Proposed Domestic Mail Manual Changes to Implement the Rate, Fee, and Classification Changes Proposed in Docket No. R97-1

SUMMARY: On July 10, 1997, the Postal Service, acting under sections

3622 and 3623 of the Postal Reorganization Act (39 U.S.C. 3622, 3623),

filed a request for a recommended decision by the Postal Rate

Commission (PRC) on proposed rate, fee, and classification changes. The

PRC designated this filing as Docket No. R97-1. A notice of filing,

with a description of the Postal Service's proposals, was published by

the PRC on July 23, 1997, in the Federal Register (62 FR 39660-39708).

This document provides information on the implementing rules for the

rate, fee, and classification changes that the Postal Service proposes

to adopt if the PRCs recommended decision on R97-1 is consistent with

the Postal Service's request and the Governors of the Postal Service,

acting pursuant to 39 U.S.C. 3625, approve that recommended decision.

DATES: Comments must be received on or before April 15, 1998.

ADDRESSES: Mail or deliver written comments to the Manager, Mail

Preparation and Standards, USPS Headquarters, 475 L'Enfant Plaza SW,

Room 6800, Washington, DC 20260-2405. Copies of all written comments

will be available for inspection and photocopying between 9 a.m. and 4

p.m., Monday through Friday, at the above address.

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

topics except delivery confirmation and prepaid reply mail), Paul

Lettman, 202-268-6261 (information on Standard Mail (B)), Thomas

DeVaughan, 202-268-4491 (information on business reply mail and prepaid

reply mail), John Gullo, 202-268-7322 (information on delivery

confirmation).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Postal Service's request in Docket No.

R97-1 included 17 major classification changes and increases in most

existing rate and fee categories. The major classification changes

would (1) for First-Class Mail, eliminate the additional ``heavy

piece'' presort discount for mailpieces weighing more than 2 ounces;

(2) for First-Class Mail, add a prepaid reply mail category with

discounted first-ounce rates; (3) for First-Class Mail, add a qualified

business reply mail category with discounted first-ounce rates; (4) for

Priority Mail, eliminate the Presorted Priority Mail rate; (5) for

Periodicals, provide separate per-piece rates for 5-digit presort and

3-digit presort in all rate categories and for all mail processing

categories; (6) for Periodicals, apply the 3-digit presort rate to

pieces sorted to all 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes (unique and nonunique 3-

digits); (7) for Standard Mail (A), eliminate the single-piece rate

category and provide for the mailing of keys and identification devices

as First-Class Mail or Priority Mail plus fees; (8) for Standard Mail

(A), apply a residual shape surcharge on pieces that are prepared as

parcels or are not letter-size or flat-size; (9) for Express Mail,

Priority Mail, First-Class Mail (other than cards), Standard Mail (A),

Parcel Post, and Library Mail, apply a surcharge to those pieces

containing mailable hazardous medical material and apply a higher

surcharge to those pieces containing other mailable hazardous material;

(10) for Standard Mail (B), provide a barcoded discount for mailings

meeting certain volume and preparation criteria; (11) for Parcel Post,

add discounts for entry at destination sectional center facilities

(DSCFs) and destination delivery units (DDUs); (12) for inter-BMC

Parcel Post, add two levels of discount (Origin BMC and BMC Presort)

for sorting mailings to bulk mail centers (BMCs); (13) for Parcel Post,

allow 10% or fewer of the pieces in a mailing to measure over 108

inches in combined length and girth, not to exceed 130 inches in

combined length and girth, and subject to a rate equal to that for a

70-pound parcel for the zone to which the parcel is addressed; (14) for

Parcel Post, add a balloon rate provision so that pieces exceeding 84

inches (but not exceeding 108 inches) in length and girth combined and

weighing less than 15 pounds would be subject to a rate equal to that

for a 15-pound parcel for the zone to which the parcel is addressed;

(15) for registered mail, would provide insurance for all articles

having a value of $0.01 or more under the current indemnity maximums

and restrictions (mail with no value ($0.00) would be excluded from

insurance coverage); (16) for insured mail, make available a new bulk

insurance service category; and (17) for Priority Mail and Standard

Mail (B), add a delivery confirmation service.

Part A of this document summarizes the proposed revisions to the

Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) necessary to implement R97-1 by class,

subclass, and special service category. Part B summarizes proposed

changes to the DMM by module, followed by the proposed revisions to the

DMM standards.

Comments are solicited on the implementing DMM standards in Part B.

The proposed rates and proposed new rate categories and rate structures

are included in Part B. However, the existence of the new categories

and structures and the amount of the corresponding rates or fees

attached to them and the proposed rate and fee changes for existing

categories are outside the scope of this rulemaking process, because

they are currently subject to evaluation by the Postal Rate Commission.

For example, comments indicating delivery confirmation service should

not be offered or should be offered at a different rate would not be

appropriate, whereas comments suggesting changes in the proposed

implementing rules for this service in DMM S918 would be appropriate.

A. Summary of Proposed DMM Revisions

1. Express Mail

Rate Highlights

Except for a $0.05 decrease in the 2-pound rate to $14.95, moderate

rate increases are proposed for all Express Mail rates. The fee for

pickup service is proposed to increase from $4.95 to $8.25 per

occurrence.

Rate Structure

Surcharges for mailable hazardous material are proposed. Separate

per-piece surcharges are proposed for hazardous medical material

($0.50) and for other hazardous material ($1.00).

2. Priority Mail

Rate Highlights

Increases are proposed for all Priority Mail rates. The fee for

pickup service is proposed to increase from $4.95 to $8.25 per

occurrence.

Rate Structure

Delivery Confirmation. It is proposed to offer delivery

confirmation service with Priority Mail. This service would be obtained

in two forms: (1) an electronic option at no additional fee for mailers

who themselves apply the identifying barcodes to each piece, provide an

electronic manifest, and retrieve confirmation information

electronically; and (2) a retail (manual) option for a $0.35 fee, with

delivery information provided through a USPS Internet address or a

toll-free telephone number. See DMM S918 in Part B for

[[Page 12865]]

details on preparing delivery confirmation mail.

Keys and Identification Devices. It is proposed that keys and

identification devices that weigh more than 11 ounces but no more than

2 pounds are subject to the 2-pound Priority Mail rate plus a $0.30

fee.

Elimination of Presort Category. It is proposed to eliminate the

Presorted Priority Mail rate category.

Hazardous Material Surcharges. Surcharges for mailable hazardous

material are proposed. Separate per-piece surcharges are proposed for

hazardous medical material ($0.50) and for other hazardous material

($1.00).

3. First-Class Mail

Rate Highlights

It is proposed that the single-piece first-ounce letter rate

increase only one cent from $0.32 to $0.33, and that the rate for

additional ounces remain the same at $0.23. The nonstandard surcharge

for one-ounce or less single-piece rate mail would increase from $0.11

to $0.16, and the nonstandard surcharge for one-ounce or less presorted

pieces would increase from $0.05 to $0.11. Small increases are proposed

for Automation and Presorted rates. The annual presort mailing fee is

proposed to increase from $85.00 to $100.00.

Rate Structure

Heavy Piece Discount. It is proposed to eliminate the additional

presort discount for the first ounce of mailpieces weighing more than 2

ounces.

Keys and Identification Devices. It is proposed that keys and

identification devices that weigh 11 ounces or less are subject to the

applicable single-piece letter rate, plus a $0.30 fee, and if

applicable, the nonstandard surcharge.

Hazardous Material Surcharge. Surcharges for mailable hazardous

material are proposed. Separate per-piece surcharges are proposed for

hazardous medical material ($0.50) and for other hazardous material

($1.00).

Prepaid Reply Mail. It is proposed to add a new classification

category and corresponding rate structure for prepaid reply mail. The

rate structure includes lower first-ounce First-Class Mail rates. There

are also proposed permit fees and monthly accounting fees. Requirements

for this new classification are described under ``Special Services''

below.

Qualified Business Reply Mail. It is proposed to add a new

classification category and rate structure for qualified business reply

mail, which will replace the business reply mail accounting system

(BRMAS). The rate structure includes a lower first-ounce rate. The fee

structure requires an annual permit fee and an annual accounting fee

for an advance deposit account. Requirements for this new

classification category are described under ``Special Services'' below.

Mail Preparation

Rate Markings. It is proposed to allow the ``Presorted'' marking to

be abbreviated ``PRSRT.''

4. Periodicals

Rate Highlights

It is proposed that delivery office and SCF pound rates will

decrease, zones 1 through 3 advertising pound rates will decrease,

zones 5 through 8 advertising pound rates will increase, the editorial

pound rate will increase, and the editorial per-piece discount will

increase. Authorization fees will not change, except that the

additional entry fee will decrease from $85.00 to $50.00.

Rate Structure

Per-Piece Rates. Separate 5-digit and 3-digit presort per-piece

rates are proposed for Regular, Nonprofit, Classroom, and In-County

subclasses. It is further proposed that the 3-digit rates will apply to

both unique and nonunique 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes.

To qualify for the nonautomation 5-digit rates, mail must be

prepared in a 5-digit package of six or more pieces and must be

containerized as follows: for letter mail, be placed in a 5-digit tray;

for nonautomation flat mail, be placed in a 5-digit sack or on any

level of pallet. To qualify for automation 5-digit rates for letters,

mail must be part of a group of 150 pieces for the same 5-digit or 5-

digit scheme, properly placed in a 5-digit or 5-digit scheme tray. To

qualify for automation 5-digit rates for flats, mail must be prepared

in a 5-digit package of six or more pieces and placed in any level of

sack or on any level of pallet.

To qualify for the nonautomation 3-digit rates, sacked flat-sized

mail must be prepared in a 5-digit or 3-digit package of six or more

pieces each and must be placed in a 3-digit sack; trayed letter-size

mail must be prepared in a 5-digit or 3-digit package of six or more

pieces each, and must be placed in a 3-digit tray. Palletized flat-

sized mail must be prepared in a 3-digit package of six or more pieces

and placed on a 3-digit or higher level of pallet.

To qualify for automation 3-digit rates for letters, mail must be

part of a group of 150 pieces for the same 3-digit or 3-digit scheme

and be properly placed in a 3-digit or 3-digit scheme tray. To qualify

for automation 3-digit rates for flats, mail must be prepared in a 3-

digit package of six or more pieces and placed in a 3-digit or higher

level of sack or on a 3-digit or higher level of pallet.

Mail Preparation

Automation Letters. It is proposed that preparation of the 5-digit

or 5-digit scheme sort for letter-size automation rate mailings be

revised from a required level of sort to an optional level of sort.

SCF Sack. It is proposed that the preparation of an SCF sack for

nonletter mail be revised from an optional level of preparation to a

required level of preparation. SCF packages will not be permitted.

Preparation of an optional origin/required entry 3-digit sack will be

eliminated and preparation of an optional origin/required entry SCF

sack will be required.

Forwarding and Return

Charges for the return of Periodicals mail bearing the ``Address

Service Requested'' endorsement will be paid at the First-Class Mail

rates for pieces weighing 11 ounces or less and at the Priority Mail

rates for pieces weighing over 11 ounces. This is due to the

elimination of the Standard Mail (A) single-piece rates discussed

below.

5. Standard Mail (A)

Rate Highlights

Reductions are proposed for most of the pound rates. A change in

the relationship between the basic Enhanced Carrier Route rates and the

5-digit Automation letter rates is proposed. The 5-digit Automation

letter rates would be lower than the basic Enhanced Carrier Route

rates. The proposed basic Enhanced Carrier Route rates are the same for

letter-size and for nonletter-size pieces. A $0.032 (regular) and

$0.008 (nonprofit) per-piece rate (in addition to the pound rate) is

proposed for saturation Enhanced Carrier Route mailings subject to the

piece/pound rates. The annual presort mailing fee is proposed to

increase from $85.00 to $100.00.

Rate Structure

Elimination of Single-Piece Rates. It is proposed to eliminate the

single-piece Standard Mail (A) rates. If the single-piece Standard Mail

(A) subclass were kept, its proposed rates would exceed the First-Class

Mail rates. Standard Mail (A) rates are designed to be bulk or

presorted rates. The elimination of single-piece Standard Mail (A)

rates will eliminate the current dual system for processing and

transporting individual

[[Page 12866]]

lightweight pieces (pieces weighing less than 16 ounces). The

elimination of single-piece Standard Mail (A) rates will affect the

treatment of pieces in mailing jobs that remain after preparing an

Enhanced Carrier Route and/or an Automation rate mailing. See ``Mail

Preparation'' below for further information. It also will affect the

fees for forwarding and return of Standard Mail (A) as described under

``forwarding and return'' below. With one exception, single pieces that

weigh less than 16 ounces will be subject to return postage at single-

piece First-Class or Priority Mail rates (multiplied by 2.472). The

exception is that single pieces weighing less than 16 ounces that could

qualify for single-piece Special Standard Mail or Library Mail rates

will continue to be eligible for those rates upon return if properly

endorsed because there are no minimum weight requirements for those two

subclasses of Standard Mail (B).

Residual Shape Surcharge. A $0.10 per-piece residual shape

surcharge is proposed (in addition to the applicable nonletter postage)

for pieces that are prepared as parcels or that are not letter size or

flat size. This surcharge will apply to such pieces mailed at all

Standard Mail (A) subclasses (Regular, Enhanced Carrier Route,

Nonprofit, Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route).

Hazardous Material Surcharges. Surcharges for mailable hazardous

material are proposed. Separate per-piece surcharges are proposed for

hazardous medical material ($0.50) and for other hazardous material

($1.00).

Mail Preparation

Rate Markings and Nomenclature. Many mailers have indicated a

preference for ``Presorted Standard'' over ``Bulk Rate'' as the basic

rate marking for their mail. The Postal Service also prefers this

marking because it indicates the mail class and is consistent with the

rate markings for First-Class Mail. Accordingly, the Postal Service

proposes revising the basic rate marking requirements for regular rate

mailings (including Enhanced Carrier Route) from ``Bulk Rate'' or

``Blk. Rt.'' to ``Presorted Standard'' or ``PRSRT STD.'' Mailers will

be given one year from the date of implementation of the R97-1 rate

case to change their markings. During the one-year transition period,

either the ``Bulk Rate'' or the ``Presorted Standard'' markings or

their authorized abbreviations will be acceptable. For simplicity, July

1, 1999, is used in the proposed DMM language to represent the date

that is one year after implementation of the R97-1 rate case. This date

will be revised in the final rule to give effect to the actual date of

implementation as decided by the Postal Service Board of Governors.

To provide further consistency, the DMM will use the term

``Presorted Standard Mail (A)'' or ``Presorted Standard'' when

referring to the mailings and rates now referred to in the DMM as

``nonautomation presort (3/5 and basic) Standard Mail (A).''

It also is proposed that pieces subject to the $0.10 residual shape

surcharge be required to have the marking ``RSS'' printed on each piece

either in the postage area or on the line immediately above or two

lines above the address.

``Residual'' Pieces to a Mailing Job. Currently, Standard Mail (A)

Enhanced Carrier Route, Automation, and nonautomation 3/5 and basic

presort (to be renamed Presorted) rate mailings must each meet a

separate 200-piece or 50-pound minimum quantity per mailing

requirement. Pieces that cannot meet the minimum quantity per mailing

requirement must be mailed at the single-piece Standard Mail (A) rates.

Since it is proposed to eliminate the single-piece Standard Mail

(A) rates, the Postal Service proposes a limited exception to the

minimum volume requirements for mailings at Presorted (3/5 and basic)

rates for ``residual'' pieces in a Standard Mail (A) mailing job. These

residual pieces are groups of fewer than 200 pieces that remain after

preparing an Enhanced Carrier Route or Automation mailing (or both).

Specifically, the Postal Service proposes that these ``residual''

pieces be subject to the applicable Presorted Standard Mail (A) rates

(nonautomation 3/5 and basic rates). Under this proposal, pieces in an

Enhanced Carrier Route rate mailing and/or in an Automation rate

mailing that have each separately met a 200-piece or 50-pound minimum

quantity requirement may be counted toward the minimum quantity

requirement for a Presorted (3/5 and basic) rate mailing, provided that

(1) the Enhanced Carrier Route rate mailing and/or the Automation rate

mailing, and the Presorted rate mailing are part of the same mailing

job, and (2) the mailings are all reported on the same postage

statement. Under no circumstances may pieces mailed at the Presorted

Standard (nonautomation 3/5 and basic) rates be counted toward the

minimum volume requirements for an Enhanced Carrier Route or an

Automation rate mailing. Furthermore, the pieces mailed at the

Presorted Standard rates must not bear any Enhanced Carrier Route or

Automation markings. Only ``Presorted Standard'' (or until July 1,

1999, ``Bulk Rate''), ``Nonprofit Organization,'' or applicable

authorized abbreviations may appear on pieces mailed at the Presorted

Standard rates.

