83 FR 8399 - Proposed Changes to Validations for Intelligent Mail Package Barcode
POSTAL SERVICE Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 39 (February 27, 2018)
Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 39 (February 27, 2018)
| Page Range | 8399-8403 | |
| FR Document | 2018-03947 |
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 39 (Tuesday, February 27, 2018)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 8399-8403] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2018-03947] ======================================================================= ----------------------------------------------------------------------- POSTAL SERVICE 39 CFR Part 111 Proposed Changes to Validations for Intelligent Mail Package Barcode AGENCY: Postal ServiceTM. ACTION: Proposed rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: The Postal Service is proposing to revise the Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM[supreg]), to add new Intelligent Mail[supreg] package barcode (IMpb) validations for evaluating compliance with IMpb requirements for all mailers who enter commercial parcels. DATES: Submit comments on or before March 29, 2018. ADDRESSES: Mail or deliver written comments to the manager, Product Classification, U.S. Postal Service, 475 L'Enfant Plaza SW, Room 4446, Washington, DC 20260-5015. If sending comments by email, include the name and address of the commenter and send to [email protected], with a subject line of ``Intelligent Mail Package Barcode Validations.'' Faxed comments are not accepted. You may inspect and photocopy all written comments, by appointment only, at USPS[supreg] Headquarters Library, 475 L'Enfant Plaza SW, 11th Floor North, Washington, DC 20260. These records are available for review on Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., by calling 202-268- 2906. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Direct questions or comments to Juliaann Hess at [email protected] or (202) 268-7663. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Postal Service is proposing to update IMpb requirements relative to Compliance Quality Validations for Thresholds, Address Quality, Shipping Services File Manifest Quality, and Barcode Quality. These proposed validations would allow the Postal Service to further improve service, tracking, visibility, and positive customer experiences along with better identifying noncompliant mailpieces. Technical and in-depth IMpb guidance is available in Publication 199, Intelligent Mail Package Barcode Implementation Guide for: Confirmation Services and Electronic Verification System Mailers, which is conveniently located on the PostalPro website at https://postalpro.usps.com. This publication would be updated to reflect all adopted changes. Background On December 18, 2013, in a notice of final rulemaking (78 FR 76548- 76560), the Postal Service announced that mailers who enter commercial parcels must adhere to the following: IMpb must be used on all commercial parcels; piece-level information must be submitted to the Postal Service via an approved electronic file format (except for mailers generating barcodes for use on return services products, such as MRS); and electronic files must include the complete destination delivery address and/or an 11-digit Delivery Point Validation (DPV[supreg]) ZIP Code[supreg] for all records, except for Parcel Return Service, a ZIP+4[supreg] Code is required to be encoded into the barcode for all returns products. Since IMpb requirements were implemented, the Postal Service has made significant advances with its package strategy. Use of IMpbs continues to be the critical bridge between physical packages and the digital information required to enable world class service, tracking, visibility, and positive customer experiences. Barcode intelligence along with the corresponding digital data captured through in-transit processing and delivery scans are fundamental requirements in the shipping market. The data have enabled the Postal Service and its customers to enhance products, improve customer satisfaction, increase efficiencies, provide greater visibility, integrate with eCommerce and supply chain systems, enhance performance and analytics tools, and generate actionable business insights for better decisions. In January 2015, the Postal Service required that all parcels with an IMpb be accompanied by the complete destination delivery address or an 11-digit ZIP Code (validated by the DPV System, or an approved equivalent) in the Shipping Services File or other approved electronic documentation. This information is critical to the Postal Service package strategy, the dynamic routing process that enable package distribution without scheme-trained employees, improving the customer's experience, and enhancing business insights and analytics. In January 2016, the Postal Service began measuring the quality of mailer compliance for the newly introduced IMpb Compliance Quality Category with data validations to determine the IMpb Compliance Assessment criteria as follows: Address Quality, Manifest Quality, and Barcode Quality. Then, in July 2017, the Postal Service began assessing mailers with a $0.20 IMpb [[Page 8400]] Noncompliance Fee for commercial, competitive parcels (Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, First-Class Package Service, Parcel Select and Parcel Select Lightweight) that did not meet the established thresholds for one or more IMpb Compliance Quality Categories. For customers using the Electronic Verification System (eVS[supreg]), the Postal Service assessed the fee based on the individual mail class or aggregate compliance performance, whichever results in the lowest financial impact to the customer. The fee is not assessed on packages when a price adjustment results in single-piece pricing. As of January 21, 2018, addresses and products for Puerto Rico or that contain an Open & Distribute Service Type Code were eliminated from all Address Quality validations. Proposal Overview Intelligent Mail Package Barcode Quality Requirements This section provides an overview of the IMpb Compliance Quality Validation and Threshold requirements that the Postal Service is proposing to revise. As indicated in the