[Federal Register: August 29, 2000 (Volume 65, Number 168)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Page 52579-52585]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr29au00-44]

[[pp. 52579-52585]] Proposed Changes to the Domestic Mail Manual to Implement Docket
No. R2000-1

[[Continued from page 52578]]

[[Page 52579]]

S  SPECIAL SERVICES

S000  Miscellaneous Services

S010  Indemnity Claims

* * * * *
2.0  GENERAL FILING INSTRUCTIONS

2.1  Who May File

    [Amend 2.1 by revising 2.1a and 2.1c to read as follows:]
    A claim may be filed by:
    a. Only the sender, for the complete loss of a registered, insured,
COD, or Express Mail item (including merchandise return service parcels
where special services were added and paid for by the sender).
* * * * *
    c. Only the merchandise return permit holder, for merchandise
return service parcels that are registered or insured as indicated by
the permit holder on the MRS label.
* * * * *

S070  Mixed Classes

1.0  BASIC INFORMATION

1.1  Priority Mail Drop Shipment

    [Amend 1.1 by replacing ``Standard Mail (B)'' with ``Package
Services''; no other changes to text.]
1.2  Special Handling
    [Amend 1.2 by replacing ``Standard Mail (B)'' with ``Package
Services''; no other changes to text.]
* * * * *

S500  Special Services for Express Mail

* * * * *
    [Amend 3.0 by changing ``Standard Mail'' to ``Package Services'';
no other changes to text.]

S900  Special Postal Services

S910  Security and Accountability

S911  Registered Mail

1.0  BASIC INFORMATION
* * * * *

1.5  Additional Services

    [Amend 1.5 by adding new item f to read as follows:]
    The following services may be combined with registered mail if the
applicable standards for the services are met and the additional
service fees are paid:
* * * * *
    f. Signature Confirmation.
* * * * *

S912  Certified Mail

1.0  BASIC INFORMATION
* * * * *

1.4  Additional Services

    [Revise 1.4 to read as follows:]
    The following services may be combined with certified mail if the
applicable standards for the services are met and the additional
service fees are paid:
    a. Return receipt.
    b. Restricted delivery.
    [Add new 1.5 to specify that mailers may request a receipt after
mailing to read as follows:]

1.5  Delivery Record

    Mailers may request a verified delivery record after mailing under
S915.
2.0  MAILING
* * * * *

2.5  Procedure

    [Amend 2.5 by revising 2.5a to read as follows:]
    A mailer of certified mail must:
    a. Enter on Form 3800 the name and complete address of the person
or firm to whom the mail is addressed.
* * * * *

S913  Insured Mail

1.0  BASIC INFORMATION
* * * * *

1.2  Eligible Matter

    [Amend 1.2 by changing the class names, removing the ``Standard
Mail Enclosed'' marking requirement, and adding bulk insurance to
Standard Mail to read as follows:]
    The following types of mail matter may be insured:
    a. Package Services.
    b. First-Class Mail, if it contains matter that may be mailed as
Standard Mail or Package Services.
    c. Standard Mail pieces subject to the residual shape surcharge
(bulk insurance only).
    d. Official government mail endorsed ``Postage and Fees Paid.''

1.3  Ineligible Matter

    [Amend 1.3 by revising 1.3f to read as follows:]
    The following types of mail may not be insured:
* * * * *
    f. Standard Mail cards, letters, and flats (i.e., pieces that are
not subject to the residual shape surcharge).
* * * * *

1.5  Additional Services

    [Revise 1.5 to read as follows:]
    The following services may be combined with insurance if the
applicable standards for the services are met and the additional
service fees are paid:
    a. Delivery Confirmation.
    b. Parcel airlift (PAL) service.
    c. Restricted delivery (for items insured for more than $50).
    d. Return receipt for merchandise (for items insured for up to
$50).
    e. Return receipt service (for items insured for more than $50).
    f. Signature Confirmation.
    g. Special handling.
    [Add new 1.6 to show that customers may request a delivery record
after mailing to read as follows:]

1.6  Delivery Record

    Mailers may request a verified delivery record after mailing under
S915.
* * * * *
4.0  DELIVERY
    [Amend 4.0 by changing ``parcel'' to ``item'' to read as follows:]
    An item insured for $50 or less is delivered as ordinary mail.
Delivery of insured mail is subject to D042.

