
441.25 Exception to Packaging.
Management sectional center (MSC) managers may authorize loose packing of
copies in full No. 3 sacks without securing the copies into packages when all
material in a sack goes to the same 5-digit ZIP Code.  Copies must be placed
to maintain facing and orientation of the copies while in transit. Mailers
desiring to loose-pack copies must make written requests through the post
office of mailing.  The terms "loose pack" or "loose packing" refer to the
placement of unpackaged mailpieces in a receptacle such as a mailsack.

441.3 Sacking Requirements

441.31 Required and Optional Sack Sortation and Labeling

441.311 Required Five-Digit Sacks.
When there are four or more packages addressed to the same 5-digit ZIP Code
destination or four or more packages addressed to the same 5-digit APO or FPO
destination, the packages must be made up into 5-digit sacks. Sacks containing
fewer packages may be prepared.  Each sack must be labeled in the following
manner:

a. Nonmilitary Mail



Line 1: City, state, and 5-digit destination
Line 2: Contents (2C or NEWS)
Line 3: City and state of post office of mailing

Example:


TARZANA CA            91356
2C
BAKERSFIELD CA



b. Military Mail



Line 1: Letters APO or FPO, followed by AE (for 3-digit ZIP Code
prefixes 090-098), AA (for ZIPs 340), or AP (for ZIPs
962-966), and complete 5-digit APO or FPO ZIP Code
Line 2: Contents (2C or NEWS)
Line 3: City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing
Example:


APO AE                       09128
2C
BAKERSFIELD CA



441.312  Optional City Sacks.
After preparing required 5-digit sacks, mailers are encouraged to make up
packages addressed to the multi-ZIP Coded cities listed in Exhibit
122.63a into city sacks.  Each sack must be labeled in the following
manner:



Line 1: City, two-letter state abbreviation, and lowest 5-digit ZIP
Code served by city
Line 2: Contents (2C or NEWS) followed by word "City," directly
under ZIP Code on Line 1
Line 3: City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing

Example:


WOODLAND HILLS CA           91364
NEWS                         CITY
BAKERSFIELD CA



441.313 Required Three-Digit Sacks.
When, after 5-digit and optional city sacks are prepared, there are four or
more packages for the same 3-digit ZIP Code destination or four or more
packages for the same 3-digit APO or FPO prefix, the packages must be made up
into 3-digit sacks.  Sacks containing fewer than four packages may be
prepared.  Each sack must be labeled in the following manner:

a. Nonmilitary Mail

(1) Unique 3-Digit ZIP Code Prefixes



Line 1: City, two-letter state abbreviation, and unique 3-digit
prefix (see Exhibit 122.63b)
Line 2: Contents (2C or NEWS)
Line 3: City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing
Example:


BURBANK CA                  915
2C
BAKERSFIELD CA



(2) Other 3-Digit ZIP Code Prefixes



Line 1: Name of SCF and two-letter state abbreviation of SCF,
followed by 3-digit prefix of pieces in sack (see Exhibit
122.63c or Exhibit 122.63d for name of SCF serving
3-digit ZIP Code area)
Line 2: Contents (2C or NEWS).
Line 3: City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing

Example:


SPRINGFIELD MA              011
2C
BAKERSFIELD CA



b. Military Mail



Line 1: Letters APO or FPO, followed by AE (for 3-digit ZIP Code
prefixes 090-098), AA (for ZIPs 340), or AP (for ZIPs 962-966),
and 3-digit APO or FPO ZIP Code prefix
Line 2: Contents (2C or NEWS)
Line 3: City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing

Example:


FPO AE                        095
2C
BAKERSFIELD CA



Note:  ZIP Code prefixes 094, 096-098, 340, and 962-965 contain both
APO and FPO addresses.  Therefore, the destination line for 3-digit sacks for
destinations containing both APO and FPO mail must show the prefix APO/FPO
before the state code and the 3-digit prefix.  Example: APO/FPO AA
340.  (All 3-digit sacks for ZIP Code prefixes 090-093 should be labeled APO,
and 3-digit sacks for ZIP Code prefixes 095 and 966 should be labeled FPO.)

441.314 Optional SCF Sacks.
When, after preparing required 5-digit, optional city, and required 3-digit
sacks, there is mail remaining for post offices served by the same sectional
center facility serving more than one 3-digit ZIP Code area, the mailer is
encouraged to prepare SCF sacks.  Mailers should prepare optional SCF packages
and sacks for the originating SCF that serves the post office of mailing.  A
list of SCFs serving more than one 3-digit ZIP Code area, the 3-digit ZIP Code
areas served by each, and the proper destination line (line 1) for sack labels
is shown in Exhibit 122.63d.  SCF sacks must always contain packages
for two or more 3-digit ZIP Code areas served by the same SCF.  Each sack must
be labeled in the following manner:



Line 1: Letters "SCF" followed by city, two-letter state
abbreviation, and 3-digit ZIP Code prefix for SCF as shown in
Exhibit 122.63d
Line 2: Contents (2C or NEWS)
Line 3: City and two-letter state abbreviation of the post office
of mailing.

Example:


SCF VAN NUYS CA            913
2C
BAKERSFIELD CA



441.315 Optional SDC Sacks.
After preparing required 5-digit, optional city, required 3-digit, and
optional SCF sacks, the mailer is encouraged to make up packages addressed to
the same SDC service area or same military PCC into SDC sacks.  A list of
SDCs, PCCs, and their service areas are shown in Exhibit 122.63f for
newspaper treatment and all other second-class mail. Each sack must be labeled
in the following manner:

a. Nonmilitary Mail



Line 1: Letters "DIS" or other required prefix, followed by name,
state, and code of destination SDC as shown in Exhibit
122.63f for newspaper treatment and all other second-class
mail
Line 2: Contents (2C or NEWS) followed by two-letter abbreviation of
the state or states to which pieces in sack are addressed
Line 3: City and state of post office of mailing.

Example:


DIS CINCINNATI OH           450
2C OH
BAKERSFIELD CA



b. Military Mail



Line 1: Letters "DIS" or other applicable prefix, if any, followed
by name, state, and code of SDC or PCC, as shown in
Exhibit 122.63f, for newspaper treatment and all
other second-class mail
Line 2: Contents (2C or NEWS) followed by letters APO/FPO
Line 3: City and state of post office of mailing

Example:


APO SAN FRANCISCO CA       962
2C APO/FPO
BAKERSFIELD CA



441.316 Required State Sacks.
When, after making up 5-digit, optional city, required 3-digit, optional
SCF, and optional SDC sacks, there are four or more packages addressed to the
same state or same military PCC, the packages must be made up into state
sacks.  Sacks containing fewer than four packages may be prepared.  A list of
states, PCCs, and their service area, is shown in Exhibit 122.63i for
newspaper treatment and all other second-class mail. Each sack must be labeled
in the following manner:

a. Nonmilitary Mail



Line 1: Letters DIS or other required prefix, if any, followed by
name, state, and code of distribution center designated for
state as shown in Exhibit 122.63i for newspaper
treatment and all other second-class mail
Line 2: Contents (2C or NEWS) followed by two-letter abbreviation of
state to which pieces in sack are addressed
Line 3: City and state of post office of mailing

Example:


DIS LOS ANGELES CA             900
2C CA
BAKERSFIELD CA



b. Military Mail



Line 1:Letters "DIS" or other applicable prefix, if any, followed by
name, state, and code of distribution center of PCC as shown in
Exhibit 122.63i for newspaper treatment and all other
second-class mail
Line 2:Contents (2C or NEWS) followed by letters APO/FPO
Line 3:City and state of post office of mailing

Example:


MILITARY CENTER NY              090
2C APO/FPO
BAKERSFIELD CA



441.317 Required Mixed-States Sacks.
Packages remaining for two or more states after state sacks have been
prepared must be made up into mixed states sacks.  Mixed states sacks must be
labeled to designated origin distribution centers.  A list of origin
distribution centers for processing mixed states mail and their origin entry
ZIP Codes is shown in Exhibit 122.63p.  Each sack must be labeled in
the following manner:



Line 1: Letters "MXD" followed by city, two-letter state
abbreviation, and ZIP Code of origin distribution center as
shown in Exhibit 122.63p
Line 2: Contents (2C or NEWS) followed by "MIXED STATES"
Line 3: City and state of post office of mailing

Example:


MXD RICHMOND VA         230
2C MIXED STATES
LYNCHBURG VA



441.318 Last Sack.
The last sack in a mailing may not necessarily be a mixed-states sack.  For
example, if there are six pieces remaining for a 3-digit ZIP Code area, which
could not be placed in any of the required or optional sacks prepared, those
pieces must be placed in a sack and labeled to the 3-digit ZIP Code
destination.  Equally, the last sack of a mailing could be for any level of
sortation and is dependent upon the mail remaining after all required and
optional sacks have been prepared.  The last sack must be labeled to the
appropriate destination depending on the mail for which the sack was prepared.
 Sacks containing fewer than four packages may be prepared.

