delivery

[[Page 32826]]

address but is not required to bear a price marking. * * *
    [Revise the heading of 3.4 to read as follows:]

3.4 Media Mail and Library Mail Markings

    [Revise the first sentence in the introductory text of 3.4 to read 
as follows:]
    Mailers must print the basic required Package Services subclass 
marking--``Media Mail,'' or ``Library Mail'' on each piece claimed at 
the respective price. * * *
    [Revise the text of item a to read as follows:]
    a. The service icon that will identify all Package Services 
subclasses will be a 1-inch solid black square. If the service icon is 
used, it must appear in the upper left corner of the shipping label.
    [Revise the second sentence of item b to read as follows:]
    b. * * * If the service banner is used, the appropriate Package 
Services subclass marking (e.g., ``MEDIA MAIL,'' ``LIBRARY MAIL'') must 
be preceded by the text ``USPS'' and must be printed in minimum 20-
point bold sans serif typeface, uppercase letters, centered within the 
banner, and bordered above and below by minimum 1-point separator 
lines. * * *
    [Revise the heading of Exhibit 3.4 to read as follows:]

Exhibit 3.4 Package Services Indicator Examples

    [Rename the class of mail in the first example in Exhibit 3.4 
``USPS Library Mail''.]
* * * * *
    [Revise the heading of 130 to read as follows:]

130 Retail Mail First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail

133 Prices and Eligibility

1.0 Prices and Fees

    [Revise the heading and introductory text of 1.1 to read as 
follows:]

1.1 First-Class Mail Single-Piece and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail 
Price Application

    The single-piece prices (see Notice 123--Price List) are applied as 
follows:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]
    The USPS Ground Advantage--Retail parcel price applies to parcel-
size pieces under 101.3.0 and to flat-size pieces that do not meet the 
standards in 101.2.0.
    [Revise the heading and introductory text of 1.2 to read as 
follows:]

1.2 Price Computation for First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail

    First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail prices are 
charged as follows:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
    b. USPS Ground Advantage--Retail--Based on weight and zone and is 
charged as follows:
    1. Ounce pricing charged at the 4-ounce, 8-ounce, 12-ounce, and 
15.999-ounce increments. Any fraction of an ounce over the 4-ounce, 8-
ounce, 12-ounce, and 15.999-ounce increments is rounded to the next 
price increment. For example, if an item weighs 4.1 ounces, the next 
weight (price) increment is 8 ounces, if an item weighs 12.1 ounces, 
the next weight (price) increment is 15.999.
    2. Per pound from more than 1 pound through 70 pounds. Any fraction 
of a pound is considered a whole pound. For example, if an item weighs 
1.25 pounds, the weight (price) increment is 2 pounds.
    [Renumber 1.3 through 1.6 as 1.5 through 1.8 and add new 1.3 and 
1.4 to read as follows:]

1.3 USPS Ground Advantage--Retail-Limited Overland Routes Prices

    USPS Ground Advantage--Retail--LOR retail prices are only available 
when mailing eligible items within Alaska for pieces delivered to or 
from the eligible intra-Alaska ZIP Codes not connected by overland 
routes in Exhibit 1.3. USPS Ground Advantage--Retail--LOR retail prices 
are not available through online or commercial postage payment.

Exhibit 1.3 USPS Ground Advantage--Retail--LOR Eligible Intra-Alaska 
ZIP Codes

    USPS Ground Advantage--Retail--LOR eligible intra-Alaska ZIP Codes 
are as follows:
    99545, 99546, 99547, 99548, 99549, 99550, 99551, 99552, 99553, 
99554, 99555, 99557, 99558, 99559, 99561, 99563, 99564, 99565, 99569, 
99571, 99574, 99575, 99576, 99578, 99579, 99580, 99581, 99583, 99585, 
99589, 99590, 99591, 99602, 99604, 99606, 99607, 99608, 99609, 99612, 
99613, 99614, 99615, 99619, 99620, 99621, 99622, 99624, 99625, 99626, 
99627, 99628, 99630, 99632, 99633, 99634, 99636, 99637, 99638, 99640, 
99641, 99643, 99644, 99647, 99648, 99649, 99650, 99651, 99653, 99655, 
99656, 99657, 99658, 99659, 99660, 99661, 99662, 99663, 99665, 99666, 
99667, 99668, 99670, 99671, 99675, 99677, 99678, 99679, 99680, 99681, 
99682, 99684, 99685, 99689, 99690, 99691, 99692, 99695, 99697, 99720, 
99721, 99722, 99723, 99724, 99726, 99727, 99730, 99732, 99733, 99734, 
99736, 99738, 99739, 99740, 99741, 99742, 99745, 99746, 99747, 99748, 
99749, 99750, 99751, 99752, 99753, 99754, 99756, 99757, 99758, 99759, 
99761, 99762, 99763, 99765, 99766, 99767, 99768, 99769, 99770, 99771, 
99772, 99773, 99774, 99777, 99778, 99781, 99782, 99783, 99784, 99785, 
99786, 99788, 99789, 99790, 99791, 99801, 99802, 99803, 99811, 99812, 
99820, 99821, 99824, 99825, 99826, 99827, 99829, 99830, 99832, 99833, 
99835, 99836, 99840, 99841, 99850, 99901, 99903, 99918, 99919, 99921, 
99922, 99923, 99925, 99926, 99927, 99928, 99929, 99950.

1.4 Dimensional Weight Price for Low-Density Parcels

    Postage for USPS Ground Advantage parcels addressed for delivery to 
zones 1-9 and USPS Ground Advantage--LOR parcels, exceeding 1 cubic 
foot (1,728 cubic inches) is based on the actual weight or the 
dimensional weight (as calculated in 1.4.1 or 1.4.2), whichever is 
greater.

1.4.1 Determining Dimensional Weight for Rectangular Parcels

    Follow these steps to determine the dimensional weight for a 
rectangular parcel:
    a. Measure the length, width, and height in inches. Round off (see 
604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest whole inch.
    b. Multiply the length by the width and then that total by the 
height.
    c. If the result exceeds 1,728 cubic inches, divide the result by 
166 and round up (see 604.7.0) to the next whole number to determine 
the dimensional weight in pounds.
    d. If the dimensional weight exceeds 70 pounds, the customer pays 
the 70-pound price.

1.4.2 Determining Dimensional Weight for Nonrectangular Parcels

    Follow these steps to determine the dimensional weight for a 
nonrectangular parcel:
    a. Measure the length, width, and height in inches at their extreme 
dimensions. Round off (see 604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest 
whole inch.
    b. Multiply the length by the width and then that total by the 
height.
    c. Multiply the result by an adjustment factor of 0.785.

[[Page 32827]]

    d. If the final result exceeds 1,728 cubic inches, divide the 
result by 166 and round up (see 604.7.0) to the next whole number to 
determine the dimensional weight in pounds.
    e. If the dimensional weight exceeds 70 pounds, the customer pays 
the 70-pound price.
* * * * *

1.8 Nonstandard Fees

    [Revise the introductory text of renumbered 1.8 to read as 
follows:]
    A USPS Ground Advantage--Retail and USPS Ground Advantage--LOR 
piece is subject to a nonstandard fee (see Notice 123--Price List) as 
follows:
* * * * *
    [Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as follows:]

2.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for First-Class Mail and USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail

2.1 Description of Service

    [Revise the text of 2.1 to read as follows:]
    First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail receive 
expeditious handling and transportation. The USPS does not guarantee 
the delivery of First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail 
within a specified time. Certain USPS Ground Advantage--Retail pieces 
may receive deferred handling.

2.2 Defining Characteristics

2.2.1 Inspection of Contents

    [Revise the text of 2.2.1 to read as follows:]
    First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail are sealed 
against postal inspection.

2.2.2 Forwarding and Return Service

    [Revise the text of 2.2.2 to read as follows:]
    The price of First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail 
include forwarding service to a new address for up to 12 months and 
return service if the mailpiece is undeliverable.

2.2.3 Extra Services

    [Revise the text of 2.2.3 to read as follows:]
    First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail are eligible to 
receive the following extra services (See information regarding 
additional extra services in 503):
    a. First Class Mail--Registered Mail services and Certified Mail 
services.
    b. USPS Ground Advantage--Retail--Registered Mail services.

3.0 Content Standards

3.1 General Eligibility

    [Revise the text of 3.1 to read as follows:]
    With the exception of restricted material as described in 601.8.0, 
any mailable item may be mailed as First-Class Mail and USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail.

3.2 Bills and Statements of Account

    [Revise the introductory text of 3.2 to read as follows:]
    Bills and statements of account must be mailed as First-Class Mail, 
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, Priority Mail, or Priority Mail Express 
and are defined as follows:
* * * * *

3.3 Personal Information

    [Revise the text of 3.3 to read as follows:]
    Mail containing personal information must be mailed as First-Class 
Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, Priority Mail, or Priority Mail 
Express. Personal information is any information specific to the 
addressee.

3.4 Handwritten and Typewritten Material

    [Revise the text of 3.4 to read as follows:]
    Mail containing handwritten or typewritten material must be mailed 
as First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, Priority Mail, or 
Priority Mail Express.
* * * * *

3.6 Prohibited Air Transportation

    [Revise the text of 3.6 to read as follows:]
    All First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail are subject 
to limitations for air transportation in 601.8.0.

134 Postage Payment Methods

    [Revise the heading of 1.0 to read as follows:]

1.0 Postage Payment Methods for First-Class Mail and USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail

1.1 Payment Method

    [Delete the heading 1.1.1 General and move the text under 1.1 to 
read as follows:]
    Postage for single-piece First-Class Mail and USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail must be paid as follows:
    a. First-Class Mail--with affixed postage stamps (604.1.0), postage 
evidencing system postage (604.4.0), or precanceled stamps (604.3.0).
    b. USPS Ground Advantage--Retail--In addition to the payment 
methods in 1.1a USPS Ground Advantage may be paid with USPS Click-N-
Ship.
    [Delete 1.1.2 in its entirety.]
* * * * *

1.3 More Than One Mailer

    [Revise the first sentence of 1.3 to read as follows:]
    When two or more individuals or organizations, or a party acting as 
their agent, mail in one package the bills, statements of account, or 
other letters of the individuals or organizations, to an addressee in 
common, First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail postage may 
be paid on the weight of the entire package of aggregated mail. * * *

1.4 More Than One Letter

    [Revise the introductory text of 1.4 to read as follows:]
    An individual or organization may mail in one package more than one 
of the mailer's own letters and pay First-Class Mail or USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail postage on the weight of the entire package of 
letters if:
* * * * *

1.5 Agent

    [Revise the text of 1.5 to read as follows:]
    Any agent of a licensing authority may forward completed 
applications in one envelope to an office of the licensing authority 
and pay First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail postage on 
the weight of the piece.

135 Mail Preparation

    [Revise the heading and text of 1.0 to read as follows:]

1.0 Preparation for First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail

    The following standards apply to retail single-piece First-Class 
Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail:
    a. Each piece of First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail 
must have a delivery address but is not required to bear a price 
marking.
    b. There are no sorting requirements for retail single-piece First-
Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail.

136 Deposit

    [Revise the heading and introductory text of 1.0 to read as 
follows:]

[[Page 32828]]

1.0 Deposit for First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail

    Retail First-Class Mail (letters, cards, flats) and USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail must be deposited as follows:
* * * * *
    [Delete Chapter 150, USPS Retail Ground, in its entirety.]
* * * * *

200 Commercial Mail Letters, Flats, and Parcels

* * * * *

201 Physical Standards

* * * * *

7.0 Physical Standards for Parcels

* * * * *

7.3 Maximum Weight and Size

    [Revise the text of 7.3 to read as follows:]
    No mailpiece may weigh more than 70 pounds. Lower weight limits 
apply to parcels mailed at Priority Mail cubic, USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial cubic, USPS Marketing Mail, and Bound Printed Matter prices. 
Except for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial and Parcel Select, pieces 
may not measure more than 108 inches in length and girth combined. USPS 
Marketing Mail Marketing parcels (see 8.4) may not be larger than 12 
inches long, 9 inches high, and 2 inches thick. USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial and Parcel Select parcels may not measure more than 130 
inches in length and girth combined. For parcels, length is the 
distance of the longest dimension and girth is the distance around the 
thickest part. Lower size or weight standards apply to mail addressed 
to some APOs and FPOs subject to 703.2.0 and 703.4.0 and for Department 
of State mail, subject to 703.3.0.
* * * * *

7.5 Machinable Parcels

7.5.1 Criteria

    A machinable parcel is any piece that is not a letter or a flat and 
that is (see Exhibit 7.5.1b):
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
    b. Not more than 22 inches long, or 18 inches high, or 15 inches 
thick. Parcels cannot weigh more than 25 pounds.
* * * * *

Exhibit 7.5.1b Machinable Parcel Dimensions

    [Revise the maximum dimensions shown in the graphic in Exhibit 
7.5.1b to be 22'' x 18'' x 15''.]
* * * * *

8.0 Additional Physical Standards by Class of Mail

* * * * *
    [Revise the heading of 8.3 to read as follows:]

8.3 USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial Parcels

8.3.1 Weight

    [Revise the text of 8.3.1 to read as follows:]
    USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels must not weigh more than 
70 pounds.

8.3.2 Size

    [Revise the second sentence of the introductory text under 8.3.2 to 
read as follows:]
    * * * A USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcel is:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]
    d. A mailpiece that does not exceed 130 inches in combined length 
and girth.
* * * * *

202 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece

* * * * *

3.0 Placement and Content of Mail Markings

* * * * *
    [Revise the heading and text of 3.6 to read as follows:]

3.6 USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial Markings

3.6.1 Basic Markings

    The basic required marking ''USPS Ground Advantage'' must be 
printed as part of, directly below, or to the left of the postage on 
all parcels. Optionally, the basic required price marking may be 
printed on a shipping address label as a service indicator composed of 
a service icon and service banner.

