[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 122 (Monday, June 24, 1996)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 32606-32616]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-16026]
[[Page 32605]]
_______________________________________________________________________
Part VI
Postal Service
_______________________________________________________________________
39 CFR Part 111
Classification Reform; Implementation Standards; Proposed Rule
Federal Register / Vol. 61, No. 122 / Monday, June 24, 1996 /
Proposed Rules
[[Page 32606]]
POSTAL SERVICE
39 CFR Part 111
Classification Reform; Implementation Standards
AGENCY: Postal Service.
ACTION: Proposed rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: This notice presents the full text of the Domestic Mail Manual
standards that the Postal Service proposes to adopt for implementing
its Classification Reform proposals contained in Postal Rate Commission
Docket No. MC96-2, Classification Reform II.
DATES: Comments on the proposed standards must be received on or before
July 24, 1996.
ADDRESSES: Written comments should be mailed or delivered to the
Manager, Customer Mail Preparation, U.S. Postal Service, 475 L'Enfant
Plaza SW, Room 6830, Washington DC 20260-2405. Copies of all written
comments will be available at the above address for inspection and
photocopying between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Leo F. Raymond, (202) 268-5199.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On April 4, 1996, pursuant to its authority
under 39 U.S.C. 3621, et seq., the Postal Service filed with the Postal
Rate Commission (PRC) a request for a recommended decision on several
mail classification reform proposals (Classification Reform II). The
PRC designated the filing as Docket No. MC96-2. On April 11, 1996, the
PRC published a notice of the filing, with a description of the Postal
Service's proposals, in the Federal Register (61 FR 16129-16146).
As stated in the Postal Service filing, the changes proposed in
Docket No. MC96-2 deliberately mirror those adopted by the Governors of
the Postal Service in Docket No. MC95-1. The Postal Service believes
that this feature of its proposal will expedite the ratemaking process
and facilitate simplified implementing standards if the PRC's
Recommended Decision substantially supports the Postal Service's
proposal and if that Recommended Decision is approved by the Governors
and implemented by the Board of Governors.
Until July 1, 1996 (the implementation date for Classification
Reform I), rate eligibility and mail preparation standards are
generally similar for both commercial and nonprofit mail. After that
date, new standards will take effect for commercial rate categories,
while the existing rules generally will be retained for the
``unreformed'' nonprofit categories pending the resolution of Docket
No. MC96-2. In line with its proposal in Docket No. MC96-2, the Postal
Service is proposing revised Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) standards for
nonprofit rate categories that will substantively eliminate the
preparation and rate eligibility distinctions between commercial and
nonprofit mail that will exist during the interim period beginning July
1, 1996.
Accordingly, the following units of the DMM would be eliminated if
the Postal Service's proposal is adopted, having been established
solely to contain former general standards that are applicable only to
nonprofit rate categories during the interim period beginning July 1:
E239, E249, E639, E649, L001, L897, L898, L899, M690, M692, M693, M695,
M696, M697, M698, M890, M891, M892, M893, M894, M895, M896, M897, and
M898. Sections of other units would also be eliminated for the same
reason, as described in the detailed text below.
The DMM text presented below reflects other organizational
revisions that do not constitute substantive changes: E621 through E625
are consolidated into E620; E631 through E634 are consolidated into
E630; and E641 is redesignated as E640.
The proposed rates described below in the revisions to DMM module R
are as shown in the Postal Service's Request, currently pending before
the Postal Rate Commission.
As shown in the DMM standards below, the ``breakpoint'' for
Nonprofit Standard Mail is also amended, based on the rates proposed in
Docket No. MC96-2. Standard Mail (A) is subject to postage at either a
minimum rate per piece or a compound rate consisting of a flat piece
charge and a pound charge that varies according to the weight of the
piece, whichever is higher. The breakpoint is the calculated piece
weight at or below which the piece is subject to the minimum per piece
rate; above it, the piece/pound rate must be paid. Because the
breakpoint is based on the mathematical relationship of specific rate
elements, it must be adjusted whenever rates are changed. Moreover,
because the heaviest Standard Mail (A) breakpoint was adopted as the
maximum weight for automation First-Class Mail and Periodicals ``heavy
letter'' pieces, the standards below (C810.2.3f) reflect a decrease of
0.0976 ounce in that weight (from the current 3.4383 ounces to the
proposed 3.3407 ounces).
The Postal Service is also proposing to revise the current standard
that prohibits the use of certain nonpaper, plastic-like materials
(such as spun-bonded olefin) that do not accept the water-based ink
used by the Postal Service to spray barcodes on mail. The current
prohibition applies to pieces claimed at ZIP+4 rates, but ZIP+4 rates
were eliminated for First-Class Mail, Regular Periodicals, and Regular
Standard Mail in MC95-1, and a comparable proposal is advanced in MC96-
2 for Preferred Periodicals and Nonprofit Standard Mail. Nonetheless,
the Postal Service remains interested in optimizing its ability to
``upgrade'' (i.e., spray a barcode on) that volume of customer mail
that was formerly prepared to qualify for the ZIP+4 rates (e.g.,
compatible with automated address recognition and automated processing)
and that will not hereafter be barcoded before entry into the
mailstream. For that reason, the implementing standards for MC95-1 (and
those proposed below for MC96-2) prescribe simpler preparation
standards for ``upgradable'' mail than for other nonupgradable pieces.
Because the Postal Service seeks to barcode this mail by means similar
to those used for ZIP+4 rate mail, the Postal Service proposes to
continue to ban the use of certain nonpaper envelope materials for
``upgradable'' mail as it does now for ZIP+4 rate pieces. This ban is
represented by the revision to C830.6.2 shown below.
All references to DMM sections shown in this proposed rule are
based not on current Domestic Mail Manual Issue 49 but on the
redesignations and revisions of the DMM published in the Federal
Register on March 12, 1996 (61 FR 10068-10217), and scheduled for
release as DMM Issue 50 (July 1, 1996). The rates shown in DMM module R
below are the step 4 rates proposed in the Postal Service's MC96-2
request and, as such, are subject to change.
Although exempt from the notice and comment requirements of the
Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 553 (b), (c)) regarding proposed
rulemaking by 39 U.S.C. 410(a), the Postal Service invites comments on
the following proposed revisions of the DMM, incorporated by reference
in the Code of Federal Regulations. See 39 CFR part 111.
PART 111--[AMENDED]
1. The authority citation for 39 CFR part 111 continues to read as
follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 39 U.S.C. 101, 401, 403, 404, 3001-
3011, 3201-3219, 3403-3406, 3621, 3626, 5001.
[[Page 32607]]
2. Revise the following sections of the Domestic Mail Manual as set
forth below:
A ADDRESSING
A000 Basic Addressing
A010 General Addressing Standards
* * * * *
4.0 RETURN ADDRESS
* * * * *
[Revise the heading and text of 4.5 to read as follows:]
4.5 Upgradable Mail
The return address on upgradable mail must be outside the OCR read
area. If placed on the front of the mailpiece, the return address must
be in the top left corner. It must extend no farther than half the
length of the mailpiece from the left edge and no lower than one-third
the height of the mailpiece from the top edge (see Exhibit 4.5).
