625.5 What May be Mailed 625.51 Matter of Authorized Organization. An organization authorized to mail at the special bulk rates may mail only its own matter at those rates. An organization may not delegate or lend the use of its authorization to mail at the special bulk rates to any other person or organization. 625.52 Cooperative Mailings 625.521 General. Cooperative mailings may be made at the special bulk rates only when each of the cooperating organizations is individually authorized to mail at the special bulk rates at the post office where the mailing is deposited. Cooperative mailings involving the mailing of any matter on behalf of or produced for an organization not itself authorized to mail at the special bulk rates at the post office where the mailing is deposited must be paid at the applicable regular rates. If a mailer disagrees with a postmaster's decision that the regular rate of postage applies to a particular mailing, the mailer may appeal the decision under 133. (See Form 3602-N or Form 3602-PC for the certifications required of special bulk-rate mailers for mailings made under this section.) 625.522 Nonpermissible Mailings. Except as provided in 625.523, special bulk third-class rates may not be used for the entry of material that advertises, promotes, offers, or for a fee or consideration, recommends, describes, or announces the availability of any of the following: a. Any credit, debit, or charge card or similar financial instrument or account, provided by or through an arrangement with any person or organization not authorized to mail at the special bulk third-class rates at the entry post office. b. Any insurance policy, unless the organization promoting the purchase of such policy is authorized to mail at the special bulk rates at the entry post office; the policy is designed for and primarily promoted to the members, donors, supporters, or beneficiaries of that organization; and the coverage provided by the policy is not generally otherwise commercially available. c. Any travel arrangement, unless the organization promoting the arrangement is authorized to mail at the special bulk rates at the entry post office; the travel contributes substantially (aside from the cultivation of members, donors, or supporters, or the acquisition of income or funds) to one or more of the purposes that constitute the basis for the organization's authorization to mail at the special bulk rates; and the arrangement is designed for and primarily promoted to the members, donors, supporters, or beneficiaries of that organization. 625.523 Permissible Reference to Commercial Products or Services, and Organizations or Individuals. An authorized nonprofit organization's material is not disqualified from being mailed at the special rates solely because that material contains, but is not primarily devoted to: a. acknowledgments of organizations or individuals who have made donations to the authorized organization; or b. references to and a response card or other instructions for making inquiries concerning services or benefits available as a result of membership in the authorized organization, provided that advertising, promotional, or application materials specifically concerning such services or benefits are not included. 625.524 Evidence. Upon request, an organization authorized to mail at the special bulk rates must furnish evidence to the Postal Service, or cause evidence held by another party to be furnished to the Postal Service, concerning the eligibility of any of its mail matter or mailings to be sent at those rates. Any failure to furnish evidence necessary for a ruling on the eligibility of matter to be sent at the special rates, or to cause such evidence to be furnished, is sufficient basis for a finding that the matter is not eligible for the special rates, as well as for the revocation of the organization's authorization to mail at the special rates. 625.525 Other Restrictions. No person or organization may mail, or cause to be mailed by contractual agreement or otherwise, any ineligible matter at the special rates. 625.526 Revenue Deficiency and Appeal Procedure. A revenue deficiency may be assessed in the amount of the unpaid postage against any person or organization that mailed, or caused to be mailed, ineligible matter at the special bulk third-class rates in violation of 625.525. That party may appeal the decision in writing within 30 days to the postmaster at the post office where the mailing was entered. The postmaster must forward the appeal to the general manager, rates and classification center (RCC) (see 132), who issues the initial agency decision on the appeal. The decision of the general manager becomes final unless the party against whom the deficiency was assessed appeals it in writing within 30 days to the director, Office of Classification and Rates Administration, who issues the final agency decision (for address, see Address List in Appendices). If the general manager, RCC, issues the initial decision assessing the revenue deficiency, the initial decision on the appeal is made by the general manager, Business Requirements Division, Office of Classification and Rates Administration (for address, see Address List in Appendices). The decision of the general manager, Business Requirements Division, becomes final unless the party against whom the deficiency was assessed appeals it in writing within 30 days to the director, Office of Classification and Rates Administration, who issues the final agency decision. If the general manager of any division within the Office of Classification and Rates Administration issues the initial decision assessing the revenue deficiency, the initial decision on the appeal is made by the director, Office of Classification and Rates Administration. The decision of the director becomes final unless the party against whom the deficiency was assessed appeals it in writing within 30 days to the Senior Assistant Postmaster General, Marketing and Customer Service Group, who issues the final agency decision. 625.527 Collection. Any deficiency assessed under 625.526 that is found to be due and payable to the Postal Service following the issuance of a final agency decision must be paid promptly. If the Postal Service does not receive payment within 30 days, the amount of that deficiency incurred within 12 months of the date of the final mailing upon which the deficiency was assessed may be deducted from any postage accounts or other monies of the violator in the possession of the Postal Service. 625.6 Identification. All matter mailed at the special bulk rates must identify the authorized nonprofit organization. The name and return address of the authorized nonprofit organization must appear either on the outside of the mailpiece or in a prominent location on the material being mailed. Pseudonyms or bogus names of persons or organizations may not be used. If the mailpiece bears any name and return address, it must be that of the authorized nonprofit organization. A well-recognized alternative designation or abbreviation such as "The March of Dimes" or the "AFL-CIO" may be used in place of the full name of the organization. 626 Application to Mail at the Special Bulk Rates 626.1 Original Application Procedures 626.11 Filing. Except for mailings deposited under the plant-verified drop shipment postage payment system (see 664.24), an application for authorization on Form 3624 must be filed by the organization at each post office where the organization wishes to deposit mailings at the special bulk rates (see Exhibit 626.11*viewer dmf615.pcx* ). The applicant must indicate on the application form the qualifying category or categories of organizations under which it seeks authorization (see 625). Exhibit 626.11 Form 3624 (NOT SHOWN) DMF615Exhibit 626.11, Form 3624] 626.12 Application Fee. No fee is charged for applications filed on Form 3624. 626.13 Evidence of Qualification 626.131 Qualified Nonprofit Organizations. An application filed by an organization seeking authorization as a qualified nonprofit organization must include evidence that the applicant meets the requirements of the qualifying category or categories in 625.2. In addition, the application must include evidence that the organization is nonprofit. A certificate of exemption from Federal income tax, if available, should accompany the application. An exemption from the payment of Federal income tax is not required to qualify for the special bulk third-class rates. Such exemption is considered as evidence of qualification for preferred postal rates, but is not the controlling factor in the decision. When an organization submits proof that it has been granted Federal income tax exemption under 26 USC 501(c)(3), as a religious, educational, scientific, or philanthropic (charitable) organization; under section 501(c)(5) as an agricultural or labor organization; under section 501(c)(8) as a fraternal organization; or under section 501(c)(19) as a veterans' organization, it is considered as qualifying for the special bulk rates, unless other evidence discloses some disqualification. 626.132 Qualified Political Committees. An application filed by an organization seeking authorization as a qualified political committee must include evidence that the applicant meets the requirements of one of the qualifying categories of political committees in 625.3. No evidence of nonprofit status need be submitted, because qualified political committees are not required to be nonprofit. 