508 Recipient Services

1.0 Recipient Options

1.1 Basic Recipient Concerns

1.1.1 Delivery to Addressee

Addressees may control delivery of their mail. Without a contrary order, the mail is delivered as addressed. Mail addressed to several persons may be delivered to any one of them.

1.1.2 Refusal at Delivery

The addressee may refuse to accept a mailpiece when it is offered for delivery.

1.1.3 Refusal After Delivery

After delivery, an addressee may mark a mailpiece "Refused" and return it within a reasonable time, if the piece or any attachment is not opened. Mail that may not be refused and returned unopened under this provision may be returned to the sender only if it is enclosed in a new envelope or wrapper with a correct address and new postage. The following may not be refused and returned postage-free after delivery:

a. Pieces sent as Registered Mail, insured, Certified Mail, collect on delivery (COD), and return receipt for merchandise.

b. Response mail to the addressee's sales promotion, solicitation, announcement, or other advertisement that was not refused when offered to the addressee.

1.1.4 Mail Withheld From Delivery

An addressee may request the postmaster, in writing, to withhold from delivery for a period not to exceed 2 years any foreign letter or printed matter with a specified name or address on the outside.

1.1.5 Addressee Identification

If a person claiming to be the addressee of certain mail is unknown to the delivery employee, the mail may be withheld pending identification of the claimant.

1.1.6 Remailing Returned Mail

Generally, a returned mailpiece that was undeliverable-as-addressed or refused by the addressee may not be remailed unless it is placed in a new envelope or wrapper with a correct address and new postage. A returned shortpaid mailpiece can have the necessary additional postage affixed to the original piece and does not have to be placed in a new envelope or wrapper.

1.1.7 Express Mail and Accountable Mail

The following conditions also apply to the delivery of Express Mail and accountable mail (Registered Mail, Certified Mail, insured for more than $200.00, or COD, as well as mail for which a return receipt or a return receipt for merchandise is requested or for which the sender has specified restricted delivery):

a. The recipient (addressee or addressee's representative) may obtain the sender's name and address and may look at the mailpiece while held by the USPS employee before accepting delivery and endorsing the delivery receipt.

b. The mailpiece may not be opened or given to the recipient before the recipient signs and legibly prints his or her name on the delivery receipt (and return receipt, if applicable) and returns the receipt(s) to the USPS employee.

c. Suitable identification can be required of the recipient (if not known to the USPS employee) before delivery of the mailpiece.

d. When delivery is not restricted at the sender's request, mail addressed to a person at a hotel, apartment house, etc., may be delivered to any person in a position to whom mail for that location is usually delivered.

e. USPS responsibility ends when the mailpiece is delivered to the recipient (or another party, subject to 1.1.7d and 1.0).

f. A notice is left for a mailpiece that cannot be delivered. If the piece is not called for or redelivery is not requested, the piece is returned to the sender after 15 days (5 days for Express Mail, 30 days for COD) unless the sender specifies fewer days on the piece.

g. A hand stamp approved by the postmaster may be used to provide the signature and name of the individual or organization receiving the mailpiece. In accordance with the electronic signature capture process, the hand stamp must be sized to fit within the Signature and Printed Name blocks on Form 3849. The stamp must not overlap into the delivery office information section or the Delivery Address block of the form. To obtain approval for such a stamp, the company must submit a written statement to the postmaster that the person whose name appears on the stamp is the person authorized to accept accountable mail, accompanied by a sample of the authorized employee's signature that can be verified against the signature on the stamp. After approval, the stamped signature and name are acceptable only if a clean, legible impression is provided within the Signature and Printed Name blocks on Form 3849. On mail addressed to a federal or state official, the stamp need show only the name and location of the accepting organization. In these cases, the stamp should fit within the Printed Name and Delivery Address block of Form 3849 but must not overlap into the Signature block or barcode sections.

1.2 Carrier Release for Uninsured Parcels

An uninsured parcel may not be left in an unprotected place, such as a porch or stairway, unless the addressee has filed a written order, or the mailer has endorsed the parcel "Carrier—Leave If No Response." The endorsement must appear directly below the return address as specified in 402.2.0 and 402.3.0.

1.3 Parcel Select DDU Hold For Pickup Endorsement

Only parcels mailed under 455.4.1.4 are eligible for the "Hold For Pickup" endorsement. Parcels endorsed Hold For Pickup must be picked up at designated Post Offices by the addressee within 10 calendar days. Contact the Hold For Pickup program manager at Hold_for_Pickup@usps.gov for a complete listing of designated Post Offices.

1.4 Jointly Addressed

For mail that is jointly addressed:

a. Such as "Mr. and Mrs. John Doe," or "John and Jim Doe," neither party is entitled to control delivery of such mail over the objection of the other.

b. To husbands or wives, neither party may control delivery of mail addressed to the other.

1.5 Delivery to Addressee's Agent

1.5.1 Basic Standard

Unless otherwise directed, an addressee's mail may be delivered to an employee, to a competent member of the addressee's family, or to any person authorized to represent the addressee. A person or several persons may designate another to receive their mail.

1.5.2 Minor

A minor's guardian may control delivery of mail addressed to the minor. If there is no guardian and the minor is unmarried, either parent may receive delivery of the minor's mail.

1.5.3 Incompetent Person

Mail may be delivered under the order of the guardian or conservator for a person legally declared incompetent. If there is no legal representative, the mail is delivered as addressed.

1.5.4 Deceased Person

Mail addressed to a deceased person may be received at the address of the deceased by anyone who would normally receive the addressee's mail at that address. The mail may also be forwarded to a different address, such as that of an appointed executor or administrator, if an order of request is filed at the Post Office.

