
159.324 Express Mail.
Any postal employee who cannot dispatch, distribute, or deliver an Express
Mail pouch because there is no delivery address on the outside of the pouch
must promptly open the pouch to find a delivery address on any envelope,
wrapper, or other article inside the pouch.  Postal employees must not open
the wrappers or envelopes or break the seals of any Express Mail articles
inside the pouch (see 115).  If address information is found, the
pouch must be closed securely and promptly tagged and forwarded to the
delivery address.  If no address information is found inside the pouch, the
pouch must be sent to the dead mail branch.  Hold Express Mail shipments a
maximum of 5 workdays before return if the sender names no specific period
(see 291.2 and 291.3).

159.325 Return of Registered, Numbered Insured, COD, Certified, Express
Mail, and Return Receipt for Merchandise Mail.
Handle registered, numbered insured, COD, certified, return receipt for
merchandise, and Express Mail returns as follows:

a.
If a return receipt is attached to registered, numbered insured, COD,
certified, return receipt for merchandise, or Express Mail that is to be
returned, indicate the reason for nondelivery on the face of the article.  The
return receipt remains attached to the article and is returned to the mailer.
Return registered mail immediately through the registered mail system.

b.
Before returning or forwarding registered, numbered insured, COD, certified
mail, return receipt for merchandise, or Express Mail, do the following:

(1)
Complete Form 3849 and note the disposition of the article on the back of
the form.

(2)
File Form 3849 for registered, numbered insured, COD, certified, and return
receipt for merchandise mail with other delivery receipts (see
913.72).

(3)
File Form 3849 for Express Mail with Express Mail delivery receipts at the
Express Mail manager/coordinator's office.

c.
When registered, numbered insured, COD, certified, return receipt for
merchandise, or Express Mail is returned to the mailer, the mailer must sign a
delivery receipt at the time the article is returned.  The delivery receipt
may be obtained on Form 3849 or Form 3883.

159.326 Other Mail.
Handle mail returnable under the provisions in Chapters 3 through 7 as
follows:

a.
Return without delay if refused by addressee.

b.
Return without delay if undeliverable when specifically addressed to a
street, building, rural or highway contract route, or post office box, unless
the addressee has moved without leaving a change of address.  Hold mail for 10
days awaiting a forwarding order.  If no order is received in that time,
handle the mail  as undeliverable.  However, this does not preclude compliance
with senders request in accordance with 122.18.

c.
Return without delay, if undeliverable, when incompletely, illegibly, or
incorrectly addressed and addressee is unknown.

d.
Retain in general delivery not to exceed 30 days at request of sender, if
addressed in a manner that indicates addressee is expected to call for mail or
if addressee normally calls there for mail.

e.
Retain as follows when not specifically addressed or when sender does not
specify a retention period:

(1)
Five days if for delivery by rural or highway contract route carrier.

(2)
Ten days if intended for general delivery service at an office having city
carrier service, except that the mail may be held up to 30 days if the
postmaster has been notified that the addressee will be delayed in coming to
claim the item.

(3)
Fifteen days if intended for general delivery service at an office not
having city carrier service.

f.
Mail addressed and deliverable to a post office box is not returned until
after the box is declared vacant, except for registered, certified, insured,
COD, postage-due, and perishable mail.

g.
Send undeliverable letters bearing the return address of a hotel, motel,
school, college, or other public institution printed on the envelope as an
advertisement to dead letter branches for disposition, unless the return
address also includes the name or title of an individual or a printed or
written request for return.

h.
Unclaimed franked mail from a Member of Congress, including that addressed
under 122.452, and unclaimed official mail, including official
reports and bulletins sent by state agricultural colleges and experiment
stations, is returned to the postmaster at the office of origin if it is
known.  If office or origin is not known, send the mail to the post office at
Washington, DC.  Send undeliverable mail bearing the return address of the
White House, the Senate, or the House of Representatives, with or without
postage stamps, to the post office at Washington, DC.

i.
Return immediately if nonmailable, as specified in the procedures for the
particular class of mail.

159.327 Return of Thirdand Fourth-Class Mail.
The sender of thirdand fourth-class mail may identify pieces considered
valuable and ensure their return by using one of the return postage guaranteed
endorsements in Exhibit 159.151a through Exhibit 159.151f.
To ensure the forwarding and return of mail, the sender must endorse the mail
"Forwarding and Return Postage Guaranteed."  This endorsement allows the
addressee to refuse delivery of the mail and to return it at no charge if the
mail or any attachment is not opened.

159.4 Dead Mail

159.41 Definition.
Dead mail is matter deposited in the mail that is or becomes undeliverable
and that cannot be returned to the sender from the last office of address.
Some reasons that mail cannot be returned to the sender include:

a.
Matter is nonmailable.

b.
Sender is unknown.

c.
Classification of the mail does not entitle it to return service.

159.42 Insured and COD Matter.
Hold each piece of dead insured and COD mail for 1 week after it becomes
dead.  On a weekly basis, send such pieces to the appropriate receiving dead
parcel branch (see 159.521c).  Insured and COD matter endorsed by
the sender "Destroy" or "Abandon" is destroyed or abandoned when it becomes
undeliverable at the last office of address.  If the sender of undeliverable
insured or COD mail refuses to accept it, send it to the dead parcel branch on
the next weekly dispatch.  If the parcel was insured, endorse Form 3849 to
show refusal by the sender; if COD, endorse the tag to show refusal and file
the tag with the delivery records.

159.43 Opening and Examination.
With the exception of unendorsed bulk business mail (third-class bulk
mail), all undeliverable thirdand fourth-class mail that cannot be returned
because of an incorrect, incomplete, illegible, or missing return address is
opened and examined to identify the sender or addressee.  The same procedure
is followed for First-Class Mail sent under 913.12 (insured
First-Class parcels containing thirdor fourth-class enclosures).

159.431 Money Found Loose in the Mails.
Dispose of money found loose in the mails as follows:

a.
United States money found loose in the mails, unless identified with losses
from mail or returned to its owner, must be recorded on Form 25 and entered in
AIC 126, Miscellaneous Nonpostal Revenue.  If a valid claim is
received for money found loose in the mails after it has been taken into the
postal account, make the refund from current funds and enter in AIC 624,
Refund of Miscellaneous Nonpostal Revenue .

b.
Retain 30 days, awaiting possible claim by owners, all foreign money and
any United States money having unusual value, such as uncirculated coins,
antiques, or collector's items if identified as such.  If unclaimed after 30
days, send to Dead Parcel Branch, New York, NY 10199-9543.

c.
If a letter contains $10 or more in money, convert the cash to a money
order, and deduct the money order fee prior to issuance of the money order.
If the value is $10 or more, use registered mail to return negotiable or
intangible property which might be converted into cash.  For registered
returns, charge the minimum registry fee as postage due if the article was not
previously registered.

159.432 Uncanceled Stamps Found Loose in the Mail

a. Uncanceled Stamps Appearing to Have Become Detached From Mail Articles

(1)
Reaffix the stamp to the mail if possible; if not, drop the stamp in a
slotted and sealed or locked container kept for that purpose on the workroom
floor.

(2)
Destroy stamps kept in these containers at least once a month.

(3)
Make no record of these stamps.

b. Uncanceled Stamps Not Lost From Mail

(1)
Place in an envelope and retain 30 days in the inquiry section of the main
office, if found at main office or at contract stations or branches; or in
custody of the superintendent if found at classified stations and branches.

(2)
Make a descriptive record on the envelope only if the record assists in
returning the stamps to the owner.

(3)
If unclaimed after 30 days, destroy monthly at the place of retention in
the presence of a witness designated by the postmaster.  Keep a record of the
amount of stamps received and destroyed, by total amounts only, on Form 25.

159.433 Other Items.
Return wallets, bank deposits, or other nonmail matter found in collection
boxes or other points within the jurisdiction of the Postal Service,
postage-due at the third-class rate specified in Exhibit 611.13.

159.434 Identified Articles.
Make every reasonable effort to match articles found loose in the mail with
the envelope or wrapper from which they were lost.  If the mailer or addressee
can be identified, return or forward the articles.

