usps - dmm

1874
Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual May 12, 2008 Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) provides our official prices and standards for all domestic mailing services. Many commercial mailers find it helpful to reference these standards as they prepare and enter large mailings. For household mailers who need information about our retail products and services, we offer A Customer’s Guide to Mailing in English, Spanish, and Chinese. New business mailers can start with An Introduction to Mailing for Businesses and Organizations. It provides an overview of business mail and walks mailers through the decisions they will make when designing a mailing. Both publications are updated and available in many Post Offices and on our Postal Explorer Web site at pe.usps.com. Postal Explorer also provides helpful search features, mailing tools, and price calculators to make mailing easy. Summary of Changes The DMM is updated frequently on Postal Explorer at pe.usps.com. Revisions are published in the Summary of Changes by effective date and by DMM module. Mailing standards in the DMM are revised by notices in the Postal Bulletin or the Federal Register . Availability Public – The public can access the updated DMM in PDF and HTML formats on Postal Explorer at pe.usps.com. Annual subscriptions for printed copies are available only through the U.S. Government Printing Office, 202-512-1800. USPS – Postal employees can access the updated DMM in PDF and HTML formats on Postal Explorer at pe.usps.com or on the Postal Explorer CD-ROM. Offices can order printed copies through the Material Distribution Center using standard ordering procedures. How to Use This Book An introduction is located at the beginning of the book. It explains how information is organized around four basic concepts — mailing method, shape of mail, class of mail, and topic — and how the DMM is numbered. Also included is a series of Quick Service Guides, two-page overviews of mail classification and preparation. Comments Contact your local Post Office, business mail entry office, or the Pricing and Classification Service Center (PCSC) with comments or questions about our mailing standards (see 608.8.4 for addresses and telephone numbers of business mail entry offices and the PCSC). Stephen M. Kearney Vice President Pricing and Classification

Upload: raul-martinez

Post on 21-Apr-2015

114 views

Category:

Documents


2 download

TRANSCRIPT

Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail ManualMay 12, 2008 Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) provides our official prices and standards for all domestic mailing services. Many commercial mailers find it helpful to reference these standards as they prepare and enter large mailings. For household mailers who need information about our retail products and services, we offer A Customers Guide to Mailing in English, Spanish, and Chinese. New business mailers can start with An Introduction to Mailing for Businesses and Organizations. It provides an overview of business mail and walks mailers through the decisions they will make when designing a mailing. Both publications are updated and available in many Post Offices and on our Postal Explorer Web site at pe.usps.com. Postal Explorer also provides helpful search features, mailing tools, and price calculators to make mailing easy. Summary of Changes The DMM is updated frequently on Postal Explorer at pe.usps.com. Revisions are published in the Summary of Changes by effective date and by DMM module. Mailing standards in the DMM are revised by notices in the Postal Bulletin or the Federal Register. Availability Public The public can access the updated DMM in PDF and HTML formats on Postal Explorer at pe.usps.com. Annual subscriptions for printed copies are available only through the U.S. Government Printing Office, 202-512-1800. USPS Postal employees can access the updated DMM in PDF and HTML formats on Postal Explorer at pe.usps.com or on the Postal Explorer CD-ROM. Offices can order printed copies through the Material Distribution Center using standard ordering procedures. How to Use This Book An introduction is located at the beginning of the book. It explains how information is organized around four basic concepts mailing method, shape of mail, class of mail, and topic and how the DMM is numbered. Also included is a series of Quick Service Guides, two-page overviews of mail classification and preparation. Comments Contact your local Post Office, business mail entry office, or the Pricing and Classification Service Center (PCSC) with comments or questions about our mailing standards (see 608.8.4 for addresses and telephone numbers of business mail entry offices and the PCSC).

Stephen M. Kearney Vice President Pricing and Classification

1

2

1 Overview

Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service DMM100 200 300 400 500 600 700 Retail Mail Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels Commercial Mail Letters and Cards Commercial Mail Flats Commercial Mail Parcels Additional Services Basic Standards For All Mailing Services Special Standards Index and Appendices

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

3

Mailing StandardsCONTENTS

Retail Mail

...............................................................................

Design Standards101 Physical Standards 102 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece

Commercial Mail Letters and Cards Design Standards

...............................................................................

100 Retail Mail 200 Commercial Mail Letters and Cards 300 Commercial Mail Flats 400 Commercial Mail Parcels 500 Additional Services 600 Basic Standards For All Mailing Services 700 Special Standards Index and Appendices

110 Express Mail113 Prices and Eligibility 114 Postage Payment Methods 115 Mail Preparation 116 Deposit

201 Physical Standards 202 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece

230 First-Class Mail233 Prices and Eligibility 234 Postage Payment and Documentation 235 Mail Preparation 236 Enter and Deposit

120 Priority Mail123 Prices and Eligibility 124 Postage Payment Methods 125 Mail Preparation 126 Deposit

240 Standard Mail243 Prices and Eligibility 244 Postage Payment and Documentation 245 Mail Preparation 246 Enter and Deposit

130 First-Class Mail133 Prices and Eligibility 134 Postage Payment Methods 135 Mail Preparation 136 Deposit

150 Parcel Post153 Prices and Eligibility 154 Postage Payment Methods 155 Mail Preparation 156 Deposit

170 Media Mail173 Prices and Eligibility 174 Postage Payment Methods 175 Mail Preparation 176 Deposit

180 Library Mail183 Prices and Eligibility 184 Postage Payment Methods 185 Mail Preparation 186 Deposit

4

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Mailing Standards

Commercial Mail Flats Design Standards

..............................................................................

420 Priority Mail423 Prices and Eligibility 424 Postage Payment and Documentation 425 Mail Preparation 426 Enter and Deposit

301 Physical Standards 302 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece

330 First-Class Mail

430

333 Prices and Eligibility First-Class Mail 334 Postage Payment and Documentation 433 Prices and Eligibility 335 Mail Preparation 434 Postage Payment and Documentation 336 Enter and Deposit 435 Mail Preparation 436 Enter and Deposit

340 Standard Mail

440

343 Prices and Eligibility Standard Mail 344 Postage Payment and Documentation 443 Prices and Eligibility 345 Mail Preparation 444 Postage Payment and Documentation 346 Enter and Deposit 445 Mail Preparation 446 Enter and Deposit

360 Bound Printed Matter

450

363 Prices and Eligibility Parcel Select 364 Postage Payment and Documentation 453 Prices and Eligibility 365 Mail Preparation 454 Postage Payment and Documentation 366 Enter and Deposit 455 Mail Preparation 456 Enter and Deposit

370 Media Mail

460

373 Prices and Eligibility Bound Printed Matter 374 Postage Payment and Documentation 463 Prices and Eligibility 375 Mail Preparation 464 Postage Payment and Documentation 376 Enter and Deposit 465 Mail Preparation 466 Enter and Deposit

380 Library Mail

470

383 Prices and Eligibility Media Mail 384 Postage Payment and Documentation 473 Prices and Eligibility 385 Mail Preparation 474 Postage Payment and Documentation 386 Enter and Deposit 475 Mail Preparation 476 Enter and Deposit

Commercial Mail Parcels Design Standards

..............................................................................

480 Library Mail483 Prices and Eligibility 484 Postage Payment and Documentation 485 Mail Preparation 486 Enter and Deposit

401 Physical Standards 402 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece

410 Express Mail413 Prices and Eligibility 414 Postage Payment and Documentation 415 Mail Preparation 416 Enter and Deposit

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

5

Mailing Standards

Additional Services 503 Extra Services

..............................................................................

Basic Standards 601 Mailability 602 Addressing

..............................................................................

Extra Services for Express Mail Registered Mail Certified Mail Insured Mail Certificate of Mailing Return Receipt Restricted Delivery Return Receipt for Merchandise Delivery Confirmation Signature Confirmation Collect on Delivery (COD) Special Handling Confirm Service Money Orders

604 Postage Payment Methods 607 Mailer Compliance and Appeals of Classification Decisions 608 Postal Information and Resources 609 Filing Indemnity Claims for Loss or Damage

507 Mailer ServicesTreatment of Mail Forwarding Address Correction Services Recall of Mail Pickup on Demand Service Mailing List Services Address Sequencing Services Business Reply Mail (BRM) Merchandise Return Service Bulk Parcel Return Service

508 Recipient ServicesRecipient Options Conditions of Delivery Customer Mail Receptacles Post Office Box Service Caller Service General Delivery Firm Holdout Pandering Advertisements Sexually Oriented Advertisements

509 Other ServicesAddress Information System Products Nonpostal Services

6

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Mailing Standards

Special Standards

..............................................................................

Index and Appendices Index

..............................................................................

703 Nonprofit Standard Mail and Other Unique Eligibility 705 Advanced Preparation and Special Postage Payment Systems 707 Periodicals 708 Technical Specifications 709 Experimental Classifications and Prices

Appendix 1Labeling Lists Appendix 2Forms Glossary Appendix 3Summary of Changes

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

7

8

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

100 Retail Mail

100Retail Mail Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels

Design Standards101 Physical Standards 102 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece

110 Express Mail113 Prices and Eligibility 114 Postage Payment Methods 115 Mail Preparation 116 Deposit

120 Priority Mail123 Prices and Eligibility 124 Postage Payment Methods 125 Mail Preparation 126 Deposit

130 First-Class Mail133 Prices and Eligibility 134 Postage Payment Methods 135 Mail Preparation 136 Deposit

150 Parcel Post153 Prices and Eligibility 154 Postage Payment Methods 155 Mail Preparation 156 Deposit

170 Media Mail173 Prices and Eligibility 174 Postage Payment Methods 175 Mail Preparation 176 Deposit

180 Library Mail183 Prices and Eligibility 184 Postage Payment Methods 185 Mail Preparation 186 Deposit

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

9

10

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Design StandardsTOPICS

101 Physical StandardsDesign Standards

7.0 Additional Physical Standards for Parcel Post

...........................................................................

