705 Advanced Preparation and Special Postage Payment Systems
3.0 Optional Procedure Mailing System
5.0 First-Class Mail or Standard Mail Mailings With Different Payment Methods
6.0 Combining Mailings of Standard Mail, Package Services, and Parcel Select Parcels
7.0 Combining Package Services and Parcel Select Parcels for Destination Entry
9.0 Combining Bundles of Automation and Nonautomation Flats in Trays and Sacks
10.0 Merging Bundles of Flats in Sacks and Pallets Using the City State Product
11.0 Combining Automation Price and Nonautomation Price Flats in Bundles
12.0 Merging Bundles of Flats on Pallets Using a 5% Threshold
13.0 Merging Bundles of Flats on Pallets Using the City State Product and a 5% Threshold
15.0 Plant-Verified Drop Shipment
16.0 Express Mail Open and Distribute and Priority Mail Open and Distribute
17.0 Express Mail Reshipment Service
18.0 Metered Mail Drop Shipment
19.0 Postage Due Weight Averaging Program
20.0 Optional Combined Parcel Mailings
1.0 Customized MarketMail
1.1 Basic Standards
1.1.1 General
Customized MarketMail (CMM) is an option for mailing nonrectangular and irregular-shaped Regular Standard Mail and Nonprofit Standard Mail pieces if the pieces weigh 3.3 ounces or less and meet the physical characteristics and the dimensional requirements in 1.1.3 and the mail preparation standards in 1.4. Other Regular and Nonprofit Standard Mail pieces measuring 3/4 inch thick or less and meeting the applicable standards in 1.0 may be entered as CMM at the mailer's option. CMM must be entered directly at a destination delivery unit (DDU).
1.1.2 Eligibility Standards
All pieces in a CMM mailing must:
a. Meet the basic standards for Standard Mail in 243.2.0, Content Standards for Standard Mail Letters through 243.4.0, Price Eligibility for Standard Mail and, for Nonprofit Standard Mail, the additional standards in 703.1.0.
b. Be part of a single mailing of at least 200 addressed pieces. All pieces must be identical in size, shape, and weight unless excepted by standard under an approved postage payment system.
c. Bear a complete delivery address using the general addressing formats in 602.1.0 or the exceptional or occupant address formats in 602.3.0, Use of Alternative Addressing, with the correct ZIP Code or ZIP+4 code. Each piece also must bear a carrier release endorsement as specified in 508.1.0, Recipient Options. These additional addressing standards apply:
1. Detached address labels (DALs) under 602.4.0, Detached Address Labels (DALs) are not permitted.
2. Ancillary service endorsements under 507.1.0, Treatment of Mail, are not permitted.
3. The ZIP Code accuracy standard in 243.3.8 must be met.
4. At the mailer's option, a carrier route information line under 708.6.0 may be added. If this option is used, a carrier route code must be applied to every piece in the mailing and must meet the carrier route accuracy standard in 243.6.2.
d. Be marked, sorted, and documented as specified in 1.4.
e. Be entered at the destination delivery unit appropriate to the delivery address on the corresponding mail, as a mailing subject to the applicable requirements in 243.2.0 through 243.4.0, Price Eligibility for Standard Mail and 246.2.0 through 246.5.0 in Enter and Deposit, as a mailing using Express Mail or Priority Mail Open and Distribute under 16.5 and 16.5.13, or as a plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS) mailing under 15.0. Minimum volumes per destination are not required.
1.1.3 Physical Standards
Mailpieces prepared as Customized MarketMail (CMM) under 1.0 must meet these additional standards and physical characteristics:
a. The material used for constructing the pieces must be free of sharp edges, protrusions, and other design elements that could cause harm or injury to USPS personnel handling these pieces.
b. The dimensions of the pieces must not be smaller than the minimum dimensions for letter-size mail in 201 or greater than the maximum dimensions for flat-size mail in 301. Length and height are defined as follows:
1. The length and the axis of length are determined by drawing a straight line between the two outer points most distant from each other.
2. The height is determined by drawing perpendicular lines to the points that are the greatest distance above and below the axis of length. The sum of these two lines defines the height.
c. The maximum weight may not exceed 3.3 ounces.
d. Pieces may be rectangular or nonrectangular, may be uniform or nonuniform in thickness, and may include die cuts, holes, and voids.
e. Pieces must be flexible enough to fit inside a minimum-size mail receptacle measuring 4-7/8 inches wide, 14-7/8 inches high, and 5-7/8 inches long (deep).
f. Design approval by the district business mail entry manager is not required, but it is recommended.
1.2 Prices
Pieces mailed as Customized MarketMail under 1.0 must not exceed 3.3 ounces and must pay the following prices:
a. Regular Standard Mail: $0.460 per piece.
b. Nonprofit Standard Mail: $0.334 per piece.
1.3 Extra Services
CMM is not eligible for any extra service.
1.4 Preparation Standards
1.4.1 All Mailings
All mailings and all pieces in each mailing prepared as Customized MarketMail (CMM) are subject to specific preparation standards in 1.4 and to these general standards:
a. All pieces must meet the standards for basic eligibility in 243.2.0 through 243.4.0 in Prices and Eligibility and specific eligibility in 246.2.0 through 246.5.0 in Enter and Deposit. Nonprofit Standard Mail pieces must meet the additional eligibility standards in 703.1.0.
b. CMM pieces must not be part of a mailing containing any other type of Standard Mail pieces.
c. Each mailing must meet the applicable standards for mail preparation in 245.1.0 and 245.2.0 and the following:
1. Subject to the marking standards in 202, Regular Standard Mail pieces must be marked "Presorted Standard" (or "PRSRT STD") and Nonprofit Standard Mail pieces must be marked "Nonprofit Organization" (or "Nonprofit Org." or "Nonprofit"). All pieces must also be marked "Customized MarketMail," "CUST MKTMAIL," or "CMM."
2. At the mailer's option, a carrier route information line under 708.6.0 may be added. If this option is used, a carrier route code must be applied to every piece in the mailing and must be applied using CASS-certified software and the current USPS Carrier Route File scheme, printed Carrier Route Files, or another AIS product containing carrier route information, subject to 509.1.0, Address Information System Products, and 708.3.0, Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS). Carrier route information must be updated within 90 days before the mailing date.
d. Pieces are subject to the price eligibility specified in 1.0, Customized MarketMail.
1.4.2 Required Endorsement
Any matter mailed as Customized MarketMail must bear the endorsement "Carrier—Leave If No Response" placed directly below the return address. If any other endorsement is used, the carrier route release endorsement must be separated by the equivalent of one blank line of the type size used.
1.4.3 Postage
CMM is subject to the same options of postage payment (precanceled stamps, metered postage, or permit imprint) for Standard Mail pieces as permitted under 244, Postage Payment and Documentation.
1.4.4 Documentation
A complete, signed postage statement, using the correct USPS form or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing. Mailings of nonidentical-weight pieces or mailings using more than three different types of containers must also be supported by standardized documentation meeting the standards in 708.1.0. Documentation for nonidentical-weight pieces is not required if the correct postage is affixed to each piece.
1.4.5 Required Bundling
Bundling is required before sacking, traying, or filling other types of mailing containers. A bundle must be prepared when two or more addressed pieces are destined to the same 5-digit ZIP Code or to the same carrier route if the optional carrier route presort level is used. The maximum weight for any bundle is 20 pounds. Pieces of irregular thickness must be counterstacked as provided in 245.2.0. At the mailer's option, facing slips, optional endorsement lines, or pressure-sensitive bundle labels may be used on bundles. CMM pieces prepared in optional carrier route bundles are subject to 243.6.0 but are not required to meet any minimum number of pieces per route.
1.4.6 Bundling and Labeling
Preparation sequence, bundle size, and labeling:
a. Carrier route (optional), no minimum; and carrier route information line (required).
b. 5-digit (required), no minimum; and facing slip (optional), red Label 5 (optional), or optional endorsement line (OEL).
1.4.7 Required Containerizing
The following standards apply to containerizing CMM bundles:
a. Bundles and single pieces to a destination must be prepared in 5-digit containers or optionally in 5-digit scheme under L606, carrier route, or 5-digit carrier routes containers, with no minimum volume (piece or weight) required for an individual container.
b. Bundles for PVDS drop shipment mailings or non-PVDS mailings under 246.2.0 through 246.5.0 must be placed in letter trays, flat trays, or sacks. Bundles in Priority Mail and Express Mail Open and Distribute shipments under 16.5 may be placed in USPS-supplied or mailer-supplied mailing containers.
c. The container size must be appropriate to the dimensions of the pieces, and the number of containers must be appropriate to the volume of pieces in the mailing.
d. If more than three types of containers are used, the mailing must be prepared using an approved manifest mailing system (MMS), unless the manager, Business Mailer Support approves another postage payment system. Each mailing presented in mailer-supplied containers must include sample containers for tare weight calculations.
1.4.8 Containerizing and Labeling
Containers are prepared and labeled as follows:
a. PVDS drop shipments and non-PVDS mailings under 246.2.0 through 246.5.0, Destination Delivery Unit (DDU) Entry must be prepared in 5-digit trays or sacks, or as an option, in 5-digit scheme (under L606, Column B), carrier route, or 5-digit carrier routes trays or sacks, labeled as follows:
1. Line 1: For 5-digit, carrier route, 5-digit carrier routes, city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on mail; for 5-digit scheme (optional), L606.
2. Line 2: "DEL LTR STD CMM MAN" (for letter trays); "DEL FLTS STD CMM MAN" (for flat trays); "DEL STD CMM MAN" (for sacks).
3. Line 3: Office of mailing or mailer information (see 707.21.0, Sack and Tray Labels).
b. Express Mail and Priority Mail Open and Distribute shipments must be prepared in USPS-provided Express Mail or Priority Mail containers (pouches, sacks, cartons, or envelopes) or in mailer-supplied containers, labeled under 16.5.
2.0 Manifest Mailing System
2.1 Description
2.1.1 Using an MMS
A manifest mailing system (MMS) is a method of verifying postage payment of permit imprint mailings, as an alternative to weight verification. The MMS is an automated system that allows a mailer to document postage and fees for all pieces in First-Class Mail, Standard Mail, Parcel Select, Package Services, and international permit imprint mailings. Each piece is assigned a unique identification number that is listed on the manifest along with pertinent information about the mailpiece. The USPS randomly selects pieces from the mailing and compares them to the manifest to determine if postage was accurately reported. The standards in 2.2 describe how to mail using an MMS.
2.1.2 Electronic Verification System
Mailers using a MMS when presenting Parcel Select destination entry mailings under 456.2.0 or, commingled parcel mailings under 6.0 or 7.0, may document and pay postage using the Electronic Verification System (eVS) (see 2.9). Business Mailer Support (BMS), USPS Headquarters, must approve these systems. Unless authorized by Business Mailer Support, mailers may not commingle eVS mail with non-eVS mail within the same mailing or place eVS mail and non-eVS mail in or on the same mailing container.
2.2 Basic Standards
2.2.1 Authorization Document
A MMS is established through a letter of authorization or by a service agreement as follows:
a. A MMS approved by the district, as defined in 2.4.6a, is authorized with a letter signed by the district Customer Service manager, and addressed to the mailer making the MMS application. The authorization letter contains provisions regarding mailer and USPS responsibilities, including document retention and quality control.
b. A MMS approved by Business Mailer Support, as defined in 2.4.6b, is authorized with a service agreement signed by the mailer and the Business Mailer Support manager. The service agreement contains provisions regarding mailer and USPS responsibilities, including document retention and quality control.
2.2.2 Mailer System
The mailer must have an automated system that produces mail consistent with postal standards and calculates postage accurately. For presorted mail, the system also must determine the qualifying presort level and the correct price of postage for each piece and perform the presort routines. The mailer must assign a unique identification number to each piece. Letter- and flat-size mail produced using batch processing must bear the keyline information in 2.3. The system must produce a manifest for each mailing that allows USPS verification of the postage and levels of presort. The manifest must account for every piece in the mailing, as follows:
a. For presorted letter- and flat-size mail produced using batch processing, the manifest must list destination ZIP Codes, presort categories, batch number ranges, postage amounts, and cumulative postage amounts.
b. For mail produced using itemized processing, the manifest must list the postage for each piece and those factors used to calculate the correct amount of postage, such as the destination postal zone and piece weight. Each page of the manifest must show cumulative postage totals.
c. When extra services are used, the manifest must include the fees for each piece.
d. A summary listing the required information on the postage statement must be included as the last page of the manifest.
e. A separate summary and register of mailings is required for all plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS) mailings.
2.2.3 Manifest Format
The two basic manifest formats are:
a. Itemized processing. Each piece of mail is individually listed by unique identification number, weight, and other pertinent information. Publication 401, Guide to the Manifest Mailing System, contains specific formats for manifests using itemized processing.
b. Batch processing. The mailing is divided into groups of mailpieces with consecutive identification numbers. Only the identification numbers of the first and last pieces of each group are listed, along with the piece count and the total postage charges for the entire batch. This method is limited to piece price letter- and flat-size mailings. Publication 401 contains specific formats for manifests using batch processing.
2.2.4 Mailer Quality Control
The mailer must implement a quality control program that ensures proper mail preparation and provides accurate documentation. The mailer must implement a quality control program that ensures proper mail preparation and provides accurate documentation. The authorization letter or service agreement must detail the USPS-approved quality control procedures.
2.2.5 Permit Imprint
Mailings deposited under the MMS program must meet the standards for permit imprint mail in 604.5.0, except that presorted letter-size or flat-size mail produced using batch processing must include the qualified price abbreviation in the keyline.
2.2.6 Marking
MMS mailings must meet the marking standards for the price claimed. Markings on presorted letter-size and flat-size mail produced using batch processing are placed in the keyline as described in 2.3.3. Markings on itemized mailpieces may be:
a. Incorporated as part of the permit imprint.
b. Printed or rubber-stamped above the address and immediately below or to the left of the permit imprint.
c. Produced as otherwise specified in the MMS authorization.
d. Provided in an endorsement line in the address area, directly above the top line of the address, if no additional information except carrier route information appears on the endorsement line.
2.2.7 Postage Statement
The mailer must submit a complete postage statement with each mailing. If the entry office postmaster approves, mailers may submit a computerized facsimile of the applicable USPS postage statement. Data fields may be omitted on facsimile if they pertain to prices not claimed in the mailing.
2.2.8 Manifest Adjustments
When mailpieces are mutilated, spoiled, or destroyed during normal operations and cannot be presented as part of the mailing, a method of adjusting the manifest and postage statement that has been approved by the USPS must be used. Whether the method in 2.2.8a or 2.2.8b is used, the total number of pieces must be deducted at the end of the manifest and the postage statement adjusted. Use one of the following methods:
a. For manifests using itemized processing, line out the identification number, weight, and postage information (if applicable, also line out the piece on Form 3877) or write the unique identification number, piece weight, and postage (and, if applicable, the fee amount) on a separate listing. Deduct the total number of pieces, piece weights, and postage and fees from the totals shown on the manifest, summary, and postage statement.
b. For manifests using batch processing, write the adjustments directly on the manifest listing showing the consecutive serial number, weight increment, price category, and postage of each item next to the batch that includes the serial number. Alternatively, a separate list may be prepared as an attachment to the manifest showing, for each spoiled piece, the consecutive serial number, weight increment, price category, and postage. The total number of pieces, piece weight, and postage must be deducted from the batch, manifest summary, and postage statement.
2.3 Keyline
2.3.1 Batch Mailings
The keyline printed on each piece of presorted letter- or flat-size First-Class Mail or Standard Mail produced using batch processing must contain, in order, the consecutive unique piece number, the weight increment (First-Class Mail only), the price category for which the piece qualifies, and the postage paid by weight and price category (see Exhibit 2.3.1).
Exhibit 2.3.1 Letter-Size Keyline Information
2.3.2 Mailer Codes
Codes for internal mailer use may be printed to the right of the postage-paid information, if at least two spaces separate the postage paid and any internal code information.
2.3.3 Price Category Abbreviations
Keylines on First-Class Mail or Standard Mail may use only the price category abbreviations in Exhibit 2.3.3a or Exhibit 2.3.3b, respectively. All pieces that qualify for more than one postage price must show each price category abbreviation, separated by a "/" (slash) (e.g., EB/DS).
Exhibit 2.3.3a Price Category Abbreviations—First-Class Mail
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Single-Piece Price (when fewer than 500 pieces accompany automation price mail) |
Exhibit 2.3.3b Price Category Abbreviations—Standard Mail
2.3.4 Keyline Location—Batch Mailings
The keyline must be readily identifiable and placed anywhere on the address side that does not conflict with other standards (see Exhibit 2.3.1 for examples). On letter-size mail, the keyline must not interfere with the OCR read area (see 202.2.1) or barcode clear zone (see 202.5.1). If printed on an insert, the keyline must conform to 202.5.0.
2.3.5 Unique ID Number Location—Itemized Mailings
The unique identification number must be printed on the address side of each itemized piece. It may be a product number or any other number that is not duplicated within the mailing. The numbers must be printed in overall ascending order, or in ascending order within each zone, 5-digit, 3-digit, or BMC ZIP Code area on the manifest.
2.4 Authorization
2.4.1 Application
The mailer must submit an MMS application and supporting documentation as specified on the application to the postmaster of each Post Office where mailings will be deposited. Publication 401 contains an application to mail using an MMS. Application procedures for mailers who want to manifest and pay postage for Express Mail using an Express Mail Manifesting System are outlined in 2.6. Publication 205, Electronic Verification System Technical Guide, provides the eVS application procedures for mailers.
2.4.2 Approval Review
After the mailer completes the development and installation of the MMS, the following will occur:
a. For a MMS approved by the district, as defined in 2.4.5a, a district USPS representative will review the system and the district Customer Service manager will give final approval if the system is functioning as required.
b. For a MMS approved by Business Mailer Support, as defined in 2.4.5b, a district USPS representative will review the system and the district Customer Service manager will give temporary approval if the system is functioning as required. A final review will be conducted by a Business Mailer Support representative within 90 days of the date of the temporary approval, and the Business Mailer Support manager will give final approval if the system is functioning as required.
