207 Periodicals

Only a publisher or registered news agent with authorized Periodicals mailing privileges may mail at the Periodicals prices (see 5.2 for Periodicals pending authorization pricing). Copies that the public or a printer send to a publisher must be mailed at any other eligible price.

1.1.6 Limited Circulation Science-of-Agriculture Publications

Publications meeting the requirements of 11.2.2 receive a 5% discount off the total Outside-County postage, excluding the postage for advertising pounds, if eligible copies are mailed at In-County prices and the total number of Outside-County copies mailed for that issue is less than 5,000. Nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies claiming the Limited Circulation discount are subject to the standards in 7.0.

1.2 In-County

For all Periodicals In-County prices, see Notice 123–Price List.

1.3 Fees

Periodicals fees are per application for original entry, news agent registry, and reentry. See Notice 123—Price List - Domestic Business Mailing Fees.

2.0 Price Application and Computation

2.1 Price Application

2.1.1 Price Elements

Postage for Periodicals mail includes a pound price charge, a piece price charge, bundle and container price charges for Outside-County mail, and any discounts for which the mail qualifies under the corresponding standards.

2.1.2 Applying Outside-County Piece Prices

The per piece charge applies to each copy and each firm bundle in the mailing. Outside-County piece prices are based on the shape of the mailpiece (letter, flat, or parcel); the characteristics of the mailpiece (machinable or nonmachinable, see 18.4aa and 18.4ab); the application of a barcode; and the bundle presort level. Firm bundles and carrier route pieces pay separate piece prices that do not vary based on these criteria. For pieces properly prepared loose in trays, the price is based on the tray presort level. Apply piece prices for Outside-County mail as follows:

Letters.

Apply the “Letters—Barcoded” prices to pieces that meet all of the standards for automation letters in 201.3.0 and include a barcode.
Apply the “Letters—Nonbarcoded” prices to pieces that are eligible under the standards for all letters in 201 but do not include a barcode. Apply these prices also to pieces that are barcoded but do not meet all of the automation letter standards in 201.3.0.

Machinable flats.

Apply the “Machinable Flats—Barcoded” prices to pieces that meet all of the standards for automation flats in 201.6.0 and include a barcode. Apply the 5-digit price also to barcoded pieces prepared under the alternative flats criteria in 26.0 and placed in 5-digit bundles.
Apply the “Machinable Flats—Nonbarcoded” prices to pieces that meet all of the standards for automation flats in 201.6.0 but do not include a barcode.

Nonmachinable flats.

Apply the “Nonmachinable Flats-Barcoded” prices to pieces that meet all of the alternative standards for flats in 26.0 and include a barcode. Exception: Barcoded pieces prepared under 26.0 and placed in 5-digit bundles pay the “Machinable Flats-Barcoded” 5-digit price. Nonmachinable barcoded flats claiming the machinable flats-barcoded 5-digit price must meet the deflection standards in 201.4.0.
Apply the “Nonmachinable Flats-Nonbarcoded” prices to pieces that meet the standards for nonmachinable flats in 26.0 but do not include a barcode.

Parcels. Apply the “Parcels” prices to all parcels, whether or not a barcode is used.

2.1.3 Applying In-County Piece Prices

An addressed piece can be a single individually addressed copy or a firm bundle containing unaddressed or individually addressed copies for the same address. The per piece charge is based on the number of addressed pieces (not the number of copies). For In-County mail, piece prices apply to each addressed piece, based on the sorting done by the publisher. Piece prices for automation mailings are based on the bundle level (or tray level for unbundled pieces in trays); piece prices for nonautomation mailings are based on the tray or sack level.

2.1.4 Applying Pound Price

Apply pound prices to the weight of the pieces in the mailing as follows:

Outside-County (including Science-of-Agriculture) pound prices are based on the weight of the advertising portion sent to each postal zone (as computed from the entry office) or destination entry zone, and the weight of the nonadvertising portion to a destination entry zone or a single price to all other zones.
In-County pound prices consist of a DDU entry price and an unzoned price for eligible copies delivered to addresses within the county of publication.

2.1.5 Computing Weight of Advertising and Nonadvertising Portions

The pound price charge is the sum of the charges for the computed weight of the advertising portion of copies to each destination entry and zone, plus the sum of the charges for the computed weight of the nonadvertising portion of copies to each destination entry and all other zones. The following standards apply:

The minimum pound price charge for any zone to which copies are mailed is the 1-pound price. For example, three 2-ounce copies for a zone are subject to the minimum 1-pound charge.
Authorized Nonprofit and Classroom publications with an advertising percentage that is 10% or less are considered 100% nonadvertising. When computing the pound prices and the nonadvertising adjustment, use “0” as the advertising percentage. Authorized Nonprofit and Classroom publications claiming 0% advertising must pay the nonadvertising pound price for the entire weight of all copies to all zones.

2.1.6 Per Piece Charge

Piece prices apply to each addressed piece, based on the sortation done by the publisher. An addressed piece can be a single individually addressed copy, a bundle of unaddressed copies with a single delivery address for the bundle, or a firm bundle containing unaddressed or individually addressed copies for the same address. The per piece charge is based on the number of addressed pieces (not the number of copies).

2.1.7 Discounts

Discounts and reductions apply as specified in 2.0, 10.0, and 29.0.

2.1.8 Applying Outside-County Bundle Prices

For Outside-County mail prepared in bundles, mailers pay the bundle price according to the presort level of the bundle and the presort level of the container that the bundle is placed in or on. Firm bundles pay a firm bundle price that is based only on the presort level of the container. Bundle prices do not apply to barcoded letter-size mail prepared in full letter trays or to flat-size mail prepared in flat trays under the optional tray preparation in 22.7 and 25.5. The bundle prices are in addition to the container prices. The following additional standards apply:

Bundles of fewer than six pieces under 25.1.4 (including single-piece bundles) must each pay the applicable bundle charge.
For bundles with both In-County and Outside-County pieces, mailers do not pay the bundle charge for carrier route, 5-digit/scheme bundles.

2.1.9 Applying Outside-County Container Prices

For Outside-County mail prepared in trays, sacks, pallets, and other USPS-approved containers, mailers pay the container price according to the type of container, the presort level of the container, and where the mail is entered. The container level is determined by the least-finely presorted bundle that container could contain according to standards (for example, an “SCF pallet” may contain SCF, 3-digit, 5-digit, and carrier route bundles and would always pay the 3-digit/SCF pallet price). For mailer-supplied air freight containers, mailers pay the container charge based on the original presort of the mail before it is transferred to the airfreight container. The container prices are in addition to the bundle prices. The following additional standards apply:

For mailings prepared in trays or sacks, mailers pay the container price for each tray or sack based on container level and entry.
For mailings prepared on pallets under 705.8.0:

For bundles placed directly on pallets, mailers pay the container price for each pallet.
For trays or sacks on pallets, mailers pay the container price for each tray or sack, and not for the pallets. The container price for each tray or sack is based on the tray or sack level and where the pallet is entered.

For containers with both In-County and Outside-County pieces, mailers do not pay the container price for carrier route, 5-digit carrier routes, and 5-digit/scheme pallets, sacks, and trays.

2.2 Computing Postage

2.2.1 Percentage of Advertising

The percentage of advertising shown on the postage statement must be based on the marked copy of the corresponding issue or edition provided as required. If necessary, round off the computed percentage of advertising to two decimal places. Advertising percentages also may be calculated through the Periodicals Accuracy, Grading, and Evaluation (PAGE) Program using the procedures in 16.0 and 17.0.

2.2.2 Weight Per Copy

To determine the weight per copy, select and weigh a random sample of 10 or more copies and divide the total sample weight by the number of pieces in the sample. Express the weight per copy in decimal pounds rounded off to four decimal places. Per-copy weights also may be calculated through the Periodicals Accuracy, Grading, and Evaluation (PAGE) Program using the procedures in 16.0 and 17.0.

2.2.3 Computing Other Weights

To find the total weight of mailed copies per zone or price level, multiply the corresponding number of copies by the computed weight per copy. Round off each result to the nearest whole pound, except that when the result is under 0.5 pound, round to 1 pound. To find the weight of the advertising portion for each zone, where applicable, multiply the total weight of copies for that zone by the percentage of advertising. Round off each result to the nearest whole pound, except that when the result is under 0.5 pound, round to 1 pound. To find the weight of the nonadvertising portion, subtract the total weight of the advertising portion to all zones from the total weight of copies to all zones. To find the weight of In-County price copies, multiply the number of copies by the weight per copy and round off the total weight to the nearest whole pound, except that when the result is less than 0.5 pound, round to 1 pound.

2.2.4 Pound Price

To compute the pound price postage for Regular and Preferred Outside-County copies, multiply the weight of the advertising and nonadvertising portions by the corresponding prices, add the unrounded results, and subtract all applicable discounts. To compute the pound price postage for In-County price copies, multiply their total weight by the corresponding price per pound.

2.2.5 Piece Price

Determine the piece price postage as follows:

Outside-County. Multiply the number of addressed pieces (not copies) by the appropriate price, based on the presort of the pieces as mailed. An addressed piece can be a single individually-addressed copy, an addressed supplement (3.3.6a), or a firm bundle containing multiple copies for the same address. For firm bundles, multiply the number of firm bundles by the firm bundle piece price.
In-County. Multiply the number of addressed pieces (not copies) by the appropriate price, based on the presort of the pieces as mailed. An addressed piece can be a single individually-addressed copy, an addressed supplement (3.3.6a), or a firm bundle containing multiple copies for the same address.

2.2.6 Nonadvertising Adjustment

To compute the nonadvertising adjustment (where applicable), subtract the advertising percentage from 100, multiply the remainder by the nonadvertising adjustment per piece, multiply the unrounded product by the number of pieces, and round off the product to four decimal places.

2.2.7 Outside-County Bundle and Container Charges

The Outside-County bundle charge is the sum of the number of bundles for each bundle level and container level in the mailing subject to the Outside-County bundle prices, multiplied by the applicable bundle prices. The Outside-County container charge is the sum of the number of containers for each container type, container level, and entry level in the mailing subject to the Outside-County container prices, multiplied by the applicable container prices. Mailers must document the number of bundles and containers required for the prices claimed. If the documentation shows more bundles and containers are required than are presented for mailing, the mailer must pay the charges according to the documentation. Mailers cannot reduce the bundle and container charges by preparing fewer bundles and containers than standards require. Mailers who prepare Periodicals publications as a combined mailing by merging copies or bundles of copies under 27.0 may pay the Outside-County bundle and container charges in one of the following ways:

On one publisher‘s Form 3541.
On one consolidated Form 3541. Under this option, the consolidator must complete the appropriate sections of the form and pay the charges from the consolidator‘s own advance deposit account.
Apportioned on each publisher‘s Form 3541. The following standards apply:

The qualification report must be submitted electronically via Mail.dat. See 203.3.0 for additional documentation requirements.
The total charges on all Form 3541s in a combined mailing must equal the total charges for all bundles and containers subject to the Outside-County container prices presented for mailing.
Apportion the bundle charge for each title or edition by determining how many of each type of bundle that title or edition is in. Next calculate the percentage of copies in each of those bundles and convert to four decimal places, rounding if necessary (for example, convert 20.221% to 0.2022). Add the decimal values for each type of bundle in the mailing and multiply the total by the applicable bundle price. Add the bundle charges to determine the total for each title or edition.
Apportion the container charge for each title or edition by determining how many of each type of container that title or edition is in. Next calculate the percentage of copies in each of those containers and convert to four decimal places, rounding if necessary (for example, convert 20.221% to 0.2022). Add the decimal values for each type of container in the mailing and multiply the total by the applicable container price. Add the container charges to determine the total for each title or edition.

2.2.8 Total Postage

Total Outside-County postage is the sum of the per pound and per piece charges, the bundle charges, the container charges, and any Ride-Along charges; minus all discounts, rounded off to the nearest whole cent. Total In-County postage is the sum of the per pound and per piece charges, and any Ride-Along charges, less all discounts, rounded off to the nearest whole cent.

3.0 Physical Characteristics and Content Eligibility

3.1 Physical Characteristics

See 201 for the physical characteristics for letter-size, flat-size, and parcel-size Periodicals.

3.2 Addressing

3.2.1 General

Each addressed piece, including the top copy of a firm bundle, must bear the addressee‘s name and address. The address must include the correct ZIP+4 code or 5-digit ZIP Code. On flat-size pieces, the address must be formatted and positioned according to 202.2.0.

3.2.2 Address Label

White or other light-colored paper must be used for the address label. To identify the mailpiece as Periodicals, the mailer may place, vertically along the left-hand side of the label, a 1/4-inch or narrower strip of solid pink or of pink “PER” characters.

3.2.3 Return Address

The return address must appear on any mailing wrapper (see 3.3.8) of a publication with the optional ancillary service endorsement “Address Service Requested” and on any opaque wrapper of a publication. If a clear plastic wrapper is used on a publication endorsed “Address Service Requested,” the return address must appear visibly anywhere on the address side of the wrapper or the topmost item inside.

3.3 Permissible Mailpiece Components

3.3.1 Pages

Pages are the printed sheets forming the publication or one of the mailpiece’s components, bearing advertising, nonadvertising, or both, including pages with text and graphics, blank spaces for writing or marking, and material to be completed or used by the reader. A minor portion of the pages in a Periodicals mailpiece may have unusual characteristics, such as a different size, shape, or construction, or portions that may be wholly or partially separable, and pages prepared for folding out. No page may have dimensions (when folded, if folded) that exceed the dimensions of the publication. Pages are also subject to these standards:

Multilayer pages (including pages formed by sheets glued together and pages that have unusual shapes, such as cutouts, movable flaps, or “pop-ups”) may include small amounts of non-paper material such as grommets, string, or rubber bands as needed to assemble the page. Not all elements that make up a multilayer page must be printed. In addition, multilayer pages may contain novel characteristics such as an LED display, a sound device, or battery operated movable parts. Multilayer pages may also be formed as pouches or pockets, but may contain only permissible loose enclosures (see 3.3.4) or other securely affixed permissible components.
Multiple pages may be held together by staples or other means separate from and in addition to the regular binding of the publication.
Oversized pages may be used for illustrations, charts, maps, and other advertising and nonadvertising content.

3.3.2 Parts and Sections

Parts and sections are pages that are physically separate subdivisions of the publication, as identified by the publisher. Each part or section must show the publication title, and the number of parts or sections in the issue must be stated on the cover of the first part or section. Parts or sections produced by someone other than the publisher may not be mailed at Periodicals prices if these parts or sections are prepared by or for advertisers or if they are provided to the publisher free or at a nominal charge. On request, the publisher must submit contracts entered into with producers of parts or sections.

3.3.3 Enclosures at First-Class Mail or USPS Marketing Mail Prices

Material paid at First-Class Mail or USPS Marketing Mail prices may be enclosed in a Periodicals mailpiece subject to these conditions:

The total weight of all enclosed USPS Marketing Mail material must be less than 16 ounces.
Postage and fee payment is subject to 703.9.8, 703.9.9 and 207.16.3. A permit imprint that may appear on a First-Class Mail or USPS Marketing Mail enclosure must not be visible when the mailpiece is prepared for mailing.
When enclosing nonincidental First-Class Mail or any USPS Marketing Mail, combination envelopes or containers with separate parts for the two classes of mail may be used. If both the sender‘s and addressee‘s names and addresses are not on both pieces, the sender‘s name and address must be placed on one piece and the addressee‘s name and address on the other. Combination containers with inseparable parts may bear the names and addresses on only one part.
The applicable “First-Class Mail Enclosed” or “USPS Marketing Mail Enclosed” marking must be placed on or in the host publication if it contains any nonincidental First-Class Mail or any USPS Marketing Mail enclosure. See 703.9.7.2.

3.3.4 Loose Enclosures at Periodicals Prices

Only the following material may be included loose as an enclosure in a Periodicals mailpiece and be paid at Periodicals prices, subject to the corresponding conditions:

An incidental First-Class Mail piece must be closely related but secondary to the Periodicals publication with which it is enclosed. If the publication otherwise consists entirely of nonadvertising material, an incidental First-Class Mail enclosure may be treated as nonadvertising material. In all other cases, an incidental First-Class Mail enclosure is considered part of the advertising portion of the publication. Examples of an incidental First-Class Mail enclosure are a bill for the publication, a statement of account for past publication purchases, or a personal message or greeting included with the publication.
A receipt, request, or order for a subscription may be printed or written; prepared as a reply mail card or envelope for any authorized Periodicals publication (or a publication pending Periodicals authorization); or inserted in an envelope within the publication. The receipt or request may be part of, or accompanied by, printed material containing information related exclusively to a receipt or request or order for a subscription provided the printed material does not advertise, promote, or offer for sale other products or services.
A card or form for the recipient‘s use in providing address correction information to the publisher may be printed or written; prepared as a card or envelope, including business reply, or as a combination form for two or more Periodicals publications issued by the same publisher; inserted in an envelope that is attached to, bound in, or loose within the publication; or prepared as a detachable part of another permissible enclosure.
A publisher‘s printed letter, including facsimile signature as a permissible loose enclosure with a Periodicals publication provided the printed letter is limited to the publisher promoting the publication; or announcing or describing changes to the publication, e.g. title, format, frequency, terms or conditions of a subscription; or other business of the publication, as long as the printed letter includes no other advertising for the publisher or any other party.
Enclosures listed in 3.3.4b and 3.3.4c are not counted when determining the percentage of advertising in the publication, but they are included in the total weight of the publication reported on the postage statement.

3.3.5 Bound in Enclosures at Periodicals Prices

Only the following material may be included as a bound in enclosure in a Periodicals mailpiece (or a publication pending Periodicals authorization) and be paid for at Periodicals prices, subject to the corresponding conditions:

A request or order form for a subscription to an authorized Periodicals publication (or a publication pending Periodicals authorization) that is bound into a Periodicals publication (or a publication pending Periodicals authorization), and which is prepared as a single sheet or multiple pages and includes an attached reply card or an envelope, is not counted as advertising. The request or order form may be part of, or accompanied by, printed material containing information related exclusively to a request or an order for a subscription, provided the request or the subscription order form does not advertise, promote, or offer for sale any other products or services.
Enclosures listed in 3.3.5 are not counted when determining the percentage of total advertising in the publication, but they are included in the total weight of the publication reported on the postage statement.

3.3.6 Supplement

A supplement is one or more pages (subject to 3.3.1) formed by one or more printed sheets that are not bound into a publication. A supplement may be devoted to a single topic and may contain material different from that in the host publication. A supplement may not be mailed at Periodicals prices by itself. The length and height of a supplement may not exceed those of the host publication except when the host publication and the supplement are contained in an envelope, polybag, or other complete wrapper or under 3.3.6d. Supplements are subject to these conditions as applicable:

If a supplement to a bound publication is formed of more than one sheet, all sheets making up the supplement must be bound together.
A bound publication mailed with one or more supplements must be enclosed in a wrapper.
A supplement to an unbound publication that is not prepared in a wrapper, polybag, or envelope must be combined with and inserted within the publication under 3.5.4.
A wrapper is not required when a loose addressed supplement is included within the same mailing as the host publication, bears a proper delivery address, contains at least 25% nonadvertising material, and includes on the front/cover page the endorsement “Periodicals Supplement to” followed by the exact title and issue date of the host publication. The external dimensions of such supplements may exceed those of the host publication provided they are of the same processing category as the host publication.

3.3.7 Cover and Protective Cover

A cover may be placed on the outside of a Periodicals publication. A protective cover is an additional cover placed around the outside of a publication; preparation is subject to 3.5.6. Advertising, nonadvertising, or both may be printed on the cover or protective cover. The cover and protective cover on a publication are included when measuring advertising percentage. Nothing may be attached to the cover or protective cover except as permitted under 3.3.9.

3.3.8 Mailing Wrapper

A mailing wrapper is an envelope, sleeve, partial wrapper, polywrap, or carton used to enclose the mailpiece. Advertising may be printed on the mailing wrapper and is included when measuring advertising percentage. Nothing may be attached to the mailing wrapper except as permitted under 3.3.9.

3.3.9 Attachment

Mailers may attach the following material to a cover, protective cover, or mailing wrapper of a publication:

Stickers of any size and shape.
Material allowed as a loose enclosure described in 3.3.3, or 3.3.4. When nonincidental First-Class Mail and/or USPS Marketing Mail enclosures are attached, the marking “First-Class” or “Letter Enclosed” must be on a First-Class Mail attachment; “Marketing” or “MKT,” on a USPS Marketing Mail attachment.
Material normally allowed within the contents of the publication composed of advertising, nonadvertising, or a combination of both may be attached to the cover or protective cover only when the publication and attached material are enclosed in a wrapper or prepared under 3.5.4. No portion of the publication title may be obscured.

