343 Rates and Eligibility

1.0 Rates and Fees for Standard Mail

1.1 Rate Application

Postage is based on the rate that applies to the weight (postage) increment of each addressed piece.

1.2 Standard Mail Rate Application

Standard Mail rates are based on the weight of the pieces and are applied differently to pieces weighing less than or equal to 3.3 ounces (0.2063 pound) and those weighing more, as follows:

a. The appropriate minimum per piece rate applies to any Standard Mail piece that weighs 3.3 ounces or less.

b. A rate determined by adding the appropriate fixed per piece charge and the corresponding variable per pound charge (based on the weight of the piece) applies to any Standard Mail piece that weighs more than 3.3 ounces.

1.3 Regular Standard Mail—Presorted, Enhanced Carrier Route, and Automation Rates

	Entry Discount	Enhanced Carrier Route (ECR)1			Automation1				Nonautomation 1
		Saturation2	High Density	Basic	5-Digit	3-Digit	ADC	Mixed ADC	5-Digit	3-Digit	ADC	Mixed ADC
Flats weighing 3.3 oz. or less	None	$0.187	$0.205	$0.249	$0.335	$0.392	$0.424	$0.477	$0.363	$0.427	$0.461	$0.515
	DBMC	0.154	0.172	0.216	0.302	0.359	0.391	0.444	0.330	0.394	0.428	0.482
per piece rate	DSCF	0.145	0.163	0.207	0.293	0.350	0.382	---	0.321	0.385	0.419	---
	DDU	0.136	0.154	0.198	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---
more than 3.3 oz.3	None	0.621	0.621	0.621	0.739	0.739	0.739	0.739	0.739	0.739	0.739	0.739
per pound rate	DBMC	0.462	0.462	0.462	0.580	0.580	0.580	0.580	0.580	0.580	0.580	0.580
	DSCF	0.418	0.418	0.418	0.536	0.536	0.536	---	0.536	0.536	0.536	---
	DDU	0.373	0.373	0.373	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---
+		+	+	+	+	+	+	+	+	+	+	+
per piece rate		0.059	0.077	0.121	0.186	0.243	0.275	0.328	0.213	0.277	0.311	0.365

1.4 Nonprofit Standard Mail—Presorted, Enhanced Carrier Route, and Automation Rates

	Entry Discount	Enhanced Carrier Route (ECR)1			Automation1				Nonautomation 1
		Saturation2	High Density	Basic	5-Digit	3-Digit	ADC	Mixed ADC	5-Digit	3-Digit	ADC	Mixed ADC
Flats weighing 3.3 oz. or less	None	$0.118	$0.136	$0.180	$0.212	$0.269	$0.301	$0.354	$0.237	$0.301	$0.335	$0.389
	DBMC	0.085	0.103	0.147	0.179	0.236	0.268	0.321	0.204	0.268	0.302	0.356
per piece rate	DSCF	0.076	0.094	0.138	0.170	0.227	0.259	---	0.195	0.259	0.293	---
	DDU	0.067	0.085	0.129	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---
more than 3.3 oz.3	None	0.432	0.432	0.432	0.622	0.622	0.622	0.622	0.622	0.622	0.622	0.622
per pound rate	DBMC	0.273	0.273	0.273	0.463	0.463	0.463	0.463	0.463	0.463	0.463	0.463
	DSCF	0.229	0.229	0.229	0.419	0.419	0.419	---	0.419	0.419	0.419	---
	DDU	0.184	0.184	0.184	---	---	---	---	---	---	---	---
+		+	+	+	+	+	+	+	+	+	+	+
per piece rate		0.029	0.047	0.091	0.086	0.143	0.175	0.228	0.111	0.175	0.209	0.263

1.5 Fees

1.5.1 Presort Mailing Fee

Mailing fee, per 12-month period: $175.00.

1.5.2 Weighted Fee

For return of pieces bearing the ancillary service markings "Address Service Requested" and "Forwarding Service Requested."

weighted fee
Single Piece Weight Not Over (ounces)	Weighted Fee per Piece1
1	$1.98
2	2.40
3	2.82
4	3.24
5	3.66
6	4.08
7	4.50
8	4.92
9	5.34
10	5.76
11	6.18
12	6.61
13	7.03
Over 13 but under 16	11.38

1.6 Computing Postage — Standard Mail

1.6.1 Weight

To compute the total weight of the addressed pieces in a mailing or mailing segment for:

a. Identical-weight pieces, multiply the computed average weight of a single piece by the corresponding number of pieces; do not round the product.

b. Nonidentical-weight pieces, add the actual weight of the individual pieces or weigh the entire mailing in bulk; do not round either result.

1.6.2 Determining Single-Piece Weight

To determine single-piece weight in any mailing of nonidentical-weight pieces, weigh each piece individually. To determine single-piece weight in a mailing of identical weight pieces, weigh a sample group of at least 10 randomly selected pieces and divide the total sample weight by the number of pieces in the sample. Express all single-piece weights in decimal pounds rounded off to four decimal places.