2.4.3 General Requirements for Authorization
General requirements for authorization are as follows:
a. Verification samples are deemed representative of the entire mailing, and postage adjustment calculations are applied to the total mailing. The mailer must pay additional postage for any underpayments identified during USPS verification. A mailer may elect to overpay postage for pieces that are borderline weight or price increments to avoid postage underpayment adjustments.
b. If the total postage or the total weight of pieces sampled during a verification results in an underpayment by more than 1.5%, total postage for the mailing is adjusted.
c. For eVS mailings prepared under 2.9, USPS charges eVS mailers for postage due for any underpaid, unmanifested, or mis-shipped destination delivery unit (DDU) parcels at the end of the review period following the monthly mailing period as follows:
1. Underpaid Parcels. If the total postage of parcels sampled during the mailing period indicates that the mailer has underpaid postage by more than 1.5% when compared with the corresponding parcel records in the mailer's manifest files, USPS determines additional postage due based on the total postage already paid for the mailing month using the procedures in Publication 205.
2. Unmanifested Parcels. USPS charges eVS mailers for parcels not listed in the mailer's manifest files but identified by USPS processing scans or acceptance and delivery scans as being mailed. USPS determines the postage charges using sampling data and the procedures in Publication 205.
3. Mis-Shipped DDU Parcels. USPS charges eVS mailers the appropriate single-piece price less the original price paid for parcels identified by acceptance scans to be deposited at incorrect destination delivery units. USPS transports these mis-shipped parcels to the correct destination delivery units. USPS determines the additional postage using scanning data and the procedures in Publication 205. Parcels mis-shipped at destination BMCs or destination SCFs are handled through parcel sampling and are treated as underpaid parcels.
d. The mailer must notify the USPS in writing of any system change that affects postage calculation, generation of required documentation, or mail presorting before the mailing is presented.
e. Postage must be paid by an advance deposit account from which funds may be deducted by the USPS to cover any deficiency discovered after acceptance of the mail.
2.4.4 Authorization Period
The authorization period for an MMS is as follows:
a. A MMS, not approved to use the Minimum Volume Reduction Provision (MVRP) defined in Publication 401, and approved by the district as defined in 2.4.5a, remains in effect until such time as the district Customer Service manager or the mailer cancels the agreement. If Postal Service periodic reviews or mailer supplied information demonstrates a need for modification to the agreement, the authorization will be modified with concurrence by the district Customer Service manager and the mailer.
b. A MMS approved to use a MVRP as defined in Publication 401, remains in effect for the time period specified in the MVRP, unless the district Customer Service manager or the mailer cancels the MMS authorization. The MVRP authorization will be reviewed at the end of the authorization period and may be renewed by decision of the district Customer Service manager.
c. A MMS approved by Business Mailer Support as defined in 2.4.5b, remains in effect until such time as the Business Mailer Support manager or the mailer cancels the agreement. If Postal Service periodic reviews or mailer supplied information demonstrates a need for modification of the agreement, the authorization will be modified with concurrence by the Business Mailer Support manager and the mailer.
2.4.5 Approval Authority
Approval authority for manifest mailing systems is as follows:
a. The district Customer Service manager approves systems that produce separate or mixed mailings of single-piece price First-Class Mail, Package Services, Parcel Select, international mail, including mailings with extra services and predetermined weights, or presorted First-Class Mail letter systems not exceeding 25,000 pieces per manifest or 50,000 total pieces in daily manifested mail volume.
b. The Business Mailer Support manager, USPS Headquarters, approves MMS that produce presorted First-Class Mail (except as noted in 2.4.5a) or Standard Mail mailings, Package Services or Parcel Select presort mailings, PVDS mailings, or eVS mailings.
2.4.6 Denial
If an MMS application is denied, the mailer may appeal the decision as follows:
a. For MMS applications denied by the district Customer Service manager, the mailer may, within 15 days from the receipt of the notice, file a written appeal, including any additional evidence in support of why the MMS should be authorized. This appeal is sent to the Business Mailer Support manager, USPS Headquarters, who issues the final agency decision.
b. For MMS applications denied by the Business Mailer Support manager, the mailer may, within 15 days from the receipt of the notice, file a written appeal, including any additional evidence in support of why the MMS should be authorized. This appeal is sent to the Marketing and Technology Channel Management manager, USPS Headquarters, who issues the final agency decision.
2.4.7 Renewal
Only MMS with an approved Minimum Volume Reduction Provision (MVRP) requires renewal. MMS with MVRP are renewed prior to the expiration date by the Sales manager that originally authorized the MVRP. The Sales manager reviews all supporting documentation to determine if the mailer continues to meet the requirements of the MVRP. The MVRP is renewed when the review demonstrates that the MVRP continues to meet established requirements.
2.5 Revocation
2.5.1 Revocation Authority
The revocation authority for MMS is as follows:
a. The district Customer Service manager may revoke a MMS authorization when the final approval had originally been given through that office.
b. The Business Mailer Support manager may revoke any MMS authorization.
2.5.2 Reasons for Revocation
The reasons for revocation of an MMS are as follows:
a. The mailer provides incorrect data on the manifest list and appears unable or unwilling to correct the problems.
b. The mailer is not properly completing the required quality control procedures.
c. The mailings no longer meet MMS criteria established by standards in 2.0 or in the MMS authorization letter or service agreement.
d. The mailer does not present mailings under MMS for more than 6 months (except as noted in the authorization letter or service agreement).
e. The mailer continues to present mailings that are improperly prepared and proper postage is not being paid.
2.5.3 Corrective Action
After a notice of revocation is issued, the mailer and the USPS determine corrective actions, including an implementation schedule. At the conclusion, the USPS reexamines the mailer's system. Failure to correct identified problems is sufficient grounds to revoke the mailer's MMS authorization.
2.5.4 Appeal of Revocation
The mailer may appeal following receipt of the notice of revocation and may continue to mail under the MMS during the appeal process. Appeals are handled as follows:
a. For MMS authorizations given final approval by the district Customer Service manager, the mailer has 15 days from the date of receipt of the notice to file a written appeal with the Business Mailer Support manager. The appeal must include the reason why the MMS authorization should not be revoked. The Business Mailer Support manager issues the final agency decision. The final revocation takes effect 15 days after receipt by the mailer.
b. For MMS authorizations given final approval by the Business Mailer Support manager, the mailer has 15 days from the date of receipt of the notice to file a written appeal with the Marketing and Technology Channel Management manager, USPS Headquarters. The appeal must include the reason why the MMS authorization should not be revoked. The Marketing and Technology Channel Management manager, USPS Headquarters, issues the final agency decision. The final revocation takes effect 15 days after receipt by the mailer.
2.6 Express Mail Manifesting Agreements
2.6.1 Description
Express Mail Manifesting (EMM) is an automated system that allows a mailer to document postage and fees for all pieces in an Express Mail mailing by transmitting an electronic file to the USPS.
2.6.2 What May Be Manifested
EMM may be used to pay postage for Express Mail, Express Mail International; Express Mail Military Service to qualifying APO/FPO and DPO addresses; and, Express Mail Custom Designed service. EMM also may be used to pay any extra service fees. Postage for other classes of mail cannot be paid through EMM.
2.6.3 Service Guarantee
Express Mail items mailed using an EMM are covered by current Express Mail service and postage guarantees:
a. Mailers using Express Mail Manifesting (EMM) receive Sunday/holiday guaranteed delivery at no additional charge without paying a premium.
b. Refunds for service failures are subject to the standards in 604.9.5. Reimbursements are paid under 604.9.5.7.
2.6.4 Postage Payment
Postage for EMM is paid through an Express Mail corporate account (EMCA) using the information in the mailer's electronic file. Mailers wishing to mail using an EMM system must apply for an EMCA using the procedures in 114 before an EMM agreement will be authorized.
2.6.5 Mail Volume
EMM is designed for large volume mailings; however, there are no minimum volume requirements.
2.7 Basic Standards
2.7.1 Mailer Participation Requirements
To participate in Express Mail Manifesting, mailers must:
a. Develop or purchase computer software that will meet the EMM technical requirements outlined in Publication 97, Express Mail Manifesting Technical Guide.
b. Obtain a Mailer ID for each mailing location.
c. Obtain USPS certification that the mailer's software and barcoded labels meet EMM requirements.
d. Develop and administer effective quality control procedures that will ensure the integrity of the system.
e. Use one-ply Express Mail labels that meet the requirements in Publication 97.
f. Be able to have the USPS accept and dispatch EMM items from their company or a postal facility at the times approved by the district marketing manager.
g. Receive authorization to mail items using EMM under 2.8.
2.7.2 Mailer Quality Control
The mailer must implement a quality control program that ensures proper mail preparation and provides accurate documentation. The service agreement must detail the USPS-approved quality control procedures.
2.7.3 Mailer System Accuracy/Manifest Adjustments
The USPS verifies the accuracy of the EMM system by selecting mailpieces at random and comparing them to a verification manifest. If the sampling indicates that the total postage (for the sample mailpieces) is understated by more than 1.5%, the mailer must either withdraw the mailing or pay postage at an adjusted price. Specific procedures are outlined in Publication 97.
2.7.4 Markings, Label Specifications, and Barcodes
No special price markings are required on EMM items. However, barcoded EMM labels are required on all EMM mailpieces, and specific label formats must be followed. Detailed barcode and Express Mail label specifications and options are published in Publication 97. The labels are subject to approval by Product Information Requirements, Product Development, USPS Headquarters, and the National Customer Support Center (NCSC). Mailers must follow the specific certification procedures outlined in Publication 97.
2.7.5 Mail Entry
Mailers must present a photocopy or facsimile of Form 3152-E and a verification manifest with each mailing.
2.7.6 Manifest Data Edit Error/Warning Listing
Mailers must retrieve and retain the Manifest Data Edit Error/Warning Listing for each mailing that will be made available by the host computer. The listing confirms whether an electronic transmission was successful or contained errors or warnings. Specific information about this requirement is included in Publication 97 and in the mailer's EMM agreement.
2.7.7 Form 3152-E for Postage Payment
Form 3152-E is presented with each mailing. There is no postage affixed to the mailpieces and no postage statement presented with mailings. Postage payment is completed by electronic withdrawal of funds from a mailer's Express Mail corporate account. Form 3152-E must include the following information:
a. Number of pieces in the mailing.
b. Total weight of pieces in the mailing.
c. Total postage and extra service fees, if applicable, for the mailing.
e. Electronic file number from header record positions 4-25.
2.8 Applications, Agreement Renewals, Modifications, Suspensions, and Cancellations
2.8.1 Applications
Mailers must apply to use an EMM system by completing the application in Publication 97. The application must be sent to the USPS sales representative at the Post Office where the items will be accepted as mail. After the application and other documentation has been received and reviewed, the application and Form 1357-S is faxed to Product Information, Product Requirements, USPS Headquarters. This office will send the contact page of the application to the Postal NCSC Delivery Confirmation Office. The Delivery Confirmation Office will send a test kit to the applicant via electronic mail to test the electronic file transmission accuracy. The application for EMM must be accompanied by the following:
b. A copy of Form 5637 showing that an Express Mail corporate account has been established.
c. A Mailer ID for each mailing location.
d. Sample copies of a verification manifest created from the mailer's EMM software.
f. A price matrix, if applicable.
2.8.2 Approval
A temporary service agreement will be issued by the district marketing manager through the Business Mail Entry Office for 90 days at the location where the mailings will be verified and accepted when a review of the mailer's application and mailing operation indicates the mailer meets the eligibility requirements for entry of Express Mail items using an EMM system. Prior to the end of the 90 day temporary agreement the district business mail entry manager will conduct a final review to ensure that the system continues to meet standards. Upon a successful review, the district Customer Sales and Service manager gives final approval of the EMM system. Publication 97-A, Express Mail Manifesting Implementation and Administration Guide, outlines the specific responsibilities of the various USPS departments in approval process.
2.8.3 Denial
If an application for EMM is denied by the district marketing manager, the denial is effective 15 days from the mailer's receipt of the notice unless a written appeal is filed within that time to the Business Mailer Support manager, USPS Headquarters, who issues the final agency decision on the application.
2.8.4 Changes, Additions, or Modifications to the Service Agreement
If a mailer proposes to change the method of presenting or documenting mailings from the method specified in the agreement, or the mailer is no longer able to comply with the standards that apply to the authorization, the mailer must immediately notify the district marketing manager.
2.8.5 Renewal
EMM agreements are valid for 2 years. The district Customer Service and Sales manager, USPS Headquarters, will conduct renewal reviews.
2.8.6 USPS Suspension
The district Customer Service and Sales manager may suspend an EMM agreement at any time, pending review, when there is an indication that postal revenue is not fully protected. The district Customer Service and Sales manager will notify the mailer of the decision in writing. The suspension becomes effective upon the mailer's receipt of the notification.
2.8.7 USPS Cancellation
The district Customer Service and Sales manager may cancel an EMM agreement upon 15 days notice if:
a. The mailer fails to provide a manifest with correct data.
b. The required quality control procedures described in the EMM agreement are not properly performed.
c. The EMM does not comply with USPS requirements.
d. Mailings are presented that are not properly prepared or paid.
e. No Express Mail manifest mailings are presented for more than 6 months (unless approved by the Business Mailer Support manager).
f. The mailer has relocated or has changed ownership without notification.
g. The 2-year renewal review reveals that the EMM agreement should no longer be authorized or the mailer is not complying with the agreement.
2.8.8 Cancellation Notice and Appeal
The cancellation takes effect 15 days from the mailer's receipt of the notice unless, within that time, the mailer files a written appeal with the Business Mailer Support manager. The appeal must present additional information explaining why the EMM agreement should not be canceled. The Business Mailer Support manager will issue the final agency decision.
2.9 Electronic Verification System
2.9.1 Description
The Electronic Verification System (eVS) is a manifest mailing system that allows parcel mailers to document and pay postage and extra services fees by transmitting electronic files to the Postal Service without generating paper manifests, postage statements, or clearance documents, with the following principal features:
a. File Creation. eVS requires the creation of an electronic file containing specific data records organized into manifests. Each manifest within the file corresponds to a data record for each destination entry facility or each origin/entry Post Office, with records for the parcels grouped under the record for the entry facility or entry Post Office. Successfully accepted files and the records within those files are used by eVS to generate electronic postage statements for automatic debiting of the mailer's postage payment account. Files must be prepared as specified in Publication 205, Electronic Verification System Technical Guide.
b. Daily Mailing and Presort Eligibility. A mailing, which is determined by all file transmissions received from the eVS mailer within a 24-hour cycle, must meet all presort and volume requirements for the class of mail and price category claimed. The 24-hour cycle begins at 2:00:00 a.m. and ends at 1:59:59 a.m. Central Time.
c. Sampling. eVS sampling data, which are used to monitor postage and preparation accuracy, is primarily captured after the mailer deposits the mailing at a destination entry facility.
d. Monthly Data Reconciliation. eVS sampling data are reconciled against all the mailer's manifests received during a calendar month rather than against each individual mailing. All mailings entered during a calendar month are treated as a single mailing for the purpose of reconciliation and the collection of any postage due.
2.9.2 Availability
eVS may be used only for parcel mail paid with a permit imprint and only for the following classes and subclasses of mail, price categories, and mail processing categories, except for those prices or processing categories as noted:
a. First-Class Mail. Single-piece price and presorted prices; machinable and nonmachinable parcel processing categories. Field testing for First-Class Mail prices available July 1, 2007.
b. Priority Mail. Single-piece price, flat-rate envelope, and flat-rate box; all parcel processing categories. Field testing for Priority Mail prices available July 1, 2007.
c. Regular Standard Mail. Presorted prices, destination bulk mail center (DBMC) prices, destination sectional center facility (DSCF) prices, and destination delivery unit (DDU) prices; machinable parcels, irregular parcels, and Not Flat-Machinable pieces. Field testing for irregular presorted prices and Not Flat-Machinable prices available after May 14, 2007.
d. Nonprofit Standard Mail. Presorted prices, DBMC prices, DSCF prices, and DDU prices; machinable parcels, irregular parcels, and Not Flat-Machinable parcels. Field testing for irregular presorted prices and Not Flat-Machinable prices available after May 14, 2007.
e. Parcel Post. Parcel Post prices (including balloon and oversized prices) apply to Package Services matter not eligible for Parcel Select, BPM, Media Mail, or Library Mail prices.
f. Parcel Select. Prices include DBMC prices, DSCF prices, and DDU prices (including balloon and oversized prices); machinable parcels and nonmachinable parcels; origin BMC and BMC presort prices, and barcoded machinable parcel discounts.
g. Bound Printed Matter. Nonpresorted prices, presorted prices, DBMC prices, DSCF prices, and DDU prices; machinable parcels and irregular parcels. Field testing for nonpresorted prices, machinable and irregular parcels, available after May 14, 2007.
h. Media Mail. Single-piece prices, basic prices, and 5-digit prices; machinable parcels. Field testing for all irregular parcels available after May 14, 2007.
i. Library Mail. Single-piece prices, basic prices, and 5-digit prices; machinable parcels and irregular parcels. Field testing for all Library Mail prices available after May 14, 2007.
2.9.3 Extra Services
eVS mailers may use the following Extra Services if they are available for the specific class of mail used:
d. Insured Mail, if Form 3877 is used.
e. Collect on Delivery (COD), if Form 3877 is used.
g. Return Receipt for Merchandise.
2.9.4 Use
Mailers depositing permit imprint parcels for those classes of mail and price categories specified in 2.9.2 may document and pay postage using eVS. Mailers authorized to commingle Standard Mail parcels, Package Services, and Parcel Select presorted parcels under 6.0 and 7.0 also may use eVS to document and pay postage for all parcels in the mailing for those mail classes and subclasses available under 2.9.2.
