82 FR 39957 - First-Class Package Service-Retail

POSTAL SERVICE

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 162 (August 23, 2017)

The Postal Service\TM\ is amending Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM[supreg]), in various sections, as a result of the transfer of First-Class Mail[supreg] Parcels, a market-dominant product, to the competitive product list.

[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 162 (Wednesday, August 23, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 39957-39966]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2017-17799]


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POSTAL SERVICE

39 CFR Part 111


First-Class Package Service--Retail

AGENCY: Postal ServiceTM.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The Postal Service\TM\ is amending Mailing Standards of the 
United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM[supreg]), in 
various sections, as a result of the transfer of First-Class 
Mail[supreg] Parcels, a market-dominant product, to the competitive 
product list.

DATES: Effective Date: September 3, 2017.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Karen Key at (202) 268-7492, 
Jacqueline Erwin at (202) 268-2158, or Garry Rodriguez at (202) 268-
7281.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On July 20, 2017, the Postal Regulatory 
Commission (PRC) conditionally approved the Postal Service's request to 
transfer First-Class Mail Parcels, a market-dominant retail product for 
lightweight parcels, to the competitive product list. The PRC's 
approval was conditioned on the subsequent proposal, review, and 
approval of prices for the transferred product.
    On July 28, 2017, pursuant to Governors' Decision 16-9, the Postal 
Service filed a notice of price change seeking to implement new prices 
and a name change for First-Class Mail Parcels. On August 9, 2017, the 
Commission approved the new prices and name change.
    First-Class Mail Parcels will be renamed First-Class Package 
Service--Retail and will continue to be available at retail with the 
same service and content restrictions.
    Additionally, the existing single-piece First-Class Package Service 
price

[[Page 39958]]

category will be renamed First-Class Package Service--Commercial.

List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111

    Administrative practice and procedure, Postal Service.

    The Postal Service adopts the following changes to Mailing 
Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual 
(DMM), incorporated by reference in the Code of Federal Regulations. 
See 39 CFR 111.1.
    Accordingly, 39 CFR part 111 is amended as follows:

 PART 111--[AMENDED]

0
1. The authority citation for 39 CFR part 111 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 13 U.S.C. 301-307; 18 U.S.C. 1692-
1737; 39 U.S.C. 101, 401, 403, 404, 414, 416, 3001-3011, 3201-3219, 
3403-3406, 3621, 3622, 3626, 3632, 3633, and 5001.

0
2. Revise the Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, 
Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) as follows:

Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail 
Manual (DMM)

* * * * *
    [Globally revise the DMM to change the current name of First-Class 
Package Service to First-Class Package Service--Commercial.]

* * * * *

100 Retail Mail Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels

101 Physical Standards

* * * * *
    [Revise the heading of 6.0 to read as follows:]

6.0 Additional Physical Standards for First-Class Mail and First-Class 
Package Service--Retail

6.1 Maximum Weight

    [Revise the text of 6.1 to read as follows:]

    First-Class Mail or First-Class Package Service--Retail cannot 
exceed 13 ounces.
* * * * *

6.4 Parcels

    [Revise the introductory text of 6.4 to read as follows:]

    First-Class Package Service--Retail parcels are eligible for USPS 
Tracking and Signature Confirmation service. A First-Class Package 
Service--Retail parcel is:
* * * * *
    [Add new item d to read as follows:]
    d. A mailpiece that does not exceed 108 inches in combined length 
and girth.
* * * * *

102 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece

* * * * *

3.0 Placement and Content of Mail Markings

* * * * *
    [Revise the heading and text of 3.3 to read as follows:]

3.3 First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service--Retail Markings

    Each single-piece price First-Class Mail and First-Class Package 
Service--Retail piece must have a delivery address but is not required 
to bear a price marking.
* * * * *
    [Revise the heading of 130 to read as follows:]

130 Retail Mail First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service--
Retail

133 Prices and Eligibility

Overview

* * * * *
    [Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as follows:]

2.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for First-Class Mail and First-Class 
Package Service--Retail

* * * * *

1.0 Prices and Fees

    [Revise the heading and introductory text of 1.1 to read as 
follows:]

1.1 First-Class Mail Single-Piece and First-Class Package Service--
Retail Price Application

    The single-piece prices are applied as follows:
* * * * *
    d. The First-Class Package Service--Retail parcel price applies to 
parcel-size pieces under 101.3.0 and to flat-size pieces that do not 
meet the standards in 101.2.0.
    [Revise the heading and first sentence of 1.2 to read as follows:]

1.2 Price Computation for First-Class Mail and First-Class Package 
Service--Retail

    First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service--Retail prices are 
charged per ounce or fraction thereof; any fraction of an ounce is 
considered a whole ounce. * * *
* * * * *

1.4 Keys and Identification Devices

    [Revise the first sentence of 1.4 to read as follows:]

    Keys and identification devices (such as identification cards and 
uncovered identification tags) that weigh 13 ounces or less may be 
returned at the applicable single-piece First-Class Mail Flats price 
plus the fee. * * *
* * * * *
    [Revise the heading of 2.0 to read as follows:]

2.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for First-Class Mail and First-Class 
Package Service--Retail

2.1 Description of Service

    [Revise the text of 2.1 to read as follows:]

    First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service--Retail receive 
expeditious handling and transportation. The USPS does not guarantee 
the delivery of First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service--
Retail within a specified time.

2.2 Defining Characteristics

2.2.1 Inspection of Contents

    [Revise the text of 2.2.1 to read as follows:]

    First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service--Retail are sealed 
against postal inspection.

