367 Preparation of Presorted First-Class and Carrier Route First-Class Mailings 367.1 Presorted First-Class Mail Exhibit 367.111 (NOT SHOWN) DMM315Exhibit 367.111] 367.11 Packages 367.111 When to Make Packages. When there are 10 or more pieces to the same 5-digit ZIP Code destination and/or 50 or more pieces to the same 3-digit ZIP Code prefix destination, they must be secured together as a package by the mailer. Rubber bands are the only acceptable means of securing packages in trayed mail. See Exhibit 367.111. *viewer dmm315.pcx* 367.112 Rubber Bands. Rubber bands are provided by the Postal Service and must be used by mailers to secure packages of Presorted First-Class Mail under the following conditions: a. Packages of letter-size pieces, as described in 128.2, must be secured with rubber bands. b. As a guard against breakage during transit and handling, it is strongly recommended that the thickness of packages containing letter-size mail not exceed 4 inches. The maximum permissible thickness is 6 inches. c. Packages of letter-size mail up to 1 inch thick must be secured with at least one rubber band around the girth. Packages of letter-size mail thicker than 1 inch must be secured with at least two rubber bands. The first rubber band should always be placed around the length and the second, around the girth so that it crosses over the first. d. Rubber bands used for packages of letter-size mail and banding materials used to secure other packages of mail should be positioned as near as possible to the center to provide the greatest stability during transit and handling. More than two bands may be used to secure a package, but banding material must never lie along the outer 1 inch of any edge. Refer to Exhibit 367.112. *viewer dmm367.pcx* EXHIBIT 367.112 DMM367 Exhibit 367.112] 367.113 Exceptions to Packaging. The packaging requirements for Presorted First-Class Mail left over after filling full trays described in 367.1 and 367.2 may be waived when the use of separating tabs is approved by the local postmaster. The local postmaster may also waive the packaging requirements for loose-packed presorted flat-size mail as described in 128.3, sorted to one 5-digit ZIP Code destination, when there is enough quantity to fill a No. 3 sack. 367.114 Labeling of Packages. Package labels must be used to identify the makeup of Presorted First-Class packages of mail. a. Place coded, pressure-sensitive labels in the lower left corner on the address side of the top piece in the package. Pressure-sensitive labels are provided by the Postal Service. b. Do not date package labels. 367.12 Traying and Pouching 367.121 Traying. Packages must be made up into trays in accordance with 367.2. Two-letter state abbreviations must be used on labels. 367.122 Pouching. Instead of traying, postmasters may authorize pouching or other suitable containerization of Presorted First-Class Mail when mutually beneficial to the mailer and the Postal Service and when the integrity of the presort can be maintained. Pouches must be made up in accordance with the procedures prescribed for trays in 367.2 and with the prescribed pouch tags. Packages must be pouched by the mailer when there are enough for the same destination to fill approximately one-third of a pouch. The total weight of pieces placed in one pouch must not exceed 70 pounds. The residual must be clearly segregated from the lower rated Presorted First-Class Mail. 367.123 Volume per Tray. Mailers should balance the volume in trays when more than one is prepared for the same destination to ensure that all are full (when their contents are reasonably compressed). If, after this step, the remaining pieces for that destination are not enough to generate an additional full tray, they may be placed in a tray that is less than full, provided the pieces in that tray are packaged to preserve their orientation, and only one such tray for that destination is prepared in the mailing. To allow accurate verification of the mailing by postal acceptance personnel, the mailer must provide a listing of all such trays prepared regardless of any documentation required for the rate claimed. 367.2 Sortation Requirements for Qualifying Presorted First-Class Pieces 367.21 Five-Digit ZIP Code Delivery Unit Packages and Trays 367.211 Packages. When there are 10 or more pieces, but less than a full tray, addressed to the same 5-digit ZIP Code delivery unit, they must be prepared by the mailer in packages of 10 or more pieces. The pieces in the packages must be faced in the same direction, and the packages must comply with the requirements prescribed in 367.112. A red Label D must be affixed to the lower left corner on the address side of the top piece in each package. 367.212 Trays. When there is enough mail for the same 5-digit ZIP Code delivery unit to fill a tray (approximately 500 pieces), a direct 5-digit tray must be prepared. Mail left over after filling direct trays must be bundled and placed in the appropriate unique 3-digit or SCF mail tray with the same first three digits. A pouch label must be firmly affixed to the end of the tray. Direct 5-digit trays or containers must be labeled in the following manner: Line 1:City, state, 5-digit ZIP Code Line 2:Class, contents Line 3:Mailer, mailer location Example: PHILADELPHIA PA 19118 FCM PRESORTED FR ABC CORP OMAHA NE 367.22 Unique Three-Digit Packages and Trays 367.221 Packages. When there are 50 or more pieces, but less than a full tray, remaining for a city with a unique 3-digit ZIP Code prefix after the 5-digit ZIP Code delivery unit packages required by 367.212 have been prepared, they must be made up as city packages. The pieces in the packages must be faced in the same direction, and the packages must comply with the requirements in 367.112. Cities with unique 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes are listed in uppercase letters in Exhibit 122.63b. A green Label 3 must be affixed to the lower left corner on the address side of the top piece of each package. 367.222 Trays. Unique 3-digit mail plus any packages for 5-digit ZIP Code delivery units within those cities not trayed, as provided in 367.212, must be prepared in unique 3-digit trays. A pouch label must be affixed to the end of each tray. Unique 3-digit trays must be labeled in the following manner: Line 1:Unique 3-digit city name, two-letter state abbreviation, 3-digit destination Line 2:Class, contents Line 3:Mailer, mailer location Example: PHILADELPHIA PA 191 FCM PRESORTED FR ABC CORP OMAHA NE Note: Mail left over after filling trays must be bundled in the packages and placed in an SCF tray. 367.23 Three-Digit Packages and SCF Trays 367.231 Packages. When there are 50 or more pieces, but less than a full tray, remaining for the same 3-digit ZIP Code prefix after the packages required by 367.212 and 367.221 have been prepared, they must be prepared as packages to that 3-digit ZIP Code prefix. The pieces in the packages must be faced in the same direction, and the packages must comply with the requirements prescribed in 367.112. A green Label 3 must be affixed to the lower left corner on the address side of the top piece in each package. 367.232 Trays. Three-digit packages plus any 5-digit and unique 3-digit packages not trayed, as provided in 367.212 and 367.222 and which are destined for the same SCF, must be prepared in SCF trays. A list of SCFs serving one 3-digit ZIP Code area and the 3-digit ZIP Code area served by each is shown in Exhibit 122.63c. A list of SCFs serving more than one 3-digit ZIP Code area and the 3-digit ZIP Code areas served by each is shown in Exhibit 122.63d. Each tray must be labeled in accordance with Exhibit 122.63c and Exhibit 122.63d, and the label must be firmly affixed to the end of the tray. Presorted mail left over after filling SCF trays must be prepared into packages. It is recommended that these packages be placed in area distribution center (ADC) trays. SCF trays must be labeled in the following manner: Line 1:Letters "SCF" followed city, two-letter state abbreviation, and 3-digit ZIP Code prefix for SCF as shown in Exhibit 122.63c and Exhibit 122.63d Line 2:Class, contents Line 3:Mailer name, city, and two-letter state abbreviation for mailer's location Example: SCF PHILADELPHIA PA 190 FCM PRESORTED FR ABC CORP OMAHA NE Note: SCF trays that are less than full may be prepared for mail destinating in the SCF that serves the entry post office. 367.24 Optional Area Distribution Center Trays. It is recommended, but not required, that packages remaining after traying in accordance with 367.212, 367.222, and 367.232, be sorted to area distribution centers (ADCs) and placed in ADC trays (see Exhibit 122.63e). A pouch label in the format shown below must be firmly affixed to the end of the tray: Line 1:Area distribution center, code Line 2:class, contents Line 3:Mailer, mailer location Example: DIS PHILADELPHIA PA 190 FCM PRESORTED FR ABC CORP OMAHA NE Note: ADC trays containing mail destinating in the ADC that serves the entry post office should be labeled to the local SCF for processing. Line 2 of tray labels for such trays must read: FCM PRESORT RESID 367.25 Mixed ADC Trays. Packages remaining after traying in accordance with 367.212, 367.222, 367.232, and 367.24 must be prepared in mixed ADC trays. A mixed ADC pouch label in the following format must be firmly affixed to the end of the tray: Line 1:Area distribution center, code Line 2:class, contents Line 3:Mailer, mailer location Example: DIS OMAHA NE 680 MIXED ADC FCM PRESORTED FR ABC CORP OMAHA NE 367.26 Nonqualifying Pieces. All nonqualifying pieces in a Presorted First-Class mailing are residual and are subject to full First-Class rates. Nonqualifying pieces must be sorted and prepared according to 367.5. 367.27 Volume Per Tray. Mailers should balance the volume in trays when more than one is prepared for the same destination to ensure that all are full (when their contents are reasonably compressed). If, after this step, the remaining pieces for that destination are not enough to generate an additional full tray, they may be placed in a tray that is less than full, provided the pieces in that tray are packaged to preserve their orientation, and only one such tray for that destination is prepared in the mailing. To allow accurate verification of the mailing by postal acceptance personnel, the mailer must provide a listing of all such trays prepared regardless of any documentation required for the rate claimed. 367.3 Carrier Route First-Class Mail (Packaging Requirements) 367.31 Packages 367.311 When to Make Packages. When there are 10 or more pieces to the same carrier route, rural route, highway contract route, post office box section, or general delivery unit, the mailer must prepare the pieces as a package. 367.312 Preparing Packages. Rubber bands are provided by the Postal Service and must be used by mailers to secure packages. Pieces in the packages must be faced in the same direction and secured by rubber bands as follows: a. Packages of letter-size pieces as described in 128.2 must be secured with rubber bands. b. As a guard aginst breakage during transit and handling, it is strongly recommended that the thickness of packages containing letter-size mail not exceed 4 inches. The maximum permissible thickness is 6 inches. c. Packages of letter-size mail up to 1 inch thick must be secured with at least one rubber band around the girth. Packages of letter-size mail thicker than 1 inch must be secured with at least two rubber bands. The first rubber band should always be placed around the length and the second, around the girth so that it crosses over the first. d. Rubber bands used for packages of letter-size mail and banding materials used to secure other packages of mail should be positioned as near as possible to the center to provide the greatest stability during transit and handling. More than two bands may be used to secure a package, but banding material must never lie along the outer 1 inch of any edge. Refer to Exhibit 367.112. *viewer dmm367.pcx* 367.32 Labeling Packages a. Packages Placed in Carrier Route Trays. Carrier route packages that are placed in a tray that is labeled to show that it contains only packages for the same carrier route, rural route, highway contract route, post office box section, or general delivery unit, are not required to be labeled. b. Packages Placed in Five-Digit Carrier Routes Trays. When carrier route packages are placed in 5-digit carrier routes trays, one of the following procedures must be used to label the packages: (1) The mailer may prepare packages with a facing slip that must be affixed to the front of the package and marked as shown below: Line 1:City, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code of address Line 2:Carrier route, rural route, highway contract route, post office box section, or general delivery unit followed by number Line 3:Office of Mailing Example: SAN FRANCISCO CA 94133 RURAL ROUTE 12 BOSTON MA (2) Packages made up to individual carrier routes, rural routes, highway contract routes, post office box sections, or general delivery units may be prepared without facing slips when the following conditions are met: (a) The carrier route information consisting of a descriptive prefix (or its abbreviation), plus a route number or numeric code, must be on the top line of the address, either alone (the preferred format), or with other information (addressee, account data, etc.). Alternatively, the carrier route information may appear with the "Carrier Route Presort" endorsement on the line above or two lines above the address when the "Carrier Route Presort" endorsement is located in the address area in accordance with 362.31e. (b) The descriptive prefix "carrier route," "rural route," "highway contract route," "post office box section," or "general delivery unit" must either be spelled out (the preferred format) or abbreviated as follows: Carrier RouteCR Rural RouteRR Highway Contract RouteHC Post Office Box SectionB General Delivery UnitGD (c) The descriptive prefix must be followed by a 2-digit route number or 3-digit post office box section number. Alternatively, the mailer may use a numeric route code. This route code must consist of the last two digits of the 5-digit ZIP Code, followed by the 2-digit route number or 3-digit post office box section number. (d) The carrier route information must be right-justified. (e) The carrier route information must be preceded by at least two asterisks (**) or other distinctive nonalphabetic or nonnumeric characters. The following are examples of address formats: * * CARRIER ROUTE 11 RESIDENT 1300 WATERFORD DRIVE DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD 20747 * * CR 11 RESIDENT 1300 WATERFORD DRIVE ENDICOTT NY 13760 * * RURAL ROUTE 05 RESIDENT 1602 COUNTRY LANE BURKE VA 22015 * * RR 1505 Postal Customer CAR-RT SORT* * CR 11 RESIDENT 1600 JACKSON AVENUE BINGHAMTON NY 13903 (f) At least 10 spaces must be allowed for carrier route information, if it is included with other information on the top line. c. Packages Placed in Optional Three-Digit Carrier Routes Trays. When carrier route packages are placed in an optional 3-digit carrier routes tray, they must be labeled in accordance with 367.32. If the carrier route packages are labeled in accordance with 367.32, they must also have a pressure-sensitive purple Label CR placed in the lower left-hand corner of the top piece in each package. The pressure-sensitive purple Label CR MUST be used with the carrier route optional endorsement line for packages placed in optional 3-digit carrier routes trays. d. Carrier route information prepared in accordance with requirements in 367.32b(2)(b) through 367.32b(f) may be shown on all pieces within the mailing regardless of the level of presort. 367.4 Carrier Route First-Class Mail (Traying Requirements) 367.41 Carrier Route Trays a. Direct Carrier Route Trays. When there are enough qualifying carrier packages to the same carrier route to fill a tray, a direct carrier route tray must be prepared. Only full trays may be prepared, except as provided in 367.43. Each tray must be labeled in the following manner: Line 1:City, two-letter state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination Line 2:Contents and carrier route, rural route, post office box section, highway contract route, or general delivery unit Line 3:Office of mailing Example: SAN FRANCISCO CA 94133 FCM--CARRIER ROUTE 18 PORTLAND OR b. Five-Digit Carrier Routes Trays. When there are enough qualifying carrier packages to the same 5-digit ZIP Code destination to fill three-fourths or more of a standard tray, a 5-digit carrier routes tray must be prepared. Trays that are less than 3/4 full may be prepared only as provided in 367.43. Each tray must be labeled in the following manner: Line 1:City, two-letter state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination Line 2:Contents followed by words CARRIER ROUTES Line 3:Office of mailing Example: SAN FRANCISCO CA 94133 FCM--CARRIER ROUTES BOSTON MA c. Optional Three-Digit Carrier Routes Trays. When, after preparing all required carrier route and 5-digit carrier routes trays, there are carrier route packages remaining for the same 3-digit ZIP Code destination, the remaining packages may be made up into 3-digit carrier routes trays labeled to the 3-digit ZIP Code destination. Each tray must be labeled in the following manner: (1) Unique Three-Digit ZIP Code Prefixes: Line 1:City, two-letter state abbreviation, and unique 3-digit ZIP Code prefix. (See Exhibit 122.63b for the unique 3-digit city and state.) Line 2:Contents followed by words MIXED CARRIER ROUTES Line 3:Office of mailing Example: BINGHAMTON NY 139 FCM--MIXED CARRIER ROUTES BOSTON MA (2) Other Three-Digit ZIP Code prefixes: Line 1:3-Digit destination city, two-letter state abbreviation and 3-digit ZIP Code prefix (see Exhibit 122.63c or Exhibit 122.63d for the 3-digit destination city and state) Line 2:Contents followed by words MIXED CARRIER ROUTES Line 3:Office of mailing Examples: BINGHAMTON NY 137 FCM--MIXED CARRIER ROUTES VESTAL NY BINGHAMTON NY 138 FCM--MIXED CARRIER ROUTES VESTAL NY Note: The following abbreviations may be used on the contents line of tray labels for carrier route First-Class mailings: LettersLTRS FlatsFLTS MixedMXD Carrier RouteCR Carrier RoutesCR RTS Rural RouteRR Post Office Box SectionPO BX SECT Highway Contract RouteHC General Delivery UnitGD 367.42 Nonqualifying Pieces 367.421 Definition. Pieces remaining after packages and trays have been prepared in accordance with 367.3 and 367.4 are nonqualifying and are ineligible for the carrier route rate. The nonqualifying portion of the mailing consists of Presorted First-Class Mail pieces (see 367.2) and residual pieces (see 367.5). The applicable rate on nonqualifying pieces is the Presorted First-Class rate or the single-piece First-Class full rate on residual pieces. 367.422 Sortation. Pieces remaining after all possible carrier route packages and carrier route and carrier routes trays have been prepared must be sorted according to the requirements in 367.2 and 367.5. The nonqualifying portion must be completely separated from the qualifying carrier route or carrier routes trays. 367.423 Limits on Nonqualifying Pieces. There is no limit on the total number of nonqualifying pieces in a carrier route mailing, provided all Presorted First-Class Mail and residual pieces are marked with the identification required in 362.32. If the number of presort rate and residual (full rate) pieces is 5% or less of the total number of qualifying carrier route pieces in the mailing, mailers may endorse these pieces as "First-Class Carrier Route" or "CAR-RT SORT." (Mailers can use this option only if the total number of nonqualifying pieces is 5% or less of the total number of carrier route qualifying pieces.) 367.424 ZIP+4 Code. Nonqualifying pieces of a carrier route mailing may qualify for the ZIP+4 rate if all pieces in the mailing bear a ZIP+4 code. Pieces qualifying for the ZIP+4 rate may be endorsed "Carrier Route Presort" or "CAR-RT SORT." 367.43 Volume Per Tray. Mailers should balance the volume in trays when more than one is prepared for the same destination to ensure that all are full (when their contents are reasonably compressed). If, after this step, the remaining pieces for that destination are not enough to generate an additional full tray, they may be placed in a tray that is less than full, provided the pieces in that tray are packaged to preserve their orientation, and only one such tray for that destination is prepared in the mailing. To allow accurate verification of the mailing by postal acceptance personnel, the mailer must provide a listing of all such trays prepared regardless of any documentation required for the rate claimed. 367.5 Residual Full-Rate Pieces 367.51 Definition. Pieces remaining after packages and trays have been prepared in accordance with 367.21 through 367.25 and Exhibit 367.111 *viewer dmm315.pcx* (Presorted First-Class Mail rate) and 367.3 and 367.41 (First-Class carrier route rate) are residual mail and are ineligible for the lower Presorted First-Class or carrier route rates. Section 382.322 contains specific limitations concerning the volume of nonidentical weight pieces that can be mailed as residual in a Presorted First-Class rate mailing. Section 367.42 contains specific limitations concerning the total volume of presort rated mail and residual mail in a carrier route First-Class mailing. 367.52 Sortation 367.521 General a. All residual mail must be presented together with the lower rated portion of a mailing, but must be clearly segregated from it to facilitate verification of the quantities of both the lower rated and residual pieces. The mail must be faced or oriented in the same manner. All residual pieces must be sorted by one of the methods listed below. The mailer may select any one of these methods of sorting the residual mail. It is recommended, but not required, that as fine a sort as practical be performed in order to improve service. The methods of sortation are the following: (1) Sequenced by 5-digit ZIP Codes. (2) Sequenced by 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes. (3) Separated by area distribution centers (ADCs). (4) Separated by in-state and out-of-state. b. Trays of residual mail prepared in ZIP Code sequence must not bear pouch labels. 367.522 Nonidentical Weight Residual Mail Bearing Presort Rate Postage. Nonidentical weight residual mail bearing postage at the lower presort rate must be prepared in accordance with 367.521. In addition, such residual mail must be presented in groups of 100 pieces for verification. Grouping may be accomplished with the use of index tabs, separator cards, or any other means acceptable to the postmaster. Any group of less than 100 pieces must be identified and have the actual piece count shown. Groupings must be done within one of the sortations authorized in 367.521. Alternatively, rather than preparing groups of 100 pieces, whenever there are more than 100 pieces for the same 3-digit or ADC separation, all residual mail for that separation may be prepared in trays and presented with a printout showing the number of pieces in each separation with a summary total. 368 Preparation of Nonpresorted Bulk Rate First-Class Mail 368.1 Nonpresorted ZIP+4 Mail 368.11 Mailings Containing Only ZIP+4 Coded Pieces 368.111 Traying Requirements. Pieces must be faced and placed in trays. The trays must be labeled in the following manner: Line 1:ZIP+4 368.112 Documentation Requirements. None. 368.12 Mailings Containing Both ZIP+4 and 5-Digit ZIP Coded Pieces 368.121 General. Mailers must prepare the mailing in accordance with either 368.122 or 368.123. 368.122 Traying Requirements -- Physical Separation Option. Separately tray ZIP+4 coded pieces and 5-digit ZIP Coded pieces and, if the pieces are not of identical weight, separate the pieces within each tray into groups of 100 pieces by tabs or rubber bands to facilitate verification of postage and the 85% requirement (see 327.2). 368.123 Traying Requirements -- Documentation Option. Pieces must be placed in trays in batches by 3-digit ZIP Code area, and each tray must be assigned a unique number. Documentation must be submitted which shows, for each tray, the tray number and, within each tray by 3-digit ZIP Code prefix, the number of pieces with a ZIP+4 code and the number of pieces with a 5-digit ZIP Code. For the entire mailing, the documentation must also show the total number of pieces with a ZIP+4 code and the total number of pieces with a 5-digit ZIP Code. 368.2 Nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded Mail 368.21 Mailings Containing Only ZIP+4 Barcoded Pieces 368.211 Traying Requirements. Pieces must be faced and placed in trays. The trays must be labeled in the following manner: Line 1:ZIP+4 BARCODED 368.212 Documentation Requirements. None. 368.22 Mailings Containing Pieces With and Without ZIP+4 Barcodes 368.221 General. Mailers must prepare the mailing in accordance with either 368.222 or 368.223. 368.222 Traying Requirements -- Physical Separation Option. Separately tray ZIP+4 barcoded pieces and pieces that do not bear a ZIP+4 barcode and, if the pieces are not of identical weight, separate the pieces within each tray into groups of 100 pieces by tabs or rubber bands to facilitate verification of postage and the 85% requirement (see 328.2). 368.223 Traying Requirements -- Documentation Option. Pieces must be placed in trays in batches by 3-digit ZIP Code area, and each tray must be assigned a unique number. Documentation must be submitted which shows, for each tray, the tray number and, within each tray by 3-digit ZIP Code prefix, the number of pieces with a ZIP+4 barcode and the number of pieces without. For the entire mailing, the documentation must also show the total number of pieces with a ZIP+4 barcode and the total number of pieces without. 