1.6 Delivery to Individual at Organization

1.6.1 To Address

All mail addressed to a governmental or nongovernmental organization or to an individual by name or title at the address of the organization is delivered to the organization, as is similarly addressed mail for former officials, employees, contractors, agents, etc. If disagreement arises where any such mail should be delivered, it must be delivered under the order of the organization's president or equivalent official.

1.6.2 Not to Address

Mail addressed to a governmental or nongovernmental official by title or by organization name, but not to the address of the organization, is delivered to the organization if the organization so directs.

1.7 Delivery at Hotels, Institutions, Schools, and Similar Places

1.7.1 Patient or Inmate

Mail addressed to a patient or inmate at an institution is delivered to the institution authorities. If the addressee is no longer at that address, the mail must be redirected to the current address, if known, or endorsed appropriately and returned by the institution to the Post Office.

1.7.2 Hotel or School

Mail addressed to a person at a hotel, school, or similar place is delivered to the hotel, school, etc. If the addressee is no longer at that address, the mail must be redirected to the current address, if known, or endorsed appropriately and returned by the institution to the Post Office.

1.7.3 Prisoner

Mail addressed to a prisoner is subject to the mail security standards in the Administrative Support Manual.

1.7.4 Registered Mail Addressed to Hotel or Apartment House

Registered Mail addressed to a person at a hotel or apartment house is delivered to the persons designated by the management of the hotel or apartment house in a written agreement with the USPS (Form 3801-A). If the sender restricts delivery of the Registered Mail, it may not be delivered to that designated person, unless the addressee authorized that person in writing to receive restricted-delivery mail.

1.8 Conflicting Delivery Orders

1.8.1 Delivery to Third Party

If persons make conflicting orders for delivery of the same mail, and they cannot agree among themselves who should receive the mail, the mail may be delivered to a named receiver or third party unanimously agreed to by the disputing parties.

1.8.2 Receiver in Dispute

If the disputing parties are unable to select a receiver, they must furnish the postmaster all available evidence on which they rely to exercise control over the disputed mail. The USPS may hold or return mail pending resolution of the dispute.

1.8.3 Court Order

Mail is delivered under a court order issued for mail claimed by different persons.

1.9 Commercial Mail Receiving Agencies

1.9.1 Procedures

The procedures for establishing a commercial mail receiving agency (CMRA) are as follows:

a. An addressee may request mail delivery to a CMRA. The CMRA accepts delivery of the mail and holds it for pickup or remails it to the addressee, prepaid with new postage.

b. Each CMRA must register with the Post Office responsible for delivery. Any person who establishes, owns, or manages a CMRA must provide Form 1583-A to the postmaster (or designee) responsible for the delivery address. The CMRA owner or manager must complete all entries and sign the Form 1583-A. The CMRA owner or manager must furnish two items of valid identification; one item must contain a photograph of the CMRA owner or manager. The identification presented must be current. It must contain sufficient information to confirm that the applicant is who he or she claims to be and is traceable to the bearer. The postmaster (or designee) may retain a photocopy of the identification for verification purposes and must list and record sufficient information to identify the two types of identification on Form 1583-A (block 10). Furnishing false information on the application or refusing to give required information is reason for denying the application. When any information required on Form 1583-A changes, the CMRA owner or manager must file a revised application (write "revised" on the form) with the postmaster. Social Security cards, credit cards, and birth certificates are unacceptable as identification. The following are acceptable identification:

1. Armed forces, government, university, or recognized corporate identification card.

2. Passport, alien registration card, or certificate of naturalization.

3. Current lease, mortgage, or deed of trust.

4. Voter or vehicle registration card.

5. Home or vehicle insurance policy.

c. The postmaster (or designee) must verify the documentation to confirm that the CMRA owner or manager resides at the permanent home address shown on Form 1583-A; witness the signature of the CMRA owner or manager; and sign Form 1583-A. The postmaster must provide the CMRA with a copy of the DMM regulations relevant to the operation of a CMRA. The CMRA owner or manager must sign the Form 1583-A acknowledging receipt of the regulations. The postmaster must file the original of the completed Form 1583-A at the Post Office and provide the CMRA with a duplicate copy.

d. A CMRA is authorized to accept the following accountable mail from their customers for mailing at the Post Office: insured, COD, Express Mail, Certified Mail, Delivery Confirmation, and Signature Confirmation mail. The sender (CMRA customer) must present accountable mail items not listed to the Post Office for mailing.

1.9.2 Delivery to CMRA

Procedures for delivery to a CMRA are as follows:

a. Mail delivery to a CMRA requires that the CMRA owner or manager and each addressee complete and sign Form 1583. Spouses may complete and sign one Form 1583. Each spouse must furnish two items of valid identification. If any information that is required on Form 1583 is different for either spouse it must be entered in the appropriate box. A parent or guardian may receive delivery of a minor's mail by listing the name(s) of each minor on Form 1583 (block 12). The CMRA owner or manager, authorized employee, or a notary public must witness the signature of the addressee. The addressee must complete all entries on Form 1583. The CMRA owner or manager must verify the documentation to confirm that the addressee resides or conducts business at the permanent address shown on Form 1583. The address is verified if there is no discrepancy between information on the application and the identification presented. If the information on the application does not match the identification, the applicant must substantiate to the CMRA that the applicant resides or conducts business at the address shown. A document from a governmental entity or recognized financial institution or a utility bill with the applicant's name and current permanent address may be used for such purpose. If the applicant is unable to substantiate the address, the CMRA must deny the application. Furnishing false information on the application or refusing to give required information is reason for withholding the addressee's mail from delivery to the agent and returning it to the sender. When any information required on Form 1583 changes, the addressee must file a revised application (write "revised" on the form) with the CMRA. The addressee must furnish two items of valid identification; one item must contain a photograph of the addressee. The identification presented must be current. It must contain sufficient information to confirm that the applicant is who he or she claims to be and is traceable to the bearer. The CMRA owner or manager may retain a photocopy of the identification for verification purposes. The CMRA owner or manager must list and record sufficient information to identify the two types of identification on Form 1583 (block 8) and write the complete CMRA delivery address used to deliver mail to the addressee on Form 1583 (block 3). Social Security cards or credit cards and birth certificates are unacceptable as identification. The following are acceptable identification:

1. Valid driver's license or state non-driver's identification card.

2. Armed forces, government, university, or recognized corporate identification card.

3. Passport, alien registration card, or certificate of naturalization.

4. Current lease, mortgage, or deed of trust.

5. Voter or vehicle registration card.

6. Home or vehicle insurance policy.

b. A CMRA must not modify or alter Form 1583 or Form 1583-A. Modified or altered forms are invalid and the addressee's mail must be returned to sender in accordance with USPS regulations.

c. The CMRA must provide the original of completed Forms 1583 to the postmaster. This includes revised Forms 1583 submitted by an addressee based on information changes to the original Form 1583 (write "revised" on form). The CMRA must maintain duplicate copies of completed Forms 1583 on file at the CMRA business location. The Forms 1583 must be available at all times for examination by postal representatives and postal inspectors. The postmaster must file the original Forms 1583 first by CMRA and then alphabetically by the addressee's last name at the station, branch, or Post Office. The postmaster files the original Forms 1583 without verifying the address of residence or firm shown on Forms 1583. The postmaster is required to verify only when the postmaster receives a request by the Postal Inspector in Charge, or when there is reason to believe that the addressee's mail may be, or is being, used for unlawful purposes.

d. When the agency relationship between the CMRA and the addressee terminates, the CMRA must write the date of termination on its duplicate copy of Form 1583. The CMRA must notify the Post Office of termination dates through the quarterly updates (due January 15th, April 15th, July 15th, and October 15th) of the alphabetical list of customers cross-referenced to the CMRA addressee delivery designations. The alphabetical list must contain all new customers, current customers, and those customers who terminated within the past 6 months, including the date of termination. The CMRA must retain the endorsed duplicate copies of Forms 1583 for at least 6 months after the termination date. Forms 1583 filed at the CMRA business location must be available at all times for examination by postal representatives.

e. A CMRA must represent its delivery address designation for the intended addressees by the use of "PMB" (private mailbox) or the alternative "#" sign. Mailpieces must bear a delivery address that contains at least the following elements, preferably in the following format:

1. Line 1: Intended addressee's name or other identification. Examples: JOE DOE or ABC CO.

2. Line 2: "PMB" and number or the alternative "#" (pound sign) and number. Examples: PMB 234 or #234.

3. Line 3: Street number and name or Post Office box number or rural route designation and number. Examples: 10 MAIN ST STE 11 or PO BOX 34 or RR 1 BOX 12.

4. Line 4: City, state, and ZIP Code (5-digit or ZIP+4). Example: HERNDON VA 22071-2716.

f. As an alternate to the format presented in e., the following format may be used:

1. Line 1: Intended addressee's name or other identification. Examples: JOE DOE or ABC CO.

2. Line 2: Street number and name or Post Office box number and "PMB" and number or the alternative "#" (pound sign) and number. Examples: 10 MAIN ST PMB 234 or #234 or PO BOX 34 PMB 234 or #234.

3. Line 3: City, state, and ZIP Code (5-digit or ZIP+4). Example: HERNDON VA 22071-2716.

g. As an exception to the formats presented in e. and f., when the CMRA's physical address contains a secondary address element (e.g., rural route box number, "suite," "#," or other term), the CMRA customer must use "PMB" in the three-line format. It is not permissible to combine the secondary address element of the physical location of the CMRA address and the CMRA customer private mailbox number, e.g., 10 MAIN ST STE 11-234. The CMRA must write the complete CMRA delivery address used to deliver mail to each individual addressee or firm on the Form 1583 (block 3). The USPS may return mail without a proper address to the sender endorsed "Undeliverable as Addressed, Missing PMB or # Sign." The three-line format must be as follows:

1. JOE DOE
10 MAIN ST STE 11 PMB 234
HERNDON VA 22071-2716

2. JOE DOE
RR 12 BOX 512 PMB 234
HERNDON VA 22071-2716

h. The CMRA must be in full compliance with 1.9.1 through 1.9.3 and other applicable postal requirements to receive delivery of mail from the Post Office.

i. The postmaster may, with the next higher level approval and notification to the Postal Inspector-In-Charge, suspend delivery to a CMRA that, after proper notification, fails to comply with 1.9.1 through 1.9.3 or other applicable postal requirements. The proper notification must be in writing outlining the specific violation(s) with a reasonable time to comply.

j. With the approval of suspension of delivery, the postmaster must provide the CMRA with written notification of the effective date and the reason(s). If the CMRA fails to comply by the effective date, return mail to the sender endorsed "Delivery Suspended to Commercial Mail Receiving Agency."