* * * * *
A800 Addressing for Automation
1.0 ACCURACY
1.1 Basic Standards
[Revise 1.1 to read as follows:]
To qualify for automation rates, addresses must be sufficiently
complete to enable matching to the current USPS ZIP+4 File when used
with current CASS-certified address matching software. Standardized
address elements are not required.
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of A900 to read as follows:]
A900 Customer Support
* * * * *
A950 Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS)
* * * * *
3.0 DATE OF ADDRESS MATCHING AND CODING
3.1 Updating Standards
[Amend 3.1 by revising the second sentence to read as follows:]
* * * Coding must be done within 90 days before the mailing date
for all carrier route mailings and within 180 days before the mailing
date for all non-carrier route automation rate mailings. * * *
* * * * *
C CHARACTERISTICS AND CONTENT
* * * * *
C800 Automation-Compatible Mail
C810 Letters and Cards
* * * * *
2.0 DIMENSIONS
* * * * *
2.3 Weight
[Revise 2.3 to read as follows:]
Maximum weight limits are:
a. 2.5 ounces: upgradable Presorted First-Class Mail and upgradable
nonautomation Standard Mail.
b. 3 ounces: automation First-Class Mail, automation Periodicals,
and automation Standard Mail.
c. 3.3062 ounces: automation Enhanced Carrier Route heavy letters,
subject to 7.5.
d. 3.3087 ounces: automation Regular Standard Mail heavy letters,
subject to 7.5.
e. 3.3384 ounces: automation Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route heavy
letters, subject to 7.5.
f. 3.3407 ounces: automation First-Class Mail, automation
Periodicals, and automation Nonprofit Standard Mail heavy letters,
subject to 7.5.
* * * * *
8.0 ENCLOSED REPLY CARDS AND ENVELOPES
8.1 Basic Standard
[Revise 8.1 to read as follows:]
Effective January 1, 1997 (or March 1, 1997, for Preferred
Periodicals and Nonprofit Standard Mail), all letter-size reply cards
and envelopes (business reply, courtesy reply, and metered reply mail)
provided as enclosures in automation First-Class Mail, automation
Periodicals, and automation Standard Mail (A), and addressed for return
to a domestic delivery address, must meet the applicable standards in
1.0 through 7.0, bear a facing identification mark (FIM) meeting the
standards in 8.2, and bear the correct delivery point barcode (or, for
business reply mail (BRM), the correct ZIP+4 barcode) for the delivery
address on the reply piece as defined by the USPS and subject to the
barcode standards in C840. Mailers must certify that these standards
have been met when the corresponding mail (in which the reply pieces
are enclosed) is presented to the USPS. BRM pieces must also meet the
applicable standards in S922.
* * * * *
C830 OCR Standards
* * * * *
6.0 USPS WATER-BASED BARCODE INK
* * * * *
6.2 Nonpaper Materials
[Revise 6.2 to read as follows:]
Certain nonpaper, plastic-like materials (such as spun-bonded
Olefin) are not acceptable for upgradable pieces unless approved by
USPS Engineering.
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of C840 to read as follows:]
C840 Barcoding Standards
* * * * *
2.0 BARCODE LOCATION--LETTER-SIZE PIECES
2.1 Barcode Clear Zone
[Amend 2.1 by replacing the term ``upgradable Regular Standard Mail''
with ``upgradable Standard Mail (A)'' in the first sentence to read as
follows:]
Each piece in an automation rate mailing and each piece of
upgradable Presorted First-Class Mail or upgradable Standard Mail (A)
must have a barcode clear zone unless the piece bears a DPBC in the
address block. * * *
2.2 General Standards
[Replace 2.2, 2.2a, 2.2b, and 2.2c with new 2.2 to read as follows:]
In automation rate mailings, pieces weighing 3 ounces or less may
bear a DPBC either in the address block or in the barcode clear zone;
pieces weighing more than 3 ounces (up to the maximum weight permitted
by C810) must bear a DPBC in the address block.
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 8.0 to read as follows:]
8.0 ZIP+4 OR 5-DIGIT BARCODES
8.1 Automation Pieces
[Replace 8.1, 8.1a, 8.1b, and 8.1c with new 8.1 to read as follows:]
Except under 8.3, letter-size pieces in automation rate mailings
may not bear a 5-digit or ZIP+4 barcode in the lower right corner
(barcode clear zone); such pieces may bear a 5-digit or ZIP+4 barcode
in the address block only if a DPBC appears in the lower right corner.
Except under 8.3, flat-size pieces may not bear a 5-digit barcode.
* * * * *
8.3 Temporary Exception to Barcoding
[Revise 8.3 to read as follows:]
Until January 1, 1997, up to 10% of the pieces in an automation
Periodicals mailing of flat-size pieces may be prepared with only a 5-
digit barcode (subject to C840); and up to 10% of the pieces in an
automation Periodicals mailing of letter-size pieces may be prepared
without a barcode or with only a ZIP+4 barcode (subject to C840).
Pieces within this 10% allowance must be combined and presorted with
the rest
[[Page 32608]]
of the mailing, with postage paid at the applicable nonautomation
Periodicals rate and supported by documentation under P012.
* * * * *
E ELIGIBILITY
* * * * *
E100 First-Class Mail
* * * * *
E140 Automation Rates
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
* * * * *
1.5 Enclosed Reply Cards and Envelopes
Effective January 1, 1997, all letter-size reply cards and
envelopes (business reply, courtesy reply, and metered reply mail)
provided as enclosures in automation First-Class Mail must meet the
standards in C810 for enclosed reply cards and envelopes. Mailers must
certify that this standard has been met when the corresponding mail (in
which the reply pieces are enclosed) is presented to the USPS.
* * * * *
E200 Periodicals
E210 Basic Standards
E211 All Periodicals
* * * * *
14.0 BASIC RATE ELIGIBILITY
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 14.3 to read as follows:]
14.3 Adjustments and Discounts
[Replace 14.3, 14.3a, 14.3b, 14.3c, and 14.3d with new 14.3 to read as
follows:]
Postage for Periodicals is reduced by all applicable adjustments
and discounts. The nonadvertising adjustment applies to the outside-
county piece rate charges and is computed under P013. Presort and
automation discounts are available under E230 and E240, respectively.
Destination entry discounts are available under E250 for copies entered
at specific USPS facilities.
* * * * *
E230 Nonautomation Rates
[Remove E239 and redesignate E231 as E230.]
1.0 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 Standards
[Amend 1.1 by replacing the reference ``M210'' with ``M200'' to read as
follows:]
The standards for presort rates are in addition to the basic
standards for Periodicals in E210, the standards for other rates or
discounts claimed, and the applicable preparation standards in M200,
M810, or M820. Not all combinations of presort level, automation, and
destination entry discounts are permitted.