S914  Certificate of Mailing

1.0  BASIC INFORMATION

1.1  Description

    [Amend 1.1 to read as follows:]
    Certificate of mailing service provides evidence that mail has been
presented to the Postal Service for mailing. Certificate of mailing
service does not provide a record of delivery.
    [Revise heading of 1.2 to read as follows:]

1.2  Eligible Matter--Bulk Quantities

    [Amend 1.2 by clarifying text to read as follows:]
    Form 3606 is used for a bulk mailing as a certificate to specify
the number of pieces mailed. This certificate is provided only for a
mailing of identical pieces of First-Class Mail, Standard Mail, and
Package Services. This certificate states only the total number of
articles mailed and must not be used as an itemized list. A certificate
of mailing cannot be issued for a bulk mailing paid with a permit
imprint.
    [Revise heading of 1.3 to read as follows:]

1.3  Eligible Matter--Single Pieces

    [Amend 1.3 by clarifying text to read as follows:]
    Form 3817 is used for an individual certificate for single pieces
of First-Class Mail (including Priority Mail) and Package Services.
Privately printed forms also may be used.

[[Page 52580]]

    [Revise heading of 1.4 to read as follows:]

1.4  Eligible Matter--Three or More Single Pieces

    [Amend 1.4 by clarifying the first sentence to read as follows:]
    When requesting a certificate of mailing for three or more pieces
of single-piece rate mail presented at one time, a mailer may use Form
3877 (firm mailing book) or a privately printed facsimile, subject to
payment of the applicable fee for each item listed. * * *
* * * * *
    [Add new 1.7 to read as follows:]

1.7  Additional Services

    The following services may be combined with certificate of mailing
if the applicable standards for the services are met and the additional
service fees are paid:
    a. Parcel airlift (PAL) service.
    b. Special handling.
* * * * *

S915  Return Receipt

1.0  BASIC INFORMATION

1.1  Description

    [Revise 1.1 to show that the return receipt is mailed back to
sender:]
    Return receipt service provides a mailer with evidence of delivery
(to whom the mail was delivered and date of delivery). After delivery,
the return receipt is mailed back to the sender. A return receipt
requested before mailing also supplies the recipient's actual delivery
address, if the delivery address is different from the address used by
the sender. A return receipt may be requested before or after mailing.
    [Revise 1.2 to read as follows:]

1.2  Eligible Matter

    Return receipt service is available for Express Mail, First-Class
Mail (including Priority Mail), and Package Services when purchased
with one of the following services:
    a. Certified Mail.
    b. COD.
    c. Delivery Confirmation.
    d. Insurance (for more than $50).
    e. Restricted delivery (for items insured for more than $50).
    f. Return receipt for merchandise (for items insured for up to
$50).
    g. Signature Confirmation.
* * * * *
    [Add new 1.7 to show additional services to read as follows:]

1.7  Additional Services

    The following special services may be combined with return receipt
service if the applicable standards for the services are met and the
additional service fees are paid:
    a. PAL.
    b. Special handling.
2.0  OBTAINING SERVICE
* * * * *

2.2  After Mailing

    [Revise 2.2 to clarify how to apply for a delivery record after
mailing:]
    The mailer may request a delivery record after mailing. When a
delivery record is available, the USPS provides the mailer information
from that record, including to whom the mail was delivered and the date
of delivery. A return receipt after mailing is not available for return
receipt for merchandise service. The mailer requests a delivery record
by completing Form 3811-A, paying the appropriate fee in R900, and
submitting the request to one of the following offices:
    a. For items mailed to an APO/FPO, U.S. territory or possession, or
freely associated state (with the exception of Puerto Rico and the
Virgin Islands), send the form to the office of delivery.
    b. For items delivered prior to the activation of the new signature
capture process, send the form to the office of delivery.
    c. For items delivered after signature capture activation, send the
form to any post office.
    [Add new 2.3 to show the time limits for requesting a delivery
record after mailing:]

2.3  Time Limit

    A request for a return receipt after mailing for Express Mail must
be submitted within 90 days after the date of mailing. All other
requests must be submitted within 2 years from the date of mailing.
* * * * *
S916  Restricted Delivery
1.0  BASIC INFORMATION
* * * * *
    [Revise the heading and text of 1.2 to clarify that restricted
delivery cannot be used with Standard Mail to read as follows:]

1.2  Eligible Matter

    Restricted delivery service is available for First-Class Mail
(including Priority Mail) and Package Services that is sent COD,
insured for more than $50, registered, or certified.
* * * * *
    [Add new 1.7 to read as follows:]