626.2 Authorization at Additional Offices 626.21 Application. Organizations that have been granted an original authorization to mail at the special bulk third-class rates at one post office under the procedures in 626.1 may obtain an authorization to mail at those rates at an additional post office. The organization (not its agent) must file Form 3623 at the requested additional mailing office (see Exhibit 626.21). *viewer dmf615.pcx* When an organization applies for an additional mailing office authorization under this section, it is not required to submit the evidence of qualification required to accompany original applications on Form 3624 filed under 626.1. Exhibit 626.21 Form 3623 (NOT SHOWN) DMF610Exhibit 626.21, Form 3623] 626.22 Fee. No fee is charged for applications filed on Form 3623. 626.23 Letter. The Form 3623 must be accompanied by a letter from the organization, on its official letterhead and signed by an official of the organization. The letter must include only the following information: a. The name of the organization, and b. A statement that the organization is requesting authorization to mail at the special bulk third-class rates of postage at an additional office. 626.24 Action on Application. The postmaster must forward valid applications to the rates and classification center for approval. Applicants should allow 30 days for application processing. In no event is an authorization made effective prior to the date of the application. Any mailings made prior to the issuance of the authorization must be paid for at the regular rates as prescribed in 626.5. 626.25 Other Permits or Authorizations. These procedures do not relieve a mailer of the requirements to obtain necessary mailing permits and pay the fees prescribed for mailing at bulk rates at additional mailing locations. Nor do these provisions allow an organization to obtain an authorization for another organization that is a separate legal entity. 626.26 Retention of Authorization. In order to retain an additional authorization granted under these procedures, an organization must make at least one mailing at that office during any 2-year period and maintain the original authorization upon which it is based. If the original authorization is revoked for any reason, including nonuse, the additional office authorization must also be revoked. 626.3 Granting or Denying Applications 626.31 Associate Post Offices. The postmaster of the post office where the application was filed must send the completed application, checklist, and all supporting documents to the supervisor of mail classification at the management sectional center (MSC) serving the originating office. If the originating post office reports directly to a field division, these documents must be forwarded to the division manager of mailing requirements for review. Pending a decision, bulk mailings may be handled under 626.5. 626.32 Field Divisions and MSCs 626.321 Originating Post Offices. If an application is filed at a field division or MSC office, the postmaster must be sure that the application and checklist have been properly completed and that proper supporting documents accompany the application. That office sends the application on Form 3624, together with any supporting papers to the rates and classification center (RCC) (see 132). 626.322 MSC or Field Division Review of Applications Received from Associate Post Offices. The MSC or field division, as appropriate, completes the appropriate columns of the checklist in Section C on Form 3624 (the application). If the checklist indicates the application is properly completed and proper attachments accompany it, forward the application, checklist, and attachments to the RCC (see 132). If an application received from an associate post office is incomplete or deficient in any area, the MSC or field division returns it to the originating postmaster for correction of the deficiencies. 626.33 Rates and Classification Centers. The general manager at the RCC must approve or deny the application. The RCC may request additional information or evidence to support or clarify the application. Failure of an organization to furnish the information is sufficient reason to deny an application. The RCC must notify the applicant directly of the decision. The RCC returns the application Form 3624 and any supporting papers, with a copy of the decision, to the postmaster where the application was filed. A copy of the decision is also sent to the MSC or field division that preformed the original review, as information. 626.4 Appeal Procedures. If the application is denied, the applicant can appeal the decision by submitting a written appeal to the postmaster where the application was filed within 15 days of the applicant's receipt of the decision. The local postmaster must forward the appeal letter and file to the RCC. If, after a review of the file, the general manager at the RCC is still of the opinion that the organization does not qualify, he must forward the complete file, including the original application and all supporting papers, and a statement of the reasons for his denial to the director of the Office of Classification and Rates Administration (for address, see Address List in Appendices). The director issues the final decision, notifies the appellant directly of the decision, and provides the general manager at the RCC with a copy of the decision. 626.5 Mailing While Application is Pending 626.51 General. An organization may not mail at the special rates until the application to mail at the special rates is approved. The postmaster may not accept mailings at the special rates for which an application is pending until an authorization is issued. This includes applications filed for authorization at additional offices. Postage must be paid at the applicable Firstor regular third-class rates while the application is pending (see Exhibit 611.2a). 626.52 Record of Postage Paid. The postmaster must keep an accounting of the difference between postage paid at the regular bulk third-class rates and the postage that would have been paid at the special bulk third-class rates. Postage payment may be made by using permit imprints, meter stamps or precanceled stamps (see 661.2). No record is kept if postage is paid at First-Class or single-piece third-class rates. 626.53 Refund. If an authorization to mail at special bulk rates is issued, the postmaster of the issuing office refunds to the mailer the postage paid at that office at the applicable regular bulk third-class rate in excess of the special rate since the effective date of the authorization. Note: No refunds are made a. if the application is denied and no appeal is filed; b. if postage was paid at First-Class or single-piece third-class rates; c. for the period prior to the effective date of the authorization; or d. for mailings made at a post office at which a separate application was not filed. 626.54 Effective Date. The effective date of the special rate authorization is the date of the application if the organization was eligible to mail at the special rate on that date, or the date of eligibility if the organization became eligible after the date of application. 626.55 Appeal. If a proper appeal is filed (see 626.4), the mailer may continue to mail under an application-pending status. The record of the postage paid must be continued, and action concerning a refund is deferred until a final decision on the appeal is made. 627 Revocation of Special Bulk Rate Authorizations 627.1 Revocation for Cause. The General Manager (GM), Rates and Classification Center (RCC), or the General Manager (GM), Business Requirements Division, Office of Classification and Rates Administration, may initiate or undertake at any time a review of any organization authorized to mail at the special bulk rates. If it is found that authorization has been given to an organization that was not qualified at the time of application or that subsequently became unqualified, the GM must revoke the authorization. The GM may ask an organization for information or evidence to determine if the organization is still qualified. Failure on the part of the organization to provide this informatiion is sufficient cause for revocation. If it is determined that an organization is no longer qualified, the GM must notify the organization directly of the proposed revocation and the reasons for it. The revocation becomes effective 15 days from receipt of the notice by the organization, unless the organization files a written appeal within that time. If the organization wishes to appeal the revocation, it must file the appeal within 15 days of notification through the GM, RCC, or through the GM, Business Requirements Division, as applicable, with the Director, Office of Classification and Rates Administration, USPS Headquarters. The Director may also ask the organization for additional information or evidence to determine the organization's eligibility. Failure on the part of the organization to provide this information to the Director is sufficient grounds for denial of the appeal. The Director issues a written appeal decision on the organization's right to retain special rate privileges directly to the organization. 627.2 Revocation for Nonuse. An authorization to mail at the special bulk third-class rates must be revoked by the rates and classification center (RCC) if no special rate mailings are made by the authorized organization during a 2-year period. The postmaster of the office where the authorization is held must verify that no mailings were made by or in behalf of the organization during a 2-year period and must notify the RCC serving that post office. The notice must include the organization's name; internal I.D. number, if available; current address; and the date of its last mailing. The general manager, RCC, must review the information and notify the organization of the revocation for nonuse. 