2.2.2 Forwarding and Return Service

    [Revise the text of 2.2.2 to read as follows:]

    The price of First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service--
Retail include forwarding service to a new address for up to 12 months 
and return service if the mailpiece is undeliverable.

2.2.3 Extra Services

    [Revise the first sentence of 2.2.3 to read as follows:]

    First-Class Mail, Priority Mail, and First-Class Package Service--
Retail are the only products eligible to receive the following extra 
services: Registered Mail services and Certified Mail services. * * *

3.0 Content Standards

3.1 General Eligibility

    [Revise the introductory text of 3.1 to read as follows:]

    With the exception of restricted material as described in 601.8.0, 
any mailable item may be mailed as First-Class Mail and First Class-
Package Service--Retail.

3.2 Bills and Statements of Account

    [Revise the introductory text of 3.2 to read as follows:]


[[Page 39959]]


    Bills and statements of account must be mailed as First-Class Mail, 
First-Class Package Service--Retail, Priority Mail, or Priority Mail 
Express and are defined as follows:
* * * * *

3.3 Personal Information

    [Revise the text of 3.3 to read as follows:]

    Mail containing personal information must be mailed as First-Class 
Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, Priority Mail, or Priority 
Mail Express. Personal information is any information specific to the 
addressee.

3.4 Handwritten and Typewritten Material

    [Revise the text of 3.4 to read as follows:]

    Mail containing handwritten or typewritten material must be mailed 
as First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, Priority 
Mail, or Priority Mail Express.
* * * * *

3.6 Prohibited Air Transportation

    [Revise the text of 3.6 to read as follows:]

    All First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service--Retail are 
subject to limitations for air transportation in 601.9.0.

134 Postage Payment Methods

Overview

    [Revise the heading of 1.0 to read as follows:]

1.0 Postage Payment Methods for First-Class Mail and First-Class 
Package Service--Retail

* * * * *
    [Revise the heading of 1.0 to read as follows:]

1.0 Postage Payment Methods for First-Class Mail and First-Class 
Package Service--Retail

1.1 Payment Method

    [Revise the text of 1.1 to read as follows:]

    Postage for single-piece First-Class Mail and First-Class Package 
Service--Retail must be paid with affixed postage stamps (604.1.0), 
postage evidencing system postage (604.4.0), or precanceled stamps 
(604.3.0).
* * * * *

1.3 More Than One Mailer

    [Revise the text of 1.3 to read as follows:]

    When two or more individuals or organizations, or a party acting as 
their agent, mail in one package the bills, statements of account, or 
other letters of the individuals or organizations, to an addressee in 
common, First-Class Mail or First-Class Package Service--Retail postage 
may be paid on the weight of the entire package of aggregated mail. 
Postage is not required on each individual piece.

1.4 More Than One Letter

    [Revise the introductory text of 1.4 to read as follows:]

    An individual or organization may mail in one package more than one 
of the mailer's own letters and pay First-Class Mail or First-Class 
Package Service--Retail postage on the weight of the entire package of 
letters if: * * *

1.5 Agent

    [Revise the text of 1.5 to read as follows:]

    Any agent of a licensing authority may forward completed 
applications in one envelope to an office of the licensing authority 
and pay First-Class Mail or First-Class Package Service--Retail postage 
on the weight of the piece.

135 Mail Preparation

Overview

    [Revise the heading of 1.0 to read as follows:]

1.0 Preparation for First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service--
Retail

    [Revise the heading of 1.0 to read as follows:]

1.0 Preparation for First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service--
Retail

    [Revise the introductory of 1.0 to read as follows:]

    The following standards apply to single-piece First-Class Mail and 
First-Class Package Service--Retail:
    [Revise the text of items a and b to read as follows:]

    a. Each piece of First-Class Mail or First-Class Package Service--
Retail must have a delivery address, but is not required to bear a 
price marking.
    b. There are no sorting requirements for single-piece First-Class 
Mail or First-Class Package Service--Retail, but five or more letter-
size pieces bearing metered postage must be faced with the addresses in 
one direction and bundled. Bundling of letter-size pieces is not 
required if they fill a letter tray.

136 Deposit

Overview

    [Revise the heading of 1.0 to read as follows:]

1.0 Deposit for First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service--
Retail

* * * * *
    [Revise the heading of 1.0 to read as follows:]

1.0 Deposit for First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service--
Retail

    [Revise the text of 1.0 to read as follows:]

    Single-piece First-Class Mail letters and cards and First-Class 
Package Service--Retail may be deposited into any collection box, mail 
receptacle, or at any place where mail is accepted if the full required 
postage is paid with adhesive stamps. Metered mail must be deposited in 
locations under the jurisdiction of the licensing Post Office, except 
as permitted under 604.4.0.
* * * * *

200 Commercial Mail Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels

* * * * *

207 Periodicals

* * * * *

4.0 Basic Eligibility Standards

* * * * *

4.7 Eligible Formats

4.7.1 Complete Copies

    [Revise the second sentence of 4.7.1 to read as follows:]

    * * * Incomplete copies (for example, those lacking pages or parts 
of pages) are subject to the applicable First-Class Mail, First-Class 
Package Service--Retail, First-Class Package Service--Commercial, USPS 
Marketing Mail, USPS Retail Ground, or Package Services prices.
* * * * *

4.10 Back Issues and Reprints

    [Revise the second sentence of 4.10 to read as follows:]

    * * * Other mailings of back issues or reprint copies, including 
permanently bound back issues or reprint copies, are subject to the 
applicable First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, 
First-Class Package Service--Commercial, USPS Marketing Mail, USPS 
Retail Ground, or Package Services prices.

