CONTENTS SUMMARY:
CONSUMER'S GUIDE TO POSTAL SERVICES AND PRODUCTS

Getting mail to you
Getting mail to us
Choosing the right class of mail
Sending your mail abroad
Addressing and packaging your mail
Using special mailing services
Benefiting from other customer services
Using our consumer services

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    United States Postal Service

Consumer's Guide to Postal Services and Products


     * GETTING MAIL TO YOU How the Postal Service gets your mail to
       you:
          + Central Point Delivery
          + City and Rural Delivery
          + Curbline Delivery
          + General Delivery
          + Mail Forwarding
          + Post Office Box and Caller Service
     * GETTING MAIL TO US How to get mail into the Postal Delivery
       System.
     * CHOOSING THE RIGHT CLASS OF MAIL What classes of mail are
       available:
          + Express Mail
          + Priority Mail
          + First-Class Mail
          + Second-Class Mail
          + Third-Class Mail
          + Fourth-Class Mail (Parcel Post)
     * SENDING YOUR MAIL ABROAD How to send mail to foreign countries
       and military bases:
          + Customs
          + INTELPOST
          + International Mail
          + Parcels and Publications sent to Military Bases
          + Recorded Delivery
     * ADDRESSING AND PACKAGING YOUR MAIL Regulations and helpful
       hints on preparing mail for delivery:
          + Abbreviations
          + Addressing Mail
          + ZIP Code
          + ZIP+4
          + Minimum Size Standards
          + Nonstandard Size Mail
          + Packaging and Addressing Parcels
     * USING SPECIAL MAILING SERVICES Available special services:
          + Certificate of Mailing
          + Certified Mail
          + Collect on Delivery (COD)
          + Insurance
          + Merchandise Return Service
          + Registered Mail
          + Restricted Delivery
          + Return Receipt
          + Return Receipt for Merchandise
          + Special Delivery
          + Special Handling
          + Special Service Endorsements
     * BENEFITING FROM OTHER CUSTOMER SERVICES Other services
       available at your Post Office:
          + Cash Receipt
          + Easy Stamp Services
          + Mailgram
          + Money Orders
          + Passport Application
          + Personal Checks
          + Postage Meters
          + Stamp Collecting
     * USING OUR CONSUMER SERVICES How to deal with problems:
          + Claims
          + Complaints and Suggestions
          + Inquiries
          + Mail Fraud/Mail Order Problems
          + Pornographic and Undesirable Mail
          + Postal Answer Line
          + Refunds
          + Unsolicited Merchandise


   Address comments to: customer@email.usps.gov

-----
 GETTING MAIL TO YOU


   Our mission is to provide you with daily mail service. Our
   responsibility is to deliver this service as efficiently as possible.
   There are many ways in which an individual customer may receive mail.
   The type of delivery you receive depends on several factors, primarily
   physical location. Some of the common delivery methods are described
   below.

CENTRAL POINT DELIVERY



   Central point service provides delivery to several addresses at one
   delivery point. Carriers can serve customers quickly and at less cost
   than if boxes were located separately. This, along with curbline
   delivery, is one of the two service options offered to new residential
   areas.

   Neighborhood delivery and collection box units (NDCBUs) are one
   example of central point service. These units are conveniently located
   and provide for the delivery and collection of mail. The delivery
   compartments are individually locked and large enough to accommodate
   magazines, merchandise samples, and several days' accumulation of
   mail. Outgoing mail may be deposited in a designated compartment.
   Parcel lockers, which are installed in many locations alongside
   NDCBUs, save the customer trips to the post office to pick up
   packages. With this service, customers enjoy greater mail security and
   convenience.

CITY AND RURAL DELIVERY



   City and rural delivery services are provided from more than 30,000
   delivery post offices across the nation. Generally, for rural delivery
   to be established, roads must be passable year-round; mailboxes must
   be on the right-hand side of the road on the carrier's line of travel;
   and extensions of delivery routes must serve at least one family for
   each additional mile of carrier travel.

   Areas to be served by city delivery must have paved or improved
   streets; street signs and house numbers displayed; and 50 percent of
   the building lots developed with residences or other structures. For
   more information, call or visit your local post office.

CURBLINE DELIVERY



   Curbside service provides delivery to customer boxes located at curbs
   that can be safely and conveniently served by carriers from their
   vehicles. If there are unusual conditions that make it impractical or
   difficult to serve boxes at the curb such as excessive street parking/
   customers may install boxes at the edge of the sidewalk closest to
   their homes where they can all be served by the carrier from the
   sidewalk. The local post office makes this determination after all
   other delivery options, including central point delivery, have been
   explored.

GENERAL DELIVERY



   General delivery is used primarily at offices without carrier delivery
   or those serving transients and other customers who do not have a
   permanent mailing address. Mail endorsed "General Delivery" is placed
   in a general delivery case. It is delivered to the addressee upon
   request at a retail window and with proper identification. In offices
   with carrier delivery, customers with sufficient reasons may also
   receive their mail through general delivery.

MAIL FORWARDING



   Before you move, complete Form 3575, Change of Address Order, at your
   local post office. Whenever possible, notify your post office at least
   one month before your move so that we can keep your cards and letters
   coming. Also, be sure to notify your correspondents.

   Be sure that the effective date of the change is on all notification
   forms. Your complete new address should include any directional
   (north, east, south, west); the correct suffix (ST,AVE, RD, etc.);
   apartment number, rural route number, box number; and correct ZIP Code
   or ZIP+4 code (if known). These are all essential to proper
   addressing.