3.6.2 USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial Cubic Markings

    USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial pieces claiming the cubic price 
must be marked as provided under 3.6.1 and bear the applicable marking 
that reflects the correct price tier printed on the piece or produced 
as part of the postage indicia. The cubic tiers are determined by the 
cubic measurement of each mailpiece up to the defined threshold, (for 
example, measurements from .01 up to .10 for ``Cubic .10'' and from 
.101 up to .20 for ``Cubic .20''). Place the marking directly above, 
directly below, or to the left of the postage. Approved markings are as 
follows:
    a. ``Cubic .10''
    b. ``Cubic .20''
    c. ``Cubic .30''
    d. ``Cubic .40''
    e. ``Cubic .50''
    f. ``Cubic .60''
    g. ``Cubic .70''
    h. ``Cubic .80''
    i. ``Cubic .90''
    j. ``Cubic 1.00''

3.6.3 Price Marking--Permit Imprint

    USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial permit imprint pieces claiming 
the cubic price must be marked as provided under 3.6.1 and bear the 
``cubic'' marking printed on the piece or produced as part of the 
permit imprint indicia. Place the marking directly above, directly 
below, or to the left of the postage. The approved marking is ``Cubic'' 
(or ``CUBIC,'' or ``cubic'').

3.6.4 Soft Pack and Padded Envelope Markings

    Regardless of the postage payment method used, soft pack and padded 
envelopes must be marked as provided under 3.6.1 in addition to the 
tier price markings in 3.6.2 and the dimensions (length and width) of 
the original packaging. Place the markings directly above, directly 
below, or to the left of the postage.

3.7 Parcel Select, Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, and Library Mail 
Markings

* * * * *

3.7.2 Parcel Select Markings

    [Revise the introductory text of 3.7.2 by deleting the third 
sentence referencing ``USPS Retail Ground.'']
* * * * *
    [Delete item b and renumber items c and d as b and c.]
* * * * *
    [Delete 3.8, Parcel Select Ground Cubic Markings, in its entirety 
and renumber 3.9 and 3.10 as 3.8 and 3.9.]
* * * * *

203 Basic Postage Statement, Documentation, and Preparation Standards

* * * * *

5.0 Letter and Flat Trays

* * * * *

[[Page 32829]]

5.12 Line 2 (Content Line)

    Line 2 (content line) must meet these standards:
* * * * *
    b. Codes: The codes shown below must be used as appropriate on Line 
2 of tray, sack, and pallet labels.
    [Delete the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial entry from 
the list of codes.]
* * * * *

204 Barcode Standards

1.0 Standards for Intelligent Mail Barcodes

* * * * *

1.3 Reflectance

1.3.1 Background Reflectance

    A background reflectance of at least 50% in the red portion and 45% 
in the green portion of the optical spectrum must be produced in the 
following locations when measured with a USPS or USPS-licensed envelope 
reflectance meter:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
    b. The area surrounding the barcode (within \1/8\ inch of the 
leftmost and rightmost bars and \1/25\ inch above and below the 
barcode) of a card-size, letter-size, or flat-size piece barcoded in 
the address block and of a flat-size piece barcoded elsewhere.
* * * * *

1.3.4 Dark Fibers and Background Patterns

    Dark fibers or background patterns that produce a print contrast 
ratio of more than 15% when measured in the red and green portions of 
the optical spectrum are prohibited in these locations:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
    b. The area of the address block or the area of the mailpiece where 
the barcode appears on a flat-size piece in an automation mailing.
* * * * *

207 Periodicals

* * * * *

3.0 Physical Characteristics and Content Eligibility

* * * * *

3.4 Impermissible Mailpiece Components

* * * * *

3.4.3 Products

    [Revise the last sentence of 3.4.3 to read as follows:]
    * * * Package Services, or Parcel Select mail pieces may not be 
combined with a Periodicals publication.
* * * * *

4.0 Basic Eligibility Standards

* * * * *

4.7 Eligible Formats

4.7.1 Complete Copies

    [Revise the last sentence of 4.7.1 to read as follows:]
    * * * Incomplete copies (for example, those lacking pages or parts 
of pages) are subject to the applicable First-Class Mail, USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, USPS Marketing 
Mail, or Package Services prices.
* * * * *

4.10 Back Issues and Reprints

    [Revise the last sentence of 4.10 to read as follows:]
    * * * Other mailings of back issues or reprint copies, including 
permanently bound back issues or reprint copies, are subject to the 
applicable Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS 
Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, USPS 
Marketing Mail, or Package Services prices.
* * * * *

5.0 Applying for Periodicals Authorization

* * * * *

5.2 Mailing While Application Pending

* * * * *

5.2.2 Pending Prices

    * * * Postage may be paid until final action is taken on the 
application as follows:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
    b. For a refund after the application is approved, at USPS 
Marketing Mail, Bound Printed Matter, and Parcel Select prices or at 
single-piece Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, and USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail prices under the exception in 5.3.6e.
* * * * *

5.2.3 Pending Postage

* * * * *

Exhibit 5.2.3 Pending Postage

    [Rename the ``First-Class Package Service--R'' line item as ``USPS 
Ground Advantage--R'' to read as follows:]

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                 Pending class of mail                         PCT.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
USPS Ground Advantage--R...............................               %
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *

5.3 Decision on Application

* * * * *

5.3.6 No Refund

    No refund is made for:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item e to read as follows:]
    e. Postage paid at Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-
Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, or USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial prices. Exception: For a mailing presorted and prepared as 
Periodicals mail that is less than 200 pieces or 50 pounds, a refund 
may be authorized when postage is paid at single-piece Priority Mail, 
First-Class Mail, or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail prices as provided 
on the applicable postage statement.
* * * * *

6.0 Qualification Categories

* * * * *

6.7 News Agent Registry

* * * * *

6.7.4 Parts Returned

    [Revise the text of 6.7.4 to read as follows:]
    Parts of publications returned to publishers to show that copies 
have not been sold are subject to the applicable USPS Marketing Mail, 
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, or Package Services prices.
* * * * *

10.0 Preferred Periodicals

* * * * *

10.6 Mailing While Application Pending

10.6.1 Mailing Before Approval

    [Revise the text of 10.6.1 to read as follows:]
    A publisher or news agent may not mail at a Periodicals Preferred 
price until the PCSC manager approves the application. Until approval 
is given, postage must be paid at the Outside-County prices (for 
authorized Periodicals publications), or at the First-Class Mail, USPS 
Ground Advantage--

[[Page 32830]]

Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, USPS Marketing Mail, or 
Package Services prices (if the publication is in a pending status for 
Periodicals mailing privileges).

10.6.2 Record of Deposits

    [Revise the last sentence of 10.6.2 to read as follows:]
    * * * No record is kept if First-Class Mail, USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail, or USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, postage is 
paid or if postage is not paid by advance deposit account.

10.7 Decision on Application

* * * * *

10.7.5 No Refund

    No refund is made for:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item f to read as follows:]
    f. Postage paid at Priority Mail Express, First-Class Mail or USPS 
Ground Advantage--Retail prices.
* * * * *

11.0 Basic Eligibility

* * * * *

11.5 Copies Mailed by Public

    [Revise the Text of 11.5 to read as follows:]
    The single-piece Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class 
Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, or Package Services price is 
charged on copies of publications mailed by the general public and on 
copies returned to publishers or news agents.
* * * * *

210 Commercial Mail Priority Mail Express

213 Prices and Eligibility

1.0 Prices and Fees

* * * * *

1.8 Nonstandard Fees

    [Revise the introductory text of 1.8 to read as follows:]
    Except for Priority Mail Express Return Service, a Priority Mail 
Express piece is subject to a nonstandard fee (see Notice 123--Price 
List) as follows:
* * * * *

230 Commercial Mail First-Class Mail

233 Prices and Eligibility

* * * * *

2.0 Content Standards for First-Class Mail

* * * * *
    [Delete 2.6 in its entirety and renumber 2.7 and 2.8 as 2.6 and 
2.7.]
* * * * *

240 Commercial Mail USPS Marketing Mail

243 Prices and Eligibility

1.0 Prices and Fees

* * * * *

1.4 Fees

* * * * *

1.4.2 Weighted Fee

    [Revise the text of 1.4.2 to read as follows:]
    For return of pieces bearing the ancillary service markings 
``Address Service Requested'' and ``Forwarding Service Requested.'' 
Weighted fee equals single-piece First-Class Mail, or USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail, price multiplied by 2.472.
* * * * *

3.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for USPS Marketing Mail

* * * * *
    [Revise the heading and text of 3.7 to read as follows:]

3.7 Residual Mail Subject to First-Class Mail or USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail Prices

    Pieces prepared as USPS Marketing Mail (i.e., that bear USPS 
Marketing Mail price markings, ACS codes, etc.) that do not qualify for 
Enhanced Carrier Route, automation, or Presorted USPS Marketing Mail 
prices are subject to the single-piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail prices as applicable for the weight of the mailpiece. 
Metered pieces weighing over 13 ounces but less than 16 ounces that do 
not qualify for USPS Marketing Mail prices and any pieces that do not 
qualify for USPS Marketing Mail prices for which First-Class Mail or 
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail service is desired must be re-enveloped 
or otherwise prepared so that they do not bear USPS Marketing Mail 
markings, endorsements, and ACS codes and must bear the proper First-
Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail price markings and ACS 
codes. Mailers who have pieces (other than metered pieces weighing over 
13 ounces but less than 16 ounces) that do not qualify for USPS 
Marketing Mail prices but that are prepared as USPS Marketing Mail and 
who do not desire to receive First-Class Mail or USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail service for those pieces may enter their mailpieces 
``as is'' (i.e., bearing the USPS Marketing Mail markings and 
endorsements), provided the requirements in 244.1.0, are met.
* * * * *

244 Postage Payment and Documentation

* * * * *

5.0 Residual Pieces

    [Revise the heading and introductory text of 5.1 to read as 
follows:]

5.1 Residual USPS Marketing Mail Subject to First-Class Mail or USPS 
Ground Advantage Prices

    Mailers who have pieces weighing 13 ounces or less that do not 
qualify for USPS Marketing Mail prices but that are prepared as USPS 
Marketing Mail must pay single-piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail postage for such pieces. If mailers do not desire to 
receive First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail service for 
such pieces they may enter the mailpieces ``as is'' (i.e., bearing the 
USPS Marketing Mail markings and endorsements), under the following 
conditions:
* * * * *
    [Revise the first sentence of item b to read as follows:]
    b. Mail bearing metered or precanceled stamp postage must pay the 
difference between the postage affixed at the USPS Marketing Mail 
prices and the single-piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail prices by means of an advance deposit account or by affixing a 
meter stamp for the appropriate amount to Form 3600-FCM. * * *
    [Revise the first sentence of item c to read as follows:]
    c. Mail bearing permit imprints must pay the appropriate single-
piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail prices by 
completing Form 3600-FCM. * * *
    [Revise the heading and introductory text of 5.2 to read as 
follows:]

5.2 Residual USPS Marketing Mail Subject to USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail Prices

    Mailers who have permit imprint pieces weighing over 13 ounces but 
less than 16 ounces that do not qualify for USPS Marketing Mail prices 
but that are prepared as USPS Marketing Mail must pay the USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail postage for such pieces. Mailpieces paid with meters 
or permit imprints must re-envelope or otherwise prepare the pieces so 
that when mailed they bear only the appropriate USPS Ground Advantage 
markings, ancillary service endorsements, and ACS codes and do not bear 
USPS Marketing Mail

[[Page 32831]]

markings, endorsements, or ACS codes. Mailpieces paid with permit 
imprints for which mailers do not desire to receive USPS Ground 
Advantage service may enter the mailpieces ``as is'' (i.e., bearing the 
USPS Marketing Mail markings and endorsements), under the following 
conditions:
* * * * *
    [Revise the first sentence of item b to read as follows:]
    b. The appropriate USPS Ground Advantage--Retail prices must be 
paid by completing the appropriate part of Form 3600-FCM on the line 
titled ``Pieces From USPS Marketing Mail mailing'' in the postage 
calculation section. ***
* * * * *

245 Mail Preparation

* * * * *

6.0 Preparing Enhanced Carrier Route Letters

* * * * *

6.3 Residual Pieces

    [Revise the text of 6.3 to read as follows:]
    Pieces not sorted as a carrier route mailing must be prepared as a 
separate mailing at USPS Marketing Mail automation or Presorted prices 
or at the applicable single-piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail prices.
* * * * *

8.0 Preparing Nonautomation Flats

* * * * *

8.10 Residual Pieces

    [Revise the first sentence in the introductory text of 8.10 to read 
as follows:]
    Mailers entering USPS Marketing Mail residual pieces that do not 
qualify for USPS Marketing Mail prices, and paying the applicable 
single-piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail prices 
(but prepared ``as is'' under 244.5.0), must separately bundle and sack 
residual pieces from the automation and presort pieces. * * *
* * * * *

9.0 Preparing Enhanced Carrier Route Flats

* * * * *

9.2 Residual Pieces

    [Revise the text of 9.2 to read as follows:]
    Pieces not sorted as a carrier route mailing must be prepared as a 
separate mailing at USPS Marketing Mail automation or Presorted prices 
or at the applicable single-piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail prices.
* * * * *

250 Commercial Mail Parcel Select

253 Prices and Eligibility

1.0 Pricing

* * * * *

1.1.2 Price Categories

    The price categories for Parcel Select are as follows:
    [Revise the text of item a to read as follows:]
    a. Destination entry including destination entry network 
distribution center (DNDC), destination entry sectional center facility 
(DSCF), destination hub (DHub), and destination entry delivery unit 
(DDU).
    [Delete item b and renumber items c and d as items b and c.]
    [Revise renumbered item b to read as follows:]
    b. Lightweight includes DNDC, DSCF, DHub, and DDU.
* * * * *

1.1.3 Price Application

    The following price applications apply:
    [Revise the first sentence of item a to read as follows:]
    a. Prices for Destination Entry DNDC are based on the weight 
increment and the entry of each addressed piece. ***
* * * * *
    [Delete item d and renumber item e as item d. Revise the text of 
renumbered item d to read as follows:]
    d. Prices for Parcel Select Lightweight are based on the weight 
increment and the entry of each addressed piece. The price is charged 
at the 4-ounce, 8-ounce, 12 ounce, and 15.999-ounce increments. Any 
fraction of an ounce over the 4-ounce, 8-ounce, 12-ounce and 15.999-
ounce increments is rounded to the next price increment. For example, 
if an item weighs 4.1 ounces, the next weight (price) increment is 8 
ounces, if an item weighs 12.1 ounces, the next weight (price) 
increment is 15.999 ounces.
* * * * *
    [Delete 1.2, Parcel Select Ground Cubic, in its entirety and 
renumber items 1.3 through 1.9 as items 1.2 through 1.8.]
* * * * *

1.2 Dimensional Weight Price for Low-Density Parcels to Zones 1-9

    [Revise the text of renumbered 1.2 to read as follows:]
    Postage for Destination Entry parcels addressed for delivery to 
Zones 1-9 and exceeding 1 cubic foot (1,728 cubic inches) is based on 
the actual weight or the dimensional weight (as calculated in 1.2.1 or 
1.2.2), whichever is greater.
* * * * *

1.7 Nonstandard Fees

    [Revise the introductory text of renumbered 1.7 to read as 
follows:]
    A Parcel Select Destination Entry, Parcel Select Lightweight, or 
USPS Connect Local mailpiece is subject to a nonstandard fee (see 
Notice 123-Price List) as follows:
* * * * *

4.0 Price Eligibility for Parcel Select and Parcel Select Lightweight

4.1 Destination Entry Price Eligibility

4.1.1 Definition

    * * * For this standard, the following destination facility 
definitions apply:
* * * * *
    [Renumber item c as item d and add new item c to read as follows:]
    c. A destination hub (DHub) includes all facilities in L014. See 
4.1.4 for more information.
    [Revise the heading and introductory text of 4.1.4 to read as 
follows:]

4.1.4 DSCF, DHub, and DDU Prices

    For DSCF, DHub, and DDU prices, pieces must meet the applicable 
standards in 3.0 and the following criteria:
* * * * *
    [Renumber item b as item c and add new item b to read as follows:]
    b. For DHub prices, be part of a Parcel Select destination entry 
mailing of parcels deposited at an DHub in L014. Mailers must not 
prepare mail on pallets or pallet boxes if the delivery facility is 
unable to handle pallets. See 255.4.2 and 255.6.0 for preparation 
requirements.
* * * * *
    [Delete 4.2, Parcel Select Ground Price Eligibility, in its 
entirety and renumber 4.3 through 4.6 as 4.2 through 4.5.]