3.3.10 Product Samples

Subject to the requirements in 3.3.1 and 3.5.4, product samples related to print advertising in the issue and are not offered for sale within the meaning of 3.4.2a and 3.4.3 may be included in a Periodicals publication as a page, or part of a multilayer page. Examples include, but are not limited to, a swatch of cloth; a paper towel as part of a printed page, or printed paper towel; a bandage; and fragrance, cosmetics, lotions, or edibles in packet form. The combined weight of product samples in an issue is limited to 3.3 ounces. Any product sample in the form of a packet is limited in total weight to no more than one ounce, but does not include the page weight upon which the packet is affixed. Packet product samples also must have a minimum burst strength of 3,000 pounds per square inch (psi). Travel size and similar small products in commercially available form or packaging do not qualify as permissible product samples, even if less than 3.3 ounces. In addition, CDs, DVDs, and similar media do not qualify as permissible product samples. Permissible product samples:

Are not eligible with letter-size pieces;
Must comply with hazmat standards (601.8.0);
Must comply with machinability standards, e.g. uniform thickness (201.4.0);
Must not be attached to the front or back cover page of the host Periodicals publication, or any other permissible component;
Must be secured in place (spine or tip-on interior page) to prevent shifting (601.3.1); and,
Must be placed at least 3/4 inch from all non-bound edges of any interior page.

3.3.11 Printed Addition

Only the following may be printed on a copy of a Periodicals publication after it is printed or placed on its cover, protective cover, or mailing wrapper:

The name and address of the intended recipient or of the publisher or sender.
The printed title of the publication and its place of publication.
The expiration date of the subscription.
The request for address correction information from the addressee.
The words “Sample Copy” (if the copy is a sample), “Marked Copy” (if the copy contains a marked item or article), or “Address Service Requested” (if the copy is to be returned to the sender if undeliverable as addressed).
The number of copies enclosed in a bundle (on the outside of the bundle) or a bundle count such as “2 of 4” (on the bundle wrapper).
Corrections of typographical errors or a mark, except by written or printed words, to call attention to a word or passage.
Printed messages not required to be mailed as First-Class Mail or Priority Mail Express.

3.3.12 Label Carrier

A label carrier may be used to carry the delivery address for the mailpiece and must consist of a single unfolded, uncreased sheet of card or paper stock, securely affixed to the cover of the publication or large enough so that it does not rotate inside the wrapper, subject to these conditions:

The label carrier must include the following elements:

The title of the Periodicals publication or the name and address of the publisher. Mailers may also include incidental graphics of the host Periodicals publication, other Periodicals publications of the publisher, or Periodicals publications of one or more affiliates or subsidiaries of the publisher (or any combination thereof), provided that all of the publications are under common 100% ownership. If such graphics are used they are treated as advertising, and mailers must use an area no larger than 3 inches by 5 inches to show the title of the Periodicals publication or the name and address of the publisher and the graphic or graphics.
The Periodicals imprint “Periodicals Postage Paid at...” or the word “Periodicals” in the upper right corner of the address side (unless “Periodicals” is printed on the address side of the polybag).
The address to which the mailpiece can be returned if undeliverable, if endorsed “Address Service requested.”

The label carrier may bear a request for address correction from the addressee. It also may bear information about requesting or subscribing to any Periodicals publication (or a publication pending Periodicals authorization), including a request or subscription form.
As applicable, the label carrier may show the endorsement “First-Class Mail Enclosed,” “USPS Marketing Mail Enclosed,” or “Ride-Along Enclosed,” or the permit imprint used to pay postage for the First-Class Mail or USPS Marketing Mail enclosure if that permit imprint is below the Periodicals imprint or the word “Periodicals.”
Other printed information, whether advertising or nonadvertising, is permitted only on the back of the label carrier and is subject to measurement and postage payment accordingly. Incidental text calling attention to information on the reverse, or to information within the contents of the Periodicals publication, may be placed on the front of the label carrier. If any information referred to on the reverse of the label carrier or within the contents of the Periodicals publication is advertising, the incidental text on the front also is treated as advertising.
For flat-size pieces, the label carrier must be affixed to maintain the delivery address entirely in the top half of the mailpiece (see 202.2.0) throughout processing and delivery or, if not affixed, at least the beginning 0.5 inch of the address must remain in the top half. The “beginning 0.5 inch” means the first half-inch of the recipient, delivery address, and city/state/ZIP Code lines, and not the end of each line.

3.4 Impermissible Mailpiece Components

3.4.1 General

Regardless of preparation or characteristics, the materials described in 3.4.2a through 3.4.2e are not eligible for Periodicals prices.

3.4.2 Prohibited Material

Material that contains any one of the following printed items or that is referred to in a component of the Periodicals mailpiece (by the use of one of these items) is ineligible to be mailed at Periodicals prices:

A separate price or subscription instructions different from those of the host publication.
The word “catalog.”
A First-Class Mail, USPS Marketing Mail, Parcel Select, or Package Services permit imprint.
An ISBN (International Standard Book Number).
An ISSN (International Standard Serial Number) or USPS number different from that of the host publication.

3.4.3 Products

Except as provided for in 3.3.10, products may not be mailed at Periodicals prices. Examples include stationery (such as pads of paper or blank printed forms); cassettes; floppy disks; CDs; DVDs; merchandise, including travel-size merchandise in commercially available form or packaging; and wall, desk, and blank calendars. Printed pages, including oversized pages and calendars, are not considered products if they are not offered for sale. USPS Retail Ground, Package Services, or Parcel Select mail pieces may not be combined with a Periodicals publication.

3.4.4 Nonprinted Sheets

Any matter not formed of printed sheets (except as permitted under 3.3.1a) is not eligible for Periodicals prices.

3.5 Mailpiece Construction

3.5.1 Bound/Unbound

Publications may be prepared in either a bound or unbound form, with or without wrappers unless required by 3.5.7. A bound publication is a publication in which pages are securely held together by two or more staples, spiral binding, glue, stitching, or other permanent fastening. All other publications are unbound, including folded multisheet and single-sheet publications and those in which pages are loose and collated (“nested”) or in which pages are held together by a single staple.

3.5.2 Size and Weight

Periodicals mail may not weigh more than 70 pounds or measure more than 108 inches in length and girth combined. Additional size and weight limits apply to letters and machinable and nonmachinable flat-size pieces.

3.5.3 Uniformity

Flat-size pieces must remain uniformly thick. Cover attachments, tabbed or glued half covers, flat-surfaced ride-along enclosures, loose subscription materials, and flat-surfaced enclosures of other classes may be included as long as the overall uniform thickness of the flat is maintained.

3.5.4 Without Mailing Wrapper

When the mailpiece does not have a mailing wrapper, all the components of an unbound publication must be combined with and inserted inside the publication. Only enclosures mailable at Periodicals prices under 3.3.4 may be included loose inside a bound unwrapped publication. An enclosure under 3.3.3c, or 3.3.4, or a single sheet prepared as an attachment under 3.3.9c, may be securely attached along the bound edge on the outside of an unwrapped publication if it does not exceed any dimension of the cover of the publication and comes within 3/4 inch of any open edge.

3.5.5 With Mailing Wrapper

Except as provided in 3.3.6, when the mailpiece is completely enclosed in a mailing wrapper, the components may be placed anywhere within that wrapper. When a sleeve or other partial wrapper is used, the components must be secured so that they do not fall out during handling. Bound publications carrying loose supplements or prepared in physically separate parts or sections must be either completely enclosed in an envelope, plastic wrapper (polybag), or paper wrapper or inserted within a sleeve so that the component parts do not become separated while in the mail.

3.5.6 Cover Page and Protective Cover

If the piece is not completely enclosed in a mailing wrapper, then any protective cover or cover page must cover both the front and back of the host publication and extend to within at least 3/4 inch of any open edge. Exception: Flat-size pieces may have short covers as provided in 201.6.4.2. If the host publication is bound, the protective cover must be permanently attached to the publication.

3.5.7 APO/FPO and DPO Copy

Any single copy of an unbound publication that includes any enclosure, supplement, or more than one part or section and that is mailed to an APO/FPO and DPO address must be completely enclosed in a mailing wrapper.

3.5.8 Postal Inspection

Periodicals mail must be prepared so that it can be easily examined. The mailing of publications at Periodicals postage prices represents consent by the sender to USPS inspection of the contents whether loose or inserted in envelopes, wrappers, or other covers.

3.6 Printed Features

3.6.1 Publication Title and Address Notice

The publication title must be displayed prominently on the publication and any protective cover. On any publication enclosed in an opaque mailing wrapper, carton, or any wrapper when the title of the publication is not prominently displayed through the wrapper or carton, the publication title and the mailing address to which undeliverable copies or change-of-address notices (see 4.11.5h) are to be sent must be shown in the upper left corner of the address side of the mailing wrapper (see 3.3.8). A publication with a clear wrapper and a prominently displayed publication title need not have the return mailing address on the wrapper unless required under 3.2.3. The publication number includes an alpha prefix and is to be within parentheses, for example, THE NATIONAL WEEKLY (ISSN 9876-543X) or THE COMMUNITY (USPS 123-456).

3.6.2 Periodicals Imprint

Mailing wrappers (see 3.3.8) that completely enclose the host publication must bear the Periodicals imprint “Periodicals Postage Paid at...” or the word “Periodicals” in the upper right corner of the address area. If a clear plastic wrapper is used, those words may appear anywhere on the address side of the wrapper or the topmost item inside.

3.6.3 Advertising

Advertising may be printed on the pages of any component of a publication, subject to the corresponding standards. Regardless of location, an advertisement must be prepared as an integral part of the publication. Except for advertisements in supplements, all advertisements in a bound publication must be permanently attached. Except as provided in 3.3.4e, all advertising must be included in the advertising portion of the issue measured under 16.0 and 17.0. Different advertising may occupy the same space in different editions of the same issue.

3.6.4 Marking of Paid Reading Matter

Under 18 USC 1734, if a valuable consideration is paid, accepted, or promised for the publication of any editorial or other reading matter in a Periodicals publication, that matter must be plainly marked “advertisement” by the publisher. When a single item of paid editorial or other reading matter occupies more than one page, it need only be marked “advertisement” on the first page. The word “advertisement” may be included in a statement that explains why the material is marked “advertisement.” Such a statement must be prominent on the first page of the material and the word “advertisement” in the statement must be in bold or italicized print or otherwise emphasized so that it can be plainly seen. Editors or publishers who print such matter without plainly marking it “advertisement” are subject to a fine of not more than $500.

4.0 Basic Eligibility Standards

4.1 Qualification Categories

All Periodicals publications must be authorized Periodicals mailing privileges under one of five qualification categories (general publications, publications of institutions and societies, publications of state departments of agriculture, requester publications, and foreign publications). These publications are subject to the general standards below and the standards for each respective category.

4.2 General

Only newspapers and periodical publications that meet the mailability standards in 601.1.0 through 601.8.0 along with the applicable standards in 4.0 through 15.0 and 29.0 may be authorized for mailing privileges at Periodicals prices.

4.3 Periodical Publications

4.3.1 Definition and Characteristics

For Periodicals purposes, periodical publication or periodical is one published at a stated frequency with the intent to continue publication indefinitely, with these characteristics:

The continuity of the periodical must show from issue to issue. Continuity is shown by serialization of articles or by successive issues carrying the same style, format, theme, or subject matter.
The primary purpose of the periodical must be the transmission of information.
The content of the periodical may consist of original or reprinted articles on one topic or many topics, listings, photographs, illustrations, graphs, a combination of advertising and nonadvertising matter, comic strips, legal notices, editorial material, cartoons, or other subject matter.
The primary distribution of each issue must be made before that of each succeeding issue.

4.3.2 Other Publication Types

The following types of publications also qualify as periodical publications:

Any catalog or other course listing (including mail announcements of legal texts that are part of post-bar admission education) issued by any institution of higher education or by a nonprofit organization engaged in continuing legal education.
Any loose-leaf page or report (including any index, filing instruction, table, or sectional identifier that is part of such report) designed as part of a loose-leaf reporting service on developments in the law or public policy.
Any transportation guide containing schedules, fares, and related information.

4.3.3 Restriction

Material that has been, or is intended to be, distributed primarily as a book may not be converted into an issue of a periodical by merely placing a periodical’s title on it, placing the material within a periodical’s cover, or using similar superficial methods. This restriction does not prohibit excerpts or condensations of books from being proper subject matter for periodicals.

4.4 Printed Sheets

Periodicals publications must be formed of printed sheets. Sheets may be die cut or deckle-edged and may be made of paper, cellophane, foil, or other similar materials. They may not be reproduced by stencil, mimeograph, or hectograph. Reproduction by any other process is permitted. Any style of type may be used.

4.5 Known Office of Publication

4.5.1 Location

The publisher of a Periodicals publication must maintain a known office of publication at the location where the original entry for Periodicals mailing privileges is authorized.

4.5.2 Purpose

The known office of publication must be a public office for transacting the business of the publication during normal business hours. It must also be the office where the publication’s circulation records are kept or can be available for USPS examination.

4.6 Regular Issuance

4.6.1 Frequency

Each Periodicals publication must be issued at a regular frequency of at least four times a year.

4.6.2 Statement of Frequency

The publisher must adopt a statement of frequency showing how many issues are to be published each year and at which regular intervals (for example: daily; weekly; quarterly; four times a year in January, February, October, and November; weekly during school year; monthly except during July and August).

4.6.3 Compliance With Frequency

All issues must be published regularly as called for by the statement of frequency. To change the number of issues scheduled or the statement of frequency, the publisher must file an application for reentry. If a publication does not maintain regular issuance according to its stated frequency, even after USPS notice, the PCSC revokes the publication’s Periodicals mailing privileges.

4.7 Eligible Formats

4.7.1 Complete Copies

Complete copies of the regular issues of a Periodicals publication may be mailed at the applicable Periodicals prices. Incomplete copies (for example, those lacking pages or parts of pages) are subject to the applicable First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service — Retail, First-Class Package Service — Commercial, USPS Marketing Mail, USPS Retail Ground, or Package Services prices.

4.7.2 Issues and Editions

Issues and editions of a Periodicals publication may be mailed at the applicable Periodicals prices if they show continuity and meet the applicable standards in 4.8 or 4.9.

4.8 Issues

4.8.1 Regular Issues

Regular issues must be published according to the publication’s stated frequency. Issues may include annual reports, directories, buyers’ guides, lists, and similar material if these issues bear the publication title and are included in the regular subscription price, if any.

4.8.2 Extra Issues

Extra issues, not shown in the publication’s stated frequency, published for communicating news and information received too late for insertion in the regular issue, but not for advertising purposes, may be mailed occasionally at Periodicals prices. The original entry Post Office must receive written notice of these issues before they are mailed.

4.8.3 Mailing Issues—Same Day

For determining Periodicals eligibility and postage, an issue of a newspaper or other periodical that is published at a regular frequency, more often than once a month, on the same day as another regular issue of the same publication, is deemed to be a separate publication that must independently meet the applicable standards for Periodicals mailing privileges if:

More than 10% of the total copies of the issue is distributed on a regular basis to nonsubscribers or nonrequesters.
The number of copies of the issue distributed to nonsubscribers or nonrequesters is more than twice the number of nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies of the other issue distributed on that same day.

4.8.4 Mailing Issues—Different Day

For determining Periodicals eligibility and postage, an issue of a newspaper or other periodical that is published at a regular frequency, more often than once a month, but not on the same day as another regular issue of the same publication, is deemed to be a separate publication that must independently meet the applicable standards for Periodicals mailing privileges if:

More than 10% of the total copies of the issue is distributed on a regular basis to nonsubscribers or nonrequesters.
The number of copies of the issue distributed to nonsubscribers or nonrequesters is more than twice the number of nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies of any other issue distributed during the period between the distribution of each of the issues whose eligibility is being examined.

4.9 Editions

4.9.1 Types

Issues mailed at Periodicals prices may be prepared in editions (such as demographic or morning). Subscribers and requesters must not routinely receive more than one edition of any issue.

4.9.2 Extra Editions

Extra editions may be mailed at Periodicals prices to communicate news and information received too late for the regular edition. Extra editions may not be intended for advertising.

4.9.3 Content

Editions may differ in content, but not so much that they constitute separate and independent publications. A separate publication is not acceptable as an edition of another publication.

4.10 Back Issues and Reprints

Periodicals prices may be paid on mailings of unbound back issues (if the publication’s Periodicals entry is in effect), reprint copies of daily publications printed within 1 week of the issue date, and reprint copies of other than daily publications printed before the next issue is printed. Other mailings of back issues or reprint copies, including permanently bound back issues or reprint copies, are subject to the applicable First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service — Retail, First-Class Package Service — Commercial, USPS Marketing Mail, USPS Retail Ground, or Package Services prices.

4.11 Identification

4.11.1 Title

The publication title must be shown on the front or cover page in a position and in a type style and size that distinguish the title from the publisher’s name or other items.

4.11.2 Identification Statement

An identification statement, in an easily read type, must be included in all copies of publications authorized Periodicals mailing privileges and in all copies mailed pending approval of Periodicals mailing privileges.

4.11.3 Unbound Publication

In an unbound publication, the identification statement must be shown conspicuously in one of the following places:

On one of the first five pages.
On the table of contents page.
In the masthead on the editorial page, if the location of the editorial page is shown in the table of contents on the front page of the publication.
On the cover of the publication.

4.11.4 Bound Publication

In a bound publication (one secured with two or more staples, spiral binding, glue, stitching, or other permanent fastening), the identification statement must be shown conspicuously as described in 4.11.3 or on one of the last three nonadvertising pages inside the back cover.

4.11.5 Identification Statement Content

The identification statement must contain:

The publication title and number. The publication number includes an alpha prefix and must be within parentheses immediately after or below the publication title. If an International Standard Serial Number (ISSN) is assigned, it must appear in the identification statement (for example, “THE WEEKLY JOURNAL” (ISSN 9876-543X)). If an ISSN is not assigned, the USPS number assigned by the PCSC must appear in the identification statement within 90 days after being provided (for example, “THE CIVIC BULLETIN” (USPS 876-690)). The publication number may be on the front or cover page instead of in the identification statement.
The issue date. The date may be omitted if it is on the front or cover page.
A statement of frequency, such as described in 4.6.2.
The issue number. Every issue of each publication must be numbered consecutively in a series that may not be broken by assigning numbers to issues unavoidably omitted. The issue number may be omitted if it is on the front or cover page.
At the publisher’s option, the subscription price, if the publication has one.
The name and address of the known office of publication, including street number, street name, and the ZIP+4 or 5-digit ZIP Code. The street name and number are optional if there is no letter carrier service. The known office of publication must be clearly distinguishable from the name of other offices of the publication. For foreign publications, the address of the publisher’s agent must be shown as the known office of publication.
The imprint “Periodicals Postage Paid at...” or, if mailed at two or more offices, “Periodicals Postage Paid at... and at additional mailing offices.” A notice of pending application is shown instead if copies are mailed while an application is pending: “Application to Mail at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at....”
The mailing address for change-of-address orders, in the normal text type of the publication: “POSTMASTER: Send address changes to [publication title and mailing address].” For publications authorized for ACS, as defined in 507.4.2, publishers may modify this statement to say: “POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. (See DMM 507.1.5.2); NON-POSTAL AND MILITARY FACILITIES: send address corrections to [publication title and mailing address].” When Undeliverable as Addressed (UAA) copies are sent to the CFS unit for ACS processing, a PS Form 3579 will not be created and any barcodes or other information on the address will not be obliterated. Change-of-address information may also be shown on the label carrier or container of publications prepared in envelopes, closed wrappers, or polybags.

4.12 Advertising Standards

4.12.1 Definition of Advertising

Advertising is restricted or prohibited by 6.1.3 and 6.2.3 for the categories of Periodicals authorization. For these standards, the term advertising includes:

All material for the publication of which a valuable consideration is paid, accepted, or promised, that calls attention to something to get people to buy it, sell it, seek it, or support it.
Reading matter or other material for the publication of which an advertising price is charged.
Articles, items, and notices in the form of reading matter inserted by custom or understanding that textual matter is to be inserted for the advertiser or the advertiser’s products in the publication in which a display advertisement appears.
A newspaper’s or periodical’s advertisement of its own services or issues, or any other business of the publisher, whether in display advertising or reading matter.

4.12.2 Definition of Public Service Announcement

The term public service announcement means any announcement for which no valuable consideration is received by the publisher, which does not include any material related to the business interests of the publisher, and which promotes programs, activities, or services of federal, state, or local governments or of nonprofit organizations, or matters generally regarded as in the public interest. A public service announcement is not treated as advertising.

4.13 Fees

4.13.1 Fee Required

The required fee must accompany an application for:

Periodicals mailing privileges (original entry).
News agent registry.
Reentry (unless excepted in 4.13.2) to request a:

Change in title, frequency of issuance, or original entry office.
Change in qualification category.
Change in eligibility from preferred prices or the preferred price discount to regular Outside-County prices.

