[Federal Register Volume 64, Number 66 (Wednesday, April 7, 1999)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 16814-16840]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 99-8400]
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POSTAL SERVICE
39 CFR Part 111
Domestic Mail Manual Changes To Implement New Labeling List L001
and To Implement Package Reallocation for Periodicals and Standard Mail
(A) Flats Placed on Pallets
AGENCY: Postal Service.
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: This final rule amends the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) to
implement new labeling list L001, 5-Digit Scheme--Periodical Flats and
Irregular Parcels and Standard (A) Flats, and to offer mailers an
option to use package reallocation to protect the sectional center
facility (SCF) pallet level for Periodicals flats and irregular parcels
and Standard Mail (A) flats.
EFFECTIVE DATE: July 29, 1999.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Cheryl Beller, (202) 268-5166 or Barry
Elliott, (202) 268-2731.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On October 29, 1998, the Postal Service
published for public comment in the Federal Register a proposed rule
(63 FR 57970-57996) regarding the implementation of labeling list L001
and package reallocation. The Postal Service also invited comments on
the proposed rule from interested parties and accepted comments through
December 28, 1998. This final rule contains the DMM standards adopted
by the Postal Service after review of the comments that were submitted.
Evaluation of Comments Received
The Postal Service received 11 pieces of correspondence offering
comments
[[Page 16815]]
on the October 29 proposed rule. Respondents included major mailer
associations, individual publishers, printers, service bureaus, and
mailers. Nearly all of the commenters were supportive of either one or
all of the components of the proposed rule. However, many of the same
commenters who voiced support for the proposed rule also conveyed
various levels of uncertainty as to how their specific mailings would
be impacted by L001 and/or package reallocation. Many of these
commenters, therefore, suggested that the Postal Service should
implement both L001 and package reallocation optionally as opposed to
requiring either or both components. It was felt that implementing both
components optionally would allow more time for additional modeling and
also provide mailers with the flexibility to determine the most
appropriate combination of these options for their specific mailing(s).
Based on these comments, as well as other concerns that are mentioned
below, the Postal Service has elected to implement both L001 and
package reallocation as optional preparation methods with an effective
date of July 29, 1999.
Optional Implementation
By implementing both L001 and package reallocation as optional
preparation methods, mailers will have the ability to mitigate any of
the concerns that were cited during the comment period. Mailers will be
able to selectively utilize none, one, or both options as they deem
appropriate for their specific mailing. By appropriately tailoring the
utilization of these options to their specific mailing, mailers should
be able to avoid the undesired results noted in some of the comments.
Potential undesirable results that were cited as possibilities
depending on the size and/or density of a mailing were: (1) An increase
in the number of sacks, (2) an increase in the amount of mail on ADC or
BMC pallets (if package reallocation is not used), and (3) an
inordinate amount of mail being moved from 5-digit pallets to SCF
pallets. Several different alternatives were suggested to alleviate
these undesirable results. The alternatives varied from lowering the
minimum weight for pallets to creating a transfer hub pallet for
Periodicals. These alternatives are no longer entirely relevant given
that the Postal Service will allow the mailer to choose the option(s)
that are most appropriate for their mailings. Prior to preparing a
specific mailing, mailers should remain cognizant of the potential
undesirable results and therefore choose to experiment with different
combinations of the two options to determine the most appropriate
setup.
Other comments also factored into the decision to make both L001
and package reallocation optional. Two commenters expressed concerns
about L001 being a required pallet level because some palletized
mailings do not use palletization software. In these instances, it was
stated that the creation of an L001 pallet, if prepared manually
without software, would slow down and/or complicate production.
Accordingly, the commenters requested palletized mailings that are not
prepared with palletization software be exempt from using L001.
Although the Postal Service has decided to implement L001 as an
optional preparation method, and thus alleviate this concern
temporarily for mailers not using palletization software, it remains
likely the Postal Service will require the use of L001 for all
palletized Standard (A) and Periodicals flat mailings at some point in
the future. For ZIP Codes that are included on L001, it is more
appropriate for service and cost reasons for the Postal Service to
receive one L001 pallet instead of multiple 5-digit pallets because all
of the mail for the zones listed in a given combination are processed
at the same facility. The use of L001 facilitates greater presort
density, which can yield more ``cross-dock'' pallets for plants and
provide more timely service to mailers. Hence, there are operational
and service efficiencies to be gained from making L001 a required level
of preparation. Mailers that are not currently using palletization
software to prepare pallets should therefore begin evaluating how
palletization software can be integrated into their production
processes in the future, in order to be prepared for a change that
would require the usage of L001. Likewise, mailers that are already
using palletization software to prepare pallets are strongly encouraged
to utilize L001 because this list reflects the way the mail is
processed by postal operations.