4.2 Parcel Select Lightweight

* * * * *

4.2.2 Price Application

    [Revise the text of renumbered 4.2.2 to read as follows:]
    Prices for Parcel Select Lightweight apply to parcels that meet the 
eligibility standards in 2.0 and 4.2 and the preparation standards in 
255.6.0, 705.6.0, or 705.8.0. When pieces are combined under 705.6.0, 
pieces are eligible for the applicable prices when the combined total 
meets the eligibility

[[Page 32832]]

standards. For example, when there are 10 pounds of combined machinable 
parcels and irregular parcels in a 5-digit sack, all pieces are 
eligible for the applicable prices.

4.2.3 Prices for Machinable Parcels

    The following prices apply to Parcel Select Lightweight machinable 
parcels:
    [Revise the introductory text of item a to read as follows:]
    a. DDU Price; the DDU price applies to qualifying machinable 
parcels that are dropshipped to a DDU and presented:
    [Revise the text of item a1 to read as follows:]
    1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack containing at least 10 pounds of 
pieces.
    [Renumber item a2 as item a3 and add new item a2 to read as 
follows:]
    2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet, according to standards in 
705.8.10.
* * * * *
    [Renumber items b through d as items c through e and add new item b 
to read as follows:]
    b. Hub Price; the Hub price applies to machinable parcels that are 
dropshipped and presented to a Hub:
    1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack containing at least 10 pounds of 
pieces.
    2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet, according to standards in 
705.8.10.
    [Revise the introductory text of renumbered item c to read as 
follows:]
    c. DSCF Price; the DSCF price applies to machinable parcels that 
are dropshipped and presented to a DSCF:
    [Renumber items c1 and c2 as items c3 and c4 and add new items c1 
and c2 to read as follows:]
    1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack containing at least 10 pounds of 
pieces.
    2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet, according to standards in 
705.8.10.
* * * * *
    [Revise the introductory text of renumbered item d to read as 
follows:]
    d. DNDC Price; the DNDC price applies to qualifying machinable 
parcels that are dropshipped and presented to an NDC as follows:
    [Renumber items 1 through 3 as items 5 through 7 and add new items 
1 through 4 to read as follows:]
    1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack containing at least 10 pounds of 
pieces.
    2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet, according to standards in 
705.8.10.
    3. In an SCF sack containing at least 10 pounds of parcels.
    4. On an SCF pallet, according to 705.8.10.
    [Revise the text of renumbered item d5 to read as follows:]
    5. In an ASF or NDC sack containing at least 10 pounds of parcels; 
or on an ASF or NDC pallet, according to standards in 705.8.10; or in 
an NDC/ASF container prepared under 705.21.0.
    [Delete renumbered item 6 and renumber item 7 as item 6.]
* * * * *
    [Delete renumbered item e in its entirety.]

4.2.4 Prices for Irregular Parcels

    The following prices apply to Parcel Select Lightweight irregular 
parcels:
    a. DDU Price; the DDU price applies to irregular parcels that are 
dropshipped to a DDU and presented:
* * * * *
    [Renumber items b through d as items c through e and add new item b 
to read as follows:]
    b. Hub Price; the Hub price applies to irregular parcels that are 
dropshipped and presented to a Hub:
    1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack containing at least 10 pounds of 
pieces.
    2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet, according to standards in 
705.8.10.
    [Revise the introductory text of renumbered item c to read as 
follows:]
    c. DSCF Price; the DSCF price applies to irregular parcels that are 
dropshipped and presented to a DSCF:
    [Renumber items c1 through c3 as items c3 through c5 and add new 
items c1 and c2 to read as follows:]
    1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack containing at least 10 pounds of 
pieces.
    2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet, according to standards in 
705.8.10.
* * * * *
    [Revise the introductory text of renumbered item d to read as 
follows:]
    d. DNDC Price; the DNDC price applies to qualifying irregular 
parcels that are dropshipped and presented to an NDC as follows:
    [Renumber items 1 and 2 as items 5 and 6 and add new items 1 
through 4 to read as follows:]
    1. In a 5-digit/scheme (L606) sack containing at least 10 pounds of 
pieces.
    2. On a 5-digit/scheme (L606) pallet, according to standards in 
705.8.10.
    3. In an SCF sack containing at least 10 pounds of parcels.
    4. On an SCF pallet, according to 705.8.10.
    [Revise the text of renumbered item 5 to read as follows:]
    5. In an ASF or NDC sack containing at least 10 pounds of parcels; 
or on an ASF or NDC pallet, according to standards in 705.8.10; or in 
an NDC/ASF container prepared under 705.21.0.
    [Delete renumbered item 6 in its entirety and add new item 6 to 
read as follows:]
    6. DNDC prices are not available for ZIP Code ranges 006-009, 967-
969, and 995-999, as indicated in labeling list L601.
* * * * *
    [Delete renumbered item e in its entirety.]
* * * * *

4.5 Hold For Pickup

    [Revise the text of renumbered 4.5 to read as follows:]
    Parcel Select Lightweight parcels are eligible for Hold For Pickup 
service under 507.3.0.
* * * * *

254 Postage Payment and Documentation

1.0 Basic Standards for Postage Payment

1.1 Postage Payment Options

    [Revise the heading of 1.1.1 to read as follows:]

1.1.1 Parcel Select Destination Entry

    [Revise the introductory text of 1.1.1 to read as follows:]
    Parcel Select destination entry may be paid as follows:
    [Revise item a to read as follows:]
    a. Metered postage may be used on pieces as provided under 1.1.1c 
and 604.4.
    [Delete items a1 and a2.]
* * * * *

255 Mail Preparation

1.0 General Information for Mail Preparation

* * * * *
    [Delete 1.6 and 1.7 in their entireties and renumber 1.8 as 1.6.]

1.6 Parcel Select Markings

    [Delete the last sentence of renumbered 1.6.]
* * * * *

4.0 Preparing Destination Entry Parcel Select

* * * * *
    [Renumber 4.2 and 4.3 as 4.3 and 4.4 and add new 4.2 to read as 
follows:]

4.2 Preparing Destination Hub (DHub) Parcel Select

4.2.1 Definition

    A destination Hub (DHub) includes all facilities in L014.

4.2.2 Basic Standards

    Pieces must meet the applicable standards in 4.0 and the following 
criteria:
    a. Must be part of a mailing of at least 50 Parcel Select pieces.
    b. DHub pieces must be for the same Hub area under L014.

[[Page 32833]]

    c. Sorted to optional 5-digit scheme destinations under L606, 
Column B, 5-digit destinations, either in sacks or directly on pallets 
or in pallet boxes. Mailers must enter the pieces at the designated 
Hub, under L014 that serves the 5-digit ZIP Code destinations of the 
pieces. The DHub price is not available for palletized mail for 
facilities that are unable to handle palletized mailings. Refer to the 
Drop Shipment Product available at the USPS FAST website: https://fast.usps.com to determine if the facility serving the 5-digit 
destination can handle pallets.

4.2.3 Sacking and Labeling

    Sacking requirements for DHub entry:
    a. Only 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks are permitted.
    b. Each 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sack must contain a minimum of 
seven pieces. Machinable and nonmachinable pieces may be combined in 
the same sack to meet this requirement. One overflow sack per 5-digit 
ZIP Code is permitted (no piece minimum).
    c. 5-digit scheme sack labeling: Line 1, use L606, Column B; for 
Line 2, ``PSVC PARCELS 5D SCH.''
    d. 5-digit sack labeling: Line 1, use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP 
Code on mail (see 203.5.11 for overseas military mail); for Line 2, 
``PSVC PARCELS 5D.''
* * * * *

5.0 Preparing Machinable Parcels

* * * * *

5.3 Sacking and Labeling

* * * * *

5.3.1 Sack Preparation

    Sack size, preparation sequence, and Line 1 labeling:
* * * * *
    [Delete item f in its entirety.]

5.3.2 Sack Line 2

    Line 2:
* * * * *
    [Delete item f in its entirety.]

6.0 Preparing Parcel Select Lightweight

6.2.1 Sacking

    [Revise the first sentence of 6.3.1 to read as follows:]
    Mailers may prepare 5-digit sacks only for parcels that will be 
dropshipped to a DNDC (or ASF when claiming DNDC prices), DHub, DSCF, 
or DDU. * * *
* * * * *

6.2.2 Sacking and Labeling

    Preparation sequence, sack size, and labeling:
    [Revise the introductory text of item a to read as follows:]
    a. 5-digit/scheme (optional), see definition in 1.4.; allowed only 
for mail deposited at DNDC (or ASF when claiming DNDC prices), DHub, 
DSCF, or DDU. Sacks must contain a 10-pound minimum except at DDU entry 
which has no minimum; labeling:
* * * * *
    [Delete items e and f in their entireties.]

6.3 Preparing Irregular Parcels

6.3.1 Sacking

    [Revise the first sentence of 6.3.1 to read as follows:]
    Mailers may prepare 5-digit sacks only for parcels that will be 
dropshipped to a DNDC (or ASF when claiming DNDC prices), DHub, DSCF, 
or DDU. See 6.3.3 for restrictions on SCF, ASF, and NDC sacks. * * *
* * * * *

6.3.3 Sacking and Labeling

    Preparation sequence, sack size, and labeling:
    [Revise the introductory text of item a to read as follows:]
    a. 5-digit/scheme (optional), see definition in 1.4; allowed only 
for mail deposited at DNDC (or ASF when claiming DNDC prices), DHub, 
DSCF, or DDU. Sacks must contain a 10-pound minimum except at DDU entry 
which has no minimum; labeling:
* * * * *
    [Delete items e and f in their entireties.]
* * * * *
    [Delete 8.0, Preparing a Cubic Mailing, in its entirety.]

256 Enter and Deposit

* * * * *

2.0 Deposit

* * * * *

2.2 Containers

    [Revise the introductory text and item a of 2.2 to read as 
follows:]
    DNDC mailings (if not bedloaded), DDU mailings (if not bedloaded), 
and all DHub, and DSCF mailings must be prepared as follows:
    a. Machinable parcels for which a DNDC, DSCF, DHub, or DDU price is 
claimed must be sacked under 255.4.0 or prepared on pallets under 
705.8.0.
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of 2.2 by adding a new item g to read as follows:]
    g. For DHub, 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks may be bedloaded or 
be placed on DHub pallets that are labeled and otherwise prepared under 
705.8.0.
* * * * *

2.5 Mail Separation and Presentation of Destination Entry Mailings

    * * * Mailers presenting destination entry mailings to the Postal 
Service must meet the following requirements:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item a to read as follows:]
    a. Mark each DNDC, DSCF, DHub, or DDU Parcel Select piece as 
``Parcel Select,'' according to 202.3.7.2. If eVS is used, include the 
marking ``eVS'' on each piece as described in 604.5.0.
    [Delete item b and renumber items c through f as items b through 
e.]
* * * * *

2.11 Deposit Conditions

    Deposit of mail also is subject to these conditions:
    [Revise the text of item a to read as follows:]
    a. Destination facilities may refuse mailings that are unscheduled 
or late (i.e., if vehicles arrive more than 2 hours after the scheduled 
appointment at ASFs, NDCs, SCFs, or DHubs, and more than 20 minutes 
late at delivery units). If a mailing is refused, a mailer is permitted 
to make a new appointment.
* * * * *

2.13 Vehicle Unloading

    Unloading of destination entry mailings is subject to these 
conditions:
    [Revise the first sentence of item a to read as follows:]
    a. Properly prepared containerized loads (e.g., pallets) are 
unloaded by the USPS at NDCs, ASFs, SCFs, and Hubs. * * *
    [Revise the first sentence of item b to read as follows:]
    b. The driver must unload bedloaded shipments within 8 hours of 
arrival at NDCs, ASFs, SCFs, and Hubs. * * *
* * * * *
    [Revise the heading of 280 to read as follows:]

280 Commercial Mail USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial

283 Prices and Eligibility

1.0 Prices and Fees

1.1 Price Application

    [Revise the text of 1.1 to read as follows:]
    Except under items 1.1c and 1.1d, postage is based on the price 
(see Notice 123--Price List) that applies to the weight and zone of 
each addressed piece as follows:
    a. The price is charged at the 4-ounce, 8-ounce, 12-ounce, and 
15.999-ounce

[[Page 32834]]

increments. Any fraction of an ounce over the 4-ounce, 8-ounce, 12-
ounce and 15.999-ounce increments is rounded to the next price 
increment. For example, if an item weighs 4.1 ounces, the next weight 
(price) increment is 8 ounces, if an item weighs 12.1 ounces, the next 
weight (price) increment is 15.999 pound.
    b. Per pound from 1 pound through 70 pounds. Any fraction of a 
pound is considered a whole pound. For example, if an item weighs 1.25 
pounds, the weight (postage) increment is 2 pounds.
    c. The oversized price is based on the zone and applies to pieces 
that measure over 108 inches but not more than 130 inches in combined 
length and girth.
    d. Cubic prices are based on the zone and cubic measurement (Tier) 
of the mailpiece with any fraction of a measurement rounded down to the 
nearest \1/4\ inch. For example, if a dimension of a cubic piece 
measures 12\3/8\ inches, it is rounded down to 12\1/4\ inches.