   First-Class Mail, such as cards and letters, is forwarded for one year
   only. There is no charge for this service. Second-class mail,
   including magazines and newspapers, is forwarded at no charge for 60
   days from the effective date of your change-of-address order.
   Publishers are required to subscribe to our address correction
   services. So, normally, your second-class publications will not need
   to be forwarded for longer than 60 days. This applies to permanent
   moves only. Publishers are not provided address correction information
   for temporary moves. So, if you file a temporary change of address,
   you will need to notify the publisher in advance of your move and
   again before you return.

   If you go away for less than 30 days you may want to use our hold mail
   service. Your local post office can provide additional information and
   guidance regarding temporary changes of address and holding mail.

   Forwarding of third- and fourth-class mail varies greatly depending on
   the level of service guaranteed by the sender. Contact your post
   office for additional information about forwarding these classes of
   mail.

POST OFFICE BOX AND CALLER SERVICE



   Post office box service is available at most post offices for a small
   semiannual or annual fee. There are several post office box sizes from
   which to choose. The fee varies with the size of the post office box.
   Post office box delivery is a secure and private means of getting your
   mail any time the post office lobby is open.

   With post offices conveniently located near most businesses, you can
   get a jump on your day by receiving your mail at a post office box
   near where you work.

   Caller (pickup) service also is available for a fee. This service is
   for customers who receive a large volume of mail or who need a box
   number address when no boxes are available. Call your post office for
   more information .

-----
 GETTING MAIL TO US


   When you have a letter or package to mail, there are literally
   thousands of ways to get it to us. There are over 40,000 post offices
   around the country where you can deposit your mail. We have over
   292,000 regular, and 26,000 Express Mail collection boxes.

   For a nominal fee we will make a special trip to you to pick up as
   many prepaid Express Mail and Priority Mail packages as you have to
   mail. Just call 1-800 -222-1811.

   If you live on a rural route, you can purchase stamps from your rural
   carrier to place on your letters. Place letters in your roadside box,
   raise the flag, and your carrier will pick them up. You can mail
   parcels, send registered or certified mail, insure your packages, or
   purchase almost any other postal product or service through your rural
   carrier. Contact your local post office for information on how to
   accomplish this, or talk to your rural carrier.

   If you receive curbline delivery service from a city letter carrier,
   you can place postage affixed mail in your mailbox, raise the flag,
   and it will be collected regardless of whether there is any mail to be
   delivered to you. In residential areas with door delivery, letter
   carriers, for efficiency, are not required to check the mailboxes for
   outgoing mail if there is no mail to be delivered.

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 CHOOSING THE RIGHT CLASS OF MAIL


EXPRESS MAIL - Next Day Service



   Express Mail is our fastest service. It offers guaranteed delivery
   service 365 days a year. We also offer Express Mail International
   Service to over 200 territories and countries, and we are the only
   company to offer APO/FPO Express Mail shipments at domestic prices.

   To use Express Mail Next Day Service, take your shipment to any
   designated Express Mail post office, generally by 5 p.m.; deposit it
   in an Express Mail collection box; call for on demand pickup; or hand
   it to your letter carrier. Your local post office can give you
   specific Express Mail acceptance times for your area.

   Your mailing will be delivered to the addressee by noon the next day,
   if you are mailing between major markets, or no later than 3 p.m. the
   next day. Express Mail can also be picked up at the destination post
   office as early as 10 a.m. the next day. Destinations that can be
   reached by noon or 3 p.m. the next day from your city may be
   determined by using the Express Mail Next Day Service Network
   Directory. If you do not have a copy, ask your post office to check
   the destination for you, or call 1-800-222-1811 for specific Express
   Mail network information.

   Express Mail is convenient to use. There are more than 40,000 post
   offices and 26,000 Express Mail boxes in which you can deposit your
   shipments. Also, your letter carrier or rural route carrier can accept
   prepaid Express Mail when your mail is delivered. On-demand pickup
   service is available. Call 1-800-222-1811 to arrange a pickup.

   We even supply you with mailing containers (envelopes, boxes, and
   tubes) and the necessary mailing labels at no additional charge.
   Customers find our 2-pound flat rate envelope very convenient to use.

   Express Mail service comes with a money-back postage guarantee if the
   Postal Service does not meet its service commitment. To receive your
   refund, apply at any post office by presenting the original customer
   receipt. Also, by calling 1-800-222-1811 at any time, you can find out
   the delivery status of your shipment.

   Merchandise is automatically insured up to $500 against loss or
   damage. Compensation for loss of negotiable items such as currency or
   bullion is limited to $15. Document reconstruction insurance is avail
   able up to $50,000 for nonnegotiable documents. Payment can be
   considered for reasonable costs incurred to reconstruct an exact
   duplicate of a lost or damaged nonnegotiable document. However, except
   for per page copying cost, indemnity is not paid for documents if
   copies of lost documents are available, or if they could have been
   made before mailing. As with all claims, there are specific procedures
   to be followed, time limits, and qualifying conditions. Contact your
   local post office or your local Postal Service Consumer Affairs and
   Claims Office for more information .

   Other Express Mail services include Express Mail Custom Designed
   Service, Express Mail International Service, Express Mail Military
   Service, Express Mail Same Day Airport Service, and Express Mail Drop
   Shipment and Reshipment Services. You can pay for Express Mail with
   stamps, postage meter strips, or through an Express Mail Corporate
   Account. Also, in some cities, credit cards can be used. Call or visit
   your post office for details.

