
641.135 Sortation.
See Exhibit 641.135. *viewer dmm620.pcx*

Exhibit 641.135
(NOT SHOWN)


DMM620Exhibit 641.135]



a. Five-Digit Sacks.
When there are at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of mail (or more) packaged
to the same 5-digit ZIP Code destination, the packages must be placed in a
5-digit sack or sacks labeled to the 5-digit destination.  See
641.132 for a definition of how the 125-piece or 15-pound minimum is
applied.  Five-digit sacks containing fewer than 125 pieces and less than 15
pounds of mail are not accepted.  Each sack must be labeled in the following
manner:

(1)  Nonmilitary Mail



Line 1:City, 2-letter state abbreviation, and 5-digit destination
Line 2:Class (3C) and processing category
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of the post office of
mailing
Example:

PHILADELPHIA PA  19118
3C FLATS
BOSTON MA



(2)  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:Class (3C) and processing category
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of mailing
Example:

APO AE           09128
3C FLATS
BAKERSFIELD CA



Note:  If a mailing consists of both machinable parcels and irregular
parcels as defined in 128 and as provided for in 623.2, the
contents line of 5-digit sack labels must read "3C MACH AND IRREG."  When
there are 10 pounds of material for a 5-digit ZIP Code destination, it must be
placed in a 5-digit sack.  Sacks containing less than 10 pounds of mail may be
prepared.  Pieces in a 5-digit sack that contains machinable and irregular
parcels need not be packaged as required by 641.122b.


b. Optional City Sacks.
If, after preparing required 5-digit sacks, there are at least 125 pieces
or 15 pounds of mail (or more) packaged to the multi-ZIP Coded cities listed
in Exhibit 122.63a, mailers are encouraged to place those packages
into city sacks.  See 641.132 for a definition of how the 125-piece
or 15-pound minimum is applied.  City sacks containing fewer than 125 pieces
and less than 15 pounds are not accepted.  Each sack must be labeled in the
following manner:



Line 1:City, two-letter state abbreviation, and lowest 5-digit ZIP Code
served by the city (see Exhibit 122.63a)
Line 2:Class (3C) and processing category, followed by the word "CITY,"
directly under the ZIP Code on Line 1
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of the post office of
mailing
Example:

FALMOUTH MA  02540
3C LTRS      CITY
SUBURBAN MD



Note:  An optional city sack may contain both machinable and irregular
parcels (as defined in 128) when there are at least 10 pounds of
material for the optional city sack.  The contents line for optional city sack
labels for sacks which are part of a mailing containing machinable and
irregular parcels must read "3C MACH AND IRREG" followed by the word "CITY."
Pieces in an optional city sack which contains both machinable and irregular
parcels need not be packaged as required by 641.122c.

c. Three-Digit Sacks.
When, after preparing required 5-digit and optional city sacks, there are
at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of mail (or more) packaged to the same
3-digit ZIP Code destination, the packages must be placed in a 3-digit sack or
sacks labeled to the 3-digit destination.  See 641.132 for a
definition of how the 125-piece or 15-pound minimum is applied.  Three-digit
sacks containing fewer than 125 pieces and less than 15 pounds of mail are not
accepted.  Each sack must be labeled in the following manner:

(1)  Nonmilitary Mail

(a)  Unique 3-Digit ZIP Code Prefixes



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

PHILADELPHIA PA 191
3C FLTS
ROCHESTER NY



(b)  Other 3-Digit ZIP Code Prefixes



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

NORTHERN VIRGINIA VA 221
3C LTRS
BAKERSFIELD CA



(2)  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:Class (3C) and processing category
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of mailing
Example:

FPO AE          095
3C LTRS
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.)

d. Optional SCF Sacks.
When, after preparing required 5-digit, optional city, and required 3-digit
sacks, there are at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of mail (or more) packaged
to post offices served by the same sectional center facility serving more than
one 3-digit ZIP Code area, mailers are encouraged to prepare SCF sacks.  See
641.132 for a definition of how the 125-piece or 15-pound minimum is
applied.  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.  The mailer may prepare SCF sacks containing fewer than 125 pieces
and less than 15 pounds of mail.  SCF sacks must be labeled in the following
manner:




Line 1:Letters "SCF" followed by name of SCF, two-letter state
abbreviation of SCF, and 3-digit ZIP Code prefix for SCF as shown
in Exhibit 122.63d
Line 2:Class (3C) and processing category
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of mailing
Example:

SCF PHILADELPHIA PA   190
3C IRREG
ENDICOTT NY



e. Optional SDC Sacks.
When, after preparing required 5-digit, optional city, required 3-digit and
optional SCF sacks, there are at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of mail (or
more) addressed to post offices in the same state distribution center (SDC)
service areas listed in Exhibit 122.63g and Exhibit
122.63h, mailers are encouraged to prepare SDC sacks.  See
641.132 for a definition of how the 125-piece or 15-pound minimum is
applied.  SDC sacks containing fewer than 125 pieces and less than 15 pounds
are not accepted.  Each sack must be labeled in the following manner:

(1)  Nonmilitary Mail



Line 1:Letters DIS or other required prefix, if any, followed by name,
state, and code of destination SDC as shown in Exhibit
122.63g (letterand flat-size pieces) or Exhibit
122.63h (irregular parcels)
Line 2:Class (3C) and processing category, followed by abbreviation for
state or states served by SDC, and additional codes if appropriate,
as shown in Exhibit 122.63g or Exhibit 122.63h.
Additional codes must be right-justified.
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of mailing
Example:

BMC PITTSBURGH PA 15193
3C FLTS PA    000
SAN FRANCISCO CA



(2)  Military Mail



Line 1:Letters APO, FPO, or other required prefix, if any, followed by
name, state, and code of destination SDC as shown in Exhibit
122.63g (letterand flat-size pieces) or Exhibit
122.63h (irregular parcels)
Line 2:Class (3C) and processing category, followed by letters APO,
FPO, or APO/FPO, as shown in Exhibit 122.63g or
Exhibit 122.63h
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of mailing
Example:

APO SAN FRANCISCO CA  962
3C LTRS  APO
BAKERSFIELD CA



f. State Sacks.
When, after preparing required 5-digit, optional city, required 3-digit,
optional SCF, and optional SDC sacks, there are at least 125 pieces or 15
pounds of mail (or more) packaged to the same state, the packages must be
placed into state sacks.  See 641.132 for a definition of how the
125-piece or 15-pound minimum is applied.  Sacks containing fewer than 125
pieces and less than 15 pounds may be prepared.  Each sack must be labeled
under Exhibit 122.63j or Exhibit 122.63k, as applicable,
and in the following manner:

(1)  Nonmilitary Mail



Line 1:Letters DIS or other required prefix, if any, followed by name,
state, and code of SDC for state as shown in Exhibit
122.63j (letterand flat-size pieces) or Exhibit
122.63k (irregular parcels)
Line 2:Class (3C) and processing category, followed by two-letter
abbreviation of state to which pieces in sack are addressed, and
additional codes as appropriate, as shown in Exhibit
122.63j or Exhibit 122.63k.  Additional Codes must be
right-justified
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of mailing
Example:

DIS KANSAS CITY MO  640
3C LTRS KS
BAKERSFIELD CA



(2)  Military Mail



Line 1:Letters APO, FPO, or other required prefix, if any, followed by
name, state, and code of SDC for state as shown in Exhibit
122.63j (letterand flat-size pieces) or Exhibit
122.63k (irregular parcels)
Line 2:Class (3C) and processing category, followed by letters APO,
FPO, or APO/FPO as shown in Exhibit 122.63j or
Exhibit 122.63k
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of mailing
Example:

APO SAN FRANCISCO CA  962
3C LTRS APO
BAKERSFIELD CA




g. Mixed States Sacks.
Packages remaining for two or more states after state sacks have been
prepared must be made up in 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 122.63q or Exhibit 122.63r,
as appropriate.  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
122.63q or Exhibit 122.63r, as appropriate
Line 2:Class (3C) and processing category, followed by the words MIXED
STATES
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of mailing

Example:


MXD ST LOUIS MO            630
3C LTRS MXD STATES
JACKSONVILLE IL



Note:  The last sack in a mailing may not necessarily be a
mixed-states sack.  For example, if there are 10 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.

641.136 Loose-Pack Sack.
The term "loose-pack sack" refers to the placement of unpackaged, unbound
mailpieces in a receptacle such as a mailsack.  Management sectional center
(MSC) managers may authorize mailers to loose-pack pieces in full No. 3 sacks
without packaging, when all material in a sack would normally be "worked" at
the point where the sack is opened, e.g., if a 3-digit sack contains no more
than nine pieces for any one 5-digit destination.  Pieces must be placed to
maintain orientation of the pieces while in transit. Mailers desiring to
loose-pack pieces must request authorization through the post office of
mailing.  Pieces prepared in loose-packed 5-digit sacks may qualify for the
3/5 presort rate subject to the applicable requirements in 624.2.

641.137 Rate Eligibility.
Pieces in packages prepared under 641.122a (firm),
641.122b (5-digit), 641.122c (optional city), and
641.122d (3-digit) may qualify for the 3/5 presort rate if there are
at least 10 pieces in each package, and the packages are correctly sacked to
qualifying destinations (5-digit, optional city, and 3-digit) as required by
624.2 and 641.135a through 641.135c.  Pieces in
other packages, pieces in packages of less than 10 pieces, or pieces packaged
under 641.122a through 641.122d but not sacked under
641.135a through 641.135c, are not eligible for the 3/5
presort rate and must have postage paid at the basic presort rate.

641.138 Trays.
Except for ZIP+4 and ZIP+4 Barcoded rate mailings as provided in
647.11, trays (or other containers) may be used to prepare mailings
at the basic presort and 3/5 presort rates instead of sacks only if the
postmaster of the accepting post office grants an authorization.
Authorization is granted only when the mail to be trayed is for delivery
within the SCF of mailing, and the requirements of 641.12 and
647 are met.  Traying is not authorized for non-ZIP+4 or non-ZIP+4
Barcoded rate mail to be delivered outside the origin SCF area.  Mailings
verified under plant-verified drop shipment procedures for entry at post
offices within various SCF areas may be trayed if postmaster approvals for
each drop point are obtained, the mailings entered at each drop point contain
mail only for delivery within the SCF area of the drop point (office of
mailing), and the requirements of 647 are met.


641.2 Machinable Parcel Preparation Requirements

641.21 General

641.211 Preparation.
Machinable parcels as defined in 128 must be prepared under the
following sacking requirements, except for mailers authorized to palletize
under 644.2.  There are no packaging requirements.

641.212 Rate Eligibility.
Subject to the provisions of 624.2, pieces may be eligible for
the 3/5 presort rate when prepared under 641.221 and
641.222.  Mailers wishing to claim the 3/5 presort rate must presort
to 5-digit destinations (as required by 641.221) before presorting
to destinating BMCs under 641.222.  Pieces correctly presorted and
labeled under 641.222 to the origin BMC are eligible for the 3/5
presort rate.  Pieces correctly presorted and labeled under 641.223
to the origin BMC (Mixed BMC sack) are eligible for the basic presort rate.

641.22 Sacking Requirements for Basic Rate
See Exhibit 641.22 *viewer dmm625.pcx*
Exhibit 641.22
(NOT SHOWN)


DMM625Exhibit 641.22]



641.221 Optional Five-Digit Sacks.
When there are 10 or more pounds of mail addressed to the same 5-digit ZIP
Code destination, it may be placed in 5-digit sacks.  Sacks containing less
than 10 pounds of mail are not accepted.  Each sack must be labeled in the
following manner:



Line 1:City, 2-letter state abbreviation, and 5-digit destination
Line 2:Class and processing category (3C MACH)
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing
Example:

BINGHAMTON NY  13901
3C MACH
WASHINGTON DC



Note:  Irregular parcels may be commingled with machinable parcels
(see 128) in 5-digit sacks as provided in 623.2.  When
machinable and irregular parcels are commingled, sacks containing less than 10
pounds may be prepared.  The contents line of the 5-digit sack must read 3C
MACH AND IRREG.