[[Page 39960]]

* * * * *

5.0 Applying for Periodicals Authorization

* * * * *

5.2 Mailing While Application Pending

5.2.1 Mailing Before Approval

    [Revise the second sentence of 5.2.1 to read as follows:]

    * * * Postage at the applicable First-Class Mail, First-Class 
Package Service--Retail, First-Class Package Service--Commercial, USPS 
Marketing Mail, or Package Services prices must be paid while the 
application is pending.

5.2.2 Record of Deposits

    [Revise the third and fourth sentences of 5.2.2 to read as 
follows:]

    * * * No record is kept of postage paid at First-Class Mail, First-
Class Package Service--Retail, or First-Class Package Service--
Commercial, prices or of postage not paid by advance deposit account. 
Records are kept for single-piece First-Class Mail or First-Class 
Package Service--Retail price mailings that may qualify for a refund 
under the exception in 5.3.6e.

5.3 Decision on Application

* * * * *

5.3.6 No Refund

    No refund is made for:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item e to read as follows:]

    e. Postage paid at Priority Mail Express or First-Class Mail, 
First-Class Package Service--Retail, or First-Class Package Service--
Commercial, prices. Exception: When postage is deposited at single-
piece First-Class Mail or First-Class Package Service--Retail prices 
because a mailing presorted and prepared as Periodicals mail is less 
than 200 pieces or 50 pounds, a refund may be authorized.
* * * * *

7.0 Mailing to Nonsubscribers or Nonrequesters

* * * * *

7.9.7 Excess Noncommingled Mailing

    [Revise the second sentence of 7.9.7 to read as follows:]

    * * * These copies are subject to the appropriate Priority Mail 
Express, First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, First-
Class Package Service--Commercial, Priority Mail, USPS Marketing Mail, 
USPS Retail Ground, or Package Services price.

7.9.8 Mixed Mailing

    [Revise the second sentence of 7.9.8 to read as follows:]

    * * * That portion is subject to the appropriate Priority Mail 
Express, First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, First-
Class Package Service--Commercial, Priority Mail, USPS Marketing Mail, 
USPS Retail Ground, or Package Services price.
* * * * *

10.0 Preferred Periodicals

* * * * *

10.6 Mailing While Application Pending

10.6.1 Mailing Before Approval

    [Revise the second sentence of 10.6.1 to read as follows:]

    * * * Until approval is given, postage must be paid at the Outside-
County prices (for authorized Periodicals publications), or at the 
First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, First-Class 
Package Service--Commercial, USPS Marketing Mail, or Package Services 
prices (if the publication is in a pending status for Periodicals 
mailing privileges).

10.6.2 Record of Deposits

    [Revise the third sentence of 10.6.1 to read as follows:]

    * * * No record is kept if First-Class Mail, First-Class Package 
Service--Retail, or First-Class Package Service--Commercial, postage is 
paid or if postage is not paid by advance deposit account.
* * * * *

10.7 Decision on Application

* * * * *

10.7.5 No Refunds

    No refund is made for:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item f to read as follows:]

    f. Postage paid at Priority Mail Express, First-Class Mail or 
First-Class Package Service--Retail prices.
* * * * *

11.0 Basic Eligibility

* * * * *

11.5 Copies Mailed by Public

    [Revise the text of 11.5 to read as follows:]

    The single-piece First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--
Retail, Priority Mail, USPS Retail Ground, or Package Services price is 
charged on copies of publications mailed by the general public and on 
copies returned to publishers or news agents.
* * * * *

28.0 Enter and Deposit

* * * * *

28.2 Basic Standards

    [Revise the second sentence of 28.2 to read as follows:]

    * * * The First-Class Mail, Mail First-Class Package Service--
Retail, First-Class Package Service--Commercial, USPS Marketing Mail, 
Parcel Select, or USPS Retail Ground price must be paid on all copies 
mailed by the public or by a printer to a publisher. * * *
* * * * *

240 Commercial Mail USPS Marketing Mail

243 Prices and Eligibility

1.0 Prices and Fees

* * * * *

1.4 Fees

* * * * *

1.4.2 Weighted Fee

    [Revise the second sentence of 1.4.2 to read as follows:]

    * * * Weighted fee equals single-piece First-Class Mail, First-
Class Package Service--Retail, or Priority Mail price multiplied by 
2.472.
* * * * *
    [Revise the heading and text of 3.7 to read as follows:]

3.7 Residual Mail Subject to First-Class, Mail First-Class Package 
Service--Retail, or Priority Mail Prices

    Pieces prepared as USPS Marketing Mail (i.e., that bear USPS 
Marketing Mail price markings, ACS codes, etc.) that do not qualify for 
Enhanced Carrier Route, automation, or Presorted USPS Marketing Mail 
prices are subject to the single-piece First-Class Mail, First-Class 
Package Service--Retail, or Priority Mail prices as applicable for the 
weight of the mailpiece. Metered pieces weighing over 13 ounces but 
less than 16 ounces that do not qualify for USPS Marketing Mail prices 
and any pieces that do not qualify for USPS Marketing Mail prices for 
which First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, or 
Priority Mail service is desired must be re-enveloped or otherwise 
prepared so that they do not bear USPS Marketing Mail markings, 
endorsements, and ACS codes and must bear the proper First-Class Mail, 
First-Class Package Service--Retail, or Priority Mail price markings 
and ACS codes. Mailers who have