The alternative of subjecting these ``residual'' pieces to First-

Class Mail rates raises problems for both mailers and the Postal

Service: mailers would have to submit two postage statements and the

Postal Service would have to enter information from two postage

statements into its Permit System. Also, the forwarding and return

rules are different for the two classes of mail. Ancillary service

endorsements intended for the majority of the mailing job that is being

mailed as Standard Mail (A) might not be appropriate for the

``residual'' portion of the job that is mailed as single-piece First-

Class Mail. For example, ``Change Service Requested'' is available to

all Standard Mail (A), whereas for First-Class Mail it is available

only to mailers participating in the electronic address change service

(ACS). To ensure that ``residual'' pieces mailed at the First-Class

Mail rates receive the correct forwarding and return services, mailers

would have to use envelopes that bear First-Class Mail rate markings

but did not bear the Standard Mail (A) markings ``Bulk Rate,''

``Presorted Standard,'' or ``Nonprofit Organization'' or inappropriate

ancillary service endorsements. However, re-enveloping the ``residual''

mailpieces would be time consuming, expensive, and impractical for most

Standard Mail (A) mailers. If the Postal Service allowed mailers simply

to add a ``single-piece'' or a ``First-Class single-piece'' marking to

their ``residual'' mailpieces, mail processing and delivery personnel

would have to visually verify the postage and address areas of each

mailpiece to ensure proper handling and delivery--a costly and

inefficient process. Furthermore, there are different service standards

for First-Class Mail and Standard Mail (A). This would pose a

significant complicating factor for mailers with time-sensitive

advertising such as that for sales on certain dates. If the

``residual'' portion of a Standard Mail (A) mailing job were required

to be mailed at First-Class Mail rates, it could arrive too early to

have the intended effect on the recipient. It also would pose

difficulties for mailers attempting to schedule follow-up activities,

such as telemarketing, staffing, etc., around in-home delivery dates.

The option to mail the ``residual'' portion at a later date so that its

First-Class Mail delivery dates would better coincide with the Standard

Mail (A) delivery dates for the major portion of the mailing job would

not be possible for permit imprint mailers because the ``residual''

mail would not

[[Page 12867]]

meet the minimum quantity requirement of 200 pieces necessary to submit

a single-piece rate permit imprint mailing.

Forwarding and Return

With two exceptions, charges for the forwarding and return of

Standard Mail (A) will be paid at the First-Class Mail rates for pieces

weighing 11 ounces or less and at the Priority Mail rates for pieces

weighing over 11 ounces. This is due to the elimination of the single-

piece Standard Mail (A) rates discussed above. The exceptions are (1)

matter returned under Bulk Parcel Return Service (BPRS) and (2) matter

that qualifies for a single-piece Special Standard Mail or Library Mail

rate under DMM E630 and is endorsed to show that forwarding and return

is requested at one of those rates.

6. Standard Mail (B)

Rate Highlights

Because of cost increases, Parcel Post as a whole is proposed to

have higher than average rate increases. Increases are proposed to most

Bound Printed Matter and Library Mail rates. On average, proposed

Special Standard Mail rates will be about the same as current rates.

The annual fees for destination bulk mail center (DBMC) rates and

presorted Special Standard Mail have increased from $85.00 to $100.00.

The fee for pickup service for Parcel Post is proposed to increase from

$4.95 to $8.25 per occurrence. (Pickup service is not available for

mailings claiming Parcel Post destination entry rates or Origin Bulk

Mail Center (OBMC) discounts.)

Rate Structure

All Standard Mail (B). a. Barcoded Discount. A discount of $0.04

per piece is proposed for machinable pieces bearing a correct and

properly prepared barcode representing the 5-digit ZIP Code of the

address on the mailpiece. To be eligible, the pieces must be part of a

mailing containing at least 50 pieces of Parcel Post. The Postal

Service is investigating a process to certify the quality of barcodes.

This barcoded discount would be available for all Standard Mail (B)

rates except Parcel Post mail at the destination sectional center

facility (DSCF) or destination delivery unit (DDU) rates, Parcel Post

DBMC rate mail entered at an auxiliary service facility (ASF), Bound

Printed Matter at the Carrier Route rates, and presorted Special

Standard Mail at the 5-digit rate.

b. Delivery Confirmation. It is proposed to offer delivery

confirmation service with Standard Mail (B). This service would be

obtained in two forms: (1) an electronic option for a $0.25 fee for

mailers who apply the identifying barcodes to each piece, provide an

electronic manifest, and retrieve confirmation information

electronically; and (2) a retail option for a $0.60 fee, with delivery

information provided through a USPS Internet address or a toll-free

telephone number. Mailers using the electronic option must have the

quality of their printed barcodes certified by the USPS. See DMM S918

in Part B for details on preparing delivery confirmation mail.

Parcel Post. a. Presort Discounts for Inter-BMC Rates. An Origin

BMC (OBMC) discount of $0.57 per piece is proposed for mail entered at

a BMC that is sorted to BMCs if machinable parcels or sorted to BMCs

and ASFs if nonmachinable parcels. A BMC Presort discount of $0.12 per

piece is proposed for pieces sorted to BMCs if machinable parcels or

sorted to BMCs and ASFs if nonmachinable parcels and entered at any

postal facility other than a BMC that accepts bulk mailings. To qualify

for either of these rates, pieces must be part of a mailing of at least

50 pieces mailed at Parcel Post rates. See ``Mail Preparation'' below

for more details.

b. Drop Shipment Rates. A new rate schedule is proposed for pieces

entered at the delivery unit from which the parcels are delivered

(destination delivery unit (DDU) rate). DDU rate pieces must be part of

a mailing of at least 50 pieces mailed at Parcel Post rates. A new rate

schedule also is proposed for pieces entered at the destination

sectional center facility (DSCF). DSCF rate pieces must be part of a

mailing of at least 50 pieces mailed at Parcel Post rates. DSCF rate

pieces must be sorted to 5-digit ZIP Codes as described under ``Mail

Preparation'' below.

c. Balloon Rate. It is proposed that any item weighing less than 15

pounds and measuring over 84 inches (but less than 108 inches) in

combined length and girth be charged the applicable Parcel Post rate

for a 15-pound parcel.

d. Oversized Pieces. It is proposed to allow up to 10% of the

pieces in each Parcel Post mailing to measure over 108 inches, but not

more than 130 inches, in combined length and girth. Such oversized

pieces would be charged the applicable Parcel Post rate for a 70-pound

parcel.

e. Hazardous Material Surcharges. Surcharges for mailable hazardous

material are proposed. Separate per-piece surcharges are proposed for

hazardous medical material ($0.50) and for other hazardous material

($1.00).

Library Mail. Hazardous Material Surcharges. Surcharges for

mailable hazardous material are proposed. Separate per-piece surcharges

are proposed for hazardous medical material ($0.50) and for other

hazardous material ($1.00).

Mail Preparation

Markings. a. General. It is proposed to require that the current

subclass markings ``Bound Printed Matter,'' ``Special Standard,'' and

``Library Rate'' or ``Library Mail'' (or authorized abbreviations) be

placed in the postage area on each mailpiece (i.e., be printed or

produced as part of, or directly below or to the left of, the permit

imprint indicia, meter stamp or impression, or adhesive or precanceled

stamp). In addition, it is proposed that Standard Mail (A) mailed at

one of these Standard Mail (B) rates under the exception in DMM

E612.4.6 would be required to bear the appropriate Standard Mail (B)

rate marking rather than the applicable Standard Mail (A) rate marking.

b. Parcel Post. It is proposed that all Parcel Post rate mail bear

a ``Parcel Post'' or ``PP'' rate marking in the postage area. This

would include Standard Mail (A) mailings paid at Parcel Post rates

under the exception in DMM E612.4.6. Mailings qualifying for drop

shipment rates must bear an additional marking. A new generic drop

shipment marking is proposed, which will be required on each piece

mailed at a DBMC, DSCF, or DDU rate. The proposed marking ``Drop

Shipment'' or its abbreviation ``D/S'' must be printed or produced as

part of, or directly below or to the left of, the permit imprint or

meter indicia, or may appear in the line above or two lines above the

address. The drop shipment marking would be in addition to the ``Parcel

Post'' marking or abbreviation.

Because of the new generic drop shipment marking, the requirement

for the marking ``DBMC Parcel Post'' or ``DBMC PP'' is eliminated for

DBMC rate mail. Also eliminated is the requirement to show the 5-digit

or 3-digit ZIP Code of the post office of mailing in the drop shipment

marking if the postage for the piece is paid with a permit imprint and

the office of mailing is in a different 3-digit ZIP Code area from the

post office in the return address. For Parcel Post, the requirement for

a ``Bulk Rate'' marking also has been eliminated. Mailpieces bearing

the ``DBMC Parcel Post,'' the 3-digit ZIP Code of the office of

mailing, and ``Bulk Rate'' markings will be accepted for one year after

implementation of the R97-1 rate case.

[[Page 12868]]

c. Bound Printed Matter. It is proposed to change the marking

``Bulk Rate'' or ``Blk. Rt.'' to ``Presorted'' or ``PRSRT'' for bulk

Bound Printed Matter mailings. The ``Presorted'' portion of the marking

will be permitted to appear in either the postage area or in the line

above or two lines above the address. The name of the rate category

also will change from bulk Bound Printed Matter to presorted Bound

Printed Matter. For carrier route Bound Printed Matter, the need for

the ``Bulk Rate'' marking in addition to the ``Carrier Route Presort''

marking is eliminated. Carrier route Bound Printed Matter mailings must

show ``Bound Printed Matter'' in the postage area and ``Carrier Route

Presort'' or ``CAR-RT SORT'' in the postage area or in the line above

or two lines above the address. Mailers will be permitted, but not

required, to show the ``Presorted'' or ``PRSRT'' marking on carrier

route Bound Printed Matter in addition to the required ``Bound Printed

Matter'' and ``Carrier Route Presort'' or ``CAR-RT SORT'' markings. The

``Catalog'' or ``Catalog Rate'' marking is eliminated for Bound Printed

Matter. Pieces bearing the ``Bulk Rate'' or ``Blk. Rt.'' and

``Catalog'' or ``Catalog Rate'' markings will be accepted for one year

after implementation of the R97-1 rate case.

d. Special Standard. For Presorted Special Standard mail, it is

proposed to allow the ``Presorted'' portion of the current marking to

be abbreviated ``PRSRT'' and to allow it to appear either in the

postage area or in the line above or two lines above the address. The

``Special Standard'' marking will be required to be placed in the

postage area.

Origin BMC Discount. To qualify for the Origin BMC (OBMC) discount,

a piece must be part of a mailing of at least 50 Parcel Post rate

pieces. Pieces eligible for the Origin BMC rate must be entered at a

BMC. Machinable parcels: (1) must be sorted to BMCs using DMM labeling

list L601, (2) must be prepared in pallet boxes, each labeled to a BMC

and each containing a minimum of 54 inches of mail, and (3) must not be

sorted into overflow pallet boxes or sacks. Nonmachinable parcels: (1)

must be sorted to BMCs and ASFs using new DMM labeling list L605, (2)

must be placed directly on pallets (no pallet boxes are allowed), each

labeled to a BMC or ASF and each pallet measuring at least 48 inches

high from the floor (mail and pallet), and (3) must not be sorted into

overflow pallets or sacks. Pallets and pallet boxes also must meet the

provisions of M041.

BMC Presort Discount. To qualify for the BMC Presort discount, a

piece must meet the same rules for sorting machinable parcels to BMCs

and nonmachinable parcels to BMCs and ASFs as required for the Origin

BMC discount above, except that BMC Presort mail may be entered at any

postal facility (other than a BMC) that has a business mail entry unit.

DSCF Rate. To qualify for the DSCF rate, a piece must be part of a

mailing of at least 50 Parcel Post rate pieces. Pieces eligible for the

DSCF rate must be entered at an SCF listed in DMM L005 and must be for

delivery within the service area of the entry SCF. To qualify, the

pieces must be presorted and labeled to 5-digit sacks or pallets as

follows. Machinable and nonmachinable parcels may be combined in the

same sack or pallet to meet the minimum sortation requirements. If

sacked, each 5-digit sack must contain a minimum of 10 pieces. If

palletized, each 5-digit pallet must meet one of the following minimum

preparation requirements: (1) contain at least 50 pieces and 250 pounds

of mail, or (2) be at least 42 inches high (height of mail and pallet).

Pallet boxes are not permitted.

If palletized, the following additional requirements or

restrictions could apply. Currently, many BMCs transport mail for

certain 5-digit ZIP Code areas directly to the 5-digit associate post

office. A draft list of these 5-digit areas is found in DMM Exhibit

E652.5.0 in Part B. It is likely that this list will be revised in the

final rule. Five-digit pallets prepared for the DSCF rate for the 5-

digit ZIP Codes listed in this exhibit will be required to be entered

at the BMC rather than at the SCF to obtain the DSCF rate. This will

avoid incurring additional handling and transportation of this mail at

the affected SCFs. However, sacked mail for the 5-digit ZIP Codes

listed in Exhibit E652.5.0 must always be entered at the SCF (not at

the BMC). In addition, there are certain associate post offices that

cannot unload pallets. A list of these facilities may be found in the

Drop Shipment Product that is currently available from the National

Customer Support Center (NCSC) in Memphis, TN, 1-800-238-3150. For

these 5-digit ZIP Codes, the DSCF rate will be available only for mail

that can be presented in 5-digit sacks containing a minimum of 10

pieces (i.e., the DSF rate will not be available for palletized mail).

For DSCF mail, the Postal Service will unload palletized loads. Mailers

must unload sacked and bedloaded mailings. Except for local mailings,

appointments for dropping mail at an SCF must be scheduled through the

appropriate district control center (see DMM E652 in Part B). Pallets

also must meet the provisions of M041.

DDU Rate. To qualify for the DDU rate, a piece must be part of a

mailing of at least 50 Parcel Post rate pieces. Pieces eligible for the

DDU rate must be entered at the postal facility where the carrier who

delivers the parcel is located. There are no specific sortation

requirements other than the requirement that mail must be separated by

5-digit ZIP Code when unloaded at the DDU facility, and the mail must

not be prepared in pallet boxes. If a mailer chooses to sack or

palletize, there are no minimum sack or pallet requirements, but the

sack or pallet must be labeled as a 5-digit sack or pallet. The mailer

is responsible for unloading all DDU loads (even if palletized).

Appointments must be made by contacting the DDU at least one day in

advance. Mailers desiring electronic confirmation of DDU mail entry

also must schedule the appointment through the district control center.

A list of delivery unit facilities and their telephone numbers is

available through the NCSC in the Drop Shipment Product.

Plant-Verified Drop Shipment (PVDS). Pieces must be part of a

mailing of at least 50 Parcel Post rate pieces in order to qualify for

DDU, DSCF, and DBMC rates, and to qualify for OBMC, BMC Presort, and

barcoded discounts. When Parcel Post rate pieces are submitted under

PVDS procedures, mailers may use the total of all line items for all

destinations on a PVDS register or PVDS postage statement to meet the

minimum 50-piece volume requirement. This means a mailer may enter

fewer than 50 pieces at an individual destination, provided there are

at least 50 Parcel Post rate pieces for the total of all the entry

points for that single mailing job listed on the PVDS register or PVDS

postage statement.

Bulk Parcel Post. Bulk Parcel Post is a separate subclass of

Standard Mail (B). Currently, there are no rates in effect for this

subclass, and no rates for this subclass were proposed by the Postal

Service in Docket No. R97-1. DMM E620.2.4e currently states that ``the

bulk Parcel Post rate is the rate applicable to each piece in a bulk

Parcel Post rate mailing at the single-piece rate or DBMC rate for that

zone for an item equal to the average weight per piece for all parcels

in the mailing to that zone, rounded up to the next whole pound.'' This

DMM section therefore establishes a method of computing postage at

Parcel Post rates. For mailings of identical weight pieces, this

averaging method is inconsequential, because the average weight of all

the pieces to a zone will always be the weight of a single piece.

[[Page 12869]]

For mailings of nonidentical weight pieces, DMM E620.2.2b currently

states that this method of postage payment can be used only if

authorized by the rates and classification service center (RCSC)

serving the post office of mailing. The Postal Service is proposing to

remove sections E620.2.2 and E620.2.4e from the DMM. Postal Service

Headquarters is not aware of any mailer that is currently authorized to

use this method of postage payment. If in fact there are mailers using

this method, they may request that their RCSC issue an authorization

for continuation of their postage payment procedure as an alternate

mailing system under DMM P730. This measure promotes clarity in the

DMM. The Postal Service is proposing various new rates and discounts

for Parcel Post that could be considered ``bulk rates'' because they

require a minimum volume of 50 pieces per mailing. Therefore, removing

references to ``Bulk Parcel Post rates'' in DMM E620 will reduce

confusion with the eligibility section for Parcel Post rates in new DMM

E630. As indicated above, the Postal Service also is proposing to

remove the requirement to mark pieces with a ``Bulk Parcel Post'' rate

marking. New DMM E630.6.0 is reserved for any future rates and

requirements for the Bulk Parcel Post subclass.

7. Special Services

Address Correction

No change is proposed to address correction service fees ($0.50

manual, $0.20 automated, per notice issued).

Address Changes for Election Boards

The fee is proposed to increase from $0.17 to $0.20. See DMM

R900.10.3 in Part B.

Business Reply Mail (BRM)

It is proposed that the annual permit fee increase from $85.00 to

$100.00, and the annual accounting fee increase from $205.00 to

$300.00. For regular BRM, mailers will pay the applicable First-Class

Mail rates plus a per-piece charge. The per-piece charge for regular

BRM with an advance deposit account will decrease from $0.10 to $0.08.

The per-piece charge for regular BRM without an advance deposit account

will decrease from $0.44 to $0.30.

It is proposed that a new category of BRM, Qualified Business Reply

Mail (QBRM), replace the current Business Reply Mail Accounting System

(BRMAS) category. For QBRM, mailers also will pay postage plus a fee;

however, a lower first-ounce rate of postage of $0.30 for letters and

$0.18 for cards is proposed for QBRM. Mailers of QBRM also will pay a

$0.06 per-piece charge and be required to use a business reply mail

advance deposit account.

