Proposed Domestic Mail Manual Changes for Sacking and Palletizing Periodicals Nonletters and Standard Mail (A) Flats, for Traying First-Class Flats, and for Labeling Pallets

[Amend 1.7 to refer to the preparation of merged 5-digit sacks and merged 5-digit scheme sacks to read as follows:]

Except for flat-size and irregular parcel-size Periodicals under 1.8, after all carrier route, 5-digit carrier routes (and, where permitted for flats in sacks, merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, merged 5-digit, and where permitted for letters in trays, 3-digit carrier routes), 5-digit (and where permitted for automation letters in trays, 5-digit scheme), 3-digit (and, where permitted for automation letters in trays, 3-digit scheme) sacks/trays are prepared, an origin/entry 3-digit sack or tray (or, if applicable, origin/entry 3-digit scheme tray) must be prepared to contain any remaining mail for each 3-digit (or 3-digit scheme) area serviced by the SCF (mail processing office) serving the post office where the mail is verified (origin), and may be prepared for each 3-digit (or 3-digit scheme) area served by the SCF/plant where mail is entered (if that is different from the SCF/plant serving the post office where the mail is verified, e.g., a PVDS deposit site). In all cases, only one less-than-full sack or tray may be prepared for each 3-digit (or 3-digit scheme) area.

1.8 Periodicals Flats and Irregular Parcels Origin/Entry SCF Sacks

[Amend 1.8 to refer to the preparation of merged 5-digit sacks and merged 5-digit scheme sacks to read as follows:]

For flat-size and irregular parcel-size Periodicals, after all carrier route, 5-digit carrier routes (and, where permitted, merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, and merged 5-digit), 5-digit, 3-digit, and required SCF sacks are prepared, an origin/entry SCF sack must be prepared to contain any remaining 5-digit and 3-digit packages for the 3-digit ZIP Code area(s) served by the SCF serving the post office where the mail is verified (origin), and may be prepared for the area served by the SCF/plant where mail is entered (if that is different from the SCF/plant serving the post office where the mail is verified, e.g., a PVDS deposit site). In all cases, only one less-than-full sack may be prepared for each SCF area.

M040 Pallets

M041 General Standards

5.0 PREPARATION

5.1 Presort

[Amend the first five sentences of 5.1 to provide for advanced pallet preparation options in M720 to read as follows:]

Pallet preparation and pallet sortation are subject to the specific standards in M045 and M720. Pallet sortation is generally intended to presort the palletized portion of a mailing to at least the finest extent required for the corresponding class of mail and method of preparation. Pallet sortation is sequential from the lowest (finest) level to the highest and must be completed at each required level before the next optional or required level is prepared. Standard preparation terms for pallets are defined in M011, standard presort levels are defined in M045 and advanced presort levels are defined in M720. For sacks, trays, or machinable parcels on pallets, the mailer must prepare all required pallet levels before any mixed ADC or mixed BMC pallets are prepared for a mailing or job. Packages and bundles prepared under M045 or M720 must not be placed on mixed ADC or mixed BMC pallets * * *

5.2 Required Preparation

[Amend the second sentence of 5.2a 1 to provide for advanced pallet preparation options in M720 to read as follows:]

These standards apply to:

a. Periodicals, Standard Mail (A), and Parcel Post (other than BMC Presort, OBMC Presort, DSCF, and DDU rate mail). * * * For packages of Periodicals flats and irregular parcels and packages of Standard Mail (A) flats on pallets prepared under the standards for package reallocation (M045.5.0), not all mail for a required 5-digit destination is required to be on a merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, 5-digit scheme, merged 5-digit, 5-digit carrier routes, or 5-digit pallet. * * *

5.6 Mail on Pallets

[Amend 5.6 by removing current 5.6c and 5.6d; redesignating current 5.6e as 5.6f, adding new 5.6c through 5.6e to reflect new requirements for separating carrier route rate mail from non-carrier route rate mail on 5-digit and 5-digit scheme pallets to read as follows:]

These standards apply to mail on pallets:

c. For Bound Printed Matter (other than machinable parcels), carrier route rate mail and Presorted rate mail in the same mailing job may be combined on all levels of pallets.

d. For Standard Mail (A) and Periodicals letter-size mail prepared in trays on pallets, and for nonletter-size Periodicals and Standard Mail (A) prepared either as sacks on pallets or as packages/bundles on pallets, carrier route rate mail must be prepared on separate 5-digit pallets (5-digit carrier routes or 5-digit scheme carrier routes pallets) from automation rate or Presorted rate mail (that must be prepared on 5-digit pallets or 5-digit scheme pallets). Exception: When nonletter-size Periodicals and flat-size Standard Mail (A) is prepared under 5.6e, carrier route rate mail, automation rate mail, and Presorted rate mail may be copalletized on the same merged 5-digit pallet or on the same merged 5-digit scheme pallet for applicable 5-digit ZIP Codes.

e. Mailers of nonletter-size Periodicals and flat-size Standard Mail (A) that prepare packages and/or bundles on pallets may copalletize carrier route rate mail, automation rate mail, and Presorted rate mail on the same merged 5-digit pallet or on the same merged 5-digit scheme pallet for those 5-digit ZIP Codes where the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product indicates this is permissible. To use this option, mailings must meet the standards in M720.

6.0 COPALLETIZED, COMBINED, OR MIXED-RATE LEVEL MAILINGS OF FLAT-SIZE PIECES

6.2 Application

[Amend 6.2 by removing the last word “M045” and replacing it with “M045 or M720.”]

6.3 Periodicals Publications

[Amend 6.3 by replacing the reference “M045” in the next to last sentence with “M045 or M720.”]

6.4 Standard Mail (A)

[Amend the last sentence of 6.4 by removing the word “M045” and replacing it with “M045 or M720.”]

M045 Palletized Mailings

4.0 PALLET PRESORT AND LABELING

[Amend 4.0 by removing current 4.4; redesignating current 4.2 and 4.3 as 4.4 and 4.5, respectively; amending 4.1 to make it applicable to only Periodicals mail, to reflect new 5-digit pallet preparation procedures, and to clarify and amend the standards for line 2 of pallet labels; adding new 4.2 that separately specifies sortation of Standard Mail (A) pallets, reflects new 5-digit pallet preparation procedures, and clarifies and amends the standards for line 2 of pallet labels; adding new 4.3 that separately specifies sortation of Bound Printed Matter pallets and clarifies and amends the standards for line 2 of pallet labels to read as follows:]

4.1 Periodicals Packages, Bundles, Sacks, or Trays on Pallets

Mailers must prepare pallets in the sequence listed below. Mailers not opting to perform or not permitted to perform scheme sortation under 4.1a and 4.1b using L001 must begin preparing pallets under 4.1c. Pallets must be labeled according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under M031. At the mailer's option, Periodicals nonletter mail prepared as packages and/or bundles on pallets may be palletized in accordance with the advanced presort option under M720.

a. 5-Digit Scheme Carrier Routes. Optional. Permitted only for nonletter-size packages/bundles on pallets. May contain only carrier route packages and bundles for the same 5-digit scheme under L001. If scheme sort is performed, it must be done for all 5-digit scheme destinations. For all 5-digit destinations that are not part of a scheme, prepare 5-digit carrier routes pallets under 4.1c.

(1) Line 1: use L001, Column B.

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “CARRIER ROUTES” or “CR-RTS” and “SCHEME” or “SCH.”

b. 5-Digit Scheme. Optional. Permitted only for nonletter-size packages/bundles on pallets. May contain only automation rate and/or Presorted rate packages and bundles for the same 5-digit scheme under L001. If scheme sort is performed, it must be done for all 5-digit scheme destinations. For all 5-digit destinations that are not part of a scheme, prepare 5-digit pallets under 4.1d.

(1) Line 1: use L001, Column B.

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “5D,” followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail, followed by “SCHEME” or “SCH.”

c. 5-Digit Carrier Routes. Required for sacks; required for packages and bundles (except for packages and bundles prepared to 5-digit scheme carrier routes pallets under 4.1a); optional for trays. May contain only carrier route mail for the same 5-digit ZIP Code.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” or, for trays on pallets only, “LTRS” as applicable; followed by “CARRIER ROUTES” or “CR-RTS.”

d. 5-Digit. Required for sacks; required for packages and bundles (except for packages and bundles prepared to 5-digit scheme pallets under 4.1b); optional for trays. May contain only automation rate and/or Presorted rate mail for the same 5-digit ZIP Code.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” or, trays on pallets only, “LTRS” as applicable; followed by “5D;” followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail; and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

e. 3-Digit. Optional. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate mail.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” or (trays on pallets only) “LTRS” as applicable, followed by “3D,” followed by “DDU” if DDU rates are claimed, followed by “DSCF” if SCF rates are claimed, followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

f. SCF. Required. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate mail.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column C

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” or, trays on pallets only, “LTRS” as applicable; followed by “SCF;” followed by “DDU” if DDU rates are claimed; followed by “DSCF” if SCF rates are claimed; followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail; and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

g. ADC. Required. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate mail.

(1) Line 1 labeling: use L004.

(2) Line 2 labeling: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” or, trays on pallets only, “LTRS” as applicable; followed by “ADC;” followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail; and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

h. For sacks and trays on pallets only, mixed ADC. Optional. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate mail.