2.9.5 General Requirements
General requirements for participation are as follows:
a. Permit Account Number. The mailer must have or establish a single permit account number for eVS at the business mail entry unit designated by the administering district manager. The Post Office where the business mail entry unit is located is generally considered the Post Office of Account for the eVS mailer. The eVS permit account number is to be used exclusively for eVS mailings. No other permit number may be used for eVS mailings.
b. Postage Payment Account. The mailer must have or establish a PostalOne! postage payment debit account for the withdrawal of funds from postage statements generated by eVS from the electronic files transmitted by the mailer.
c. Annual Mailing Fees. The mailer must pay all applicable presort and destination entry mailing fees at the administering district business mail entry unit.
d. Customer Identification Number. The mailer must have or obtain a Mailer ID from the Postal Service. This customer identification number must be registered with the Postal Service and used to identify all electronic manifests transmitted by the mailer for eVS mailings. The mailer may use the same customer identification number in the Package Identification Code (PIC) or different numbers in the PIC if these additional numbers are also registered with the Postal Service. The mailer is required to keep the Postal Service updated on changes and additions to customer identification numbers.
e. Application. The mailer must complete and submit the eVS application available from the Postal Service.
f. Computer Access. The mailer must obtain computer access to eVS and, if necessary, to PostalOne!
g. File Transfer. The mailer must complete and submit Form 1357-S to set up the file transfer mechanism with the Postal Service. Form 1357-S is not required for Electronic Data Interchange (EDI).
h. Software. The mailer must develop or obtain computer software that meets eVS electronic file specifications for manifesting parcels and the barcode specifications for producing accurate and scannable barcodes used on the parcel mailing labels.
i. File and Label Certification. The mailer must have electronic files and barcodes certified by the Postal Service.
j. Quality Assurance. The mailer must develop and administer effective quality assurance procedures to ensure the integrity and accuracy of the mailer's mail production, postage payment, and file transmissions.
k. Mailing Test. The mailer must complete a test during which eVS manifest files are transmitted and mailings are made to determine the accuracy of the mailer's system.
l. Mailing Agreement. The mailer must enter into an eVS manifest mailing agreement with the Postal Service.
2.9.6 System Requirements
A mailer using eVS must have or contract with a service provider that has an automated system that produces mail according to USPS standards and calculates postage and extra services fees accurately. The system used for eVS must:
a. Create and submit electronic manifest files as described in Publication 205 and assign a unique file number for each manifest file containing the mailer's customer identification number used for all file transmissions.
b. Produce a manifest file for each mailing or mailing segment deposited at a destination Postal Service facility or entry Post Office as identified by ZIP Code.
c. Provide all required data in each manifest record for each parcel for the destination Postal Service facility or entry Post Office.
d. Assign each parcel a unique package identification code used for producing a corresponding unique barcode containing a customer identification number.
e. Transmit electronic manifest files on or before the date of mailing.
2.9.7 Postage Payment
All eVS mailings must be paid with a permit imprint and meet the standards for permit imprint mail in 604.5.0. USPS calculates postage payment and electronically debits postage from the mailer's postage account based on information received from the mailer's electronic manifest and data collected through USPS operational and sampling scans. Mailers must pay for postage through a Centralized Account Payment System (CAPS) debit account.
2.9.8 Verification and Postage Adjustments
USPS randomly samples parcels and considers verification samples to be representative of the entire mailing period. Verification data is used to make the following monthly adjustments for postage due, collected on the 21st day after the last day of the month of mailing:
a. Postage Adjustment Factor (PAF) Payment. USPS applies postage adjustment calculations, based on verification samples, to all pieces mailed during the mailing period. A mailing period is defined as a calendar month for purposes of calculating adjustments in eVS. USPS adjusts the total postage for the mailing period if the total postage of the pieces sampled during the mailing period results in an underpayment greater than 1.5%. The mailer must pay postage for any underpayments identified by USPS verification. The mailer must maintain sufficient funds in the mailer's postage account to cover any underpayments discovered after acceptance of the mail.
b. Unmanifested Parcel Payment. The mailer is responsible for postage payment of unmanifested parcels. Unmanifested parcels are those parcels for which the Postal Service has obtained information from scanning operations but has not received or successfully processed manifest files and records corresponding to the parcels. The mailer must pay postage for unmanifested parcels or pieces identified by USPS. The mailer must maintain sufficient funds in the mailer's postage account to cover postage due discovered after acceptance of the mail.
c. Mis-shipped DDU Parcel Payment. The mailer is responsible for postage payment of destination delivery unit (DDU) mis-shipped parcels. DDU Misshipped parcels are DDU price parcels delivered to the incorrect Postal Service facility by the mailer and transported by the Postal Service to the correct facility. The mailer must pay postage for DDU mis-shipped parcels identified by USPS. The mailer must maintain sufficient funds in the mailer's postage account to cover postage due discovered after acceptance of the mail.
2.9.9 Authorization
Mailers must be authorized to participate in eVS according to the following procedures:
a. Mailers must meet the general requirements and system requirements for eVS and submit an eVS application and supporting documentation as specified in Publication 205, Electronic Verification System Technical Guide, to the Business Mailer Support manager, USPS Headquarters (see 608.8.0 for address).
b. After mailers successfully complete development and testing for eVS, the USPS grants temporary approval. USPS conducts a review within 90 days of the temporary approval and grants final approval if the mailer's system is working as required. The Business Mailer Support manager, USPS Headquarters, has final authority for eVS approval.
c. After receiving final authorization, the mailer and a USPS representative must sign a service agreement. The agreement contains provisions regarding mailer and USPS responsibilities, including electronic documentation, document retention, quality control, and the duration of the agreement.
2.9.10 Denial
If USPS denies an eVS application, the mailer may appeal the decision within 15 days from the receipt of the notice by filing a written appeal, including evidence showing why the mailer should be authorized to use eVS. The mailer sends the appeal to the Business Mail Acceptance manager, USPS Headquarters, who issues the final agency decision (see 608.8.0 for address).
2.9.11 Revocation
The Business Mailer Support manager may revoke authorization for eVS participation for any of the following reasons:
a. A mailer does not provide correct data in electronic manifests and is not able or willing to correct the problems.
b. A mailer does not properly complete the required quality control procedures.
c. A mailer does not produce mailings meeting eVS criteria established by this standard or in the mailer's eVS manifest mailing agreement.
d. A mailer does not present mailings using eVS for more than 6 months (except as noted in the service agreement).
e. A mailer does not present properly prepared mailings.
f. A mailer does not pay proper postage.
2.9.12 Corrective Action
After USPS issues a notice of revocation to a mailer, the mailer and the USPS determine corrective actions, including an implementation schedule. At the conclusion of the implementation period, the USPS reexamines the mailer's system to determine if it complies with the program requirements. Failure to correct identified problems is sufficient grounds to sustain revocation of the mailer's eVS authorization.
2.9.13 Appeal of Revocation
After receiving initial notice of revocation, a mailer has 15 days from the date of receipt of the revocation notice to file a written appeal with the Business Mail Acceptance manager, USPS Headquarters. The appeal must include the reason the eVS authorization should not be revoked. The mailer may continue to mail using eVS during the appeal process. The Business Mail Acceptance manager issues the final agency decision. The final revocation takes effect 15 days after the date of the final agency decision.
3.0 Optional Procedure Mailing System
3.1 Basic Information
3.1.1 Description
An Optional Procedure Mailing System is a method of verifying and accepting First-Class Mail, Standard Mail, Package Services, or Parcel Select paid by permit imprint. Mailings may consist of identical-weight or nonidentical-weight pieces. The Optional Procedure Mailing System reviews a mailer's financial, production, and other business records in lieu of standard weight verification procedures. Postage verification is normally completed by a USPS audit of business records kept by the mailer. A USPS audit is designed to detect underpayment of postage. The burden rests with the mailer to prove any overpayment of postage.
3.1.2 General Qualification
An Optional Procedure Mailing System is authorized when all of the following conditions are met: The mailer's plant is operating and mailing when the application is submitted.
a. The mailer's records provide a sound audit trail that ensures proper postage is collected.
b. Mailings qualify as permit imprint mailings under the applicable standards.
c. The administering Post Office or district can provide trained, qualified employees during the mailer's hours of mailing operations.
3.1.3 Quality Control
The mailer must implement a documented quality control program that ensures integrity of the system, accuracy and proper maintenance of Optional Procedure records, eligibility of the mailings prepared for the postage prices claimed, and ability to take corrective actions.
3.1.4 Service Agreement
A service agreement must be signed by the mailer, the postmaster, the district manager, and the Business Mailer Support manager before the first Optional Procedure mailing is presented. Before the service agreement is finalized the mailer must submit an Optional Procedure Mailing System application and that application must be approved under the procedures in 3.2. The agreement must set forth, among other things, the mailing information described in 3.2.3 and 3.2.5.
3.2 Authorization
3.2.1 Application
The mailer must submit an Optional Procedure Mailing System application to the postmaster at the office of mailing. Publication 407, Optional Procedure (OP) Mailing System, available through business mail entry units and www.usps.com, contains an application and detailed information about mailer standards, responsibilities, and qualifying criteria. The mailer must submit, as part of the application, a complete sample job with all records to be part of the audit trail identified and labeled; a detailed explanation of how each record supports the number of pieces and presort level price of postage claimed on the postage statements; and a detailed description of current internal quality control procedures as they relate to production and presentation of mailing.
3.2.2 Business Mailer Support Action
The Business Mailer Support manager, USPS Headquarters, approves or denies applications for Optional Procedure Mailing Systems.
3.2.3 Approval
When the application is approved, a written service agreement is signed between the USPS and the mailer to specify the types of mailings that may be mailed under the Optional Procedure Mailing System (e.g., the classes of mail, processing categories, permit numbers to be used, and whether the mailer is authorized to mail identical-weight and/or nonidentical-weight pieces).
3.2.4 Authorization Period
Authorization remains in effect until such time as the Business Mailer Support manager or the mailer cancels the agreement. If Postal Service periodic reviews or mailer supplied information demonstrates a need for modification of the agreement, then the authorization will be modified with concurrence by the Business Mailer Support manager and the mailer.
3.2.5 Denial
If the application is denied, the denial is effective 15 days from the mailer's receipt of the notice unless, within that time, the mailer files a written appeal with the Business Mailer Support manager. The appeal must present additional information explaining why the Optional Procedure application should be approved. If the manager determines that the application should be denied, the file is forwarded to the Marketing and Technology Channel Management manager, USPS Headquarters, who will issue the final agency decision to the mailer.
3.2.6 Changes
If the mailer proposes to change the method of presenting or documenting mailings from that specified in the agreement, or the mailer is no longer able to comply with the standards that apply to the authorization, the mailer must immediately notify the Business Mailer Support manager, through the postmaster of the administering Post Office. The Business Mailer Support manager will notify the mailer in writing if the Optional Procedure agreement should be modified, continued, or canceled.
3.2.7 Additions or Modifications to the Service Agreement
If the mailer requests additional options or modifications to the Optional Procedure agreement, the mailer must submit a written request to the Business Mailer Support manager stating the requested change or modification and complete documentation supporting each change or modification. The mailer's request must be submitted before the change or modification is made. Changes to the Optional Procedure service agreement cannot be made until the Business Mailer Support manager has notified the mailer in writing that the changes or modifications have been approved and an addendum is added to the Optional Procedure service agreement.
3.2.8 USPS Suspension
The Business Mailer Support manager may suspend an Optional Procedure Mailing System at any time, pending review, when there is an indication that postal revenue is not fully protected. The Business Mailer Support manager will notify the mailer in writing of the decision. The suspension becomes effective upon the mailer's receipt of the notification.
3.2.9 Mailer Cancellation
The mailer may cancel an Optional Procedure Mailing System authorization at any time by written notice to the administering Post Office.
3.2.10 USPS Cancellation
The USPS may cancel an Optional Procedure Mailing System authorization if:
a. The mailer provides misleading or incorrect data to avoid paying postage, makes no mailings under the Optional Procedure agreement during any consecutive 12-month period, or routinely fails to comply with the Optional Procedure agreement or the standards applicable to the Optional Procedure Mailing System.
b. An audit reveals that the Optional Procedure Mailing System agreement should no longer be authorized or the mailer is not complying with the agreement.
3.2.11 Cancellation Notice and Appeal
The cancellation takes effect 15 days from the mailer's receipt of the notice unless, within that time, the mailer files a written appeal with the Business Mailer Support manager. The appeal must present additional information explaining why the Optional Procedure Mailing System authorization should not be canceled. If the Business Mailer Support manager does not uphold the appeal, the appeal letter, additional information, and the complete record underlying the decision to cancel the authorization are forwarded to the Marketing and Technology Channel Management manager, USPS Headquarters, who issues the final agency decision to the mailer.
3.3 Records
3.3.1 Mailer Responsibility
The mailer must submit accurate postage statements and keep accurate records. The mailer must prepare a complete record for each mailing, label all component records as they are created with the mailing (and/or order) to which they relate, and keep it at a central location for 1 year. Records used for verification of Optional Procedure mailings must be records that are also routinely kept for production of other than Optional Procedure mailings.
3.3.2 Mailer Running Summary
The mailer must maintain a running summary of mailings made to the USPS. The summary must include the permit number, date of mailing, postage statement sequence number, total pieces, weight of a single piece (or weight ranges of nonidentical-weight pieces), and the total weight and total postage for each mailing. For plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS) mailings the grand totals from the consolidated postage statement are entered on the summary.
3.3.3 Contents
Each mailing record must contain a sample of the mailpiece, the corresponding postage statement, and source documents required for the audit trail as specified in the mailer's Optional Procedure agreement.
4.0 Alternate Mailing System
4.1 Basic Information
4.1.1 Purpose
An Alternate Mailing System (AMS) provides for other methods of accepting permit imprint mail, not established in 2.0, Manifest Mailing System, or 3.0, Optional Procedure Mailing System, that show proper postage payment and mail preparation without verification by weight.
4.1.2 Postage Adjustment
Underpayments identified during USPS verification may require a postage adjustment. Verification samples are considered to be representative of the entire mailing and postage adjustment calculations are applied to the total mailing. The total corrected postage for the entire mailing is deducted from the mailer's permit imprint advance deposit account.
4.2 Authorization
4.2.1 Procedure
A mailer may request authorization to pay postage by an AMS by submitting a written request to the postmaster at the office of mailing. The request must include a complete description of the types of matter to be mailed, the proposed method of paying postage, the proposed method to determine correct mail preparation, and a statement of the reasons for requesting the alternate system. The USPS may review the mailer's operation before ruling on the application.
4.2.2 Conditions
The conditions of authorization are:
a. Authorization to use AMS must benefit the USPS.
b. Authorization to use AMS must include a signed AMS agreement.
c. An AMS agreement must specify the terms and conditions of the AMS.
d. All postage must be paid by permit imprint unless otherwise permitted in writing by the Business Mailer Support manager.
e. There must be no additional cost to the USPS for an AMS agreement beyond the costs of current mail acceptance procedures for the mail in question.
f. The mailer must implement a quality control program that ensures proper mail preparation and accurate documentation, subject to USPS approval. The service agreement must include details of this program. Each AMS mailing must include a statement from the mailer certifying that the approved quality control verification is done.
4.2.3 Business Mailer Support Action
The Business Mailer Support manager approves or denies a written request for AMS.
4.2.4 Approval
If the application is approved, a service agreement must be signed by the USPS and the mailer.
4.2.5 Authorization Period
Authorization remains in effect until such time as the Business Mailer Support manager or the mailer cancels the agreement. If Postal Service periodic reviews or mailer supplied information demonstrates a need for modification of the agreement, then the authorization will be modified with concurrence by the Business Mailer Support manager and the mailer.
4.2.6 Denial
If the application is denied the mailer may file a written appeal within 15 days from the receipt of the notice, including additional evidence explaining why the AMS request should be approved, to the Marketing and Technology Channel Management manager, USPS Headquarters, who reviews the appeal and issues the final agency decision.
4.2.7 Revocation
The Business Mailer Support manager may revoke an AMS authorization if the mailer:
a. Provides incorrect data for mailings and appears unable or unwilling to correct all problems.
b. Is not conducting required quality control procedures.
c. No longer meets the criteria established by standard or the AMS agreement.
d. Does not present mailings under AMS for more than 6 months (except under the service agreement).
e. Continues to present mailings improperly prepared or mailings without correct postage.
4.2.8 Notice of Revocation
After a revocation notice is issued, the mailer and the USPS decide on the corrective actions and set up an implementation schedule, after which the USPS reexamines the mailer's system. Failure to correct identified problems is sufficient grounds to revoke a mailer's AMS authorization.
4.2.9 Appeal
Revocation proceeds if the mailer is unable or unwilling to correct the discrepancies found. The mailer may file a written appeal within 15 days from the date of receipt of the notice, which includes evidence explaining why the AMS authorization should not be revoked. The appeal must be filed with the Business Mailer Support manager for referral to the Marketing and Technology Channel Management manager, USPS Headquarters, who issues the final agency decision. The mailer may continue to present mail under the AMS pending a decision on appeal. The revocation decision takes effect 15 days after receipt by the mailer.
5.0 First-Class Mail or Standard Mail Mailings With Different Payment Methods
5.1 Basic Provisions
5.1.1 General
After specific USPS authorization, a mailer may prepare separate First-Class Mail or Standard Mail letter-size automation price mailings that each contain pieces paid with more than one of the three authorized methods of postage payment (permit imprint, meter stamp, or precanceled stamp) or that contain pieces having different prices of postage affixed or multiple ounces of First-Class Mail permit imprint mail or nonidentical-weight permit imprint mail. For this standard, mailer or presenter is the entity preparing the combined mailing and presenting it to the USPS. All standards applying to each method of payment apply in a combined mailing, unless excepted below.
5.1.2 Postage Payment
Postage that is due to the USPS for permit imprint mail and additional postage for postage-affixed pieces is paid through the mailer's advance deposit account.
5.1.3 Value Added
To request value added refunds of postage overpayments for the metered part of combined mailings, see 604.9.0.
5.1.4 Mailer Processing
The mailer must have an automated mailing system that can be shown to correctly produce automation price letter-size mailings under the applicable standards and accurately compute and document the postage due.
5.1.5 Authorization Process
To be authorized to prepare automation price combined letter-size mailings, a mailer must submit a written request to the postmaster serving the mailer's production plant. This request must:
a. Identify the postage payment methods to be combined, the prices of postage to be affixed to precanceled stamped or metered pieces, and, for First-Class Mail, the weight increments of pieces to be combined.
b. Describe all steps in the automated mailing system to be used to prepare combined mailings. Include a flow chart showing how jobs are handled from the time received from clients or other departments through the time the combined mailing is presented to the Post Office for verification and acceptance.
c. Include samples of all reports that the mailing system can generate. Number and annotate samples to describe step-by-step how the data are obtained and how each data element is supported and can be verified. Describe at which step in the mailing operation the reports may be generated, and how the reports relate to each other and to the preparation of postage statements.
d. Describe how rejects are handled during mail preparation.
e. Describe in detail internal quality control procedures that ensure that mailings are properly prepared, that postage statement and supporting data are accurate, and that correct postage is paid. Submit copies of quality control instructions and checklists used.