1.6.3 Net Postage

Postage is computed at the applicable rates on the entire mailing to be mailed at one time. The net postage rate that must be paid is either the applicable minimum per piece rate or the piece/pound rate, as reduced by any discounts for which the piece is eligible, and/or as increased by any surcharge to which the piece is subject. The net postage rate is commonly designated by the name of the primary rate category or discount (e.g., Enhanced Carrier Route rate, automation letter rate, automation flat rate, Presorted rate).

1.6.4 Per Piece and Per Pound Charges

The per piece charge is computed based on the total number of addressed pieces for each rate category claimed. The minimum rate may apply to each piece as detailed in 1.2, Standard Mail Rate Application. Otherwise, the per piece charge must be added to the per pound charge to determine total postage. Where applicable, the per pound charge is computed based on the total weight of the addressed pieces for each rate category claimed, and is added to the per piece charge to determine total postage. For example, a quantity of pieces weighing 100.25 pounds is charged 100.25 times the applicable rate per pound, based on the rate claimed, plus one unit of the applicable per piece charge for each addressed piece.

1.6.5 Computing Affixed Postage

To compute postage to be affixed to each piece, multiply the weight of the piece (in pounds) by the applicable rate per pound; add the applicable per piece charge and any surcharge; and round the sum up to the next tenth of a cent. The applicable minimum per piece charge must be affixed if it is more than the total computed per piece postage.

1.6.6 Permit Imprint

In any permit imprint mailing:

a. For each rate or rate category, multiply the number of addressed pieces by the corresponding rate per piece and (if applicable) multiply the unrounded total weight of the pieces by the corresponding rate per pound; round off each product to four decimal places.

b. Add the per piece and per pound charges and round off the total postage to the nearest whole cent.

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2.0 Content Standards for Standard Mail Flats

2.1 Definition and Weight

Standard Mail consists of mailable matter that is neither mailed or required to be mailed as First-Class Mail nor entered as Periodicals (unless permitted or required by standard) and that weighs less than 16 ounces. Standard Mail includes matter formerly classified as Standard Mail (A) and third-class mail.

2.2 Personal Information

Personal information may not be included in a Standard Mail mailpiece unless all of the following conditions are met:

a. The mailpiece contains explicit advertising for a product or service for sale or lease or an explicit solicitation for a donation.

b. All of the personal information is directly related to the advertising or solicitation.

c. The exclusive reason for inclusion of all of the personal information is to support the advertising or solicitation in the mailpiece.

2.3 Bills and Statements of Account

Mail containing bills or statements of account as defined in 333.2.2 may not be entered as Standard Mail except under the conditions described in 2.5.2.

2.4 Handwritten and Typewritten Matter

Mail containing handwritten or typewritten matter may not be entered as Standard Mail except under the conditions described in 2.6.

2.5 Attachments and Enclosures

2.5.1 Invoice

An invoice, whether it also serves as a bill, may be placed either inside a Standard Mail piece or in an envelope marked "Invoice Enclosed" and attached to the outside of the piece if the invoice relates solely to the matter with which it is mailed. The invoice may show this information:

a. Names and addresses of the sender and addressee.

b. Names and quantities of the articles enclosed, descriptions of each (e.g., price, tax, style, stock number, size, and quality, and, if defective, nature of defects).

c. Order or file number, date of order, date and manner of shipment, shipping weight, postage paid, and initials or name of packer or checker.

2.5.2 Incidental First-Class Attachments and Enclosures

Incidental First-Class matter may be enclosed in or attached to Standard Mail merchandise (including books but excluding merchandise samples) without payment of First-Class postage. Incidental First-Class matter may not be enclosed in or attached to matter mailed as Customized MarketMail under 705.1.0. An incidental First-Class attachment or enclosure must be matter that, if mailed separately, would require First-Class postage, is closely associated with but secondary to the host piece, and is prepared not to encumber postal processing. An incidental First-Class attachment or enclosure may be a bill for the product or publication, a statement of account for past products or publications, or a personal message or greeting included with a product, publication, or parcel. Postage at the Standard Mail or Package Services rate for the host piece is based on the combined weight of the host piece and the incidental First-Class attachment or enclosure.

2.5.3 Nonincidental First-Class Enclosures

Letters or other pieces of nonincidental First-Class Mail, subject to postage at First-Class Mail rates, may be enclosed with Standard Mail pieces (except matter mailed as Customized MarketMail under 705.1.0). Postage for the First-Class enclosure must be placed on the outside of the piece. It may be affixed separately or added to the postage for the host piece. The endorsement "First-Class Mail Enclosed" must be placed on the piece, below the postage and above the address.