Mailpiece design and barcoding requirements are revised for both

regular BRM and QBRM. Regular BRM and QBRM pieces that bear a barcode

will be required to meet the automation letter mailpiece design

requirements in DMM C810 and the barcoding standards in C840, so that

there are uniform requirements for mail that is processed on barcode

sorters. This will result in revised standards for preparation of

barcode window envelopes, including the placement of barcodes as they

appear through the windows. It also will allow a company logo to appear

beneath the delivery address line, provided that it is placed no lower

than \5/8\ inch from the bottom edge of the mailpiece and does not

interfere with the barcode clear zone. For barcoded and nonbarcoded

BRM, references to mailpiece design requirements in DMM C810 and C830

will replace current BRM standards relative to reflectance

requirements, paper weight, and self-mailers. This will lower paper

basis weight requirements for envelopes from 20-pound paper to 16-pound

paper and add basis weight, tabbing, and other requirements for self-

mailers. It is likely that self-mailers will be processed on automated

equipment. Meeting these requirements will ensure their ability to be

processed without damage.

The minimum thickness requirements for cards that are not barcoded

will not change. However, cards that bear a barcode under either

regular BRM or QBRM will be required to meet the thickness requirements

in DMM C810, to bring the barcoded BRM standards in line with

automation standards for other mail. For barcoded pieces, this will

increase the minimum thickness for cards measuring greater than 4\1/4\

inches high by 6 inches long from .007 inch to .009 inch. These larger

cards are subject to the rate for ``other than cards'' (now and under

the proposed standards). The minimum thickness for barcoded cards that

are eligible for the card rate (measuring 4\1/4\ inches by 6 inches or

less) will continue to be .007 inch.

Carrier Sequencing of Address Cards

The fee is proposed to increase from $0.17 to $0.20. See DMM

R900.1.1 in Part B.

Certificate of Mailing

Fees are proposed to increase. See DMM R900.4.0 in Part B.

Certified Mail

The fee is proposed to increase from $1.35 to $1.55. See DMM

R900.5.0 in Part B.

Collect on Delivery (COD)

Fees are proposed to increase. See DMM R900.6.0 in Part B. It also

is proposed to revise COD by removing its applicability to single-piece

Standard Mail (A), and to allow it to be used in conjunction with

delivery confirmation service (with Priority Mail and Standard Mail (B)

only).

Correction of Mailing Lists

The per-correction and minimum per-list fees are proposed to

increase. See DMM R900.10.1 in Part B.

Delivery Confirmation

A new delivery confirmation service is proposed for Priority Mail

and Standard Mail (B). This service will provide the mailer with

information about the date of delivery or attempted delivery. It is

anticipated that a signature (electronic return receipt) service also

will be available in early 1999. Until then, return receipt service

under DMM S915 may be used with delivery confirmation only if purchased

in connection with insurance for over $50.00, COD, or registry service.

Delivery confirmation service will be available at the time of mailing

only. This service will be obtained in two forms: (1) an electronic

option for mailers who apply identifying barcodes to each piece,

provide an electronic manifest, and retrieve confirmation information

electronically; and (2) a retail (manual) option, for which delivery

information would be provided through a USPS Internet address or a

toll-free telephone number. It is proposed that delivery confirmation

may be combined with insured mail, registered mail, COD, or special

handling. Delivery Confirmation also may be combined with restricted

delivery only if purchased along with insurance for over $50.00, COD,

or registry service. See DMM S918 in Part B for further details on

preparing delivery confirmation mail and R900.7.0 for fees.

Express Mail Insurance

Fees for merchandise insured for $500.01 to $5,000.00 are proposed

to increase. See DMM R900.8.0 in Part B.

Insured Mail

Fees for existing insurance service are proposed to increase. See

DMM R900.9.0 in Part B. The applicability of insurance to single-piece

Standard Mail (A) is deleted. Pieces formerly mailed at

[[Page 12870]]

single-piece Standard Mail (A) rates will be mailed as First-Class Mail

or Priority Mail and therefore will retain eligibility for insurance.

The proposal contains provisions for providing delivery confirmation

service in conjunction with insurance (for Priority Mail and Standard

Mail (B) only). In addition, a bulk insurance discount of $0.40 per

piece is proposed. To qualify for the bulk insurance discount, mailers

will be required to (1) enter mailings of insured articles under an

approved manifest mailing system agreement, (2) mail a minimum of

10,000 insured articles annually (a total of all insured articles

mailed at multiple locations), (3) provide a hard copy of Form 3877,

Firm Mailing Book for Accountable Mail, or facsimile (4) effective

early 1999, also provide a soft (electronic) copy of Form 3877, in an

approved format. Mailers will be required to request authorization from

the manager of Claims and Processing at the St. Louis Accounting

Service Center (ASC) to mail at the bulk insured rates and to file

claims under the alternative procedures for bulk insured mail. It is

anticipated that in early 1999 programming changes will have been made

at the St. Louis ASC that will tie in to the anticipated completion of

systems to electronically capture information on accountable mail at

delivery units. When or before these changes and systems are completed,

bulk insurance mailers will be provided with instructions for

electronically filing claims. The bulk insurance discount will be

available when rates are implemented and is not dependent on electronic

claim filing.

Merchandise Return Service

It is proposed that the annual permit fee increase from $85.00 to

$100.00. There is no proposed increase in the charge per returned

mailpiece. Revisions are made to the postage that is applicable to

pieces returned that weigh less than 16 ounces and to the marking

requirements that specify the return rate of postage. These changes are

necessary due to the proposed elimination of single-piece Standard Mail

(A) rates. The proposed postage and marking requirements are as

follows. If the permit holder desires matter weighing over 16 ounces to

be returned at a rate other than Parcel Post, the permit holder must

preprint the appropriate rate marking on the label (``Priority'' or

``Priority Mail,'' ``Bound Printed Matter,'' ``Special Standard,'' or

``Library Mail'' or ``Library Rate''). Pieces weighing more than 11

ounces and less than 16 ounces may be returned only at Priority Mail

rates, or, if the contents meet the applicable standards, at the

Special Standard or Library Mail rates. The permit holder must preprint

the applicable rate marking on matter weighing more than 11 ounces and

less than 16 ounces. Pieces weighing 11 ounces or less may be returned

only at First-Class Mail or Priority Mail rates, or, if the contents

meet the applicable standards, at the Special Standard or Library Mail

rates. The permit holder must preprint the applicable rate marking on

matter weighing 11 ounces or less returned at the Priority Mail,

Special Standard, or Library Mail rates. It is recommended but not

required that matter weighing 11 ounces or less to be mailed at the

First-Class Mail rates bear the preprinted marking ``First-Class'' or

``First-Class Mail.''

Money Orders

No changes are proposed for money orders.

On-Site Meter Settings

The Postal Service is proposing to increase two of the on-site

meter setting fees. The current fee of $3.25 for additional meter

setting will increase to $4.00, and the fee for checking a meter in and

out of service is proposed to increase from $7.50 to $8.50. No

increases are proposed to the scheduled appointment setting fee for the

first meter or to the unscheduled or emergency setting fee for the

first meter.

Parcel Airlift

Individual parcel airlift fees are proposed to increase from $0.40

to $0.45 for up to two pounds, from $0.75 to $0.85 for over two up to

three pounds, from $1.15 to $1.30 for over three to up to four pounds,

and from $1.55 to $1.75 for over four pounds.

Permit Imprint

The application fee for permit imprints is proposed to increase

from $85.00 to $100.00.

Post Office Boxes, Caller Service, and Reserve Call Numbers

Post office box fees (except the $0 fee for all box sizes in Group

E) are proposed to increase. Fees for caller service and reserve call

numbers are also proposed to increase (see DMM R900.16.0 and R900.3.0

in Part B).

Prepaid Reply Mail

A proposed new classification, Prepaid Reply Mail (PRM), will allow

businesses or other organizations to provide their correspondents with

Postal Service-approved envelopes or cards that have postage prepaid.

This will allow a PRM permit holder's customers to return mail such as

bill payments without affixing postage. Mailers who participate in PRM

must use automation-compatible and prebarcoded letters and cards. A

new, reduced first-ounce rate of postage of $0.30 for letters and $0.18

for cards that is prepaid by the envelope or card provider prior to or

at the time of original mailing is proposed. Mailers prepay postage on

PRM pieces based on an estimated number of returns through the mail.

The mailer (permit holder) must keep records of the actual number of

returns. The actual postage owed is reconciled by the mailer and the

USPS through a periodic audit. A yearly $100.00 permit fee is proposed.

In addition, the permit holder will pay a monthly fee of $1,000.00 to

cover Postal Service auditing and administrative activities. PRM

mailers will have to obtain authorization to distribute PRM pieces from

the post office where the PRM pieces are initially distributed.

Registered Mail

The maximum value level for registered mail without postal

insurance is decreased from $100.00 to $0.00. All registered mail with

a value of $0.01 or more will be automatically provided with insurance

(up to a maximum indemnity of $25,000 per piece). Insurance coverage is

included in the applicable registered mail fee. Only mail of no value

may be mailed as uninsured registered mail. In addition, registered

mail fees are proposed to increase (see DMM R900.18.0 in Part B).

Proposed DMM revisions will allow the use of delivery confirmation

service with registered mail.

Restricted Delivery

No changes are proposed to restricted delivery fees. Proposed DMM

revisions will allow the use of restricted delivery with delivery

confirmation service provided it is purchased along with insurance for

more than $50.00, COD, or registry service.

Return Receipt

Fees for return receipt are proposed to increase (see DMM R900.20.0

in Part B). Proposed revisions are made to the DMM to allow use of

return receipt service with delivery confirmation service only if

purchased in connection with insurance for over $50, COD, or registry

service. In 1999, signature (electronic return receipt) service will be

offered with delivery confirmation service, without a requirement to

purchase any other special service to receive it.

[[Page 12871]]

Return Receipt for Merchandise

Fees for return receipt for merchandise are proposed to increase

(see DMM R900.21.0 in Part B). It also is proposed to delete the

availability of this service with single-piece Standard Mail (A),

because single-piece Standard Mail (A) will be eliminated.

Special Handling

Substantial increases are proposed to the special handling fees,

because the costs of providing this service have more than tripled

since the last omnibus rate case proceeding (see R900.22.0 in Part B).

In addition, the DMM is revised to conform to the Domestic Mail

Classification Schedule (DMCS) by making it clear that special handling

may be used with First-Class Mail and Priority Mail. Proposed DMM

revisions also will allow the use of delivery confirmation service with

special handling.

Stamped Cards

It is proposed to add a $0.02 fee per stamped card and a $0.04 fee

per double stamped card to cover manufacturing and printing costs.

Additionally, a fee of $0.80 would be added to the sale of a sheet of

40 stamped cards. This is consistent with the existing fee structure

for stamped envelopes, where customers are charged the postage plus a

small fee for the envelope itself.

Stamped Envelopes

It is proposed to increase fees for some stamped envelopes and

decrease fees for others. In addition, the fee structure has been

simplified: except for the hologram and banded stamped envelopes, all

stamped envelopes are grouped together by size and whether they are

plain or printed.

ZIP Coding of Mailing Lists

Fees are proposed to increase from $60.00 to $70.00 per 1,000

addresses or fraction thereof.

B. Summary of Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) Changes

The following are proposed changes organized by DMM module. They

are intended as an overview only and should not be viewed by commenters

as defining every proposed revision.

A (Addressing)

A060.5.3 is amended to eliminate the option to pay postage for

excess or undeliverable detached address labels (DALs) or items being

returned at the single-piece Standard Mail (A) rates. Postage for

excess or undeliverable DALs or items being returned is computed at the

applicable single-piece rate (First-Class Mail, Priority Mail, or

Standard Mail (B)) for the combined weight of the DAL and the

accompanying item, regardless of whether both are being returned.

C (Characteristics and Content)

References to single-piece Standard Mail (A) are deleted

throughout. C050 is revised to add ``Nonmachinable'' to the title of

5.0 and 6.0 (Irregular and Outside Parcels). C100.4.0 is revised to

include keys and identification devices as items that may be considered

nonstandard mail. C600.1 is amended to allow Parcel Post mailings to

include pieces measuring over 108 inches, but not exceeding 130 inches

in combined length and girth, if the number of such pieces does not

exceed 10% of each mailing, and a rate is paid equal to that for a 70-

pound parcel for the zone to which the parcel is addressed. C600.1 also

is amended to require Parcel Post pieces that weigh less than 15 pounds

but measure more than 84 inches in combined length and girth to pay a

rate equal to that of a 15-pound parcel for the zone to which the

parcel is addressed. C600.2 is amended to delete the nonstandard

surcharge criteria that formerly applied to single-piece Standard Mail

(A). C810 is amended to provide new maximum weights for automation

``heavy'' letters. A new C850 is added to provide standards for

barcodes on parcels.

D (Deposit, Collection, and Delivery)

D010.1 is amended to exclude Parcel Post pieces mailed at the DDU

and DSCF rates, or claiming the Origin BMC discount, from obtaining

pickup service. D042.1.7 is amended to reflect the operational

conditions in plants that employ an automated delivery receipt system

for processing accountable mail. D600.2 is amended to remove the

sentence that allowed single-piece Standard Mail (A) bearing adhesive

stamps to be placed in collection boxes.

E (Eligibility)

E060 is revised to remove single-piece Standard Mail (A) as a

permissible rate for the return of items under penalty merchandise

return service. E110 is revised to delete references to Presorted

Priority Mail. E120 is revised to remove references to Presorted

Priority Mail, to add information on rates and fees applicable to keys

and identification devices, to add information on hazardous material

surcharges, and to make minor organizational changes. E130 is revised

to add information on rates and fees applicable to keys and

identification devices, and surcharges for nonstandard sizes and for

hazardous material. E200 is revised to provide for separate 5-digit and

3-digit rates for Regular, Nonprofit, Classroom, and In-County

subclasses, and to show that the applicable 3-digit rates will apply to

both unique and nonunique 3-digit ZIP Code areas. E500 is revised to

add information on hazardous material surcharges. E600 is revised to

delete references to single-piece Standard Mail (A), and to change the

name ``nonautomation presort'' to ``Presorted'' or ``Presorted

Standard.'' E612 is revised to change the weight breakpoints for the

Standard Mail (A) minimum per-piece rates, specify that delivery

confirmation service may not be used with Standard Mail (A), and

require Standard Mail (A) mailed at a Standard Mail (B) rate to show

the applicable Standard Mail (B) marking. E620 and E630 are reorganized

so that E620 contains standards for Standard Mail (A) and E630 contains

standards for Standard Mail (B). E620 is revised to add new minimum

volume requirements for Presorted Standard mailings and add provisions

for the new residual shape surcharge and the hazardous material

surcharges. E630 is revised to add provisions for new DSCF and DDU

rates and new OBMC, BMC Presort discounts, the oversized parcel

provisions, and balloon rate provisions. E630 is revised to add

provisions for a barcoded discount and delivery confirmation for all

Standard Mail (B). E630 is revised to add provisions for hazardous

material surcharges for Parcel Post and Library Mail and to revise

marking requirements for Parcel Post drop shipments, Bound Printed

Matter, and Special Standard Mail. E640 is revised to add hazardous

material surcharges for Standard Mail (A). E652 is revised to add

provisions for DSCF and DDU Parcel Post rates.

F (Forwarding and Related Services)

F010 revises forwarding and related services for Periodicals and

for Standard Mail (A) to show that return postage is subject to the

First-Class or Priority Mail rates based on weight, except for

machinable Standard Mail (A) parcels returned under Bulk Parcel Return

Service (BPRS). F020 is revised to remove references to single-piece

Standard Mail (A).

L (Labeling Lists)

Section L100, including labeling list L102, ADCs--Presorted

Priority Mail, is deleted. New labeling list L605, BMCs--Nonmachinable

Parcel Post, is added.

M (Mail Preparation and Sortation)

M011 is revised to amend the definition of a mailing. M012 is

revised to change marking requirements for

[[Page 12872]]

Standard Mail (A) and (B). In M032, Exhibit 1.3 is revised to show

headings for new Periodicals rate levels and for new Parcel Post rates.

M041 is revised to reflect new Standard Mail (B) rate requirements.

M045 is revised to add new Standard Mail (B) preparation requirements.

M072 is amended for clarity. M073 is revised to add information about

combining Standard Mail (A) and Standard Mail (B) parcels in mailings

prepared under new Parcel Post rate preparation requirements. M120 is

revised to delete the sections on Presorted Priority Mail. M200 is

revised to require preparation of an SCF level of sack. M600 is revised

to change ``nonautomation presort'' to ``Presorted,'' to revise

references to E620 and E630, and to revise marking requirements. M810

is reorganized and revised to add new rate categories for Periodicals

and to make the 5-digit/scheme sortation level optional for Periodicals

automation letters. M820 is revised to make the SCF sack a required

level of presort for Periodicals automation flats.

P (Postage and Payment Methods)

P011 is revised to delete references to single-piece Standard Mail

(A). P012 revises standardized documentation for Periodicals to add

separate 5-digit and 3-digit rates for both automation and

nonautomation and to add new rate abbreviations for nonautomation 5-

digit and 3-digit rates. P013 is revised to reflect payment for keys

and identification devices at First-Class Mail and Priority Mail rates

plus a $0.30 fee instead of single-piece Standard Mail (A) rates, to

delete sections concerning computation of single-piece Standard Mail

(A) rates, and to revise the breakpoints for Standard Mail (A) rates.

P014 is revised to delete references to single-piece Standard Mail (A)

and to indicate that a full refund may be given for delivery

confirmation if no service is provided. P030.5.4 is revised to delete a

reference to single-piece Standard Mail (A). P600 is revised to

establish postage payment methods for Standard Mail (B) containing a

combination of discounts, to delete information on payment and use of

``SNGLP'' marking for single-piece Standard Mail (A), and to clarify

that for mailings of identical weight, Standard Mail (A) postage may be

affixed to all pieces in the mailing at the lowest rate in the mailing

job. P710 is revised to require manifest information concerning limits

on oversize Parcel Post. P750 is revised to include instructions on the

new Parcel Post DSCF and DDU rates. P760 is revised to change

``nonautomation'' to ``Presorted'' for Standard Mail (A) and to delete

references to single-piece Standard Mail (A).