5.1.6 On-Site Review
The USPS examines the mailer's operation as part of the application process. During the on-site review, the mailer must:
a. Produce a controlled test mailing with supporting documentation.
b. Show that internal quality control procedures are satisfactorily administered.
c. Show that the mailing system provides acceptable documentation by which the USPS can verify postage statement data.
5.1.7 Interim Authorization
If the mailer meets standards, the USPS grants a 90-day interim authorization to prepare combined mailings. During this time, USPS monitors the mailer's system to ensure continued compliance with all applicable standards.
5.1.8 Final Authorization
At the end of the 90-day interim authorization, if the mailer's program meets all applicable standards, Business Mailer Support prepares a detailed authorization for the mailer to follow in preparing combined mailings. The mailer must give advance written notice to Business Mailer Support regarding any planned changes to the system used to prepare combined mailings.
5.1.9 Authorization Period
Authorization remains in effect until such time as the Business Mailer Support manager or the mailer cancels the agreement. If Postal Service periodic reviews or mailer supplied information demonstrates a need for modification of the agreement, then the authorization will be modified with concurrence by the Business Mailer Support manager and the mailer.
5.1.10 Denial
If an application is denied, the mailer may, within 15 days from receipt of the notice, file a written appeal, including additional evidence explaining why the request should be approved, to the Marketing and Technology Channel Management manager, USPS Headquarters, who issues the final agency decision.
5.1.11 Suspension
The Business Mailer Support manager may suspend a combined mailing system agreement at any time, pending investigation, if the manager finds that postage is not being fully paid or mail is not being prepared according to standards. The decision to suspend the agreement may be appealed to the Marketing and Technology Channel Management manager, USPS Headquarters, within 15 days of the receipt of the notice, by submitting a written appeal with explanation. The suspension remains in effect during the appeal. A suspension is ended when the mailer comes into compliance.
5.1.12 Cancellation by USPS
The USPS may cancel an authorization to prepare combined mailings at any time if the mailer:
a. Provides misleading or incorrect data to avoid payment of postage.
b. Makes no combined mailings under the agreement during any consecutive 12-month period.
c. Fails to comply with applicable standards or the agreement, including required quality control procedures, and does not make changes to comply after USPS notification.
5.1.13 Cancellation Procedure
If the USPS decides to cancel an authorization, cancellation becomes effective 15 days from the mailer's receipt of the notice, unless the mailer files a written appeal within that time with the Business Mailer Support manager. The appeal must include additional information explaining why the combined mailing authorization should not be canceled. If the manager denies the appeal, both the appeal and the additional information are sent to the Marketing and Technology Channel Management manager, USPS Headquarters, who issues the final agency decision.
5.1.14 Cancellation by Mailer
The mailer may cancel an authorization to prepare combined mailings at any time by notifying the administering Post Office in writing.
5.2 Postage
5.2.1 Metered Pieces—First-Class Mail
Metered pieces in a combined mailing must bear postage for the first ounce at the Presorted price or at an automation price for which the pieces are eligible and, if applicable, the full amount of postage due for additional ounces. Additional postage due for metered pieces in a combined mailing is deducted from the mailer's postage due advance deposit account. Full postage at single-piece First-Class Mail prices must be paid on accompanying single-piece price mail using one of the methods under 134.1.0. Additional preparation to verify postage due may be required by the USPS.
5.2.2 Metered Pieces—Standard Mail
Metered pieces in a combined mailing must bear postage at a Presorted or automation price for which the pieces are eligible. Additional postage due for metered pieces in a combined mailing is deducted from the mailer's postage due advance deposit account. Full postage at single-piece First-Class Mail prices must be paid on accompanying single-piece price mail using one of the methods under 243.3.0, 705.5.0, and 134.1.0. Additional preparation to verify postage due may be required by the USPS.
5.2.3 Precanceled Pieces—First-Class Mail
Pieces with precanceled stamps in a combined mailing must not weigh more than 1 ounce and must bear postage in any denomination of precanceled stamps permitted in a Presorted or automation price mailing. Additional postage due for precanceled stamp pieces in a combined mailing is deducted from the mailer's postage due advance deposit account. Full postage at the single-piece First-Class Mail price must be paid on accompanying single-piece price mail using one of the methods under 134.1.0. Additional preparation to verify postage due may be required by the USPS.
5.2.4 Precanceled Pieces—Standard Mail
Pieces with precanceled stamps in a combined mailing must bear postage in any denomination of precanceled stamp permitted in an automation price mailing. Nonprofit postage may appear only on pieces in a Nonprofit price mailing that are eligible for and claimed at a Nonprofit price. Additional postage due for precanceled stamp pieces in a combined mailing is deducted from the mailer's postage due advance deposit account. Full postage at single-piece First-Class Mail prices must be paid on accompanying single-piece price mail using one of the methods under 243.3.0, 243.5.0, or 134.1.0. Additional preparation to verify postage due may be required by the USPS.
5.2.5 Permit Imprint Pieces—First-Class Mail and Standard Mail
Pieces in a combined mailing may bear the permit imprint of the mailer or the mailer's clients. Postage for the permit imprint part of a combined mailing must be paid from the mailer's permit imprint advance deposit account. Postage is deducted only from this account, regardless of the permit numbers or company permit imprints on pieces in a combined mailing. Full postage at single-piece First-Class Mail prices must be paid on accompanying single-piece price mail using one of the methods under 134.1.0 and, for Standard Mail, 243.3.0 and 243.5.0. Additional preparation to verify postage due may be required by the USPS.
5.3 Producing the Combined Mailing
5.3.1 Mailer Quality Control
Before merging different pieces into a combined presorted mailing, the mailer must have quality control procedures to ensure that:
b. Meter impressions are legible.
c. Permits and licenses are current at office of mailing.
d. In First-Class Mail mailings, full postage on 2-ounce and 3-ounce metered and precanceled stamped pieces is affixed for the ounces in addition to postage for the first ounce at a price acceptable for inclusion in the mailing.
e. In Standard Mail mailings, full postage is affixed at a price acceptable for inclusion in the mailing.
f. Barcodes meet all applicable standards.
g. Mailings are prepared under the relevant standards.
h. Source mailing information (on client, job, or segment) is entered accurately into the automated mailing system.
i. When markings are applied by an MLOCR, they properly show the applicable identifier/price code described in 5.3.2 that specifies the product month designator, MASS/FASTforward system identifier, the method of postage payment, and the price of postage affixed for metered and precanceled stamp mail or other postage information for permit imprint mail. These markings must be linked by the computer system to the price entered by the mailer when the pieces are run through the MLOCR.
5.3.2 Price and Postage Marking
The following markings must be applied to each piece in the mailing when markings are applied by an MLOCR. These seven-character markings provide the automation price marking information and additional information including the product month designator, MASS/FASTforward (FF) system identifier, manufacturer code, and price marking information. The product month designator is the first character position and represents the product month of the USPS ZIP+4 Product installed with the system's lookup engine responsible for the ZIP+4 assignment. Each product month is designated by a character "A" through "L" (with "A" meaning January, "B" meaning February, etc.). The MASS/FF System Identifier is characters 2 through 4 and represents the certified system identifier responsible for the ZIP+4 assignment. There is a one-to-one relationship between the certified system serial number and the assigned identifier. The manufacturer code is the fifth character and is assigned at the manufacturer's discretion with one exception: the character "Z" is assigned when the mailpiece contains a delivery point barcode in the address block and the MLOCR does not perform a lookup but simply reproduces the address block barcode. The price marking is represented in the last two characters according to the chart below. The applicable marking must appear on each mailpiece in one of the locations authorized under 202 for letters, 302 for flats, or 402 for parcels.
b. Standard Mail (letters only):
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Barcoded 5‑Digit Meter Regular Postage Affixed* |
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Barcoded 5‑Digit Meter Nonprofit Postage Affixed* |
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Barcoded 3‑Digit Meter Regular Postage Affixed* |
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Barcoded 3‑Digit Meter Nonprofit Postage Affixed* |
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Barcoded AADC Meter Regular Postage Affixed* |
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Barcoded AADC Meter Nonprofit Postage Affixed* |
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Barcoded Mixed AADC Meter Regular Postage Affixed* |
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Barcoded Mixed AADC Meter Nonprofit Postage Affixed* |
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Machinable AADC Meter Regular Postage Affixed* |
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Machinable AADC Meter Nonprofit Postage Affixed* |
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Machinable Mixed AADC Meter Regular Postage Affixed* |
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Machinable Mixed AADC Meter Meter Nonprofit Postage Affixed* |
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5.3.3 Merging Methods and Documentation
During the initial count of each source mailing (i.e., the quantity of mail originated by each of the mailer's clients) by the mailer's automated mailing system, pieces must be grouped by payment method (and, within each for First-Class Mail, by ounce increment). All pieces within each postage-affixed group must have the same amount of postage affixed (for First-Class Mail, the same amount of postage must be affixed for the first ounce). The mailer must keep records of each source that was merged in the combined mailing to allow the USPS to identify each source, the number of pieces by postage payment method, and, within each, by ounce increment (for First-Class Mail), or by amount of postage affixed (for Standard Mail). The mailer must keep these records (in the form of computer-generated printouts or computer media approved by Business Mailer Support) in a central location for 90 days after the mailing date of the combined mailing.
5.3.4 Rejected Pieces
Pieces rejected for any reason by the mailer's automated sorting system and pulled out of the combined mailing stream must be identified by the mailer, specifically accounted for in documentation, and:
a. If postage-affixed, bear postage or have additional postage affixed to equal a price no lower than:
1. For First-Class Mail, the correct Presorted First-Class Mail.
2. For Standard Mail, the correct 5-Digit or AADC (as applicable) Presorted Standard Mail price for letters.
b. If paid by permit imprint, separately presented to the USPS for verification of postage.
5.4 Documentation
5.4.1 Submission
Mailers are required to submit or generate the following reports:
For each First-Class Mail or Standard Mail combined mailing, the mailer must provide these materials:
a. For each postage payment method, a complete and accurate postage statement endorsed "Combined Mailing" at the top.
2. The USPS qualification report in standardized format detailing by ZIP Code the number of pieces qualifying for each price by presort level. If plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS) is used for Standard Mail, a separate USPS qualification report must be generated for each entry destination.
3. The USPS Summary ZIP Destination report in one of two standardized formats that lists by tray destination and price category: each mail category, postage payment type, weight, and price affixed (report all postage affixed First-Class Mail pieces as weighing one ounce); number of pieces; dollar amount of postage affixed to those pieces; cumulative postage affixed; total postage; net postage due; cumulative postage due; and a running total of the number of pieces. If plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS) is used for Standard Mail, a separate USPS Summary ZIP Destination report must be generated for each entry destination. This report is not required if there is only one metered price in the mailing. Business Mailer Support may authorize submission of only portions of this report.
4. The USPS Postage Summary in a standardized format. This report shows, by type of payment method, the total postage claimed for all pieces in the mailing by price level and the total postage affixed by price level. It also shows a grand total summary of postage affixed, postage claimed, and total postage due. If plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS) is used for Standard Mail, a separate USPS Postage Summary report must be generated for each entry destination.
5. Other documentation that may be required by other standards for the price claimed.
b. The USPS Customer Mail Report must be generated for each mailing but is required to be submitted to the USPS only when requested by USPS personnel for the resolution of errors (shortpaid and potential MLOCR profiling) detected in a specific mailing. The Customer Mail Report must list each customer by name and provide the following information about their mail: price affixed, mail category including postage payment type, weight, total postage, postage affixed, number of pieces, cumulative number of pieces, number of pieces rejected, and total pieces fed.
5.4.2 Permit Imprint
To prepare the postage statement for permit imprint pieces, the mailer multiplies the number of such pieces qualifying for each price level (and, for First-Class Mail, in each weight increment) (as documented by the mailer) by the corresponding price. The result is the net postage due for the permit imprint part of the combined mailing. If the mailing contains nonidentical-weight permit imprint pieces, the postage statement must be so annotated.
5.4.3 Postage Affixed
In completing the separate postage statements for postage-affixed pieces:
a. Multiply the number of pieces at each price level (which, for First-Class Mail, are treated as weighing 1 ounce or less, regardless of actual weight) by the corresponding price of postage. The product is the postage due before adjustments are made for the value of postage affixed to those pieces.
b. Multiply the amount of postage (or, for First-Class Mail only, first ounce postage) affixed by the number of pieces at each amount, to determine the total postage already paid.
c. Set the amount paid against the amount due to find the postage to be paid by or to the mailer for the postage-affixed pieces.
5.4.4 Reporting Results
Any additional postage due is paid through the mailer's advance deposit account for combined mailings. A "value added" refund of any overpayment of meter postage may be requested under 604.9.0.
6.0 Combining Mailings of Standard Mail, Package Services, and Parcel Select Parcels
6.1 Basic Standards for Combining Parcels and NFMs
6.1.1 Basic Standards
Standard Mail parcels, NFMs, Package Services, and Parcel Select parcels in combined mailings must meet the following standards:
a. Each parcel in a combined mailing is subject to the applicable content and price eligibility standards for the price claimed.
b. Mailers must be authorized under 6.1.4.
c. Mailers must pay all applicable presort mailing and destination entry mailing fees.
d. Minimum volume requirements for Standard Mail, Parcel Select, Presorted Bound Printed Matter, Presorted Library Mail, and Presorted Media Mail must be met separately and are based solely on the quantity of pieces eligible for each price at the required presort level. Pieces claimed at other prices in the same sack or on the same pallet do not count towards these minimum volume requirements.
6.1.2 Postage Payment
Mailers must pay postage for all pieces with a permit imprint at the Post Office serving the mailer's plant using an approved postage payment system. The applicable system agreement must include procedures for combined mailings approved by Business Mailer Support. Types of permissible postage payment systems are as follows:
a. Manifest Mailing System (MMS) under 2.0. Mailers may document and pay postage using the Electronic Verification System (eVS) under 2.9.
b. Optional Procedure (OP) Mailing System under 3.0.
c. Alternate Mailing System (AMS) under 4.0.
6.1.3 Documentation
Mailers must prepare separate postage statements for Standard Mail, Package Services, and Parcel Select pieces for each of the mailings in the combined mailing. At the time of mailing, mailers must provide all postage statements and a Business Mailer Support-approved manifest prepared according to 2.0 and this section. Presort documentation is required as applicable for each price claimed if the manifest does not list pieces in presort order.
6.1.4 Authorization
A mailer who wants to present combined parcel mailings must submit a written request to Business Mailer Support (See 608.8.1 for address). The request must show the mailer's name and address, the mailing office, evidence of authorization to mail under 2.0, procedures for combined mailing, the expected date of first mailing, a sample of the required manifest, and a sample USPS Qualification report. Business Mailer Support will review documentation and provide written authorization, which may not exceed 2 years. A mailer may terminate an authorization at any time by written notice to the postmaster of the office serving the mailer's location. Business Mailer Support may terminate an authorization, by written notice, if the mailer does not meet the standards.
6.2 Combining Parcels and NFMs—DBMC Entry
Mailers may combine Standard Mail NFMs 6 ounces or more and machinable parcels with Package Services and Parcel Select machinable parcels for entry at a BMC when authorized by the USPS under 6.1.4.
6.2.1 Eligible Prices
Combined pieces may be eligible for Standard Mail, Parcel Post, Parcel Select DBMC/ASF, single-piece and Presorted Media Mail, single-piece and Presorted Library Mail, Bound Printed Matter DBMC, and single-piece and Presorted Bound Printed Matter prices. Mailers may not combine Carrier Route Bound Printed Matter with other parcels.
6.2.2 Additional Standards
Standard Mail machinable parcels, NFMs 6 ounces or more, and Package Services and Parcel Select machinable parcels prepared for DBMC entry must meet the following conditions in addition to the basic standards in 6.1:
a. Each piece in a combined Standard Mail, Package Services, and Parcel Select mailing must meet the criteria for machinable parcels in 401.1.5 or the criteria in 401.2.2.2 for NFMs 6 ounces or more.
b. Parcel Select machinable parcels must bear a barcode under 708.5.0 for the ZIP Code of the delivery address.
c. Parcels may be claimed at single-piece, Presorted, and DBMC/ASF destination entry prices as applicable.
d. Mailers must prepare all parcels in sacks under 6.2.3, or on pallets or in pallet boxes under 8.0, to achieve the finest level of sortation.
e. Mailers must deposit combined machinable parcels and NFMs at BMCs or ASFs (see Exhibit 6.2.3) under applicable standards in 15.0.
6.2.3 Sacking and Labeling
[7-1-09] Preparation sequence, sack size, and labeling:
a. 5-digit scheme, optional, but required for Standard Mail 5-digit price eligibility, 10-piece or 20-pound minimum; labeling:
1. Line 1: use L606.
2. Line 2: "STD/PSVC MACH 5D SCH."
b. 5-digit, optional, but required for Standard Mail 5-digit price eligibility, 10-piece or 20-pound minimum; labeling:
1. Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on mail (see 8.6.4 for overseas military mail).
2. Line 2: "STD/PSVC MACH 5D."
c. ASF, optional, allowed only for mail deposited at an ASF to claim DBMC price, 10-piece or 20-pound minimum; labeling:
1. Line 1: use L602, Column B. DBMC price eligibility determined by Exhibit 6.2.3.
2. Line 2: "STD/PSVC MACH ASF."
d. BMC, required, 10-piece or 20-pound minimum; labeling:
1. Line 1: use L601, Column B. DBMC price eligibility determined by Exhibit 6.2.3.
2. Line 2: "STD/PSVC MACH BMC."
e. Mixed BMC, required, no minimum; labeling:
1. Line 1: "MXD" followed by L601 Column B information for BMC serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry Post Office.
2. Line 2: "STD/PSVC MACH WKG."
Exhibit 6.2.3 BMC/ASF—DBMC Price Eligibility
6.3 Combining Parcels—Parcel Select OBMC Presort, BMC Presort, DSCF, and DDU Prices
6.3.1 Qualification
Combination requirements for specific discounts and prices are as follows:
a. When claiming Parcel Select OBMC Presort discounts, machinable Standard Mail parcels and NFMs weighing 6 ounces or more may be combined with machinable Package Services parcels under 6.3 only if the mailpieces are palletized and each pallet or pallet box contains a 200-pound minimum.
b. When claiming Parcel Select BMC Presort discounts, machinable Standard Mail parcels and NFMs weighing 6 ounces or more may be combined with machinable Package Services parcels under 6.3 only if the mailpieces are palletized and each pallet or pallet box contains a 200 pound minimum.
c. When claiming the DSCF price for Parcel Select, Bound Printed Matter parcels, all Standard Mail parcels and NFMs may be combined with Package Services and Parcel Select parcels under 6.3.
d. All Standard Mail parcels and NFMs may be combined with Package Services and Parcel Select parcels prepared for DDU prices under 6.3.