2.5.4 Nonincidental First-Class Attachments

Letters or other pieces of nonincidental First-Class Mail may be placed in an envelope and securely attached to the address side of a Standard Mail piece (except matter mailed as Customized MarketMail under 705.1.0), or of the principal piece, as applicable. Combination envelopes or containers with separate parts for the two classes of mail may be used. The names and addresses of the sender and addressee must be placed on both the principal piece and the attachment. Alternatively, the sender's name and address must be placed on one part and the addressee's name and address on the other. If the piece is a combination container with inseparable parts or compartments, the names and addresses may appear on only one part. The applicable Standard Mail postage for the Standard Mail matter must be prepaid and placed in the upper right corner of the address space. Postage at the applicable First-Class rate must be paid for and affixed to the First-Class attachment, unless other payment methods are permitted by standard.

2.5.5 Attachment of Other Standard Mail Matter

Standard Mail pieces may bear an attachment that is eligible as Standard Mail matter if these additional conditions are met:

a. The piece bearing the attachment is claimed as Customized MarketMail (CMM) under 705.1.0 or as Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail under 6.0.

b. The face of the attachment may bear only the rate markings and endorsements permitted for the rate claimed for the host piece.

c. At the time of mailing, the piece shows only one complete delivery address. If the attachment is a reply card, the address for returning the piece is not visible.

d. Enhanced Carrier Route host pieces are larger than 6 by 11 inches. CMM host pieces are any size permitted under 705.1.1.3, Physical Standards.

e. The attachment is not larger than the host piece and does not extend beyond the host piece. An attachment affixed to a CMM piece may not be greater than 1/4 inch thick at its thickest point.

f. Each piece in the mailing bears the attachment, and the attachment is of identical size, weight, and positioning on the host piece. Different wording or designs may be used.

g. The attachment does not interfere with processing or delivery. Folded or multipage attachments must be secured to prevent opening during handling.

2.6 Written Additions

Markings that have the character of personal correspondence require, with certain exceptions, additional postage at the First-Class rates. The following written additions and enclosures do not require additional First-Class postage:

a. The sender's and the addressee's names, occupations, and addresses, preceded by "From" or "To," and directions for handling.

b. Marks, numbers, names, or letters describing the contents.

c. Words or phrases such as "Do Not Open Until Christmas" and "Happy Birthday, Mother."

d. Instructions and directions for the use of the item mailed.

e. A manuscript dedication or inscription not having the nature of personal correspondence.

f. Marks to call attention to words or passages in the text.

g. Corrections of typographical errors in printed matter.

h. Manuscripts accompanying related proof sheets and corrections of proof sheets including corrections of typographical and other errors, changes in the text, insertions of new text, marginal instructions to the printer, and corrective rewrites of parts.

i. Handstamped imprints, unless the added material is in itself personal or converts the original matter to a personal communication.

j. Matter mailable separately as Standard Mail printed on the wrapper, envelope, tag, or label.

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3.0 Basic Standards for Standard Mail Flats

3.1 Description of Service

3.1.1 Service Objectives

Standard Mail may receive deferred handling. Service objectives for delivery are 2 to 9 days; however, delivery time is not guaranteed.

3.1.2 Minimum Quantity

Standard Mail provides economical rates for mailings of 200 or more pieces or 50 or more pounds of mail.

3.2 Defining Characteristics

3.2.1 Weight, Shape, Flexibility, and Uniform Thickness

All Standard Mail pieces must weigh less than 16 ounces. Flat-size pieces that do not meet the standards in 301.1.3 through 301.1.5 must be prepared as parcels or Not Flat-Machinable pieces and pay parcel or Not Flat-Machinable rates (see 401).

3.2.2 Preparation Requirements

Standard Mail is subject to specific volume, marking, and preparation requirements.

3.2.3 Inspection of Contents

Standard Mail is not sealed against postal inspection.

3.2.4 Forwarding Service

The price of Standard Mail typically does not include forwarding service. Forwarding service is available under 507.1.5.

3.2.5 Return Service

The price of Standard Mail does not include return service. Return service is available under 507.1.5 for an additional fee.

3.2.6 Extra Services

Extra services available with Standard Mail are insured mail service (bulk insurance only), certificate of mailing service (bulk certificate of mailing only), return receipt for merchandise service, and Delivery Confirmation service (parcels only). See information regarding extra services in 503.

3.2.7 Periodicals

Authorized Periodicals may not be entered as Standard Mail unless permitted by standard.

3.2.8 Identical Pieces

The contents of printed matter in a Standard Mail mailing must be identical to a piece sent to at least one other addressee. Standard Mail may include the addressee's name and address but may not transmit personal information except as permitted under 2.2.