1.2 Commercial Prices

    Commercial prices are available when paid by one of the following 
methods:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]
    d. USPS Returns service used by permit holders for USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial packages when all requirements are met under 
505.3.0).
    [Delete 1.3, Surcharge, and renumber 1.4 as 1.6, and add new 1.3, 
1.4, and 1.5 to read as follows:]

1.3 USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial Cubic

1.3.1 Eligibility

    Cubic prices are available to eligible USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial customers including USPS Ground Advantage Return service 
under 505.3.0. Each cubic mailpiece, including soft packs and padded 
envelopes under 1.3.4, must measure 1 cubic foot or less, weigh 20 
pounds or less, and the longest dimension may not exceed 18 inches. 
Cubic-priced mailpieces may not be rolls or tubes.

1.3.2 Tiers

    Cubic prices consist of the following ten tiers:
    a. Tier 0.10--mailpieces measuring up to .10 cubic foot
    b. Tier 0.20--mailpieces measuring more than .10 up to .20 cubic 
foot
    c. Tier 0.30--mailpieces measuring more than .20 up to .30 cubic 
foot
    d. Tier 0.40--mailpieces measuring more than .30 up to .40 cubic 
foot
    e. Tier 0.50--mailpieces measuring more than .40 up to .50 cubic 
foot
    f. Tier 0.60--mailpieces measuring more than .50 up to .60 cubic 
foot
    g. Tier 0.70--mailpieces measuring more than .60 up to .70 cubic 
foot
    h. Tier 0.80--mailpieces measuring more than .70 up to .80 cubic 
foot
    i. Tier 0.90--mailpieces measuring more than .80 up to .90 cubic 
foot
    j. Tier 1.00--mailpieces measuring more than .90 up to 1.00 cubic 
foot

1.3.3 Determining Cubic Tier Measurements for Rectangular and 
Nonrectangular Parcels

    Follow these steps to determine the cubic tier measurement for 
rectangular and nonrectangular parcels:
    a. Measure the length, width, and height at each dimension's 
maximum point, in inches. Round down (see 604.7.0) each measurement to 
the nearest \1/4\ inch. For example, 6\1/8\'' x 5\7/8\'' x 6\3/8\'' is 
rounded down to 6'' x 5\3/4\'' x 6\1/4\''.
    b. Multiply the length by the width by the height and divide by 
1728. For example: 6'' x 5\3/4\'' x 6\1/4\'' = 215.6 divided by 1728 = 
0.125 (This piece exceeds 0.10--Tier 1 threshold). It is calculated at 
Tier 2--0.101 to 0.20.

1.3.4 Determining Cubic Tier Measurement for Soft Pack and Padded 
Envelopes

    Cubic tier measurements for soft pack (poly, plastic, cloth, or 
similar soft packaging) and padded envelopes are based on the outside 
dimensions of length plus width, in inches, of the original packaging 
material. Mailpieces that are pleated (e.g., expandable) must follow 
the measurement guidelines in 1.3.3 to be eligible for cubic pricing. 
Determine cubic tier measurements as follows:
    a. Measure the length and width separately in inches.
    b. Round down (see 604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest \1/4\ 
inch. For example, 10\1/8\ inches is rounded down to 10 inches.
    c. Add the two measurements together. The maximum total of length 
plus width cannot exceed 36 inches. See Exhibit 1.3.4 for corresponding 
price tiers.

Exhibit 1.3.4 Cubic Pricing Tiers for Soft Pack & Padded Envelopes

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Cubic price tiers                                        Length plus width
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0.10...................................  Mailpieces measuring from 0'' up to 16''.
0.20...................................  Mailpieces measuring more than 16'' up to 21''.
0.30...................................  Mailpieces measuring more than 21'' up to 24''.
0.40...................................  Mailpieces measuring more than 24'' up to 26''.
0.50...................................  Mailpieces measuring more than 26'' up to 28''.
0.60...................................  Mailpieces measuring more than 28'' up to 30''.
0.70...................................  Mailpieces measuring more than 30'' up to 32''.
0.80...................................  Mailpieces measuring more than 32'' up to 34''.
0.90...................................  Mailpieces measuring more than 34'' up to 35''.
1.00...................................  Mailpieces measuring more than 35'' up to 36''.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1.4 Dimensional Weight Price for Low-Density Parcels to Zones 1-9

    Postage for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels addressed for 
delivery to Zones 1-9 and exceeding 1 cubic foot (1,728 cubic inches) 
is based on the actual weight or the dimensional weight (as calculated 
in 1.4.1 or 1.4.2), whichever is greater.

1.4.1 Determining Dimensional Weight for Rectangular Parcels

    Follow these steps to determine the dimensional weight for a 
rectangular parcel:
    a. Measure the length, width, and height in inches. Round off (see 
604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest whole inch.
    b. Multiply the length by the width by the height.
    c. If the result exceeds 1,728 cubic inches, divide the result by 
166 and round up (see 604.7.0) to the next whole number to determine 
the dimensional weight in pounds.
    d. If the dimensional weight exceeds 70 pounds, the customer pays 
the 70-pound price.

[[Page 32835]]

1.4.2 Determining Dimensional Weight for Nonrectangular Parcels

    Follow these steps to determine the dimensional weight for a 
nonrectangular parcel:
    a. Measure the length, width, and height in inches at their extreme 
dimensions. Round off (see 604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest 
whole inch.
    b. Multiply the length by the width by the height.
    c. Multiply the result by an adjustment factor of 0.785.
    d. If the final result exceeds 1,728 cubic inches, divide the 
result by 166 and round up (see 604.7.0) to the next whole number to 
determine the dimensional weight in pounds.
    e. If the dimensional weight exceeds 70 pounds, the customer pays 
the 70-pound price.

1.4.3 Dimensional Weight Dimension Standard

    Shipping Services file manifests or other approved electronic 
documentation must include the accurate dimensions (length, width, 
height) of all pieces that exceed 1 cubic foot. Mailers of pieces 
exceeding 1 cubic foot and with Shipping Services file manifests, or 
other approved electronic documentation, that do not meet the 
requirement to include the piece's accurate dimensions will be assessed 
a dimension-noncompliance fee under 1.8.

1.5 Computing Postage

1.5.1 Determining Single-Piece Weight

    To determine single-piece weight in any mailing of nonidentical-
weight pieces, weigh each piece individually. To determine single-piece 
weight in a mailing of identical-weight pieces, weigh a sample group of 
at least 10 randomly selected pieces and divide the total sample weight 
by the number of pieces in the sample. Except for mailers using eVS, 
when determining single-piece weight for USPS Ground Advantage 
mailpieces, express all weights in decimal pounds rounded off to two 
decimal places. Mailers using eVS may round off to four decimals, and 
eVS will automatically round to the appropriate decimal place. If a 
customer is using a manifest mailing system, the manifest weight field 
must be properly completed by adhering to the rules relative to the 
specific manifest.

1.5.2 Computing Postage for Affixed Postage

    For each piece, affix correct postage for the weight (including any 
surcharges) and, if applicable, the zone to which the piece is 
addressed, as shown in 1.2 through 1.4. To calculate the total postage 
for the mailing, add all of the affixed postage amounts for each piece.

1.5.3 Computing Postage for Permit Imprint

    To compute the total postage for a mailing, for each weight 
increment, multiply the number of pieces by the applicable price per 
piece. Round each product off to four decimal places. Add the products 
and round up the total postage to the nearest whole cent.

1.6 eVS Unmanifested Fee

    [Revise the text of renumbered 1.6 to read as follows:]
    Eligible eVS USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial pieces omitted from 
the eVS manifest are subject to the eVS unmanifested fee (see Notice 
123-Price List), unless the piece is subject to the IMpb noncompliance 
fee specified in 3.4.
    [Add new 1.7 and 1.8 to read as follows:]

1.7 Nonstandard Fees

    A USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial mailpiece is subject to a 
nonstandard fee (see Notice 123--Price List) as follows:
    a. A piece measures more than 22 inches up to 30 inches long.
    b. A piece measures more than 30 inches long.
    c. A piece measures more than 2 cubic feet (3,456 cubic inches). 
Dimensions for rectangular pieces are determined by measuring the 
length, width, and height in inches, rounding off (see 604.7.0) each 
measurement to the nearest whole inch and multiplying the length by the 
width by the height. Dimensions for nonrectangular pieces are 
calculated as above and the result multiplied by an adjustment factor 
of 0.785. If either calculation exceeds 3,456 cubic inches, the piece 
is subject to the nonstandard fee.
    d. A piece may be subject to both a length (1.8a, 1.8b) and a cube 
(1.8c) nonstandard fee.
    e. Shipping Services file manifests or other approved electronic 
documentation must include the accurate dimensions (length, width, 
height) of all pieces that exceed 22 inches.
    f. Mailers of pieces exceeding 22 inches and with Shipping Services 
file manifests, or other approved electronic documentation, that do not 
meet the requirement to include the piece's accurate dimensions will be 
assessed a dimension-noncompliance fee under 1.8.

1.8 Dimension-Noncompliance Fee

    Mailers of USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial mailpieces required to 
include the mailpiece's dimensions (length, width, height) in the 
Shipping Services file manifest or other approved electronic 
documentation under 1.4.3 or 1.7 will be charged a dimension-
noncompliance fee (see Notice 123--Price List) if the piece's 
dimensions are omitted or inaccurate in the Shipping Services file 
manifest or other approved electronic documentation. A mailpiece is 
subject to only one dimension-noncompliance fee.
    [Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as follows:]

2.0 Content Standards for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial Parcels

2.1 General

    [Revise the text of 2.1 to read as follows:]
    In addition to restricted material described in 601.8.0, parcels 
mailed at USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial prices may not contain 
documents or personal correspondence, except that such parcels may 
contain invoices, receipts, incidental advertising, and other documents 
that relate in all substantial respects to merchandise contained in the 
parcels.
* * * * *
    [Revise the heading of 3.0 to read as follows:]

3.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial

3.1 Description of Service

    [Revise the text of 3.1 to read as follows:]
    USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels receive expeditious 
handling and transportation. The USPS does not guarantee the delivery 
of USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial within a specified time. Certain 
USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial mailpieces might receive deferred 
service.

3.2 Defining Characteristics

3.2.1 Inspection of Contents

    [Revise the text of 3.2.1 to read as follows:]
    Articles mailed at USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial prices are not 
sealed against postal inspection. Regardless of physical closure, the 
mailing of articles at USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial prices 
constitutes consent by the mailer to postal inspection of the contents.

3.2.2 Forwarding and Return Service

    [Revise the text of 3.2.2 to read as follows:]

[[Page 32836]]

    The postage price of USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels 
includes forwarding service to a new address for up to 12 months and 
return of undeliverable parcels to the sender.

3.2.3 Additional and Extra Services

    [Revise the text of 3.2.3 to read as follows:]
    Extra services are available for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 
parcels under 503 and for Hold for Pickup service under 507.3.0.

3.3 Additional Basic Standards

    [Revise the introductory text of 3.3 to read as follows:]
    All USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels must:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of 3.3 by adding a new item c to read as follows:]
    c. Bear a return address.

3.4 IMpb Standards

    [Revise the first sentence of 3.4 to read as follows:]
    All USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels must bear an 
Intelligent Mail package barcode (IMpb) prepared under 204.2.0. * * *
    [Revise the heading of 4.0 to read as follows:]

4.0 Price Eligibility for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial

* * * * *

284 Postage Payment and Documentation

1.0 Basic Standards for Postage Payment

    [Revise the first sentence of 1.0 to read as follows:]
    Postage for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels must be paid 
with postage evidencing system postage or permit imprint as specified 
below. * * *
    [Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as follows:]

2.0 Postage Payment for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial

2.1 Permit Imprint Postage

    [Revise the first sentence of 2.1 to read as follows:]
    All USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels may bear permit 
imprint postage under 604.5.0. * * *
    [Revise the heading and text of 2.2 to read as follows:]

2.2 Affixed Postage for USPS Retail Ground--Commercial

    Each USPS Retail Ground--Commercial parcel bearing postage 
evidencing system indicia (IBI Meter or PC Postage) must bear the full 
numerical value of postage at the USPS Retail Ground--Commercial price 
for which it qualifies.

285 Mail Preparation

    [Revise the heading and introductory text of 1.0 to read as 
follows:]

1.0 Preparation for USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial

    The following standards apply to single-piece USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
    b. There are no sorting requirements for single-piece USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial parcels paid with postage evidencing system 
postage.
* * * * *
    [Delete 3.0, Optional ADC Presort, and add new 3.0 and 4.0 to read 
as follows:]

3.0 Preparing a Cubic Mailing

    Cubic mailpieces for multiple price tiers may be combined in the 
same container.
* * * * *

4.0 Pickup on Demand Service

    Pickup on Demand service (507.7.0) is available for a fee only from 
designated ZIP Codes and can be requested online at www.usps.com.

286 Enter and Deposit

1.0 Deposit

1.1 Time and Location of Deposit

    [Revise the text of 1.1 to read as follows:]
    Mailers may deposit USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial with parcels 
postage evidencing indicia at any Postal Service facility, preferably 
near the customer's local Post Office. USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial parcels bearing a permit imprint must be deposited under 
604.5.0 and 705.