(1) Line 1: use “MXD” followed by the city/state/ZIP Code of the ADC serving the 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of the entry post office as shown in L004, Column A (label to plant serving entry post office if authorized by the processing and distribution manager).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” or, trays on pallets only, “LTRS” as applicable; followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail; and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail; followed by “WKG.”

4.2 Standard Mail (A) Packages, Bundles, Sacks, or Trays on Pallets

Mailers must prepare pallets in the sequence listed below. Mailers not opting to perform or not permitted to perform scheme sortation under 4.2a and 4.2b using L001 must begin preparing pallets under 4.2c. Pallets must be labeled according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under M031. At the mailer's option, flat-size Standard Mail (A) prepared as packages and/or bundles on pallets may be palletized in accordance with the advanced presort option under M720.

a. 5-Digit Scheme Carrier Routes. Optional. Permitted only for flat-size packages/bundles on pallets. May contain only carrier route rate packages and bundles for the same 5-digit scheme under L001. If scheme sort is performed, it must be done for all 5-digit scheme destinations. For all 5-digit destinations that are not part of a scheme, prepare 5-digit carrier routes pallets under 4.2c.

(1) Line 1: use L001, Column B.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS 5D” followed by “CARRIER ROUTES” or “CR-RTS” and “SCHEME” or “SCH.”

b. 5-Digit Scheme. Optional. Permitted only for flat-size packages/bundles on pallets. May contain only automation rate and/or Presorted rate packages and bundles for the same 5-digit scheme under L001. If scheme sort is performed, it must be done for all 5-digit scheme destinations. For all 5-digit destinations that are not part of a scheme, prepare 5-digit pallets under 4.2d.

(1) Line 1: use L001, Column B.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS 5D,” followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail, and followed by “SCHEME” or “SCH.”

c. 5-Digit Carrier Routes. Required for sacks; required for packages and bundles (except for packages and bundles prepared to 5-digit carrier route scheme pallets under 4.2a); optional for trays. May contain only carrier route rate mail for the same 5-digit ZIP Code.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS” or “STD A IRREG” or, for trays on pallets only “STD LTRS,” as applicable, followed by “CARRIER ROUTES” or “CR-RTS.”

d. 5-Digit. Required for sacks; required for packages and bundles (except for packages and bundles prepared to 5-digit scheme pallets under 4.2b); optional for trays. May contain only automation rate and/or Presorted rate mail for the same 5-digit ZIP Code.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS 5D” or “STD A IRREG 5D” or, for trays on pallets only “STD LTRS 5D,” as applicable; followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail; and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

e. 3-digit: optional. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate mail.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS 3D” or “STD A IRREG 3D” or, for trays on pallets only “STD LTRS 3D,” as applicable; followed by “DDU” if DDU rates are claimed, followed by “DSCF” if DSCF rates are claimed; followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail; and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

f. SCF. Required. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate mail.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column C.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS SCF” or “STD A IRREG SCF” or, for trays on pallets only “STD LTRS SCF,” as applicable; followed by “DDU” if DDU rates are claimed, followed by “DSCF” if DSCF rates are claimed; followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail; and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

g. If DBMC rates are not claimed: Destination BMC. Required. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate mail. Sort ADC packages, trays, or sacks, or AADC trays to BMC pallets based on the label to ZIP Code for the ADC in L004 or the label to ZIP Code for the AADC in L801.

(1) Line 1: use L601.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS BMC” or “STD A IRREG BMC” or, for trays on pallets only “STD LTRS BMC” as applicable, followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

g. If DBMC rates are claimed: Destination ASF/BMC. Destination ASF allowed and required only if DBMC rate is claimed for mail deposited at an ASF, otherwise sort to Destination BMC. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate mail. Sort ADC packages, trays or sacks, or AADC trays to ASF/BMC pallets based on the label to ZIP Code for the ADC in L004 or the label to ZIP Code for the AADC in L801.

(1) Line 1: use L602.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS” or “STD A IRREG” or, for trays on pallets only “STD LTRS,” as applicable; followed by “ASF” or “BMC as applicable; followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail; and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

h. For sacks and trays on pallets only, mixed BMC. Optional. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and/or Presorted rate mail.

(1) Line 1: use “MXD” followed by the information in L601, Column B, for the BMC serving the 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of the entry post office (label to plant serving entry post office if authorized by the processing and distribution manager).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS” or “STD A IRREG” or, for trays on pallets only “STD LTRS” as applicable, followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail, followed by “WKG.”

4.3 Bound Printed Matter Packages, Bundles, or Sacks on Pallets Prepare pallets in the sequence listed below. Label pallets according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under M031.

a. 5-digit. Required for sacks and for packages and bundles. May contain carrier route rate and/or Presorted rate mail.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS 5D” or “STD B IRREG 5D” as applicable, and, if the pallet contains only carrier route mail, followed by “CARRIER ROUTES” (OR “CR-RTS”).

b. 3-digit. Optional. May contain carrier route rate and/or Presorted rate mail.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS 3D” or “STD B IRREG 3D” as applicable.

c. SCF. Required. May contain carrier route rate and/or Presorted rate mail.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column C.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS SCF” or “STD B IRREG SCF” as applicable.

d. Destination BMC. Required. May contain carrier route rate and/or Presorted rate mail.

(1) Line 1: use L601. Sort ADC packages or sacks to BMC pallets based on the label to ZIP Code for the ADC in L004.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS BMC” or “STD B IRREG BMC” as applicable.

e. For sacks on pallets only, mixed BMC. Optional. May contain carrier route rate and/or Presorted rate mail.

(1) Line 1: use “MXD” followed by the information in L601, Column B, for the BMC serving the 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of the entry post office (label to plant serving entry post office if authorized by the processing and distribution manager).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS” or “STD B IRREG” as applicable, followed by “WKG.”

4.4 Machinable Parcels—Standard Mail (A), Bound Printed Matter, and Parcel Post (Except BMC Presort, OBMC Presort, and Parcel Select DDU and DSCF)

Mailers must prepare pallets in the sequence listed below. Mailers may prepare Parcel Post other than BMC Presort, OBMC Presort, and Parcel Select DDU and DSCF on pallets under 4.4 as an option. If Parcel Post is optionally sorted under 4.4 it must meet all the requirements of 4.4. Pallets must be labeled according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under M031.

a. 5-digit. Required, except optional for Standard Mail (A) if 3/5 rates are not claimed.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD A MACH 5D” or “STD B MACH 5D” as applicable.

b. For Standard Mail if DBMC rates are not claimed: Destination BMC. Required.

(1) Line 1: use L601.

(2) Line 2: “STD A MACH BMC” or “STD B MACH BMC,” as applicable.

c. For Standard Mail if DBMC rates are claimed: Destination ASF/BMC. Destination ASF allowed and required only if DBMC rate is claimed for mail deposited at an ASF, otherwise sort to destination BMC (required).

(1) Line 1: use L602.

(2) Line 2: “STD A MACH” or “STD B MACH” as applicable; followed by “ASF” or “BMC” as applicable.

d. Mixed BMC. Optional.

(1) Line 1: use “MXD” followed by the information in L601, Column B, for the BMC serving the 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of the entry post office (label to plant serving entry post office if authorized by the processing and distribution manager).

(2) Line 2: “STD A MACH” or “STD B MACH” as applicable, followed by “WKG.”

4.5 Presorted Special Standard and Library Mail

Mailers must prepare 5-digit pallets for Presorted 5-digit rate mailings and must prepare BMC pallets for Presorted BMC rate mailings as described below. Label pallets according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under M031.

a. 5-digit (5-digit rate only). Required.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS 5D,” or “STD B IRREG 5D,” or “STD B MACH 5D,” as applicable.

b. Destination BMC (BMC rate only). Required.

(1) Line 1: use L601.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS BMC,” or “STD B IRREG BMC,” or “STD B MACH BMC,” as applicable.

5.0 PACKAGE REALLOCATION FOR PERIODICALS FLATS AND IRREGULAR PARCELS AND STANDARD MAIL (A) FLATS ON PALLETS

5.1 Basic Standards

[Amend the second sentence of 5.1 to provide for new pallet levels to read as follows:]

* * * The software will determine if mail for an SCF service area would fall beyond the SCF level if all optional merged 5-digit scheme, optional 5-digit scheme carrier routes, optional 5-digit scheme, merged 5-digit, required 5-digit carrier routes, required 5-digit, or optional 3-digit pallets are prepared. * * *

5.2 General Reallocation Rules

[Amend 5.2b, 5.2c, and 5.2d to provide for new pallet levels to read as follows:]

Reallocation rules:

b. Reallocate packages from the highest available pallet level possible. If it is not possible to reallocate some mail from a 3-digit pallet first, then attempt to eliminate a 3-digit pallet and reallocate all mail from that pallet to create an SCF pallet; if mail cannot be reallocated from a 3-digit pallet, then attempt to reallocate some mail from a 5-digit, 5-digit carrier routes, merged 5-digit, 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, or merged 5-digit scheme pallet.

c. The reallocation process may result in the elimination of a 3-digit pallet to create an SCF pallet, but a 5-digit, 5-digit carrier routes, merged 5-digit, 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, or merged 5-digit scheme pallet may not be eliminated in order to create an SCF pallet.

d. When reallocating mail to create an SCF pallet, reallocate mail from only one more finely sorted pallet. This may be accomplished by reallocating a portion of a 3-digit pallet, reallocating all mail from a 3-digit pallet, or reallocating a portion of one of the following pallets: 5-digit, 5-digit carrier routes, merged 5-digit, 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, or merged 5-digit scheme.