159.435 Unidentified Articles.
Dispose of as waste any unidentified articles that have no value.  Treat
those of value, $10 or more, as dead mail.

a.
Unendorsed third-class mail is disposed of as waste.

b.
Dispose of printed matter, circulars, newspapers, magazines, and other
publications as waste.

c.
If it is cost-effective, strip coins from undeliverable circulars and
account for their value (see 159.431a).

d.
Stamp unidentified postal money orders "VOID" (location), prepare a
memorandum explaining the circumstances, and send the money orders and
memorandum to:

MONEY ORDER BRANCH
POSTAL DATA CENTER
US POSTAL SERVICE
PO BOX 82453
ST LOUIS MO 63182-9453

159.436 Return of Undeliverable Merchandise to Manufacturer or Distributor.
Return merchandise to the nearest retail store, mail order store, or
distribution center of a firm if the following evidence of ownership exists
AND the firm does not object.  Address questions regarding return of
merchandise under this section to the appropriate rates and classification
center (see 132).  These conditions are the following:

a.
The articles must appear to be new.

b.
Each article, or bundle of articles, must have identification to clearly
show the following information:

(1)
The name of the firm which made or distributed the articles.

(2)
An order or invoice number, or other evidence that the article was mailed
by the firm in connection with a customer's order.

159.437 Disposal of Perishable Items, Drugs, and Cosmetics

a.
Packages containing medicine, perishable articles, liquids, and other
articles likely to injure employees, damage equipment or other mail, or to
attract pests, must be destroyed as soon as they are known to be undeliverable.

b.
Other perishable mail, drugs, and cosmetics are disposed of as follows:

(1) Perishable Items.
Perishable matter that cannot be forwarded or returned before spoiling,
day-old poultry that cannot be delivered or returned within 72 hours after
hatching, and other animals that cannot be returned to the sender in a viable
condition, if salable, must be sold immediately by the postmaster.  Neither
the addressee nor any postal employees may buy any such item from the
postmaster.  The postmaster must send the proceeds of the sale, less both a
commission of 10% (but not less than 25 cents) and the appropriate money order
fee, to the mailer by postal money order, with an explanation of the action
taken on Form 3820.  Deliver perishable articles or animals that cannot be
sold to any charitable institution or organization that will accept them.
Live animals may also be delivered to a local humane society that will accept
them.

(2) Drugs.
Destroy packages that contain drugs undeliverable to either the addressee
or the sender.  Do not sell, donate, or retain such packages as dead parcels.

(3) Cosmetics.
Treat as dead parcels undeliverable soaps, perfumes, powders, home
permanent waves, hand lotions, hand creams, after-shave lotions, and deodorant
sticks or pastes, which bear no statements claiming medical properties.
Destroy undeliverable lipsticks and cosmetics which may jeopardize health.

159.438 Disposal to Institutions

a. Food.
Usable food items treated as dead mail may be donated to charitable
institutions or public institutions supported in whole or in part by Federal,
state, county, or municipal funds.  These institutions include but are not
limited to hospitals, asylums, and reformatories.  The following conditions
apply:

(1)
Do not donate "homemade" food items.  They must be destroyed.  If any doubt
exists as to whether an item is "homemade" or usable, the item must be
destroyed.

(2)
Usable food items which cannot be sold are donated to the local municipal
welfare department if it will assume responsibility for distribution of usable
food items to eligible institutions.  If that department will not assume such
responsibility, postmasters should apportion the items equitably among
eligible applicant institutions.

(3)
The recipient must sign a release stating that in consideration of the
Postal Service's donation of the items, the recipient assumes full
responsibility for handling and storage of the food items, and their
subsequent use.  Releases must be retained in post office files.

(4)
Receiving institutions may not make any selections as to the type or
quantity of food items to be accepted.

(5)
Recipients must call for food items as soon as possible.

(6)
Destroy food items that cannot be disposed of by donation.

b. Periodical Publications

(1)
Copies of undeliverable newspapers, magazines, and other periodical
publications may be furnished on request to reformatories, hospitals, asylums,
and other similar institutions that are supported in whole or in part by
charity or by public funds.

(2)
Copies of undeliverable publications may also be furnished to an
administrative officer of a court for use by persons called for or assigned to
jury duty.

(3)
Publications may be provided to qualifying organizations under the
following conditions:

(a)
No additional clerical time is used in the post office beyond the time
required for disposal of the copies as waste material.

(b)
No selection may be made by the receiving institution as to character,
quality, or type of publications to be furnished.

(c)
The receiving institution must call for the copies promptly after
notification of their availability, or on a scheduled basis.

(d)
This privilege is entirely at the option of the Postal Service and may be
curtailed or discontinued at any time without notice. Postal employees must
make reasonable efforts to inform  receiving institutions of these conditions.

c. Samples of Merchandise.
Dispose of undeliverable samples of merchandise sent for advertising
purposes, which do not bear the words "Return Postage Guaranteed," as follows:

(1)
Remove and destroy wrappers if this is practical and can be accomplished
without additional  expense. Deliver samples impartially to charitable or
reformatory institutions  that promise their free distribution.

(2)
Dispose of as waste any samples not suitable for distribution.

159.439 Government Property.
Send unclaimed Government property that has a National Stock Number (NSN)
(a 13-digit number displayed in character groups of 4-2-3-4, e.g.,
1234-00-567-0089, imprinted on cartons, tags, or directly on the item) to the
appropriate concentration point for return to the Federal supply system.

159.44 Foreign Mail

159.441 Originating in Canada.
Enclose dead letters that originated in Canada in a penalty envelope.  Show
the city and state of the office making the return.  Address the envelope to:

UNDELIVERABLE MAIL OFFICE
CANADA POST CORPORATION
710 PROGRESS AVENUE
SCARBOROUGH ONTARIO M1N 2Z7
CANADA

159.442 Other.
Send dead letters originating in countries other than Canada to the
exchange office daily (see IMM 782).Do not send such dead letters to dead
letter branches.

159.45 Matter Posted in Violation of Law or Treaty.
Retain for 6 months after it becomes  dead, all dead matter, including
First-Class Mail that is not in the form of a letter, addressed to foreign
countries if the mail has been posted in violation of law or treaty
stipulation and is of obvious value.  (See IMM individual country listing
prohibitions.)

159.46 Firearms

a.
Handle concealable firearms, mailed contrary to 124.5, in
accordance with ASM 221.414.

b.
Hold dead mail containing firearms, mailed in accordance  with
124.5 or other firearms, for the applicable retention period.  Then
send it to your dead parcel branch, weekly, using registered mail.  Include a
memorandum with the shipment advising the reason for nondelivery and how it
was discovered that the shipment contained firearms.

159.47 Disposition of Undeliverable Mail

a.
Send all First-Class Mail (except postcards and postal cards), third-class
single-piece rate mail, and fourth-class mail that cannot be forwarded or
returned to a dead letter or dead parcel branch for disposition.  Send dead
letters daily.  Send dead parcels weekly.

b.
Send Express Mail Service shipments, that cannot be forwarded or returned
during the specified holding period, to the management sectional center
Express Mail office by Express Mail Service.  If all efforts to deliver or
return the article are unsuccessful, then and only then, send it to the dead
letter branch in an Express Mail Service pouch.

c.
Dispose of postcards and postal cards without a return address, if the post
office has facilities to destroy them by shredding or equivalent destruction.
If not, forward them to the dead letter branch.

d.
Send small quantities (less than a combined total of 10 pieces) of
undeliverable mail, unpaid mail, and unmailable dead letters to the claims and
inquiry unit of the sectional center facility for consolidation and forwarding
to the dead letter branch.  Mark these bundles as dead mail.

159.48 Makeup and Dispatch

159.481 Marking.
Make sure that the reason for nondelivery is endorsed on dead mail when
preparing it for final disposition.  Backstamp individual letters and postmark
parcels.

159.482 Makeup

a.
Tie dead letters in separate bundles, or pouch, as warranted by quantity.

b.
Use sacks for dead parcels.

c.
Tie undeliverable, including unpaid mail and unmailable dead letters, in
separate bundles.  The separate bundles of undeliverable, unpaid mail, and
unmailable dead letters may be placed in the same pouch.

d.
Bundles of dead letters addressed to dead mail branches may be enclosed
with other mail in pouches or sacks addressed to a postal facility in which a
dead mail branch operates.  Do not place any other mail not intended for dead
mail branches in letter bundles, pouches, or sacks addressed or labeled only
to those branches.