628 Additional Conditions for Automated Bulk Third-Class Rates 628.1 Conditions Applicable to Automated Bulk Third-Class Rates 628.11 General 628.111 Definition. The automated bulk third-class rates (Basic ZIP+4, 3/5 ZIP+4, Basic ZIP+4 Barcoded, 3-Digit ZIP+4 Barcoded, and 5-Digit ZIP+4 Barcoded) apply only to mailpieces prepared as specified in 628.1 through 628.3. 628.112 Minimum Quantity. Each mailing at an automated third-class rate must contain at least 200 pieces or 50 pounds of pieces. 628.113 Physical Mailpiece Requirements for General Automation Compatibility. Each piece in the mailing must meet the requirements in 520. 628.114 Marking. The address side of each piece in the mailing must show the marking required in 629.6 that is appropriate for the rate claimed for the mailing. 628.115 Postage. The mailer must pay all applicable postage before the corresponding mailing can be accepted by the Postal Service (see 661.3). 628.116 Carrier Route Rate Pieces. Carrier route presort level rate pieces must not be included in a ZIP+4 or ZIP+4 Barcode rate mailing. 628.12 Volume Per Package, Tray, and Sack. Except as provided in 641 and 647, each package must contain a minimum of 10 addressed pieces, and must be placed in either a sack containing no less than 125 addressed pieces or 15 pounds of addressed pieces, or a tray that is at least 3/4 full when the contents are reasonably compressed. 628.13 Documentation 628.131 None Required. No documentation is required for automated rate mailings of identical-weight pieces when all pieces in the mailing are eligible for and claimed at the same rate (e.g., the mailing consists exclusively of pieces eligible for and claimed at the 5-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate) and have the correct amount of postage affixed. Each piece must also bear either the correct ZIP+4 code corresponding to the delivery address on the piece (for mailings at the Basic or 3/5 ZIP+4 rates) or the correct 5-digit ZIP Code and the correctly prepared ZIP+4 barcode corresponding to the delivery address on the piece (for mailings at any ZIP+4 Barcoded rate). 628.132 Submission With Each Mailing. Mailings that do not meet the requirements of 628.131 must be accompanied by documentation that: a. Details the number of pieces for each 5-digit ZIP Code (or other sortation) that qualify for each rate in the mailing. Details by 5-digit ZIP Code are not required for mailings at the 3-Digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate. b. Provides cumulative totals after each line entry, subtotals by sortation (where required), and grand totals for the entire mailing by rate. c. Shows the number of pieces prepared with a ZIP+4 code or a ZIP+4 barcode, as applicable to the particular rate claimed. d. Proves the mailing has met or exceeded the "85% requirement" (see 628.212 and 628.312). e. Details the number of pieces at each rate and increment, the postage (or additional postage) due, and the total postage for the mailing. f. Provides the additional detail required for the rate claimed (see 628.2 and 628.3 for the specific documentation requirements that apply to each rate). 628.133 Submission Based on a Mailing List or Cycle. As an alternative to submitting documentation with each mailing, mailers may submit documentation based on a mailing list or mailing cycle under the following conditions: a. The mailing period for the list, or the duration of the mailing cycle, each as defined by the mailer, must be longer than 24 hours but not more than 1 week (7 consecutive days). The mailer must notify the post office where mailings are accepted of the first and last mailings, and the beginning and ending points of the time period, of the list or cycle. b. More than one list or cycle may be active at one time, but mailings from each must be prepared and presented separately, clearly identified, and accompanied by mailing statements that clearly relate to specific mailings. c. Compliance with the 85% requirement (see 628.212 and 628.312) may be based on the entire list or cycle. d. The documentation must contain the information described in 628.132. e. Complete documentation for the entire mailing list or mailing cycle must be submitted with the first mailing from that list or cycle. f. The appropriate mailing statements must be submitted with each mailing when presented for acceptance. g. At the time the last mailing from a list or cycle is presented to the Postal Service, any discrepancies between the mail presented to and verified by the Postal Service, the mail described in the documentation, and the mail claimed on the corresponding mailing statements (in regard to quantity, rate eligibility, or postage) must be reconciled to the satisfaction of the Postal Service, and any additional postage that may be due must be paid by the mailer. 628.134 Mailing Statements. When presented for acceptance, each mailing must be accompanied by the appropriate mailing statement, completed by the mailer. The statement must be attached or otherwise related by code or reference to specific supporting documentation. All mailing statements and supporting documents are subject to verification by the Postal Service. 628.14 Presort 628.141 General Requirement. All pieces in an automated rate bulk third-class mailing must be presorted together as required by 641. 628.142 Rate Eligibility a. Basic ZIP+4 and Basic ZIP+4 Barcoded Rates. All pieces packaged and sacked under 641 are eligible for the Basic ZIP+4 and Basic ZIP+4 Barcoded rates if the other applicable requirements are met (see 628.2 and 628.3, respectively). b. 3/5 ZIP+4 Rate. Pieces in optional firm, 5-digit, optional city, and 3-digit packages of 10 or more pieces that are correctly sorted to 5-digit, optional city, and 3-digit sacks in accordance with 641 are eligible for the 3/5 ZIP+4 rate if the other applicable requirements are met (see 628.2). c. Three-Digit ZIP+4 Barcoded Rate. Pieces in optional city and 3-digit packages of 10 or more pieces that are correctly sorted to optional city and 3-digit sacks in accordance with 641 are eligible for the 3-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate if the other applicable requirements are met (see 628.3). d. Five-Digit ZIP+4 Barcoded Rate. Only pieces in optional firm and 5-digit packages of 10 or more pieces that are correctly sorted to 5-digit, optional city, and 3-digit sacks in accordance with 641 are eligible for the 5-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate if the other applicable requirements are met (see 628.3). e. Address Block Barcoded Pieces. Pieces bearing address block barcodes meeting specifications in Chapter 5 are eligible for ZIP+4 or ZIP+4 Barcoded rates as applicable. 628.15 Optional Use of Trays. Automated rate bulk third-class mailings may be prepared in trays rather than in sacks as provided in 560 and 647. Separate rate eligibility requirements for ZIP+4 and ZIP+4 Barcoded rate mailings presorted and documented under Chapter 5 instead of 628 and 641 appear in 562.23 and 563.23. 628.2 ZIP+4 Rates 628.21 General 628.211 Minimum Quantity. As prescribed in 628.112, each ZIP+4 rate mailing must contain at least 200 pieces or 50 pounds of pieces. 628.212 Required Percentage of ZIP+4 Coded and Properly Addressed Pieces. At least 85% of the total pieces in each mailing must bear the correct numeric ZIP+4 code that is the finest level (depth) of ZIP+4 code listed in the current USPS ZIP+4 database for the delivery address, as specified in 530 and 541.2. Either the correct numeric ZIP+4 code in the address or the correct ZIP+4 barcode (prepared under 551) satisfies the requirement for a ZIP+4 code. Pieces bearing a ZIP+4 barcode must also bear either the correct numeric 5-digit ZIP Code or the correct numeric ZIP+4 code in the address. The 85% ZIP+4 code requirement may be applied to a mailing list or cycle rather than an individual mailing under the conditions in 628.133. 628.213 Addressing Requirements. Each piece in the mailing that bears the correct ZIP+4 code (as specified in 628.212) must also bear an accurate address as specified in 534. Unless the piece bears a ZIP+4 barcode as prescribed in 628.28, the address must appear in a standardized address format as described in 122.93 and must meet the other requirements of 540. Addresses must be prepared using Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS) certified ZIP+4 code address matching software as specified in 531 and 532. 628.22 Other Rates. ZIP+4 rate mailings may contain pieces claimed at the 3/5 and basic ZIP+4 and 3/5 and basic presort level rates. Other rates are not available. 628.23 Requirements for OCR Processing 628.231 Pieces Not Prepared With a ZIP+4 Barcode. Each piece in the mailing that does not bear the correct ZIP+4 barcode (prepared under 551) must meet the requirements in 540. 628.232 Pieces Prepared With a ZIP+4 Barcode. Regardless of the rate claimed, pieces prepared with a ZIP+4 barcode must meet the requirements of 550 rather than 540. 628.24 Documentation. In addition to the general requirements of 628.13, documentation must be prepared with separate columns, as applicable, to list the number of pieces at the 3/5 ZIP+4 rate, the Basic ZIP+4 rate, the 3/5 presort rate, the basic presort rate, and the cumulative total pieces in the mailing through each line entry. A separate line entry must be provided for each 5-digit ZIP Code for which pieces have been packaged in 5-digit or optional city packages, and for each 3-digit ZIP Code prefix for which pieces have been packaged otherwise. 