R (Rates and Fees)

The entire module is revised to reflect new rates and fees.

S (Special Services)

S010 is revised to reflect claims for the new bulk insurance

service. S070 is revised to clarify applicability of Priority Mail Drop

Shipment. S911 is revised to reflect changes to indemnity coverage for

registered mail and to include delivery confirmation as an authorized

additional service. S913 is revised to eliminate references to single-

piece Standard Mail (A), to provide clarification to matter eligible

for insurance, to include rules for the new bulk insurance service, and

to include delivery confirmation as an authorized additional service.

S915 is amended to reflect limited use of return receipt with delivery

confirmation service. S916 is amended to reflect limited use of

restricted delivery together with delivery confirmation service. S917

is amended to delete availability of return receipt for merchandise

with single-piece Standard Mail (A). S918 is added to provide rules for

the proposed new delivery confirmation service. S921 is amended to

delete availability of COD with single-piece Standard Mail (A) and to

reflect limited use of COD with delivery confirmation service. S922 is

revised to include requirements for new QBRM service, to require all

BRM bearing barcodes to meet the requirements of C810 and C840, and to

replace current BRM standards relative to reflectance requirements,

paper weight, and self-mailers with current mailpiece design

requirements in C810 and C830. S923 is revised to eliminate the return

of merchandise return service pieces at single-piece Standard Mail (A)

rates, to prescribe new rates of return and corresponding markings, and

to reflect new standards concerning registered mail used with that

service. S924 is revised to eliminate references to single-piece

Standard Mail (A). S925 is added to provide rules for the proposed new

prepaid reply mail classification. S930 is amended to remove

availability of special handling service for single-piece Standard Mail

(A), to correct the rules to allow First-Class Mail and Priority Mail

to receive special handling, and to reflect availability of delivery

confirmation service with special handling for the applicable

subclasses.

Although exempt from the notice and comment requirements of the

Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 553(b), (c)) regarding proposed

rulemaking by 39 U.S.C. 410(a), the Postal Service invites comments on

the following proposed revisions of the Domestic Mail Manual,

incorporated by reference in the Code of Federal Regulations. See 39

CFR part 111.

List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111

Postal Service.

PART 111 [AMENDED]

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

follows:

Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 39 U.S.C. 101, 401, 403, 404, 3001-

3011, 3201-3219, 3403-3406, 3621, 5001.

2. Revise the following sections of the Domestic Mail Manual to

read as follows:

A ADDRESSING

A000 Basic Addressing

* * * * *

A060 Detached Address Labels (DALs)

* * * * *

5.0 POSTAGE

* * * * *

5.3 Returns

[Amend the first sentence of 5.3 by replacing ``Standard Mail'' with

``First-Class Mail'' to read as follows:]

Postage for excess or undeliverable DALs that are properly

endorsed, or items being returned, is computed at the applicable

single-piece rate (First-Class Mail, Priority Mail, or Standard Mail

(B)) for the combined weight of the DAL and the accompanying item,

regardless of whether both are being returned. * * *

* * * * *

C CHARACTERISTICS AND CONTENT

C000 General Information

C010 General Mailability Standards

1.0 MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM DIMENSIONS

* * * * *

1.6 Nonstandard Surcharge

[Amend 1.6 by removing ``C600'' and ``Single-Piece Standard Mail'' to

read as follows:]

Because of address placement (orientation) under C100, a mailable

piece of First-Class Mail weighing 1 ounce or less can be subject to

the corresponding nonstandard surcharge.

* * * * *

C024 Other Restricted or Nonmailable Matter

* * * * *

[[Page 12873]]

12.0 ODD-SHAPED ITEMS IN ENVELOPES

12.1 Nonmailable

[Amend 12.1 by removing ``Standard Mail (A) rate'' to read as follows:]

Pens, bottle caps, and similar odd-shaped items are not acceptable

in letter-size envelopes at the single-piece First-Class Mail rate.

* * * * *

C022 Perishables

* * * * *

3.0 LIVE ANIMALS

3.1 Day-Old Poultry

[Amend 3.1f by adding ``or Priority Mail'' for clarity as follows:]

Day-old poultry vaccinated with Newcastle disease (live virus) is

nonmailable. Live day-old chickens, ducks, geese, partridges, pheasants

(mailable only from April through August), guinea fowl, quail, and

turkeys are acceptable in the mail only if:

* * * * *

f. The shipment bears special handling postage in addition to

regular postage, unless sent at the First-Class Mail or Priority Mail

rate.

* * * * *

C023 Hazardous Matter

* * * * *

12.0 Hazardous Material Surcharge

Mailable hazardous material described and prepared under C023.10 is

subject to a Hazardous Medical Material surcharge if mailed at the

Priority Mail, First-Class Mail (other than cards), Standard Mail (A),

Parcel Post, or Library Mail rates. Mailable hazardous material mailed

under C023.1.0 through 6.0 and in C023.9.0 and prepared under C021 and

C023 are subject to the other hazardous material surcharge if mailed at

the Priority Mail, First-Class Mail (other than cards), Standard Mail

(A), Parcel Post, or Library Rate. Both surcharges may apply to some

material.

* * * * *

C050 Mail Processing Categories

* * * * *

[Amend 5.0 to add ``Nonmachinable'' to the title as follows:]

5.0 IRREGULAR PARCEL (NONMACHINABLE)

* * * * *

[Amend 6.0 to add ``Nonmachinable'' to the title as follows:]

6.0 OUTSIDE PARCEL (NONMACHINABLE)

* * * * *

C100 First-Class Mail

* * * * *

4.0 NONSTANDARD MAIL

[Revise 4.0 to include keys and identification devices as items subject

to the nonstandard classification as follows:]

Except for Priority Mail, any piece of First-Class Mail (including

keys or identification devices) weighing 1 ounce or less and not

claimed at a card rate is nonstandard and subject to the applicable

surcharge if its thickness exceeds 1/4 inch or, if based on the

placement (orientation) of the address, its length exceeds 11-1/2

inches, its height exceeds 6-1/8 inches, or its aspect ratio (length

divided by height) is less than 1.3 or more than 2.5.

* * * * *

C600 Standard Mail

1.0 DIMENSIONS

1.1 Standard Mail (A)

[Amend 1.1b to read as follows:]

These dimensional standards apply to Standard Mail (A):

* * * * *

b. Presorted (3/5 and basic rate) Regular and Nonprofit Standard

Mail (A) are subject only to the basic mailability standards in C010.

* * * * *

1.2 Standard Mail (B)

[Amend and renumber 1.2 as follows to specify a 10% limit on oversize

Parcel Post, and add a Parcel Post balloon rate:]

These dimensional standards apply to Standard Mail (B):

a. No piece may weigh more than 70 pounds, except matter at Bound

Printed Matter rates may not weigh more than 15 pounds.

b. Except for Parcel Post under 1.2c, the combined length and girth

of a piece (i.e., the length of its longest side plus the distance

around its thickest part) may not exceed 108 inches.

c. Parcel Post pieces exceeding 108 inches in combined length and

girth, but no greater than 130 inches in combined length and girth, are

mailable provided that they constitute not more than 10% of the total

number of Parcel Post pieces entered in a single mailing or included on

an approved daily manifest prepared for mailings that originate at a

single mailing location. The 10% limitation is applicable to all Parcel

Post mailings regardless of mailing size or acceptance location. Such

oversized Parcel Post pieces must be paid at a rate equal to that of a

70 pound parcel for the zone to which the parcel is addressed.

d. Parcel Post pieces exceeding 84 inches in combined length and

girth, but not exceeding 108 inches in combined length and girth, and

weighing less than 15 pounds are mailable at a rate equal to that of a

15-pound parcel for the zone to which the parcel is addressed.

e. Two or more packages may be mailed as a single parcel, if they

are about the same size or shape or if they are parts of one article,

if they are securely wrapped or fastened together, and if they do not

together exceed the weight or size limits.

f. Lower size or weight standards apply to mail claimed at certain

rates, addressed to certain APOs and FPOs, or sent by the Department of

State to U.S. government personnel abroad.

g. Pieces might be subject to minimum weight or dimensions based on

the standards for specific rates.

[Delete current 2.1, renumber current 2.2 as 2.0 and revise to read as

follows:]

2.0 NONMACHINABLE SURCHARGE

Items described in E630 and mailed at the inter-BMC/ASF Parcel Post

rates are subject to a nonmachinable surcharge unless the applicable

special handling fee is paid.

* * * * *

C800 Automation-Compatible Mail

* * * * *

C810 Letters and Cards

* * * * *

2.0 DIMENSIONS

* * * * *

2.3 Maximum Weight

[Amend 2.3c through 2.3f to amend the maximum ounce weights for heavy

letters to read as follows:]

Maximum weight limits are as follows:

* * * * *

c. 3.2873 ounces: automation Nonprofit Standard Mail heavy letters,

subject to 7.5.

d. 3.2906 ounces: automation Enhanced Carrier Route heavy letters,

subject to 7.5.

e. 3.2914 ounces: automation Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route heavy

letters, subject to 7.5.

f. 3.2985 ounces: automation First-Class Mail, automation

Periodicals, and automation Regular Standard Mail heavy letters,

subject to 7.5.

* * * * *

[Add new C850 to provide parcel barcode requirements as follows:]

[[Page 12874]]

C850 Standard Mail (B) Barcode Standards

1.0 PARCEL BARCODE CHARACTERISTICS

1.1 Basic Standards

Every addressed piece eligible for the Standard Mail (B) barcode

discount described in E630 must bear the correct 6-digit barcode (a 5-

digit ZIP Code and a 1-digit verifier character) in an Interleaved 2 of

5, Code 39, or Code 128 format. Technical specifications for these

three barcode formats appear in Uniform Symbology Specification (USS)

documents USS-I2/5, USS-39, and USS-128, respectively, available from

Automatic Identification Manufacturers (AIM), Material Handling

Institute, Inc., 1326 Freeport Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15238-3131. Only one

6-digit barcode ending in a ``9'' character may appear on the

mailpiece. The barcode must be located as specified in 1.6. No printing

may appear in an area 1/8 inch above and below the barcode regardless

of location. A minimum clear zone equal to 10 times the average

measured narrow element (bar or space) width must be maintained on

either side of the barcode.

1.2 Dimensions

The preferred range of widths of narrow bars and spaces is 0.015

inch to 0.017 inch. The width of the narrow bars or spaces must be no

less than 0.013 inch and no greater than 0.021 inch.

1.3 Verifier

The verifier character must be the last digit of the 6-digit

barcode. The correct verifier digit is always 9. The verifier appears

only as part of the barcode and is not printed as part of the human-

readable ZIP Code.

1.4 Reflectance

When measured in the red spectral range between 630 nanometers and

675 nanometers, the minimum white bar (space) reflectance (Rs) must be

greater than 50%, and the maximum bar reflectance (Rb) must be less

than 25%. The minimum print reflectance difference (Rs-Rb) is 40%. The

measurements must be made using a USPS-specified reflectance meter or

barcode verifier.

1.5 Barcode Quality

At least 70% of the barcodes must measure American National

Standards Institute (ANSI) grade A or B and none of the remaining

portion can measure lower than ANSI grade C. Information concerning

ANSI guidelines X3.182-1990 may be obtained from the American Standards

Institute, Inc., 1430 Broadway, New York, NY 10018-3308.

1.6 Address and Barcode Placement

The address and barcode must be on the mailpiece side with the

largest surface area, except that the address and barcode must be on

the top surface of the mailpiece when its shape requires specific

orientation for stability during automated processing. The delivery

address and/or the barcode may be printed on an attachment or on an

enclosure in a window envelope, subject to the reflectance standards in

1.4.

1.7 Numeric Barcode

In addition to the ZIP Code, or ZIP+4 code included in the delivery

address, human-readable characters representing the numeric equivalent

of the barcode (omitting the verifier character) must be printed near

the barcode but outside the barcode clear zone. These numeric

characters must be preceded by the word ``ZIP.''

D DEPOSIT, COLLECTION, AND DELIVERY

D000 Basic Information

D010 Pickup Service

1.0 BASIC STANDARDS

1.1 Availability

[Amend 1.1b to delete the term ``single-piece rate'' to read as

follows:]

Subject to the standards in D010, pickup service is available from

designated post offices for:

* * * * *

b. Priority Mail.

* * * * *

1.2 Not Available

[Amend 1.2c to include all destination entry rate pieces as follows:]

Pickup service is not available for pieces:

* * * * *

c. Claimed at the Parcel Post DBMC, DSCF, or DDU destination entry

rates, or claiming the Parcel Post Origin BMC discount.

* * * * *

D042 Conditions of Delivery

1.0 BASIC STANDARDS

* * * * *

1.7 Express Mail and Accountable Mail

[Amend 1.7a and b to reflect the operational conditions in plants that

employ automated delivery receipt system as follows:]

The following specific conditions also apply to the delivery of

Express Mail and accountable mail (registered, certified, insured for

more than $50, or COD, as well as mail for which a return receipt or a

return receipt for merchandise is requested or for which the sender has

specified restricted delivery):

a. The recipient (addressee or addressee's representative) may

obtain the sender's name and address and may look at the mailpiece

before accepting delivery and endorsing the delivery receipt.

b. The mailpiece may not be opened or given to the recipient before

the recipient signs and legibly prints his or her name on the delivery

receipt (and return receipt, if applicable) and returns the receipt(s)

to the USPS employee; or, for organizations such as the IRS, which

receive large numbers of return receipts, before the recipient signs a

manifest listing all the Express Mail and accountable mailpieces being

delivered.

* * * * *

D600 Standard Mail

* * * * *

2.0 MAIL DEPOSIT

[Amend the heading and contents of 2.1 to read as follows:]

2.1 Single-Piece Standard Mail (B) Rates

Single-piece rate Standard Mail (B) must be deposited at a time and

place specified by the mailing post office postmaster. Metered mail

must be deposited in locations under the jurisdiction of the licensing

post office, except as permitted in D072. Permit imprint mail must be

presented at the post office under P040 or P700. Precanceled stamp mail

must be presented at the post office under P023.

E ELIGIBILITY

E000 Special Eligibility Standards

* * * * *

E060 Official Mail (Penalty)

* * * * *

12.0 PENALTY MERCHANDISE RETURN SERVICE

12.1 Description

[Amend 12.1 by inserting ``(B)'' and by removing ``Single Piece

Standard Mail'' to read as follows:]

Merchandise return service allows a merchandise return permit

holder to authorize individuals and organizations to send single-piece

First-Class Mail (including Priority Mail) and single-piece Standard

Mail (B) (Parcel Post, Special Standard Mail, and Bound Printed Matter)

to the permit holder.

[[Page 12875]]

The permit holder pays the return postage and fees.

* * * * *

E100 First-Class Mail

E110 Basic Standards

* * * * *

4.0 FEES

4.1 Presort Mailing

[Amend the first sentence of 4.1 to delete the reference to Presorted

Priority Mail to read as follows:]

A First-Class Mail presort mailing fee must be paid once each 12-

month period at each office of mailing by any person or organization

entering mailings at automation or Presorted First-Class Mail rates.

Payment of one fee allows a mailer to enter mail at all those rates.

Persons or organizations paying this fee may enter mail of their

clients as well as their own mail. The fee may be paid in advance only

for the next year and only during the last 30 days of the current

service period. The fee charged is that which is in effect on the date

of payment.

* * * * *

E120 Priority Mail

1.0 BASIC STANDARDS

* * * * *

[Delete current 1.4, renumber current 2.2 as new 1.4 to read as

follows:]

1.4 Marking

The marking ``Priority'' or ``Priority Mail'' must be placed

prominently on the address side of each piece of Priority Mail.

[Amend 2.0 to read as follows:]

2.0 RATES

2.1 Application

Priority Mail rates apply to pieces meeting the standards in 1.0.

2.2 Flat Rate Envelope

Any amount of material that can be mailed in the special flat rate

envelope available from the USPS is subject to the 2-pound Priority

Mail rate, regardless of the weight of the material placed in the

envelope.

2.3 Balloon Rate

Items weighing less than 15 pounds but measuring more than 84

inches in combined length and girth are charged a minimum rate equal to

that for a 15-pound parcel for the zone to which it is addressed.

2.4 Keys and Identification Devices

Keys and identification devices (identification cards or uncovered

identification tags) that weigh more than 11 ounces but no more than 2

pounds are returned at the 2-pound Priority Mail rate plus a $0.30 fee

if they bear, contain, or have securely attached the name and complete

address of a person, organization, or concern, with instructions to

return the piece to that address and a statement guaranteeing payment

of postage due on delivery.

[Delete current 3.0 pertaining to Presorted Priority Mail. Insert new

3.0 as follows:]

3.0 HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SURCHARGES

3.1 Hazardous Medical Material

Mailable medical material described in and prepared under C023.10

(all Department of Transportation (DOT) division 6.2 material mailable

under C023.10) are subject to the hazardous medical material surcharge.

3.2 Other Hazardous Material

Mailable hazardous material described in C023.1.0 through 6.0 and

in C023.9.0 and prepared under C021 and C023 are subject to the other

hazardous material surcharge. This includes all DOT division 1-5,

division 6.1, and class 7-9 material mailable under C023 except

division 6.2 material mailable under C023.10.

3.3 Application of Surcharges

Both surcharges may apply to some material.

E130 Nonautomation Rates

1.0 BASIC STANDARDS

[Delete 1.3.]