1.0 Physical Standards for Letters

101 Physical Standards 102 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece

1.1 Dimensional Standards for Letters 1.2 Nonmachinable Criteria2.0 Physical Standards for Flats

7.1 Dimension and Weight Standards 7.2 Nonmachinable Parcel Post Standards8.0 Additional Physical Standards for Media Mail

2.1 General Definition of Flat-Size Mail 2.2 Length and Height of Flats 2.3 Minimum Flexibility Criteria for Flat-Size Pieces 2.4 Uniform Thickness 2.5 Flat-Size Pieces Not Eligible for Flat-Size Pricing3.0 Physical Standards for Parcels

8.1 Dimension and Weight Standards9.0 Additional Physical Standards for Library Mail

9.1 Dimension and Weight Standards

3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4

Maximum Weight and Size Two or More Packages Machinable Parcels Soft Goods and Enveloped Printed Matter 3.5 Irregular Parcels 3.6 Outside Parcel4.0 Additional Physical Standards for Express Mail

102 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece1.0 All Mailpieces

...........................................................................

1.1 Clear Space 1.2 Delivery and Return Address 1.3 Postage Payment2.0 Address Placement for Letters

4.1 Physical Standards of Mailpieces 4.2 Outside Parcels 4.3 Two or More Packages5.0 Additional Physical Standards for Priority Mail

2.1 Delivery Address Placement 2.2 Address Placement Causing Mail to be Nonmailable or Nonmachinable3.0 Placement and Content of Mail Markings

5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4

Physical Standards of Mailpieces Two or More Packages Balloon Price Dimensional Weight Price

3.1 Placement of Priority Mail Marking 3.2 Placement of First-Class Mail Markings 3.3 Mail Markings4.0 Endorsement Placement

6.0 Additional Physical Standards for First-Class Mail

6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 6.6

Maximum Weight and Size Minimum Standards Cards Claimed at Card Prices Nonmachinable Pieces Parcels Two or More Packages

4.1 Endorsements for Delivery Instructions and Ancillary Services 4.2 Return Address 4.3 Placement of Endorsement 4.4 Physical Standards for Endorsements

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

11

110 Express MailTOPICS

113 Prices and Eligibility1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7

...........................................................................

114 Postage Payment Methods1.0 Postage Payment Methods

...........................................................................

1.0 Express Mail Prices and Fees

113 Prices and Eligibility 114 Postage Payment Methods 115 Mail Preparation 116 DepositExpress Mail

Prices Charged Per Piece Price Application Prices Flat-Rate Envelope Sunday and Holiday Premium Pickup on Demand Computing Postage

1.1 Payment Method 1.2 Affixing PostageSingle-Piece Mailings 1.3 Prepaid Reply Postage2.0 Corporate Accounts

2.1 Availability3.0 Postage Refunds

2.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for Express Mail

3.1 Postage Not Refunded

2.1 Definition 2.2 Matter Closed Against Postal Inspection3.0 Content Standards for Express Mail

115 Mail Preparation

...........................................................................

1.0 Express Mail Packaging

3.1 Eligibility 3.2 Matter Required to be Mailed as First-Class Mail4.0 Service Features of Express Mail

1.1 Packaging Supplies Provided by USPS2.0 Express Mail Next Day and Second Day

4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6

General Express Mail Next Day Delivery Express Mail Second Day Delivery Express Mail Military Service (EMMS) Custom Designed Drop Shipment

2.1 Mailing Label 2.2 Waiver of Signature 2.3 ZIP Code Determination3.0 Firm Mailing Book

3.1 Completing a Firm Mailing Book

116 Deposit

...........................................................................

1.0 Express Mail Next Day and Second Day Delivery

1.1 Deposit of Next Day and Second Day Delivery2.0 Express Mail Military Service

2.1 Deposit3.0 Pickup on Demand Service

3.1 Availability 3.2 Pickup on Demand Fee

12

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

120 Priority MailTOPICS

123 Prices and Eligibility

...........................................................................

125 Mail Preparation1.0 Preparation

...........................................................................

1.0 Priority Mail Prices and Fees

123 Prices and Eligibility 124 Postage Payment Methods 125 Mail Preparation 126 DepositPriority Mail

1.1 Price Application 1.2 Prices 1.3 Balloon Price 1.4 Dimensional Weight Price for Low-Density Parcels to Zones 5-8 1.5 Flat-Rate Envelope and Boxes 1.6 Prices for Keys and Identification Devices 1.7 Keys and Identification Devices 1.8 Pickup on Demand Fee 1.9 Determining Single-Piece Weight 1.10 Computing Postage2.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for Priority Mail

1.1 Priority Mail Packaging Provided by the USPS 1.2 Required Use2.0 Marking for Priority Mail

2.1 Marking

126 Deposit

...........................................................................

1.0 Deposit

1.1 Pieces Weighing 13 Ounces or Less 1.2 Pieces Weighing More than 13 Ounces2.0 Pickup on Demand Service

2.1 Definition 2.2 Service Objectives 2.3 Matter Closed Against Postal Inspection3.0 Content Standards for Priority Mail

2.1 Availability

3.1 Eligibility 3.2 Matter Required to be Mailed as First-Class Mail

124 Postage Payment Methods1.0 Basic Standards for Postage Payment

...........................................................................

1.1 Payment Method 1.2 Affixing Postage Single-Piece Mailings

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

13

130 First-Class MailTOPICS

133 Prices and Eligibility

...........................................................................

134 Postage Payment Methods

...........................................................................

1.0 First-Class Mail Prices and Fees

133 Prices and Eligibility 134 Postage Payment Methods 135 Mail Preparation 136 DepositFirst-Class Mail

1.1 First-Class Mail Single-Piece Price Application 1.2 Price Computation for First-Class Mail 1.3 Determining Single-Piece Weight 1.4 Prices for Letters and Cards 1.5 Prices for Flats 1.6 Prices for Parcels 1.7 Keys and Identification Devices 1.8 Prices for Keys and Identification Devices 1.9 Nonmachinable Surcharge 1.10 Applicability of Nonmachinable Surcharge 1.11 Computing Postage First-Class Mail2.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for First-Class Mail

1.0 Postage Payment Methods for First-Class Mail

1.1 Payment Method 1.2 Affixing PostageSingle-Piece Price Mailings 1.3 More Than One Mailer 1.4 More Than One Letter 1.5 Agent2.0 Postage Paid With Permit Imprint

2.1 Advance Deposit Account 2.2 Minimum Quantity 2.3 Postage Statement

135 Mail Preparation

...........................................................................

1.0 Preparation for First-Class Mail

1.1 Preparation of First-Class Mail

2.1 Description of Service 2.2 Defining Characteristics3.0 Content Standards

136 Deposit

...........................................................................

3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4

General Eligibility Bills and Statements of Account Personal Information Handwritten and Typewritten Material 3.5 Matter Marked Postcard or Double Postcard 3.6 Matter Not Required to be Mailed as First-Class Mail 3.7 Prohibited Air Transportation

1.0 Deposit for First-Class Mail

1.1 Single-Piece and Card Mailings

14

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

150 Parcel PostTOPICS

153 Prices and Eligibility*

...........................................................................

154 Postage Payment Methods

...........................................................................

1.0 Parcel Post Prices and Fees

153 Prices and Eligibility 154 Postage Payment Methods 155 Mail Preparation 156 DepositParcel Post

1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4

Price Eligibility Determining Single-Piece Weight Parcel Post Price Application Computing PostageParcel Post With Permit Imprint 1.5 Computing PostageParcel Post With Postage Affixed 1.6 Pickup on Demand Fees 1.7 Inter-BMC/ASF Machinable Parcel Post 1.8 Inter-BMC/ASF Nonmachinable Parcel Post 1.9 Inter-BMC/ASF Machinable and Nonmachinable Parcel Post Prices 1.10 Local and Intra-BMC/ASF Machinable Parcel Post 1.11 Local and Intra-BMC/ASF Nonmachinable Parcel Post 1.12 Local and Intra-BMC/ASF Machinable and Nonmachinable Parcel Post Prices2.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for Parcel Post

1.0 Postage Payment Methods for Parcel Post

1.1 Payment Method 1.2 Affixing PostageSingle-Piece Mailings2.0 Postage Paid With Permit Imprint

2.1 Advance Deposit Account 2.2 Minimum Quantity 2.3 Postage Statement

155 Mail Preparation1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4

...........................................................................

1.0 Preparation for Parcel Post

Basic Preparation Delivery and Return Addresses Basic Markings Required Use

156 Deposit1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4

...........................................................................

1.0 Deposit for Parcel Post

2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4

Definition of Parcel Post Service Objectives Postal Inspection Delivery and Return Addresses

3.0 Content Standards

3.1 General Content Standards 3.2 Attachments or Enclosures of Periodicals Sample Copies4.0 Attachments and Enclosures

Single-Piece Mailings Designated Mailing Office Redirected Mailings BMC Acceptance of Zoned Parcel Post 1.5 Pickup on Demand Fees

4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4

Enclosures Written Additions Invoice Incidental First-Class Mail Attachments and Enclosures

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

15

170 Media MailTOPICS

173 Prices and Eligibility*

...........................................................................

175 Mail Preparation

...........................................................................

1.0 Media Mail Prices and Fees

1.0 Preparation for Media Mail

173 Prices and Eligibility 174 Postage Payment Methods 175 Mail Preparation 176 DepositMedia Mail

1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4

Prices Determining Single-Piece Weight Media Mail Price Application Barcode DiscountMachinable Parcels 1.5 Media Mail Prices 1.6 Computing PostageMedia Mail With Permit Imprint 1.7 Computing PostageMedia Mail With Postage Affixed2.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for Media Mail

1.1 Basic Preparation 1.2 Delivery and Return Addresses 1.3 Basic Markings

176 Deposit

...........................................................................

1.0 Deposit for Media Mail

1.1 Single-Piece Mailings

2.1 Service Objectives 2.2 Postal Inspection 2.3 Delivery and Return Addresses3.0 Content Standards

3.1 General 3.2 Qualified Items4.0 Attachments and Enclosures

4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5

Loose Enclosures Enclosures in Books Written Additions Invoice Incidental First-Class Mail Attachments and Enclosures

174 Postage Payment Methods1.0 Postage Payment Methods for Media Mail

...........................................................................

