[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 37 (Tuesday, February 25, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 10605-10611]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-03170]
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POSTAL SERVICE
39 CFR Part 111
USPS Returns Service
AGENCY: Postal Service\TM\.
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: The Postal Service is amending Mailing Standards of the United
States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM[supreg]) section
505.3.0, and various other sections, to remove references to the
traditional Merchandise Return Service (MRS) portion of merchandise
return service and to enhance USPS Returns[supreg] service.
DATES: Effective: February 25, 2020.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Karen Key at (202) 268-7492, Vicki
Bosch at (202) 268-4978, or Garry Rodriguez at (202) 268-7281.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Postal Service published a notice of
proposed rulemaking on July 23, 2018 (83 FR 34807-34811) to amend DMM
section 505.3.0, Merchandise Return Service (MRS), to remove the
references to traditional MRS processes and introduce an enhanced USPS
Returns service. One formal response was received relating only to
terminology used to describe users of the Enterprise Payment System
(EPS).
The Postal Service elected to issue a revised proposed rule on
December 19, 2019 (84 FR 69688-69695) in order to further clarify our
proposal and provide a revised effective date. No formal responses were
received.
The USPS Returns service's new methodology was deployed January 27,
2019, allowing existing customers to migrate to the automated returns
process and new customers to establish automated returns service.
Current USPS Returns service and MRS customers must migrate to the new
automated methodology by August 28, 2020.
Under the Package Platform initiative, the Postal Service has
leveraged devices that were installed as part of the Automated Package
Verification system to enhance the capability of equipment used for the
processing of package-size mailpieces. The upgraded equipment captures
near real-time data on package dimensions, weight, mail class or
product, and other attributes, and transmits the data to Postal Service
information systems. The Postal Service will use this new technology to
streamline its processes for the identification and postage assessment
of each return package, and enable account holders to pay the postage
for their returns electronically. Mailers will receive detailed reports
to monitor package level pricing as their returns are processed and
delivered through the Postal Service network. This improved
functionality will significantly reduce the need to manually weigh and
invoice returns or to estimate postage via sampling under the Postage
Due Weight Averaging Program for MRS packages, and will eliminate the
scan-based payment process currently used with USPS Returns services.
The USPS Returns service automated methodology will use the same
commercial prices as those currently applied to USPS Returns services
and MRS: Priority Mail[supreg] Commercial Base and Commercial Plus (as
applicable to the qualifying USPS Returns account holders), First-Class
Package Service[supreg]--Commercial, and Parcel Select Ground\TM\, and
will apply those prices to each individual return package. Negotiated
Service Agreement (NSA) prices will be available for eligible customers
using the USPS Returns service automated process.
USPS Returns service account holders will pay postage and fees
through an Enterprise Payment System (EPS)
[[Page 10606]]
account. EPS is a relatively new payment system designed to provide a
single point for all payment-related activities. Returns customers of
any type will be required to set up an EPS account for electronic funds
transfer for payment of USPS Returns service postage. USPS Returns
service account customers can view payment information in a
consolidated format in their EPS account accessed through the Business
Customer Gateway at https://gateway.usps.com. The available information
includes account balances, postage activity reports, transactions
history, and other information. For EPS account set up or support,
contact [email protected] or call the PostalOne! Helpdesk at 800-522-
9085, or the USPS Mailing and Shipping Solution Center at 1-877-MRC-
0007 (1-877-672-0007).
USPS Tracking[supreg] service is included as part of the service
for any USPS Returns service product, and the Extra Services available
for a fee for the USPS Returns service automated methodology include
Insurance service, Signature Confirmation\TM\ service, and Certificate
of Mailing service. In cases where the USPS Returns service account
holder must sign for multiple returns bearing accountable Extra
Services, the Postal Service will create an electronic firm sheet to
capture the recipient's signature at the time of delivery and append it
to the applicable associated returns. If all or part of the Intelligent
Mail[supreg] package barcode (IMpb[supreg]) is unreadable, or the
package is unable to be priced based on the availability of data
collected, postage will be based on historical data, or default data
determined at the time of enrollment.