3.3 Additional Basic Standards for Standard Mail

Each Standard Mail mailing is subject to these general standards:

a. All pieces in a mailing must be of the same processing category.

b. Each mailing must contain at least 200 pieces or 50 pounds of pieces. See 3.6, Residual Volume Requirement, for volume requirement eligibility unique to Presorted Standard rate mailings. Other volume standards also can apply, based on the rate claimed.

c. All pieces in an automation mailing must be eligible for an automation rate. Separate automation and Presorted rate mailings of flats that are reported on the same postage statement must be cosacked under 705.9.0, Preparing Cotrayed and Cosacked Bundles of Automation and Nonautomation Flats. Separate automation, Presorted, and Enhanced Carrier Route mailings of flats may be co-containerized under 705.

d. All pieces in a mailing must be sorted together and marked under the standards for the rate claimed.

e. Each piece must bear the addressee's name and delivery address, including the correct ZIP Code or ZIP+4 code, unless an alternative addressing format is used subject to 602.3.0, Use of Alternative Addressing. Detached address labels may be used subject to 602.4.0, Detached Address Labels (DAL).

f. Postage must be paid under 344.1.0 through 344.3.0 in Postage Payment and Documentation with precanceled stamps, meter stamps, or permit imprint.

g. A postage statement, completed and signed by the mailer, using the correct USPS form or an approved facsimile, must be submitted with each mailing. In addition, mailings must be documented under 344.4.2 and the standards for the rate claimed.

h. Each piece must meet the standards for any other rate or discount claimed.

i. Any POSTNET barcode on a mailpiece must be correct for the delivery address and meet the standards in 302.4.0, Barcode Placement, 708.4.0, Standards for POSTNET and Intelligent Mail Barcodes, and 708.3.0, Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS).

j. Mailings must be deposited at a business mail entry unit of the post office where the postage permit or license is held and the annual mailing fee paid, unless deposit elsewhere is permitted by standard.

3.4 Presort Mailing Fees

An annual mailing fee must be paid once each 12-month period at each post office of mailing. A mailer paying this fee may enter clients' mail as well as the mailer's own. The mailer whose permit imprint appears on pieces in a mailing paid with a permit imprint must show that permit number on the postage statement and must pay the annual mailing fee for that permit; this fee is in addition to the one-time fee for an application to use permit imprints. The fee may be paid in advance only for the next 12 months and only during the last 60 days of the current service period. The fee charged is that which is in effect on the date of payment.

3.5 Merging Similar Standard Mailings

Mailings are subject to the general definitions and conditions in 345.1.0, General Information for Mail Preparation. Generally, mailers may merge similar Standard Mail matter into a single mailing. Differences in text, address labels, and address lists or list key numbers do not prohibit the mailer from merging and sorting pieces together. Pieces with different methods of postage payment may be combined in the same mailing only if authorized by Business Mailer Support (BMS). Pieces of nonidentical weight, if merged in the same mailing, must bear the correct postage when mailed, unless otherwise authorized by BMS.

3.6 Residual Volume Requirement

Pieces in an Enhanced Carrier Route rate mailing that has separately met a 200-piece or 50-pound minimum quantity requirement may be counted toward the minimum quantity requirement for a Presorted rate mailing, provided that the Enhanced Carrier Route rate mailing and the Presorted rate mailing are part of the same mailing job. Likewise, pieces in an automation rate mailing that has separately met a 200-piece or 50-pound minimum quantity requirement may be counted toward the minimum quantity requirement for a Presorted rate mailing, provided that the automation rate mailing and the Presorted mailing are part of the same mailing job. Pieces mailed at Presorted Standard Mail rates must not be counted toward the minimum volume requirements for an Enhanced Carrier Route rate or an automation rate mailing.

3.7 Residual Mail Subject to First-Class or Priority Mail Rates

Pieces prepared as Standard Mail (i.e., that bear Standard Mail rate markings, ACS codes, etc.) that do not qualify for Enhanced Carrier Route, automation, or Presorted Standard Mail rates are subject to the single-piece First-Class or Priority Mail rates as applicable for the weight of the mailpiece. Metered pieces weighing over 13 ounces but less than 16 ounces that do not qualify for Standard Mail rates and any pieces that do not qualify for Standard Mail rates for which First-Class or Priority Mail service is desired must be re-enveloped or otherwise prepared so that they do not bear Standard Mail markings, endorsements, and ACS codes and must bear the proper First-Class Mail or Priority Mail rate markings and ACS codes. Mailers who have pieces (other than metered pieces weighing over 13 ounces but less than 16 ounces) that do not qualify for Standard Mail rates but that are prepared as Standard Mail and who do not desire to receive First-Class Mail or Priority Mail service for those pieces may enter their mailpieces "as is" (i.e., bearing the Standard Mail markings and endorsements), provided the requirements in 344.1.0, Basic Standards for Postage Payment, are met.