4.13.2 No Fee

No fee is charged if reentry is only to change eligibility to preferred prices or the preferred price discount.

4.13.3 Return of Fee

After an application is filed with the USPS, no part of the fee is returned to the applicant.

4.13.4 Address Correction

The fee for manual or automated address correction service is charged per notice issued.

5.0 Applying for Periodicals Authorization

5.1 Original Entry Application

5.1.1 General Publications

To apply for Periodicals mailing privileges in the general publication category:

Form 3500 must be completed and filed at the Post Office serving the known office of publication. Part B may be left blank when submitted under the “New Launch” procedure.
If the frequency of the publication includes more than one regular issue on any day, the publisher also must complete Form 3541-C. If the frequency of the publication includes more than one regular issue per month, but not on the same day, the publisher also must complete Form 3541-E. The applicable form must be submitted with Form 3500.
The publisher must provide all supporting information required on the application and must keep (and make available for USPS examination) records that establish that the publication is not designed primarily for free or nominal price circulation.

5.1.2 Publications of Institutions and Societies

To apply for Periodicals mailing privileges in the publications of institutions and societies category:

Form 3500 must be completed and filed at the Post Office serving the known office of publication.
When a publication issued by an institution or society carries general advertising, individual subscriptions or receipts are not required; a resolution is acceptable (for example: “Resolved: That a copy of each issue of [publication title] shall be sent to each member of [organization name] and that [$] of each member’s annual dues of [$] shall be for a year’s subscription to that publication.”). Records must be kept accordingly. The written assurance of a responsible official that such records are kept must accompany the application on Form 3500, with a certified copy of the resolution adopted.
The information required on the form must be submitted with the application.

5.1.3 Publications of State Departments of Agriculture

To apply for Periodicals mailing privileges in the publications of state departments of agriculture category:

Form 3500 must be completed and filed at the Post Office serving the known office of publication.
Evidence that the publication is issued by a state department of agriculture must accompany the application.

5.1.4 Requester Publications

To apply for Periodicals mailing privileges in the requester publication category:

Form 3500 must be completed and filed at the Post Office serving the known office of publication. Part C may be left blank when submitted under the “New Launch” procedure.
The publisher must provide all information required on the application and must keep (and make available for USPS examination) records showing that the primary distribution of the publication is to persons who have requested it.

5.1.5 Foreign Publications

To apply for Periodicals mailing privileges in the foreign publication category:

Form 3500 must be completed and filed at the Post Office serving the known office of publication.
The publisher or publisher’s agent must have available for USPS verification all information on the form.

5.1.6 News Agent Registry

To apply for news agent registry:

Form 3500 must be completed and filed at each Post Office where mailings are to be made.
Evidence must be given to the postmaster at the mailing office that copies of publications offered for mailing are entitled to Periodicals prices and that the copies are sent to actual subscribers or other news agents for sale or distribution to requesters. The evidence provided in support of the application must include a listing of the publishers, the corresponding titles, and the publication numbers for the qualifying Periodicals publications.

5.1.7 Publication Copies

Applications under 5.1.1 through 5.1.5 must be accompanied by two copies of the issue published nearest to the date of application. These copies must be identified as required in 4.11, marked to show the advertising content, and the percentage of advertising must be shown on the cover.

5.1.8 Translation

If a publication is printed in a foreign language, a brief translation of the contents of the copies (a synopsis of each article and advertisement) must accompany the application.

5.1.9 Fee

The applicable fee must accompany an application for Periodicals mailing privileges or news agent registry. The fee is not refundable.

5.1.10 Location

The location shown on the application as the original entry Post Office must be a Post Office. Other postal facilities (such as branches, stations, contract offices, and processing hubs) may not be authorized as original entries.

5.2 Mailing While Application Pending

5.2.1 General

A publisher or news agent may mail Periodicals mailings while an application is pending, as provided under 5.2.

5.2.2 Pending Prices

A publisher or news agent may not mail at Periodicals prices before the PCSC approves the application for Periodicals mailing privileges. Postage may be paid until final action is taken on the application as follows:

For no refund after the application is approved, at any eligible price.
For a refund after the application is approved, at USPS Marketing Mail, Bound Printed Matter, and Parcel Select prices or at single-piece Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, and First-Class Package Service — Retail prices under the exception in 5.3.6e.

[1-9-22]

5.2.3 Pending Postage

The price of postage for a Periodicals publication pending authorization is calculated by applying the applicable percent in Exhibit 5.2.3 to PS Form 3541, Part P, Line P-1.

Exhibit 5.2.3 Pending Postage

PENDING CLASS OF MAIL	PCT.
USPS Marketing Mail Letters	0%*
USPS Marketing Mail Flats	63%
Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail Letters	0%*
Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail Flats	40%
Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail Parcels	136%
Bound Printed Matter Flats	146%
Bound Printed Matter Parcels	0%*
Parcel Select Parcels	585%
First-Class Mail Letters	95%
First-Class Mail Flats	427%
First-Class Package Service-R	311%
Priority Mail	545%

*Use Periodicals prices.

5.2.4 Record of Deposits

USPS keeps a record of deposits and mailings made while an application is pending, when postage is paid under 5.2.2b through an advance deposit account. If a publisher or news agent intends to apply for a refund after a publication is approved and postage is not paid through an advanced deposit account, the publisher or news agent must maintain a record of mailings.

5.2.5 Postage Statements

A publisher or news agent mailing under an advance deposit account while a Periodicals application is pending must submit a Periodicals postage statement (annotated with the words “Pending Application”) with each mailing. A publisher or news agent not mailing under an advance deposit account while a Periodicals application is pending must submit both a Periodicals postage statement (annotated with the words “Pending Application”) and the postage statement for the applicable pending class of mail with each mailing.

5.2.6 Preparation

Mailings must be prepared and presorted according to the Periodicals guidelines under 207 while the application is pending.

5.3 Decision on Application

5.3.1 Ruling

The PCSC manager rules on all applications for Periodicals mailing privileges or news agent registry.

5.3.2 Additional Information

Before acting on an application, the PCSC manager may ask the publisher for more information or evidence to complete or clarify the application. Failure to provide such information is sufficient grounds to deny the application.

5.3.3 Mailability

If the PCSC manager authorizes an application for Periodicals mailing privileges, this approval does not represent a USPS determination that a publication is mailable under 601.9.0.

5.3.4 Effective Date

The authorization takes effect on the date of application or the date of eligibility for Periodicals mailing privileges (or for news agent registry), whichever is later.

5.3.5 Refund

Except as noted in 5.3.6, when an authorization for Periodicals mailing privileges is granted, the postmaster refunds to the applicant the difference, if any, between the postage amount deposited and the applicable Periodicals postage for copies mailed while the application was pending. Refunds are made only for mailings deposited on or after the effective date of the authorization and only if postage was paid by advance deposit account for which the entry Post Office kept the necessary records.

5.3.6 No Refund

No refund is made for:

A denied or withdrawn application.
The period before the effective date of the authorization.
Postage not paid by advance deposit account for which the required records were kept.
Postage at any price affixed to copies of the publication.
Postage paid at Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service — Retail, or First-Class Package Service — Commercial prices. Exception: For a mailing presorted and prepared as Periodicals mail that is less than 200 pieces or 50 pounds, a refund may be authorized when postage is paid at single-piece Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, or First-Class Package Service — Retail prices as provided on the applicable postage statement.
Postage on mailings not meeting the applicable preparation or other eligibility standards for Periodicals.

5.3.7 Denial and Appeal

If the PCSC denies an application, the applicant is notified in writing and given the reasons for the denial. The denial takes effect 15 days from receipt of the notice by the applicant, unless an appeal is filed through the PCSC with the manager, Product Classification (see 608.8.0 for address). If the manager, Product Classification upholds the denial of an application submitted under the “New Launch” procedure or an application for news agent registry, that is the final agency decision. For other applications, the manager‘s denial takes effect 15 days from the applicant‘s receipt of the notice unless, during that time, an appeal is filed with the USPS Recorder under 39 CFR 954, a copy of which is included with the notice of denial.

5.4 Revocation or Suspension of Privileges

5.4.1 Revocation

The USPS revokes a publication’s or news agent’s Periodicals mailing privileges if it finds, after a hearing, that the publication or news agent no longer meets the applicable standards.

5.4.2 Initial Decision

The PCSC manager may ask a publisher or news agent to submit information on a publication’s eligibility for Periodicals mailing privileges. If the manager decides that a publication or news agent is no longer entitled to Periodicals mailing privileges, a notice of suspension or revocation of Periodicals mailing privileges is sent to the publisher or news agent at the last known address of the office of publication or of the news agent, giving the reasons for the ruling.

5.4.3 Appeal

A ruling to suspend or revoke a publication’s Periodicals mailing privileges takes effect 15 days from the publisher’s receipt of the notice unless, during that time, an appeal is filed through the PCSC with the manager, Product Classification (see 608.8.0 for address). If the manager upholds the denial of a news agent’s appeal, that is the final agency decision. For other actions, the manager’s decision takes effect 15 days from its receipt by the publisher unless, during that time, an appeal is filed with the USPS Recorder under 39 CFR 954, a copy of which is included with the notice.

6.0 Qualification Categories

6.1 General Publication

6.1.1 Basic Standards

General publications must meet the applicable basic standards for Periodicals in 4.0 through 9.0 and 11.0 and must be originated and published to disseminate information of a public character or be devoted to literature, the sciences, art, or some special industry.

6.1.2 Circulation Standards

General publications must meet these circulation standards:

General publications must have a legitimate list of subscribers who have paid or promised to pay, at more than a nominal price, for copies to be received during a stated time.
Records for subscriptions to a publication must be kept so that subscriptions to each publication can be verified.
Persons whose subscriptions are obtained at a nominal price and those whose copies bear an alternative address must not be included in the legitimate list of subscribers. Such copies must be treated as nonsubscriber copies.
Subscriptions may be paid for with dues or contributions, if the amount paid for the subscription is stated on the application and dues transmittal form.
A subscription must be separated from all other business transactions to be evident as an independent act. Publishers must be able to show that subscriptions are voluntary and that the subscription price is paid or promised.
At least 50% of a publication‘s distribution must be to persons who have paid above a nominal price. (For inclusion of electronic copies, see 6.5.) Nominal price subscriptions include those sold at a price so low that it cannot be considered a material consideration; or at a reduction to the subscriber (under a premium offer or any other arrangement) of more than 70% of the basic annual subscription price. The value of a premium is its actual cost to the publisher, its recognized retail value, or its represented value, whichever is highest.
Publications primarily designed for free circulation or for circulation at nominal prices do not qualify for the general publications category.

6.1.3 Advertising Standards

Advertising is defined in 4.12. General publications primarily designed for advertising purposes do not qualify for Periodicals mailing privileges, including publications that:

Contain more than 75% advertising in more than half of the issues published during any 12-month period.
Are owned or controlled by individuals or business concerns and conducted as an auxiliary to and essentially for the advancement of any other business or calling of those who own or control the publications.
Consist principally of advertising and articles about advertisers in the publication.
Have only a token list of subscribers and that print advertisements free for advertisers who pay for copies to be sent to a list of persons furnished by the advertisers.
Are published under a license from individuals or organizations and that feature other businesses of the licensor.

6.2 Publications of Institutions and Societies

6.2.1 Basic Standards

A publication that meets the applicable basic standards in 4.0 through 9.0 and 11.0 and contains only the publisher’s own advertising and not, under any condition, the advertising of other persons or organizations, is eligible for Periodicals mailing privileges if it is:

Published by a regularly incorporated nonprofit institution of learning, that is, an organization of a permanent nature where instruction is given in the higher branches of education only, owing its origin to private or public munificence, and established solely for the public good and not for private gain.
Published by a regularly established state institution of learning supported in whole or in part by public taxation.
Published by any public or nonprofit private elementary or secondary institution of learning or its administrative or governing body.
A bulletin issued by a state board of health, a state industrial development agency, a state conservation or fish and game agency or department, or a state board or department of public charities or corrections.
A program announcement or guide published by an educational radio or television agency of a state or political subdivision thereof or by a nonprofit educational radio or television station.

6.2.2 Types of Publications

Publications are eligible for Periodicals mailing privileges if they meet the basic standards of 4.0, contain only the publisher’s own advertising or general advertising subject to 6.2.3, and are published by:

A benevolent or fraternal society or order organized under the lodge system and having a bona fide membership of at least 1,000 persons (publications under the auspices of the society or order are also eligible).
A trade union (publications under the auspices of the union are also eligible).
A strictly professional society, that is, a group consisting solely of persons who have obtained professional status by advanced educational training, experience, specialized interest, or peer examination. Where applicable, public certification in a particular field of the arts or sciences (such as engineering, law, or medicine) is considered in determining eligibility. The members must be engaged in their given profession under its binding standards of performance and conduct on which the public is entitled to rely.
A strictly literary society, that is, an organization whose sole purpose is to encourage and cultivate an appreciation of general literature, a literary subject, or an author of recognized literary accomplishment. The membership must be composed of individuals who discuss or analyze the style, composition, or other characteristics of the literature or authors in which they have a common interest.
A strictly historical society, that is, an organization whose sole purpose is to discover, collect, and systematically record the history of civilization or of a particular segment. Such a society should preserve this material and make it available to its members and the general public, and should extend education by producing published material, holding regular meetings, presenting addresses and lectures, or using mass media.
A strictly scientific society, that is, an organization whose sole purpose is to bring individuals together for scientific investigations and pursuits in the applied, pure, or natural sciences, and to disseminate technical information on these subjects.
A church (a congregation of worshippers who conduct religious services) or a church organization (organizations of individual churches, organizations that are subsidiary to individual churches, and national or regional organizations of churches).

6.2.3 Advertising Standards

Advertising is defined in 4.12. A publication qualifying for Periodicals mailing privileges under 6.2.2 may contain advertising of other organizations or persons if:

It is not designed or published primarily for advertising purposes.
It is originated and published to further the purposes of the qualifying organization.
Its mailed circulation is limited to copies mailed to members who pay, either as a part of their dues or assessments or otherwise, at least 30% of the subscription price regularly charged to other members; to other actual subscribers; to exchanges; and to 10% of such circulation as sample copies. When members pay for their subscriptions as a part of their dues or assessments, individual subscriptions or receipts are not required.

6.3 Publications of State Departments of Agriculture

6.3.1 Basic Standards

A publication issued by a state department of agriculture that meets the basic standards in 4.0 is eligible for Periodicals mailing privileges if it is published to further only the objectives of the department and contains no advertising.

6.3.2 In-County Prices

For determining the number of copies qualifying for In-County prices, all circulated copies are considered subscriber copies and the total number of such copies is the total paid circulation.

6.4 Requester Publications

6.4.1 Basic Standards

A publication, whether circulated free or to subscribers, may be authorized Periodicals prices if it meets the basic standards in 4.0 and:

Each issue contains at least 24 pages.
Does not contain more than 75% advertising in more than 25% of the issues published during any 12-month period.
The publication is not owned or controlled by one or more individuals or business concerns and conducted as an auxiliary to and essentially for the advancement of the main business or calling of those who own or control the publication.

6.4.2 Circulation Standards

Requester publications must meet these circulation standards:

The publication must have a legitimate list of persons who have requested the publication, and 50% or more of the copies must be distributed to persons who have made such requests.
Subscription copies of the publications that are paid for or promised to be paid for, including those at or below a nominal price, may be included in the 50% request requirement. (For inclusion of electronic copies, see 6.5.)
Persons are not deemed to have requested the publication if their request is induced by a premium offer or by receipt of material consideration.
Records of requests for a publication must be kept so that subscriptions or requests for each publication can be verified.
Requests more than 3 years old are not valid requests. Copies addressed using an alternative address format are not considered requested copies.
For a requester publication issued by a membership organization, the organization may adopt a resolution that each member receives a copy of each issue. Records must be kept to show that the publication is sent to members. Form 3500 must be accompanied by a copy of the resolution and written assurance that the required records are kept.

6.5 Electronic Copies

Copies of Periodicals publications distributed through email or by accessing a password protected website may be counted toward an approved or pending general or requester publication’s eligibility for Periodicals prices. The following conditions additionally apply:

Electronic copies that may be counted toward a publication‘s eligibility for Periodicals prices:

Must be paid at a price above nominal rate for publications approved in the General category; or
Must be requested in writing or by electronic correspondence for publications approved in the Requester category.

Electronic copies of a Periodicals publication for which access is offered free in conjunction with printed copies of the same issues may not be counted when determining total circulation for the publication.
At least 40% of the total circulation of each issue must consist of printed copies distributed to paying subscribers or requesters, as applicable. Up to 10% of the distributed copies used to qualify or remain eligible for Periodicals prices may be copies that are paid or requested to be sent electronically.
If less than 60% of a Periodicals publication’s total circulation consists of printed copies distributed to paying subscribers or requesters, as applicable, annual Postal eligibility audits must be conducted by a certified audit bureau.

6.6 Foreign Publications

6.6.1 Basic Standards

Foreign newspapers and other periodicals that meet the basic standards in 4.0 and have the same general character as domestic publications entered as Periodicals may be granted Periodicals mailing privileges.

6.6.2 Known Office

The known office of publication may be the office of the publisher’s agent.

6.6.3 Prices

Foreign publications eligible for Periodicals mailing privileges are subject to the same Periodicals prices as domestic (U.S.) publications.

6.6.4 Circulation Standards

Review of applications is based only on U.S. circulation.

6.6.5 Copyright

This standard does not authorize the mailing of a publication that violates a copyright granted by the United States.

6.7 News Agent Registry

6.7.1 Definition

The term news agent means a person or concern selling two or more Periodicals publications published by more than one publisher. A news agent must be authorized by the USPS before the agent may mail publications at Periodicals prices.

6.7.2 Remailing

A news agent may not remove bundles of copies from a Post Office, write an address on each copy, and return them to the office for dispatch or delivery without paying additional postage.

6.7.3 Unsold Copies

Unsold copies returned to the publishers or sent to other news agents or sent to persons not having subscriptions with news agents, are subject to the Outside-County Periodicals prices.

6.7.4 Parts Returned

Parts of publications returned to publishers to show that copies have not been sold are subject to the applicable USPS Marketing Mail, USPS Retail Ground, or Package Services prices.

7.0 Mailing to Nonsubscribers or Nonrequesters

7.1 Sample Copies

Sample copies are nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies and may be mailed at prices according to standards in 7.0 and 10.0.

7.2 Simplified Address

Copies addressed with simplified addresses under 602.3.2 may be mailed only to nonsubscribers or nonrequesters. If a subscriber or requester receives a simplified address copy in addition to the subscriber or requester copy, the additional copy is considered a nonsubscriber or nonrequester copy.

7.3 Advertising Copies

Copies paid for by advertisers or others for advertising purposes are nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies. Copies mailed for advertising purposes under arrangements with advertisers or others, and copies mailed by a publisher acting as an agent for an advertiser, are nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies. Those copies are subject to the applicable prices for nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies.

7.4 Gift Subscriptions

Copies sent to persons whose subscriptions were paid by other individuals as gifts are considered subscriber copies. Subscriptions paid by advertisers or other persons promoting their own interests, and subscriptions given free by the publisher, are not gift subscriptions, and are considered nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies.

7.5 Exchange Copies

A small part of the distribution list may contain publishers to whom one copy each is sent in exchange for a copy of the recipients’ publications. These exchange copies are considered subscriber or requester copies.

7.6 Expired Subscription

Copies may be mailed at the prices that apply to subscriber copies for 6 months after a subscription has expired if the publisher makes a good-faith attempt to obtain payment or a promise of payment for a renewal during the 6-month period. These copies are not considered subscriber copies for determining eligibility for Periodicals mailing privileges, the base for computing the 10% nonsubscriber limits, or whether an issue is a bona fide issue under 8.0.

7.7 Complimentary Copies

All complimentary copies are considered nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies.

7.8 Proof Copies

One complete copy of each issue may be mailed to each advertiser (or agent) in the issue to prove that the advertisements are printed. These copies are considered subscriber or requester copies. Any additional copies sent to an advertiser (or agent) are considered nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies.

7.9 Nonrequester and Nonsubscriber Copies

7.9.1 Nonrequester Copies

For authorized Periodicals requester publications, up to 10% of the total number of copies mailed to requesters during the calendar year may be mailed to nonrequesters at the Outside-County Periodicals prices, provided that those copies would be eligible for Outside-County prices if mailed to requesters, and if the copies are presorted under applicable standards. Nonrequester copies within the 10% limit do not need to be commingled in a mailing with requester copies to be eligible for Outside-County prices.