441.32  Sack, Bundle, and Pallet Label Preparation Requirements

441.321 General

a. Color.
Labels must be printed on pink-colored paperstock.

b. Size.
Sack labels must fall within the following tolerances:

(1) Length.
Minimum, 3-5/16 inches; maximum, 3-3/8 inches.

(2) Height.
Minimum, 15/16 inch; maximum, 31/32 inch.

c. Method of Preparation.
It is preferred that labels be machine-prepared to ensure they are legible.
 However, legible handprinted labels are accepted.  Illegible labels are not
accepted.

d. Trailing Zeros.
Two zeros may appear following 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes on sack, bundle,
and pallet labels.  Sack labels ordered from the Postal Service for which a
3-digit ZIP Code prefix was requested on the destination line are printed with
a 5-digit ZIP Code consisting of the requested 3-digit prefix followed by two
zeros.

e. Abbreviations

(1) State Abbreviations.
It is preferred that the official two-letter state abbreviations shown in
Publication 65, National Five-Digit ZIP Code and Post Office Directory,
 be used on sack, bundle, and pallet labels.

(2) City Abbreviations.
It is preferred that the name of cities or towns be spelled out on sack,
bundle, and pallet labels.  However, in instances where this is not possible
due to limitations on the number of characters which can appear on a line, the
official postal name abbreviations listed in Publication 65 must be used.  If
a postal name is not listed, a recognizable abbreviation may be used.  Care
should be taken to use abbreviations which cannot be confused with the names
of other cities or towns.

(3) Mailer Names.
The name of the mailer, if shown, may be abbreviated on the third line of
labels in any recognizable fashion.  Care should be taken to use abbreviations
which cannot be confused with the name of another mailer.

(4) Other.
Other required items of information on labels may be abbreviated only if
specifically provided for in 441.31, 443.31,
443.32, 444.31, and 444.32.

f. Definition of Lines.
There are three printed lines required on labels which are referred to as:
Line 1--Destination; Line 2--Contents; and Line 3--Post Office of Mailing (see
441.31, 443.31, 443.32, 444.31, and
444.32).  Labels ordered from the Postal Service have a blank line
between the contents lines and the post office of mailing line.

g. Barcodes.
It is preferred that sack labels include a barcode, prepared as required in
446.

441.322 Guidelines for Required Information

a. Line 1--Destination.
Line 1, the destination line, must be the first visible line on the label.
It must be completely visible and legible when placed in the label holder or
otherwise affixed for use.  To ensure such visibility, the Postal Service
recommends that mailers print the top line so that it is no less than 1/8
(0.125) inch below the top of the label when the label is cut and prepared for
use.  The destination line must contain only the information in
441.31, 443.31, 443.32, 444.31, and
444.32.

b. Line 2--Contents.
The contents line must be the second visible line on the label.  The
information required in 441.31, 443.31, 443.32,
444.31, and 444.32 must be the first items of information
shown on this line.

c. Line 3--Post Office of Mailing.
The third required line of sack, bundle, and pallet labels must show the
city and state of the post office of mailing.  If mailings are entered at a
station or branch of a main post office, the name of the station or branch may
be shown, but it is preferred that the name of the main post office be shown.
The ZIP Code of the post office of mailing is optional.  If the ZIP Code is
shown, it must be either the 3-digit prefix or 5-digit ZIP Code of the main
post office, station, or branch which is shown on this line of the label.
This line of the label may be partially or completely covered by the sack
label holder.

441.323 Extraneous Information

a. Above Line 1 (Destination Line).
Mailers may place extraneous information above line 1 only on sack labels
and only when the lip of the sack label holder completely covers this
information so that it is not visible to postal employees.  No information is
printed above line 1 on labels ordered from the Postal Service.

b. Line 1--Destination.
No extraneous information is allowed on the first line of sack, bundle, or
pallet labels.  Only the destination information required by 441.31,
443.31, 443.32, 444.31, and 444.32 may
appear on the first visible printed line of labels.

c. Line 2--Contents.
Only mail-processing codes or other codes approved by the Postal Service
and information required to appear on this line by SDC or state labeling lists
provided by the Postal Service may appear on the second line of sack, bundle,
or pallet labels in addition to required information.  This additional
approved information may only appear to the right of the information required
by 441.31, 443.31, 443.32, 444.31, or
444.32, and must not interfere with the information shown on other
required lines.

d. Line 3--Post Office of Mailing

(1) Preceding Required Information.
The following information may appear before the city and state of the post
office of mailing on sack, bundle, or pallet labels:

(a)
The mailer's name or abbreviation.

(b)
The publication title or abbreviation.

(c)
A mailer code assigned by the post office.

(d)
The word "Mailer" or "From (FR)."

(e)
The words "Entered at" or similar notations.

(2) Following Required Information.
Mailer codes and any other extraneous information may appear to the right
of (after) the city and state of the post office of mailing on sack, bundle,
or pallet labels.  However, if such information is shown, it must not consist
of numerals which have the appearance of a ZIP Code or 3-digit ZIP Code prefix.

e. Between Required Lines.
Extraneous information must not be placed between required printed lines 1
and 2 (between the destination and contents lines) of sack, bundle, and pallet
labels.  Only a blank line may appear between these required printed lines.
Mailer codes or other extraneous information may appear between the contents
line and the post office of mailing line.  If such information is shown, it
should not consist of numerals which have the appearance of a ZIP Code or
3-digit ZIP Code prefix.  No information may be printed between required lines
on labels ordered from the Postal Service.

f. Optional Lines 4 and 5 (Below the Post Office of Mailing Line).
Mailers may place codes or any other information on optional fourth or
fifth lines of sack, bundle, or pallet labels appearing below the post office
mailing line.  No information may be printed below the post office of mailing
on labels from the Postal Service.

441.33  Physical Characteristics and Requirements for Sacks

441.331 Maximum Weight.
No more than 70 pounds of mail may be placed in any one sack.  Tying,
wrapping, and packaging materials are included in determining the weight of
the mail enclosed in a sack.

441.332 Minimum Volume.
There is no minimum number of pieces that must be contained in sacks of a
basic rate mailing.

Example:  After all required and optional sacks have been prepared
there are five addressed pieces of a publication destined to a 5-digit
destination and there is no 5-digit, unique 3-digit, optional city, 3-digit,
optional SCF, state, optional SDC, or mixed states sack into which those five
pieces should have been placed.  The five copies should be placed in a sack
and labeled to that 5-digit ZIP Code destination.

441.333 Size of Sack.
It is recommended that No. 2 sacks provided by the Postal Service be used.
No. 3 sacks are required for sacks which are loose-packed in accordance with
441.25.