[[Page 39961]]

pieces (other than metered pieces weighing over 13 ounces but less than 
16 ounces) that do not qualify for USPS Marketing Mail prices but that 
are prepared as USPS Marketing Mail and who do not desire to receive 
First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, or Priority Mail 
service for those pieces may enter their mailpieces ``as is'' (i.e., 
bearing the USPS Marketing Mail markings and endorsements), provided 
the requirements in 244.1.0, are met.
* * * * *

244 Postage Payment and Documentation

* * * * *

5.0 Residual Pieces

    [Revise the heading and introductory text of 5.1 to read as 
follows:]

5.1 Residual USPS Marketing Mail Subject to First-Class Mail or First-
Class Package Service--Retail Prices

    Mailers who have pieces weighing 13 ounces or less that do not 
qualify for USPS Marketing Mail prices but that are prepared as USPS 
Marketing Mail must pay single-piece First-Class Mail or First-Class 
Package Service--Retail postage for such pieces. If mailers do not 
desire to receive First-Class Mail service for such pieces they may 
enter the mailpieces ``as is'' (i.e., bearing the USPS Marketing Mail 
markings and endorsements), under the following conditions:
* * * * *
    [Revise the first sentence of item b to read as follows:]

    b. Mail bearing metered or precanceled stamp postage must pay the 
difference between the postage affixed at the USPS Marketing Mail 
prices and the single-piece First-Class Mail or First-Class Package 
Service--Retail prices by means of an advance deposit account or by 
affixing a meter stamp for the appropriate amount to Form 3600-R. * * *
* * * * *
    [Revise the first sentence of item c to read as follows:]

    c. Mail bearing permit imprints must pay the appropriate single-
piece First-Class Mail or First-Class Package Service--Retail prices by 
completing Form 3600-R. * * *
* * * * *

500 Additional Services

503 Extra and Additional Services

1.0 Basic Standards for All Extra Services

* * * * *

1.4 Eligibility for Extra Services

* * * * *

1.4.1 Eligibility--Domestic Mail

* * * * *

Exhibit 1.4 Eligibility--Domestic Mail

    [Add First-Class Package Service--Retail under the ``Eligible 
Mail'' column for Registered Mail services, Certified Mail services, 
Insurance services, Certificate of Mailing, Certificate of Bulk 
Mailing, Return Receipt, COD services, and Special Handling-Fragile.]
    [Under the ``Eligible Mail'' column for Signature Confirmation 
revise First-Class Mail to read First-Class Package Service--Retail. 
Delete ``parcels only'' in the parenthetical.]
    [Under the ``Eligible Mail'' column for Signature Confirmation 
Restricted Delivery, Adult Signature services, and USPS Tracking, 
revise First-Class Mail to read First-Class Package Service--Retail. 
Delete the #2 notation.]
* * * * *

4.0 Insured Mail

* * * * *

4.3 Basic Standards

4.3.1 Description

    * * * The following additional standards apply to insured mail:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item e to read as follows:]

    e. First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, First-
Class Package Service, and Priority Mail pieces may be insured, if they 
contain matter that is eligible to be mailed at USPS Marketing Mail, 
USPS Retail Ground, or Package Services prices.
* * * * *

4.3.2 Ineligible Matter

    The following types of mail may not be insured:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item e to read as follows:]

    e. Matter mailed at First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--
Retail, or Priority Mail prices that consists of items required to be 
mailed at First-Class Mail prices.
* * * * *

10.0 Special Handling

10.1 Basic Standards

* * * * *

10.1.2 Bees and Poultry

    [Revise the text of 10.1.2 to read as follows:]

    Unless sent Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, 
First-Class Package Service--Retail, or First-Class Package Service, 
special handling-fragile is required for parcels containing honeybees 
or baby poultry.
* * * * *

505 Return Services

1.0 Business Reply Mail (BRM)

1.1 BRM Postage and Fees

1.1.1 Basic BRM

    [Revise the first sentence of 1.1.1 to read as follows:]

    For basic BRM, a permit holder is required to pay an annual permit 
fee as provided under 1.2 and a per-piece fee under 1.1.7 in addition 
to the applicable Retail First-Class Mail (metered for letters), First-
Class Package Service--Retail, or Priority Mail postage for each 
returned piece.
* * * * *

1.3 Basic Standards

1.3.1 Description

    [Revise first and second sentence of 1.3.1 to read as follows:]

    Business Reply Mail (BRM) service enables a permit holder to 
receive First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, and 
Priority Mail back from customers. The permit holder guarantees payment 
of the applicable Retail First-Class Mail, First-Class Package 
Service--Retail, or Priority Mail postage, plus a per piece fee, on all 
returned BRM which includes any incomplete, blank, or empty BRM cards 
and envelopes and any mailable matter with a BRM label affixed. * * *
* * * * *

507 Mailer Services

1.0 Treatment of Mail

* * * * *

1.4 Basic Treatment

* * * * *

1.4.5 Extra Services

    Mail with extra services is treated according to the charts for 
each class of mail in 1.5, except that:
    [Revise the text of items a and b to read as follows:]

    a. Undeliverable-as-addressed Certified Mail is treated as First-
Class Mail and First-Class Package Service--Retail.
    b. All insured First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--
Retail, First-Class Package Service, and Priority Mail, pieces are 
forwarded and returned at no additional charge. All insured USPS 
Marketing Mail, USPS Retail

[[Page 39962]]

Ground, Package Services, and Parcel Select pieces are forwarded or 
returned.
* * * * *

1.5 Treatment for Ancillary Services by Class of Mail

    [Revise the heading and introductory text of 1.5.1 to read as 
follows:]