While moving forward with the substantive changes to the returns
options described in this final rule, the Postal Service will
consolidate the new USPS Returns automated methodology material and the
existing returns sections into one section.
Additionally, the Postal Service will remove the references to
``Merchandise Return Service'', both in section 505.3.0 and in the
other sections that refer to Merchandise Return Service. When
appropriate, these references are being replaced with references to
USPS Returns service.
In addition, the Postal Service will update Quick Service Guides
220, 503, and 800, to reflect these DMM revisions.
We believe these revisions to our returns package product offerings
will provide customers who choose the Postal Service for return
services a more efficient process and a superb customer experience.
List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111
Administrative practice and procedure, Postal Service.
The Postal Service adopts the following changes to Mailing
Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual
(DMM), incorporated by reference in the Code of Federal Regulations.
See 39 CFR 111.1.
We will publish an appropriate amendment to 39 CFR part 111 to
reflect these changes.
Accordingly, 39 CFR part 111 is amended as follows:
PART 111--[AMENDED.]
0
1. The authority citation for 39 CFR part 111 continues to read as
follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 13 U.S.C. 301-307; 18 U.S.C. 1692-
1737; 39 U.S.C. 101, 401, 403, 404, 414, 416, 3001-3011, 3201-3219,
3403-3406, 3621, 3622, 3626, 3632, 3633, and 5001.
0
2. Revise the Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service,
Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) as follows:
Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail
Manual (DMM)
* * * * *
100 Retail Mail Letters, Cards, Flats, and Parcels
101 Physical Standards
* * * * *
6.0 Additional Physical Standards for First-Class Mail and First-Class
Package Service--Retail
* * * * *
6.2 Cards Claimed at Card Prices
* * * * *
6.2.9 Double Cards
* * * Double cards are subject to these standards:
* * * * *
[Revise the last sentence of item b to read as follows:]
b. * * * The address side of the reply half may be prepared as
Business Reply Mail, Courtesy Reply Mail, meter reply mail, or as a
USPS Returns service label.
* * * * *
200 Commercial Letters, Flats, and Parcels Design Standards
201 Physical Standards
1.0 Physical Standards for Machinable Letters and Cards
* * * * *
1.2 Physical Standards for Cards Claimed at Card Prices
* * * * *
1.2.9 Double Cards
* * * Double cards are subject to these standards:
* * * * *
[Revise the last sentence of item b to read as follows:]
b. * * * The address side of the reply half may be prepared as
business reply mail, courtesy reply mail, meter reply mail, or as a
USPS Returns service label.
* * * * *
202 Elements on the Face of a Mailpiece
* * * * *
3.0 Placement and Content of Mail Markings
* * * * *
3.3 Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail Markings
* * * * *
3.3.3 Additional Markings for Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail
[Revise the first sentence of the introductory text of 3.3.3 to
read as follows:]
In addition to the basic price marking in 3.3.1 and 3.3.2, except
for pieces paid using a USPS Corporate Account, USPS Returns service,
or permit imprint, Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail pieces
claiming Commercial Base or Commercial Plus prices also must bear the
appropriate commercial price marking, printed on the piece or produced
as part of the meter imprint or PC Postage indicia. * * *
* * * * *
204 Barcode Standards
* * * * *
2.0 Standards for Package and Extra Service Barcodes
2.1 Intelligent Mail Package Barcode
2.1.1 Definition
[Revise the fourth sentence of 2.1.1 to read as follows:]
* * * All mailers generating Intelligent Mail package barcodes
(IMpb) must also submit piece-level information to the USPS via an
approved electronic file format (except for mailers generating barcodes
for use on return services products, such as uninsured USPS Returns
service packages). * * *
* * * * *
2.1.7 Electronic File
[Revise the first sentence of the introductory text of 2.1.7 to
read as follows:]
All mailers generating Intelligent Mail package barcodes (IMpb)
must transmit
[[Page 10607]]
piece-level information to USPS in an approved electronic file format
(except for mailers generating barcodes for use on return services
products, such as uninsured USPS Returns service packages). * * *
* * * * *
220 Commercial Mail Priority Mail
223 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees
* * * * *
1.2 Commercial Base Prices
* * * The Commercial Base prices are available for:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item e to read as follows:]
e. Permit holders using USPS Returns service for packages returned
at Priority Mail prices when all requirements are met under 505.3.0.