table that follows, on July 1, 2018, and February 1, 2019, the Postal Service would begin assessing quality using the newly proposed thresholds. If commercial, competitive parcels consisting of Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, First-Class Package Service, Parcel Select, and Parcel Select Lightweight exceed the compliance thresholds outlined below, a $0.20 IMpb Noncompliance Fee would be assessed for each piece. This fee would only be assessed on the number of pieces that fall below the threshold according to the following examples: [ssquf] Example 1: In the case of 100 pieces being shipped, if 98 pieces are in compliance, no pieces would be charged the $0.20 per- piece fee. [ssquf] Example 2: In the case of 100 pieces being shipped, if only 90 pieces are in compliance, 8 pieces would be assessed the $0.20 per- piece fee. If the threshold for more than one category is not met, the fee is assessed based on the IMpb Compliance Quality threshold that yields the greatest number of noncompliant pieces. The fee is charged only once per noncompliant mailpiece and is only applicable to the following competitive parcels: Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, First-Class Package Service, Parcel Select, and Parcel Select Lightweight. Intelligent Mail Package Barcode Compliance Quality Categories, Validations and Thresholds ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- July 2018 February 2019 Compliance categories Compliance codes Validations thresholds thresholds ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Address Quality: Checks for a AQ Must include a full, 89 TBD timely address that validates valid destination to a unique 11 Digit DPV. delivery address that has sufficient quality to yield an 11-digit ZIP Code that matches the delivery point in the file as follows: [ssquf] Valid secondary address information.. [ssquf] Match between address to ZIP+4 Code. [ssquf] Includes street number. [ssquf] Valid primary street number. Customers using eVS must provide the address information prior to the Arrival at Unit (07) Event Scan and non-eVS customers at the time of mailing. Manifest Quality (Shipping MQ Entry facility must 94 94 Services File): Checks for a match between scan and timely Manifest File that manifest. passes 4 critical validation Valid PO of Account ZIP criteria. Code (Where account is held for payment). Valid Payment Account (Permit Number).. Valid Method of Payment (Permit, Federal Agency, PC Postage, Smart Meter, Other Meter, or Stamps). Barcode Quality: Checks the BQ Valid and Certified 98 98 Barcode in the manifest that Mailer ID in the label passes 2 critical validations. that is in Program Registration/Online Enrollment. IMpb must be unique for 120 days.. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Address Quality The Postal Service proposes to update the threshold for the Address Quality IMpb requirements described in this section. If destination delivery address information is included in the Shipping Services File or Shipping Partner Event File, the address elements must be complete and have sufficient quality to yield an 11-digit ZIP Code that matches the delivery point. Address Quality measures the percentage of addresses that contain sufficient information to validate to the 11- digit DPV ZIP Code when matched against the Address Management System (AMS) database. Destination delivery addresses would be compared against the AMS database for accuracy and the ability to be validated to the 11-digit DPV ZIP Code representing the finest depth of code for the delivery point (including secondary information such as the apartment or suite number). If the delivery address of a package or mailpiece does not result in an exact match, an Address Quality noncompliance indicator would be assigned for any of the following reasons: [ssquf] Invalid secondary address. [ssquf] No match between the address and the ZIP+4 Code. [ssquf] Missing street number. [ssquf] Invalid primary street number. In addition, for eVS customers, an Address Quality noncompliance indicator would be assigned when the address information is not received before the Arrival at Post Office (07) scan event and when the address information is not present at the time of mailing. In July 2018, the Address Quality threshold would remain at 89 percent. If mailpieces fail to meet the compliance threshold of 89 percent, customers would be assessed the IMpb Noncompliance Fee of $0.20 per piece for competitive parcels only. However, the Postal Service provides notice of its intent to collaborate with the mailing industry to increase the Address Quality threshold beginning on January 1, 2019, with mailpieces assessed on February 1, 2019. Manifest Quality (Shipping Services File) [[Page 8401]] In accordance with this proposed rule, the Shipping Services File manifests must be received timely or each mailpiece on the file would be noncompliant. For customers who do not use eVS, the Shipping Services Files must be transmitted to the Postal Service prior to the physical entry of the mailing for acceptance. Customers who use eVS are required to transmit the Shipping Services File prior to the Arrival at Post Office (07) scan event unless the address information was provided via the Shipping Partner Event File prior to the Arrival at Post Office (07) scan event. If the address is provided in the Shipping Partner Event File before the Arrival at Post Office (07) scan event, the mailer must transmit the Shipping Services File prior to 23:59 on the date of mailing. Mailpieces that do not have a Shipping Services File record or have an untimely record would be noncompliant and receive a Manifest Quality validation noncompliance code. Manifest Files would have to pass the following four validation criteria:Entry Facility ZIP Code: The entry facility ZIP Code in the Shipping Services File must match physical scan event at location. Payment Account Number: The USPS account number from which the mailing will be paid must be valid. Method of Payment: The approved payment method must be valid (permit imprint, postage meter, PC Postage, OMAS, franked mail, and stamps) for the mail being entered. Post Office of Account: The 5-digit ZIP Code of the Post Office