1.5.1 First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, First-
Class Package Service, and Priority Mail

    Undeliverable-as-addressed First-Class Mail (including postcards), 
First-Class Package Service--Retail, First-Class Package Service, and 
Priority Mail pieces are treated under Exhibit 1.5.1, with these 
additional conditions:
* * * * *
    [Revise the third sentence of item b to read as follows:]

    b. * * * Undeliverable First-Class Mail, First-Class Package 
Service--Retail, First-Class Package Service, or Priority Mail pieces 
with any alternative addressing format are returned with the reason for 
nondelivery attached, only if the address is incorrect or incomplete or 
the mail is undeliverable for another reason as shown in Exhibit 1.4.1; 
however, if such mail is endorsed Change Service Requested, piece is 
disposed of and an ACS record is provided for the same reasons.
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]

    d. First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, First-
Class Package Service, or Priority Mail pieces bearing USPS Marketing 
Mail markings and endorsements under 202 and 244.5.1 for letters, 
flats, and parcels, receives forwarding, return, and address correction 
services for USPS Marketing Mail under 1.5.3.
    e. ``Change Service Requested'' is not permitted for the following:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of items e2 and e3 to read as follows:]

    2. First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, First-
Class Package Service, or Priority Mail pieces containing hazardous 
materials under 601.8.0.
    3. First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, First-
Class Package Service, or Priority Mail pieces with an extra service 
other than USPS Tracking or Signature Confirmation.

    [Revise the introductory text of item f to read as follows:]

    f. Address Change Service under 4.0 is available for First-Class 
Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, First-Class Package Service, 
and Priority Mail pieces with the ACS participant code for an 
authorized ACS participant and a valid ancillary service endorsement. 
Mailers participating in OneCode ACS under 4.2.6 may print an 
Intelligent Mail barcode on First-Class Mail automation letters instead 
of a participant code and endorsement. The only endorsements permitted 
on First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, First-Class 
Package Service, and Priority Mail valid ACS pieces are ``Address 
Service Requested'', ``Change Service Requested'' or ``Electronic 
Service Requested'' subject to the following:
* * * * *
    [Revise the heading of Exhibit 1.5.1 to read as follows:]

Exhibit 1.5.1 Treatment of Undeliverable First-Class Mail, First-Class 
Package Service--Retail, First-Class Package Service and Priority Mail

* * * * *

``Change Service Requested''

* * * * *
    Restrictions (for Options 1 and 2)
    The following restrictions apply:
    1. This endorsement is limited to use on valid mailpieces bearing a 
proper ACS participant code and only for:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of (b) to read as follows:]

    (b) First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, and 
First-Class Package Service (excluding hazardous materials).
* * * * *

1.5.2 Periodicals

    Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) Periodicals publications 
(including publications pending Periodicals authorization) are treated 
as described in Exhibit 1.5.2, with these additional conditions:
* * * * *
    [Revise the third sentence of item e to read as follows:]

    e. * * * Each returned piece is charged the single-piece First-
Class Mail or First-Class Package Service--Retail price for the weight 
and shape of the piece, and the letter-size nonmachinable surcharge if 
applicable, or the Priority Mail price for the weight and destination 
of the piece. * * *
* * * * *

Exhibit 1.5.2 Treatment of Undeliverable Periodicals

* * * * *

``Address Service Requested'' \1\

If no change-of-address order on file:

    [Revise the text under ``If no change-of-address order on file:'' 
to read as follows:]
    Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (only return 
postage charged at single-piece First-Class Mail or First-Class Package 
Service--Retail price or Priority Mail single-piece price, as 
appropriate for weight of piece).

If change-of-address order on file:

* * * * *
    [Revise the text in the second bullet to read as follows:]
    [ssquf] After 60-day period: Piece returned with new address or 
reason for nondelivery attached (in either case, only return postage 
charged at single-piece First-Class Mail or First-Class Package 
Service--Retail price or Priority Mail single-piece price, as 
appropriate for weight of piece).
* * * * *

1.5.3 USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel Select Lightweight

    Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel 
Select Lightweight pieces are treated as described in Exhibit 1.5.3, 
with these additional conditions:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item h to read as follows:]
    h. A returned piece endorsed ``Return Service Requested'' is 
charged the applicable single-piece First-Class Mail or First-Class 
Package Service--Retail price for the weight and shape of the piece, 
and the nonmachinable surcharge if applicable, or the Priority Mail 
price for the weight and destination of the piece.
* * * * *

Exhibit 1.5.3 Treatment of Undeliverable USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel 
Select Lightweight

* * * * *

``Address Service Requested''

    (Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return participants via ACS only)
    Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 1

If no change-of-address order on file:

    [Revise the text under ``If no change-of-address order on file:'' 
to read as follows:]
    Parcel returned with reason for nondelivery attached; postage due 
charged as follows: At applicable First-Class Mail, First-Class Package

[[Page 39963]]

Service--Retail, or Priority Mail single-piece price for the weight of 
the parcel.
* * * * *
    Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 2

If no change-of-address order on file:

    [Revise the text under ``If no change-of-address order on file:'' 
to read as follows:]
    Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached; postage due 
charged as follows: At applicable First-Class Mail, First-Class Package 
Service--Retail, or Priority Mail single-piece price for the weight of 
the parcel. Separate notice provided (electronic ACS fee is charged).