* * * * *
1.3 Commercial Plus Prices
1.3.1 Basic Eligibility
* * * Commercial Plus prices are available to Priority Mail
customers who qualify for Commercial Base prices and whose cumulative
account volume exceeds a combined total of 5,000 letter-size and flat-
size pieces (including Flat Rate Envelopes, but not the Padded Flat
Rate Envelope) or 50,000 total pieces in the previous calendar year
(except Priority Mail Open and Distribute) and who have a customer
commitment agreement with USPS (new Priority Mail customers see 1.3.2),
and are:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]
d. Permit holders using USPS Returns service for packages returned
at Priority Mail prices when all requirements are met under 505.3.0.
* * * * *
1.4 Commercial Plus Cubic
1.4.1 Commercial Plus Cubic Eligibility
* * * The Commercial Plus cubic prices are available for:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item c to read as follows:]
c. Permit holders using USPS Returns service for packages returned
at Priority Mail prices when all requirements are met under 503.3.0.
* * * * *
224 Postage Payment and Documentation
1.0 Basic Standards for Postage Payment
1.1 Postage Payment Options
1.1.1 Commercial Base Pricing
Priority Mail Commercial Base and Regional Rate Box postage may be
paid with:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item e to read as follows:]
e. Permit holders using USPS Returns service for Priority Mail
packages when all requirements are met under 505.3.0.
1.1.2 Commercial Plus Pricing
Commercial Plus Priority Mail postage may be paid with:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item c to read as follows:]
c. Permit holders using USPS Returns service for Priority Mail
packages who qualify for Commercial Base prices and whose account
volumes exceed 100,000 pieces in the previous calendar year or who have
a customer commitment agreement with the USPS (see 223.1.3.2).
* * * * *
1.1.3 Commercial Plus Cubic Pricing
Commercial Plus cubic prices may be paid with:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item c to read as follows:]
c. Permit holders using USPS Returns service when packages are
returned at Priority Mail prices and all requirements are met under
505.3.0.
* * * * *
280 Commercial Mail First-Class Package Service--Commercial
283 Prices and Eligibility
1.0 Prices and Fees
* * * * *
1.2 Commercial Prices
Commercial prices are available when paid by one of the following
methods:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]
d. Permit holders using USPS Returns service for First-Class
Package Service--Commercial packages when all requirements are met
under 505.3.0.
* * * * *
500 Additional Mailing Services
503 Extra Services
1.0 Basic Standards for All Extra Services
* * * * *
1.4 Eligibility for Extra Services
* * * * *
1.4.3 Eligibility--Domestic Returns
Extra services for return packages under 505.3.0 and 505.4.0 are
available as follows:
Exhibit 1.4.3 Eligibility--Domestic Returns
[Revise Exhibit 1.4.3 by inserting a new table to read as follows:]
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eligible extra services (paid EPS account or by Eligible extra services (paid by sender)
permit holder) -------------------------------------------------------------------
Return services ---------------------------------------------------
Insurance $500 Insurance more Signature Insurance $500 Insurance more Signature Certificate of
or less than $500 confirmation or less than $500 confirmation mailing
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
USPS Returns:
Priority Mail Return Service. 1 1, 2, 3 [check] 1 1, 2 [check] 4
First-Class Package Return 3 2, 3 [check] [check] 2 [check] 4
Svs.........................
Ground Return Service........ 3 2, 3 [check] [check] 2 [check] 4
Parcel Return Service............ [check] 2 [check] 2 4
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Insurance is not included for Priority Mail Return Service, it must be purchased.