368.3 Separation of Rate Categories. When a mailing consists of more than one rate category (e.g., ZIP+4 Presort, nonpresorted ZIP+4), trays for each rate category must be physically separated by rate category at the time of mailing. 369 Optional Endorsement Line in Address Block or Label 369.1 General. Mailers may prepare mailings without applying pressure-sensitive labels to the top copies of packages by using a specific optional endorsement line above the address block or label. 369.2 Format Specifications. Specifications outlined in 441.232 apply to all First-Class mailings using the optional endorsement line in the address block or on the address label. 369.3 Examples. The following are examples of optional endorsement lines and formats: FIRM PACKAGES * * * * * FIRM 12345 CARRIER ROUTE * * * * * CAR-RT-SORT***CR 30 5-DIGIT PACKAGES * * * * * 5-DIGIT 12345 UNIQUE 3-DIGIT PACKAGES * * * * * 3-DIGIT 750 3-DIGIT PACKAGES * * * * * 3-DIGIT 771 SCF Packages * * * * * SCF 220 Note: The SCF package label optional endorsement line is for use only with Presorted Priority Mail. The 3-digit ZIP Code used with this optional endorsement line must be the 3-digit code shown for the SCF in Exhibit 122.63d. Note: A unique 3-digit ZIP Code is defined as any 3-digit ZIP Code prefix assigned exclusively to a single large city, with the last two digits of the ZIP Code identifying a delivery area within the city. 370 Mailing 371 Regular Single-Piece and Card Rates Single-piece rate or card rate First-Class Mail may be deposited in any street collection box, mailchute, receiving box, cooperative mailing rack, or other place where mail is accepted. Metered single-piece or card rate mail may be deposited in such locations only if they are under the jurisdiction of the licensing post office (i.e., the post office shown in the meter stamp). Mailers may deposit metered mail at other than the licensing post office only as provided in 144.522, 144.523, and 144.8. Mail which has postage paid by permit imprint must be deposited as prescribed by 145.62. 372 Matter Mailed at Carrier Route First-Class, Presorted First-Class, Nonpresorted ZIP+4, ZIP+4 Presort, and ZIP+4 Barcoded Rates 372.1 Deposit of Mail. Matter mailed at the carrier route First-Class, Presorted First-Class, nonpresorted ZIP+4, ZIP+4 Presort, and ZIP+4 Barcoded rates must be deposited at locations and times designated by the postmaster. Deposit of metered mail at other than those locations is considered a sufficient basis for revocation of postage meter licenses in accordance with 144.23. The Postal Service may collect carrier route First-Class, Presorted First-Class, nonpresorted ZIP+4, ZIP+4 Presort, and ZIP+4 Barcoded mail at the customer's facility when one of the following conditions is met: a. Acceptance and verification are accomplished at the customer's facility. b. Postage is paid under an optional procedure. c. Postage is paid by meter strips. d. Postage is paid by precanceled stamps. Note: Presort mailings paid by permit imprint, and not covered by optional procedures, are not to be collected from the customer's facility. 372.2 Approved Collection Service. In addition to the above requirements, the collection of carrier route First-Class, Presorted First-Class, nonpresorted ZIP+4, ZIP+4 Presort, and ZIP+4 Barcoded mail, must be part of an approved collection service for other classes of mail, and space must be available on the transportation required for those classes. Separate or additional collection service for carrier route First-Class, Presorted First-Class, nonpresorted ZIP+4, ZIP+4 Presort, and ZIP+4 Barcoded mail must not be established. 372.3 Deposit of Metered Mail at Other Than the Licensing Post Office. Metered mail may not be deposited at a post office other than the licensing post office except as provided in 144.522, 144.523, and 144.8. 373 Priority Mail 373.1 General Requirement. Except as provided in 373.2, Priority Mail must be deposited at a post office, branch, or station, or handed to a rural or highway contract route carrier. 373.2 Exceptions a. A Priority Mail piece in a weight category for which the rates do not vary by zone may be deposited in accordance with 371. b. Metered Priority Mail must be deposited at locations that are under the jurisdiction of the licensing post office (i.e., the post office shown in the meter stamp). Mailers may deposit metered Priority Mail at other than the licensing post office only as provided in 144.522, 144.523, and 144.8. c. Priority Mail which has postage paid by permit imprint must be deposited as prescribed by 145.62. 374 Presort Verification 374.1 Where Verified 374.11 Mailings Presented to the Accepting Post Office by the Customer a. Presorted First-Class mailings must be verified at the post office of acceptance to establish that each mailing made at the presort rate is properly made up and presorted and qualifies for the presort rate. b. Carrier route First-Class mailings must be verified at the post office of acceptance to ensure that the nonqualifying pieces are properly prepared and do not exceed applicable limits. Verification for proper carrier route presort makeup (according to the latest "official scheme") must be made at the delivery unit. c. Nonpresorted ZIP+4 and ZIP+4 Presort mailings must be verified at the post office of acceptance to establish that each mailing is properly prepared and, if mailed at the ZIP+4 Presort rate, properly presorted in accordance with either 365 and 368.2, or 366 (optional sortation). d. ZIP+4 Barcoded mailings must be verified at the post office of acceptance to establish that each mailing at the ZIP+4 Barcoded rate is properly prepared and presorted and qualifies for that rate. 374.12 Collected at Customer's Facility. Carrier route First-Class, Presorted First-Class, nonpresorted ZIP+4, ZIP+4 Presort, and ZIP+4 Barcoded mailings collected at the customer's facility (see 372.1) must be verified at a post office acceptance unit, unless complete acceptance and verification is accomplished at the customer's facility. If such a mailing, which has been collected at the customer's facility and brought to the appropriate acceptance unit, is found not to qualify due to makeup irregularities, improper postage, or other reasons, the mailer must come to the acceptance unit to resolve the discrepancies. 374.2 When a Carrier Route First-Class, Presorted First-Class, Nonpresorted ZIP+4, ZIP+4 Presort, or ZIP+4 Barcoded Mailing is Disqualified 374.21 Options a. When a carrier route First-Class, Presorted First-Class, nonpresorted ZIP+4, ZIP+4 Presort, or ZIP+4 Barcoded mailing is found not to qualify at the acceptance unit (or detached mail unit), the mailer has the option of taking corrective action or paying the full regular single-piece rate. When necessary, the return of such mailings to the customer's facility is the responsibility of the mailer. The mailer must correct discrepancies or pay the full single-piece First-Class postage before the mailing may be accepted. b. When a carrier route First-Class mailing is found, through reports from the delivery unit, to have more than 5% error in the makeup to carrier routes in a 5-digit ZIP Code area, the pieces in the mailing to that 5-digit ZIP Code area do not qualify for the carrier route First-Class rate. Postage is recalculated at the Presorted First-Class rate of postage on all pieces within that 5-digit ZIP Code area, providing the pieces meet the Presorted First-Class Mail preparation requirements. 374.22 Correction of Dates on Resubmitted Metered and Mailer's Precancel Postmark Mailpieces. If a mailer elects to correct the presort or preparation problems in a mailing which had resulted in its disqualification when originally presented for acceptance, but is unable to resubmit that mailing on the same day, the date shown in the meter or mailer's precancel postmark must be corrected by reenveloping or applying a legible ".00" meter impression which includes the correct date of mailing. 374.23 Paying Single-Piece Rate. Mailers who elect to pay the single-piece First-Class rate instead of correcting the disqualification must pay postage in the following manner: a. Metered Mail. Mailers of unqualified metered mailings must pay the difference in cash at the window and present their copy of the cash receipt at the acceptance point before the mail can be released for processing. b. Permit Imprint. Mailers must correct the mailing statement presented with an unqualified mailing to indicate that postage is to be paid at regular single-piece or card rates. All other provisions of 145 are applicable to such mailings. 380 Payment of Postage 381 Single-Piece Rates 381.1 Method of Payment. Mailers of First-Class matter at regular single-piece and card rates may pay postage by adhesive stamps, stamped envelopes and postal cards, meter stamps, and permit imprints. Permit imprints may be used on mailings of nonidentical weight only under 145.7, 145.8, 145.9, or 137.274c(2). 381.2 Payment According to Weight. Postage must be paid at First-Class rates on each piece of First-Class Mail according to its weight. 381.3 Aggregation of Letters 381.31 More Than One Mailer. When two or more individuals or organizations, or a party acting as the agent of two or more individuals or organizations, mail in one package the bills, statements of account, or other letters of the individuals or organizations, to a mutual addressee, First-Class postage may be paid on the weight of the entire package of aggregated mail. Postage need not be paid on each piece of individual First-Class Mail. 381.32 More Than One Letter. An individual or organization may mail in one envelope more than one of the mailer's own letters and pay postage at the First-Class rate on the weight of the piece, if (a) the letters are for persons who reside at the same residence or who work for the same organization, located at the address shown on the envelope (provided the letters relate to the business of such organization) or (b) the letters are sent to a party who turns them over to other persons as part of a minor service provided in addition to a substantial and independent sales, service, or other business function that party performs for such persons. Agents of a licensing authority may forward completed applications in one envelope to an office of the licensing authority and pay postage at the First-Class rate on the weight of the piece. 382 Carrier Route First-Class, Presorted First-Class, Nonpresorted ZIP+4, Nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded, ZIP+4 Presort, 5-Digit ZIP+4 Barcoded, and 3-Digit ZIP+4 Barcoded Rates 382.1 Method of Payment. Postage on mailings made at carrier route First-Class, Presorted First-Class, nonpresorted ZIP+4, ZIP+4 Presort and ZIP+4 Barcoded rates, must be paid by meter stamps, permit imprints, or precanceled postage. Permit imprints may be used on mailings of nonidentical weight only under 145.7, 145.8, 145.9, or 382.6. 382.2 Exact Postage on Each Piece 382.21 Presort Rates. When precanceled postage or meter stamps are used, pieces must bear postage at the ZIP+4 Presort or Presorted First-Class rate on qualifying pieces and at the full First-Class rate or nonpresorted ZIP+4 rate on residual pieces, except as provided in 382.3. 382.22 Carrier Route Rates. When precanceled postage or meter stamps are used, pieces must bear postage at the carrier route First-Class rate on qualifying pieces. Nonqualifying pieces must bear postage as required in 382.31. 382.23 ZIP+4 Barcoded Presort Rates 382.231 National Mailings Prepared Under 364.1. When precanceled postage or meter stamps are used, pieces in national mailings prepared in accordance with 364.1 must have postage affixed at the 5-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, the ZIP+4 Presort rate, or the Presorted First-Class rate, as appropriate, on pieces in the 5-digit presort portion; and postage affixed at the 3-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, the ZIP+4 Presort rate, or the Presorted First-Class rate, as appropriate, on pieces in the 3-digit presort portion; and postage affixed at the nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, the nonpresorted ZIP+4 rate, or the single-piece rate, as appropriate, on pieces in the residual sortation portion. 