PRIORITY MAIL



   Priority Mail is First-Class Mail weighing more than 11 ounces. When
   the speed of Express Mail is not needed, but preferential handling is
   desired, use Priority Mail. Priority Mail offers faster delivery at
   the least expensive rate in the industry. You also have the option of
   sending mail weighing less than 11 ounces as Priority Mail. The
   maximum weight for Priority Mail is 70 pounds, and the maximum size is
   108 inches in length and girth combined. Priority Mail should be well
   identified. Your local post office will supply Priority Mail stickers,
   labels, envelopes, and boxes at no extra charge. You will find our
   2-pound flat rate envelope convenient to use. A presort discount is
   available for large mailings. Priority Mail drop shipment service is
   also available. Priority Mail can be insured, registered, certified,
   or sent COD for an additional charge. Contact your local post office
   for additional information .

FIRST-CLASS MAIL



   Use First-Class Mail for letters, postcards, postal cards, greeting
   cards, personal notes, and for sending checks and money orders. Use
   Priority Mail for First-Class items weighing more than 11 ounces.

   Additional services such as certificates of mailing, certified,
   registered, COD, and restricted delivery can be purchased at the
   option of the mailer for First Class Mail. Insurance can also be
   purchased. However, insured articles mailed at the First-Class rate
   must contain merchandise.

   All First-Class Mail receives prompt handling and transportation. If
   your First-Class Mail is not letter size, make sure to mark it
   "First-Class" or use a large green diamond bordered envelope.

   First Class Mail is generally delivered overnight to locally
   designated cities and within 2 days to locally designated states.
   Delivery by the third day can be expected for remaining outlying
   areas.

SECOND-CLASS MAIL



   Only publishers and registered news agents approved for second-class
   mailing privileges may mail at the second class rates of postage.
   Other rates such as First-Class, single-piece third- or fourth class
   must be paid for magazines and newspapers mailed by the general
   public. Call or visit your post office for S additional information.

THIRD-CLASS MAIL



   Third-class mail is used primarily by retailers, catalogers, and other
   advertisers to promote their products and services. Advertising by
   mail allows advertisers to reach existing customers or to target new
   customers by sending messages to specific neighborhoods or to certain
   demographic groups that are likely to be interested in their products.
   It also allows the advertisers to convey a significant amount of
   information about their products and to measure the results of their
   advertisements. Churches and other charitable organizations may take
   advantage of the attractive nonprofit rates for their large mailings.
   The minimum volume needed to take advantage of either the regular
   third-class rates or the nonprofit rates is 200 pieces per mailing.
   The pieces must weigh less than 16 ounces and be prepared in a manner
   that allows for efficient handling.

   Third class also includes single-piece rates that anyone may use to
   send individual parcels weighing less than 1 pound. If faster service
   is needed, use First-Class Mail, Priority Mail, or Express Mail.

FOURTH-CLASS MAIL (PARCEL POST)



   Use this service for packages weighing 1 pound or more. If you enclose
   or attach First Class Mail, First Class postage must usually be paid
   for the enclosure or attachment. (Ask your postmaster about incidental
   First-Class attachments or enclosures that do not require separate
   payment of First-Class postage.) You can purchase insurance to cover
   the value of articles mailed at the fourth-class rate. (For details,
   see insurance .) Packages mailed within the continental United
   States may weigh up to 70 pounds and measure up to 108 inches in
   length and girth combined. Your post office also has information about
   lower local mailing rates and special mailing rates for books,
   catalogs, and international mailings.

   Our delivery goal for parcel post is 2-9 days, depending on distance.
   For faster delivery of parcels, use Priority Mail or Express Mail.

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 SENDING YOUR MAIL ABROAD


CUSTOMS



   All mail originating in foreign countries and U.S. overseas
   territories, other than the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, is subject to
   U.S. Customs Service examination upon entering the United States. Many
   imported goods are subject to the payment of U.S. Customs duty. When
   dutiable merchandise enters by mail, the amount due is determined by
   the Customs Service, but is collected by the Postal Service. When the
   duty is collected on behalf of the Customs Service, the Postal Service
   also collects a customs clearance and delivery fee on each dutiable
   item. This fee offsets the cost of collection and remittance. For
   Customs information. write to:

   UNITED STATES CUSTOMS SERVICE
   TREASURY DEPARTMENT
   1301 CONSTITUTION AVENUE NW
   WASHINGTON DC 20229-0001


   Customs forms are required when you send dutiable letter packages,
   small packets, printed matter, and parcels to international
   destinations. The specific customs form you will need is governed by
   the type of mail and the regulations of the destinating country.

   Individual countries may restrict or prohibit certain articles.
   Articles that are prohibited by the destinating country are
   nonmailable. Articles that are restricted are subject to the import
   requirements of that country. Specific information about restrictions
   and prohibitions for individual countries, and the forms required for
   mailing are listed in the International Mail Manual. This manual is
   available at your local post office.

INTELPOST



   INTELPOST (International Electronic Post) is an international
   facsimile message service available between the United States and more
   than 40 foreign countries. A black and white image of the document
   (text and/or graphic) is printed and delivered in the destination
   country. Depending on your choice of delivery option, your facsimile
   message is delivered either the same day or the next day. Call your
   local post office for more information.

INTERNATIONAL MAIL



   You can send airmail and surface mail to almost all foreign countries
   in a variety of ways:
     * EMS (Express Mail International Service)- high-priority or other
       urgently needed items, including merchandise, can be sent to more
       than 200 countries and territories around the world by Express
       Mail International Service.
     * Aerogrammes-air letter sheets that can be folded and sealed to
       form an envelope.
     * Letters/Postcards and Letter Packages-items of mail containing
       personal handwritten or typewritten communications.
     * Printed Matter-regular printed matter, books and sheet music,
       publishers' periodicals, catalogs, and directories.
   Small Packets-items of merchandise, commercial samples, or documents
       other than personal correspondence.
   Parcel Post-packages of merchandise or any other articles not required
       to be mailed at letter postage rates.
   Registry service, with a very limited level of indemnity protection,
       is available for letter mail, small packets, and all printed
       matter. (For details, see Registered Mail.) Insured parcel
       service is also available to many countries.