3.8 ZIP Code Accuracy

3.8.1 Basic Standards

The ZIP Code accuracy standard is a means of ensuring that the 5-digit ZIP Code in the delivery address correctly matches the delivery address information. For the purposes of this standard, address means a specific address associated with a specific 5-digit ZIP Code. Addresses used on pieces claiming certain rates under 3.8.1d, Basic Standards that are subject to the ZIP Code accuracy standard must meet these requirements:

a. Each address and associated 5-digit ZIP Code used on the mailpieces in a mailing must be verified and corrected within 12 months before the mailing date with one of the USPS-approved methods in 3.8.2, USPS-Approved Methods.

b. Each individual address in the mailing is subject to the ZIP Code accuracy standard.

c. If an address used on a mailpiece in a mailing at one class of mail and rate is verified and corrected with an approved method, the same address may be used during the following 12 months to meet the ZIP Code accuracy standard required for mailing at any other class of mail and rate.

d. Except for mail bearing a simplified address, addresses used on pieces claiming Standard Mail rates, regardless of any required surcharges, must meet the ZIP Code accuracy standard.

3.8.2 USPS-Approved Methods

The following methods are authorized for meeting the ZIP Code accuracy standard:

a. For computerized lists, Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS)-certified address matching software and current USPS City State Product, within a mailer's computer systems or through an authorized service provider.

b. For manually maintained lists or small computerized lists, options include the following:

1. Surveys of addressees on mailer's address list inquiring about the accuracy of ZIP Code information.

2. Any mailing list service in 507.6.0.

3. An authorized service provider.

4. CASS-certified matching software.

5. USPS Web site www.usps.com.

3.8.3 Mailer Certification

The mailer's signature on the postage statement certifies that the ZIP Code accuracy standard has been met for each address in the corresponding mailing presented to the USPS.

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4.0 Rate Eligibility for Standard Mail

4.1 General Information

All Standard Mail rates are presorted rates (including all nonprofit rates). These rates apply to mailings meeting the basic standards in 2.0 through 4.0 and the corresponding standards for Presorted rates under 3.0 and 5.0, Enhanced Carrier Route rates under 6.0, automation rates under 7.0, or Customized MarketMail rates under 705.1.0. Except for Customized MarketMail pieces, destination entry discount rates are available under 346.2.0 through 346.5.0. Nonprofit rates may be used only by organizations authorized by the USPS. Not all processing categories qualify for every rate. Pieces are subject to either a single minimum per piece rate or a combined piece/pound rate, depending on the weight of the individual pieces in the mailing.

4.2 Minimum Per Piece Rates

The minimum per piece rates (the minimum postage that must be paid for each piece) apply as follows:

a. Basic Requirement. Pieces mailed at Regular, Enhanced Carrier Route, Nonprofit, and Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route rates are subject to minimum per piece rates when they weigh no more than 3.3 ounces (0.2063 pound).

b. In applying the minimum per piece rates, a mailpiece is categorized as a letter based on whether the piece meets the letter-size standard in 201.1.0, without regard to placement of the address on the piece, except under these conditions:

1. If the piece meets both the definition of a letter in 201.1.1.1 and the definition of an automation flat in 301.3.0, the piece may be prepared and entered at an automation flat rate.

2. Pieces mailed as Customized MarketMail under 705.1.0 must pay Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail 5-digit nonentry rates for Not Flat-Machinable pieces and must not exceed 3.3 ounces.

c. Individual Rates. There are separate minimum per piece rates for each subclass (Regular, Enhanced Carrier Route, Nonprofit, and Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route) and within each subclass for the type of mailing and the level of presort within each mailing. Except for Customized MarketMail pieces, discounted per piece rates also may be claimed for destination entry mailings (destination bulk mail center (DBMC), destination sectional center facility (DSCF), and destination delivery unit (DDU)) under 346. DDU rates are available only for mail entered at Enhanced Carrier Route or Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route rates. See 1.0 for individual per piece rates.

4.3 Piece/Pound Rates

Pieces that exceed 3.3 ounces (0.2063 pound) are subject to a two-part piece/pound rate that includes a fixed charge per piece and a variable pound charge based on weight. Pieces exceeding 3.3 ounces may not be mailed as Customized MarketMail. There are separate per piece rates for each subclass (Regular, Enhanced Carrier Route, Nonprofit, and Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route) and within each subclass for the type of mailing and the level of presort within each mailing. There are separate per pound rates for each subclass (Regular, Enhanced Carrier Route, Nonprofit, and Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route). Discounted per pound rates also may be claimed for destination entry mailings (destination bulk mail center (DBMC), destination sectional center facility (DSCF), and destination delivery unit (DDU)) under 346.

4.4 Shape, Flexibility, and Uniform Thickness

Flat-size pieces that do not meet the standards in 301.1.3 through 301.1.5 must be prepared as parcels or Not Flat-Machinable pieces and pay parcel or Not Flat-Machinable rates (see 401).