382.232 National Mailings Prepared Under Chapter 5. a. Mailings Prepared Under 563. When meter stamps are used, pieces in national mailings prepared in accordance with 563 must have postage affixed at the 5-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded, ZIP+4 Presort, or Presorted First-Class rate if in a 5-digit tray; the 3-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded, ZIP+4 Presort, or Presorted First-Class rate if in a 3-digit or SCF tray; or at the nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded, nonpresorted ZIP+4, or single-piece First-Class rate if in a residual tray. When precanceled postage is used, the mailer may affix postage at the rates for metered postage prescribed above when precanceled stamps of those denominations are available. When the appropriate denominations of precanceled stamps are not available, mailers may affix a nondenominated precanceled stamp or a precanceled stamp of a denomination less than the applicable ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, following the procedures in 382.314b(1)(c) or 382.332b(1)(c). b. Mailings Prepared Under 564. When meter stamps are used, pieces in national mailings prepared under 564 must have postage affixed at the 5-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate when in the 5-digit presort tier of the mailing; postage affixed at the 3-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded, ZIP+4 Presort, or Presorted First-Class rate as appropriate when in the 3-digit presort tier of the mailing; and postage affixed at the Nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, the Nonpresorted ZIP+4 rate, or the single-piece First-Class rate when in the residual portion of the mailing. If precanceled postage is used, the mailer may affix postage at the rates for metered postage required above when precanceled stamps of those denominations are available. When the appropriate denominations of precanceled stamps are not available, mailers may affix a nondenominated precanceled stamp or a precanceled stamp of a denomination less than the applicable ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, following the procedures in 382.314b(1)(c) or 382.332b(1)(c). 382.233 Automated Site Mailings. When precanceled postage or meter stamps are used, pieces in automated site mailings prepared in packages and trays in accordance with 364.3 must have postage affixed at the 3-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, the ZIP+4 Presort rate, or the Presorted First-Class rate, as appropriate, if in the qualifying portion of the mailing; and postage affixed at the nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, the nonpresorted ZIP+4 rate, or the single-piece rate on pieces in the residual portion of the mailing. 382.24 Nonpresorted ZIP+4 Rates. When precanceled postage or meter stamps are used, pieces in nonpresorted ZIP+4 rate mailings must have postage affixed at the nonpresorted ZIP+4 rates for qualifying pieces or at the single-piece First-Class rate for nonqualifying pieces. 382.25 Nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded Rates. When precanceled postage or meter stamps are used, pieces in nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded rate mailings must have postage affixed at the nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded rates for qualifying pieces or the single-piece First-Class rate for nonqualifying pieces. 382.3 Postage at Lowest Rate in Mailing Affixed to All Pieces in the Mailing 382.31 Identical Pieces 382.311 Presorted First-Class Mailings. When all pieces in a Presorted First-Class mailing paid by meter stamps or precanceled postage are of identical size and weight, the entire mailing may have postage affixed at the Presorted First-Class rate. Additional postage for residual pieces must be paid by means of a meter strip affixed to the back of the mailing statement that is required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, Post Office Accounting Procedures, 524. 382.312 Carrier Route First-Class Mailing. When all pieces in a carrier route First-Class mailing paid by meter stamps or precanceled postage are of identical size and weight, the entire mailing may have postage affixed at the carrier route First-Class rate. Additional postage for pieces subject to the Presorted First-Class and full single-piece First-Class rates must be paid by means of a meter strip affixed to the back of the mailing statement that is required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. 382.313 ZIP+4 Presort Mailings. When all pieces in a ZIP+4 Presort mailing paid by meter stamps or precanceled postage are of identical size and weight, the entire mailing may have postage affixed at the ZIP+4 Presort rate, provided the requirements in 365.33 are met. The additional postage for pieces subject to Presorted First-Class, nonpresorted ZIP+4, and single-piece First-Class rates must be paid by means of a meter strip affixed to the back of the mailing statement that is required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. 382.314 ZIP+4 Barcoded Presort Rate Mailings a. National Mailings Prepared Under 364.1. When all pieces in a ZIP+4 Barcoded national mailing prepared in accordance with 364.1 are paid by meter stamps or precanceled postage are of identical size and weight, the entire mailing may have postage affixed at the 5-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate if the documentation requirements in 364.212 are met. Additional postage in the amount documented in accordance with 364.212e for pieces subject to the 3-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded, ZIP+4 Presort, Presorted First-Class, nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded, nonpresorted ZIP+4, and single-piece First-Class rates must be paid by means of a meter strip affixed to the mailing statement that is required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. b. National Mailings Prepared Under Chapter 5 (1) Mailings Prepared Under 563 (a) Mailings Containing 5-Digit Trays. When all pieces in a ZIP+4 Barcoded national mailing prepared under 563 are paid by precanceled stamps or meter stamps and are of identical size and weight, the entire mailing may have postage affixed at the 5-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate provided the applicable documentation requirements in 563.16 or 563.24 are met. Additional postage in the amount documented under 563.16 or 563.24 for pieces subject to other rates must be paid by a meter strip affixed to the mailing statement required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. (b) Mailings Not Containing 5-Digit Trays. When a ZIP+4 Barcoded national mailing prepared under 563 does not include 5-digit trays (see 563.141 and 563.212), and when all pieces in the mailing are paid by precanceled stamps or meter stamps and are of identical size and weight, the entire mailing may have postage affixed at the 3-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, provided the applicable documentation requirements in 563.16 or 563.24 are met. Additional postage in the amount documented under 563.16 or 563.24 for pieces subject to other rates must be paid by a meter strip affixed to the mailing statement required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. (c) Procedure if Appropriate Precanceled Stamp Not Available. If the appropriate denomination of precanceled stamp is not available, mailers may affix a nondenominated precanceled stamp (if available) or a precanceled stamp of a denomination less than the applicable ZIP+4 Barcoded rate to each piece in the mailing (provided the precanceled stamp does not contain an inappropriate rate marking) and pay additional postage for the difference between the face value of the precanceled stamp and the actual postage for each piece, as documented under 563.16 or 563.24. The additional postage must be paid in the same manner as for metered mailings. (2) Mailings Prepared Under 564 (a) Mailings Containing 5-Digit Presort Tier. When all pieces in a ZIP+4 Barcoded national mailing prepared under 564 are paid by precanceled stamps or meter stamps and are of identical size and weight, the entire mailing may have postage affixed at the 5-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, provided the applicable documentation requirements in 564.62 are met. Additional postage in the amount documented under 564.62 for pieces subject to other rates must be paid by a meter strip affixed to the mailing statement required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided for in Handbook F-1, 524. (b) Mailings Not Containing 5-Digit Presort Tier. When a ZIP+4 Barcoded national mailing prepared under 564 does not include a 5-digit presort tier, (see 564.11) and when all pieces in the mailing are paid by precanceled stamps or meter stamps and are of identical size and weight, the entire mailing may have postage affixed at the 3-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, provided the applicable documentation requirements in 564.62 are met. Additional postage in the amount documented under 564.62 for pieces subject to other rates must be paid by a meter strip affixed to the mailing statement required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. (c) Procedure if Appropriate Precanceled Stamp Not Available. If the appropriate denomination of precanceled stamp is not available, mailers may affix a nondenominated precanceled stamp (if available) or a precanceled stamp of a denomination less than the applicable ZIP+4 Barcoded rate to each piece in the mailing (provided the precanceled stamp does not contain an inappropriate rate marking) and pay additional postage for the difference between the face value of the precanceled stamp and the actual postage for each piece, as documented under 564.62. The additional postage must be paid in the same manner as for metered mailings. c. Automated Site Mailings. When all pieces in an automated site ZIP+4 Barcoded mailing prepared in accordance with 364.3 are paid by meter stamps or precanceled postage and are of identical size and weight, the entire mailing may have postage affixed at the 3-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate if the documentation requirements in 364.43 are met. Additional postage in the amount documented in accordance with 364.433a for pieces subject to the ZIP+4 Presort, Presorted First-Class, nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded, nonpresorted ZIP+4, and single-piece First-Class rates, must be paid by means of a meter strip affixed to the back of the mailing statement that is required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. 382.315 Nonpresorted ZIP+4 Mailings. When all pieces in a nonpresorted ZIP+4 mailing prepared in accordance with 327 are paid by meter stamps or precanceled postage and are of identical size and weight, the entire mailing may have postage affixed at the nonpresorted ZIP+4 rates, provided the documentation requirements in 368.12 for mailings containing 5-digit ZIP Coded pieces are met. Additional postage in the amount documented in accordance with 368.12 for pieces subject to the single-piece First-Class rates must be paid by means of a meter strip affixed to the mailing statement that is required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. 382.316 Nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded Mailings. When all pieces in a nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded mailing prepared in accordance with 328 are paid by meter stamps or precanceled postage and are of identical size and weight, the entire mailing may have postage affixed at the nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded rates, provided the documentation requirements in 368.22 for mailings containing pieces prepared without ZIP+4 barcodes are met. Additional postage in the amount documented in accordance with 368.22 for pieces subject to the nonpresorted ZIP+4 or single-piece First-Class rates must be paid by means of a meter strip affixed to the mailing statement that is required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. 382.32 Nonidentical Pieces at Presorted First-Class or Carrier Route First-Class Rates 382.321 Affixing Postage. Residual pieces of letter-size mail may have postage affixed at the Presorted First-Class or carrier route First-Class rate under the following conditions: a. The volume of residual pieces cannot exceed that prescribed in 382.322. b. The residual pieces must be presented in accordance with 367.5. c. Payment of additional postage must be made in accordance with 382.323. 382.322 Volume. The volume restrictions for residual pieces are as follows: a. Pieces in the Same Rate Increment. If all residual pieces in the mailing are subject to the same postage rate, there is no limit on the number of residual pieces in a letter-size mailing. If all residual pieces in the mailing are separated into each different postage rate weight increment, there is no limit on the number of nonidentical residual pieces. b. Pieces Weighing Up to Two Ounces. If all residual pieces in the mailing are not separated into postage rate weight increments and are subject to either the 1- or 2-ounce letter-size rate, the mailing may contain up to 20% residual pieces. c. Pieces Weighing Up to Three Ounces. If all residual pieces in the mailing are not separated into postage rate weight increments and are subject to the 1-, 2-, or 3-ounce letter-size rates, then the mailing may contain up to 10% residual pieces. 