5.3-Reallocation of Packages if Optional 3-Digit Pallets Are Prepared

[Amend 5.3c and 5.3d to provide for new pallet levels to read as follows:]

Reallocation rules:

c. If preparation is under M045 and there are no 3-digit pallets, attempt to identify a 5-digit, 5-digit carrier routes, 5-digit scheme, or 5-digit scheme carrier routes pallet of adequate weight to support reallocation of one or more packages to bring the mail that would fall beyond the SCF pallet level back to the SCF level. If preparation is under M720 and there are no 3-digit pallets, attempt to identify a 5-digit, 5-digit carrier routes, merged 5-digit, 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, or merged 5-digit scheme pallet of adequate weight to support reallocation of one or more packages to bring the mail that would fall beyond the SCF pallet level back to the SCF level. A sufficient volume of mail must remain on the applicable pallet after reallocation to meet the pallet weight minimum established by the mailer in compliance with applicable DMM standards. If a 5-digit, 5-digit carrier routes, merged 5-digit, 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, or merged 5-digit scheme pallet, as applicable, of adequate weight is available, create an SCF pallet by combining the reallocated packages with the mail that would fall beyond the SCF pallet level.

d. If no single 5-digit, 5-digit carrier routes, merged 5-digit, 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, or merged 5-digit scheme pallet, as applicable, within the SCF service area contains an adequate volume of mail to allow reallocation of a portion of the mail on a pallet as described in 5.3c, then no packages will be reallocated and an SCF pallet will not be prepared; the mail that falls beyond the SCF pallet level must be placed on the appropriate level pallet (ADC or BMC) or in the appropriate level sack.

5.4 Reallocation of Packages if Optional 3-digit Pallets Are Not Prepared

[Amend 5.4a and 5.4b to provide for new pallet levels to read as follows:]

Reallocation rules:

a. Attempt to identify a 5-digit, 5-digit carrier routes, merged 5-digit, 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, or merged 5-digit scheme pallet of adequate weight to support reallocation of one or more packages to bring the mail that would fall beyond the SCF pallet level back to the SCF level. A sufficient volume of mail must remain on the 5-digit, 5-digit carrier routes, merged 5-digit, 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, or merged 5-digit scheme pallet after reallocation to meet the pallet weight minimum established by the mailer in compliance with applicable DMM standards. If a 5-digit, 5-digit carrier routes, merged 5-digit, 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, or merged 5-digit scheme pallet of adequate weight is available, create an SCF pallet by combining the reallocated packages with the mail that would fall beyond the SCF pallet level.

b. If no single 5-digit, 5-digit carrier routes, merged 5-digit, 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, or merged 5-digit scheme pallet within the SCF service area contains an adequate volume of mail to allow reallocation of a portion of the mail on a pallet as described in 5.4a, then no packages will be reallocated and an SCF pallet will not be prepared; the mail that falls beyond the SCF pallet level must be placed on the appropriate level pallet (ADC or BMC) or in the appropriate level sack.

6.0 PALLETS OF PACKAGES, BUNDLES, AND TRAYS OF LETTER-SIZE MAIL

6.1 Periodicals

[Amend 6.1 by replacing the second sentence with the following to require placement of carrier route sorted mail on separate pallets from automation rate and Presorted rate mail at the 5-digit presort level to read as follows:]

* * * Carrier route sorted pieces must be prepared on separate 5-digit pallets (5-digit carrier routes or 5-digit scheme carrier routes pallets) from automation rate or Presorted rate pieces (prepared on 5-digit pallets or 5-digit scheme pallets). Exception: When non-letter-size Periodicals are prepared as packages and/or bundles on pallets under M720, carrier route sorted mail, automation rate mail, and Presorted rate mail may be placed on the same merged 5-digit pallet or on the same merged 5-digit scheme pallet for those 5-digit ZIP Codes for which the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product indicates are eligible for such copalletization. * * *

6.2 Standard Mail (A)

[Amend 6.2 by replacing the second sentence with the following to require placement of carrier route rate mail on separate pallets from automation rate and Presorted rate mail at the 5-digit presort level to read as follows:]

* * * Carrier route rate pieces must be prepared on separate 5-digit pallets (5-digit carrier routes or 5-digit scheme carrier routes pallets) from automation rate and/or Presorted rate pieces (prepared on 5-digit pallets or 5-digit scheme pallets). Exception: When flat-size pieces are prepared as packages and/or bundles on pallets under M720, carrier route rate mail, automation rate mail, and Presorted rate mail may be placed on the same merged 5-digit pallet or on the same merged 5-digit scheme pallet for those 5-digit ZIP Codes for which the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product indicates are eligible for such copalletization. * * *

8.0 PALLETS OF COPALLETIZED PERIODICALS OR STANDARD MAIL (A) FLAT-SIZE PIECES

8.1 Basic Standards

[Amend 8.1 by adding the following after the first sentence to provide for preparation under M720 to read as follows:]

* * * In addition, if copalletized under M720, the provisions of M720 must be met. * * *

[Amend the heading and the contents of 8.4 to read as follows:]

8.4 Pallet Labels

Pallet labels for copalletized mailings must meet the provisions of M031, M045.4.0, and if applicable, M720.

M100 First-Class Mail (Nonautomation)

M130 Presorted First-Class

1.0 BASIC STANDARDS

1.1 All Pieces

[Amend 1.1 to provide for preparation under M720 to read as follows:]

Each Presorted First-Class mailing must meet the applicable standards in E130 and in M010, M020, and M030; flat-sized mail co-trayed with automation rate mail must be prepared under 1.6 and M720. All pieces must be in the same processing category, subject to 1.4, and must be sorted together and prepared under 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, or 5.0 as appropriate; automation rate First-Class Mail must be prepared under M710, M810, or M820, as applicable. Letter-size pieces (including card-size pieces) must be prepared in letter trays; flat-size pieces must be prepared in flat trays; parcels must be prepared in sacks. Subject to M012, all pieces must be marked “Presorted” and “First-Class.”

[Add new 1.6 to read as follows:]

1.6 Co-Traying with Automation Rate Mail

Packages of flat-size mail prepared under 4.1 may be co-trayed with automation rate mail that is part of the same mailing job at all levels of trays if prepared under M710.

M200 Periodicals (Nonautomation)

1.0 BASIC STANDARDS

1.1 General Preparation

[Amend 1.1 to provide for preparation under M710 and M720 to read as follows:]

All pieces in each nonautomation rate Periodicals mailing must be in the same processing category and sorted together to the finest extent required under 2.0 and either 3.0 or 4.0 as appropriate; automation rate Periodicals must be prepared under M810 or M820, as applicable; nonletter-size mail co-sacked with automation rate mail must be prepared under 1.6 and M710, or under 1.7 and M720. Letter-size pieces must be prepared in trays; flat-size pieces must be prepared in sacks. Palletization of trays, sacks, or packages is permitted by M040, M045, and M720. Postmasters may authorize preparation of small mailings in nonpostal containers if they consist primarily of packages for local ZIP Codes, do not exceed 20 pounds, and do not require postal transportation for processing.

[Add new 1.6 and 1.7 to provide for preparation under M710 and M720 to read as follows:]

1.6 Co-Sacking with Automation Rate Mail

Packages of nonletter-size mail prepared under 2.4a and 2.4c through 2.4f may be co-sacked with automation rate mail that is part of the same mailing job under the standards in M710.

1.7 Merged Containerization of Carrier Route, Automation Rate, and Presorted Rate Mail

Under the standards in M720, nonletter-size firm and 5-digit packages at Presorted rates that are prepared under 1.0 and 2.4a and 2.4c may be co-sacked or copalletized with nonletter-size carrier route packages prepared under 1.0 and 2.4b and with nonletter-size 5-digit packages at automation rates prepared under M820 in merged 5-digit sacks or pallets and in merged 5-digit scheme sacks or pallets. Such co-sacking or copalletization may only be performed for those 5-digit ZIP Codes with an indicator in the Carrier Route Indicators field of the City State Product that shows such combination is permissible.

M600 Standard Mail (Nonautomation)

M610 Presorted Standard Mail (A)

1.0 BASIC STANDARDS

1.1 All Mailings

[Amend the first sentence of 1.1 and 1.1c to provide for preparation under M710 and M720 to read as follows:]

All mailings at Presorted Standard rates are subject to specific preparation standards in 2.0 through 6.0 and to these general standards (automation rate mail must be prepared under M710, M720, M810, or M820 as applicable):

c. All pieces must be sorted together and prepared under M045, or under M610 or, if flat-sized under M710 or 720.

[Add new 1.5 and 1.6 to provide for preparation under M710 and M720 to read as follows:]

1.5 Co-Sacking with Automation Rate Mail

Packages of flat-size mail prepared under 4.3 may be co-sacked with automation rate mail that is part of the same mailing job under the standards in M710.