441.34 Exceptions to Sacking

441.341 Small-Volume Mailings in Nonpostal Equipment.
Postmasters may authorize acceptance of small-volume mailings in nonpostal
containers, if the mailings consist primarily of packages for local ZIP Codes,
the mailings do not exceed 20 pounds, and it is cost-effective to do so.

441.342 Bundling and Palletizing.
Mailers may obtain authorization to bundle or palletize instead of sack, in
accordance with 445.1 and 445.4.

441.4 Residual Mail.
All addressed pieces in a second-class mailing must be presorted, and that
presort must, at a minimum, meet the requirements in 441.2 and
441.3.  There is no provision for "residual" mail, or for payment of
a single-piece rate for pieces not presorted as required by 441.2 and
441.3.

442 (Reserved)

443  Preparation Requirements for the Five-Digit Level Rates (Levels B and
H)

443.1  General.
All addressed pieces in a second-class mailing must be presorted, and that
presort must, at a minimum, meet the requirements in 441.2 and
441.3.  Publishers may perform additional preparation to meet the
requirements for other presort rates or discounts.  Publishers who mail at the
5-digit (level B and H) presort rates must meet the requirements in
443.2 through 443.4.

443.2 Packaging Requirements

443.21 Required Package Sortation and Labeling

443.211 Five-Digit Packages.
When there are six or more copies for the same 5-digit ZIP Code destination
or 5-digit APO or FPO destination, they must be made up into 5-digit packages.
 Mailers are encouraged, but are not required, to affix a red Label D or place
the 5-digit optional endorsement line on the top copy of each package (see
441.2).

443.212 Unique Three-Digit Packages.
When, after preparing 5-digit packages, there are six or more copies
remaining for a city having a unique 3-digit ZIP Code prefix, they must be
made up into 3-digit packages.  A green Label 3 or the 3-digit optional
endorsement line must appear on the top copy of each package (see
441.2).  Cities having a unique 3-digit ZIP Code prefix are listed
in Exhibit 122.63b.

443.22 Optional Package Sortation and Labeling

443.221 Firm Packages.
A firm package (two or more copies for the same address made up into one
package and labeled with a blue Label F or the firm optional endorsement line)
(see 441.24) may be prepared prior to preparing required 5-digit
packages and included in the 5-digit level portion of a mailing, under the
following conditions:


a.
If a firm package is claimed as only one piece on the mailing statement, it
may be claimed at the 5-digit level rate only if there are a total of six
addressed pieces to the 5-digit ZIP Code (a firm package plus five other
addressed pieces which are properly packaged and labeled to that 5-digit ZIP
Code area).  The six pieces to the 5-digit ZIP Code area which include one or
more firm packages must be placed in the same qualifying sack and meet the
requirements in 443.2.

b.
If the firm package contains at least six copies and each copy in the firm
package is claimed as a separate piece on the mailing statement.

443.222 Optional City Packages.
When, after making up required 5-digit packages and before making up
required 3-digit packages, there are six or more copies remaining for one of
the multi-ZIP Coded post offices in Exhibit 122.63a, the mailer is
encouraged to prepare a "city" package.  A yellow Label C or the optional city
endorsement line must appear on the top copy of the package (see
441.24).

443.23 Facing of Pieces Within a Package

443.231 Requirement.
Except as provided in 443.232, all copies in a package must be
faced the same way with an address visible on the top copy, and facing up on
each copy.

443.232 Exception.
Flat-size copies and copies of other mail-processing categories which are
of irregular thickness may be prepared by counterstacking (i.e.,
reverse-stacking or cross-stacking) groups of copies within the package to
ensure that the packages are leveled or squared off under the following
conditions:

a.
All copies in the package must have the address side facing up.

b.
The copies in the package must be divided into groups containing an
approximately equal number of copies, with every other group of copies rotated
180 degrees.

c.
A maximum of four groups within a package may be made.  However,
preparation of only two groups of copies within a package is preferred.

443.24 Package Labels

443.241 Standard Labeling Requirements for Packages.
Except as provided in 443.242, pressure-sensitive package labels
or facing slips must be used to label packages as prescribed in
443.21 and 443.22.  Pressure-sensitive package labels must
be applied to the lower left corner of the address side of the top copy on
letter-size packages and next to the address on larger packages.  Facing slips
must be placed on the address side of the top copy of each package.
Pressure-sensitive labels and facing slips are available from post offices.

443.242 Optional Labeling Requirements for Packages.
See 441.232.


443.25  Physical Characteristics and Requirements
for Packages

443.251 Thickness.
As a guard against breakage during transit and handling, it is strongly
recommended that the thickness of packages containing letter-size mail, as
described in 128.2, not exceed 4 inches.  The maximum permissible
thickness is 6 inches.

443.252 Securing Packages of Letter-Size Pieces

a.
Rubber bands are preferred for securing packages of letter-size mail.

b.
Packages of letter-size mail up to 1 inch thick must, at a minimum, be
secured with appropriate banding material around the girth.  Packages of
letter-size mail thicker than 1 inch must be secured with appropriate banding
material around both the length and the girth.  The first band should always
be placed around the length and the second, around the girth so that it
crosses over the first.

c.
The banding material used to secure packages of mail should be positioned
as near as possible to the center to provide the greatest stability during
transit and handling.  Banding material must never lie along the outer 1 inch
of any edge.  Refer to Exhibit 367.112. *viewer dmm367.pcx*

443.253 Securing Packages of Flat-Size Pieces.
The preferred method of securing packages of flat-size mail, as described
in 128.3, is to fasten plastic strapping around both the length and
the girth and enclose the packages within heavy-gauge shrink-wrap.

443.254 Minimum Number of Copies per Package.
All packages except firm packages (see 443.221) must contain a
minimum of six copies of the publication.  Firm packages must contain a
minimum of two copies of a publication.

443.26 Exceptions to Packaging.
Management sectional center (MSC) managers may authorize loose packing of
copies in full No. 3 sacks without securing the copies into packages, when all
material in a sack goes to the same 5-digit ZIP Code.  Copies must be placed
to maintain facing and orientation of the copies while in transit. Mailers
desiring to loose-pack copies must make requests through the post office of
mailing.  The terms "loose pack" and "loose packing" refer to the placement of
unpackaged mailpieces in a receptacle such as a mailsack.

443.3 Sacking Requirements

443.31 Required Sack Sortation and Labeling

443.311 Five-Digit Sacks.
When there are four or more packages addressed to the same 5-digit ZIP Code
destination or four or more packages addressed to the same 5-digit APO or FPO
destination, the packages must be made up into 5-digit sacks. Sacks containing
fewer packages may be prepared.  Each sack must be labeled in the following
manner:

a. Nonmilitary Mail



Line 1: City, state, and 5-digit destination
Line 2: Contents (2C or NEWS)
Line 3: City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing

Example:


TARZANA CA                      91356
2C
BAKERSFIELD CA



b. Military Mail



Line 1: Letters APO or FPO, followed by AE (for 3-digit ZIP Code
prefixes 090-098), AA (for ZIPs 340), or AP (for ZIPs 962-966),
and complete 5-digit APO or FPO ZIP Code
Line 2: Contents (2C or NEWS)
Line 3: City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing

Example:


APO AE                            09128
2C
BAKERSFIELD CA



443.312  Unique Three-Digit Sacks.
When, after 5-digit sacks are prepared, there are four or more packages for
the same 3-digit ZIP Code destination or four or more packages for the same
3-digit APO or FPO prefix, the packages must be made up into 3-digit sacks.
Sacks containing fewer than four packages may be prepared.  Each sack must be
labeled in the following manner:



Line 1: City, state, and unique 3-digit prefix (see Exhibit
122.63b)
Line 2: Contents (2C or NEWS)
Line 3: City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing

Example:


BURBANK CA                        915
2C
BAKERSFIELD CA



443.32 Optional City Sack Sortation and Labeling.
After preparing all required 5-digit sacks and before preparing required
3-digit sacks, mailers are encouraged to make up packages addressed to the
multi-ZIP Coded cities listed in Exhibit 122.63a into city sacks.
Each sack must be labeled in the following manner:



Line 1: City, two-letter state abbreviation, and lowest 5-digit ZIP
Code served by city
Line 2: Contents (2C or NEWS) followed by CITY directly under ZIP
Code on Line 1
Line 3: City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing

Example:


YAKIMA WA                      98901
NEWS                            CITY
BAKERSFIELD CA




443.33  Sack Labels.
See 441.32.

443.34 Physical Characteristics and Requirements for Sacks

443.341 Maximum Weight.
No more than 70 pounds of mail may be placed in any one sack.  Tying,
wrapping, and packaging materials are included in determining the weight of
the mail enclosed in a sack.