382.323 Payment of Postage. The additional postage for residual pieces, whether identical or nonidentical, must be paid by means of meter strips affixed to the back of the mailing statement that must accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. 382.33 Nonidentical Pieces at All ZIP+4 and ZIP+4 Barcoded Rates 382.331 ZIP+4 Presort Mailings. ZIP+4 Presort mailings of nonidentical weight pieces may have postage at the ZIP+4 Presort rate affixed to all pieces in the mailing, provided the requirements in 365.33, 366.3, 562.162, or 562.252 are met. The additional postage for pieces subject to Presorted First-Class, nonpresorted ZIP+4, and single-piece First-Class rates, must be paid by means of a meter strip affixed to the back of the mailing statement that must accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. 382.332 ZIP+4 Barcoded Presort Mailings a. National Mailings Prepared Under 364.1. ZIP+4 Barcoded mailings of nonidentical-weight pieces, prepared in accordance with 364.1, may have postage affixed to each piece at the 5-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate if the documentation requirements in 364.212 are met. Additional postage in the amount documented in accordance with 364.212e for pieces subject to the 3-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded, ZIP+4 Presort, Presorted First-Class, nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded, nonpresorted ZIP+4, and single-piece First-Class rates must be paid by means of a meter strip affixed to the mailing statement that is required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. b. National Mailings Prepared Under Chapter 5 (1) Mailings Prepared Under 563 (a) Mailings Containing 5-Digit Trays. When all pieces in a ZIP+4 Barcoded national mailing prepared under 563 are paid by precanceled stamps or meter stamps and are of nonidentical weight, the entire mailing may have postage affixed at the 5-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, provided the applicable documentation requirements in 563.16 or 563.24 are met. Additional postage in the amount documented under 563.16 or 563.24 for pieces subject to other rates must be paid by a meter strip affixed to the mailing statement required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. (b) Mailings Not Containing 5-Digit Trays. When a ZIP+4 Barcoded national mailing prepared under 563 does not include 5-digit trays (see 563.141 or 563.212), and when all pieces in the mailing are paid by precanceled stamps or meter stamps and are of nonidentical weight, the entire mailing may have postage affixed at the 3-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, provided the applicable documentation requirements in 563.16 or 563.24 are met. Additional postage in the amount documented under 563.16 or 563.24 for pieces subject to other rates must be paid by a meter strip affixed to the mailing statement required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. (c) Procedure if Appropriate Precanceled Stamp Not Available. If the appropriate denomination of precanceled stamp is not available, mailers may affix a nondenominated precanceled stamp (if available) or a precanceled stamp of a denomination less than the applicable ZIP+4 Barcoded rate to each piece in the mailing (provided the precanceled stamp does not contain an inappropriate rate marking) and pay additional postage for the difference between the face value of the precanceled stamp and the actual postage for each piece, as documented under 563.16 or 563.24. If the pieces in the mailing are for more than 1 ounce increment, additional documentation detailing the number of pieces within each ounce increment for each level of rate qualification in the mailing is required. The additional postage must be paid in the same manner as for metered mailings. (2) Mailings Prepared Under 564 (a) Mailings Containing 5-Digit Presort Tier. When all pieces in a ZIP+4 Barcoded national mailing prepared under 564 are paid by precanceled stamps or meter stamps and are of nonidentical weight, the entire mailing may have postage affixed at the 5-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, provided the mailing includes a 5-digit presort tier and the applicable documentation requirements in 564.62 are met. Additional postage in the amount documented under 564.62 for pieces subject to other rates must be paid by a meter strip affixed to the mailing statement required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. (b) Mailings Not Containing 5-Digit Presort Tier. When a ZIP+4 Barcoded national mailing prepared under 564 does not include a 5-digit presort tier (see 564.11) and when all pieces in the mailing are paid by precanceled stamps or meter stamps and are of nonidentical weight, the entire mailing may have postage affixed at the 3-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, provided the applicable documentation requirements in 564.62 are met. Additional postage in the amount documented under 564.62 for pieces subject to other rates must be paid by a meter strip affixed to the mailing statement required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. (c) Procedure if Appropriate Precanceled Stamp Not Available. If the appropriate denomination of precanceled stamp is not available, mailers may affix a nondenominated precanceled stamp (if available) or a precanceled stamp of a denomination less than the applicable ZIP+4 Barcoded rate to each piece in the mailing (provided the precanceled stamp does not contain an inappropriate rate marking) and pay additional postage for the difference between the face value of the precanceled stamp and the actual postage for each piece, as documented under 564.62. If the pieces in the mailing are for more than 1 ounce increment, additional documentation detailing the number of pieces within each ounce increment for each level of rate qualification in the mailing is required. The additional postage must be paid in the same manner as for metered mailings. c. Automated Site Mailings. ZIP+4 barcoded mailings of nonidentical-weight pieces, prepared in accordance with the automated site requirements in 364.3, may have postage affixed to each piece at the 3-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate if the documentation requirements in 364.43 are met. Additional postage in the amount documented in accordance with 364.433a for pieces subject to the ZIP+4 Presort, Presorted First-Class, nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded, nonpresorted ZIP+4, and single-piece First-Class rates must be paid by means of a meter strip affixed to the mailing statement that is required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. 382.333 Nonpresorted ZIP+4 Mailings. Nonpresorted ZIP+4 mailings of nonidentical-weight pieces, prepared in accordance with 327, may have postage affixed to each piece at the nonpresorted ZIP+4 rate if the documentation requirements in 368.12 for mailings containing pieces prepared with 5-digit ZIP Codes are met. Additional postage in the amount documented in accordance with 368.12 for pieces subject to the single-piece First-Class rates must be paid by means of a meter strip affixed to the mailing statement that is required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. 382.334 Nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded Mailings. Nonpresorted ZIP+4 barcoded mailings of nonidentical-weight pieces, prepared in accordance with 328, may have postage affixed to each piece at the nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded rate if the documentation requirements in 368.22 for mailings containing pieces prepared without ZIP+4 barcodes are met. Additional postage in the amount documented in accordance with 368.22 for pieces subject to the single-piece First-Class rates must be paid by means of a meter strip affixed to the mailing statement that is required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. 382.4 Neither Lowest Rate Nor Correct Postage Affixed to Each Piece 382.41 General. Where it is not practicable for the mailer to (1) affix the exact postage to each piece as prescribed in 382.2, or (2) to affix the lowest postage rate to all pieces in the mailing as prescribed in 382.3, postage for the mailing may be computed as if the lowest rate affixed to any piece in the mailing is affixed to all pieces as provided in 382.4b and 382.4c. Mailings qualifying for refunds for value added may be submitted under the requirements for that procedure in 147.42. 382.42 Adding Postage. Additional postage must be based on the difference between the lowest rate affixed to any piece in the mailing and the appropriate rate for each rate level in the mailing. No refund is paid on any piece where postage is affixed at a rate higher than the lowest rate claimed for or affixed to any piece. For example, if a ZIP+4 Barcoded mailing contains pieces bearing ZIP+4 Barcoded rate postage as well as pieces bearing Presorted First-Class postage, ZIP+4 Presort postage, and nonpresorted ZIP+4 postage, postage for the mailing is assessed based on the difference between the ZIP+4 Barcoded rate and the appropriate rate of postage for those pieces not qualifying for that rate based upon the documentation required for ZIP+4 Barcoded rate mailings. 382.43 Payment. The total additional postage must be paid by means of (1) a meter strip affixed to the back of the Form 3600-PC which is required to accompany the mailing, or (2) through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, Post Office Accounting Procedures, 524. The applicable check-off must be marked on the Form 3600-PC. 382.5 Mailing Statement. Mailers who qualify for carrier route First-Class, Presorted First-Class, nonpresorted ZIP+4, ZIP+4 Presort, or ZIP+4 Barcoded rates, must complete and submit one of the following mailing statements (signed by the mailer or an authorized agent) with each mailing: a. Form 3600-R for mail bearing permit imprints. b. Form 3600-PC for mail bearing meter stamps or precanceled stamps. Form 3600-PC must be submitted in duplicate for mailings metered at the lowest rate for which the difference between postage affixed and the applicable rate is paid through an advance deposit account, as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. 382.6 ZIP+4 Barcoded Rate Combined Mailings With Different Postage Payment Methods 382.61 General. Combined mailings may be prepared under the following conditions: a. Subject to 382.61 through 382.7, a mailer may be authorized to prepare First-Class ZIP+4 Barcoded rate mailings composed of pieces paid under the permit imprint system combined with pieces bearing meter stamps and/or precanceled stamps. For this procedure, the term "mailer" identifies the presenter of the mail -- the entity preparing the combined mailing and presenting it to the Postal Service. Authorization to prepare such combined mailings must be granted by the general manager, rates and classification center (RCC), serving the mailer's plant. No pieces in a ZIP+4 Barcoded rate combined mailing may weigh more than 3 ounces. b. The mailer pays postage due the Postal Service for the permit imprint mail and any precanceled stamp mail through an advance deposit account for combined mailings. Requests for refunds of overpayments of postage for the metered portion of combined mailings resulting from the application of barcodes are processed under 147.43. 382.62 General Qualification Requirements 382.621 Authorization. Before preparing combined mailings, the mailer must be authorized to prepare ZIP+4 Barcoded rate combined mailings by the general manager, RCC, under the procedures in 382.66. 382.622 Production of Mailings. The mailer must have an automated mailing system that produces ZIP+4 Barcoded rate mailings under 325, 364, 382, 563, and 564, as applicable. The mailer must demonstrate that the mailing system can correctly produce ZIP+4 Barcoded rate combined mailings and accurately calculate postage according to all applicable regulations. 