1.9.3 Addressee and CMRA Agreement

In delivery of the mail to the CMRA, the addressee and the CMRA agree that:

a. When the agency relationship between the CMRA and the addressee terminates, neither the addressee nor the CMRA will file a change-of-address order with the Post Office.

b. The CMRA must remail mail intended for the addressee (customer) for at least 6 months after the termination date of the agency relationship between the CMRA and addressee. Mail that is remailed by the CMRA requires new postage. This remailing obligation need not be fulfilled if the CMRA customer provides written instructions to the CMRA that the mail (or specific types of mail) not be remailed upon termination of the relationship. This instruction may be provided in an internal service agreement between the customer and CMRA or by a separate document. Written instructions from the customer regarding the handling of this mail must not stipulate that the CMRA refuse mail or return it to sender, or hold the mail during the 6-month remail period and return it to the Post Office, or redeposit mail in the mails without new postage. At the end of the 6-month remail period the CMRA may return to the Post Office only First-Class Mail, Priority Mail, Express Mail, accountable mail, or Parcel Post received for the former addressee (customer). The CMRA must return this mail to the Post Office the next business day after receipt with this endorsement: "Undeliverable, Commercial Mail Receiving Agency, No Authorization to Receive Mail for this Addressee." This mail is returned to the Post Office without new postage. The CMRA must not deposit return mail in a collection box. The CMRA must give the return mail to the letter carrier or return it to the Post Office responsible for delivery to the CMRA. Upon request, the agent must provide to the USPS all addresses to which the CMRA remails mail.

c. If mail is remailed by the CMRA to the address of a former customer during the 6-month remail period and returned by the USPS endorsed "Moved, Left No Address," then the CMRA may return that mail to the Post Office with the approval of the postmaster or station manager. The approval is subject to evidence that the mail was remailed with new postage to the former customer at the address provided when the relationship was terminated and/or the verified home or business permanent address provided on the customer's Form 1583. Upon approval, the CMRA may return to the Post Office only First-Class Mail, Priority Mail, Express Mail, accountable mail, and Parcel Post received for the former customer. The CMRA must return this mail to the Post Office the next business day after receipt without new postage.

d. The CMRA must provide to the postmaster a quarterly list (due January 15th, April 15th, July 15th, and October 15th) of its customers in alphabetical order cross-referenced to the CMRA addressee delivery designation. The alphabetical list must contain all new customers, current customers, and those customers who terminated within the past 6 months, including the date of termination.

e. A CMRA may not refuse delivery of mail if the mail is for an addressee who is a customer or former customer (within the past 6 months). The agreement between the addressee and the CMRA obligates the CMRA to receive all mail, except restricted delivery, for the addressee. The addressee may authorize the CMRA in writing on Form 1583 (block 5) to receive restricted delivery mail for the addressee.

f. If the CMRA has no Form 1583 on file for the intended addressee, the CMRA must return that mail to the Post Office responsible for delivery with this endorsement: "Undeliverable, Commercial Mail Receiving Agency, No Authorization to Receive Mail for this Addressee." This mail is returned to the Post Office without new postage. The CMRA must return misdelivered mail the next business day after receipt.

g. The CMRA must not deposit return mail in a collection box. The CMRA must give the return mail to the letter carrier or return it to the Post Office responsible for delivery to the CMRA.

1.9.4 Office Business Center Acting as a CMRA

The procedures for an office business center (OBC) or part of its operation acting as a CMRA for postal purposes are as follows:

a. An OBC is a business that operates primarily to provide private office facilities and other business support services to individuals or firms (customers). OBCs receive single-point delivery. OBC customers that receive mail at the OBC address will be considered CMRA customers for postal purposes under the standards set forth in 1.9.4b. Parties considered CMRA customers under this provision must comply with the standards set forth in 1.9.1 through 1.9.3. An OBC must register as a CMRA on Form 1583-A and comply with all other CMRA standards if one or more customers receiving mail through its address is considered a CMRA customer.

b. An OBC customer is considered to be a CMRA customer for postal purposes if its written agreement with the OBC provides for mail service only or mail and other business support services (without regard for occupancy or other services that the OBC might provide). Additionally, an OBC customer receiving mail at the OBC address is considered to be a CMRA customer for postal purposes if each of the following is true:

1. The customer's written agreement with the OBC does not provide for the full-time use of one or more of the private offices within the OBC facility.

2. The customer's written agreement with the OBC does not provide all of the following: (a) the use of one or more of the private offices within the facility for at least 16 hours per month at market price for the location; (b) full-time receptionist service and live personal telephone answering service during normal business hours and voicemail service after hours; (c) a listing in the office directory in the building in which the OBC is located; (d) use of conference rooms and other business services on demand, such as secretarial services, word processing, administrative services, meeting planning, travel arrangements, and video conferencing.

c. Notwithstanding any other standards, a customer whose written agreement provides for mail services only or mail and other business support services will not be considered an OBC customer (without regard for occupancy or other services that an OBC may provide and bill for on demand).

d. The USPS may request from the OBC copies of written agreements or any other documents or information needed to determine compliance with these standards. Failure to provide requested documents or information might be basis for suspending delivery service to the OBC under the procedures set forth in 1.9.2.

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2.0 Conditions of Delivery

2.1 City Delivery Service

2.1.1 Establishment

City delivery is provided according to USPS policies and procedures, the characteristics of the area to be served, and the methods needed to provide adequate service. Requests or petitions to establish, change, or extend city delivery service must be made to the local postmaster.

2.1.2 Accommodating Customer Hardship

Changes in the type of delivery authorized for a delivery point may be considered if service by existing methods imposes an extreme physical hardship on the customer.

2.1.3 Customer Maintenance of Receptacles

Customers must provide authorized mail receptacles or door slots, except for mail receptacles authorized by the USPS to be owned and maintained by the USPS. The purchase, installation, maintenance, and replacement of mail receptacles used by customers for mail delivery are not the responsibility of the USPS. However, the USPS may authorize neighborhood delivery and collection boxes and parcel lockers to be purchased, installed, maintained, or replaced by the USPS.

2.1.4 Businesses

Mail receptacles or door slots are not required at businesses and offices that are open and have someone on hand to receive the mail when the carrier calls.