628.25 Presort. See 628.14. 628.26 Optional Sortation to Automated Sites. Mailers may prepare 3/5 ZIP+4 rate mailings without making 5-digit packages or sacks if a. All pieces in the mailing are for destinations within the 3-digit ZIP Code ranges listed in Exhibit 122.63m; b. All pieces are prepared in optional city or 3-digit packages and optional city or 3-digit sacks; and c. Pieces destinating in other ZIP Code areas are prepared as a separate mailing. 628.27 Additional Tray and Sack Labeling Requirements. The second (contents) line on labels for trays and sacks in ZIP+4 rate mailings must show the information specified in 641.133 and 641.135 followed by either "ZIP+4" or "Z+4." 628.28 Pieces Prepared With Barcodes and Barcode Windows 628.281 Pieces Prepared With ZIP+4 Barcodes. The correct ZIP+4 barcode, prepared as specified in 551 and representing the finest level of ZIP+4 code for the delivery address shown on the piece (see 628.212 and 628.213), may appear on pieces in a ZIP+4 rate mailing. To qualify for a ZIP+4 rate, pieces that bear a ZIP+4 barcode as specified in 551 need not meet the OCR readability requirements in 540, but must bear a complete address including either the correct numeric ZIP+4 code or 5-digit ZIP Code in the address. Pieces bearing neither the correct ZIP+4 barcode nor the correct numeric ZIP+4 code must bear the correct numeric 5-digit ZIP Code and may qualify for either the basic or 3/5 presort rate, depending on presort. 628.282 Pieces Prepared With Five-Digit Barcodes. Mailers may place 5-digit barcodes prepared under 552 on pieces in a ZIP+4 rate mailing. Depending on presort, such pieces qualify for the basic or 3/5 presort rate either when they bear a numeric 5-digit ZIP Code in the address or when the 5-digit barcode appears through a window. If the 5-digit barcode is printed directly on the outside of a mailpiece that also bears a correct numeric ZIP+4 code in the address (as defined in 628.212 and 628.213) and meets the requirements of 540, that piece may qualify for the basic or 3/5 ZIP+4 rates (depending on presort) and count toward the 85% ZIP+4 code requirement in 628.212. If the 5-digit barcode appears through a window, the piece neither qualifies for a ZIP+4 rate nor counts toward the 85% requirement in 628.212. 628.283 Pieces Prepared With Barcode Windows Through Which No Barcode Appears. Pieces prepared with a window in the barcode clear zone through which neither a ZIP+4 barcode nor a 5-digit barcode appears neither qualify for the ZIP+4 rates nor count toward the 85% ZIP+4 code requirement in 628.212. 628.3 ZIP+4 Barcoded Rates 628.31 General 628.311 Minimum Quantity. As prescribed in 628.112, each ZIP+4 Barcoded rate mailing must contain at least 200 pieces or 50 pounds. 628.312 Required Percentage of ZIP+4 Barcoded and Properly Addressed Pieces. At least 85% of the total number of pieces in each mailing, regardless of presort level or rate, must bear the correct ZIP+4 barcode prepared under 551. The correct ZIP+4 barcode is the one that represents the proper depth of ZIP+4 code listed in the current Postal Service ZIP+4 file for the address as defined in 534. Addresses on ZIP+4 barcoded pieces must be prepared using Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS) certified ZIP+4 address matching software as specified 531 and 532, and the CASS documentation requirements in 532 must be met. Each piece, whether or not it bears a ZIP+4 barcode, must bear either the correct numeric ZIP+4 code or the correct numeric 5-digit ZIP Code in the address. The 85% ZIP+4 barcode requirement may be applied to a mailing list or cycle rather than an individual mailing under the conditions of 628.133. 628.313 Addressing Requirements. See addressing requirements in 530. 628.32 Other Rates. ZIP+4 Barcoded rate mailings may contain pieces claimed at the 5-digit, 3-digit, and Basic ZIP+4 Barcoded, 3/5 and Basic ZIP+4, and 3/5 and basic presort level rates. Other rates are not available. 628.33 Requirements for OCR Processing. Each piece in the mailing that does not bear the correct ZIP+4 barcode (see 551, 628.312, and 628.313) must meet the requirements in 540. 628.34 Documentation. In addition to the general requirements of 628.13, documentation must be prepared with separate columns, as applicable, to list the number of pieces at the 5-Digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, the 3-Digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, the Basic ZIP+4 Barcoded rate, the 3/5 ZIP+4 rate, the Basic ZIP+4 rate, the 3/5 presort rate, the basic presort rate, and the cumulative total pieces in the mailing through each line entry. A separate line entry must be provided for each 5-digit ZIP Code for which pieces have been packaged in 5-digit or optional city packages, and for each 3-digit ZIP Code prefix for which pieces have been packaged otherwise. 628.35 Presort. See 628.14. 628.36 Optional Sortation to Automated Sites. Mailers may prepare 3-digit ZIP+4 Barcoded rate mailings without making 5-digit packages or sacks if: a. All pieces in the mailing are for destinations within the 3-digit ZIP Code ranges listed in Exhibit 122.63m; b. All pieces are prepared in optional city or 3-digit packages and optional city or 3-digit sacks; and c. Pieces destinating in other ZIP Code areas are prepared as a separate mailing. 628.37 Additional Tray and Sack Labeling Requirements. The second (contents) line on labels for trays and sacks in ZIP+4 Barcoded rate mailings must show the information specified in 641.133 and 641.135 followed by either "ZIP+4 BARCODED" or "Z+4 B/C." 628.38 Pieces Prepared With Five-Digit Barcodes and Barcode Windows 628.381 Pieces Prepared With Five-Digit Barcodes. Up to 15% of the pieces in a ZIP+4 Barcoded rate mailing may bear a 5-digit barcode prepared as specified in 552. Such pieces may qualify for the basic or 3/5 presort rates (depending on presort) either when they bear a numeric 5-digit ZIP Code in the address or when the 5-digit barcode appears through a window. If the 5-digit barcode is printed directly on the outside of a mailpiece that also bears a correct numeric ZIP+4 code in the address (see 628.312 and 628.313) and meets the requirements of 540, that piece may qualify for the basic or 3/5 ZIP+4 rates (depending on presort). If the 5-digit barcode appears through a window, the piece neither qualifies for a ZIP+4 or ZIP+4 Barcoded rate nor counts toward the 85% requirement in 628.312. 628.382 Pieces Prepared With Barcode Windows Through Which No Barcode Appears. Pieces prepared with a window in the barcode clear zone through which neither a ZIP+4 barcode nor a 5-digit barcode appears neither qualify for a ZIP+4 or ZIP+4 Barcoded rate nor count toward the 85% ZIP+4 barcode requirement in 628.312. 629 Mailpiece Characteristics 629.1 Additions, Attachments, and Enclosures 629.11 Additions The following written additions and enclosures may be placed within or on material mailed at third-class postage rates: a. The sender's and the addressee's names, occupations, and addresses, preceded by the word "from" or "to," and directions for transmission, delivery, forwarding, or return. b. Marks (other than by written or printed words) to call attention to words or passages in the text. c. Corrections of typographical errors in the body of circulars or printed matter by handwritten or typewritten changes or additions. d. Corrections of proofsheets, including corrections of typographical and other errors, changes in the text, insertion of new text, marginal instructions to the printer, and rewrites of parts. Corrections should be in margins or attached to the manuscript. Do not enclose manuscript of another article. e. A simple manuscript dedication or inscription, which does not have the nature of personal correspondence, on the blank leaves or cover of a book or other printed matter. f. Matter mailable as third-class mail printed on the wrapper, envelope, tag, or label. g. Marks, numbers, names, or letters for the purpose of description of the contents. h. The words "Please Do Not Open Until Christmas," "Happy Birthday, Mother," "With Best Wishes, John Doe," and similar inscriptions on the package, wrapper, envelope, or on a tag or label attached thereto. i. An invoice, whether or not it also serves as a bill, if it relates solely to the matter with which it is mailed, may be enclosed or placed in an envelope (marked "Invoice Enclosed") attached to the outside showing any or all the following: (1) Names and addresses of sender and addressee. (2) Names and quantities of articles enclosed. (3) Description of articles enclosed, including price, tax, style, stock number, size, and quality; and, if defective, nature of defect. (4) Order or file number, date of order, date and manner of shipment, shipping weight, and postage paid. (5) Initials or name of packer or checker. j. Instructions and directions for the use of the item mailed, in writing or otherwise, as an enclosure, attachment, or endorsement. k. Hand-stamped imprints, except when the added material is in itself personal, or converts the original matter to a personal communication. l. Incidental First-Class enclosures and attachments are allowed with third-class merchandise (including books but excluding merchandise samples) under 136.4. 