159.483 Labeling and Addressing for Dispatch

a.
Address dead letter mail as follows: Dead Letter Branch (city, state, and
ZIP+4) (see 159.511).

b.
Address dead parcel mail as follows: Dead Parcel Branch (city, state, and
ZIP+4) (see 159.521c).

c.
When a pouch or sack is used, the address of the dead mail branch must be
shown on a separate tag tied around the neck of the container to prevent
opening in transit.

d.
Where available, use preprinted central markup labels to forward mail to
dead mail units as follows:

(1) Letter Bundles.
Place on the top letter of the bundle adjacent to, but not covering, the
original address.  Affix a blue Label F in the lower left corner of the top
letter.

(2) Pouches and Sacks.
Affix to a blank label inserted in the label holder, and to the security
tag around the neck of the container.

e.
When preprinted central markup labels are not available, use Label 22,
Dead Mail Matter, as a facing slip for letter bundles, or folded for
use as a sack or pouch label for mail sent to dead letter or dead parcel
branches.

159.484 Listing and Recording.
Do not make a list or record of dead mail sent to a dead letter or dead
parcel branch except as follows:

a. Registered, Certified, and Numbered Insured Mail.
Complete delivery receipt, show disposition, and file with other delivery
receipts.  Dispatch as registered all dead registered mail.

b. Minimum Fee Insured Mail.
Complete delivery receipt, show disposition, and file alphabetically under
the name of addressee.

c. COD Mail.
Show disposition by endorsing COD tag, and file with return-to-sender
records.

159.485 Dead Letter and Dead Parcel Branches.
Send Form 1510 to dead letter or dead parcel branches inquiring about
First-Class letters or parcels valued at $10 or more.

159.5 Dead Letter Branches and Service Areas

159.51 Dead Letter Branches.
Locations of dead letter branches are:



Atlanta, GA 30304-9506St. Paul, MN 55101-9514
New York, NY 10199-9543San Francisco, CA 94101-9502
Philadelphia, PA 19104-9597



159.511 Dead Letter Service Areas.
The dead letter service areas are:



State or TerritoryDead Letter Branch
]

State or TerritoryDead Letter Branch


AlabamaAtlanta, GA  30304-9590
AlaskaSan Francisco, CA  94105-9602
ArizonaSan Francisco, CA  94105-9602
ArkansasAtlanta, GA  30304-9590
CaliforniaSan Francisco, CA  94105-9602
ColoradoSt. Paul, MN 55101-9514
ConnecticutNew York, NY 10199-9543
DelawarePhiladelphia, PA  19104-9597
District of ColumbiaPhiladelphia, PA  19104-9597
FloridaAtlanta, GA  30304-9590
GeorgiaAtlanta, GA  30304-9590
GuamSan Francisco, CA  94105-9602
HawaiiSan Francisco, CA  94105-9602
IdahoSan Francisco, CA  94105-9602
IllinoisSt. Paul, MN  55101-9514
Indiana
(ZIP Codes
420-424, 476-477)Philadelphia, PA  19104-9597
(All other ZIP
Codes)St. Paul, MN  55101-9514
IowaSt. Paul, MN  55101-9514
KansasSt. Paul, MN  55101-9514
KentuckyPhiladelphia, PA 19104-9597
LouisianaAtlanta, GA  30304-9590
MaineNew York, NY 10199-9543
MarylandPhiladelphia, PA  19104-9597
MassachusettsNew York, NY 10199-9543
Michigan St. Paul, MN  55101-9514
MinnesotaSt. Paul, MN  55101-9514
MississippiAtlanta, GA  30304-9590
MissouriSt. Paul, MN  55101-9514
MontanaSan Francisco, CA  94105-9602
NebraskaSt. Paul, MN  55101-9514
NevadaSan Francisco, CA  94105-9602
New HampshireNew York, NY 10199-9543
New Jersey
(ZIP Codes
 080-084)Philadelphia, PA  19104-9597
(All other
 ZIP Codes)New York, NY  10199-9543
New MexicoSan Francisco, CA  94105-9602
New YorkNew York, NY  10199-9543
North CarolinaPhiladelphia, PA  19104-9597
North DakotaSt. Paul, MN  55101-9514
OhioPhiladelphia, PA  19104-9597
OklahomaAtlanta, GA  30304-9590
OregonSan Francisco, CA  94105-9602
PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia, PA  19104-9597
Puerto RicoNew York, NY  10199-9543
Rhode IslandNew York, NY 10199-9543
SamoaSan Francisco, CA  94105-9602
South CarolinaPhiladelphia, PA  19104-9597
South DakotaSt. Paul, MN  55101-9514
TennesseeAtlanta, GA  30304-9506
Texas
(ZIP Codes
 797-799)San Francisco, CA  94105-9602
(All other
 ZIP Codes)Atlanta, GA  30304-9506
UtahSan Francisco, CA  94105-9602
VermontNew York, NY 10199-9543
VirginiaPhiladelphia, PA  19104-9597
Virgin IslandsNew York, NY 10199-9543
WashingtonSan Francisco, CA  94105-9602
West VirginiaPhiladelphia, PA  19104-9597
WisconsinSt. Paul, MN  55101-9514
WyomingSt. Paul, MN  55101-9514





159.512 Opening Letters in Dead Letter Branches.
Open dead letters at dead letter branches in an attempt to determine the
name and address of the addressee or sender so his property may be delivered
or returned.  If the sender or addressee cannot be identified, observe the
following retention periods:

(1)
Letters with enclosures of value, 1 year.

(2)
Other letters, none.

159.513 Disposition of Letters Containing Nonmailable Matter

a. Nonmailable Lottery Matter Except Nonmailable Unsealed Foreign Lottery
Matter.
Destroy letters of domestic origin and sealed mail of foreign origin (see
115.231), lottery tickets, chance books, etc., only if nonmailable
under 123.43.

b. Unsealed Foreign Nonmailable Lottery Matter.
Dispose of unsealed mail (see 115.232) of foreign origin that
contains nonmailable lottery matter (see 123.43) in accordance with
the following:

(1)
When the sender can be identified as the respondent in an outstanding
foreign lottery order (see the Postal Bulletin ), the mail must be
disposed of according to IMM 652.32;

(2)
When the sender cannot be so identified, forward a sample of the mailing to
the Consumer Protection Division, Law Department, USPS Headquarters
Washington, D.C. 20260-1112, for appropriate attention pursuant to 39 USC
3005.  Withhold additional pieces of unsealed mail from the same sender for
delivery pending publication of notice in the Postal Bulletin that a
foreign lottery order has been issued against the sender, or until other
instructions have been received from the Law Department.

c. Other Nonmailable Matter.
If the address of the sender (or addressee) is found, return the mailable
contents to the sender (or forward it to the addressee) and destroy
nonmailable matter.