443.342 Minimum Volume.
Each 5-digit, optional city, and unique 3-digit sack must contain at least
six qualifying pieces.

443.343 Size of Sack.
It is recommended that No. 2 sacks provided by the Postal Service be used.
No. 3 sacks are required for sacks which are loose-packed in accordance with
441.25.

443.35 Exceptions to Sacking

443.351 Small-Volume Mailings in Nonpostal Equipment.
Postmasters may authorize acceptance of small-volume mailings in nonpostal
containers, if the mailings consist primarily of packages for local ZIP Codes,
the mailings do not exceed 20 pounds, and it is cost-effective to do so.

443.352 Bundling and Palletizing.
Mailers may obtain authorization to bundle or palletize instead of sack, in
accordance with 445.1 and 445.4.

443.4 Residual Mail.
All addressed pieces in a second-class mailing must be presorted, and that
presort must, at a minimum, meet the requirements in 441.2 and
441.3.  There is no provision for "residual" mail or for payment of
a second-class single-piece rate for nonpresorted pieces.  Mail that cannot
meet the requirements for a presort rate (level B, C, H, I, or K) or other
discount must be presorted as required by 441.2 and 441.3.

444 Preparation Requirements for the Carrier Route (Level C, I, and K)
Rates

444.1 General.
All addressed pieces in a second-class mailing must be presorted, and that
presort must, at a minimum, meet the requirements in 441.2 and
441.3.  Publishers may perform additional preparation to meet the
requirements for other presort rates or discounts.  Publishers who mail at the
carrier route rates (level C, I, and K) must meet the requirements in
444.2 through 444.4.

444.2 Packaging Requirements

444.21 Required Package Sortation and Labeling.
When there are six or more copies for the same carrier route, rural route,
highway contract route, post office box section, or general delivery unit,
they must be made up into a carrier route package of six or more copies.  Each
package must be labeled in accordance with 444.24.

444.22 Optional Package Sortation and Labeling

444.221 Firm Packages.
A firm package (two or more copies for the same address made up into one
package and labeled with a blue Label F or the firm optional endorsement line)
(see 441.22) may be included in the carrier route portion of a
mailing, under the following conditions:

a.
If a firm package is claimed as only one piece on the mailing statement, it
may be claimed at the carrier route level rate only if also labeled to the
carrier route in accordance with 444.24 and if there are a total of
six addressed pieces to the carrier route (a firm package plus five other
pieces which are properly packaged and labeled to that route).  The six pieces
to the carrier route which include one or more firm packages must meet the
documentation requirements in 424.83 and 424.84 and must be
placed in the same qualifying sack.

b.
If the firm package contains at least six addressed copies and each
addressed copy in the firm package is claimed as a separate piece on the
mailing statement.

444.222 Carrier Route Packages.
Mailers may choose to prepare carrier route packages at a higher level of
route saturation than that prescribed in 444.221.  For example, a
mailer may choose to prepare carrier route packages only if there are a
minimum of 15 pieces per route.  However, there must always be a minimum of
six pieces per carrier route package in order for the pieces to be eligible
for the carrier route presort level rate.

444.23 Facing of Pieces Within Package

444.231 Requirement.
Except as provided in 444.232, all copies in a package must be
faced the same way, with an address visible on the top copy and facing up on
each copy.

444.232 Exception.
Flat-size copies and copies of other mail-processing categories which are
of irregular thickness may be prepared by counterstacking (i.e.,
reverse-stacking or cross-stacking) groups of copies within the package to
ensure that the packages are leveled or squared off under the following
conditions:

a.
All copies in the package must have the address side facing up.

b.
The copies in the package must be divided into groups containing an
approximately equal number of copies, with every other group of copies rotated
180 degrees.

c.
A maximum of four groups within a package may be made.  However,
preparation of only two groups of copies within a package is preferred.

444.24 Package Labels.
Whenever a carrier route package is not placed in a sack labeled to show
that it only contains packages for the same carrier route, the mailer must use
one of the following procedures:

a.
The mailer may prepare packages with a facing slip which must be affixed to
the front of the package and marked as shown below:



Line 1:City, state, and 5-digit ZIP Code of address
Line 2:Contents (NEWS or 2C), followed by type of route (carrier route,
rural route, highway contract route, post office box section, or
general delivery unit), followed by route number
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of entry

Example:


SAN FRANCISCO CA     94133
NEWS RURAL ROUTE 12
PORTLAND OR 972



b.
The mailer may prepare packages without facing slips when the following
conditions are met:

(1)
The carrier route information consisting of descriptive prefix (or its
abbreviation) plus a route number or numeric code must be placed on the top
line of the address (alone or adjacent to other information such as addressee,
account data, etc.) or on the line immediately above the city, state, and ZIP
Code (alone or adjacent to other information such as the street address,
etc.).  It is preferred that this information appear alone on the top line.
The carrier route information must be right-justified and be preceded by at
least two asterisks (or another distinctive character).

(2)
The descriptive prefixes "carrier route," "rural route," "highway contract
route," "post office box section," or "general delivery unit," must either be
spelled out (the preferred format) or abbreviated as follows:



Carrier RouteCR
Rural RouteRR
Highway Contract RouteHC
Post Office Box SectionB
General Delivery UnitGD



(3)
The descriptive prefix must be followed by a 2-digit route number or
3-digit post office box section number when the ZIP Code is included in the
address.  If the ZIP Code is omitted from the address, the descriptive prefix
must be followed by a numeric route code.  This route code must consist of the
last two digits of the ZIP Code, followed by the 2-digit carrier route number
or 3-digit post office box section number.

(4)
At least six spaces must be allowed for carrier route information if it is
included with other information on the top line or the line above the city,
state, and ZIP Code.

(5)
The following are examples of address formats in the order of preference:



JOHN DOE
**CARRIER ROUTE 11
1300 WATERFORD DRIVE
DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD  20747



JhnDOE30WAMAR83 ST    **CR11
JOHN DOE
1300 WATERFORD DRIVE
DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD  20747



JOHN DOE              **CR11
1300 WATERFORD DRIVE
DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD  20747


**RURAL ROUTE 05
JOHN DOE
1602 COUNTRY LANE
BURKE VA  22015



JhnDoe30WAAug83STXYSTBT KLM
JOHN DOE
1300 WATERFORD DRIVE
**CARRIER ROUTE 11
DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD 20747



DoeJhnMY84QRSYUWKJHSDC
JOHN DOE
XYZ CORPORATION
3900 BEDFORD WAY      **CR23
DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD  20746



c.
The mailer may use the optional endorsement line in accordance with
441.232.

d.
The mailer may show carrier route information prepared in accordance with
444.24b(1) through 444.24b(5) on all pieces within the
mailing regardless of the level of presort.

444.25 Physical Characteristics and Requirements
for Packages

444.251 Thickness.
As a guard against breakage during transit and handling, it is strongly
recommended that the thickness of packages containing letter-size mail, as
described in 128.2, not exceed 4 inches.  The maximum permissible
thickness is 6 inches.