2. A signature is not provided as part of the delivery record for USPS Returns service items insured for more than $500.
3. Insurance being purchased by the EPS account holder must be accompanied by electronic data that supports the value of the merchandise and the
associated fee paid (see 4.3.1).
[[Page 10608]]
4. Individual pieces using Form 3817 or Form 3665 by sender only.
* * * * *
2.0 Registered Mail
* * * * *
2.2 Fees and Liability
* * * * *
[Delete 2.2.4, Merchandise Return, in its entirety and renumber
2.2.5 as 2.2.4.]
2.2.4 Indemnity
[Revise the text of renumbered 2.2.4 to read as follows:]
No indemnity is paid for any matter registered without prepayment
of postage and fees.
* * * * *
2.5 Inquiry on Uninsured Article
2.5.1 Who, When and How To File
[Revise the second sentence of 2.5.1 to read as follows:]
* * * Only the mailer may file an inquiry for Registered Mail items
with no declared value. * * *
* * * * *
4.0 Insured Mail
* * * * *
4.2 Insurance Coverage--Priority Mail
Priority Mail pieces bearing an Intelligent Mail package barcode
(IMpb) or USPS retail tracking barcode (see 4.3.4) are insured against
loss, damage, or missing contents, up to a maximum of $50.00 or
$100.00, subject to the following:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item e to read as follows:]
e. Insurance coverage under 4.2a or 4.2b is not provided for
Priority Mail packages mailed as USPS Returns service, Priority Mail
Open and Distribute, or Premium Forwarding Service.
* * * * *
4.3 Basic Standards
4.3.1 Description
Insured mail is subject to the basic standards in 1.0; see 1.4 for
eligibility. The following additional standards apply to insured mail:
[Revise the text of item a by adding a new third sentence to read
as follows:]
a. * * * For customer-generated integrated barcodes used for USPS
Returns service or Parcel Return Service, the returns account holder
must provide USPS with electronic data in a shipping services file
version 1.6 or higher that identifies the USPS Tracking number of the
insured return package, total postage paid, insurance fee paid,
declared value, mailing date, origin ZIP Code, and delivery ZIP Code,
along with the recipient name and address information. * * *
* * * * *
505 Return Services
* * * * *
[Revise the heading and text of 3.0 to read as follows:]
3.0 USPS Returns Service
3.1 Basic Standards
3.1.1. Description
USPS Returns service allows an authorized account holder to pay the
postage and fees on single-piece priced commercial Priority Mail,
First-Class Package Service--Commercial, or Parcel Select Ground
packages returned to the account holder by senders (mailers) via a
return label, meeting the standards in 3.1.4, produced by the account
holder. Unless otherwise restricted, any mailable matter may be mailed
using any of the USPS Returns service options (Priority Mail Return
Service, First-Class Package Return Service, and Ground Return Service
(Parcel Select Ground)). Any content that constitutes First-Class Mail
matter may only be mailed using Priority Mail Return Service. USPS
Returns service is subject to the following conditions:
a. Availability. USPS Returns service is available to the account
holder for mailing to the account holder's designated address on the
USPS Returns label(s).
b. Payment Guarantee. The account holder must guarantee payment of
the proper postage and fees, including any fees for Extra Services
requested by the account holder, on all packages returned bearing a
valid barcoded USPS Returns label produced by the account holder. The
account holder must have sufficient funds in their associated
Electronic Payment Account to pay the postage and fees on an ongoing
basis.
c. Where Service Established. USPS Returns service accounts may be
established at any Post Office in the United States and its territories
and possessions or at any overseas U.S. military Post Office (APO/FPO/
DPO). USPS Returns service is not available for returns from any
foreign country.