6.3.2 Preparation and Prices
Combined parcels must be prepared as follows:
a. Minimum Mailing Volume. Separate minimum mailing volume requirements must be met for Standard Mail parcels, Package Services, and for Parcel Select parcels.
b. Parcel Select or Bound Printed Matter Qualifying for DSCF Prices. Mailers must prepare the combined mailings under the applicable 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sack requirements in 455.4.2 or the applicable 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallet requirements in 8.0 for the Parcel Select DSCF prices. All other requirements for Parcel Select DSCF prices and Standard Mail prices, as applicable, must be met. The following additional requirements apply:
1. If sacked under 455.4.2, the minimum requirement of seven pieces per sack must be met with only Package Services and Parcel Select parcels. After the minimum sack volume has been met, Standard Mail parcels may be included in the sack or in overflow sacks.
2. If palletized under the option to prepare 5-digit scheme or 5-digit pallets when there are at least 50 pieces and 250 pounds per pallet, this pallet minimum must be met with only Package Services and Parcel Select parcels. After the minimum pallet volume has been met, Standard Mail parcels may be included on the pallet or in overflow sacks.
3. If palletized under the alternate pallet preparation where no pallet may contain fewer than 35 pieces and 200 pounds provided the average number of pieces on pallets qualifying for the DSCF price is at least 50, Standard Mail parcels may not be combined with Package Services and Parcel Select parcels.
4. If palletized under the option to prepare 5-digit scheme or 5-digit pallets under the 36-inch-high (mail only) pallet minimum, any combination of Standard Mail, Package Services, and Parcel Select parcels may be used to meet the minimum pallet height requirement.
5. Line 2 of 5-digit scheme pallet and sack labels must read: "STD/PSVC MACH 5D SCH." Line 2 of 5-digit pallet and sack labels must read: "STD/PSVC MACH 5D."
6. Standard Mail parcels are eligible for presorted prices according to 443.
c. Parcel Select Qualifying for OBMC Presort or BMC Presort Prices. Mailers must prepare the combined mailings under the BMC pallet requirements in 8.0 for machinable parcels at Parcel Select OBMC Presort or BMC Presort prices. All other requirements for Parcel Select OBMC Presort or BMC Presort prices and Standard Mail prices must be met. The following additional requirements apply:
1. The minimum height requirement for each pallet or pallet box on a pallet may be met using any combination of Standard Mail, Package Services, and Parcel Select parcels.
2. Line 2 of BMC pallet box labels must read: "STD/PSVC MACH BMC."
d. Package Services, Parcel Select, and Standard Mail parcels and NFMs qualifying for DDU prices:
1. The combined mailings must be prepared under the applicable 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sack requirements in 445.4.0 or the applicable 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallet requirements in 8.22 for the Parcel Select or Bound Printed Matter DDU prices.
2. Line 2 of 5-digit scheme container labels must read, "STD/PSVC PARCELS 5D SCH." Line 2 of 5-digit container labels must read, "STD/PSVC PARCELS 5D."
6.4 Combining Package Services, Parcel Select, and Standard Mail—Optional 3-Digit SCF Entry
6.4.1 Entry at Designated SCFs
Mailers may deposit pieces otherwise eligible for the Package Services, Parcel Select, and Standard Mail DBMC prices and the Standard Mail DSCF price at an SCF designated by the USPS for destination ZIP Codes listed in labeling list L607.
6.4.2 Qualification and Preparation
Parcel Select and Bound Printed Matter machinable parcels, and Standard Mail parcels and NFM pieces, may be prepared for entry at designated SCFs under these standards:
a. Standard Mail parcels and NFM pieces that weigh less than 2 ounces and Standard Mail parcels that are tubes, rolls, triangles, and similar pieces may not be included.
b. Mailers must prepare pieces on 3-digit pallets or in 3-digit pallet boxes, or unload and physically separate the pieces into containers as specified by the destination facility.
c. Parcel Select and Bound Printed Matter parcels are eligible for the applicable DBMC entry price.
d. Standard Mail machinable parcels and NFMs 6 ounces or more are eligible for the BMC presort level, DBMC price; NFM pieces less than 6 ounces and irregular parcels are eligible for the 3-digit presort level, DSCF price.
e. All pieces must be for delivery within the service area of the SCF where they are deposited by the mailer.
f. Postage on all zone-priced parcels deposited at the SCF is computed using the zone chart for that postal facility.
7.0 Combining Package Services and Parcel Select Parcels for Destination Entry
7.1 Combining Parcels—DSCF and DDU Entry
7.1.1 Qualification
Mailers may combine Package Services and Parcel Select parcels in 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks or on 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallets for entry either at a destination sectional center facility (DSCF) or a destination delivery unit (DDU) when authorized by the USPS under 7.5. Mailers must pay all applicable fees for presort and drop shipment and must meet the minimum volume requirements for Presort prices and Parcel Select prices. Combined Package Services and Parcel Select mailings must meet the standards in 455.4.0 and 466.3.0 through 466.6.0, except as provided by this section. Mailers may not combine Carrier Route Bound Printed Matter with other parcels under these standards. Parcels entered at SCFs and DDUs under these standards are not eligible for the barcode discount.
7.1.2 Basic Standards
Package Services and Parcel Select parcels that qualify as machinable, nonmachinable, and irregular under 401 and meet the following conditions may be combined in 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks or 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallets under these conditions:
a. Minimum volume requirements for Parcel Select, Presorted Bound Printed Matter, Presorted Library Mail, and Presorted Media Mail must be met separately before combining.
b. Postage must be paid via permit imprint under an approved manifest mailing system as provided in 3.0. For mailings presented under 7.0, mailers may document and pay postage using the Electronic Verification System (eVS) under 2.9.
c. All parcels must be prepared in sacks under 7.2 or on pallets under 7.3. For mail entered at the DSCF prices, pallet preparation is not permitted for 5-digit ZIP Codes that are unable to handle pallets. Refer to the Drop Ship Product maintained by the National Customer Support Center (NCSC) (see 608.8.0 for address) to determine which 5-digit delivery facilities can handle pallets. If a DDU facility cannot handle pallets, and a mailer transports mail to the DDU facility on pallets, the driver will have to unload the pallets into a container specified by the delivery unit.
d. Pieces may be claimed at single-piece prices, Presorted prices, and destination entry prices under 7.2.1 or 7.1.6.
e. Separate postage statements must be prepared for each subclass and destination entry price as appropriate.
f. The deposit of combined Package Services and Parcel Select at a DSCF or DDU must be in accordance with applicable drop shipment standards.
7.1.3 Combined Parcels Prepared in Sacks—Price Eligibility
In addition to the applicable standards in 455.4.0 and 466.3.0 through 466.6.0 for destination entry Parcel Select and Package Services, the following standards apply for combined parcels prepared in sacks:
a. Parcel Select DSCF prices apply to parcels that are contained in 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks, each containing at least 10 pieces of any combination of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.2.2, provided all other requirements for the DSCF price in 453.3.0 and 455.4.2 are met. Parcel Select DDU prices apply to parcels that are contained in 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks, each containing at least 10 pieces of any combination of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.2.2, provided all other requirements for the DDU price in 453.3.0 and 455.4.1 are met.
b. Presorted Bound Printed Matter DSCF prices apply to parcels that are contained in 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks, each containing at least 10 pieces of any combination of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.2.2, provided all other requirements for the DSCF price in 466.3.0 through 466.6.0 are met. Presorted Bound Printed Matter DDU prices apply to parcels that are contained in 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks, each containing at least 10 pieces of any combination of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.2.2, provided all other requirements for the DDU price in 466.3.0 through 466.6.0 are met.
c. Presorted Library Mail 5-digit prices apply to parcels that are contained in 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks, each containing at least 10 pieces of any combination of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.2.2.
d. Presorted Media Mail 5-digit prices apply to parcels that are contained in 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks, each containing at least 10 pieces of any combination of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.2.2.
e. Single-piece price parcels that are contained in 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks, each containing at least 10 pieces of any combination of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.2.2, qualify for single-piece prices.
7.1.4 Sack Preparation
Only 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks may be prepared. Each sack of combined Parcel Select and Package Services mail must contain at least 10 pieces. One overflow sack containing fewer than 10 pieces is permitted per 5-digit scheme and 5-digit destination.
7.1.5 Sack Labeling
Sack labels must be prepared as follows:
a. 5-digit scheme, optional; labeling:
1. Line 1: use L606, Column B.
2. Line 2: "PSVC PARCELS 5D SCH."
1. Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination of pieces.
7.1.6 Combined Parcels Prepared on Pallets—Price Eligibility
In addition to the applicable standards in 455.4.0, Preparing Destination Entry Parcel Select, and 466.3.0 through 466.6.0 in Enter and Deposit for destination entry parcels, the following standards apply for combined parcels prepared on pallets:
a. Parcel Select DSCF prices apply to pieces that are prepared on 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallets, each containing at least 50 pieces and 250 pounds or 36 inches of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.1.8, and deposited at a DSCF under 455.4.0. Parcel Select DDU prices apply to pieces that are prepared on 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallets, each containing at least 50 pieces and 250 pounds or 36 inches of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.1.8, and deposited at a DDU under 455.4.0.
b. Presorted Bound Printed Matter DSCF prices apply to pieces that are prepared on 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallets, each containing at least 50 pieces and 250 pounds or at least 36 inches of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.1.8, and deposited at a DSCF under 466.3.0 through 466.6.0. Presorted Bound Printed Matter DDU prices apply to pieces that are prepared on 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallets, each containing at least 50 pieces and 250 pounds or at least 36 inches of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.1.8, and deposited at a DDU under 466.3.0 through 466.6.0.
c. Presorted Library Mail 5-digit prices apply to pieces that are prepared on 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallets, each containing at least 50 pieces and 250 pounds or 36 inches of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.1.8.
d. Presorted Media Mail 5-digit prices apply to pieces that are prepared on 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallets, each containing at least 50 pieces and 250 pounds or 36 inches of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.1.8.
e. Single-piece price parcels that are prepared on 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallets, each containing at least 50 pieces and 250 pounds or 36 inches of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.1.8, qualify for single-piece prices.
7.1.7 Pallet Preparation
Only 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallets may be prepared. Each 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallet of combined Parcel Select and Package Services must contain at least:
(1) 50 parcels and 250 pounds of mail, or (2) 36 inches of mail (excluding the height of the pallet). Pallets prepared using either minimum requirement may be combined in the same mailing.
7.1.8 Overflow Sacks
After filling pallets to a 5-digit scheme or 5-digit destination, any remaining pieces that do not meet the minimum pallet requirements may be prepared in 5-digit scheme or 5-digit overflow sacks. Overflow sacks must be labeled under 7.2.3.
7.1.9 Pallet Labeling
Pallet labels must be prepared as follows:
a. 5-digit scheme, optional; labeling:
1. Line 1: use L606, Column B.
2. Line 2: "PSVC PARCELS 5D SCH."
1. Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination of pieces.
7.2 Combining Parcel Select and Package Services Machinable Parcels for DBMC Entry
7.2.1 Qualification
Mailers may combine Parcel Select and Package Services machinable parcels for entry at a BMC when authorized by the USPS under 7.5. These parcels may be eligible for Parcel Post, Parcel Select DBMC/ASF, single-piece and Presorted Media Mail, single-piece and Presorted Library Mail, Bound Printed Matter DBMC, and single-piece and Presorted Bound Printed Matter prices. Mailers may not combine Carrier Route Bound Printed Matter with other parcels.
7.2.2 Basic Standards
Parcel Select and Package Services parcels must meet the following conditions:
a. Each piece in a combined machinable parcels mailing must meet the criteria for machinable parcels in 401.1.5.
b. Each parcel in a combined machinable parcels mailing is subject to the applicable content and price eligibility standards for the price claimed.
c. Parcel Select machinable parcels must bear a barcode under 708.5.0 for the ZIP Code of the delivery address.
d. Postage must be paid via permit imprint under an approved manifest mailing system as provided in 3.0. For mailings presented under 7.0, mailers may document and pay postage using the Electronic Verification System (eVS) under 2.9.
e. Mailers must pay all applicable presort mailing and destination entry mailing fees.
f. Minimum volume requirements for Parcel Select, Presorted Bound Printed Matter, Presorted Library Mail, and Presorted Media Mail must be met separately and are based solely on the quantity of pieces eligible for each price at the required presort level. Pieces claimed at other prices in the same sack or on the same pallet do not count toward these minimum volume requirements.
g. Parcels may be claimed at single-piece, Presorted, and DBMC/ASF destination entry prices as applicable.
h. Mailers must prepare all parcels in sacks under 6.2.3, or on pallets or in pallet boxes under 8.0, to achieve the finest level of sortation.
i. Mailers must deposit combined machinable parcels at BMCs under applicable standards in 15.0.
7.2.3 Sacking and Labeling
Preparation sequence, sack size, and labeling:
a. 5-digit scheme, optional,10-piece or 20-pound minimum; labeling:
1. Line 1: use L606, Column B.
2. Line 2: "PSVC MACH 5D SCH."
b. 5-digit, optional except for Bound Printed Matter, required for 5-digit price for Media Mail and Library Mail, 10-piece or 20-pound minimum; labeling:
1. Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on mail (see 8.0 for overseas military mail).
c. ASF, optional, allowed only for mail deposited at an ASF to claim DBMC price, 10-piece or 20-pound minimum; labeling:
1. Line 1: use L602, Column B. DBMC price eligibility is determined by 6.3.
d. BMC, required,10-piece or 20-pound minimum; labeling:
1. Line 1: use L601, Column B. DBMC price eligibility is determined by 6.3.
7.2.4 Pallet Presort and Labeling
Mailers must prepare pallets in the sequence listed below and complete each required level before preparing the next optional or required level. Unless indicated as optional, all sort levels are required under the conditions shown. Destination entry price eligibility applies only to Parcel Select (see 453.3.0 and 455.4.0) and Bound Printed Matter (see 466.3.0). Mailers may, at their option, prepare all machinable parcels for destination entry (see 7.0). Mailers must label pallets according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 8.0.
a. 5-digit scheme, optional. Pallet may contain parcels for the same 5-digit scheme under L606. Pallets need not be prepared for all 5-digit scheme destinations. For 5-digit destinations not part of L606, or for which scheme sorts are not performed, prepare 5-digit pallets under 2.4. Labeling:
1. Line 1: use L606, column B.
2. Line 2: "PSVC MACH 5D," as applicable; followed by "SCHEME" (or "SCH").
b. 5-digit, optional except for Bound Printed Matter, required for 5-digit price eligibility for Media Mail and Library Mail. Pallet must contain parcels only for the same 5-digit ZIP Code. Labeling:
1. Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see 8.0 for military mail).
2. Line 2: "PSVC MACH 5D," as applicable.
c. ASF, required if claiming DBMC prices, otherwise optional. Not available for the Buffalo, NY ASF. Pallets must contain only parcels for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L602. Labeling:
1. Line 1: use L602, column B.
2. Line 2: "PSVC MACH ASF," as applicable.
d. BMC, required. Pallets must contain only parcels for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L601. Labeling:
1. Line 1: use L601, column B. DBMC price eligibility is determined by Exhibit 446.3.1.
2. Line 2: "PSVC MACH BMC," as applicable.
7.3 Postage Payment
Postage for all pieces must be paid with permit imprint at the Post Office serving the mailer's plant under 2.0.
7.4 Documentation
Mailers must complete separate postage statements for each of the mailings contained within the combined mailing. At the time of mailing, mailers must provide all postage statements and a Business Mailer Support-approved manifest prepared according to 2.0 and this section.
7.5 Authorization
A mailer who wants to present combined parcel mailings must submit a written request to Business Mailer Support (See 608.8.1 for address). The request must show the mailer's name and address, the mailing office, evidence of authorization to mail under 2.0, procedures for combined mailing, the expected date of first mailing, a sample of the required manifest, and a sample USPS Qualification report. Business Mailer Support will review documentation and provide written authorization, which may not exceed 2 years. A mailer may terminate an authorization at any time by written notice to the postmaster of the office serving the mailer's location. Business Mailer Support may terminate an authorization, by written notice, if the mailer does not meet the standards.
8.0 Preparing Pallets
8.1 Physical Characteristics
8.1.1 Standards
All pallets presented to the USPS, whether USPS-provided or mailer-provided, must meet the standards in 8.1.2 through 8.1.4. Mail on such pallets must meet the standards for the class and price claimed.
8.1.2 Construction
Pallets must be made of high-quality material that can hold loads equal to a gross weight of 2,200 pounds. Pallets must measure 48 by 40 inches and must allow four-way entry by forklift trucks and two-way entry by pallet jacks.
8.1.3 Securing Pallets
Except for stacked pallets under 8.3.1 and pallet boxes under 8.4.3, each loaded pallet of mail must be prepared to maintain the integrity of the mail and the entire pallet load during transport and handling using one of the following methods:
a. Securing with at least two straps or bands of appropriate material. Wire or metal bands, straps, buckles, seals, and similar metal fastening devices cannot be used.
b. Wrapping with stretchable or shrinkable plastic.
c. Securing with at least two straps or bands of appropriate material and wrapping with stretchable or shrinkable plastic. Wire and metal bands and straps, metal buckles, metal seals, and similar metal fastening devices cannot be used.
8.1.4 Nonconforming Mailer
The USPS informs any mailer or mailer's agent who presents palletized mailings, including plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS), when the mailer's pallets fail to meet basic pallet integrity and safety standards. After a mailer is notified and allowed to make changes to improve load integrity, if the mailer's methods, or those of the mailer's agent, do not work, the mailer is considered nonconforming. A nonconforming mailer must meet the specifications for nonconforming mailers for top-cap use, stacking of pallets, pallet box construction, and maximum height/tiers of trays in 8.2 through 8.5, respectively. A mailer is suspended from the pallet program if the mailer's pallets continue to fail to meet the minimum load integrity levels after being notified and allowed to make changes.