444.252 Securing Packages of Letter-Size Pieces

a.
Rubber bands are preferred for securing packages of letter-size mail.

b.
Packages of letter-size mail up to 1 inch thick must, at a minimum, be
secured with appropriate banding material around the girth.  Packages of
letter-size mail thicker than 1 inch must be secured with appropriate banding
material around both the length and the girth.  The first band should always
be placed around the length and the second, around the girth so that it
crosses over the first.

c.
The banding material used to secure packages of mail should be positioned
as near as possible to the center to provide the greatest stability during
transit and handling.  Banding material must never lie along the outer 1 inch
of any edge.  Refer to Exhibit 367.112. *viewer dmm367.pcx*

444.253 Securing Packages of Flat-Size Pieces.
The preferred method of securing packages of flat-size mail, as described
in 128.3, is to fasten plastic strapping around both the length and
the girth and enclose the packages within heavy-gauge shrink-wrap.

444.254 Minimum Number of Copies per Package.
All packages except firm packages (see 444.221) must contain a
minimum of six copies of the publication.  Firm packages must contain a
minimum of two copies of a publication.

444.26 Exceptions to Packaging.
None.

444.3  Sacking Requirements

444.31  Required Sack Sortation and Labeling.
Carrier route packages must be placed in carrier route or carrier routes
sacks as follows:

444.311 Carrier Route Sacks.
Sacks containing at least one package of six or more pieces for the same
carrier route must be labeled in the following manner:



Line 1:City, state, and 5-digit destination
Line 2:Contents (2C or NEWS), followed by type of route (carrier route,
rural route, post office box section, highway contract route, or
general delivery unit) and applicable route, section, or unit
number.  Words POST OFFICE BOX SECTION, HIGHWAY CONTRACT ROUTE, and
GENERAL DELIVERY UNIT may be abbreviated as follows:  BOX SECT, HWY
CONTR RT, GEN DEL UNIT.
Line 3:City and state of post office of mailing

Example:


TARZANA CA            91356
2C CARRIER ROUTE 01
BAKERSFIELD CA



444.312 Carrier Routes Sacks.
Sacks containing qualifying carrier packages for more than one carrier
route and packages for more than one type of route (carrier route, rural
route, highway contract route, post office box section, or general delivery
unit) must be labeled in the following manner:



Line 1:City, state, and 5-digit destination
Line 2:Contents (2C or NEWS) followed by words CARRIER ROUTES.  Words
CARRIER ROUTES must not be abbreviated.
Line 3:City and state of post office of mailing

Example:


TARZANA CA               91356
NEWS CARRIER ROUTES
BAKERSFIELD CA



444.32 Optional Sack Sortation and Labeling.
None.

444.33 Sack Labels.
See 441.32.

444.34 Physical Characteristics and Requirements for Sacks

444.341 Maximum Weight.
No more than 70 pounds of mail may be placed in any one sack.  Tying,
wrapping, and packaging materials are included in determining the weight of
the mail enclosed in a sack.

444.342 Minimum Weight.
Each sack must contain at least one package of six pieces.

444.343 Size of Sack.
It is recommended that No. 2 or No. 3 sacks be used, depending on the size
of the pieces and the volume of pieces in each sack.  Sacks are provided by
the Postal Service.

444.35 Exceptions to Sacking

444.351 Small-Volume Mailings in Nonpostal Equipment.
Postmasters may authorize acceptance of small-volume mailings in nonpostal
containers, if the mailings consist primarily of packages for local ZIP Codes,
the mailings do not exceed 20 pounds, and it is cost-effective for the Postal
Service to do so.

444.352 Bundling and Palletizing.
Mailers may obtain authorization to bundle or palletize in lieu of sacking
in accordance with 445.1 and 445.4.

444.4 "Residual" Mail.
All addressed pieces in a second-class mailing must be presorted, and that
presort must, at a minimum, meet the requirements in 441.2 and
441.3.  There is no provision for "residual" mail or for payment of
a second-class single-piece rate for nonpresorted pieces.  Mail that cannot
meet the requirements for a presort (level B, C, H, I, or K) rate or other
discount must be presorted as required by 441.2 and 441.3.

445  Bundling and Palletizing

445.1 Bundling Instead of Sacking (Bedloading Bundles)

445.11 Authorization

445.111 Application.
The general manager, rates and classification center (RCC), of the regional
area where the mailing is to be made may authorize preparation of second-class
mail in bundles outside of mail sacks, if such preparation benefits the Postal
Service.  Generally, authorization is granted only when the number of bundles
does not exceed the number of sacks that would otherwise be used in a mailing.
 The publisher or publisher's mailing agent must submit an application to the
general manager, RCC, of the regional area where the mailing is to be made for
each publication.  If an authorization is granted, the publisher or agent
mailing on behalf of the publisher must be prepared to submit information for
future issues of the publication, such as that required in the original
application, at the request of the general manager, RCC.  The following
information must be furnished with the application:

a.
Name of publication and frequency of mailing.

b.
Identity of post offices to which shipments are to be made.

c.
Approximate quantity of copies and number of bundles to each office.


445.112 Reviewing and Processing.
The application and supporting material is reviewed by the transportation
management service centers (TMSCs), by affected division officials, and by all
others concerned.  The general manager, RCC, to whom the application is
submitted issues to the publisher, with a copy to the mailing agent, if any,
the authorization or denial of the requests to bundle instead of sack the
publication for all entry post offices.  Copies of the authorization are
forwarded to all affected entry post offices and RCCs.  Authorizations is
granted for a specific period of time, not to exceed 2 years.  At least every
6 months, the general manager, RCC, or authorized representative must request
the publisher, or his mailing agent, to submit the information required in the
application for an upcoming issue and perform a review of the publication's
continued eligibility to bundle instead of sack.  Authorizations to bundle
instead of sack may be revoked when it is determined that the method of
preparation no longer benefits the Postal Service.

445.12 Package Preparation

445.121 Weight and Volume.
A package, which must contain a minimum of two copies of the publication,
must not weigh more than 40 pounds.

445.122 Sortation.
Mailers must presort copies and secure them into packages, as required in
441.2.

445.123 Labels.
Packages must be labeled in accordance with 441.2.

445.13 Bundle Preparation

445.131 Weight and Volume.
A bundle must weigh at least 20 pounds or be of at least 1,000 cubic inches
in volume.  The weight of a bundle must not exceed 40 pounds.

445.132 Sortation.
Packages prepared in accordance with 445.12 must be consolidated
into bundles on the same basis as sacks (see 441.3).  A bundle must
be prepared when there are 20 or more pounds or 1,000 or more cubic inches of
packages for a particular level of sortation.  Lesser quantities must be
included in bundles for the next-larger level of sortation.

445.133 Labels.
All bundles must be appropriately labeled on top with a nonstandard facing
slip to show destination, contents, and origin as required with sacks (see
441.3).  Carrier route and 5-digit bundles need not bear a facing
slip, as the package label on the top piece is sufficient to direct the bundle
to its proper destination.  However, 5-digit bundles which are not labeled
using the optional endorsement line and which contain the carrier route
information in the address area in accordance with 444.24b, must
bear a red Label D.

445.134 Physical Characteristics of Bundles

a. Nonlocal Processing and Delivery.
Mailings must be machinable by Postal Service sack-sorting equipment unless
they consist of publications intended only for local-area delivery (see
445.134b).  The mailer must satisfy the Postal Service that mailings
are machinable.  This can be verified by having the mailing post office
test-process 10 or more bundles of each representative bundle size expected in
the mailings on two or more passes through a bulk mail center.  The potential
of the bundles to cause damage to other mail must also be tested.  Ordinarily,
bundles require cross-strapping and heavy-gauge shrinkor stretch-wrap to
ensure their integrity in the mailstream.

b. Local Processing and Delivery.
When second-class publications are entered for local processing and
delivery (i.e., same sectional center facility area), they need not meet the
requirements of 445.134a.  However, bundles must be securely bound
to withstand handling without breakage or damage and to prevent injury to
postal personnel or damage to mechanized sorting systems.  Binding material
must be applied at least once around the length and girth.  The use of metal
strapping and wire to secure bundles is prohibited.