One commenter expressed concern regarding the requirement that
reallocation could be performed only with Presort Accuracy Validation
and Evaluation (PAVE)-certified software. The concern pertains to the
portion of the mailing community that uses in-house-developed software
applications. The commenter remarked that there are marketplace factors
which compel commercial software vendors to attempt PAVE certification
and that those same factors do not apply to in-house developed software
applications. Therefore, the commenter requested that the requirement
be amended to ``PAVE certified software or approved documentation.''
The same commenter, as well as two other commenters, also expressed
concern about requiring the implementation of labeling list L001 by May
1999. They noted many companies are having to devote computer
programmers to the Y2K bug and resources are therefore limited for new
development. One of these three commenters also requested that a longer
lead time (12 weeks) be provided between the date that software is
PAVE-certified and the implementation date. Since both L001 and package
reallocation will now be optional, developers of in-house software
applications will be able to work on this initiative in a less frenetic
manner. As noted earlier, the implementation date for L001 and package
reallocation will be July 29, 1999. In the interest of providing the
requested lead time between certification and implementation, PAVE
testing of L001 and package reallocation will be made available to
interested parties beginning in April.
Additional Comments
Communication regarding rate impact--One commenter noted that the
Postal Service should emphasize the proposed changes will not have any
impact on rates. The comment is noted and the Postal Service reminds
mailers that rates for packages of flats on pallets are based on the
presort level of the package, not the presort level of the pallet.
Availability of Labeling List L001 in an Electronic Format
--One commenter requested that labeling list L001 should be made
available in an electronic format in order to eliminate the need for
developers to manually build a table of the information. Moreover, the
commenter requested that the list should be made available through a
mechanism that would facilitate quicker, if not, real-time updates.
Another commenter questioned if the publication of the L001 list in the
DMM would eventually result in the 5-digit scheme list, which is used
for automation letters, being published in the DMM instead of the
current mechanism (AMS City/State file). The same commenter also
expressed concern about potential confusion among mailers regarding the
L001 list and the 5-digit scheme list for letter-size mail.
The Postal Service recognizes the need for labeling lists, such as
L001, to be provided to software developers and mailers in an
electronic format. Realistically, making labeling lists
[[Page 16816]]
available in an electronic format is the first step in facilitating
quicker updates to mailers. An effort has been underway for some time
to provide this format, and is currently nearing completion. The USPS/
Mailers Technical Advisory Committee (MTAC) Presort Optimization Work
Group will be involved in the final stages of this effort to assure
that appropriate file formats are provided. The Postal Service does not
anticipate mailers having difficulty in discerning the difference
between the 5-digit scheme list and L001. The 5-digit scheme list
applies only to barcoded letters and L001 applies only to pallets and
5-digit Carrier Routes sacks of Periodicals flats and irregular parcels
and Standard (A) flats.
Impact of L001 pallets on delivery units--One commenter expressed
concerns regarding non-carrier route pieces being shipped to delivery
units only to be returned to a plant because the sortation to carrier
route is performed at the plant. The commenter suggested the Postal
Service should require mailers to place a CRRT designation on the
address label of every piece of mail in order to facilitate manual
distribution of this mail by nonscheme-trained clerks at the delivery
unit. This would help to alleviate the need to send the mail back to
the plant for distribution to carrier route.
The scenario outlined by the commenter is not necessarily an
outgrowth from the implementation of L001. There are already instances
where a delivery unit receives non-carrier route mail on a 5-digit
pallet and the unit must decide how to best handle that mail. In many
cases, the amount of non-carrier route pieces is the determining factor
in whether the mail is worked at the delivery unit or returned to the
plant. Field sites have received guidance on how L001 should be used
and how it can benefit them. Based on that information, field sites
have listed only the zone combinations they deem appropriate for their
specific service area. Operations at Postal Service Headquarters is
currently discussing other possible changes to pallet standards in the
future that could better remedy this situation and will soon begin
discussions with field sites for their input. It should be noted that
the destination delivery unit (DDU) rate will be available for mail on
a 5-digit scheme pallet prepared using L001 for all carrier route rate
Periodicals or Enhanced Carrier Route rate Standard Mail (A) on the
pallet when the pallet is deposited at the facility designated by the
Postal Service as the location where the carrier cases the mail based
on the ``Label To'' Zip Code on the pallet label.
List of Subjects in 39 CFR part 111
Postal Service.
Accordingly, the Postal Service adopts the following amendments to
the Domestic Mail Manual, which is incorporated by reference in the
Code of Federal Regulations (see 39 CFR part 111).
PART 111--AMENDED]
The authority citation for 39 CFR part 111 continues to read as
follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552 (a); 39 U.S.C 101, 401, 403, 404, 407,
3001-3011, 3201-3219, 3403-3406, 3621, 5001.