issuing the permit number, meter license, or precancelled stamp must be valid and agree with the information on the postage statement. Also, the Transaction ID (TID) is already required. However, when the TID is used in conjunction with the Payment Account Number, Method of Payment, and Post Office of Account, it enables the Postal Service to calculate IMpb compliance for each mailing at the postage-statement level for non-eVS customers. If any field is missing or inaccurate, a Manifest Quality IMpb Compliance Quality indicator would be assigned. In addition, in July 2018, the Manifest Quality threshold would be increased from 91 percent to 94 percent. If mailpieces fail to meet the compliance threshold of 94 percent, customers would be assessed the IMpb Noncompliance Fee of $0.20 per piece for competitive parcels only. Barcode Quality Barcode Quality is essential to create the digital trail that adds intelligence and enables business insight from parcels traveling through the Postal Service network, which leads to innovation and growth. Therefore, when manifests are processed by the Postal Service, Barcode Quality would continue to be measured under the following standards: [ssquf] IMpb(s) must pass the Uniqueness and Mailer Identification validations without errors or warnings. [ssquf] The IMpb must be unique for 120 days from the date of the first event record posted to the Postal Service's database. [ssquf] The IMpb must include a valid Mailer Identification that is properly registered in the Postal Service's Customer Registration Online Enrollment System. [ssquf] IMpb(s) that fail the Uniqueness and Mailer Identification validations will be assigned a Barcode Quality noncompliance code and such pieces would be counted against the threshold. In addition, in July 2018, the Barcode Quality threshold would be increased from 95 percent to 98 percent. If mailpieces fail to meet the compliance threshold of 98 percent, customers would be assessed the IMpb Noncompliance Fee of $0.20 per piece for competitive parcels only. Public Participation Although the Postal Service is 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 public comments on the following proposed revisions 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. List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111 Administrative practice and procedure, Postal Service. For the reasons stated in the preamble, the Postal Service proposes to amend 39 CFR part 111 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 following sections of 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) * * * * * 200 Commercial Letters, Flats, and Parcels Design Standards * * * * * 204 Barcode Standards * * * * * 2.0 Standards for Package and Extra Service Barcodes 2.1 Intelligent Mail Package Barcode 2.1.1 Definition [Amend 204.2.1.1 by revising the third and fifth sentences to read as follows:] * * * Intelligent Mail package barcodes must be used on all commercial parcels and on other mailpieces requesting extra services. * * * Electronic files must include a complete destination delivery address (which has sufficient quality to yield an 11-digit ZIP Code that matches the delivery point) and/or a delivery point validation (DPV) 11-digit Code for all records in the file. * * * * * * * * 2.1.3 Barcode Data Fields [Revise the final sentence of the introductory paragraph for 204.2.1.3 as follows:] * * * Detailed specifications are provided in Publication 199 and available on PostalPro at https://postalpro.usps.com: * * * * * 2.1.7 Electronic File [Amend 204.2.1.7 by revising the introductory paragraph and item d as follows:] All mailers generating Intelligent Mail package barcodes must transmit piece-level information to the USPS in an approved electronic file format (except for mailers generating barcodes for use on return services products, such as MRS). Specifications for electronic files are available in Publication 199 on PostalPro at https://postalpro.usps.com. Electronic files must include the following elements: * * * * * d. Version 1.6 (or subsequent versions) of the electronic Shipping Services manifest files including each destination delivery address or ZIP+4 Code. Shipping Services File manifests or other approved electronic documentation, must include the destination delivery address (that has sufficient quality to yield an 11-digit ZIP Code that matches the delivery [[Page 8402]] point) or delivery point validation (DPV) 11-digit ZIP Code for each record in the file. [Amend 204.2.1.8 by revising the title and contents as follows:] 2.1.8 Compliance Quality Thresholds All mailers who enter commercial parcels must meet the established thresholds for the IMpb Compliance Quality Categories outlined in Exhibit 2.1.8 to avoid an IMpb Noncompliance Fee. For details, see Publication 199 available on PostalPro at http://postalpro.usps.com. Exhibit 2.1.8--IMpb Compliance Quality Thresholds ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Compliance Compliance categories Compliance codes Validations thresholds ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Address Quality: Checks for a timely AQ Must include a full, valid 89 address that validates to a unique 11 destination delivery address Digit DPV. that has sufficient quality to yield an 11-digit ZIP Code that matches the delivery point in the file as follows: [ssquf] Valid secondary address information.. [ssquf] Match between address to ZIP+4 Code.. [ssquf] Includes street number. [ssquf] Valid primary street number.. Customers using eVS must provide the address information prior to the Arrival at Unit (07) Event Scan and non-eVS customers at the time of mailing. Manifest Quality (Shipping Services MQ Entry facility must match 94 File): Checks for a timely Manifest between scan and manifest. File that passes 4 critical validation Valid PO of Account ZIP Code criteria. (Where account is held for payment).. Valid Payment Account (Permit Number).. Valid Method of Payment (Permit, Federal Agency, PC Postage, Smart Meter, Other Meter, or Stamps).. Barcode Quality: Checks the Barcode in BQ Valid and Certified Mailer ID 98 the manifest that passes 2 critical in the label that is in validations. Program Registration/Online Enrollment. IMpb must be unique for 120 days.. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [Amend 204.2.1. by adding new 204.2.1.9 as follows:] 2.1.9 Alternate Approval Labels not meeting IMpb specifications or other label element standards, but are still able to demonstrate acceptable functionality within USPS processes, may be allowed using an alternative approval process authorized by the Vice President, Enterprise Analytics (See DMM 608.8.1 for address). * * * * * 210 Commercial Mail Priority Mail Express 213 Prices and Eligibility * * * * * 3.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for Priority Mail Express * * * * * 3.2 IMpb Standards [Revise 213.3.2 by modifying the last two sentences as follows:] * * * Unless otherwise excepted, mailpieces not meeting the requirements for use of unique Intelligent Mail package barcodes or extra services barcodes as outlined in section 204.2.1.8 and Publication 199 will be assessed an IMpb noncompliance fee. For details, see the PostalPro website at https://postalpro.usps.com/node/782. * * * * * 220 Commercial Mail Priority Mail 223 Prices and Eligibility * * * * * 3.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for Priority Mail * * * * * 3.2 IMpb Standards [Revise 223.3.2 by modifying the last sentence as follows:] * * * Unless otherwise excepted, mailpieces not meeting the requirements for use of unique Intelligent Mail package barcodes or extra services barcodes as outlined in section 204.2.1.8 and Publication 199 will be assessed an IMpb noncompliance fee. For details, see the PostalPro website at https://postalpro.usps.com/node/782. * * * * * 250 Commercial Mail Parcel Select 253 Prices and Eligibility * * * * * 3.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for Parcel Select Parcels * * * * * 3.3 IMpb Standards [Revise 253.3.3 by modifying the last sentence as follows:] * * * Unless otherwise excepted, mailpieces not meeting the requirements for use of unique Intelligent Mail package barcodes or extra services barcodes as outlined in section 204.2.1.8 and Publication 199 will be assessed an IMpb noncompliance fee. For details, see the PostalPro website at https://postalpro.usps.com/node/782. * * * * * 280 Commercial Mail First-Class Package Service--Commercial 283 Prices and Eligibility * * * * * 3.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for First-Class Package Service-- Commercial * * * * * 3.4 IMpb Standards [Revise 283.3.4 by modifying the last two sentences as follows:] * * * Unless otherwise excepted, mailpieces not meeting the requirements for use of unique Intelligent Mail package barcodes or extra services barcodes as outlined in section 204.2.1.8 and Publication 199 will be assessed an IMpb noncompliance fee. For details, see the PostalPro website at https://postalpro.usps.com/node/782. * * * * * 600 Basic Standards For All Mailing Services * * * * * 608 Postal Information and Resources * * * * * 8.0 USPS Contact Information 8.1 Postal Service * * * * * [Revise 608.8.1 by adding Enterprise Analytics in alphabetic order as follows:] Enterprise Analytics, US Postal Service, 475 L'Enfant Plaza SW, Room 2100, Washington, DC 20260-2100. * * * * * [[Page 8403]] We will publish an appropriate amendment to 39 CFR part 111 and Publication 199 to reflect these changes, if our proposal is adopted. Ruth B. Stevenson, Attorney, Federal Compliance. [FR Doc. 2018-03947 Filed 2-26-18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 7710-12-P
![Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 39 / Tuesday, February 27, 2018 / Proposed Rules 8399
Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 POSTAL SERVICE Background
This regulatory action does not On December 18, 2013, in a notice of
39 CFR Part 111 final rulemaking (78 FR 76548–76560),
contain any information collection
requirements. Proposed Changes to Validations for the Postal Service announced that
Intelligent Mail Package Barcode mailers who enter commercial parcels
Intergovernmental Review must adhere to the following: IMpb
AGENCY: Postal ServiceTM. must be used on all commercial parcels;
This program is subject to Executive piece-level information must be
Order 12372 and the regulations in 34 ACTION: Proposed rule. submitted to the Postal Service via an
CFR part 79. One of the objectives of the approved electronic file format (except
Executive order is to foster an SUMMARY: The Postal Service is for mailers generating barcodes for use
intergovernmental partnership and a proposing to revise the Mailing on return services products, such as
strengthened federalism. The Executive Standards of the United States Postal MRS); and electronic files must include
order relies on processes developed by Service, Domestic Mail Manual the complete destination delivery
State and local governments for (DMM®), to add new Intelligent Mail® address and/or an 11-digit Delivery
coordination and review of proposed package barcode (IMpb) validations for Point Validation (DPV®) ZIP Code® for
Federal financial assistance. evaluating compliance with IMpb all records, except for Parcel Return
This document provides early requirements for all mailers who enter Service, a ZIP+4® Code is required to be
notification of the Department’s specific commercial parcels. encoded into the barcode for all returns
plans and actions for this program. DATES:Submit comments on or before products.
Accessible Format: Individuals with March 29, 2018. Since IMpb requirements were
disabilities can obtain this document in implemented, the Postal Service has
ADDRESSES: Mail or deliver written made significant advances with its
an accessible format (e.g., braille, large comments to the manager, Product
print, audiotape, or compact disc) on package strategy. Use of IMpbs
Classification, U.S. Postal Service, 475 continues to be the critical bridge
request to the contact person listed L’Enfant Plaza SW, Room 4446,
under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION between physical packages and the
Washington, DC 20260–5015. If sending digital information required to enable
CONTACT.
comments by email, include the name world class service, tracking, visibility,
Electronic Access to This Document: and address of the commenter and send and positive customer experiences.