641.222 Bulk Mail Center (BMC) Sacks.
If, after preparing 5-digit sacks there are 10 pounds or more of mail to a
destination BMC delivery area as described in Exhibit 122.63l, it
must be placed in a destination BMC sack.  Each sack must be labeled in the
following manner:


Line 1:Letters BMC followed by BMC name, two-letter state
abbreviation, and code of destination BMC as shown in
Exhibit 122.63l.  Mailers claiming DBMC rate must
prepare and label sacks as shown in Exhibit 122.63s.
Line 2:Class and processing category (3C MACH) and, if appropriate,
followed by processing code (right-justified under Line 1 BMC
code) as shown in Exhibit 122.63l
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing
Example:

BMC LOS ANGELES CA  90901
3C MACH           000
ATLANTA GA



641.223 Mixed BMC Sacks.
After any 5-digit and required destination BMC sacks have been prepared,
the remaining pieces must be placed in sacks labeled to the origin BMC in the
following manner:



Line 1:Letters BMC followed by BMC name, two-letter state
abbreviation, and code of origin BMC as shown in Exhibit
122.631
Line 2:Class and processing category (3C MACH) and, if appropriate,
followed by processing code (right-justified under Line 1 BMC
code) as shown in Exhibit 122.631
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing
Example:

BMC KANSAS CITY KS  64399
3C MACH
TOPEKA KS



641.224 Sack Label Preparation

a.  Color.
Sack labels must be white or manila (other colors are unacceptable).

b. Size.
Sack labels must not be less than 3-5/16 inches nor more than 3-3/8 inches
long (parallel to the printing), and not less than 15/16 inch nor more than
31/32 inch high (perpendicular to the printing).

c. Method of Preparation.
The Postal Service prefers machine-prepared sack labels to ensure
legibility, although legible hand-printed labels are acceptable.  Illegible
labels are unacceptable.

d. Trailing Zeros.
Two zeros may appear following 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes on sack labels.

e. Abbreviations.
The destination and office of mailing lines may contain abbreviated
information, provided such abbreviations are as shown in Publication 65,
National Five-Digit ZIP Code and Post Office Directory.  In addition,
the following authorized abbreviations may be used on the contents line of
sack labels:


Mail Processing Category

Machinable Parcels MACH
Other



Mixed Machinable and
Irregular Parcels
(see 623.2)
MACH AND IRREG



f.  Line 1.
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 described in
641.221 through 641.223 and 641.231.

g.  Line 2.
Line 2, the contents line, must be the second visible line on the label.
It must contain the appropriate contents information (i.e., 3C MACH).

h.  Line 3.
Line 3, the office of mailing line, must be prepared as described in
441.322c.

i.  Extraneous Information.
Extraneous information is prohibited from the destination and contents
lines.  The mailer may place it elsewhere as provided in 441.323a and
441.323d through 441.323f.

j. Barcodes.
It is preferred that sack labels include a barcode, prepared as required in
646.

641.225  Sack Weight.
No more than 70 pounds may be placed in any one sack.

641.23 Combined Mailings of Thirdand Fourth-Class Machinable Parcels

641.231 General

a. Applicability.
The following procedures and requirements apply when a mailer combines
thirdand fourth-class machinable parcels in the same sacks under the
provisions in 623.64 and 721.3.

b. Preparation.
See 641.211.

c. Rate Eligibility.
Subject to 624.2, third-class parcels in the combined mailing may
be eligible for the 3/5 presort rate when 10 or more pounds of third-class
parcels are packed to a 5-digit ZIP code destination (under 641.232a)
or to a destination BMC (under 641.232b).  Mailers wishing to claim
the 3/5 presort rate must presort to 5-digit destinations as required by
641.232a before presorting to destinating BMCs under
641.232b.  Pieces correctly presorted and labeled under
641.232b to the origin BMC are also eligible for the 3/5 presort
rate.  The documentation required by 624.645 must accurately record those
pieces claimed at the 3/5 presort rate.

641.232 Sacking Requirements

a. Destination Five-Digit Sacks.
Where there are 10 pieces, 20 pounds, or 1,000 cubic inches of thirdand
fourth-class machinable parcels addressed to the same 5-digit ZIP Code, they
must be placed in a 5-digit sack.  Each sack must be labeled as follows:



Line 1:City, two-letter state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code of
destination
Line 2:Class and processing category (3C/4C MACH)
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing
Example:

ROCHESTER NY  14623
3C/4C MACH
WASHINGTON DC



b. Destination Bulk Mail Center (BMC) Sacks.
After the required 5-digit sacks have been prepared and there are 10
pieces, 20 pounds, or 1,000 cubic inches of parcels to a BMC delivery area,
the remaining pieces must be placed in sacks labeled to the destination BMC
delivery areas as follows:



Line 1:Letters BMC followed by BMC name, two-letter state
abbreviation, and destination BMC code shown in Exhibit
122.63l.  (Mailers claiming DBMC rate must prepare and label
sacks as shown in Exhibit 122.63s.)
Line 2:Class and processing category (3C/4C MACH), followed by
processing code (right-justified under Line 1 BMC code) shown in
Exhibit 122.63l, if required
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing
Example:

BMC LOS ANGELES CA  90901
3C/4C MACH  000
ROCHESTER NY



c. Mixed BMC Sacks.
After the required 5-digit and destination BMC sacks have been prepared,
the remaining thirdand fourth-class machinable parcels must be placed in
sacks labeled to the origin BMC as follows:



Line 1:Letters BMC followed by BMC name, two-letter state
abbreviation, and origin BMC code shown in Exhibit
122.63l
Line 2:Class and processing category (3C/4C MACH), followed by
processing code (right-justified under Line 1 BMC code) shown in
Exhibit 122.63l, if required
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing
Example:

BMC KANSAS CITY KS  63499
3C/4C MACH
TOPEKA KS



641.233 Sack Label Preparation.
Sack labels must meet the requirements prescribed in 641.224.

641.234 Sack Weight.
No more than 70 pounds may be placed in any one sack.

641.3 (Reserved)

641.4  Additional Presort Requirements for Carrier Route Presort Rate
Mailings

Exhibit 641.4
(NOT SHOWN)


DMM635Exhibit 641.4]



641.41 Packaging.
See Exhibit 641.4. *viewer dmm625.pcx*

641.411 Carrier Packages.
When there are 10 or more pieces addressed to the same carrier route, rural
route, post office box section, highway contract route, or general delivery
unit, the mailer must prepare them in packages of 10 or more pieces.  A
package of letter-size mail should not exceed 4 inches in thickness.  All
pieces in a package must be securely wrapped or tied together.  Except as
provided in 641.123b, all pieces in a package must be faced in the
same direction.  Rubber bands are the preferred method of securing packages.
Whenever a carrier package is not placed in a sack labeled to show that it
contains only packages for the same carrier route, rural route, highway
contract route, post office box section, or general delivery unit, the mailer
must use one of the following procedures to label the package:

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:Type of route (carrier route, rural route, post office box
section, highway contract route, or general delivery unit) and
route number
Line 3:Office of mailing
Example:

SAN FRANCISCO CA  94133
RURAL ROUTE 12
BOSTON MA  021



b.
Packages made up to individual carrier routes, rural routes, highway
contract routes, post office box section, or general delivery units may be
prepared without facing slips when the following conditions are met:

(1)
The carrier route information consisting of a descriptive prefix (or its
abbreviation), plus a route number of numeric code, must be on the top line of
the address, either alone (the preferred format) or with other information
(addressee, account data, etc.).  Alternatively, the carrier route information
may appear with the "Carrier Route Presort" endorsement on the line above or
two lines above the address when the "Carrier Route Presort" endorsement is
located in the address area in accordance with 629.63a and
629.63b.

