Quick Service Guide 280

Commercial Parcels

First-Class Package Service—Parcels

January 17, 2016
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Physical Standards (201)

Maximum weight: less than 16 ounces.

For an overview of the physical standards for commercial parcels, see Quick Service Guide 201e.

Prices and Fees (283.1.0)

For a complete list of commercial First-Class Package Service prices, see Notice 123–Price List.

Annual presort mailing fee applies.

Content (283.2.0)

First-Class Package Service may be used for any mailable item including advertisements and lightweight merchandise, except that parcels are not sealed against inspection and may not contain documents or personal correspondence. Parcels may contain invoices, receipts, incidental advertising, and other documents that relate in all substantial respects to merchandise contained in the parcels.

Eligibility Standards (283.3.0)

All pieces must meet the physical standards for parcels (201).

Each piece must include a complete delivery address with correct ZIP Code or ZIP+4 code.

A certified process must be used at least once a year to ensure accuracy of 5-digit ZIP Codes.

A surcharge applies for parcels with the following characteristics:

• A surcharge applies for parcels that are irregularly shaped, such as rolls, tubes, and triangles.
• Parcels must include a unique Intelligent Mail package barcode (IMpb) with a postal routing code to avoid being assessed an IMpb non-compliance fee.

Postage Payment and Documentation (284)

IBI meter or PC Postage (604.3.0), or permit imprint (604.5.0) for parcels mailed at commercial prices.

Additional standards apply to mailings of nonidentical-weight pieces.

Documentation:

• Postage statement: PS Form 3600-FCM.

Mail Preparation (285)

Marking on each piece in the postage area: “First-Class Package or First-Class PKG.” For optional locations, see 202.3.4.

Enter and Deposit (286)

Mailing entered at an acceptance point designated by USPS.

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