1.7  Additional Services

    In addition to the prerequisites listed in 1.2, the following
services may be combined with restricted delivery if the applicable
standards for the services are met and the additional service fees are
paid:
    a. Delivery Confirmation.
    b. Parcel airlift service (PAL).
    c. Signature Confirmation.
    d. Special handling.
* * * * *

S917   Return Receipt for Merchandise

1.0  BASIC INFORMATION

1.1  Description

    [Add the following sentence after the first sentence:]
    * * * After delivery, the return receipt is mailed back to the
sender. * * *
* * * * *
    [Revise heading of 1.2 to read as follows:]

1.2  Eligible Matter

    [Amend 1.2 to add return receipt for merchandise service to
Standard Mail:]
    Return receipt for merchandise is available for merchandise sent as
First-Class Mail (including Priority Mail), Standard Mail pieces
subject to the residual shape surcharge, and Package Services.

1.3  Additional Services

    [Amend 1.3 by clarifying text to read as follows:]
    The following services may be combined with return receipt for
merchandise if the applicable standards for the services are met and
the additional service fees are paid:
    a. Delivery Confirmation.
    b. Insurance (for up to $50).
    c. Special handling.
* * * * *
    [Add new 2.7 to specify how a mailer applies for a delivery
record:]

2.7  Receipt Not Received

    A mailer who did not receive return receipt for merchandise service
for which the mailer had paid may request information from the delivery
record using Form 3811-A. Any request must be filed within 2 years
after the date of mailing. Mailers cannot request a delivery record
unless the item originally was sent with return receipt for
merchandise.
3.0  DELIVERY
    [Amend 3.0 to delete information about delivery records to read as
follows:]
    Delivery of return receipt for merchandise mail is subject to D042.

[[Page 52581]]

S918  Delivery Confirmation

1.0  BASIC INFORMATION
* * * * *

1.2 Eligible Matter

    [Amend 1.2 by adding availability of electronic option to Standard
Mail subject to residual shape surcharge to read as follows:]
    Delivery Confirmation service is available for Priority Mail,
Standard Mail pieces subject to the residual shape surcharge
(electronic option only), and Package Services.
    [Revise the heading and text of 1.3 to read as follows:]

1.3  Ineligible Matter

    Delivery Confirmation is not available for the following:
    a. Mail addressed to APO/FPO destinations or to United States
territories, possessions, and freely-associated states listed in G011
(except for Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands, to which service is
available).
    b. Mail paid with precanceled stamps.
    c. Standard Mail cards, letters, and flats (i.e., pieces that are
not subject to the residual shape surcharge).
* * * * *
5.0  ACCEPTANCE
    [Amend 5.0 by deleting the last sentence in 5.0a.]
* * * * *
    [Add new S919 for Signature Confirmation to read as follows:]

S919   Signature Confirmation

1.0  Basic Information

1.1  Description

    Signature Confirmation service provides the mailer with information
about the date and time an article was delivered, including the
recipient's signature, and, if delivery was attempted but not
successful, the date and time of the delivery attempt. A delivery
record is maintained by the USPS and is available, via fax or mail,
upon request. No acceptance record is kept at the office of mailing.
Signature Confirmation service is available only at the time of
mailing. Signature Confirmation service does not include insurance.

1.2  Eligible Matter

    Signature Confirmation is available for Priority Mail and Package
Services.

1.3  Service Not Available

    Signature Confirmation service is not available for the following:
    a. Mail addressed to APO/FPO destinations or to United States
territories, possessions, and freely-associated states listed in G011
(except for Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands, to which service is
available).
    b. Mail paid with precanceled stamps.

1.4  Service Options

    The two Signature Confirmation service options are:
    a. Retail option: Available at post offices at the time of mailing.
A mailing receipt is provided. Mailers can access delivery information
over the Internet at www.usps.com or by calling 1-800-222-1811 toll-
free and providing the article number.
    b. Electronic option: Available to mailers who apply identifying
barcodes to each piece, establish an electronic link with the Postal
Service to exchange acceptance and delivery data, provide an electronic
file with Signature Confirmation that are entered for mailing, and
retrieve delivery status information electronically. No mailing receipt
is provided; the mailer's manifest serves as a receipt. Mailers can
access delivery information over the Internet at www.usps.com or by
calling 1-800-222-1811 toll-free and providing the article number.

1.5  Fees and Postage

    The applicable Signature Confirmation fee in R900 must be paid in
addition to the correct postage. The fee and postage may be paid with
postage stamps, meter stamps, or permit imprint.