7.9.2 Nonsubscriber Copies

For other publications authorized Outside-County prices, up to 10% of the total number of copies mailed to subscribers during the calendar year may be mailed to nonsubscribers at the Outside-County Periodicals prices, provided that those copies would be eligible for Outside-County prices if mailed to subscribers, and if the copies are presorted under applicable standards. Nonsubscriber copies within the 10% limit do not need to be commingled in a mailing with subscriber copies to be eligible for Outside-County prices.

7.9.3 Preferred Prices

For In-County prices, Nonprofit, Classroom, Science-of-Agriculture, Limited Circulation, and Limited Circulation Science-of-Agriculture publications, nonsubscriber (for Periodicals except requester publications) or nonrequester (for requester publications) copies up to 10% of the total number of copies mailed to subscribers or requesters during the calendar year may be mailed at the applicable Preferred prices or Preferred price discount, provided that the nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies would qualify as Preferred price or Preferred price discount publications if mailed to subscribers or requesters and if the copies are presorted under applicable standards. Nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies mailed over the 10% limit are not eligible for Preferred prices or the Preferred price discount. To qualify for regular Outside-County prices, the nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies over the 10% limit must be part of a presorted, commingled mailing (one that includes subscriber or requester copies). Subject to 11.3, nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies may be mailed at In-County prices up to a 10% limit of the total number of subscriber or requester copies of the publication mailed at In-County prices during the calendar year. Once the 10% calendar year limit is exceeded for the number of nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies that may be mailed at Preferred prices or the Preferred price discount, the nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies may not then be mailed at In-County prices even if the 10% limit separately applied to those pieces is not exceeded.

7.9.4 Publications of Institutions and Societies

For publications of institutions and societies that are not authorized to contain general advertising, all circulated copies are considered subscriber copies and the total number of such copies is the total paid circulation.

7.9.5 Mixed Preferred and Regular Prices

For publications authorized both Outside-County prices and In-County prices and/or Science-of-Agriculture prices, once the total number of nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies mailed during the calendar year (regardless of price) exceeds 10% of the total number of copies mailed to subscribers or requesters during the calendar year, further mailings of nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies are not eligible for any Preferred price. Nonsubscriber, or nonrequester, copies over the 10% allowance must be part of a presorted commingled mailing (i.e., including subscriber or requester copies) to qualify for Outside-County prices.

7.9.6 Copies Over 10% Allowance

Nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies, over 10% of the total number of copies mailed to subscribers or requesters during the calendar year, are eligible for Outside-County prices when they are commingled and presorted with subscriber or requester copies.

7.9.7 Excess Noncommingled Mailing

A mailing is not eligible for Periodicals prices if it consists entirely of nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies over the 10% limit of the total number of copies mailed to subscribers or requesters during the calendar year. These copies are subject to the appropriate Priority Mail Express, First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service — Retail, First-Class Package Service — Commercial, Priority Mail, USPS Marketing Mail, USPS Retail Ground, or Package Services price.

7.9.8 Mixed Mailing

If all copies in a mailing are to nonsubscribers or nonrequesters, and some copies are within the 10% limit while the rest are over the 10% limit, the portion exceeding the 10% limit is not eligible for Periodicals prices. That portion is subject to the appropriate Priority Mail Express, First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service — Retail, First-Class Package Service — Commercial, Priority Mail, USPS Marketing Mail, USPS Retail Ground, or Package Services price.

8.0 Record Keeping Standards for Publishers

8.1 Basic Standards

8.1.1 Purpose

The publisher must keep records that can support the information required on the application for Periodicals mailing privileges (or any other form) and to confirm eligibility for entry of the publication at the requested Periodicals price. The records must show that the publication is distributed to a legitimate list of requesters (if applicable) or is not designed primarily for free circulation or circulation at nominal prices. If the publication is authorized to carry general advertising, the publisher must keep a list of legitimate subscribers. A publication of an institution or society that is authorized to carry general advertising may keep a list of subscribers or proof of a resolution to distribute to members, similar to that described in 5.0.

8.1.2 Information Required

Records must be available so that the USPS can determine:

Number of copies printed.
Manner of distribution and disposition of all copies.
Accuracy of the zone distribution on the postage statement.
The existence of a list of legitimate subscribers who have paid more than a nominal subscription price for publications authorized to carry general advertising (other than requester publications).
The existence of a legitimate list of requesters for requester publications.

8.1.3 Retention

The publisher must keep records for each issue of a publication for 3 years from its issue date, except for circulation records for general or requester publications for which USPS verification of circulation is done by a USPS- authorized audit bureau. A publisher whose records are verified by an authorized audit bureau is not required to keep source records of requests and subscriptions longer than required by the audit bureau.

8.1.4 Types of Records

These records may be used to meet the standards in 8.1.1 and 8.1.2:

Print orders and invoices showing the total number of copies printed.
Individual and bulk orders for subscriptions and nonsubscriber copies.
Newsstand and vending machine sales and returns.
Stubs or copies of receipts issued.
Sales records and returns for over-the-counter sales.
Cash books, bank deposit receipts, or similar records.
Records of copies of the publication destroyed.

8.2 Verification

8.2.1 Purpose

A publisher must make records available for USPS review and verification on a periodic basis to evaluate indications of ineligibility for Periodicals entry, to verify that the postage statement shows the correct number of copies mailed to each zone and the correct postage, and to confirm that publications authorized to carry general advertising meet the applicable circulation standards.

8.2.2 Authorized Verification

USPS employees or an authorized audit bureau may conduct verifications of circulation for an application for Periodicals mailing privileges, reentry application, or other required circulation verification of general or requester publications.

8.2.3 Independent Audit Bureau

To have an authorized independent audit bureau conduct the audit, the publisher must make that request directly to the bureau and advise the original entry postmaster. The audit bureau coordinates the verification with the original entry postmaster.

8.3 Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation

8.3.1 Filing Form 3526

The publisher of each Periodicals publication, including foreign publications accepted at Periodicals prices, must file Form 3526 by October 1 of each year at the original entry Post Office.

8.3.2 Content

The information provided on Form 3526 must allow the USPS to determine whether the publication meets the standards for Periodicals mailing privileges. This information includes, as applicable, the identity of the editor, managing editor, publishers, and owners; the owning corporation and its stockholders; any further corporations and stockholders that own at least 1% of the stock of a corporation owning the publication; known bondholders, mortgagees, and other security holders; and the extent and nature of the circulation of the publication, including the number of copies distributed, the methods of distribution, and how much of the circulation is paid in whole or in part.

8.3.3 Publication

The publisher of each publication authorized Periodicals mailing privileges as a general or requester publication must publish a complete statement of ownership, containing all information required by Form 3526, in an issue of the publication to which that statement relates; other publications are not required to publish this statement. A reproduction of the Form 3526 submitted to the USPS may be used. The required information must appear in an issue whose primary mailed distribution is produced not later than October 10 for publications issued more frequently than weekly, or not later than October 31 for publications issued weekly or less frequently but more frequently than monthly; or in the first issue whose primary mailed distribution is produced after October 1 for all other publications.

8.3.4 Noncompliance

If a publisher does not comply with the filing or publishing standards of 8.3 and, after receipt of notice by Certified Mail from the postmaster, the publisher further fails to comply within 10 days, the postmaster must notify the Pricing and Classification Service Center (PCSC) (see 608.8.4 for contact information). The PCSC may suspend or revoke the Periodicals mailing privileges, as appropriate.

9.0 Reentry — Changing Title, Frequency, Category, Price, or Known Office of Publication

9.1 General

9.1.1 When Required

Except under 9.1.2, publishers must complete and file PS Form 3510, Application for Reentry or Special Price Request for Periodicals Publication, as follows:

To change the title, frequency of issue, category of authorization, or price, publishers must submit PS Form 3510 to the original entry postmaster.
To change location of the known office of publication (KOP) of an authorized Periodicals publication, publishers must submit PS Form 3510 to the postmaster whose service area includes the new location.

9.1.2 When Not Required

An application for reentry is not required if the current and requested known offices of publication are served by the same Post Office; or if only the ownership of the publication is changed, unless that change disqualifies the publication from eligibility under 10.0 for Preferred Periodicals prices or from authorized entry under 6.0 as a publication of an institution or society, as a publication of a state department of agriculture, or as a foreign publication.

9.1.3 Accompanying Documentation

A completed PS Form 3510 must be accompanied by two copies of the publication that show the new title (if applicable) and contain a complete identification statement that reflects the requested changes. A proof copy of the revised identification statement is acceptable if the publisher specifies the issue in which the changes are to be printed. See 9.2 for how to change qualification categories.

9.1.4 Location

The location shown on Form 3510 for the new original entry Post Office must be a Post Office. Other postal facilities (such as branches, stations, contract offices, and processing hubs) are not authorized as original entries.

9.1.5 Filing Date

PS Form 3510 must be filed by the date that publication copies are to be issued with the new title, frequency, category, price, or known office of publication.

9.1.6 Reentry Denial

Reentry may be denied at a Post Office where resources are not adequate for efficient and economical handling by postal transportation, distribution, and processing systems.

9.1.7 Application Fee

Except for an application (PS Form 3510) to request only special Periodicals prices as specified in 10.0, a reentry fee (nonrefundable) must accompany an application (PS Form 3510) for reentry (see Notice 123—Price List). No additional fee is required when a revised PS Form 3500 is required as part of a reentry application.

9.1.8 Multiple Reentry Requests

Except for requests to change qualification categories, as specified in 9.2, or to change price in accordance with requirements in 10.0, publishers may file one PS Form 3510 and pay one fee to request multiple reentry actions as specified in 9.1 if all documentation is submitted with the PS Form 3510 as stipulated in 9.1.3, and the effective dates for the reentry actions do not cover more than 30 calendar days. The publisher must submit a separate PS Form 3510 (and pay the fee) for each reentry action that cannot meet these conditions.

9.1.9 Other Actions

A publisher must submit a separate PS Form 3510 (and pay the fee) for a reentry action as specified in 9.2. A separate PS Form 3510 (no fee) also must be submitted for a reentry action for special Periodicals prices as stipulated in 10.0.

9.2 Changing Qualification Categories

To change the category under which a publication is authorized Periodicals mailing privileges, the publisher must file a revised Form 3500 and an application for reentry on Form 3510 with the original entry Postmaster and pay the applicable fee. See 9.1.2 for when a reentry application may not be required.

9.3 Application for Reentry

9.3.1 Pending

While an application for reentry is pending, copies of an authorized Periodicals publication are accepted for mailing at the Periodicals prices, subject to 9.3.4.

9.3.2 Proof of Compliance

The publisher must be able to show (via circulation and other records) to USPS satisfaction that the reentered publication still meets all Periodicals standards. Failure to provide this evidence is sufficient grounds to deny the reentry request.

9.3.3 Ruling

The PCSC manager reviews and rules on an application for reentry.

9.3.4 Effective Date

An entry office may not be used before authorization by the USPS. A publisher may not pay postage at another price to deposit copies at an unauthorized entry office. Subject to the restrictions in 9.1, the effective date of a reentry authorization is the application date or the eligibility date (if the publication became eligible after the application date). The requested date for a change in original entry office may be deferred until sufficient transportation or other resources are in place. If deferral is due to USPS transportation contract limitations, the publisher’s requested date may be approved with the publisher’s agreement to reimburse the USPS for costs caused by modifying contracted transportation.

9.3.5 Denial

If the PCSC manager denies an application, a written notice of the reasons is provided to the publisher. The denial takes effect 15 days from the publisher’s receipt of the notice, unless the publisher files an appeal under 9.3.6 within that time. Alternatively, the publisher may return to the publication status before the application for reentry was submitted.

9.3.6 Appeal

An appeal must be filed through the PCSC with the manager, Product Classification (see 608.8.0 for address). The manager, Product Classification may ask the publisher for more information or evidence to clarify the appeal. Failure to provide such information is sufficient grounds to deny the appeal.

9.3.7 Mailing During Appeal

During the appeal:

Copies of any issue of a publication denied reentry under 9.1 and found unqualified for Periodicals mailing privileges are accepted in a pending status at the applicable USPS Marketing Mail or Package Services prices. For this standard, the pending status begins when the appeal is filed and continues until the end of the appeal process.
Copies of a publication denied reentry under 9.2 are accepted at the currently applicable Periodicals price.
The publisher must submit the applicable Periodicals and USPS Marketing Mail or Package Services postage statements with each mailing of the publication in a pending status. Failure to submit these statements is sufficient grounds to deny a postage refund under 9.3.10.

9.3.8 Refund

If the reentry application is approved on appeal, the publisher receives the difference between the applicable Periodicals postage and the USPS Marketing Mail or Package Services postage paid during the pending status if the publisher submits records to substantiate the amount of the refund. If the reentry application is denied on appeal, no refund is made.

9.3.9 Final Decision

The manager, Product Classification (see 608.8.0 for address) issues the final agency decision on appeals under 9.1.

9.3.10 Denial

If the manager denies an appeal under 9.2, it is effective 15 days from the publisher’s receipt of the decision unless, during that time, the publisher files an appeal with the USPS Recorder under 39 CFR 954, a copy of which accompanies the decision.

10.0 Preferred Periodicals

10.1 Nonprofit Eligibility—Basic Standards

10.1.1 Authorization

To be mailed at Nonprofit Periodicals prices, a publication must be granted Periodicals entry and a Nonprofit authorization (under 10.2 or 10.3).

10.1.2 Nonsubscriber or Nonrequester Copies

Nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies are subject to 7.0.

10.1.3 Advertising Percentage

Publications with an advertising percentage of 10% or less are considered 100% nonadvertising for price purposes. Those publications may use “0” as the advertising percentage when computing the nonadvertising adjustment applied to the outside-county piece charges. Publications with an advertising percentage exceeding 10% are subject to Outside-County pound prices for the entire advertising portion.

10.2 Nonprofit Eligibility—Qualified Organizations

10.2.1 Types of Organizations

A publication issued by and in the interest of one of the types of organizations described in 10.2.3 through 10.2.10 qualifies for the Nonprofit prices if the organization is not organized for profit and none of its net income inures to the benefit of any private stockholder or individual.

10.2.2 Primary Purpose

The standard of primary purpose used in 10.2.3 through 10.2.10 requires that the organization be both organized and operated for the primary purpose. Organizations that incidentally engage in qualifying activities do not meet the primary purpose test.

10.2.3 Religious Organization

A religious organization is a nonprofit organization whose primary purpose is to:

Conduct religious worship (such as churches, synagogues, temples, or mosques);
Support the religious activities of nonprofit organizations whose primary purpose is to conduct religious worship; or
Further the teaching of particular religious faiths or tenets, including religious instruction and the dissemination of religious information.

10.2.4 Educational Organization

An educational organization is a nonprofit organization whose primary purpose is the instruction or training of individuals for improving or developing their capabilities or the instruction of the public on subjects beneficial to the community. An organization may be educational even though it advocates a particular position or viewpoint, as long as it presents a full and fair exposition of the pertinent facts to permit the formation of an independent opinion or conclusion. An organization is not considered educational if its principal function is the presentation of unsupported opinion. These are examples of educational organizations:

An organization (such as a primary or secondary school, a college, or professional or trade school) that has a regularly scheduled curriculum, a regular faculty, and a regularly enrolled body of students in attendance at a place where educational activities are regularly carried on.
An organization whose activities consist of presenting public discussion groups, forums, panels, lectures, or similar programs, including on radio or television.
An organization that presents a course of instruction by correspondence or on television or radio.
Museums, zoos, planetariums, symphony orchestras, and similar organizations.

10.2.5 Scientific Organization

A scientific organization is a nonprofit organization whose primary purpose is to conduct research in the applied, pure, or natural sciences or to disseminate technical information dealing with such sciences.

10.2.6 Philanthropic (Charitable) Organization

A philanthropic (charitable) organization is a nonprofit organization organized and operated to benefit the public. Examples include those that are organized to relieve the poor, distressed, or underprivileged; to advance religion, education, or science; to erect or maintain public buildings, monuments, or works; to lessen the burdens of government; or to promote social welfare for any of the above purposes or to lessen neighborhood tensions, eliminate prejudice and discrimination, defend human and civil rights secured by laws, or combat community deterioration and juvenile delinquency. If an organization organized and operated to relieve indigent persons receives voluntary contributions from those persons, that activity does not make it ineligible as philanthropic. If an organization, in carrying out its primary purpose, advocates social or civic changes or presents ideas on controversial issues to influence public opinion to accept its views, that activity does not make it ineligible as a philanthropic organization.

10.2.7 Agricultural Organization

An agricultural organization is a nonprofit organization whose primary purpose is the betterment of the conditions of those engaged in agricultural pursuits, improvement of their products, and the development of greater efficiency in agriculture; or the collection and dissemination of information about agriculture. The organization may advance agricultural interests through educational activities and agricultural fairs; by collecting and disseminating information about cultivation of the soil and its fruits or the harvesting of marine resources; by rearing, feeding, and managing livestock, poultry, bees, et cetera; or by other activities related to agricultural interests.

10.2.8 Labor Organization

A labor organization is a nonprofit organization whose primary purpose is the betterment of the conditions of workers. Labor organizations include, but are not limited to, organizations in which employees or workers participate, whose primary purpose is to deal with employers about grievances, labor disputes, wages, hours of employment, working conditions, and so forth (such as labor unions and employee associations).

10.2.9 Veterans’ Organization

A veterans’ organization is a nonprofit organization of veterans of the armed services of the United States, or an auxiliary unit or society of, or a trust or foundation for, any such post or organization.

10.2.10 Fraternal Organization

A fraternal organization is a nonprofit organization whose primary purpose is fostering fellowship and mutual benefits among its members. A qualified fraternal organization also must be organized under a lodge or chapter system with a representative form of government; must follow a ritualistic format; and must be composed of members who are elected to membership by vote of the members. Qualifying organizations include the Masons, Knights of Columbus, Elks, and college fraternities or sororities, and may have members of either or both sexes. Fraternal organizations do not include such organizations as business leagues, professional associations, civic associations, or social clubs.

10.3 Nonprofit Eligibility—Other Qualified Organizations

10.3.1 Basic Standards

Subject to 10.3.2, a publication may qualify for Nonprofit prices regardless of the nonprofit status of the publishing organization if it is a:

Publication issued by and in the interest of an association of rural electric cooperatives.
Program announcement or guide published by an educational radio or television agency of a state or political subdivision thereof or by a nonprofit educational radio or television station.
Publication of the official highway or development agency of the state that meets the standards for a general publication in 6.0 and contains no advertising other than the publisher’s own advertising.
Conservation publication published by a state agency responsible for management and conservation of the fish or wildlife resources of that state.

10.3.2 Limits

Only one publication per qualifying organization may qualify for the Nonprofit prices under 10.3.1c or 10.3.1d.

10.4 Classroom Eligibility

10.4.1 Authorization

To be mailed at the Classroom Periodicals prices, a publication must be granted Periodicals entry and a Classroom price authorization.

10.4.2 Types of Publications

Classroom prices apply only to educational, religious, or scientific publications designed for use in school classrooms or religious instruction classes.

10.4.3 Nonsubscriber Copies

Nonsubscriber copies are subject to 7.0.

10.4.4 Advertising Percentage

10.5 Application

10.5.1 Filing

An application for authorization as a Nonprofit or Classroom publication must be filed at the publication’s original entry Post Office, by submitting an application for Periodicals mailing privileges (Form 3500) or by filing for reentry (on Form 3510) after Periodicals mailing privileges are authorized. The applicant must submit evidence of eligibility under 10.0.

10.5.2 Fee

No fee is required for an application to mail at a preferred Periodicals price.

10.6 Mailing While Application Pending

10.6.1 Mailing Before Approval

A publisher or news agent may not mail at a Periodicals Preferred price until the PCSC manager approves the application. Until approval is given, postage must be paid at the Outside-County prices (for authorized Periodicals publications), or at the First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service — Retail, First-Class Package Service — Commercial, USPS Marketing Mail, or Package Services prices (if the publication is in a pending status for Periodicals mailing privileges).

10.6.2 Record of Deposits

If postage is paid through an advance deposit account, the USPS keeps a record of deposits and mailings made while the application for preferred prices is pending. The record is used to compute the difference between either the Outside-County price postage paid for an authorized Periodicals publication, or the USPS Marketing Mail or Package Services postage paid for pending Periodicals publications, and the preferred price postage. No record is kept if First-Class Mail First-Class Package Service — Retail, or First-Class Package Service — Commercial, postage is paid or if postage is not paid by advance deposit account.

10.7 Decision on Application

10.7.1 Ruling

The PCSC manager rules on all preferred price applications.

10.7.2 Additional Information

Before acting on an application, the manager may ask the publisher for more information or evidence to complete or clarify the application. Failure to provide such information is sufficient grounds to deny the application.

10.7.3 Effective Date

The authorization takes effect on the application date or the eligibility date, whichever is later.