   All categories of international mail, except Express Mail , may be
   sent either airmail or surface mail. However, all letters and
   postcards originating in the United States and intended for delivery
   in either Canada or Mexico receive First-Class Mail treatment in the
   United States and airmail treatment in those two countries. Check with
   your local post office for specific information about the country to
   which you are mailing.

   Publication 51, International Postal Rates and Fees, is available at
   all post offices. This booklet contains general mailing information
   and current postal rates and fees for postal services from the United
   States to foreign countries.

PARCELS AND PUBLICATIONS SENT TO MILITARY BASES



   Parcel Airlift (PAL) service and space available mail (SAM) are only
   for personal parcels and publications mailed to military personnel
   overseas at the third- and fourth class rates.

   Packages up to 30 pounds and 60 inches in combined length and girth
   may be sent by PAL. This mail is flown to a military mail dispatch
   center where it becomes space available mail for airlift overseas. You
   pay the regular parcel post rate to the military mail dispatch center,
   plus a small fee for the air service, depending on weight.

   Parcels of any class that weigh up to 15 pounds and are not more than
   60 inches in combined length and girth marked "SAM" also are airlifted
   overseas on a space available basis to military post offices. However,
   this mail is transported by surface within the United States to a
   military mail dispatch center. There is no additional fee for space
   available mail.

   Express Mail Military Service is available for sending urgent letters,
   documents, and packages to overseas military APO/FPO addresses. We
   deliver to more than 300 military post offices. Postage for Express
   Mail Military Service is the same as for domestic Express Mail.

RECORDED DELIVERY



   Recorded delivery service, like certified mail service, is intended
   for letters, documents, and items of little or no value. It is an
   appropriate service if you want to receive a record of mailing on
   international mail, and want to know that a record of delivery exists,
   in the event an inquiry is necessary. For an added fee, you can
   purchase a return receipt at the time of mailing.

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 ADDRESSING AND PACKAGING YOUR MAIL


ABBREVIATIONS



   Abbreviations used in addressing can be confusing at times. When in
   doubt, check these lists. In addition to the official abbreviations
   for states, territories, and the District of Columbia, we have
   included the official abbreviations for street suffixes, directionals,
   and locators.

  STATES/TERRITORIES

AL Alabama            NE Nebraska
AK Alaska             NV Nevada
AS American Samoa     NH New Hampshire
AZ Arizona            NJ New Jersey
AR Arkansas           NM New Mexico
CA California         NY New York
CO Colorado           NC North Carolina
CT Connecticut        ND North Dakota
DE Delaware           MP No. Mariana Islands
DC Dist. of Columbia  OH Ohio
FL Florida            OK Oklahoma
GA Georgia            OR Oregon
GU Guam               PA Pennsylvania
HI Hawaii             PR Puerto Rico
ID Idaho              RI Rhode Island
IL Illinois           SC South Carolina
IN Indiana            SD South Dakota
IA Iowa               TN Tennessee
KS Kansas             TX Texas
KY Kentucky           TT Trust Territory
LA Louisiana          UT Utah
ME Maine              VT Vermont
MD Maryland           VI Virgin Islands U.S.
MA Massachusetts      VA Virginia
MI Michigan           WA Washington
MN Minnesota          WV West Virginia
MS Mississippi        WI Wisconsin
MO Missouri           WY Wyoming
MT Montana


  ADDRESSES

AVE Avenue         PL Place
BLVD Boulevard     RD Road
CT Court           STA Station
CTR Center         ST Street
CIR Circle         TPKE Turnpike
DR Drive           VLY Valley
EXPY Expressway
HTS Heights        APT Apartment
HWY Highway        RM Room
IS Island          STE Suite
JCT Junction       PLZ Plaza
LK Lake
LN Lane            N North
MTN Mountain       E East
PKY Parkway        S South
                   W West


ADDRESSING MAIL



   We have thousands of dedicated employees working with the most
   advanced scanning and sorting machines. The better the input, the
   quicker and more efficiently these machines run. Following these
   simple guidelines when you address mail will help us a lot in getting
   your mail to the addressee.

  RETURN ADDRESS - BE SURE TO INCLUDE YOUR:
     * Name on the top line.
     * Street address, post office box number, or rural route number and
       box number on the next line.
     * City, state, and ZIP Code or ZIP+4 code. Also include "USA" if
       mail is going to a foreign country.

  DESTINATION ADDRESS - BE SURE TO INCLUDE YOUR:
     * Recipient's name (and/or company name if applicable).
     * Recipient's street address, post office box number, rural route
       number and box number, or highway contract route number. In
       addition, include the following in the address line:
          + Suffix: AVE (Avenue), ST (Street), DR (Drive), RD (Road), PL
            (Place), CIR (Circle), etc.
          + Directional: N (North), S (South), E (East), W (West), NE,
            NW, SE, or SW.
          + Locator: RM (Room), STE (Suite), APT (Apartment) number, etc.
     * Recipient's city, state, and ZIP Code or ZIP+4 code if known. For
       international mail, include the city or town, provincial or state
       name. The applicable foreign postal code, if known, should go on
       the same line as, and in front of, the city or town name.
     * The country name, in capital letters, should be on the last line
       of the address for international mail only.