1.2 Approved Collections

    [Revise the introductory text of 1.2 to read as follows:]
    The USPS may collect USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels at a 
mailer`s facility if part of an approved collection service for other 
classes of mail; space is available on the transportation; and:
* * * * *

500 Additional Mailing Services

503 Extra Services

1.0 Basic Standards for All Extra Services

* * * * *

1.4.1 Eligibility--Domestic Mail

* * * * *

Exhibit 1.4.1 Eligibility--Domestic Mail

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                Extra service                                      Eligible mail                 Additional combined extra services
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    [Revise Exhibit 1.4.1 under the ``Eligible Mail'' column by 
removing ``USPS Retail Ground'' in the Insurance, Certificate of 
Mailing, Certificate of Bulk Mailing, Return Receipt, Signature 
Confirmation, Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery, and COD, line 
items.]
* * * * *
Registered Mail

    [Revise ``Register Mail'' services by replacing First-Class Package 
Service--Commercial with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial and First-
Class Package--Retail with USPS Ground Advantage--Retail under the 
``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Certified Mail

    [Revise 1.4.1 ``Certified Mail'' services by deleting First-Class 
Package Service--Commercial and First-Class Package--Retail under the 
``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Insurance

    [Revise ``Insurance'' services by replacing First-Class Package 
Service--Commercial with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial and First-
Class Package--Retail with USPS Ground Advantage--Retail under the 
``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Certificate of Mailing

    [Revise ``Certificate of Mailing'' services by deleting First-Class 
Package Service--Commercial and First-Class Package--Retail under the 
``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Certificate of Bulk Mailing


[[Page 32837]]


    [Revise ``Certificate of Bulk Mailing'' services by deleting First-
Class Package Service--Commercial and First-Class Package--Retail under 
the ``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Return Receipt

    [Revise ``Return Receipt'' services by replacing First-Class 
Package Service--Commercial with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial and 
First-Class Package--Retail with USPS Ground Advantage--Retail under 
the ``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Signature Confirmation

    [Revise ``Signature Confirmation'' service by replacing First-Class 
Package Service--Commercial with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial and 
First-Class Package--Retail with USPS Ground Advantage--Retail under 
the ``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery

    [Revise ``Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery'' service by 
replacing First-Class Package Service--Commercial with USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial and First-Class Package--Retail with USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail under the ``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Adult Signature Required

    [Revise ``Adult Signature Required'' services by replacing First-
Class Package Service--Commercial with USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial under the ``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *
Collect on Delivery (COD)

    [Revise ``Collect on Delivery'' services by replacing First-Class 
Package Service--Commercial with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial and 
First-Class Package--Retail with USPS Ground Advantage--Retail under 
the ``Eligible Mail'' column.]
* * * * *

1.4.3 Eligibility--Domestic Returns

* * * * *

Exhibit 1.4.3 Eligibility--Domestic Returns

* * * * *

Exhibit 1.4.3 Eligibility--Domestic Returns

    [Revise Exhibit 1.4.3 by adding a new line item ``Priority Mail 
Express Return Service'' at the top of the table to read as follows:]

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   Eligible extra services (paid by EPS
                                       account or by permit holder)
         Return services         ---------------------------------------
                                   Insurance $500 or    Insurance more
                                         less              than $500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
USPS Returns:
    Priority Mail Express Return                  1             1, 2, 3
     Service....................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
    [Revise the ``First-Class Package Return Service'' line item by 
renaming as ``USPS Ground Advantage Return Service''.]
    [Delete the ``Ground Return Service'' line item in its entirety.]
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of footnote #1 in Exhibit 1.4.3 to read as 
follows:]
    1. Insurance, up to a maximum of $100.00, is included for Priority 
Mail Express Return Service, Priority Mail Return Service, and USPS 
Ground Advantage Return Service.
* * * * *

4.0 Insured Mail

* * * * *

4.3 Basic Standards

* * * * *

4.3.2 Ineligible Matter

    The following types of mail may not be insured:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item e to read as follows:]
    e. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial, and Priority Mail may be insured, if it contains 
matter that is eligible to be mailed at USPS Marketing Mail, or Package 
Services prices.
* * * * *

7.0 USPS Tracking

7.1 Basic Standards

* * * * *

7.1.3 Additional Physical Standards

    [Revise the last sentence in the introductory text of 7.1.3 to read 
as follows:]
    * * * In addition to the applicable standards in 101 and 201 and 
the purposes of USPS Tracking with Media Mail, Library Mail, Bound 
Printed Matter, or Parcel Select, the parcel must meet these additional 
requirements:
* * * * *

8.0 USPS Signature Services

8.1 Basic Standards

* * * * *

8.1.2 Standards for Signature Confirmation

    [Revise the introductory text of 8.1.2 to read as follows:]
    For Signature Confirmation with Media Mail, Library Mail, Bound 
Printed Matter, or Parcel Select pieces meeting the physical standards 
under 201.7.0, the parcel must meet these additional requirements:
* * * * *

505 Return Services

1.0 Business Reply Mail (BRM)

1.1 BRM Postage and Fees

1.1.1 Basic BRM

    [Revise the first and second sentence of 1.1.1 to read as follows:]
    For basic BRM, a permit holder is required to pay an annual permit 
fee as provided under 1.2 and a per-piece fee under 1.1.7 in addition 
to the applicable Retail First-Class Mail (stamped for letters), USPS 
Ground Advantage--Retail, or Priority Mail postage for each returned 
piece. For USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, or Priority Mail BRM pieces 
exceeding 13 ounces in weight, if the zone cannot be determined from a 
return address or cancellation, then the permit holder is charged zone 
4 postage based on the weight of the piece. * * *
* * * * *

1.1.5 Bulk Weight Averaged Nonletter-Size BRM

    [Revise the text of 1.1.5 to read as follows:]
    In addition to an annual permit fee (which will apply under 1.2.3 
for the return of any flat-size pieces), per piece

[[Page 32838]]

fee and the applicable Retail First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail, or Priority Mail postage, permit holders participating in bulk 
weight averaged nonletter-size BRM under 1.8 must pay an annual account 
maintenance fee, and a monthly maintenance fee.
* * * * *

1.3 Basic Standards

1.3.1 Description

    [Revise the first and second sentence of 1.3.1 to read as follows:]
    Business Reply Mail (BRM) service enables a permit holder to 
receive First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, and Priority 
Mail back from customers. The permit holder guarantees payment of the 
applicable Retail First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, or 
Priority Mail postage, plus a per piece fee, on all returned BRM which 
includes any incomplete, blank, or empty BRM cards and envelopes and 
any mailable matter with a BRM label affixed. BRM cards, envelopes, 
self-mailers, cartons, and labels may be distributed by a BRM permit 
holder in any quantity for return to any Post Office in the United 
States and its territories and possessions, including military Post 
Offices overseas. * * *
* * * * *

3.0 USPS Returns Service

3.1 Basic Standards

3.1.1 Description

    [Revise the introductory text of 3.1.1 to read as follows:]
    USPS Returns service allows an authorized account holder to pay the 
postage and fees on single-piece priced commercial Priority Mail 
Express, Priority Mail, or USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, packages 
returned to the account holder by senders (mailers) via a return label, 
meeting the standards in 3.1.4, produced by the account holder. Unless 
otherwise restricted, any mailable matter may be mailed using any of 
the USPS Returns service options (Priority Mail Express Return Service, 
Priority Mail Return Service, USPS Ground Advantage Return Service). 
Any content that constitutes First-Class Mail matter may only be mailed 
using Priority Mail Express Return Service or Priority Mail Return 
Service. USPS Returns service is subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *

3.1.3 Postage and Prices

    Postage and prices are subject to the following:
    [Revise the first sentence of item a to read as follows:]
    a. Postage is calculated based on the weight of the return package 
and zone associated with the point of origin and delivery ZIP Code 
subject to the eligibility for commercial prices and fees based on the 
class of mail under 220 and 280, except that postage for USPS Returns 
in flat-rate packaging is based on the packaging type used and the 
associated Universal Product Code (UPC) on the packaging. * * *
    [Revise the introductory text of item b to read as follows:]
    b. Prices for Priority Mail Express Return Service, Priority Mail 
Return Service and USPS Ground Advantage Return Service packages are 
charged as follows:
    [Renumber items b1 though b3 as items b2 through b4, and add new 
item b1 to read as follows:]
    1. Priority Mail Express commercial prices are available for 
account holders using Priority Mail Express Return Service, when all 
applicable requirements are met.
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of renumbered b3 to read as follows:]
    2. USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial prices are available for USPS 
Ground Advantage Return Service packages when all applicable 
requirements are met.
    [Delete renumbered item b4 in its entirety.]
* * * * *
    c. The account holder or mailer may obtain extra and additional 
services as follows:
    [Revise the text of item c1 to read as follows:]
    1. Insurance is available for USPS Returns service (see 503.4). 
Insurance is included with the postage for Priority Mail Express Return 
service, Priority Mail Return service, and USPS Ground Advantage Return 
service (see 503.4.2). Additional insurance for Priority Mail Express 
Return service, Priority Mail Return service, and USPS Ground Advantage 
Return service is available to the account holder for a fee on packages 
that have the applicable STC imbedded into the IMpb on the label, and 
for which the account holder has provided electronic data that supports 
the value of the merchandise (see 503.4.3.1a). Only the account holder 
may file a claim (see 609). Mailers returning a USPS Returns service 
package may not obtain insurance at their own expense.
* * * * *

3.1.5 Noncompliant Labels

    [Revise the second sentence of 3.1.5 to read as follows:]
    * * * When noncompliant labels, including discontinued labels, are 
affixed to USPS Returns service packages, the permit holder will be 
assessed the appropriate USPS Ground Advantage--Retail price calculated 
from the package's initial entry point (first physical scan) in the 
USPS network to its delivery address.
* * * * *

3.1.6 Enter and Deposit

    The following standards apply:
    a. The EPS account holder's customers may mail the USPS Returns 
service package via the following:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item a3 to read as follows:]
    3. In any collection receptacle (e.g., collection box, lobby 
package drop unit) as permitted by each receptacle's limitations (see 
3.1.6b for USPS Returns service packages with extra services);
* * * * *

3.2 Additional Standards

    Additional mailing standards applicable to each service option are 
as follows:
    [Renumber items a through c as items b through d and add new item a 
to read as follows:]
    a. Priority Mail Express Return service may contain any mailable 
matter meeting the standards in 201.8.0 and 213.2.0. APO/FPO/DPO mail 
is subject to standards in 703.2.0 and 703.4.0, and Department of State 
mail is subject to standards in 703.3.0. Priority Mail Express Return 
service receives expeditious handling and transportation, with service 
standards in accordance with Priority Mail Express. Priority Mail 
Express Return service mailed under a specific customer agreement is 
charged postage according to the individual agreement.
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of renumbered item c to read as follows:]
    c. USPS Ground Advantage Return service may contain mailable matter 
meeting the standards in 201.8.0 and 283.2.0. USPS Ground Advantage 
Return service handling, transportation, and eligibility of contents 
are the same as for outbound USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels 
under standards in 283.0. USPS Ground Advantage Return service packages 
may not contain documents or personal correspondence, except that such 
packages may contain invoices, receipts, incidental advertising, and 
other documents that relate in all substantial respects to merchandise 
contained in the package.

[[Page 32839]]

    [Delete renumbered Item d in its entirety.]
* * * * *

507 Mailer Services

1.0 Treatment of Mail

* * * * *

1.4.5 Extra Services

    Mail with extra services is treated according to the charts for 
each class of mail in 1.5, except that:
    [Revise the text of items a and b to read as follows:]
    a. Undeliverable-as-addressed Certified Mail is treated as First-
Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail.
    b. All insured First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, 
USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, and Priority Mail, pieces are 
forwarded and returned at no additional charge. All insured USPS 
Marketing Mail, Package Services, and Parcel Select pieces are 
forwarded or returned.
* * * * *

1.5 Treatment for Ancillary Services by Class of Mail

1.5.1 First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, First-
Class Package Service--Commercial, and Priority Mail

    [Revise the introductory text of 1.5.1 to read as follows:]
    Undeliverable-as-addressed First-Class Mail (including postcards), 
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, and 
Priority Mail pieces are treated under Exhibit 1.5.1, with these 
additional conditions:
* * * * *
    [Revise the last sentence of item b to read as follows:]
    b. * * * Undeliverable First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, or Priority Mail pieces with 
any alternative addressing format are returned with the reason for 
nondelivery attached, only if the address is incorrect or incomplete or 
the mail is undeliverable for another reason as shown in Exhibit 1.4.1; 
however, if such mail is endorsed Change Service Requested, piece is 
disposed of and an ACS record is provided for the same reasons.
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]
    d. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial, or Priority Mail pieces bearing USPS Marketing 
Mail markings and endorsements under 202 and 244.5.1 for letters, 
flats, and parcels, receives forwarding, return, and address correction 
services for USPS Marketing Mail under 1.5.3.
    e. ``Change Service Requested'' is not permitted for the following:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of items e2 and e3 to read as follows:]
    2. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial, or Priority Mail pieces containing hazardous 
materials under 601.8.0.
    3. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial or Priority Mail pieces with an extra service 
other than USPS Tracking or Signature Confirmation.
    [Revise the introductory text of item f to read as follows:]
    f. Address Change Service under 4.0 is available for First-Class 
Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, 
and Priority Mail pieces with the ACS participant code for an 
authorized ACS participant and a valid ancillary service endorsement. 
Mailers participating in OneCode ACS under 4.2.6 may print an 
Intelligent Mail barcode on First-Class Mail automation letters instead 
of a participant code and endorsement. The only endorsements permitted 
on First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial and Priority Mail valid ACS pieces are ``Address 
Service Requested'', ``Change Service Requested'' or ``Electronic 
Service Requested'' subject to the following:
* * * * *
    [Revise the heading of Exhibit 1.5.1 to read as follows:]

Exhibit 1.5.1 Treatment of Undeliverable First-Class Mail, USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial and Priority Mail

* * * * *
    ``Change Service Requested''
* * * * *
    Restrictions (for Options 1 and 2)
    [Revise the text of item 1 under ``Restrictions (for Options 1 and 
2)'' to read as follows:]
    (1) This endorsement is limited to use on valid mailpieces bearing 
a proper ACS participant code and only for: (a) Priority Mail 
containing perishable matter (other than live animals) and the marking 
``Perishable'' and; (b) First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial (excluding hazardous 
materials).
* * * * *

1.5.2 Periodicals

    Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) Periodicals publications 
(including publications pending Periodicals authorization) are treated 
as described in Exhibit 1.5.2, with these additional conditions:
* * * * *
    [Revise the third sentence of item e to read as follows:]
    e. * * * Each returned piece is charged the single-piece First-
Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail price for the weight and 
shape of the piece, and the letter-size nonmachinable surcharge if 
applicable. * * *
* * * * *

Exhibit 1.5.2 Treatment of Undeliverable Periodicals

* * * * *
    ``Address Service Requested''
    If no change-of-address order on file:
    [Revise the text under ``Address Service Requested'', If no change-
of-address order on file:, to read as follows:]
    Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (only return 
postage charged at First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail 
single-piece price as appropriate for weight of piece).
    If change-of-address order on file:
* * * * *
    [Revise the second bullet under ``Address Service Requested'', If 
change-of-address order on file:, to read as follows:]
    [ssquf] After 60-day period: Piece returned with new address or 
reason for nondelivery attached (in either case, only return postage 
charged at First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail single-
piece price as appropriate for weight of piece).
* * * * *