1.6 Merged Containerization With Carrier Route and Automation Rate Mail

Under the standards in M720, flat-size 5-digit packages at Presorted rates prepared under 4.3a may be co-sacked or copalletized with flat-size carrier route rate packages prepared under M620 and with flat-size 5-digit packages at automation rates prepared under M820 in merged 5-digit sacks or pallets, or in merged 5-digit scheme sacks or pallets. Such co-sacking or copalletization may only be performed for those 5-digit ZIP Codes with an indicator in the Carrier Route Indicators field of the City State Product that shows such combination is permissible.

M620 Enhanced Carrier Route Standard

Mail 1.0 BASIC STANDARDS

1.1 All Mailings

[Amend 1.1 to provide for preparation under M720 to read as follows:]

All nonautomation rate Enhanced Carrier Route mailings are subject to these general standards (automation rate Enhanced Carrier Route mailings must be prepared under M810):

c. All pieces must be sorted together and prepared under M045 or M720 (if palletized), or under M620.

[Add new 1.6 to provide for preparation under M720 to read as follows:]

1.6 Merged Containerization with Automation Rate and Presorted Rate Mail

Under the standards in M720, flat-size carrier route rate packages prepared under 2.0 may be co-sacked or copalletized with flat-size 5-digit packages at Presorted rates prepared under M610 and with flat-size 5-digit packages at automation rates prepared under M820 in merged 5-digit sacks or pallets, or in merged 5-digit scheme sacks or pallets. Such co-sacking or copalletization may only be performed for those 5-digit ZIP Codes with an indicator in the Carrier Route Indicators field of the City State Product that shows such combination is permissible.

[Add new section M700 to provide for co-traying and co-sacking of automation rate and Presorted rate packages and co-sacking and copalletization of carrier route packages, 5-digit automation packages and 5-digit Presorted rate packages to read as follows:]

M700 Advanced Preparation Options

M710 Co-Traying and Co-Sacking of Automation Rate and Presorted Rate Mailings of Flat-Size Mail

1.0 FIRST-CLASS MAIL

1.1 Basic Standards

Packages of flat-size pieces in an automation rate mailing may be co-trayed with packages of flat-size pieces in a Presorted rate mailing under the following conditions:

a. The pieces in the automation rate mailing and in the Presorted rate mailing must be part of the same mailing job and reported on the same postage statement.

b. Pieces in the automation rate mailing must meet the criteria for a flat under C050.3.2 and C820. Pieces in the Presorted rate mailing must meet the criteria for a flat under C050.3.1.

c. The automation rate mailing must meet the eligibility criteria in E140, except that the traying criteria in 1.3 must be met rather than the traying criteria in M820.

d. The Presorted rate mailing must meet the eligibility criteria in E130, except that the traying and documentation criteria in 1.1 and 1.3 must be met rather than the traying and documentation criteria in M820.

e. The rates for pieces in the automation rate mailing are applied based on the level of package to which they are sorted under E140.2.0.

f. The automation rate pieces must be marked under M012. Pieces claimed at an automation rate must bear the “First-Class” marking or “Presorted” and “First-Class” markings and, except as provided in M012, “AUTO.” The Presorted rate pieces must be marked “First-Class” and “Presorted.” Presorted rate pieces must not bear the “AUTO” marking.

g. The packages from each separate mailing must be sorted together into trays as described in 1.3 using presort software that is PAVE-certified or MAC-certified.

h. A complete, signed postage statement, using the correct USPS form or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing job prepared under these procedures. In addition to the applicable postage statement, documentation produced by PAVE-certified or MAC-certified software must be submitted with each co-trayed mailing job that describes for each tray sortation level the number of pieces qualifying for each applicable automation rate and the number of pieces that qualify for the Presorted rate under P012.

i. Barcoded tray labels under M032 must be used to label the trays.

1.2 Package Preparation

The automation rate mailing must be packaged and labeled under M820. The Presorted rate mailing must be packaged and labeled under M130.

1.3 Tray Preparation and Labeling

Presorted rate and automation rate packages prepared under 1.2 must be presorted together into trays (co-trayed) in the sequence listed below. Trays must be labeled using the following information for Lines 1 and 2 and M032 for other sack label criteria.

a. 5-digit: required, full trays only (no overflow trays).

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “FCM FLTS 5D BC/NBC.”

b. 3-digit: required, full trays only (no overflow trays).

(1) Line 1: Use L002, Column A.

(2) Line 2: “FCM FLTS 3D BC/NBC.”

c. Origin/entry 3-digit: required for each 3-digit ZIP Code served by the SCF of the origin (verification) office, optional for each 3-digit ZIP Code served by the SCF of an entry office other than the origin office, no minimum.

(1) Line 1: Use L002, Column A.

(2) Line 2: “FCM FLTS 3D BC/NBC.”

d. ADC: required, full trays only (no overflow trays), use L004 to determine ZIP Codes served by each ADC.

(1) Line 1: Use L004.

(2) Line 2: “FCM FLTS ADC BC/NBC.”

e. Mixed ADC: required, no minimum.

(1) Line 1: Use “MXD” followed by the city, state, and ZIP Code of the facility serving the 3-digit ZIP Code of the entry post office, as shown in L002, Column C.

(2) Line 2: “FCM FLTS BC/NBC WKG.”

2.0 PERIODICALS

2.1 Basic Standards

Packages of nonletter-size pieces in an automation rate mailing may be co-sacked with packages of nonletter-size pieces in a Presorted rate mailing under the following conditions:

a. The pieces in the automation rate mailing and in the Presorted rate mailing must be part of the same mailing job and must be reported on the appropriate postage statement(s).

b. The pieces in the mailing job must all be nonletter-size and meet any other size and mailpiece design requirements applicable to the rate category for which they are prepared.

c. The automation rate mailing must meet the eligibility criteria in E240, except that the sacking and documentation criteria in 2.1, 2.3 and 2.4 must be met rather than the sacking and documentation criteria in M820.

d. The Presorted rate mailing must meet the eligibility criteria in E230, except that the sacking and documentation criteria in 2.1, 2.3 and 2.4 must be met rather than the sacking and documentation criteria in M820.

e. The rates for pieces in the automation rate mailing are applied based on the number of pieces in the package and the level of package to which they are sorted under E240. The rates for pieces in the Presorted rate mailing are based on the number of pieces in the package and the level of sack in which they are placed under E230.

f. The packages from each separate mailing must be sorted together into sacks as described in 2.3 and 2.4 using presort software that is PAVE-certified.

g. A complete, signed postage statement, using the correct USPS form or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing job prepared under these procedures. In addition to the applicable postage statement, documentation prepared by PAVE-certified software must be submitted with each co-sacked mailing job that describes for each sack sortation level the number of pieces qualifying for each applicable automation rate and the number of pieces that qualify for each applicable Presorted rate under P012.

h. Barcoded sack labels under M032 must be used to label sacks.

2.2 Package Preparation

The automation rate mailing must be packaged and labeled under M820 (all package levels). The Presorted rate mailing must be packaged and labeled under M200 (excluding carrier route packages).

2.3 Low Volume Packages in Sacks or on Pallets

Five-digit, and 3-digit packages prepared under M200 and M820 that contain fewer than six pieces may be placed in 5-digit, 3-digit and SCF sacks when the publisher determines that such preparation improves service. Pieces in such low volume packages must claim the applicable basic Presorted rate, except for firm packages at Presorted rates as applicable under M200.1.4.

2.4 Sack Preparation and Labeling

Presorted rate and automation rate packages prepared under 2.2 and 2.3 must be presorted together into sacks (co-sacked) in the sequence listed below. Sacks must be labeled using the following information for Lines 1 and 2 and M032 for other sack label criteria. If, due to the physical size of the mailpieces, the automation rate pieces are considered flat-size under C820 and the carrier route sorted pieces and Presorted rate pieces are considered irregular parcels under C050, the processing category shown on the sack label must show “FLTS.”

a. 5-digit: required at 24 pieces to same 5-digit, optional with fewer pieces.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable and “FLTS 5D BC/NBC.”

b. 3-digit: required at 24 pieces to same 3-digit, optional with fewer pieces.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable and “FLTS 3D BC/NBC.”

c. SCF: required at 24 pieces, optional with fewer pieces.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column C.

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable and “FLTS SCF BC/NBC.”

d. Origin/entry SCF: required for the SCF of the origin (verification) office, optional for the SCF of an entry office other than the origin office, no minimum.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column C.

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable and “FLTS SCF BC/NBC.”

e. ADC: required at 24 pieces, optional with fewer pieces except that packages of fewer than 6 pieces are not permitted.

(1) Line 1: use L004.

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable and “FLTS ADC BC/NBC.”

f. Mixed ADC: required, no minimum, except that packages of fewer than 6 pieces at 5-digit, 3-digit, and ADC package levels are not permitted.

(1) Line 1: Use “MXD” followed by the city, state, and ZIP Code of the facility serving the 3-digit ZIP Code of the entry post office, as shown in L002, Column C.

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable and “FLTS BC/NBC WKG.”