3.1.2 Accounts
USPS Returns service accounts are subject to the following:
a. Account Enrollment. An approved USPS Returns service account may
be established by calling the Mailing and Shipping Solutions Center at
1-877-672-0007.
b. Advance Deposit Account. The account holder must pay postage and
fees through an Enterprise Payment System (EPS) account, accessed
through the Business Customer Gateway (BCG) at https://gateway.usps.com
and agree to the terms and conditions for use of such EPS account as
the EPS account holder.
c. Mailer Identification Code (MID). Applicants must request a new
MID via the BCG, select the product type of nonmanifested returns, and
select the applicable Service Type Codes (STCs) for the desired USPS
Returns service products.
d. Application Process. Applicants must have a valid Enterprise
Payment Account and be registered in the Business Customer Gateway
(BCG).
e. Canceled Accounts. If the account is cancelled by the EPS
account holder, USPS Returns service packages bearing the sender's
return address are returned to the sender; otherwise, they are treated
as dead mail.
f. Account Cancellation. The USPS may cancel an account if the EPS
account holder refuses to accept and pay postage and fees for USPS
Returns service packages, fails to keep sufficient funds in the advance
deposit account to cover postage and fees, or distributes return labels
that do not meet USPS standards.
g. Reapplying After Cancellation. To receive a new account after a
previous USPS Returns service account is canceled, the applicant must
re-register in the Business Customer Gateway and obtain and new mailer
identification code (MID) for USPS Returns service use. If not using
labels generated by the USPS Application Program Interface (API)
https://www.usps.com/business/web-tools-apis/welcome.htm or Merchant
Return Application (MRA), applicants must submit for approval two
samples for each label format to the National Customer Support Center
(NCSC). In addition, applicants must provide evidence that the reasons
for the account cancellation are corrected, and maintain funds in their
advance deposit account sufficient to cover normal returns for at least
two weeks.
h. Using Other Post Offices. The authorized Enterprise Payment
System (EPS) account holder using USPS Returns may distribute USPS
Returns labels for return through other Post Office locations.
[[Page 10609]]
3.1.3 Postage and Prices
Postage and prices are subject to the following:
a. Postage is calculated based on the weight of the return package
and zone associated with the point of origin and delivery ZIP Code
subject to the eligibility for commercial prices and fees based on the
class of mail under 220, 250, and 280, except that postage for USPS
Returns in flat-rate packaging is based on the packaging type used and
the associated Universal Product Code (UPC) on the packaging. USPS
Returns service packages are charged postage and fees based on the
service type code (STC) embedded in the Intelligent Mail Package
barcode (IMpb) and as provided under 3.1.3c. If all or part of the IMpb
is unreadable, or the package is unable to be priced based on the data
collected, postage will be determined by the Postal Service based on
historical data, or default data determined at time of enrollment.
b. Prices for Priority Mail Return Service, First-Class Package
Return Service, and Ground Return Service (Parcel Select Ground)
packages are charged as follows:
1. Priority Mail Commercial Base prices are available for account
holders using Priority Mail Return Service, when all applicable
requirements are met.
2. Priority Mail Commercial Plus prices are available for Priority
Mail Return Service packages that qualify for Commercial Base prices
and for which the account holder has a customer commitment agreement
with the USPS (see 223.1.3).
3. First-Class Package Service--Commercial prices are available for
First-Class Package Return Service packages when all applicable
requirements are met.
4. Parcel Select Ground prices are available for Ground Return
Service packages when all applicable requirements are met.
c. The account holder or mailer may obtain extra and additional
services as follows:
1. Insurance--is available for USPS Returns service (see 503.0).
Insurance is not included with the postage for Priority Mail Return
Service. Insurance is available to the account holder for a fee on
packages that have the applicable STC imbedded into the IMpb on the
label, and for which the account holder has provided electronic data
that supports the value of the merchandise (see 503.4.3.1a). Only the
account holder may file a claim (see 609). Mailers mailing a USPS
Returns service package may obtain insurance at their own expense at
the time of mailing by presenting the labeled USPS Returns package at a
Post Office retail unit to obtain the service.