10.7.4 Refund

Except under 10.7.5, when an authorization for preferred prices is granted, the original entry Postmaster refunds to the publisher the difference, if any, between the postage paid and the preferred prices for copies mailed while the application was pending. Refunds are made only for mailings deposited on or after the effective date of the authorization.

10.7.5 No Refund

No refund is made for:

A denied or withdrawn application.
The period before the effective date of the authorization.
Postage paid at any price other than the Periodicals prices.
Postage not paid by advance deposit account for which the required record was kept.
Postage at any price affixed to copies of the publication.
Postage paid at Priority Mail Express, First-Class Mail or First-Class Package Service — Retail prices.
Postage on mailings not meeting the applicable standards for special Periodicals prices.

10.7.6 Denial and Appeal

If the application to mail at preferred prices is denied, the PCSC manager notifies the applicant in writing, giving the reasons for the denial. The denial takes effect 15 days from the publisher’s receipt of the denial, unless within that time the publisher appeals to the manager, Product Classification (see 608.8.0 for address), who issues the final agency decision. Before taking action, the manager, Product Classification may ask the publisher for more information. Failure to provide such information is sufficient grounds for denying the appeal.

11.0 Basic Eligibility

11.1 Outside-County Prices

11.1.1 General

Outside-County prices apply to copies of an authorized Periodicals publication mailed by a publisher or news agent that are not eligible for In-County prices under 11.3. Outside-County prices consist of an addressed per piece charge, a zoned charge for the weight of the advertising portion of the publication, an unzoned charge for the weight of the nonadvertising portion, and a bundle and container charge.

11.1.2 Nonrequester and Nonsubscriber Copies

For excess noncommingled mailings under 7.0, nonrequester and nonsubscriber copies are not eligible for Periodicals prices unless the publication is authorized under 6.2 and is not authorized to contain general advertising. Nonrequester and nonsubscriber copies in excess of the 10% allowance under 7.0 are subject to Outside-County prices when commingled with requester or subscriber copies, as appropriate.

11.1.3 Preferred Price Discount

Publications qualifying as Nonprofit or Classroom Periodicals receive a 5% discount off the total Outside-County postage, excluding the postage for advertising pounds.

11.1.4 Limited Circulation Discount

Publications, excluding Nonprofit and Classroom publications, receive a 5% discount off the total Outside-County postage, excluding the postage for advertising pounds, if eligible copies are mailed at In-County prices and the total number of Outside-County copies mailed for that issue is less than 5,000.

11.2 Outside-County Science-of-Agriculture Prices

11.2.1 Authorization

To be mailed at the Science-of-Agriculture prices, a publication must be granted Periodicals entry and a Science-of-Agriculture price authorization.

11.2.2 General

Science-of-Agriculture prices apply to Outside-County copies of authorized Periodicals publications mailed by publishers or news agents when the total copies provided during any 12-month period to subscribers or requesters residing in rural areas are at least 70% of the total number of copies distributed by any means for any purpose.

11.2.3 Filing

An application for Science-of-Agriculture prices must be filed at the publication’s original entry Post Office, by submitting an application for Periodicals mailing privileges (Form 3500) or by filing for reentry (on Form 3510) after Periodicals mailing privileges are authorized. The applicant must submit evidence of eligibility under 11.0.

11.3 In-County Prices

11.3.1 Subscriber or Requester Copies

In-County prices apply to subscriber or requester copies of a Periodicals publication entered within the county in which the Post Office of original entry is located for delivery to addressees within that county, if one of the following standards is met:

The total paid or requested circulation of such issue is less than 10,000 copies.
The number of paid or requested copies of such issue distributed within the county of publication is more than 50% of the total paid or requested circulation of such issue.

11.3.2 Exceptional Conditions

The standard in 11.3.1 also is applied under any of these exceptional conditions:

If an entry office postmaster directs the publisher to deposit copies of the publication at a postal facility serving that office, those copies are considered as mailed at the entry office for purposes of In-County prices.
A copy addressed to a destination within the county of publication is eligible for In-County prices when the entry Post Office serving that address is outside the county.
A Periodicals publication having original entry at an incorporated city situated entirely within a county or contiguous to one or more counties in the same state, but politically independent of such county or counties, is considered within a part of the county with which it is principally contiguous. Copies (except commingled nonsubscriber copies above 10%) mailed into that county are charged at In-County prices. Where more than one county is involved, the publisher selects the principal county and notifies the Postmaster.
A publication entered within the county in which it is published, but distributed outside that county on a postal carrier route originating in the county of publication, is treated as if distributed within the county of publication.

11.3.3 Nonsubscriber or Nonrequester Copies

During a calendar year, the total number of nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies mailed at In-County prices may not exceed 10% of the number of subscriber or requester copies mailed at In-County prices. Mailers must include the number of nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies mailed at In-County prices when determining the overall 10% allowance under 7.0. Effectively, the allowance for nonsubscriber or nonrequester copies mailable at the In-County prices is the 10% allowed under this standard or the overall 10% limit under 7.0, whichever occurs first.

11.4 Discounts

The following discounts are available:

Nonadvertising. The nonadvertising discount applies to the Outside-County piece price and is computed under 2.0.
Destination Entry. Destination entry prices are available under 29.0 for copies entered at specific USPS facilities.

11.5 Copies Mailed by Public

The single-piece First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service — Retail, Priority Mail, USPS Retail Ground, or Package Services price is charged on copies of publications mailed by the general public and on copies returned to publishers or news agents.

12.0 Nonbarcoded (Presorted) Eligibility

12.1 Basic Standards

12.1.1 General

The standards for nonbarcoded (Presorted) prices are in addition to the standards for other prices or discounts claimed. Not all combinations of prices and discounts are permitted.

12.1.2 Address Quality

All pieces in a Periodicals nonbarcoded mailing must bear a delivery address that includes the correct ZIP Code or ZIP+4 code and that meets the ZIP Code accuracy standard in 602.6.0. If used, alternative addresses must meet standards in 602.3.0.

12.1.3 Barcode Quality

Any Intelligent Mail barcode on a mailpiece must be correct for the delivery address and meet the standards in 204.1.0.

12.2 Prices—Outside-County

Outside-County nonbarcoded (Presorted) prices are based on the following criteria:

Piece prices are based on shape, machinability, barcoding, and presort level. The presort level of the piece is based primarily on the bundle level of the piece, except the presort level of pieces loose in trays is based on the tray level and qualifying FSS scheme flats are based on presort levels prior to inclusion in the FSS scheme bundle.
Bundle prices are based on the bundle and container sortation level except FSS scheme bundles in/on a FSS scheme container receives carrier route pricing; FSS scheme bundles in/on a FSS facility container receives 3-digit/SCF pricing.
Container prices are based on the type of container (tray, sack, or pallet), the level of sortation of the container and where the container is entered except FSS facility containers and FSS scheme sacks or trays receive 3-digit/SCF pricing and where the container is entered, and FSS scheme pallets receive carrier route prices and where the pallet is entered.

12.3 Prices—In-County

12.3.1 Five-Digit Prices

5-digit prices apply to:

Letter-size pieces in 5-digit bundles of six or more pieces each, placed in 5-digit trays.
Nonletter-size pieces in 5-digit scheme bundles and 5-digit bundles of six or more addressed pieces each, placed in 5-digit scheme sacks, or 5-digit sacks, or palletized under 705.8.0 or 705.10.0, 705.12.0, or 705.13.0.
Qualifying flats sorted to a FSS scheme under 705.14.0.

12.3.2 Three-Digit Prices

3-digit prices apply to:

Letter-size pieces in 5-digit and 3-digit bundles of six or more pieces each, placed in 3-digit trays.
Nonletter-size pieces in 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, 3-digit scheme, and 3-digit bundles of six or more addressed pieces each, placed in 3-digit sacks; or 3-digit scheme and 3-digit bundles of six or more addressed pieces each, prepared under 705.8.0 or 705.10.0, 705.12.0, or 705.13.0.
Flat-size pieces not qualifying for carrier route or 5-digit prices, but properly included in a FSS scheme pool prepared under 705.14.0.

12.3.3 Basic Prices

Basic prices apply to pieces that are not eligible for and claimed at 5-digit and 3-digit prices.

13.0 Carrier Route Eligibility

13.1 Basic Standards

13.1.1 General

The standards for carrier route prices are in addition to the standards for other prices. Not all combinations of prices and discounts are permitted.

13.1.2 Address Quality

All pieces in a Periodicals carrier route price mailing must bear a delivery address that includes the correct ZIP Code or ZIP+4 code and that meets these address quality standards:

The carrier route accuracy standard in 13.5.
If an alternative addressing format is used, the additional standards in 602.3.0.
For flats with detached address labels (DALs) or detached marketing labels (DMLs), the additional standards in 602.4.0.

13.1.3 Carrier Route Sequencing

All pieces in a carrier route price mailing must also meet the applicable sequencing requirements in 13.2.2, 13.3, and 23.8.

13.1.4 Barcode Quality

Any Intelligent Mail barcode on a mailpiece must be correct for the delivery address and meet the standards in 204.1.0.

13.2 Sorting

13.2.1 Basic Standards

Preparation to qualify eligible pieces for carrier route prices is optional and need not be performed for all carrier routes in a 5-digit area. Carrier route prices apply to copies that are prepared in carrier route bundles of six or more addressed pieces each, subject to these standards:

Letter-size mailings. Carrier route prices apply to carrier route bundles that are sorted into carrier route, 5-digit carrier routes, or 3-digit carrier routes trays under 23.0. Trays may be palletized under 705.8.0.
Nonletter-size mailings. Carrier route prices apply to carrier route bundles that are sorted in one of the following ways:

Bundles sorted onto pallets prepared under 705.8.0, 705.10.0, 705.12.0, 705.13.0, as appropriate.
Bundles in carrier route, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, 5-digit carrier routes sacks, or 3-digit carrier routes sacks under 23.0. Sacks may be palletized under 705.8.0.
Unsacked bundles entered at a destination delivery unit under 23.4.2 and 29.6.5.
Qualifying carrier route mailpieces sorted into FSS bundles and prepared on pallets under 705.14.0.

13.2.2 Sequencing Requirements

Except for flats properly prepared under FSS standards in 705.14, basic carrier route mail must be prepared either in carrier walk sequence or in line-of-travel (LOT) sequence according to USPS LOT schemes (23.8). For high density and saturation pieces, see 13.3.1.

13.3 Walk-Sequence Prices

13.3.1 Eligibility

The high density or saturation prices apply to each piece in a carrier route mailing, eligible under 13.2.1 and prepared under 705.8.0, 23.0, or (non-letter-size mail only) 705.10.0, 705.12.0, 705.13.0 or 705.14.0, that also meets the corresponding addressing and density standards in 13.3.4. High density and saturation mailings must be prepared in carrier walk sequence according to USPS schemes see 23.8 except nonletter-size mailpieces that are included in FSS bundles.

13.3.2 Copies Claimed at Other Prices

A mailing that includes copies claimed at a walk-sequence price may include copies claimed at other prices. When presented to the USPS, the walk-sequence copies must be separated from other mail.

13.3.3 Addressing

Walk-sequence mail must bear a complete delivery address or an alternative format address, subject to the applicable standards.

13.3.4 Density

Walk-sequence price mailings are subject to these density standards:

Once the minimum volume per carrier route is met, there is no further minimum volume for the 5-digit ZIP Code delivery area. Walk-sequence price mail need not be sent to all carrier routes within a 5-digit delivery area.
Except under 13.3.4c, at least 125 walk-sequenced addressed pieces must be prepared for each carrier route receiving mail claimed at the high density price. Mail for carrier routes of 124 or fewer possible deliveries can qualify for the high density price if there are at least 125 addressed pieces for the route or if pieces are addressed to every possible delivery on the route. This mail may also qualify for the saturation price, subject to 13.3.4e. In-County price pieces may also qualify for high density prices under 13.3.4c.
Mail may qualify for In-County high density prices when there are addressed pieces for a minimum of 25% of the total active possible deliveries on a carrier route. If a route contains addresses both within and outside the county, the number of pieces addressed to the entire carrier route will be used to determine if the 25% requirement has been met. However, for such carrier routes meeting the 25% requirement, only the pieces for that carrier route that are addressed to addresses within the county in which the original entry is located may qualify for the In-County high density prices.
Pieces claimed at the saturation price must be addressed to either 90% or more of the active residential addresses or 75% or more of the total active possible delivery addresses, whichever is less, on each carrier route receiving saturation mail, except that mail with simplified addresses must meet the coverage standards in 602.3.0.
More than one addressed piece per delivery address may be included in a high density mailing and be counted for the density standard in 13.3.4b. Only one piece per delivery address may be counted for the high density standards in 13.3.4c and for saturation prices.

13.4 Full-Service Intelligent Mail Eligibility Standards

Carrier route pieces eligible for full-service Intelligent Mail prices and address correction benefits under 705.23.0 must:

For carrier route letter, be letter-size under 201.1.0.
For carrier route flats, be flat-size under 201.4.0.
Be part of a carrier route mailing.
Bear an accurate Intelligent Mail barcode encoded with the correct delivery point routing code matching the delivery address and meeting the standards in 202.5.0 (for letters), 202.4.0 (for flats), and 204.1.0 and be part of mailings that meet the standards in 705.23.0.

13.5 Carrier Route Accuracy Standard

Addresses used on all Periodicals pieces claiming any Carrier Route prices must meet the carrier route accuracy standard in 602.7.0.

14.0 Barcoded (Automation) Eligibility

14.1 Basic Standards

All pieces in a Periodicals barcoded (automation) mailing must:

Be in the same processing category and meet the physical standards in 201.3.0, or 201.6.0.
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:

The address matching and coding standards in 14.5 and 602.9.0.
If an alternative addressing format is used, the additional standards in 602.3.0.

Bear an accurate unique Intelligent Mail barcode encoded with the delivery point routing code, matching the delivery address and meeting the standards in 202.5.0 (for letters), 202.4.0 (for flats), and 204.1.0.
Be marked, sorted, and documented as specified in 705.8.0 (if palletized); or 24.0 (for letters) or 25.0 (for flats) or; for nonletter-size mail, 705.9.0, 705.10.0, 705.12.0, or 705.13.0; or for nonletter-size mail, bundles prepared on or in pallets, trays, sacks or other approved container under 705.14.0.
Meet the applicable documentation standards in 203.3.0 and postage payment standards in 2.0, 16.0, and 17.0.

14.2 Eligibility Standards for Full-Service Automation Periodicals

All pieces entered under the full-service automation option must:

Bear a unique Intelligent Mail barcode.
Be part of a mailing that meets the standards in 705.
Be scheduled for an appointment through the Facility Access and Shipment Tracking (FAST) system when deposited as a DNDC, DADC, DSCF, or DFSS drop shipment.

14.3 Prices—Outside-County

Outside-County barcoded (automation) prices are based on the following criteria (see 2.0 for price application and computation):

Piece prices are based on mailpiece shape (letter, flat, or parcel), machinability, barcoding, and presort level. The presort level of the piece is based on the bundle level of the piece, except the presort level of pieces loose in trays is based on the tray level.
Bundle prices are based on the bundle and container sortation level.
Container prices are based on the type of container (tray, sack, pallet), the level of sortation of the container, and where the container is entered.

14.4 Prices—In-County

14.4.1 Five-Digit Prices

5-digit automation prices apply to:

Letters in groups of 150 or more pieces to the same 5-digit or 5-digit scheme placed in a 5-digit or 5-digit scheme tray or trays prepared under 24.0. (Preparation to qualify for the 5-digit price is optional and, if performed, need not be done for all 5-digit or 5-digit scheme destinations.)
Flats in 5-digit bundles and 5-digit scheme bundles of six or more pieces each, prepared under 25.0 or 705.8.0 through 705.13.0.
Qualifying flats sorted to a FSS scheme under 705.14.0.

14.4.2 Three-Digit Prices

3-digit automation prices apply to:

Letters in groups of 150 or more pieces to the same 3-digit or 3-digit scheme placed in a 3-digit/scheme tray or trays under 24.0.
Flats in 3-digit scheme, and 3-digit bundles of six or more pieces each, prepared under 25.0 or 705.8.0 through 705.13.0.
Flat-size pieces not qualifying for carrier route or 5-digit prices, but properly included in a FSS scheme pool prepared under 705.14.0.

14.4.3 Basic Prices

Basic automation prices apply to:

Letters prepared under 24.0 that are not claimed at 5-digit or 3-digit prices.
Flats prepared under 25.0 or 705.8.0 through 705.13.0 that are not claimed at 5-digit or 3-digit prices.
All pieces in any bundle that contains fewer than six pieces.

14.5 Address Standards for Barcoded Pieces

14.5.1 General

To qualify for barcoded prices, 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 as defined in 204.1.0 that appears on a mailpiece must be the correct barcode for the corresponding delivery address on the piece.

14.5.2 ZIP+4 Code

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

14.5.3 Numeric Delivery Point Barcode

A numeric equivalent of the delivery point routing code is formed by adding two digits directly after the ZIP+4 code.

14.5.4 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.

14.5.5 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.

14.5.6 Secondary Designator

If a secondary address designator (for example, 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.

14.5.7 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.

14.5.8 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.

15.0 Ride-Along Eligibility

15.1 General

The standards in 15.0 apply to USPS Marketing Mail material paid at the Periodicals Ride-Along price that is attached to or enclosed with Periodicals mail.

15.2 Basic Standards

Only one Ride-Along piece may be attached to or enclosed with one copy of Periodicals mail. The Ride-Along price must be paid on each copy in the mailing, rather than each addressed piece. A Ride-Along piece must meet the content eligibility requirements for USPS Marketing Mail and must:

Not exceed any dimension of the host publication except when the host publication and the Ride-Along piece are contained in an envelope, polybag, or other complete wrapper.
Not exceed 3.3 ounces and must not exceed the weight of the host publication.
Not obscure the title of the publication or the address label.

15.3 Physical Characteristics

The host Periodicals piece and the Ride-Along piece must meet the following physical characteristics:

Construction:

Bound publications. The Ride-Along piece must be securely affixed to the host publication, or if loose, the Ride-Along piece and publication must be enclosed in a full wrapper, polybag, or envelope.
Unbound publications. A loose Ride-Along enclosure with an unbound publication must be combined with and inserted within the publication in a manner that prevents detachment. If the Ride-Along piece is outside the unbound publication, the publication and the Ride-Along piece must be enclosed in a full wrapper, polybag, or envelope.

A Periodicals letter or flat with a Ride-Along must remain uniformly thick and must maintain the same processing category as before the addition of the Ride-Along.

15.4 Marking

The marking “Ride-Along Enclosed” must be placed on or in the host publication if it contains a Ride-Along enclosure or attachment. If placed on the host publication, the marking must be set in type no smaller than any used in the required “POSTMASTER: Send change of address…” statement. If placed in the identification statement, the marking must meet the applicable standards. The marking must not be on or in copies without a Ride-Along.

16.0 Postage Payment

16.1 Filing Each Issue

The publisher must file a copy of each issue with the postmaster of the original entry office.

16.2 Filing Marked Copy

The publisher must file a copy (marked by the publisher) of each issue, so the advertising content may be verified, with the Postmaster of either the original entry office or an additional entry office. If there is more than one edition for an issue, the publisher must submit the main or most prominent edition of the issue and must have all other editions available for review upon request by the USPS. On the first page of each marked copy, the publisher must show the total units and percentage of space devoted to advertising and nonadvertising in the copy. Advertising matter printed on envelopes, wrappers, and detached marketing labels (DMLs) must be included in the measurement. The computed percentage of advertising must be rounded off to two decimal places, as shown in 2.0. Publishers are not required to submit marked copies if they are certified by the USPS to use the Periodicals Accuracy, Grading, and Evaluation (PAGE) Program or participate in the Alternate Marked Copy process. For additional information, contact the District Manager, Business Mail Entry, available on PostalPro at https://postalpro.usps.com.

16.3 Mailer and Publisher Responsibility

The mailer is responsible for proper full payment of postage before Periodicals mailings are dispatched. The publisher must ensure that all information on postage statements is correct and that all copies qualify for the prices claimed.

16.4 Payment Method

Mailers must pay Periodicals postage by advance deposit account at the original or additional entry Post Office, except under Centralized Postage Payment in 16.6. Mailers may not pay postage for Periodicals using permit imprint, meter stamp, postage stamp, or precanceled stamps. Mailers must pay postage for First-Class Mail and USPS Marketing Mail enclosures under 703.9.8 through 703.9.12 and 705.18.1. Mailers who prepare Periodicals publications as a combined mailing by merging copies as noted in 27.0 may pay the Outside-County bundle and container charges on one mailer’s Form 3541, on one consolidated Form 3541, or on each mailer’s Form 3541 (see 2.2.7).