445.2 Packages and Bundles Presented on Pallets

445.21 Authorization

445.211 Application

a. General.
The general manager, rates and classification center (RCC), serving the
post office where the mailer is located, may authorize the preparation of
second-class mail in packages and/or bundles on pallets instead of in sacks.
The publisher or publisher's mailing agent must submit Form 3856 to the field
division general manager/postmaster of the division serving the post office
where the mailer's plant is located (see 132).  The publisher or
mailer may obtain Form 3856 from the field director, marketing and
communications, at the division.

b. Single Publications.
A separate authorization is required for each publication to be palletized.
 The publisher or publisher's mailing agent must submit Form 3856 for each
publication to be palletized.

c. Combined Mailings of More Than One Publication.
When a mailer wishes to combine more than one second-class publication on
pallets, the general manager, RCC, may grant a single authorization to
palletize the combined mailing.  For a combined mailing, the mailer must do
the following.

(1)
Merge and presort copies of all the publications together into packages
that achieve the finest level of presort possible for the combined mailing and
present, at the time of mailing, the applicable documentation required by
424.84 through 424.86.

(2)
Submit a separate Form 3856 for each second-class publication that is part
of the combined mailing.

(3)
Submit a consolidated Form 3856 reflecting the characteristics of the
combined mailing for all second-class publications in the combined mailing.

445.212 Approval or Denial

a.  Division.
The division must sign the application with recommendation for approval or
denial, stating the reason for the recommendation.  Applications recommended
for approval are sent to the TMSC.  Applications not recommended for approval
are sent directly to the RCC stating the reason for the recommended denial.

b. TMSC.
The TMSC works with the division and the mailer to determine the equipment
and transportation needs associated with the application to palletize.  If
equipment and transportation are available by the projected startup date, the
TMSC notes the date of availability on the application, signs it, and sends it
to the RCC.  If equipment and transportation are not available by the
projected startup date, the TMSC notes this in the comments portion of the
application.  All applications must be sent to the RCC.

c. RCC.
If the general manager, RCC, finds that the mailer qualifies under and can
comply with the regulations governing mail preparation and palletization, the
general manager issues an authorization to palletize.  If the RCC authorizes
palletization over a division's recommendation for denial, the RCC initially
calls the TMSC and coordinates the effective date of the authorization.  The
RCC must notify the publisher/mailer, in writing, of the approval and the
effective date.  If the RCC grants an authorization, the mailer must be
prepared to submit information for future mailings, such as that required on
the original application, at the request of the general manager, RCC.  The RCC
must immediately notify the TMSC by telephone of the approval and forward
copies of the authorization to the division, the TMSC, and all affected RCCs.
The RCC must deny the application if it finds that the mailer cannot comply
with the regulations governing mail preparation and palletization.  If the RCC
denies the application, the RCC must immediately notify the TMSC of the denial
by telephone, and must send a written copy of the denial to the mailer, the
division, the TMSC, and all affected RCCs.

d. Length of Authorization.
Authorization is granted for a specific period of time, not to exceed 2
years.

445.22 Package Preparation

445.221 Definition.
A package is a group of pieces that are secured together as one unit.

445.222 Weight and Volume

a.
Except as provided in 445.222b and 445.222c, each
package must contain a minimum of six copies of a publication and must not
exceed 20 pounds.

b.
Firm packages may contain as few as two copies of a publication and do not
have to be consolidated into bundles with other packages to the same 5-digit
destination.

c.
If, after all required and optional packages have been prepared, there are
fewer than six copies of the publication remaining which are destined for a
single 5-digit, optional multicoded city, 3-digit, optional SCF, or optional
SDC, those copies may be made into a package, properly labeled and placed on
an appropriate level pallet.

Example:  If after all required and optional packages have been
prepared, there are five copies of a publication destined for the same SDC and
there are no 5-digit, optional multicoded city, 3-digit, optional SCF, or
optional SDC packages into which those copies should have been placed, those
copies may be made into an SDC package, properly labeled and placed on an
appropriate level pallet.


445.223 Sortation

a.
Mailers must presort copies and secure them into packages as required in
441.212, 441.213, 443.21, 443.22,
444.21, and 444.22.  Although SCF packages are an optional
level of package sortation for sacked mailings, mailers are urged to prepare
SCF packages for palletized mailings.

b.
When there are 10 or more pounds of mail for a destination, mailers must
secure the copies together in packages weighing from 10 to 20 pounds.
Although mailers must prepare packages in 10- to 20-pound increments when
there are 10 or more pounds of mail to a destination, they are encouraged to
prepare the largest size package possible (as close to 20 pounds as possible)
to minimize the number of packages prepared and handled.

Exception:  The last package to a destination may contain less than 10
pounds of mail.  (For example, if there are 45 pounds of mail for a 5-digit
ZIP Code, the following packages would be acceptable:

(1)
One 20-pound, one 15-pound, and one 10-pound package; or

(2)
One 20-pound, one 12-pound, and one 13-pound package; or

(3)
Two 20-pound packages and one 5-pound package.

c.
When there are less than 10 pounds of mail for a destination, the mailer
must secure the copies together in a single package.  For example, if there
are 9 pounds of mail for a 5-digit ZIP Code, the mailer must prepare only one
package weighing 9 pounds, provided there are a minimum of six copies of the
publication in the package as required by 445.222.

d.
State and mixed states packages or bundles must not be included in the
palletized portion of a mailing.  Mailers must sack such packages or bundles
in accordance with 441.316 and 441.317.

e.
Packages or bundles for foreign destinations cannot be placed on pallets
and must be sacked (see International Mail Manual 244.52).

445.224 Package Labels.
Mailers must label packages with either pressure-sensitive labels as
provided in 441.21, 443.21, 443.22, and
444.221, or the optional endorsement line as provided in
444.24c.  When pressure-sensitive labels are used, a red Label D
must appear on 5-digit packages if the copies in those packages bear the
carrier route information as permitted in 444.24b.

445.225 Physical Characteristics.
Mailers must secure packages to withstand normal transit and handling
without breakage or damage and to prevent injury to postal personnel.  The use
of heavy-gauge shrink-wrap over plastic strapping is recommended for securing
packages of flat-size mail.  However, the use of only banding material or only
shrink-wrap is acceptable if the integrity of the package is maintained
throughout normal processing.  Banding material, if used, must be applied at
least once around the length and once around the girth.  The use of wire or
metal strapping is prohibited.

445.23 Optional Bundle Preparation

445.231 Definition.
A bundle is defined as a group of two or more packages that are secured
together as one unit.

445.232 Weight and Volume.
Bundles must contain a minimum of two packages.  The maximum weight of a
bundle is 20 pounds.

445.233 Sortation.
Mailers may consolidate packages into bundles in the same manner as sacks
are prepared (see 441.31, 443.31, and 444.31).
Copies for optional SCF destinations must be prepared into packages only.
Bundles for foreign destinations cannot be placed in pallets and must be
sacked.  (See International Mail Manual 244.52.)  Mailers must not
include bundles for state and mixed states destinations in the palletized
portion of a mailing.  Mailers must sack bundles for these destinations in
accordance with 441.316 and 441.317, or 445.25.

445.234 Bundle Labels.
Bundles containing packages for levels of sortation finer than the bundle
destination must be labeled with a facing slip containing only the destination
information required for sack labels in 441.311 and
441.313, and a contents line.  Examples of bundles requiring facing
slips are

(a)
a carrier routes bundle containing carrier packages for different carrier
routes within the same 5-digit ZIP Code area,

(b)
a 3-digit bundle containing all 5-digit packages for the same 3-digit ZIP
Code area, or

(c)
a 3-digit bundle containing a 5-digit package and a 3-digit package for the
same 3-digit ZIP Code area.