If change-of-address order on file:

    [Revise the text in the first bullet to read as follows:]
    [ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Parcel forwarded. Forwarding postage 
is charged to the mailer as follows: At applicable First-Class Mail, 
First-Class Package Service--Retail, or Priority Mail single-piece 
price for the weight of the parcel. Separate notice of new address 
provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
* * * * *
    Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return Option 3

If no change-of-address order on file:

    [Revise the text under ``If no change-of-address order on file:'' 
to read as follows:]
    Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached; postage due 
charged as follows: At applicable First-Class Mail, First-Class Package 
Service--Retail, or Priority Mail single-piece price for the weight of 
the parcel. Separate notice provided (electronic ACS fee is charged).

If change-of-address order on file:

    [Revise the text in all three bullets to read as follows:]
    [ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Parcel forwarded. Forwarding postage 
is charged to the mailer as follows: At applicable First-Class Mail, 
First-Class Package Service--Retail, or Priority Mail single-piece 
price for the weight of the parcel. Separate notice of new address 
provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
    [ssquf] Months 13 through 18: Parcel returned with new address 
attached; return postage is charged to mailer as follows: At applicable 
First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, or Priority Mail 
single-piece price for the weight of the parcel. Separate notice of new 
address provided (electronic ACS fee is charged).
    [ssquf] After month 18: Parcel returned with reason for 
nondelivery; return postage is charged to mailer as follows: At 
applicable First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, or 
Priority Mail single-piece price for the weight of the parcel. Separate 
notice of reason for nondelivery provided (electronic ACS fee is 
charged).

``Address Service Requested--BPRS''

(BPRS participants only)

* * * * *

If change-of-address order on file:

    [Revise the text in the first bullet to read as follows:]
    [ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded (no charge to 
addressee); separate ACS notice of new address provided (ACS address 
correction fee and forwarding postage charged at single-piece First-
Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, or Priority Mail 
single-piece price, as appropriate for weight of piece, via mailer's 
ACS participant code).
* * * * *

``Return Service Requested''

(Except for BPRS participants)

    Option 1
    [Revise the second sentence to read as follows:]
    * * * In either case, only return postage is charged at First-Class 
Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, or Priority Mail single-
piece price, as appropriate for weight of piece.
    Option 2
* * * * *

In all cases (regardless of whether a change-of-address order is on 
file):

    [Revise the second sentence to read as follows:]
    * * * In either case, both the address correction fee is charged, 
and return postage is charged at First-Class Mail, First-Class Package 
Service--Retail, or Priority Mail single-piece price, as appropriate 
for weight of piece.
* * * * *

``Change Service Requested''

    (Shipper Paid Forwarding participants via ACS only)
* * * * *

If change-of-address order on file:

    [Revise the text in the first bullet to read as follows:]
    [ssquf] Months 1 through 12: Parcel forwarded; postage due charged 
to the mailer as follows; at applicable First-Class Mail, First-Class 
Package Service--Retail, or Priority Mail single-piece price for the 
weight of the parcel; separate notice of new address provided 
(electronic ACS fee charged).
* * * * *

1.8 Returning Mail

* * * * *
    [Revise the heading and introductory text of 1.8.3 to read as 
follows:]

1.8.3 Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, First-
Class Package Service--Retail, and First-Class Package Service

    Mailpieces sent as Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-
Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, or First-Class Package 
Service that cannot be delivered as addressed or forwarded to a new 
address, unless otherwise requested by the sender, are returned to the 
sender at no additional charge. Excluding pieces containing live 
animals, the following are disposed of by the USPS:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
    b. First-Class Mail First-Class Package Service--Retail, or First-
Class Package Service pieces with a valid ACS participant code and 
endorsed ``Change Service Requested.''
* * * * *

1.9 Dead Mail

1.9.1 Basic Information

    * * * The disposition of dead mail items is as follows:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
    e. Except for unendorsed USPS Marketing Mail, undeliverable USPS 
Marketing Mail, USPS Retail Ground, Package Services, and insured 
First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, or First-Class 
Package Service pieces containing USPS Marketing Mail, USPS Retail 
Ground, or Package Services enclosures, that cannot be returned because 
of an incorrect, incomplete, illegible, or missing return address is 
opened and examined to identify the sender or addressee.
* * * * *

2.0 Forwarding

* * * * *

2.2 Forwardable Mail

* * * * *

2.2.3 Discontinued Post Office

    [Revise the text of 2.2.3 to read as follows:]
    All Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, First-
Class Package Service--Retail, First-Class

[[Page 39964]]

Package Service, Periodicals, USPS Retail Ground, and Package Services 
pieces addressed to a discontinued Post Office may be forwarded without 
added charge to a Post Office that the addressee designates as more 
convenient than the office to which the USPS ordered the mail sent.

2.2.4 Rural Delivery

    [Revise the text of 2.2.4 to read as follows:]
    When rural delivery service is established or changed, a customer 
of any office receiving mail from the rural carrier of another office 
may have all Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, 
First-Class Package Service--Retail, First-Class Package Service, 
Periodicals, USPS Retail Ground, and Package Services pieces forwarded 
to the latter office for delivery without added charge, if the customer 
files a written request with the postmaster at the former office.
* * * * *

2.2.6 Mail for Military Personnel

    [Revise the first sentence of 2.2.6 to read as follows:]
    All Priority Mail Express, First-Class Mail, First-Class Package 
Service--Retail, First-Class Package Service, Periodicals, USPS Retail 
Ground, and Package Services mailpieces addressed to persons in the 
U.S. Armed Forces (including civilian employees) serving where U.S. 
mail service operates is forwarded at no added charge when the change 
of address is caused by official orders. * * *
* * * * *

2.3 Postage for Forwarding

* * * * *
    [Revise the heading and text of 2.3.3 to read as follows:]