  FORMAT
     * Capitalize everything, using plain block letters. No matter how
       legible your handwriting may be, machines have trouble reading
       script.
     * Omit all punctuation in the address, except the hyphen in the
       ZIP+4 code.
     * Use common abbreviations found in Publication 65, National
       Five-Digit ZIP Code and Post Office Directory, available in post
       office lobbies.
     * Use the two-letter state abbreviations listed above.
     * Use complete and correct ZIP Codes or ZIP+4 codes. Contact your
       local post office for ZIP Code information or check out our
       on-line lookup.

  DUAL ADDRESSING



   When a post office box number and a street address are used, make sure
   that the place where you want the mail delivered appears on the line
   immediately above the city, state, and ZIP Code line and that the ZIP
   Code or ZIP+4 code corresponds to that address. For example:

   (ZIP+4 corresponds to post office box)
   GRAND PRODUCTS INC
   475 LENFANT PLZ SW
   PO BOX 320
   WASHINGTON DC 20260-6320
   Mail will be delivered to PO Box.

   (ZIP+4 corresponds to street address)
   GRAND PRODUCTS INC
   PO BOX 320
   475 LENFANT PLZ SW RM 123
   WASHINGTON DC 20260-0123
   Mail will be delivered to street address.

  ZIP CODE



   The ZIP Code is extremely important in the processing and delivery of
   mail. While use of the ZIP Code is voluntary, we urge you to include
   it in your return address and the mailing address. If you need ZIP
   Code information, call your post office or check out our on-line
   lookup.

  ZIP+4



   In 1983, the Postal Service began use of an expanded ZIP Code called
   ZIP+4. It is composed of the original five-digit code plus a
   four-digit add-on. Use of the four-digit add-on number is voluntary.
   However, this add-on number helps the Postal Service direct mail
   efficiently and accurately. Even if you prefer not to use your
   four-digit add-on number, use of the correct five-digit ZIP Code helps
   prevent delays.

   The four-digit add-on number identifies a geographic segment within
   the five-digit delivery area such as a city block, an office building,
   an individual high-volume receiver of mail, or any other unit that
   would aid efficient mail sorting and delivery. Using the ZIP+4 code
   reduces the number of handlings and significantly decreases the
   potential for human error and the possibility of misdelivery. It also
   will lead to better control over postal costs and, in turn, postage
   rate stability.

   ZIP+4 is intended for use primarily by business mailers who prepare
   their mail with typewritten, machine-printed, or computerized
   addressing formats that can be read by the Postal Service's automated
   scanners during processing. Mailers who qualify receive a rate
   discount on First-Class nonpresorted ZIP+4 mailings of at least 250
   pieces and on presorted ZIP+4 mailings of at least 500 pieces. There
   are also ZIP+4 discounts for bulk business mail.

   For more information about ZIP+4 code requirements and incentives,
   contact your local postmaster or your nearest Postal Business
   Center. To find ZIP+4 codes, check out our on-line lookup.
MINIMUM SIZE STANDARDS



   Pieces 1/4 inch or less thick are mailable provided they are:
     * Rectangular in shape.
     * At least 3 1/2 inches high.
     * At least 5 inches long (items sent to foreign countries must be at
       least 5 1/2 inches long).
     * At least .007 inch thick (about the thickness of a postal card).



    Mail not meeting these standards is returned to the sender.
   Mailpieces more than 1/4 inch thick are considered nonstandard size
   mail and are subject to a surcharge in addition to applicable postage.

  NONSTANDARD SIZE MAIL



   First-Class Mail, single-piece third-class mail, regular printed
   items, or international letters weighing 1 ounce or less are
   nonstandard if they exceed any of the following size limits:
     * Height exceeds 6 1/8 inches, or
     * Length exceeds 11 1/2 inches, or
     * Thickness exceeds 3/4 inch, or
     * Length divided by height is less than 1.3 or more than 2.5 inches.



   Nonstandard mail is more costly to handle because it usually cannot be
   mechanically processed. A surcharge, in addition to the applicable
   postage and fees, is applied to each piece of nonstandard size mail
   for two reasons: it compensates the Postal Service for the added cost
   of manually handling nonstandard mail, and it promotes the use of
   Standard (machinable) R7e mail.
PACKAGING AND ADDRESSING PARCELS



   Proper packaging and addressing of parcels is the best way to prevent
   parcel damage and loss. Use a container strong enough to protect
   contents during handling, and cushion the contents to make sure that
   they do not move within the container. Place address information
   inside the container, preferably on the contents.

   Use pressure-sensitive filament or reinforced tape for closing and
   reinforcing the flaps and seams. Do not use wrapping paper or string.

   Be sure that the address is clearly printed on one side only. If the
   mailer endorses uninsured parcels "Carrier - leave if no response,"
   the carrier will deliver the parcel, rather than leave a delivery
   notice. Using this endorsement can save the addressee a trip to the
   post office. Publication 2, Packaging for Mailing, and Publication
   227, How to Prepare and Wrap Packages, contain more tips and are
   available from local post offices. Your local post office has
   packaging products for sale, including tape, envelopes, padded bags,
   corrugated boxes, mailing tubes, and cushioning material.

-----
 USING SPECIAL MAILING SERVICES


CERTIFICATE OF MAILING



   A certificate of mailing proves that an item was mailed. It can only
   be purchased at the time of mailing. It does not provide insurance
   coverage for loss or damage or provide proof of delivery. Your post
   office can provide a certificate of mailing for a fee, but no record
   is kept at the post office.

CERTIFIED MAIL



   Certified mail provides a mailing receipt, and a record of delivery is
   kept at the recipient's post office. A return receipt to provide the
   sender with proof of delivery can also be purchased for an additional
   fee. Certified mail service is available only for First-Class Mail or
   Priority Mail. Certified mail is not available for international mail.
   For valuables and irreplaceable items use insured or registered mail.