1.6  Additional Services

    Signature Confirmation may be combined with:
    a. Collect on delivery (COD).
    b. Insured mail.
    c. Registered mail.
    d. Restricted delivery (if purchased with insurance for more than
$50, COD, or registry service).
    e. Special handling.

1.7  Where to Mail

    A mailer may mail articles with retail option Signature
Confirmation at a post office, branch, or station, or give articles to
a rural carrier.

1.8  Firm Mailing Books

    If three or more articles are presented for mailing at one time,
the mailer may use Form 3877, Firm Mailing Book for Accountable Mail,
provided by the Postal Service at no charge, or privately printed firm
mailing bills. Privately printed or computer-generated firm mailing
bills that contain the same information as Form 3877 may be used if
approved by the local postmaster. The mailer may omit columns from Form
3877 that are not applicable to Signature Confirmation mail. Required
elements are the package identification code (PIC), 5-digit destination
ZIP Code, and applicable fees. If the mailer wants the firm mailing
bills receipted by the Postal Service, the mailer must present the
books with the articles to be mailed at a post office. The sheets of
the books are the mailer's receipts. All entries made in firm mailing
books must be made by typewriter or ink. Alterations must be initialed
by the mailer and accepting postal employee. All unused portions of the
addressee column must be obliterated with a diagonal line. A receipt is
required for refund requests.

1.9  Signature Waiver

    Customers may waive the recipient signature by indicating this in
the prescribed location on the retail label or by placing the
endorsement ``WAIVER OF SIGNATURE REQUESTED'' directly on the shipping
label or package in accordance with M012. The endorsement must be
printed consistent with the requirements for the carrier release
endorsement. This option allows the delivery employee to sign for the
article on the first delivery attempt to the listed address if the
addressee or addressee's agent is not available to accept the shipment.
Customers who waive the signature requirement must accept the delivery
employee's signature and date of delivery as proof of delivery. For
retail labels, detach both parts of the gummed label and attach to the
mailpiece.
2.0  LABELS

2.1  Types of Labels

    Mailers may use one of the three Signature Confirmation label
options shown in Exhibit 2.1. Additional information may be found in a
supplement to Publication 91, Delivery Confirmation Technical Guide:
    a. Form 153 obtained from the post office at no charge. This form
may be used only with the retail option (see Exhibit 2.1a).
    [Exhibit 2.1a, PS Form 153, will be published at a later date.]
    b. USPS Label 315, available at no charge to electronic option
mailers (see Exhibit 2.1b).
    [Exhibit 2.1b, Label 315, will be published at a later date.]
    c. Privately printed barcoded labels that meet the requirements in
2.0 and 3.0 (see Exhibit 2.1c).
    [Exhibit 2.1c, Privately Printed Label, will be published at a
later date.]

2.2  Label Placement

    The barcoded label section of Label 315 or Form 152 must be placed
either

[[Page 52582]]

above the delivery address and to the right of the return address or to
the left of the delivery address. A privately printed Signature
Confirmation label that is separate from a privately printed address
label must be placed in close proximity to the address label. In all
cases, the entire Signature Confirmation label must be placed on the
address side of the mailpiece and not overlap any adjacent side.
3.0  BARCODES

3.1  Symbology

    Labels printed by mailers must meet the following symbology
requirements:
    a. Mailers printing their own barcodes and using the retail option
(1.4a) must print their barcodes using Automatic Identification
Manufacturers' (AIM) Uniform Specifications for USS Code Interleaved 2
of 5.
    b. Mailers printing their own barcodes and using the electronic
option (1.4b) must use one of the following barcode symbologies: UCC/
EAN 128, USS Code Interleaved 2 of 5, USS Code 39, or USS Code 128.
Each barcode must contain a unique Package Identification Code (PIC) as
specified in 3.2. The barcodes must meet the specifications in
Publication 91.

3.2  Package Identification Code (PIC)

    Each barcode symbology must contain a unique PIC:
    a. For UCC/EAN 128, each barcode must contain a unique PIC and be
made up of five fields totaling 22 characters. Additional information
and specifications can be found in Publication 91. The five required
data fields are:
    (1) Application Identifier (AI): Two characters; identifies the
article as a Signature Confirmation piece.
    (2) Service Type Code (STC): two characters; identifies the type of
product or service used for each item.
    (3) Customer ID: nine characters; DUNS<Register> number that
uniquely identifies the customer.
    (4) Package Sequence Number (PSN): eight characters; fixed
sequential number.
    (5) Modulus 10 Check digit: one character.
    b. For USS Code Interleaved 2 of 5, USS Code 39, and USS Code 128,
each barcode must contain a unique PIC and be made up of four fields
totaling 20 characters. The four required data fields are fields 2
through 5 above. Additional information and specifications can be found
in Publication 91. These symbologies do not use an Application
Identifier (AI).