2.3.3 Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--
Retail, and First-Class Package Service

    Priority Mail, First-Class Mail (including postcards), First-Class 
Package Service--Retail, and First-Class Package Service mailpieces are 
forwarded without charge when postage is fully prepaid by the sender.
* * * * *

2.3.5 USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel Select Lightweight

    [Revise the second sentence of 2.3.5 to read as follows:]
    * * * Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return (under 4.2.9) provides mailers 
of USPS Marketing Mail and Parcel Select Lightweight parcels an option 
of paying forwarding postage on those parcels, or return postage if 
undeliverable, at the applicable single-piece First-Class Mail, First-
Class Package Service--Retail, or Priority Mail price, instead of the 
addressee paying postage due charges. * * *
* * * * *

4.0 Address Correction Services

4.1 Address Correction Service

* * * * *

4.1.5 Other Classes

    [Revise the first sentence of 4.1.5 to read as follows:]
    When possible, ``on-piece'' address correction is provided for 
Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, First-Class 
Package Service--Retail, First-Class Package Service, USPS Marketing 
Mail, USPS Retail Ground, Package Services, and Parcel Select pieces. * 
* *
* * * * *

5.0 Package Intercept

* * * * *
    [Revise the first sentence of 5.1.2 to read as follows:]

5.1.2 Eligibility

    [Revise the first sentence of 5.1.2 to read as follows:]
    Except under 5.1.3, Package Intercept service is available for 
Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, First-Class 
Package Service--Retail, First-Class Package Service, Parcel Select, 
USPS Retail Ground, Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, or Library Mail 
mailpieces with a tracking barcode, addressed to, from, or between 
domestic destinations (608.2.0) that do not require a customs 
declarations label, and measuring not more than 108 inches in length 
and girth combined. * * *
* * * * *

5.2 Postage and Fees

    [Revise the first sentence of 5.2 to read as follows:]
    Customers must pay a nonrefundable per-piece fee once the USPS 
successfully intercepts the mailpiece. Priority Mail Express, Priority 
Mail, First-Class Mail, and First-Class Package Service--Retail, pieces 
being redirected to the sender are not relabeled or subject to 
additional postage. * * *
* * * * *

7.0 Pickup on Demand Service

* * * * *

7.2 Basic Standards

7.2.1 Availability

    * * * Incidental amounts of other postage-affixed, full-price mail 
also may be collected when Pickup on Demand service is provided for:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item c to read as follows:]
    c. First-Class Package Service--Retail.
* * * * *

508 Recipient Services

1.0 Recipient Options

* * * * *

1.8 Commercial Mail Receiving Agencies

* * * * *

1.8.3 Addressee and CMRA Agreement

    In delivery of the mail to the CMRA, the addressee and the CMRA 
agree that:
* * * * *
    [Revise the sixth sentence of item b to read as follows:]
    b. * * * At the end of the 6-month remail period the CMRA may 
return to the Post Office only First-Class Mail, First-Class Package 
Service--Retail, Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, accountable 
mail, or USPS Retail Ground received for the former addressee 
(customer). * * *
    [Revise the third sentence of item c to read as follows:]
    c. * * * Upon approval, the CMRA may return to the Post Office only 
First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, Priority Mail, 
Priority Mail Express, accountable mail, and USPS Retail Ground 
received for the former customer. * * *
* * * * *

7.0 Premium Forwarding Service

* * * * *

7.2 Preparation

7.2.1 Weekly Priority Mail Shipments

    * * * Regardless of any mailer's ancillary service endorsement on a 
mailpiece, and provided it fits within the shipment container, all mail 
is included in the weekly Priority Mail shipment, except as follows:
* * * * *
    b. Mailpieces that do not fit in the shipment container, or that 
require a scan or signature at delivery, are scanned (when applicable) 
and then rerouted separately to the temporary address, subject to the 
following:
    [Revise the text of item b1 to read as follows:]
    1. Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Package 
Service--Retail, First-Class Package Service pieces and Periodicals 
parcels are rerouted separately at no additional charge.
* * * * *

[[Page 39965]]

    d. Any mailpiece arriving postage due at the Post Office serving a 
customer`s primary address is not included in the weekly Priority Mail 
shipment and will be rerouted separately as follows:
    [Revise the text of item d1 to read as follows:]
    1. First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, First-
Class Package Service, and Priority Mail pieces are charged only for 
the original postage due amount.
* * * * *

7.3 Premium Forwarding Service Commercial

* * * * *

7.3.3 Conditions

    Only the authorized recipient (or legal agent) of the business' (or 
organization's) mail may activate the request for PFS-Commercial 
service. PFS-Commercial service is subject to these conditions:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item e to read as follows:]
    e. Except under 7.3.3g, the following products may be included in a 
PFS-Commercial service container: Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, 
First-Class Package Service--Retail, and First-Class Package Service 
pieces.
* * * * *

600 Basic Standards For All Mailing Services

* * * * *

602 Addressing

1.0 Elements of Addressing

* * * * *

1.3 Address Elements

    All mail not bearing a simplified address must bear a delivery 
address that contains at least the following elements in this order 
from the top line:
* * * * *
    e. ZIP Code where required:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item e2 to read as follows:]
    2. Unless required above, ZIP Codes may be omitted from single-
piece price First-Class Mail (including Priority Mail), First-Class 
Package Service--Retail, USPS Retail Ground, and pieces bearing a 
simplified address.
* * * * *