629.12 Incidental First-Class Attachments or Enclosures 629.121 General. Incidental First-Class matter, as defined in 629.122, may be enclosed in or attached to third-class merchandise (including books but excluding merchandise samples) without payment of First-Class postage. Postage on the incidental First-Class matter is paid at the third-class rate applicable to the merchandise in which it is enclosed, or to which it is attached, under 629.123. 629.122 Eligibility Requirements. An incidental attachment or enclosure must be closely associated with or related to the piece to which it is attached or in which it is enclosed, it must be secondary to that piece, and it must not encumber postal processing. An incidental attachment or enclosure includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following items: a. A bill for the product or publication. b. A statement of account for past products or publications. c. A personal message or greeting included with a product, publication, or parcel. 629.123 Payment of Postage. Postage is based on the combined weight of the incidental attachment or enclosure and the host piece with which it is attached or enclosed, and is to be paid at the third-class rate applicable to the host piece. 629.124 Markings. There are no marking requirements for incidental First-Class attachments or enclosures mailed under the provisions of this section. 629.13 Nonincidental First-Class Enclosures 629.131 General. Letters or other pieces of nonincidental First-Class Mail may be enclosed with third-or fourth-class mail. Postage at the appropriate First-Class rate must be paid for each letter or other piece of First-Class Mail, except incidental First-Class attachments or enclosures as noted in 136.4 and 629.12. 629.132 Placement of Enclosure. The enclosure should be placed within the mailpiece. 629.133 Payment of Postage. Postage for the First-Class enclosure must be placed on the outside of the mailpiece. It may be added to the postage for the third-class mailpiece and the total amount paid together, or the postage for the First-Class enclosure may be affixed separately from the postage for the third-class mailpiece. 629.134 Marking Required. The mailer must place the endorsement "First-Class Mail Enclosed" on each mailpiece below the postage and above the address. The endorsement may be hand-stamped, handwritten, typewritten, printed, or put on by any other method. 629.14 Nonincidental First-Class Attachments 629.141 General. Letters or other pieces of nonincidental First-Class Mail may be placed in an envelope and securely tied or otherwise attached to the address side of a third-class mailpiece. The envelope must be placed on the address side of the principal mailpiece. Combination envelopes or containers having separate parts for the two classes of mail may be used. (See 629.7 concerning the sealing of third-class mail.) 629.142 Addressing. The name and address of the sender and the name and address of the addressee should be placed on both the principal mailpiece and the attachment. If both names and addresses do not appear on both pieces, the sender's name and address must be placed on one and the name and address of the addressee must be placed on the other. Combination containers having inseparable portions or compartments are mailable with the names and addresses on only one portion. 629.143 Postage. Postage on the third-class mail must be prepaid at the appropriate third-class rate and must be placed in the upper right corner of the address space. Postage at the appropriate First-Class rate must be paid for the attachment and affixed to it, except as noted in 136.4 and 629.12. 629.144 Required Markings. First-Class attachments may be marked "First-Class" or "Letter Enclosed." 629.15 Third-Class Attachments. The front cover page or the back cover page of a mailpiece may bear an attachment, provided the following conditions are met: a. The material must qualify for and be mailed at bulk rates. b. Pieces bearing attachments must be larger than 6 by 11 inches (too large to be distributed in a regular letter case). c. The mailing must be presorted to carrier routes. d. Attachments must be secured so as not to interfere with processing or delivery. Folded or multipage attachments must be secured to prevent opening during handling. e. Each piece in the mailing must bear the same attachment. 629.16 Protective Covers on Catalogs and Books. Catalogs and books with covers such as "outserts, short covers," or similar bound sheets which do not fully cover (within 3/4 inch of each edge) the main body of the catalog or book, front and back, must be enclosed in a mailing wrapper such as a full sleeve or envelope. 629.2 Physical Limitations 629.21 Weight. Each piece must weigh less than 16 ounces. 629.22 Size, Shape, and Ratio (General Standards) 629.221 Maximum Size Standards a. Single-Piece Third-Class Mail. There is no maximum size for single-piece third-class mail. b. Basic Presort and 3/5 Presort Rates. There is no maximum size for basic presort rate and 3/5 presort rate bulk third-class mail. c. Carrier Route Presort Level Bulk Rate Mail. The maximum size for mail qualified for the third-class carrier route presort level rate is (1) not more than 3/4 inch thick, (2) not more than 11-3/4 inches high, and (3) not more than 14 inches long. Exception: Merchandise samples with detached labels may be sent at the third-class carrier route presort level rate, even though their dimensions may exceed the maximums, if they meet all other requirements of the third-class carrier route presort level rate and the detached labels do not exceed those dimensions. d. Basic ZIP+4, 5-Digit ZIP+4, and ZIP+4 Barcoded Rate Mail. The maximum sizes for mailpieces at these rates are described in 521. 629.222 Minimum Size Standards. The minimum size standards for all third-class mail other than keys and identification devices mailed under 611.3 are the following: a. All mailpieces must be at least 0.007 inch thick. b. All mailpieces which are 1/4 inch thick or less must be: (1) Rectangular in shape. (2) At least 3-1/2 inches high. (3) At least 5 inches long. Note: Third-class mailing pieces other than keys and identification devices which do not meet these minimum size standards are prohibited from the mail. c. Except for pieces mailed at third-class, carrier route rates, the placement (orientation) of the address on the mailpiece establishes which dimensions are its height and length. The length is the dimension that is parallel to the address as read; the height is perpendicular to the length. d. Because of the placement (orientation) of the address, a piece of third-class mail (other than a key or identification device), may not meet the minimum-size standards in 629.222b. All pieces (other than keys or identification devices) that do not meet the size standards in 629.222a and 629.222b are nonmailable and prohibited from the mail. Use Notice 5, Return to Sender, to return to the sender any nonmailable piece found in the mailstream. Process pieces that lack a return address as provided in 159. e. Because of the placement (orientation) of the address, a mailable piece of single-piece rate, third-class mail weighing 1 ounce or less may be subject to a nonstandard surcharge (see 613 and 629.23). f. Determine the processing category of a mailpiece (see 128) solely by its physical dimensions, regardless of the placement of the address. 629.223 Recommendation. To ensure prompt and efficient processing of third-class mail, the Postal Service recommends that envelopes, cards, and self-mailers have a rectangular shape whose length divided by height is not less than 1.3 nor more than 2.5. (See 613 and 629.23 for nonstandard mail surcharge.) 629.23 Nonstandard Third-Class Mail 629.231 Definition. Third-class single-piece rate mail weighing 1 ounce or less (except keys and identification devices as provided in 611.13) is nonstandard if: a. Its length exceeds 11-1/2 inches; or b. Its height exceeds 6-1/8 inches; or c. Its thickness exceeds 1/4 inch; or d. Its length divided by its height is less than 1.3 or more than 2.5. 629.232 Delays. Nonstandard mail often results in delays or damage because it does not lend itself to machine processing. For this reason, mailers are encouraged to avoid mailing nonstandard third-class mail. 629.233 Surcharge. A surcharge of $0.10, as set forth in 613, is assessed on each piece of nonstandard single-piece rate third-class mail. 629.234 Handling. Use Label 100 to return a nonstandard piece to the sender. The surcharge provided in 613 and 629.233 is to be collected from the sender. Process pieces that lack a return address as provided in 159. 629.24 Reusable Mailpieces 629.241 General a. Definition. A reusable mailpiece is an envelope, self-mailer, card, or similar item that is designed for two-way movement; i.e., for use both by the sender in initial distribution and by the recipient to transmit a response back to the sender. Reusability may be accomplished by removing part of the original mailpiece or by reconfiguring it to replace the recipient's delivery address with that of the originator (sender). b. Requirement For All Reusable Mailpieces. Each reusable mailpiece must be designed and constructed to provide sufficient instruction for its use to permit both the sender and recipient to prepare the mailpiece as required by 629.242 through 629.244. 629.242 Initial Preparation. Only one complete address and corresponding ZIP+4 barcode, and only the applicable postage, markings, and endorsements (including a FIM, if used) must be visible on the mailpiece as it is prepared and mailed by the originator (sender). The sender's address and ZIP+4 barcode (to be used in returning the mailpiece) and any postage, markings, and endorsements (including a FIM, if used) that may be provided for that purpose, must be so located or obscured that they are not mistaken by postal mail processing equipment or personnel as applying to the originating piece. 