445.235 Physical Characteristics.
Mailers must secure bundles to withstand handling without breakage or
damage and to prevent injury to postal personnel.  The use of heavy-gauge
shrink-wrap over banding is the recommended method of securing bundles.
However, use of only banding material or only shrink-wrap is acceptable.
Banding material, if used, must be applied at least once around the length and
once around the girth of each bundle.  The use of metal strapping or wire to
secure bundles is prohibited.

445.24 Pallet Preparation

445.241 Weight and Volume

a.
The minimum mail load of a pallet is 650 pounds.  Exception:  Up to 10% of
the pallets in a mailing may contain less than 650 pounds of mail.

b.
The gross weight of a pallet of mail (the pallet and the mail) must not
exceed 2000 pounds.

445.242 Sortation.
Mailers must place packages and bundles on pallets as described below,
beginning with pallets for the finest sortation level (5-digit pallets)
through the largest authorized sortation level (state distribution center
(SDC) pallets).  When there are 650 or more pounds of mail for a destination,
the mailer must prepare the appropriate-level pallet. Packages or bundles for
foreign destinations cannot be placed on pallets and must be sacked.  (See
International Mail Manual 244.52.)  When two or more publications are
part of a combined mailing as provided in 424.85, the mailer must
maintain records for each mailing as required by 424.84 and
424.853.

a. Five-Digit Pallets.
Whenever there are 650 or more pounds of packages and/or bundles for the
same 5-digit ZIP Code area, they must be placed on a pallet labeled to that
5-digit destination.  Pallet labels must be prepared and affixed to the pallet
in accordance with 445.243.  The labels must contain the information
required for 5-digit sack labels in 441.311 in the format required by
that section.  Five-digit pallets must contain, at a minimum, 650 pounds of
mail.  When a pallet contains copies claimed at delivery office rates and
copies claimed at other rates (e.g., delivery office rates and SCF rates), the
copies claimed at delivery office rates must be placed on the top of the
pallet and must be physically separated from the other copies.  Any effective
method of separation (e.g., a slipsheet) may be used (see
424.453(b)).

b. Optional Multicoded City Pallets.
If, after making up all required 5-digit pallets, there are 650 or more
pounds of packages and/or bundles remaining that are destined for the same
optional multicoded city, mailers may prepare an optional multicoded city
pallet labeled to that city.  Exhibit 122.63a includes a list of
optional multi-ZIP Coded post offices and the ZIP Code areas served by each.
The pallet labels must be prepared and affixed to the pallet in accordance
with 445.243.  The labels must contain the information required for
optional multicoded city sack labels in 441.312 in the format
required by that section.  Optional multicoded city pallets must contain, at a
minimum, 650 pounds of mail.  When a pallet contains copies claimed at
delivery office rates and copies claimed at other rates (e.g., delivery office
rates and SCF rates), the copies claimed at delivery office rates must be
placed on the top of the pallet and must be physically separated from the
other copies.  Any effective method of separation (e.g., a slipsheet) may be
used (see 424.453(b)).

c. Three-Digit Pallets.
If, after preparing all required 5-digit and optional multicoded city
pallets, there are 650 or more pounds of packages and/or bundles remaining
that are destined for the same 3-digit ZIP Code prefix area, mailers must
prepare a 3-digit pallet labeled to that 3-digit destination.  The pallet
labels must be prepared and affixed to the pallet in accordance with
445.243.  The pallet labels must contain the information required
for 3-digit sacks in 441.31c in the format required by that section.
When a pallet contains copies claimed at delivery office rates and copies
claimed at other rates (e.g., delivery office rates and SCF rates), the copies
claimed at delivery office rates must be placed on the top of the pallet and
must be physically separated from the other copies.  Any effective method of
separation (e.g., a slipsheet) may be used (see 424.453(b)).

d. SCF Pallets.
If, after preparing all required 5-digit, optional multicoded city, and
required 3-digit pallets, there are 650 or more pounds of packages and/or
bundles remaining that are destined for ZIP Codes served by the same sectional
center facility (SCF) serving more than one 3-digit ZIP Code area, they must
be placed on a pallet labeled to that SCF.  Exhibit 122.63d includes
a list of SCFs serving more than one 3-digit ZIP Code area, the 3-digit ZIP
Code areas served by each, and the proper destination line (line 1) for
sack/pallet labels. SCF pallets must always contain packages for two or more
3-digit ZIP Code areas served by the same SCF.  The pallet labels must be
prepared and affixed to the pallet in accordance with 445.243.  The
pallet labels must contain the information required for SCF sacks in
441.31d in the format required by that section.  When a pallet
contains copies claimed at delivery office rates and copies claimed at other
rates (e.g., delivery office rates and SCF rates), the copies claimed at
delivery office rates must be placed on the top of the pallet and must be
physically separated from the other copies.  Any effective method of
separation (e.g., a slipsheet) may be used (see 424.453(b)).

e. Optional SDC Pallets.
After all required 5-digit, optional multicoded city, required 3-digit, and
required SCF pallets have been prepared, the mailer may prepare an SDC pallet
when there are 650 or more pounds of packages and/or bundles remaining that
are destined for ZIP Codes served by the same state distribution center (SDC).
 Exhibit 122.63f contains a list of SDCs, the ZIP Codes they serve,
and the proper destination line (line 1) for sack/pallet labels.  SDC pallets
must be labeled to the destination SDC in accordance with 445.243.
The pallet label must contain the information required for SDC sacks in
441.31e in the format required by that section.  Mailers must sack
second-class mail that cannot be placed on SDC pallets in accordance with
441.316, 441.317, and 445.25.

445.243 Pallet Labels

a. General.
Mailers must affix at least two clearly visible labels on two adjacent
sides of each pallet.  Pallet labels must be pink and at least 8 by 11 inches,
with letters at least 1/2 inch high.  Labels must contain the information
required in 445.242a through 445.242e.

b. Destination Line.
In cases where the destination line of a pallet label does not provide
sufficient space for all required information, the destination ZIP Code may be
placed, right-justified (far right-hand side) on the line immediately below
the destination line and above the contents line of the pallet label.  As an
alternative, a standard abbreviation for the destination city name may be used.

c. Contents Line.
In cases where the contents line of a pallet label does not provide
sufficient space for all required information, the contents information may be
continued, right-justified (far right-hand side), on the line immediately
below the contents line and above the office of mailing line of the pallet
label.  As an alternative, the following authorized contents line
abbreviations may be used:



MixedMXD
DigitDG
Carrier RouteCR-RT
Carrier RoutesCR-RTS
LettersLTRS
FlatsFLTS



d. Additional Information.
If a 5-digit pallet contains only carrier route packages or carrier routes
bundles, the contents line of the pallet label must show the words CARRIER
ROUTES, or the authorized abbreviation, after the description of contents
(NEWS) or (2C).  If a 5-digit, optional multicoded city, 3-digit, or SCF
pallet contains copies claimed at delivery office rates and copies claimed at
SCF zone rates, the contents line of the pallet label must show the
designation DDU/SCF, after the description of the contents.  This information
may appear on the line immediately below the contents line in accordance with
445.243c.


e. Extraneous Information.
Extraneous information is information placed on a pallet label by the
publisher, mailer, or fulfillment house providing the pallet labels, which is
not required by the Postal Service.  It is recommended that extraneous
information appear only on the bottom portion of the pallet label.  Extraneous
information is allowed on pallet labels if it meets the following criteria:

(1)
The print size is smaller than the 1/2-inch height specified for Postal
Service required information.

(2)
Extraneous information only appears on or between the lines reserved for
Postal Service required information as provided in 441.323.

(3)
A 1-inch clear space is maintained around the lines reserved for Postal
Service required information.