   No insurance coverage is provided.

COLLECT ON DELIVERY (COD)



   COD service is used when the mailer wants to collect for merchandise
   and/or postage when it is delivered. COD service can be used for
   merchandise sent by First-Class Mail, Express Mail, Priority Mail,
   third-class mail, or fourth-class mail. The merchandise must have been
   ordered by the addressee.

   Fees charged for this service include insurance protection against
   loss or damage. COD items may also be sent as registered mail. The
   maximum amount that can be collected for a COD article is $600.
   Insurance coverage is also limited to $600. (For further details, see
   Insurance .) This service is not available for international mail.

INSURANCE



   You can purchase insurance coverage up to $600 for third- and fourth
   class mail, as well as for third- and fourth-class matter mailed at
   the Priority Mail or First-Class Mail rate. Insurance coverage up to
   $25,000 can be purchased on our most secure service- registered mail.
   For articles insured for more than $50, a receipt of delivery is
   signed by the recipient and filed at the delivery post office. Do not
   insure your packages for more than their value. The amount of
   insurance coverage for loss will be the actual value, less
   depreciation. No payments are made for sentimental losses or for any
   expenses incurred as a result of the loss. (For information on Express
   Mail insurance, see Express Mail.)

MERCHANDISE RETURN SERVICE



   Merchandise return service is available to mailers authorized by prior
   arrangement with us. This service enables the recipient to return a
   parcel and have the postage paid by the sender. Under this
   arrangement, the shipper provides a special label with instructions to
   attach it to the returning parcel. Apply this label to the parcel and
   deposit it at a post office or in a mailbox. Remember, unless the
   postage payment is provided by the shipper, you must pay the required
   postage charges.

REGISTERED MAIL



   Registered mail is the most secure option offered by the Postal
   Service. It provides added protection for valuable and important mail.
   Registered articles are placed under tight security from the point of
   mailing to the delivery office. Insurance can be purchased on domestic
   registered mail up to $25,000 at the option of the mailer. Return
   receipt and restricted delivery services are available for additional
   fees. Registered mail to Canada is subject to a $1,000 indemnity
   limit. For all other foreign countries, the indemnity limit is
   currently $32.35. First Class or Priority Mail postage is required on
   domestic registered mail.

RESTRICTED DELIVERY



   Restricted delivery means that the mail is delivered only to a
   specific addressee or to someone authorized in writing to receive mail
   for the addressee. Restricted delivery is available only for
   registered mail, certified mail, COD mail, and mail insured for more
   than $50. Restricted delivery mail addressed to officials of
   government agencies, members of the legislative and judicial branches
   of federal and state governments, members of the diplomatic corps,
   minors, and individuals under guardianship can be delivered to an
   agent without the addressee's written authorization.

RETURN RECEIPT



   This is the sender's proof of delivery. A return receipt can be
   purchased for mail sent COD, Express Mail, insured for more than $50,
   or registered or certified. The return receipt shows who signed for
   the item and the date it was delivered. For additional fees, the
   sender can get the addressee's correct address of delivery or request
   restricted delivery service.

RETURN RECEIPT FOR MERCHANDISE



   This form of return receipt service provides a mailing receipt, return
   receipt, and record of delivery. It is available for merchandise sent
   at the First Class, Priority Mail, third-class, and fourth-class
   postage rates.

SPECIAL DELIVERY



   You can obtain special delivery service on all classes of mail except
   Express Mail and bulk third-class mail. This service provides for
   daily delivery even on Sundays and holidays, as well as delivery
   beyond normal delivery hours.

   Special delivery service is available to all customers served by city
   carriers and to other customers within a 1-mile radius of the delivery
   post office.

   The purchase of special delivery does not always mean the article will
   be delivered by special messenger. Special delivery may be delivered
   by your regular carrier if the mail is available before the carrier
   departs for morning deliveries. Call your post office about the
   availability of special delivery service.

SPECIAL HANDLING



   Special handling service is required for parcels whose unusual
   contents require special care in transit and handling except those
   sent by First-Class Mail. Examples of such contents include live
   poultry or bees. Special handling is available for third- and
   fourth-class mail only, including insured and COD mail. This service
   provides preferential handling to the extent practical in dispatch and
   transportation, but does not provide special delivery.

   Special handling service is not necessary for sending ordinary parcels
   even when they contain fragile items. Breakable items will receive
   adequate protection if they are packed with sufficient cushioning and
   clearly marked "FRAGILE." Use insured or registered mail for valuable
   or irreplaceable items.

SPECIAL SERVICE ENDORSEMENTS



   You should place all markings for special services above the delivery
   address and to the right of the return address on all articles. This
   requirement applies to endorsements for registered, insured,
   certified, COD, and return receipt for merchandise services, as well
   as endorsements for special delivery, restricted delivery, and return
   receipt requested.

-----
 BENEFITING FROM OTHER CUSTOMER SERVICES


CASH RECEIPT



   If you need proof of payment of postage and other services, ask the
   postal clerk for a cash receipt.

EASY STAMP SERVICES



   The Postal Service has made it more convenient than ever to buy stamps
   with EASY STAMP services. Whether you use one of our shop-at-home
   services or buy stamps where you work or shop, you have these options:


   At Retail Establishments: Look for the EASY STAMP logo at places where
   you shop. In cooperation with the Postal Service, many businesses
   offer stamps at post office prices. Ask the cashier at your local
   grocery or convenience store if that store is an EASY STAMP outlet.