4.0 Detached Address Labels (DALs) and Detached Marketing Labels (DMLs)

* * * * *

4.4 Disposition of Excess or Undeliverable Material

4.4.1 Excess Material

    * * * The mailer must choose one of the following options for each 
DAL mailing and the items:
* * * * *
    [Revise the second sentence of item d to read as follows:]
    d. * * * Additional material must be sent prepaid to the delivery 
Post Office as First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, 
Priority Mail, or Priority Mail Express.
* * * * *

4.5 Postage

* * * * *

4.5.3 Returns

    [Revise the first sentence of 4.5.3 to read as follows:]
    Postage for excess or undeliverable DALs that are properly endorsed 
or for items being returned is computed at the single-piece price 
(First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, Priority Mail, 
or Package Services) applicable to the combined weight of the DAL and 
the accompanying item, regardless of whether both are returned. * * *
* * * * *

604 Postage Payment Methods and Refunds

* * * * *

4.0 Postage Meters and PC Postage Products (``Postage Evidencing 
Systems'')

* * * * *

4.6 Mailings

4.6.1 Mailing Date Format

    * * * The mailing date format used in the indicia is also subject 
to the following conditions:
    a. Complete Date. Mailers must use a complete date for the 
following:
    [Revise the text of item a1 to read as follows:]
    1. All Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, 
First-Class Package Service--Retail, and First-Class Package Service 
pieces.
* * * * *

4.6.3 Deposit of Mail

    Mailers must deposit or enter mailpieces with metered or PC Postage 
indicia according to the following conditions:
    [Revise the first sentence of item a to read as follows:]
    a. Mailers may deposit Priority Mail Express, Flat Rate Priority 
Mail, Priority Mail weighing one pound or less, single-piece price 
First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, single-piece 
price Media Mail, and single-piece price Library Mail items with a 
metered or PC Postage indicia at any postal facility, preferably within 
the area of the customer's local Post Office. * * *
* * * * *

8.0 Insufficient or Omitted Postage

8.1 Insufficient Postage

* * * * *

8.1.2 Undeliverable and Refused Mail

    Mail with insufficient postage that is refused by the addressee or 
otherwise undeliverable is:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
    b. Returned to the sender and delivered when the sender pays the 
total deficient postage and additional postage for forwarding or return 
if other than First-Class Mail or First-Class Package Service--Retail, 
and with a return address.
* * * * *

8.1.6 Registered Mail With Insufficient Postage

    [Revise the first sentence of 8.1.6 to read as follows:]
    If shortpaid Registered Mail is found in ordinary mail, with only 
the First-Class Mail or First-Class Package Service--Retail, price of 
postage paid, the piece is delivered to the addressee as ordinary 
First-Class Mail or First-Class Package Service--Retail. * * *
* * * * *

8.3 Mailable Matter Without Postage in or on Mail Receptacles

* * * * *

8.3.4 Partial Distribution

    [Revise the text of 8.3.4 to read as follows:]
    If there is a distribution of pieces to some, but not all, 
addresses on a route, pieces are returned to the delivery unit for use 
in computing the postage due. First-Class Mail or First-Class Package 
Service--Retail prices are applied to matter that would require First-
Class Mail or First-Class Package Service--Retail postage if mailed. 
For other matter, if the piece weighs less than 16 ounces, the 
applicable single-piece First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--
Retail, or Priority Mail price based on the weight of the piece is 
applied, or USPS Retail Ground or an applicable Package Services price 
is applied, whichever is lower. If the piece weighs 16 ounces or more, 
the USPS

[[Page 39966]]

Retail Ground or applicable Package Services price is applied.
* * * * *

9.0 Exchanges and Refunds

* * * * *

9.2 Postage and Fee Refunds

* * * * *

9.2.3 Full Refund

    A full refund (100%) may be made when:
* * * * *
    [Revise the first sentence of item l to read as follows:]
    l. If a First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, 
First-Class Package Service, USPS Retail Ground or Package Services 
mailpiece is torn or defaced during USPS handling so that the addressee 
or intended delivery point cannot be identified. * * *
* * * * *

609 Filing Indemnity Claims for Loss or Damage

1.0 General Filing Instructions

* * * * *

1.4 When to File

    File claims as follows:
* * * * *
    b. Lost Articles: Customers must file a claim within the time 
limits in the chart below.
    Mail Type or Service
* * * * *
    [Revise the sixth line item to read as follows:]
    APO/FPO/DPO Insured Mail and registered Mail (Priority Mail, First-
Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Retail, SAM, or PAL)
* * * * *

700 Special Standards

703 Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail and Other Unique Eligibility

1.0 Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail

* * * * *

1.9 Mailing While Application Pending

* * * * *

1.9.2 Postage Record

    [Revise the text of 1.9.2 to read as follows:]
    While an application, or confirmation of authorization, is pending 
postage must be paid at applicable First-Class Mail, First-Class 
Package Service--Retail, or Priority Mail prices, or at applicable USPS 
Marketing Mail prices. The USPS records the difference between postage 
paid at regular USPS Marketing Mail prices and the postage that would 
have been paid at Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail prices. No record is 
kept if postage is paid at First-Class Mail, First-Class Package 
Service--Retail, or Priority Mail prices.

1.9.3 Refund

    * * * No refund is made:
* * * * *
    [Revise the text of item b to read as follows:]
    b. If postage was paid at First-Class Mail, First-Class Package 
Service--Retail, or Priority Mail prices.
* * * * *
    We will publish an appropriate amendment to 39 CFR part 111 to 
reflect these changes.

Stanley F. Mires,
Attorney, Federal Compliance.
[FR Doc. 2017-17799 Filed 8-22-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P