159.52 Dead Parcel Branches

159.521 Establishment

a. Policy.
Dead parcel branches (DPBs) are established at selected post offices to
serve designated bulk mail center (BMC) service areas.  A DPB may serve one or
more BMC and the post offices in their respective service areas (see the BMC
section of the National Five-Digit ZIP Code Directory to determine the
BMC service area to which a post office is assigned).  A BMC and all post
offices within its service area send dead parcels to their assigned DPB.  If a
post office is reassigned to another BMC, its dead  parcel branch assignment
then becomes the same as its new BMC.

b. Dead Parcel Branches.
Locations of dead parcel branches are:



Atlanta, GA  30304-9506San Francisco, CA  94105-9501
New York, NY  10099-9543St. Paul, MN  55101-9514
Philadelphia, PA  19104-9597



c. Service Areas.
The service areas are:


Bulk Mail CenterDead Parcel Branch
]

Bulk Mail CenterDead Parcel Branch


AtlantaAtlanta, GA  30304-9506
ChicagoSt. Paul, MN  55101-9514
CincinnatiPhiladelphia, PA  19104-9597
DallasAtlanta, GA  30304-9506
DenverSt. Paul, MN  55101-9514
Des MoinesSt. Paul, MN  55101-9514
DetroitSt. Paul, MN  55101-9514
GreensboroPhiladelphia, PA  19104-9597
JacksonvilleAtlanta, GA  30304-9506
Kansas CitySt. Paul, MN  55101-9514
Los AngelesSan Francisco, CA  94105-9502
MemphisAtlanta, GA  30304-9506
New JerseyNew York, NY  10199-9543
PhiladelphiaPhiladelphia, PA  19104-9597
PittsburghPhiladelphia, PA  19104-9597
St. LouisSt. Paul, MN  55101-9514
Minneapolis/St. PaulSt. Paul, MN  55101-9514
San FranciscoSan Francisco, CA  94105-9502
SeattleSan Francisco, CA  94105-9502
SpringfieldNew York, NY  10199-9543
WashingtonPhiladelphia, PA  19104-9597




159.522 Opening Parcels.
Open dead parcels at dead parcel branches in an attempt to determine name
and address of the addressee or sender, so that property may be delivered or
returned.  If parcels are endorsed to show that they are the property of the
U.S. Postal Service, or that the sender has refused to pay postage due on
return as undelivered, the parcels are considered property of the U.S. Postal
Service.

a.
Dead parcels are returned to the sender, or delivered to the addressee,
when the opening of the parcel reveals the correct name and address of the
addressee and the name and address of the sender is not found.  The parcel is
rated for collection of postage due at the zone rate from the dead parcel
branch.

b.
If the sender or the addressee cannot be identified, hold Priority Mail
(flats or parcels) and thirdor fourth-class mail containing valuables for 90
days.  Also hold First-Class Mail not in the form of a letter, addressed to
another country 90 days; if posted in violation  of law or treaty, 6 months.
(See IMM individual country listing prohibitions.)

c.
Prepare for disposal as soon as received loose-in-the-mail items, except
for books and sound  recordings, if neither the sender nor the addressee can
be identified.

159.523 Disposal of Books and Sound Recordings.
Books and sound recordings are disposed of by sale, except for those that
may be withheld from sale for release to a publisher or distributor under the
following conditions:

a.
A publisher or distributor may request, in the manner set forth below, that
books and sound recordings bearing  a particular trade name, company name, or
other organizational identification, be released to the requester or to the
requester's representative.  The requirements for such a request are the
following:

(1)
The requester must apply in writing to the general manager, Business
Requirements Division, Office of Classification and Rates Administration, U.S.
Postal Service (for address, see Address List in Appendices).

(2)
The request must include a statement that the requester is the publisher or
distributor of the books and sound recordings bearing the listed trade name,
company name, or other organizational identification.  More than one trade
name, company name, or other organizational identification may be listed in
the same request.

(3)
The request must specify only one location where the books and sound
recordings are to be picked up.  The specific pickup facility may be changed
at any time by submitting a written request to the general manager, Business
Requirements Division.

(4)
After approval, a central file of requesters and the items specified for
return is kept by the Business Requirements Division.  All requesters receive
confirmation of their requests.

(5)
An approval remains in effect for 5 years or until canceled in writing by
either the requester or the Postal Service.

b.
A book or sound recording is not released to the requester even though it
bears an applicable trade name, company name, or other organizational
identification if it does not appear to be new, or was involved in the
settlement of a postal indemnity claim, or if it is known that the requester
was not the mailer or addressee.  Such books are auctioned.

c.
A request for release of books or sound recordings is not granted whenever
a written protest or a conflicting request from another party is presented to
the general manager, Business Requirements Division.  Books and sound
recordings involved in such a dispute are sold at auction in the normal course
of business, unless written notice from both parties advising of settlement of
the dispute is received before the sale deadline.  Both parties to a dispute
are advised when a question over ownership occurs and when any settlement of
the dispute is made.

d.
Upon approval of a request by the general manager, Business Requirements
Division, facilities handling books and sound recordings establish separation
to the maximum extent practicable.

e.
Release procedures at the point of customer mail entry (i.e., bulk mail
center, post office, or detached mail unit) are as follows:

(1)
Books and sound recordings are released to requesters or their authorized
representatives at a time and in a manner mutually agreeable between the
requester and the Postal Service, consistent with the instructions in this
section.

(2)
Failure of requester to pick up books and sound recordings within 15 days
of written notification or on a previously scheduled release date results in
return of the material to a dead parcel branch for auction and in the
cancellation of the request.

f.
If the designated release facility has a dead parcel branch, the release
procedures are the same as above.

g.
In order to pick up books and sound recordings at the designated facility,
requesters or their representatives must present a letter from the requester
authorizing the Postal Service to release such merchandise to the bearer.
This letter of authorization must be executed in triplicate.  Upon release of
the merchandise, all copies of the letter of authorization are receipted in
bulk by the person accepting delivery.  One copy is given with the
merchandise, one copy is mailed directly to the requester, and the original is
retained by the released facility for 1 year.

h.
Books and sound recordings separated for return at a location other than a
designated release facility are made up in individual shipments to the return
point in packages, sacks, hampers, or other types of containers.  Packages are
as large as possible, subject to the weight and size limitations for
fourth-class mail in 750.  Each package is sent under a penalty
label to the designated point of release (bulk mail center, post office, or
detached mail unit).  Sacks are subject to the 70-pound weight limitation.
Hampers or other containers may be used if adequate security against pilferage
can be maintained.  Where hampers or other containers are used, arrangements
must be made through the transportation management service center associated
with the sending facility for suitable containment, labeling, movement, and
security.

i.
When a request is canceled, the requester must be notified in writing by
the dead parcel office, with a copy to the general manager, Business
Requirements Division.  A canceled request may not be renewed until 6 months
after the date of cancellation.  At that time, a written application must be
resubmitted, which is treated as if it were a new request.  Books and sound
recordings on hand at the time of a cancellation are to be included in the
next auction.

159.524 Disposal of Firearms and Ammunition

a. Definition.
The term "firearms" means any weapon by whatever name known, which is
designed to expel a projectile or projectiles by the action of an explosive,
and a firearm muffler or firearm silencer, or any part or parts of such weapon.

b. Sale.
Sell firearms, other than pistols, revolvers, short-barreled rifles or
short-barreled shotguns, only to licensed firearms dealers.  When there is an
accumulation of these items, notify local firearms dealers of the intended
sale of all items as a single lot, by sealed bid.  Display the items and sell
them to the dealer who submits the highest bid.

159.525 Disposal of Other Dead Parcels.
Unclaimed items are disposed of by sale at auction.  Hold auctions
periodically and advertise them to the public.  Obtain information regarding
the conduct of auction sales from the manager of the dead parcel branch
conducting the auction sale.

159.526 Postal Employees Ineligible to Purchase.
Postal employees may not purchase directly or indirectly any dead parcel
post matter.

159.53 Use of Dead Matter by the Postal Service.
Withdraw items, other than the contents of mail which is sealed against
inspection (see 115.231), from dead parcel branches only for
official use by postal inspectors who must give memorandum receipts for the
articles withdrawn.  Keep these receipts on file in the dead parcel branch.
Return them when the goods are returned for disposal as dead parcels.

159.54 Use of Dead Matter in Development of Postal Systems, Equipment, or
Training

a. General.
Only bulk business mail which is undeliverable mail may be used for
development and testing of postal equipment and systems or for training postal
employees, in accordance with the requirements in 159.54b and
159.54c.  Authorization must be obtained from the general manager,
Business Requirements Division, Office of Classification and Rates
Administration, U.S. Postal Service (for address, see Address List in
Appendices).

b. Submitting requests.
Requests for authorization must be submitted in writing and must state

(1)
the purpose of the test or training and how the mail is to be used;

(2)
the type of undeliverable mail and volume required;

(3)
the period during which it is required;

(4)
the proposed source and arrangements for its delivery to the contractor or
postal employee conducting the equipment test, or to the postal training
facility;

(5)
the security to be provided while undergoing testing; and

(6)
arrangements for disposal of the mail at the end of the test or training.

c. Information on Outside Cover.
Regard as confidential the name and address and other information on the
outside cover of undeliverable mail, and information about the contents of
mail to the extent that such information may be associated with any particular
customer (see 115.1, 115.21, 115.22, and
115.5).  A private contractor or postal employee performing testing
or training may not use the mail in any manner that permits any such
confidential postal information to be disseminated or made available to
anyone.  This includes, but is not limited to, photographic or other
reproductions or copies of the actual wording.  While the mail, and
reproductions or copies of the information on the cover of mail, may be used
in test procedures or in training, they may not be included in reports or
other material that may be disseminated outside of the Postal Service.