(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 Route                       CR
Rural Route                         RR
Highway Contract Route              HC
Post Office Box Section              B
General Delivery Unit               GD




(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 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)
The carrier route information must be right-justified.

(5)
The carrier route information must be preceded by at least two asterisks
(**), or other distinctive nonalphabetic or nonnumeric character.  The
following are examples of address formats:




               **CARRIER ROUTE 11
RESIDENT
1300 WATERFORD DRIVE
DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD  20747

                       **CR 11
RESIDENT
1300 WATERFORD DRIVE
DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD  20747

RESIDENT          **CR 11
1300 WATERFORD DRIVE
DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD  20747

            **RURAL ROUTE   05
POSTAL CUSTOMER
1602 COUNTRY LANE
BURKE VA  22015

POSTAL CUSTOMER   **RR  1505

CAR-RT SORT           **CR 11
RESIDENT
1300 WATERFORD DRIVE
DISTRICT HEIGHTS MD  20747



(6)
At least 10 spaces must be allowed for carrier route information, if it is
included with other information on the top line.

c.
The optional endorsement line may be used to label carrier packages as
described in 642.

d.
Carrier route information prepared under the requirements in
641.411b(1) through 641.411b(6) may be shown on all pieces
within the mailing regardless of the level of presort.

641.412 Residual Packages.
All residual packages must be labeled with a red Label D to facilitate
postal verification and handling and must be placed in 3-digit carrier routes
sacks.  Residual packages must be prepared in one of the following ways:

a.
When there are fewer than 10 residual pieces to a single carrier route,
they may be secured in packages under 641.411.  In addition to the
red Label D, residual carrier route packages may also be labeled to the
carrier route under 641.411a, 641.411b, or
641.411c.

b.
Residual pieces for an individual carrier route not packaged to a carrier
route as provided in 641.412a, must be made up into 5-digit packages
and labeled with a red Label D.

641.42 Sacking.
See Exhibit 641.4. *viewer dmm625.pcx*

641.421  Sack Preparation.
All qualifying packages of 10 or more pieces to the same carrier route must
be placed in sacks under 641.425 through 641.427, except for

a.
mailers authorized to bundle or palletize, who must prepare packages and
bundles under 644.1 or 645; and

b.
mailers who Express Mail drop ship bulk third-class mailings under
136.7, who may prepare sacks containing fewer than 125 pieces or
less than 15 pounds of mail.

641.422 Minimum Quantity

a. General.
Mailers must prepare a sack whenever the quantity of mail reaches either
125 pieces or 15 pounds, whichever occurs first.  A single-piece weight of
1.92 ounces (0.12 pound) results in 125 identical weight pieces weighing 15
pounds.  Mailers must note on the mailing statement accompanying the mailing
whether they applied the 125-piece or 15-pound threshold in sacking the
mailing.

b. Identical weight Pieces.
Identical weight pieces that weigh 1.92 ounces (0.12 pound) or less must be
prepared using the 125-piece minimum; identical weight pieces weighing more
than 1.92 ounces (0.12 pound) must be prepared using the 15-pound minimum.

c. Nonidentical weight Pieces.
Mailings of nonidentical weight pieces must either

(1)
use the minimum that applies to the average piece weight for the entire
mailing; (i.e., divide the net weight of the mailing by the number of pieces;
the resulting average single-piece weight determines whether the 125-piece or
15-pound minimum applies); or

(2)
sack based on the actual piece count or mail weight for each sack, provided
documentation can be supplied with the mailing that shows (specifically for
each sack) the number of pieces and the total weight of those pieces.

641.423 Sack Label Preparation

a.  Color.
Sack labels must be white or manila (other colors are unacceptable).

b. Size.
Sack labels must not be less than 3-5/16 inches nor more than 3-3/8 inches
long (parallel to the printing), and not less than 15/16 inch nor more than
31/32 inch high (perpendicular to the printing).

c. Method of Preparation.
The Postal Service prefers machine-prepared sack labels to ensure
legibility, although legible hand-printed labels are acceptable.  Illegible
labels are unacceptable.

d. Trailing Zeros.
Two zeros may appear following 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes on sack labels.

e. Abbreviations.
The destination and office of mailing lines may contain abbreviated
information, provided such abbreviations are as shown in Publication 65,
National Five-Digit ZIP Code and Post Office Directory.   In addition,
the following authorized abbreviations may be used on the contents line of
sack labels:

Mail Processing Categories



LettersLTRS
FlatsFLTS
Irregular ParcelsIRREG



Other


Optional Carrier Sacks

@@@Carrier RouteCR
@@@Rural RouteRR
@@@Highway Contract Route HC
@@@Post Office Box Section  B
@@@General Delivery Unit GD

Other Sacks

@@@MixedMXD
@@@Carrier RouteCR-RT
@@@Carrier RoutesCR-RTS





f. Line 1.
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 described in
641.425 through 641.427.

g. Line 2.
Line 2, the contents line, must be the second visible line on the label.
It must contain the appropriate contents information as described in
641.425 through 641.427.

h. Line 3.
Line 3, the office of mailing line, must be prepared as described in
441.322c.

i. Extraneous Information.
Extraneous information is prohibited from the destination and contents
lines.  The mailer may place it elsewhere as provided in 441.323a and
441.323d through 441.323f.

j. Barcodes.
It is preferred that sack labels include a barcode, prepared as required in
646.

641.424 Sack Weight.
No more than 70 pounds of mail may be placed in any sack.

641.425 Optional Carrier Route Sacks.
When there are at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of qualifying mail to the
same carrier route, the mail should be placed in a carrier route sack.  See
641.422 for a definition of how the 125-piece or 15-pound minimum is
applied.  Carrier route sacks containing fewer than 125 pieces and less than
15 pounds of mail for the same carrier route are not accepted.  Each sack must
be labeled in the following manner:



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

Example:

SAN FRANCISCO CA  94133
3C LTRS--CR 18
PORTLAND OR

Exception:  Carrier route sacks are not optional and must be prepared
if the mailing is claimed at a walk-sequence rate.