Revise the following sections of the Domestic Mail Manual as
follows:
E Eligibility
E200 Periodicals
* * * * *
E230 Nonautomation Rates
* * * * *
2.0 CARRIER ROUTE RATES
* * * * *
2.2 Eligibility
* * * * *
[Amend 2.2 by revising 2.2a to add the word ``scheme'' before ``carrier
routes sacks'' and add new sentence as follows:]
a. The basic carrier route rate applies to copies in carrier route
packages of six or more letter-size pieces each that are sorted to
carrier route, 5-digit carrier routes, or 3-digit carrier routes trays;
and six or more flat-size pieces or irregular parcel-size pieces each
that are sorted to carrier route, 5-digit, or 5-digit scheme carrier
routes sacks. (Preparation of 5-digit scheme carrier routes sacks is
optional, but, if performed, must be done for all 5-digit scheme
destinations.)
* * * * *
E250 Destination Entry
* * * * *
2.0 DDU RATE
2.1 Eligibility
[Amend the second sentence of E250.2.1 by adding the word ``scheme''
before ``carrier routes sacks'' as follows:]
* * * Copies claimed at DDU rates must be part of a carrier route
package placed in a carrier route tray or sack, a 5-digit carrier
routes tray or sack, or, for flats and irregular parcels, a 5-digit
scheme carrier routes sack, under M200, or be palletized under M045,
and otherwise eligible for and claimed at a carrier route rate. * * *
* * * * *
E600 Standard Mail
* * * * *
E620 Nonautomation Standard Mail (A) Rates
* * * * *
2.0 ENHANCED CARRIER ROUTE RATES
* * * * *
2.8 Basic Rates
[Amend E630.2.8 by revising 2.8b to add the word ``scheme'' before
``carrier routes sacks'' and add new sentence as follows:]
Basic (nonautomation) carrier route rates apply to each piece that
is sorted under M620 into the corresponding qualifying groups:
* * * * *
b. Flat-size pieces in a carrier route package of 10 or more pieces
palletized under M045, or placed in a carrier route sack containing at
least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces or in a 5-digit or 5-digit
scheme carrier routes sack. (Preparation of 5-digit scheme carrier
routes sacks is optional, but, if performed, must be done for all 5-
digit scheme destinations.)
* * * * *
E650 Destination Entry
E651 Regular, Nonprofit, and Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail
* * * * *
7.0 DDU DISCOUNTS
* * * * *
7.2 Eligibility
[Amend E651.7.2 by revising the first sentence to provide DDU rate
eligibility for carrier route flats placed in 5-digit scheme carrier
routes sacks, as follows:]
Pieces in a mailing that meet the standards in 1.0 through 4.0 and
7.0 are eligible for the DDU rate when deposited at a DDU, addressed
for delivery within that facility's service area (carrier routes), and
placed in properly prepared and labeled carrier route packages sorted
to carrier route trays (letters) or sacks (flats and irregular
parcels), 5-digit carrier routes trays (letters) or sacks (flats and
irregular parcels), or 5-digit scheme carrier routes sacks (flats)
under M600, or palletized under M045, and otherwise eligible for and
claimed at a carrier route rate. * * *
* * * * *
[[Page 16817]]
L Labeling Lists
L000 General Use
[Add labeling list L001 as follows:]
L001 5-Digit Scheme--Periodicals Flats and Irregular Parcels and
Standard (A) Flats
When 5-digit scheme sort is used for Periodicals flats and
irregular parcels packages and Standard Mail (A) flats packages, mail
for the 5-digit ZIP Codes shown in Column A must be combined on pallets
or in carrier routes sacks labeled to the corresponding destination
shown in Column B.
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P
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BILLING CODE 7710-12-C
[[Page 16836]]
M MAIL PREPARATION AND SORTATION
M000 General Preparation Standards
M010 Mailpieces
M011 Basic Standards
1.0 TERMS AND CONDITIONS
1.1 Presort Process
[Amend M011.1.1 to incorporate a reference to package reallocation to
read as follows:]
Presort is the process by which a mailer prepares mail so that it
is sorted to at least the finest extent required by the standards for
the rate claimed. Generally, presort is performed sequentially, from
the lowest (finest) level to the highest level, to those destinations
specified by standard and is completed at each level before the next
level is prepared. Under standards for package reallocation for
Periodicals flats and irregular parcels and Standard Mail (A) flats on
pallets (see M041 and M045), mail will not necessarily be placed on the
lowest (finest) level pallets (package reallocation is optional, but,
if performed, must be done for the complete mailing job). Not all
presort levels are applicable in all situations.