2. Signature Confirmation is available for USPS Returns service
(see 503.0). Signature Confirmation is available for a fee to the
account holder for packages that have the applicable STC for Signature
Confirmation imbedded into the IMpb on the label. Mailers mailing a
USPS Returns package may obtain Signature Confirmation at their own
expense at the time of mailing by presenting the labeled USPS Return
package at a Post Office retail unit to obtain the service.
3. Certificate of Mailing is available only to mailers at their own
expense at the time of mailing by presenting the certificate at a Post
Office retail unit to obtain the receipt.
4. Pickup on Demand Service is available for a fee with USPS
Returns service (see 507.7.0).
3.1.4 Labels
Distribution and preparation of labels are subject to the
following:
a. Distribution of Labels. USPS Returns labels may be distributed
to customers as an enclosure with merchandise, as a separate package
(including when requested electronically through the Business Customer
Gateway for printing and delivery to the customer by USPS), as an
electronic transmission for customer downloading and printing
(including through Label Broker\TM\ which allows customers to have the
pre-paid returns label printed for them at a USPS Retail System
Software (RSS) enabled retail location via a Label ID and/or QR code on
a smart phone, on a piece of paper, or written directly on a package
presented to the retail associate), or through one of the account
holder's designated pickup facilities.
b. Label Preparation. USPS Returns labels must meet the standards
in the Parcel Labeling Guide available on the PostalPro website at
https://postalpro.usps.com/parcellabelingguide. The label must include
an IMpb, accommodate all required information, be legible, and be
prepared in accordance with Publication 199, Intelligent Mail Package
Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide, available on the PostalPro
website. Standard label sizes are 3 inches by 6 inches, 4 inches by 4
inches, or 4 inches by 6 inches, and must be certified by the USPS for
use prior to distribution. Except for USPS Returns labels generated by
the USPS Application Program Interface (API) or Merchandise Return
Application (MRA), all returns labels must have a properly constructed
(C01, C05, N02, or N05, as applicable) IMpb approved by the National
Customer Support Center (NCSC). EPS account holders or their agents may
distribute approved return labels and instructions by means specified
in 3.1.4b. EPS account holders or their agents must provide written
instructions to the label end-user (mailer) as specified in 3.1.4c.
Labels cannot be faxed. If all applicable content and format standards
are met, USPS Returns labels may be produced by any of the following
methods:
1. As an impression printed by the EPS account holder directly onto
the package to be returned.
2. As a separate label preprinted by the EPS account holder to be
affixed by the customer onto the package to be returned. The reverse
side of the label must bear an adhesive strong enough to bond the label
securely to the package. Labels must be printed and delivered by USPS
to the customer when requested electronically by the EPS account holder
or its agents through the Business Customer Gateway, or provided as an
electronic file created by the EPS account holder for local output and
printing by the customer. The electronic file must include instructions
that explain how to affix the label securely to the package, and that
caution against covering with tape or other material any part of the
label where postage and fee information is to be recorded.
c. Labeling Instructions. Written instructions must be provided
with the label that, at a minimum, directs the customer to do the
following:
1. ``If your name and address are not already preprinted in the
return address area, print them neatly in that area or attach a return
address label there.''
2. ``Attach the label squarely onto the largest side of the
package, centered if possible. Place the label so that it does not fold
over to another side. Do not place tape over any barcodes on the label
or any part of the label where postage and fee information will be
recorded.''
3. ``Remove or obliterate any other addresses, barcodes or price
markings on the outside packaging.''
4. ``Mail the labeled USPS Returns service package at a Post
Office, drop it in a collection box, leave it with your USPS carrier,
or schedule a package pickup at www.usps.com.''
3.1.5 Noncompliant Labels
USPS Returns account holders must use USPS-certified labels meeting
the standards in 3.1.4. When noncompliant labels are affixed to USPS
Returns service packages, the permit holder will
[[Page 10610]]
be assessed the appropriate USPS Retail Ground price calculated from
the package's initial entry point (first physical scan) in the USPS
network to its delivery address.