1.1 Payment Method 1.2 Affixing Postage Single-Piece Price Mailings2.0 Postage Paid With Permit Imprint

2.1 Advance Deposit Account 2.2 Minimum Quantity 2.3 Postage Statement

16

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

180 Library MailTOPICS

183 Prices and Eligibility*

...........................................................................

184 Postage Payment Methods

...........................................................................

1.0 Library Mail Prices and Fees

183 Prices and Eligibility 184 Postage Payment Methods 185 Mail Preparation 186 DepositLibrary Mail

1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4

Prices Determining Single-Piece Weight Library Mail Price Application Barcode DiscountMachinable Parcels 1.5 Library Mail Prices 1.6 Computing PostageLibrary Mail With Permit Imprint 1.7 Computing PostageLibrary Mail With Postage Affixed2.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for Library Mail

1.0 Postage Payment Methods for Library Mail

1.1 Payment Method 1.2 Affixing PostageSingle-Piece Price Mailings2.0 Postage Paid With Permit Imprint

2.1 Advance Deposit Account 2.2 Minimum Quantity 2.3 Postage Statement

185 Mail Preparation

...........................................................................

2.1 Service Objectives 2.2 Postal Inspection 2.3 Delivery and Return Addresses3.0 Sender, Recipient, and Content Standards

1.0 Preparation for Library Mail

1.1 Basic Preparation 1.2 Basic Markings

3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4

General Sender, Recipient, and Contents Qualified Mailings Between Entities Qualified Mailings To or From

186 Deposit

...........................................................................

1.0 Deposit for Library Mail

1.1 Single-Piece Price Mailings

4.0 Attachments and Enclosures

4.1 Enclosures in Books and Sound Recordings 4.2 Other Material 4.3 Written Additions 4.4 Invoice 4.5 Incidental First-Class Mail Attachments and Enclosures

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

17

18

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail Design Standards101 Physical Standards 102 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece Design Standards

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

19

20

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Physical Standards for Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels

101

101.1.1

101Overview

Physical Standards1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0 6.0 7.0 8.0 9.0 Physical Standards for Letters Physical Standards for Flats Physical Standards for Parcels Additional Physical Standards for Express Mail Additional Physical Standards for Priority Mail Additional Physical Standards for First-Class Mail Additional Physical Standards for Parcel Post Additional Physical Standards for Media Mail Additional Physical Standards for Library Mail

1.01.1

Physical Standards for LettersDimensional Standards for Letters Letter-size mail is: a. b. c. d. Not less than 5 inches long, 3-1/2 inches high, and 0.007-inch thick. Not more than 11-1/2 inches long, or more than 6-1/8 inches high, or more than 1/4-inch thick. Not more than 3.5 ounces (First-Class Mail letter-size pieces over 3.5 ounces pay flat-size prices). Rectangular, with four square corners and parallel opposite sides. Letter-size, card-type mailpieces made of cardstock may have finished corners that do not exceed a radius of 0.125 inch (1/8 inch). See Exhibit 1.1d.

Exhibit 1.1d Maximum Corner Radius for Letter-Size, Card-Type MailpiecesCorner Radius Maximum 1/8"

Graphic at 100% Place mailpiece against template to test accuracy

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

21

101101.1.2

Retail Mail: Physical Standards for Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels

1.2

Nonmachinable Criteria A letter-size piece is nonmachinable (see 6.4) if it has one or more of the following characteristics (see 601.1.4 to determine the length, height, top, and bottom of a mailpiece): a. b. c. d. Has an aspect ratio (length divided by height) of less than 1.3 or more than 2.5. Is polybagged, polywrapped, or enclosed in any plastic material. Has clasps, strings, buttons, or similar closure devices. Contains items such as pens, pencils, or loose keys or coins that cause the thickness of the mailpiece to be uneven (see 601.2.3, Odd-Shaped Items in Paper Envelopes). Is too rigid (does not bend easily when subjected to a transport belt tension of 40 pounds around an 11-inch diameter turn). For pieces more than 4-1/4 inches high or 6 inches long, the thickness is less than 0.009 inch. Has a delivery address parallel to the shorter dimension of the mailpiece. Is a self-mailer with a final folded edge perpendicular to the address if the piece is not folded and secured according to 201.3.14.1. Booklet-type pieces with the bound edge (spine) along the shorter dimension of the piece or at the top, unless prepared according to 201.3.14.2.

e. f. g. h. i.

2.02.1

Physical Standards for FlatsGeneral Definition of Flat-Size Mail Flat-size mail is: a. b. c. d. More than 11-1/2 inches long, or more than 6-1/8 inches high, or more than 1/4 inch thick. Not more than 15 inches long, or more than 12 inches high, or more than 3/4 inch thick. Flexible (see 2.3). Rectangular with four square corners or with finished corners that do not exceed a radius of 0.125 inch (1/8 inch). See Exhibit 2.1d.

22

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Physical Standards for Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels

101

101.2.3

Exhibit 2.1d Maximum Corner Radius for Flat-Size MailpiecesCorner Radius Maximum 1/8"

Graphic at 100% Place mailpiece against template to test accuracy

e. f. 2.2

Uniformly thick (see 2.4). Unwrapped, sleeved, wrapped, or enveloped.

Length and Height of Flats The length of a flat-size mailpiece is the longest dimension. The height is the dimension perpendicular to the length. Minimum Flexibility Criteria for Flat-Size Pieces Flat-size pieces must be flexible. Boxeswith or without hinges, gaps, or breaks that allow the piece to bendare not flats. Tight envelopes or wrappers that are filled with one or more boxes are not flats. At the customer's option, a customer may perform the following test on their own mailpieces. When a postal employee observes a customer demonstrating that a flat-size piece is flexible according to these standards, the employee does not need to perform the test. Test flats as follows: a. All flats (see Exhibit 2.3a): 1. 2. 3. 4. Place the piece with the length parallel to the edge of a flat surface and extend the piece halfway off the surface. Press down on the piece at a point 1 inch from the outer edge, in the center of the piece's length, exerting steady pressure. The piece is not flexible if it cannot bend at least 1 inch vertically without being damaged. The piece is flexible if it can bend at least 1 inch vertically without being damaged and it does not contain a rigid insert. No further testing is necessary. Test the piece according to 2.3b or 2.3c below if it can bend at least 1 inch vertically without being damaged and it contains a rigid insert.

2.3

5.

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

23

101101.2.3

Retail Mail: Physical Standards for Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels

Exhibit 2.3a Flexibility TestAll Flats

For flats, length is the longest dimension

1" minimum exibility required FLEX TEST Length runs parallel to surface

b.

Flats 10 inches or longer that pass the test in 2.3a and contain a rigid insert (see Exhibit 2.3b): 1. 2. 3. Place the piece with the length perpendicular to the edge of a flat surface and extend the piece 5 inches off the surface. Press down on the piece at a point 1 inch from the outer edge, in the center of the piece's width, exerting steady pressure. Turn the piece around and repeat steps 1 and 2. The piece is flexible if both ends can bend at least 2 inches vertically without being damaged.

24

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Physical Standards for Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels

101

101.2.3

Exhibit 2.3b Flexibility TestFlats 10 Inches or Longer

For flats, length is the longest dimension

FLEX TEST Flats 10" or longer that contain a rigid insert; perpendicular to surface

2" minimum flexibilty required

c.

Flats less than 10 inches long that pass the test in 2.3a and contain a rigid insert (see Exhibit 2.3c): 1. 2. 3. Place the piece with the length perpendicular to the edge of a flat surface and extend the piece one-half of its length off the surface. Press down on the piece at a point 1 inch from the outer edge, in the center of the piece's width, exerting steady pressure. Turn the piece around and repeat steps 1 and 2. The piece is flexible if both ends can bend at least 1 inch vertically without being damaged.

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

25

101101.2.4

Retail Mail: Physical Standards for Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels

Exhibit 2.3c Flexibility TestFlats Less Than 10 Inches Long

For flats, length is the longest dimension

FLEX TEST Flats less than 10" that contain a rigid insert; perpendicular to surface

1" minimum flexibility required

2.4

Uniform Thickness Flat-size mailpieces must be uniformly thick so that any bumps, protrusions, or other irregularities do not cause more than 1/4-inch variance in thickness. When determining variance in thickness, exclude the outside edges of a mailpiece (1 inch from each edge) when the contents do not extend into those edges. Also, exclude the selvage of any polywrap covering (see 301.3.3) from this determination. Mailers must secure nonpaper contents to prevent shifting of more than 2 inches within the mailpiece if shifting would cause the piece to be nonuniform in thickness or would result in the contents bursting out of the mailpiece (see 601.2.3). Flat-Size Pieces Not Eligible for Flat-Size Pricing Mailpieces that do not meet the standards in 2.1 through 2.4 are not eligible for flat-size pricing and must pay applicable parcel prices.

2.5

3.03.1

Physical Standards for ParcelsMaximum Weight and Size No mailpiece may weigh more than 70 pounds. Lower weight limits apply to First-Class Mail, Standard Mail, and Bound Printed Matter. Pieces may not measure more than 108 inches in length and girth combined, except Parcel Post, which may not measure more than 130 inches in length and girth combined. For parcels, length is the distance of the longest dimension and girth is the distance around the thickest part. Lower size or weight standards apply to mail addressed to some APOs and FPOs subject to 703.2.0 and 703.4.0 and for Department of State mail, subject to 703.3.0.Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

26

Retail Mail: Physical Standards for Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels

101

101.3.3

3.2

Two or More Packages Two or more packages may be mailed as a single parcel, if they are about the same size or shape, if they are securely wrapped or fastened together, and if they do not together exceed the weight or size limits. Machinable Parcels A machinable parcel is any piece that is (see Exhibit 3.3): a. Not less than 6 inches long, 3 inches high, 1/4 inch thick, and 6 ounces in weight. (A mailpiece exactly 1/4 inch thick is subject to the 3 1/2-inch height minimum under 601.1.2.) Not more than 34 inches long, or 17 inches high, or 17 inches thick, or 35 pounds in weight. For books, or other printed matter, the maximum weight is 25 pounds.

3.3

b.

Exhibit 3.3 Machinable Parcel Dimensions

17"

17"

3"

34"

6"

1/4"

Maximum weight = 35 pounds Books and printed matter may not weigh more than 25 pounds.