2.0 SINGLE-PIECE RATE

[Revise 2.1, renumber 2.2 as 2.5, and insert new 2.2 through 2.4 to

read as follows:]

2.1 Rate Application

The single-piece rates for First-Class Mail are applied as follows:

a. The card rate applies to a card meeting the applicable standards

in C100 that is not eligible for or claimed at the Presorted rate, an

automation rate, or a qualified business reply mail (QBRM) or prepaid

business reply mail (PRM) rate.

b. The letter rate applies to any other (letter, flat, and parcel)

First-Class Mail weighing 11 ounces or less that is not eligible for

and claimed at the card rate, the Presorted rate, an automation rate, a

qualified business reply mail (QBRM) or prepaid business reply mail

(PRM) rate, or required to be paid at a rate for keys and

identification devices.

2.2 Prepaid Reply Mail (PRM) Rates The single-piece rates for PRM

First-Class Mail are applied as follows:

a. The PRM rate for cards applies to a card meeting the applicable

standards in C100 and the applicable standards in S925, including

automation compatibility and barcoding under C810 and C840.

b. the PRM rate for letters applies to a letter meeting the

applicable standards in S925, including automation compatibility and

barcoding under C810 and C840, that is not eligible for and claimed at

the PRM rate for cards.

c. Fees described in S925 and R900 also apply

2.3 Qualified Business Reply Mail (QBRM) Rates

The single-piece rates for QBRM First-Class Mail are applied as

follows:

a. The QBRM rate for cards applies to a card meeting the applicable

standards in C100 and the applicable standards in S922, including

automation compatibility and barcoding under C810 and C840.

b. the PRM rate for letters applies to a letter meeting the

applicable standards in S922, including automation compatibility and

barcoding under C810 and C840, that is not eligible for and claimed at

the QBRM rate for cards.

c. Fees described in S922 and R900 also apply.

2.4 Keys and Identification Devices

Keys and identification devices (identification cards or uncovered

identification tags) that weigh no more than 11 ounces are mailed at

the applicable single-piece letter rate, plus a $0.30 fee, and if

applicable, the nonstandard surcharge. The keys and identification

devices must bear, contain, or have securely attached the name and

complete address of a person, organization, or concern, with

instructions to return the piece to that address and a statement

guaranteeing payment of postage due on delivery.

* * * * *

[Insert new 4.0 to read as follows:]

4.0 SURCHARGES

4.1 Nonstandard Surcharge

Single-piece (including keys and identification devices) and

Presorted First-Class Mail is subject to a nonstandard surcharge if it

is not mailed at the card rate, weighs 1 ounce or less, and meets the

definition of nonstandard mail in C100.

4.2 Hazardous Material Surcharges

a. Hazardous Medical Material. Single-piece and Presorted First-

Class

[[Page 12876]]

Mail is subject to the hazardous medical material surcharge if it is

not mailed at the card rate, and if it consists of mailable medical

material described in and prepared under C023.10 (all Department of

Transportation (DOT) division 6.2 materials mailable under C023.10).

b. Other Hazardous Material. Single-piece or Presorted First-Class

Mail is subject to the other hazardous material surcharge if it is not

mailed at the card rate, and if it consists of mailable hazardous

material described in C023.1.0 through 6.0 and in C023.9.0 and prepared

under C021 and C023. This includes all DOT hazard class 1-5, division

6.1, and class 7-9 material mailable under C023 except division 6.2

material mailable under C023.10.

c. Application of Surcharges. Both surcharges may apply to some

material.

* * * * *

E200 Periodicals

E210 Basic Standards

E211 All Periodicals

* * * * *

14.0 BASIC RATE ELIGIBILITY

* * * * *

14.4 Copies Mailed by Public

[Amend 14.4 to read as follows:]

The applicable single-piece First-Class, Priority, or Standard Mail

(B) rate is charged on copies of publications mailed by the general

public (i.e., other than publishers or registered news agents) and on

copies returned to publishers or news agents.

* * * * *

E230 Nonautomation Rates

1.0 BASIC INFORMATION:

* * * * *

1.3 ZIP Code Accuracy

[In the first sentence, change ``3/5'' to ``5-digit, 3-digit,'' to read

as follows:]

All 5-digit ZIP Codes in addresses on pieces claimed at the 5-

digit, 3-digit, or basic rates must be verified and corrected within 12

months before the mailing date by a USPS-approved method. * * *

* * * * *

[Replace current 3.0 through 5.0 with new 3.0 through 5.0 to read as

follows:]

3.0 5-DIGIT RATES

Subject to M200, 5-digit rates apply to:

a. Letter-size pieces in 5-digit packages of six or more pieces

each, placed in 5-digit trays.

b. Flat-size pieces in 5-digit packages of six or more pieces each,

placed in 5-digit sacks.

4.0 3-DIGIT RATES

Subject to M200, 3-digit rates apply to:

a. Letter-size pieces in 5-digit and 3-digit packages of six or

more pieces each, placed in 3-digit trays.

b. Flat-size pieces in 5-digit and 3-digit packages of six or more

pieces each, placed in 3-digit sacks.

5.0 BASIC RATES

Basic rates apply to pieces prepared under M200 that are not

claimed at carrier route, 5-digit, or 3-digit rates.

* * * * *

7.0 COMBINING MULTIPLE PUBLICATIONS OR EDITIONS

* * * * *

7.4 Documentation Elements

[Amend the first sentence to read as follows:]

Presort documentation required under P012 also must show the total

number of addressed pieces and copies of each publication or edition

mailed to each carrier route, 5-digit, and 3-digit destination. * * *

* * * * *

E240 Automation Rates

* * * * *

2.0 RATE APPLICATION

[Replace current 2.1 through 2.3 with new 2.1 through 2.3 to read as

follows:]

2.1 5-Digit Rates

a. Letters. 5-digit rates apply to groups of 150 or more pieces to

the same 5-digit or 5-digit scheme placed in a 5-digit or 5-digit

scheme tray or trays prepared under M810. (Preparation to qualify for

the 5-digit rate is optional, and if performed, need not be done for

all 5-digit or 5-digit scheme destinations.)

b. Flats. 5-digit rates apply to pieces in 5-digit packages of six

or more pieces each, prepared under M820 or M045.

2.2 3-Digit Rates

a. Letters. 3-digit rates apply to groups of 150 or more pieces to

the same 3-digit or 3-digit scheme placed in a 3-digit/scheme tray or

trays under M810.

b. Flats. 3-digit rates apply to pieces in 3-digit packages of 6 or

more pieces each, prepared under M820 or M045.

2.3 Basic Rates

a. Letters. Basic rates apply to pieces prepared under M810 that

are not claimed at carrier route, 5-digit, or 3-digit rates.

b. Flats. Basic rates apply to pieces prepared under M820 or M045

that are not claimed at 5-digit, or 3-digit rates.

* * * * *

E500 Express Mail

[Renumber current 3.0 through 7.0 as 4.0 through 8.0, respectively.

Insert new 3.0 to read as follows:]

3.0 HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SURCHARGES

3.1 Hazardous Medical Material

Mailable medical material described in and prepared under C023.10

(all Department of Transportation (DOT) division 6.2 material mailable

under C023.10) are subject to the hazardous medical material surcharge.

3.2 Other Hazardous Material

Mailable hazardous material described in C023.1.0 through 6.0 and

in C023.9.0 and prepared under C021 and C023 are subject to the other

hazardous material surcharge. This includes all DOT division 1-5,

division 6.1, and class 7-9 material mailable under C023 except

division 6.2 material mailable under C023.10.

3.3 Application of Surcharges

Both surcharges may apply to some material.

* * * * *

E600 Standard Mail

E610 Basic Standards

E611 All Standard Mail

1.0 BASIC INFORMATION

* * * * *

1.8 Documentation

[Amend the reference to single-piece rate mail to specify single-piece

Standard Mail (B) as follows:]

A postage statement, completed and signed by the mailer, using the

correct USPS form or an approved facsimile, must be submitted with each

mailing except for single-piece rate Standard Mail (B) mailings in

which the correct postage is affixed to each piece. Additional

supporting documentation may be required by the standards for the rate

claimed or postage payment method used.

E612 Additional Standards for Standard Mail (A)

* * * * *

4.0 RATES

4.1 General Information

[Revise the section numbers and the names of nonautomation rates, and

[[Page 12877]]

remove information about special services to read as follows:]

All Standard Mail (A) rates are bulk rates (sometimes referred to

as presort rates). Bulk rates apply to mailings meeting the basic

standards in E611 and the corresponding standards for Enhanced Carrier

Route, automation, Presorted, and destination entry in E620, E640, and

E650 as appropriate for the rate claimed. Nonprofit rates may be used

only by organizations authorized by the USPS under E670. Not all

processing categories qualify for every bulk rate.

4.2 Minimum Per-Piece Rates

[In the first sentence, change ``nonautomation'' to ``Presorted'' and

amend the weight breakpoints for the minimum per-piece rates as

follows:]

The minimum per-piece rates (i.e., the minimum postage that must be

paid for each piece) apply to Enhanced Carrier Route rate pieces

weighing no more than 0.2057 pound rounded (3.2906 ounces rounded);

Regular Presorted and automation rate pieces weighing no more than

0.2062 pound rounded (3.2985 ounces rounded); Nonprofit Enhanced

Carrier Route rate pieces weighing no more than 0.2057 pound rounded

(3.2914 ounces rounded); and Nonprofit Presorted and automation rate

pieces weighing no more than 0.2055 pound rounded (3.2873 ounces

rounded). * * *

* * * * *

4.6 Exception

[Amend 4.6 to read as follows:]

When the postage computed at the bulk Standard Mail (A) rates is

higher than a Standard Mail (B) rate for which the matter and the

mailing could qualify except for its weight, the Standard Mail (B) rate

may be paid without adding needless weight. When the Standard Mail (B)

rate is paid, the pieces must bear the rate marking appropriate for the

Standard Mail (B) rate at which postage is paid. All other standards

for bulk Standard Mail (A) apply, including mail preparation.

* * * * *

4.9 Preparation

[Amend 4.9c to read as follows:]

Each bulk rate mailing is subject to these general standards:

* * * * *

c. The same mailing may not contain both automation and

nonautomation rate pieces, except under E620.1.2.

* * * * *

[Add new 4.10 as follows:]

4.10 Special Services

Bulk rate Standard Mail (A) may not use certified, collect on

delivery (COD), insurance, registered, return receipt, return receipt

for merchandise, special handling, or delivery confirmation services.

* * * * *

[Revise the title of E620. Delete current 1.0. Move current E620.2.0

through 5.7 into E630. Renumber current E630.1.0 through E630.2.9 as

E620.1.0 through E620.2.9, add new E620.1.5 and E620.16, add new

E620.2.10 and E620.2.11, and revise to read as follows:]

E620 Nonautomation Standard Mail (A) Rates

1.0 PRESORTED REGULAR AND NONPROFIT RATES

1.1 Basic Standards

All pieces in a Presorted Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail (A)

mailing must:

a. Meet the basic standards for Standard Mail in E611 and E612.

b. Except as provided in 1.2, be part of a single mailing of at

least 200 pieces or 50 pounds of pieces qualifying for Presorted rate

Standard Mail (A). Regular and Nonprofit mailings must meet separate

minimum volumes.

c. Bear a delivery address that includes the correct ZIP Code or

ZIP+4 code, unless an alternative address format is used subject to

A040. Upgradable pieces are subject to additional standards in M610.

Pieces prepared with detached address labels are subject to additional

standards in A060.

d. Be marked, sorted, and documented as specified in M610.

1.2 Residual Volume Requirement

Pieces in an Enhanced Carrier Route rate mailing that has

separately met a 200 piece or 50 pound minimum quantity requirement may

be counted toward the minimum quantity requirement for a Presorted rate

mailing, provided that the Enhanced Carrier Route rate mailing and the

Presorted rate mailing are part of the same mailing job and are

reported on the same postage statement. Likewise, pieces in an

automation rate mailing that has separately met a 200 piece or 50 pound

minimum quantity requirement may be counted toward the minimum quantity

requirement for a Presorted rate mailing, provided that the automation

rate mailing and the Presorted Mailing are part of the same mailing job

and are reported on the same postage statement. Pieces mailed at

Presorted Standard Mail (A) rates must not be counted toward the

minimum volume requirements for an Enhanced Carrier Route rate or an

automation rate mailing.

1.3 ZIP Code Accuracy

All 5-digit ZIP Codes included in addresses on pieces claimed at

Presorted Regular and Nonprofit rates must be verified and corrected

within 12 months before the mailing date, using a USPS-approved method.

The mailer must certify that this standard has been met when the

corresponding mail is presented to the USPS. This standard applies to

each address individually, not to a specific list of mailing. An

address meeting this standard may be used in mailings at any other

rates to which the standard applies during the 12-month period after

its most recent update.

1.4 Presorted Rates

Presorted Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail (3/5 and basic) rates

apply to Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail letters, flats, and

machinable and irregular parcels weighing less than 16 ounces, that are

prepared under M610 or palletized under M045. Basic rates apply to

pieces that do not meet the standards for the 3/5 rates described

below. Basic rate and 3/5 rate pieces prepared as part of the same

mailing are subject to a single minimum volume standard. Pieces that do

not qualify for the 3/5 rate must be paid at the basic rate and

prepared accordingly. Pieces may qualify for the 3/5 rate if:

a. In quantities of 150 or more letter-size pieces for a single 3-

digit area, prepared in 5-digit or 3-digit packages of 10 or more

pieces each and placed in 5-digit or 3-digit trays.

b. In quantities of 150 or more upgradable letter-size pieces (as

defined in M610) for a single 3-digit area and placed in 5-digit or 3-

digit trays.

c. In a 5-digit or 3-digit package of 10 or more flat-size pieces

and placed in a 5-digit or 3-digit sack containing at least 125 pieces

or 15 pounds of pieces.

d. In a 5-digit or 3-digit package of 10 or more flat-size pieces

palletized under M045.

e. In a 5-digit, destination ASF (if required), or destination BMC

sack containing at least 10 pounds of machinable parcels. (The 3/5

rates are available only if all possible 5-digit sacks are prepared.)

f. On a 5-digit, destination ASF (if required), or destination BMC

pallet of machinable parcels. (The 3/5 rates are available only if all

possible 5-digit pallets are prepared.)

[[Page 12878]]

g. In a 5-digit or 3-digit sack of irregular parcels containing at

least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces.

1.5 Hazardous Material Surcharges

a. Hazardous Medical Material. Mailable medical material described

in and prepared under C023.10 (all Department of Transportation (DOT)

division 6.2 material mailable under C023.10) are subject to the

hazardous medical material surcharge.

b. Other Hazardous Material. Mailable hazardous material described

in C023.1.0 through 6.0 and in C023.9.0 and prepared under C021 and

C023 are subject to the other hazardous material surcharge. This

includes all DOT division 1-5, division 6.1, and class 7-9 material

mailable under C023 except division 6.2 material mailable under

C023.10.

c. Application of Surcharges. Both surcharges may apply to some

material.

1.6 Residual Shape (Parcel) Surcharge

Presorted Standard Mail that is prepared as a parcel, or is not

letter-size or flat-size as defined in C050, is subject to the residual

shape surcharge.

2.0 ENHANCED CARRIER ROUTE RATES

2.1 All Pieces

All pieces in an Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail mailing

(letters, flats, or irregular parcels, including merchandise samples

distributed with detached address labels) must:

a. Meet the basic standards for Standard Mail in E611 and E612

b. Be part of a single mailing of at least 200 pieces or 50 pounds

of pieces of Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail, except that

automation basic carrier route rate pieces are subject to a separate

200-piece/50-pound minimum volume standard and may not be included in

the same mailing as other Enhanced Carrier Route mail.

c. Be sorted to carrier routes, marked, and documented under M045

(if palletized) or M620.

2.2 Flats and Merchandise Samples

Enhanced Carrier Route rate mail may not be more than 11-3/4 inches

high, 14 inches long, or 3/4 inch thick. Merchandise samples with

detached address labels may exceed these dimensions if the labels meet

the standards in A060.

2.3 Preparation

Preparation to qualify for any of the Enhanced Carrier Route rates

is optional and need not be performed for all carrier routes in a 5-

digit area. An Enhanced Carrier Route mailing may include pieces at

basic, high-density, and saturation Enhanced Carrier Route rates.

Automation basic carrier route rate pieces must be prepared as a

separate mailing, subject to the eligibility standards in E640.

2.4 Carrier Route Information

Except for mailings prepared with a simplified address under A040,

carrier route codes must be applied to mailings using CASS-certified

software and the current USPS Carrier Route Information System (CRIS)

scheme, hard copy CRIS files, or another AIS product containing carrier

route information, subject to A930 and A950. Carrier route information

must be updated within 90 days before the mailing date.

2.5 Sequencing

Basic carrier route rate mail must be prepared either in carrier

walk sequence or in line-of-travel (LOT) sequence according to LOT

schemes prescribed by the USPS (see M050). High-density and saturation

rate mailings must be prepared in carrier walk sequence according to

schemes prescribed by the USPS.

2.6 Addressing

Saturation rate mail may be prepared with detached address labels,

subject to A060, or with an alternative addressing format, subject to

A040. High-density pieces must have a complete delivery address or an

address in occupant or exceptional format. Saturation pieces addressed

for delivery on a city route must have a complete delivery address or

an address in occupant or exceptional format, except that official mail

from certain government entities also may use the simplified format.

Saturation pieces for delivery on rural or highway contract routes, or

through general delivery or a post office box, must have a complete

delivery address or an alternative address format.

2.7 Density

High-density and saturation rate mailings are subject to these

density standards:

a. There is no minimum volume per 5-digit ZIP Code delivery area.