2.1.5 Receptacles With Locks

If a lock is used on a mail receptacle, the receptacle must have a slot large enough to accommodate the normal daily mail volume.

2.1.6 Door Slot

A door slot for mail must meet specific criteria:

a. The clear rectangular opening in the outside slot plate must be at least 1-1/2 inches wide and 7 inches long.

b. The slot must have a flap, hinged at the top if placed horizontally, or hinged on the side away from the hinge side of the door if placed vertically.

c. When an inside hood is used to provide greater privacy, the hooded portion must not be below the bottom line of the slot in the outside plate if placed horizontally, or beyond the side line of the slot in the outside plate nearest the hinge edge of the door if placed vertically.

d. The hood at its greatest projection must not be less than 2-1/16 inches beyond the inside face of the door.

e. The bottom of the slot must be at least 30 inches above the finished floor line.

2.1.7 Apartment Mail Receptacles

Apartment house mail receptacles must be approved by the USPS. The purchase, installation, maintenance, and replacement of mail receptacles, boxes, or parcel lockers are not the responsibility of the USPS except for neighborhood delivery and collection boxes and parcel lockers authorized by the USPS to be owned and maintained by the USPS. When apartment buildings are substantially renovated or remodeled to provide additional apartments, or a material change is made in the location of boxes, obsolete receptacles must be replaced by currently approved receptacles.

2.2 Rural Delivery Service

2.2.1 Establishment

Rural stations and branches are established, and rural delivery is provided, according to USPS policies and procedures, the characteristics of the area to be served, and the methods needed to provide adequate service. Requests or petitions to establish, change, or extend rural delivery service, signed by the heads of families wanting this service, must be given to the postmaster of the Post Office from which delivery service is desired, or from which the route operates, as applicable.

2.2.2 Accommodating Customer Hardship

On the customer's written request, the postmaster may approve an exception to the currently authorized method of delivery, if the type of rural delivery authorized imposes an extreme physical hardship.

2.2.3 Parcel Delivery

An ordinary parcel too large to fit into a customer's mailbox is not left unless the customer has filed a written order with the postmaster relieving the USPS and carriers of all responsibility in case of loss or depredation of any such parcel left outside the box.

2.2.4 Delivery to Recipient With Contagious Disease

Mail is delivered to a customer's mailbox if a quarantined disease exists, provided that delivery can be made without exposure to contagion. No mail is collected from such box while the quarantine is in force.

2.2.5 Insufficient Postage/ Mailable Matter

Generally, mailable matter is collected from a rural mailbox if postage is fully prepaid or money equal to the required postage is left in the mailbox. Money in a rural box is left at the customer's risk. When postage or money is insufficient to cover postage, the mail is not collected, or if the sender cannot be identified, the mail is treated as unpaid mail. Mailable matter not bearing postage found in, placed on, attached to, supported by, or hanging from rural boxes is handled under the applicable standards.

2.3 Highway Contract Delivery Service

2.3.1 Establishment

Highway contract routes are established, and delivery service on such routes is provided, according to USPS policies and procedures, the characteristics of the area to be served, and the methods needed to provide adequate service. Requests or petitions for new routes, or for extensions of service or changes in the line of travel or schedule of highway contract service, must be directed to the USPS distribution networks office with supervision over the transportation of mail in the area involved.

2.3.2 Parcel Delivery

An ordinary parcel too large to fit into a customer's mailbox is not left unless the customer has filed a written order with the postmaster relieving the USPS and carriers of all responsibility in case of loss or depredation of any such parcel left outside the box.

2.3.3 Mail Collection

Generally, mailable matter is collected from a mailbox if postage is fully prepaid or money equal to the required postage is left in the mailbox. Money in a mailbox is left at the customer's risk. When postage or money is insufficient to cover postage, the mail is not collected, or if the sender cannot be identified, the mail is treated as unpaid mail. Mailable matter not bearing postage found in, placed on, attached to, supported by, or hanging from boxes is handled under the applicable standards.

2.3.4 Mailbox Location

Curbside mailboxes meeting the applicable standards in 3.0 must be placed where they protect the mail and can be conveniently served by carriers without leaving their vehicles. These boxes must be on the right side of the road in the direction of travel when required by traffic conditions or when driving to the left to reach the boxes would violate traffic laws by the carrier.

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3.0 Customer Mail Receptacles

3.1 Basic Information for Customer Mail Receptacles

3.1.1 Authorized Depository

Except as excluded by 3.1.2, every letterbox or other receptacle intended or used for the receipt or delivery of mail on any city delivery route, rural delivery route, highway contract route, or other mail route is designated an authorized depository for mail within the meaning of 18 USC 1702, 1705, 1708, and 1725.

3.1.2 Exclusions

Door slots and nonlockable bins or troughs used with apartment house mailboxes are not letterboxes within the meaning of 18 USC 1725 and are not private mail receptacles for the standards for mailable matter not bearing postage found in or on private mail receptacles. The post or other support is not part of the receptacle.

3.1.3 Use for Mail

Except under 3.2.11, Newspaper Receptacle, the receptacles described in 3.1.1 may be used only for matter bearing postage. Other than as permitted by 3.2.10, Delivery of Unstamped Newspapers, or 3.2.11, no part of a mail receptacle may be used to deliver any matter not bearing postage, including items or matter placed upon, supported by, attached to, hung from, or inserted into a mail receptacle. Any mailable matter not bearing postage and found as described above is subject to the same postage as would be paid if it were carried by mail.

3.1.4 Clear Approach

Customers must keep the approach to their mailboxes clear of obstructions to allow safe access for delivery. If USPS employees are impeded in reaching a mail receptacle, the postmaster may withdraw delivery service.