3.0 STANDARD MAIL (A)

3.1 Basic Standards

Packages of flat-size pieces in an automation rate mailing may be co-sacked with packages of flat-size pieces in a Presorted rate mailing under the following conditions:

a. The pieces in the automation rate mailing and in the Presorted rate mailing must be part of the same mailing job and reported on the same postage statement or consolidated postage statement.

b. Pieces in the automation rate mailing must meet the criteria for a flat under C050.3.2 and C820. Pieces in the Presorted rate mailing must meet the criteria for a flat under C050.3.1.

c. The automation rate mailing must meet the eligibility criteria in E640, except that the sacking and documentation criteria in 3.1, 3.3 and 3.4 must be met rather than the sacking and documentation criteria in M820.

d. The Presorted rate mailing must meet the eligibility criteria in E620, except that the sacking and documentation criteria in 3.1, 3.3, and 3.4 must be met rather than the sacking and documentation criteria in M610.

e. The rates for pieces in the automation rate mailing are applied based on the number of pieces in the package and the level of package to which they are sorted under E640.1.0. The rates for pieces in the Presorted rate mailing are based on the number of pieces in the package and the level of sack in which they are placed under E620.1.0.

f. The automation rate pieces must be marked under M012. Pieces claimed at an automation rate must be marked “Presorted Standard” (or “PRSRT STD”) or “Nonprofit Organization” (or “Nonprofit Org.” or “Nonprofit”) and, except as provided in M012, “AUTO.” The Presorted rate pieces must be marked “Presorted Standard” (or “PRSRT STD”) or “Nonprofit Organization” (or “Nonprofit Org.” or “Nonprofit”). Presorted rate pieces must not bear the “AUTO” marking.

g. The packages from each separate mailing must be sorted together into sacks as described in 3.3 and 3.4 using presort software that is PAVE-certified or MAC-certified.

h. A complete, signed postage statement, using the correct USPS form or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing job prepared under these procedures. In addition to the applicable mailing statement, PAVE-certified or MAC-certified documentation must be submitted with each co-sacked mailing job that describes for each sack sortation level the number of pieces qualifying for each applicable automation rate and the number of pieces that qualify for each applicable Presorted rate under P012.

i. Barcoded sack labels under M032 must be used to label the sacks.

3.2 Package Preparation

The automation rate mailing must be packaged and labeled under M820. The Presorted rate mailing must be packaged and labeled under M610. Loose packing under M610 is not permitted.

3.3 Sacking Under 125-Piece or 15-Pound Rules

When the minimum quantity of 125-pieces or 15-pounds of mail is specified for a sack sortation level in 3.4, the provisions of M820.4.2 apply.

3.4 Sack Preparation and Labeling

Presorted rate and automation rate packages prepared under 3.2 must be presorted together into sacks (co-sacked) in the sequence listed below. Sacks must be labeled using the following information for Lines 1 and 2, and M032 for other sack label criteria.

a. 5-digit: required; 125-piece/15-pound minimum, smaller volume not permitted.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS 5D BC/NBC.”

b. 3-digit: required; 125-piece/15-pound minimum, smaller volume not permitted.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS 3D BC/NBC.” c. Origin/entry 3-digit: required for each 3-digit ZIP Code served by the SCF of the origin (verification) office, optional for each 3-digit ZIP Code served by the SCF of an entry office other than the origin office, no minimum.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS 3D BC/NBC.”

d. ADC: required; 125-piece/15-pound minimum, smaller volume not permitted. Use L004 to determine ZIP Codes served by each ADC.

(1) Line 1: use L004.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS ADC BC/NBC.”

e. Mixed ADC: required, no minimum.

(1) Line 1: use L802 for mail entered by the mailer at an ASF or BMC, otherwise use L803.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS BC/NBC WKG.”

M720 Merged Containerization of Periodicals and Standard Mail (A) Carrier Route, Automation, and Presorted Rate Mail Packages for the Same 5-Digit ZIP Code or 5-Digit Scheme

1.0 PERIODICALS MAIL

1.1 Basic Standards

Carrier route packages of nonletter-size pieces in a carrier route rate mailing may be placed in the same sack or on the same pallet (a merged 5-digit sack or pallet, or a merged 5-digit scheme sack or pallet) as nonletter-size 5-digit packages from an automation rate mailing and nonletter-size 5-digit packages from a Presorted rate mailing under the following conditions:

a. A carrier route mailing must be part of the mailing job.

b. Carrier route packages may be co-sacked or copalletized with automation rate 5-digit packages and Presorted rate 5-digit packages only for those 5-digit ZIP Codes listed in the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product as eligible for such co-sacking or copalletization. Containers of mail sorted in this manner are called “merged 5-digit” sacks or pallets. Containers of mail sorted in this manner for which scheme sortation is also performed are called “merged 5-digit scheme” sacks or pallets.

c. If sortation under this section is performed, merged 5-digit sacks or pallets must be prepared for all 5-digit ZIP Codes with an indicator in the City State Product that permits such preparation when there is enough volume for the 5-digit ZIP Code to prepare such a sack under 1.4 or 1.5 or such a pallet under 1.6 or 1.7. In addition, if mailers also choose to sort to L001, all possible merged 5-digit scheme sacks must be prepared under 1.5 or all possible merged 5-digit scheme and 5-digit scheme pallets must be prepared under 1.7.

d. Mailers must use the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product to prepare the mailing and enter the mailing no later than 90 days after the release date of the City State Product used.

e. The pieces in the carrier route mailing, the automation rate mailing and the Presorted rate mailing must be part of the same mailing job.

f. Pieces in the automation rate mailing must meet the criteria for a flat under C050.3.2 and C820. Pieces in the Presorted rate mailing and the carrier route mailing must be nonletter-size.

g. The carrier route mailing must meet the eligibility criteria in E230, the automation rate mailing must meet the eligibility criteria in E240, and the Presorted rate mailing must meet the eligibility criteria in E230.

h. For sacked mailings, the rates for pieces in the carrier route mailing are based on the criteria in E230, the rates for pieces in the automation rate mailing are applied based on the number of pieces in the package and the level of package to which they are sorted under E240, and the rates for pieces in the Presorted rate mailing are based on the number of pieces in the package and the level of sack to which they are sorted under E230.

i. For palletized mailings, the rates are based on the level of package and the number of pieces in the package under E230 and E240.

j. The packages from each separate mailing must be sorted together into sacks (co-sacked) under 1.4 and 1.5 or on pallets (copalletized) under 1.6 and 1.7 using presort software that is PAVE-certified.

k. A complete, signed appropriate postage statement(s), using the correct USPS form or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing job prepared under these procedures.

l. In addition to the applicable postage statement(s), documentation prepared by PAVE-certified software must be submitted with each co-sacked or copalletized mailing job that describes for each sack sortation level and sack or each pallet sortation level and pallet, the number of pieces qualifying for each applicable carrier route rate, each applicable automation rate, and each applicable Presorted rate under P012.

m. Barcoded sack labels under M032 must be used to label sacks.

1.2 Package Preparation

Packages must be prepared as follows:

a. Sacked Mailings. The carrier route mailing must be packaged and labeled under M200. The automation rate mailing must be packaged and labeled under M820. The Presorted rate mailing must be packaged and labeled under M200.

b. Palletized Mailings. Packages and bundles placed on pallets must be prepared under the standards in M045.

1.3 Low Volume Packages in Sacks or on Pallets

Carrier route and 5-digit packages prepared under M200 and M820 that contain fewer than six pieces must be placed in sacks under 1.4a through d or 1.5 a through e or in 3-digit and SCF sacks, or on pallets under 1.6a through e or 1.7a through h, when the publisher determines that such preparation improves service. Pieces in such low volume packages must claim the applicable basic rate, except that as provided under M200.1.4, some firm packages may be eligible for carrier route rates and for 5-digit and 3-digit Presorted rates.

1.4 Sack Preparation and Labeling Without Scheme Sort

Mailers must prepare sacks containing the individual carrier route and 5-digit packages from the carrier route, automation rate, and Presorted rate mailings in the mailing job in the following manner and sequence. All carrier route packages must be placed in sacks under 1.4a through c as described below. When sortation under this section is performed, merged 5-digit sacks must be prepared for all 5-digit ZIP Codes with an indicator in the City State Product that permits such preparation when there is enough volume for the 5-digit ZIP Code to prepare such a sack under 1.4. Mailers must label sacks according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under M032. If, due to the physical size of the mailpieces, the automation rate pieces are considered flat-size under C820 and the carrier route sorted pieces and Presorted rate pieces are considered irregular parcels under C050, “FLTS” must be shown as the processing category shown on the sack label. If a mailing contains no automation rate pieces and the carrier route mailing and the Presorted rate mailing are irregular parcel shaped, use “IRREG” for the processing category on the contents line of the label.

a. Carrier Route. Required. May only contain carrier route packages. Must be prepared when there are 24 or more pieces for the same carrier route. Smaller volume not permitted.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “CR” for basic rate, “WSH” for high density rate, or “WSS” for saturation rate, followed by the route type and number.

b. Merged 5-Digit. Required. Must be prepared only for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that have an indicator in the City State Product that allows carrier route packages to be co-containerized with automation rate 5-digit and Presorted rate 5-digit packages. May contain carrier route packages, automation rate 5-digit packages, and Presorted rate 5-digit packages. Must be prepared if there is at least one carrier route package for the 5-digit. If there is no carrier route package(s) for a 5-digit destination, must be prepared when there are 24 or more pieces for the same 5-digit destination, optional with one six-piece package or at least one package of fewer pieces under 1.3.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “CR/5D.”

c. 5-Digit Carrier Routes. Required. May contain only carrier route packages for a 5-digit ZIP Code that could not be sacked under 1.4a and 1.4b. No sack minimum. All carrier route packages remaining after preparing sacks under 1.4a and 1.4b must be sacked to this level.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by CR-RTS.”

d. 5-Digit. Required. May only contain automation rate 5-digit packages and Presorted rate 5-digit packages. Must be prepared at 24 or more pieces, optional with one six-piece package or at least one package of fewer pieces under 1.3.