445.244 Physical Characteristics

a. General.
Pallets used in a palletized mailing (whether provided by the Postal
Service or the mailer) must be constructed of high-quality material, designed
to handle loads equal to a gross weight of 2,200 pounds with maximum volume of
up to 65 cubic feet.  The dimensions must be 48 by 40 inches.  The pallets
must be designed for four-way entry by fork trucks and two-way entry by pallet
jacks.  Mailers must wrap pallets of mail with shrinkable or stretchable
plastic strong enough to retain the integrity of the pallet throughout
transportation and handling.  It is also recommended that the pallets be
banded.

b. Top Caps.
Top caps are required on loaded pallets weighing less than 1,000 pounds
gross.  Top caps are also required on pallets that are double-stacked during
staging or transit, regardless of weight.  A top cap must be secured to the
pallet with strapping or banding sufficient to keep the cap in place so that
it protects the mail and maintains the integrity of the pallet.

c. Double Stacking Pallets.
Pallets must be double-stacked whenever possible under the following
conditions:

(1)
The combined gross weight of double-stacked pallets must not exceed 2,200
pounds.

(2)
Both pallets must be top-capped.

(3)
The pallets must be banded together with appropriate strapping material to
maintain their integrity throughout transportation and handling.

(4)
The heavier of the two pallets must be on the bottom.

Note:  Triple-stacked pallets are not accepted under any circumstances.

445.25 Presentation of Mailings.
Sacks containing packages for state or mixed states destinations, or
containing packages or bundles remaining after all possible pallets have been
prepared, may be presented along with the palletized mailing (i.e., on the
same mailing statement), if the sacks are physically segregated from the
palletized portion of the mailing.

445.26 Renewal or Cancellation of Authorization

445.261 Renewal.
Each authorization expires 2 years from the effective date of the
authorization.  The publisher/mailer must submit a new request if a renewal of
the authorization is desired.

445.262 Cancellation.
An authorization may be canceled if the mailer has not complied with the
regulations governing mail preparation and palletization.

445.3 Co-Palletization of Multiple Second-Class Publications

445.31 Application

445.311 General.
The general manager, rates and classification center (RCC), serving the
post office where the mailer is located, may authorize the copalletization of
two or more flat-size second-class publications.  The publisher, or the person
mailing on behalf of the publisher, must submit Form 3856 for each publication
to be palletized to the field division general manager/postmaster of the
division serving the post office where the mailer's plant is located (see
132).  The publisher/mailer may obtain Form 3856 from the field
director, marketing and communications, at the division.

445.312 Co-Palletizing More Than One Publication.
The general manager, RCC, may grant a single authorization for a mailer to
co-palletize different publications.  To qualify for authorization to
co-palletize publications, the mailer must do the following:

a.
Submit a separate Form 3856 for each second-class publication that is part
of the co-palletized mailing.

b.
Submit a consolidated Form 3856, reflecting the co-palletized mailing for
all second-class publications in the mailing.

c.
Be capable of consolidating independently presorted packages for each
publication together on pallets to achieve the finest level of presort
possible for the co-palletized mailing and present, at the time of mailing,
the documentation required in 424.865.

445.313 Approval or Denial

a. Division.
The division must sign the application with a recommendation for approval
or denial, stating the reason for the recommendation.  Applications
recommended for approval are sent to the TMSC.  Applications not recommended
for approval are sent directly to the RCC stating the reason for the
recommended denial.

b. TMSC.
The TMSC works with the division and the mailer to determine the equipment
and transportation needs associated with the application to palletize.  If
equipment and transportation are available by the projected startup date, the
TMSC notes the date of availability on the application, signs it, and sends it
to the RCC.  If equipment and transportation are not available by the
projected startup date, the TMSC notes this in the comments portion of the
application.  All applications must be sent to the RCC.

c. RCC.
If the general manager, RCC, finds that the mailer qualifies under and can
comply with the regulations governing mail preparation and palletization, the
general manager issues an authorization to palletize.  If the RCC authorizes
palletization over a division's recommendation for denial, the RCC initially
calls the TMSC and coordinates the effective date.  The RCC must notify the
publisher/mailer, in writing, of the approval and the effective date.  If the
RCC grants an authorization, the mailer must be prepared to submit information
for future mailings, such as that required on the original application, at the
request of the general manager, RCC.  The RCC must immediately notify the TMSC
by telephone of the approval and forward copies of the authorization to the
division, the TMSC and all affected RCCs. The RCC must deny the application if
it finds that the mailer cannot comply with the regulations governing mail
preparation and palletization.  If the RCC denies the application, the RCC
must immediately notify the TMSC of the denial by telephone, and must send a
written copy of the denial to the mailer, the division, the TMSC, and all
affected RCCs.

d. Length of Authorization.
Authorization is granted for a specific period of time, not to exceed 2
years.

445.314 Two-Year Review.
Every 2 years after the effective date of an authorization, the general
manager, RCC, or an authorized representative, must ask the publisher or the
mailer to submit the information required on Form 3856 for an upcoming mailing
of multiple publications to be co-palletized.  The general manager or his
authorized representative must perform a review to determine the mailer's
continued eligibility to co-palletize multiple second-class flat-size
publications.  If, upon completion of the 2-year review, it is determined that
the mailer can continue to comply with the regulations governing
co-palletization, the authorization is extended for a period not to exceed 2
years.  The general manager, RCC, must send written notification of the
decision to all affected parties.

445.32 Package Preparation

445.321 Definition.
A package is a group of pieces that are secured together as one unit.

445.322 Weight and Volume

a. Co-Palletized Packages.
Each package to be placed on a pallet must contain a minimum of six pieces
of a publication.  No package may exceed 20 pounds.

b. Sacked Packages.
Packages that are not placed on a pallet in accordance with
445.342 may contain fewer than six copies of the publication as
allowed in 441.21.

445.323 Sortation

a.
Mailers must presort pieces and secure them into packages as required in
441.211 through 441.219, 443.21,
443.22, 444.21, and 444.22, as applicable for
the rates claimed for the publications.  However, SDC, state, and mixed states
packages must not be included in the co-palletized portion of a mailing.
Mailers must sack SDC, state, and mixed states packages in accordance with
441.315, 441.316, and 441.317.  Packages
containing fewer than six pieces must also be sacked as provided in
445.322.  Packages that cannot be placed on a permissible level of
pallet (5-digit, multicoded city, 3-digit, or SCF) must also be sacked in
accordance with the requirements for the presort level rate claimed (see the
note in 445.342d, and see 445.35).  While SCF packages are
an optional level of package sortation for sacked mailings, it is strongly
recommended that mailers prepare SCF packages for palletized mailings.

b.
When there are 10 or more pounds of mail for a destination, mailers must
secure the pieces together in packages weighing from 10 to 20 pounds.  While
mailers are required to prepare packages in 10- to 20-pound increments when
there are 10- or more pounds of mail to a destination, they are encouraged to
prepare the largest package possible (as close to 20 pounds as possible) to
minimize the number of packages prepared and handled.  Exception: The last
package to a destination may contain less than 10 pounds of mail.  For
example, if there are 45 pounds of mail for a 5-digit ZIP Code, the following
packages would be acceptable:

(1)
One 20-pound, one 15-pound, and one 10-pound package; or

(2)
One 20-pound, one 12-pound, and one 13-pound package; or

(3)
Two 20-pound packages and one 5-pound package.

c.
When there are less than 10 pounds of mail for a destination, the mailer
must secure the pieces together in a single package.  For example, if there
are 9 pounds of mail for a 5-digit ZIP Code, the mailer must prepare only one
package weighing 9 pounds, provided there are a minimum of six pieces of the
publication in the package as required by 445.322.

d.
Packages or bundles for foreign destinations cannot be placed on pallets
and must be sacked (see International Mail Manual 244.52).

445.324 Package Labels.
Mailers must label packages with pressure-sensitive labels as provided in
441.21, 443.21, and 443.22; as provided in
444.24; or with an optional endorsement line as provided in
441.232.  When pressure-sensitive labels are used, a red Label D
must be placed on 5-digit packages if the pieces in those packages bear the
carrier route information as permitted in 444.24b.