Minimum weight = 6 oz. (for details, see machinable parcel criteria in 401.1.5.1)

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

27

101101.3.4

Retail Mail: Physical Standards for Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels

3.4

Soft Goods and Enveloped Printed Matter Soft goods wrapped in paper or plastic bags and enveloped printed matter are machinable only if all packaging standards in 601.2.0 are met. Irregular Parcels An irregular parcel is a parcel not meeting the dimensional criteria in 3.3, Machinable Parcels. This processing category also includes parcels that cannot be processed by Bulk Mail Center parcel sorters, including rolls and tubes up to 26 inches long; merchandise samples that are not individually addressed and are not letter-size or flat-size; unwrapped, paper-wrapped, or sleeve-wrapped articles that are not letter-size or flat-size; and articles enclosed in envelopes that are not letter-size, flat-size, or machinable parcels. Outside Parcel An outside parcel is a parcel that exceeds any of the maximum dimensions for a machinable parcel. This processing category also includes high-density parcels (other than books and printed matter) weighing more than 15 pounds and exerting more than 60 pounds per square foot (0.4167 pound per square inch) pressure on their smallest side; cartons containing more than 24 ounces of liquid in one or more glass containers; cartons containing 1 gallon or more of liquid in metal or plastic containers; cans, paints; rolls and tubes longer than 26 inches; metal-band strapped boxes, metal boxes, and wood boxes; articles not mailed in boxes or other containers; harmful matter; hazardous materials except ORM-D materials; and containers with all dimensions exceeding the minimum dimensions for a machinable (regular) parcel, if their coefficient of friction or ability to slide on a smooth, hard surface is not similar to that of a domestic-class fiberboard box of the same approximate size and weight.

3.5

3.6

4.04.1

Additional Physical Standards for Express MailPhysical Standards of Mailpieces Each piece of Express Mail may not weigh more than 70 pounds. The combined length and girth of a piece (the length of its longest side plus the distance around its thickest part) may not exceed 108 inches. Lower size or weight standards apply to Express Mail addressed to certain APOs and FPOs. Outside Parcels Express Mail items not required to be presented in a pouch (outside parcels) must be large enough to hold the required mailing labels and indicia without bending or folding on a single optical plane. Two or More Packages With the exception of USPS-produced Express Mail flat-rate envelopes, two or more packages may be mailed as a single parcel if they are about the same size or shape, are securely wrapped or fastened together, and do not exceed the weight or size limits.

4.2

4.3

28

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Physical Standards for Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels

101

101.6.3.1

5.05.1

Additional Physical Standards for Priority MailPhysical Standards of Mailpieces The maximum weight is 70 pounds. The combined length and girth of a piece (the length of its longest side plus the distance around its thickest part) may not exceed 108 inches. Lower size and weight standards apply for some APO and FPO mail subject to 703.2.0, Overseas Military Mail, and 703.4.0, Mail Sent by U.S. Armed Forces, and for Department of State mail subject to 703.3.0. Two or More Packages With the exception of USPS-produced Priority Mail flat-rate envelopes or boxes, two or more packages may be mailed as a single parcel if they are about the same size or shape, are securely wrapped or fastened together, and do not exceed the weight or size limits. Balloon Price Addressed for delivery to zones 1-4 (including local) and weighing less than 20 pounds but measuring more than 84 inches in combined length and girth are charged the price for a 20-pound parcel for the zone to which it is addressed. See 123.1.3. Dimensional Weight Price Postage for parcels addressed for delivery to zones 5-8 and exceeding 1 cubic foot (1,728 cubic inches) is based on the actual weight or the dimensional weight (see 123.1.4), whichever is greater.

5.2

5.3

5.4

6.06.1

Additional Physical Standards for First-Class MailMaximum Weight and Size First-Class Mail cannot exceed 13 ounces. First-Class Mail weighing more than 13 ounces is Priority Mail (123, Prices and Eligibility). The combined length and girth of a piece (the length of its longest side plus the distance around its thickest part) may not exceed 108 inches. Lower size or weight standards apply to mail claimed at certain prices or addressed to some APOs and FPOs subject to 703.2.0 and 703.4.0 and for Department of State mail subject to 703.3.0. Minimum Standards Pieces are subject to the minimum standards in 601.1.2 and may be subject to other minimum dimensions, based on the standards for specific prices. Cards Claimed at Card Prices 6.3.1 Card Price A card may be a single or double (reply) stamped card or a single or double postcard. Stamped cards are available from USPS with postage imprinted on them. Postcards are commercially available or privately printed mailing cards. To be eligible for card pricing, a card and each half of a double card must meet the physical standards in 6.3 and the applicable eligibility and preparation standards for the price

6.2

6.3

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

29

101101.6.3.2

Retail Mail: Physical Standards for Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels

claimed. Ineligible cards are subject to letter-size pricing. Cards may be prepared and mailed at the First-Class Mail single-piece card, Presorted card, or automation card prices. 6.3.2 Postcard Dimensions Each card (each stamped card or postcard or each half of a double stamped card or postcard) claimed at card pricing must be: a. b. c. Rectangular. Not less than 3-1/2 inches high, 5 inches long, and 0.007 inch thick. Not more than 4-1/4 inches high, or more than 6 inches long, or greater than 0.016 inch thick.

6.3.3 Other Cards A card that does not meet the applicable standards in 6.3 must not bear the words Postcard or Double Postcard. 6.3.4 Paper or Card Stock A card must be of uniform thickness and made of unfolded and uncreased paper or cardstock of approximately the quality and weight of a stamped card (i.e., a card available from the USPS). A card must be formed either of one piece of paper or cardstock or of two pieces of paper permanently and uniformly bonded together. The stock used for a card may be of any color or surface that permits the legible printing of the address, postmark, and any required markings. 6.3.5 Acceptable Attachments A card may bear an attachment that is: a. A paper label, such as a wafer seal or decal affixed with permanent adhesive to the back side of the card, or within the message area on the address side (see Exhibit 202.2.1), or to the left of the address block. A label affixed with permanent adhesive for showing the delivery or return address. A small reusable seal or decal prepared with pressure-sensitive and nonremovable adhesive that is intended to be removed from the first half of a double card and applied to the reply half.

b. c.

6.3.6 Unacceptable Attachment A card may not bear an attachment that is: a. b. c. Other than paper. Not totally adhered to the card surface. An encumbrance to postal processing.

6.3.7 Tearing Guides A card may have perforations or tearing guides if they do not eliminate or interfere with any address element, postage, marking, or endorsement and do not impair the physical integrity of the card.

30

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Physical Standards for Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels

101

101.6.4.1

6.3.8 Address Side of Cards The address side of a card is the side bearing the delivery address and postage. The address side may be formatted to contain a message area. Cards that do not contain a message area on the address side are subject to the applicable standards for the price claimed. For the purposes of 6.3, miscellaneous graphics or printing, such as symbols, logos, or characters, that appear on the address side of cards not containing a message area are generally acceptable provided the items are not intended to convey a message. 6.3.9 Special Rules for Single-Piece Cards Cards claimed at the single-piece price that have the format characteristics in 201.1.2.6a.3. or 201.1.2.6b.3. and are part of a mailing of 200 or more identical pieces must: a. b. c. Have addresses that include the correct ZIP Code or ZIP+4 code. Have postage paid with permit imprints, meter stamps, or precanceled stamps. Be prepared under 235.5.2, Machinable Preparation.

6.3.10 Double Cards A double card (a double stamped card or double postcard) consists of two attached cards, one of which is designed to be detached by the recipient and returned by mail as a single card. Double cards are subject to these standards: a. The reply half of a double card must be used for reply only and may not be used to convey a message to the original addressee or to send statements of account. The reply half may be formatted for response purposes (e.g., contain blocks for completion by the addressee). A double card must be folded before mailing and prepared so that the address on the reply half is on the inside when the double card is originally mailed. The address side of the reply half may be prepared as Business Reply Mail, Courtesy Reply Mail, meter reply mail, or as a merchandise return service label. Plain stickers, seals, or a single wire stitch (staple) may be used to fasten the open edge at the top or bottom once the card is folded if affixed so that the inner surfaces of the cards can be readily examined. Fasteners must be affixed according to the applicable preparation requirements for the price claimed. Any sealing on the left and right sides of the cards, no matter the sealing process used, is not permitted. The first half of a double card must be detached when the reply half is mailed for return.

b.

c.

d.

6.3.11 Enclosures Enclosures in double postcards are prohibited at card prices. 6.4 Nonmachinable Pieces 6.4.1 Nonmachinable Letters Letter-size pieces (except card-size pieces) that meet one or more of the nonmachinable characteristics in 1.2 are subject to the nonmachinable surcharge (see 133.1.10).

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

31

101101.6.4.2

Retail Mail: Physical Standards for Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels

6.4.2 Nonmachinable Flats Flat-size pieces that do not meet the standards in 2.0 are subject to the applicable postage for a parcel-size piece, based on weight. 6.5 Parcels [11-6-08] The address side of the parcel must be large enough to contain all delivery and return address, endorsement, postage, and label elements. First-Class Mail parcels are eligible for Delivery Confirmation and Signature Confirmation services. A First-Class Mail parcel is: a. b. c. 6.6 A mailpiece that exceeds any one of the maximum dimensions for a flat (large envelope). See 2.1. A flat-size mailpiece, regardless of thickness, that is rigid or nonrectangular. A flat-size mailpiece that is not uniformly thick (has bumps, protrusions, or other irregularities that cause the thickness to vary more than 1/4 inch).

Two or More Packages Two or more packages may be mailed as a single parcel, if they are about the same size or shape or if they are parts of one article, if they are securely wrapped or fastened together, and if they do not together exceed the weight or size limits.

7.07.1

Additional Physical Standards for Parcel PostDimension and Weight Standards These standards apply to Parcel Post: a. b. No piece may weigh more than 70 pounds. Parcel Post pieces measuring over 108 inches in combined length and girth, but not more than 130 inches in combined length and girth, are mailable at the applicable oversized price. Parcel Post pieces measuring over 84 inches in combined length and girth, but not more than 108 inches in combined length and girth, and weighing less than 20 pounds are mailable at the price equal to that of a 20-pound parcel for the zone to which the parcel is addressed (balloon price). Two or more packages may be mailed as a single parcel, if they are about the same size or shape, if they are securely wrapped or fastened together, and if they do not together exceed the weight or size limits. Lower size or weight standards apply to mail addressed to some APOs and FPOs subject to 703.2.0 and 703.4.0 and for Department of State mail, subject to 703.3.0.

c.

d.

e.