8.2 Top Caps
8.2.1 Use
a. Except as provided below, all pallets of sacks, trays, parcels, bundles of mail, or pallet boxes must be top-capped if the pallets are stacked two, three, or four tiers high when presented to the USPS for acceptance.
b. The top pallet need not be top-capped if the strapping or banding securing the stacked pallets together neither damages the mail on the top pallet nor allows the stack to shift.
c. Lower pallet(s) containing either parcels or bundles of mail need not be top-capped if the top surface of each pallet load provides a sturdy, flat surface, parallel to the pallet base, that allows safe and efficient stacking of pallets placed on top and prevents sliding of the top pallet(s), damage to the loaded mail, or crushing of the load.
8.2.2 Construction
Any material may be used as a top cap if it provides a flat, level surface horizontal to the base pallet, protects the integrity of the mail below it while supporting a loaded pallet above, and allows easy entry of a forklift to remove the upper pallet(s). Flimsy paper or fiberboard (e.g., the ends of paper rolls) or similar material is inadequate and may not be used as a top cap.
8.2.3 Securing
A top cap must be secured to the pallet horizontal to the plane of the base pallet, with either stretchwrap or at least two crossed straps or bands, so that the cap stays in place to protect the mail and maintain the integrity of the pallet load.
8.2.4 Use by Nonconforming Mailer
A nonconforming mailer (see 8.1.4) must use top caps on all pallets of sacks, letter mail trays, parcels, or bundles of mail, regardless of weight, or on pallets containing pallet boxes no more than 60 inches high. Top caps must be approximately 48 by 40 inches and meet one of these construction standards:
a. Five-wood boards, with uniform edges and nine-leg pallet contact for stacking.
b. Fiberboard box-end style, with a minimum 3-inch side and wall material of at least double-wall corrugated fiberboard C-flute and/or B-flute.
c. Fiberboard honeycomb covered on both sides, with heavy linerboard at least 1/2 inch thick.
d. Corrugated fiberboard C-flute sheet covering the entire top of the load, with standard pallet solid fiberboard corner edge protectors.
8.3 Stacking Pallets
8.3.1 Physical Characteristics
Pallets may be stacked two, three, or four tiers high if:
a. The combined gross weight of the stacked pallets (pallets, top caps, and mail) does not exceed 2,200 pounds.
b. The heaviest pallet is on the bottom and the lightest is on the top.
c. Individual pallets are secured with straps or stretchable or shrinkable plastic as specified in 8.1.3.
d. The stack of pallets is secured with at least two straps or bands of appropriate material to maintain the integrity of the stacked pallets during transport and handling. Wire or metal bands, straps, buckles, seals, and similar metal fastening devices cannot be used. The stack of pallets cannot be secured together with stretchable or shrinkable plastic.
e. Each pallet is top-capped as specified in 8.2.
f. The combined height of the stacked pallets and their loads does not exceed 84 inches. Exception: Pallets prepared for entry at Anchorage or Fairbanks, Alaska, cannot exceed 72 inches (pallets, top caps, and mail).
8.3.2 Pallet Height Restriction for Nonconforming Mailer
A nonconforming mailer (see 8.1.4) who stacks pallets is subject to the requirements of 8.3.1 with the additional restrictions that the combined height of any stacked pallets may not exceed 77 inches and that stacking pallets four tiers high is permitted only for pallets of parcels.
8.4 Pallet Boxes
8.4.1 Use
A mailer may use pallet boxes constructed of single-, double-, or triple-wall corrugated fiberboard placed on pallets to hold sacks or parcels. Pallet boxes must protect the mail and maintain the integrity of the pallet loads throughout transportation, handling, and processing. Single-wall corrugated fiberboard may be used only for light loads (such as lightweight parcels) that do not require transportation by the USPS beyond the entry office, or for Parcel Select DSCF price mail. Mailers must supply their own pallet boxes. The base of the boxes must measure approximately 40 by 48 inches. Pallet standards require the use of pallet boxes meeting the size requirements in 8.4.2 for machinable Parcel Select claiming OBMC Presort and BMC Presort discounts. Pallet standards prohibit use of pallet boxes for nonmachinable Parcel Select claiming OBMC Presort and BMC Presort discounts. Pallet boxes meeting the size dimensions in 8.4.2 also may be used at the mailer's option for Parcel Select DSCF and Parcel Select DDU price mail.
8.4.2 Height
The combined height of a single pallet, pallet box, and mail may not exceed 77 inches. The contents of the box may not extend above the top rim of the box. For all Parcel Select and Package Services mailings entered at a DSCF or DDU, the height of the pallet box may not exceed 60 inches (excluding the pallet). For Parcel Select OBMC Presort and BMC Presort price mailings of machinable pieces, the height of the pallet box must not exceed 69 inches (excluding the pallet).
8.4.3 Securing
Pallet boxes must be secured to the pallet with strapping, banding, stretchable plastic, shrinkwrap, or other material (wire or metal bands, straps, buckles, seals, and similar metal fastening devices cannot be used) that ensures that the pallet can be safely unloaded from vehicles, transported, and processed as a single unit to the point where the contents are distributed with the load intact if:
a. The pallet and its contents are transported by the USPS from the office where the mail is accepted to another postal facility where the contents are distributed; and
b. The weight of the mail in the box is not sufficient to hold the box in place on the pallet during transportation and processing.
8.4.4 Use by Nonconforming Mailer
Except when mailing Parcel Select claiming a DSCF or DDU price, a nonconforming mailer (see 8.1.4) may use pallet boxes only if the boxes are constructed of triple-wall corrugated fiberboard (C-flute and/or B-flute material) with a maximum height (pallet and box) of 77 inches.
8.5 General Preparation
8.5.1 Presort
Pallet sortation is generally intended to presort the palletized portion of a mailing to at least the finest extent required for the corresponding class of mail and method of preparation. Pallet sortation is sequential from the lowest (finest) level to the highest and must be completed at each required level before the next optional or required level is prepared. Standard preparation terms are defined in the Mail Preparation section for each class of mail, standard presort levels are defined in 8.0, and advanced presort levels are defined in 10.0, 12.0, and 13.0. For sacks, trays, or machinable parcels on pallets, the mailer must prepare all required pallet levels before any mixed ADC or mixed BMC pallets are prepared for a mailing or job. Bundles must not be placed on mixed ADC or mixed BMC pallets. Bundles that cannot be placed on pallets must be prepared in sacks under the standards for the price claimed. The standards for bundle reallocation to protect the SCF, ADC, or BMC pallet (8.11, 8.13, and 8.14) are optional methods of pallet preparation designed to retain as much mail as possible at the SCF, ADC, or BMC level. These standards may result in some bundles of Periodicals flats and irregular parcels and Standard Mail flats that are part of a mailing job prepared in part as palletized flats at automation prices not being placed on the finest level of pallet possible. Mailers must use PAVE-certified presort software to prepare mailings using bundle reallocation (bundle reallocation is optional, but if performed, it must be done for the complete mailing job).
8.5.2 Required Preparation
The following standards apply to Periodicals, Standard Mail, Parcel Select, and Package Services, except Parcel Select mailed at BMC Presort, OBMC Presort, DSCF, and DDU prices.
a. Mailers must prepare a pallet to the required sortation level(s) for the class of mail when a mailing contains 500 or more pounds of bundles, sacks, or parcels or 72 linear feet or six layers of letter trays for the destination.
b. For bundles of flat-size mailpieces or bundles of irregular parcels on pallets, after preparing all possible pallets under 8.5.2a, when 250 or more pounds of bundles remain for an ADC (Periodicals) or for a BMC/ASF (Standard Mail, Parcel Select, and Package Services), mailers must prepare the ADC or BMC/ASF pallet, as applicable for the class of mail. Exception: If there are no ADC or BMC/ASF pallets in a mailing and 250 or more pounds remain for an SCF, mailers must prepare the SCF pallet.
c. If bundles remain that cannot be prepared on an ADC, BMC/ASF, or SCF pallet, mailers must place those bundles in sacks (8.9.1).
8.5.3 Minimum Load
The following minimum load standards apply to mail prepared on pallets:
a. For Periodicals, Standard Mail, Parcel Select, and Package Services (except for Parcel Select mailed at BMC Presort, OBMC Presort, DSCF, and DDU prices):
1. In a single mailing, the minimum load per pallet is 250 pounds of bundles, parcels, or sacks, except as provided in items 2 through 4 below. When preparing letter trays on pallets, the minimum load is 36 linear feet or three layers of trays, except as provided in item 3 below.
2. There is no minimum load for pallets entered at a destination delivery unit (DDU) if the mail on those pallets is for that unit's service area.
3. The minimum load for pallets is 200 pounds of Standard Mail parcels (machinable, irregulars, or NFMs) entered at origin (BMC only) or at a DBMC to claim the 5-digit or BMC price.
4. A pallet may contain a minimum of 100 pounds of nonletter-size mail or 12 linear feet of letter trays if it is a BMC or ASF pallet entered at the destination BMC or ASF; an ADC pallet entered at the destination ADC; an SCF pallet entered at the destination SCF; or the only pallet entered at an individual destination BMC or ASF, ADC, or SCF facility.
5. At an SCF, a 5-digit, 3-digit, or SCF pallet may contain less than the required minimum load of mail for that SCF's service area only if the SCF manager provides written authorization for such preparation.
b. Parcel Select mailed at BMC Presort, OBMC Presort, DSCF, and DDU prices. A minimum load for the price claimed may be stated in terms of weight, combined piece minimum and weight, or minimum height. There are separate minimum mail heights for machinable parcels and for nonmachinable parcels claimed at OBMC Presort and BMC Presort prices. Mail entered at the Parcel Post DSCF prices and prepared directly on pallets or in pallet boxes on pallets must be prepared under either a minimum height requirement or under one of two options requiring a minimum number of pieces and pounds per pallet. There is no minimum weight requirement for an SCF pallet containing 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks prepared for the DSCF price. There are no minimums for the Parcel Select DDU price.
8.5.4 Minimum Height of Mail
The definitions of the minimum height of mail used to qualify for OBMC Presort, BMC Presort, and DSCF Parcel Select prices are as follows:
a. Machinable parcels. The minimum height of mail in a pallet box is the shortest vertical distance measured from the bottom of a pallet box to the top of the lowest mailpiece. The height of the pallet is not included in this measurement.
b. Nonmachinable parcels. The minimum height of mail on a pallet is the shortest vertical distance measured from the top of the pallet to the top of the lowest mailpiece. The height of the pallet is not included in this measurement.
8.5.5 Maximum Load
The maximum weight (mail and pallet) is 2,200 pounds. The maximum height of a single pallet (mail and pallet) is 77 inches for bundles, parcels, sacks, or pallet boxes, or 77 inches or 12 layers of trays (whichever occurs first) for letter trays. Exception: A single pallet that is prepared for entry at Anchorage or Fairbanks, Alaska, has a maximum height of 72 inches (pallet, top cap, and mail).
8.5.6 Mail on Pallets
These standards apply to mail on pallets:
a. Pieces in trays, bundles, and sacks must be prepared under the standards for the class of mail and price claimed.
b. When two or more Periodicals mailings, two or more Standard Mail mailings, or two or more Bound Printed Matter mailings are placed together on pallets, the mailer must keep records for each mailing as required by the standards for the class of mail.
c. For letter-size Standard Mail and Periodicals prepared in trays on pallets, mailers must prepare carrier route price mail on separate 5-digit pallets (5-digit carrier routes pallets) from automation price or nonautomation price mail (5-digit pallets).
d. For determining minimum pallet volume, mail in letter trays is measured in full layers of trays or in linear feet. A 2-foot tray equals 2 linear feet; a 1-foot tray equals 1 linear foot.
e. Heavier, fuller trays must be placed at the bottom of the load.
f. For Bound Printed Matter irregular parcels, Presorted and Carrier Route price mail may be combined on all levels of pallet. For Bound Printed Matter flats, Presorted and Carrier Route price mail may be combined on all levels of pallet except as provided in 8.5.6g.
g. For sacks of Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Bound Printed Matter flats or irregular parcels, carrier route price mail must be prepared on separate 5-digit pallets from automation price and/or presorted price mail.
h. Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Bound Printed Matter flats or irregular parcels prepared in carrier route and noncarrier route 5-digit bundles may be placed on the same merged 5-digit scheme, merged 5-digit, and 5-digit metro pallet, as appropriate.
i. All presort bundles on pallets must be placed with the addresses facing up.
8.5.7 Arranging Pieces in a Bundle ("Facing")
Except as noted in 8.5.8, all pieces in a bundle must be "faced" (arranged with the addresses in the same read direction), with an address visible on the top piece.
8.5.8 Counter-Stacking—Sacked and Palletized Mail
Bundles of flats and other pieces of nonuniform thickness may be prepared by counter-stacking under these conditions:
a. Counter-stacking should be used only to create bundles of more uniform thickness that are more likely to maintain their integrity during transportation and processing.
b. Counter-stacking is appropriate for saddle-stitched mailpieces and pieces where one edge is thicker than other edges or one corner is thicker than other corners.
c. When counter-stacking, pieces must all have addresses facing up and be divided into no more than four approximately equal groups, with each group rotated 180 degrees from the preceding and succeeding group(s); prepare as few groups as possible to create a bundle of uniform thickness.
d. Counter-stacked groups within a bundle should be as thick as possible, generally at least 1 inch thick.
e. When pieces are nonuniform in thickness because they are thicker in the center instead of along an edge or corner, counter-stacking will generally not result in a bundle of uniform thickness (i.e., a football-shaped bundle would be created). Instead of counter-stacking such pieces, limit the height (thickness) of the bundle to 3 to 6 inches to ensure the bundle will stay together during normal transit and handling.
8.5.9 Address Visibility
Mailers preparing presort bundles must ensure that the delivery address information on the top mailpiece in each bundle is visible and readable by the naked eye. Mailers using strapping that might cover the address can avoid obstructing visibility by using clear, smooth strapping tightly secured around the bundle. Mailers using barcoded pressure-sensitive bundle labels, optional endorsement lines, carrier route information lines, or carrier route facing slips also must ensure that the information in these presort designations is visible and readable by the naked eye. This standard does not apply to the following:
b. Bundles placed in or on 5-digit or 5-digit scheme (L001) sacks or pallets.
c. Bundles placed in carrier route and 5-digit carrier routes sacks.
d. Bundles of mailpieces at carrier route prices entered at a destination delivery unit (DDU).
e. Bundles of Standard Mail flat-size pieces prepared in letter trays under 345.3.4.
8.5.10 Labeling Bundles
Unless excepted by standard, the presort level of each bundle (other than carrier route bundles) must be identified either with an optional endorsement line under 708.7.0 or with a barcoded pressure-sensitive bundle label. On letter-size mail (including card-size pieces), the bundle label must be placed in the lower left corner of the address side of the top piece in the bundle. On flat-size mail, the label may be placed anywhere on the address side of the top piece in the bundle. Barcoded pressure-sensitive bundle labels must not obscure the delivery address block. Banding or shrinkwrap must not obscure any bundle label. The following colors and presort characters apply to bundle labels:
a. Firm (Periodicals use only), blue Label F.
b. 5-digit scheme presort level, red Label 5 SCH.
c. 5-digit presort level, red Label 5.
d. 3-digit scheme presort level, green Label 3 SCH.
e. 3-digit presort level, green Label 3.
f. ADC presort level, pink Label A.
g. Mixed ADC presort level, tan Label X.
8.5.11 Securing Bundles on Pallets
Bundles must withstand normal transit and handling without breaking and without causing injury to USPS employees or damage to USPS equipment. Mailers must meet the following standards when preparing and securing bundles:
a. Secure bundles with banding, shrinkwrap, or shrinkwrap supplemented with one or more bands. Banding includes plastic bands, rubber bands, twine, string, and similar material. Mailers must meet the following standards when banding bundles:
1. Do not place any bands closer than 1 inch from any bundle edge.
2. When using twine or string to band bundles, secure the knot(s) so the twine or string does not come loose during transit and processing.
3. Do not use wire or metal banding.
4. Do not use any loose banding.
b. When using only banding to secure bundles, apply banding under the following additional requirements:
1. Use at least one band to encircle the length of the bundle and use at least one band to encircle the girth of the bundle.
2. Use tension sufficient to tighten and depress the edges of the bundle so that pieces do not slip out of the banding during transit and processing.
8.5.12 Sacked Mail
Mail that is not palletized (e.g., the mailer chooses not to prepare BMC pallets, or the bundles do not meet the machinability standards in 8.5.7 through 8.5.11) must be prepared under the standards for the price claimed. For Periodicals, the mailer must separately sack bundles of each publication that are not palletized or that are excluded from palletization. Trays that are not palletized must be bedloaded. Sacks (including sacks of bundles not placed on pallets) containing bundles remaining after all pallets are prepared may be presented with the palletized mail (and reported on the same postage statement) if separated from the palletized portion of the mailing.
8.5.13 Nonconforming
For a nonconforming mailer (see 8.1.4) of letter-size mail in trays, the combined height of a pallet and its load cannot exceed six layers of MM or EMM letter trays.
8.6 Pallet Placards
8.6.1 Placement
At least two clearly visible labels must be affixed on two adjacent sides of each pallet. Pallets prepared through plant-load or drop-shipment agreements must be placed on transportation so that a pallet placard on each pallet faces toward the rear of the vehicle.
8.6.2 Specifications
Pallet placards must be pink for Periodicals and white for First-Class Mail, Standard Mail, Package Services, and Parcel Select. Pallet placards must measure at least 8 inches by 11 inches, except that pallet or other USPS container placards bearing Intelligent Mail container barcodes may measure no less than 4 inches by 7 inches when prepared under 708.6.6.6. Placards, affixed to pallets containing Periodicals, bearing an Intelligent Mail container barcode and prepared in the optional smaller format under 708.6.6.6, may be white instead of pink, but must include a vertical pink one-half inch wide identification bar along the left-hand side of the placard
8.6.3 Lettering
Lettering for required information on pallet labels must be at least 1/2 inch high (or at least 48-point type). Exception: When customers apply USPS-specified pallet barcodes to pallet labels, the lettering for the required information on line 3 (origin line) must be at least 1/8 inch high (or at least 12-point type). See the "surface visibility" information at http://ribbs.usps.gov for more information about pallet barcodes.