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5.0 Additional Eligibility Standards for Nonautomation  Standard Mail Flats

5.1 Basic Standards

All pieces in a Regular Standard Mail or Nonprofit Standard Mail Presorted rate mailing must:

a. Meet the basic standards for Standard Mail in 2.0 through 4.0 in Rates and Eligibility.

b. Except as provided in 3.6, Residual Volume Requirement, be part of a single mailing of at least 200 addressed pieces or 50 pounds of pieces qualifying for Presorted Standard Mail. Regular and Nonprofit mailings must meet separate minimum volumes.

c. Bear a delivery address that includes the correct ZIP Code or ZIP+4 code and that meets these address quality standards:

1. The ZIP Code accuracy standard in 3.8.

2. If an alternative addressing format is used, the additional standards in 602.3.0.

d. Be marked, sorted, and documented as specified in 345, Mail Preparation, or 705, Advanced Preparation and Special Postage Payment Systems.

5.2 Rate Application

Presorted rates for Regular and Nonprofit Standard Mail apply to flats that meet the eligibility standards in 2.0 through 4.0 and the preparation standards in 705, Advanced Preparation and Special Postage Payment Systems.

5.3 5-Digit Rates for Flats

The 5-digit rate applies to flat-size pieces:

a. In a 5-digit/scheme bundle of 10 or more pieces, or 15 or more pieces, as applicable; properly placed in a 5-digit/scheme sack containing at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces.

b. When palletized under 705.8.0 and 705.10.0 through 705.13.0, in a 5-digit/scheme bundle of 10 or more pieces, or 15 or more pieces, as applicable.

c. In a 5-digit bundle of 10 or more pieces, or 15 or more pieces, as applicable; properly placed in a merged 5-digit/scheme or 5-digit sack under 705.10.0.

5.4 3-Digit Rates for Flats

The 3-digit rate applies to flat-size pieces:

a. In a 5-digit/scheme bundle of 10 or more pieces, or 15 or more pieces, as applicable, or in a 3-digit/scheme bundle of 10 or more pieces; properly placed in a 3-digit sack of at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces.

b. When palletized under 705.8.0 and 705.10.0 through 705.13.0, in a 3-digit/scheme bundle of 10 or more pieces.

5.5 ADC Rates for Flats

ADC rates apply to flat-size pieces:

a. In a 5-digit/scheme, 3-digit/scheme, or ADC bundle of 10 or more pieces properly placed in an ADC sack of at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces.

b. In an optional 3-digit/scheme origin/entry sack.

c. When palletized under 705.8.0 and 705.10.0 through 705.13.0, in an ADC bundle of 10 or more pieces; properly placed on an ADC pallet.

5.6 Mixed ADC Rates for Flats

Mixed ADC rates apply to flat-size pieces in bundles that do not qualify for 5-digit, 3-digit, or ADC rates; placed in mixed ADC sacks or on ASF, BMC, or mixed BMC pallets under 705.8.0.

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6.0 Additional Eligibility Standards for Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail Flats

6.1 General Enhanced Carrier Route Standards

6.1.1 Optional Preparation

Preparation to qualify for any Enhanced Carrier Route rate is optional and need not be performed for all carrier routes in a 5-digit area. An Enhanced Carrier Route mailing may include pieces at basic, high density, and saturation Enhanced Carrier Route rates.

6.1.2 Basic Eligibility Standards

All pieces in an Enhanced Carrier Route or Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail mailing must:

a. Meet the basic standards for Standard Mail in 2.0 through 4.0 in Rates and Eligibility.

b. Be part of a single mailing of at least 200 pieces or 50 pounds of pieces of Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail. Regular and Nonprofit mailings must meet separate minimum volumes.

c. Be sorted to carrier routes, marked, and documented under 345.6.0, Preparing Enhanced Carrier Route Flats, or 705.8.0, Preparing Pallets.

d. Bear a delivery address that includes the correct ZIP Code, ZIP+4 code, or numeric equivalent to the delivery point barcode (DPBC) and that meets these address quality standards:

1. The carrier route accuracy standard in 6.2.

2. If an alternative addressing format is used, the additional standards in 602.3.0.

3. If flat-size pieces are prepared with detached address labels, the additional standards in 602.4.0.

e. Meet the applicable sequencing requirements in 6.3 through 6.5 in Additional Eligibility Standards for Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail Flats and in 345.6.9, Delivery Sequence Standards, and 345.6.10, Delivery Sequence Documentation.

f. Meet the applicable documentation and postage payment standards in 344, Postage Payment and Documentation, and 1.6, Computing Postage — Standard Mail.

g. Enhanced Carrier Route rate mail may not be more than 12 inches high, 15 inches long, or 3/4-inch thick. Exception: Merchandise samples with detached address labels (DALs) may exceed these dimensions if the labels meet the standards in 602.4.0.

