P000 Basic Information

P030 Postage Meters (Postage Evidencing Systems)

Summary

P030 describes the use and regulations for postage meters (postage evidencing systems) to prepare metered mail.

1.0 BASIC INFORMATION

1.1Definition

Postage evidencing systems are secure postage metering systems that generate indicia imprinted on or affixed to a mailpiece to evidence prepayment of postage. The USPS regulates these systems and their use to protect postal revenue. Only USPS-authorized manufacturers or product service providers may design, produce, and distribute the systems. Misuse of a postage evidencing system to avoid payment of postage is punishable by law. The major components of a postage evidencing system are:

a. Funds registers and accounting functions to store and maintain financial data. Two funds registers are required:

(1) The descending register that records the postage value remaining in the postage evidencing system.

(2) The ascending register that increases as postage is printed. This register records the total value of all postage printed during the life of the postage evidencing system unless it is reset to zero by the provider during servicing between customers or when it reaches its maximum limit.

b. Indicia generated by the system to show evidence of postage prepayment on the mailpiece. Indicia are also called “meter stamps” or “metered postage.”

c. USPS and provider infrastructure to support user licensing and customer information, ensure proper payment for postage, set and reset the system with postage value, and provide for inventory management. Provider and USPS interface to accomplish these functions.

1.2Types

Generation 1 postage evidencing systems use industry-standard electronic components for managing the registers and accounting for postal funds. Generation 2 postage evidencing systems use a USPS-approved electronic component called a “postal security device” (PSD) for managing the registers and accounting for postal funds. All PSDs must meet USPS performance criteria and must have a self-disabling feature that prohibits the printing of postage when specific programmed requirements are not met. For all Generation 2 postage evidencing systems the provider and the USPS infrastructure must interface to support licensing and customer information, ensure proper payment for postage, and provide for inventory management. The systems are categorized as follows:

a. Traditional postage meter—a Generation 1 postage evidencing system:

(1) The industry-standard electronic components used for managing registers and accounting for postal funds may or may not include a self-disabling feature that prohibits the printing of postage when specific programmed requirements are not met.

(2) Indicia are printed either by a letterpress or digital printing process. Letterpress indicia are generated by the impact of a hard, inked printing die on the print surface. Digital indicia are generated electronically and produced on the print surface by a nonimpact technology, such as an ink jet, thermal, or laser printing process.

(3) The provider and USPS infrastructure systems for all Generation 1 postage evidencing systems interface to support licensing and customer information and to provide for inventory management. Generation 1 postage meters can be either manually reset (the meter must be physically taken to the USPS) or remotely reset. Remotely reset meters are replacing manually reset meters in accordance with a phased USPS retirement plan. The USPS infrastructure currently supports payment for postage for all Generation 1 postage evidencing systems, both manually reset and remotely reset. The provider infrastructure supports payment for postage for remotely reset meters but does not support payment for postage for manually reset meters.

b. PSD meter—a Generation 2 postage evidencing system:

(1) A PSD meter must use a USPS-approved PSD.

(2) The indicia generated by a PSD meter must be digital indicia approved by the USPS.

(3) A PSD meter must be reset using an electronic connection between the provider's postage resetting system and the postal registers in the PSD.

c. Information-based indicia (IBI) meter—a Generation 2 postage evidencing system:

(1) An IBI meter must use a USPS-approved PSD.

(2) An IBI meter must generate information-based indicia. IBI are digital indicia that include human-readable information and a USPS-approved two-dimensional barcode or other USPS-approved symbology, with a digital signature and other required data fields.

(3) An IBI meter must be reset with an electronic connection between the provider's postage resetting system and the postal registers in the PSD.

d. PC Postage system—a Generation 2 postage evidencing system:

(1) A PC Postage system must use a USPS-approved PSD.

(2) The indicia generated by a PC Postage system must be IBI.

(3) A PC Postage system must be reset with postage value using a personal computer to establish an electronic connection between the provider's postage resetting system and the postal registers in the PSD. The user must employ a personal computer to access critical infrastructure functions.

1.3Authorized Providers

Postage evidencing systems are available only from authorized providers. All postage evidencing systems and PSDs remain the property of the USPS-authorized provider and are available only through a lease or rental agreement with the provider or its authorized agent. The USPS holds providers responsible for the control, secure operation, distribution, maintenance, inspection, and replacement of postage evidencing systems and PSDs throughout their entire life cycle. The provider is also responsible for the secure disposal or destruction of postage evidencing systems and PSDs at the end of their useful life. The following providers are authorized:

FRANCOTYP-POSTALIA INC
140 N MITCHELL CT STE 200
ADDISON IL 60101-5629
800-341-6052
www.fp-usa.com

HASLER Inc
19 FOREST PKWY
SHELTON CT 06484-6140
800-243-6275
www.haslerinc.com

NEOPOST
30955 HUNTWOOD AVE
HAYWARD CA 94544-7084
800-624-7892
www.neopostinc.com

PITNEY BOWES INC
1 ELMCROFT RD
STAMFORD CT 06926-0700
800-322-8000
www.pitneybowes.com

PSI SYSTEMS ENVELOPE MANAGER SOFTWARE
247 HIGH ST
PALO ALTO CA 94301-1041
800-576-3279 x140
www.envmgr.com

STAMPS.COM
3420 OCEAN PARK BLVD STE 1040
SANTA MONICA CA 90405-3035
www.stamps.com

1.4Licensee

The licensee of a postage evidencing system is the person or entity authorized by the USPS to lease or rent a system. The licensee cannot own a postage evidencing system or PSD and may possess a postage evidencing system only under a valid lease or rental agreement with an approved provider or its agent. The licensee is responsible for the control, maintenance, and use of the postage evidencing system in accordance with USPS regulations. The base or host component of the mailing equipment that supports the postage evidencing system or PSD may be sold, leased, or rented at the discretion of the provider and the customer, in accordance with the product approval as granted by the USPS.

1.5Possession of a Postage Evidencing System

No person or entity other than an authorized provider, its authorized agent, the USPS, or a licensee may have a postage evidencing system or PSD in their possession. Any person or entity must immediately surrender a postage evidencing system or PSD to the provider, the provider’s agent, or to the USPS upon termination of a lease or rental agreement.