629.243 Preparation of the Return Piece. Only one complete address and ZIP+4 barcode, and only the applicable postage, markings, and endorsements (including a FIM, if used) must be visible on the mailpiece as it is prepared and mailed by the recipient to the originator. The reusable mailpiece must be designed and constructed so the recipient may, after following instructions printed on the piece, reconfigure or otherwise modify it to remove or obscure the address, ZIP+4 barcode, postage, markings, and endorsements (including a FIM, if used) that applied to the mailpiece when it was originally mailed so that these elements are not mistaken by postal mail processing equipment or personnel as applying to the returned piece. 629.244 Noncomplying Pieces. Reusable mailpieces that do not meet the applicable requirements in 629.241 through 629.243 must not be accepted. A noncomplying mailpiece must be reenveloped with new postage paid in order to be acceptable. 629.3 Addressing 629.31 General. The general procedures for addressing are contained in 122. Ancillary service endorsements must be those authorized in 159.151. 629.32 ZIP Code. Each piece, including the top copy of a firm package (see 641.122a), must bear the name and address of the addressee. The address must include either the correct ZIP+4 or the correct 5-digit ZIP Code. Exception: A ZIP Code may be omitted from pieces bearing a simplified address, under 122.41, and from pieces mailed at the single-piece rates and rate for keys and identification devices in 611.11 and 611.3. 629.33 Merchandise Samples. Under certain conditions specified in 629.511, it is required that merchandise samples be prepared with detached address labels as described in 629.52 through 629.55. 629.4 Optional Use of Detached Address Labels for Flats 629.41 General. Saturation mailings of third-class "flats" (as defined in 128.3) may, at the option of the mailer, be mailed using detached address labels, under 629.41 through 629.46. A "saturation" mailing is defined as a mailing sent to at least 75% of the total addresses within each carrier route or 90% of the residential addresses within the route, whichever is less. Deliveries need not be made to every carrier route of a delivery unit. 629.42 Prior Notification. A letter describing the nature of the mailing must be sent to the offices of delivery 10 days in advance of the mailing. The letter must include the following: a. Name of the mailer, including his representative, and telephone number. b. A description of the mailing. c. The origin post office of mailing. d. The expected mailing date. e. The requested delivery date. f. The number of addresses for each 5-digit ZIP Code. g. The number of address cards per carton or package. h. The number of flats per carton or package. i. The desired disposition of any excess or undeliverable material. Note: The mailer may request the postmaster to notify the mailer (at the mailers's expense) of the number of undeliverable flats. 629.43 Address Cards 629.431 General. The address for each flat must be placed on an address card. There must be one and only one address card for each flat. 629.432 Format a. Required Content. The address card must contain the recipient's address and the mailer's return address. Each address card must carry the following words in a bold type size of at least 1/8 inch: Postal Service regulations require that this address card be delivered together with its accompanying postage-paid mail. If you should receive this card without its accompanying mail, please notify your local postmaster. b. Prohibited Content. Nothing other than an address, the above-quoted language, and an indicium of postage payment may appear on the front of the card, except for official pictures and data disseminated by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. 629.433 Physical Requirements a. The address card must be made of paper or cardboard stock. b. The address card must not (1) be folded, perforated, or creased; (2) measure less than 3-1/2 by 5 inches; (3) measure more than 5 by 9 inches; or (4) measure less than 0.007 inch thick. 629.434 Packaging of Cards. The address cards must be presorted, counted, and packaged by 5-digit ZIP Code delivery area. Each package of address cards must bear a label showing a. the post office of delivery, b. the 5-digit ZIP Code delivery area, c. a description of the flats, d. the name of the mailer, e. the number of cards in the package, and f. instructions to open and distribute with matching flats. 629.435 Accompanying Letter. A copy of the letter described in 629.42 must accompany the address cards to each 5-digit ZIP Code destination. 629.436 Labeling of Cartons. When more than one carton of address cards is shipped, each carton must be numbered "1 of --," "2 of --," etc. 629.44 Excess Pieces. The mailer may request the post office to hold excess pieces for pickup by the mailer. No additional postage is charged if the mailer picks up the excess pieces at each delivery unit. Such pieces must be picked up within 15 calendar days of the requested delivery date. Alternatively, the mailer may request that excess pieces be returned to him as "postage-due" mail. 629.45 Preparation of Flats. The flats must be placed in containers labeled as follows: a. The post office of delivery. b. The 5-digit ZIP Code delivery area. c. A description of the mailing. d. The name of the mailer, his representative, and telephone number. e. The number of flats in the outer carton. f. Instructions to open and distribute with matching cards. Note: When pallets are used, the label must be attached to the pallets. Containers of flats (including those on pallets) must not exceed 40 pounds. 629.46 Postage. Postage must be prepaid by one of the methods prescribed by 661.2 and must be printed on or affixed to the address card. The applicable non-letter postage (see Exhibit 611.2a) is computed based on the combined weight of the flat and the address label. 629.47 Walk-Sequence Rates. Mailings prepared under 629.4 may qualify for the walk-sequence rates if the detached label cards are prepared to meet the requirements of 624.8. 629.5 Detached Address Labels for Merchandise Samples 629.51 General 629.511 City Delivery Routes. Merchandise samples which exceed 5 inches in width (height) or 1/4 inch in thickness, or which are nonuniform in thickness, mailed at bulk third-class rates for general distribution on city delivery routes must be prepared by the mailer under 629.52 through 629.54. For purposes of this section, "general distribution" means distribution of samples to at least 25% of the addresses in a 5-digit ZIP Code delivery area. 629.512 Other Types of Routes (Such as Rural). Mailers who wish to use detached address cards with merchandise samples (of the kind described in 629.511) intended for general distribution on other types of routes, such as rural routes, must be prepared under 629.52 through 629.54. 629.513 Optional Preparation of Residual Samples. When a portion of a merchandise sample mailing must or may be prepared with detached address cards under 629.511 or 629.512, that portion of the mailing for distribution to less that 25% of the addresses in a 5-digit ZIP Code delivery area may, at the mailer's option, also be prepared under 629.52 through 629.54. 629.514 Walk-Sequence Reduction. Mailings prepared under 629.5 may qualify for the saturation walk-sequence rates if the detached address cards are prepared to meet the requirements of 624.8. Addressed mailings must meet the density requirements in 624.84. Simplified address mailings must meet the density requirements in 122.41. 629.52 Address Cards 629.521 General. The address where the sample is to be delivered may not be placed on the sample. It must be placed on a separate address card to be delivered with the sample. 629.522 Format a. Required Content. The recipient's address, the mailer's return address, and the following words must be placed on the address card: Postal Service regulations require that this address card be delivered together with its accompanying postage-paid sample. If you should receive this card without its accompanying sample, please notify your local postmaster. The brand name, color coding, or other identifying symbols must also be placed on the address card to clearly associate it with the accompanying sample. b. Prohibited Content. Nothing other than addresses, identification, the language required by 629.522a, and indicia of postage payment may appear on the front of the card, except for official pictures and data disseminated by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. 629.523 Physical Requirements a. The address card must be made of paper or cardboard stock. b. The address card must not (1) be folded, perforated, or creased; (2) measure less than 3-1/2 by 5 inches; (3) measure more than 5 by 9 inches; or (4) measure less than 0.007 inch thick. 629.524 Preparation of Address Cards for Mailing. The address cards must be presorted, counted, and packaged by 5-digit ZIP Code delivery area. Each package of address cards must bear a label showing a. the post office of delivery, b. the 5-digit ZIP Code delivery area, c. the brand name of the merchandise sample, d. the number of cards in the package, and e. instructions to open and distribute with matching samples. 