16.5 Centralized Postage Payment System

Subject to specific authorization by the Pricing and Classification Service Center (PCSC), the Centralized Postage Payment (CPP) System allows the publisher of a Periodicals publication to pay Periodicals postage at the PCSC instead of at each authorized entry office. An additional entry is required at each Post Office where copies of the Periodicals publication are presented for postal verification under 30.0.

16.6 Periodicals Accuracy, Grading, and Evaluation Program

16.6.1 General

The Periodicals Accuracy, Grading, and Evaluation (PAGE) Program is a process to evaluate publishing and print planning (PPP) software and to determine its accuracy in computing per-copy weights and calculating advertising percentages for Periodicals. Certification of PAGE software is available only to those companies that develop or write PPP software, and does not guarantee acceptance of the publisher’s per-copy weights and advertising percentages prepared with PAGE-certified software.

16.6.2 Program Elements

In addition to evaluating and testing PPP software, the PAGE Program qualifies publishing personnel to submit data to the USPS using PAGE-certified PPP software. The USPS National Customer Support Center (NCSC) certifies developer’s software and publisher’s employees to use certified PPP software for Periodicals mailings. The PAGE Program involves the following three elements:

Stage I, Product Certification for Software Developers. NCSC evaluates the accuracy of the calculations of PPP software by processing a test publication file either at the NCSC or at the developer’s location (on-site visit).
Stage II, User certification for PPP software. NCSC provides test bundles to the users and evaluates the results.
Stage III, PAGE Program authorization. Publishers who want to use PAGE-certified software and PAGE-certified users to submit per-copy weight and calculated advertising percentages must apply for authorization to the manager, PCSC.

16.6.3 Participation

For information about the PAGE Program, publishers may request a technical guide from the NCSC and additional information from the PCSC (see 608.8.0 for addresses).

17.0 Documentation

17.1 Postage Statement and Documentation

See 203.1.0 and 203.2.0 for postage statement and documentation standards.

17.2 Additional Standards for Postage Statements

17.2.1 Advertising Percentage

At least once a year, the USPS verifies the advertising percentage reported on the corresponding postage statement by measuring the advertising and nonadvertising portions of one issue.

17.2.2 Measuring Advertising

The total advertising and nonadvertising portions may be determined by column inches, square inches, pages, or by another recognized unit of measure if the same unit of measure is used for both portions. One full page of advertising must equal one full page of nonadvertising regardless of the amount of blank space between each article on a page. If measured in column inches, nonadvertising inches are determined by subtracting the total advertising inches from the total column inches of the publication. A blank page, portion of a page, or blank border or margin is counted as advertising if consideration was received for the whole page, the blank portion, or the blank border or margin. The border of a page is otherwise considered neither advertising nor nonadvertising and is not measured. When measuring nonrectangular sheets, the measurement is based on the smallest rectangle that could contain the irregular sheet; exact measurement is not attempted. When two or more sheets are permanently glued together to form a single sheet, the surface area of the resulting sheet (front and back) is included when measuring the advertising or nonadvertising portion.

17.2.3 Waiving Nonadvertising Prices

Instead of marking a copy of each issue to show the advertising portion, the publisher may pay postage at the advertising zoned prices on both portions of all issues or editions of a Periodicals publication (except a requester publication). This option is not available if the price for advertising is lower than the price for nonadvertising. The copies provided to the Postmaster must be marked “Advertising over 75%” or “Advertising not over 75%” on the first page, as applicable. The entire weight of the copy must be entered on the postage statement in the column provided for the advertising portion. The words “Over 75%” or “Not over 75%” must be annotated on the postage statement and the word “Waived” must be written in the space provided for the weight of the nonadvertising portion.

17.2.4 Copies of Previous Issues

When a reasonable number of copies of previous issues are included in a mailing of a current issue, those issues may be charged for postage by the percentages of advertising and nonadvertising material in the current issue. The issue forming the bulk of the mailing is regarded as the current issue.

17.2.5 Sequenced Postage Statement

A mailer who provides more than one postage statement per day must enter a sequenced statement number in the proper block on each postage statement. If the same mailing of one edition of one issue includes copies reported on two postage statements, the sequenced statement number of the second form must be included on the primary postage statement reporting the total postage for the mailing.

17.2.6 Official Mail

Official (penalty) Periodicals matter is also subject to the standards in 703.7.0, which supersede conflicting standards below.

17.2.7 News Agent’s Statement

A news agent presenting Periodicals matter subject to zone prices must provide a statement showing the percentages of such matter devoted to advertising and nonadvertising.

17.3 Monthly Postage Statements

17.3.1 General

The manager, Business Mail Entry may authorize a publisher of a Periodicals publication to submit one Form 3541 for all issues mailed during a calendar month. Postage statements must be submitted no more than 72 hours after the first mailing of the last issue mailed each month. The pages of every issue, enclosures in the publication, and supplements to the publication must be printed on sheets of the same paper grade weight.

17.3.2 Determining Combined Weight

The combined weight of one copy from each issue mailed during a calendar month is obtained as follows:

Determine the weight of one copy as described in 2.0.
Determine the weight of one sheet by dividing the average weight of one copy by the number of sheets (not pages) in the copy. Express the result in decimal pounds rounded off to four decimal places.
Select one copy of each of the issues mailed during the month; count the sheets (not pages) in each; add these figures to determine the total number of sheets.
Multiply the total number of sheets by the weight of one sheet; do not round the product.

17.4 Detailed Zone Listing for Periodicals

17.4.1 Basic Standards

The publisher must be able to present documentation to support the actual number of copies of each edition of an issue, by entry point, mailed to each zone, at DDU, DSCF, DADC, DFSS and In-County prices. This listing is separated from the standardized presort documentation required under 17.3. This listing may be submitted with each mailing, or a publisher may keep such records for each mailing for 2 months after the mailing date. A publisher must be able to submit detailed zone listings for specific mailings when requested by the USPS.

17.4.2 Format

Report the number of copies mailed to each 3-digit ZIP Code area at zone prices using one of the following formats:

Report copies by 3-digit ZIP Code, in ascending numeric order, for all ZIP Codes in the mailing. The listing must include these columns: 3-digit ZIP Code, zone, and number of copies. Include a summary of the number of copies at each zone price at the end of the report. A 3-digit ZIP Code may appear more than once if there are copies at different zone prices for that ZIP Code (for example, In-County and Outside-County copies).
Report copies by zone (In-County DDU, In-County others, Outside-County DDU, Outside-County DSCF, Outside-County DSCF and Outside-County DADC) and by 3-digit ZIP Code, in ascending numeric order, for each zone. For each zone, the listing must include these columns: 3-digit ZIP Code and number of copies in the mailing. Include a summary of the total number of copies for each zone at the end of each zone listing. A 3-digit ZIP Code may appear under more than one zone if there are copies at different zone prices for that ZIP Code.

17.4.3 Zone Abbreviations

Use the actual price name or the authorized zone abbreviation in the listings in 17.3 and 17.4.2.

17.5 Additional Standards for Documentation

17.5.1 Carrier Route Mailings

For Carrier Route mailings, documentation of sequencing and density standards under 23.8 and 23.9 also must be submitted with each mailing.

17.5.2 Outside-County Bundle and Container Price Documentation

The documentation must show how many bundles are used and how many trays, sacks, and pallets are required for the prices claimed.

18.0 General Mail Preparation

18.1 Definition of Presort

“Presort” is the process by which a mailer prepares mail so that it is sorted to at least the finest extent required by the standards.

18.2 Definition of Mailings

“Mailings” are defined as:

A mailing is a group of pieces within the same class of mail and the same processing category that may be sorted together and presented as one mailing. Other standards define when mailings may be combined, palletized, reported, or deposited together.
Mail qualifying for In-County prices may be part of a mailing that includes pieces at Outside-County prices. Mail at carrier route prices, nonmachinable flats prices, and machinable flats prices must be sorted as separate mailings. However, each of these mailings may be reported on the same postage statement if the pieces are for the same publication and edition.

18.3 Presort Terms

Terms used for presort levels are defined as follows:

Firm: all pieces for delivery at the address shown on the top piece (for nonautomation Periodicals only).
Carrier route: all pieces for delivery to the same city route, rural route, highway contract route, Post Office box section, or general delivery unit.
FSS scheme for flats: the ZIP Code in the delivery address on all pieces in the FSS bundle is one of the 5-digit ZIP Codes processed by the USPS as one scheme as shown in L006.
5-digit: the delivery address on all pieces includes the same 5-digit ZIP Code.
5-digit scheme (trays) for barcoded letters: the ZIP Code in the delivery address on all pieces is one of the 5-digit ZIP Code areas processed by the USPS as one scheme, as shown in L012.
5-digit scheme (bundles and sacks) for automation flats: the ZIP Code in the delivery address on all pieces is one of the 5-digit ZIP Codes processed by the USPS as one scheme, as shown in L007.
5-digit scheme carrier routes (pallets and sacks) for Periodicals flats and irregular parcels: the ZIP Code in the delivery address on all pieces in carrier route bundles is one of the 5-digit ZIP Codes processed by the USPS as one scheme, as shown in L001.
5-digit scheme (pallets) for Periodicals flats and irregular parcels: the ZIP Code in the delivery address on all pieces is one of the 5-digit ZIP Codes processed by the USPS as one scheme, as shown in L001.
Merged 5-digit sacks: the carrier route bundles and/or machinable 5-digit bundles in a sack are all for a 5-digit ZIP Code that has an “A” or “C” indicator in the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product.
Merged 5-digit pallets: the carrier route bundles and/or machinable barcoded or nonbarcoded price 5-digit bundles are prepared under one of the following standards:

Prepared under 705.10.0 and are all for a 5-digit ZIP Code that has an “A” or “C” indicator in the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product.
Prepared under 705.12.0 and the pieces in 5-digit bundles meet the 5% threshold requirement.
Prepared under 705.13.0 and pieces are either all for a 5-digit ZIP Code that has an “A” or “C” indicator in the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product or are all for a ZIP Code with a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product and the pieces in 5-digit bundles meet the 5% threshold requirement.

Merged 5-digit scheme sack: the 5-digit ZIP Codes on pieces in carrier route bundles and/or machinable 5-digit bundles in a sack are all for 5-digit ZIP Codes that are part of one scheme as shown in L001, and the 5-digit bundles also are for 5-digit ZIP Codes that have an “A” or “C” indicator in the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product.
Merged 5-digit scheme pallet: contains carrier route bundles and machinable 5-digit bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that are part of one scheme as shown in L001.
3-digit: the ZIP Code in the delivery address on all pieces begins with the same three digits (see L002, Column A).
3-digit scheme: the ZIP Code in the delivery address on all pieces begins with one of the 3-digit prefixes processed by the USPS as one scheme, as shown in L003.
3-digit scheme bundles for automation flats: the ZIP Code in the delivery address on all pieces is one of the 3-digit ZIP Codes processed by the USPS as one scheme, as shown in L008.
Origin/entry 3-digit(s): the ZIP Code in the delivery address on all pieces begins with one of the 3-digit prefixes processed at the sectional center facility (SCF) in whose service area the mail is verified/entered.
SCF: the separation includes pieces for two or more 3-digit areas served by the same sectional center facility (SCF) (see L005).
Origin/entry SCF: the separation includes bundles for one or more 3-digit areas served by the same sectional center facility (SCF) (see L002, Column C, or L005) in whose service area the mail is verified/entered.
ADC/AADC: all pieces are addressed for delivery in the service area of the same area distribution center (ADC) or automated area distribution center (AADC) (see L004 or L801).
Origin mixed [ADC]: the pieces are for delivery in the service area of the origin processing facility‘s surface preferential transportation network (see L201).
Mixed [ADC, AADC, etc.]: the pieces are for delivery in the service area of more than one ADC or AADC.

18.4 Mail Preparation Terms

For purposes of preparing mail:

Pieces refers to individually addressed mailpieces.
A full letter tray is one in which faced, upright pieces fill the length of the tray between 85% and 100% full.
A less-than-full letter tray is one that contains mail for the same destination regardless of quantity.
An overflow letter tray is a less-than-full tray that contains all pieces remaining after preparation of full trays for the same destination.
A full sack is defined in the standards for the class and price claimed.
A full flat tray is one that is physically full. Although a minimum volume may be required (at least a single stack of mail lying flat on the bottom of the tray and filling the tray to the bottom of the handholds) before a tray is prepared for certain destinations, trays must be filled with additional available pieces (up to the reasonable capacity of the tray) when standards require preparation of full trays.
A less-than-full flat tray is one that contains mail for the same destination regardless of quantity or whether a full tray was previously prepared for that destination.
A 5-digit scheme sort for barcoded letters yields 5-digit scheme trays for those 5-digit ZIP Codes identified in L012 and 5-digit trays for other areas. The 5-digit ZIP Codes in each scheme are treated as one presort destination. Trays prepared for a 5-digit scheme destination that contain pieces for only one of the schemed 5-digit ZIP Codes are still considered 5-digit scheme sorted. The 5-digit scheme sort is required for price eligibility but need not be used for all 5-digit ZIP Codes that are part of a scheme.
A 5-digit scheme sort for automation flats yields 5-digit scheme bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes identified in L007. Mailpieces must be labeled using an optional endorsement line (OEL) under 203.7.0 or with a red “5 SCH” bundle label. Periodicals firm bundles must not be combined within 5-digit scheme bundles.
A 5-digit scheme carrier routes sort for carrier route Periodicals flats and irregular parcels prepared in sacks or as bundles on pallets yields a 5-digit scheme carrier routes sack or pallet for those 5-digit ZIP Codes listed in L001 and 5-digit carrier routes sacks or pallets for other areas. The 5-digit ZIP Codes in each scheme are treated as one presort destination. Sacks or pallets prepared for a 5-digit scheme carrier routes destination that contain carrier route bundles for only one of the schemed 5-digit areas are still considered to be sorted to 5-digit scheme carrier routes. Preparation of 5-digit scheme carrier routes sacks or pallets must be done for all 5-digit scheme destinations.
A 5-digit scheme sort for Periodicals flats prepared as bundles on pallets yields 5-digit scheme pallets containing machinable 5-digit bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes listed in L001 and for other areas. The 5-digit ZIP Codes in each scheme are treated as one presort destination. Pallets prepared for a 5-digit scheme destination that contain 5-digit bundles for only one of the schemed 5-digit areas are still considered to be sorted to the 5-digit scheme. Preparation of 5-digit scheme pallets must be done for all 5-digit scheme destinations.
A merged 5-digit sort for Periodicals flats prepared in sacks yields merged 5-digit sacks that contain carrier route bundles and/or machinable 5-digit bundles that are all for a 5-digit ZIP Code that has an “A” or “C” indicator in the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product. Sacks prepared for a merged 5-digit destination that contain only one or two price levels of bundles are still considered to be merged 5-digit sorted. If preparation of merged 5-digit sacks is performed, it must be done for all 5-digit ZIP Code destinations with an “A” or “C” indicator in the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product.
A merged 5-digit sort for Periodicals flats prepared as bundles on pallets yields merged 5-digit pallets that contain carrier route bundles and machinable 5-digit bundles. Pallets prepared for a merged 5-digit destination that contain only one or two price levels of bundles are still considered to be merged 5-digit sorted.
A merged 5-digit scheme sort for Periodicals flats prepared in sacks yields merged 5-digit scheme sacks that contain carrier route bundles and machinable 5-digit bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that are part of one scheme as shown in L001. Sacks prepared for a merged 5-digit scheme destination that contain only one or two price levels of bundles or bundles for only one of the schemed 5-digit ZIP Codes are still considered to be merged 5-digit scheme sorted. If preparation of merged 5-digit scheme sacks is performed, it must be done for all 5-digit scheme destinations in L001.
A merged 5-digit scheme sort for bundles of Periodicals flats on pallets yields merged 5-digit scheme pallets that contain carrier route bundles and machinable 5-digit bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that are part of one scheme as shown in L001. Pallets prepared for a merged 5-digit scheme destination that contain only one or two price levels of bundles or bundles for only one of the schemed 5-digit ZIP Codes are still considered to be merged 5-digit scheme sorted. If preparation of merged 5-digit scheme pallets is performed, it must be done for all 5-digit scheme destinations in L001.
A 3-digit scheme sort yields 3-digit scheme trays for those 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes listed in L003 and 3-digit trays for other areas. The 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes in each scheme are treated as one presort destination. Trays prepared for a 3-digit scheme destination that contain pieces for only one of the schemed 3-digit areas are still considered 3-digit scheme sorted.
A 3-digit scheme sort for automation flats yields 3-digit scheme bundles for those 3-digit ZIP Codes identified in L008. Mailpieces must be labeled using an optional endorsement line (OEL) under 203.7.0 or with a green “3 SCH” bundle label. Periodicals firm bundles must not be combined within 3-digit scheme bundles.
An origin 3-digit (or origin 3-digit scheme) tray/sack contains all mail (regardless of quantity) for a 3-digit ZIP Code (or 3-digit scheme) area processed by the SCF in whose service area the mail is verified. A separate tray/sack may be prepared for each 3-digit ZIP Code (or 3-digit scheme) area.
An origin/entry SCF sack contains all 5-digit and 3-digit bundles (regardless of quantity) for the SCF in whose service area the mail is verified. At the mailer‘s option, such a sack may be prepared for the SCF area of each entry Post Office. This presort level applies only to nonletter-size Periodicals prepared in sacks.
The required at [quantity] instruction (for example, “required at 10 pieces”) means that the particular unit must be prepared for the corresponding presort level whenever the specified quantity of mail is reached or exceeded. Subject to applicable price eligibility standards, smaller quantities may be prepared only if permitted.
The optional at [quantity] instruction means that the particular unit may be prepared for the corresponding presort level whenever the specified quantity of mail is reached or exceeded. Smaller quantities may be prepared only if permitted by applicable price eligibility standards.
Entry [facility] (or origin [facility]) refers to the USPS mail processing facility (for example, “entry SCF”) that serves the Post Office at which the mail is entered by the mailer. If the Post Office where the mail is entered is not the one serving the mailer’s location (such as for plant-verified drop shipment), the Post Office of entry determines the entry facility.
The group pieces instruction means the pieces are to be sorted together but not secured into a bundle.
A bundle is a group of addressed pieces secured together as a unit. Bundle preparation is described in 19.0.
A “logical” presort destination represents the total number of pieces that are eligible for a specific presort level based on the required sortation, but which might not be contained in one bundle or in one container (sack or pallet) due to preparation requirements or the piece size. For example, there may be 42 mailpieces for ZIP Code 43112 forming a “logical” 5-digit bundle, and they are prepared in three physical 5-digit bundles because of the weight and height restrictions on bundles.
Cobundling is an alternate preparation method available under 705 that allows the combining of machinable flats within the same bundle under the single minimum bundle size requirement. Pieces may not be combined in more than one physical bundle for each logical presort destination unless presented using an approved manifest mailing system under 705.2.0.
Machinable flats are:

Flat-size pieces meeting the standards in 201.6.0 that are sorted into 5-digit, 3-digit, ADC, and mixed ADC bundles. These pieces are compatible with processing on the AFSM 100.
Barcoded flat-size pieces meeting the standards in 26.0 that are sorted into 5-digit bundles.

Nonmachinable flats are flat-size pieces meeting the standards in 26.0, with the exception of barcoded 5-digit pieces under 18.4aa (item 2) above. Nonmachinable flats are not compatible with processing on the AFSM 100.

18.5 FSS Preparation

Flat sized Periodicals In-County priced mailings, along with a maximum of 5,000 Outside-County pieces for the same issue (see 1.1.4) may be optionally sorted under FSS preparation standards. All other Periodicals flats including Saturation (Non-simplified addressed) and High Density priced flats destinating and qualifying to FSS zones in L006, must be prepared under 705.14.0.

19.0 Bundles

A bundle is a group of addressed pieces, for a presort destination, secured together. See 203.4.0 for bundling standards.

20.0 Sacks and Trays

20.1 Basic Standards

20.1.1 General

Mailings must be prepared in letter trays (letters), flat trays (flats) under 22.7 and 25.5, or sacks (flats and parcels). Palletized mail is subject to 705.8.0. See 203.5.0 and 203.6.0 for tray and sack standards.

20.1.2 Origin/Entry 3-Digit/Scheme Trays

For letter-size Periodicals, after all finer sort levels are prepared, an origin/entry 3-digit (or for barcoded letters, 3-digit scheme) tray must be prepared for any remaining mail for each 3-digit (or 3-digit scheme) area serviced by the SCF serving the origin Post Office, and may be prepared for each 3-digit (or 3-digit scheme) area served by the SCF where mail is entered (if different).

20.1.3 Flats and Irregular Parcels—Origin/Entry SCF Sacks

For flats and irregular parcels, after all finer sort levels are prepared, an origin/entry SCF sack must be prepared for any remaining bundles for the 3-digit ZIP Code area(s) serviced by the SCF serving the origin Post Office, and may be prepared for the area served by the SCF/plant where mail is entered (if different).