1.6Use of a Postage Evidencing System

No person or entity other than an authorized provider may use a postage evidencing system until the provider initializes the system or, where applicable, the USPS sets and seals the system, performs the required validations, and checks the system into service. Once the postage evidencing system is properly in service, it may be used by the licensee or others authorized by the licensee. The licensee is responsible for control and use of the system.

1.7Classes of Mail

Postage may be paid by imprinting or affixing indicia generated by a USPS-approved postage evidencing system on any class of mail except Periodicals. Such mail is called “metered mail” and is entitled to all privileges and subject to all conditions applying to the various classes of mail.

2.0 LICENSING

2.1Procedures

To possess and use a postage evidencing system, the user must apply for and be granted a license by the USPS. A single license allows the licensee to use multiple postage evidencing systems for metered mail deposited in the licensing post office in accordance with 11.0. A postage evidencing system can be licensed to only one post office. The user must submit a separate application, be granted a separate license authorization, and have a separate postage evidencing system for each licensing post office where the user intends to deposit mail. The procedures are as follows:

a. The applicant submits to the provider all data required for the license, including the city, state, and ZIP Code of the licensing post office where the user intends to deposit the metered mail.

b. The provider submits the required information to the USPS electronically.

c. The USPS notifies the provider after granting the license.

d. The USPS can cancel the licensee's authorization to rent or lease postage evidencing systems if an active system is not associated with the license for 60 days or more. The customer must reapply for a license to resume the use of a postage evidencing system. Exceptions may be granted to seasonal users.

2.2Licensee’s Agreement

By applying for a USPS license to rent or lease a postage evidencing system, the applicant agrees that the license may be revoked immediately and the provider notified by the USPS to withdraw the postage evidencing system from service for the following reasons:

a. The postage evidencing system is used in any fraudulent or unlawful scheme or enterprise.

b. The postage evidencing system is not used for 12 consecutive months.

c. The licensee fails to exercise sufficient control of the postage evidencing system or PSD or fails to comply with the regulations for its care or use.

d. The licensee fails to abide by the terms and conditions of the authorized provider’s lease or rental agreement.

e. The postage evidencing system or PSD is taken or used outside the United States, its territories or possessions, except as specifically authorized under these regulations by the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters.

f. Mail is deposited at other than the licensing post office (except as permitted under 11.0).

2.3Refusal to License a User

The USPS notifies both the applicant and the provider in writing when authorization for a license is refused. Any applicant refused authorization may appeal the decision under 2.5. The USPS may refuse authorization for a license for the following reasons:

a. The applicant submitted false information on the license application.

b. The applicant violated any regulation regarding the care or use of a PSD, postage evidencing system, or the indicia generated by a system that resulted in the revocation of the applicant's postage meter or postage evidencing system license within 5 years before the date the applicant submitted the application.

c. There is sufficient reason to believe that the applicant will use the postage evidencing system or PSD in violation of USPS regulations.

2.4Revocation of a License

The USPS can revoke the user's license when the user does not fulfill the responsibilities for the care and use of a PSD, postage evidencing system, or the indicia generated by a system. The USPS notifies the licensee's provider(s) of the revocation so that the provider(s) can notify the licensee, cancel the lease or rental agreement(s), and withdraw all postage evidencing systems from service. The notification is sent by certified mail. Revocation takes effect 10 calendar days after the licensee receives the revocation notice unless, within that time, the licensee appeals the decision under 2.5. A license is subject to revocation for the reasons listed in 2.2, or if there is probable cause to believe that it will be used in violation of USPS regulations.

2.5Appeal Process

An applicant who is refused a license, or a licensee whose license is revoked, may file a written appeal with the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters (see G043), within 10 calendar days after receiving notification of the decision.

3.0 LICENSED USER'S RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1Signed Lease or Rental Agreement With Financial Agreement for Resetting

The licensee must enter into a lease or rental agreement with the provider that includes provisions for resetting the postage evidencing system with postage and an authorized postage payment process under which the licensee agrees to make payment for postage using a payment method approved by the USPS. The USPS is not a party to the lease or rental agreement but use of a postage evidencing system is subject to the regulations of the USPS and the terms and conditions of the lease or rental agreement and the payment process.

3.2Custody

A postage evidencing system or PSD that is in the possession or custody of a licensee must remain in that user's custody until it is returned to the authorized provider, to its authorized agent, or to the USPS, or is seized by the Postal Inspection Service for violation of federal law.

3.3Update Licensee Information

The licensee must update required license application information with the provider whenever there is any change in the licensee's name, address, telephone number, licensing post office, location of the postage evidencing system, or location of the PSD. The USPS will update the license information based on the receipt of updated information submitted by the provider.

3.4Relocation of Licensee

When a licensee notifies the provider of a change of the licensing post office in accordance with 3.3, the provider will perform the appropriate accounting functions to withdraw the postage evidencing system from service at the original licensing post office and install it and then reauthorize it for use at the new licensing post office, or issue another postage evidencing system for use at the new location.

3.5Required Resetting

All postage evidencing systems must be reset at least once every 3 months. A zero value reset will meet this requirement.

3.6Transaction Files

Some postage evidencing systems generate records of transactions relating to indicia creation, funds transfer (including postage value downloads), and system or PSD audits. For postage evidencing systems that do not maintain automated transaction records, licensees are strongly encouraged to maintain their own records of the readings of the ascending and descending registers for each day of operation. Transaction records are important in the validation of requests for refunds in the case of system malfunction.

3.7Inspection and Examination

The licensee must, upon request, make immediately available for examination and audit by the provider or by the USPS any postage evidencing system or PSD in the licensee's possession and any corresponding transaction records. The USPS can perform physical or remote examination of any postage evidencing system or PSD. The licensee must meet the requirements for provider inspections and USPS examinations. All postage evidencing systems are inspected in accordance with the Postage Evidencing Systems Inspection and Examination Schedule below.