3.1.6 Enter and Deposit
The EPS account holder's customers may mail the USPS Returns
service package at any Post Office; any associated office, station, or
branch; in any collection box (except a Priority Mail Express box);
with any rural carrier; by package pickup; on business routes during
regular mail delivery if prior arrangements are made with the carrier;
as part of a collection run for other mail (special arrangements might
be required); or at any place designated by the Postmaster for the
receipt of mail. USPS Returns service packages with extra services must
be mailed either with the rural carrier or at the main Post Office or
any associated office, station, or branch. Any such packages deposited
in collection boxes may be returned to the sender for the extra service
to be purchased appropriately, or it will be processed and charged
postage and fees based on the service type code (STC) embedded in the
Intelligent Mail Package barcode (IMpb) on the label and as provided
under 3.1.3c.
3.1.7 Additional Standards
Additional mailing standards applicable to each service option are
as follows:
a. Priority Mail Return service may contain any mailable matter
meeting the standards in 201.8.0 and 220.2.0. APO/FPO/DPO mail is
subject to 703.2.0 and 703.4.0, and Department of State mail is subject
to 703.3.0. Priority Mail Return service receives expeditious handling
and transportation, with service standards in accordance with Priority
Mail. Priority Mail Return service mailed under a specific customer
agreement is charged postage according to the individual agreement.
Commercial Base and Commercial Plus prices are the same as for outbound
Priority Mail in Notice 123, Price List.
b. First-Class Package Return service may contain mailable matter
meeting the standards in 201.8.0 and 280.2.0. First-Class Package
Return service handling, transportation, and eligibility of contents
are the same as for outbound First-Class Package Service--Commercial
parcels under 283. First-Class Package Return service packages may not
contain documents or personal correspondence, except that such packages
may contain invoices, receipts, incidental advertising, and other
documents that relate in all substantial respects to merchandise
contained in the package.
c. Ground Return (Parcel Select Ground) service provides ground
transportation for parcels containing mailable matter meeting the
standards in 201.8.0 and 153.3.0. Ground Return (Parcel Select Ground)
service is required for restricted and hazardous materials mailed using
USPS Returns service and as provided in Publication 52, Hazardous,
Restricted, and Perishable Mail. Ground Return (Parcel Select Ground)
service assumes the handing and transportation and service objectives
for delivery of USPS Retail Ground.
* * * * *
507 Mailer Services
* * * * *
7.0 Pickup on Demand Service
7.1 Postage and Fees
7.1.1 Postage
[Revise the text of 7.1.1 to read as follows:]
The correct amount of postage must be affixed to each piece except
for a Priority Mail Express label paid with a corporate account,
packages with a USPS Returns label affixed (under 505.3.0), pieces with
a Parcel Return Service permit label affixed (under 505.4.0), and
manifest mailings paid by permit imprint indicia approved by Business
Mailer Support (BMS).
* * * * *
7.1.3 Fee Not Charged
The customer is not charged for:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item c to read as follows:]
c. Pickup on Demand when the item bears a USPS Returns service
label that indicates that the permit holder will pay for Pickup on
Demand service.
* * * * *
508 Recipient Services
* * * * *
7.0 Premium Forwarding Services
* * * * *
7.3 Premium Forwarding Service Commercial
* * * * *
7.3.3 Conditions
* * * PFS-Commercial service is subject to these conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item f to read as follows:]
f. The mailer must keep a postage-due account or business reply
mail (BRM) account at the originating postal facility where the PO Box
or business street address is located. Any short paid, BRM pieces will
be charged to the mailer's account prior to shipment.
* * * * *
7.4 Premium Forwarding Service Local
* * * * *
7.4.3 Conditions
* * * PFS-Local service is subject to these conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item f to read as follows:]
f. A business must keep a postage-due account or business reply
mail (BRM) account at the originating postal facility where the PO Box
or business street address is located. Any short paid, BRM pieces will
be charged to the mailer's account prior to reshipment.