1.5.3 USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel Select Lightweight

    Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel 
Select Lightweight pieces are treated as described in Exhibit 1.5.3, 
with these additional conditions:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item h to read as follows:]
    h. A returned piece endorsed ``Return Service Requested'' is 
charged the applicable single-piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail price for the weight and shape of the

[[Page 32840]]

piece, and the nonmachinable surcharge if applicable.
* * * * *

Exhibit 1.5.3 Treatment of Undeliverable USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel 
Select Lightweight

* * * * *
    ``Address Service Requested'' (Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return 
participants via ACS only)
* * * * *
    Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 2
    If no change-of-address order on file:
    [Revise the text under ``Address Service Requested'' (Shipper Paid 
Forwarding/Return Option 2), If no change-of-address order on file:, to 
read as follows:]
    Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached; postage due 
charged as follows: at applicable First-Class Mail, or USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail single-piece price for the weight of the piece. 
Separate notice provided (electronic ACS fee is charged).
    If change-of-address order on file:
    [Revise the first bullet under ``Address Service Requested'' 
(Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 2), If change-of-address order 
on file:, to read as follows:]
    [ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded. Forwarding postage is 
charged to the mailer as follows: at applicable First-Class Mail, or 
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail single-piece price for the weight of the 
piece. Separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee 
charged).
* * * * *
    Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 3
    If no change-of-address order on file:
    [Revise the text under ``Address Service Requested'' (Shipper Paid 
Forwarding/Return Option 3), If no change-of-address order on file:, to 
read as follows:]
    Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached; postage due 
charged as follows: at applicable First-Class Mail, or USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail single-piece price for the weight of the piece. 
Separate notice provided (electronic ACS fee is charged).
    If change-of-address order on file:
    [Revise the bullets under ``Address Service Requested'' (Shipper 
Paid Forwarding/Return Option 3), If change-of-address order on file:, 
to read as follows:]
    [ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded. Forwarding postage is 
charged to the mailer as follows: at applicable First-Class Mail, or 
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail single-piece price for the weight of the 
piece. Separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee 
charged).
    [ssquf] Months 13 through 18: Piece returned with new address 
attached; return postage is charged to mailer as follows: at applicable 
First-Class Mail, or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail single-piece price 
for the weight of the piece. Separate notice of new address provided 
(electronic ACS fee is charged).
    [ssquf] After month 18: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery; 
return postage is charged to mailer as follows: at applicable First-
Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail single-piece price for the 
weight of the piece. Separate notice of reason for nondelivery provided 
(electronic ACS fee is charged).
    ``Address Service Requested--BPRS'' (BPRS participants only)
* * * * *
    If change-of-address order on file:
    [Revise the first bullet under ``Address Service Requested'' (BPRS 
participants only), If change-of-address order on file:, to read as 
follows:]
    [ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded (no charge to 
addressee); separate ACS notice of new address provided (ACS address 
correction fee and forwarding postage charged at First-Class Mail, or 
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, single-piece price as appropriate for 
weight of piece, via mailer's ACS participant code).
* * * * *
    ``Return Service Requested'' (Except for BPRS participants)
    Option 1
    [Revise the text under ``Return Service Requested'' (Except for 
BPRS participants) Option 1, to read as follows:]
    Piece returned with new address or reason for nondelivery attached. 
In either case, only return postage is charged at First-Class Mail, or 
USPS Retail Ground--Retail single-piece price, as appropriate for 
weight of piece.
    Option 2 (Available via ACS only)
* * * * *
    In all cases (regardless of whether a change-of-address order is on 
file):
    [Revise the text under ``Return Service Requested'' (Except for 
BPRS participants) Option 2, In all cases (regardless of whether a 
change-of-address order is on file), to read as follows:]
    Piece returned with new address or reason for non-delivery attached 
and separate ACS notice of reason for nondelivery provided. In either 
case, both the address correction fee is charged, and return postage is 
charged at First-Class Mail, or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail single-
piece price, as appropriate for weight of piece.
* * * * *
    ``Change Service Requested'' (Shipper Paid Forwarding participants 
via ACS only)
* * * * *
    If change-of-address order on file:
    [Revise the first bullet under ``Change Service Requested'' 
(Shipper Paid Forwarding participants via ACS only) to read as 
follows:]
    [ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded; postage due charged 
to the mailer as follows; at applicable First-Class Mail, or USPS 
Ground Advantage--Retail single-piece price for the weight of the 
piece; separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee 
charged).
* * * * *
    [Revise footnote #2 to read as follows:]
    2. The weighted (per piece) fee is the First-Class Mail, or USPS 
Ground Advantage--Retail single-piece price and any nonmachinable 
surcharge (see 133.1.0), multiplied by 2.472, rounding any fractions to 
the next whole cent.
* * * * *
    [Revise the heading and introductory text of 1.5.4 to read as 
follows:]

1.5.4 Package Services and Parcel Select

    Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) Package Services and Parcel Select 
(see 1.5.3 for Parcel Select Lightweight) mailpieces are treated as 
described in Exhibit 1.5.4, with these additional conditions:
    [Revise the text of item a to read as follows:]
    a. Package Services and Parcel Select mail is forwarded only to 
domestic addresses.
    [Revise the third sentence of item b to read as follows:]
    b. * * * Undeliverable Parcel Select, Media Mail, and Library Mail 
with this address format are returned with the reason for nondelivery 
attached only if the address is incorrect or incomplete, or the mail is 
undeliverable for another address-related reason. ***
    [Revise the text of items c, d, and e, to read as follows:]
    c. The endorsement ``Change Service Requested'' is not permitted 
for Package Services or Parcel Select mailpieces containing hazardous 
materials under 601.8.0.
    d. If a Package Services (except for unendorsed Bound Printed 
Matter) or Parcel Select mailpiece and any attachment are not opened by 
the

[[Page 32841]]

addressee, the addressee may refuse delivery of the piece and have it 
returned to the sender without affixing postage. Pieces endorsed 
``Change Service Requested'' are not returned to sender. If a Package 
Services or Parcel Select piece or any attachment to that piece is 
opened by the addressee, the addressee must affix the applicable 
postage to return the piece to the sender.
    e. An undeliverable Package Services (except for unendorsed Bound 
Printed Matter) or a Parcel Select mailpiece that bears postage with a 
postage evidencing imprint and that has an illegible (or no) return 
address is returned to the meter licensee or PC Postage customer upon 
payment of the return postage. The reason for nondelivery is attached, 
with no address correction fee. All Package Services (except unendorsed 
Bound Printed Matter) and Parcel Select pieces must have a legible 
return address.
* * * * *
    [Revise the heading of Exhibit 1.5.4 to read as follows:]

Exhibit 1.5.4 Treatment of Undeliverable Package Services, and Parcel 
Select

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mailer Endorsement........................  USPS Treatment of UAA
                                             Pieces.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
    ``Address Service Requested'' \1\ (Except for Shipper Paid 
Forwarding participants)
    If no change-of-address order on file:
    Piece is returned with reason for nondelivery attached (only return 
postage charged) as follows:
    [Revise the two bullets under ``Address Service Requested,'' ``If 
no change-of-address order on file:'' to read as follows:]
    [ssquf] Parcel Select: at the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 
price plus the additional service fee.
    [ssquf] Package Services: at the appropriate single-piece price for 
the specific class of mail.
    If change-of-address order on file:
    [Revise the first bullet and items a and b under ``Address Service 
Requested,'' ``If change-of-address order on file:'' to read as 
follows:]
    [ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Package Services forwarded postage due 
at the single-piece price for the class of mail. Parcel Select 
forwarded as postage due to addressee at the USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial price plus the additional service fee. In both cases, 
separate notice of new address is provided (address correction fee 
charged). If addressee refuses to pay postage due, piece is returned 
with reason for nondelivery attached and postage charged as follows:
    a. Parcel Select: at the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price 
plus the additional service fee.
    b. Package Services: at the single-piece price for the class of 
mail.
* * * * *
    ``Address Service Requested'' Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 
1 (Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return participants via ACS only)
    If no change-of-address order on file:
    [Revise the text under ``Address Service Requested,'' Shipper Paid 
Forwarding/Return Option 1 (Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return participants 
via ACS only) ``If no change-of-address order on file:'' to read as 
follows:]
    Parcel returned with reason for nondelivery attached; postage due 
charged as follows: at the applicable Package Services single-piece 
price or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price plus the 
additional service fee.
    If change-of-address order on file:
    [Revise the first bullet under ``Address Service Requested,'' 
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 1 (Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return 
participants via ACS only) ``If change-of-address order on file:'' to 
read as follows:]
    [ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Parcel forwarded. Forwarding postage 
is charged to the mailer as follows; at the applicable Package Services 
single-piece price or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price plus 
the ACS & Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional service fee. Separate 
notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
* * * * *
    Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 2
    If no change-of-address order on file:
    [Revise the text under ``Address Service Requested,'' Shipper Paid 
Forwarding/Return Option 2 ``If no change-of-address order on file:'' 
to read as follows:]
    Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached; Postage due 
charged as follows: at the applicable Package Services single-piece 
price or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price plus the 
additional service fee. Separate notice provided (electronic ACS fee is 
charged).
    If change-of-address order on file:
    [Revise the first bullet under ``Address Service Requested,'' 
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 2 ``If change-of-address order on 
file:'' to read as follows:]
    [ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Parcel forwarded. Forwarding postage 
is charged to the mailer as follows; at the applicable Package Services 
single-piece price or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price plus 
the ACS & Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional service fee. Separate 
notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
* * * * *
    Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 3
    If no change-of-address order on file:
    [Revise the text under ``Address Service Requested,'' Shipper Paid 
Forwarding/Return Option 3 ``If no change-of-address order on file:'' 
to read as follows:]
    Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached; Return postage 
is charged to the mailer as follows: at the Package Services single-
piece price, or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price plus the 
ACS & Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional service fee. Separate 
notice provided (electronic ACS fee is charged).
    If change-of-address order on file:
    [Revise the first bullet under ``Address Service Requested,'' 
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 3 ``If change-of-address order on 
file:'' to read as follows:]
    [ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Parcel forwarded. Forwarding postage 
is charged to the mailer as follows: at the Package Services single-
piece price or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price plus the ACS 
& Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional service fee. Separate notice 
of new address provided (electronic ACS fee is charged).
* * * * *
    ``Forwarding Service Requested'' \2\
    If no change-of-address order on file:
    [Revise the text under ``Forwarding Service Requested,'' ``If no 
change-of-address order on file:'' to read as follows:]
    Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached; return postage 
charged as follows at the applicable Package Services single-piece 
price or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price plus the 
additional service fee.
    If change-of-address order on file:
    [Revise the first bullet under ``Forwarding Service Requested,'' 
``If change-of-address order on file:'' to read as follows:]
    [ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Package Services forwarded postage due 
at the single-piece price for the class of mail. Parcel Select 
forwarded as postage due to addressee at the USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial price plus the additional service fee. If addressee refuses 
to pay postage due, piece is returned with reason for nondelivery

[[Page 32842]]

attached; postage charged as follows: at the applicable Package 
Services single-piece price or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 
price plus the additional service fee.
* * * * *
    ``Return Service Requested'' Option 1
    In all cases (regardless of whether a change-of-address order is on 
file):
    [Revise the text under ``Return Service Requested,'' Option 1 ``In 
all cases (regardless of whether a change-of-address order is on 
file):'' to read as follows:]
    Piece returned with new address or reason for nondelivery attached. 
In either case, only return postage is charged as follows: at the 
Package Services single-piece price or the USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial price plus the additional service fee.
    Option 2 (Available via ACS only)
    In all cases (regardless of whether a change-of-address order is on 
file):
    [Revise the text under ``Return Service Requested,'' Option 2 
(Available via ACS only) ``In all cases (regardless of whether a 
change-of-address order is on file):'' to read as follows:]
    Piece returned with new address or reason for non-delivery 
attached, return postage is charged as follows: at the applicable 
Package Services single-piece price or the USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial price plus the additional service fee. Separate ACS notice 
of reason for nondelivery provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
    ``Change Service Requested'' \3\ Option 1 (Valid for all pieces, 
including ACS participating pieces)
    If no change-of-address order on file, or if change-of-address 
order is on file:
* * * * *
    Restrictions:
    The following restrictions apply:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item 2 to read as follows:]
    (2) This endorsement is not permitted for Package Services 
containing hazardous materials.
* * * * *
    ``Change Service Requested'' (For Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return 
participants via ACS only)
* * * * *
    If change-of-address order on file:
    [Revise the first bullet under ``Change Service Requested,'' (For 
Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return participants via ACS only) ``If change-
of-address order on file:'' to read as follows:]
    [ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Parcel forwarded; postage due charged 
to the mailer as follows: at the Package Services single-piece price 
for the specific class of mail or the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 
price plus the ACS & Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional service 
fee; separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee 
charged).
* * * * *
    Restrictions:
    The following restrictions apply:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item 2 to read as follows:]
    (2) This endorsement is not permitted for Package Services 
containing hazardous materials.
* * * * *

1.6 Attachments and Enclosures

1.6.1 Periodicals

    [Revise the first sentence of 1.6.1 to read as follows:]
    Undeliverable Periodicals (including publications pending 
Periodicals authorization) with a nonincidental First-Class Mail 
attachment or enclosure are returned at the single-piece First-Class 
Mail price for the weight and shape of the piece, and the nonmachinable 
surcharge if applicable, or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail price for the 
weight and destination of the piece. * * *

1.6.2 USPS Marketing Mail

    [Revise the first sentence of 1.6.2 to read as follows:]
    Undeliverable, unendorsed USPS Marketing Mail with a nonincidental 
First-Class Mail attachment or enclosure is returned at the single-
piece First-Class Mail price for the weight and shape of the piece or 
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail price for the weight and destination of 
the piece. * * *

1.6.3 Package Services and Parcel Select

    Undeliverable, unendorsed mailpieces with a First-Class Mail 
attachment or enclosure are forwarded or returned as follows:
    [Revise the text of item a to read as follows:]
    a. Parcel Select at the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial price 
plus the additional service fee.
* * * * *

1.7 Mixed Classes

* * * * *

1.7.4 Parcel

    [Revise the text of 1.7.4 to read as follows:]
    A combination parcel containing Media Mail and Bound Printed Matter 
is charged postage at the USPS Ground Advantage--Retail price when 
forwarded or returned.
* * * * *

1.8 Returning Mail

* * * * *
    [Revise the heading of 1.8.3 to read as follows:]

1.8.3 Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS 
Ground Advantage--Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial

    [Revise the introductory text of 1.8.3 to read as follows:]
    Mailpieces sent as Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-
Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, or USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial that cannot be delivered as addressed or forwarded to a new 
address, unless otherwise requested by the sender, are returned to the 
sender at no additional charge. Excluding pieces containing live 
animals, the following are disposed of by the USPS:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
    b. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, or USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial pieces with a valid ACS participant code and 
endorsed ``Change Service Requested.''
* * * * *

1.9 Dead Mail

1.9.1 Basic Information

    * * * The disposition of dead mail items is as follows:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item e to read as follows:]
    e. Except for unendorsed USPS Marketing Mail, undeliverable USPS 
Marketing Mail, Package Services, and insured First-Class Mail, USPS 
Ground Advantage--Retail, or USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial pieces 
containing USPS Marketing Mail, or Package Services enclosures, that 
cannot be returned because of an incorrect, incomplete, illegible, or 
missing return address is opened and examined to identify the sender or 
addressee.
* * * * *

2.0 Forwarding

* * * * *

2.2 Forwardable Mail

* * * * *

2.2.3 Discontinued Post Office

    [Revise the text of 2.2.3 to read as follows:]
    All Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS 
Ground

[[Page 32843]]

Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, Periodicals, and 
Package Services pieces addressed to a discontinued Post Office may be 
forwarded without added charge to a Post Office that the addressee 
designates as more convenient than the office to which the USPS ordered 
the mail sent.