Security Level	Postage Evidencing System	Provider Inspection	USPS Examination Requirements
1	Manually reset postage meter	Every 6 months	Must bring to post office for examination when not reset within 3 months
2	Remotely reset postage meter with letterpress or digital indicia, but without self-disabling feature	Annually or every 6 months when there is no setting activity in 6 months	Examinations in special circumstances
3	Remotely reset meter with letterpress indicia and self-disabling feature	Every 2 years or every 6 months when there is no setting activity in 6 months	Examinations in special circumstances
4	Remotely reset postage meter with digital indicia and self-disabling feature	Every 2 years or enhanced inspection process when approved by USPS	Examinations in special circumstances
5	PSD meter, IBI meter, or a PC Postage system	Inspections in special circumstances	Examinations in special circumstances

3.8Quality Assurance

Some PC Postage systems print indicia with a printer that may also be used for nonpostal applications. Users of such systems must forward a mailpiece bearing an indicium produced by the postage evidencing system and associated printer to the provider for quality assurance evaluation. The licensee must forward a quality assurance mailpiece to the provider when the system is installed, when there is a change to the printer connected to the system, and at least once every 12 months thereafter, in accordance with provider directions.

3.9Labels With Fraud Warning and Serial Number

The licensee must ensure that the fraud warning label placed by the provider on the postage evidencing system or its housing is not removed or destroyed while the postage evidencing system is in the licensee's possession. The fraud warning contains basic reminders on leasing or rental and use of the postage evidencing system, warnings against system tampering or misuse resulting in nonpayment of postage owed, and the penalties for such system misuse. The USPS does not authorize postage evidencing systems for use without this fraud warning. When the postage evidencing system has a serial number or barcode equivalent on the system housing, the user must ensure that neither the serial number nor the barcode is removed or destroyed while the postage evidencing system is in the licensee's possession.

3.10Custody of Suspect Postage Evidencing Systems or PSDs

The USPS may conduct unannounced, on-site examinations of postage evidencing systems or PSDs reasonably suspected of being manipulated or defective. A postal inspector may immediately withdraw a suspect postage evidencing system or PSD from service for physical and/or laboratory examination. The inspector withdrawing a suspect postage evidencing system or PSD issues the licensee a written acknowledgement of receipt of the item; forwards a copy to the provider; and, if appropriate, assists in obtaining a replacement postage evidencing system or PSD. Unless there is reason to believe that the postage evidencing system or PSD is fraudulently set with postage, existing postage in the postage evidencing system or PSD is refunded to the licensee, in accordance with established refund procedures, when it is withdrawn from service.

3.11Defective Postage Evidencing System or PSD

A defective postage evidencing system or PSD is one that is inoperable or inaccurately reflects its proper status. A faulty postage evidencing system or PSD may not be used under any circumstance. The procedures for dealing with a defective system are as follows:

a. The licensee must immediately report any defective postage evidencing system or PSD to the provider.

b. The provider must begin the retrieval process for any defective postage evidencing system or PSD within 2 business days of notification by the licensee.

c. The provider may supply the licensee with a replacement postage evidencing system or PSD unless there is a reasonable basis for suspecting actual or attempted tampering.

d. The provider may not authorize or issue a refund for monies remaining on the faulty postage evidencing system or PSD until the faulty system is in the possession of the provider and has been carefully inspected, and the refund amount has been approved by the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters.

3.12Missing Postage Evidencing Systems or PSDs

The licensee must immediately report to the provider the loss or theft of any postage evidencing system or PSD or the recovery of any missing postage evidencing system or PSD. The report must include the system identification number and the date, location, and details of the loss, theft, or recovery. In the case of suspected theft, the licensee must submit a copy of the police report to the provider upon request. The provider will report all details of the incident to the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters, in accordance with established procedures.

3.13Returning a Postage Evidencing System or PSD

A licensee in possession of a faulty or retired postage evidencing system or PSD, or a licensed user who no longer plans to keep a postage evidencing system or PSD in their possession for any reason, must return it within 3 business days to the provider to be withdrawn from service. Postage evidencing systems and PSDs must be shipped by Priority Mail with Delivery Confirmation unless the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters, gives written permission to ship by another means or service.

3.14Approval for Use of Postage Evidencing Systems at Military Post Offices

A person authorized by the Department of Defense to use the services of an overseas military post office, such as an APO or FPO, can use a USPS-approved postage evidencing system. For such users, the APO or FPO will be designated as the licensing post office on their user license. These users must deposit the mail prepared with their system at the licensing post office. All USPS policies and regulations regarding postage evidencing systems apply.

3.15Approval for Use of Postage Evidencing Systems Outside the United States

The manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters (see G043), must give approval to the provider before the provider may place a postage evidencing system with a licensee who plans to use the system outside the customs territory of the United States to print evidence of U.S. postage. The procedures and conditions are as follows:

a. Licensees must maintain a permanent, established business address in the United States.

b. Postage evidencing systems used in foreign locations may be leased or rented only from those providers who have an authorized dealer or representative in the country where the postage evidencing system is to be located. The only exception is for those PC Postage systems for which the PSD remains in the custody and possession of the provider rather than the licensee.

c. Licensees are subject to all USPS regulations and U.S. statutes pertaining to mail, mail fraud, and misuse of postage evidencing systems.

d. All postage evidencing systems authorized by the USPS for use in foreign locations must have enhanced security features that include remote reset and a self-disabling feature that prevents printing of postage when specific programmed requirements are not met. Only those systems specifically approved in writing by the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters, may be used outside the customs territory of the United States.

e. Potential users must submit to the provider all data required for a license to lease or rent postage evidencing systems outside the country. The provider will annotate the application to state that it is for the foreign use of a U.S. postage evidencing system and show where the system is to be located. The provider must submit the application to the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters, for review and approval. Once an application is approved and the license authorized, Postage Technology Management will designate the licensing post office and notify the provider and the licensee. The license can be used for multiple postage evidencing systems as long as they all belong to the same user and are licensed at the same post office. Mailers who already have a USPS license to lease or rent postage evidencing systems must apply separately to participate in this program.

f. The provider selected by the licensee must agree in writing to all terms and conditions established by the USPS pertaining to the distribution of U.S. postage evidencing systems outside of the United States. Once the postage evidencing system is installed, the provider must provide the information on system placement directly to the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters.

g. Mail to be metered must be metered with U.S. postage and must be entered at the domestic licensing post office.

h. Postage evidencing systems located outside the United States must be remotely reset at least once every 3 months. A reset for zero postage satisfies this requirement. The Postage Evidencing System Inspection and Examination Schedule in 3.7 applies to all systems; however, special circumstances may be invoked to inspect systems placed outside the country more frequently. Failure to make the postage evidencing system available for inspection may result in the revocation of the foreign use license.