20.1.4 Flats and Irregular Parcels—Origin Mixed ADC Sacks

For flats and irregular parcels, after all finer sort levels are prepared, mailers must prepare an origin mixed sack for any remaining bundles for the ZIP Codes listed in L201, Column B, that correspond to the 3-digit origin entry point under Column A.

21.0 Sack and Tray Labels

Sack and tray labels must be Intelligent Mail tray labels, subject to standards in 203.5.0, 203.6.0, 204.3.3 and to specifications posted on PostalPro at https://postalpro.usps.com.

22.0 Preparing Nonbarcoded (Presorted) Periodicals

22.1 Basic Standards

22.1.1 General

The following standards apply to the preparation of nonbarcoded mailings:

All pieces in each mailing must be in the same processing category.
Letter-size pieces must be bundled under 22.2 and prepared in trays under 22.5.
Nonletter-size pieces must be bundled under 22.2.
Bundles of nonletter-size pieces must be prepared under one of the following:

Sacked under 22.6 or trayed (for flats) under 22.7, except that a nonbarcoded mailing that is part of a mailing job that also contains a barcoded mailing must be prepared under 22.1.2.
Palletized under 705.8.0, 705.10.0, 705.12.0, or 705.13.0.

Letter trays, sacks, flat trays, and bundles of nonletter-size pieces may subsequently be prepared on pallets under 705.8.0.

22.1.2 Additional Standards for Nonletter-Size Mailing Jobs Containing More Than One Mailing

The following standards apply:

Mailings prepared in sacks or flat trays that are part of a mailing job that includes carrier route, barcoded, and nonbarcoded mailings must be prepared under one of the options listed below.

The carrier route mailing must be prepared under 13.0 and 23.0, and the barcoded and nonbarcoded mailing must be prepared under 705.9.0, or
All three mailings must be prepared under 705.10.0.

Mailing jobs that contain only a carrier route mailing and a nonbarcoded mailing may be separately prepared under 23.0 and 22.0 or may be merged under 705.10.0.
Mailing jobs that contain only a carrier route mailing and a barcoded mailing may be separately prepared under 23.0 and 25.0, or may be merged under 705.10.0.

22.1.3 Merged Containerization of Nonletter-Size Carrier Route, Barcoded, and Nonbarcoded Mail

Under optional preparation in 705.10.0, nonbarcoded 5-digit bundles are cosacked or cotrayed with carrier route bundles and barcoded 5-digit bundles in merged 5-digit and merged 5-digit scheme sacks (or flat trays). Under 705.10.0, 705.12.0, or 705.13.0, nonbarcoded 5-digit bundles are copalletized with carrier route and with barcoded 5-digit bundles on merged 5-digit and merged 5-digit scheme pallets. See 22.1.2a for information on when preparation under 705.10.0 may be required. Machinable barcoded and nonbarcoded pieces may be cobundled under 705.11.0.

22.2 Bundle Preparation

Mailings of entirely nonbarcoded flats meeting the criteria in 201.6.0 may be prepared in 5-digit scheme bundles according to L007 and in 3-digit scheme bundles according to L008. Prepare a bundle (except under 22.7) when the quantity of addressed pieces for a required presort level reaches the minimum bundle size. Smaller volumes are not permitted except in mixed ADC bundles and under 22.4. Bundling is also subject to 19.0. Preparation sequence, bundle size, and labeling:

Firm (optional); two-piece minimum; blue Label F or optional endorsement line (OEL).
5-digit scheme (optional); six-piece minimum; Red Label 5 SCH or OEL.
5-digit (required); six-piece minimum; Red Label 5 or OEL; bundle labeling optional for pieces in full 5-digit trays
3-digit scheme (optional); six-piece minimum; Green Label 3 SCH or OEL.
3-digit (required); six-piece minimum; Green Label 3 or OEL.
ADC (required); six-piece minimum; Pink Label A or OEL.
Origin mixed ADC (required); no minimum; for any remaining pieces for destinations in L201, Column B, corresponding to the origin ZIP Code in Column A; Tan label X or OEL.
Mixed ADC (required); no minimum; Tan Label X or OEL.

22.3 Firm Bundles

A “firm bundle” is defined as two or more copies for the same address placed in one bundle. If each copy has a delivery address, each may be claimed as a separate piece for presort and on the postage statement, or the firm bundle may be claimed as one addressed piece. A firm bundle claimed as one addressed piece must be physically separate from other bundles and may only be used to satisfy a six-piece bundle requirement to a presort destination for In-County prices. Firm bundles must not be placed in 5-digit scheme sacks.

22.4 Bundles With Fewer Than Six Pieces

Nonletter-size Periodicals may be prepared in 5-digit and 3-digit bundles containing fewer than six pieces at the publisher’s option. Pieces in these low-volume bundles must be claimed at the mixed ADC price (Outside-County) or basic price (In-County). Low-volume bundles are permitted only when sacked or prepared on pallets as follows:

Place bundles in only 5-digit, 3-digit, and SCF sacks that contain at least 24 pieces, or in origin/entry SCF sacks, as appropriate.
Place bundles on only merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme, merged 5-digit, 5-digit, 3-digit, and SCF pallets.

22.5 Tray Preparation—Letter-Size Pieces

Preparation sequence, tray size, and labeling:

5-digit: required at 24 pieces, optional with one six-piece bundle minimum.

Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on mail (see 21.0 for overseas military mail).
Line 2: “PER” or NEWS” as applicable; followed by “LTRS 5D NON BC.”

3-digit: required at 24 pieces (no minimum for required origin/optional entry 3-digit(s)), optional with one six-piece bundle minimum.

Line 1: use L002, Column A.
Line 2: “PER” or NEWS” as applicable; followed by “LTRS 3D NON BC.”

ADC: required at 24 pieces, optional with one six-piece bundle minimum.

Line 1: use L004, Column B.
Line 2: “PER” or NEWS” as applicable; followed by “LTRS ADC NON BC.”

Mixed ADC: required (no minimum).

Line 1: Use L011, Column B.
Line 2: “PER” or NEWS” as applicable; followed by “LTRS NON BC WKG.”

22.6 Sack Preparation—Flat-Size Pieces and Parcels

For mailing jobs that also contain a barcoded mailing, see 22.1.2 and 705.9.0 or 705.10.0. For other mailing jobs, preparation sequence, sack size, and labeling:

5-digit scheme, optional; for pieces meeting the standards in 201.6.0; 24-piece minimum, fewer pieces not permitted.

Line 1: L007, Column B.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS 5D SCH NON BC.”

5-digit, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces minimum.

Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on mail (see 21.0 for overseas military mail).
Line 2: “PER” or NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable; followed by “5D”; followed by “NON BC” for flats.

3-digit, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces minimum.

Line 1: use L002, Column A.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable; followed by “3D”; followed by “NON BC” for flats.

SCF, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces minimum.

Line 1: use L002, Column C.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable; followed by “SCF”; followed by “NON BC” for flats.

Origin/entry SCF, required for the SCF of the origin (verification) office, optional for the SCF of an entry office other than the origin office, (no minimum); for Line 1 use L002, Column C.

Line 1: use L002, Column C.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable; followed by “SCF”; followed by “NON BC” for flats.

ADC, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces minimum.

Line 1: use L004, Column B.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable; followed by “ADC”; followed by “NON BC” for flats.

Origin mixed ADC, required; no minimum; for any remaining bundles for destinations in L201, Column B, corresponding to the origin ZIP Code in Column A.

Line 1: Use L201, Column C.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable, followed by “WKG W FCM.”

Mixed ADC, required (no minimum).

Line 1: Use L009, Column B.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable; followed by “NON BC WKG” for flats or “WKG” for irregular parcels.

22.7 Optional Tray Preparation—Flat-Size Nonbarcoded Pieces

As an option, mailers may place machinable flats in flat trays (see 203.5.6) instead of sacks. Mailers also may prepare nonmachinable (see 26.0) flats in flat trays. Bundling is not permitted unless a bundle is more finely presorted than the tray’s presort destination. The trays are subject to a container charge, and any bundles are subject to a bundle charge. Tray preparation, sequence, and labeling:

5-digit scheme, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces minimum.

Line 1: L007, Column B.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS”; followed by “5D SCH NON BC.”

5-digit, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces minimum.

Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on mail (see 21.0 for overseas military mail).
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS”; followed by “5D NON BC.”

3-digit, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces minimum.

Line 1: L002, Column A.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS”; followed by “3D NON BC.”

SCF, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces minimum.

Line 1: L002, Column C.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS”; followed by “SCF NON BC.”

Origin SCF (required) and entry SCF(s) (optional), no minimum, labeling:

Line 1: L002, Column C.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS”; followed by “SCF NON BC.”

ADC, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces minimum.

Line 1: use L004, Column B.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS”; followed by “ADC”; followed by “NON BC.”

Origin mixed ADC (required), no minimum, for any remaining pieces for destinations in L201, Column B, of the origin ZIP Code in Column A, labeling:

Line 1: Use L201, Column C.
Line 2: “PER” “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS”; followed by “WKG W FCM.”

Mixed ADC (required), no minimum, labeling:

Line 1: Use L009.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS”; followed by “NON BC WKG.”

23.0 Preparing Carrier Route Periodicals

23.1 Basic Standards

23.1.1 General

Mailers must meet the following standards for carrier route mailings:

All pieces in each carrier route Periodicals mailing must be in the same processing category.
Letter-size pieces must be bundled under 23.2 and prepared in trays under 23.3.
Nonletter-size pieces must be bundled under 23.2.
Except as noted in 23.4.2, mailers must prepare bundles of nonletter-size pieces according to one of the following:

Sack under 23.4, or under 705.10.1 if eligible to be cosacked with barcoded and nonbarcoded pieces.
Palletized under 705.8.0, 705.10.0, 705.12.0, or 705.13.0.

Bundles of nonletter-size pieces, letter trays, and sacks may be prepared on pallets under 705.8.0.
Pieces with a simplified address must meet the preparation standards in 602.3.0 and the eligibility standards in 7.0.

23.1.2 Sequencing

Preparation for carrier route prices is optional. Periodicals for which a carrier route discount is claimed must be prepared as a carrier route mailing under this section, using walk sequencing or line-of-travel sequencing (see 23.8 and 23.9).

23.1.3 Merged Containerization of Nonletter-Size Carrier Route and Machinable Barcoded and Nonbarcoded Mail

For mailing jobs that contain machinable barcoded, machinable nonbarcoded and carrier route mailings; see 22.1.3 for preparation options.

23.2 Bundle Preparation

23.2.1 General

Bundle preparation is subject to 19.0 and the specific standards below.

23.2.2 Walk-Sequence Identification

In addition to the bundle label showing carrier route type and number under 23.2.3, each bundle of Periodicals walk-sequence mail must show the level of walk-sequencing. A facing slip with the phrase “HIGH DENSITY (or “SATURATION”) WALK-SEQUENCED CARRIER ROUTE MAIL” (as applicable) may be placed on the top of each bundles an address label placed on a sample mailpiece that is the top piece or a facing slip affixed to the top of the bundle. If bundles don’t have facing slips, an optional endorsement line or carrier route information line must be placed on each piece in the bundle.

23.2.3 Bundling and Labeling

Preparation sequence, bundle size, and labeling:

Firm (optional); two-piece minimum; blue Label F or optional endorsement line (OEL).
Carrier route (optional, but required for price eligibility); six-piece minimum (fewer pieces permitted under 23.6); labeling required (carrier route type and number and walk-sequence information) except for bundles placed in a carrier route tray or sack.

23.3 Preparation—Letter-Size Pieces

23.3.1 Basic Preparation

Preparation sequence, tray size, and labeling:

Carrier route: required at 24 pieces, optional with one six-piece bundle.

Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on mail (see 21.0 for overseas military mail).
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “LTRS;” followed by “WSS” for saturation price mail, or “WSH” for high density price mail, or “CR” for basic price mail; followed by the route type and number.

5-digit carrier routes: required if full tray, optional with one six-piece bundle.

Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination of bundles, preceded for military mail by the prefixes under 21.0.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “LTRS CR-RTS.”

3-digit carrier routes, optional with one six-piece bundle for each of two or more 5-digit areas.

Line 1: use the city, state, and ZIP shown in L002, Column A that corresponds to the 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of bundles.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “LTRS 3D CR-RTS.”

23.3.2 Tray Line 2 for Simplified Address

For trays that contain letter-size pieces with a simplified address (under 602.3.0), use “MAN” on Line 2 in place of “BC.”

23.4 Preparation—Flat-Size Pieces and Irregular Parcels

23.4.1 Sacking and Labeling

Preparation sequence, sack size, and labeling:

Carrier route, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces, fewer pieces not permitted.

Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on mail (see 21.0 for overseas military mail).
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable; followed by “WSS” for saturation price mail, or “WSH” for high density price mail, or “CR” for basic price mail; followed by the route type and number.

5-digit scheme carrier routes, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces, fewer pieces not permitted.

Line 1: use L001, Column B.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable; followed by “CR-RTS SCH.”

5-digit carrier routes, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces, fewer pieces not permitted.

Line 1: use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination of bundles, preceded for military mail by the prefixes under 21.0.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG” as applicable; followed by “CR-RTS.”

3-digit carrier routes, required with one six-piece bundle. As an option to preparing carrier route bundles in 3-digit carrier routes sacks, mailers may place those bundles in flats trays (see 203.5.6).

Line 1: use the city, state, and ZIP Code shown in L002, Column A, that corresponds to the 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of bundles.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable, followed by “FLTS 3D” or “IRREG 3D” as applicable, followed by “CR-RTS.”

23.4.2 Exception to Sacking

Flats in carrier route bundles may be placed in flat trays instead of sacks for mail sorted under 23.4.1. Sacking or traying is not required for carrier route bundles entered at a DDU when the mailer unloads bundles under 29.6.5. Mail presented under this exception is not subject to the container charge (but is subject to the bundle charge). Mailers must prepare unsacked, untrayed bundles as follows:

The maximum weight for one bundle is 40 pounds; the maximum number of bundles per carrier route is one bundle for each 10 pounds (or increment) of mail for that route, as follows:

Mailers must make the fewest number of bundles possible, up to the 40-pound maximum, while maintaining bundle integrity. To determine the maximum number of bundles allowable for a route, divide the total weight of mail for that route by 10 and round up to the next whole number.
Mailers may balance the weight of the bundles across the maximum allowable bundles for a route. For example, if there are 36 pounds of mail for a carrier route, the maximum number of bundles for that route is four, which may be in four 9-pound bundles.

Mailers must label carrier route bundles using optional endorsement lines under 203.7.0 or facing slips under 203.4.15.

23.5 Firm Bundles

A firm bundle is two or more copies for the same address placed in one bundle. If each copy has a delivery address, each may be claimed as a separate piece for presort and on the postage statement or the firm bundle may be claimed as one piece. The USPS considers a firm bundle that is sorted and claimed as one piece to be one addressed piece for price eligibility purposes, regardless of the number of copies in the bundle. Mailers must clearly label firm bundles using facing slips or barcoded pressure-sensitive labels under 19.0, or optional endorsement lines under 203.7.0.

23.6 Bundles With Fewer Than Six Pieces

Nonletter-size Periodicals may be prepared in carrier route bundles containing fewer than six pieces at the publisher’s option. Pieces in these low-volume bundles must be claimed at the mixed ADC price (Outside-County) or basic price (In-County). Low-volume carrier route bundles are permitted only when they are sacked or prepared on pallets as follows:

Place bundles in only 5-digit scheme carrier routes and 5-digit carrier routes sacks that contain at least 24 pieces, or 3-digit carrier routes or merged 3-digit sacks that contain at least one six-piece carrier route bundle.
Place bundles on only merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, merged 5-digit, 5-digit carrier routes, 3-digit, and SCF pallets.

23.7 Multi-Box Section Bundles—Optional Preparation

A mailer may combine individual copies of Periodicals for Post Office box sections into a multi-box section bundle or bundles of copies to the same 5-digit ZIP Code under these conditions:

Each multi-box section bundle must contain at least six total copies, but fewer than six copies to each PO Box section.
Prepare copies in order from the lowest to the highest Post Office box section and if more than one piece exists for a specific Post Office box section, existing sequencing requirements in 23.0 must be met.
Secure each bundle with at least two bands, one around the length and one around the girth; or with shrinkwrap; or with shrinkwrap plus one or more bands.
Label each bundle with an optional endorsement line (OEL). The top bundle must contain the box section information for the individual bundle preceded by the endorsement “Multi” and two asterisks (e.g., **************Multi**B-001).
Place bundles in existing carrier-route, 5-Digit scheme, or 5-Digit carrier routes sacks.
Copies prepared in multi-box section bundles qualify for 5-digit prices, and may qualify for DDU container discounts.

23.8 Delivery Sequence Information

23.8.1 General

Mailpieces for which a walk-sequence discount is claimed must be organized in the delivery sequence determined by the USPS and prepared as a carrier route mailing under 23.0. Pieces with a simplified address also must meet the corresponding standards.

23.8.2 Missing Addresses

Some mailpieces cannot be sequenced because an exact match for a name or address cannot be obtained. These pieces may be included in a sequenced mailing only if they are placed behind or after the sequenced mail. Arrange these pieces:

Alphabetically by complete street name, then either in ascending order by ZIP+4 code sector segments or numerically in ascending order by primary address.
Numerically for numbered streets, then either in ascending order by ZIP+4 code sector segments or numerically in ascending order by primary address.

23.8.3 Pieces With Simplified Address

Walk-sequence price pieces prepared with a simplified address must be based on delivery stop information obtained within 90 days before the mailing date, either from the Delivery Statistics File or from the postmaster of the destination office.

23.8.4 Pieces Without Simplified Address

Walk-sequence price pieces prepared with other than a simplified address format under 23.8.3 must be sequenced using USPS data from one of the following sources, issued within 90 days before the mailing date:

The Computerized Delivery Sequence (CDS) file.
The Delivery Sequence File, Second Generation (DSF2).
Delivery sequence information from USPS address sequencing services, as requested by the customer.

23.8.5 Out-of-Date Sequencing Information

Mailings prepared with out-of-date walk-sequencing information are not eligible for walk-sequence prices.

23.8.6 Line-of-Travel Sequence

Line-of-travel (LOT) sequence (or walk-sequencing) is required for mailings at Periodicals carrier route basic prices. LOT sequence is a sequence of ZIP+4 codes in delivery order. First the ZIP+4 groups are sequenced, then the addresses within each are identified as being in ascending or descending order. The USPS eLOT product provides a list of the ZIP+4 codes each carrier route serves, identifies the delivery order, and provides an indicator specifying whether the addresses within the ZIP+4 code must be sorted in ascending or descending order. When a range of ZIP+4 codes are assigned the same sequence number, the addresses bearing those ZIP+4 codes must be arranged in ascending ZIP+4 code order before the sequence number is assigned. LOT information must be updated within 90 days before the mailing date.

23.9 Delivery Sequence Documentation

23.9.1 General

The mailer must annotate the postage statement in the “Carrier Route Sequencing Date” block to show the earliest (oldest) date of the method used to obtain sequencing information for the mailing. The mailer’s signature on the postage statement certifies that this standard has been met. The mailer must maintain documentation to substantiate compliance with sequencing standards. The mailer must be able to provide the USPS with documentation (if requested) of accurate sequencing or delivery statistics for each carrier route to which pieces are mailed. Acceptable forms of documentation are:

The invoice showing that the addresses came from CDS.
DSF2 invoice or documentation.
Copies of the delivery unit summaries that served as the mailer‘s bills for address sequencing service charges.
Evidence of receipt of information from Postmasters for simplified address mailings (see 509.1.11).
Form 3553 showing the date of the eLOT product used, or the date from the USPS Qualification report produced by presort software.

23.9.2 High Density Price Mail

The following documentation must be submitted for high density price mail:

Periodicals Other Than In-County Mail. For each carrier route to which high density price mail is addressed, the mailer must document the total number of addressed pieces to the route. If there are fewer than 125 addressed pieces for a given route, the documentation also must show the number of possible deliveries on the route.
Periodicals In-County Mail. For each carrier route for which Periodicals In-County high density prices are claimed under the minimum 25% of the total active possible deliveries per carrier route, the documentation must show for each carrier route for which the prices are claimed the total number of active possible deliveries and the number and percentage of deliveries to which mailpieces are addressed. The documentation must be listed by 5-digit ZIP Code and, within each, by carrier route. It must be submitted with each applicable mailing.

23.9.3 Saturation Mail—Simplified Address

For each mailing of carrier route mail with simplified addresses sent at the saturation price, the mailer must document that the mailing meets the density standard. This documentation must show the total number of active possible deliveries and the total number to which mailpieces in the mailing are being addressed, by 5-digit ZIP Code and, within each, by carrier route.