159.55 Treatment of Mail Forwarded From Dead Mail Branches

a.
Follow procedures below for delivery of returned dead mail.

(1) Confidential Treatment.
Treat this unsealed mail as if under seal.  Maintain the strictest secrecy
as to its contents.

(2) Disposal if Undeliverable.
If the mail cannot be delivered within a reasonable time after return from
the dead mail branch, endorse the reason for nondelivery on the form which
accompanies the mail.  Return the mail and the form to the sending dead letter
or dead parcel branch under the same class by which received.

b.
For registered mail

(1)
When received under registered cover, handle in the inquiry section or in
some other section by an employee specifically designated by the postmaster.
Do not allow the registry section to open and dispose of this mail.

(2)
If the address is supplied, register the item to the owner under the local
registry number.

(3)
Enter the registry number on the form which accompanies the dead mail. File
the form.

(4)
Register when forwarding or returning.



160 Philately

161 Policy

161.1
There is a single national policy governing the release, sale, and
discontinuance of postage stamps and postal stationery.  The policy is
established by the Philatelic and Retail Services Department, U.S. Postal
Service (for address, see Address List in Appendices).

161.2
The policy governing stamps and philatelic products is administered by the
Office of Stamps and Philatelic Marketing.

161.3
Uniform application of policies provides a high degree of integrity for the
entire program, and all post offices, postal employees, and contractors must
comply with the policies set forth in this subchapter.  The Postal Service
must avoid the creation of philatelic rarities.

162 Purpose and Selection of Commemorative Stamps, Postal Stationery, and
Philatelic Products

162.1 Purpose.
Commemorative stamps and postal stationery (postal cards, embossed stamped
envelopes, and aerogrammes) explain the cultural and historical heritage of
the United States.  They describe our Nation's achievements, portray the
natural wonders of our country, instill pride in America, and focus attention
on worthy causes, issues, and interests which are of national concern.  The
Postal Service encourages the widespread use of these stamps and stationery
items to promote our national ideals, progress, and heritage.  Commemorative
stamps are not intended to replace regular stamps of the same class, but are
provided upon request when available.

162.2 Selection.
Subjects for commemorative postage stamps and postal stationery may be
proposed by the public through correspondence to the Citizens' Stamp Advisory
Committee.  The Committee, which is composed of individuals from outside the
Postal Service appointed by the Postmaster General, reviews suggestions and
makes recommendations for commemorative stamps and postal stationery to the
Postmaster General, who makes the final selections.  Because the Committee
works far in advance of actual stamp issuance, all proposals should be
submitted at least 2 years prior to the desired issuance date.  All
suggestions should be forwarded to the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee,
U.S. Postal Service (for address, see Address List in Appendices).

162.3 Philatelic Products.
Philatelic products are produced and sold to expand interest in the hobby
of stamp collecting by demonstrating both the fun and the informative value of
stamps.


163 Distribution and Sale of Stamps, Postal Stationery, and Philatelic
Products

163.1 Distribution

163.11
All post offices receive initial supplies of new-issue commemorative stamps
without requisition.  Philatelic products such as mint sets, stamp-collecting
kits, etc., are distributed automatically to stamp distribution post offices.

163.12
Stamp distribution offices (SDOs) must:

a.
Establish a program for the distribution of new philatelic products and the
replenishment of existing philatelic products to associate post offices.

b.
Ensure that less-than-bulk quantities of stamps are supplied to all post
offices so they can be placed on sale in accordance with instructions issued
in the Postal Bulletin.

163.13
Stamp distribution offices requiring additional philatelic products should
requisition them from the regional accountable paper depository.

163.14
All other post offices must requisition philatelic products from their
stamp distribution offices or usual sources of supply for less-than-bulk
orders.

163.2 Requisitioning

163.21
The accountable paper custodian or other individual in charge of the stamp
stock at each post office is responsible for requisitioning and maintaining an
adequate inventory of stamps, postal stationery, and other philatelic products
required for efficient and effective operation.  This individual should
periodically evaluate philatelic demand and, when necessary, forward a
separate requisition to the normal source of supply for additional stock.  All
requisitioning must adhere to the procedures in Handbook F-1, Post Office
Accounting Procedures, 420.

163.22
Accountable paper custodians should, when necessary, reduce the quantity of
stamps received automatically to reduce costly overstocking and subsequent
destruction.  This is done by memorandum to the Bureau of Engraving and
Printing for bulk quantities or to the Postal Data Center for less-than-bulk
quantities.

163.23
The stamp distribution office accountable paper custodian should maintain a
good working supply of stamps for sale in philatelic outlets, including plate
blocks of $1 to $5 stamps.  Stamp distribution office accountable paper
custodians can requisition directly from the regional accountable paper
depository.

163.24
The regional accountable paper depository is responsible for tearing into
blocks those stamps with a denomination higher than $1, and disposing of
partial sheets in accordance with Handbook F-1, 450.


163.3 Retail Sales

163.31 General.
Stamps, postal stationery, and philatelic products are sold at various
types of postal retail facilities which are described in this part.  Most of
these facilities have regular stamp windows or have been designated as
stamp-collecting centers.  Stamp-collecting centers sell the current
commemorative stamps and philatelic products.  Other post offices provide
specialized philatelic services and sell the full range of stamps and
philatelic products offered by the Postal Service.  These facilities, as well
as the Philatelic Sales Division, are referred to collectively as philatelic
outlets.

163.32 Philatelic Centers.
Philatelic centers are units separate from retail service windows.  These
centers display and sell all current postage stamps, postal stationery, and
related philatelic products.  Some philatelic centers are called Postiques, a
registered Postal Service trademark.  The Philatelic Sales Division, which
handles mail order requests from collectors for stamps, stationery, and
related products, is also a philatelic center.

163.33 Dedicated Philatelic Windows.
A dedicated philatelic window is a lobby window designated to sell stamps
and related philatelic products only.  No other postal services are available
at dedicated philatelic windows, which are to be identified so that customers
desiring normal postal services are directed to other windows.  The same items
sold at philatelic centers are also sold at dedicated philatelic windows.

163.34 Temporary Philatelic Stations

163.341 Purpose of Participation.
Post offices establish special temporary stations to provide philatelic
services and to sell commemorative stamps and philatelic products.  These
stations may include specially constructed counters or mobile retail units.
They are most frequently located at stamp shows, philatelic exhibitions, stamp
dedications, state fairs, conventions, parades, or at other locations of
activities of significant public or philatelic interest.

163.342 Requests for Participation.
Requests for Postal Service participation at such events should be made by
the sponsors or organizers to the local postmaster for initial action.  Only
requests for first-day-of-issue or other special support which must come from
the national level should be directed to the Stamp Support Branch.  All
first-day ceremonies are conducted under the direction of the Stamp Support
Branch.  The payment of fees for space may not be authorized below the
Headquarters level.  Once a postmaster has agreed to participate in an
exhibition, a unilateral withdrawal from such a commitment may not be made
without the approval of the Philatelic Marketing Division, based upon a
showing of good cause.

163.343 Authorization.
Temporary philatelic stations may be authorized by the postmaster.
Postmasters are authorized to participate at events where admission fees are
charged by the sponsor; but, in these cases, the same cancellation used at the
event must be available on request to those not attending the event.

163.344 Ceremonies.
Postmasters and other local officials are encouraged to participate in
opening ceremonies for stamp exhibitions or other stamp ceremonies arranged by
philatelic groups, whether or not a temporary philatelic station has been
authorized.

163.345 Announcement and Publicity

a. Posters

(1)
An announcement of a temporary philatelic station and any show cancellation
must be posted on the main post office lobby bulletin board and may be posted
in other post offices within a 10-mile radius of the event so that collectors
are advised of USPS participation.  In case of larger shows, the posting may
occur throughout the sectional center.