3.16Address Management System CD-ROM

For postage evidencing systems designed to access the USPS Address Management System (AMS) CD-ROM, the licensed user must maintain address quality by ensuring the CD-ROM is updated at least once every 6 months.

4.0 MANUALLY RESET GENERATION 1 POSTAGE METERS

4.1Initial Setting, Check In, and Installation

All manually reset meters will be taken out of service and replaced by remotely reset meters in accordance with a phased USPS retirement plan. No manually reset meters may be installed.

4.2Check Out and Withdrawal

When a manually reset meter is withdrawn from a user, the provider must present the meter and a completed Form 3601-C to the licensing post office to have the meter checked out of service by the post office where it was regularly set or examined, unless the meter was serviced through the on-site meter service program described in 4.5. The manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters, may allow the provider to check out a specifically designated manually reset meter model from service without USPS participation when the provider uses a USPS-approved process to transfer the postage remaining on the meter directly to a remotely reset meter. The withdrawal process for manually reset meters is completed when the data from Form 3601-C is transmitted to the appropriate postal information systems.

4.3Location of Setting

Except under 4.5, a manually reset meter must be set at the licensing post office. Alternative meter setting locations are not allowed. A meter may not be set at a contract postal unit.

4.4Payment for Postage Settings

Payment must be made for postage at the time of resetting. Payment may be in cash or by check, USPS-approved debit card, or money order. Payment is subject to USPS standards and procedures.

4.5On-Site Meter Service Program

The on-site meter service program, where available, allows qualified USPS employees to set or examine manually reset meters and check them into or out of service at a licensee's place of business within the area served by the licensing post office, or at a facility of the provider or their agent. Only the licensee's meters participating in the on-site meter service program may be serviced at that location. A fee is charged for each meter set, examined, or checked into or out of service at a licensee's place of business, unless a USPS employee qualified to service meters is regularly assigned to that licensee's location for other postal administrative duties. The licensee must pay applicable postage and on-site meter service fees in R900 by check at the time of the meter service for manually reset meters. A fee is charged for each meter examined or checked into or out of service at a facility of the provider or their agent. The provider must pay applicable postage and on-site meter service fees by check at the time of the meter service. Fees are charged in accordance with R900.15.0.

4.6Postage Transfer or Refund

After USPS verification, unused postage in a manually reset meter checked out of service may be transferred to another of the licensee's meters licensed at the same post office, or the licensee may request a refund. Refunds are granted in accordance with P014.

4.7Postage Adjustment for a Faulty Meter

To request a postage adjustment for a faulty manually reset meter, the licensee must present to the provider the meter and the licensee's transaction records, if any. After examining a meter to be checked out of service for apparent faulty operation affecting the ascending or descending registers, the provider must report the malfunction to the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters. The report must contain all applicable meter documentation (including the setting history and transaction records, if any) and a recommendation about the appropriate postage adjustment, if any. When the electronic redundant memory data, as examined by the provider, is inconclusive with respect to the appropriate postage adjustment, the provider must include an analysis of the licensee's recent mailing history supporting the recommended postage adjustment, the reason for the memory failure, and the method used to determine the lost register values. At the same time the report is made to the USPS, the provider must notify the licensee of the proposed postage adjustment. A licensee may appeal a postage adjustment to the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters (see G043), within 60 calendar days of the date that the provider submitted the postage adjustment recommendation to the USPS and notified the user.

5.0 REMOTE RESET GENERATION 1 POSTAGE METERS

5.1Initial Setting, Check In, and Installation

A remote reset Generation 1 postage meter is checked into service in the presence of a postal employee qualified to check in postage evidencing systems. The meter is checked into service at the licensing post office unless the on-site meter service program in 5.6 is used. The provider must furnish the postal employee with the meter and a completed Form 3601-C. The check in process for a remote reset Generation 1 postage meter is completed when the required data is transmitted to the appropriate postal information systems, and may be completed concurrently with or prior to installation of the meter at the licensee's location. The manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters, may allow the provider to check in a specifically designated meter model without USPS participation when the provider uses a USPS-approved process in which the information to complete the check in process is captured directly from the postage evidencing system. The installation process for these meters is completed when the provider transmits required data to the appropriate postal information systems.

5.2Check Out and Withdrawal

A remote reset Generation 1 postage meter is checked out of service in the presence of a postal employee qualified to check out postage evidencing systems. The meter is checked out of service at the licensing post office unless the on-site meter service program in 5.6 is used. The provider must furnish the postal employee with the meter and a completed Form 3601-C. The check out process for a remote reset Generation 1 postage meter is completed when the required data is transmitted to the appropriate postal information systems. The manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters, may allow the provider to check out a specifically designated meter model from service without USPS participation when the provider uses a USPS-approved process in which the information to complete the check out process is captured directly from the postage evidencing system. In this instance, the provider must examine the meter before a refund can be issued for the postage remaining in the meter. The withdrawal process for remote reset meters is completed when the provider transmits required data to the appropriate postal information systems.

5.3Location of Setting

A remote reset Generation 1 postage meter is reset via telephone at the location of the meter.

5.4Payment for Postage Settings

For a remote reset Generation 1 postage meter, the licensee may deposit funds only by check, electronic funds transfer, or automated clearing house transfer, in accordance with USPS standards and procedures.

5.5Resetting

To reset a remote reset Generation 1 postage meter, the following conditions must be met:

a. The licensee's account must have sufficient funds to cover the desired postage increment, or the provider must have agreed to advance funds to the licensee.

b. The licensee must give the provider identifying information and system audit data as required by the USPS and in accordance with the provider's resetting specifications. Before completing the resetting, the provider must verify the identifying data, authenticate the user's license, conduct the postage evidencing system audit, and ascertain whether the user's account contains sufficient funds to cover the desired postage increment.

c. After the resetting transaction is completed, the provider must document the transaction for the licensee, including the balance remaining in the licensee's account, unless the provider gives the user a monthly statement documenting all transactions for the period and the balance after each transaction.