629.53 Samples. The samples must be placed in cartons and labeled as follows: a. The post office of delivery. b. The 5-digit ZIP Code delivery area. c. The brand name of the merchandise sample. d. The number of samples in the outer carton. e. Instructions to open and distribute with matching cards. 629.54 Postage. Postage must be prepaid by one of the methods prescribed by 661.2 and must be printed on or affixed to the address card or sample. 629.55 Mailing Periods. Mailers should avoid mailing samples during the following peak mailing periods: a. The last week of November and throughout the month of December. b. From the 1st to the 5th and from the 26th to the end of each month. 629.6 Marking 629.61 Single-Piece Rate 629.611 General. Each piece mailed at the single-piece third-class rates of postage described in 611.1 must be legibly marked with the words "Third-Class." 629.612 Location. The marking must appear on the address side of each piece, preferably below the postage and above the name of the addressee. It may be included as part of a permit imprint, or it may be printed adjacent to the meter stamp by a postage meter. The marking is not considered adequate if it is included as part of a decorative design or advertisement. 629.613 Unmarked Pieces. Pieces lacking the endorsement required by 629.611 or not properly marked as required by 629.612 are treated as First-Class Mail and charged postage at the applicable First-Class rate. 629.62 Basic Presort and 3/5 Presort Rates. The following identifying words must be printed or rubber-stamped by the mailer either as part of or immediately adjacent to the permit imprint, meter stamps, or precanceled stamps: a. "Bulk Rate" or the abbreviation "Blk. Rt." (by mailers other than authorized special-rate organizations). b. "Nonprofit Organization" or one of the shorter forms, "Nonprofit" or "Nonprofit Org." (by authorized special-rate organizations). 629.63 Carrier Route Presort Rate a. In addition to the endorsement required in 629.62, the identifying words "Carrier Route Presort" or the abbreviation "CAR-RT SORT" must be incorporated in the permit imprint indicia, or it may be printed or rubber-stamped above the address in the area to the left or below the permit imprint, meter stamps, or precanceled stamps on pieces entered at the carrier route presort rate. Alternatively, the "Carrier Route Presort" endorsement may be located in the address area on either the line above the address or two lines above the address. (The preferred position is two lines above the address.) Residual pieces included in a carrier route presort level rate mailing under 624.33, may bear the "Carrier Route Presort" endorsement. Exception: A mailer authorized to mail under the Manifest Mailing System (MMS) in 145.7 may place the rate category identification marking in a keyline as described in 145.742. b. If the endorsement is located in the address area. (1) No other information may appear on the endorsement line except the route information when mailers label their carrier route packages in the manner prescribed in 641.411b. (2) One of the formats in Exhibit 629.63b(2) must be used. Exhibit 629.63 b(2) (NOT SHOWN) CAR-RT SORTCARRIER ROUTE PRESORT RESIDENTRESIDENT 1300 WATERFORD DR1300 WATERFORD DR DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD 20028DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD 20028 CAR-RT SORTCARRIER ROUTE PRESORT POSTAL CUSTOMERPOSTAL CUSTOMER CAR-RT SORTCARRIER ROUTE PRESORT ** CR 22** CR 22 RESIDENTRESIDENT 1300 WATERFORD DRIVE1300 WATERFORD DRIVE DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD 20028DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD 20028 CAR-RT SORTCARRIER ROUTE PRESORT ** CR 22** CR 22 RESIDENTRESIDENT 1300 WATERFORD DRIVE1300 WATERFORD DRIVE DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD 20028DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD 20028 CAR-RT SORT** B0101CARRIER ROUTE PRESORT** CR 22 24632176190 BC 789RESIDENT RESIDENT1300 WATERFORD DRIVE PO BOX 961DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD 20028 NEW YORK NY 10001 CAR-RT SORT** B0101CARRIER ROUTE PRESORT**CR 22 24632176190 BC 789RESIDENT RESIDENT1300 WATERFORD DRIVE PO BOX 961DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD 20028 NEW YORK NY 10001 Exhibit 629.63b(2)] 629.64 Basic ZIP+4 Mail. Each piece must bear the appropriate "Bulk Rate" or "Nonprofit Organization" endorsement, or its authorized abbreviation, as required by 629.62 to identify it as a regular or special rate bulk mailing. Mailers are encouraged, but not required, to show the marking "ZIP+4" on each piece in the mailing in addition to the "Bulk Rate" or "Nonprofit Organization" marking. The markings must be printed or rubber-stamped either as part of or immediately adjacent to the permit imprint, meter stamp, or precanceled stamp. Alternatively, one of the markings may be located in the address area either on the line immediately above the address or two lines above the address. (The preferred position is two lines above the address.) If the marking is located in the address area, no other information may appear on the endorsement line except for carrier route information. Carrier route presort level rate pieces must not be included in a basic ZIP+4 rate mailing. Exception: A mailer authorized to mail letter-size pieces under the Manifest Mailing System (MMS) in 145.7 must place the rate category identification marking in a keyline as described in 145.742. 629.65 3/5 Presort ZIP+4 Mail. Each piece must bear the appropriate "Bulk Rate" or "Nonprofit Organization" endorsement, or its authorized abbreviation, as required by 629.62 to identify it as a regular or special rate bulk mailing. Mailers are encouraged, but not required, to show the marking "5-digit ZIP+4" on each piece in the mailing in addition to the "Bulk Rate" or "Nonprofit Organization" marking. The markings must be printed or rubber-stamped either as part of or immediately adjacent to the permit imprint, meter stamp, or precanceled stamp. Alternatively, one of the markings may be located in the address area either on the line immediately above the address or two lines above the address. (The preferred position is two lines above the address.) If the marking is located in the address area, no other information may appear on the endorsement line except for carrier route information. Carrier route presort level rate pieces must not be included in a 5-digit ZIP+4 rate mailing. Exception: A mailer authorized to mail letter-size pieces under the Manifest Mailing System (MMS) in 145.7 must place the rate category identification marking in a keyline as described in 145.742. 629.66 ZIP+4 Barcoded Rate Mail. Each piece must bear the appropriate "Bulk Rate" or "Nonprofit Organization" endorsement, or its authorized abbreviation, as required by 629.62 to identify it as a regular or special rate bulk mailing. Mailers are encouraged, but not required, to show the marking "ZIP+4 Barcoded" on each piece in the mailing in addition to the "Bulk Rate" or "Nonprofit Organization" marking. The markings must be printed or rubber-stamped either as part of or immediately adjacent to the permit imprint, meter stamp, or precanceled stamp. Alternatively, one of the markings may be located in the address area either on the line immediately above the address or two lines above the address. (The preferred position is two lines above the address.) If the marking is located in the address area, no other information may appear on the endorsement line except for carrier route information. Carrier route presort level rate pieces must not be included in a ZIP+4 Barcoded rate mailing. Exception: A mailer authorized to mail letter-size pieces under the Manifest Mailing System (MMS) in 145.7 must place the rate category identification marking in a keyline as described in 145.742. 629.7 Sealing and Securing. As indicated in 621.4, third-class matter is not sealed against postal inspection. Accordingly, third-class mail must be prepared by the mailer so that it can be easily examined, but it should be sealed or secured so that it maybe handled by machines. 630 Service Objectives Third-class mail may receive deferred service. The Postal Service does not guarantee the delivery of third-class mail within a specified time. 640 Bulk Mail Presort Requirements 641 Standard Packaging and Sacking Requirements 641.1 Letter-Size, Flat-Size, and Irregular Parcel Mailings 641.11 General. All basic presort and 3/5 presort rate bulk third-class mailings must be prepared as specified in 641.1, subject to the exceptions contained in 641.124 and 641.136 for loose-packing, 643 for irregular parcels, 644 for palletization, and 647 for traying. All pieces presented in a single mailing must be presorted together as required by this section. The level of sortation (i.e., packaging and traying or sacking) determines eligibility for the 3/5 presort rate; pieces not claimed at or not eligible for the 3/5 presort rate must be claimed at the basic presort rate (see 624.1 and 624.2). 