(1) Line 1 labeling: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable and “FLTS 5D BC/NBC; except if there are no automation rate packages in the mailing job, label under M200.3.2f.

e. 3-Digit through Mixed ADC Sacks. Any 5-digit packages remaining after preparing sacks under 1.4a through d, and all 3-digit, ADC, and Mixed ADC packages, must be sacked and labeled according to the applicable requirement under M710.2.0 for co-sacking of automation rate and Presorted rate packages, except if there are no automation rate packages in the mailing job, sack and label under M200.3.0.

1.5 Optional Sack Preparation and Labeling With Scheme Sort

When mailers choose to prepare mail under this option they must prepare sacks containing the individual carrier route and 5-digit packages from the carrier route, automation rate, and Presorted rate mailings in the mailing job in the following manner and sequence. All carrier route packages must be placed in sacks under 1.5a through d as described below. When sortation under this section is performed, merged 5-digit scheme sacks and merged 5-digit sacks must be prepared for all possible 5-digit schemes or 5-digit ZIP Codes as applicable, using L001 (merged 5-digit scheme sort only) and the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product when there is enough volume for the 5-digit scheme or 5-digit ZIP Code to prepare such sacks under 1.5. Mailers must label sacks according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under M032. If, due to the physical size of the mailpieces, the automation rate pieces are considered flat-size under C820 and the carrier route sorted pieces and Presorted rate pieces are considered irregular parcels under C050, “FLTS” must be shown as the processing category shown on the sack label. If a mailing job does not contain an automation rate mailing and the carrier route mailing and the Presorted rate mailing are irregular parcel shaped, use “IRREG” for the processing category on the contents line of the label.

a. Carrier Route. Required. May only contain carrier route packages. Must be prepared when there are 24 or more pieces for the same carrier route. Smaller volume not permitted.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “CR” for basic rate, “WSH” for high density rate, or “WSS” for saturation rate, followed by the route type and number.

b. Merged 5-Digit Scheme. Required. May contain carrier route packages for any 5-digit ZIP Code(s) in a single scheme listed in L001 as well as automation rate 5-digit packages and Presorted rate 5-digit packages for those 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme that are also identified in the City State Product as eligible for co-containerization of carrier route packages and 5-digit packages. Must be prepared if there are any carrier route package(s) for the scheme. If there is not at least one carrier route package for any 5-digit destination in the scheme, preparation of this sack is required at 24 pieces in 5-digit packages for any of the 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme that are identified in the City State Product as eligible for co-containerization of carrier route packages and 5-digit packages, and is optional with one six-piece 5-digit package or at least one 5-digit package of fewer pieces for the scheme in L001 under 1.3 (for any ZIP Codes that are identified in the City State Product as eligible for co-containerization of carrier route packages and 5-digit packages). For a 5-digit ZIP Code(s) in a scheme for which the indicator in the City State Product does not allow co-containerization of carrier route packages and 5-digit packages, prepare a 5-digit sack(s) for the automation rate and Presorted rate packages under 1.5e. For 5-digit ZIP Codes not included in a scheme, prepare sacks under 1.5c through f.

(1) Line 1: use L001, Column B.

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “CR/5D SCH.”

c. Merged 5-Digit. Required. Must be prepared only for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that are not part of a scheme and that have an indicator in the City State Product that allows carrier route packages to be co-containerized with 5-digit packages. May contain carrier route packages, automation rate 5-digit packages, and Presorted rate 5-digit packages. Must be prepared if there are any carrier route packages for the 5-digit. If there is not at least one carrier route package for the 5-digit destination, preparation of this sack is required at 24 pieces in 5-digit packages for the same 5-digit destination, and is optional with one six piece package or at least one package of fewer pieces under 1.3.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “CR/5D.”

d. 5-Digit Carrier Routes. Required. Contains only carrier route packages for a 5-digit ZIP Code that could not be sacked under 1.5a through c. No sack minimum. All carrier route packages remaining after preparing sacks under 1.5a through c must be sacked to this level.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “CR-RTS.”

e. 5-Digit. Required. May only contain automation rate 5-digit packages and Presorted rate 5-digit packages. Must be prepared at 24 or more pieces, optional with one six-piece package or at least one package of fewer pieces under 1.3.

(1) Line 1 labeling: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS 5D BC/NBC”, except if there are no automation rate packages in the mailing job, label under M200.3.2f.

f. Three-digit through mixed ADC sacks. Any 5-digit packages remaining after preparing sacks under 1.5a through e, and all 3-digit, ADC, and Mixed ADC packages, must be sacked and labeled according to the applicable requirements under M710.2.0 for co-sacking of automation rate and Presorted rate packages, except if there are no automation rate packages in the mailing job, sack and label under M200.3.0.

1.6 Pallet Preparation and Labeling Without Scheme (L001) Sort

Mailers must prepare pallets of packages and/or bundles in the manner and sequence listed below and under M041. When sortation under this section is performed, merged 5-digit pallets must be prepared for all 5-digit ZIP Codes with an indicator in the City State Product that permits such preparation when there is enough volume for the 5-digit ZIP Code to prepare such a pallet under 1.6. Mailers must label pallets according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under M031. If, due to the physical size of the mailpieces, the automation rate pieces are considered flat-size under C820 and the carrier route sorted pieces and Presorted rate pieces are considered irregular parcels under C050, “FLTS” must be shown as the processing category shown on the sack label. If a mailing contains no automation rate pieces and the carrier route mailing and the Presorted rate mailing are irregular parcel shaped, use “IRREG” for the processing category on the contents line of the label.

a. Merged 5-Digit. Required. May be prepared only for those 5-digit ZIP Codes with an indicator in the City State Product that permits carrier route packages to be co-containerized with automation rate 5-digit packages and Presorted rate 5-digit packages. May contain carrier route packages and bundles, automation rate 5-digit packages and bundles, and Presorted rate 5-digit packages and bundles.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “CR/5D.”

b. 5-Digit Carrier Routes. Required. May contain only carrier route packages and bundles for a 5-digit ZIP Code that does not have an indicator in the City State Product allowing merged 5-digit preparation.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “CARRIER ROUTES” or “CR-RTS.”

c. 5-Digit. Required. May contain only automation rate and Presorted rate 5-digit packages and bundles for a 5-digit ZIP Code that does not have an indicator in the City State Product allowing co-containerization of carrier route packages and 5-digit packages.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “5D,” followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

d. 3-Digit. Optional. May contain carrier route, automation rate, and Presorted rate packages and bundles.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “3D,” followed by “DDU” if DDU rates are claimed, followed by “DSCF” if SCF rates are claimed, followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

e. SCF. Required. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and Presorted rate packages and bundles.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column C.

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “SCF,” followed by “DDU” if DDU rates are claimed, followed by “DSCF” if SCF rates are claimed, followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

f. ADC. Required. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and Presorted rate packages and bundles.

(1) Line 1: use L004.

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “ADC,” followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

1.7 Optional Pallet Preparation and Labeling With Scheme (L001) Sort

When mailers choose to prepare mail under this option they must prepare pallets of packages and/or bundles in the manner and sequence listed below and under M041. When sortation under this option is performed, mailers must prepare all merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme, and merged 5-digit pallets that are possible in the mailing based on the volume of mail to the destination using L001 and/or the City State Product as applicable. Mailers must label pallets according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under M031. If, due to the physical size of the mailpieces, the automation rate pieces are considered flat-size under C820 and the carrier route sorted pieces and Presorted rate pieces are considered irregular parcels under C050, “FLTS” must be shown as the processing category shown on the sack label. If a mailing contains no automation rate pieces and the carrier route mailing and the Presorted rate mailing are irregular parcel shaped, use “IRREG” for the processing category on the contents line of the label.

a. Merged 5-Digit Scheme. Required. May contain carrier route packages and bundles for all carrier routes in an L001 scheme as well as automation rate 5-digit packages and bundles and Presorted rate 5-digit packages and bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme that also have an indicator in the City State Product that that permits carrier route packages to be co-containerized with automation rate 5-digit and Presorted rate 5-digit packages.

(1) Line 1: use L001, Column B.

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “CR/5D SCHEME.”

b. 5-Digit Scheme. Required. May contain only 5-digit packages and bundles of automation rate and Presorted rate mail for the same 5-digit scheme under L001 for ZIP Codes in the scheme that do not have an indicator in the City State Product that permits carrier route packages to be co-containerized with 5-digit packages.

(1) Line 1: use L001, Column B.