* * * * *
600 Basic Standards for All Mailing Services
* * * * *
602 Addressing
1.0 Elements of Addressing
* * * * *
1.3 Address Elements
All mail not bearing a simplified address must bear a delivery
address that contains at least the following elements in this order
from the top line:
* * * * *
e. ZIP Code where required:
[Revise the text of item e1 to read as follows:]
1. ZIP Codes are required on Priority Mail Express, commercial
First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service--Commercial, Periodicals,
USPS Marketing Mail, Package Services and Parcel Select mailpieces, all
mail sent to military addresses within the United States and to APO and
FPO addresses, official mail, Business Reply Mail, and USPS Returns
service packages.
* * * * *
604 Postage Payment Methods and Refunds
* * * * *
6.0 Payment of Postage
* * * * *
6.4 Advance Deposit Account
[Revise the last sentence of 6.4 to read as follows:]
* * * Mailers may use a single advance deposit account to pay
postage due charges for more than one return
[[Page 10611]]
service (e.g., business reply mail and Bulk Parcel Return Service).
* * * * *
10.0 Postage Due Weight Averaging Program
10.1 Basic Information
10.1.1 Description
[Revise the second sentence of 10.1.1 to read as follows:]
* * * This program, subject to application, approval, and
authorization, is available for customers who receive a minimum of
50,000 combined postage due parcels and flats or Bulk Parcel Return
Service (BPRS) pieces. * * *
10.1.2 General Qualification
[Revise the second sentence of 10.1.2 to read as follows:]
* * * Returns can include all classes of mail where postage due
fees are assessed, including BPRS return pieces. * * *
* * * * *
[Delete 11.0, Scan-Based Payment, in its entirety.]
* * * * *
609 Filing Indemnity Claims for Loss or Damage
1.0 General Filing Instructions
* * * * *
1.3 Who May File
A claim may be filed by:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of items c and d to read as follows:]
c. Only the account holder, for USPS Returns packages that are
insured as identified by the account holder's mailer identification
(MID) and the applicable STC for insurance imbedded into the IMpb on
the label, and for which the account holder has provided electronic
data that supports the value of the merchandise being returned (see
503.4.3.1a).
d. Only the mailer, when the mailer has added and paid for
insurance on USPS Returns service packages.
* * * * *
3.0 Providing Evidence of Insurance and Value
3.1 Evidence of Insurance
* * * Examples of acceptable evidence are:
* * * * *
[Revise the introductory text of item e to read as follows:]
e. For insured mail or COD mail paid using MMS or eVS under
705.2.0, or for insured mail paid using an EPS account for USPS Returns
service under 503.3.0, the mailer must use one of the following:
[Revise the text of item e1 to read as follows:]
1. A Detail Record in their Shipping Services file version 1.6 or
higher (which includes the USPS Tracking number of the insured item,
total postage paid, insurance fee paid, declared value, mailing date,
origin ZIP Code, delivery ZIP Code) along with the recipient name and
address information for the accountable extra services pieces.
* * * * *
Index
* * * * *
M
* * * * *
[Revise the heading and text under ``merchandise return service''
to read as follows (re-alphabetize heading and text after revision):]
USPS Returns Service, 505.3.0
accounts 505.3.1.2
adding extra services (by the mailer), 505.3.1.3
adding extra services (by the permit holder), 505.3.1.3
advanced deposit account, 505.3.1.2
applying for a permit, 505.3.1.2
format for label, 505.3.1.4
general information, 505.3.1.1
* * * * *
R
* * * * *
Reply Mail
* * * * *
[Revise the ``merchandise return service'' entry to read as follows
(re-alphabetize entry after revision):]
USPS Returns service, 505.3.0
* * * * *
Return Services
* * * * *
[Delete ``merchandise return service''.]
* * * * *
[Revise the ``USPS return services'' entry to read as follows:]
USPS Returns service, 505.3.0
* * * * *
Joshua J. Hofer,
Attorney, Federal Compliance.
[FR Doc. 2020-03170 Filed 2-24-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710-12-P