The official version of this document is to ProductClassification@usps.gov, with Barcode intelligence along with the
the document published in the Federal a subject line of ‘‘Intelligent Mail corresponding digital data captured
Register. Free internet access to the Package Barcode Validations.’’ Faxed through in-transit processing and
official edition of the Federal Register comments are not accepted. You may delivery scans are fundamental
and the Code of Federal Regulations is inspect and photocopy all written requirements in the shipping market.
available via the Federal Digital System comments, by appointment only, at The data have enabled the Postal
at: www.gpo.gov/fdsys. At this site you USPS® Headquarters Library, 475 Service and its customers to enhance
can view this document, as well as all L’Enfant Plaza SW, 11th Floor North, products, improve customer
other documents of this Department Washington, DC 20260. These records satisfaction, increase efficiencies,
published in the Federal Register, in are available for review on Monday provide greater visibility, integrate with
text or Portable Document Format through Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m., by eCommerce and supply chain systems,
(PDF). To use PDF you must have calling 202–268–2906. enhance performance and analytics
Adobe Acrobat Reader, which is tools, and generate actionable business
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
available free at the site. insights for better decisions.
Direct questions or comments to
You may also access documents of the Juliaann Hess at jsanders.hess@usps.gov In January 2015, the Postal Service
Department published in the Federal or (202) 268–7663. required that all parcels with an IMpb
Register by using the article search be accompanied by the complete
feature at: www.federalregister.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Postal destination delivery address or an 11-
Specifically, through the advanced Service is proposing to update IMpb digit ZIP Code (validated by the DPV
search feature at this site, you can limit requirements relative to Compliance System, or an approved equivalent) in
your search to documents published by Quality Validations for Thresholds, the Shipping Services File or other
the Department. Address Quality, Shipping Services File approved electronic documentation.
Manifest Quality, and Barcode Quality. This information is critical to the Postal
List of Subjects in 34 CFR Part 300 These proposed validations would Service package strategy, the dynamic
allow the Postal Service to further routing process that enable package
Administrative practice and improve service, tracking, visibility, and
procedure, Education of individuals distribution without scheme-trained
positive customer experiences along employees, improving the customer’s
with disabilities, Elementary and with better identifying noncompliant
secondary education, Equal educational experience, and enhancing business
mailpieces. insights and analytics.
opportunity, Grant programs—
education, Privacy, Private schools, Technical and in-depth IMpb In January 2016, the Postal Service
Reporting and recordkeeping guidance is available in Publication 199, began measuring the quality of mailer
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
requirements. Intelligent Mail Package Barcode compliance for the newly introduced
Implementation Guide for: Confirmation IMpb Compliance Quality Category with
Dated: February 23, 2018. Services and Electronic Verification data validations to determine the IMpb
Johnny W. Collett, System Mailers, which is conveniently Compliance Assessment criteria as
Assistant Secretary for Special Education and located on the PostalPro website at follows: Address Quality, Manifest
Rehabilitative Services. https://postalpro.usps.com. This Quality, and Barcode Quality. Then, in
[FR Doc. 2018–04102 Filed 2–23–18; 4:15 pm] publication would be updated to reflect July 2017, the Postal Service began
BILLING CODE 4000–01–P all adopted changes. assessing mailers with a $0.20 IMpb
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![Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 39 / Tuesday, February 27, 2018 / Proposed Rules 8401
In accordance with this proposed and enables business insight from Mailing Standards of the United States
rule, the Shipping Services File parcels traveling through the Postal Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual
manifests must be received timely or Service network, which leads to (DMM)
each mailpiece on the file would be innovation and growth. Therefore, when * * * * *
noncompliant. For customers who do manifests are processed by the Postal
not use eVS, the Shipping Services Files Service, Barcode Quality would 200 Commercial Letters, Flats, and
must be transmitted to the Postal continue to be measured under the Parcels Design Standards
Service prior to the physical entry of the following standards: * * * * *
mailing for acceptance. Customers who D IMpb(s) must pass the Uniqueness
use eVS are required to transmit the and Mailer Identification validations 204 Barcode Standards
Shipping Services File prior to the without errors or warnings. * * * * *
Arrival at Post Office (07) scan event D The IMpb must be unique for 120
unless the address information was days from the date of the first event 2.0 Standards for Package and Extra
provided via the Shipping Partner Event record posted to the Postal Service’s Service Barcodes
File prior to the Arrival at Post Office database. 2.1 Intelligent Mail Package Barcode
(07) scan event. If the address is D The IMpb must include a valid 2.1.1 Definition
provided in the Shipping Partner Event Mailer Identification that is properly
File before the Arrival at Post Office (07) registered in the Postal Service’s [Amend 204.2.1.1 by revising the third
scan event, the mailer must transmit the Customer Registration Online and fifth sentences to read as follows:]
Shipping Services File prior to 23:59 on Enrollment System. * * * Intelligent Mail package
the date of mailing. Mailpieces that do D IMpb(s) that fail the Uniqueness and barcodes must be used on all
not have a Shipping Services File record Mailer Identification validations will be commercial parcels and on other
or have an untimely record would be assigned a Barcode Quality mailpieces requesting extra services.