8.6.4 Line 1 (Destination Line)
Line 1 (destination line) must meet these standards:
a. Placement. Line 1 must be the first visible line on the label. It must be completely visible and legible when placed on the pallet. If the pallet label does not provide enough space for all required Line 1 information, the destination ZIP Code may be placed right-justified on the line immediately below the rest of Line 1 and above Line 2 (content line). A standard abbreviation for the destination city name may be used.
b. Information. Line 1 must contain only the information specified by standard, including the appropriate destination facility prefix (e.g., "ADC"). Two zeros may follow the 3-digit ZIP Code prefix required by labeling standards (e.g., 223 as 22300).
c. Overseas military mail. On 5-digit pallets for overseas military destinations, Line 1 shows, from left to right, "APO" or "FPO," followed by "AE" (for ZIP Codes within the ZIP Code prefix range 090-098), "AA" (for ZIP Codes within the 3-digit ZIP Code prefix 340), or "AP" (for ZIP Codes within the ZIP Code prefix range 962-966), followed by the destination 5-digit ZIP Code of the mail on the pallet.
8.6.5 Line 2 (Content Line)
Line 2 (content line) must meet these standards:
a. Content line information. Pallet labels must indicate whether the mail on the pallet is barcoded, or not barcoded, or both. The content line (line 2 of required information) must be the second visible line on the label. This line must show the class and processing category of the mail on the pallet and other information as specified by standard. If the content line of a pallet label does not provide enough space for all required information, the content information may be continued right-justified on the line immediately below the content line and above the office of mailing or mailer information line.
b. Codes. The codes shown below must be used as appropriate on Line 2 of sack, tray, and pallet labels.
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IRREG (Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Package Services only) |
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NON BC (sacks) NBC (pallets and cotrayed or cosacked mail under 705.9.0) |
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PER (see 707.21.1.3) NEWS (see 707.21.1.3) |
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8.6.6 Line 3 (Origin Line)
The office of mailing or mailer information line (line 3 of required information) must be the bottom line of required information unless the pallet or pallet box contains mail prepared under the Electronic Verification System (eVS). Line 3 must show either the city and state of the entry Post Office or the mailer's name and the city and state of the mailer's location. It is recommended that the mailer's name also appear with the city and state of the entry Post Office.Electronic Verification System
All pallets and pallet boxes containing parcels prepared and identified using the Electronic Verification System (eVS) under 2.9 must show "eVS" (or the alternatives "EVS" or "E-VS") directly below line 3 (origin line) using the same size and lettering used for Line 3.
8.6.7 5-Digit, 5-Digit Carrier Routes, and 5-Digit Scheme Carrier Routes Pallets
All 5-digit carrier routes or 5-digit scheme carrier routes pallets must show the words "CARRIER ROUTES" (or "CR-RTS") after the processing category description on the content line under 8.0, 10.0, 12.0, and 13.0. 5-digit pallets of Bound Printed Matter that contain only carrier route price mail also must show the words "CARRIER ROUTES" (or "CR-RTS") after the "5D" pallet level description on the contents line.
8.6.8 Extraneous Information
Extraneous information is permitted on pallet labels if:
a. The print size is smaller than a 1/2 inch.
b. It does not consist of a numbered series resembling a ZIP Code or 3-digit ZIP Code prefix.
c. It does not appear on or between the lines reserved for USPS required information (blank lines are permitted). Exception: For combined mailings of Standard Mail and Package Services machinable parcels, mailer codes and extraneous information may appear between the content line and the office of mailing or mailer information line.
d. It is below the office of mailing or mailer information line.
e. A 1-inch clear space is maintained around the lines reserved for USPS required information.
f. On the office of mailing or mailer information line, the mailer's name or abbreviation, "Mailer," "From" (or "FR"), "Entered at," or a similar notation precedes the required information, or mailer codes or other extraneous information appear to the right of the required information.
8.6.9 Periodicals Publications
Except as provided in 8.16 for copalletized mailings, Periodicals publications must use one of the following for Line 2 class information:
b. "NEWS" if published weekly or more often or if authorized newspaper treatment as of March 1, 1984.
8.6.10 Pallet Bundle Information
It is recommended that mailers preparing bundles on pallets add to the pallet label, below the office of mailing or mailer information line and according to the provisions of 8.6.8, additional information listing the number of bundles for each bundle sortation and price level on the pallet (i.e., the number of carrier route bundles, the number of 5-digit, 3-digit, and ADC automation price bundles, and the number of 5-digit, 3-digit, and ADC Presorted price bundles on each pallet).
8.7 Copalletized, Combined, or Mixed-Price Level Mailings of Flat-Size Pieces
8.7.1 General
Palletized mailings (including combined, copalletized, and mixed price level mailings) must be prepared under the standards for the class of mail, subject to specific authorization by Business Mailer Support when required.
8.7.2 Application
The mailer (or publisher or agent) must submit a written request to Business Mailer Support to present the types of pallets described in this section. A separate request is required for each type of pallet at each location, but multiple, concurrent applications are acceptable. A mailer who cannot meet the minimum palletization standards without copalletizing, combining, or commingling mixed price mailings might still qualify if the total copalletized, combined, or commingled mailing meets minimum pallet standards. The request must be received at least 30 days before the first mailing and include the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of the mail owner and of the firm or person preparing the mail; a description of the mailing (e.g., size, weight, class, price, volume, mailing frequency, and postage payment method); the type of authorization requested; and a sample of the applicable documentation under 8.0, or 10.0, 12.0, and 13.0.
8.7.3 Periodicals Publications
To combine more than one Periodicals publication on pallets, the mailer must merge and presort copies of all the publications into common bundles to achieve the finest presort level for the combined mailing. To copalletize different Periodicals flat-size publications, the mailer must consolidate on pallets all independently sorted bundles for each publication to achieve the finest presort level for the mailing. A combined or copalletized mailing prepared using bundle reallocation under 8.11 or 8.13 may not always result in all bundles being placed on the finest pallet level possible. Both combined and copalletized publications must be supported by the documentation required in 8.0, or 10.0, 12.0, and 13.0. Preferred Periodicals may be combined with Regular Periodicals only as permitted by standard.
8.7.4 Standard Mail
To copalletize different Standard Mail flat-size mailings, the mailer must consolidate on pallets all independently sorted bundles from each mailing to achieve the finest presort level for the mailing, except that a copalletized mailing prepared under 8.11 or 8.14 using the bundle reallocation option may not always result in all bundles being placed on the finest pallet level possible. At the time of mailing, the mailer must present computer-generated listings required in 8.0, or 10.0, 12.0, and 13.0 that include a summary list consolidating the copalletized multiple mailings and a list of the contents of each pallet by ZIP Code and presort level.
8.7.5 Cancellation
An authorization may be canceled by Business Mailer Support if the mailer does not meet the standards for pallets or the prices claimed or the mailer does not submit information on future mailings as requested by Business Mailer Support. A mailer may appeal canceled authorizations through Business Mailer Support to the Business Mail Acceptance manager, USPS Headquarters.
8.8 Basic Uses
These types of mail may be palletized:
b. Bundles of nonletter-size mail not prepared in sacks.
c. Bundles or parcels in sacks.
d. Machinable or irregular parcels.
e. Copalletized multiple flat-size mailings, subject to 8.0, Preparing Pallets.
f. Combined mailings of machinable parcels (Standard Mail and Package Services), subject to 6.0.
g. Two or more Periodicals publications combined or copalletized, subject to 8.0.
h. Combined mailings of Nonprofit Standard Mail mixed price levels, subject to 8.0.
i. Commingled zoned price Parcel Select and Package Services, subject to 455.1.7.
8.9 Bundles on Pallets
8.9.1 Applicability
Presort destination bundles of Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Package Services flats and irregular parcels may be placed directly on pallets under 8.9.2 through 8.9.5 and 8.10. Mail that cannot be placed on pallets must be prepared in sacks under the applicable standards. Sacks containing any remaining bundles after all pallets are prepared may be presented with the palletized portion of the mailing job (and, subject to 8.16.5, reported on the same postage statement) if the sacked portion is presented separately from the palletized portion.
8.9.2 Basic Bundling Standards
Bundle preparation for Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Package Services mailpieces must meet the applicable standards for each class or subclass of mail. Bundles may be sorted onto pallets under 8.10 and 10.0, 12.0, and 13.0.
8.9.3 Periodicals
Bundle size: Six-piece minimum (lower volume bundles permitted under 707.22.0, Preparing Nonbarcoded (Presorted) Periodicals, and 707.23.0, Preparing Carrier Route Periodicals), 20-pound maximum, except that:
a. Firm bundles may contain as few as two copies of a publication. Mailers must not consolidate firm bundles with other bundles to the same 5-digit destination. Only In-County firm bundles may be counted as an addressed piece for presort standards (see 707.22.0 and 707.23.0).
b. All pieces for the same presort destination must be in one bundle if they weigh less than 10 pounds. Otherwise, bundles must weigh from 10 to 20 pounds each.
c. Carrier route and 5-digit bundles placed on 5-digit or finer pallets may weigh up to 40 pounds when entered at a DDU.
d. The last bundle to a presort destination may contain less than 10 pounds.
8.9.4 Standard Mail
Bundle size: 10-piece or 15-piece minimum as applicable; 20-pound maximum, except that:
a. All pieces for the same presort destination must be in one bundle if they weigh less than 10 pounds. Otherwise, bundles must weigh from 10 to 20 pounds each.
b. The last bundle to a presort destination may contain less than 10 pounds.
8.9.5 Bound Printed Matter
Bound Printed Matter on pallets must be bundled as follows:
a. Minimum Bundle Size. Bundle mail under the minimum bundle size of "10 pieces or 10 pounds, whichever comes first" according to these standards:
1. For identical-weight pieces, a single-piece weight of 1 pound results in 10 pieces weighing 10 pounds. Identical-weight pieces weighing 1 pound or less must be prepared using the 10-piece minimum; those that weigh more must be prepared using the 10-pound minimum.
2. For nonidentical-weight pieces, mailers must either use the minimum that applies to the average piece weight for the entire mailing (divide the net weight of the mailing by the number of pieces; the resulting average single-piece weight determines whether the 10-piece or 10-pound minimum applies). Alternatively, bundle by the actual piece count or mail weight for each bundle destination, provided documentation can be presented with the mailing that shows (specifically for each bundle) the number of pieces and their total weight.
3. Mailers must note on the accompanying postage statement whether they applied the 10-piece or 10-pound threshold, or both.
b. Presorted and Carrier Route Bound Printed Matter:
1. Only individual pieces of flats or irregular parcels that weigh less than 10 pounds each may be prepared as bundles on pallets. Presorted price pieces that weigh 10 or more pounds each must be prepared and palletized as machinable parcels under 8.10.4, Package Services Flats—Bundles and Sacks, or prepared in sacks under 365.5.0 for flats and 465.5.0 for parcels. Carrier route pieces that individually weigh 10 or more pounds each must either be prepared and palletized as machinable parcels under 8.10.4, Package Services Flats—Bundles and Sacks, and qualify for Presorted prices or be prepared in sacks under 365.6.0 for flats and 465.6.0 for parcels and qualify for carrier route prices.
2. Bundles must be prepared under 365.5.0 for presorted flats and 465.5.0 for presorted parcels, or 11.0, as appropriate. The minimum bundle size is 10 addressed pieces or 10 pounds, whichever occurs first, except that the last bundle to a presort destination may contain fewer than 10 pieces or weigh less than 10 pounds. When there are at least 10 pieces but less than 10 pounds for a presort destination, the pieces must be prepared in a single physical bundle. The maximum physical bundle size for pallets prepared under 8.10.4a through 8.10.4d, and 8.10.5a through 8.10.5g is 40 pounds. The maximum physical bundle size for pallets prepared under 8.10.4e through 8.10.4i, and 8.10.5h through 8.10.5l is 20 pounds. The total number of bundles for a single presort destination must not exceed the number of 10-pound increments to that destination. Each physical bundle must contain at least two addressed pieces.
8.10 Pallet Presort and Labeling
8.10.1 First-Class Mail—Letter or Flats Trays
Mailers may palletize First-Class Mail according to a local customer/supplier agreement or under 8.10.1. First-Class Mail palletization is optional, but mailers using this option must prepare pallets in the sequence listed below and complete each required level before preparing the next optional or required level. Pallets must contain at least 72 linear feet of letter trays (six full layers) or 24 linear feet of flats trays (three full layers). Maximum pallet height is 12 layers or 77 inches of letter trays (whichever occurs first) or 77 inches of flats trays. When available and with approval by the plant manager of the origin facility, mailers may use all-purpose containers (APCs) or other USPS-approved containers. Mailers approved to use APCs must prepare containers when they have a minimum of 48 linear feet of letter trays or 16 linear feet of flats trays to a presort destination. Preparation, sequence, and labeling:
a. 5-digit. Optional. Based on the origin ZIP Code, for 5-digit ZIP codes within the 3-digit destinations listed in L201 column B. Pallet may contain trays only for the same 5-digit ZIP Code (for non-automation letters and flats) or 5-digit scheme ZIP codes (automation letters only). Place 5-digit scheme trays on 5-digit pallets according to the destination shown in the current City State Product. Labeling:
1. Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination.
2. Line 2: "FCM LTRS" or "FCM FLTS," followed by "5D."
b. Origin SCF (local mail). Required; no minimum. Pallet contains trays destined for the 3-digit ZIP Codes serviced by the origin SCF facility in L005; MXD AADC trays when the 3-digit ZIP Code on the tray indicates the origin facility is the processing facility for that mail (see L201, Column C). Mailers may, at their option, place AADC trays on origin SCF pallets when the tray's "label to" 3-digit ZIP Code (from L801) is within the origin SCF's service area. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L002, Column C.
2. Line 2: "FCM LTRS" or "FCM FLTS," followed by "SCF."
c. SCF. Required. For destinations listed in L201, based on origin ZIP Code. Pallet may contain trays destined for the 3-digit ZIP Codes in L005. Mailers may, at their option, place AADC trays on SCF pallets when the tray's "label to" 3-digit ZIP Code (from L801) is within that SCF's service area. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L002, Column C.
2. Line 2: "FCM LTRS" or "FCM FLTS," followed by "SCF."
d. AADC. Required, for machinable and automation letters only. For destinations listed in L201, based on origin ZIP Code. Pallet may contain letter trays only for the 3-digit ZIP Code group in L801. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L801, Column B.
2. Line 2: "FCM LTRS," followed by "AADC."
e. ADC. Required, for flats and nonmachinable letters only. For destinations listed in L201, based on origin ZIP Code. Pallet may contain trays only for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L004. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L004, Column B.
2. Line 2: "FCM LTRS" or "FCM FLTS," followed by "ADC."
f. Origin Mixed ADC Surface. Required. Pallet may contain trays destined for the 3-digit ZIP Codes in L201, based on origin ZIP Code. Labeling:
1. Line 1: "OMX" followed by city, state, and ZIP Code information for ADC serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry post office, as shown in L201.
2. Line 2: "FCM LTRS" or "FCM FLTS," followed by "WKG."
g. Mixed ADC Air (all other). Required; no minimum. May contain surface trays when no mixed ADC surface container is prepared under 8.10.1f. Labeling:
1. Line 1: "MXD" followed by city, state, and ZIP Code information for ADC serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry post office, as shown in L004.
2. Line 2: "FCM LTRS" or "FCM FLTS," followed by "WKG."
8.10.2 Periodicals—Bundles, Sacks, or Trays
Pallets must be prepared under 8.0 in the sequence listed below and completed at each required level before the next optional or required level is prepared. Unless indicated as optional, all sort levels are required under the conditions shown. See 707.29.0 for additional requirements for destination entry prices eligibility. For mailings of sacks or trays on pallets, pallet preparation begins with 8.10.2e. Pallets must be labeled according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 8.6. All pallets prepared under 8.10.2 may contain firm bundles, and pallets prepared under 8.10.2a through 8.10.2i may contain low-volume bundles. Bundles of Periodicals flats and irregular parcels may also be palletized under 10.0, 12.0, or 13.0. For pieces meeting the standards in 707.26.0, mailers may prepare the nonpalletized (residual) portion of a mailing in sacks under 10.0.
a. Merged 5-digit scheme, required, permitted for bundles only. Not permitted for bundles containing noncarrier route automation-compatible flats under 301.3.0. Required for bundles containing all other flats or irregular parcels. Pallet must contain carrier route bundles and noncarrier route 5-digit bundles (automation price and/or Presorted price bundles) for the same 5-digit scheme under L001. For 5-digit destinations not part of L001, merged 5-digit pallet preparation begins with 8.10.2d. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L001.
2. Line 2: "PER" or "NEWS," as applicable; followed by "FLTS" or "IRREG," as applicable; followed by "CR/5D"; followed by "SCHEME" (or "SCH").
b. 5-digit scheme carrier routes, required, permitted for bundles only. Pallet must contain only carrier route bundles for the same 5-digit scheme under L001. For 5-digit destinations not part of L001, 5-digit carrier routes pallet preparation begins with 8.10.2e. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L001.
2. Line 2: "PER" or "NEWS," as applicable; followed by "FLTS" or "IRREG," as applicable; followed by "CARRIER ROUTES" (or "CR-RTS"); followed by "SCHEME" (or "SCH").
c. 5-digit scheme, required, permitted for bundles only. Not permitted for bundles containing automation-compatible flats under 301.3.0. Required for bundles containing all other flats and irregular parcels. Pallet must contain only 5-digit bundles of automation price and/or Presorted price mail for the same 5-digit scheme under L001. For 5-digit destinations not part of L001, 5-digit pallet preparation begins with 8.10.2f. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L001.
2. Line 2: "PER" or "NEWS," as applicable; followed by "FLTS" or "IRREG," as applicable; followed by "5D"; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains Presorted price mail; followed by "SCHEME" (or "SCH").
d. Merged 5-digit, required, permitted for bundles only. Not permitted for bundles containing noncarrier route automation-compatible flats under 301.3.0. Required for bundles containing all other flats or irregular parcels. Pallet must contain carrier route bundles and noncarrier route 5-digit bundles (automation price and/or Presorted price bundles) for the same 5-digit ZIP Code. Labeling:
1. Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see 8.6.4c for overseas military mail).
2. Line 2: "PER" or "NEWS," as applicable; followed by "FLTS" or "IRREG," as applicable; followed by "CR/5D."
e. 5-digit carrier routes, required, except for trays; permitted for bundles, sacks, and trays. Pallet must contain only carrier route mail for the same 5-digit ZIP Code. Labeling:
1. Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see 8.6.4c for overseas military mail).