* * * * *
2.0 CARRIER ROUTE RATES
* * * * *
2.2 Eligibility
[Amend 2.2 by replacing the reference ``M210'' with ``M200'' in the
introductory text to read as follows:]
Preparation to qualify eligible pieces for carrier route rates is
optional and is subject to M200. Carrier route sort need not be
performed for all carrier routes in a 5-digit area. Specific rate
eligibility is subject to these standards:
* * * * *
3.0 3/5 RATES
[Amend 3.0 by revising the introductory text to read as follows:]
Subject to M200, 3/5 rates apply to pieces not claimed at in-county
rates, as follows:
* * * * *
4.0 BASIC RATES
[Revise 4.0 to read as follows:]
Basic rates apply to pieces prepared under M200 but not claimed at
Carrier Route or 3/5 rates.
[Redesignate current 5.0 and 6.0 as 6.0 and 7.0, respectively; add new
5.0 to read as follows:]
5.0 IN-COUNTY RATES
In-county Basic rates apply to all pieces eligible for in-county
rates that are not also eligible under 2.0 for in-county Carrier Route
rates.
* * * * *
E240 Automation Rates
[Remove E249 and redesignate E241 as E240.]
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 All Pieces
[Amend 1.1 by revising the introductory text to read as follows:]
All pieces in an automation Periodicals mailing must:
* * * * *
1.2 Enclosed Reply Cards and Envelopes
[Revise 1.2 to read as follows:]
Effective January 1, 1997 (or March 1, 1997, for Preferred
Periodicals), all letter-size reply cards and envelopes (business
reply, courtesy reply, and metered reply mail) provided as enclosures
in automation Periodicals must meet the standards in C810 for enclosed
reply cards and envelopes. Mailers must certify that this standard has
been met when the corresponding mail (in which the reply pieces are
enclosed) is presented to the USPS.
1.3 Temporary Exception to Barcoding
[Revise 1.3 to read as follows:]
Until January 1, 1997, up to 10% of the pieces in an automation
Periodicals mailing of flat-size pieces may be prepared with only a 5-
digit barcode (subject to C840); and up to 10% of the pieces in an
automation Periodicals mailing of letter-size pieces may be prepared
without a barcode or with only a ZIP+4 barcode (subject to C840).
Pieces within this 10% allowance must be combined and presorted with
the rest of the mailing, with postage paid at the applicable
nonautomation Periodicals rate and supported by documentation under
P012.
* * * * *
E600 Standard Mail
E610 Basic Standards
* * * * *
E612 Additional Standards for Standard Mail (A)
* * * * *
4.0 BULK RATES
* * * * *
4.2 Minimum Per Piece Rates
[Revise 4.2 to read as follows:]
The minimum per piece rates (i.e., the minimum postage that must be
paid for each piece) apply to Enhanced Carrier Route rate pieces
weighing no more than 0.2066 pound rounded (3.3062 ounces rounded);
Regular nonautomation and automation rate pieces weighing no more than
0.2068 pound rounded (3.3087 ounces rounded); Nonprofit Enhanced
Carrier Route rate pieces weighing no more than 0.2087 pound rounded
(3.3384 ounces rounded); and Nonprofit nonautomation and automation
rate pieces weighing no more than 0.2088 pound rounded (3.3407 ounces
rounded). The base postage rate applies to pieces meeting minimum
preparation standards (e.g., Basic rate) and may be reduced if
additional standards are met. In applying the minimum per piece rates,
mail is categorized as either letters or other than letters, based on
whether the mail meets the letter-size standard in C050. That standard
disregards address placement, except that, for automation rates, mail
may be assigned
[[Page 32609]]
to the other than letters category based on the standards in C820.
Address placement is also used to apply the aspect ratio standard in
C810 to letter-size automation rates.
* * * * *
4.7 Annual Fees
[Replace 4.7, 4.7a, and 4.7b with new 4.7 to read as follows:]
Bulk rate Standard Mail (A) is subject to an annual mailing fee
once each 12-month period. The fee may be paid in advance only for the
next year and only during the last 30 days of the current service
period. The fee charged is that in effect on the date of payment. Each
mailer who enters mail at bulk rates paid with meter or precanceled
stamps must pay an annual bulk mailing fee at each post office of
mailing; a mailer paying this fee may enter clients' mail as well as
the mailer's own. The mailer whose permit imprint appears on pieces in
a mailing paid with a permit imprint must show that permit number on
the postage statement and must pay the annual bulk mailing fee for that
permit; this fee is in addition to the fee for an application to use
permit imprints.
* * * * *
4.9 Preparation
[Amend 4.9 by revising the introductory text and 4.9c to read as
follows:]
Each bulk rate mailing is subject to these general standards:
* * * * *
c. The same mailing may not contain both automation and
nonautomation rate pieces.
* * * * *
E620 Nonautomation Nonpresort Rates
[Redesignate E621 as E620.1.0; revise to read as follows:]
1.0 SINGLE-PIECE STANDARD MAIL (A)
[Redesignate E621.1.1 through 1.6 as E620.1.1 through 1.6,
respectively, and revise internal references accordingly; no other
change in text.]
[Redesignate E622 as E620.2.0; revise to read as follows:]
2.0 PARCEL POST
[Redesignate chart under 2.1 as Exhibit 2.4 and revise redesignated 2.1
to read as follows:]
2.1 Basic Standards
Any Standard Mail (B) matter may be mailed at parcel post rates,
subject to the basic standards in E611 and E613.
[Redesignate E622.1.2 and 1.3 as E620.2.2 and 2.3, respectively.]
* * * * *
[Redesignate E622.2.0, 3.0, and 4.0 as E620.2.4, 2.5, and 2.6,
respectively, and revise internal references accordingly; no other
change in text.]
2.4 Rate Eligibility
[Revise redesignated E620.2.4 to read as follows:]
Parcel post rates are based on zones; on whether a parcel is mailed
and delivered within the service area of the same bulk mail center
(BMC), auxiliary service facility (ASF), or other designated service
area (as shown in Exhibit 2.4); and on the weight of the parcel.
Specific rates and discounts are subject to these additional standards:
[Redesignate E622.2.1 through 2.5 as E620.2.4a through 2.4e,
respectively, and revise internal references accordingly; no other
change in text.]
* * * * *
2.5 Nonmachinable Surcharge
[Revise redesignated E620.2.5 to read as follows:]
The nonmachinable surcharge applies only to the items listed in
2.5a through 2.5i if mailed at the inter-BMC/ASF parcel post rates. The
surcharge does not apply to those items or to other matter mailed at
another Standard Mail (B) rate or if the mailer paid the special
delivery or special handling fee. The nonmachinable surcharge applies
to items that meet any of these standards:
[Remove the introductory text of E622.3.2 and redesignate E622.3.2a
through 3.2i as E620.2.5a through 2.5i, respectively.]