noncompliant and receive a Manifest noncompliance code and such pieces * * * Electronic files must include a
Quality validation noncompliance code. would be counted against the threshold. complete destination delivery address
Manifest Files would have to pass the In addition, in July 2018, the Barcode (which has sufficient quality to yield an
following four validation criteria: Quality threshold would be increased 11-digit ZIP Code that matches the
• Entry Facility ZIP Code: The entry from 95 percent to 98 percent. If delivery point) and/or a delivery point
facility ZIP Code in the Shipping mailpieces fail to meet the compliance validation (DPV) 11-digit Code for all
Services File must match physical scan threshold of 98 percent, customers records in the file. * * *
event at location. would be assessed the IMpb * * * * *
• Payment Account Number: The
Noncompliance Fee of $0.20 per piece 2.1.3 Barcode Data Fields
USPS account number from which the
for competitive parcels only.
mailing will be paid must be valid. [Revise the final sentence of the
• Method of Payment: The approved Public Participation introductory paragraph for 204.2.1.3 as
payment method must be valid (permit follows:]
imprint, postage meter, PC Postage, Although the Postal Service is exempt
from the notice and comment * * * Detailed specifications are
OMAS, franked mail, and stamps) for provided in Publication 199 and
the mail being entered. requirements of the Administrative
Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 553(b), (c)) available on PostalPro at https://
• Post Office of Account: The 5-digit postalpro.usps.com:
ZIP Code of the Post Office issuing the regarding proposed rulemaking by 39
permit number, meter license, or U.S.C. 410(a), the Postal Service invites * * * * *
precancelled stamp must be valid and public comments on the following 2.1.7 Electronic File
agree with the information on the proposed revisions to Mailing Standards
of the United States Postal Service, [Amend 204.2.1.7 by revising the
postage statement.
Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), introductory paragraph and item d as
Also, the Transaction ID (TID) is
incorporated by reference in the Code of follows:]
already required. However, when the
Federal Regulations. See 39 CFR 111.1. All mailers generating Intelligent Mail
TID is used in conjunction with the
package barcodes must transmit piece-
Payment Account Number, Method of List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111 level information to the USPS in an
Payment, and Post Office of Account, it
Administrative practice and approved electronic file format (except
enables the Postal Service to calculate
procedure, Postal Service. for mailers generating barcodes for use
IMpb compliance for each mailing at the
For the reasons stated in the on return services products, such as
postage-statement level for non-eVS
preamble, the Postal Service proposes to MRS). Specifications for electronic files
customers. If any field is missing or
amend 39 CFR part 111 as follows: are available in Publication 199 on
inaccurate, a Manifest Quality IMpb
PostalPro at https://postalpro.usps.com.
Compliance Quality indicator would be
PART 111—[AMENDED] Electronic files must include the
assigned.
In addition, in July 2018, the Manifest following elements:
Quality threshold would be increased ■ 1. The authority citation for 39 CFR * * * * *
from 91 percent to 94 percent. If part 111 continues to read as follows: d. Version 1.6 (or subsequent
mailpieces fail to meet the compliance Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 13 U.S.C. 301– versions) of the electronic Shipping
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
threshold of 94 percent, customers 307; 18 U.S.C. 1692–1737; 39 U.S.C. 101, Services manifest files including each
would be assessed the IMpb 401, 403, 404, 414, 416, 3001–3011, 3201– destination delivery address or ZIP+4
Noncompliance Fee of $0.20 per piece 3219, 3403–3406, 3621, 3622, 3626, 3632, Code. Shipping Services File manifests
3633, and 5001. or other approved electronic
for competitive parcels only.
■ 2. Revise the following sections of documentation, must include the
Barcode Quality Mailing Standards of the United States destination delivery address (that has
Barcode Quality is essential to create Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual sufficient quality to yield an 11-digit
the digital trail that adds intelligence (DMM), as follows: ZIP Code that matches the delivery
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![8402 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 39 / Tuesday, February 27, 2018 / Proposed Rules
point) or delivery point validation 2.1.8 Compliance Quality Thresholds Quality Categories outlined in Exhibit
(DPV) 11-digit ZIP Code for each record 2.1.8 to avoid an IMpb Noncompliance
in the file. All mailers who enter commercial Fee. For details, see Publication 199
[Amend 204.2.1.8 by revising the title parcels must meet the established available on PostalPro at http://
and contents as follows:] thresholds for the IMpb Compliance postalpro.usps.com.
EXHIBIT 2.1.8—IMPB COMPLIANCE QUALITY THRESHOLDS
Compliance Compliance
Compliance categories Validations
codes thresholds
Address Quality: Checks for a timely ad- AQ Must include a full, valid destination delivery address that has sufficient quality to yield an 89
dress that validates to a unique 11 11-digit ZIP Code that matches the delivery point in the file as follows:
Digit DPV. D Valid secondary address information.
D Match between address to ZIP+4 Code.
D Includes street number.
D Valid primary street number.
Customers using eVS must provide the address information prior to the Arrival at Unit (07)
Event Scan and non-eVS customers at the time of mailing.