23.9.4 Saturation Mail—Other

For each mailing of carrier route mail without a simplified address sent at the saturation price, the mailer must document that the mailing meets the density standards. This documentation must show either the total number of active possible residential deliveries and the number and percentage to which mailpieces are addressed, or the total number of all active possible deliveries and the number and percentage to which mailpieces are addressed, depending on whether qualification is based on the 90% or 75% criterion, respectively. The documentation must be listed by 5-digit ZIP Code and, within each, by carrier route.

23.9.5 High Density and Saturation Mail

If a mailing contains pieces qualifying for both walk-sequence prices, the documentation may be combined. Entries for pieces at the high density price must be so annotated on the documentation. A summary of the total number of pieces at each price must be provided.

23.9.6 Carrier Route Mail

If a mailing includes high density and saturation and basic carrier route pieces, in addition to the information required by 23.9.2 through 23.9.5, the documentation for the basic carrier route mail must show, by 5-digit ZIP Code and, within each, by carrier route, the number of addressed pieces at each price for each carrier route. Pieces qualifying for the basic carrier route price must be so annotated. A summary by 5-digit ZIP Code of the total number of pieces at each price must be provided.

24.0 Preparing Letter-Size Barcoded (Automation) Periodicals

24.1 Basic Standards

24.1.1 General

Letter-size barcoded Periodicals must be prepared under 24.0. Bundle and tray preparation are subject to 19.0 through 21.0. Trays must bear Intelligent Mail barcoded tray labels under 204.3.0.

24.1.2 Mailings

All pieces in a mailing must meet the standards in 201.3.0 and must be sorted together to the finest extent required for the price claimed. A single barcoded Periodicals mailing may include pieces prepared at presorted (Outside-County) and (In-County) prices.

24.1.3 Marking

Only pieces claimed at an automation price may bear “AUTO.”

24.1.4 General Preparation

Grouping, bundling, and labeling are not generally permitted, except that bundles must be prepared in any mailing consisting entirely of card-size pieces and for mail in all less-than-full trays as specified in 24.2. Bundles are not required to bear an optional endorsement line or a bundle label when placed into a correctly labeled tray.

24.2 Additional Standards

24.2.1 Preparing Barcoded Price Letters

Tray size, preparation sequence, and Line 1 labeling:

5-digit/scheme: optional, but 5-digit trays required for price eligibility (150-piece minimum); overflow allowed; for Line 1, for 5-digit trays, use city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code destination of pieces, preceded for military mail by the prefixes under 21.0; for Line 1, for 5-digit scheme trays, use destination shown in labeling list L012.
3-digit/scheme: required (150-piece minimum except no minimum for required origin/optional entry 3-digit(s)/scheme); overflow allowed; for Line 1, use L002, Column B.
AADC: required (150-piece minimum); overflow allowed; group pieces by 3-digit ZIP Code prefix (or 3-digit/scheme if applicable); for Line 1, use L801, Column B.
Mixed AADC: required (no minimum); group pieces by AADC; for Line 1, use L011, Column B.

24.2.2 Tray Line 2

Line 2: “PER LTRS” or “NEWS LTRS” (except “NEWS LTR” for 5-digit scheme trays), as applicable, and:

5-digit scheme: “BC 5D SCHEME.”
5-digit: “5D BC.”
3-digit scheme: “BC SCHEME” and, if applicable, as shown in L002, Column B, followed by the letter “A,” “B,” or “C.”
3-digit: “3D BC.”
AADC: “AADC BC.”
Mixed AADC: “BC WKG.”

25.0 Preparing Flat-Size Barcoded (Automation) Periodicals

25.1 Basic Standards

25.1.1 General

Each piece must meet the physical standards in 201.6.0 or in 26.0. Bundle, sack, and tray preparation are subject to 18.0 through 21.0 and this section. Trays and sacks must bear correct barcoded container labels under 204.3.0. Pieces may be prepared in bundles not placed in sacks or pallets only as provided in 23.4.2.

25.1.2 Documentation

A complete postage statement must accompany each mailing, supported by documentation produced by PAVE-certified software or standardized documentation under 203.3.0. Mailers may use one postage statement and one documentation report for all price levels in a mailing. Documentation of postage is not required if each piece is of identical weight and the pieces are separated by price when presented for acceptance. Combined mailings of Periodicals publications must also be documented under 22.0 and 23.0.

25.1.3 Marking

Only pieces claimed at a barcoded price may bear “AUTO.”

25.1.4 Bundle Preparation

All pieces must be prepared in bundles (except under 25.5) and meet the following requirements:

Pieces that meet the standards in 201.6.0 must be prepared in separate bundles from pieces that meet the standards in 26.0.
Firm bundles must not be included in Periodicals mailings prepared under 25.0.
Bundles may contain fewer than six pieces when the mailpieces are too thick or heavy to create a six-piece bundle. Piece price eligibility is not affected if the number of pieces bundled for a presort destination meets or exceeds the minimum under 14.0.

25.1.5 Scheme Bundle Preparation

Pieces must be prepared in 5-digit scheme bundles (under 18.4i) for 5-digit ZIP Codes identified in L007 and in 3-digit scheme bundles (under 18.4q) for 3-digit ZIP Codes identified in L008.

25.1.6 Sack Preparation

Mailers may combine bundles of barcoded machinable flats and bundles of barcoded nonmachinable flats in the same sack, with the exception of 5-digit scheme sacks, which may contain only machinable flats.

25.1.7 Exception—Barcoded and Nonbarcoded Flats on Pallets

When the physical dimensions of the mailpieces in a Periodicals mailing meet the definition of both a letter-size piece and a machinable barcoded flat, the entire job may be prepared and palletized under 705.9.0 through 705.13.0. The following standards apply:

The nonbarcoded portion is paid at the nonbarcoded prices.
Mailing jobs prepared entirely in sacks and claiming this exception must be cobundled under 705.11.0.
As an alternative to 705.9.0 through 705.13.0, if a portion of the job is prepared as palletized barcoded flats, the nonbarcoded portion may be prepared as palletized flats and paid at nonbarcoded machinable and carrier route prices. The nonbarcoded price pieces that cannot be placed on ADC or finer pallets may be prepared as flats in sacks and paid at the nonbarcoded prices.

25.1.8 Bundles With Fewer Than Six Pieces

5-digit scheme, 5-digit, 3-digit scheme, and 3-digit bundles may contain fewer than six pieces at the publisher’s option. Pieces in these low-volume bundles must be claimed at the applicable mixed ADC price (Outside-County) or basic price (In-County). These low-volume bundles are permitted only when they are sacked or prepared on pallets under these conditions:

Place 5-digit and 3-digit bundles in only 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, 3-digit, and SCF sacks, as appropriate, that contain at least 24 pieces, or in merged 3-digit sacks that contain at least one six-piece carrier route bundle, or in origin/entry SCF sacks.
Place 5-digit and 3-digit bundles on only merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme, merged 5-digit, 5-digit, 3-digit, and SCF pallets, as appropriate.
Place 5-digit scheme and 3-digit scheme bundles in only 5-digit scheme, 3-digit, and SCF sacks, as appropriate, that contain at least 24 pieces, or in merged 3-digit sacks that contain at least one six-piece carrier route bundle, or in origin/entry SCF sacks.
Place 5-digit scheme and 3-digit scheme bundles on only 3-digit and SCF pallets, as appropriate.

25.1.9 Cotraying, Cosacking, and Cobundling With Nonbarcoded and Carrier Route Price Mail

The following standards apply (except as provided in 25.1.7):

If the mailing job contains a carrier route mailing and a machinable price mailing, then it must be prepared under one of the following options:

The carrier route mailing must be prepared under 13.0 and 23.0 and the machinable mailings must be prepared under 705.9.0.
All three mailings in the mailing job must be prepared under 705.10.0.

If the mailing job contains a machinable barcoded and nonbarcoded mailing, then it must be prepared under the cosacking standards in 705.9.0. Machinable barcoded and nonbarcoded pieces may be cobundled under the standards in 705.11.0.
If the mailing job contains a carrier route mailing and a machinable barcoded mailing, then it must be separately sacked under 23.0 and 25.0 or prepared using the merged sack option under 705.10.0.

25.1.10 Merged Containerization With Nonbarcoded and Carrier Route Flats

When the standards in 705.10.0, 705.12.0, or 705.13.0 are met, 5-digit bundles of machinable barcoded, machinable nonbarcoded, and carrier route mail that are part of the same mailing job may be combined on merged 5-digit scheme and merged 5-digit sacks or pallets. Machinable barcoded pieces may be cobundled with machinable nonbarcoded pieces under 705.11.0.

25.2 Physical Standards

Each flat-size piece must meet the standards in 201.6.0 or, for barcoded pieces in 5-digit bundles, the standards in 26.0.

25.3 Bundling and Labeling

Preparation sequence, bundle size, and labeling:

5-digit scheme (required for pieces meeting the criteria in 201.6.0); six-piece minimum (fewer pieces permitted under 25.1.4); red Label 5 SCH or OEL.
5-digit (required); six-piece minimum (fewer permitted under 25.1.8); red Label 5 or OEL.
3-digit scheme (required for pieces meeting the criteria in 201.6.0); six-piece minimum (fewer pieces permitted under 25.1.4); green Label 3 SCH or OEL.
3-digit (required); six-piece minimum (fewer permitted under 25.1.8); green Label 3 or OEL.
ADC (required); six-piece minimum (fewer permitted under 25.1.8); pink Label A or OEL.
Origin mixed ADC (required); no minimum; for any remaining pieces for destinations in L201, Column B, corresponding to the origin ZIP Code in Column A; tan label X or OEL.
Mixed ADC (required); no minimum; tan Label X or OEL.

25.4 Sacking and Labeling

For mailing jobs that also contain a machinable nonbarcoded price mailing, see 25.1.9 and 705.9.0. Other mailing jobs are prepared, sacked, and labeled as follows:

5-digit scheme, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces; fewer pieces not permitted, may contain 5-digit scheme bundles only; labeling:

Line 1: L007, Column B.
Line 2: “PER FLTS 5D SCH BC” or “NEWS FLTS 5D SCH BC,” as applicable.

5-digit, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces; fewer pieces not permitted; labeling:

Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on mail (see 21.0 for overseas military mail).
Line 2: “PER FLTS 5D BC” or “NEWS FLTS 5D BC,” as applicable.

3-digit, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces; fewer pieces not permitted; labeling:

Line 1: L002, Column A.
Line 2: “PER FLTS 3D BC” or “NEWS FLTS 3D BC,” as applicable.

SCF, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces; fewer pieces not permitted; labeling:

Line 1: L002, Column C.
Line 2: “PER FLTS SCF BC” or “NEWS FLTS SCF BC,” as applicable.

Origin SCF (required) and entry SCF(s) (optional), no minimum; labeling:

Line 1: L002, Column C.
Line 2: “PER FLTS SCF BC” or “NEWS FLTS SCF BC,” as applicable.

ADC, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces; fewer pieces not permitted; labeling:

Line 1: L004, Column B.
Line 2: “PER FLTS ADC BC” or “NEWS FLTS ADC BC,” as applicable.

Origin mixed ADC, required, no minimum; for any remaining pieces for destinations in L201, Column B, corresponding to the origin ZIP Code in Column A; labeling:

Line 1: Use L201, Column C.
Line 2: “PER FLTS WKG W FCM” or “NEWS FLTS WKG W FCM,” as applicable.

Mixed ADC (required), no minimum; labeling:

Line 1: Use L009, Column B.
Line 2: “PER FLTS BC WKG” or “NEWS FLTS BC WKG,” as applicable.

25.5 Optional Tray Preparation—Flat-Size Barcoded Pieces

As an option, mailers may place machinable flats (under 201.6.0) in flats trays (see 24.0) that would normally be placed in sacks. Mailers must group together all pieces for each 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, 3-digit scheme, 3-digit, SCF, and ADC destination. Bundling is not permitted unless it achieves a finer presort than the presort destination of the tray. The trays are subject to a container charge, and any bundles are subject to a bundle charge. Tray preparation, sequence, and labeling:

5-digit scheme (required), 72-piece minimum, optional at 24 pieces, fewer pieces not permitted; labeling:

Line 1: L007, Column B.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS”; followed by “5D SCH BC.”

5-digit (required), 72-piece minimum, optional at 24 pieces, fewer pieces not permitted; labeling:

Line 1: city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code on mail (see 21.0 for overseas military mail).
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS”; followed by “5D BC.”

3-digit (required), 72-piece minimum, optional at 24 pieces, fewer pieces not permitted; labeling:

Line 1: L002, Column A.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS”; followed by “3D BC.”

SCF (required), 72-piece minimum, optional at 24 pieces, fewer pieces not permitted; labeling:

Line 1: L002, Column C.
Line 2: “PER” “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS”; followed by “SCF BC.”

Origin SCF (required) and entry SCF(s) (optional), no minimum, labeling:

Line 1: L002, Column C.
Line 2: “PER” “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS”; followed by “SCF BC.”

ADC (required), 72-piece minimum, optional at 24 pieces, fewer pieces not permitted, no overflow tray allowed; labeling:

Line 1: use L004, Column B.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS”; followed by “ADC”; followed by “BC.”

Origin mixed ADC (required), no minimum, for any remaining pieces for destinations in L201, Column B, of the origin ZIP Code in Column A, labeling:

Line 1: Use L201, Column C.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS”; followed by “WKG W FCM.”

Mixed ADC (required), no minimum, labeling:

Line 1: Use L009.
Line 2: “PER” or “NEWS” as applicable; followed by “FLTS”; followed by “BC WKG.”

26.0 Physical Criteria for Nonmachinable Flat-Size Periodicals

26.1 General

Prepare barcoded flat-size pieces under 25.0.

26.2 Weight and Size

The maximum weight for each piece is 4.4 pounds. The following minimum and maximum dimensions apply (determine length and height according to 201.4.2):

Minimum height is 5 inches. Maximum height is 12 inches.
Minimum length is 6 inches. Maximum length is 15 inches.
Minimum thickness is 0.009 inch. Maximum thickness is 1.25 inches.

26.3 Flexibility and Deflection

Nonmachinable flats (under 26.0) are not subject to flexibility standards or deflection standards in 201.4.0.

26.4 Additional Criteria

Pieces must meet the standards for polywrap coverings in 201.4.5; protrusions and staples in 201.6.3; tabs, wafer seals, tape, and glue in 201.6.4; and uniform thickness and exterior format in 201.6.5.

27.0 Combining Multiple Editions or Publications

27.1 Description

Mailers may prepare Periodicals publications as a combined mailing by merging copies or bundles of copies. Each publication in a combined mailing must be authorized (or pending authorization) to mail at Periodicals prices. Mailers may use the following methods:

Mailers may comail individually addressed copies of different editions of a Periodicals publication (one title) or individually addressed copies of different Periodicals publications to obtain finer presort levels.
Mailers may place two or more copies of different Periodicals publications, and/or multiple editions of the same publication in the same mailing wrapper or firm bundle and present it as one addressed piece to one addressee to reduce the per piece charge.
Mailers may copalletize separately presorted bundles of different Periodicals titles and editions to achieve minimum pallet weights (see 705.8.7.3). Mailers do not have to achieve the finest pallet presort level possible.

27.2 Authorization

27.2.1 Basic Standards

Each mailer must be authorized by the director, Business Acceptance Solutions, to comail or copalletize mailings under 27.1a and 27.1c (see 608.8.0 for address). Requests for authorization must show:

The mailer‘s name and address.
The mailing office.
Procedures and quality control measures for the combined mailing.
The expected date of the first mailing.
A sample of the standardized documentation.

27.2.2 Denial

If the application is denied, the mailer or consolidator may reapply at a later date, or submit additional information needed to support the request.

27.2.3 Termination

An authorization will remain in effect until the director of Business Acceptance Solutions, or the mailer, cancels the authorization. If the Postal Service determines that a need for modification exists, the authorization will be modified, with concurrence by the director of Business Acceptance Solutions,and the mailer.

27.3 Minimum Volume

The following minimum volume standards apply:

For comailings prepared under 27.1a, multiple publications or editions are combined to meet the required minimum volume per bundle, sack, or tray for the price claimed.
For combined mailings prepared under 27.1b, the minimum volume requirements in 22.0, 23.0, or 25.0 apply for the price claimed.
For copalletized mailings prepared under 27.1c, the minimum volume requirements for pallets in 705.8.5.3 apply for the price claimed.

27.4 Labeling

Mailers must label all containers in a combined mailing as “PER” on the content line of the label.

If at least 51% of the total number of copies in the combined mailing can qualify for “NEWS” treatment then all containers in the mailing are labeled “NEWS,” unless the mailer chooses to use “PER.”
If less than 51% of the total number of copies in a combined mailing can qualify for “NEWS” treatment then all containers in the mailing are labeled “PER.”

27.5 Documentation

Each mailing must be accompanied by documentation meeting the standards in 17.0, as well as any additional mailing information requested by the USPS to support the postage claimed (such as advertising percentage and weight per copy). The following additional standards apply:

Presort documentation required under 203.3.0 must show the total number of addressed pieces and total number of copies for each publication and each edition in the combined mailing claimed at the carrier route, 5-digit, 3-digit, ADC, and mixed ADC prices. The mailer also must provide a list, by 3-digit ZIP Code prefix, of the number of addressed pieces for each publication and each edition claimed at any destination entry discount.
Copalletized mailing documentation must consolidate and identify each title and version (or edition) in the mailing. Mailers may use codes in the summary heading to represent each title and version (or edition) presorted together on pallets. The documentation must include presort and pallet reports showing by title and version (or edition) how the bundles are presorted and where they will be entered.
Unless excepted by the director, Business Acceptance Solutions, mailers combining Periodicals publications as specified in 27.1a must transmit postage statements and mailing documentation to USPS using a Business Acceptance Solutions-approved electronic method.
Mailers combining Periodicals publications as specified in 27.1cmust transmit postage statements and mailing documentation to USPS using a Business Acceptance Solutions-approved electronic method.

27.6 Additional Standards

Mailers combining Periodicals publications under 27.1a or 27.1c must:

Use Intelligent Mail tray labels on trays and sacks and Intelligent Mail container labels, under 204.3.3 and 204.3.4, on pallets or similar containers.
When using a consolidator, prepare a separate postage statement for the portion of the mailing accepted at the origin site and another statement for that portion directed to a consolidator.
When using a consolidator under 27.1c, pay postage at the consolidator‘s site.
If consolidating multiple mailings on pallets, update the electronic data for each of the original mailings. This updated data must be reflected in the electronic data transmitted to the USPS.
Meet postage payment requirements as Business Acceptance Solutions specifies.

27.7 Postage Statements

Mailers must prepare postage statements for a combined mailing as follows:

Copy weight and advertising percentage determine whether separate postage statements are required for editions of the same publication:

If the copy weight and advertising percentage for all editions of a publication are the same, mailers may report all the editions on the same postage statement or each edition on a separate postage statement.
If the copy weight or the advertising percentage is different for each edition of a publication, mailers must report each edition on a separate postage statement.

For a combined mailing prepared under 27.1a mailers must prepare a separate postage statement that claims all per piece, per pound, and bundle and container charges (if apportioned) for each publication or edition. The mailer must annotate on, or attach to, each postage statement, the title and issue date of each publication or edition and indicate that the pieces are part of a combined mailing under 27.1a.
For mailings under 27.1b, mailers must prepare a separate postage statement claiming the per pound charges for each publication or edition in the combined mailing except as provided in 27.5a. The mailer must annotate on, or attach to, each postage statement, the title and issue date of each publication or edition and indicate that the copies are part of a combined mailing under 27.1b. Per piece charges must be claimed as follows:

If all copies in the combined mailing are eligible for the Classroom or Nonprofit discount, or if all copies are not eligible for the Classroom or Nonprofit discount, mailers may claim the per piece charges only on the postage statement for the publication that contains the highest amount of advertising.
If a portion of the copies in the combined mailing are eligible for the Classroom or Nonprofit discount and a portion are not eligible, mailers may claim the per piece charges only on the postage statement for the publication that contains the highest amount of advertising and is not eligible for the Classroom or Nonprofit discount. The Classroom or Nonprofit per piece discount must not be claimed.

For copalletized mailings under 27.1c, mailers must prepare a separate postage statement for each publication in the mailing. One consolidated postage statement and a register of mailings for each publication must accompany mailings consisting of different editions or versions of the same publication.

27.8 Postage Payment

Each mailing must meet the postage payment standards in 16.0. For copalletized mailings under 27.1c, mailers must pay postage at the Post Office serving the facility where consolidation takes place, except that postage for publications authorized under the Centralized Postage Payment (CPP) system may be paid to the Pricing and Classification Service Center (see 608.8.4.1 for address).