* * * * *
2.6 Fees
[Revise redesignated E620.2.6 to read as follows:]
Parcel post is subject to these fees, as applicable:
[Redesignate E622.4.1 and 4.2 as E620.2.6a and 2.6b, respectively.]
* * * * *
[Redesignate E623 as E620.3.0.]
3.0 BOUND PRINTED MATTER
[Redesignate E623.1.1 through 1.4 as E620.3.1 through 3.4,
respectively; no other change in text.]
[Redesignate E624 as E620.4.0.]
4.0 SPECIAL STANDARD MAIL
[Redesignate E624.1.1 through 1.4 as E620.4.1 through 4.4,
respectively; no other change in text.]
[Redesignate E625 as E620.5.0.]
5.0 LIBRARY MAIL
[Redesignate E625.1.1 through 1.7 as E620.5.1 through 5.7,
respectively; no other change in text.]
E630 Nonautomation Presort Rates
[Remove E639; redesignate E631 through E634 as E630.1.0 through 4.0,
respectively, and revise as follows:]
1.0 REGULAR AND NONPROFIT STANDARD MAIL
[Redesignate E631.1.0 through 3.0 as E630.1.1 through 1.3,
respectively; in redesignated 1.1 and 1.2, replace the term ``Regular
Standard Mail'' with ``Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail''; in
redesignated 1.3, replace the term ``Regular rates'' with ``Regular and
Nonprofit rates''; no other change in text.]
2.0 ENHANCED CARRIER ROUTE STANDARD MAIL
[Redesignate E632.1.1 through 1.7 as E630.2.1 through 2.7,
respectively; in redesignated 2.3, replace the reference ``E641'' with
``E640''; redesignate E632.2.1 and 2.2 as E630.2.8 and 2.9,
respectively; revise the heading of redesignated 2.8 to read as ``Basic
Rates''; in redesignated 2.9, replace the reference ``1.6 and 1.7''
with ``2.6 and 2.7''; no other change in text.]
3.0 BULK BOUND PRINTED MATTER
[Redesignate E633.1.1 and 1.2 as E630.3.1 and 3.2, respectively; in
redesignated 3.1, replace the phrase ``basic standards in E623'' with
``basic standards for bound printed matter in E620''; no other change
in text.]
4.0 PRESORTED SPECIAL STANDARD MAIL
[Redesignate E634.1.0 and 2.1 through 2.5 as E630.4.1 and 4.2 through
4.6, respectively; no change in text.]
E640 Automation Rates
[Remove E649; redesignate E641 as E640; in 1.1, 1.1b, and 1.2, replace
the term ``Regular Standard Mail'' with ``Regular or Nonprofit Standard
Mail''; in 1.3, replace the term ``Regular automation rates'' with
``Automation rates''; in 1.4, replace the term ``Regular automation
rates'' with ``Automation rates.'']
[Revise the heading of 1.0 to read as follows:]
1.0 REGULAR AND NONPROFIT RATES
1.1 All Pieces
[Amend 1.1 by revising the introductory text and 1.1b to read as
follows:] All pieces in an automation
[[Page 32610]]
rate Regular or Nonprofit Standard mailing must:
* * * * *
b. Be part of a single mailing of at least 200 pieces or 50 pounds
of pieces of automation rate Standard Mail (Regular and Nonprofit
mailings must meet separate minimum volumes).
* * * * *
1.2 Enclosed Reply Cards and Envelopes
[Revise 1.2 to read as follows:]
Effective January 1, 1997 (or March 1, 1997, for Nonprofit Standard
Mail), all letter-size reply cards and envelopes (business reply,
courtesy reply, and metered reply mail) provided as enclosures in
automation Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail must meet the standards
in C810 for enclosed reply cards and envelopes. Mailers must certify
that this standard has been met when the corresponding mail (in which
the reply pieces are enclosed) is presented to the USPS.
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 ENHANCED CARRIER ROUTE RATES
2.1 All Pieces
[Amend 2.1 by revising the introductory text and 2.1b to read as
follows:]
All pieces in an automation rate Enhanced Carrier Route Standard
mailing (available for letters only) must:
* * * * *
b. Be part of a single mailing of at least 200 pieces or 50 pounds
of pieces of automation rate Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail
(Regular and Nonprofit mailings must meet separate minimum volumes).
* * * * *
2.4 Enclosed Reply Cards and Envelopes
[Revise 2.4 to read as follows:]
Effective January 1, 1997 (or March 1, 1997, for Nonprofit Enhanced
Carrier Route Standard Mail), all letter-size reply cards and envelopes
(business reply, courtesy reply, and metered reply mail) provided as
enclosures in automation Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail must meet
the standards in C810 for enclosed reply cards and envelopes. Mailers
must certify that this standard has been met when the corresponding
mail (in which the reply pieces are enclosed) is presented to the USPS.
* * * * *
E650 Destination Entry
* * * * *
E652 Parcel Post
[In 1.4, replace the reference ``E622'' with ``E620''; no other change
in text.]
E670 Nonprofit Standard Mail
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 Organization Eligibility
[Amend 1.1 by adding the qualifying phrase ``i.e., all nonautomation
and automation Nonprofit rates'' to the end of the section to read as
follows:]
Only organizations that meet the standards in 2.0 or 3.0 and that
have received specific authorization from the USPS may mail eligible
matter at the Nonprofit Standard Mail rates, i.e., all nonautomation
and automation Nonprofit rates.
* * * * *
L LABELING LISTS
[Remove L001, L897, L898, and L899.]
M MAIL PREPARATION AND SORTATION
M000 General Preparation Standards
M010 Mailpieces
M011 Basic Standards
[Revise the heading of 1.0 to read as follows:]
1.0 TERMS AND CONDITIONS
* * * * *
1.2 Presort Levels
[Amend 1.2 by revising 1.2d, 1.2h, and 1.2i to read as follows:]
Terms used for presort levels are defined as follows:
* * * * *
d. 3-digit: the ZIP Code in the delivery address on all pieces
begins with the same three digits (see L002, Column A).
* * * * *
h. SCF: the separation includes pieces for two or more 3-digit
areas served by the same SCF (see L005), except that, where required or
permitted by standard, mail for a single 3-digit area may be prepared
in an SCF separation when no mail for other 3-digit ZIP Code areas is
available.
i. ADC/AADC: all pieces are addressed for delivery in the service
area of the same ADC or AADC (see L004 or L801).
* * * * *
1.4 Mailing
[Revise 1.4 to read as follows:]
A mailing is a group of pieces within the same class of mail and
processing category that may be sorted together under the applicable
standards. Other specific standards may define whether separate
mailings may be combined, palletized, reported, or deposited together.
The following types of mail may not be part of the same mailing despite
being in the same class and processing category: automation and
nonautomation mail; automation rate Enhanced Carrier Route and other
mail; any combination of Enhanced Carrier Route, Regular, Nonprofit,
and/or Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail.