3.3  Printing

    Labels printed by mailers must meet the following specifications:
    a. Each barcoded label must bear a unique Signature Confirmation
PIC barcode as specified in 3.2 and have ``USPS SIGNATURE
CONFIRMATION'' printed between \1/8\ inch and \1/2\ inch above the
barcode in minimum 12-point bold sans serif type. Human-readable
characters that represent the barcode ID must be printed between \1/8\
inch and \1/2\ inch under the barcode in minimum 10-point bold sans
serif type. These characters must be parsed in accordance with
Publication 91. There must be a minimum of \184\-inch clearance between
the barcode and any printing. The preferred range of widths of narrow
bars and spaces is 0.015 inch to 0.017 inch. The width of the narrow
bars or spaces must be at least 0.013 inch but no more than 0.021 inch.
All bars must be at least \3/4\ inch high. Bold (\1/16\ inch minimum)
bars must appear between \1/8\ inch and \1/2\ inch above and below the
human-readable endorsements to segregate the Signature Confirmation
barcode from other areas of the shipping label. The line length must be
equal to the length of the barcode (see Exhibit 2.1b).
    b. Each barcode must meet the requirements in 3.1 for the type of
service requested.
    c. Mailers must obtain Postal Service certification for each
printer used to print barcoded Signature Confirmation labels. For
certification, a mailer must forward for evaluation and approval 20
barcoded labels/forms generated by each printer to the National
Customer Support Center (NCSC), Attention Barcode Certification (see
G043 for address). The Postal Service will issue the mailer a PS Form
3152, Delivery Confirmation Certification, for each printer certified.
All barcodes must be in accordance with 2.0 and 3.0. Further
certification instructions are included in Publication 91.
    d. Barcodes that do not meet specifications will not be accepted by
the USPS. The USPS will contact the mailer if problems with the
barcodes are found and will try to resolve the problem. The USPS may
suspend a mailer's certification if electronic file quality does not
meet specifications.
    e. Mailers who have previously received certification for label
printing under the Delivery Confirmation program must submit five
Signature Confirmation labels to the NCSC (see G043).
4.0  ELECTRONIC FILE TRANSMISSION
    Mailers must meet the following standards for electronic file
transmission:
    a. Publication 91 contains specifications for electronic file
transmission. A test file transmission must be uploaded and approved
before mailings begin. Upon certification, USPS will issue to the
mailer a Form 3152 for the mailer's electronic file format.
    b. Mailers using the electronic option will be required to transmit
a file with a unique record for each article mailed. The USPS will
contact the mailer if problems with the file are found and will try to
resolve those problems. The USPS may suspend a mailer's certification
if the electronic file quality does not meet specifications. In
addition, USPS acceptance units will be notified to charge the customer
the retail option Signature Confirmation fee.
    c. Mailers who have previously received certification for
electronic file transmission under the Delivery Confirmation program
are not required to do any additional certification for Signature
Confirmation service use.
5.0  ACCEPTANCE
    Customers must meet the following requirements when presenting
electronic option Signature Confirmation mail for acceptance:
    a. Presorted or permit imprint mailings containing pieces for which
fees are paid for Signature Confirmation service must be presented to a
post office business mail entry unit (BMEU), detached mail unit (DMU)
at the mailer's plant, bulk mail center or auxiliary service facility
business mail entry unit, or other postal facility capable of properly
verifying the mailing and at which the mailer has obtained the
necessary permits or license and paid any applicable mailing fee.
    b. Mailers who use the electronic option or print their own labels
must submit a completed PS Form 3152 with each mailing. Each PS Form
3152 must contain the Signature Confirmation electronic file number or
barcode equivalent, date of mailing, and, if available, the total
number of Signature Confirmation pieces by class of mail. The barcode
format must comply with standards in Publication 91.