Pieces need not be sent to all carrier routes within a 5-digit delivery

area.

b. For the high-density rate, at least 125 pieces must be prepared

for each carrier route for which that discount is claimed, except that

fewer pieces may be prepared and the high-density rate may be claimed

for carrier routes of 124 or fewer possible deliveries if a piece is

addressed to every possible delivery on the route. Multiple pieces per

delivery address can count toward this density standard.

c. For the saturation rate, pieces must be addressed either to 90%

or more of the active residential addresses or to 75% or more of the

total number of active possible delivery addresses, whichever is less,

on each carrier route receiving this mail, except that mail addressed

in the simplified address format must meet the 100% coverage standard

in A040. Multiple pieces per delivery address do not count toward this

delivery standard. Sacks with fewer than 125 pieces and less than 15

pounds of pieces may be prepared to a carrier route when the saturation

rate is claimed for the contents and the applicable density standard is

met.

2.8 Basic Rates

Basic (nonautomation) carrier route rates apply to each piece that

is sorted under M620 into the corresponding qualifying groups:

a. Letter-size pieces in a full carrier route tray, or in a carrier

route package of 10 or more pieces placed in a 5-digit carrier routes

or 3-digit carrier routes tray.

b. Flat-size pieces in a carrier route package of 10 or more pieces

palletized under M045, or placed in a carrier route sack containing at

least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces or in a 5-digit carrier routes

sack.

c. Irregular parcels in a carrier route sack containing 125 pieces

or 15 pounds of pieces, in a carrier route carton(s) of merchandise

samples prepared with detached address labels under A060 containing a

total of 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces, or in a 5-digit carrier

routes sack or carton. (Pieces must be in packages of 10 or more

irregular parcels each if packaging is required under M610.)

2.9 High-Density and Saturation

High-density and saturation rates apply to pieces qualified for the

basic rates that also meet the applicable addressing and density

standards in 2.6 and 2.7.

2.10 Hazardous Material Surcharges

a. Hazardous Medical Material. Mailable medical material described

in and prepared under C023.10 (all Department of Transportation (DOT)

division 6.2 material mailable under C023.10) are subject to the

hazardous medical material surcharge.

b. Other Hazardous Material. Mailable hazardous material described

in C023.1.0 through 6.0 and in C023.9.0 and prepared under C021 and

C023 are subject to the other hazardous material surcharge. This

includes all DOT

[[Page 12879]]

division 1-5, division 6.1, and class 7-9 material mailable under C023

except division 6.2 material mailable under C023.10.

c. Application of Surcharges. Both surcharges may apply to some

material.

2.11 Residual Shape (Parcel) Surcharge

Enhanced Carrier Route mail that is prepared as a parcel, or is not

letter-size or flat-size as defined in C050, is subject to the residual

shape surcharge.

[Revise the title of E630 as follows:]

E630 Standard Mail (B)

[Delete current 630.1 through 630.2. Insert new 630.1 through 630.5.9

which combines former E620.2 through E620.5, with former E630.3 and

E630.4 to reorganize and separate standards for Standard Mail (A) from

those for Standard Mail (B) and to include new Standard Mail (B) rate

categories to read as follows:]

1.0 PARCEL POST

1.1 Basic Standards

Parcel Post is Standard Mail weighing 16 ounces or more that is not

mailed as Bound Printed Matter, Special Standard Mail, or Library Mail.

Any Standard Mail (B) matter may be mailed at Parcel Post rates,

subject to the basic standards in E611 and E613.

1.2 Enclosures

Parcel Post may contain any printed matter mailable as Standard

Mail (A), in addition to the enclosures and additions listed in E611.

1.3 Rate Eligibility

There are five Parcel Post rate categories: Intra-BMC, Inter-BMC,

destination bulk mail center (DBMC), destination sectional center

facility (DSCF), and destination delivery unit (DDU). Intra-BMC, Inter-

BMC, and DBMC Parcel Post rates are calculated based on the zone to

which the parcel is addressed and the weight of the parcel. DSCF and

DDU rates are calculated based on the weight of the parcel. Generally,

Intra-BMC rates apply to parcels mailed and delivered within the same

BMC service area and Inter-BMC rates apply to parcels mailed in one BMC

service area and delivered in a different BMC service area. Specific

standards for Inter-BMC and Intra-BMC rates and applicable discounts

are described below. Generally, to qualify for destination entry rates

(DBMC, DSCF, DDU) mailers must enter their parcels at the destination

BMC, SCF, or delivery unit postal facility that will process or deliver

the parcels (see additional requirements in E652). Additional

requirements for Parcel Post rates and discounts (other than

destination entry rates) are set forth below.

a. Intra-BMC rates apply to all Parcel Post originating and

destinating in the service area of the same BMC or ASF. Intra-BMC rates

also apply to Parcel Post originating and destinating in the same state

for Alaska and Hawaii and in the same territory for Puerto Rico. See

Exhibit 1.3.

b. Inter-BMC rates for machinable parcels apply to all Parcel Post

mail that weighs 35 pounds or less; is machinable; originates in the

service area of a BMC/ASF, or in Alaska, Hawaii, or Puerto Rico, and

destinates outside that area; and is not eligible for destination entry

rates.

c. Inter-BMC rates for nonmachinable Parcel Post include the

nonmachinable surcharge and apply to all inter-BMC/ASF Parcel Post mail

that weighs more than 35 pounds or otherwise is nonmachinable as

defined in 1.4; originates in the service area of a BMC/ASF, or in

Alaska, Hawaii, or Puerto Rico, and destinates outside that area; and

is not eligible for destination entry rates.

d. Parcel Post for which OBMC, BMC Presort, and/or barcoded

discounts are claimed, or are mailed at a destination entry rate (DBMC,

DSCF, DDU (E652)), must be part of a mailing of 50 or more Parcel Post

rate pieces.

e. The bulk mail center (BMC) Presort per-piece discount applies to

pieces of inter-BMC Parcel Post sorted to BMC destinations under L601

for machinable pieces and sorted to BMC and ASF destinations for

nonmachinable pieces under L605. To qualify, machinable pieces must be

placed in pallet boxes and nonmachinable pieces must be placed on

pallets under M041 and M045. The mail must be entered at a postal

facility that is not a BMC, and be part of a mailing containing 50 or

more Parcel Post rate pieces.

f. The origin bulk mail center (OBMC) per-piece discount applies to

pieces of inter-BMC Parcel Post sorted to BMC destinations under L601

for machinable pieces and sorted to BMC and ASF destinations for

nonmachinable pieces under L605. To qualify, machinable pieces must be

placed in pallet boxes and nonmachinable pieces must be placed on

pallets under M041 and M045. The mail must be entered at a BMC listed

in L601 and be part of a mailing containing 50 or more Parcel Post rate

pieces.

g. The barcoded discount applies to machinable pieces of Parcel

Post mail that bear a correct, readable 6-digit barcode under C850 for

the ZIP Code shown in the delivery address, are part of a mailing of 50

or more Parcel Post rate pieces, and are not mailed at the DSCF or DDU

rates, or entered at an ASF if claiming the DBMC rates.

h. Pieces exceeding 108 inches in combined length and girth, but

not greater than 130 inches in combined length and girth, are mailable

at the applicable 70-pound Parcel Post rate provided that such pieces

do not exceed 10% of all Parcel Post pieces in a mailing, or 10% of all

Parcel Post pieces listed on an approved daily manifest (P710) for a

single mailing operation. The 10% limitation is applicable to all

Parcel Post mailings regardless of mailing size or acceptance location.

i. Parcel Post pieces exceeding 84 inches (but not exceeding 108

inches) in combined length and girth and weighing less than 15 pounds

are subject to a rate equal to that of a 15-pound parcel for the zone

to which the parcel is addressed.

Exhibit 1.3 BMC/ASF Service Areas

[Insert former E620 Exhibit 2.4 as Exhibit 1.3:]

1.4 Nonmachinable Surcharge

The nonmachinable surcharge applies only to the items listed in

1.4a through 1.4i if mailed at the Inter-BMC/ASF Parcel Post rates and

no special handling fee is paid. The nonmachinable surcharge applies to

items within these categories:

a. A parcel more than 34 inches long, 17 inches wide, 17 inches

high, or weighing more than 35 pounds.

b. A parcel containing more than 24 ounces of liquid in glass

containers, or 1 gallon or more of liquid in metal or plastic

containers.

c. An insecurely wrapped or metal-banded parcel.

d. A can (paint, etc.), roll, or tube, or wooden or metal box.

e. A shrub or tree.

f. A perishable, such as eggs.

g. Books, printed matter, or business forms weighing more than 25

pounds.

h. A high-density parcel weighing more than 15 pounds and exerting

more than 60 pounds per-square-foot pressure on its smallest side.

i. A film case weighing more than 5 pounds or with strap-type

closures, except any film case the USPS authorizes to be entered as a

machinable parcel under C050 and to be identified by the words

``Machinable in United States Postal Service Equipment,'' permanently

attached as a nontransferable decal in the lower right corner of the

case.

[Add new section 1.5 as follows:]

[[Page 12880]]

1.5 Hazardous Material Surcharges

a. Hazardous Medical Material. Mailable medical material described

in and prepared under C023.10 (all Department of Transportation (DOT)

division 6.2 material mailable under C023.10) are subject to the

hazardous medical material surcharge.

b. Other Hazardous Material. Mailable hazardous material described

in C023.1.0 through 6.0 and in C023.9.0 and prepared under C021 and

C023 are subject to the other hazardous material surcharge. This

includes all DOT division 1-5, division 6.1, and class 7-9 material

mailable under C023 except division 6.2 material mailable under

C023.10.

c. Application of Surcharges. Both surcharges may apply to some

material.

1.6 Fees

Parcel Post mail is subject to these fees, as applicable:

a. The fee for mailing at destination BMC (DBMC), destination

sectional center facility (DSCF), and destination delivery unit (DDU)

Parcel Post rates must be paid once each 12-month period at each post

office of mailing by or for any person or organization that mails at

the destination entry rates, except as provided otherwise for plant-

verified drop shipments. The fee may be paid in advance only for the

next year and only during the last 30 days of the current service

period. The fee charged is that which is in effect on the date of

payment (R 600).

b. The Parcel Post pickup fee must be paid every time pickup

service is provided, subject to the corresponding standards in D010.

2.0 BOUND PRINTED MATTER

2.1 Description and Rate Categories

[Renumber former E620.3.1 as 2.1 and revise to include new rate

categories as follows:]

Bound Printed Matter is Standard Mail weighing at least 1 pound but

not more than 15 pounds and meeting the standards in E611, E613, and

E630. Bound Printed Matter rates are based on zones and on the weight

of the piece. The rate categories are as follows:

a. Single-Piece Rate. The single-piece rate applies to Bound

Printed Matter not mailed at the presorted rate or carrier route rate.

b. Presorted Rate. The presorted rate applies to Bound Printed

Matter prepared in a mailing of at least 300 pieces, prepared and

presorted as specified in M045 and M630.

c. Carrier Route Rate. The carrier route rate applies to Bound

Printed Matter prepared in a mailing of at least 300 pieces presorted

to carrier routes, prepared and presorted as specified in M045 and

M630.

2.2 Characteristics

[Renumber former E620.3.2 as 2.2.]

* * * * *

2.3 Combining Pieces

[Renumber former E620.3.3 as 2.3.]

* * * * *

2.4 Enclosures

[Renumber former E620.3.4 as 2.4.]

* * * * *

[Add new 2.5 to specify barcoded discount standards as follows:]

2.5 Barcoded Discount

The barcoded discount applies to machinable pieces (C050) of

single-piece and presorted rate Bound Printed Matter bearing a correct,

readable 6-digit barcode under C850 for the ZIP Code shown in the

delivery address, that are part of a mailing of at least 50 Bound

Printed Matter pieces. The discount does not apply to carrier route

Bound Printed Matter.

[Renumber E630.3.1 as 2.6 and revise to delete references to E620 and

to add delivery confirmation service as follows:]

2.6 Preparation for Presorted Rates

Presorted Bound Printed Matter must meet the basic standards in

E630 and the applicable preparation standards in M630. Mailings may

contain nonidentical-weight pieces only if the correct postage is

affixed to each piece or if the RCSC serving the post office of mailing

has authorized payment of postage by permit imprint under P710, P720,

or P730 or M630.8. Each mailing must contain 300 or more pieces of

Bound Printed Matter. Insurance, special handling, delivery

confirmation, and COD services may be used, but selective use of these

services for individual parcels must be approved by the RCSC.

[Renumber former E630.3.2 as 2.7.]

2.7 Additional Standards for Carrier Route Rates

Carrier route Bound Printed Matter is subject to these additional

standards:

a. Each mailing must contain 300 or more pieces sorted under M630

into groups of at least 10 pieces, 20 pounds, or 1,000 cubic inches

each for the same carrier route, rural route, highway contract route,

post office box section, or general delivery unit.

b. Residual pieces (not sorted as described in 2.7a) do not count

toward the minimum specified in 2.7a, are ineligible for the carrier

route Bound Printed matter rates, and must have postage paid at the

appropriate presorted Bound Printed Matter rates. Residual pieces may

be included in a carrier route Bound Printer Matter rate mailing and be

endorsed ``Carrier Route Presort'' or ``CAR-RT SORT.'' The number of

residual pieces to any single 5-digit ZIP Code area may not exceed 5%

of the total qualifying carrier route pieces addressed to that 5-digit

area. Residual pieces must be separated from the pieces that qualify

for the carrier route rate and must be prepared under M630.

c. Subject to A930, the mailer must apply carrier route codes to

mailings using CASS-certified software and the current USPS Carrier

Route Information System (CRIS) scheme or another AIS product

containing carrier route information. The carrier route information

must be updated within 90 days before the mailing date.

3.0 SPECIAL STANDARD MAIL

[Renumber former E620.4.0 as 3.0.]

3.1 Qualification

[Renumber former E620.4.1 as 3.1 and add rate categories as follows:]

Special Standard Mail is Standard Mail matter meeting the standards

in E611, E613, and those below. Special Standard Mail rates are based

on the weight of the piece, without regard to zone. The rate categories

are as follows:

a. Single-Piece Rate. The single-piece rate applies to Special

Standard Mail not mailed at a 5-digit or BMC rate.

b. Presorted 5-Digit Rate. The 5-digit rate applies to Presorted

Special Standard Mail mailings of at least 500 pieces prepared and

presorted to 5-digit destination ZIP Codes as specified in M630 or M041

and M045.

c. Presorted BMC Rate. The BMC rate applies to Presorted Special

Standard Mail mailings of at least 500 pieces prepared and presorted to

destination bulk mail centers as specified in M630 or M041 and M045.

3.3 Qualified Items

[Renumber former E620.4.2 as 3.3.]

* * * * *

3.4 Loose Enclosures

[Renumber former E620.4.3 as 3.4.]

* * * * *

3.5 Enclosures in Books

[Renumber former E620.4.4 as 3.5.]

* * * * *

[[Page 12881]]

4.0 PRESORTED SPECIAL STANDARD MAIL

[Renumber former E630.4.0 as 620.4.0. Add new 4.7 as follows:]

* * * * *

4.7 Barcoded Discount

The barcoded discount applies to machinable pieces (C050) mailed at

single-piece rates and Presorted Special Standard Mail BMC rates that

bear a correct, readable 6-digit barcode under C850 for the ZIP Code

shown in the delivery address, and that are part of a mailing of at

least 50 pieces of Special Standard Mail. The discount does not apply

to pieces mailed at the Presorted Special Standard Mail 5-digit rates.

[Renumber former E620.5.0 and 5.1 as E630.5.0 and E630.5.1 as follows:]

5.0 LIBRARY MAIL

5.1 Qualification

Library Mail is Standard Mail matter that meets the standards in

E611, E613, and those below. Library Mail rates are based on the weight

of the piece, without regard to zone. The basic rate category applies

to all Library Mail.

[Renumber former E620.5.2 through E620.5.7 and add as E630.5.2 through

E630.5.7.]

[Add new 5.8 and 5.9 as follows:]

5.8 Barcoded Discount

The barcoded discount applies to machinable pieces (C050) of

Library Mail bearing a correct, readable 6-digit barcode under C850 for

the ZIP Code shown in the delivery address and that are part of a

mailing of at least 50 Library Mail pieces.

5.9 Hazardous Material Surcharges

a. Hazardous Medical Material. Mailable medical material described

in and prepared under C023.10 (all Department of Transportation (DOT)

division 6.2 material mailable under C023.10) are subject to the

hazardous medical material surcharge.

b. Other Hazardous Material. Mailable hazardous material described

in C023.1.0 through 6.0 and in C023.9.0 and prepared under C021 and

C023 are subject to the other hazardous material surcharge. This

includes all DOT division 1-5, division 6.1, and class 7-9 material

mailable under C023 except division 6.2 material mailable under

C023.10.

c. Application of Surcharges. Both surcharges may apply to some

material.

6.0 BULK PARCEL POST

[Reserved]

[Revise the title of E640 and the first sentence of E640.1.1 to read as

follows:]

E640 Automation Standard Mail (A) Rates

1.0 REGULAR AND NONPROFIT RATES

1.1 All Pieces

All pieces in an automation rate Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail

(A) mailing must: * * *

* * * * *

[Add new E640.1.5 to read as follows:]

1.5 Hazardous Material Surcharges

a. Hazardous Medical Material. Mailable medical material described

in and prepared under C023.10 (all Department of Transportation (DOT)

division 6.2 material mailable under C023.10) are subject to the

hazardous medical material surcharge.

b. Other Hazardous Material. Mailable hazardous material described

in C023.1.0 through 6.0 and in C023.9.0 and prepared under C021 and

C023 are subject to the other hazardous material surcharge. This

includes all DOT division 1-5, division 6.1, and class 7-9 material

mailable under C023 except division 6.2 material mailable under

C023.10.

c. Application of Surcharge. Both surcharges may apply to some

material.