382.623 Postage Payment a. Meter Stamps. Pieces in a combined mailing may bear meter stamps, provided that the meters are licensed at the post office where the mailings are entered, unless otherwise authorized under 144.8. All meter stamps must be prepared under 144.4. Metered mail must have postage affixed for the first ounce at the 5-digit or 3-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, Presorted First-Class rate, ZIP+4 Presort rate, nonpresorted ZIP+4 rate, or nonpresorted ZIP+4 Barcoded rate (for cards only). In addition to the postage affixed for the first ounce, 2-ounce metered mail must have the full rate of postage for the second ounce affixed, and 3-ounce metered mail must have the full rate for the second and third ounces affixed. b. Precanceled Stamps. Pieces in a combined mailing may bear precanceled stamps under 143.1. The precanceled stamp permits must be held at the office of mailing. Any denomination of precanceled stamp currently allowed on pieces included in a First-Class ZIP+4 Barcoded rate mailing may be affixed for the first ounce of a precanceled stamped piece in a combined mailing. In addition to the postage affixed for the first ounce, 2-ounce precanceled stamped mail must have the full rate of postage for the second ounce affixed with precanceled stamps, and 3-ounce precanceled stamped mail must have the full rate for the second and third ounces affixed with precanceled stamps. c. Permit Imprint (Advance Deposit Account). Pieces in a combined mailing may bear the permit imprint of the mailer or of any of the mailer's clients under 145. The permits must be held at the office of mailing. Postage for the permit imprint portion of each combined mailing presented must be paid through a separate advance deposit account for the combined mailings maintained by the mailer at the office of mailing. The Postal Service makes deductions only from this account and not from individual client accounts, regardless of the permit numbers or company permit imprints appearing on pieces in the combined mailing. d. Additional Postage for Postage Affixed Pieces. Any additional postage due for postage-affixed pieces in a combined mailing is deducted from the mailer's advance deposit account. 382.624 Fees and Permits. The mailer must ensure that all applicable fees for the current 12-month period are paid and that permits and licenses for pieces included in combined mailings are current and maintained at the office of mailing. 382.625 Identification of Individual Jobs Included in Combined Mailing a. Description. The mailer must maintain records (e.g., customer/job work tickets and/or customer billing summaries) that identify the segments merged to form the combined mailing in a manner that enables the Postal Service to identify the following: clients/jobs represented; whether metered and precanceled stamped mailings from a client/job included 2- and 3-ounce pieces; number of permit imprint pieces by 1-, 2-, and 3-ounce increments; number of metered pieces by the amount of postage affixed for the first ounce (full postage for the second and third ounces must be affixed); number of precanceled stamped pieces by the amount of postage affixed for the first ounce (full postage for the second and third ounces must be affixed). b. Separation of Jobs. Within a specific job during the initial count by the mailer's automated mailing system, all pieces must have postage paid by the same method (e.g., all permit imprint, all metered, all precanceled stamped); all metered pieces must have the same amount of postage affixed for the first ounce; all precanceled stamped pieces must have the same amount of postage affixed for the first ounce; and all permit imprint pieces must be of the same ounce increment. c. Retention. The supporting records must be retained for 90 days from the date the combined mailing is mailed. The information must be maintained in a central location. Reports, such as customer/job mail reports and mail summaries, must be in the form of computer-generated printouts or RCC-approved computer media (such as diskettes or magnetic tapes). 382.626 Reject Mail from Mailer's Automated Sorting System a. Mail Bearing Meter Stamps or Precanceled Stamps. Metered and precanceled stamped pieces rejected for any reason by the mailer's automated sorting system (e.g., mail cannot be scanned, a ZIP+4 barcode cannot be applied), and that are pulled out of the combined mailing stream and brought to another separate sorting operation, must be documented and have postage affixed at a rate no lower than the applicable Presorted First-Class rate. The mailer must apply additional postage to all pieces that bear meter or precanceled stamp postage in an amount that is less than the applicable minimum rate for Presorted First-Class Mail to bring the mail up to the minimum rate. b. Permit Imprint Mail. Permit imprint pieces rejected for any reason by the mailer's automated sorting system (e.g., mail cannot be scanned, a ZIP+4 barcode cannot be applied), and that are pulled out of the combined mailing stream and brought to another separate sorting operation, must be documented and weigh-verified for proper payment of postage. 382.63 Mailing Statements 382.631 Submission. The mailer must submit complete and accurate mailing statements, by postage payment method, for each combined mailing supported by the documents required in 382.7. In addition, the mailer must submit the combined mailing postage payment worksheet described in 382.64 with each combined mailing. The required mailing statements must each bear the words "Combined Mailing" at the top and be attached to the associated postage payment worksheet when the mailing is submitted to the post office employee for verification. Mailers must use the method in 382.632 for mailing statement preparation. 382.632 Complete and Accurate Statements by Postage Payment Method a. General. The mailer must submit complete and accurate mailing statements for each postage payment method. The mailing records must support the rates claimed, by rate level, for each postage payment method. The mailer's automated mailing system must track and report the actual destination and presort level of all pieces in the combined mailing by rate of postage affixed (based on the first ounce) for all metered and precanceled stamped pieces, and by 1-, 2-, and 3-ounce increments for all permit imprint pieces (see 386.71 for documentation requirements). The final postage charges for each method of postage payment (amount to be deducted from the mailer's advance deposit account for permit imprint and precanceled stamped pieces and the amount of refund requested for meter stamp pieces) must be calculated according to 382.632c, 382.632d, and 382.632e. The mailing statements for each postage payment method are treated separately for accounting purposes according to 382.632c, 382.632d, and 382.632e. b. Completion of Part A, Mailing Statement (1) Pieces Bearing Meter Stamps or Precanceled Stamps. The net rate of postage for each rate level (before any adjustments are made for the amount of postage affixed) is multiplied by the total number of pieces qualifying for that rate in the portion of the combined mailing represented by the mailing statement (meter stamps or precanceled stamps). Postage for metered pieces and precanceled stamped pieces is reported in Part A on a separate Form 3600-PC. All metered and stamped pieces in the combined mailing are treated as weighing 1 ounce or less, regardless of actual weight, for calculating postage charges in Part A. These calculations represent the postage due before any adjustments are made for postage affixed to stamped and metered pieces. (2) Permit Imprint Pieces. The total number of permit imprint pieces qualifying for each rate level is reported in the Count (Pcs) column of Form 3600-R. The total postage charge for all pieces is reported by rate level in the Charge column in Part A of Form 3600-R. The total postage charge for each rate level must include actual postage for all 1-, 2-, and 3-ounce permit imprint pieces based on counts from the primary pass through the mailer's automated sorting system. c. Calculating Postage Due for Permit Imprint Mail. The mailer must calculate the net postage due the Postal Service for the permit imprint mail on the reverse side of Form 3600-R in Part A according to 382.632a(2). The total of the postage charges for each rate level is the net postage due the post office for the permit imprint portion of the combined mailing. If nonidentical-weight permit imprint pieces are included in the mailing, Form 3600-R must be annotated accordingly. d. Calculating Postage Due for Metered Mail. The mailer must calculate the net postage due the Postal Service or the amount of refund requested by the mailer for the metered mail on the reverse side of a Form 3600-PC in the blank area at the bottom of Part A (or on an attached sheet of paper). This calculation is performed as follows: (1) Show the total postage charge for the metered portion of the combined mailing as calculated in Part A under 382.632b (this total is calculated with all pieces represented as weighing 1 ounce or less, regardless of actual weight). (2) Multiply the number of pieces by the amount of postage affixed for the first ounce. Separate calculations must be shown for each different rate of postage affixed. The products of these calculations represent the total postage already paid for the metered mail. As an alternative, the mailer may multiply the number of pieces claimed at each rate level by the amount of postage overpaid or underpaid for those particular pieces (based on the amount of postage affixed for the first ounce) to calculate the amount of postage overpaid or underpaid for the metered portion of the combined mailing. (3) Subtract the products of the calculations in (2), representing prepaid postage, from the total postage charge (total amount due) in (1) to determine the net postage charge for the metered mail. If this calculation indicates that the mailer owes the Postal Service additional postage for the metered mail, this postage is paid through the mailer's advance deposit account for combined mailings. If this calculation results in a negative number, indicating that postage for the metered portion of the combined mailing is overpaid, because of a finer level of presort being achieved and value being added with the application of barcodes, the mailer may submit Form 3533 requesting a refund according to 382.61b. e. Calculating Postage Due for Precanceled Stamp Mail. The mailer must calculate the net postage due the Postal Service for the precanceled stamped mail on the reverse side of a Form 3600-PC in the blank area at the bottom of Part A (or on an attached sheet of paper). This calculation is performed as follows: (1) Show the total postage charge for the precanceled stamped portion of the combined mailing as calculated in Part A under 382.632b (this total is calculated with all pieces represented as weighing 1 ounce or less). (2) Multiply the number of pieces by the amount of postage affixed for the first ounce. Separate calculations must be shown for each different rate of postage affixed. The products of these calculations represent the total postage already paid for the precanceled stamped mail. As an alternative, the mailer may multiply the number of pieces claimed at each rate level by the amount of postage underpaid for those particular pieces (based on the amount of postage affixed for the first ounce) to calculate the amount of postage due for the precanceled stamped portion of the combined mailing. (3) Subtract the products of the calculations in (2), representing prepaid postage, from the total postage charge in (1) to determine the net postage due the post office for the precanceled stamped mail. f. Reporting Postage on Combined Mailing Postage Payment Worksheet. The mailer must report the calculations in 382.632b, 382.632c, 382.632d, and 382.632e and calculate the net postage charge for the entire combined mailing on the combined mailing postage payment worksheet described in 382.64. The net postage charge is determined by adding the total postage due for the permit imprint mail and the total postage due for the precanceled stamped mail. If metered postage is overpaid (see 382.632d), the amount overpaid is subtracted from the sum of the permit and precanceled stamped postage due to calculate the net postage owed the post office. If postage for the metered mail is underpaid, the amount of postage due is added to the sum of the permit and precanceled stamped postage due to calculate the net postage due the post office. The mailer must also report the number of 2- and 3-ounce permit imprint pieces included in the mailing. 382.64 Combined Mailing Postage Payment Worksheet. This worksheet must be completed for every ZIP+4 Barcoded rate combined mailing and submitted with the associated mailing statements required by 382.63. The worksheet identifies the total postage charges from Part A of each mailing statement and postage adjustments made to reflect postage affixed to pieces bearing precanceled stamps and meter stamps. It also identifies the number of 1-, 2-, and 3-ounce permit imprint pieces in the combined mailing and the number of trays in the mailing. It must include all information in the format shown on the sample worksheet in Exhibit 382.64.