* * * * *
M013 Optional Endorsement Lines
1.0 USE
1.1 Basic Standards
[Amend 1.1 by removing in the chart the entries for Optional City and
Working; by revising the parenthetical following the first entry for
Carrier Route to read as ``(Periodicals)''; by revising the
parenthetical following the entry for SCF to read as ``(bound printed
matter)''; and by removing the parenthetical ``(Except Preferred
Periodicals and Nonprofit Standard Mail)'' following the entries for
AADC and Mixed AADC.]
* * * * *
1.4 Rate Markings
[Amend 1.4 by replacing the term ``automation Regular Standard Mail''
with ``automation Regular or automation Nonprofit Standard Mail.'']
* * * * *
M014 Carrier Route Information Lines
1.0 BASIC INFORMATION
[Amend 1.0 by replacing the terms ``carrier route and Level I/K
Periodicals'' with ``Carrier Route Periodicals.'']
* * * * *
M020 Packages and Bundles
[Remove 2.0; redesignate 3.0 and 4.0 as 2.0 and 3.0, respectively;
revise the heading of redesignated 2.0 as ``Additional Standards--
First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail (A)''; amend
redesignated 2.1c by replacing the terms ``Regular Standard Mail'' with
``Standard Mail (A)'' and ``Regular Periodicals'' with ``Periodicals'';
no other change in text.]
M030 Containers
M031 Labels
* * * * *
4.0 PALLET LABELS
* * * * *
4.8 Delivery Unit, SCF, DDU, and DSCF Rates
[Revise 4.8 to read as follows:]
If a 5-digit, 3-digit, or SCF pallet contains copies claimed at
Periodicals
[[Page 32611]]
delivery unit and SCF zone rates, or Standard Mail DDU and DSCF rates,
as applicable, the contents line of the pallet label must show the
designation DDU/SCF, after the description of the contents.
* * * * *
M032 Barcoded Labels
1.0 BARCODED TRAY LABELS
1.1 Standards
[Revise 1.1 to read as follows:]
Effective January 1, 1997, barcoded tray labels are required for
all mailings of automation rate First-Class Mail flat-size pieces and
automation rate First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail (A)
letter-size pieces. Barcoded tray labels may be used before that date
and may be used for other trayed mail. Mailer-produced barcoded tray
labels must meet the standards below. Revisions to preprinted barcoded
labels (e.g., handwritten changes) are not permitted.
* * * * *
2.0 BARCODED SACK LABELS
2.1 Standards
[Revise 2.1 to read as follows:]
Effective January 1, 1997, barcoded sack labels are required for
all mailings of automation rate Periodicals and Standard Mail (A) flat-
size pieces prepared in sacks. Barcoded sack labels may be used before
that date and may be used for other sacked mail. Mailer-produced
barcoded sack labels must meet the standards below. Revisions to
preprinted barcoded labels (e.g., handwritten changes) are not
permitted.
* * * * *
M033 Sacks and Trays
[In 1.2a, replace the terms ``Regular Periodicals, and Regular and
Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail (A)'' with ``Periodicals, and bulk
rate Standard Mail (A)''; remove the last sentence of 1.2f; in 1.4,
remove the phrase and clause ``except for Preferred Periodicals and
Nonprofit Standard Mail, which are covered in 3.0 and 4.0''; in 1.7,
replace the phrase ``Except for Nonprofit Standard and Preferred
Periodicals mailings, after'' with ``After''; revise the heading of 2.0
to read as ``First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Bulk Rate Standard Mail
(A)''; remove 3.0 and 4.0; no other change in text.]
M040 Pallets
* * * * *
M045 Palletized Mailings
* * * * *
2.0 PACKAGES
* * * * *
2.2 Size--Periodicals
[Amend 2.2 by replacing the references ``M210 and M290'' in 2.2a with
``M200'' to read as follows:]
Package size: Six-piece minimum, 20-pound maximum, except that:
a. Firm packages may contain as few as two copies of a publication
and do not have to be consolidated into bundles with other packages to
the same 5-digit destination. A firm ``package'' may be one piece for
presort standards (see M200).
* * * * *
8.0 MIXED RATE LEVELS ON PALLETS--NONPROFIT STANDARD MAIL
* * * * *
8.2 Authorizations
[Amend 8.2 by revising the first sentence to read as follows:]
Mailers must obtain a USPS authorization before commingling
nonautomation, automation, or Enhanced Carrier Route Nonprofit Standard
Mail on pallets. * * *
* * * * *
8.4 Documentation
[Replace 8.4, 8.4a, and 8.4b with new 8.4 to read as follows:]
At the time of mailing, the mailer must provide standardized
documentation, as required by the standards for the rate claimed, that
includes pallet numbers to facilitate postal verification of the
corresponding mail. When requested, the mailer must present pallets
selected by USPS employees for verification.
8.5 Additional Pallet Standards
[Remove 8.5c and redesignate 8.5d as 8.5c.]
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of M050 to read as follows:]
M050 Delivery Sequence
[Amend 1.1 by replacing the references ``M290 or M693'' with ``M200 or
M620''; no other change in text.]
M070 Mixed Classes
* * * * *
M073 Combined Mailings of Standard Mail Machinable Parcels
[Amend 1.1 by replacing the term ``Regular Standard Mail (A)'' with
``Standard Mail (A).'']
* * * * *
M200 Periodicals (Nonautomation)
[Remove M290; redesignate M210 as M200 and revise internal references
accordingly; amend 1.1, 1.2, and 2.3 (heading and text) by replacing
the term ``Regular Periodicals'' with ``Periodicals.'']
* * * * *
M600 Standard Mail (Nonautomation)
[Revise the heading of M610 to read as follows:]
M610 Single-Piece and Nonautomation Standard Mail (A)
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 BASIC STANDARDS--NONAUTOMATION RATES
2.1 All Mailings
[Amend 2.1 by revising the introductory text, 2.1a, and 2.1e to read as
follows:]
All nonautomation (Basic and 3/5) rate mailings are subject to
these general standards (automation rate Standard Mail must be prepared
under M810 or M820, as applicable):
a. Each mailing must meet the applicable standards in E630 and in
M010, M020, and M820.
* * * * *
e. Subject to M012, all pieces eligible for and claimed at
Nonprofit rates must be marked ``Nonprofit Organization'' (or
``Nonprofit Org.'' or ``Nonprofit''); all other pieces must be marked
``Bulk Rate'' (or ``Blk. Rt.''). In addition, pieces may be marked
``Single-Piece'' (or ``SNGLP'') under P600 to correct an incorrect rate
marking.
* * * * *
2.3 Exception--Standard Mail (A)
[In 2.3, replace the terms ``Regular Standard Mail'' with ``Standard
Mail'' and ``Regular nonletter nonautomation'' with ``nonletter
nonautomation.'']