7.2

Nonmachinable Parcel Post Standards Mailpieces described in this section that are mailed at the Inter-BMC/ASF Parcel Post or Intra-BMC/ASF Parcel Post prices are subject to the applicable nonmachinable surcharge in 153.1.0, Parcel Post Prices and Fees, unless the

32

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Physical Standards for Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels

101

101.9.1

applicable special handling fee is paid. An oversized parcel as described in 7.1b is not subject to the nonmachinable surcharge. Mailpieces are nonmachinable if they meet any of the following criteria: a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. i. A parcel more than 34 inches long, 17 inches wide, or 17 inches high. A parcel less than 6 inches long, 1/4 inch thick, or 3 inches high. A parcel that weighs less than 6 ounces or more than 35 pounds. A parcel containing more than 24 ounces of liquid in glass containers, or 1 gallon or more of liquid in metal or plastic containers. An insecurely wrapped or metal-banded parcel. A can, roll, or tube, or wooden or metal box. Books, printed matter, or business forms weighing more than 25 pounds. A high-density parcel weighing more than 15 pounds and exerting more than 60 pounds per-square-foot pressure on its smallest side. A film case weighing more than 5 pounds or with strap-type closures, except any film case the USPS authorizes to be entered as a machinable parcel under 3.3 through 3.5 in Physical Standards for Parcels and to be identified by the words Machinable in United States Postal Service Equipment permanently attached as a nontransferable decal in the lower right corner of the case. Parcels with characteristics (such as inadequate packaging) that could result in damage to the contents of the mailpiece, other parcels, or postal machinery if mechanical sortation is used.

j.

8.08.1

Additional Physical Standards for Media MailDimension and Weight Standards These standards apply to Media Mail: a. b. c. No piece may weigh more than 70 pounds. The combined length and girth of a piece (the length of its longest side plus the distance around its thickest part) may not exceed 108 inches. Two or more packages may be mailed as a single parcel, if they are about the same size or shape, if they are securely wrapped or fastened together, and if they do not together exceed the weight or size limits. Lower size or weight standards apply to mail addressed to certain APOs and FPOs, subject to 703.2.0 and 703.4.0 and for Department of State mail, subject to 703.3.0.

d.

9.09.1

Additional Physical Standards for Library MailDimension and Weight Standards These standards apply to Library Mail:

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

33

a. b. c.

No piece may weigh more than 70 pounds. The combined length and girth of a piece (the length of its longest side plus the distance around its thickest part) may not exceed 108 inches. Two or more packages may be mailed as a single parcel, if they are about the same size or shape, if they are securely wrapped or fastened together, and if they do not together exceed the weight or size limits. Lower size or weight standards apply to mail addressed to certain APOs and FPOs, subject to 703.2.0 and 703.4.0 and for Department of State mail, subject to 703.3.0.

d.

34

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece

102

102.2.1

102Overview

Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 All Mailpieces Address Placement for Letters Placement and Content of Mail Markings Endorsement Placement

1.01.1

All MailpiecesClear Space A clear space must be available on all mail for the address, postage (permit imprint, postage stamp, or meter stamp), postmarks, and postal endorsements. Delivery and Return Address The delivery address specifies the location to which the USPS is to deliver a mailpiece. Except for mail prepared with detached address labels under 602.4.0, the piece must have the address of the intended recipient, visible and legible, only on the side of the piece bearing postage. A return address is required in specific circumstances (see 4.2 and 602.1.5 for more information about return addresses). See 602 for additional information regarding addressing.) Postage Payment The mailer is responsible for proper payment of postage. Standards for postage payment are specified for each shape and class of mail.

1.2

1.3

2.02.1

Address Placement for LettersDelivery Address Placement On a letter-size piece, the recommended address placement is within the optical character reader (OCR) read area, which is a space on the address side of the mailpiece defined by these boundaries (see Exhibit 2.1, OCR Read Area): a. b. c. d. Left: 1/2 inch from the left edge of the piece. Right: 1/2 inch from the right edge of the piece. Top: 2-3/4 inches from the bottom edge of the piece. Bottom: 5/8 inch from the bottom edge of the piece.

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

35

102102.2.2

Retail Mail: Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece

Exhibit 2.1 OCR Read Area

Postage area

1/2" 2-3/4"

Mr. and Mrs. John A Sample 99 Oak St Anytown WA 98765-4321

1/2"

5/8" Optical Character Reader (OCR) read area

2.2

Address Placement Causing Mail to be Nonmailable or Nonmachinable The location of the delivery address on a letter-size mailpiece determines which dimensions are the length and height of the piece. Consequently, the placement of the address may render a piece nonmailable or nonmachinable.

3.03.1

Placement and Content of Mail MarkingsPlacement of Priority Mail Marking The marking Priority or Priority Mail must be placed prominently on the address side of each piece of Priority Mail. Matter mailed in USPS-provided Priority Mail packaging is subject to Priority Mail prices regardless of how the packaging is reconfigured or how markings may be obliterated. If shipping address labels are used, it is recommended that they contain the Priority Mail service indicator composed of two elements, the service icon and service banner (see Exhibit 3.1, Priority Mail Service Indicator): a. The service icon should appear in a 1-inch square in the upper left corner of the shipping label. The letter P must be printed inside the 1-inch square and must be 0.75 inches (3/4 inch) or greater. A minimum 3/4-point line must border the 1-inch square. The service banner should appear directly below the postage payment area and the service icon, and it should extend across the shipping label. When the service banner is used, the text USPS PRIORITY MAIL must be printed in minimum 20-point bold sans serif typeface, uppercase letters, centered within the banner, and bordered above and below by minimum 1-point separator lines. There must be a 1/16-inch clearance above and below the text.

b.

36

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece

102US POSTAGE PAID WASHINGTON DC PERMIT NO. 123

102.3.3

Exhibit 3.1 Priority Mail Service Indicator

P3.2 3.3

USPS PRIORITY MAILPlacement of First-Class Mail Markings Each single-piece price First-Class Mail piece must have a delivery address but is not required to bear the price marking First-Class or First-Class Mail. Mail Markings Mailers must print the basic required Package Services subclass markingParcel Post or PP, Media Mail, or Library Mailon each piece claimed at the respective price. The basic required marking must be placed in the postage area (i.e., printed or produced as part of, or directly below or to the left of, the permit imprint indicia or meter stamp or impression). Optionally, the basic required marking may be printed on the shipping address label as service indicators composed of a service icon and service banner (see Exhibit 3.3, Package Services Indicator Examples): a. The service icon that will identify all Package Services subclasses will be a 1-inch solid black square. If the service icon is used, it must appear in the upper left corner of the shipping label. The service banner must appear directly below the postage payment area and the service icon, and it must extend across the shipping label. If the service banner is used, the appropriate subclass marking (e.g., PARCEL POST, MEDIA MAIL) must be preceded by the text USPS and must be printed in minimum 20-point bold sans serif typeface, uppercase letters, centered within the banner, and bordered above and below by minimum 1-point separator lines. There must be a 1/16-inch clearance above and below the text.

b.

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

37

102102.4.1

Retail Mail: Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece

Exhibit 3.3 Package Services Indicator Examples

US POSTAGE PAID WASHINGTON DC PERMIT NO. 123

USPS PARCEL SELECTUS POSTAGE PAID WASHINGTON DC PERMIT NO. 123

USPS MEDIA MAIL

4.04.1

Endorsement PlacementEndorsements for Delivery Instructions and Ancillary Services The mailer must place the correct endorsement on each mailpiece to provide delivery instructions (retention period under 507.4.4.4, Holding Mail, or carrier release under 508.1.2, Carrier Release for Uninsured Parcels) or to request an ancillary service (forwarding, return, or address correction under 507.1.1 and 507.1.8 in Treatment of Mail), subject to the corresponding standards for use and availability. Return Address When an ancillary service endorsement is used, a domestic return address must be placed in the upper left corner of the address side of the mailpiece or the upper left corner of the addressing area. If the return address is a multiple delivery address, it must show a unit designator (e.g., an apartment number). Placement of Endorsement Placement of the endorsement on the mailpiece is determined as follows: a. The carrier release endorsement must be placed directly below the return address. If any other endorsement is used, the carrier release endorsement must be separated by the equivalent of one blank line of the type size used. A retention period specified by the mailer must be placed directly above the return address.

4.2

4.3

b.

38

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece

102

102.4.4

c.

Any ancillary service endorsement (e.g., Address Service Requested, Forwarding Service Requested, Return Service Requested, Change Service Requested) must be placed in one of these four positions: 1. 2. Directly below the return address. Directly above the delivery address area (which includes the delivery address block and any related nonaddress elements such as a barcode, keyline, or optional endorsement line). Directly to the left of the postage area and below or to the left of any price marking. Directly below the postage area and below any price marking.

3. 4. 4.4

Physical Standards for Endorsements The endorsement or, if combined, endorsements must meet these physical standards: a. b. c. The type size of the endorsement must be at least 8 points. The read direction of the endorsement and return address must be the same as the read direction of the delivery address. The color contrast between the endorsement and the mailpiece background must be kept at a reasonable degree. A brilliant colored background or reverse printing is not permitted. A clear space of at least 1/4 inch around (above, below, and both sides) the total area containing the endorsement(s) is required. This 1/4-inch clear space is not required for an endorsement that is applied with a multiline optical character reader (MLOCR) inkjet and placed in the location directly below the postage area and any price marking if the endorsement is clear and legible.

d.