641.426 Five-Digit Carrier Routes Sacks.
When, after preparing all carrier route sacks, there are at least 125
pieces or 15 pounds of qualifying mail (or more) to different carrier routes
within the same 5-digit ZIP Code area, the mail must be placed in 5-digit
carrier routes sacks labeled to the 5-digit ZIP Code destination.  See
641.422 for a definition of how the 125-piece or 15-pound minimum is
applied.  Five-digit carrier routes sacks containing fewer than 125 pieces and
less than 15 pounds of mail may only be prepared under the following exception:

Exception: Saturation mailers of carrier route presorted mail may, at
their option, prepare 5-digit carrier routes sacks containing fewer than 125
pieces and less than 15 pounds of mail for those 5-digit ZIP Code areas that
do not have a sufficient number of residential deliveries to meet the
125-piece minimum at a 90% saturation level.  A saturation mailing is defined
as a mailing sent to at least 90% of the total residential addresses within a
5-digit ZIP Code area.

Five-digit carrier routes sacks must be labeled in the following
manner:



Line 1:City, two-letter state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code
destination
Line 2:Class (3C) and processing category, followed by words
CARRIER ROUTES or abbreviation CR-RTS
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing
Example:

SAN FRANCISCO CA 94133
3C LTRS CR-RTS
SYRACUSE NY



641.427 Three-Digit Carrier Routes Sacks.
After all carrier route and required 5-digit carrier routes sacks have been
prepared, all remaining qualifying carrier route packages must be placed in
3-digit carrier routes sacks labeled to the 3-digit ZIP Code destination.
Three-digit carrier routes sacks may contain qualifying carrier route
presorted mail and residual mail.  The last sack to a 3-digit ZIP Code
destination may contain fewer than 125 pieces and less than 15 pounds of
qualifying carrier route packages.  If such a sack is prepared, any residual
mail to the 3-digit area must be placed in that sack.  All packages of
residual pieces must be placed in 3-digit carrier routes sacks labeled to the
3-digit ZIP Code destination.  Each 3-digit carrier routes sack must be
labeled in the following manner:

a. Unique 3-Digit ZIP Code Prefixes



Line 1:City, two-letter state abbreviation, and unique 3-digit ZIP
Code Prefix (see Exhibit 122.63b)
Line 2:Class (3C) and processing category, followed by words MIXED
CARRIER ROUTES or abbreviation MXD CR-RTS
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing
Example:

BINGHAMTON NY 137
3C FLATS MXD CR-RTS
WASHINGTON DC




b. 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:Class (3C) and processing category, followed by words MIXED
CARRIER ROUTES or abbreviation MXD CR-RTS
Line 3:City and two-letter state abbreviation of post office of
mailing
Example:

SPRINGFIELD MA   011
3C LTRS MXD CR-RTS
BALTIMORE MD



641.43 Trays.
Trays (or other containers) may be used to prepare mailings instead of
sacks only if the postmaster of the accepting post office grants an
authorization.  Authorization is granted only when the mail to be trayed is
for delivery within the SCF of mailing, and the requirements of
641.41 and 647 are met.  All pieces in trays must be
oriented and faced in the same direction.  Traying is not authorized for
carrier route mail to be delivered outside the SCF area of the post office of
entry.  Mailings verified under plant-verified drop shipment procedures for
entry at post offices within various SCF areas may be trayed if postmaster
approvals for each drop point are obtained, the mailings entered at each drop
point contain mail only for delivery within the SCF area of the drop point
(office of mailing), and the requirements of 647 are met.

642  Optional Endorsement (Package Label) Line in Address Block or Label

642.1  General.
Mailers may prepare mailings without applying pressure-sensitive package
labels to the top copies of packages by using a specific optional endorsement
line above the address block or on the address label on the top copy of a
package.

642.2  Format Specifications

642.21  First Line.
Except when an address block barcode is placed above the optional
endorsement line (see 551.252a), the appropriate makeup information
must be the first line to appear at the top of the address block or label.
Publishers receiving address corrections via address change service (ACS) may
use up to the first six positions on the left side of the optional endorsement
line for placement of the ACS publication code.

642.22  Clean Address Required.
If the address block or address label contains any information other than
the name of the recipient, street, street number, apartment or suite number,
building name, post office box, or other established address, and city, state,
and ZIP Code, it is recommended that a blank line be left between the address
block and the optional endorsement line.

642.23  Size of Letters Used in Optional Endorsement Line.
The information in the optional endorsement line must appear in capital
letters, with letter size and line spacing not less than the size and line
spacing of the largest letters or characters in the address block or in any
portion of the address label.  Letters in the endorsement line must be the
same type font as those in the address block.

642.24  Alignment of Right Margin (Right-Justified).
The optional endorsement line must be placed so that no characters in any
portion of the address block or on the address label are to the right of the
last character in the optional endorsement line.

642.25  Alignment of Left Margin (Left-Justified)

642.251 Non-ACS Format.
The optional endorsement line must be filled with asterisks from the left
margin of the label or address block (as defined by the position of the first
character printed in the address block or on the address label) up to the
first character in the optional endorsement line (see Mailing Label A in
Exhibit 642.25 *viewer dmm425.pcx* ).

642.252 ACS Format.
Publishers receiving address corrections via address change service (ACS)
must place the delimiter symbol (#) in the first position at the left margin
of the optional endorsement line and follow that symbol with the twoto
five-character ACS publication code assigned to the publication by the Postal
Service.  The remaining space between the ACS code and the first character of
the makeup information must be filled in with asterisks (see Mailing Label B
in Exhibit 642.25 *viewer dmm425.pcx* ).


(NOT SHOWN)

DMM425
Exhibit 642.25, Left Margin Alignment]



642.26  ZIP Code.
With the exception of carrier route packages, state distribution center
(SDC) packages, state packages, and mixed-states packages, the optional
endorsement line must include the applicable ZIP Code information.

642.27  Prescribed Letters or Characters.
Only capital letters of the alphabet, Arabic numerals, or asterisks may be
used in the optional endorsement line.

642.28  Valid Address, Including Correct ZIP Code.
Each piece in the mailing must bear a valid address, including a correct
ZIP Code.  Pieces bearing the optional endorsement line and an invalid address
are handled under 159.