1.2 Presort Levels
[Amend M011.1.2 by revising 1.2d and adding new 1.2e and 1.2f to
differentiate between 5-digit schemes for automation letters and 5-
digit schemes for pallets and for carrier routes sacks of Periodicals
flats and irregular parcels and Standard Mail (A) flats; redesignate
current M011.1.2e through M011.1.2m as M011.1.2g through M011.1.2o,
respectively, as follows:]
Terms used for presort levels are defined as follows:
* * * * *
d. 5-digit scheme (trays) for automation letters: the ZIP Code in
the delivery address on all pieces is one of the 5-digit ZIP Code areas
processed by the USPS as a single scheme, as shown in the USPS City
State File.
e. 5-digit scheme carrier routes (sacks) for Periodicals flats and
irregular parcels and Standard Mail (A) flats: the ZIP Code in the
delivery address on all pieces in carrier route packages begins with
one of the 5-digit ZIP Code zones processed by the USPS as a single
scheme, as shown in L001.
f. 5-digit scheme (pallets) for Periodicals flats and irregular
parcels and Standard Mail (A) flats: The ZIP Code in the delivery
address on all pieces begins with one of the 5-digit ZIP Code zones
processed by the USPS as a single scheme, as shown in L001.
* * * * *
1.3 Preparation Instructions
* * * * *
[Amend 1.3 by revising the first sentence of 1.3g to insert the phrase
``for automation letters''; inserting new 1.3h and i to define 5-digit/
scheme sort for carrier routes sacks of Periodicals flats and irregular
parcels and Standard Mail (A) flats and 5-digit/scheme sort for
Periodicals flats and irregular parcels packages and Standard Mail (A)
flats packages on pallets; redesignate 1.3h through s as 1.3j through
u, respectively, to read as follows:]
g. A 5-digit scheme sort for automation letters yields * * *
h. A 5-digit/scheme carrier routes sort for sacked carrier route
rate Periodicals flats and irregular parcels and Enhanced Carrier Route
rate Standard Mail (A) flats yields 5-digit scheme carrier routes sacks
for those 5-digit ZIP Codes listed in L001 and 5-digit carrier routes
sacks for other areas. The 5-digit ZIP Codes in each scheme are treated
as a single presort destination subject to a single minimum sack
volume, with no further separation by 5-digit ZIP Code required. Sacks
prepared for a 5-digit scheme destination that contain carrier route
packages for only one of the schemed 5-digit areas are still considered
5-digit carrier route scheme sorted and are labeled accordingly. The 5-
digit/scheme sort is optional for carrier route rate flat-size and
irregular parcel Periodicals and flat-size Enhanced Carrier Route rate
Standard Mail (A) in sacks. If preparation of 5-digit scheme carrier
routes sacks is performed, it must be done for all 5-digit scheme
destinations. A 5-digit/scheme carrier route sort may not be used for
mail at other rates in sacks.
i. A 5-digit/scheme sort for Periodicals flats and irregular
parcels and Standard Mail (A) flats prepared as packages on pallets
yields 5-digit scheme pallets for those 5-digit ZIP Codes listed in
L001 and 5-digit pallets for other areas. The 5-digit ZIP Codes in each
scheme are treated as a single presort destination subject to a single
minimum pallet volume, with no further separation by 5-digit ZIP Code
required. Pallets prepared for a 5-digit scheme destination that
contain packages for only one of the schemed 5-digit areas are still
considered 5-digit scheme sorted and are labeled accordingly. The 5-
digit/scheme sort is optional for flat-size and irregular parcel-size
Periodicals and flat-size Enhanced Carrier Route rate Standard Mail (A)
prepared as packages on pallets and may not be used for other mail
prepared on pallets, except for packages of Standard Mail (A) irregular
parcels that are part of a mailing job that is prepared in part as
palletized flats at automation rates. If preparation of 5-digit scheme
pallets is performed, it must be done for all 5-digit scheme
destinations.
* * * * *
M030 Containers
M031 Labels
* * * * *
4.0 PALLET LABELS
* * * * *
4.8 Delivery Unit, SCF, DDU, and DSCF Rates
[Amend M031.4.8 to refer to 5-digit scheme pallets, as follows:]
If a 5-digit, 5-digit scheme, 3-digit, or SCF pallet contains
copies claimed at Periodicals delivery unit and SCF zone rates, or
Standard Mail DDU and DSCF rates, as applicable, the content line of
the pallet label must show the designation ``DDU/SCF,'' after the
content description.
* * * * *
5.0 SECOND LINE CODES
[Amend 5.0 to include code for 5-digit scheme carrier routes sacks, as
follows:]
The codes shown below must be used as appropriate on Line 2 of
sack, tray, and pallet labels.
* * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Content Code
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scheme................................. SCH.