(2)
Posters should be placed on display at least 15 days before the event, but
in no case more than 30 days before the event.

(3)
All announcements must emphasize the temporary philatelic station.  The
announcement should mention the name of the stamp show, pictorial or standard
cancellation (if any), the dates and hours open to the public, and the
location.  Promotional material for the show itself must not be incorporated.

b. Press Release.
The postmaster should also announce through press releases to local
newspapers the planned establishment of this station.  The post office,
however, must not distribute free flyers to homes, sell or distribute tickets,
exchange ticket coupons, or authorize the use of post office facilities for
direct show promotion.

163.346 Arrangements

a. General.
Postmasters should ensure that detailed planning begins well in advance of
the show so that participation brings credit to the USPS and provides a wide
range of stamps and philatelic products to collectors.  Particular attention
should be taken in selecting sales personnel who are knowledgeable about stamp
collecting and who have retail experience.  All clerks should be trained in
philatelic sales and cancellation policies.

b. Stamp Stock

(1)
Postmasters should obtain a wide range of philatelic products and current
postage, using Form 3300 as a guide.  Postmasters should prepackage sets of
regular issues for sale to collectors.  No stamp which has been withdrawn
from sale by the Philatelic Sales Division may be sold by any philatelic
station.  Withdrawals are noted in the Postal Bulletin.

(2)
Postmasters should requisition philatelic stock not already available in
their post offices from Regional Accountable Paper Depositories on Form 17,
indicating quantity and for stamp show purposes.  For stamp shows, stamps with
denominations higher than $l may be requisitioned in plate blocks of four, as
noted in 163.2.

(3)
At the conclusion of the show, excess philatelic stock, including
remainders from commemorative sheets, would be sold at the regular windows for
postage purposes.

c. Philatelic Products.
Postmasters should display and sell philatelic products such as
commemorative mint sets, the Postal Service Guide to U.S. Stamps, and
stamp collecting kits.

d. Sales Restrictions.
The sales policies regarding plate number blocks, marginal markings, and
line markings on coil stamps are described in 163.532 and
163.533.

e. Security and Facilities.
Postmasters should ensure that sufficient security for the stamp stock is
provided at the show site and that all other facilities are adequate.

f. Appearance.
Postmasters should ensure that the appearance of the temporary philatelic
station brings credit to the Postal Service by using attractive signs and
having space for satisfactory service.  The hours when the station is open
should be posted.

g. Prompt Service.
At those exhibitions where a large number of collectors are expected,
postmasters should consider having a speedy line or customer numbers which can
be distributed and announced so that customers do not have to wait to make
their purchases.

h. Cancellation Service

(1)
Cancellation service should be provided separately from stamp sales.  A
sufficient number of clerks should be available to provide speedy service.

(2)
Clerks should be trained in advance how to provide hand-stamped postmarks
of philatelic quality.  (Refer to 164.3 for cancellation regulations.)

i. Sales Report.
An exhibition sales report must be submitted to the Division Field
Director, Marketing and Communications, within 1 week of the close of every
station, showing both gross revenue and net revenue.

163.4 Mail Order Sales

163.41
The Philatelic Sales Division services mail orders for postage stamps of
selected quality and other philatelic items.  Customers may obtain an order
form listing items available by writing to the Postal Service Philatelic Sales
Division (for address, see Address List in Appendices).


163.42
Post offices may not fill mail orders for stamps and other philatelic items
other than mail orders under the stamps-by-mail program and orders for local
precancels.

163.43
Customers must furnish a self-addressed stamped envelope for return of
precanceled stamps.

163.44
Postmasters may not order precancel devices solely to satisfy collector
demands.

163.45
Philatelic centers and dedicated philatelic windows may accept and fill
mail orders for special cacheted envelopes with cancellations authorized under
165.1.  This section does not affect procedures outlined in
164.83 for purchase of newly issued stamps by cover servicers from
the first-day-of-issue post office.

163.5 Sales Policies

163.51 New Issues.
Only the post office or offices designated as the official
first-day-of-issue office may sell a new item on the first day of sale.  New
issues are placed on sale at all other offices on the day after the first day
of sale.

163.52 Regular Stamp Windows and Stamp-Collecting Centers

163.521 Commemorative Stamps

a.
It is the Postal Service's intent that all commemorative stamps be sold and
none destroyed.

b.
Offices must place commemorative stamps on regular sale, holding aside only
enough for the local philatelic demand.  All supplies should be sold within 60
days after being placed on sale.  After 60 days, clerks should sell all
remaining commemorative stamps to customers in place of other sheet stamps.

c.
Commemorative stamps of local interest may remain on sale for a longer
period, but in no case after the date of withdrawal from sale announced in the
Postal Bulletin.

163.522 Plate Number Blocks/Marginal Markings (All Stamps)

a. Definition.
Plate number blocks are the stamps located on one corner of a pane of
stamps with a plate number or numbers printed on the margin (selvage).  Plate
number blocks may include as few as four stamps, where a single number
appears, or as many as 20, where multiple floating numbers and other marginal
markings such as "Mr. ZIP" and "Notice of Copyright" appear.

b. Setting Aside Plate Number Blocks.
Clerks must break panes of stamps for regular sale purposes, as follows:

(1)
First, tear stamps from the edge of the panes farthest from the plate
number or marginal markings in order to preserve the plate block for
collectors.

(2)
Set aside quantities of plate blocks or marginal markings as panes are
broken during regular sales transactions, but do not set them aside in advance.

c. Minimum Purchase Requirements and Sales Limitations

(1)
When the clerk has a broken pane of stamps from which the plate block or
other marginal marking has been sold, and when no plate block or other
marginal marking has been set aside, the following minimum purchases must be
made by a customer desiring the plate block or other marginal marking:





DenominationMinimum Purchase


$0.01 to $0.50Full marginal strip of
stamps (two rows deep
having all marginal markings)
$0.51 to $0.99Half marginal strip
$1.00 to $5.00Block of 4 stamps


Exception:  There are no minimum purchase requirements
 when a clerk has (a) only full panes of the requested
 stamp in stock or (b) a broken pane which contains the
 plate block or other marginal marking.



(2)
There are limitations to sales as follows:  Each customer for whom a pane
has been broken is limited to one marginal strip ($0.01 to $0.50), a half
marginal strip ($0.51 to $0.99), or a block of four stamps ($1.00 to $5.00)
for each stamp subject, per day.  It is necessary to place a limit on
individual sales of plate blocks and other marginal markings so that the stamp
stock available at post office windows may accommodate as many collectors as
possible each day.  Customers requesting more than the maximum permissible
purchase in denominations of the First-Class rate and below should be asked to
inquire on another day.  Customers requesting more than the maximum
permissible purchase in denominations higher than the First-Class rate should
be asked to inquire on another day or should be referred to the Philatelic
Sales Division.

d. Return of Unsold Stamp Stock.
Broken panes of stamps without marginal strips and which exceed clerk
requirements for regular stamp sales or use on parcel post should be returned
to the main stamp stock.  To return stock, the clerk must complete Form 17 in
accordance with Handbook F-1, Post Office Accounting Procedures, 480.
The returned stock must be redistributed in the following priority:  (1) to
fulfill stamps-by-mail requests, (2) to be used in locally prepared stamp
packages for vending machines, and (3) to be sold at other regular stamp
windows.  After 30 days, any stock remaining unsold at regular stamp windows
is returned (using Form 17) to the main stamp stock and handled according to
Handbook F-1, 450.

e. Exceptions to Sales Policies.
The Office of Stamps and Philatelic Marketing may establish exceptions to
the sales policies on selected stamp issues.  Exceptions are announced in the
Postal Bulletin.

163.523 Coiled Stamps.
These offices may not open and break coils of stamps.  Exception:  Coils of
new-issue stamps may be opened and sold in less than full coil quantities,
subject to the following limitations:

a.
Sales of new-issue coiled stamps in less than full coils are restricted to
a 1-month period, beginning with the authorized first day of sale for each
particular stamp issue.

b.
These sales are further restricted to a single stamp window at each
location designated by the postmaster to conduct such sales.

c.
Coiled stamps of fractional denomination must be sold in multiples which
reach full-cent amounts.

d.
Stamps remaining in partial coils after expiration of the sales period are
used for general postage, if practicable.