642.3  Examples of Optional Endorsement Lines and Formats

642.31  Optional Endorsement Line Examples





On FIRM PACKAGES use
***********FIRM 12345




On CARRIER ROUTE PACKAGES use
***********CAR-RT-SORT**B-001




On 5-DIGIT PACKAGES use
***************5-DIGIT 12345




On OPTIONAL CITY PACKAGES use
**********MIXED CITY 123451


1The lowest five-digit ZIP Code served by the city must be
shown.




On 3-DIGIT PACKAGES use
***********3-DIGIT 771




On SCF PACKAGES use
*********SCF 7502




2The proper 3-digit ZIP Code prefix for the SCF, as shown in
Exhibit 122.63d, must be used.




On OPTIONAL SDC PACKAGES use
**********ALL FOR SDC



On STATE PACKAGES use
**********ALL FOR STATE




On MIXED STATES PACKAGES use
**********MIXED STATES





Note:  A unique 3-digit ZIP Code is defined as any 3-digit ZIP Code
prefix which is assigned exclusively to a single large city, with the last two
digits of the ZIP Code identifying a delivery area within the city (see
Exhibit 122.63b).

642.32  Optional Endorsement Line Format and Address Examples

a.
This format may be used when nothing other than the addressee's name and
address are printed on the label or the face of the piece in the address block.




*****************FIRM                     20045
JQD COMPANY INCORPORATED
529 14TH STREET NW SUITE 1399
WASHINGTON DC  20045



b.
This format must be used when information in addition to the addressee's
name and address are printed on the address label or the face of the piece in
the address block.




**************FIRM                  20045
XLQ987NOV  81ZNJDMNYDEMRAS3712345#
JQD COMPANY INCORPORATED
529 14TH STREET NW SUITE 1399
WASHINGTON DC  20045



642.33  Prohibited Formats.
The following are examples of formats containing information or structures
not permitted.

a.
Keyline printed above optional endorsement line.  Optional endorsement line
not properly aligned on right side (not right-justified).



017  00  000  00  004157          GARCIA
* * * * * * * * *5-DIGIT 20013
J GARCIA
PO BOX 289
WASHINGTON DC  20013



b.
Keyline on same line as optional endorsement line.  Optional endorsement
line must be the top line and, if there is keyline information, it is
recommended that a blank line be between the address block and the keyline.



ME   01   BIL* * * *5-DIGIT               20013
J GARCIA
PO BOX 289
WASHINGTON DC      20013



c.
Stray characters in optional endorsement line.  Optional endorsement line
not aligned properly in address block (neither rightnor left-justified).



1 * * * K* * * 5-DIGIT 20013
  9
  8 26*  !439*
  1 J GARCIA         *B
  PO BOX 289       8
  WASHINGTON DC
  20013



643  Irregular Parcels (SPRs)

643.1 Exemptions From Packaging Requirements

643.11 Same Destination.
Irregular parcels 1/2 inch or more thick need not be made up into packages
(as required by 641.11), if the packages would be made up to the
same destination as the sacks in which they would be placed.  For example, 10
or more such irregular parcels which are addressed to the same 5-digit
destination need not be packaged if placed in a 5-digit sack; but, they must
be packaged if placed in an optional city, 3-digit, optional SCF, optional
SDC, state, or mixed states sack.  Likewise, if there are 10 or more pieces
for the same 3-digit area, but not to the same 5-digit ZIP Code (nor to the
same optional city, if optional sorts are made), they need not be packaged if
placed in a 3-digit sack; but, they must be packaged if placed in an optional
SCF, optional SDC, state, or mixed states sack.  Each separate mailing of
irregular parcels must meet the minimum volume requirements for mailing at the
bulk third-class rates.

643.12 Ten or Less Per Sack.
Items which are so large that 10 or less pieces fill a sack need not be
packaged.

643.2 Authorizing Commingling.
Rates and classification centers may authorize the commingling of several
permit mailings of irregular parcels in order to achieve a finer presort,
provided adequate means are available to ensure that proper postage is paid.
This normally requires that the mailings be made under the provisions of
145.7, 145.8, and 145.9.  Each separate bulk
mailing which is commingled must meet the minimum piece or minimum weight
requirements for bulk rates.

643.3 Waiving Bundling Requirements.
When authorizing commingling, regions may waive the requirements for
bundling to 5-digit and 3-digit destinations if doing so results in a finer
makeup of at least 50% of the mail.

643.4 Labeling Sacks.
Sacks labeled for commingled irregular parcels must be identified with the
words 3C COMM IRREG on the second (contents) line.


644  Palletization Requirements

644.1 Packages and Bundles Presented on Pallets

Exhibit 644.1
(NOT SHOWN)


DMM645Exhibit 644.1]



644.11 Application

644.111  General.
The general manager, rates and classification center (RCC), serving the
post office where the mailer is located, may authorize the preparation of
third-class mail in packages and/or bundles presented on pallets instead of in
sacks.  The owner of the mail or the mailing agent, on behalf of the client,
must submit Form 3856 for each product 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 owner/mailer may obtain
Form 3856 from the field division director, marketing and communications.

644.112 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 must be sent to the TMSC.  Applications not
recommended for approval must be sent 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
owner/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.

644.12 Package Preparation

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

644.122 Weight and Volume

a.
Except as provided in 644.122b and 644.122c, each
package must contain a minimum of 10 pieces and must not exceed 20 pounds.

b.
Firm packages may contain as few as two pieces 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 10 pieces remaining which are destined for a single 5-digit,
optional multicoded city, 3-digit, or optional SCF, those pieces may be made
into a package and placed on an appropriate level pallet.  Example:  If after
all  required and optional packages have been prepared,  there are five pieces
destined for the same SCF and  there are no 5-digit, optional multicoded city,
3-digit, or optional SCF packages into which those pieces should have been
placed, those pieces may be made into a package and placed on an appropriate
level pallet.

644.123 Sortation.
See Exhibit 644.1. *viewer dmm645.pcx*

a.
Mailers must presort pieces and secure them into packages as required in
641.122a through 641.122e and 641.41.

Note:  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 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 pieces
must be secured together in a single package, provided there are a minimum of
10 pieces in the package as required in 644.121.  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.

d.
State distribution center (SDC), 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 under 641.135e through
641.135g.

644.124 Package Labels.
Mailers must label packages with either pressure-sensitive labels as
provided in 641.122a through 641.122e and 641.41,
or the optional endorsement line as provided in 642.

Exception:  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 641.411b.