3.2 Curbside Mailboxes

3.2.1 Manufacturer Specifications

Manufacturers of all mailboxes designed and made to be erected at the edge of a roadway or curbside of a street and to be served by a carrier from a vehicle on any city route, rural route, or highway contract route must obtain approval of their products under USPS Standard 7, Mailboxes, City and Rural Curbside. To receive these construction standards and drawings or other information about the manufacture of curbside mailboxes, write to USPS Engineering (see 608.8.0 for address).

3.2.2 Custom-Built Mailbox

The local postmaster may approve a curbside mailbox constructed by a customer who, for aesthetic or other reasons, does not want to use an approved manufactured box. The custom-built box must generally meet the same standards as approved manufactured boxes for flag, size, strength, and quality of construction.

3.2.3 Locked Box

A mailbox with a lock must have a slot that is large enough to accommodate the customer's normal daily mail volume. The USPS neither opens a locked box nor accepts a key for this purpose.

3.2.4 Mailbox Post

The post or other support for a curbside mailbox must be neat and of adequate strength and size. The post may not represent effigies or caricatures that tend to disparage or ridicule any person. The box may be attached to a fixed or movable arm.

3.2.5 Advertising

Any advertising on a mailbox or its support is prohibited.

3.2.6 Location

Subject to state laws and regulations, a curbside mailbox must be placed to allow safe and convenient delivery by carriers without leaving their vehicles. The box must be on the right-hand side of the road in the direction of travel of the carriers on any new rural route or highway contract route, in all cases where traffic conditions are dangerous for the carriers to drive to the left to reach the box, or where their doing so would violate traffic laws and regulations.

3.2.7 Address Identification

Every curbside mailbox must bear the following address information:

a. A box number, if used, inscribed in contrasting color in neat letters and numerals at least 1 inch high on the side of the box visible to the carrier's regular approach, or on the door if boxes are grouped.

b. A house number if street names and house numbers have been assigned by local authorities, and the postmaster authorizes their use as a postal address. If the box is on a different street from the customer's residence, the street name and house number must be inscribed on the box.

3.2.8 Owner's Name

The mailbox may bear the owner's name.

3.2.9 More Than One Family Sharing a Receptacle

If more than one family wishes to share a mail receptacle, the following standards apply:

a. Route and Box Number Addressing. On rural and highway contract routes authorized to use a route and box numbering system (e.g., RR 1 BOX 155), up to five families may share a single mail receptacle and use a common route and box designation. A written notice of agreement, signed by the heads of the families or individuals who want to join in the use of such box, must be filed with the postmaster at the delivery office.

b. Conversion to Street Name and Number Addressing. When street name and numbering systems are adopted, those addresses reflect distinct customer locations and sequences. Rural and highway contract route customers who are assigned different primary addresses (e.g., 123 APPLE WAY vs. 136 APPLE WAY) should erect individual mail receptacles in locations recommended by their postmasters and begin using their new addresses. Customers having different primary addresses who wish to continue sharing a common receptacle must use the address of the receptacle's owner and the "care of" address format:
JOHN DOE
C/O ROBERT SMITH
123 APPLE WAY
Customers having a common primary address (e.g., 800 MAIN ST) but different secondary addresses (e.g., APT 101, APT 102, etc.) may continue to share a common receptacle if single-point delivery is authorized for the primary address. Secondary addresses should still be included in all correspondence.

3.2.10 Delivery of Unstamped Newspapers

Generally, curbside mailboxes are to be used for mail only. However, publishers of newspapers regularly mailed as Periodicals may, on Sundays and national holidays only, place copies of the Sunday or holiday issues in the rural route and highway contract route boxes of subscribers if those copies are removed from the boxes before the next scheduled day of mail delivery.

3.2.11 Newspaper Receptacle

A receptacle for newspaper delivery by private carriers may be attached to the post of a curbside mailbox used by the USPS if the receptacle:

a. Does not touch the mailbox or use any part of the mailbox for support.

b. Does not interfere with the delivery of mail, obstruct the view of the mailbox flag, or present a hazard to carrier or vehicle.

c. Does not extend beyond the front of the mailbox when the box door is closed.

d. Does not display advertising, except the publication title.

3.3 Wall-Mounted Centralized Mail Receptacles

3.3.1 Manufacturer Requirements

Manufacturers of wall-mounted centralized mail receptacles used for mail delivery must receive approval under the specifications and procedures in USPS Standard 4. The specifications and other information can be obtained by writing to USPS Engineering (see 608.8.0 for address).

3.3.2 Customer Requirements

The installation of proper equipment is required for delivery service. The type of equipment must be approved by the USPS under 3.3.1 and must be appropriate for the structure. Customers should discuss the types of approved equipment permitted for their structures with their postmaster before purchasing and installing delivery equipment.

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4.0 Post Office Box Service

4.1 Fees for Post Office Box Service

Fee Group	Box Size and Fee per Semiannual (6-month) Period
	1	2	3	4	5
1	$43.00	$66.00	$120.00	$247.00	$398.00
2	36.00	56.00	95.00	187.00	333.00
3	29.00	47.00	85.00	153.00	255.00
4	21.00	35.00	53.00	104.00	200.00
5	19.00	27.00	49.00	90.00	151.00
6	13.00	21.00	36.00	63.00	112.00
7	10.00	16.00	29.00	49.00	87.00
E1	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.00
Additional Fees and Services
Deposit per key issued					$1.00
Key duplication or replacement (after first 2 keys), each					6.00
Post office box lock replacement, each					14.00

4.2 Basic Information for Post Office Box Service

4.2.1 Purpose

Post Office box service is a premium service offered for a fee to any customer requiring more than free carrier delivery or general delivery and for no fee to customers who are not eligible for carrier delivery. The service allows a customer to obtain mail during the hours the box lobby is open or access is otherwise available. Post Office box service is provided only through receptacles owned or operated by the USPS or its agents. Post Office box service does not include alternate means of delivery established to replace, simplify, or extend carrier delivery service. A postmaster and a box customer may not make any agreement that contravenes the regulations on Post Office box service or its fees.