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “5D,” followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail, followed by “SCHEME” or “SCH.”

c. Merged 5-Digit. Required. May contain carrier route packages and bundles, automation rate 5-digit packages and bundles, and Presorted rate 5-digit packages and bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that are not part of a scheme and that have an indicator in the City State Product that allows co-containerization of carrier route packages and 5-digit packages.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or IRREG” as applicable, followed by “CR/5D.”

d. 5-Digit Carrier Routes. Required. May contain only carrier route rate packages and bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “CARRIER ROUTES” or “CR-RTS.”

e. 5-Digit. Required. May contain only automation rate 5-digit packages and bundles and Presorted rate 5-digit packages and bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “5D,” followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

f. 3-Digit. Optional. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and Presorted rate packages and bundles.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or IRREG” as applicable, followed by “3D,” followed by “DDU” if DDU rates are claimed, followed by “DSCF” if SCF rates are claimed, followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

g. SCF. Required. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and Presorted rate packages and bundles.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column C.

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “SCF,” followed by “DDU” if DDU rates are claimed, followed by “DSCF” if SCF rates are claimed, followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

h. ADC. Required. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and Presorted rate packages and bundles.

(1) Line 1: use L004.

(2) Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “ADC,” followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

2.0 STANDARD MAIL (A)

2.1 Basic Standards

Carrier route packages of flat-size pieces in a carrier route rate mailing may be placed in the same sack or on the same pallet (a merged 5-digit sack or pallet, or a merged 5-digit scheme sack or pallet) as flat-size 5-digit packages from an automation rate mailing and flat-size 5-digit packages from a Presorted rate mailing under the following conditions:

a. A carrier route mailing must be part of the mailing job.

b. Carrier route rate packages may be co-sacked or copalletized with automation rate 5-digit packages and Presorted rate 5-digit packages only for those 5-digit ZIP Codes listed in the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product as eligible for such co-sacking or copalletization. Containers of mail sorted in this manner are called “merged 5-digit” sacks or pallets. Containers of mail sorted in this manner for which scheme sortation is also performed are called “merged 5-digit scheme” sacks or pallets.

c. If sortation under this section is performed, merged 5-digit sacks or pallets must be prepared for all 5-digit ZIP Codes with an indicator in the City State Product that permits such preparation when there is enough volume for the 5-digit ZIP Code to prepare such a sack under 2.3 and 2.4 or 2.5 or such a pallet under 2.6 or 2.7. In addition, if mailers also choose to sort to L001, all possible merged 5-digit scheme sacks must be prepared under 2.5 or all possible merged 5-digit scheme and 5-digit scheme pallets must be prepared under 2.7.

d. Mailers must use the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product to prepare the mailing and enter the mailing no later than 90 days after the release date of the City State Product used.

e. The pieces in the carrier route rate mailing, the automation rate mailing, and the Presorted rate mailing must be part of the same mailing job and all three mailings must be reported on the same postage statement or same consolidated postage statement.

f. Pieces in the automation rate mailing must meet the criteria for a flat under C050.3.2 and C820. Pieces in the Presorted rate mailing and the carrier route mailing must meet the criteria for a flat under C050.3.1.

g. The carrier route mailing must meet the eligibility criteria in E620, the automation rate mailing must meet the eligibility criteria in E640, and the Presorted rate mailing must meet the eligibility criteria in E620.

h. For sacked mailings, the rates for pieces in the carrier route mailing are based on the criteria in E620, the rates for pieces in the automation rate mailing are applied based on the number of pieces in the package and the level of package to which they are sorted under E640, and the rates for pieces in the Presorted rate mailing are based on the number of pieces in the package and the level of sack to which they are sorted under E620.

i. For palletized mailings, the rates are based on the level of package that the pieces are contained in under E620 and E640.

j. The packages from each separate mailing must be sorted together into sacks (co-sacked) under 2.3 and 2.4 or 2.5, or on pallets (copalletized) under 2.6 or 2.7 using presort software that is PAVE-certified or MAC-certified.

k. A complete, signed postage statement or consolidated postage statement, using the correct USPS form or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing job prepared under these procedures.

l. In addition to the applicable postage statement, documentation prepared by PAVE-certified or MAC-certified software must be submitted with each co-sacked or copalletized mailing job that describes for each sack sortation level and sack, or each pallet sortation level and pallet, the number of pieces qualifying for each applicable carrier route rate, each applicable automation rate, and each applicable Presorted rate under P012.

m. Barcoded sack labels under M032 must be used to label sacks.

2.2 Package Preparation

Packages must be prepared as follows:

a. Sacked Mailings. The carrier route mailing must be packaged and labeled under M620. The automation rate mailing must be packaged and labeled under M820. The Presorted rate mailing must be packaged and labeled under M610.

b. Palletized Mailings. Packages and bundles placed on pallets must be prepared under the standards in M045.

2.3 Sacking Under 125-Piece or 15-Pound Rules

When the minimum quantity of 125-pieces or 15-pounds of mail is specified for a sack sortation level in 2.4, the provisions of M820.4.2 apply.

2.4 Sack Preparation and Labeling Without Scheme Sort

Mailers must prepare sacks containing the individual carrier route and 5-digit packages from the carrier route rate, automation rate, and Presorted rate mailings in the mailing job in the following manner and sequence. All carrier route packages must be placed in sacks under 2.4a through c as described below. When sortation under this section is performed, merged 5-digit sacks must be prepared for all 5-digit ZIP Codes with an indicator in the City State Product that permits such preparation when there is enough volume for the 5-digit ZIP Code to prepare such a sack under 2.4. Mailers must label sacks according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under M032.

a. Carrier Route. Required. May only contain carrier route packages. Must be prepared when there are 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces for the same carrier route. Smaller volume not permitted.

(1) Line 1 labeling: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2 labeling: “STD FLTS” followed by “ECRLOT,” “ECRWSH.” or “ECRWSS” as applicable for basic, high density, and saturation rate mail, followed by the route type and number.

b. Merged 5-Digit. Required. Must be prepared only for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that have an indicator in the City State Product that allows carrier route packages to be co-containerized with automation rate 5-digit packages and Presorted rate 5-digit packages. May contain carrier route rate packages, automation rate 5-digit packages, and Presorted rate 5-digit packages. Must be prepared if there is at least one carrier route package for the 5-digit ZIP Code. If there is no carrier route package(s) for a 5-digit destination, must be prepared when there are at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces in 5-digit packages for the same 5-digit destination (smaller volume not permitted).

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS CR/5D.”

c. 5-Digit Carrier Routes. Required. May contain only carrier route packages for a 5-digit ZIP Code that could not be sacked under 2.4a and b. No sack minimum. All carrier route packages remaining after preparing sacks under 2.4a and b must be sacked to this level.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS CR-RTS.”

d. 5-Digit. Required. May only contain automation rate 5-digit packages and Presorted rate 5-digit packages. Must be prepared when there are at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces for the 5-digit ZIP Code. Smaller volume not permitted.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS 5D BC/NBC,” except if there are no automation rate packages in the mailing job use “STD FLTS 5D NON BC.”

e. Three-digit through Mixed ADC Sacks. Any 5-digit packages remaining after preparing sacks under 2.4a through d, and all 3-digit, ADC, and Mixed ADC packages, must be sacked and labeled according to the applicable requirements under M710.3.0 for co-sacking of automation rate and Presorted rate packages, except if there are no automation rate packages in the mailing job, sack and label under M610.

2.5 Optional Sack Preparation and Labeling With Scheme Sort

When mailers choose to prepare mail under this option they must prepare sacks containing the individual carrier route and 5-digit packages from the carrier route rate, automation rate, and Presorted rate mailings in the mailing job in the following manner and sequence. All carrier route packages must be placed in sacks under 2.5a through d as described below. When sortation under this section is performed, merged 5-digit scheme sacks and merged 5-digit sacks must be prepared for all possible 5-digit schemes or 5-digit ZIP Codes as applicable, using L001 (merged 5-digit scheme sort only) and the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product when there is enough volume for the 5-digit scheme or 5-digit ZIP Code to prepare such sacks under 2.5. Mailers must label sacks according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under M032.

a. Carrier Route. Required. May only contain carrier route packages. Must be prepared when there are 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces for the same carrier route. Smaller volume not permitted.

(1) Line 1 labeling: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2 labeling: “STD FLTS” followed by “ECRLOT,” “ECRWSH.” or “ECRWSS” as applicable for basic, high density, and saturation rate mail, followed by the route type and number.

b. Merged 5-Digit Scheme. Required. May contain carrier route packages for any 5-digit ZIP Code(s) in a single scheme listed in L001 as well as automation rate 5-digit packages and Presorted rate 5-digit packages for those 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme that are also identified in City State Product as eligible for co-containerization of carrier route packages and 5-digit packages. Must be prepared if there any carrier route packages for the 5-digit scheme. If there is not at least one carrier route package for any 5-digit destination in the scheme, preparation of this sack is required when there are at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces in 5-digit packages for any of the 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme that are identified in the City State Product as eligible for co-containerization of carrier route packages and 5-digit packages (smaller volume not permitted). For a 5-digit ZIP Code(s) in a scheme for which the indicator in the City State Product does not allow co-containerization of carrier route packages and 5-digit packages, prepare a 5-digit sack(s) for the automation rate and Presorted rate packages under 2.5e. For 5-digit ZIP Codes not included in a scheme, prepare sacks under 2.5c through f.

(1) Line 1: use L001, Column B.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS CR/5D SCH.”

c. Merged 5-Digit. Required. Must be prepared only for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that are not part of a scheme and that have an indicator in the City State Product that allows carrier route packages to be co-containerized with 5-digit packages. May contain carrier route packages, automation rate 5-digit packages, and Presorted rate 5-digit packages. Must be prepared if there are any carrier route packages for the 5-digit. If there is not at least one carrier route package for the 5-digit destination, must be prepared when there are at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces in 5-digit packages for the same 5-digit destination (smaller volume not permitted).