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

39

40

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Express Mail

110Retail Mail Express Mail113 Prices and Eligibility 114 Postage Payment Methods 115 Mail Preparation 116 Deposit Express Mail

110

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

41

42

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Express Mail Prices and Eligibility

113

113.1.3

113Overview

Prices and Eligibility1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 Express Mail Prices and Fees Basic Eligibility Standards for Express Mail Content Standards for Express Mail Service Features of Express Mail

1.01.1

Express Mail Prices and FeesPrices Charged Per Piece Express Mail postage is charged for each addressed piece according to its weight and zone. For shipments presented in Express Mail pouches under an Express Mail Custom Designed Service agreement, each pouch is considered an addressed piece. Price Application Except under 1.4, Flat-Rate Envelope, Express Mail items are charged the 0.5-pound price for items up to 0.5 pound. Items over 0.5 pound are rounded up to the next whole pound. For example, if a piece weighs 0.25 pound, the weight (postage) increment is 0.5 pound; if a piece weighs 0.75 pound, the weight (postage) increment is 1 pound; if a piece weighs 1.2 pounds, the weight (postage) increment is 2 pounds. Except for the Express Mail flat-rate envelope, Express Mail prices are based on weight and zone. Prices [1-18-09] See Exhibit 1.3, Express Mail PricesRetail Letters, Large Envelopes, & Parcels.

1.2

1.3

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

43

113Weight Not Over Local, (pounds) 1 & 2 0.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 3 15.00 16.30 17.30 18.60 19.30 22.60 25.95 27.25 28.75 29.65 32.35 32.95 33.35 34.45 36.50 37.50 39.60 41.70 42.80 44.80 46.05 48.15 49.15 51.25 53.45 54.45 56.50 57.60 19.80 20.90 22.20 23.60 25.25 30.35 35.40 36.50 38.00 39.60 44.30 47.45 50.45 53.55 56.60 59.80 62.90 65.85 68.95 72.15 76.60 79.80 82.90 86.05 89.25

Retail Mail: Express Mail Prices and Eligibility

Exhibit 1.3 Express Mail PricesRetail Letters, Large Envelopes, & ParcelsZone1, 2, 3 Weight Not Over Local, (pounds) 1 & 2 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 Zone1, 2, 3

4

5

6

7

8

3

4

5

6

7

8

$13.05 $15.20 $18.50 $19.80 $20.10 $20.90 $21.20 23.60 25.95 29.85 33.75 37.60 41.10 44.95 48.40 51.80 54.20 57.90 61.00 63.80 66.35 69.15 71.85 74.55 77.20 79.90 83.80 86.45 90.25 92.95 95.90 24.20 26.55 30.55 35.00 39.00 42.90 46.25 50.25 54.25 56.90 59.70 62.40 65.15 67.85 70.65 73.45 76.10 78.90 81.60 85.05 87.65 91.65 94.45 97.20 24.70 27.05 31.15 35.15 39.10 43.00 46.95 51.05 55.00 57.80 60.60 63.40 66.05 68.85 71.65 74.70 77.20 80.00 82.70 85.95 89.75 92.55 95.40 98.30 25.05 27.25 31.35 35.30 39.30 43.20 47.25 51.25 55.20 58.00 60.80 63.50 66.85 69.75 72.35 74.80 77.40 80.20 82.90 86.45 90.05 92.85 95.60 98.40 25.15 27.65 31.65 35.60 39.60 43.70 47.55 51.65 55.60 58.40 61.20 63.90 67.65 70.45 73.25 75.00 77.80 80.60 83.30 87.05 90.25 93.75 96.50 98.60

$77.40 $136.40 $149.05 $149.45 $150.75 $151.15 $152.35 79.50 139.60 152.55 153.05 154.40 154.60 155.90 81.60 142.80 156.00 156.50 158.00 158.20 159.50 82.70 145.85 159.50 160.10 161.50 161.80 163.10 84.75 149.05 163.00 163.60 165.05 165.35 166.65 85.85 152.25 166.45 167.05 168.55 168.85 170.25 87.95 155.30 170.05 170.55 172.05 172.35 173.85 88.95 158.50 173.55 174.15 175.60 175.90 177.40 91.05 161.70 177.00 177.60 179.20 179.50 181.00 93.15 164.75 180.50 181.10 182.80 183.00 184.55 94.25 167.95 184.10 184.65 186.25 186.55 188.15 96.30 171.15 187.55 188.15 189.75 190.05 191.75 97.40 174.20 191.05 191.75 193.35 193.65 195.40 99.50 177.40 194.50 195.10 196.90 197.10 198.90 101.60 180.60 198.00 198.70 200.50 200.70 202.50 102.60 184.75 201.60 202.20 204.00 204.25 206.05 104.65 187.95 205.05 205.75 207.55 207.75 209.65 105.75 191.15 208.55 209.25 211.05 211.35 213.25 107.75 194.20 212.05 212.75 214.60 214.80 216.80 108.95 197.30 215.50 216.30 218.20 218.40 220.40 110.95 200.50 219.00 219.80 221.70 222.00 223.95 113.05 203.70 222.60 223.40 225.25 225.55 227.55 114.15 206.75 226.05 226.75 228.75 229.05 231.15 116.20 209.95 229.55 230.35 232.35 232.55 234.80 117.20 213.05 233.05 233.85 235.90 236.10 238.40 119.30 216.20 236.50 237.30 239.40 239.70 241.90 121.50 219.40 240.10 240.90 243.00 243.30 245.45 122.50 222.50 243.60 244.35 246.45 246.75 249.05 124.55 225.65 247.05 247.95 250.05 250.35 252.75 125.55 228.85 250.55 251.45 253.55 253.80 256.20 127.75 232.05 254.10 254.90 257.10 257.30 259.80

98.20 100.00 101.00 101.20 101.70

92.45 101.10 102.80 103.80 104.10 104.55 95.50 103.70 105.45 106.55 106.85 107.35 98.70 107.05 108.25 109.35 109.65 110.15

59.70 101.80 110.55 111.05 112.15 112.45 112.85 61.80 104.95 114.05 114.35 115.40 115.70 116.50 62.80 108.05 117.50 117.80 119.00 119.30 120.10 64.85 111.35 121.00 121.40 122.50 122.80 123.70 65.95 114.45 124.45 124.85 126.05 126.35 127.25 68.05 117.50 128.05 128.35 129.55 129.85 130.85 69.15 120.70 131.45 131.95 133.05 133.45 134.40 71.15 123.90 135.00 135.40 136.70 137.00 138.00 73.25 126.95 138.50 138.90 140.30 140.60 141.60 74.35 130.15 142.00 142.50 143.80 144.10 145.15 76.40 133.35 145.55 145.95 147.15 147.55 148.75

1. For Sunday/holiday delivery, add $12.50. 2. $17.50 is charged for material sent in an Express Mail flat-rate envelope provided by the USPS regardless of weight or destination. 3. Commercial Base Prices are available when postage is paid through Click-N-Ship service at usps.com, or by registered endusers of PC Postage (see page 7).

44

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Express Mail Prices and Eligibility

113

113.3.1

1.4

Flat-Rate Envelope [1-18-09] [7-3-08] Material mailed in the USPS-provided Express Mail flat-rate envelope is charged $17.50, regardless of the actual weight of the piece or its destination. Only USPS-produced flat-rate envelopes are eligible for the flat-rate envelope price. Custom Designed items are not eligible for flat-rate pricing. Sunday and Holiday Premium When delivery is guaranteed for a Sunday or holiday, there is a premium of $12.50, unless paying via an Express Mail Manifesting Agreement. Customers not desiring delivery on a Sunday or a holiday may avoid the premium by opting for guaranteed delivery on the subsequent delivery day. Pickup on Demand 1.6.1 Pickup on Demand Fee Per occurrence: $14.75. May be combined with Priority Mail and Package Services pickups (see 507.6.0). 1.6.2 Pickup on Demand Service The Pickup on Demand fee is charged every time pickup service is provided, regardless of the number of pieces picked up, as described in 507.6.0.

1.5

1.6

1.7

Computing Postage For each addressed mailpiece, determine single-piece price based on weight and zone under 1.1. For Express Mail, affix postage to each piece under 114.1.2, Affixing PostageSingle-Piece Mailings.

2.02.1

Basic Eligibility Standards for Express MailDefinition Express Mail is an expedited service for shipping any mailable matter, with guaranteed delivery, subject to the standards below. Express Mail International is available between the United States and most foreign countries (see the International Mail Manual). Matter Closed Against Postal Inspection Matter closed against postal inspection includes First-Class Mail, Priority Mail, and Express Mail. The USPS may open mail other than First-Class Mail, Priority Mail, or Express Mail to determine whether the proper postage is paid. Material wrapped or packaged so that it cannot be examined easily or examined without destruction or serious damage is closed against postal inspection and is charged the appropriate First-Class Mail, Priority Mail or Express Mail price.

2.2

3.03.1

Content Standards for Express MailEligibility All mailable matter may be sent as Express Mail, except matter prohibited by standards (e.g., certain hazardous materials).

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

45

113113.3.2

Retail Mail: Express Mail Prices and Eligibility

3.2

Matter Required to be Mailed as First-Class Mail Mailers have the option to use Express Mail service for mailpieces required to be mailed as First-Class Mail or Priority Mail. Complete descriptions of matter requiring the use of First-Class Mail are provided in 133.3.0.

4.04.1

Service Features of Express MailGeneral [9-11-08] The service features are as follows: a. Customers may access delivery information on the Internet by visiting www.usps.com or calling 1-800-222-1811 toll-free and providing the article number. A delivery record, including the recipients signature, will be faxed or mailed upon request. When a waiver of signature is authorized by the mailer, the delivery employee signs upon delivery. The item is delivered to the addressee's mail receptacle or other secure location. Customers who waive the signature requirement will be provided only the delivery date and will not receive an image of the signature when accessing the delivery record on the Internet or when calling the toll-free number. Restrictions for waiver of signature are defined in 503.1.1.6, Insurance and Indemnity, and 503.1.1.7, Additional Insurance.

b.