4.2.2 Definition

The term Post Office box (or its address abbreviation PO BOX) designates this service in an address. The term box customer applies only to the person who signs the application as an individual or to the organization on whose behalf an individual signs the application.

4.2.3 Box Size

There are five box sizes. A facility might not have each size. A customer is assigned a box size based on the customer's needs and the availability of boxes. The postmaster may require a customer to use a larger size box if the customer's mail volume increases beyond the capacity of the present box.

4.2.4 Number Assignment

A number is assigned to each Post Office box. Mail intended for delivery through a box must show the assigned Post Office box number in the address immediately above the city, state, and ZIP Code.

4.2.5 Box Availability

[8-14-08] When no box of the appropriate size is available, an application for box service may be handled, at the postmaster's discretion, in any one or more of the following ways:

a. By referring the customer to another postal facility with available capacity.

b. By placing the customer's name on a waiting list for box service.

c. By providing general delivery service until an appropriate size box becomes available.

d. By offering a smaller or larger box at its applicable fee.

e. By offering caller service at its applicable fee.

4.2.6 Unavailable Box

[8-14-08] Online customers cannot apply for a box that is not available but can place themselves on a waiting list for the box; search online for another available box at that facility; or, at another facility close to a specific address or ZIP Code area. Customers must pay the correct fee for the service they receive, regardless of the box size applied for.

4.2.7 Service Period

[8-14-08] Post Office box service is provided in 6- or 12-month prepaid periods.

4.2.8 Limitation on Service

The postmaster may require a box customer to use caller service under 5.0, Caller Service, based on the volume of mail received by the customer, the level of service requested by the customer, or the availability of boxes to meet demand. Existing box customers will not be allowed to use additional boxes at Post Offices having a waiting list for Post Office boxes. Not more than once per semiannual payment period, a customer who was required to use caller service based on the volume of mail may submit a written request to the postmaster for a new determination of whether sufficient volume remains to require caller service.

4.3 Service

4.3.1 Application

[8-14-08] Procedures for applying for Post Office box service are as follows:

a. Applying at a Post Office:

1. The applicant must complete all required items on PS Form 1093, Application for Post Office Box Service, and submit it to any postal facility that provides window service to the public. The facility need not be where box service is desired. Furnishing false information on the application or refusing to furnish required information may be sufficient reason for denial of the application or discontinuance of service.

2. Spouses may complete and sign one PS Form 1093. Each spouse must present two forms of valid identification. A parent or guardian may receive delivery of a minor's mail by listing the name(s) of each minor on PS Form 1093. Other adult persons who receive mail in the Post Office box of an individual box customer must be listed on PS Form 1093 and must present two forms of valid identification to the Post Office.

3. Employees or other representatives of organizations who receive mail in the Post Office box must be listed on PS Form 1093. Each person must have verifiable identification and, upon request, present this identification to the USPS.

4. When any information required on PS Form 1093 changes, the box customer must update the application on file at the Post Office.

b. Applying Online:

1. An applicant searches for and selects a box, including size and Post Office location, and the service time period.

2. The applicant must complete all required items on the online application, PS Form 1093, and read the Privacy Act statement.

3. The applicant must complete the payment information.

4. The applicant must present an unsigned printout of the online application (PS Form 1093) in person to the Post Office along with two forms of valid identification, as stated in 4.3.2, to complete the application process and, upon approval, receive the box number and keys or lock combination.

5. Spouses may complete one online application. Each spouse must present two forms of valid identification. A parent or guardian may receive delivery of a minor's mail by listing the name(s) of each minor on the online application. Other adult persons who receive mail in the Post Office box of an individual box customer must be listed on the online application and must present two forms of valid identification to the Post Office upon request. Additional box users authorized to pick up mail from the box may be added to the printed copy of the application at the Post Office and must have two forms of valid identification.

6. When any information on the online application changes, the box customer must update the application on file at the Post Office.

4.3.2 Verification

[8-14-08] An application for Post Office box service may not be approved until the applicant's identity and current permanent physical address where he or she resides or conducts business is verified. Customers who apply online for a Post Office box do not receive their box number and keys (or combination number) until verification is complete and the application is approved. Verification criteria are as follows:

a. At the time of application, applicants must present two items of valid identification; one item must contain a photograph of the applicant. Social Security cards or credit cards and birth certificates are unacceptable as identification. The following are acceptable identification:

1. Valid driver's license or state non-driver's identification card.

2. Armed forces, government, university, or recognized corporate identification card.

3. Passport, alien registration card, or certificate of naturalization.

4. Current lease, mortgage, or deed of trust.

5. Voter or vehicle registration card.

6. Home or vehicle insurance policy.

b. The identification presented must be current. It must contain sufficient information to confirm that the applicant is who he or she claims to be and must be traceable to the bearer.

4.3.3 Transferring Service

Post Office box service may be transferred, without payment of an additional fee, to any box of the same size and fee group at a different facility of the same Post Office. To transfer service, the box customer must submit a new application either to the facility where service is currently provided or to the facility where service is desired. A box customer may transfer service no more than once in any semiannual payment period and must submit a completed Form 3575 at the time of transfer.