644.125 Physical Characteristics

a.  Packages on BMC Pallets.
All packages that are placed on BMC pallets must be machinable on BMC
parcel sorters and must be prepared using shrink-wrap.  Since shrink-wrap
alone may not make a package machinable, it is recommended that each package
be both banded around the length and girth and shrink-wrapped.  The mailer
must satisfy the Postal Service that the packages are machinable.  This may be
verified by having the mailing post office test-process 10 or more packages of
each representative package size expected in the mailings on two or more
passes through the BMC.  The potential of the packages to cause damage to
other mail must also be tested while the packages are being processed on BMC
primary and secondary parcel sorters.

b. Other Packages.
Mailers must secure packages 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 packages.
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 package.  The use of metal strapping or wire to
secure packages is prohibited.

Note:  Mailers must not include packages for SDC, state, and mixed
states destinations in the palletized portion of a mailing.  Mailers must sack
packages for these destinations under 641.135e through
641.135g.

644.13 Optional Bundle Preparation

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

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

644.133 Sortation.
Mailers may consolidate packages into bundles in the same manner as sacks
are prepared (see 641.135a through 641.135c and
641.42.)  Pieces for optional SCF destinations must be prepared into
packages only.

Note:  Mailers must not include bundles for SDC, state, and mixed
states destinations in the palletized portion of a mailing.  Mailers must sack
bundles for these destinations under 641.135e through
641.135g.

644.134 Bundle Labels

a. Bundles Placed on BMC Pallets.
Except for firm, carrier route, and 5-digit bundles, mailers must label all
bundles containing packages for levels of sortation finer than the bundle
destination with a facing slip containing only the destination information
required for sack labels in 641.135b and 641.135c,
641.426, 641.437, and a contents line.  Two zeros must be
added to the end of all 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes that may appear on the
destination line of bundle labels.  These requirements assist processing on
BMC parcel sorters.  (The facing slip must completely cover the address and
package label on the top piece in the bundle to prevent confusion concerning
the contents of the bundle.)  Five-digit bundles, not labeled with a facing
slip, must bear a red Label D or the 5-digit optional endorsement line if the
pieces in the bundle bear the carrier route information as provided in
641.411b.

b. Other Bundles.
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 641.135b and
641.135c, 641.426, and 641.427.  Examples of
bundles requiring facing slips are

(1)
a carrier routes bundle containing carrier packages for different carrier
routes within the same 5-digit ZIP Code area,

(2)
a 3-digit bundle containing all 5-digit packages for the same 3-digit ZIP
Code area, and

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

644.135 Physical Characteristics

a. Bundles on BMC Pallets.
All bundles placed on BMC pallets must be machinable on BMC parcel sorters
and must be prepared using shrink-wrap.  Since shrink-wrap alone may not make
a bundle machinable, it is recommended that each bundle be both banded around
the length and girth and shrink-wrapped.  The mailer must satisfy the Postal
Service that the bundles are machinable.  This may 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 the BMC
parcel sorters.  The potential of the bundles to cause damage to other mail
must also be tested while these bundles are being processed on BMC primary and
secondary parcel sorters.

b. Other Bundles.
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.

644.14 Pallet Preparation

644.141 Weight and Volume

a.
The minimum mail load for a pallet is 650 pounds of mail.

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 (the combined weight of the pallet and the
mail) must not exceed 2,000 pounds.

644.142 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 (optional bulk mail center
(BMC) pallets).  When there are 650 or more pounds of mail for a destination,
the mailer must prepare the appropriate level (see Exhibit 644.1). *viewer
dmm645.pcx*

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
under 644.143.  The labels must contain the information required for
5-digit sack labels in 641.135a in the format required by that
section.  When a pallet contains copies claimed at destination delivery unit
(DDU) rates and copies claimed at other rates (e.g., DDU 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 624.744c).

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 under
644.143.  The labels must contain the information required for
optional multicoded city sack labels in 641.135b, in the format
required by that section.  When a pallet contains copies claimed at
destination delivery unit (DDU) rates and copies claimed at other rates (e.g.,
DDU 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 624.744c).

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 under 644.143.
The pallet labels must contain the information required for 3-digit sacks in
641.135c in the format required by that section.  When a pallet
contains copies claimed at destination delivery unit (DDU) rates and copies
claimed at other rates (e.g., DDU 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 624.744c).

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 under 644.143.  The pallet labels
must contain the information required for SCF sacks in 641.135d in
the format required by that section.  When a pallet contains copies claimed at
destination delivery unit (DDU) rates and copies claimed at other rates (e.g.,
DDU 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 624.744c).

e. Optional BMC Pallets.
After all required 5-digit, optional multicoded city, required 3-digit, and
required SCF pallets have been prepared, a BMC pallet may be prepared when
there are 650 or more pounds of packages and/or bundles remaining that are
destined for ZIP Codes served by the same BMC.  Pallets must be labeled to the
destination BMC in accordance with 644.143.  The pallet label must
contain the information required for destination BMC sacks under
641.222 in the format required by that section.  Packages and bundles
placed on BMC pallets must be machinable (see 644.124 and
644.134). Mailers wishing to take advantage of the DBMC rate must
prepare and label pallets as shown in Exhibit 122.63s.  All other
pallet preparation requirements apply.

Note:  The contents line on pallet labels must reflect the processing
category of the addressed pieces.

Note:  BMC pallets may contain pieces that are eligible for the DBMC
rate and pieces that are ineligible for the DMBC rate destined for the ASF ZIP
Code ranges served by that BMC as shown in Exhibit 624.721.  The
mailer must provide documentation showing the pieces that qualify for the DBMC
rate.  (Example: A BMC pallet for BMC MPLS/ST PAUL 55204 that is deposited at
the Minneapolis/St. Paul BMC can contain mail for MPLS/ST PAUL BMC ZIP Codes
shown in Exhibit 624.721 as well as mail for Fargo ND ASF ZIP Codes
565, 567, 580-588, but, in that circumstance, the pieces for the Fargo ND ZIP
Codes would not qualify for the DBMC rate.)

644.143 Pallet Labels

a. General.
The mailer must affix at least two clearly visible labels placed on two
adjacent sides of each pallet.  Pallet labels must be white and at least 8 by
11 inches, with letters at least 1/2 inch high.  Labels must contain the
information required in 644.142a through 644.142e.

b. Destination Line.
When 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 and/or bundles,
the contents line of the pallet labels must show the words CARRIER ROUTES, or
the authorized abbreviation, after the description of contents (3C Flats, 3C
LTRS, etc.)  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
644.143c above.