5.6On-Site Meter Service Program

The on-site meter service program, where available, allows qualified USPS employees to check remote reset Generation 1 meters into or out of service at a facility of the provider or their agent. Meters to be serviced are accompanied by Form 3601-C. A fee is charged for each meter examined or checked into or out of service at a facility of the provider or their agent. The provider must pay applicable postage and on-site meter service fees by check at the time of the meter service for remote reset Generation 1 meters. Fees are charged in accordance with R900.15.0.

5.7Postage Transfer or Refund

After USPS verification, unused postage in a remote reset Generation 1 postage meter checked out of service may be transferred by the USPS to another of the licensee's postage evidencing systems licensed at the same post office, or to the customer’s meter resetting account, or the licensee may request a refund. Refunds for unused postage in the meter and for any unused balance in the licensee's account are granted in accordance with P014.

5.8Postage Adjustment for Faulty Meters

To request a postage adjustment for a faulty remote reset Generation 1 postage meter, the licensee must present to the provider the meter and the licensee's transaction records, if any. After examining a meter checked out of service for apparent faulty operation affecting the ascending or descending registers, the provider must report the malfunction to the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters. The report must contain all applicable meter documentation and a recommendation regarding the appropriate postage adjustment, if any. When the electronic redundant memory data, as examined by the provider, is inconclusive as to the need for a postage adjustment, the provider must include an analysis of the licensee's recent mailing history supporting the recommended postage adjustment, the reason for the memory failure, and the method used to determine the lost register values. At the same time the report is made to the USPS, the provider must notify the licensee of the proposed postage adjustment. A licensee may appeal a postage adjustment to the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters (see G043), within 60 calendar days of the date that the provider submitted the postage adjustment recommendation to the USPS and notified the user.

6.0 PSD METERS AND IBI METERS

6.1Initialization, Authorization, Check In, and Installation

All PSD meters and IBI meters use a PSD to maintain postal registers and authorize the printing of evidence of postage. Before the licensee can print evidence of postage, these postage evidencing systems must be initialized and authorized by the provider. The initialization process installs PSD-specific information that does not change over the life cycle of the PSD. The authorization process sets user-specific information. The provider reauthorizes the PSD when certain user-specific information changes. PSD meters and IBI meters are checked into service by the provider. The information necessary to complete the check in process is captured directly from the postage evidencing system. The installation process for these meters is completed when the required data is transmitted to the appropriate postal information systems.

6.2Check Out and Withdrawal

When a PSD meter or IBI meter is no longer used, the licensee notifies the provider and arranges to return the meter to the provider. The provider checks the meter out of service. The provider must examine the meter before a refund can be issued for any postage remaining on the meter. The information to complete the check out process is captured directly from the postage evidencing system. The withdrawal process for a PSD meter or IBI meter is completed when the required data is transmitted to the appropriate postal information systems.

6.3Location of Setting

A PSD meter or IBI meter is reset remotely at the location of the meter by means of a connection between the provider's resetting system and the postal registers in the PSD.

6.4Payment for Postage Settings

For PSD meters and IBI meters the licensee may deposit funds only by check, electronic funds transfer, or automated clearing house transfer, in accordance with USPS standards and procedures.

6.5Resetting

To reset a PSD meter or IBI meter the following conditions must be met:

a. The licensee's account must have sufficient funds to cover the desired postage increment, or the provider must have agreed to advance funds to the licensee.

b. The licensee must provide identifying information and system audit data as required by the USPS and in accordance with the provider's resetting specifications. Before completing the resetting, the provider must verify the identifying data, authenticate the user's license, conduct a remote postage evidencing system audit, and ascertain whether the user's account contains sufficient funds to cover the desired postage increment.

c. After the resetting transaction is completed, the provider must document the transaction for the licensee, including the balance remaining in the licensee's account, unless the provider gives the user a monthly statement documenting all transactions for the period and the balance after each transaction.

6.6Postage Refund

Unused postage in a PSD meter or IBI meter will be refunded to the licensed user along with any unused balance in their account under P014.

6.7Postage Adjustment for Faulty PSD Meters and IBI Meters

When the licensee requests a postage adjustment for a faulty PSD meter or IBI meter, the meter must first be withdrawn from service and physically examined by the provider. The provider will compare the data in the PSD registers with the data from the system transaction records. After examining a PSD meter or IBI meter withdrawn from service for apparent faulty operation affecting the ascending or descending registers, the provider must notify the licensee of the proposed postage adjustment, if any. At the same time the user is notified, the provider must report the malfunction to the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters. The report must contain all applicable documentation (including a copy of the transaction records) and a recommendation for any appropriate postage adjustment. The licensee may appeal a postage adjustment to the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters (see G043), within 60 calendar days of the date that the user is notified of the proposed postage adjustment recommendation.

7.0 PC POSTAGE SYSTEMS

7.1Initialization, Authorization, Check In, and Installation

All PC Postage systems use a PSD to maintain postal registers and perform postal functions. Before the licensee can print evidence of postage using a PC Postage system, the system's PSD must be initialized and authorized by the provider. The initialization process installs PSD-specific information that does not change over the life cycle of the PSD. The authorization process sets user-specific information. The provider reauthorizes the PC Postage system PSD when certain user-specific information changes. The installation and check in process for a PC Postage system is completed when the data required by the USPS is transmitted to the appropriate postal information systems.

7.2Check Out and Withdrawal

When a PC Postage system is no longer used, the licensee notifies the provider. The provider withdraws the system from service and transmits the required data to the appropriate postal information systems to check it out of service. A PSD in the custody of the licensee must be returned to the provider for examination before a refund can be issued for any postage remaining on the PSD.

7.3Location of Setting

A PC Postage system is reset remotely using a personal computer with a connection between the provider's resetting system and the postal registers in the PSD.

7.4Payment for Postage Settings

For a PC Postage system, the USPS will accept payment only in the form of credit card or automated clearing house debit, in accordance with USPS standards and procedures.