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 3.0 to read as follows:]
3.0 BASIC PREPARATION--NONAUTOMATION RATE LETTER-SIZE PIECES
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 4.0 to read as follows:]
4.0 OPTIONAL PREPARATION--UPGRADABLE NONAUTOMATION RATE LETTER-SIZE
PIECES
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 5.0 to read as follows:]
[[Page 32612]]
5.0 PREPARATION--NONAUTOMATION RATE FLAT-SIZE PIECES AND ALL IRREGULAR
PARCELS
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 6.0 to read as follows:]
6.0 MACHINABLE PARCELS
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 7.0 to read as follows:]
7.0 BEDLOADED BUNDLES OF NONAUTOMATION RATE FLAT-SIZE PIECES
[Amend 7.1 by replacing the term ``Regular nonautomation rate Standard
Mail (A)'' with ``nonautomation rate Standard Mail (A)''; no other
change in text.]
M620 Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 All Mailings
[Amend 1.1 by revising 1.1a and 1.1e to read as follows:]
All nonautomation rate Enhanced Carrier Route mailings are subject
to these general standards (automation rate Enhanced Carrier Route
mailings must be prepared under M810):
a. Each mailing must meet the applicable standards in E630 and in
M010, M020, and M030.
* * * * *
e. Subject to M012, all pieces eligible for and claimed at
Nonprofit rates must be marked ``Nonprofit Organization'' (or
``Nonprofit Org.'' or ``Nonprofit''); all other pieces must be marked
``Bulk Rate'' (or ``Blk. Rt.''). In addition, Basic, High Density, and
Saturation rate pieces must each be marked ``ECRLOT,'' ``ECRWSH,'' or
``ECRWSS,'' respectively. Pieces not claimed at the corresponding rate
must not be marked ``ECRLOT,'' ``ECRWSH,'' or ``ECRWSS'' unless paid at
single-piece rate or a corrective single-piece rate marking is applied
under P600.
* * * * *
1.4 Exception--Standard Mail (A)
[Revise 1.4 to read as follows:]
When a Standard Mail (A) mailing job could, by size, qualify for
Standard Mail automation rates as either letters or flats, if part of
the job is prepared as palletized flats at automation rates for flats,
the remainder may be prepared as palletized flats at Enhanced Carrier
Route rates and nonletter nonautomation rates if the number of
nonletter nonautomation rate pieces does not exceed 10% of the total
number of pieces in the entire mailing job.
* * * * *
5.0 RESIDUAL MAIL
[Amend 5.0 by replacing the term ``Regular Standard Mail rates'' with
``Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail rates, as appropriate'' to read as
follows:]
Pieces not sorted under 2.0 and either 3.0 or 4.0 must be prepared
as a separate mailing at Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail rates, as
appropriate.
* * * * *
[Remove M690, M692, M693, M695, M696, M697, and M698.]
M800 All Automation Mail
[Revise the heading of M810 to read as follows:]
M810 Letter-Size Mail
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 Standards
[Amend 1.1 by replacing the term ``Regular Periodicals'' with
``Periodicals'' in the first sentence to read as follows:]
Letter-size automation rate First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and
Standard Mail (A) must be prepared under M810 and the eligibility
standards for the rate claimed. * * *
* * * * *
1.3 Marking
[Revise 1.3 to read as follows:]
Periodicals require no marking. Subject to M012, all pieces must be
marked ``AUTO'' (or ``AUTOCR'' for carrier route rate) and
``Presorted'' and ``First-Class'' if First-Class Mail; ``Nonprofit
Organization'' (or ``Nonprofit Org.'' or ``Nonprofit'') if eligible
Nonprofit Standard Mail; or ``Bulk Rate'' (or ``Blk. Rt.'') if other
Standard Mail. Pieces not claimed at an automation rate may not be
marked ``AUTO'' or ``AUTOCR'' unless single-piece rate postage is
affixed or a corrective single-piece rate marking is applied under P100
or P600.
* * * * *
1.5 Carrier Route
[Amend 1.5 by replacing the reference ``E641'' with ``E640.'']
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of M820 to read as follows:]
M820 Flat-Size Mail
1.0 BASIC STANDARDS
1.1 Standards
[Amend 1.1 by replacing the term ``Regular Periodicals'' with
``Periodicals'' in the first sentence to read as follows:]
Flat-size automation rate First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and
Standard Mail (A) must be prepared under M820 and the eligibility
standards for the rate claimed. * * *
* * * * *
1.4 Marking
[Revise 1.4 to read as follows:]
Periodicals require no marking. Subject to M012, all pieces must be
marked ``AUTO'' and ``Presorted'' and ``First-Class'' if First-Class
Mail; ``Nonprofit Organization'' (or ``Nonprofit Org.'' or
``Nonprofit'') if eligible Nonprofit Standard Mail; or ``Bulk Rate''
(or ``Blk. Rt.'') if other Standard Mail. Pieces not claimed at an
automation rate may not be marked ``AUTO'' unless single-piece rate
postage is affixed or a corrective single-piece rate marking is applied
under P100 or P600.
1.5 Exception--Standard Mail (A)
[Amend 1.5 by replacing the terms ``Regular Standard Mail'' with
``Standard Mail'' and ``Regular nonletter nonautomation'' with
``nonletter nonautomation'' to read as follows:]
When a Standard Mail (A) mailing job could, by size, qualify for
Standard Mail automation rates as either letters or flats, if part of
the job is prepared as palletized flats at automation rates for flats,
the remainder may be prepared as palletized flats at Enhanced Carrier
Route rates and nonletter nonautomation rates if the number of
nonletter nonautomation rate pieces does not exceed 10% of the total
number of pieces in the entire mailing job.
* * * * *
[Remove M890, M891, M892, M893, M894, M895, M896, M897, and M898.]
P POSTAGE AND PAYMENT METHODS
P000 Basic Information
P010 General Standards
P011 Payment
1.0 PREPAYMENT AND POSTAGE DUE
1.1 Prepayment Conditions
[Amend 1.1 by revising 1.1e to read as follows:]
The mailer is responsible for proper payment of postage. Postage on
all mail must be fully prepaid at the time of mailing, except as
specifically provided by standard for:
* * * * *
[[Page 32613]]
e. Keys and identification devices returned to owners (see E620).
* * * * *
P012 Documentation
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 STANDARDIZED DOCUMENTATION--FIRST-CLASS MAIL, PERIODICALS, AND
STANDARD MAIL (A)
2.1 Basic Standard
[Amend 2.1 by replacing in the first sentence the terms ``Regular
Periodicals'' with ``Periodicals'' and ``Regular and Enhanced Carrier
Route Standard Mail'' with ``Standard Mail (A)'' to read as follows:]
For First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail (A), subject
to the standards for the rate claimed, documentation must be produced
by software certified under the USPS Presort Accuracy Validation and
Evaluation (PAVE) or Manifest Analysis and Certification (MAC)
programs, appropriate for the accompanying class of mail and rate
claimed, or must be prepared to meet the criteria for standardized
documentation in this section. * * *
2.2 Format and Content
[Amend 2.2 by revising the introductory text to read as follows:]
For First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Standard Mail (A),
standardized documentation includes:
* * * * *
2.5 Combined and Copalletized Mailings
[Amend 2.5 by revising the introductory text to read as follows:]
For combined or copalletized mailings of Periodicals and Standard
Mail (A) prepared under M045, the listing must show the following
additional information:
* * * * *
[Remove 3.0; redesignate 4.0 as 3.0.]