2.2.4 Rural Delivery

    [Revise the text of 2.2.4 to read as follows:]
    When rural delivery service is established or changed, a customer 
of any office receiving mail from the rural carrier of another office 
may have all Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, 
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, 
Periodicals, and Package Services pieces forwarded to the latter office 
for delivery without added charge, if the customer files a written 
request with the postmaster at the former office.
* * * * *

2.2.6 Mail for Military Personnel

    [Revise the first sentence of 2.2.6 to read as follows:]
    All Priority Mail Express, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, Periodicals, and 
Package Services mailpieces addressed to persons in the U.S. Armed 
Forces (including civilian employees) serving where U.S. mail service 
operates is forwarded at no added charge when the change of address is 
caused by official orders. * * *
* * * * *

2.3 Postage for Forwarding

* * * * *
    [Revise the heading and text of 2.3.3 to read as follows:]

2.3.3 Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, 
and USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial

    Priority Mail, First-Class Mail (including postcards), USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial mailpieces are 
forwarded without charge when postage is fully prepaid by the sender.
* * * * *

2.3.5 USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel Select Lightweight

    [Revise the second sentence of 2.3.5 to read as follows:]
    * * * Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return (under 4.2.9) provides mailers 
of USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel Select Lightweight parcels an option 
of paying forwarding postage on those parcels, or return postage if 
undeliverable, at the applicable single-piece First-Class Mail, or USPS 
Ground Advantage--Retail price, instead of the addressee paying postage 
due charges. * * *
    [Revise the heading of 2.3.6 to read as follows:]

2.3.6 Package Services, and Parcel Select

    [Revise the first and third sentence of 2.3.6 to read as follows:]
    Package Services, and Parcel Select pieces are subject to the 
collection of additional postage at the applicable price for 
forwarding; Parcel Select at the USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 
price plus the additional service fee and Package Services at the 
single-piece price for the specific class of mail. * * * * * * The 
addressee may refuse any piece of Package Services or Parcel Select 
that has been forwarded. * * *
* * * * *

3.0 Hold For Pickup

* * * * *

3.2 Basic Information

* * * * *

3.2.2 Basic Eligibility

    [Revise the introductory text of 3.2.2 to read as follows:]
    Hold For Pickup service is available at retail Post Office 
locations for Priority Mail Express presented under 113.4.2 or 113.4.3, 
with or without COD service, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, Library 
Mail, and Media Mail, with COD service, and for Priority Mail Express, 
Priority Mail, and USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, using USPS Click-N-
Ship. It is also available with commercial mailings of Priority Mail 
Express presented under 213.4.2 or 213.4.3, Priority Mail, USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial, Parcel Select Lightweight, and Bound Printed 
Matter parcels, when:
* * * * *

3.2.3 Additional Eligibility Standards

    Parcels must meet these additional physical requirements:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
    b. Except as provided in 3.2.3c, Parcel Select Lightweight parcels 
must be greater than \3/4\ inch thick at the thickest point.
* * * * *

3.3 Preparation Definitions and Instructions

    [Revise the introductory text of 3.3 to read as follows:]
    When using Hold For Pickup service, except for Priority Mail 
Express Hold For Pickup with or without COD service, First-Class Mail, 
USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, Library Mail, and Media Mail, with COD 
service presented at retail Post Office locations, mailers or their 
agents must prepare mailpieces with the ``Hold For Pickup'' label as 
follows:
* * * * *

4.0 Address Correction Services

4.1 Address Correction Service

* * * * *

4.1.3 Invalid Endorsement

    [Revise the last sentence ``Exception:'' to read as follows:]
    * * * Exception: Undeliverable Media Mail, Library Mail, and Parcel 
Select pieces that bear invalid or conflicting ancillary service 
endorsements are treated as if endorsed ``Forwarding Service 
Requested.''
* * * * *

4.1.5 Other Classes

    [Revise the first sentence of 4.1.5 to read as follows:]
    When possible, ``on-piece'' address correction is provided for 
Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, USPS Marketing 
Mail, Package Services, and Parcel Select pieces. * * *
* * * * *

5.0 Package Intercept

5.1 Description of Service

* * * * *

5.1.2 Eligibility

    [Revise the first sentence of 5.1.2 to read as follows:]
    Except under 5.1.3, Package Intercept service is available for 
Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, Parcel Select, 
Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, or Library Mail mailpieces with a 
tracking barcode (excluding COD Hold For Pickup mailpieces), addressed 
to, from, or between domestic destinations (608.2.0) that do not 
require a customs declarations label, and measuring not more than 108 
inches in length and girth combined. * * *
* * * * *

5.2 Postage and Fees

    [Revise the second and third sentences in the introductory text of 
5.2 to read as follows:]
    * * * Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS 
Ground Advantage--Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial pieces 
being

[[Page 32844]]

redirected to the sender are not relabeled or subject to additional 
postage. Intercepted Parcel Select, Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail or 
Library Mail pieces that are redirected to the sender, and all 
intercepted mailpieces that are redirected to a new delivery address or 
a Post Office as Hold For Pickup (3.0), are relabeled and handled as a 
new Priority Mail piece. * * *
* * * * *

7.0 Pickup on Demand Service

* * * * *

7.2 Basic Standards

7.2.1 Availability

    * * * Incidental amounts of other postage-affixed, full-price mail 
also may be collected when Pickup on Demand service is provided for:
* * * * *
    [Revise items c and d to read as follows:]
    c. USPS Ground Advantage--Retail.
    d. USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial.
    [Delete item e and renumber items f through n as items e through 
m.]
* * * * *
    [Delete renumbered item g, USPS Retail Ground, and renumber items h 
through m as items g through l.]
* * * * *

11.0 USPS Tracking Plus Service

* * * * *

11.2 Scan Data Retention

    USPS Tracking Plus service is available for scan data retention on 
mailpieces shipped via the following products:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]
    d. USPS Ground Advantage Service.
* * * * *

12.0 USPS Label Delivery Service

* * * * *

12.2 Eligibility

    USPS Label Delivery Service is available for the following:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of items b and c to read as follows:]
    b. USPS Ground Advantage--Retail.
    c. USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial.
    [Delete items d and e and renumber item f as item d.]
* * * * *

508 Recipient Services

1.0 Recipient Options

* * * * *

1.8 Commercial Mail Receiving Agencies

* * * * *

1.8.4 Addressee and CMRA Agreement

    In delivery of the mail to the CMRA, the addressee and the CMRA 
agree that:
* * * * *
    [Revise the sixth sentence of item b to read as follows:]
    b. * * * At the end of the 6-month remail period the CMRA may 
return to the Post Office only First-Class Mail, USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail, Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, or accountable 
mail, received for the former addressee (customer). * * *
* * * * *
    [Revise the third sentence of item c to read as follows:]
    c. * * * Upon approval, the CMRA may return to the Post Office only 
First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, Priority Mail, 
Priority Mail Express, and accountable mail, received for the former 
customer. * * *
* * * * *

7.0 Premium Forwarding Services

* * * * *

7.2 Premium Forwarding Service Residential

* * * * *

7.2.6 Weekly Priority Mail Shipments

    * * * Regardless of any mailer`s ancillary service endorsement on a 
mailpiece, and provided it fits within the shipment container, all mail 
is included in the weekly Priority Mail shipment, except as follows:
* * * * *
    b. Mailpieces that do not fit in the shipment container, or that 
require a scan or signature at delivery, are scanned (when applicable) 
and then rerouted separately to the temporary address, subject to the 
following:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of items b1 through b3 to read as follows:]
    1. Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial pieces and Periodicals 
parcels are rerouted separately at no additional charge.
    2. USPS Marketing Mail parcels and Parcel Select Lightweight pieces 
are rerouted separately and charged postage due at the appropriate USPS 
Ground Advantage--Retail price.
    3. Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, Library Mail, and Parcel 
Select pieces are rerouted separately and charged postage due at the 
appropriate single-piece price for the class or subclass of mail in 
which the piece was originally shipped.
* * * * *
    d. Any mailpiece arriving postage due at the Post Office serving a 
customer`s primary address is not included in the weekly Priority Mail 
shipment and will be rerouted separately as follows:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of items d1 and d2 to read as follows:]
    1. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial, and Priority Mail pieces are charged only for 
the original postage due amount.
    2. Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, Library Mail, and Parcel 
Select pieces are rerouted postage due at the appropriate single-piece 
price for the class, or subclass, of mail the mailpiece was originally 
shipped plus the postage due amount already indicated on the mailpiece.
* * * * *

7.3 Premium Forwarding Service Commercial

* * * * *

7.3.3 Conditions

    Only the authorized recipient (or legal agent) of the business' (or 
organization's) mail may activate the request for PFS-Commercial 
service. PFS-Commercial service is subject to these conditions:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item e to read as follows:]
    e. Except under 7.3.3g, the following products may be included in a 
PFS-Commercial service container: Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS 
Ground Advantage--Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial pieces.
* * * * *

600 Basic Standards for All Mailing Services

* * * * *

602 Addressing

1.0 Elements of Addressing

* * * * *

1.3 Address Elements

    All mail not bearing a simplified address must bear a delivery 
address that contains at least the following elements in this order 
from the top line:
* * * * *

[[Page 32845]]

    [Revise the text of item e to read as follows:]
    e. ZIP Codes are required on Priority Mail Express, commercial 
First-Class Mail, Periodicals, USPS Marketing Mail, Package Services 
and Parcel Select mailpieces, all mail sent to military addresses 
within the United States and to APO and FPO addresses, official mail, 
Business Reply Mail, and USPS Returns service packages.
* * * * *

1.5 Return Addresses

* * * * *

1.5.3 Required Use of Return Addresses

    The sender's domestic return address must appear legibly on:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item g to read as follows:]
    g. USPS Ground Advantage--Retail and USPS Ground Advantage--
Commercial.
* * * * *

3.0 Use of Alternative Addressing

3.1 General Information

* * * * *

3.1.2 Prohibited Use

    Alternative addressing formats may not be used on:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
    b. Mail with any ancillary service endorsement under 507.1.1 
through 507.1.8, except as allowed for First-Class Mail, USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial parcels, or Priority Mail under 507.1.5.1b.
* * * * *

3.1.3 Treatment

    [Revise the last sentence of 3.1.3 to read as follows:]
    * * * Undeliverable mail with any alternative addressing format is 
disposed of as waste under 507.1.9.1, except for First-Class Mail, USPS 
Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels, and Priority Mail under 
507.1.5.1b.
* * * * *

4.0 Detached Address Labels (DALs) and Detached Marketing Labels (DMLs)

* * * * *

4.5 Disposition of Excess or Undeliverable Material

    * * * The mailer must choose one of the following options for each 
DAL or DML mailing and the items:
* * * * *
    [Revise the last sentence of item d to read as follows:]
    d. * * * Additional material must be sent prepaid to the delivery 
Post Office as First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, 
Priority Mail, or Priority Mail Express.
* * * * *

4.6 Postage

* * * * *

4.6.3 Returns

    [Revise the first sentence of 4.6.3 to read as follows:]
    Postage for excess or undeliverable DALs or DMLs that are properly 
endorsed or for items being returned is computed at the single-piece 
price (First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, Priority Mail, 
or Package Services) applicable to the combined weight of the DAL or 
DML, and the accompanying item, regardless of whether both are 
returned. * * *
* * * * *

604 Postage Payment Methods and Refunds

* * * * *

4.0 Postage Meters and PC Postage Products (``Postage Evidencing 
Systems'')

* * * * *

4.6 Mailings

4.6.1 Mailing Date Format

    * * * The mailing date format used in the indicia is also subject 
to the following conditions.
    a. Complete Date. Mailers must use a complete date for the 
following:
    [Revise the text of item a1 to read as follows:]
    1. All Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS 
Ground Advantage--Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial pieces.
* * * * *

4.6.3 Deposit of Mail

    Mailers must deposit or enter mailpieces with metered or PC Postage 
indicia according to the following conditions:
    [Revise the first sentence of item a to read as follows:]
    a. Mailers may deposit Priority Mail Express (including Flat Rate), 
Priority Mail (including Flat Rate), retail First-Class Mail, USPS 
Ground Advantage--Retail, retail Media Mail, and Library Mail, with a 
postage evidencing indicia at any Postal Service facility, preferably 
near the customers' local Post Office. * * *
* * * * *

5.0 Permit Imprint (Indicia)

5.1 General Standards

5.1.1 Definition

    [Revise the second sentence of 5.1.1 to read as follows:]
    * * * This payment method may be used for postage and extra service 
fees for Priority Mail Express (``eVS'' only), Priority Mail, First-
Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, USPS Marketing Mail, 
Package Services, and Parcel Select mailpieces. * * *

5.1.2 Minimum Volume

    Permit imprint mailings must contain at least 200 pieces or 50 
pounds of mail, except:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item f to read as follows:]
    f. A mailing containing 50 or more pieces for Parcel Select 
destination entry under 253.4.1.2.
    [Revise the second sentence of item g to read as follows:]
    g. * * * Mailers may include any combination of the following 
products under this provision: Priority Mail Express (eVS only), 
Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels, nonpresorted 
Bound Printed Matter parcels, and single-piece Media Mail and Library 
Mail parcels. * * *
* * * * *