Note:  Five-digit presort level rate packages and bundles and
third-class carrier route rate packages and bundles may not be part of the
same mailing (see 652.2) and they may not be palletized on the same
pallet except when authorized under 644.17.

e. Extraneous Information.
Extraneous information is information placed on a pallet label by the
mailer or list house providing the labels, which is not required by the Postal
Service.  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)
No extraneous information appears on or between the lines reserved for
Postal Service required information.

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

Note:  It is recommended that extraneous information appear only on
the bottom portion of the pallet label.

644.144 Physical Characteristics

a. General.
Pallets which are 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 volume
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 pallet must be on the bottom.

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

644.15 Presentation of Mailings.
Sacks containing packages for SDC, 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.

644.16 Renewal or Cancellation of Authorization

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

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

644.17 Commingling Mixed Rate Level Mailings on Pallets

644.171 General.
The following procedures and requirements apply to mailers who want to
present packages of third-class mail which are subject to more than one
presort level rate--basic presort, 3/5 presort, or carrier route presort--on
the same pallet.

644.172 Eligibility Requirements.
The following prerequisites must be met prior to a mailer receiving an
authorization to commingle third-class mixed level rate mailings on pallets:

a.
The mailer must be an authorized plant-load mailer with a detached mail
unit located at the mailer's plant.

b.
The mailer must be authorized to palletize each specific type of mailing
under 644.1.

Exception:  A mailer that cannot meet the minimum palletization
requirements without commingling mixed level rate mailings may still qualify
under 644.172b, if

(1)
the mailing meets minimum pallet requirements with a commingling
authorization,


(2)
the mailer applies for and receives authorization to palletize after
commingling has been authorized,

(3)
a copy of the authorization to palletize is provided to the post
office where the mailings are to be entered, and

(4)
no mailings are prepared or submitted under the commingling procedures
until the authorizations for commingling and palletization have been granted.

644.173 Request for Authorization

a.  General

(1)
Mailers must submit requests in writing to the rates and classification
center (RCC) in the region where the mailings are to be entered.  Mailers
cannot commingle third-class mixed level rate mailings on pallets until they
have received written authorization from the RCC to do so.  Except as provided
in 644.173b, requests must contain the following information:

(a)
Name of mailer preparing the mailing.

(b)
Plant location.

(c)
Name of product, publication, or mailpiece.

(d)
Name of owner of mail.

(e)
Permit number to be used on mailings.

(f)
Anticipated date of first mailing when authorized.

(g)
A copy of Form 3815.

(h)
A copy of the authorization to palletize.

(i)
A sample of the required computer-generated pallet listings.

(2)
A separate request must be submitted for each different mail product which
is prepared under these procedures.  Authorizations are not granted to a
mailer or mailer's plant for all third-class mailings prepared.  Each
authorization is only for a specific mail product.  However, if the
documentation for more than one product is derived from the same computer
software program, more than one request may be submitted on one application,
provided the name of each mail product is listed on the application.

b.  Concurrent Filing with Form 3856.
Mailers may concurrently apply for authorization to palletize under
644.1 as well as to commingle mixed level rate mailings of the same
mailpiece/publication on pallets.  In order to do this, mailers must submit
the following:

(1)
A completed Form 3856 under 644.111, for each different mail
product.  Item 8D must be checked YES.

(2)
The information required by 644.173a(1)(e),
644.173a(1)(f) (if the date is different from the one shown in item 4
on Form 3856), 644.173a(1)(g), and 644.173a(1)(i).

644.174 Termination of Authorization.
Each authorization to commingle mixed level rate mailings on pallets
expires concurrently with the pallet authorization and may not exceed 2 years
from the effective date of the authorization.  A new request must be submitted
if a renewal of the authorization is desired.

644.175 Preparation Requirements

a. Summary Listing.
At the time of mailing, the mailer is required to provide a
computer-generated list, in ZIP Code sequence, which describes the contents of
each pallet, and is numbered identically as the corresponding pallets.  At a
minimum, the list must contain the following information:

(1)
The number of pieces to each carrier route within each 5-digit ZIP Code.

(2)
The number of pieces that qualify for the basic presort rate and for the
3/5 presort rate for each 5-digit ZIP Code.

(3)
The number of pieces that qualify for the basic presort rate and for the
3/5 presort rate for each 3-digit ZIP Code prefix.

(4)
A summary listing of the total number of pieces qualifying for each rate
category contained on each pallet.

(5)
A summary listing of the total number of pieces qualifying for each rate
category within each mailing or mailing segment.

(6)
The name of the mailer, mailer's location, the owner of the mail, the
mailing segment and the entry post office.

Note:  The mailer must retain, for possible postal inspection, an
additional copy of the individual detailed summary listings up to 90 days
after the mailing is dispatched.

b. Carrier Route Endorsement.
The endorsement CARRIER ROUTE PRESORT or its authorized abbreviation CAR-RT
SORT may only be printed on pieces which qualify for the carrier route presort
level rate.  The mailer may, however, print carrier route information (CRO1,
for example) on each piece in the mailing.

c. Pallet Preparation

(1) Labeling

(a)
The pallet label and the corresponding computer-generated list must be
identically numbered so they may be identified and used for presort and
postage verification.  Mailers must place this number in the lower right-hand
corner of the pallet label in a print size that can be easily recognized.

(b)
Mailers must prepare pallet labels under 644.143.

(2) Preparation

(a)
In order to facilitate postal verification, the mailer must, at the time of
mailing, indicate to postal employees how packages and bundles are placed on
the pallets.  For example, are all carrier route packages for all ZIP Code
destinations placed on the pallet, followed by all 5-digit packages, 3-digit
packages, etc., or are carrier route and 5-digit packages for a 5-digit ZIP
Code destination placed on the pallet followed by carrier route and 5-digit
packages for the next 5-digit ZIP Code destination placed on the pallet, etc.

(b)
The mailer must shrink-wrap, stretch-wrap or otherwise secure mail to
pallets after mail on the pallets has been verified by Postal Service
employees.

(c)
When top caps are used on pallets which weigh less than 1,000 pounds, the
mailer must write the top cap's tare weight on the pallet label or in another
prominent location.

d. Nonidentical Weight Mail.
Nonidentical weight pieces may only be included in a commingled mailing if
the mailing is prepared under an optional procedure authorization or if
correct postage is affixed to each nonidentical weight piece.