641.12 Packaging Requirements 641.121 Physical Characteristics a. As a guard against breakage during transit and handling, it is strongly recommended that the thickness of packages containing letter-size mail, as described in 128.2, not exceed 4 inches. The maximum permissible thickness is 6 inches. b. Rubber bands are preferred for securing packages of letter-size mail. c. Packages of letter-size mail up to 1 inch thick must, at a minimum, be secured with appropriate banding material around the girth. Packages of letter-size mail thicker than 1 inch must be secured with appropriate banding material around both the length and the girth. The first band should always be placed around the length and the second, around the girth so that it crosses over the first. d. The banding material used to secure packages of mail should be positioned as near as possible to the center to provide the greatest stability during transit and handling. Banding material must never lie along the outer 1 inch of any edge. Refer to Exhibit 367.112. *viewer dmm367.pcx* 641.122 Sortation. See Exhibit 641.122. *viewer dmm618.pcx* a. Optional Firm Packages. When all mail in a package is for an individual firm, a blue Label F must be affixed to the front of the package. Exhibit 641.122 (NOT SHOWN) DMM618Exhibit 641.122] b. Five-Digit Packages. When there are 10 or more pieces for the same 5-digit ZIP Code destination, they must be made up into 5-digit packages. The mailer may package less than 10 pieces in the same manner. Mailers are encouraged, but not required, to affix a red Label D to each package. c. Optional City Packages. When, after making up 5-digit packages, there are pieces for one of the multi-ZIP Coded offices listed in Exhibit 122.63a, the mailer is encouraged to prepare a "city" package. A yellow Label C must be affixed to each package. d. Three-Digit Packages. When there are 10 or more pieces for a 3-digit ZIP Code prefix, after the required 5-digit packages and optional city packages have been made, they must be made up into 3-digit packages. The mailer may package less than 10 pieces in the same manner. A green Label 3 must be affixed to each package. e. Optional SCF Packages. When there are pieces for post offices in the same sectional center facility (SCF) service area remaining after the required 5-digit and 3-digit packages have been made, the mailer is encouraged to prepare an SCF package. A green Label 3 must be affixed to each package. A list of SCFs serving more than one 3-digit ZIP Code area and the 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes served by these facilities is shown in Exhibit 122.63d. f. Optional SDC Packages. When there are pieces for post offices in the same state distribution center (SDC) service area remaining after the 5-digit, optional city, 3-digit, and optional SCF packages have been made, the mailer is encouraged to prepare an SDC package. In those instances where this SDC makeup is finer than the mandatory state makeup, a facing slip must be used on SDC packages. g. State Packages. When there are 10 or more pieces for a state remaining after the 5-digit, optional city, 3-digit, optional SCF, and optional SDC packages have been made, they must be made up into state packages. The mailer may package less than 10 pieces in the same manner. An orange Label S must be affixed to each package. h. Mixed States Packages. If after all packages have been prepared as outlined above, there are pieces remaining for two or more states, they must be made up into mixed states packages. A tan Label MS or the mixed states optional endorsement line must appear on the top copy of each package (see 642). Note: Pieces remaining for one state must be made up into a state package, or any of the required or optional packages dependent on the level of sortation of the mail remaining after all required and optional packages have been prepared. For example, if there are eight pieces remaining for a 3-digit ZIP Code area, which could not be placed in any of the required or optional packages prepared, those pieces must be packaged together and a green Label 3 must be affixed or the 3-digit optional endorsement line must appear on the top copy of each package. 641.123 Facing a. Requirement. Except as provided in 641.123b, all pieces in a package must be faced the same way, with an address visible on the top piece and facing up on each piece. b. Exception. Flat-size pieces and pieces of other mail processing categories which are of irregular thickness may be prepared by counterstacking (i.e., reverse-stacking or cross-stacking) groups of pieces within the package to ensure that packages are leveled or squared-off under the following conditions: (1) All pieces in the package must have the address side facing up. (2) The pieces in the package must be divided into groups containing an approximately equal number of pieces, with every other group of pieces rotated 180 degrees. (3) A maximum of four groups within a package may be made. However, preparation of only two groups of pieces within a package is preferred. 641.124 Loose Packing. Except as provided in 642, pressure-sensitive package labels or facing slips must be used to label packages as prescribed in 641.122. Pressure-sensitive package labels must be applied to the lower left corner of the address side of the top piece on letter-size packages and next to the address on larger packages. Facing slips must be placed on the address side of the top copy of each package. Pressure-sensitive labels and facing slips are available from post offices. Pieces prepared in loose-packed 5-digit sacks may qualify for the 3/5 presort rate subject to the applicable requirements in 624.2. 641.125 Rate Eligibility. Pieces in packages prepared under 641.122a (firm), 641.122b (5-digit), 641.122c (optional city), and 641.122d (3-digit) may qualify for the 3/5 presort rate if there are at least 10 pieces in each package, and the packages are correctly sacked or trayed to qualifying destinations (5-digit, optional city, and 3-digit sacks or trays) as required by 624.2 and 641.13. Packages prepared under 641.122e through 641.122h are not eligible for the 3/5 presort rate and must have postage paid at the basic presort rate. 641.13 Sacking Requirements 641.131 Sack Preparation. Packages must be sorted and sacked to destinations under 641.135a through 641.135g, except for a. mailers authorized to bundle or palletize who must prepare packages and bundles under 644.1 or 645 and b. mailers who Express Mail drop ship bulk third-class mailings under 136.7, who may prepare sacks containing fewer than 125 pieces or less than 15 pounds of mail. 641.132 Minimum Quantity a. General. Mailers must prepare a sack whenever the quantity of mail reaches either 125 pieces or 15 pounds, whichever occurs first. A single-piece weight of 1.92 ounces (.12 pound) results in 125 identical weight pieces weighing 15 pounds. Mailers must note on the mailing statement accompanying the mailing whether they applied the 125-piece or 15-pound threshold in sacking the mailing. b. Identical Weight Pieces. Identical weight pieces that weigh 1.92 ounces (.12 pound) or less must be prepared using the 125-piece minimum; identical weight pieces weighing more than 1.92 ounces (.12 pound) must be prepared using the 15-pound minimum. c. Nonidentical Weight Pieces. Mailers of nonidentical weight pieces must either (1) use the minimum that applies to the average piece weight for the entire mailing; (i.e., divide the net weight of the mailing by the number of pieces; the resulting average single-piece weight determines whether the 125-piece or 15-pound minimum applies); or (2) sack based on the actual piece count or mail weight for each sack, provided documentation can be supplied with the mailing that shows (specifically for each sack) the number of pieces and the total weight of those pieces. 641.133 Sack Label Preparation a. Color. Sack labels must be white or manila (other colors are unacceptable). b. Size. Sack labels must not be less than 3-5/16 inches nor more than 3-3/8 inches long (parallel to the printing), and not less than 15/16 inch nor more than 31/32 inch high (perpendicular to the printing). c. Method of Preparation. The Postal Service prefers machine-prepared sack labels to ensure legibility, although legible hand-printed labels are acceptable. Illegible labels are unacceptable. d. Trailing Zeros. Two zeros may appear following 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes on sack labels. e. Abbreviations. The destination and office of mailing lines may contain abbreviated information, provided such abbreviations are as shown in Publication 65, National Five-Digit ZIP Code and Post Office Directory. In addition, the following authorized abbreviations may be used on the contents line of sack labels: Mail Processing Categories Letters LTRS Flats FLTS Irregular Parcels IRREG Other Mixed Machinable and Irregular Parcels (see 623.2) MACH AND IRREG Mixed MXD Digit DG f. Line 1. Line 1, the destination line, must be the first visible line on the label. It must be completely visible and legible when placed in the label holder or otherwise affixed for use. To ensure such visibility, the Postal Service recommends that mailers print the top line so that it is no less than 1/8 (.125) inch below the top of the label when the label is cut and prepared for use. The destination line must contain only the information described in 641.135a through 641.135g. g. Line 2. Line 2, the contents line, must be the second visible line on the label. It must contain the appropriate contents information described in 641.135a through 641.135g. h. Line 3. Line 3, the office of mailing line, must be prepared as described in 441.322c. i. Extraneous Information. Extraneous information is prohibited from the destination and contents lines. The mailer may place it elsewhere as provided in 441.323a and 441.323d through 441.323f. j. Barcodes. It is preferred that sack labels include a barcode, prepared as required in 646. 641.134 Sack Weight. No more than 70 pounds of mail may be placed in any sack.