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS CR/5D.”

d. 5-Digit Carrier Routes. Required. Contains only carrier route packages for a 5-digit ZIP Code that could not be sacked under 2.5a through c. No sack minimum. All carrier route packages remaining after preparing sacks under 2.5a through c must be sacked to this level.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS CR-RTS.”

e. 5-Digit. Required. May only contain automation rate 5-digit packages and Presorted rate 5-digit packages. Must be prepared when there are at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces for the 5-digit ZIP Code. Smaller volume not permitted.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M032 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS 5D BC/NBC,” except if there are no automation rate packages in the mailing job use “STD FLTS 5D NON BC.”

f. Three-digit through Mixed AADC Sacks. Any 5-digit packages remaining after preparing sacks under 2.5 a through e, and all 3-digit, ADC, and Mixed ADC packages, must be sacked and labeled according to the applicable requirements under M710.3.0 for co-sacking of automation rate and Presorted rate packages, except if there are no automation rate packages in the mailing job, sack and label under M610.

2.6 Pallet Preparation and Labeling Without Scheme (L001) Sort

Mailers must prepare pallets of packages and/or bundles in the manner and sequence listed below and under M041. When sortation under this option is performed, merged 5-digit pallets must be prepared for all 5-digit ZIP Codes with an indicator in the City State Product that permits such preparation when there is enough volume for the 5-digit ZIP Code to prepare such a pallet under 2.6. Mailers must label pallets according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under M031.

a. Merged 5-Digit. Required. May be prepared only for those 5-digit ZIP Codes with an indicator in the City State Product that permits carrier route packages to be co-containerized with automation rate 5-digit packages and Presorted rate 5-digit packages. May contain carrier route rate packages and bundles, automation rate 5-digit packages and bundles, and Presorted rate 5-digit packages and bundles.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS CR/5D.”

b. 5-Digit Carrier Routes. Required. May contain only carrier route rate packages and bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS,” followed by “CARRIER ROUTES” or “CR-RTS.”

c. 5-Digit. Required. May contain automation rate 5-digit packages and bundles and automation rate 5-digit packages and bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS 5D,” followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

d. 3-Digit. Optional. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and Presorted rate packages and bundles.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS 3D,” followed by “DDU” if DDU rates are claimed, followed by “DSCF” if DSCF rates are claimed, followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

e. SCF: Required. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and Presorted rate packages and bundles.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column C

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS SCF;” followed by “DDU” if DDU rates are claimed, followed by “DSCF” if DSCF rates are claimed; followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail; and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

f. If DBMC rates are not claimed: Destination BMC. Required. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and Presorted rate packages and bundles. Sort ADC packages and bundles to BMC pallets based on the “label to” ZIP Code shown for the ADC of the package or bundle in L004.

(1) Line 1: use L601.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS BMC,” followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

g. If DBMC rates are claimed: Destination ASF/BMC. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and Presorted rate packages and bundles. Destination ASF sortation allowed and required only if DBMC rate is claimed for mail deposited at an ASF, otherwise sort to Destination BMC. Sort ADC packages and bundles to ASF/BMC pallets based on the “label to” ZIP Code shown for the ADC of the package or bundle in L004.

(1) Line 1: use L602.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS,” followed by “ASF” or “BMC as applicable; followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail; and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

2.7 Optional Pallet Preparation and Labeling With Scheme (L002) Sort

When mailers choose to prepare mail under this option they must prepare pallets of packages and/or bundles in the manner and sequence listed below and under M041. When sortation under this option is performed, mailers must prepare all merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme, and merged 5-digit pallets that are possible in the mailing based on the volume of mail to the destination using L001 and/or the City State Product as applicable. Mailers must label pallets according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under M031.

a. Merged 5-Digit Scheme. Required. May contain carrier route rate packages and bundles for all carrier routes in an L001 scheme as well as automation rate 5-digit packages and bundles and Presorted rate 5-digit packages and bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme that also have an indicator in the City State Product that permits carrier route packages to be co-containerized with automation rate 5-digit and Presorted rate 5-digit packages. For 5-digit ZIP Codes in a scheme for which the indicator in the Carrier Route Indicators field does not allow co-containerization of carrier route and 5-digit packages, begin preparing pallets under 2.7b (5-digit scheme pallet). For 5-digit ZIP Codes not included in a scheme, begin preparing pallets for carrier route and 5-digit packages under 2.7c (merged 5-digit pallet).

(1) Line 1: labeling: use L001, Column B

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS CR/5D SCHEME.”

b. 5-Digit Scheme. Required. May contain 5-digit packages and bundles of automation rate and 5-digit Presorted rate mail for the same 5-digit scheme under L001 for ZIP Codes in the scheme that do not have an indicator in the City State Product that permits co-containerization of carrier route packages and 5-digit packages.

(1) Line 1: use L001, Column B.

(2) Line 2: STD FLTS 5D,” followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail, followed by “SCHEME” or “SCH.”

c. Merged 5-Digit. Required. May contain carrier route rate packages and bundles, automation rate 5-digit packages and bundles, and Presorted rate 5-digit packages and bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that are not part of a scheme and that have an indicator in the City State Product that allows co-containerization of carrier route packages and 5-digit packages.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS CR/5D.”

d. 5-Digit Carrier Routes. Required. May contain only carrier route rate packages and bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS,” followed by “CARRIER ROUTES” or “CR-RTS.”

e. 5-Digit. Required. May contain automation rate 5-digit packages and bundles and Presorted rate 5-digit packages and bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code.

(1) Line 1: use city, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination (see M031 for military mail).

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS 5D,” followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

f. 3-Digit. Optional. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and Presorted rate packages and bundles.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column A.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS 3D,” followed by “DDU” if DDU rates are claimed, followed by “DSCF” if DSCF rates are claimed, followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

g. SCF: Required. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and Presorted rate packages and bundles.

(1) Line 1: use L002, Column C

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS SCF;” followed by “DDU” if DDU rates are claimed, followed by “DSCF” if DSCF rates are claimed; followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail; and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

h. If DBMC rates are not claimed: Destination BMC. Required. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and Presorted rate packages and bundles. Sort ADC packages and bundles to BMC pallets based on the “label to” ZIP Code shown for the ADC of the package or bundle in L004.

(1) Line 1: use L601.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS BMC,” followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail, and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

i. If DBMC rates are claimed: Destination ASF/BMC. May contain carrier route rate, automation rate, and Presorted rate packages and bundles. Destination ASF sortation allowed and required only if DBMC rate is claimed for mail deposited at an ASF, otherwise sort to Destination BMC. Sort ADC packages and bundles to ASF/BMC pallets based on the “label to” ZIP Code shown for the ADC of the package or bundle in L004.

(1) Line 1: use L602.

(2) Line 2: “STD FLTS,” followed by “ASF” or “BMC” as applicable; followed by “BARCODED” or “BC” if the pallet contains automation rate mail; and followed by “NONBARCODED” or “NBC” if the pallet contains Presorted rate mail.

M800 All Automation Mail

M820 Flat-Size Mail

1.0 BASIC STANDARDS

[Revise the heading and contents of 1.9 to provide for preparation under M710 to read as follows:]

1.9 Co-Traying, Co-Sacking, or Co-Palletizing With Presorted Rate Mail

Packages prepared under M820 1.0 through 4.0 may be co-trayed or co-sacked with Presorted rate mail that is part of the same mailing job and mail class at all levels of tray or sack under the provisions of M710.

[Add new 1.10 to provide for preparation under M720 to read as follows:]

1.10 Merged Containerization With Carrier Route and Presorted Rate Mail

Under M720, 5-digit automation rate packages prepared under M820.1.0, M820.3.0 and M820.4.0 may be co-sacked or copalletized with both carrier route rate packages and 5-digit Presorted rate packages in merged 5-digit sacks or pallets, or in merged 5-digit scheme sacks or pallets, for those 5-digit ZIP Codes with an indicator in the Carrier Route Indicators field of the City State Product that shows such combination is permissible. Packages co-sacked or copalletized under M720 must be part of the same mailing job and mail class.

P012 Documentation

2.0 STANDARDIZED DOCUMENTATION—FIRST-CLASS MAIL, PERIODICALS, AND STANDARD MAIL (A)

[Amend 2.4 by adding new indicator “M5D” to identify merged 5-digit sacks and pallets, by adding new indicator “M5DS” to identify merged 5-digit scheme sacks and pallets, and by adding “and pallets” to the description of the sortation level for 5-digit scheme carrier routes to read as follows:]

The actual sortation level (or corresponding abbreviation) is used for the package, tray, sack, or pallet levels required by 2.2 and shown below:

2.5 Combined, Copalletized, and Merged Mailings

[Amend 2.5 by amending the heading and by replacing “M045” with “M045 and M720” in the first sentence to read as follows:]

An appropriate amendment to 39 CFR 111.3 will be published to reflect these changes if the proposal is adopted.

Stanley F. Mires,

Chief Counsel, Legislative.

[FR Doc. 00-4535 Filed 2-28-00; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 7710-12-P