(Periodicals and Standard Mail
(A) 5-digit scheme carrier
routes sacks and 5-digit
scheme pallets only).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
M032 Barcoded Labels
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS--TRAY AND SACK LABELS
* * * * *
Exhibit 1.3a 3-Digit Content Identifier Numbers
[Amend Exhibit 1.3a, Periodicals (PER) and Standard (A) by inserting
new 5-digit scheme carrier routes sacs and 5-digit scheme Enhanced
Carrier Routes sacks categories, respectively, to read as follows:]
* * * * *
[[Page 16837]]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class and mailing CIN Human-readable content line
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * * *
*
Periodicals (Per)
* * * * * *
*
PER Flats--Carrier Route:
* * * * * *
*
5-digit carrier routes sacks................. 386 PER FLTS CR-RTS
5-digit scheme car. rts. sacks............... 371 PER FLTS CR-RTS SCH
* * * * * *
*
PER Parcels--Carrier Route:
* * * * * *
*
5-digit carrier routes sacks................. 396 PER IRREG CR-RTS
5-digit scheme car. rts. sacks............... 399 PER IRREG CR-RTS SCH
* * * * * *
*
Periodicals (News)
* * * * * *
*
NEWS Flats--Carrier Route:
* * * * * *
*
5-digit carrier routes sacks................. 486 NEWS FLTS CR-RTS
5-digit scheme car. rts. sacks............... 471 NEWS FLTS CR-RTS SCH
* * * * * *
*
NEWS Parcels--Carrier Route:
* * * * * *
*
5-digit carrier routes sacks................. 496 NEWS IRREG CR-RTS
5-digit scheme car. rts. sacks............... 499 NEWS IRREG CR-RTS SCH
* * * * * *
*
Standard Mail (A)
* * * * * *
*
Enhanced Carrier Route Flats--Nonautomation:
* * * * * *
*
5-digit carrier routes sacks................. 586 STD FLTS CR-RTS
5-digit scheme car. rts. sacks............... 529 STD FLTS CR-RTS SCH
* * * * * *
*
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
M033 Sacks And Trays
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
1.7 Origin/Entry 3-Digit/Scheme Trays and Sacks
[Amend the first sentence in M033.1.7 to refer to preparation of 5-
digit carrier routes trays and sacks, optional 5-digit scheme carrier
routes sacks for Periodicals and Standard Mail (A), and 3-digit carrier
routes trays, as follows:]
Except for flat-size and irregular parcel-size Periodicals under
1.8, after all carrier route, 5-digit carrier routes (and where
permitted, 5-digit scheme carrier routes and 3-digit carrier routes),
5-digit (and, where permitted, 5-digit scheme), 3-digit (and, where
permitted, 3-digit scheme) sacks/trays are prepared * * *
1.8 Periodicals Flats and Irregular Parcels Origin/Entry SCF Sacks
[Amend the first sentence in M033.1.8 to refer to preparation of 5-
digit carrier routes sacks and optional 5-digit scheme carrier routes
sacks for Periodicals, as follows:]
For flat-size and irregular parcel-size Periodicals, after all
carrier route, 5-digit carrier routes (and where permitted, 5-digit
scheme carrier routes), 5-digit, 3-digit, and required SCF sacks are
prepared * * *
* * * * *
M040 Pallets
M041 General Standards
* * * * *
5.0 PREPARATION
[Amend M041.5.1 to indicate that pallet sortation using package
reallocation may not always require sorting a mailing to the finest
level as follows:]
5.1 Presort
Pallet preparation and pallet sortation are subject to the specific
standards in
[[Page 16838]]
M045. 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 and presort levels for
pallets are defined in M011 and M045. 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. Packages and bundles prepared under M045 must not be placed on
mixed ADC or mixed BMC pallets. Packages and bundles that cannot be
placed on pallets must be prepared in sacks under the standards for the
rate claimed. The standards for package reallocation (M045.5.0), an
optional method of pallet preparation, are designed to retain as much
mail as possible at the SCF level and may result in some packages of
Periodicals flats and irregular parcels and Standard Mail (A) flats,
and irregular parcels that are part of a mailing job that is prepared
in part as palletized flats at automation rates, not being placed on
the finest level of pallet possible. Mailers must use PAVE-certified
presort software to prepare mailings using package reallocation
(package reallocation is optional, but, if performed, must be done for
the complete mailing job).
5.2 Required Preparation
[Amend M041.5.2 by revising 5.2a to refer to Periodicals and Standard
Mail (A) 5-digit pallets prepared under the standards for package
reallocation as follows:]
These standards apply to:
a. Periodicals, Standard Mail (A), and Parcel Post (other than BMC
Presort, OBMC Presort, DSCF, and DDU rate mail). A pallet must be
prepared to a required sortation level when there are 500 pounds of
Periodicals or Standard Mail packages, sacks, or parcels or six layers
of Periodicals or Standard Mail (A) letter trays. For packages of
Periodicals flats and irregular parcels and packages of Standard Mail
(A) flats on pallets prepared under the standards for package
reallocation (M045.5.0), not all mail for a required 5-digit
destination is required to be on a 5-digit pallet or optional 5-digit
scheme pallet. Mixed pallets of sacks, trays, or machinable parcels
must be labeled to the BMC or ADC (as appropriate) serving the post
office where mailings are entered into the mailstream. The processing
and distribution manager of that facility may issue a written
authorization to the mailer to label mixed BMC or mixed ADC pallets to
the post office or processing and distribution center serving the post
office where mailings are entered. These pallets contain all mail
remaining after required and optional pallets are prepared to finer
sortation levels under M045, as appropriate.