6.2 Carrier Route Code Accuracy

6.2.1 Basic Standards

The carrier route accuracy standard is a means of ensuring that the carrier route code correctly matches the delivery address information. For the purposes of this standard, address means a specific address associated with a specific carrier route code. Addresses used on pieces claiming certain rates under 6.2.1d that are subject to the carrier route accuracy standard must meet these requirements:

a. Each address and associated carrier route code used on the mailpieces in a mailing must be updated within 90 days before the mailing date with one of the USPS-approved methods in 6.2.2.

b. Each individual address in the mailing is subject to the carrier route accuracy standard.

c. If the carrier route code (and accuracy) of an address used on a mailpiece in a carrier route mailing at one class of mail and rate is updated with an approved method, the same address may be used during the following 90 days to meet the carrier route accuracy standard required for mailing at any other class of mail and rate.

d. Except for mail bearing a simplified address, addresses used on pieces claiming Standard Mail Enhanced Carrier Route rates, regardless of any required surcharge, must meet the carrier route accuracy standard.

6.2.2 USPS-Approved Methods

Carrier route coding must be performed using CASS-certified software and the current USPS Carrier Route Product or another Address Information System (AIS) product containing carrier route information subject to 509.1.0, Address Information System Products, and 708.3.0, Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS). Printed Carrier Route Files (schemes) may be used for Standard Mail Enhanced Carrier Route flat-size mail at basic, high density, and saturation rates.

6.2.3 Mailer Certification

The mailer's signature on the postage statement certifies that the carrier route accuracy standard has been met for each address in the corresponding mailing presented to the USPS.

6.3 Basic Rate Enhanced Carrier Route Standards

6.3.1 Sequencing

All pieces mailed at basic rates must be prepared in walk sequence or in line-of-travel (LOT) sequence according to LOT schemes prescribed by the USPS (see 345.6.9, Delivery Sequence Standards, and 345.6.10, Delivery Sequence Documentation).

6.3.2 Basic Rate Eligibility

Basic rates apply to each piece in a carrier route bundle of 10 or more pieces that is:

a. Palletized under 705.8.0, Preparing Pallets, 705.10.0, Preparing Merged Containerization of Bundles of Flats Using City State Product, 705.12.0, Preparing Merged Palletization of Bundles of Flats Using a 5% Threshold, or 705.13.0, Preparing Merged Palletization of Bundles of Flats Using the City State Product and a 5% Threshold.

b. Placed in a carrier route sack containing at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces.

c. Placed in a merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, merged 5-digit, or 5-digit carrier routes sack.

d. Entered at a destination delivery unit as unsacked bundles, according to preparation standards in 345.2.0 and entry standards in 346.5.0.

6.4 High Density Enhanced Carrier Route Standards

6.4.1 Basic Eligibility Standards for High Density Rates

All pieces mailed at high density rates must:

a. Be prepared in walk sequence according to schemes prescribed by the USPS (see 345.6.9).

b. Meet the density requirement of at least 125 pieces for each carrier route. Multiple pieces per delivery address can count toward this density standard.

6.4.2 High Density Rates for Flats

High density rates apply to each piece in a carrier route bundle of 10 or more pieces that is:

a. Palletized under 705.8.0, Preparing Pallets, 705.10.0, Preparing Merged Containerization of Bundles of Flats Using City State Product, 705.12.0, Preparing Merged Palletization of Bundles of Flats Using a 5% Threshold, or 705.13.0, Preparing Merged Palletization of Bundles of Flats Using the City State Product and a 5% Threshold.

b. Placed in a carrier route sack containing at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces.

c. Placed in a merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, merged 5-digit, or 5-digit carrier routes sack.

6.5 Saturation Enhanced Carrier Route Standards

6.5.1 Basic Eligibility Standards for Saturation Rates

All pieces mailed at saturation rates must:

a. Be prepared in walk sequence according to schemes prescribed by the USPS (see 345.6.9).

b. Meet the density requirement of at least 90% or more of the active residential addresses or 75% or more of the total number of active possible delivery addresses on each carrier route receiving this mail. Pieces bearing a simplified address must meet the coverage standards in 602.3.0, Use of Alternative Addressing. Multiple pieces per delivery address do not count toward this density standard.

6.5.2 Saturation Rates for Flats

Saturation rates apply to each piece in a carrier route bundle of 10 or more pieces that is:

a. Palletized under 705.8.0, Preparing Pallets, 705.10.0, Preparing Merged Containerization of Bundles of Flats Using City State Product, 705.12.0, Preparing Merged Palletization of Bundles of Flats Using a 5% Threshold, or 705.13.0, Preparing Merged Palletization of Bundles of Flats Using the City State Product and a 5% Threshold.

b. Placed in a carrier route sack containing at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces.

c. Placed in a merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, merged 5-digit, or 5-digit carrier routes sack.