* * * * *
P013 Rate Application and Computation
* * * * *
4.0 RATE APPLICATION--STANDARD MAIL (A)
* * * * *
4.3 Bulk Rates
[Revise 4.3 to read as follows:]
Bulk rates are based on the weight of the pieces and are applied
differently to pieces weighing less than or equal to a ``breakpoint''
(rounded to four decimal places) and those weighing more, as follows:
a. The appropriate minimum per piece rate applies to pieces
weighing 0.2066 pound (3.3062 ounces) or less (Enhanced Carrier Route
rates), 0.2068 pound (3.3087 ounces) or less (Regular rates), 0.2087
pound (3.3384 ounces) or less (Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route rates),
or 0.2088 pound (3.3407 ounces) or less (Nonprofit rates).
b. A rate determined by adding the appropriate fixed per piece
charge and the corresponding variable per pound charge (based on the
weight of the piece) applies to pieces weighing more than 0.2066 pound
(3.3062 ounces) (Enhanced Carrier Route rates), 0.2068 pound (3.3087
ounces) (Regular rates), 0.2087 pound (3.3384 ounces) (Nonprofit
Enhanced Carrier Route rates), or 0.2088 pound (3.3407 ounces)
(Nonprofit rates).
* * * * *
P014 Refunds and Exchanges
* * * * *
4.0 REFUND REQUESTS FOR EXCESS POSTAGE--AT TIME OF MAILING (``VALUE
ADDED REFUNDS'')
* * * * *
4.13 Standard Mail (A)
[Replace 4.13, 4.13a, 4.13b, and 4.13c with new 4.13 to read as
follows:]
If a value added refund request is submitted when a Standard Mail
(A) mailing is presented to the USPS, each piece must be letter-size,
weigh less than the applicable maximum weight for automation mail
prescribed in C810, be part of an automation rate mailing, and be
metered by the presenter or the presenter's customer at a 3/5
nonautomation rate or at any automation minimum per piece rate. Pieces
for each entry must be prepared as a separate mailing if the
destination entry rates are claimed.
* * * * *
P040 Permit Imprints
* * * * *
2.0 PREPARING PERMIT IMPRINTS
* * * * *
2.5 References to Expedited Handling
[Amend 2.5 by revising 2.5a to read as follows:]
Except for postcard-size mail and imprints placed on address
labels, permit imprints on bulk rate Standard Mail (A) bearing
references to expedited handling or delivery (e.g., ``Priority,''
``Express,'' ``Overnight'') must:
a. Show the words ``Bulk Rate'' or ``Nonprofit Organization'' (or
``Nonprofit Org.'' or ``Nonprofit'') more prominently than other words
in the imprint.
b. Have a clear space of at least \3/8\ inch around the entire
permit imprint.
* * * * *
4.0 FORMATS
4.1 Basic Standard
[Amend the Nonprofit Standard Mail examples in Exhibit 4.1b by
replacing the endorsement ``Carrier Route Presort'' with ``AUTOCR.'']
* * * * *
P600 Standard Mail
* * * * *
3.0 AUTOMATION RATES
3.1 Method
[Amend 3.1 by removing the parenthetical ``(including Nonprofit ZIP+4
and Barcoded rates)'' in the first sentence to read as follows:]
Postage on any mailing made at an automation rate must be paid with
meter stamps, permit imprints, or precanceled postage, under applicable
standards. * * *
* * * * *
P710 Manifest Mailing System (MMS)
* * * * *
3.0 KEYLINE
* * * * *
3.3 Rate Category Abbreviations
[Revise 3.3 and Exhibit 3.3b to read as follows:]
Keylines on First-Class Mail or bulk Standard Mail (A) may use only
the rate category abbreviations in Exhibit 3.3a or Exhibit 3.3b,
respectively. All pieces that qualify for more than one postage rate
must show each rate category abbreviation, separated by a ``/'' (slash)
(e.g., NV/DS).
* * * * *
Exhibit 3.3b--Rate Category Abbreviations--Standard Mail (A)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Code Rate Category
------------------------------------------------------------------------
AV Automation 5-Digit [letters only].
AT Automation 3-Digit [letters only].
AF Automation 3/5 [flats only].
AB Automation Basic.
RA Regular 3/5.
RB Regular Basic.
EA Enhanced Carrier Route Automation Basic
[letters only].
EB Enhanced Carrier Route Basic.
EH Enhanced Carrier Route High Density.
[[Page 32614]]
ES Enhanced Carrier Route Saturation.
NV Nonprofit Automation 5-Digit [letters
only].
NT Nonprofit Automation 3-Digit [letters
only].
NF Nonprofit Automation 3/5 [flats only].
NB Nonprofit Automation Basic.
FA Nonprofit 3/5.
FB Nonprofit Basic.
PA Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route
Automation Basic [letters only].
PB Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route Basic.
PH Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route High
Density.
PS Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route
Saturation.
DB Destination Bulk Mail Center (DBMC).
DD Destination Delivery Unit (DDU).
DS Destination Sectional Center Facility
(DSCF).
SP Single-Piece Rate [when fewer than 200
pieces accompany automation rate mail].
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
P760 First-Class or Standard Mail Mailings With Different Payment
Methods
* * * * *
2.0 POSTAGE
* * * * *
2.2 Metered Pieces--Standard Mail (A)
[Revise 2.2 to read as follows:]
Metered pieces in a combined mailing must bear postage at a
nonautomation presort or automation rate for which the pieces are
eligible. Additional postage due for metered pieces in a combined
mailing is deducted from the mailer's postage due advance deposit
account. Full postage must be affixed to accompanying single-piece rate
mail.
* * * * *
2.4 Precanceled Pieces -- Standard Mail (A)
[Revise 2.4 to read as follows:]
Pieces with precanceled stamps in a combined mailing must bear
postage in any denomination of precanceled stamp permitted in an
automation rate mailing. Nonprofit postage may appear only on pieces in
a Nonprofit rate mailing that are eligible for and claimed at a
Nonprofit rate. Additional postage due for precanceled stamp pieces in
a combined mailing is deducted from the mailer's postage due advance
deposit account. Full postage must be affixed to accompanying single-
piece rate mail.
* * * * *
R RATES AND FEES
* * * * *
R200 Periodicals
* * * * *
[Revise 2.0, 3.0, and 4.0 to read as follows:]
2.0 PREFERRED--IN-COUNTY
2.1 Pound Rates
Per pound or fraction:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zone Rate
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delivery Unit................................................ $0.112
All Others................................................... 0.122
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2.2 Piece Rates
Per addressed piece:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Letter-
size
Presort level Nonautomation Automation ----------
\1\ Flat-size
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic.......................... $0.081 $0.081 $0.081
3/5............................ ............. ............. 0.066
3-Digit........................ ............. 0.077 .........