Manifest Quality (Shipping Services File): MQ Entry facility must match between scan and manifest. 94
Checks for a timely Manifest File that Valid PO of Account ZIP Code (Where account is held for payment).
passes 4 critical validation criteria. Valid Payment Account (Permit Number).
Valid Method of Payment (Permit, Federal Agency, PC Postage, Smart Meter, Other Meter,
or Stamps).
Barcode Quality: Checks the Barcode in BQ Valid and Certified Mailer ID in the label that is in Program Registration/Online Enrollment. 98
the manifest that passes 2 critical vali- IMpb must be unique for 120 days.
dations.
[Amend 204.2.1. by adding new 3.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for 280 Commercial Mail First-Class
204.2.1.9 as follows:] Priority Mail Package Service—Commercial
2.1.9 Alternate Approval * * * * * 283 Prices and Eligibility
Labels not meeting IMpb 3.2 IMpb Standards * * * * *
specifications or other label element 3.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for
standards, but are still able to [Revise 223.3.2 by modifying the last
sentence as follows:] First-Class Package Service—
demonstrate acceptable functionality Commercial
within USPS processes, may be allowed * * * Unless otherwise excepted,
using an alternative approval process mailpieces not meeting the * * * * *
authorized by the Vice President, requirements for use of unique 3.4 IMpb Standards
Enterprise Analytics (See DMM 608.8.1 Intelligent Mail package barcodes or
extra services barcodes as outlined in [Revise 283.3.4 by modifying the last
for address).
section 204.2.1.8 and Publication 199 two sentences as follows:]
* * * * * * * * Unless otherwise excepted,
will be assessed an IMpb
210 Commercial Mail Priority Mail noncompliance fee. For details, see the mailpieces not meeting the
Express PostalPro website at https:// requirements for use of unique
postalpro.usps.com/node/782. Intelligent Mail package barcodes or
213 Prices and Eligibility
extra services barcodes as outlined in
* * * * * * * * * *
section 204.2.1.8 and Publication 199
3.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for 250 Commercial Mail Parcel Select will be assessed an IMpb
Priority Mail Express noncompliance fee. For details, see the
253 Prices and Eligibility
PostalPro website at https://
* * * * * * * * * * postalpro.usps.com/node/782.
3.2 IMpb Standards 3.0 Basic Eligibility Standards for * * * * *
Parcel Select Parcels 600 Basic Standards For All Mailing
[Revise 213.3.2 by modifying the last
two sentences as follows:] * * * * * Services
* * * Unless otherwise excepted, 3.3 IMpb Standards * * * * *
mailpieces not meeting the
608 Postal Information and Resources
requirements for use of unique [Revise 253.3.3 by modifying the last
Intelligent Mail package barcodes or sentence as follows:] * * * * *
extra services barcodes as outlined in * * * Unless otherwise excepted, 8.0 USPS Contact Information
section 204.2.1.8 and Publication 199 mailpieces not meeting the
will be assessed an IMpb 8.1 Postal Service
requirements for use of unique
noncompliance fee. For details, see the
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
Intelligent Mail package barcodes or * * * * *
PostalPro website at https:// extra services barcodes as outlined in [Revise 608.8.1 by adding Enterprise
postalpro.usps.com/node/782. section 204.2.1.8 and Publication 199 Analytics in alphabetic order as
* * * * * will be assessed an IMpb follows:]
220 Commercial Mail Priority Mail noncompliance fee. For details, see the Enterprise Analytics, US Postal
PostalPro website at https:// Service, 475 L’Enfant Plaza SW, Room
223 Prices and Eligibility postalpro.usps.com/node/782. 2100, Washington, DC 20260–2100.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
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![Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 39 / Tuesday, February 27, 2018 / Proposed Rules 8403
We will publish an appropriate comment contents located outside of the source regulation and SIP development
amendment to 39 CFR part 111 and primary submission (i.e., on the web, responsibilities to the states through
Publication 199 to reflect these changes, cloud, or other file sharing system). For title I of the Act and assigns mobile
if our proposal is adopted. additional submission methods, please source regulation to the EPA through
contact the person identified in the FOR title II of the Act. In so doing, the CAA
Ruth B. Stevenson,
FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section. preempts various types of state
Attorney, Federal Compliance. regulation of mobile sources as set forth
For the full EPA public comment policy,
[FR Doc. 2018–03947 Filed 2–26–18; 8:45 am] information about CBI or multimedia in section 209(a) (preemption of state
BILLING CODE 7710–12–P submissions, and general guidance on emissions standards for new motor
making effective comments, please visit vehicles and engines), section 209(e)
http://www2.epa.gov/dockets/ (preemption of state emissions
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION commenting-epa-dockets. standards for new and in-use off-road
AGENCY FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John vehicles and engines),1 and section
Ungvarsky, EPA Region IX, (415) 972– 211(c)(4)(A) (preemption of state fuel
40 CFR Part 52 requirements for motor vehicle emission
3963, ungvarsky.john@epa.gov.