   Stamps by Mail: You can buy stamps, postal cards, and stamped
   envelopes through the mail by completing Form 3227, Stamps by Mail,
   available at your post office or from your letter carrier. Just fill
   out the order form, enclose a check or money order, and return the
   envelope to the carrier or drop it in a collection box. There is no
   service charge and you should receive your order within 3-5 business
   days.

   Stamps by Phone: Stamps are as close as your telephone. Call our
   toll-free number 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to place your order.
   VISA, MasterCard, or DISCOVER credit cards are accepted. Your stamps
   are delivered within 3-5 business days.

   Call: 1-800-STAMP-24 (1-800-782-6724).

   No minimum order is required, but there is a service charge based on
   the total price of the order.

   Stamps by Computer: By using the FIND command, PRODIGY R users can
   access the US STAMPS file to order their stamps on-line. This
   convenience was added to the EASY STAMP program in mid-1990 and has
   proved a popular option.

   Self-Service Vending Equipment: Vending equipment providing stamps and
   stamped products such as postcards and stamped envelopes is available
   at many locations throughout the country. The conveniently located
   equipment enables you to take advantage of basic postal services
   around the clock. Some locations include postal scales that provide
   rate information for mailing packages. Selected vending machines can
   accept currency up to $20 and vend a variety of products such as
   100-stamp coils, Express Mail stamps, envelopes, stamp booklets, and
   even postal cards-all at face value. If you experience a loss due to
   an equipment malfunction, you will be reimbursed upon request to the
   local post office.

MAILGRAMO



   Mailgram, an electronic message service offered by Western Union,
   provides next day Postal Service delivery for messages sent to any
   address in the United States. The messages are transmitted for
   delivery with the next business day's mail. Mailgram service is also
   available for Canadian addresses.

   You can send Mailgram messages by calling Western Union and dictating
   your message to the operator; or you can use your office Telex or TWX.
   For more information, call Western Union Telegraph Company. In Hawaii,
   call your local post office for information on how to send a message.
   In Alaska, call Alascom. Inc. for Mailgram service.

MONEY ORDERS



   Do not send cash through the mail. Money orders are a safe way to send
   money. The special color blend, Benjamin Franklin watermark, metal
   security thread, and double imprinting of the dollar amount are
   incorporated security features. You can buy domestic and international
   money orders at all post offices in amounts up to $700. Military money
   orders can be purchased only on U.S. military ships and foreign bases.
   If your money order is lost or stolen, present your customer receipt
   for a replacement. For a small fee, you can obtain a copy of a paid
   money order up to 2 years after the date it is paid.

PASSPORT APPLICATION



   You can apply for a passport at more than 1,200 postal facilities
   nationwide. Department of State regulations require that all
   applicants present two recent 2" x 2" photographs, valid
   identification, and a certified copy of their birth certificate, along
   with the appropriate fee, when applying for a new passport. The
   passport fee may be paid in cash, by check, or with a money order. For
   additional information, call the Department of State information line
   nearest you or call your local post office.

PERSONAL CHECKS



   Except for the purchase of money orders, you may use personal checks
   at the post office to pay for postal services and products up to the
   amount of purchase. You must show one form of identification which
   bears a photograph.

   POSTAGE: Make your check payable to "U.S. Postal Service" or
   "Postmaster."

POSTAGE METERS



   When a mailer uses a postage meter, the postage, place of mailing, and
   date are imprinted at the mailer's place of business. Many mailers,
   including those with a relatively small mail volume, have found that
   this convenience more than offsets the costs of maintaining an account
   and of leasing the machine. Call your post office for more
   information.

STAMP COLLECTING



   Stamp collecting is a fascinating and enjoyable hobby that does not
   require any specific skills or expensive equipment. Almost any subject
   of interest is shown on stamps.

   A good place to begin your collection is your local post office, where
   recently issued stamps and postal stationery are on sale. You can also
   buy philatelic products, such as stamp collecting kits, the Postal
   Service Guide to U.S. Stamps and mint sets of commemorative and
   special stamps for recent years. For a free mail order catalog of
   philatelic products. write to:

   PHILATELIC FULFILLMENT SERVICE CENTER
   US POSTAL SERVICE PO BOX 449997
   KANSAS CITY MO 64144-9997


   MailgramO is a registered trademark of Western Union Corporation.

-----
 USING OUR CONSUMER SERVICES


CLAIMS



   If your insured, registered, COD, or Express Mail article has been
   lost or damaged, you can file a claim for compensation. Claim forms
   can be picked up at your local post office. You must present the
   packaging, mailing container and the article(s) (if received) to the
   Postal Service for inspection when filing a claim for missing or
   damaged contents. When filing a claim, you will also need to provide
   certain documents such as your original mailing receipt and proof of
   value. Specific procedures that must be followed can be explained to
   you by your local post office. Also, you can get a copy of Publication
   122, A Customer Guide to Postal Insurance and Filing Domestic
   Insurance Claims, from your post office.

COMPLAINTS AND SUGGESTIONS



   When you have a problem with your mail service or would like to make a
   suggestion, you can complete a Consumer Service Card, available from
   letter carriers and at post offices. This helps your postmaster
   respond to your problem. You can also advise the postmaster of a
   problem by calling your local post office.

   You can also contact the Postal Service Consumer Affairs and Claims
   office in your area to help solve problems or obtain information your
   local postmaster may be unable to help you with. The telephone number
   for your local Consumer Affairs and Claims Office is listed in the
   phone book with other Postal Service telephone numbers.