* * * * *
6.0 COPALLETIZED, COMBINED, OR MIXED-RATE LEVEL MAILINGS OF FLAT-SIZE
PIECES
* * * * *
[Amend M041.6.3 and M041.6.4 to indicate that pallet sortation using
package reallocation may not always require sorting a mailing to the
finest level, as follows:]
6.3 Periodicals Publications
To combine more than one Periodicals publication on pallets, the
mailer must merge and presort copies of all the publications into
common packages 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
packages for each publication to achieve the finest presort level for
the mailing. A combined or copalletized mailing prepared under
M045.5.0, using package reallocation, may not always result in all
packages being placed on the finest pallet level possible. Both
combined and copalletized publications must be supported by the
documentation required in M045. Preferred Periodicals may be combined
with Regular Periodicals only as permitted by standard.
6.4 Standard Mail (A)
To copalletize different Standard Mail (A) flat-size mailings, the
mailer must consolidate on pallets all independently sorted packages
from each mailing to achieve the finest presort level for the mailing,
except that a copalletized mailing prepared under M045.5.0, using
package reallocation, may not always result in all packages being
placed on the finest pallet level possible. At the time of mailing, the
mailer must present computer-generated listings required in M045 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.
* * * * *
M045 Palletized Mailings
* * * * *
4.0 PALLET PRESORT AND LABELING
[Amend the title of M045.4.1 to indicate that it also refers to trays
on pallets, as follows:]
4.1 Packages, Bundles, Sacks, or Trays
[Amend M045.4.1 by revising 4.1a and adding new 4.1b to provide an
optional 5-digit/scheme sort for packages of Periodicals and Standard
Mail (A) flats; redesignate M045.4.1b through M0454.1e as M045.4.1c
through M045.4.1f, as follows:]
Preparation sequence and Line 1 labeling:
a. 5-digit: required for sacks; required for packages and bundles
except for packages and bundles prepared under b; optional for trays;
for Line 1, use 5-digit ZIP Code destination of contents.
b. 5-digit/scheme: optional for Periodicals and Standard Mail (A)
packages and bundles; for Line 1 for 5-digit pallets, use 5-digit ZIP
Code destination of contents; for Line 1 for 5-digit scheme pallets,
use L001, column B.
* * * * *
4.4 Line 2
[Amend M045.4.4 to require ``SCHEME'' or ``SCH'' to appear on 5-digit
scheme pallets of Periodicals or Standard Mail (A), as follows:]
Line 2, class of mail (shown below, as appropriate), processing
category and mail type (e.g., ``MACH,'' ``LTRS BC''), ``SCHEME'' or
``SCH'' for 5-digit scheme pallets of Periodicals or Standard Mail (A),
and any processing code required by the applicable labeling list under
4.1, 4.2, and 4.3:
* * * * *
[Add new section M045.5.0 to specify preparation requirements for
package reallocation; and redesignate sections M045.5.0 through
M045.13.0, as M045.6.0 through M045.14.0, respectively, as follows:]
5.0 PACKAGE REALLOCATION FOR PERIODICALS FLATS AND IRREGULAR PARCELS
AND STANDARD MAIL (A) FLATS ON PALLETS
5.1 Basic Standards
Package reallocation is an optional preparation method (if
performed, package reallocation must be done for the complete mailing
job); only PAVE-certified presort software may be used to create
pallets under the standards in 5.2 through 5.4. The software will
determine if mail for an SCF service area would fall beyond the SCF
level if all required 5-digit or optional 5-digit/
[[Page 16839]]
scheme pallets and optional 3-digit pallets are prepared. Reallocation
is performed only when there is mail for the SCF service area that
would fall beyond the SCF pallet level (e.g., to an ADC or BMC pallet).
The amount of mail required to bring the mail that would fall beyond
the SCF level back to an SCF level pallet level is the minimum volume
that will be reallocated, where possible.
5.2 General Reallocation Rules
Reallocation rules:
a. Package preparation is not affected by the reallocation process.