7.5Resetting

To reset a PC Postage system the following conditions must be met:

a. The licensee must initiate payment to the USPS sufficient to cover the desired postage increment before requesting a postage value download to reset the system.

b. The licensee must provide identifying information and system audit data as required by the USPS and in accordance with the provider's resetting specifications. Before completing the resetting, the provider must verify the identifying data, authenticate the user's license, conduct a postage evidencing system audit, and ascertain whether payment to the USPS sufficient to cover the requested postage value download was initiated by the licensee.

c. The provider will supply the licensee with documentation of the reset transaction and the balance in the descending register, if any.

7.6Postage Refunds

The USPS provides refunds for the entire postage value balance remaining on the PSD of a PC Postage system that is withdrawn from service and is in the possession of the provider. Refunds are requested and paid through the provider in accordance with P014.

7.7Postage Adjustment for Faulty PSD

When the licensee requests a postage adjustment for a faulty PSD of a PC Postage system, the PSD must first be withdrawn from service and physically examined by the provider. The provider will compare the data in the PSD registers with the data from the system transaction records. After examining a PSD withdrawn from service for apparent faulty operation affecting the ascending or descending registers, the provider must notify the licensee of the proposed postage adjustment, if any. At the same time the user is notified, the provider must report the malfunction to the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters. The report must contain all applicable documentation (including a copy of the transaction records) and a recommendation for any appropriate postage adjustment. The licensee may appeal a postage adjustment to the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters (see G043), within 60 calendar days of the date that the user is notified of the proposed postage adjustment recommendation.

8.0 INDICIA—GENERAL INFORMATION

8.1Amount of Postage

The value of the indicia affixed to each mailpiece must be either the exact amount due or another amount permitted by standard. Refunds for overpayment must meet the standards in P014.

8.2Refunds for Unused Indicia

Refunds for indicia amounts already printed on an envelope or label but not mailed are made in accordance with P014.

8.3Use of Indicia

Valid indicia produced by a postage evidencing system can be used only to show evidence of payment for postage or other services provided by the USPS. Indicia for zero postage must not be affixed to any item delivered by another carrier. In any illustration of information-based indicia (IBI) produced by an IBI meter or a PC Postage system, and not intended to be used as postage, the two-dimensional barcode or other USPS-approved symbology must be rendered unreadable.

9.0 INDICIA

9.1Approved Designs

The manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters, must approve the design (type, format, and content) of all indicia that will be produced by a postage evidencing system. This approval shall include all elements in the indicium required by USPS regulations and the postage evidencing system performance criteria and applies to the entire area within the indicium boundary.

9.2Legibility

Indicia must be legible. Illegible or unreadable (unscannable) indicia are not acceptable as payment of postage. Should there be a need to place multiple indicia on an envelope (e.g., for redate or postage correction) the indicia must not overlap each other. Overlapping indicia are not acceptable as payment of postage. Reflectance measurements of the indicia and the background material must meet the standards in C840.5.0.

9.3Position

Indicia must be printed or applied in the upper right corner of the envelope or address label. Indicia must be at least 1/4 inch from the right edge of the mailpiece and 1/4 inch from the top edge of the mailpiece, and must not infringe on the areas reserved for the FIM, POSTNET barcode, or optical character reader (OCR) clear zone. Indicia must be oriented with the longest dimension parallel to the address. When a FIM is printed with the indicia, the position of the FIM must meet the requirements in C100.5.0.

9.4Boundaries

The USPS controls what is printed within the boundaries of indicia. The boundaries are defined as follows:

a. For letterpress indicia, the boundaries are determined by the dimensions of the printing die used by the postage evidencing system to print postal information. Licensees may obtain an additional printing die from the provider, often called the “ad plate,” for additional text to be included when printing indicia. The ad plate may contain postal markings or other printed matter.

b. For digital indicia, including IBI, the boundaries are defined by the right edge of the envelope, the top edge of the envelope, and the bottom edge and the left edge of any USPS-required indicium element printed by the postage evidencing system. A 1/2-inch clear zone, within which nothing shall be printed by the postage evidencing system, must surround the indicium boundaries to the left of and below all elements of the indicium.

9.5Contents

Unless otherwise approved by the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters, indicia must include the following information:

a. The city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code of the licensing post office; the postage evidencing system serial number or PSD identification number; identification of the provider; the date of mailing; the words “US Postage,” and the postage amount.

b. As an alternative to the city, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code of the licensing post office, just the ZIP Code of the licensing post office; in this case, the words “Mailed from ZIP Code” may be added to the indicia. For letterpress meters only, the city and state of the licensing post office may be used without also including the ZIP Code, upon approval of the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters.

c. For multiple indicia on a given mailpiece, information showing the licensing post office in each indicium.

d. For digital indicia, including IBI, the class of mail and presort level.

e. For IBI, the required data elements of the two-dimensional barcode or other USPS-approved symbology in accordance with the performance criteria for the given postage evidencing system.

f. For meters and other postage evidencing systems placed in main offices, stations, or branches of the Postal Service, the indicia must include the capital letters “USPS.” No postage meter or postage evidencing system placed in any other location may include “USPS” in the indicia.

g. For special indicia, including date correction or redate indicia, postage correction indicia, indicia for APO/FPO, and indicia for prepaid reply mail, information as required in 10.0.

9.6Format

Arial font must be used for all postal information in the indicia. The postage amount must be at least 10-point type size. When they are required in the indicium, the capital letters “USPS” must be at least 12 points. For all other required information, the type size must be at least 8 points. The mail class or endorsement, the postage amount, and the words “US Postage” must be in bold capital letters. Text identifying special indicia (“redate,” “postage correction,” “reply postage”) must be in 8-point bold capital letters. The words “US Postage” must be the most prominent and conspicuous printed matter in the indicia other than the postage amount.

9.7Postal Markings

The postal marking that may be included in indicia vary by indicia type, as follows:

a. Letterpress indicia may include postal markings related to the class of mail and presort level, or ancillary service endorsement, in accordance with postal regulations. When placed in the ad plate area, only the postal marking may be printed, and it must fill the ad plate area as much as possible. All words must be in bold capital letters at least 1/4 inch high or 18-point type, and legible. Exceptions are not made for small ad plates that cannot accommodate a permissible marking.

b. Digital indicia may include ancillary service endorsements.