   The Consumer Advocate represents consumers to the top management level
   in the Postal Service. If your problem cannot be solved by your local
   post office or Consumer Affairs and Claims Office, write the Consumer
   Advocate at:

   CONSUMER ADVOCATE
   US POSTAL SERVICE
   475 LENFANT PLAZA SW RM 5821
   WASHINGTON DC 20260-2200

INQUIRIES

  Domestic Mail



   You may inquire about domestic mail at any post office. Form 1000,
   Domestic Claim or Registered Mail Inquiry, is used to report lost or
   damaged mail that was insured, registered, or sent by Express Mail.
   Form 1510, Mail Loss/Rifling Report ,is used for ordinary and
   certified mail. Your local post office can help you decide when it is
   appropriate to file a report and assist you in completing these forms.

  International Mail



   You may inquire about international mail at any post office. The U.S.
   sender may inquire about any class of mail; in addition the U.S.
   addressee may inquire about ordinary, insured, or registered articles.
   If the inquiry results in the filing of an indemnity claim, only the
   U.S. sender may submit a claim.

   When inquiring about any type of international mail, except Express
   Mail International Service, you must complete Form 542, Inquiry About
   a Registered Article or an Insured Parcel or an Ordinary Parcel For
   Express Mail, contact the local Express Mail manager for assistance in
   completing Form 2861, Express Mail International Service Inquiry -
   Enquete. Each inquiry requires a small fee that is reimbursed if a
   claim is paid. If the article was sent by Express Mail or a paid-for
   return receipt was not received, the fee is waived.

  Money Orders



   Use Form 6401, Domestic Money Order Inquiry, for damaged, incorrectly
   prepared, or defective money orders and for making inquiries regarding
   payment; there is no waiting period.

MAIL FRAUD/MAIL ORDER PROBLEMS



   You can save time and money by ordering merchandise and conducting
   business through the mail. However, if you are not aware of a
   company's reputation, check with the Better Business Bureau, Chamber
   of Commerce, or state or local consumer protection office before
   placing an order. If you later experience difficulty with the company
   or suspect that you have been the victim of fraud, contact your local
   postmaster, Consumer Affairs and Claims Office, or postal inspector,
   or write to one of the following:

   CHIEF POSTAL INSPECTOR
   US POSTAL SERVICE
   475 LENFANT PLAZA SW RM 3021
   WASHINGTON DC 20260 2100


   or

   CONSUMER ADVOCATE
   US POSTAL SERVICE
   475 LENFANT PLAZA SW RM 5821
   WASHINGTON DC 20260-2200


   Information pamphlets on mail fraud are available at your local post
   office.

   The Postal Inspection Service is the law enforcement and
   investigative arm of the Postal Service. You can report postal crimes
   such as mail theft, drugs in the mail, or mail fraud to the local
   postmaster or nearest office of the postal inspector. You can also
   use the Postal Crime Hotline 1-800-654-8896 to report these or other
   postal crimes directly to the inspection Service.

PORNOGRAPHIC AND UNDESIRABLE MAIL



   Certain unsolicited or undesirable mail is prohibited from the
   maiIstream. This includes obscene materials, violence-inciting
   materials, and some types of mail relating to lotteries.

   You can place your name, and those of your minor children, on a list
   of Persons who do not want to receive unsolicited sexually-oriented
   advertisements through the mail. Just ask for Form 2201, Application
   for Listing Pursuant to 39 USC 3010, at your local post office. Thirty
   days after your name has been added to the Postal Service reference
   list, any mailer who sends you sexually oriented advertisements may be
   subject to civil and criminal sanctions.

   Your name will remain on the list for 5 years unless you ask to have
   it removed. At the end of 5 years,you must file again to have it
   reinstated. You may also seek an order prohibiting specific mailers
   from sending you or your minor children any further such erotic
   advertisements by completing Form 2150, Notice for Prohibitory Order
   Against Sender of Pandering Advertisement in the Mails, at your Post
   office.

POSTAL ANSWER LINE



   Postal Answer Line (PAL) is the Postal Service's automated telephone
   information service. With a touch-tone telephone, answers to your
   questions are only a call away. You can use it at your convenience
   because it is available 24 hours a day. By selecting and listening to
   prerecorded messages, you can obtain the latest information on many of
   our postal products and services. PAL can even help you calculate
   postage costs for commonly used mail services if you know the weight
   of the item you want to mail.

   PAL is currently available in 80 cities, with plans to expand its
   availability and upgrade its features. Publication 349, Postal Answer
   Line Directory, lists the PAL telephone number for each of the cities
   currently offering this service. Message code numbers and step-by-step
   instructions for accessing specific information are also provided.

REFUNDS

  Express Mail



   The Postal Service issues a 100 percent refund to the mailer if the
   article was not delivered, delivery was not attempted, or the article
   did not arrive at the pickup point for delivery to a post office box
   by the day and time noted on the mailing label. Complete Form 3533,
   Application and Voucher for Refund of Postage and Fees, at your local
   post office. Contact the local Express Mail manager for more details.

  Stamps and Postal Stationery



   Stamps damaged by moisture, humidity, or other causes while in your
   possession may be exchanged at full value. Unserviceable postal
   stationery and unused precanceled stamps can also be exchanged or
   refunded.

UNSOLICITED MERCHANDISE



   Federal law prohibits the shipment of unordered merchandise. Such a
   practice may constitute an unfair trade practice. Merchandise mailed
   in violation of the federal code may be treated as a gift by the
   recipient without any obligation to the sender. The laws governing
   this practice are enforced by the Federal Trade Commission. If you
   believe you have received unordered merchandise in violation of
   federal law, contact the Commission's Bureau of Consumer Protection
   at:

   BUREAU OF CONSUMER PROTECTION
   FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION
   WASHINGTON DC 20580-0001