Reallocate only complete packages and only the minimum number of
packages necessary to create an SCF pallet meeting the minimum pallet
weight. Based on the weight of individual pieces within a package and
packaging parameters, the weight of mail that is reallocated may be
slightly more than the minimum volume required to create an SCF pallet.
b. Reallocate packages from the highest available pallet level
possible. If it is not possible to reallocate some mail from a 3-digit
pallet first, then attempt to eliminate a 3-digit pallet and reallocate
all mail from that pallet to create an SCF pallet; if mail cannot be
reallocated from a 3-digit pallet, then attempt to reallocate some mail
from a 5-digit or 5-digit scheme pallet.
c. The reallocation process may result in the elimination of a 3-
digit pallet to create an SCF pallet, but a 5-digit or 5-digit scheme
pallet (when 5-digit scheme pallets are prepared) may not be eliminated
in order to create an SCF pallet.
d. When reallocating mail to create an SCF pallet, reallocate mail
from only one more finely sorted pallet. This may be accomplished by
reallocating a portion of a 3-digit pallet, reallocating all mail from
a 3-digit pallet, or reallocating a portion of a 5-digit or 5-digit
scheme pallet following the sequence in 5.2b.
e. Mailers may use any minimum pallet weight(s) permitted by DMM
standards and may use different minimum weights for different pallet
levels in conjunction with package reallocation.
5.3 Reallocation of Packages if Optional 3-Digit Pallets Are
Prepared
Reallocation rules:
a. Attempt to identify a 3-digit pallet of adequate weight that can
support reallocation of one or more packages to bring the mail that has
fallen through the SCF level back to the SCF level without eliminating
the pallet. A sufficient volume of mail must remain on the 3-digit
pallet after reallocation to meet the 3-digit pallet weight minimum
established by the mailer in compliance with applicable DMM standards.
If a 3-digit pallet of adequate weight is available, create an SCF
pallet by combining the reallocated mail from the 3-digit pallet with
the mail that would fall beyond the SCF pallet level.
b. If no single 3-digit pallet within the SCF service area contains
an adequate volume of mail to allow reallocation of a portion of the
mail on a pallet as described in the previous step, then eliminate one
3-digit pallet and reallocate all of the mail to create an SCF pallet
by combining it with the mail that would fall beyond the SCF pallet
level. The result will be that the software will not prepare one 3-
digit pallet for the SCF service area if it is detrimental to the SCF
pallet.
c. If there are no 3-digit pallets, attempt to identify a 5-digit
or 5-digit scheme pallet of adequate weight to support reallocation of
one or more packages to bring the mail that would fall beyond the SCF
pallet level back to the SCF level. A sufficient volume of mail must
remain on the 5-digit or 5-digit scheme pallet after reallocation to
meet the pallet weight minimum established by the mailer in compliance
with applicable DMM standards. If a 5-digit or 5-digit scheme pallet of
adequate weight is available, create an SCF pallet by combining the
reallocated packages with the mail that would fall beyond the SCF
pallet level.
d. If no single 5-digit or 5-digit scheme pallet within the SCF
service area contains an adequate volume of mail to allow reallocation
of a portion of the mail on a pallet as described in c, then no
packages will be reallocated and an SCF pallet will not be prepared;
the mail that falls beyond the SCF pallet level must be placed on the
appropriate level pallet (ADC or BMC) or in the appropriate level sack.
5.4 Reallocation of Packages if Optional 3-Digit Pallets Are Not
Prepared
Reallocation rules:
a. Attempt to identify a 5-digit or 5-digit scheme pallet of
adequate weight to support reallocation of one or more packages to
bring the mail that would fall beyond the SCF pallet level back to the
SCF level. A sufficient volume of mail must remain on the 5-digit or 5-
digit scheme pallet after reallocation to meet the pallet weight
minimum established by the mailer in compliance with applicable DMM
standards. If a 5-digit or 5-digit scheme pallet of adequate weight is
available, create an SCF pallet by combining the reallocated packages
with the mail that would fall beyond the SCF pallet level.
b. If no single 5-digit or 5-digit scheme pallet within the SCF
service area contains an adequate volume of mail to allow reallocation
of a portion of the mail on a pallet as described in a, then no
packages will be reallocated and an SCF pallet will not be prepared;
the mail that falls beyond the SCF pallet level must be placed on the
appropriate level pallet (ADC or BMC) or in the appropriate level sack.
5.5 Documentation
Mailings must be supported by documentation produced by PAVE-
certified software meeting the standards in P012.