5-Digit........................ ............. 0.064 .........
Carrier Route.................. 0.043 ............. .........
High Density................... 0.038 ............. .........
Saturation..................... 0.036 ............. .........
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Lower maximum weight limits apply: letter-size at 3 ounces (or
3.3407 ounces for heavy letters); flat-size at 16 ounces.
* * * * *
3.0 PREFERRED--NONPROFIT
3.1 Pound Rates
Per pound or fraction:
a. For the nonadvertising portion: $0.138.
b. For the advertising portion:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zone Rate
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delivery Unit................................................ $0.169
SCF.......................................................... 0.190
1 & 2........................................................ 0.214
3............................................................ 0.224
4............................................................ 0.251
5............................................................ 0.292
6............................................................ 0.336
7............................................................ 0.388
8............................................................ 0.432
------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.2 Piece Rates
Per addressed piece:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Automation \1\
---------------------
Presort level Nonautomation Letter-
size Flat-size
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic.............................. $0.216 $0.186 $0.192
3/5................................ 0.171 ......... 0.147
3-Digit............................ ............. 0.148 .........
5-Digit............................ ............. 0.148 .........
Carrier Route...................... 0.104 ......... .........
High Density....................... 0.097 ......... .........
Saturation......................... 0.083 ......... 1
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Lower maximum weight limits apply: letter-size at 3 ounces (or
3.3407 ounces for heavy letters); flat-size at 16 ounces.
* * * * *
4.0 PREFERRED--CLASSROOM
4.1 Pound Rates
Per pound or fraction:
a. For the nonadvertising portion: $0.110.
b. For the advertising portion:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zone Rate
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delivery Unit................................................ $0.169
SCF.......................................................... 0.190
1 & 2........................................................ 0.214
3............................................................ 0.224
4............................................................ 0.251
5............................................................ 0.292
6............................................................ 0.336
7............................................................ 0.388
8............................................................ 0.432
------------------------------------------------------------------------
4.2 Piece Rates
Per addressed piece:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Automation1
---------------------
Presort level Nonautomation Letter-
size Flat-size
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic.............................. $0.171 $0.154 $0.148
3/5................................ 0.128 ......... 0.113
3-Digit............................ ............. 0.118 .........
5-Digit............................ ............. 0.111 .........
Carrier Route...................... 0.090 ......... .........
High Density....................... 0.088 ......... .........
Saturation......................... 0.083 ......... .........
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Lower maximum weight limits apply: letter-size at 3 ounces (or
3.3407 ounces for heavy letters); flat-size at 16 ounces.
* * * * *
[Revise the heading of 5.0 to read as follows:]
5.0 PREFERRED--SCIENCE-OF-AGRICULTURE
* * * * *
R600 Standard Mail
* * * * *
[[Page 32615]]
[Revise 5.0 to read as follows:]
5.0 NONPROFIT
5.1 Letter-Size Minimum Per Piece Rates--Pieces 0.2088 lb. (3.3407
oz.) or Less
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonautomation Automation \1\
Entry discount ----------------------------------------------------------------
Basic 3/5 Basic 3-Digit 5-Digit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
None........................................... $0.132 $0.114 $0.099 $0.095 $0.082
DBMC........................................... 0.119 0.101 0.086 0.082 0.069
DSCF........................................... 0.114 0.096 0.081 0.077 0.064
DDU............................................ ........... ........... ........... ........... ...........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Pieces weighing over 3 ounces subject to additional standards.
5.2 Nonletter-Size Minimum Per Piece Rates--Pieces 0.2088 lb.
(3.3407 oz.) or Less
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonautomation Automation \1\
Entry discount ---------------------------------------------------
Basic 3/5 Basic 3/5
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
None........................................................ $0.195 $0.143 $0.171 $0.119
DBMC........................................................ 0.182 0.130 0.158 0.106
DSCF........................................................ 0.177 0.125 0.153 0.101
DDU......................................................... ........... ........... ........... ...........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Available only for automation-compatible flats.
5.3 Piece/Pound Rates--Pieces More Than 0.2088 lb. (3.3407 oz.)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonautomation Automation \2\
Piece pound rate \1\ ---------------------------------------------------
Basic 3/5 Basic 3/5
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Per Piece................................................... $0.100 $0.048 $0.076 $0.024
Per Pound (includes entry discount if applicable)........... Plus Plus Plus Plus
None........................................................ $0.455 $0.455 $0.455 $0.455
DBMC........................................................ 0.393 0.393 0.393 0.393
DSCF........................................................ 0.367 0.367 0.367 0.367
DDU......................................................... ........... ........... ........... ...........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Each piece is subject to both a piece rate and a pound rate.
\2\ Available only for automation-compatible flats.
[Redesignate 6.0 through 11.0 as 7.0 through 12.0, respectively, with
no change in text; add new 6.0 to read as follows:]
6.0 NONPROFIT ENHANCED CARRIER ROUTE
6.1 Letter-Size Minimum Per Piece Rates--Pieces 0.2087 lb. (3.3384
oz.) or Less
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonautomation Automation
---------------------------------------------\1\-----
Entry discount High
Basic density Saturation Basic
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
None...................................................... $0.087 $0.081 $0.075 $0.079
DBMC...................................................... 0.074 0.068 0.062 0.066
DSCF...................................................... 0.069 0.063 0.057 0.061
DDU....................................................... 0.063 0.057 0.051 0.055
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Pieces weighing over 3 ounces subject to additional standards.
[[Page 32616]]
6.2 Nonletter-Size Minimum Per Piece Rates--Pieces 0.2087 lb.
(3.3384 oz.) or Less
------------------------------------------------------------------------
High
Entry discount Basic density Saturation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
None.................................. $0.095 $0.088 $0.082
DBMC.................................. 0.082 0.075 0.069
DSCF.................................. 0.077 0.070 0.064
DDU................................... 0.071 0.064 0.058
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.3 Piece/Pound Rates--Pieces More Than 0.2087 lb. (3.3384 oz.)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
High
Piece/pound rate \1\ Basic density Saturation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Per Piece............................. $0.013 $0.006 $0.000
Per Pound (includes entry discount if
applicable).......................... Plus Plus Plus
None.................................. $0.393 $0.393 $0.393
DBMC.................................. 0.331 0.331 0.331
DSCF.................................. 0.305 0.305 0.305
DDU................................... 0.279 0.279 0.279
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Each piece is subject to both a piece rate and a pound rate.
* * * * *
An appropriate amendment to 39 CFR 111.3 to reflect these changes
will be published if the proposal is adopted.
Stanley F. Mires,
Chief Counsel, Legislative.
[FR Doc. 96-16026 Filed 6-21-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P