9.8Other Matter Printed by Postage Evidencing Systems

Other printed matter must not infringe on the areas reserved for the FIM, POSTNET barcode, or optical character reader (OCR) clear zone. The matter that may be printed is based on indicia type, as follows:

a. For letterpress indicia only, advertising matter, slogans, and return addresses may be printed with the indicia within space limitations. Licensed users must obtain the ad plates for printing this matter from the authorized provider. Ad plate messages must be distinguished by the inclusion of the name of the mailer or words such as “Mailer's Message.” The ad plate must not be obscene, defamatory of any person or group, or deceptive, nor may it advocate unlawful action. The ad plate must not emulate any form of valid indicia or payment for postage.

b. For postage evidencing systems that print digital indicia, including IBI, an approved indicium shall include within its boundaries only postal markings and text required or recommended by USPS regulation, except that the indicium may identify the provider. Other matter may be printed only outside the boundaries of the clear zone surrounding the indicium. Such printed matter may not be obscene, defamatory of any person or group, or deceptive, and it must not advocate any unlawful action. The printed matter must not emulate any form of valid indicia or payment for postage.

9.9Ink

All indicia printed by Generation 1 postage evidencing systems must be printed with USPS-approved fluorescent ink. Failure to use fluorescent ink may lead to the revocation of the user's license. Generation 2 postage evidencing systems must use fluorescence to ensure that the mail is faced during processing, unless otherwise approved by the manager of Postage Technology Management (G043). Generation 2 postage evidencing systems that do not print with fluorescent ink must use an alternative USPS-approved method to ensure that the mail is faced during processing. Approved methods include use of a facing identification mark (FIM) for indicia printed directly on letter-size First-Class Mail or printing indicia on USPS-approved labels. The ink or alternative facing method used is specified in the indicia approval granted by the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters.

9.10Facing Identification Mark

The facing identification mark (FIM) serves to orient and separate certain types of First-Class Mail during the facing and canceling process. Letter-size First-Class Mail with IBI printed with nonfluorescent ink directly on the envelope by an IBI meter or a PC Postage system must bear a USPS-approved FIM D unless it is courtesy reply mail. The FIM must meet the format, dimensions, print quality, and placement specified in C100.5.0.

9.11Adhesive Label or Tape

When indicia are printed on adhesive tape or on a label for application to the mailpiece, the tape or label used, including the label stock itself as well as the use of fluorescent ink to print indicia and the format and placement of any fluorescence on the label stock, must be approved by the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters. Failure to use the label approved by the USPS for use with the system may result in revocation of the postage evidencing system license. The label must meet the following requirements:

a. The label must be a pressure-sensitive, permanent label. The label is subject to the corresponding standards in C810.6.2 for minimum peel adhesion. The applied label must adhere well enough that it cannot be removed in one piece. A face stock/liner label (also called a “sandwich” label) must not be used for printing indicia for postage evidencing.

b. The label must meet the reflectance requirements in C840.5.0.

c. The label must be large enough to contain the entire indicia.

d. Indicia printed on a label must be the same as the indicia approved by the manager of Postage Technology Management for printing directly on an envelope. The label must not include any image or text other than those allowed by USPS regulation, unless approved by the manager of Postage Technology Management.

e. For labels or tapes applied to standard letter-size envelopes and postcards sent as First-Class Mail, the indicia must be printed with fluorescent ink, or the label must have fluorescent tagging that is sufficient to enable the USPS to face and process the mail, as verified by postal testing of each label design. The fluorescent tagging must meet a minimum fluorescent emission intensity of at least 20 phosphor meter units (PMUs), with a maximum of 70 PMUs. The visible color of the fluorescent tagging may be any color that meets the fluorescence requirements. The fluorescent tagging shall exhibit no noticeable change (i.e., no more than 10%) in its emission when exposed to elevated temperature and high humidity conditions.

f. The label must be placed on the envelope so that the position of the indicium meets the requirements in 9.3.

g. When a label is applied to an envelope that already has a FIM, the label must not cover the existing FIM.

9.12Mailing Date Formats

[10-2-03] The mailing date in meter indicia must meet the format standards in 9.6 and this section. The year must be represented by all four digits or by the last two digits. The indicia may be printed directly onto mailpieces or onto separate labels or tape affixed to mailpieces. The mailing date format used in the indicia is subject to the following:

a. Complete Date. At the mailer’s option, a complete mailing date (month, day, and year) in the indicia may be used for any Standard Mail or Package Services piece. A complete date must be used for the following:

(1) All First-Class Mail, Priority Mail, and Express Mail pieces.

(2) Any mail with Insured Mail, COD, or Special Handling service.

(3) All mail prepared with the indicia printed on nonadhesive paper (e.g., computer printer paper) and affixed to the mailpiece or used as part of an insert in a window envelope or similar holder.

(4) Prepaid metered reply mail generated by a PC Postage system under 10.4.

b. Month and Year. A mailing date consisting solely of the month and year in the indicia may be used only for Standard Mail and Package Services pieces.

c. No Date. No mailing date may be used in the indicia for prepaid metered reply mail under 10.4, except for IBI generated by a PC Postage system. No mailing date in the indicia may be used for Standard Mail and Package Services pieces not subject to 9.12a.

9.13Date Accuracy and Mailing Periods

[10-2-03] The date or period when metered mail may be deposited or presented for mailing is controlled by the mailing date in the indicia as follows:

a. Complete Date. Mailpieces bearing a complete date in the indicia must be deposited or presented on that date, except that pieces entered after the day’s last scheduled collection from the licensing post office or collection box may bear the actual date of entry or the date of the next scheduled collection from the licensing post office or collection box. Authorized dispatch-prepared presort mail accepted after midnight may bear the previous day’s date. If the mailer knows that the mail is not to be deposited or presented on the date in the indicia, the mailer must use a date correction indicia under 10.1. Prepaid metered reply mail generated by a PC Postage system under 10.4 and showing a complete date in the indicia may be deposited or presented for mailing on any date without date correction.

b. Month and Year. Mailpieces bearing only the month and year in the indicia may be deposited or presented for mailing on any day during the month shown in the indicia and through the third day of the following month.

c. No Date. Mailpieces bearing no date in the indicia may be deposited or presented for mailing on any date.