[[Page 52583]]

S920  Convenience

S921  Collect on Delivery (COD) Mail

1.0  BASIC INFORMATION

1.1  Description

    [Amend 1.1 to show the new $1,000 limit for COD to read as
follows:]
    Any mailer may use collect on delivery (COD) service to mail an
article for which the mailer has not been paid and have its price and
the cost of the postage collected from the recipient. If the recipient
pays the amount due by check payable to the mailer, the USPS forwards
the check to the mailer. If the recipient pays the amount due in cash,
the USPS collects the money order fee(s) from the recipient and sends a
postal money order(s) to the mailer. The amount collected from the
recipient may not exceed $1,000. COD service provides the mailer with a
mailing receipt, and a delivery record is maintained by the Postal
Service.
    [Amend 1.2 by replacing ``Standard Mail (B)'' with ``Package
Services'' and ``Special Standard Mail'' with ``Media Mail''; no other
changes to text.]
* * * * *
    [Amend title of 1.4 by replacing ``Other'' with ``Additional'' to
read as follows:]

1.4  Additional Services

    [Amend 1.4 by clarifying the text to read as follows:]
    The following services may be combined with COD if the applicable
standards for the services are met and the additional service fees are
paid:
    a. Delivery Confirmation (not available with Express Mail COD).
    b. Restricted delivery (not available with Express Mail COD).
    c. Return receipt.
    d. Signature Confirmation.
* * * * *
    S922  Business Reply Mail (BRM)
* * * * *
3.0  POSTAGE AND FEES
* * * * *
    [Redesignate current 3.4 through 3.11 as 3.6 through 3.13,
respectively. Add new 3.4 and 3.5 to read as follows:]

3.4  Quarterly Fee for High-Volume QBRM

    Mailers may choose to pay a quarterly fee in addition to the annual
accounting fee; payment of the quarterly fee entitles mailers to a
lower per-piece charge. The quarterly fee (and annual accounting fee)
must be paid at each post office where mail is returned and for each
separate billing desired. Mailers are committed to the ``quarterly fee
system'' only for the time they pay the quarterly fee (i.e., mailers
can opt out of the quarterly fee and high-volume QBRM per-piece charges
by simply not paying the fee for the next quarter). The quarterly fee
cannot be paid or renewed retroactively to receive a lower per-piece
charge on pieces already paid for and delivered. The quarterly fee can
be paid for any three consecutive calendar months.

3.5  Payment Period for Quarterly Fee

    The quarterly fee must be paid in advance for at least one but no
more than four quarterly periods. A quarterly period begins on either
the first day of the month (if a mailer pays on or before the 15th of
the month) or the first day of the following month (if a mailer pays
after the 15th of the month) and continues for three consecutive
calendar months. A mailer who pays the quarterly fee is entitled to the
reduced per-piece charge from the date of payment through the end of
the quarterly period.
    [Amend the heading of redesignated 3.6 by adding ``Weight-
Averaging'' to read as follows:]

3.6  Nonletter-Size BRM Weight-Averaging Fees

    [Amend redesignated 3.6 by clarifying text to read as follows:]
    A mailer must pay the annual BRM permit fee and the annual
accounting fee when the bulk weight-averaging method for nonletter-size
BRM in 7.0 is used. In addition, a maintenance fee must be paid monthly
for each account to which postage and fees are charged on the basis of
this method. * * *
* * * * *

S923  Merchandise Return Service

1.0  BASIC INFORMATION

1.1  Description

    [Amend 1.1 by replacing ``Standard Mail (B)'' with ``Package
Services'' and ``Special Standard Mail'' with ``Media Mail'' and by
deleting references to the per-piece fee to read as follows:]
    Merchandise return service allows an authorized permit holder to
pay the postage and special service fees on single-piece rate First-
Class Mail, Priority Mail, and Package Services parcels that are
returned by the permit holder's customers via a special label produced
by the permit holder.
* * * * *

1.3  Payment Guarantee

    [Revise 1.3 read as follows:]
    The permit holder guarantees payment of the proper postage and
special service fees (except for insurance purchased by the sender) on
all parcels returned via a special label produced by the permit holder.
* * * * *

1.8  Priority Mail Reshipment

    [Amend 1.8 by replacing ``Standard Mail'' with ``Package
Services''; no other changes to text.]
* * * * *

1.11  Mailer Markings and Endorsements

    [Amend 1.11 to show that unmarked pieces will be treated as Parcel
Post to read as follows:]
    It is recommended but not required that permit holders preprint a
rate marking on the merchandise return service labels they distribute.
Preprinting a rate marking guarantees that returned parcels will be
given service and charged postage according to the wishes of the permit
holder. Regardless of weight, all unmarked parcels will be treated as
Parcel Post and charged Parcel Post rates.
    [Remove item 1.12.]
2.0  PERMITS
* * * * *