*viewer dmm382.pcx* DMM382Exhibit 382.64, Sample Worksheet for Combined Mailing Postage Payment] 382.65 Mailer Internal Quality Control. The mailer must establish and use quality control procedures before merging different mailpieces into a combined presorted mailing that ensure that: a. Meter dates are correct. b. Meter impressions are legible. c. Permits and licenses are current at office of mailing. d. Full postage on 2- and 3-ounce metered and precanceled stamped pieces is affixed for the second and third ounces in addition to postage for the first ounce at a rate acceptable for inclusion in the mailing (see 382.623a and 382.623b). e. Barcodes are in compliance with all requirements for quality, accuracy, and placement (see 550). f. Mailings are prepared according to the requirements for automation-compatible mail in 520, 530, 540, and 550, as applicable. g. Correct information about jobs is entered by mailer's employees into the automated mailing system to calculate accurately the amount of postage paid and the amount due for the mailing (e.g, method of postage payment, weight increment for each permit imprint job, amount of postage affixed for the first ounce for metered and precanceled stamped mail). 382.66 Authorization Procedures 382.661 Application. A mailer must submit a written request for authorization to prepare ZIP+4 Barcoded rate combined mailings to the postmaster serving the mailer's production plant. The postmaster reviews the request and forwards it through the MSC and field division manager, mailing requirements, (who reviews the application for completeness) to the general manager, RCC, serving the mailer's plant. In this request, the mailer must: a. Identify the methods of postage payment to be combined, the rates of postage to be affixed to stamped or metered pieces, and the weight increments of pieces to be combined. b. Describe all steps in the automated mailing system to be used to prepare combined mailings and include a flow chart showing how jobs are handled from the time received from clients or other departments through the time the combined mailing is presented to the post office for verification and acceptance. c. Submit samples of all reports that the mailing system can generate (numbered and annotated to describe step-by-step how the data is obtained and how each data element is supported and can be verified) and describe at which step in the mailing operation the reports may be generated, and how the reports relate to each other and to the preparation of mailing statements. d. Describe how rejects/nonscans (e.g., pieces that cannot be read by the automated mailing system, pieces automatically rejected because they cannot be assigned a ZIP+4 barcode when the mailer's automated mailing system is in the throttle mode) are handled throughout the mail preparation process. e. Provide a detailed description of internal quality control procedures that ensure mailings are properly prepared, from the time received from clients or other areas in the mailer's operation through the time the combined mailing is submitted, and that correct postage is paid (that the mailing statement data and supporting documents are accurate), and submit copies of any quality control instructions and checklists used. 382.662 Granting or Denying an Application a. General. The general manager, RCC, reviews the application and all supporting materials to determine its completeness and whether the mailer's system meets the conditions for participation in the combined mailing program. Within 30 days of receipt of a complete application, an RCC representative with other post office representatives visits the mailer's plant to review the mailing system, the accuracy of the reports used to support combined mailings, and the internal quality control procedures before recommending approval or denial of an application. b. On-Site Review. During the on-site review by Postal Service representatives, the mailer is required to produce a controlled test mailing with the appropriate supporting documentation. The documentation is compared with the combined mailing produced by the mailing system to determine its accuracy. The mailer is also required to demonstrate that the internal quality control procedures are satisfactorily administered and the mailing system provides acceptable documentation by which the Postal Service can verify the accuracy of the volume counts and postage rates claimed for each postage payment method. c. Approval. If the general manager, RCC, finds that the mailer meets the prescribed requirements, a 90-day interim authorization to prepare combined mailings is granted. Representatives of the RCC and the local post office responsible for administering the procedures review the mailer's combined mailing operations during that time to determine whether the mailer is in compliance with all applicable requirements. If, after this review, the mailer's program meets all applicable requirements, the RCC prepares an authorization that describes the types of mail, the methods of postage payment, the reports that must be submitted with combined mailings, and the records that must be maintained to support combined mailings in accordance with the requirements of this section. The authorization document must be signed by the mailer, the general manager, RCC, the postmaster of the local post office serving the mailer's plant, and the field division general manager/postmaster or representative before it is effective. d. Authorization Period. An authorization to prepare ZIP+4 Barcoded rate combined mailings is granted for a period not to exceed 2 years (see 382.664). e. Denial. If an application is denied, the general manager, RCC, notifies the mailer, the administering post office, and the field division, in writing, stating the reasons for the denial. The mailer may appeal the denial, within 15 days from the receipt of the notice by the mailer, by filing a written appeal, including additional evidence as to why the combined mailing system should be authorized, with the director, Office of Classification and Rates Administration, U.S. Postal Service (for address, see Address List in Appendices). The director issues the final agency decision. 382.663 System Modification. Mailers must provide advance written notice to the RCC of any plans to modify or adjust the system used to prepare combined mailings. The RCC determines whether these proposed changes affect the calculation of postage, generation of required mailing documentation, or mail presorting and whether they affect the terms of the mailer's authorization to prepare combined mailings. 382.664 Authorization Renewals. A ZIP+4 Barcoded rate combined mailing authorization may be renewed after a review conducted before the expiration date by the general manager, RCC, or a designated person, if the general manager determines that the mailer remains qualified. A new agreement is initiated under the following conditions: a. Approved Without Modifications. If the review of the mailer's combined mailing system indicates that the mailer may continue to combine mailings under this system without any modifications to the agreement, the existing agreement is extended for a 2-year period. The 2-year extension may be accomplished by an addendum showing the new expiration date, signed by the administering postmaster, the field division general manager/postmaster, the general manager, RCC, and the mailer. b. Approved With Mailer Modifications. If the review of the mailer's combined mailing system reveals that the system has been modified, without prior notification to the RCC as required by 382.663, but still remains qualified, a new agreement must be prepared that outlines in detail the modifications. The revised agreement must be signed by the administering postmaster, the field division general manager/postmaster, the general manager, RCC, and the mailer. c. Approved With Postal Service Modifications. If the review of the mailer's combined mailing system reveals that the system can be renewed only with modifications required by the Postal Service, the mailer must be so informed and, if the mailer agrees, a new agreement is prepared in accordance with 382.662c and 382.662d. 382.665 Cancellation. If a review of the mailer's combined mailing system indicates that the mailer is not preparing combined mailings in accordance with applicable requirements, or if the mailer does not agree to Postal Service modifications, the procedures for cancellation in 382.67 must be followed. 382.67 Suspension or Cancellation of ZIP+4 Barcoded Rate Combined Mailing Authorization 382.671 Suspension. A combined mailing system agreement may be suspended by the general manager, RCC, at any time, pending investigation, if the general manager finds that postage is not being fully paid or mail is not being prepared to meet applicable requirements. The decision may be appealed to the director, Office of Classification and Rates Administration, within 15 days of the suspension by submitting a written appeal with explanation. The suspension remains in effect during the appeal. A suspension is terminated by showing that the mailer is in compliance. 382.672 Cancellation Procedure. If a decision is made to cancel a combined mailing authorization, the general manager, RCC, must notify the mailer of the decision in writing. The cancellation becomes effective 15 days from the mailer's receipt of the notice unless the mailer files a written appeal within that time with the general manager, RCC. The appeal must contain additional information as to why the combined mailing authorization should not be canceled. The general manager reviews the additional information to determine whether the agreement should be continued. If a decision is made to continue the combined mailing agreement, the general manager notifies the mailer, in writing, of the decision. If the general manager denies the appeal, the appeal and the additional information furnished by the mailer is forwarded to the director, Office of Classification and Rates Administration, who issues the final agency decision. 382.673 Reasons for Cancellation. An authorization to prepare combined mailings may be canceled by either the mailer or the Postal Service at any time under the following conditions: a. The mailer may cancel the authorization at any time by notifying the administering post office in writing. b. The general manager, RCC, may cancel the combined mailing authorization under any of the following conditions: (1) The mailer has provided misleading or incorrect data to avoid payment of postage. (2) The mailer makes no combined mailings under the agreement during any consecutive 12-month period. (3) The mailer fails to comply with applicable requirements or the agreement, including failure to perform required quality control procedures, and does not make changes to comply with these requirements after being notified to do so by the Postal Service. 382.7 Combined Mailing Documentation Submission Requirements 382.71 General Requirements. Mailers must submit the documents specified in 382.72 with each combined mailing at the time the mailing is submitted to postal employees for verification and acceptance. 382.72 Documentation 382.721 Detailed Tray Listing for ZIP Code Tray Sortation Level by Postage Payment Method. Each tray identified on this listing must represent all mail in the combined mailing prepared in trays for the ZIP Code destination identified. If tray identification numbers are used, the same tray number must be used to identify all mail for a specific destination, as shown on the tray label destination line and reported on the tray listing. Based on the volume of mail to a specific destination, there may be more than one tray containing the mail identified on the listing for that destination. For example, the tray listing for Brooklyn NY 112 may show 1,570 pieces for that destination. The listing may also indicate that the mail for Brooklyn NY 112 is in tray 7. Based on the volume of mail, the pieces are likely to fill more than one tray. Accordingly, all mail reported on the tray listing must be placed in a tray identified as Tray: 7, labeled to Brooklyn NY 112. a. For each destination, the tray listing must identify the destination of the tray as shown on the top line of the tray label (e.g., Brooklyn NY 112). The tray to a destination may also be represented by a unique identification number (e.g., Tray: 7). b. The listing must show the following information, by client/job and by destination: (1) Number of pieces claimed at each postage rate. (2) Number of permit imprint pieces by 1-, 2-, and 3-ounce increments. (3) Number of metered pieces by the amount of postage affixed for the first ounce. (4) Number of precanceled stamped pieces by amount of postage affixed for the first ounce. (5) Cumulative postage due and cumulative postage affixed. Note: The amount of postage affixed to pay for the second and third ounces of 2- and 3-ounce metered and stamped pieces does not have to be reported on the detailed tray listing since the full rate of postage for these additional ounce increments must be affixed to all such pieces in a combined mailing. c. The tray listing must show the total number of pieces claimed at each postage rate by destination and must include a cumulative running total of the amount of postage due for all of the pieces to the ZIP Code destination of the tray. The detailed listing for the residual mail must also be submitted with the mail for postal verification. d. The mailer must provide the detailed tray listing for each of the ZIP Code destinations corresponding to the trays selected by postal personnel verifying the combined mailing. The trays selected must include pieces representing all methods of postage payment included in the combined mailing. The listing is compared against the physical mail contained in the trays for the destinations selected. 