2.0 ENHANCED CARRIER ROUTE RATES

* * * * *

[Add new E640.2.6 to read as follows:]

2.6 Hazardous Material Surcharges

a. Hazardous Medical Material. Mailable medical material described

in and prepared under C023.10 (all Department of Transportation (DOT)

division 6.2 material mailable under C023.10) are subject to the

hazardous medical material surcharge.

b. Other Hazardous Material. Mailable hazardous material described

in C023.1.0 through 6.0 and in C023.9.0 and prepared under C021 and

C023 are subject to the other hazardous material surcharge. This

includes all DOT division 1-5, division 6.1, and class 7-9 material

mailable under C023 except division 6.2 material mailable under

C023.10.

c. Application of Surcharges. Both surcharges may apply to some

material.

E650 Destination Entry

* * * * *

E652 Parcel Post

1.0 BASIC STANDARDS

[Amend 1.1 through 1.4 to add information on DSCF and DDU destination

entry rates to read as follows:]

1.1 Definitions

Destination entry discounts apply to Parcel Post mailings prepared

as specified in M041, M045 and M630 and addressed for delivery within

the service area of a destination BMC (or auxiliary service facility),

sectional center facility (SCF), or delivery unit (DU) where they are

deposited by the mailer. For this standard, the following destination

facility definitions apply:

a. A destination bulk mail center (DBMC) includes all bulk mail

centers (BMCs) and auxiliary service facilities (ASFs) under L602, and

designated sectional center facilities (SCFs) under 4.0.

b. A destination sectional center facility (DSCF) includes all

processing and distribution centers or facilities under L005. Mail that

is prepared on pallets for 5-digit ZIP Codes listed in Exhibit 5.0 must

be entered at the BMC shown in the exhibit instead of at the SCF

serving the 5-digit ZIP Codes of the delivery addresses appearing on

mailpieces.

c. A destination delivery unit (DDU) is a facility that delivers to

the addresses appearing on the deposited pieces in a destination entry

rate Parcel Post mailing.

1.2 General

A destination entry mailing is a Parcel Post mailing that:

a. May be bedloaded, on pallets, or in pallet boxes, sacks, or

other authorized containers depending on the facility at which the

pieces are deposited and as specified in 2.0 through 5.0; and

b. Is not plant-loaded.

1.3 DBMC, DSCF, and DDU Rates

For DBMC, DSCF, or DDU rates, pieces must meet the applicable

standards in 1.0 through 5.0 and meet the following criteria:

a. Be part of a single mailing of 50 or more pieces, each eligible

for and claimed at a Parcel Post rate.

b. Be deposited at a destination BMC (DBMC) or auxiliary service

facility, or other equivalent facility; destination sectional center

(DSCF); or destination delivery unit (DDU) as applicable for the rate

claimed and as specified by the USPS.

c. Be addressed for delivery within the ZIP Code ranges that the

applicable entry facility serves.

d. For destination BMC (DBMC) rates, be part of a Parcel Post

mailing that is deposited at a BMC or ASF under L602, or other

designated facility under 4.0, addressed for delivery within the ZIP

Code range of that facility; and prepared in accordance with M041 and

M045 or M630.

[[Page 12882]]

e. For destination sectional center facility (DSCF) rates, be part

of a Parcel Post mailing deposited at a designated processing and

distribution center or facility under L005 (or at a BMC under Exhibit

5.0); addressed for delivery within the ZIP Code service area of that

SCF facility under L005; and prepared in accordance with M041 and M045

or M630. For 5-digit ZIP Code areas listed under Exhibit 5.0, mail

prepared on pallets must be entered at the corresponding BMC facility

shown in that Exhibit (not at the SCF). The DSCF rate is not available

for parcels prepared on pallets for facilities that are unable to

handle pallets. Refer to the Drop Ship Product maintained by the

National Customer Support Center (NCSC) (see G043) to determine which

5-digit delivery facilities can handle pallets. (There is a charge for

this information.)

f. For destination delivery unit (DDU) rates, be part of a Parcel

Post mailing deposited at a designated destination delivery unit that

delivers parcels to the addresses appearing on the deposited pieces and

prepared in accordance with M041 and M045 or M630. There is no required

minimum number of pieces that must be deposited for the DDU rate;

however, they must be part of a mailing of at least 50 pieces and

separated by 5-digit ZIP Codes.

1.4 Postage Payment

Postage payment for DBMC, DSCF, and DDU rate mail is subject to the

same standards as apply generally to Standard Mail (B). Except for

plant-verified drop shipments (see P750) or metered mail drop shipment

(see D072), the mailer must have a meter license or permit imprint

authorization at the destination facility parent post office for

mailings deposited for entry at a DBMC or ASF; at a destination

sectional center facility; or at the parent post office of a

destination delivery unit. Postage and fees (under E630) are paid to

the post office that verifies the mailings. The mailer must ensure that

Form 8125 accompanies all plant-verified drop shipments.

[Rename 1.5 to read as follows:]

1.5 BMC as Agent

The DBMC may act as acceptance agent only for its parent post

office (see Exhibit 1.5) and only if authorized by Form 4410 for each

mailer depositing DBMC entry rate mail.

[Delete 1.6.]

2.0 PREPARATION

[Amend 2.0 to include new destination entry rates as follows:]

2.1 Bedloaded Parcels

[Revise 2.1 to limit bedloaded destination entry mailings to BMCs and

DDUs as follows:]

A mailer may present bedloaded DBMC parcels if the mailer's vehicle

has a road-to-bed height of 50 (2) inches. If applicable,

the mail to be entered at different destinations must be separated to

prevent mixing of mailings for deposit at different destinations. If

perishable and nonperishable items are transported together, they must

be separated. DBMC and DDU destination rate mailings may be bedloaded

for deposit at BMCs/ASFs or DDUs. Refer to the Drop Shipment Product

available from the National Customer Support Center (NCSC) (see G043)

to determine dock requirements for a DDU facility. (There is a charge

for this information.)

2.2 Containers

[Reorganize and revise 2.2 to include DSCF and DDU mailings and delete

use of BMC over-the-road containers for the DBMC rate as follows:]

DBMC (if not bedloaded), DDU rate mailings (if not bedloaded), and

all DSCF mailings must be prepared as follows:

a. Machinable parcels for which a DBMC, DSCF, or DDU rate is

claimed must be sacked under M630 unless prepared under M041 and M045.

b. DSCF rate mail, if sacked, must contain at least 10 pieces per

sack under M630 (machinable and nonmachinable pieces may be included in

the same sack).

c. For DDU rate mail, there are no sacking or palletizing minimums.

DDU rate mail must be separated by 5-digit ZIP Code (even if

bedloaded), and if sacked or palletized must be properly labeled to the

5-digit ZIP Code. Machinable and nonmachinable pieces may be included

in the same sack or on the same pallet.

d. For DBMC rate mail, nonmachinable parcels each weighing 35

pounds or less must be sacked under M630 if the parcels do not contain

perishables and the size of the parcels allows a sack to hold at least

two pieces. DBMC rate nonmachinable parcels that cannot be sacked in

this manner or weigh more than 35 pounds must be transported as outside

(unsacked) pieces. If authorized in advance by the USPS, DBMC rate

nonmachinable parcels may be palletized.

e. For DSCF rate and DDU rate mail nonmachinable parcels may be

palletized. Nonmachinable parcels may be combined with machinable

parcels on 5-digit pallets claimed at DSCF or DDU rates under M041 and

M045.

3.0 DEPOSIT

[Revise to include requirements for DSCF and DDU destination entry

mailings as follows:]

* * * * *

3.2 Presentation

[Revise 3.2 as follows:]

Destination entry rate mailings must be verified under a plant-

verified drop shipment authorization by a detached mail unit (DMU) in

the mailer's plant or at the origin post office business mail entry

unit (BMEU) serving the mailer's plant. They also may be deposited for

verification at a business mail entry unit located at a destination

BMC, destination sectional center facility, or other designated

destination postal facility. Only plant-verified drop shipments may be

deposited at a destination delivery unit not co-located with a post

office or other postal facility having a business mail entry unit. When

presented to the USPS, destination entry mailings must meet the

following requirements:

a. Separation by zone for DBMC rate mailings is required only for

permit imprint mailings of identical-weight pieces that are not mailed

using a postage payment system under P710, P720, or P730 or mailed

under M630.8.0.

b. Each mailing must be separated from other mailings, and

destination entry rate mailings for deposit at one destination postal

facility must be separated from mailings for deposit at other

facilities.

c. Mail must be separated from freight transported on the same

vehicle.

d. Each piece of DBMC, DSCF, or DDU rate Parcel Post must be marked

as specified in M012 and M630.

e. The mailer must ensure that Form 8125 accompanies all plant-

verified drop shipments.

[Rename the title of 3.3 to read as follows:]

3.3 BMC as Agent

The DBMC may verify and accept mail if authorized by Form 4410 to

act as agent for the parent post office where the mailer's account or

license is held.

3.4 Appointments

[Revise 3.4 to change and update appointment procedures as follows:]

a. Except for mailings of perishable commodities and local mailers

under 3.5, appointments for deposit of DBMC mail at ASFs and SCFs must

be scheduled through the appointment control center at least a day in

advance. Same day appointments may be granted by a control center on

the basis of a

[[Page 12883]]

telephone request. All appointments for BMC loads must be scheduled by

the appropriate BMC control center and appointments for SCFs must be

scheduled through the appropriate district control center. Appointments

may be made up to thirty (30) calendar days prior to a desired

appointment date. Mailers must comply with the scheduled mail deposit

time and location. The mailer must cancel any appointment by notifying

the appropriate control center at least 12 hours in advance of a

scheduled appointment time.

b. Electronic appointments may be made by mailers/agents using a

USPS-issued computer log-on ID. Electronic appointments must be made at

least 12 hours prior to the desired time and date. All information

required by the USPS appointment system regarding a mailing must be

furnished.

c. For deposit of DDU mailings, an appointment must be made by

contacting the DDU at least 24 hours in advance. If the appointment

must be canceled, a mailer must notify the DDU at least a day in

advance of a scheduled appointment. Mailers desiring electronic

confirmation of DDU mail entry must also schedule the appointment

through the district control center.

* * * * *

3.7 Deposit Conditions

[Revise 3.7a to clarify that rescheduling is permitted for refused

mailings as follows:]

Deposit of mail also is subject to these conditions:

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, BMCs, or SCFs and more than 1 hour late at

delivery units). If a mailing is refused, a mailer is permitted to make

a new appointment.

* * * * *

3.8 Vehicle Unloading

[Revise 3.8 to include DSCF and DDU rate mail as follows:]

Unloading of destination entry mailings is subject to these

conditions:

a. Properly prepared containerize loads (e.g., pallets) are

unloaded by the USPS at BMCs, ASFs, and SCFs that can handle pallets.

The USPS does not unload or permit the mailer (or mailer agent) to

unload palletized loads that are unstable or severely leaning or that

have otherwise not maintained their integrity in transit.

b. The driver must unload bedloaded shipments within 8 hours of

arrival at BMCs, ASFs, and SCFs. Combination containerized and

bedloaded drop shipment mailings are classified as bedloaded shipments

for unload times. The USPS may assist in unloading.

c. At delivery units, the driver must unload containerized

(palletized), sacked, and bedloaded drop shipments (i.e., all DDU mail)

within 1 hour of arrival.

d. The driver or assistant must stay with and continue to unload

the vehicle once at the dock. The driver must remove the vehicle from

USPS property after unloading. The driver and assistant are not

permitted in USPS facilities except the dock and designated driver rest

area.

3.9 Charges

[Revise 3.9 to include all destination rate mailings as follows:]

The USPS is not responsible for demurrage or detention charges

incurred by a mailer who presents destination rate mailings.

3.10 Appeals

Mailers who believe that they are denied equitable treatment may

appeal to the manager, customer service (district), responsible for the

destination postal facility.

3.11 Documentation

[Revise 3.11 to include DSCF and DDU mailings as follows:]

A postage statement must accompany each destination entry rate

mailing. Any other documentation must be submitted as required by the

standards for the rate claimed or the postage payment method used.

* * * * *

[Add 5.0 to provide for deposit of some DSCF mail at a BMC:]

5.0 DSCF MAIL ENTERED AT A DESIGNATED BMC

DSCF rate mail prepared on pallets that is for a 5-digit ZIP Code

listed in Exhibit 5.0 must be entered at the corresponding BMC facility

listed on that exhibit instead of at the DSCF. Sacked DSCF rate mail

for the 5-digit ZIP Codes in Exhibit 5.0 must be entered at the DSCF.

Exhibit E652.5.0, BMC Deposit of DSCF Rate Pallets

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

BMC Destination ZIP code

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

ATLANTA...................... 30006-08,30,32-36,60-69,71,80-90.

30305-06,19,24,28-29,38,40-42,45-46,59,62

-63,66,76.

31101.

39901.

CHICAGO...................... 53140-44.

53401-08.

60016-17,19,25,53,56,68,70,76-77.

60103,05,07,20-23,26,31,53-54,60.

60301-04,06-99.

60504-05,07,40,42,63-64,66-68,98.

60601,05,08-60,67,81,90,93-94.

60714.

60803-05.

CINCINNATI................... 45207,12-13,15,18,22,36-37,40-42,46,49,62

.

DALLAS....................... 75040-49.

76001-07,10-19,94,96.

DENVER....................... 69180,90.

80001-19,28,32,40-42,44,46-47.

80110-15,20-29,50-56,60-62,64-67.

80215,21-22,24,26-29,31-33,35-37,51.

80401-19.

80521-28,53-54.

80631-39.

DES MOINES................... None.

[[Page 12884]]

DETROIT...................... 48021,34,37,43-46,66-67,75-76,80-84,86,89

-93,98-99.

48103-04,06-09,11-12,20-28,41,50-54,61-62

,70,80,83-84,92,97-98.

48204,21,27-28,35.

48310-14,50-54,97.

GREENSBORO................... 27101-02.

27408-10.

27514-16.

27701.

JACKSONVILLE................. 31520-25,27.

32065,67,73,84-86,91-92,95.

32173-76.

32205,07,10-11,16,20-22,24-25,30,36,38-39

,44.

32901-02,04,22-24,26-27,31-32,40-41,51,58

,60-89.

33427-29,31-34,60-67,81,86-87,96-98.

33755-67,70-79.

33880-85.

34101-06,08-10,12-14,16,19.

34470-82.

34945-51,54,79-82,94-97.

KANSAS CITY.................. 64015,50-51,55-56,58.

64116,18-19,51,53-54,59,63-64,90.

66002,27,44-49.

LOS ANGELES.................. 90220-23,40-42,80.

MEMPHIS...................... 38614.

38732.

MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL......... 55014.

55104-06,15,19-21,24.

55306,16,31,43.

55418,20-21,24,28-30,32-33,41,45.

NEW JERSEY................... None.

PHILADELPHIA................. 19001-04,06-10,12-18,20-23,25-26,28-41,43

-44,46-50.

19052-53,61,63-67,70,72-76,78-91,93-96.

19111,14-16,19-20,24,28,34-37,40,44,49,52

,54-55,60.

PITTSBURGH................... None.

ST. LOUIS.................... 62040.

62202,20-23,26.

62521.

62881.

63005-06,11,17,21-22,24,31-34,42-45,74.

63104-47,51,57-58.

63301-04.

SAN FRANCISCO................ 93921-23.

94002-03,10-12,21-28,30,35,39,41-43,59,61

.

94401-99.

94504,06,08,11-14,16-29,33,35-46,48.

94555-56,58-63,67,70-71,73-74,76-81,83-85

,89-99.

96708,13,20-21,27,32,43,49.

96753,55,58,60-61,67-68,71,72,78-79,81,84

-85,88,90,93.

97321,30.

97526.

98002-04,23,31,35,63-64,92-93.

98660-66,68,82-87.

99362.

SEATTLE...................... 97321,30.

97526.

98002-04,23,31,35,63-64,92-93.

98660-66,68,82-87.

99362.

SPRINGFIELD.................. None.

WASHINGTON................... None.

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

E670 Nonprofit Standard Mail

* * * * *

9.0 MAILING WHILE APPLICATION PENDING

* * * * *

9.2 Postage Record

[Amend 9.2 by removing ``or Single-Piece Standard Mail'' in the last

sentence to read as follows:]

While an application is pending, postage must be paid at the

applicable First-Class Mail or Regular or Enhanced Carrier Route

Standard Mail rates. The USPS records the difference between postage

paid at the Regular or Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail rates and

the postage that would have been paid at the Nonprofit Standard Mail

rates. No record is kept if postage is paid at First-Class Mail rates.

[[Page 12885]]

9.3 Refund

[Amend 9.3b by removing ``or Single-Piece Standard Mail'' to read as

follows:]

If an authorization to mail at Nonprofit Standard Mail rates is

issued, the mailer may be refunded the postage paid at that office in

excess of the Nonprofit Standard Mail rate since the effective date of

the authorization. No refund is made:

* * * * *

b. If postage was paid at First-Class Mail rates.

* * * * *

F FORWARDING AND RELATED SERVICES

F000 Basic Services

F010 Basic Information

* * * * *

3.0 DIRECTORY SERVICE

[Amend 3.0d by removing ``or Single-Piece Standard Mail'' to read as

follows:]

USPS letter carrier offices give directory service to the types of

mail listed below that have an insufficient address or cannot be

delivered at the address given (the USPS does not compile a directory

of any kind):

* * * * *

d. Parcels mailed at any Standard Mail (B) rate or endorsed by the

mailer.