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7.0 Additional Eligibility Standards for Automation Rate Standard Mail Flats

7.1 Basic Eligibility Standards for Automation Rate Standard Mail

[5-1-07] All pieces in a Regular Standard Mail or Nonprofit Standard Mail automation rate mailing must:

a. Meet the basic standards for Standard Mail in 2.0 through 4.0 in Rates and Eligibility.

b. Be part of a single mailing of at least 200 pieces or 50 pounds of pieces of automation rate Standard Mail (Regular and Nonprofit mailings must meet separate minimum volumes).

c. Be in the same processing category and meet the physical standards in 301.3.0.

d. Bear a delivery address that includes the correct ZIP Code, ZIP+4 code, or numeric equivalent to the delivery point barcode (DPBC) and that meets these address quality standards:

1. The address matching and coding standards in 7.3, Address Standards for Barcoded Pieces, and 708.3.0, Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS).

2. If an alternative addressing format is used, the additional standards in 602.3.0.

e. Bear an accurate ZIP+4 or delivery point barcode, or Intelligent Mail barcode with a ZIP+4 or delivery point routing code, meeting the standards in 302.4.0, Barcode Placement, and 708.4.0, Standards for POSTNET and Intelligent Mail Barcodes, either on the piece or on an insert showing through a window.

f. Be marked, sorted and documented as specified in 345.7.0, and 705.8.0 through 705.13.0.

g. Meet the applicable documentation and postage payment standards in 344.

7.2 Rate Application

Automation rates apply to each piece properly sorted into qualifying groups:

a. The 5-digit rate applies to flat-size pieces in a 5-digit/scheme bundle of 10 or more pieces, or 15 or more pieces, as applicable.

b. The 3-digit rate applies to flat-size pieces in a 3-digit/scheme bundle of 10 or more pieces.

c. The ADC rate applies to flat-size pieces in an ADC bundle of 10 or more pieces.

d. The mixed ADC rate applies to flat-size pieces in mixed ADC bundles (no minimum).

7.3 Address Standards for Barcoded Pieces

7.3.1 Basic Address Standards for Barcodes

To qualify for automation rates, addresses must be sufficiently complete to enable matching to the current USPS ZIP+4 Product when used with current CASS-certified address matching software. Standardized address elements are not required. Any barcode that appears on a mailpiece claimed at an automation rate must be the correct barcode for the corresponding delivery address on the piece.

7.3.2 Numeric ZIP+4

A numeric ZIP+4 code must consist of five digits, a hyphen, and four digits.

7.3.3 Numeric Delivery Point Barcode (DPBC)

A numeric equivalent of the delivery point barcode (DPBC) consists of five digits followed by a hyphen and seven digits as specified in 708.4.2. The numeric equivalent is formed by adding three digits directly after the ZIP+4 code.

7.3.4 Address Elements

Addresses must include the correct street number, predirectional, street name, suffix, and postdirectional that are input to obtain a match with the current USPS ZIP+4 Product.

7.3.5 Firm Name

An address must include a firm name when necessary to obtain a match with the finest level of ZIP+4 code in the USPS ZIP+4 Product. If an address contains a firm name assigned a unique ZIP+4 code in the USPS ZIP+4 Product, the unique ZIP+4 code must be used. If the firm name is not one assigned a unique ZIP+4 code in the USPS ZIP+4 Product and the apartment/suite number is included in the address, the ZIP+4 code for the range in which the apartment/suite number appears must be used in that address. If the firm name does not correspond to a firm name that has a unique ZIP+4 code assigned in the USPS ZIP+4 Product and the apartment/suite number is not included in the address, the ZIP+4 code for the building must be used.

7.3.6 Secondary Designator

If a secondary address designator (e.g., an apartment number) is shown in the address, the mailpiece must show the appropriate ZIP+4 code representing the range for that secondary address as contained in the current USPS ZIP+4 Product. If a secondary address designator is required to obtain an exact match with the finest level of ZIP+4 code in the USPS ZIP+4 Product but the information is not available, the alternative ZIP+4 code or ZIP+4 or delivery point barcode for the building must be used.

7.3.7 Rural and Highway Contract Routes

If a rural route or highway contract route box number is included in the address, the mailpiece must show the appropriate ZIP+4 code representing the range for that box number as contained in the current USPS ZIP+4 Product. If a rural route or highway contract route box number is required to obtain a match with the finest level of ZIP+4 code but is not available, the alternative ZIP+4 code or ZIP+4 or delivery point barcode for the rural route or highway contract route must be used. If used, the rural route or highway contract route box number must be placed on the line immediately above the city/state/ZIP Code line.

7.3.8 Post Office Box

A post office box address must contain a post office box number that can be exactly matched with the USPS ZIP+4 Product in effect.

7.4 Enclosed Reply Cards and Envelopes

All letter-size reply cards and envelopes (business reply, courtesy reply, and meter reply mail) provided as enclosures in automation Regular or Nonprofit Standard Mail, and addressed for return to a domestic delivery address, must meet the standards in 201.3.0, Physical Standards for Automation Letters and Cards, for enclosed reply cards and envelopes. The mailer's signature on the postage statement certifies that this standard has been met when the corresponding mail is presented to the USPS.

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