4.3.4 Minor

[8-14-08] Post Office box service may be provided to a minor (a person under 18 years of age) unless the minor's parent or guardian submits a written objection to the appropriate postmaster. Minors are not eligible to apply for Post Office box service online.

4.4 Conditions of Use

4.4.1 Mail Receipt

In accordance with the application and verification standards in 4.3, any individual box customer or organization may receive through the box any mail properly addressed to the box number.

4.4.2 Mail Only

Only mail and official USPS notices may be placed into a Post Office box.

4.4.3 Accumulation of Mail

A box customer must remove mail promptly from the box. If mail will not be removed from the box for more than 30 days and an overflow condition is probable, the customer must make prior arrangements with the postmaster.

4.4.4 Overflow

[8-14-08] When mail for a customer's Post Office box(es) exceeds the capacity of the box(es) on 12 of any 20 consecutive business days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays), the customer must use caller service, change to a larger box, or use one or more additional boxes (subject to availability) to which mail will be addressed. Customers whose box is in an overflow condition may not be eligible to make payment renewals at Automated Postal Centers (APCs) or online.

4.4.5 Unlawful Activity

A Post Office box may not be used for, or in connection with, a scheme or enterprise that violates any federal, state, or local law; breaches an agreement with a federal, state, or local agency whereby the box customer has agreed to discontinue a specified activity; or violates or attempts to evade any order of a court or administrative body.

4.4.6 Forwarding

A Post Office box may not be used when the primary purpose is to have the USPS forward or transfer mail to another address free of charge.

4.4.7 Address Change

Customers may file change-of-address orders as follows:

a. Organizations. Only the box customer or authorized representatives of the organization listed on the Form 1093 may file change-of-address orders. The organization is responsible for forwarding mail to other persons receiving mail at the box.

b. Residential box customers, Fee Groups 1 through 7. Only the box customer listed on the Form 1093 may file change-of-address orders. The box customer is responsible for forwarding mail to other persons receiving mail at the box.

c. Residential box customers, Fee Group E. The box customer or any other person listed on the Form 1093 may file an individual change-of-address order. Only the box customer may file a change-of-address order for the entire family.

4.5 Basis of Fees and Payment

4.5.1 General

Post Office box fees are based on the size of the box provided and the fee group to which the box's 5-digit ZIP Code is assigned.

4.5.2 Box Size

Box sizes are standardized and the fees for boxes increase with box size. The following chart describes approximate box capacities and frontal dimensions.

Box size	Capacity (Cubic Inches)	width and Height (Inches)
1	Under 296	3 by 5.5
2	296 through 499	5 by 5.5
3	500 through 999	11 by 5.5
4	1,000 through 1,999	11 by 11
5	2,000 or more	22.5 by 12

4.5.3 Fee Changes

A change in Post Office box service fees applicable to a given 5-digit ZIP Code can arise from a general fee change. In addition, the manager, Special Services, can assign a fee group to a new ZIP Code, and may authorize the reassignment of one or more 5-digit ZIP Codes to the next higher or lower fee group if the past fee group assignments were in error. The USPS also may regroup 5-digit ZIP Codes. No ZIP Code may be moved more than once a calendar year and a ZIP Code may be moved only into the next higher or lower fee group. Any change in Post Office box service fees takes effect on the date of the action that caused the change unless an official announcement specifies another date. If Post Office box service fees are increased, no customer must pay the new price until the end of the current service period, and no retroactive adjustment is to be made for a payment received before the date of the change. The fee charged is that in effect on the date of payment.

4.5.4 Payment

[8-14-08] All fees for Post Office box service are for 6- or 12-month prepaid periods, except as noted under 4.5.6, 4.5.7, and 4.5.10. The fee may be paid up to 1 year in advance, but not more. The fee that is in effect on the day that the fee is paid applies for either the 6- or 12-month period. Customers may pay the Post Office box fee using any of the following methods:

a. In person using cash, credit or debit card, or check or money order payable to the postmaster.

b. By mail using check or money order payable to the postmaster. A mailed payment must be received by the postmaster on or before the due date.

c. At any APC nationwide using a credit or debit card.

d. Online at www.usps.com/poboxes using a credit card.

e. Automatic PO box renewal available online at www.usps.com/poboxes with a credit card.

4.5.5 Payment Period

Except under 4.5.7, the beginning date for a box fee payment period is determined by the approval date of the application. The period begins on the first day of either the same month if the application is approved on or before the 15th of the month, or the next month if approved after the 15th of the month. After that, box fees for service renewal may be paid any time during the last 30 days of the service period, but no later than the last day of the service period.

4.5.6 U.S. Agencies

Federal agencies whose payment period coincides with the federal fiscal year may pay their box fees during the first quarter rather than in advance.

4.5.7 Exception

Postmasters at offices with fewer than 500 Post Office boxes may set April 1 and October 1 as the beginning of payment periods for box customers in their offices. Payment periods beginning other than April 1 or October 1 are brought into alignment with these respective dates by adjusting fees as follows:

a. New service, one-sixth of the semiannual fee is charged for each remaining month between the beginning of the new payment period and the next April 1 or October 1.

b. Existing service, one-sixth of the semiannual fee is charged for each remaining month between the end of all currently paid periods and the next April 1 or October 1.

c. Next one or two semiannual payment periods, an adjustment may be accepted in addition to fees.

4.5.8 Change of Payment Period

Except for customers at Post Offices subject to 4.5.7, a box customer of record may change the payment period by submitting a new application noting the month to be used as the start of the revised payment period. The date selected must be before the end of the current payment period. The unused fee for the period being discontinued may be refunded under 4.7, and the fee for the new payment period must be fully paid in advance. A change of payment period date may not be used to circumvent a change in box fees.

4.5.9 Academic Institutions

The USPS d