* * * * *

5.0 CLASS TREATMENT FOR ANCILLARY SERVICES

* * * * *

5.2 Periodicals

[Amend 5.2e and 5.2g to read as follows:]

Undeliverable Periodicals publications (including publications

pending Periodicals authorization) are treated as described in the

chart below and under these conditions:

* * * * *

e. The publisher may request the return of copies of undelivered

Periodicals publications by printing the endorsement ``Address Service

Requested'' on the envelopes or wrappers, or on one of the outside

covers of unwrapped copies, immediately preceded by the sender's name,

address, and ZIP+4 or 5-digit ZIP Code. The per-piece rate charged for

return is the appropriate single-piece First-Class Mail or Priority

Mail rate as applicable for the weight of the piece. When the address

correction is provided incidental to the return of the piece, there is

no charge for the correction. This endorsement obligates the publisher

to pay return postage.

* * * * *

g. Periodicals matter is forwarded only to domestic addresses.

[Amend the ``Address Service Requested'' portion of 5.2g (chart) to

read as follows:]

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

Mailer endorsement USPS action on UAA pieces

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

``Address Service Requested'' First 60 days: piece forwarded; no

\1\. charge.

After 60-day period, or if undeliverable:

piece returned with address correction

or reason for nondelivery attached;

single-piece First-Class or Priority

rate as applicable for weight of piece

charged.

``Forwarding Service * * * * *

Requested''.

``Return Service Requested''. * * * * *

``Change Service Requested''. * * * * *

No endorsement \1\........... * * * * *

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

\1\ Valid for all pieces, including Address Change Service (ACS)

participating pieces.

5.3 Standard Mail (A)

[Amend 5.3 by deleting 5.3a and renumbering 5.3b through 5.3i as 5.3a

through 5.3h. Revise renumbered 5.3a and 5.3b, and 5.3f through 5.3h,

to read as follows:]

Undeliverable Standard Mail (A) is treated as described in the

chart below and under these conditions:

a. Mail that qualifies for a single-piece Special Standard or

Library Standard Mail (B) rate under the applicable standards is

forwarded and returned at that rate, if the mailer's endorsement

includes the name of the applicable Standard Mail (B) rate.

b. Mail that qualifies for Shipper Paid Forwarding (F020) under the

applicable standards is forwarded at, and (if necessary) returned at,

the single-piece First-Class or Priority Mail rate as applicable for

the weight of the piece.

* * * * *

f. The weighted fee is the appropriate single-piece First-Class or

Priority Mail rate, as applicable for the weight of the piece,

multiplied by 2.472 and rounded up to the next whole cent (if the

computation yields a fraction of a cent). The weighted fee is computed

(and rounded if necessary) for each piece individually. Neither the

applicable postage, the factor, nor any necessary rounding is applied

cumulatively to multiple pieces. The fee is charged when an

unforwardable or undeliverable piece is returned to the sender and the

piece is endorsed ``Address Service Requested'' or ``Forwarding Service

Requested.'' These endorsements obligate the sender to pay the weighted

fee on all returned pieces.

g. Mail that qualifies for Bulk Parcel Return Service (BPRS) under

the applicable standards in S924 is returned at the BPRS per piece fee

if the mailer uses one of the endorsements that includes ``--BPRS.''

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

Mailer endorsement USPS Action on UAA pieces

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

``Return Service Requested-- * * * * *

BPRS''.

``Address Service Requested-- Months 1 through 12: piece forwarded; no

BPRS''. charge to addressee; separate ACS notice

of new address provided; ACS address

correction fee and postage at single-

piece First-Class or Priority Mail rate

as applicable for weight of piece

charged via ACS participant code.

* * * * *

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

h. Standard Mail (A) is forwarded only to domestic addresses.

[[Page 12886]]

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

Mailer endorsement USPS action on UAA pieces

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

``Address Service * * * * *

Requested'\1\.

Months 13 through 18: piece returned with

new address attached; only weighted fee

charged (address correction fee not

charged).

After month 18, or if undeliverable:

piece returned with reason for

nondelivery attached; only weighted fee

charged (address correction fee not

charged).

``Forwarding Service * * * * *

Requested''.

Months 13 through 18: piece returned with

new address attached; only weighted fee

charged (address correction fee not

charged).

After month 18, or if undeliverable:

piece returned with reason for

nondelivery attached; only weighted fee

charged (address correction fee not

charged).

``Return Service Requested''. Piece returned with new address or reason

for nondelivery attached; only return

postage at single-piece First-Class or

Priority Mail rate as applicable for

weight of piece charged (address

correction fee not charged).

``Change Service * * * * *

Requested''\1\.

No endorsement............... Piece disposed of by USPS.

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

\1\ Valid for all pieces, including Address Change Service (ACS)

participating pieces.

* * * * *

6.0 ENCLOSURES AND ATTACHMENTS

[Amend the first sentences of 6.1 and 6.2 to read as follows:]

6.1 Periodicals

Undeliverable Periodicals publications (including publications

pending Periodicals authorization) with a nonincidental First-Class

Mail attachment or enclosure are returned at the single-piece First-

Class or Priority Mail rate as applicable for the weight of the piece.

* * *

6.2 Standard Mail (A)

Undeliverable, unendorsed Standard Mail (A) with a nonincidental

First-Class Mail attachment or enclosure is returned at the single-

piece First-Class or Priority Mail rate as applicable for the weight of

the piece.* * *

* * * * *

8.0 DEAD MAIL

8.1 Basic Information

[Amend 8.1 to read as follows:]

Dead mail is matter deposited in the mail that is or becomes

undeliverable and cannot be returned to the sender from the last office

of address. Every reasonable effort is made to match articles found

loose in the mail with the envelope or wrapper from which lost and to

return or forward the articles.

a. Nonmail matter (e.g., wallets and bank deposits) found in

collection boxes or at other points within USPS jurisdiction is

returned postage due at the single-piece First-Class Mail or Priority

Mail rate for keys and identification devices that is applicable based

on the weight of the matter.

* * * * *

F020 Forwarding

* * * * *

2.0 FORWARDABLE MAIL

* * * * *

2.3 Discontinued Post Office

[Amend 2.3 by removing ``and all Single-Piece Standard Mail'' to read

as follows:]

All Express Mail, First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail

(B) 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.

2.4 Rural Delivery

[Amend 2.4 by removing ``and all Single-Piece Standard Mail'' 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 Express Mail, First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard

Mail (B) forwarded to the latter office for delivery by the rural

carrier without added charge, if the customer files a written request

with the postmaster at the former office.

* * * * *

2.6 Mail for Military Personnel

[Amend the first sentence of 2.6 by removing ``and all Single-Piece

Standard Mail'' to read as follows:]

All Express Mail, First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail

(B) 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. *

* *

3.0 POSTAGE FOR FORWARDING

* * * * *

3.5 Standard Mail (A)

[Amend the second sentence of 3.5 to read as follows:]

* * * Shipper Paid Forwarding, used in conjunction with Address

Change Service (F030), provides mailers of Standard Mail (A) machinable

parcels an option of paying forwarding postage at the single-piece

First-Class or Priority Mail rate as applicable for the weight of the

piece. * * *

* * * * *

L LABELING LISTS

* * * * *

[Delete the heading ``L100 First-Class Mail'' and labeling list L102.]

L600 Standard Mail

* * * * *

[Insert new labeling list L605 as follows:]

L605 BMCs--Nonmachinable Parcel Post

Mailers preparing BMC Presort and OBMC Parcel Post mailings of

nonmachinable parcels must sort the parcels and label pallets according

to this list.

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

Column A--Destination ZIP codes Column B--Label to

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

005-007, 009, 068-079, 085-098, 100-119, 124- BMC NEW JERSEY NJ 00102.

127, 340.

006-009...................................... SCF SAN JUAN PR 006\1\.

008.......................................... BMC NEW JERSEY NJ

00102\2\.

008.......................................... BMC JACKSONVILLE FL

32099\3\.

[[Page 12887]]

010-067, 120-123, 128, 129................... BMC SPRINGFIELD MA 05500.

130-136, 140-149............................. ASF BUFFALO NY 140.

150-168, 260-266, 439-447.................... BMC PITTSBURGH PA 15195.

080-084, 137-139, 169-199.................... BMC PHILADELPHIA PA

19205.

200-212, 214-239, 244, 254, 267, 268......... BMC WASHINGTON DC 20499.

240-243, 245-249, 270-297, 376............... BMC GREENSBORO NC 27075.

298, 300-312, 317-319, 350-352, 354-368, 373, BMC ATLANTA GA 31195.

374, 377-379, 399.

299, 313-316, 320-339, 341, 342, 344, 346, BMC JACKSONVILLE FL

347, 349. 32099.

369-372, 375, 380-397, 700, 701, 703-705, BMC MEMPHIS TN 38999.

707, 708, 713, 714, 716, 717, 719-729.

250-253, 255-259, 400-418, 421, 422, 425-427, BMC CINCINNATI OH 45900.

430-433, 437, 438, 448-462, 469-474.

434-436, 465-468, 480-497.................... BMC DETROIT MI 48399.

500-516, 520-528, 612, 680, 681, 683-689..... BMC DES MOINES IA 50999.

498, 499, 540-551, 553-564, 566.............. BMC MPLS/ST PAUL MN

55202.

570-577...................................... ASF SIOUX FALLS SD 570.

565, 567, 580-588............................ ASF FARGO ND 580.

590-599, 821................................. ASF BILLINGS MT 590.

463, 464, 530-532, 534, 535, 537-539, 600- BMC CHICAGO IL 60808.

611, 613.

420, 423, 424, 475-479, 614-620, 622-631, 633- BMC ST LOUIS MO 63299.

639.

640, 641, 644-658, 660-662, 664-679, 739..... BMC KANSAS CITY KS 64399.

730, 731, 734-738, 740, 741, 743-746, 748, ASF OKLAHOMA CITY OK 730.

749.

706, 710-712, 718, 733, 747, 750-799, 885.... BMC DALLAS TX 75199.

690-693, 800-816, 820, 822-831............... BMC DENVER CO 80088.

832-834, 836, 837, 840-847, 893, 898, 979.... ASF SALT LAKE CTY UT 840.

850, 852, 853, 855-857, 859, 860, 863, 864... ASF PHOENIX AZ 852.

865, 870-875, 877-884........................ ASF ALBUQUERQUE NM 870.

889-891, 900-908, 910-928, 930-935........... BMC LOS ANGELES CA 90901.

894, 895, 897, 936-969....................... BMC SAN FRANCISCO CA

94850.

835, 838, 970-978, 980-986, 988-999.......... BMC SEATTLE WA 98000.

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

\1\ Mailed from ZIP Code areas 006-009.

\2\ If the entry post office is in ZIP Code areas 010-269, combine with

mail for ZIP Code areas 005-007, 009, 068-079, 085-098, 100-119, 124-

127, and 340, and label to BMC NEW JERSEY NJ 00102.

\3\ If the entry post office is in ZIP Code areas 270-999, combine with

mail for ZIP Code areas 299, 313-316, 320-339, 341, 342, 344, 346,

347, and 349, labeled to BMC JACKSONVILLE FL 32099.

* * * * *

M MAIL PREPARATION AND SORTATION

M000 General Preparation Standards

M010 Mailpieces

M011 Basic Standards

1.0 TERMS AND CONDITIONS

* * * * *

1.4 Mailing

[Amend 1.4 to read as follows:]

a. General. A mailing is a group of pieces within the same class of

mail and, except for certain parcel rates, the same processing category

that may be sorted together and/or may be presented under a single

minimum volume mailing requirement under the applicable standards.

Generally, types of mail that follow different flows through the postal

processing system (e.g., automation, nonautomation carrier route, and

other nonautomation) and mail for each separate class and subclass must

be prepared as a separate mailing. Other specific standards may define

whether separate mailings may be combined, palletized, reported, or

deposited together.

b. First-Class Mail. The following types of First-Class Mail may

not be part of the same mailing despite being in the same processing

category:

(1) automation rate and any other type of mail;

(2) nonautomation Presorted rate and any other type of mail;

(3) nonautomation Presorted rate mail prepared under the optional

upgradable preparation and nonautomation Presorted rate mail prepared

under the required preparation;

(4) single-piece rate and any other type of mail.

c. First-Class Postcards. Postcards and letters must be prepared as

separate mailings, or may be sorted together if each meets separate

minimum volume mailing requirements.

d. Standard Mail (A). Except as provided in E620.1.2, the following

types of Standard Mail (A) may not be part of the same mailing:

(1) automation Enhanced Carrier Route and any other type of mail;

(2) non-carrier route automation and any other type of mail;

(3) nonautomation Enhanced Carrier route and any other type of

mail;

(4) Presorted rate mail and any other type of mail;

(5) Presorted rate mail prepared under the optional upgradable

preparation and Presorted rate mail prepared under the required

preparation;

(6) except as provided by standard, Regular mail may not be in the

same mailing as Nonprofit mail, and Enhanced Carrier Route mail may not

be in the same mailing as Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route mail.

e. Standard Mail (B). The following types of Standard Mail (B) may

not be part of the same mailing despite being in the same processing

category:

(1) Parcel Post mail and any other type of mail;

(2) Bound Printed Matter and any other type of mail;

(3) Special Standard and any other type of mail;

(4) Library Mail and any other type of mail.

* * * * *

M012 Markings and Endorsements

[Renumber current M012.3.0 and M012.4.0 as M012.4.0 and M012.5.0,

respectively. Reorganize and revise M012.1.0 and M012.2.0 and insert

new M012.3.0 to read as follows:]

1.0 MARKINGS--BASIC STANDARDS

1.1 Class and Rate

Mailpieces must be marked under the corresponding standards to show

the class of service and/or rate paid:

a. First-Class Mail and Standard Mail (A) must be marked under 2.0;

[[Page 12888]]

b. Standard Mail (B) must be marked under 3.0;

c. Priority Mail must be identified under E120;

d. Periodicals must be identified under E211;

e. Express Mail is identified with the Express Mail mailing label

(Label 11 or Form 5625) without any other required class or rate

marking.

f. All mailable hazardous material must be labeled and/or marked as

required in C020.

1.2 Enclosures

Enclosures, attachments, and mixed rate mailpieces must be marked

under the applicable standards in E070, M070, and P070.

1.3 Printing and Designs

Required markings may be printed by a postage meter, special slug,

ad plate, or other means that ensures a legible marking. A marking may

not include or be part of a decorative design or advertisement.

2.0 MARKINGS--FIRST-CLASS MAIL AND STANDARD MAIL (A)

2.1 Placement

a. Basic Marking. The basic required marking that indicates the

class or subclass--``First-Class;'' ``Presorted Standard'' or ``PRSRT

STD'' (or, until July 1, 1999, ``Bulk Rate'' or ``Blk. Rt.''); or

``Nonprofit Organization'' or ``Nonprofit Org.'' or ``Nonprofit'' must

be printed or produced as part of, or directly below or to the left of,

the permit imprint indicia, meter stamp or impression, or adhesive or

precanceled stamp.

b. Other Markings. Other rate-specific markings (``Presorted'' or

``PRSRT,'' ``Single-Piece'' or ``SNGLP'' (First-Class Mail only);

``AUTO'' and ``AUTOCR'' (First-Class Mail and Standard Mail (A));

``ECRLOT,'' ``ECRWSH,'' ``ECRWSS,'' and ``RSS'' (Standard Mail (A)

only)), may be placed in the location specified in 2.1a; or in the

address area on the line directly above or two lines above the address

if the marking appears alone or if no other information appears on the

line with the marking except postal optional endorsement line

information under M013 or postal carrier route package information

under M014. If preceded by two asterisks, the ``AUTO,'' ``AUTOCR,''

``Single-Piece,'' or ``SNGLP'' markings also may be placed on the line

above or two lines above the address in a mailer keyline or a manifest

keyline, or placed above the address and below the postage in an MLOCR

ink-jet printed date correction/meter drop shipment line.

Alternatively, the ``AUTO'' or ``AUTOCR'' may be placed to the left of

the DPBC (subject to the barcode location and clear zone standards in

C840).

c. Additional Requirements for Carrier Route. ``AUTOCR,''

``ECRLOT,'' ``ECRWSH,'' and ``ECRWSS'' must appear in their entirety

wherever placed, except ``ECR'' may be placed in the postage area if

``LOT,'' ``WSH,'' or ``WSS,'' as applicable, is placed in the line

above or two lines above the address, as specified in 2.1b.

2.2 Exceptions to Markings

a. AUTO Marking. Non-carrier route automation rate First-Class and

Standard Mail (A) pieces do not require an ``AUTO'' marking if they

bear a DPBC in the address block or on an insert visible through a

window in the address block or lower right corner. Non-carrier route

automation rate First-Class pieces not marked ``AUTO'' must bear both

the ``Presorted'' and ``First-Class'' markings.

b. Manifest Mailings. The basic marking must appear in the postage

area on each piece as required in 2.1a. The two-letter rate category

code required in the keyline on manifest mailing pieces prepared under

P710 meets the requirement for other rate markings (e.g., on a First-

Class piece mailed at automation carrier route rates, the ``AC'' code

may replace the ``AUTOCR'' marking).

3.0 PLACEMENT OF MARKINGS--STANDARD MAIL (B)

3.1 Basic Markings

The basic required marking that indicates the subclass--``Parcel

Post'' or ``PP;'' ``Bound Printed Matter;'' ``Special Standard Mail''

or ``SPEC STD;'' ``Library Rate'' or ``Library Mail''--must be printed

or produced as part of, or directly below or to the left of, the permit

imprint indicia or meter stamp or impression.

3.2 Other Bound Printed Matter Markings

The required markings ``Presorted'' (or ``PRSRT'') or ``Carrier

Route Presort'' (or ``CAR-RT SORT'') may be placed in the location

specified in 3.1. Alternatively, these markings may be placed in the

address area on the line directly above or two lines above the address

if the marking appears alone or if no other information appears on the

line with the marking except postal optional endorsement line

information und

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