6.0 PALLETS OF PACKAGES, BUNDLES, AND TRAYS OF LETTER-SIZE MAIL
[Amend redesignated 6.1 and 6.2 by revising the second section of each
section to indicate that automation rate and nonautomation rate mail
must be placed on separate 5-digit scheme pallets, as follows:]
6.1 * * * Automation rate and nonautomation rate pieces must be
placed on separate 5-digit and 5-digit scheme pallets. * * *
6.2 * * * Automation rate and nonautomation rate pieces must be
placed on separate 5-digit and 5-digit scheme pallets, except that
upgradable pieces prepared under M610 may be placed on 5-digit pallets
with automation rate pieces. * * *
* * * * *
M200 Periodicals (Nonautomation)
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
1.5 Low Volume Packages and Sacks
[Amend M200.1.5 by revising reference to ``3.1a through 3.1e'' to read
``3.1a through 3.1f'', as follows:]
As a general exception to 2.4b through 2.4d and 3.1a through 3.1f,
* * *
* * * * *
3.0 SACK PREPARATION (FLAT-SIZE PIECES AND IRREGULAR PARCELS)
3.1 Sack Preparation
[Amend M200.3.1 by revising 3.1b and adding new 3.1c to provide an
optional 5-digit/scheme carrier routes sort for flats and irregular
parcels; redesignate M200.3.1c through M200.3.1g as M200.3.1d through
M200.3.1h, as follows:]
Sack size, preparation sequence, and Line 1 labeling:
* * * * *
[[Page 16840]]
b. 5-digit carrier routes (carrier routes packages only): required
for rate eligibility (no minimum) unless sacks are prepared under c;
for Line 1, use 5-digit ZIP Code destination of packages, preceded for
military mail by the prefixes under M031.
c. 5-digit/scheme carrier routes (carrier route packages only):
required at 24 pieces, optional with one six-piece package minimum
except under 1.5; for Line 1 for 5-digit carrier routes sacks, use 5-
digit ZIP Code destination of packages, preceded for military mail by
the prefixes under M031; for Line 1 for 5-digit scheme carrier routes
sacks, use L001, column B.
* * * * *
3.2 Sack Line 2
[Amend M200.3.2 by adding new 3.2e for 5-digit scheme carrier routes
sacks; and redesignate M200.3.2e through M200.3.2h as M200.3.2f through
M200.3.2i, respectively, as follows:]
* * * * *
e. 5-digit scheme car. rts.: ``CR-RTS SCH''
* * * * *
M600 Standard Mail (Nonautomation)
* * * * *
M620 Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail
* * * * *
4.0 SACK PREPARATION--FLAT-SIZE PIECES AND IRREGULAR PARCELS
* * * * *
4.2 Sack Preparation
[Amend M620.4.2 by revising 4.2b and adding new 4.2c, as follows:]
Sack size, preparation sequence, and Line 1 labeling:
* * * * *
b. 5-digit carrier routes: required (no minimum); for irregular
parcels; for Line 1, use 5-digit ZIP Code destination of packages,
preceded for military mail by the prefixes under M031.
c. 5-digit/scheme carrier routes: required (no minimum) for flats;
for Line 1, for 5-digit sacks, use 5-digit ZIP Code destination of
packages, preceded for military mail by the prefixes under M031; for
Line 1 for 5-digit scheme sacks, use L001, column B.
4.3 Sack Line 2
[Amend M620.4.3 by adding new 4.3e for 5-digit scheme carrier routes
sacks, as follows:]
* * * * *
e. 5-digit scheme car. rts.: ``CR-RTS SCH''
* * * * *
P Postage And Payment Methods
P000 Basic Information
* * * * *
P012 Documentation
* * * * *
2.0 STANDARDIZED DOCUMENTATION--FIRST-CLASS MAIL, PERIODICALS, AND
STANDARD MAIL (A)
* * * * *
2.2 Format and Content
[Amend P012.2.2d by revising 2.2d(4) to add standards for identifying
SCF pallets created as a result of package reallocation by adding the
following to the end of the section:]
* * * * *
d. For packages on pallets, the body of the listing reporting these
required elements:
* * * * *
(4) * * * Document SCF pallets created as a result of package
reallocation under M045.5.0 on the USPS Qualification Report by
designating the protected SCF pallet with an identifier of ``PSCF.''
This identifier is only required to appear on the USPS Qualification
Report; it is not required to appear on pallet labels or on any other
mailing documentation.
* * * * *
2.4 Sortation Level
[Amend 2.4 by adding new indicators ``CR5S'' to identify 5-digit
carrier routes scheme sacks, ``5DGS'' to identify 5-digit scheme
pallets, and ``PSCF'' to identify SCF pallets created as a result of
package reallocation under M045.5.0, as follows:]
The actual sortation level (or corresponding abbreviation) is used
for the package, tray, sack, or pallet levels required by 2.2 and shown
below:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sortation level Abbreviation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
5-Digit Carrier Routes..................... CR5
5-Digit Scheme Carrier Routes (Periodicals CR5S
flats, Standard Mail (A) flats).
5-Digit Scheme (pallets, Periodicals flats 5DGS
and irregular parcels, Standard Mail (A)
flats).
* * * * *
SCF (pallets).............................. N/A
SCF (pallets created from package PSCF
reallocation).
* * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Stanley F. Mires,
Chief Counsel, Legislative.
[FR Doc. 99-8400 Filed 4-6-99; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P