2. Line 2: "PER" or "NEWS," as applicable; followed by "FLTS," "IRREG," or "LTRS," as applicable; followed by "CARRIER ROUTES" (or "CR-RTS").
f. 5-digit, required, except for trays; permitted for bundles, sacks, and trays. Pallet must contain only automation price and/or Presorted price mail for the same 5-digit ZIP Code or the same 5-digit scheme under L007 (for automation- compatible flats only under 301.3.0). Five-digit scheme bundles are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" 5-digit ZIP Code in L007. Labeling:
1. Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see 8.6.4c for overseas military mail).
2. Line 2: "PER" or "NEWS," as applicable; followed by "FLTS," "IRREG," or "LTRS," as applicable; followed by "5D"; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains Presorted price mail.
g. 5-digit metro, optional, permitted for bundles only. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation price, and/or Presorted price bundles for the 5-digit ZIP Codes in L006, Column A, and for 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L006, Column B. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L006.
2. Line 2: "PER" or "NEWS," as applicable; followed by "FLTS" or "IRREG," as applicable; followed by "METRO" (or "MET"); followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail.
h. 3-digit, optional, option not available for bundles for 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes marked "N" in L002. Pallet may contain mail for the same 3-digit ZIP Code or the same 3-digit scheme under L008 (for automation-compatible flats only under 301.3.0). Three-digit scheme bundles are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" 3-digit ZIP Code in L008. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L002, Column A.
2. Line 2: "PER" or "NEWS," as applicable; followed by "FLTS," "IRREG," or "LTRS," as applicable; followed by "3D"; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail.
i. SCF, required, permitted for bundles, sacks, and trays. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation price, and/or Presorted price mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L005. Mailers may place origin mixed ADC (OMX) sacks on origin SCF pallets. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L002, Column C.
2. Line 2: "PER" or "NEWS," as applicable; followed by "FLTS," "IRREG," or "LTRS," as applicable; followed by "SCF"; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail.
j. ADC, required, permitted for bundles, sacks, and trays. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation price, and/or Presorted price mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L004. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L004.
2. Line 2: "PER" or "NEWS," as applicable; followed by "FLTS," "IRREG," or "LTRS," as applicable; followed by "ADC"; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail.
k. Origin Mixed ADC (OMX), optional, no minimum, permitted for sacks only. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation price, and/or presorted price mail. Labeling:
1. Line 1: Use the destination information shown in L201, Column C for mail entered at the corresponding entry Post Offices in L201, Column A.
2. Line 2: "PER" or "NEWS," as applicable; followed by "FLTS," "IRREG," or "LTRS," as applicable; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains nonautomation price mail; followed by "WKG."
l. Mixed ADC, optional, permitted for sacks and trays only. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation price, and/or presorted price mail. Pallets must not contain origin mixed ADC (OMX) sacks. Labeling:
1. Line 1: "MXD" followed by city, state, and ZIP Code information for ADC serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry Post Office as shown in L004, Column A (label to plant serving entry Post Office if authorized by processing and distribution manager).
2. Line 2: "PER" or "NEWS," as applicable; followed by "FLTS," "IRREG," or "LTRS," as applicable; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail; followed by "WKG."
8.10.3 Standard Mail—Bundles, Sacks, or Trays
Mailers must prepare pallets under 8.0 in the sequence listed below and complete each required level before preparing the next optional or required level. Unless indicated as optional, all sort levels are required. For irregular parcels, use this preparation only for pieces in carrier route bundles or in sacks. Palletize unbundled or unsacked irregular parcels under 8.10.6. Pallets must be labeled according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 8.6. Mailers also may palletize bundles of Standard Mail flats under 10.0, 12.0, or 13.0.
a. 5-digit scheme carrier routes, required, permitted for bundles only. Pallet must contain only carrier route bundles for the same 5-digit scheme under L001. For 5-digit destinations not part of L001, 5-digit carrier routes pallet preparation begins with 8.10.2e. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L001.
2. Line 2: "STD" followed by "FLTS" or "IRREG," as applicable; followed by "CARRIER ROUTES" (or "CR-RTS"); followed by "SCHEME" (or "SCH").
b. 5-digit carrier routes, required except for trays, permitted for bundles, sacks, and trays. Pallet must contain only carrier route mail for the same 5-digit ZIP Code. Labeling:
1. Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see 8.6.4c for overseas military mail).
2. Line 2: For flats and irregular parcels, "STD" followed by "FLTS" or "IRREG," as applicable; followed by "CARRIER ROUTES" (or "CR-RTS"). For letters, "STD LTRS"; followed by "CARRIER ROUTES" (or "CR-RTS"); followed by "BC" if pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by "MACH" if pallet contains machinable letters; followed by "MAN" if pallet contains nonmachinable letters.
c. 5-digit, required except for trays, permitted for bundles, sacks, and trays. Pallet must contain only automation price and/or Presorted price mail for the same 5-digit ZIP Code or same 5-digit scheme. 5-digit scheme bundles and sacks are assigned to 5-digit pallets according to the "label to" 5-digit ZIP Code. Labeling:
1. Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see 8.6.4c for overseas military mail).
2. Line 2: For flats and irregular parcels, "STD" followed by "FLTS" or "IRREG," as applicable; followed by "5D"; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains Presorted price mail. For letters, "STD LTRS 5D"; followed by "BC" if pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by "MACH" if pallet contains machinable letters; followed by "MAN" if pallet contains nonmachinable letters.
d. 5-digit metro, optional, permitted for bundles only. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation price, and/or Presorted price bundles for the 5-digit ZIP Codes in L006, Column A, and for 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L006, Column B. Pallet labeling:
1. Line 1: L006.
2. Line 2: For flats and irregular parcels, "STD" followed by "FLTS" or "IRREG," as applicable; followed by "METRO" (or "MET"); followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail.
e. 3-digit, optional, option not available for bundles for 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes marked "N" in L002. Pallet may contain mail for the same 3-digit ZIP Code or the same 3-digit scheme under L008 (for automation-compatible flats only under 301.3.0, Physical Standards for Automation Flats). Three-digit scheme bundles are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" 3-digit ZIP Code in L008. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L002, Column A.
2. Line 2: For flats and irregular parcels, "STD" followed by "FLTS" or "IRREG," as applicable; followed by "3D"; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail. For letters, "STD LTRS 3D"; followed by "BC" if pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by "MACH" if pallet contains machinable letters; followed by "MAN" if pallet contains nonmachinable letters.
f. SCF, required, permitted for bundles, sacks, and trays. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation price, and/or Presorted price mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L005. Mailers may, at their option, place AADC trays on SCF pallets when the tray's "label to" 3-digit ZIP Code (from L801) is within that SCF's service area. Mailers may also, at their option, place mixed ADC or mixed AADC trays, labeled per L010, on an SCF pallet entered at the SCF facility responsible for the processing of mixed ADC or mixed AADC trays for that BMC/ASF facility. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L002, Column C.
2. Line 2: For flats and irregular parcels, "STD" followed by "FLTS" or "IRREG," as applicable; followed by "SCF"; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail. For letters, "STD LTRS SCF"; followed by "BC" if pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by "MACH" if pallet contains machinable letters; followed by "MAN" if pallet contains nonmachinable letters.
g. ASF, required unless bundle reallocation used under 8.13, permitted for bundles, sacks, and trays. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation price, and/or Presorted price mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L602. ADC bundles, sacks, or trays are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L004 as appropriate. AADC trays are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L801. At the mailer's option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles and sacks of flats; and mixed ADC and mixed AADC trays of letters, may be sorted to ASF pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L010. All mixed ADC bundles, sacks, and trays and mixed AADC trays must contain only pieces destinating within the ASF in 6.3. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L602.
2. Line 2: For flats and irregular parcels, "STD" followed by "FLTS" or "IRREG," as applicable; followed by "ASF"; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail. For letters, "STD LTRS ASF"; followed by "BC" if pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by "MACH" if pallet contains machinable letters; followed by "MAN" if pallet contains nonmachinable letters.
h. BMC, required, permitted for bundles, sacks, and trays. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation price, and/or Presorted price mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L601. ADC bundles, sacks, or trays are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L004 as appropriate. AADC trays are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L801. At the mailer's option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles and sacks of flats; and mixed ADC trays and mixed AADC trays of letters, may be sorted to BMC pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L010. All mixed ADC bundles, sacks, and trays and mixed AADC trays must contain only pieces destinating within the BMC service area. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L601.
2. Line 2: For flats and irregular parcels, "STD" followed by "FLTS" or "IRREG," as applicable; followed by "BMC"; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail. For letters, "STD LTRS BMC"; followed by "BC" if pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by "MACH" if pallet contains machinable letters; followed by "MAN" if pallet contains nonmachinable letters.
i. Mixed BMC, optional, permitted for sacks and trays only. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation price, and/or Presorted price mail. Labeling:
1. Line 1: "MXD" followed by information in L601, Column B, for BMC serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry Post Office (label to plant serving entry Post Office if authorized by processing and distribution manager).
2. Line 2: For flats and irregular parcels, "STD" followed by "FLTS" or "IRREG," as applicable; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail; followed by "WKG." For letters, "STD LTRS"; followed by "BC" if pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by "MACH" if pallet contains machinable letters; followed by "MAN" if pallet contains nonmachinable letters; followed by "WKG."
8.10.4 Package Services Flats—Bundles and Sacks
Pallets must be prepared under 8.0 in the sequence listed below and completed at each required level before the next optional or required level is prepared. Unless indicated as optional, all sort levels are required under the conditions shown. Carrier route mail and Presorted price mail with a barcode apply only to Bound Printed Matter mailings. Destination entry price eligibility also applies only to Bound Printed Matter (see 366 for flats). At the mailer's option, all Package Services flats may be prepared for destination entry. For mailings of sacks on pallets, pallet preparation begins with 8.10.4b. Pallets must be labeled according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 8.6.
a. 5-digit scheme carrier routes, required, permitted for bundles only. Pallet must contain only carrier route bundles for the same 5-digit scheme under L001. For 5-digit destinations not part of L001, 5-digit carrier routes pallet preparation begins with 8.10.4b. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L001.
2. Line 2: "PSVC FLTS"; followed by "CARRIER ROUTES" (or "CR-RTS"); followed by "SCHEME" (or "SCH").
b. 5-digit carrier routes, required, permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet must contain only carrier route mail for the same 5-digit ZIP Code. Labeling:
1. Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see 8.6.4c for overseas military mail).
2. Line 2: "PSVC FLTS"; followed by "CARRIER ROUTES" (or "CR-RTS").
c. 5-digit, required, permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet must contain only Presorted price mail with or without a barcode for the same 5-digit ZIP Code or same 5-digit scheme under L007 (for automation-compatible flats only under 301.3.0). Five-digit scheme bundles are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" 5-digit ZIP Code in L007. Labeling:
1. Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see 8.6.4c for overseas military mail).
2. Line 2: "PSVC FLTS 5D"; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains Presorted price mail with a barcode; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains Presorted price mail without a barcode.
d. 5-digit metro, optional, permitted for bundles only. Pallet may contain carrier route and/or Presorted price mail with or without a barcode for the 5-digit ZIP Codes in L006, Column A, and for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L006, Column B. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L006.
2. Line 2: "PSVC FLTS"; followed by "METRO" (or "MET"); followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains Presorted price mail with a barcode; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail without a barcode.
e. 3-digit, optional, option not available for bundles for 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes marked "N" in L002. Pallet may contain mail with or without a barcode for the same 3-digit ZIP Code or the same 3-digit scheme under L008 (for automation-compatible flats only under 301.3.0). Three-digit scheme bundles are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" 3-digit ZIP Code in L008. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L002, Column A.
2. Line 2: "PSVC FLTS 3D"; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains Presorted price mail with a barcode; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail without a barcode.
f. SCF, required, permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet may contain carrier route and/or Presorted price mail with or without a barcode for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L005. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L002, Column C.
2. Line 2: "PSVC FLTS SCF"; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains Presorted price mail with a barcode; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail without a barcode.
g. ASF, required, permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet may contain carrier route and/or Presorted price mail with or without a barcode for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L602. ADC bundles or sacks are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L004. At the mailer's option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles or sacks may be sorted to ASF pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L010. All mixed ADC bundles and sacks must contain only pieces destinating within the ASF in 6.3. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L602.
2. Line 2: "PSVC FLTS ASF"; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains Presorted price mail with a barcode; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail without a barcode.
h. BMC, required, permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet may contain carrier route and/or Presorted price mail with or without a barcode for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L601. ADC bundles or sacks are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L004. At the mailer's option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles or sacks may be sorted to BMC pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L010. All mixed ADC bundles and sacks must contain only pieces destinating within the BMC in 6.3. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L601.
2. Line 2: "PSVC FLTS BMC"; followed by "BARCODED" (or "BC") if pallet contains Presorted price mail with a barcode; followed by "NONBARCODED" (or "NBC") if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail without a barcode.
i. Mixed BMC, optional, permitted for sacks only. Pallet may contain carrier route and/or Presorted price mail with or without a barcode. Labeling:
1. Line 1: "MXD" followed by information in L601, Column B, for BMC serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry Post Office (label to plant serving entry Post Office if authorized by processing and distribution manager).
8.10.5 Package Services Irregular Parcels—Bundles and Sacks
Pallets must be prepared under 8.0 in the sequence listed below and completed at each required level before the next optional or required level is prepared. Unless indicated as optional, all sort levels are required under the conditions shown. Carrier route (8.10.5a, 8.10.5b, 8.10.5d, and 8.10.5e) applies to Bound Printed Matter mailings only. Destination entry price eligibility applies only to Parcel Select (see 456) and Bound Printed Matter (see 466 for parcels). At the mailer's option, all Package Services irregular parcels also may be prepared for destination entry (see 7.0). For mailings of sacks on pallets, pallet preparation begins with 8.10.5e. Pallets must be labeled according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 8.6.
a. Merged 5-digit scheme, required, permitted for bundles only. Pallet must contain carrier route bundles and noncarrier route 5-digit bundles (Presorted price bundles) for the same 5-digit scheme under L001. For 5-digit destinations not part of L001, merged 5-digit pallet preparation begins with 8.10.5d. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L001.
2. Line 2: "PSVC IRREG CR/5D"; followed by "SCHEME" (or "SCH").
b. 5-digit scheme carrier routes, required, permitted for bundles only. Pallet must contain only carrier route bundles for the same 5-digit scheme under L001. For 5-digit destinations not part of L001, 5-digit carrier routes pallet preparation begins with 8.10.5e. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L001.
2. Line 2: "PSVC IRREG"; followed by "CARRIER ROUTES" (or "CR-RTS"); followed by "SCHEME" (or "SCH").
c. 5-digit scheme, required, permitted for bundles only. Pallet must contain only 5-digit bundles of Presorted price mail for the same 5-digit scheme under L001. For 5-digit destinations not part of L001, 5-digit pallet preparation begins with 8.10.5d. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L001.
2. Line 2: "PSVC IRREG 5D"; followed by "SCHEME" (or "SCH").
d. Merged 5-digit, required, permitted for bundles only. Pallet must contain carrier route bundles and noncarrier route 5-digit bundles (Presorted price bundles) for the same 5-digit ZIP Code. Labeling:
1. Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see 8.6.4c for overseas military mail).
2. Line 2: "PSVC IRREG CR/5D."
e. 5-digit carrier routes, required, permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet must contain only carrier route mail for the same 5-digit ZIP Code. Labeling:
1. Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see 8.6.4c for overseas military mail).
2. Line 2: "PSVC IRREG"; followed by "CARRIER ROUTES" (or "CR-RTS").
f. 5-digit, required, permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet must contain only Presorted price mail for the same 5-digit ZIP Code. Labeling:
1. Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see 8.6.4c for overseas military mail).
g. 5-digit metro, optional, permitted for bundles only. Pallet must contain carrier route and/or Presorted price bundles for the 5-digit ZIP Codes in L006, Column A, and for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L006, Column B. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L006.
2. Line 2: "PSVC IRREG"; followed by "METRO" (or "MET").
h. 3-digit, optional, option not available for bundles for 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes marked "N" in L002. Pallet must contain parcels only for the same 3-digit ZIP Code. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L002, Column A.
i. SCF, required, permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet may contain carrier route and/or Presorted price mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L005. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L002, Column C.
j. ASF, required, permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet may contain carrier route and/or Presorted price mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L602. ADC bundles or sacks are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L004. At the mailer's option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles or sacks may be sorted to ASF pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L010. All mixed ADC bundles and sacks must contain only pieces destinating within the ASF in 6.3. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L602.
k. BMC, required, permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet may contain carrier route and/or Presorted price mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L601. ADC (L004) bundles or sacks are assigned to pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L004. At the mailer's option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles or sacks may be sorted to BMC pallets according to the "label to" ZIP Code in L010. All mixed ADC bundles and sacks must contain only pieces destinating within the BMC in 6.3. Labeling:
1. Line 1: L601.
l. Mixed BMC, optional, permitted for sacks only. Pallet may contain carrier route and/or Presorted price mail. Labeling:
1. Line 1: "MXD" followed by information in L601, Column B, for BMC serving 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of entry Post Office (or labeled to plant serving entry Post Office if authorized by processing and distribution manager).
8.10.6 Package Services, Parcel Select
Pallets must be prepared under 8.0 in the sequence listed below and completed at each required level before the next optional or required level is prepared. Unless indicated as optional, all sort levels are required under the conditions shown. At the mailer's option, Parcel Select and Parcel Post mailings may be prepared on pallets under this section. Destination entry price eligibility applies only to Parcel Select (see 456), and Bound Printed Matter (see 466). Combined mailings of Standard Mail, Parcel Select, and Package Services machinable parcels also must meet the standards in 6.0 or 20.0. Pallets must be labeled according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 8.6.
a. 5-digit scheme, required. Pallet must contain parcels or NFMs for the same 5-digit scheme under L606. For 5-digit destinations not part of L606, or for which scheme sorts are not performed, 5-digit pallets are prepared under 8.10.6b. Labeling:
1. Line 1: Use L606.
2. Line 2: "STD MACH 5D," "STD NFM MACH 5D," or "PSVC MACH 5D," as applicable; followed by "SCHEME" (or "SCH").
b. 5-digit, required. Pallet must contain parcels or NFMs only for the same 5-digit ZIP Code. Labeling:
1. Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see