[EPA–R09–OAR–2017–0620; FRL–9974– SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
control, i.e., other than California’s
85—Region 9] Throughout this document, ‘‘we,’’ ‘‘us’’ motor vehicle fuel requirements for
and ‘‘our’’ refer to the EPA. motor vehicle emission control—see
Approval and Promulgation of section 211(c)(4)(B)).
Implementation Plans; California; Table of Contents Under California law, the California
California Mobile Source Regulations I. Background Air Resources Board (CARB) is the State
II. The State’s Submittal agency responsible for adopting and
AGENCY: Environmental Protection
A. What regulations did the State submit? submitting the California SIP and SIP
Agency (EPA).
B. Are there other versions of these revisions. Over the years, CARB has
ACTION: Proposed rule. regulations? submitted, and the EPA has approved,
SUMMARY: The Environmental Protection C. What is the purpose of the submitted many county and regional air district
regulations? rules regulating stationary source
Agency (EPA) is proposing to approve a D. What requirements do the regulations
submittal by the State of California emissions as part of the California SIP.
establish? See generally 40 CFR 52.220(c). With
(‘‘State’’) to revise its State III. EPA’s Evaluation and Proposed Action
Implementation Plan (SIP). The A. How is the EPA evaluating the
respect to mobile sources not
submittal consists of State regulations regulations? specifically preempted under the CAA,
establishing standards and other B. Do the State’s regulations meet CAA SIP CARB has submitted, and the EPA has
requirements relating to the control of evaluation criteria? approved, certain specific State
emissions from certain new and in-use C. Proposed Action and Public Comment regulatory programs, such as the in-use,
on-road and off-road vehicles and IV. Incorporation by Reference heavy-duty, diesel-fueled truck rule,
V. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews various fuels regulations, and the
engines. The EPA is proposing to
approve the SIP revision because the I. Background vehicle inspection and maintenance
regulations meet the applicable program (I/M, also known as ‘‘smog
Under the Clean Air Act (CAA or check’’). See, e.g., 77 FR 20308 (April 4,
requirements of the Clean Air Act. If ‘‘Act’’), the EPA establishes national
finalized, approval of the regulations as 2012) (in-use truck and bus regulation),
ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) 75 FR 26653 (May 12, 2010) (revisions
part of the California SIP will make to protect public health and welfare.
them federally enforceable. to California on-road reformulated
The EPA has established NAAQS for gasoline and diesel fuel regulations) and
DATES: Any comments must arrive by certain pervasive air pollutants 75 FR 38023 (July 1, 2010) (revisions to
March 29, 2018. including ozone, carbon monoxide, California motor vehicle I/M program).
ADDRESSES: Submit your comments, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, lead CARB and the air districts rely on
identified by Docket ID No. EPA–R09– and particulate matter. Under section these county, regional and State
OAR–2017–0620 at http:// 110(a)(1) of the CAA, states must submit stationary and mobile source regulations
www.regulations.gov, or via email to plans that provide for the to meet various CAA requirements and
John Ungvarsky, at Ungvarsky.John@ implementation, maintenance, and include the corresponding emissions
epa.gov. For comments submitted at enforcement of the NAAQS within each reductions in the various regional air
Regulations.gov, follow the online state. Such plans are referred to as SIPs, quality plans developed to attain and
instructions for submitting comments. and revisions to those plans are referred maintain the NAAQS. The EPA
Once submitted, comments cannot be to as SIP revisions. Section 110(a)(2) of generally allows California to take credit
removed or edited from Regulations.gov. the CAA sets forth the content for the corresponding emissions
For either manner of submission, the requirements for SIPs. Among the reductions relied upon in the various
EPA may publish any comment received various requirements, SIPs must include regional air quality plans because,
to its public docket. Do not submit enforceable emission limitations and among other reasons, the regulations are
electronically any information you other control measures, means, or approved as part of the SIP and are
consider to be Confidential Business techniques as may be necessary or thereby federally enforceable as
Information (CBI) or other information appropriate to meet the applicable required under CAA section
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
whose disclosure is restricted by statute. requirements of the CAA. See CAA 110(a)(2)(A).
Multimedia submissions (audio, video, section 110(a)(2)(a).
etc.) must be accompanied by a written Emissions sources contributing to 1 EPA regulations refer to ‘‘nonroad’’ vehicles and
comment. The written comment is ambient air pollution levels can be engines whereas California Air Resources Board
considered the official comment and divided into two basic categories: (CARB) regulations refer to ‘‘off-road’’ vehicles and
engines. These terms refer to the same types of
should include discussion of all points Stationary emissions sources and vehicles and engines, and for the purposes of this
you wish to make. The EPA will mobile emissions sources. As a general action, we will be using CARB’s chosen term, ‘‘off-
generally not consider comments or matter, the CAA assigns stationary road,’’ to refer to such vehicles and engines.
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Document Created: 2018-02-27 01:14:58
Document Modified: 2018-02-27 01:14:58
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Proposed Rules | |
| Action | Proposed rule. | |
| Dates | Submit comments on or before March 29, 2018. | |
| Contact | Direct questions or comments to Juliaann Hess at [email protected] or (202) 268-7663. | |
| FR Citation | 83 FR 8399 | |
| CFR Associated | Administrative Practice and Procedure and Postal Service |
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