2.3  Multiple Accounts

    [Amend 2.3 to clarify the reference to the annual accounting fee:]
    When an advance deposit account is kept at each entry location, a
separate permit is needed and the annual merchandise return service
permit and annual accounting fees must be paid at each office.
* * * * *

2.7  Permit Cancellation

    [Amend 2.7 to remove references to the per-piece fee and to delete
the last sentence to read as follows:]
    The USPS may cancel a permit if the permit holder refuses to accept
and pay postage and fees on merchandise return service parcels, fails
to keep sufficient funds in the advance deposit account to cover
postage and fees, or distributes merchandise return labels or tags that
do not meet USPS standards.
* * * * *
    [Revise 3.0 to read as follows:]
3.0  POSTAGE AND FEES

3.1  Postage

    Merchandise return service parcels are charged single-piece rate
postage and special service fees based on the class or subclass marking
on the label. If a parcel is unmarked, then it is charged Parcel Post
rates. If the postage for the returned parcel is zoned and there is no
way to determine where it was sent from (i.e., no postmark or

[[Page 52584]]

return address), then postage is calculated at zone 4 (for Priority
Mail) or zone 4 Inter-BMC/ASF rates (for Parcel Post). Postage is
deducted from an advance deposit account.

3.2  Per Piece Charge

    There is no per piece charge for returned parcels.

3.3  Permit Fee

    A permit fee is charged once each 12-month period on the
anniversary date of the permit. The fee may be paid in advance only for
the next year and only during the last 30 days of the current service
period. The fee charged is that which is in effect on the date of
payment.

3.4  Advance Deposit Account and Annual Accounting Fee

    The permit holder must pay postage and special service fees through
an advance deposit account and must pay an annual accounting fee (see
R900). The accounting fee is charged once each 12-month period on the
anniversary date of the initial accounting fee payment. The fee may be
paid in advance only for the next year and only during the last 30 days
of the current service period. The fee charged is that which is in
effect on the date of payment. A separate advance deposit account for
MRS is not required; the annual accounting fee is charged if MRS
postage and fees are paid from an existing account.
4.0  ADDITIONAL FEATURES
    [Amend heading of 4.1 by adding ``Indicated by Permit Holder'' to
read as follows:]

4.1  Insurance Indicated by Permit Holder

    [Amend 4.1 by clarifying text to read as follows:]
    The permit holder may obtain insured mail service with MRS. Only
Package Services matter (i.e., matter not required to be mailed at
First-Class Mail rates under E110) may be insured. Insured mail may be
combined with Delivery Confirmation and special handling, or both. To
request insured mail service, the permit holder must preprint or
rubber-stamp ``Insurance Desired by Permit Holder for $____ (value)''
to the left of and above the ``Merchandise Return Label'' legend and
below the ``Total Postage and Fees Due'' statement on the merchandise
return label. The value part of the endorsement, showing the dollar
amount of insurance for the article, may be handwritten by the permit
holder. If insurance is paid for by the MRS permit holder, then only
the MRS permit holder may file a claim (S010).
    [Remove current 4.2. Add new 4.2 to read as follows:]

4.2  Insurance Added by Sender

    If the permit holder has not indicated insured mail service on the
MRS label, then the sender has the option of adding insurance and
paying the applicable insured fee. If insurance is paid by the sender,
then only the sender may file a claim (S010). The permit holder pays
postage upon receipt, but does not pay the insured fee when insurance
is added by the sender.
    [Revise the title of 4.3 to read ``Insured Markings''; no other
changes to text.]
* * * * *
5.0  FORMAT
* * * * *

5.6  Format Elements

    [Amend 5.6 by revising 5.6c to clarify that rate markings are
optional on MRS labels.]
    Format standards required for the merchandise return label are
shown in Exhibit 5.6a, Exhibit 5.6b, Exhibit 5.6c, and Exhibit 5.6d,
and described as follows:
* * * * *
    c. Rate Marking. If the rate marking recommended in 1.11 is used,
it must be placed in the space to the right and above the ``Merchandise
Return Label'' legend. The marking must be at least 3/16 inch high and
printed or rubber-stamped. Only the permit holder may apply this
marking.
* * * * *
    [Amend the postage and fee markings shown in 5.6d(2) to remove the
entry for the merchandise return service fee.]
    [Amend the postage and fee markings shown in 5.6e(2) to remove the
entry for the merchandise return service fee.]
    [Amend Exhibits 5.6a, 5.6b, 5.6d, and 5.6d to remove the entry for
the merchandise return service fee.]
* * * * *