4.2

Express Mail Next Day Delivery 4.2.1 Availablity Express Mail Next Day Delivery is available at designated USPS facilities, designated Express Mail collection boxes, or through Carrier Pickup or Pickup on Demand service, for overnight service to designated destination 3-digit ZIP Code delivery areas, facilities, or locations (Post Office to Addressee Service). Items are delivered by noon or 3 p.m. on the next day. If delivery is not made, the addressee is notified, a second notice is left on the third day, and a second delivery is attempted upon customer request. For additional options, see 4.2.4, Hold for Pickup and 4.5, Custom Designed. 4.2.2 Where Not Available Next Day Delivery may not be available at or between all Post Offices or at all times of deposit. An Express Mail Next Day Delivery directory, showing detailed local information about Express Mail Next Day Delivery, is available at Post Offices. 4.2.3 Acceptance Times Express Mail Next Day Delivery items must be presented no later than the times authorized by the postmaster. Express Mail Next Day Delivery items mailed after the time authorized by the postmaster are accepted for delivery on the second day after mailing, subject to the standards for this service, unless the item was: a. b. Delayed by strike or work stoppage. Made available for claim, or delivery was attempted within the times specified by the standards for this service, and then the item was delayed because forwarding or return service was provided.

46

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Express Mail Prices and Eligibility

113

113.4.3.5

4.2.4 Hold for Pickup Under Hold for Pickup service, items presented under 4.2.1 are available for claim by the addressee at the destination facility by 10 a.m., 12 p.m., or 3 p.m. of the next day the destination office is open for retail business. 4.2.5 Refunds For Express Mail Next Day Delivery, the USPS refunds the postage for an item not available for customer pickup at destination or for which delivery to the addressee was not attempted, subject to the standards for this service, unless the delay was caused by one of the situations in 114.3.1, Postage Not Refunded. 4.3 Express Mail Second Day Delivery 4.3.1 Availability Express Mail Second Day Delivery is available to any 3-digit or 5-digit ZIP Code destination not listed in the Next Day Delivery directory mentioned in 4.2.2 (Post Office to Addressee Service). Items are delivered to the addressee by noon or 3 p.m. on the second delivery day. If delivery is not made, the addressee is notified, a second notice is left on the third day, and a second delivery is attempted upon customer request. For additional options, see 4.3.4, Hold for Pickup and 4.5, Custom Designed. 4.3.2 Acceptance Express Mail Second Day Delivery is accepted at designated USPS facilities, at Express Mail collection boxes, and through Pickup on Demand service. 4.3.3 Acceptance Times Express Mail Second Day Delivery shipments must be presented by 5 p.m., or such later time authorized by the postmaster. For Second Day Delivery, the USPS refunds postage for an item not available for customer pickup or for which delivery was not attempted, subject to the standards for this service, unless the item was: a. b. Delayed by strike or work stoppage. Made available for claim, or delivery was attempted within the times specified by the standards for this service, and then the item was delayed because forwarding or return service was provided.

4.3.4 Hold for Pickup Under Hold for Pickup service, items presented under 4.3.3 are available for pick up by the addressee at the destination facility by 10 a.m., 12 p.m., or 3 p.m. of the second delivery day that the destination office is open for retail business. 4.3.5 Refunds For Express Mail Next Day Delivery, the USPS refunds the postage for an item not available for customer pickup at destination or for which delivery to the addressee was not attempted, subject to the standards for this service, unless the delay was caused by one of the situations in 114.3.1, Postage Not Refunded.

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

47

113113.4.4

Retail Mail: Express Mail Prices and Eligibility

4.4

Express Mail Military Service (EMMS) 4.4.1 Objectives [1-18-09] For Express Mail Military Service (EMMS), items presented at APO/FPO and DPO facilities before the published cut-off time are delivered the second day after acceptance. Items presented after the published cut-off time are delivered the third day after acceptance. For EMMS, the USPS refunds postage for an item not available for customer pickup at the APO/FPO or DPO address or for which delivery to the addressee was not attempted domestically within the times specified by the standards for this service, unless the item was delayed by Customs; the item was destined for an APO/FPO or DPO that was closed on the intended day of delivery (delivery is attempted the next business day); or the delay was caused by one of the situations in 114.3.1, Postage Not Refunded. 4.4.2 Availability [1-18-09] EMMS (under 703.2.6, Express Mail Military Service (EMMS)) is available between the United States and designated APO/FPO and DPOs to provide Department of Defense personnel stationed overseas, and others entitled to APO/FPO and DPO mailing privileges, an expedited delivery service to or from the United States. EMMS Custom Designed Service and EMMS drop shipment service are available to authorized APO/FPO and DPO destinations.

4.5

Custom Designed 4.5.1 Availability A service agreement is required for Custom Designed mailings (see 413.4.4). An Express Mail Manifesting agreement is required for all manifested Express Mail items accepted under 705.2.6, Express Mail Manifesting Agreements.

4.6

Drop Shipment Express Mail Custom Designed Service, Express Mail Next Day Service, and Express Mail Second Day Service may be used to expedite movement of any other class of mail from one domestic USPS facility to another by Express Mail drop shipment, subject to the corresponding standards. For more information, see 705.16.0.

48

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Express Mail Postage Payment Methods

114

114.3.1

114Overview

Postage Payment Methods1.0 Postage Payment Methods 2.0 Corporate Accounts 3.0 Postage Refunds

1.01.1

Postage Payment MethodsPayment Method Retail Express Mail postage may be paid with adhesive stamps (see 604.1.0) or with meter stamps (see 604.4.0).The mailer is responsible for proper payment of postage. Affixing PostageSingle-Piece Mailings In a postage-affixed Express Mail mailing, the mailer must affix to each piece a value in adhesive stamps or meter stamps equal to at least the postage required. Prepaid Reply Postage Meter stamps may be used to prepay reply postage on any Express Mail shipment. The mailer must place meter stamps, sufficient to prepay postage in full, on the envelope, tube, or other mailing container that bears the return address of the meter license holder. Reply mail prepaid with meter stamps is delivered only to the address of the meter license holder. If the address is altered, the mail is held for postage.

1.2

1.3

2.02.1

Corporate AccountsAvailability A corporate account (see 414.2.0) is available to any mailer, subject to 414.2.3 through 414.2.6 and the terms on Form 5639. The address provided by the mailer on Form 5639 must be valid as a condition of an account being opened.

3.03.1

Postage RefundsPostage Not Refunded Postage refunds may not be available if delivery was attempted within the times required for the specific service, or if the delay of the item was caused by any of the following reasons: a. Properly detained for law enforcement purpose; strike or work stoppage; delayed because of an incorrect ZIP Code or address; forwarding or return service was provided after the item was made available for claim; delay or cancellation of flights. Attempted delivery occurs under any of these situations when the delivery is physically attempted, but cannot be made; the shipment is available for delivery, but the addressee made a written request that the

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

49

114114.3.1

Retail Mail: Express Mail Postage Payment Methods

shipment be held for a specific day or days; the delivery employee discovers that the shipment is undeliverable as addressed before leaving on the delivery route. b. As authorized by USPS Headquarters, when the delay was caused by governmental action beyond the control of the USPS or air carriers; war, insurrection, or civil disturbance; breakdown of a substantial portion of the USPS transportation network resulting from events or factors outside the control of the USPS; or acts of God.

50

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Express Mail Preparation

115

115.2.3

115Overview

Mail Preparation1.0 Express Mail Packaging 2.0 Express Mail Next Day and Second Day 3.0 Firm Mailing Book

1.01.1

Express Mail PackagingPackaging Supplies Provided by USPS Express Mail packaging provided by the USPS must be used only for Express Mail. Regardless of how the packaging is reconfigured or how markings may be obliterated, any matter mailed in USPS-provided Express Mail packaging is charged the appropriate Express Mail price.

2.02.1

Express Mail Next Day and Second DayMailing Label For each Express Mail item, the mailer must complete a mailing label either Label 11-A or Label 11-E for Hold for Pickup service, or Label 11-B or Label 11-F for Post Office to Addressee service. Mailers authorized to present Next Day or Second Day Express Mail items using an Express Mail Manifesting System are required to follow label preparation procedures in Publication 97, Express Mail Manifesting Technical Guide. Waiver of Signature [9-11-08] A mailer sending an Express Mail item may instruct the USPS to deliver an Express Mail Next Day Delivery or Express Mail Second Day Delivery item without obtaining the signature of the addressee or the addressee's agent by checking and signing the waiver of signature on Label 11-B or Label 11-F, Express Mail Post Office to Addressee, or indicating waiver of signature is requested on single-ply commercial label. Completion of the waiver of signature authorizes the delivery employee to sign upon delivery. The item is delivered to the addressee's mail receptacle or other secure location. Mailers who request waiver of signature will be provided only the delivery date and time, and not an image of the signature when accessing delivery information on the Internet or when calling the toll-free number. ZIP Code Determination For Express Mail Next Day Delivery, the mailer must determine whether the item is destined to a 3-digit ZIP Code area to which Express Mail Next Day Delivery is offered from the point of origin. An Express Mail Next Day Delivery directory, showing detailed local information about Express Mail Next Day Delivery, is available at Post Offices. If the destination is not listed, the mailer must use Express Mail Second Day Delivery.

2.2

2.3

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

51

115115.3.1

Retail Mail: Express Mail Preparation

3.03.1

Firm Mailing BookCompleting a Firm Mailing Book Form 3877 is available at no cost to any mailer who mails an average of three or more Express Mail items at one time, following these instructions: a. b. c. d. e. The mailer must prepare Express Mail Next Day Delivery or Second Day Delivery items as described above. Form 3877 must be presented with the items to be mailed. The mailer must enter on Form 3877 the full number of each Express Mail item and the addressees name and address. All entries must be made in duplicate. One copy is kept by the accepting employee. The other is receipted and returned to the mailer. All unused parts of the address column in Form 3877 must be obliterated by drawing a diagonal line through the unused part. Any alteration must be initialed by the mailer and accepting employee. For Express Mail Manifesting, a special verification manifest is used to present Express Mail items for acceptance as described in Publication 97, Express Mail Manifesting Technical Guide. Form 3877, Firm Mailing Book for Accountable Mail, may be used only to list items for which extra services have been requested. See 705.2.6, Express Mail Manifesting Agreements, for information.

f.