10.0 SPECIAL INDICIA

10.1Date Correction or Redate

[3-4-04] A date correction or redate indicium is required for any mailpiece not deposited by the date of mailing in the indicium as required by 9.13. Only one date correction indicium is permitted on a mailpiece. The date correction or redate indicium may be printed on a USPS-approved label instead of directly on the mailpiece. Formats are as follows:

a. For all postage evidencing systems except PC Postage systems, a date correction must show the actual date of deposit and zero postage value (“0.00”). On letter-size mail, the date correction is placed on the nonaddress side in the upper right corner or on the address side in the lower left corner. On flat-size mail or parcels, the date correction must be placed next to the original indicium, except when applied by an ink jet printer on barcoded flats. The mailer may use an ink jet printer to correct the date in the indicia on mailpieces in barcoded mailings if the text, preceded by two asterisks and showing the actual date of deposit, city, state, and 3-digit ZIP Code of the mailing office, is placed above the address block and below the indicia. Alternatively, on flat-size mailpieces in barcoded mailings only, the mailer may use an ink jet printer to apply the date correction just above the barcode when the barcode is applied by an ink jet printer in accordance with C840.3.0.

b. For PC Postage systems, a date correction or redate indicium includes only the actual date of deposit and the word “REDATE,” instead of a postage value. On letter-size mail, redate indicia must be placed on the nonaddress side at least 3/4 inch from the bottom edge of the mailpiece and not on an envelope flap. On flats or parcels, it must be placed next to the original indicium. The redate or date correction must not include the FIM or the two-dimensional barcode.

10.2Postage Correction

Indicia for additional postage must be placed on a shortpaid mailpiece to correct postage. The postage correction may be printed on a USPS-approved label instead of directly on the mailpiece and must contain all of the elements required for indicia in 9.5. Formats are as follows:

a. For all postage evidencing systems except for PC Postage systems, the postage correction indicium is placed on the nonaddress side in the upper right corner or on the address side in the lower left corner of letter-size mail. On flats or parcels, it must be placed next to the indicium.

b. For a PC Postage system, the word “CORRECTION” must be printed in the postage correction and it must not include a FIM. On letter-size mail, the PC Postage correction indicium must be printed on the nonaddress side at least 3/4 inch from the bottom edge of the mailpiece and not on an envelope flap. On flats or parcels, it must be placed next to the original indicium. The postage correction indicium may be printed on a USPS-approved label instead of directly on the mailpiece.

10.3APO/FPO Meters

Postage evidencing systems used by military (APO/FPO) post offices must show the military branch and address format for each location (e.g., “ARMY APO AE 09102”). Exceptions are made only for postage evidencing systems used in fleet post offices on board U.S. naval vessels that may show the name of the ship instead of the standard wording for Navy meters (e.g., “USS SARATOGA (CV-60) 34078-2740”).

10.4Reply Postage

Indicia generated by any postage evidencing system may be used to prepay reply postage on Express Mail; on Priority Mail when the rate is the same for all zones; on First-Class Mail cards, letters, and flats up to a maximum of 13 ounces; and on single-piece rate Media Mail and Library Mail, under the following conditions:

a. The postage amount must be enough to prepay the postage in full.

b. Indicia may be printed directly on the mailpiece or on a label and must be positioned in accordance with 9.3. An applied label must meet the standards in 9.11.

c. Indicia used to prepay reply postage, except for IBI generated by a PC Postage system, must not show the date.

d. IBI generated by a PC Postage system to prepay reply postage must show the date the licensee printed the indicium and must include the words “REPLY POSTAGE.”

e. The mailpiece must be pre-addressed for return to the licensee. Prepaid reply mail is delivered only to the address of the licensee. When the address is altered, the mail is held for postage.

f. Except for those PC Postage systems with the capability to print an address for the given class or size of mailpiece, the address side of reply mail may be prepared by any photographic, mechanical, or electronic process or combination of such processes (other than handwriting, typewriting, or handstamping). For those PC Postage systems with the capability to print destination addresses for the given size and class of mailpiece, the address must be prepared using the PC Postage system.

g. The words “NO POSTAGE STAMP NECESSARY POSTAGE HAS BEEN PREPAID BY” must be printed above the address.

h. For barcoded letter-size First-Class Mail reply mail for all postage evidencing systems except PC Postage, FIM A may be used. For PC Postage, FIM D is required for prepaid reply mail when the indicium is printed directly on the mailpiece.

i. The address side must follow the style and content as described in this section and shown in the illustration below. Nothing may be added except a return address, FIM, or barcode.

11.0 MAILINGS

11.1Preparation of Metered Mail

Metered mail is subject to the preparation standards that apply to the class of mail and rate claimed.

11.2Notification of Metered Mailings Presented in Bulk

Mailers who present presorted First-Class Mail, Standard Mail, Parcel Post in bulk quantities, Presorted Bound Printed Matter, Carrier Route Bound Printed Matter, or Presorted Media Mail using metered postage must complete Form 3615. Completion of this form is for record keeping only. If an applicant has a completed Form 3615 on file for other services, notification to present metered mail in bulk is annotated on the existing application. There is no fee for this service.

11.3Combination

Metered mail may be combined in the same mailing with mail paid by other methods only if authorized by the USPS.

11.4Where to Deposit

Metered mail must be deposited at a postal facility within the jurisdiction of the licensing post office (i.e., the ZIP Code shown in the indicia). However, Express Mail, Priority Mail, and single-piece rate First-Class Mail may be deposited at other than the licensing post office when necessary. Metered mail also may be drop shipped under D072.

11.5Irregularities

[11-13-03] USPS examines metered mail to detect irregularities in preparation and dating.

12.0 AUTHORIZATION TO PRODUCE AND DISTRIBUTE METERS (POSTAGE EVIDENCING SYSTEMS)

Title 39, Code of Federal Regulations, part 501, contains information concerning authorization to produce and distribute postage meters (postage evidencing systems); the suspension and revocation of such authorization; performance standards, test plans, testing, and approval; required production security measures; and standards for distribution and maintenance. Further information may be obtained from the manager of Postage Technology Management, USPS Headquarters (see G043 for address).

DMM Issue 58 Updated 12-9-04

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