163.524 Precanceled Stamps.
There is no limitation on the sale to collectors of sheet stamps or full
coils of each of the precanceled denominations available.  Purchases may be
made in person or by mail by nonpermit holders for collection purposes only.
Mail order requests must be accompanied by stamped, self-addressed envelopes
for the return of the stamps purchased by the collector.  Precanceled stamp
policy is described in detail in 143.

163.525 Meter Stamps.
Customers may buy meter stamps and postage-due meter stamps for philatelic
purposes from post offices assigned meters.  Meter stamps and postage-due
meter stamps may not be issued for any amount less than the First-Class single
piece rate of postage.  Postage validator imprinter (PVI) strips are not meter
stamps and may not be sold.

163.53 Philatelic Outlets

163.531 Commemorative Stamps.
These offices may keep an issue on sale until a notice of its removal from
sales at the Philatelic Sales Division is published in the Postal
Bulletin.

163.532 Plate Number Blocks/Marginal Markings (All Stamps).
The sales and disposition policies described in 163.522 apply,
except as follows:

a.
Clerks may sell each customer one matched set of four marginal strips for
any stamp in stock.

b.
There are no limitations on the sale of plate blocks of stamps having
denominations from $1 to $5.

c.
The Philatelic Sales Division mail order section may, however, sell any
quantity of marginal strips of stamps of issues having a face value above the
First-Class letter rate.  For issues having a face value at or below the
First-Class letter rate, marginal strips are sold only when full panes are
ordered.

163.533 Coiled Stamps.
These offices may open coils of stamps as requested, except that coils
having fractional denominations can only be sold in multiples which reach
full-cent amounts.  To guarantee receipt of a plate number on coils, the
following minimum purchases are required:

a.
Bulk-rate denominations (when fractional) - minimum of 30 stamps;

b.
$1 - minimum of five stamps;

c.
All other denominations - minimum of 25 stamps.

163.534 Precanceled Stamps.
The sales policy described in 163.524 applies, except that coils
of precanceled stamps may be opened for the sale of individual stamps to
collectors.

163.535 Stamp Credit (Accountability)

a. General.
Philatelic outlets should maintain a good working level of stamp stock,
stationery, and philatelic products to meet the needs of collectors and
encourage philatelic interest.  Therefore, postmasters may maintain a postage
stock of up to $125,000 for each philatelic outlet at their office.  This
stock may be in excess of normal authorized stock limits.  (This does not
apply to the Philatelic Sales Division.)

b. Special Authorization.
If operating requirements necessitate postage stock in excess of $125,000,
written notification must be submitted to the appropriate regional director,
marketing and communications, requesting special authorization.

(1)
The regional director, marketing and communications, with concurrence of
the regional chief postal inspector, may authorize postage stock up to
$250,000.  If approved at the regional level, the request should be forwarded
for Headquarters concurrence to the Stamp Marketing Division (for address, see
Address List in Appendices).

(2)
The total amount of annual sales at the philatelic outlet must be included
with any request for authorization to maintain a postage stock in excess of
$125,000 for that outlet.  Such requests are approved only when the total
sales justify the increase in stock level.

c. Stamp Credit

(1)
All clerks working in philatelic outlets are fully accountable for their
own stamp credit.

(2)
It is the responsibility of the postmaster to provide adequate security
equipment for secure storage of these credits at all times.

163.536 Inventory of Available Items.
Updated lists on Form 3300 of items available at the Philatelic Sales
Division are furnished periodically to philatelic outlets to guide them in
maintaining a current inventory for collectors.  All listed stamps must be
maintained by permanent philatelic outlets, unless sold out and not available
by requisition.

163.537 Stamp Packets.
Stamps withdrawn from sale which are incorporated in philatelic products
such as mint sets or collecting kits may be sold at philatelic windows, postal
stores, stamp collecting centers, and the Philatelic Sales Division.

163.6 Stamp Withdrawals.
Notices concerning stamp withdrawals are published in the Postal
Bulletin and give effective dates for removing stamps from sale.  On the
effective withdrawal date, philatelic outlets must immediately return their
supply of the withdrawn stamp to the main stamp stock, using a Form 17.  The
stock must then be redistributed to regular stamp windows for sale for a
period of 30 days.  After 30 days, any remaining stock is handled in
accordance with Handbook F-1, Post Office Accounting Procedures, 450.

164 Cancellations for Philatelic Purposes

164.1 Definition and Policy

164.11
A postmark is a postal cancellation which contains the post office name,
state, and ZIP Code and month, day, and year the canceling post office
accepted custody of the material, except as provided in 164.71 and
164.74. Other postal markings are made by validators, obliterators,
or special-purpose cancelers.

164.12
The Postal Service must endeavor to make all unusual postmarking service
widely known to collectors through advance national publicity in order to
avoid such postmarks being available only to small groups of people.

164.13
It is the policy of the Postal Service to prohibit the backdating of mail,
except in the following cases:

a.
Postal operating requirements and public demand necessitate that
cancellation commence prior to and continue after the date contained in the
postmark.

b.
Damaged, defective, or missing cancellations or covers require replacements.

c.
All requirements for cancellations are met by customers but cancellations
are not applied because of errors made by postal personnel.

d.
The general manager, Philatelic Sales Division, authorizes the backdating
in writing.

164.2 Philatelic Postmarking

164.21 General.
Postmarking for philatelic purposes is provided at the request of
collectors or cover servicers for postmarking outside ordinary mail
processing.  This service requires special procedures and arrangements so that
other postal operations and services are not interfered with or disrupted.  It
may involve hand-stamping requested either on a handback or mailback basis and
may entail the holding of mail for cancellation.  Before this specialized
service can be provided, all its conditions must be met.  As a free service,
it is limited to transactions with fewer than 50 envelopes or other items.
For 50 or more envelopes or other items, advance approval of the Philatelic
Sales Division is required before service can be provided.

164.22 Cooperation With Collectors

a.
Employees should strive to furnish clear and legible postmarks to stamp
collectors by ensuring that cancellation machines and hand-stamp devices are
properly inked.  Postal employees must give special attention to mail bearing
an endorsement of philatelic value or to requests for light cancellations and
should avoid canceling stamps by pen or illegible smudging; however, stamps
must be canceled sufficiently to protect postal revenue.

b.
The Postal Service cannot provide special attention to a philatelic cover
if it has been routinely entered into the mailstream by the sender.

c.
Postmarking devices may be used only under the supervision of authorized
postal personnel, except that contractors who are working under an active
contract with the USPS to cancel stamps also may use postmarking devices when
and in the manner authorized by the contract.

d.
All hand-stamped postmarks must be made with black ink, unless the customer
specifically indicates a preference for the color otherwise in use.

e.
Employees should exercise care in handling all philatelic covers to ensure
that they are not damaged in mailhandling.  These covers are generally
identifiable by a design printed on the left side of the envelope.

f.
Postal employees should ensure that philatelic covers are not overcanceled,
backstamped, marked "received this date," or otherwise defaced on front or
back; used as a top piece in a bundle for destination package for labeling
purposes; or bent, folded, mutilated, or damaged by rubber bands.

164.23 Handback and Mailback Service.
Postmarks rather than other obliterations should be used to provide the
following services whenever they are available:

a. Handback Service

(1)
Post offices must honor requests for "handback" cancellation service where
a customer personally presents an addressed or unaddressed envelope, postal
card, or other item described in 164.73 to a postal clerk for
cancellation with the current day's postmark and immediate return or hand back
to the customer.

(2)
The envelope, card, or other item does not enter the mailstream.  All such
materials must bear uncanceled postage at the applicable First-Class rate.

(3)
So that service to other customers is not disrupted, there is a limit of 50
cancellations which can be provided for any single customer.