52

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Express Mail Deposit

116

116.3.2

116Overview

Deposit1.0 Express Mail Next Day and Second Day Delivery 2.0 Express Mail Military Service 3.0 Pickup on Demand Service

1.01.1

Express Mail Next Day and Second Day DeliveryDeposit of Next Day and Second Day Delivery Express Mail Next Day and Second Day Delivery items: a. If not prepaid, must be deposited at places and times designated by the postmaster, including Post Offices, branches, or stations. The time and date of mailing for these items is the time and date when the items are presented and accepted. If prepaid, may be deposited in Express Mail collection boxes, handed to delivery and collection employees during their normal delivery and collection duties, or picked up by USPS Pickup on Demand service. The time and date of mailing for items deposited in these ways is the time and date the items are brought to the Express Mail acceptance unit. If manifested, will be accepted at the locations specified in the Express Mail Manifesting agreement.

b.

c.

2.02.1

Express Mail Military ServiceDeposit Express Mail Military Service items must be presented by the times authorized by the local postmaster.

3.03.1 3.2

Pickup on Demand ServiceAvailability Express Mail Pickup on Demand service is available from designated Post Offices. Pickup on Demand Fee The Pickup on Demand fee is assessed and paid as described in 507.6.0.

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

53

116116.3.2

Retail Mail: Express Mail Deposit

54

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Priority Mail

120Retail Mail Priority Mail123 Prices and Eligibility 124 Postage Payment Methods 125 Mail Preparation 126 Deposit Priority Mail

120

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

55

56

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Priority Mail Prices and Eligibility

123

123.1.1

123Overview

Prices and Eligibility1.0 Priority Mail Prices and Fees 2.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for Priority Mail 3.0 Content Standards for Priority Mail

1.01.1

Priority Mail Prices and FeesPrice Application Except under 1.3, 1.4, and 1.5, Priority Mail prices are charged per pound; any fraction of a pound is rounded up to the next whole pound. For example, if a piece weighs 1.2 pounds, the weight (postage) increment is 2 pounds. The minimum postage amount per addressed piece is the 1-pound price. The Priority Mail price up to 1 pound is based on weight only; prices for pieces weighing more than 1 pound are based on weight and zone. Other charges may apply. See Exhibit 1.2, Priority Mail PricesRetail.

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

57

1231.2 Prices [1-18-09]Weight Not Over (pounds) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 Local, 1&2 $4.95 4.95 5.50 6.10 6.85 7.55 8.30 8.80 9.25 9.90 10.55 11.20 11.50 11.90 12.40 12.80 13.25 13.50 13.95 14.30 14.70 15.05 15.40 15.75 16.10 16.45 16.90 17.40 17.95 18.50 19.00 19.50 19.75 19.95 20.20 20.40 20.60 20.80 21.05 21.45 21.90 22.30 22.75 23.15 3 $4.95 5.20 6.25 7.10 8.15 9.25 10.30 10.70 11.45 12.35 13.30 14.20 14.55 15.20 15.85 16.40 16.95 17.50 17.90 18.15 18.40 18.75 19.00 19.20 19.50 19.70 20.00 20.25 20.45 20.75 20.95 21.45 22.00 22.60 23.15 23.75 24.25 24.85 25.35 25.90 26.40 26.90 27.35 27.90

Retail Mail: Priority Mail Prices and Eligibility

Exhibit 1.2 Priority Mail PricesRetailZone1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Weight Not Over (pounds) 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 Local, 1&2 Zone1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

4 $4.95 5.75 7.10 8.15 9.45 10.75 12.05 13.10 13.95 15.15 16.40 17.60 18.10 18.90 19.85 20.45 20.85 21.30 21.60 22.00 22.35 22.70 23.35 24.05 24.85 25.65 26.40 27.10 27.90 28.65 29.45 30.20 30.90 31.45 31.90 32.30 32.75 33.15 33.55 33.90 34.30 34.65 35.00 35.35

5 $4.95 7.10 9.05 10.80 12.70 14.65 16.55 17.95 19.15 20.75 22.40 24.00 25.30 26.45 27.25 27.85 28.50 29.10 29.80 30.30 30.80 31.50 32.05 32.70 33.25 33.95 34.40 34.85 35.30 35.80 36.25 36.70 37.15 37.95 38.75 39.60 40.35 41.15 42.00 42.85 43.25 44.15 45.15 46.15

6 $4.95 7.60 9.90 11.95 13.75 15.50 17.30 18.80 20.30 22.50 24.75 26.95 28.90 30.50 31.15 31.85 32.70 33.35 34.15 34.80 35.35 36.15 36.80 37.55 38.10 39.00 39.55 40.10 40.60 41.15 41.70 42.25 42.80 44.05 45.25 46.40 47.60 48.95 50.15 51.30 52.50 53.65 54.95 56.10

7 $4.95 8.10 10.60 12.95 15.20 17.50 19.75 21.70 23.60 25.90 28.20 30.50 31.70 33.50 33.85 34.60 35.50 36.15 37.10 37.80 38.45 39.35 40.00 40.95 41.55 42.45 43.05 43.70 44.30 44.90 45.50 46.60 47.90 49.20 50.55 51.90 53.25 54.50 55.90 57.15 58.55 59.90 61.25 62.60

8 $4.95 8.70 11.95 14.70 17.15 19.60 22.05 24.75 27.55 29.95 32.40 34.80 36.00 37.80 38.60 39.55 40.60 41.55 42.60 43.55 44.40 45.50 46.30 47.45 48.25 49.80 51.65 53.55 55.25 57.10 59.00 60.85 62.60 64.45 66.30 68.15 70.00 71.80 73.70 75.45 76.90 77.95 78.95 79.90

3

4

5

6

7

8

$23.55 $28.40 $35.70 $47.15 $57.35 $63.95 $80.85 24.00 24.40 24.85 25.25 25.60 26.10 26.45 26.95 27.30 27.75 28.15 28.60 29.00 29.45 29.80 30.30 30.65 31.15 31.50 31.95 32.35 32.80 33.20 33.65 34.05 28.75 28.95 29.20 29.40 29.65 29.85 30.05 30.25 30.40 30.60 30.75 30.95 31.10 31.25 31.40 31.50 31.65 31.80 31.90 32.00 32.35 32.80 33.20 33.65 34.05 36.05 36.35 36.70 37.00 37.35 38.00 38.75 39.40 40.05 40.85 41.50 42.15 42.90 43.60 44.25 45.05 45.70 46.40 47.10 47.70 48.45 49.25 49.90 50.55 51.35 48.05 49.10 50.10 51.00 52.00 53.00 54.00 54.95 56.00 57.00 57.90 58.80 59.55 59.95 60.30 60.60 60.95 61.25 61.55 61.85 62.10 62.75 63.65 64.60 64.90 58.55 59.85 61.05 62.15 63.35 64.55 65.30 65.80 66.30 66.80 67.30 67.75 68.20 68.65 69.05 69.85 70.30 70.70 71.15 71.50 71.95 72.30 72.60 73.00 73.30 65.25 66.65 68.00 69.40 70.50 71.15 71.75 72.35 72.90 73.50 74.00 74.55 75.05 75.50 76.70 77.90 79.10 79.90 80.40 81.75 82.70 83.55 84.40 85.45 86.35 87.20 88.05 88.90 89.65 90.45 91.25 92.00 92.65 93.35 94.60 96.10 97.60 99.15

80.85 100.70 81.25 102.15 81.70 103.75 82.10 105.20 82.50 106.75 82.85 108.25

1. Parcels addressed for delivery to zones 1-4 (including local) that weigh less than 20 pounds but measure more than 84 inches in combined length and girth (but not more than 108 inches) are charged the applicable price for a 20-pound parcel (balloon price). 2. Parcels addressed for delivery to zones 5-8 that exceed 1 cubic foot (1,728 cubic inches) are charged based on the actual weight or the dimensional weight (as calculated in DMM 123.1.3), whichever is greater. 3. For keys and ID devices that weigh: Up to 13 ounces, refer to retail First-Class Mail parcel prices. More than 13 ounces but not more than 1 pound, $5.67. More than 1 pound but not more than 2 pounds, $6.47. 4. $4.95 is charged for matter sent in a Priority Mail flat-rate envelope or small flat-rate box provided by the USPS, regardless of weight or domestic destination. 5. $10.35 is charged for material sent in a Priority Mail regular flat-rate box provided by the USPS, regardless of weight or domestic destination. 6. $13.95 is charged for material sent in a Priority Mail large flat-rate box provided by the USPS, regardless of weight to domestic addresses, and $11.95 to APO/FPO and DPO destination addresses.

58

Domestic Mail Manual Updated 2-2-09

Retail Mail: Priority Mail Prices and Eligibility

123

123.1.5.1

1.3

Balloon Price Parcels addressed for delivery to Zones 1-4 (including Local) that weigh less than 20 pounds but measure more than 84 inches (but not more than 108 inches) in combined length and girth are charged the applicable zone price for a 20-pound parcel (balloon price). Dimensional Weight Price for Low-Density Parcels to Zones 5-8 Postage for parcels addressed for delivery to Zones 5-8 and exceeding 1 cubic foot (1,728 cubic inches) is based on the actual weight or the dimensional weight (as calculated in 1.4.1 or 1.4.2), whichever is greater. 1.4.1 Determining Dimensional Weight for Rectangular Parcels Follow these steps to determine the dimensional weight for a rectangular parcel: a. b. c. Measure the length, width, and height in inches. Round off (see 604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest whole inch. Multiply the length by the width by the height. If the result exceeds 1,728 cubic inches, divide the result by 194 and round up (see 604.7.0) to the next whole number to determine the dimensional weight in pounds.

1.4

1.4.2 Determining Dimensional Weight for Nonrectangular Parcels Follow these steps to determine the dimensional weight for a nonrectangular parcel: a. b. c. d. Measure the length, width, and height in inches at their extreme dimensions. Round off (see 604.7.0) each measurement to the nearest whole inch. Multiply the length by the width by the height. Multiply the result by an adjustment factor of 0.785. If the final result exceeds 1,728 cubic inches, divide the result by 194 and round up (see 604.7.0) to the next whole number to determine the dimensional weight in pounds. If the dimensional weight exceeds 70 pounds, the mailer pays the 70-pound price.

e. 1.5

Flat-Rate Envelope and Boxes Any amount of material may be mailed in a USPS-produced Priority Mail flat-rate box or flat-rate envelope. When sealing a flat-rate