382.722 Postage Summary Reports a. General. Postage summary reports include any records used by the mailer to complete the mailing statements. The mailer must submit a summary report for each method of postage payment and a grand total summary report for all methods combined. These reports must support the number of pieces reported on the mailing statements for each rate level for the qualified and nonqualified portions (e.g., presort and residual, barcoded and nonbarcoded), the amount of postage due for the combined mailing, the amount of postage affixed to mailing pieces included in the mailing, and the percentage of ZIP+4 barcoded pieces. Since 2- and 3-ounce metered and precanceled stamped pieces are required to bear full postage for the second and third ounces, the total amount of postage affixed to all pieces must be reported by the amount of postage affixed for the first ounce only. The mailer must describe the disposition of nonqualifying pieces. The following information must be included in these reports: (1) The individual summary for each postage payment method must report: (a) Total number of pieces and postage charges for the qualified and nonqualified mail by rate level and the total number of pieces and postage charges for the postage payment method before adjustments are made for the amount of postage affixed for metered and precanceled stamped mail. In addition, for the permit imprint mail, the number of 1-, 2-, and 3-ounce pieces by rate level is shown. (b) Percentage of qualified ZIP+4 barcoded mail. (c) For precanceled stamped mail, the total amount of precanceled stamp postage affixed. (d) For metered mail, the total amount of metered postage affixed. (e) For permit imprint mail, the total postage due by 1-, 2-, and 3-ounce increments. (2) The grand total summary of all postage payment methods must include, for the combined mailing: (a) Total number of pieces and postage charges for the combined mailing by rate level and for the entire mailing for the qualified and nonqualified portions before adjustments are made for the amount of postage affixed for metered and precanceled stamped mail. (b) Qualifying percentage of ZIP+4 barcoded mail. (c) Total amount of precanceled stamp postage affixed and the total amount of metered postage affixed. (d) Net postage charges, by method of postage payment and the total postage charge for the mailing (see 382.632f and 382.64). b. Summary of Postage Affixed Pieces and Permit Imprint Pieces. The amount of postage affixed to pieces included in the combined mailing and the number of permit imprint pieces, by ounce increment, included in the combined mailing, based on piece counts from the mailer's automated sorting system's computer, reported as follows: (1) Total number of 1-ounce permit imprint pieces. (2) Total number of 2-ounce permit imprint pieces. (3) Total number of 3-ounce permit imprint pieces. (4) Total number of metered pieces for each amount of postage affixed for the first ounce. (5) Total number of precanceled stamped pieces for each amount of postage affixed for the first ounce. 382.723 Mailing Statements. Mailing statements, prepared under 382.63, must be submitted by the mailer with the associated combined mailing postage payment worksheet (see 382.64), tray listings, and postage summary reports at the time the mailing is submitted for verification and acceptance. 383 Priority Mail Rates 383.1 Single-Piece Rates 383.11 Method of Payment. Single-piece rate Priority Mail postage may be paid by adhesive stamps (see 142 or 143), meter stamps (see 144), or permit imprint (see 145). If a permit imprint is used, the pieces must be of identical weight and, unless all the pieces are in a weight category for which the rates do not vary by zone, the pieces must be separated by zone when presented to the post office. Exceptions to the identical-weight requirement are in 145.7 through 145.9, and 137.274c(2). 383.12 Mailing Statement. A mailing statement is required only if postage is paid by permit imprint. 383.2 Presorted Priority Mail 383.21 Methods of Payment. Presorted Priority Mail must be paid by means of meter postage (see 144) or permit imprint (see 145). 383.22 Identical-Weight Mailings. Mailings consisting of identical-weight pieces may be paid by any of the methods listed in 383.21. 383.221 Metered Mailings. Within metered mailings, postage may be: a. affixed in the exact amount on each piece, or b. affixed to all the pieces in the mailing, both qualifying and residual, at the Presorted Priority Mail rates. If this is done, residual pieces must be separated from the qualifying pieces when the mailing is presented to the post office. The additional postage for the residual pieces must be paid by means of a meter strip affixed to the mailing statement that is required to accompany the mailing, or through an advance deposit account as provided in Handbook F-1, 524. 383.222 Permit Imprint Mailings. Within permit imprint mailings of identical-weight pieces, the qualifying pieces must be separated from the residual pieces when the mailing is presented to the post office. Unless the pieces are in a weight category for which postage does not vary by zone, the sacks in the qualifying and residual portions must be further separated by zone. 383.23 Nonidentical-Weight Mailings 383.231 Postage Affixed Mailings. Each piece in a nonidentical-weight mailing must have the exact postage affixed at the rate for which it qualifies. 383.232 Permit Imprint Mailings. Nonidentical-weight pieces may be paid by permit imprint only if authorized under 145.7, 145.8, or 145.9. 383.24 Mailing Statement. Mailers at the Priority Mail Presort rates must submit the appropriate mailing statement with each mailing, signed by the mailer or an authorized agent. 384 Computation Standards 384.1 Weight 384.11 General. Express all weights as decimal pounds (e.g., 1.125 pound) rather than as pounds and ounces. Round weights as directed below. For purposes of this section, the "round off" instruction requires increasing the last digit to be retained by 1 if the digit to its right, which is not to be retained, is 5 or greater; if it is 4 or less, the last digit retained is unchanged. (For example, rounding off 3.376 to two decimal places yields 3.38; while 3.374 yields 3.37.) 384.12 Rate Application 384.121 First-Class Mail. First-Class rates are charged per ounce or fraction thereof, based on the weight of each addressed piece. For postage purposes, any fraction of an ounce is charged as a whole ounce. The minimum postage amount per addressed piece is that chargeable for a piece weighing 1 ounce (0.0625 pound). 384.122 Priority Mail. Priority Mail rates are charged per pound or fraction thereof, based on the weight of each addressed piece. For postage purposes, any fraction of a pound is charged as a whole pound. The minimum postage amount per addressed piece is that chargeable for a piece weighing 2 pounds. 384.13 Single-Piece Weight 384.131 Computation a. Identical-Weight Bulk Mailings. In a bulk or presort rate mailing of identical-weight pieces, compute the average weight of a single piece by weighing a sample group of at least 10 randomly selected pieces and then dividing the total sample weight by the number of pieces in the sample. Express the weight of a single piece in decimal pounds rounded off, if necessary, to four decimal places. (Note that 1 ounce equals 0.0625 pound.) b. Other Mailings. For nonidentical-weight piece, single-piece, or other mailings, weigh each addressed piece individually. Express the weight of a single piece in decimal pounds rounded off, if necessary, to four decimal places. (Note that 1 ounce equals 0.0625 pound.) 384.132 Determining Weight (Postage) Increment a. First-Class Mail. To determine the weight (postage) increment applicable to the addressed piece, treat any fraction of an ounce in the actual weight of the piece as a whole ounce. For example, if a piece weighs 1.2 ounce (0.075 pound), the weight (postage) increment is 2 ounces (0.125 pound). b. Priority Mail. To determine the weight (postage) increment applicable to the addressed piece, treat any fraction of a pound in the actual weight of the piece as a whole pound. For example, if a piece weighs 1.2 pound, the weight (postage) increment is 2 pounds. 384.2 Postage 384.21 General. Express all postage amounts in decimal dollars (e.g., $0.25). Round as directed below. 384.22 Postage Per Piece. Postage is based on the rate that applies to the weight (postage) increment of the addressed piece determined in 384.132. 384.23 Affixing Postage to Each Piece 384.231 Single-Piece Rate for First-Class Mail and Priority Mail a. The mailer must affix to each piece a value in adhesive stamps, precanceled stamps, or meter impressions that equals at least the postage required for the piece. b. If more than the applicable amount of postage is affixed for reasons other than those described in 384.231c, a refund is allowed only as provided in 147. c. If a mailer's postage meter cannot print the exact applicable amount of postage, the mailer must print the next higher tenth of a cent or whole cent that can be printed. No credit or refund is allowed for such overpayment. 384.232 Other First-Class Mailings. The mailer must affix a value in adhesive stamps, precanceled stamps, or meter impressions that equals one of the following: a. At least the full amount of postage for each piece at the applicable rate. b. The applicable postage per piece at the lowest rate in the mailing, as long as any additional postage is paid as provided in 382.3. c. The applicable postage per piece at another rate in the mailing, as long as any additional postage is paid as provided in 382.4. 384.24 Use of Permit Imprints. To compute the postage payable for the mailing, perform the following steps: a. Determine the single-piece weight and the weight (postage) increment as described in 384.13 and 384.22; b. Multiply the number of addressed pieces by the applicable rate per piece; c. Repeat step in 384.24b above for each rate category in the mailing, if applicable; do not round any computed postage amounts at this step; d. Add the postage amounts as determined by the steps in 384.24b and 384.24c above; and e. If necessary, round off the total postage to the nearest whole cent ($0.01). 390 Ancillary Services 391 Forwarding All First-Class Mail, including Priority Mail, and postal cards and postcards, is forwarded at no charge for a period of 1 year when the new address is known. 392 Return and Address Correction 392.1 Return. All First-Class Mail, including Priority Mail, postal cards, and postcards, which cannot be delivered as addressed and cannot be forwarded, is returned to the sender, with the reason for nondelivery attached at no charge. If the mailpiece bears insufficient postage, see 146.132a. 392.2 Address Correction Service. First-Class Mail endorsed "Address Correction Requested" is returned to the sender with the new address of the addressee or the reason for nondelivery attached at no charge. When the endorsement "Forwarding and Address Correction Requested" is used, the mailpiece is forwarded to the new address, and the sender is notified on Form 3547. Temporary changes of address are not provided. Forwarding address information is not provided for mail bearing the exceptional address format. The address correction service fee (see 315.2) is charged. 392.3 Address Change Service a. ACS is designed to centralize, automate, and improve the processing of address-correction requests for mailers. The ACS process involves the transmission of address correction information to a central point where the changes are consolidated onto a magnetic tape filed by unique identifier. These records are sequentially organized by USPS assigned codes and distributed to each participating mailer. Label formats are found in 441.232. b. ACS is available to mailers who maintain their address records on computers. For further information, write to the Postal Service Address Change Service, Address Information Center (for address, see Address List in Appendices). 392.4 Nonmailable or Nonstandard Pieces. For instructions regarding the return of nonmailable or nonstandard pieces of First-Class Mail, see 352.21d or 353.4, respectively.