(4)
This service may be provided for special die hub or regular machine
cancellations only if the particular cancellation machine is readily
accessible to the postal clerk, where the providing of such service does not
interfere with other sales or mail-processing operations, and does not
inconvenience other customers.

b. Mailback Service.
Mailback service refers to that service authorized by the Philatelic Sales
Division for stamp dealers and cover servicers which permits envelopes, cards,
or other items submitted for cancellation to be returned in bulk through the
mail.  Conditions of this service are further described in 164.83.
This form of mailback service must be approved in writing in advance by the
Philatelic Sales Division.  Mailback service must not be provided for special
die hub or machine cancellations.

164.3 Permissible Cancellation Devices

164.31 Hand-Stamped Cancellations for Collectors.
The following postmark devices may be used to provide hand-stamped
cancellations for collectors:

a.
Standard cancellation with killer bars (Item 550)*viewer dmm185.pcx*
.

(NOT SHOWN)

DMM185

b.
Circular cancellation without killer bars*viewer dmm186.pcx* .

(NOT SHOWN)

DMM186

c.
First-day-of-issue cancellation at the post office where an item is first
issued.*viewer dmm187.pcx*

(NOT SHOWN)

DMM187

d.
Bull's eye cancellation.*viewer dmm188.pcx*

(NOT SHOWN)

DMM188

e.
Pictorial cancellation subject to conditions set forth in
164.42.*viewer dmm189.pcx*

(NOT SHOWN)

DMM189


164.32 Obliterators.
The following devices are obliterators and may be used for philatelic
purposes in cases where none of the postmarks or postmarking devices described
in 164.31 is available:

a.
Validator stamp (also known as a registry stamp or round dater--Item 570).
*viewer dmm190.pcx*
(NOT SHOWN)

DMM190

b.
Parcel post canceler (Item 502).*viewer dmm191.pcx*

(NOT SHOWN)

DMM191

c.
Rubber oval stamp (Item 0-681).*viewer dmm192.pcx*

(NOT SHOWN)

DMM192

d.
Receiving or dating stamp (Item 552)*viewer dmm193.pcx* .

(NOT SHOWN)

DMM193

164.4 Types of Postmarks or Cancellations

164.41 First Day of Issue.
These cancellations are provided by the post office when a philatelic issue
is first placed on sale and are dated to show that day.  They include both
machineand hand-stamped cancellations.  The words "First Day of Issue" appear
in the killer bars.  Requests for first-day cancellations must be postmarked
no later than the date specified in the Postal Bulletin to qualify for
service.  Bull's eye cancellations are used when the conventional
first-day-of-issue postmark does not cancel all the unused stamps on an item
presented for postmarking.

164.42 Pictorial Cancellations.
These cancellations are authorized to be used only at temporary philatelic
stations and at other philatelic outlets.  They must not be used at regular
stamp windows for special local celebrations.  Cancellations used are
generally hand stamps, except when volume requires the use of a machine
cancellation.  They may be used only during the operation of the temporary
philatelic station.  Mail-order requests for such cancellations must be
postmarked no later than 30 days after the date of the cancellation to qualify
for service.  A station may be authorized only one pictorial cancellation
during its operation at an event.  Different cancellations for each day of an
event are authorized only for international philatelic exhibitions recognized
by the Office of Stamps and Philatelic Marketing and held in the United States.


164.43 Special Die Hub Cancellations.
Special die hub cancellations contain words relating to an event.  These
cancellations are applied by machine to live mail.  Handback service may be
provided only as described in 164.23a. Mailback (return in bulk)
service must not be provided; but, cancellation can be provided on addressed
envelopes or postal cards which are delivered to the addressee or addressees
through mail delivery.  Cancellations of philatelic quality are often not
possible.

164.44 Standard Cancellations.
Circular hand-stamped cancellations with or without killer bars may be
provided upon request at post offices, stations, and branches.  They are
available every day the office is open for business.  No slogan or pictorial
material may be included.  Mail requests for these cancellations must be at
the post office offering the service on the date of the cancellation to
qualify for service.

164.45 Flight Cancellations.
These cancellations are made by regular cancellation equipment or by hand
stamp, depending on volume (see 164.6).

164.46 Regular Machine Cancellations.
Post offices may not machine-cancel mail with the regular postmark when the
envelopes are unaddressed or when the customer requests handback service,
except as described in 164.23a.  Mailback (return in bulk) service
must not be provided, but cancellations can be provided on addressed envelopes
or postal cards which are delivered to the addressee or addressees through
mail delivery.

164.5 First Day of Issue

164.51 First-Day Sale.
A particular post office or postal facility is usually designated to have
the exclusive sale of a new issue on the day it is issued.  No other postal
facility may begin general sale of the new issue until the following day.  For
purposes of this section, the word "issue" means postage stamp, stamp booklet
or booklet pane, postal card, stamped envelope, or aerogramme.

164.52 Notification.
New stamps and other philatelic issues are announced by notices displayed
in post office lobbies, in the Postal Bulletin, and through news
releases distributed to the press and philatelic periodicals.

164.53 First-Day Covers

a. Definition.
A first-day cover is an envelope, postcard, or other item of reasonable
dimension bearing a new stamp or booklet pane or a new postal card, a new
stamped envelope, or a new aerogramme canceled with a die reading "First Day
of Issue" and showing place and date of first-day sale.

b. Procedures.
Customers who want first-day cancellations of new stamps have two options.

(1)
Buy stamps at local post offices, affix them to their own envelopes, and
mail the stamped envelopes to the postmaster at the city of issuance for
cancellation.  Preferential service is accorded covers on which collectors
have affixed their own stamps.


(2)
Submit envelopes with proper remittance to cover the cost of the stamps
desired.  The Postal Service affixes and cancels the stamps, except as
indicated in 164.53d.  Payment must be made by money order or
cashier's, certified, or personal check payable to the U.S. Postal Service.
Orders containing personal checks are held until the checks have cleared.
Cash, uncanceled postage stamps, and foreign coins and currency are not
accepted; any orders containing such payment are returned unserviced.  All
covers must bear addresses to the right side of the envelope and at least 5/8
inch up from the bottom of the envelope.  Requests must be postmarked no later
than the date specified in the announcement to qualify for cancellation
service.  Covers must not be returned in outer envelopes, even when furnished
by collectors, because to do so impedes operating efficiency.

c. Requirements.
Envelopes submitted by collectors must be of ordinary letter size and must
be properly addressed.  Collectors should place a filler of postal card
thickness in each envelope, and either turn the flap in or seal it.  If
applicable, collectors should put a pencil notation in the upper right corner
of each cover to show the position and number of postage stamps to be placed
there.

d. Unacceptable Covers.
The issuing post office must not provide cancellation service on covers
submitted through the mail which are unaddressed or bear stamps issued after
the issue date and before the submittal cutoff date, or bear previously
canceled stamps; nor may the post office provide handback service on any items
presented after the first day of issue.  These restrictions can be waived only
by written authorization of the Philatelic Sales Division.

e. Bulk Orders.
The post office servicing first-day covers does not accept from any one
customer more than 50 envelopes requiring that stamps be affixed.  When more
than 50 envelopes are submitted, they must be returned unserviced to the
customer, with a statement that service is to be provided upon resubmittal of
no more than 50 stamped envelopes.  Care must be taken to prevent customers
from avoiding this rule by placing multiple smaller orders.  Customers
desiring cancellations on more than 50 covers must buy and affix their own
stamps to their envelopes.

f. Hand-Stamped Cancellations.
Hand-stamped cancellations are applied at the first-day ceremony location,
at the main office windows of the first-day post office, and on covers which
cannot be fully canceled by postal cancellation machines.  In all other cases,
machine cancellations are supplied, except as provided in 164.83.

g. Handback Service.
Handback service for first-day cancellations is limited to the first day of
issue.  Material to be canceled must be presented to the main office window of
the first-day post office.

h. Mail Orders for Mint Stamps.
The first-day post office may not accept mail order requests for uncanceled
stamps from customers outside their service area, except for cover servicers
as provided in 164.83a.


i.  Cancellation Deadlines.
Deadlines for submitting less than 50 covers for first-day-of-issue
cancellations are established by the Stamp Support Branch.  Cancellation
deadlines for submitting bulk orders (more than 50 covers) are established by
the general manager, Philatelic Sales Division.  Any exceptions to the
deadline dates must be specifically authorized by the general manager,
Philatelic Sales Division.