S924  Bulk Parcel Return Service

1.0  BASIC INFORMATION

1.1  Description

    [Amend 1.1 to change ``Standard Mail (A)'' to ``Standard Mail'' and
to add payment information:]
    Bulk parcel return service (BPRS) allows mailers of large
quantities of Standard Mail machinable parcels that are either
undeliverable-as-addressed or opened and remailed by addressees to be
returned to designated postal facilities. The mailer has the option of
picking up all returned parcels from a designated postal facility at a
predetermined frequency specified by the Postal Service or having them
delivered by the Postal Service in a manner and frequency specified by
the Postal Service. For this service a mailer pays an annual permit fee
and a per piece charge for each parcel returned. Payment for the
returned pieces is deducted from an advance deposit account.

1.2  Availability

    [Amend 1.2 by replacing ``Standard Mail (A)'' with ``Standard
Mail'' and ``Standard Mail (B)'' with ``Package Services'' in 1.2i; no
other changes to text.]
* * * * *
    [Add new 1.4 to indicate that bulk parcel return service cannot be
used with special services to read as follows:]

1.4  Special Services

    Special services cannot be added to pieces sent through bulk parcel
return service.
* * * * *
    [Amend 3.0 by replacing ``Postage'' with ``Charges'' to read as
follows:]
3.0  CHARGES AND FEES
* * * * *
    [Renumber current 3.2 as 3.5. Add new 3.2 through 3.4 to clarify
the per-piece charges and to describe the new annual accounting fee to
read as follows:]

3.2  Per-Piece Charge

    Each piece returned through BPRS is charged only the per-piece
charge in R900. Postage is not charged for pieces returned through
BPRS.

3.3  Advance Deposit Account

    The permit holder must pay BPRS fees through an advance deposit
account and pay an annual accounting fee (see R900). This fee covers
the administrative cost of maintaining the account and provides the
mailer with a single accounting of all charges deducted from that
account. The accounting fee is charged once each 12-month period on the
anniversary date of the initial accounting fee payment. The fee may be
paid in advance only for the next year and only during the last 30 days
of the current service period. The fee charged is that which is in
effect on the date of payment.

3.4  Existing Advance Deposit Account

    A separate advance deposit account for MRS is not required; the
annual accounting fee is charged if MRS

[[Page 52585]]

postage and fees are paid from an existing account.
    [Amend the title and content of renumbered 3.5 to clarify the
payment guarantee to read as follows:]

3.5  Payment Guarantee

    The permit holder guarantees payment of all applicable fees. The
post office returns MRS items to the permit holder only when there are
sufficient funds in the advance deposit account to pay the fees on
returned pieces.
* * * * *
5.0  FORMAT
    [Amend Exhibit 5.0 to change the class marking to ``Standard
Mail.'']
* * * * *

5.4  Class Endorsement

    [Amend 5.4 to change ``STANDARD MAIL A'' to ``STANDARD MAIL.'' No
other changes to text.]
* * * * *

S930  Handling

1.0  SPECIAL HANDLING
* * * * *

1.2  Availability

    [Amend 1.2 by replacing ``Standard Mail (B)'' with ``Package
Services'' and ``Special Standard Mail'' with ``Media Mail''; no other
changes to text.]

1.3  Additional Services

    [Amend 1.3 to clarify the opening sentence, to change ``Standard
Mail (B)'' to ``Package Services,'' and to add Signature Confirmation
to read as follows:]
    The following special services may be combined with special
handling if the applicable standards for the services are met and the
additional service fees are paid:
    a. COD.
    b. Delivery Confirmation.
    c. Insurance.
    d. PAL (for Package Services only).
    e. Return receipt for merchandise.
    f. Signature Confirmation.
* * * * *
    [Add new 1.7 to clarify that the nonmachinable surcharge is not
charged on pieces sent special handling:]

1.7  Nonmachinable Parcels

    The Parcel Post nonmachinable surcharge is not charged on parcels
sent special handling.
2.0  PARCEL AIRLIFT (PAL)
* * * * *
    [Amend 2.2 by replacing ``Standard Mail (B)'' with ``Package
Services''; no other changes to text.]

2.3  Additional Services

    [Amend 2.3 to clarify the opening sentence to read as follows:]
    The following special services may be combined with PAL if the
applicable standards for the services are met and the additional
service fees are paid:
* * * * *
    An appropriate amendment to 39 CFR to reflect these changes will be
published if the proposal is adopted.

Stanley F. Mires,
Chief Counsel, Legislative.
[FR Doc. 00-21416 Filed 8-28-00; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P