5.3 Indicia Design, Placement, and Content

* * * * *
    [Revise the heading and introductory text of 5.3.6 to read as 
follows:]

5.3.6 Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, and USPS 
Ground Advantage--Commercial Format

    A permit imprint indicia on Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, 
First-Class Mail, or USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial mailpieces must 
be formatted as follows:
    [Revise the first sentence of item a to read as follows:]
    a. Except under items 5.3.6b through 5.3.6d, the permit imprint 
indicia must show the basic price markings ``Priority Mail Express,'' 
``Priority Mail'' (or ``Priority''), ``First-Class Mail,'' or ``USPS 
Ground Advantage'' as applicable; ``U.S. Postage Paid''; city and 
state; and permit number. * * *
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item c to read as follows:]
    c. The ``Priority Mail Express,'' ``Priority Mail'' (or 
``Priority''), ``First-Class Mail, or ``USPS Ground Advantage'' basic 
price marking may be

[[Page 32846]]

omitted when using shipping address labels under 202.3.0.
* * * * *

8.0 Insufficient or Omitted Postage

8.1 Insufficient Postage

* * * * *

8.1.2 Undeliverable and Refused Mail

    Mail with insufficient postage that is refused by the addressee or 
otherwise undeliverable is:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
    b. Returned to the sender and delivered when the sender pays the 
total deficient postage and additional postage for forwarding or return 
if other than First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, and 
with a return address.
* * * * *

8.1.6 Registered Mail With Insufficient Postage

    [Revise the first sentence of 8.1.6 to read as follows:]
    If shortpaid Registered Mail is found in ordinary mail, with only 
the First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, price of postage 
paid, the piece is delivered to the addressee as ordinary First-Class 
Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail. * * *
* * * * *

8.3 Mailable Matter Without Postage in or on Mail Receptacles

* * * * *

8.3.4 Partial Distribution

    [Revise the text of 8.3.4 to read as follows:]
    If there is a distribution of pieces to some, but not all, 
addresses on a route, pieces are returned to the delivery unit for use 
in computing the postage due. First-Class Mail or USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail prices are applied to matter that would require 
First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage--Retail postage if mailed. 
For other matter, if the piece weighs less than 16 ounces, the 
applicable single-piece First-Class Mailor USPS Ground Advantage--
Retail, price based on the weight of the piece is applied, or an 
applicable Package Services price is applied, whichever is lower. If 
the piece weighs 16 ounces or more, the USPS Ground Advantage--Retail 
or applicable Package Services price is applied.
* * * * *

9.0 Exchanges and Refunds

* * * * *

9.2 Postage and Fee Refunds

* * * * *

9.2.3 Full Refund

    A full refund (100%) may be made when:
* * * * *
    [Revise the first sentence of item l to read as follows:]
    l. If a First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS 
Ground Advantage--Commercial, or Package Services mailpiece is torn or 
defaced during USPS handling so that the addressee or intended delivery 
point cannot be identified. * * *
* * * * *

608 Postal Information and Resources

* * * * *

7.0 Trademarks and Copyrights of the USPS

7.1 USPS Trademarks

    * * * Depending on the trademark, the TM or [supreg] 
symbol may be used after these marks. Information on USPS trademarks 
can be found on USPS.com or by contacting General Counsel, USPS 
Headquarters (see 8.1 for address).
* * * * *
    [Revise the list of trademarks by deleting ``First-Class Package'' 
and ``First-Class Package Service'', and ``USPS Retail Ground''.]
    [Revise the list of trademarks by adding ``USPS Ground Advantage'' 
alphabetically.]
* * * * *

9.0 Postal Zones

* * * * *

9.2 Application

    Zones are used to compute postage on zoned mail sent between 3-
digit ZIP Code areas, including Military Post Offices (MPOs), as 
follows:
    a. For the purposes of computing postal zone information, except 
for items 9.2b and 9.2c, the following table applies to MPOs listed in 
L002 Column A.
    [Revise the footnote under item a to read as follows:]
    * Chicago IL 606 serves Priority Mail and USPS Ground Advantage 
mail destinating to these ZIP Codes.
* * * * *

609 Filing Indemnity Claims for Loss or Damage

1.0 General Filing Instructions

* * * * *

1.4 When To File

    File claims as follows:
* * * * *
    b. Lost Articles: customers must file a claim within the time 
limits in the chart below.

MAIL TYPE OR SERVICE
* * * * *
    [Revise the ``APO/FPO/DPO Insured Mail and registered Mail'' line 
item to read as follows:]
    APO/FPO/DPO Insured Mail and registered Mail (Priority Mail, First-
Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, SAM, or PAL))
* * * * *

700 Special Standards

703 Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail and Other Unique Eligibility

1.0 Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail

* * * * *

1.9 Mailing While Application Pending

* * * * *

1.9.2 Postage Record

    [Revise the text of 1.9.2 to read as follows:]
    While an application or confirmation of authorization is pending, 
postage must be paid at the applicable USPS Marketing Mail prices to 
qualify for a refund. The USPS records the difference between postage 
paid at regular USPS Marketing Mail prices and the postage that would 
have been paid at Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail prices.

1.9.3 Refund

    * * * No refund is made:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
    b. If postage was paid at any eligible price other than USPS 
Marketing Mail.
* * * * *

2.0 Overseas Military and Diplomatic Post Office Mail

* * * * *

2.4 Military Ordinary Mail (MOM)

    [Revise the first sentence in the introductory text of 2.4 to read 
as follows:]
    Military ordinary mail (MOM) is DOD official mail sent at USPS 
Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial, 
Periodicals, USPS Marketing Mail, Parcel Select, or Package Services 
prices that requires faster service than sealift transportation to, 
from, and between military Post Offices. * * *

[[Page 32847]]

* * * * *

2.5 Parcel Airlift (PAL)

* * * * *

2.5.2 Availability

    [Revise the text of 2.5.2 to read as follows:]
    PAL is available for USPS Ground Advantage--Retail, USPS Ground 
Advantage--Commercial, Package Services, or Parcel Select pieces that 
do not exceed 30 pounds in weight or 60 inches in length and girth 
combined, when mailed at or addressed to any overseas military Post 
Office outside the 48 contiguous states.
* * * * *

3.0 Department of State Mail

* * * * *

3.2 Conditions for Authorized Mail

* * * * *

3.2.3 Weight and Size Limits

    Maximum weight or size dimensions may not exceed any of the 
following:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of items e and f to read as follows:]
    e. Combined length and girth: 108 inches for all mail classes other 
than USPS Ground Advantage--Retail.
    f. Combined length and girth: 130 inches for USPS Ground 
Advantage--Retail.
* * * * *

9.0 Mixed Classes

* * * * *

9.12 Postage Payment for Combined Mailings of Media Mail and Bound 
Printed Matter

* * * * *

9.12.4 Rating of Unmarked Parcel

    [Revise the introductory text of 9.12.4 to read as follows:]
    A parcel containing Media Mail and Bound Printed Matter is charged 
postage at USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial prices if it:
* * * * *

705 Advanced Preparation and Special Postage Payment Systems

* * * * *

6.0 Combining Mailings of USPS Marketing Mail, Package Services, and 
Parcel Select Parcels

* * * * *

6.2 Combining Parcels--DNDC Entry

* * * * *

6.2.1 Eligible Prices

    [Revise the first sentence of 6.2.1 to read as follows:]
    Combined parcels may be eligible for USPS Marketing Mail, Parcel 
Select Lightweight, Parcel Select DNDC/ASF, single-piece and Presorted 
Media Mail, single-piece and Presorted Library Mail, Bound Printed 
Matter DNDC, and Nonpresorted and Presorted Bound Printed Matter 
prices. * * *
* * * * *

8.0 Preparing Pallets

* * * * *

8.6 Pallet Labels

* * * * *

8.6.5 Line 2 (Content Line)

    Line 2 (content line) must meet these standards:
* * * * *
    b. Codes. The codes shown below must be used as appropriate on Line 
2 of sack, tray, and pallet labels.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                      Content Type                             Code
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
    [Revise the Line 2 ``Content Type'' and ``Code'' by deleting the 
First-Class Package Service--Commercial entry in its entirety.]
* * * * *

16.0 Plant Load Mailings

16.1 Basic Information

16.1.1 Purpose

    * * * The USPS selects the appropriate mode of transportation and 
determines responsibility as shown below.
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of footnote #3 to read as follows:]
    3, Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail only.
* * * * *

18.0 Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute and Priority Mail Open 
and Distribute

* * * * *

18.3 Additional Standards for Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute

* * * * *

18.3.2 Extra Services

    No extra services may be added to the Priority Mail Express segment 
of a Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute shipment, and the 
enclosed mail may receive only the following extra services:
    [Revise the text of item a to read as follows:]
    a. First-Class Mail pieces may be sent with Certified Mail service.
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]
    d. Parcel Select and Package Services parcels mail may be sent with 
USPS Tracking or Signature Confirmation service.

18.4 Additional Standards for Priority Mail Open and Distribute

* * * * *

18.4.2 Extra Services

    No extra services are available for Priority Mail Open and 
Distribute containers.
    Only the following services may be added for mail in the enclosed 
container:
    [Revise the text of items a through c to read as follows:]
    a. First-Class Mail pieces may be sent with Certified Mail service.
    b. USPS Marketing Mail parcels (except Customized MarketMail 
pieces) may be sent with electronic option USPS Tracking service.
    c. Parcel Select and Package Services parcels may be sent with USPS 
Tracking or Signature Confirmation service.
* * * * *

Index

* * * * *

B

* * * * *
    [Delete the ``balloon price'' entry in its entirety:]
* * * * *

C

* * * * *

Commercial Mail (Letters, Flats, Parcels)

* * * * *
    [Delete the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 280'' entry 
under ``Commercial Mail''.]
* * * * *
    [Add ``USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 280'' alphabetically under 
``Commercial Mail.'']
* * * * *

Computing Postage

    [Revise the ``computing postage'' entry by deleting the ``USPS 
Retail Ground'' line item.]
* * * * *

D

* * * * *

[[Page 32848]]

Deposit

* * * * *
    commercial parcels
    [Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 286'' line 
item under ``deposit'', ``commercial parcels'', by replacing it with 
USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 286.]
* * * * *
    [Revise the ``deposit'', ``retail mail'' entry by deleting the 
``USPS Retail Ground'' line item.]
* * * * *

E

* * * * *

Entry

* * * * *
    commercial parcels
    [Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 286'' line 
item under ``Entry'', ``commercial parcels'', by replacing it with USPS 
Ground Advantage--Commercial 286.]
* * * * *

F

* * * * *
    [Delete the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial parcels'' 
line item and in its entirety.]
* * * * *

H

* * * * *

Handwriting

* * * * *
    commercial parcels
    [Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 283'' line 
item under ``handwriting'', ``commercial parcels'', by replacing it 
with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 283.]
* * * * *

M

* * * * *

Mail Preparation

* * * * *
    commercial parcels
    [Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 285'' line 
item under ``mail Preparation'', ``commercial parcels'', by replacing 
it with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 285.]
    [Revise the ``mail preparation'', ``commercial parcels'' entry by 
deleting the ``USPS Retail Ground'' line item.]
* * * * *

Mixed Classes, 703.9.0

    [Revise the ``mixed classes'' entry by deleting the ``USPS Retail 
Ground'' line item.]
* * * * *

N

* * * * *

Network Distribution Center (NDC) Acceptance

    retail mail
    [Revise the ``Network Distribution Center (NDC) acceptance'' entry 
by deleting the ``USPS Retail Ground'' line item.]
* * * * *

O

* * * * *

Oversized Price Eligibility

    [Revise the ``oversized price eligibility'' entry by replacing the 
``USPS Retail Ground'' line item with USPS Ground Advantage.]
* * * * *

P

* * * * *

Parcel Select

    [Revise the ``Parcel Select'' entry by deleting the ``cubic 
253.2.1'' line item.]
* * * * *

Plant-Verified Drop Shipment (PVDS), 705.17.0

    [Revise the ``plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS)'' entry by 
deleting the ``USPS Retail Ground'' line item.]
* * * * *

Postage Payment

* * * * *
    commercial parcels
    [Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 284'' line 
item under ``postage payment'', ``commercial parcels'', by replacing it 
with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 284.]
* * * * *
    retail mail
    [Revise the ``postage payment'', ``retail mail'' entry by deleting 
the ``USPS Retail Ground'' line item.]
* * * * *

Postage Statement

* * * * *
    commercial parcels
    [Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 284.3.0'' 
line item under ``postage statement'', ``commercial parcels'', by 
replacing it with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 284.3.0.]
* * * * *

Postal Inspection

* * * * *
    commercial parcels
    [Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 284.3.2.0'' 
line item under ``postage statement'', ``commercial parcels'', by 
replacing it with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 284.3.2.0.]
* * * * *
    retail mail
    [Revise the ``postal inspection'', ``retail mail'' entry by 
deleting the ``USPS Retail Ground'' line item.]
* * * * *

U

* * * * *
    [Add a ``USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial parcels'' line item to 
read as follows:]

USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial Parcels

    computing postage, 283.1.1
    content standards, 283.2.0
    deposit of, 286.1.0
    documentation, 284.3.0
    eligibility standards, 283
    incidental enclosure with another class of mail, 703.9.5
    mail preparation, 285
    markings required on each mailpiece general, 202.1.0
    postage payment methods, 284
    postage statements, 284.2.0
    price eligibility, 283.4.0
    size, 201.8.3
    surcharge, 283.1.3
    undeliverable mail, 507.1.5.1
    weight, 201.8.3.1
* * * * *
    [Delete the ``USPS Retail Ground'' entry in its entirety.]
* * * * *

V

* * * * *

Volume Requirements

* * * * *
    commercial parcels
    [Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 284.4.0'' 
line item under ``volume requirements'', ``commercial parcels'', by 
replacing it with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 284.4.0.]

[[Page 32849]]

* * * * *

Z

* * * * *

ZIP Code Accuracy

* * * * *
    commercial parcels
    [Revise the ``First-Class Package Service--Commercial, 283.3.0'' 
line item under ``volume requirements'', ``commercial parcels'', by 
replacing it with USPS Ground Advantage--Commercial 283.3.0.]
* * * * *

Notice 123 (Price List)

    [Revise competitive prices as applicable.]
* * * * *

Tram T. Pham,
Attorney, Ethics and Legal Compliance.
[FR Doc. 2023-10353 Filed 5-19-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE P