Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service Domestic Mail Manual > 500 Additional Mailing Services > 507 Mailer Services
507 Mailer Services
1.0 Treatment of Mail
2.0 Forwarding
3.0 Hold For Pickup
4.0 Address Correction Services
5.0 Package Intercept
6.0 Requesting Withdrawal and Disposal of a Mailing
7.0 Pickup on Demand Service
8.0 Address Management System
9.0 Address Sequencing Services
10.0 Informed Visibility
11.0 USPS Tracking Plus Service
12.0 USPS Label Delivery Service
1.0 Treatment of Mail
1.1 Nondelivery of Mail
Mail can be undeliverable for these reasons:
- No postage.
- Counterfeit postage (see 604.8.4).
- Incomplete, illegible, or incorrect address.
- Addressee not at address (unknown, moved, or deceased).
- Mail unclaimed.
- Mail refused by the addressee at time of delivery.
- Mail refused by the addressee after delivery when permitted.
- Minimum criteria for mailability not met.
1.2 USPS Address Adjustments
1.2.1 Types of Adjustments
Mail can be undeliverable because of USPS adjustments such as the following:
- Renumbering of houses.
- Renaming of streets.
- Conversion from rural-style addresses (rural route and box number or highway contract route and box number) to city-style addresses (house number and street name).
- Realignment of rural or highway contract routes.
- Conversion from rural or highway contract service to city delivery service.
- Consolidation of routes.
- Consolidation of Post Offices or adjustment of delivery districts.
1.2.2 Charges
1.2.3 Disposal
- For an adjustment under 1.2.1a through 1.2.1c, for 1 year from the date when the new address appears in the AIS bimonthly products released in February, April, June, August, October, and December.
- For an adjustment under 1.2.1d through 1.2.1g, for 1 year from the end of the month in which the adjustment occurs.
- For mail bearing the simplified address “Postal Customer,” “Residential Customer,” “Rural Route Box Holder,” “Highway Contract Route Box Holder,” or “Post Office Box Holder,” for 90 days or until the next June 30, whichever is later.
1.2.4 Records
Records of address changes caused by USPS adjustments are kept by the local Post Office for 3 years.
1.3 Directory Service
- Mail with extra services (certified, COD [excluding COD Hold For Pickup mailpieces], registered).
- Foreign, except circulars. (Foreign mail received in quantities with letter-class postage but the general characteristics of circular mail is not given directory service.)
- Mail from overseas Armed Forces.
- Parcels mailed at any Package Services or Parcel Select price.
- Perishable matter.
- Official USPS mail.
- Priority Mail Express 1-Day Service.
1.4 Basic Treatment
1.4.1 General
Mail that is undeliverable as addressed is forwarded, returned to the sender, or treated as dead mail, as authorized for the particular class of mail. Undeliverable-as-addressed mail is endorsed by the USPS with the reason for nondelivery as shown in Exhibit 1.4.1. All nonmailable pieces are returned to the sender.
Exhibit 1.4.1 USPS Endorsem*nts for Mail Undeliverable as Addressed
* Alternative addressing formats may not be used on the following: Priority Mail Express pieces; mail with any extra service listed in 602.3.1.2e.; mail sent with any ancillary service endorsem*nt, except as allowed in 1.5.1b; and mail sent to any overseas military Post Office. When an alternative addressing format is used on Periodicals pieces, the publisher is notified of nondelivery only for those reasons marked with an asterisk (*).
1.4.2 Official Mail
1.4.3 Mailer Endorsem*nt
A mailer endorsem*nt is used to request forwarding, return, or address correction service. This endorsem*nt (and other marking) must be prepared under 102 or 202. The endorsem*nts authorized for each class of mail and the required wording are listed in the charts according to class of mail.
1.4.4 Order
1.4.5 Extra Services
Mail with extra services is treated according to the charts for each class of mail in 1.5, except that:
- Undeliverable-as-addressed Certified Mail is treated as First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage — Retail.
- All insured First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial, and Priority Mail pieces are forwarded and returned at no additional charge. All insured USPS Marketing Mail, Package Services, and Parcel Select pieces are forwarded or returned.
- All Registered Mail items are treated as registered while they are being forwarded or returned.
1.4.6 Metered Pieces
1.5 Treatment for Ancillary Services by Class of Mail
1.5.1 First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial, and Priority Mail
Undeliverable-as-addressed First-Class Mail (including postcards), USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial, and Priority Mail pieces are treated under Exhibit Exhibit 1.5.1 with these additional conditions:
- First-Class Mail and Priority Mail cards and unregistered letters that do not appear to contain merchandise and do not bear “Return Service Requested” or “Change Service Requested” (Option 1 only) may be forwarded to international addresses.
- Alternative addressing formats under 602.3.0 may not be used on mail with any extra service or mail with any ancillary service endorsem*nt except Change Service Requested (Option 1). Forwarding service is not provided for such mail. Only if the address is incorrect or incomplete or the mail is undeliverable for another reason as shown in Exhibit Exhibit 1.4.1, undeliverable First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial, or Priority Mail pieces with any alternative addressing format are returned with the reason for nondelivery attached; however, if such mail is endorsed “Change Service Requested,” the piece is disposed of and an ACS record is provided for the same reasons.
- The Priority Mail portion of a Priority Mail Open and Distribute shipment receives the forwarding, return, and address correction services described in Exhibit 1.5.1. The mail enclosed within the Priority Mail Open and Distribute shipment receives the services appropriate for its class.
- First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial, or Priority Mail pieces bearing USPS Marketing Mail markings and endorsem*nts under 202 and 244.5.1 for letters, flats, and parcels, receives forwarding, return, and address correction services for USPS Marketing Mail under 1.5.3.
- “Change Service Requested” is not permitted for the following:
- Priority Mail, other than Priority Mail containing perishable matter under 601.8.0 (except for live animals).
- First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial, or Priority Mail pieces containing hazardous materials under 601.8.0.
- First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial or Priority Mail pieces with an extra service other than USPS Tracking or Signature Confirmation.
- First-Class Mail pieces containing Ballot Mail under 703.8.0.
- Address Change Service under 4.0 is available for First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial, and Priority Mail pieces with the ACS participant code for an authorized ACS participant and a valid ancillary service endorsem*nt. Mailers participating in OneCode ACS under 4.2.6 may print an Intelligent Mail barcode on First-Class Mail automation letters instead of a participant code and endorsem*nt. The only endorsem*nts permitted on First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, USPS Ground Advantagee — Commercial and Priority Mail valid ACS pieces are “Address Service Requested”, “Change Service Requested” or “Electronic Service Requested” subject to the following:
- “Address Service Requested” (Option 1) is valid for use on all mailpieces, including ACS participating pieces. “Address Service Requested” (Option 2) is valid for use only on ACS participating pieces.
- “Change Service Requested” (Options 1 and 2) are valid for use only on ACS participating pieces.
- The words “Option 1” or “Option 2” must not be part of the “Address Service Requested” or “Change Service Requested” endorsem*nt on mailpieces.
- Participating ACS mailers are limited to selecting only one of the two options available for “Address Service Requested” and one of the two options available for “Change Service Requested.” The option(s) selected along with the mailer‘s ACS participant code will be programmed at the CFS unit to facilitate processing of valid ACS pieces within the conditions that apply to ACS.
In all cases: Same treatment as “Forwarding Service Requested.” | ||
In all cases: Mailpiece is directed to a Computerized Forwarding System (CFS) or Postal Automated Redirection System (PARS) site for processing. “Address Service Requested” and “Change Service Requested” handling instructions and options are required to be predefined within the ACS mailer profile data. OneCode ACS mailers are also required to insert this service request through a valid service type code in an Intelligent Mail barcode. The service type code in the Intelligent Mail barcode will take precedence over the instructions in the mailer account profile. | ||
If no change-of-address order on file: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (no charge). | ||
If no change-of-address order on file: If change-of-address order on file:
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If no change-of-address order on file: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (no charge). If change-of-address order on file:
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In all cases (regardless of whether a change-of-address order is on file): Piece returned with new address or reason for nondelivery attached (in either case, no charge). | ||
In all cases (regardless of whether a change-of-address order is on file): | ||
In all cases (regardless of whether a change-of-address order is on file): | ||
OPTION 2 2 | If no change-of-address order on file: If change-of-address order on file:
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The following restrictions apply: [1-21-24] (3)This endorsem*nt is not valid for Ballot Mail under 703.8.0. | ||
If no change-of-address order on file: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (no charge). If permanent change-of-address order on file: Piece returned with new address or reason for nondelivery attached (in either case, no charge). If temporary change-of-address order on file: Piece forwarded to temporary address (no charge); no separate notice of temporary address provided. | ||
If no change-of-address order on file: If permanent change-of-address order on file: If temporary change-of-address order on file: Piece forwarded to temporary address (no charge) with no notice to the mailer. |
1. Valid for all pieces, including Address Change Service (ACS) participating pieces subject to 507.4.0.
2. Valid only for ACS participating pieces subject to 507.4.0 other than pieces containing hazardous materials.
3. Does not meet Move Update requirement.
1.5.2 Periodicals
Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) Periodicals publications (including publications pending Periodicals authorization) are treated as described in Exhibit 1.5.2, with these additional conditions:
- Periodicals matter is forwarded only to domestic addresses.
- Publications with an alternative addressing format under 602.3.0 are delivered to the address when possible. Forwarding service is not provided for such mail.
- Address correction service is mandatory for all Periodicals publications, except when publishers use alternative addressing and an IMb with proper STID. Except as provided for Full-Service under 4.2.2d and 705.23.5.2, an address correction service fee must be paid for each notice issued.
- Address correction service is provided for the first issue after 60 days for all publications, unless copies are to be returned at the publisher’s request. ACS participants may receive the change notice before day 60, if so requested. Copies received after the address correction notice is mailed are disposed of by the USPS. When copies of the publication cannot be forwarded, the address correction notice is prepared for the first undeliverable issue of the publication received.
- The publisher may request the return of copies of undelivered Periodicals by printing the endorsem*nt “Address Service Requested” on the envelopes or wrappers, or on one of the outside covers of unwrapped copies, immediately preceded by the sender‘s name, address, and ZIP Code. This endorsem*nt obligates the publisher to pay return postage. For each returned piece, the mailer is charged the single-piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage — Retail price for the weight and shape of the piece, and the letter-size nonmachinable surcharge if applicable. When the address correction is provided incidental to the return of the piece, there is no charge for the correction.
- A publisher may request a refund of the fees paid for duplicate address correction notices on Forms 3579 provided by the USPS if the customer submitted a change-of-address order and the first and duplicate notices are provided electronically via ACS or on printed copy by a Computerized Forwarding System (CFS) unit. The refund request must be supported by documentation showing the number of duplicate notices received. The USPS does not process refunds for duplicate notices if the original and duplicate notices are not provided both by ACS or both by CFS.
Exhibit 1.5.2 Treatment of Undeliverable Periodicals
If no change-of-address order on file: If change-of-address order on file:
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In all cases: Mailpiece is directed to a Computerized Forwarding System (CFS) or Postal Automated Redirection System (PARS) site for processing. Handling instructions and options are required to be predefined within the ACS mailer profile data. OneCode ACS mailers are also required to insert this service request through a valid service type code in an Intelligent Mail barcode. The service type code in the Intelligent Mail barcode will take precedence over the instructions in the mailer account profile | |
1. Valid for all pieces, including Address Change Service (ACS) participating pieces.
1.5.3 USPS Marketing Mail
[1-21-24] Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) USPS Marketing Mail pieces are treated as described in Exhibit 1.5.3, with these additional conditions:
- [1-21-24] USPS Marketing Mail pieces are forwarded only to domestic addresses.
- The exceptional address format under 602.3.0 may not be used on mail with any ancillary service endorsem*nt or mail with any extra service (except as allowed for Marketing parcels with USPS Tracking service).
- [1-21-24] The endorsem*nt “Change Service Requested” is not permitted for the following:
- Mailpieces containing hazardous materials under 601.8.0. Mailpieces containing hazardous materials must bear the endorsem*nt “Address Service Requested,” “Forwarding Service Requested,” or “Return Service Requested.”
- Mailpieces containing Ballot Mail under 703.8.0.
- [1-21-24] USPS Marketing Mail pieces may be forwarded or returned at the appropriate Media Mail or Library Mail price if the content of the mail qualifies as Media Mail or Library Mail under 173 or 273 and the mail is marked “Media Mail” or “Library Mail” directly below the ancillary service endorsem*nt.
- [1-21-24] If a USPS Marketing Mail piece, including any attachment to that piece, is not opened by the addressee and the piece is endorsed “Address Service Requested,” “Forwarding Service Requested,” or “Return Service Requested,” the addressee may refuse delivery of the piece and have it returned to the sender without affixing postage. If a USPS Marketing Mail piece, or any attachment to that piece, is opened by the addressee, the addressee must affix the required postage to return the piece to the sender, except for Bulk Parcel Return Service (BPRS) pieces under 505.5.2.1.
- [1-21-24] USPS Marketing Mail pieces with bulk insurance must be endorsed “Address Service Requested,” “Forwarding Service Requested,” or “Return Service Requested.” USPS Marketing Mail pieces, except for Marketing parcels, with USPS Tracking must be endorsed “Address Service Requested,” “Forwarding Service Requested,” “Return Service Requested,” or “Change Service Requested”.
- When a large volume of identical-weight pieces originates from a single mailer and is endorsed “Return Service Requested,” the USPS may weigh a sample of at least 25 pieces and divide that weight by the number of pieces to determine the weight of a single piece. After the per-piece weight is determined, all the pieces are weighed in bulk and divided by the per-piece weight to determine the total number of pieces. Calculate the return postage using these numbers.
- The mailer of a returned piece endorsed “Return Service Requested” is charged the applicable single-piece First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage — Retail price for the weight and shape of the piece, and the nonmachinable surcharge if applicable.
- Mail sent as BPRS under 505.5.0 is returned at the BPRS per piece fee if the endorsem*nt includes “— BPRS” as shown in Exhibit 1.5.3.
- Customized MarketMail under 705.1.0 is not eligible to use ancillary service endorsem*nts.
Exhibit 1.5.3 Treatment of Undeliverable USPS Marketing Mail
[1-21-24] USPS Marketing Mail pieces containing hazardous materials must bear a permissible endorsem*nt (see 507.1.5.3c.). | ||
In all cases: Mailpiece is directed to a Computerized Forwarding System (CFS) or Postal Automated Redirection System (PARS) site for processing. “Address Service Requested”, “Return Service Requested”, and “Change Service Requested” handling instructions are predefined within the ACS mailer profile data. OneCode ACS mailers are also required to insert this service request through a valid service type ID in an Intelligent Mail barcode. The service type ID in the Intelligent Mail barcode will take precedence over the instructions in the mailer account profile. | ||
(Does not include Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return participants) | ||
If no change-of-address order on file: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (only weighted fee 2 charged). If change-of-address order on file:
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If no change-of-address order on file: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached and separate ACS notice provided. Weighted fee 2 charged for return of piece and address correction fee charge. If change-of-address order on file:
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If no change-of-address order on file: If change-of-address order on file:
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If no change-of-address order on file: If change-of-address order on file:
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If no change-of-address order on file: If change-of-address order on file:
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If no change-of-address order on file: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (only Bulk Parcel Return Service fee charged). If change-of-address order on file:
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If no change-of-address order on file: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (only weighted fee 2 charged). | ||
In all cases (regardless of whether a change-of-address order is on file): ] Piece returned with new address or reason for non-delivery attached and separate ACS notice of reason for nondelivery provided. In either case, both the address correction fee is charged, and return postage is charged at First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage — Retail single-piece price, as appropriate for weight of piece. | ||
(Valid for all pieces, including ACS participating pieces) If no change-of-address order on file, or if change-of-address order is on file: The following restrictions apply: (1) USPS Tracking is the only extra services permitted with this endorsem*nt. [1-21-24] (2) This endorsem*nt is not permitted for USPS Marketing Mail pieces containing hazardous materials. [1-21-24] (3) This endorsem*nt is not valid for Ballot Mail under 703.8.0. | ||
(Available via ACS only; for USPS Marketing Mail (all shapes)) If no change-of-address order on file: Reason for non-delivery provided to mailer (electronic ACS fee charged); piece disposed of by USPS. If change-of-address order on file:
The following restrictions apply: (1) USPS Tracking is the only extra services permitted with this endorsem*nt. (2) This endorsem*nt is not permitted for USPS Marketing Mail pieces containing hazardous materials. [1-21-24] (3) This endorsem*nt is not valid for Ballot Mail under 703.8.0. | ||
(Shipper Paid Forwarding participants via ACS only) If no change-of-address order on file: Reason for nondelivery provided to mailer (electronic ACS fee charged); piece disposed of by USPS. If change-of-address order on file:
The following restrictions apply: (1) USPS Tracking is the only extra service permitted with this endorsem*nt. (2) This endorsem*nt is not permitted for USPS Marketing Mail pieces containing hazardous materials. |
1. Not valid for pieces containing hazardous materials.
2. The weighted (per piece) fee is the First-Class Mail, USP Ground Advantage — Retail, or Priority Mail single-piece price and any nonmachinable surcharge (see 133.1.0), multiplied by 2.472, rounding any fractions to the next whole cent.
3. Does not meet the Move Update requirement.
1.5.4 Package Services and Parcel Select
- Package Services and Parcel Select mail is forwarded only to domestic addresses.
- Except for Bound Printed Matter pieces including USPS Tracking, the exceptional address format under 602.3.0 may not be used on mail with any ancillary service endorsem*nt or mail with any extra service (see 263.3.4). Forwarding service is not provided for such mail. *Undeliverable Parcel Select, Media Mail, and Library Mail with this address format are returned with the reason for nondelivery attached only if the address is incorrect or incomplete, or the mail is undeliverable for another address-related reason. Undeliverable Bound Printed Matter with this address format is disposed of by the USPS.
- The endorsem*nt “Change Service Requested” is not permitted for Package Services or Parcel Select mailpieces containing hazardous materials under 601.8.0.
- If a Package Services (except for unendorsed Bound Printed Matter) or Parcel Select mailpiece and any attachment are not opened by the addressee, the addressee may refuse delivery of the piece and have it returned to the sender without affixing postage. Pieces endorsed “Change Service Requested” are not returned to the sender. If a Package Services or Parcel Select piece or any attachment to that piece is opened by the addressee, the addressee must affix the applicable postage to return the piece to the sender.
- An undeliverable Package Services (except for unendorsed Bound Printed Matter) or a Parcel Select mailpiece that bears postage with a postage evidencing imprint and that has an illegible (or no) return address is returned to the meter licensee or PC Postage customer upon payment of the return postage. The reason for nondelivery is attached, with no address correction fee. All Package Services (except unendorsed Bound Printed Matter) and Parcel Select pieces must have a legible return address.
- Bound Printed Matter with no ancillary service endorsem*nt and with an extra service other than USPS Tracking or Signature Confirmation service is treated as though endorsed “Forwarding Service Requested.”
Exhibit 1.5.4 [7-9-23] Treatment of Undeliverable Package Services and Parcel Select
In all cases: Mailpiece is directed to a Computerized Forwarding System (CFS) or Postal Automated Redirection System (PARS) site for processing. “Address Service Requested”, “Return Service Requested”, and “Change Service Requested” handling instructions are predefined within the ACS mailer profile data. OneCode ACS mailers are also required to insert this service request through a valid service type ID in an Intelligent Mail barcode. The service type ID in the Intelligent Mail barcode will take precedence over the instructions in the mailer account profile. | ||
(Except for Shipper Paid Forwarding participants) If no change-of-address order on file: Piece is returned with reason for nondelivery attached (only return postage charged) as follows:
If change-of-address order on file:
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(Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return participants via ACS only) If no change-of-address order on file: If change-of-address order on file:
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If no change-of-address order on file: If change-of-address order on file:
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If no change-of-address order on file: If change-of-address order on file:
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If no change-of-address order on file: If change-of-address order on file:
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In all cases (regardless of whether a change-of-address order is on file): | ||
In all cases (regardless of whether a change-of-address order is on file): | ||
(Valid for all pieces, including ACS participating pieces) If no change-of-address order on file, or if change-of-address order is on file: The following restrictions apply: (2) This endorsem*nt is not permitted for Package Services containing hazardous materials. | ||
(Available via ACS only; for Bound Printed Matter flats only) If no change-of-address order on file: Reason for non-delivery provided to mailer (electronic ACS fee charged); piece disposed of by USPS. If change-of-address order on file:
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(For Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return participants via ACS only) If no change-of-address order on file: Reason for nondelivery provided (electronic ACS fee charged); parcel disposed of by USPS. If change-of-address order on file:
The following restrictions apply: (2) This endorsem*nt is not permitted for Package Services containing hazardous materials. |
1. Does not meet the Move Update Requirement.
2. Does not meet the Move Update Requirement.
1.5.5 Priority Mail Express
Undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) Priority Mail Express is treated as described in Exhibit 1.5.5, with these additional conditions:
- Priority Mail Express is forwarded only to domestic addresses.
- Directory service is provided for Priority Mail Express that cannot be delivered because of an incorrect or incomplete address.
- The Priority Mail Express portion of a Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute shipment receives the forwarding, return, and address correction services described in Exhibit 1.5.5. The mail enclosed within the Open and Distribute shipment receives the services appropriate for its class.
- Undeliverable or unclaimed Priority Mail Express is held by the USPS for 5 calendar days before it is returned to the sender at no additional postage, unless either of the following applies:
- The mail is refused before the end of the 5 calendar days.
- The mail is not refused and the sender has specified in the return address a longer holding period (not to exceed 30 days). The sender may also place an instruction above the return address, subject to 102.4.0 or 202.4.0, directing the return of undeliverable mail after fewer than 5 calendar days.
Exhibit 1.5.5 Treatment of Undeliverable Priority Mail Express
If no change-of-address order on file: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (no charge). If change-of-address order on file:
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If no change-of-address order on file: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (no charge). If change-of-address order on file:
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Piece returned with new address or reason for nondelivery attached (in either case, no charge). | |
1.6 Attachments and Enclosures
1.6.1 Periodicals
1.6.2 USPS Marketing Mail
1.6.3 Package Services and Parcel Select
- Parcel Select at the USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial price plus the additional service fee.
- Package Services at the single-piece price for the specific class of mail.
- For both types of host pieces, if the attachment or enclosure is a nonincidental First-Class Mail attachment or enclosure, the weight of the attachment or enclosure is not included when computing charges.
1.7 Mixed Classes
1.7.1 Combination With First-Class Mail
- An undeliverable combination mailpiece, including a piece that cannot be forwarded, one part of which is First-Class Mail (other than an incidental First-Class Mail attachment or enclosure), must be returned to the sender, subject to the charge for return according to its class. The weight of the First-Class Mail piece is not included when computing the charge for return of the Periodicals, USPS Marketing Mail, or Package Services part.
- Items with incidental First-Class Mail enclosures or attachments are returned according to the class of the host piece.
- An undeliverable combination mailpiece that is not returnable to the sender, of which one part is First-Class Mail, is given the treatment that applies to the class of the other part.
1.7.2 Other Combinations
1.7.3 Host Piece
1.7.4 Parcel
1.8 Returning Mail
1.8.1 Nonmailable
Nonmailable matter is returned to the sender immediately.
1.8.2 Refused Mail
Returnable mail is returned if refused by the addressee.
1.8.3 Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial
- Priority Mail pieces with a valid Address Change Service (ACS) participant code marked “Perishable” and endorsed “Change Service Requested.”
- First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, or USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial pieces with a valid ACS participant code and endorsed “Change Service Requested.”
1.8.4 Other Classes
1.8.5 Extra Services
1.8.6 No Sender Instructions
Mail without a specific address or instructions from the sender is held:
- For 5 days if for delivery by rural or highway contract route carrier.
- For 10 days if for general delivery at an office with city carrier service. If the addressee notifies the postmaster of a delay in claiming the mail, the postmaster may hold such mail up to 30 days.
- For 15 days if for general delivery at an office without city carrier service.
1.8.7 Post Office Box
1.8.8 Franked Mail
1.9 Dead Mail
1.9.1 Basic Information
- Nonmail matter (e.g., wallets and bank deposits) found in collection boxes or at other points within USPS jurisdiction is returned postage due at the single-piece First-Class Mail or Priority Mail price for keys and identification devices that is applicable based on the weight of the matter.
- Undeliverable, unendorsed USPS Marketing Mail, printed matter, circulars, newspapers, magazines, and other publications, and unidentified articles that have no value are disposed of as waste.
- Undeliverable articles of $25 or more in value are treated as dead mail.
- Dead letters are opened at mail recovery centers to determine the name and address of the addressee or sender to permit delivery or return.
- Except for unendorsed USPS Marketing Mail, the following types of undeliverable mail that cannot be returned because of an incorrect, incomplete, illegible, or missing return address are opened and examined to identify the sender or addressee:
- USPS Marketing Mail;
- Package Services; and
- Insured First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, or USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial pieces containing USPS Marketing Mail, or Package Services enclosures.
- Dead parcels are opened at the Mail Recovery Center (see 608.8.0 for address) to determine name and address of the addressee or sender to permit delivery or return. Dead parcels returned to the sender or delivered to the addressee are priced postage due at the zone price from the dead parcel branch. If parcels are endorsed to show that they are USPS property, or that the sender refused to pay postage due on return as undelivered, the parcels are considered USPS property.
1.9.2 USPS Policy and Procedures
The Postal Operations Manual contains USPS policy and procedures for handling and disposing of dead mail (including through sale at auction or by donation to institutions).
1.9.3 Customer Inquiry
A customer may inquire about missing mail items listed under 1.9.1 as follows:
- Contact the local Post Office to initiate a MRC Search form.
- Use the Missing Mail online application available to registered USPS.com customers to complete a search request. Access to the application is available on USPS.com under Help>Find Missing Mail.
2.0 Forwarding
2.1 Change-of-Address Order
2.1.1 Normal Time Limit
- A record of permanent change-of-address orders is kept by Post Offices for 18 months, from the end of the month when the change takes effect. Generally, forwarding is available for the first 12 months. (See 1.5, 1.6, and 1.7 for additional information.)
- A record of change-of-address orders from general delivery to a permanent local address without a time limit is kept 6 months.
- A record of change-of-address orders to other than a permanent local address is kept 30 days.
2.1.2 Extended Mail Forwarding Service
Customers may extend a permanent change-of-address order for up to an additional 18 months of forwarding by purchasing Extended Mail Forwarding service at a Post Office, or online through the Change of Address Application (Mover’s Guide) on usps.com. Extended Mail Forwarding service may be purchased in six-month increments, or for an additional 6, 12, or 18 months, or any combination, not to exceed 18 months. See Notice 123—Price List for fees.
2.1.3 Temporary Forwarding
2.1.4 Methods of Filing
Except under 2.1.6, customers may use one of the following methods to file a change-of-address with the Post Office:
- Mail or present PS Form 3575 to any Post Office, or as the Postal Service otherwise directs. Customers must provide an acceptable primary form of identification as specified under 608.10.2 and 608.10.3 when presenting PS Form 3575 at the Post Office.
- Use Internet Change of Address (ICOA) at moversguide.usps.com. Customers using the ICOA method must:
- Pass device-reputation authentication verification. If not, a mobile phone number verification may be required, and a One-Time Passcode or verification link will be texted to the customer’s cell phone.
- Provide a valid credit card number for identity verification. The customer’s credit card is charged a credit card authentication fee (see Notice 123—Price List). If online identity verification is not successful, the customer will be directed to a Post Office authorized to verify the customer‘s identity in person.
2.1.5 Restricted or Prohibited Use
A change-of-address order cannot be filed or is restricted for the following:
- Individuals may not file a change-of-address request for someone other than themselves, or for a business, without authorization (i.e., notarized letter or letter on company letterhead) showing they are an authorized agent of the person(s) or business that is moving.
- An addressee (e.g., an individual or a business entity or other organization) may not file a change-of-address order for mail originally addressed to the addressee at an organization, business, place of employment, or other affiliation. The organization or business may change the address (but not the addressee‘s name) on a mailpiece to redirect it to the addressee. Barcodes on redirected mailpieces should be obliterated to facilitate automation processing.
- Individuals may not file a change-of-address order for mail originally addressed to the individuals at Department of State ZIP Code 20521. Additionally, individuals may not file a change-of-address order to have mail forwarded to Department of State ZIP Code 20521.
- Individuals may file a change-of-address order for mail addressed to or from Department of State ZIP Code 20189 only under the following conditions:
- The change-of-address order is submitted through the Internet Change of Address (ICOA) entry under 2.1.4b. All other change-of-address methods are prohibited.
- Only “Individual” orders are permitted.
- Only “Permanent” orders are permitted.
2.1.6 Temporary Business Bulk Forwarding
Businesses meeting the applicable standards in 2.1.3 may submit a bulk request (10 or more locations) to temporarily forward mail. For additional information, businesses may contact a Postal Service field account representative, strategic account manager, or the business service network. As confirmation, the Postal Service will return the bulk request to the customer and include confirmation codes and a unique customer number that will be stored with the file. If changes are necessary to the ending date, business customers may make changes at managemymove.usps.com with their confirmation code and new ZIP Code.
2.2 Forwardable Mail
2.2.1 Classes
2.2.2 Reforwarding
2.2.3 Discontinued Post Office
2.2.4 Rural Delivery
- Priority Mail Express;
- Priority Mail;
- First-Class Mail;
- USPS Ground Advantage – Retail;
- USPS Ground Advantage – Commercial;
- Periodicals; and
- Package Services.
2.2.5 Converted Service
2.2.6 Mail for Military Personnel
2.2.7 Mail Addressed to CMRA Customers
2.3 Postage for Forwarding
2.3.1 Origin
Forwarding postage is computed by using the forwarding office as the origin office.
2.3.2 Priority Mail Express
Priority Mail Express is forwarded without charge.
2.3.3 Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial
2.3.4 Periodicals
2.3.5 [1-21-24] USPS Marketing Mail
[1-21-24] When forwarding service is provided, generally the mailer of USPS Marketing Mail is subject to paying additional postage: the USPS Marketing Mail weighted fee on all returns. Under Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return (under 4.2.9), mailers of USPS Marketing Mail parcels have an option of paying forwarding postage on those parcels, or return postage if undeliverable, at the applicable single-piece First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, or Priority Mail price, instead of the addressee paying postage-due charges. Mail that qualifies for Bulk Parcel Return Service (BPRS) is returned at the BPRS per piece charge if the mailer uses one of the ancillary service endorsem*nts that specifies BPRS (e.g., “Return Service Requested—BPRS”).
2.3.6 Package Services, and Parcel Select
[1-21-24] Package Services and Parcel Select pieces are subject to the collection of additional postage at the applicable price for forwarding: Parcel Select at the USPS Ground Advantage &mdas;h Commercial price plus the additional service fee, and Package Services at the single-piece price for the specific class of mail. The addressee may refuse any piece of Package Services or Parcel Select that has been forwarded. Shipper Paid Forwarding, under provisions in 4.2.9, provides mailers of Package Services and Parcel Select parcels an option of paying forwarding postage on those parcels, or return postage if undeliverable, instead of the addressee paying postage due charges.
2.3.7 Extra Services
3.0 Hold For Pickup
3.1 Fees and Postage
3.1.1 Postage Payment Methods
- Click-N-Ship.
- Registered end-users of USPS-approved PC Postage products.
- Permit imprint.
- USPS-approved Information-Based Indicia (IBI) postage meters when also using an authorized Hold For Pickup label.
- A mailer‘s Enterprise Payment System (EPS) account when used with a Package Intercept request.
- Accepted payment methods at retail Post Office locations (for COD Hold For Pickup only).
3.2 Basic Information
3.2.1 Description
Hold For Pickup service is available at the time of mailing for mailers meeting the standards in 3.0, and allows mailpieces to be held at a designated Post Office location for pick up by a specified addressee or designee. The addressee or designee must provide an acceptable primary form of identification as specified under 608.10.3. When the destination Post Office has the addressee’s contact information, an email or text notice is sent that a package is available for pickup. This service provides the shipper with tracking information, including the date and time that the addressee took possession of the item. If the item has not been picked up within 5 days (3 days for Priority Mail Express), the Post Office makes a second notification attempt, and returns the item to the sender if not picked up within 15 days (5 days for Priority Mail Express).
3.2.2 Basic Eligibility
[1-21-24] Hold For Pickup service is available at retail Post Office locations for Priority Mail Express presented under 113.4.2 or 113.4.3, with or without COD service; Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, Library Mail, and Media Mail, with COD service; and for Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, and USPS Ground Advantage – Retail, using USPS Click-N-Ship. It is also available with commercial mailings of Priority Mail Express presented under 213.4.2 or 213.4.3, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage – Commercial, and Bound Printed Matter parcels, when:
- Mailpieces bear an applicable Priority Mail Express label (under 115.2.1 or 215.2.1) or Hold For Pickup label with an Intelligent Mail package barcode (meeting the technical standards under 204.2.0 and in Publication 199), as applicable.
- For electronic option, mailers establish an electronic link with USPS to exchange acceptance and delivery data. If the electronic option is requested for Hold For Pickup service for all of the pieces in the mailing and the mailing consists of pieces of identical weight, then postage may be paid by any method in 3.1.1. If the pieces are not of identical weight, then either the exact postage must be affixed to each piece or postage must be paid with permit imprint using eVS (705.2.9).
3.2.3 Additional Eligibility Standards
Parcels must meet these additional physical requirements:
- The surface area of the address side of the parcel must be large enough to completely and legibly contain the delivery address, return address, postage, markings, endorsem*nts, and extra service labels.
- If the mailpiece is a machinable parcel under 201.7.0 and is no greater than 3/4 inch thick, the contents must be prepared in a container that is constructed of strong, rigid fiberboard or similar material or in a container that becomes rigid after the contents are enclosed and the container is secured. The parcel must be able to maintain its shape, integrity, and rigidity throughout processing and handling without collapsing into a letter-size or flat-size piece.
3.2.4 Ineligible Matter
Hold For Pickup service is not available for the following:
- Commercial mailings of First-Class Mail letter-size and flat-size pieces.
- Mail addressed to APO/FPO and DPO destinations.
- Priority Mail Express items containing cremated remains.
3.2.5 Extra Services
Hold For Pickup service may be combined with Package Intercept (under 507.5.0) or any of the following extra services (meeting the applicable standards under 503):
- USPS Tracking.
- Insured mail.
- Signature Confirmation.
- Adult Signature Required and Adult Signature Restricted Delivery.
- COD.
3.3 Preparation Definitions and Instructions
- Exchange electronic files with USPS through an approved file transfer protocol to notify the addressee when a parcel is available for pickup or to notify the mailer that items are available to be picked up as “return to sender.”
- Affix an address label that has been approved by the National Customer Support Center (NCSC) (see 608.8.1 for address), and includes the name and domestic address of mailer, the name of the addressee and the designated Hold For Pickup Post Office address.
- In addition to the markings defined in 3.0 address labels on a Hold For Pickup mailpiece must meet the technical standards in the Parcel Labeling Guide available on PostalPro at: https://postalpro.usps.com/parcellabelingguide.
4.0 Address Correction Services
4.1 Address Correction Service
4.1.1 Address Correction Service Fee
4.1.2 Purpose
If mail cannot be delivered as addressed, address correction service allows the sender on request, using the appropriate ancillary service endorsem*nt under 1.0, to obtain the addressee’s new (forwarding) address (if the addressee filed a change-of-address order with the USPS) or the reason for nondelivery. Address corrections and notices are not provided for customers who file a temporary change of address or for individuals at a business address (see 2.1). Address correction service is available alone or in combination with forwarding and return service.
4.1.3 Invalid Endorsem*nt
Any obsolete ancillary service endorsem*nt or similar sender endorsem*nt not shown in 1.0 is considered invalid. Material bearing invalid or conflicting ancillary service endorsem*nts will not be accepted for mailing. If discovered in the mailstream, pieces bearing an invalid ancillary service endorsem*nt or conflicting endorsem*nts are treated as unendorsed mail. Exception: Undeliverable Media Mail, Library Mail, and Parcel Select pieces that bear invalid or conflicting ancillary service endorsem*nts are treated as if endorsed “Forwarding Service Requested.”
4.1.4 Periodicals
4.1.5 Other Classes
4.1.6 Fee and Return Postage
4.2 Address Change Service (ACS)
4.2.1 Description
Address Change Service (ACS) is an automated or electronic process providing mailers with notices of address correction or reason for nondelivery. ACS is designed to reduce the volume of manual notifications provided for valid participating ACS mailpieces, but it does not completely eliminate manual notifications. Mailers must keep their address records in electronic format and mark or encode their mailpieces with the correct ACS symbology under 4.2 and the correct ancillary service endorsem*nt under 1.5 to obtain address corrections. See 4.2.6 for an option to use OneCode ACS with an Intelligent Mail barcode for letters and flats in First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and USPS Marketing Mail. To obtain nondelivery information under 1.4.1, mailers must use an ACS keyline or an Intelligent Mail barcode on mailpieces. Mailers also can use traditional ACS, along with Shipper Paid Forwarding under 4.2.9, to pay forwarding postage on most USPS Marketing Mail and Package Services pieces. Mailers can find additional information about traditional ACS and OneCode ACS in Publication 8, ACS Product Information Guide.
4.2.2 Service Options
ACS offers five levels of service, as follows:
- An automated option for letters and flat-size mailpieces bearing an Intelligent Mail barcode, mailed as First-Class Mail, USPS Marketing Mail, and Periodicals, with electronic notices processed using Intelligent Mail technology (see 4.2.6). Only automated First-Class Mail and USPS Marketing Mail letters qualify for automated address correction prices when using the Intelligent Mail barcode (see 4.1.1).
- An electronic option for notices processed electronically, except automated notices under 4.2.2a.
- A default manual process for notices generated manually.
- A Full Service option available to mailings of First-Class Mail automation cards, letters, and flats; USPS Marketing Mail automation letters and flats; USPS Marketing Mail Carrier Route, High Density, and Saturation letters; Periodicals Outside County barcoded or Carrier Route letters and flats; Periodicals In-County automation or Carrier Route letters and flats; and Bound Printed Matter Presorted, non-DDU barcoded flats. Mailers who present at least 95 percent of their eligible First-Class Mail and USPS Marketing Mail volume as Full-Service in a calendar month would receive electronic address correction notices for their qualifying Basic automation and non-automation First-Class Mail and USPS Marketing Mail pieces, at no charge for pieces eligible for the Full-Service Intelligent Mail option as described in 705.23.0. The Basic First-Class Mail and USPS Marketing Mail mailpieces must:
- Bear a unique IMb printed on the mailpiece;
- Include a Full Service or OneCode ACS STID in the IMb;
- Include the unique IMb in eDoc;
- Be sent by an eDoc submitter providing accurate Mail Owner identification in eDoc, and;
- Be sent by an eDoc submitter maintaining 95 percent Full Service compliance to remain eligible for this service and undergo periodic Postal Service re-evaluation.
- Green & Secure: Mailpieces using a STID for ACS Change Service Requested, with or without Secure Destruction, will not be subject to assessment under Move Update Verification, using the Address Quality Census Measurement and Assessment Process under 602.5.3. Details are available in Publication 685, Publication for Streamlined Mail Acceptance for Letters and Flats, available at postalpro.usps.com.
4.2.3 Participant Code and Mailer ID
Participant codes or Mailer IDs are used on ACS mailpieces as follows:
- Traditional Address Change Service (ACS) human-readable participant codes are provided to authorized mailers by the National Customer Support Center (NCSC) (see 608.8.0 for address). A participant code consists of seven alpha characters, aligned left, and must be preceded by a single pound sign (#) delimiter on the top or OEL line of the address block. Additional information for using the human-readable option is available in Publication 8, ACS Product Information Guide.
- When using Intelligent Mail barcodes, mailers can participate in the OneCode ACS option of ACS (see 4.2.6 for restrictions). The NCSC provides the numeric OneCode ACS Mailer ID, the equivalent of a participant code, to authorized mailers using an Intelligent Mail barcode (see 204.1.3). As part of the application process, a Mailer ID is assigned to identify the participant, or mailers can choose to register one or more of their existing Mailer IDs for use with OneCode ACS. Mailers must incorporate the Mailer ID in the Mailer Identifier field, the unique mailpiece identifier in the Serial Number field, and the appropriate service in the Service Type Identifier field of the Intelligent Mail barcode according to Specification USPS B-3200. Customers can access the Intelligent Mail barcode specification on PostalPro at https://postalpro.usps.com.
4.2.4 Basic Standards for All ACS Mailpieces
Mailers preparing ACS mailpieces must meet these specifications:
- When using a window envelope, maintain a clearance between the top line of the address block and the top edge of the address window of at least
1/25 inch. This clearance must be maintained during the insert‘s range of movement in the envelope. - When using an address label, maintain a clearance between the top line of the address block and the top edge of the address label of at least 1/25 inch.
4.2.5 Additional Standards—When Using Human-Readable ACS Participant Codes
Mailers must use human-readable ACS participant codes according to the following specifications:
- Print and place the ancillary service endorsem*nt according to the requirements in 102.4.0 and 1.5.
- Print the ancillary service endorsem*nt and the participant code in a non-narrow variant of Helvetica or Arial sans serif font in the range of
10 to 12 points. - Use equal line spacing in the address block, including the participant code line and mailer keyline.
- When placing the participant code in an optional endorsem*nt line (OEL), the participant code must occupy the first eight positions in the left part of the OEL and be formatted as indicated in 203.7.2.3.
- When placing the participant code in the address block, place it on the top line. The address block information may be on an insert in a window, on an address label, or preprinted on the mailpiece.
- Mailers preprinting the participant code on an envelope (rather than printing it in the address block or on a label) must meet the conditions in 4.2.4 in addition to the following:
- The participant code must be left-justified with the address block, with a tolerance of 1/4 inch left or right. Place the participant code not more than two line spaces above the top line of the address block (using the same line spacing size as used in the address block).
- When using a mailer keyline, place it in the top line of the address block (but below the preprinted participant code).
- OELs are prohibited when a mailer keyline is used.
- If using delivery point barcodes in the address block, mailers must place them in one of the following positions:
- When using a mailer keyline, place the barcode between the top line of the address information and the mailer keyline.
- When not using a mailer keyline, place the barcode between the top line of the address information and the participant code.
- Below the City-State-ZIP Code line.
- Above the participant code and OEL, except when placing the participant code under 4.2.5f.
4.2.6 Additional Standards—When Using Intelligent Mail Barcodes
[7-9-23] Mailers may access OneCode ACS using an Intelligent Mail barcode, which contains a valid Service Type Identifier indicating the ancillary service requested; a numeric Mailer ID; and the Serial Number, a unique numeric mailpiece identifier (Keyline equivalent). This option is available for letters and flat-size pieces mailed as First-Class Mail, USPS Marketing Mail, and Periodicals. Address Service, Change Service, and Return Service Ancillary Services are available for letters and flat-sized mailpieces mailed as First-Class Mail, USPS Marketing Mail, and Bound Printed Matter (BPM), by choosing the appropriate ACS Service Type Identifier in the Intelligent Mail barcode. USPS Marketing Mail and Bound Printed Matter pieces with ACS that include an Intelligent Mail barcode require using a printed-on-piece endorsem*nt. ACS mailers are encouraged to use the “Electronic Service Requested” text endorsem*nt. Other printed endorsem*nts are not required to request ancillary services in conjunction with an Intelligent Mail barcode used on First-Class Mail or Periodicals mailpieces, and their use may produce unintended results. Full-Service and Seamless Acceptance mailers who desire separate address corrections using Address Service and Change Service ancillary services must request ACS and will receive the ACS notices through Full Service. See 705.23.5.2 for additional standards. For other mailers, to receive requested ACS information, mailers must notify the NCSC, ACS Department in Memphis, Tennessee, in writing, seven days before mailing to establish a method for ACS notice fulfillment and to arrange for payment of electronic or automated address correction fees. Mailpieces must meet the following specifications:
- Letter-size mailpieces must be automation-compatible.
- Flat-size mailpieces may be mailed at nonautomation or automation prices.
- If using a window envelope, maintain a clearance between the leftmost and rightmost bars and any printing or window edge of at least 0.125 (1/8) inch, and maintain a clearance between the Intelligent Mail barcode and the top and bottom window edges of at least 0.040 (1/25) inch. These clearances must be maintained during the insert‘s range of movement in the envelope.
- The Intelligent Mail barcode must contain an 11-digit delivery point code that correctly corresponds to the delivery address.
- The Intelligent Mail barcode must meet the technical specifications as described in 204.1.2 and USPS Specification USPS-B-3200.
4.2.7 Periodicals
4.2.8 Address Correction Service Fee
ACS fees will be accesed as follows:
- The applicable fee for address correction is charged for each separate notification of address correction or the reason for nondelivery provided, unless an exception applies.
- Once the ACS fee charges have been invoiced, any unpaid fees for the prior invoice cycle (month) would be assessed an annual administrative fee of 10 percent for the overdue amount.
- Mailers who present at least 95 percent of their eligible First-Class Mail and USPS Marketing Mail volume as Full Service in a calendar month would receive electronic address correction notices for their qualifying Basic automation and non-automation First-Class Mail and USPS Marketing Mail mailpieces, as specified in 4.2.2. The electronic address correction notices are charged at the applicable Full Service address correction fee for all future billing cycles.
4.2.9 Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return
[1-21-24] Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return is an ACS fulfillment vehicle which allows mailers of USPS Marketing Mail, Package Services and Parcel Select parcels to pay forwarding and/or return charges via approved ACS participant code(s) when used with “Address Service Requested” or “Change Service Requested” endorsem*nts. For information about Shipper Paid Forwarding/Return, contact the National Customer Support Center (see 608.8.0 for address). Mailers opting to pay forwarding/return charges through a (postage due) advance deposit account must pay an annual account maintenance fee (See Notice 123—Price List).
4.3 Sender Instruction
4.3.1 Mail Not Forwarded
The following types of mail are not forwarded:
- Mail addressed to “Occupant” or “Postal Customer.”
- Mail with exceptional address format.
- Mail showing specific instructions of the sender (e.g., “Return Service Requested” or “Change Service Requested”).
- Perishable items not marked to abandon that cannot be delivered before spoiling, or day-old poultry that cannot be delivered within 72 hours after hatching. These items are returned to the sender immediately, if the return can be made before spoilage or within the 72-hour period.
4.3.2 Extra Services
- COD mail is not forwarded to overseas military Post Offices.
- Ordinary and insured parcels marked with the mailer’s instructions are treated following instructions, such as: “Do not forward or return. If not accepted within _____ days, treat as abandoned. Notify mailer of disposition.”
- COD mail will be handled as requested when marked under 503.9.0.
4.3.3 Priority Mail Express Pouch
4.3.4 Holding Mail
5.0 Package Intercept
5.1 Description of Service
5.1.1 Basic Standards
Package Intercept service provides a method for customers to authorize redirection of any mailable domestic mailpiece with a tracking barcode under 5.1.2, unless otherwise ineligible under 5.1.3. Only the sender or authorized representative can request Package Intercept. If the item is found and redirected to the sender, to a new delivery address, or to a Post Office as Hold For Pickup, the Package Intercept fee is collected and the item is subject to additional postage charged under 5.2. Package Intercept requests are active for 7 business days from the date of the request. Interception of eligible mailpieces is not guaranteed. Requests must be made as provided under 5.4.
5.1.2 Eligibility
Except under 5.1.3, Package Intercept service is available for Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, USPS Ground Advantage – Commercial, Parcel Select, Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, or Library Mail mailpieces with a tracking barcode (excluding COD Hold For Pickup mailpieces), addressed to, from, or between domestic destinations ((608.2.0) that do not require a customs declarations label, and measuring not more than 108 inches in length and girth combined. Package Intercept, redirect to sender option only, is available for eligible matter mailed using Registered Mail service.
5.1.3 Ineligible
Package Intercept is not available for:
- Mailpieces sent to or from International destinations.
- Mailpieces sent to or from APO/FPO/DPO destinations (703.2.0).
- Domestic mailpieces requiring a customs declarations label (see 608.2.4).
- Mailpieces that indicate surface-only transportation such as Label 127, “Surface Mail Only” or that bear other hazardous materials markings such as “Limited Quantity,” “Consumer Commodity” or “ORM-D”.
- Mailpieces that do not contain a tracking barcode (including those for extra services).
- Redirecting matter mailed using Registered Mail service to a new delivery address, or to a Post Office as Hold For Pickup
5.2 Postage and Fees
Customers must pay a nonrefundable per-piece fee once the USPS successfully intercepts the mailpiece. Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial pieces being redirected to the sender are not relabeled or subject to additional postage. Intercepted Parcel Select, Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail or Library Mail pieces that are redirected to the sender, and all intercepted mailpieces that are redirected to a new delivery address or a Post Office as Hold For Pickup (3.0), are relabeled and handled as a new Priority Mail piece. Priority Mail commercial prices are charged for the new Priority Mail piece from the location where intercepted to the new destination based on the dimensions, weight, and zone of the piece or the flat-rate price, if applicable, along with any applicable extra services fees. Postage and fee payments are as follows:
- For retail customers, the Package Intercept fee may be paid by credit or debit card at www.usps.com. Payment of any applicable postage and fees for the new mailpiece will be charged at the time of the intercept when possible, or otherwise will be collected from the recipient as postage due upon delivery.
- For commercial customers, payment of the Package Intercept fee and any applicable postage and fees for the new mailpiece must be processed through the mailer‘s Enterprise Payment System (EPS) account.
5.3 Adding Extra Services
Customers may request, and pay additional postage under 5.2, for extra services on the new Priority Mail piece being redirected to a new address or a Post Office for Hold For Pickup. Extra services may not be added to items being redirected to the sender. The relabeled item will be assigned a new Intelligent Mail package barcode (IMpb) applicable to the extra service purchased. All available USPS scans for the extra service will be available to the customer at no charge. Only the following extra services may be added:
- Adult Signature Required.
- Adult Signature Restricted Delivery.
- Insurance (if the original shipment included insurance and only for the original value stated).
- Signature Confirmation.
5.4 Request for Intercept
Retail customers may register and make their request at www.usps.com to have their package intercepted. Commercial customers may register and make their request at https://gateway.usps.com. Packages designated for redirection to a new address provided by the mailer that are undeliverable as addressed will be returned to sender as provided in 2.0.
6.0 Requesting Withdrawal and Disposal of a Mailing
6.1 Request Process
6.1.1 Mail Without Scheduled Delivery Date
- The mailing contains at least 200 pieces.
- The mailer gives the USPS a written and signed request, describing the mail by size, color, weight, identifying markings, number of pieces, class of mail, and type of postage payment. The request must include the authorization to withdraw and dispose of the mail.
- The mailer sends the request to the postmaster of the accepting Post Office (if the mailing has been deposited but not accepted) or to the postmaster of each destination office (if the mailing has been accepted).
6.1.2 Mail With Scheduled Delivery Date
- The mailing contains at least 200 pieces.
- The mailer entered the mailing early enough so that delivery can be expected on or before the scheduled delivery date.
- The mailer sends the request to the postmaster of the accepting Post Office (if the mailing has been deposited but not accepted) or, if the mailing has been accepted, the mailer either:
- Attaches a facing slip to each bundle of mail showing the company name, person to contact, telephone number (where collect calls are accepted), and the scheduled delivery date after which the mailer does not want the mail delivered. The mailer also authorizes the withdrawal but not the disposal of the mail.
- Sends a written request to the postmasters of destination Post Offices before depositing the mail, stating that time-dated mail is to be received at their offices and describing the mail by size, color, weight, identifying markings, number of pieces, class of mail, and type of postage payment. The mailer also authorizes the withdrawal and disposal of time-dated mail if received after the scheduled dates.
6.1.3 No Guarantee
The USPS does not guarantee success in preventing delivery of all pieces in a withdrawn mailing.
6.1.4 Mail Disposal
7.0 Pickup on Demand Service
7.1 Postage and Fees
7.1.1 Postage
The correct amount of postage must be affixed to each piece except for the following:
- A Priority Mail Express label paid with a USPS Returns label affixed (under 505.3.0);
- Pieces with a Parcel Return Service permit label affixed (under 505.4.0); and
- Manifest mailings paid by permit imprint indicia approved by the manager of Business Acceptance Performance (MBAP).
7.1.2 Fee
The Pickup on Demand fee is listed in Notice 123—Price List. A customer is charged the required fee for each time Pickup on Demand service is provided, regardless of the number of pieces or combination of classes of mail, and for additional trips to pick up exceptional volume of which the serving Post Office was not notified. The Pickup on Demand fee must be paid online at www.usps.com, or for USPS Connect Local through USPS Click-N-Ship.
7.1.3 Fee Not Charged
The customer is not charged for:
- A scheduled Pickup on Demand that is canceled under the cancellation requirements.
- A package pickup that occurs as part of a regularly scheduled delivery or collection stop.
- Pickup on Demand when the item bears a USPS Returns service label that indicates that the permit holder will pay for Pickup on Demand service.
- A minimum of seven pieces of the eligible types of mailpieces in 7.2.1 from a customer who has an authorized signed agreement (Form 5543) with the local Post Office. This agreement must be completed and signed in advance of any pickup request made under this standard.
7.2 Basic Standards
7.2.1 Availability
- Priority Mail Express.
- Priority Mail.
- USPS Ground Advantage — Retail.
- USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial.
- USPS Connect Local.
- Package Services parcels.
- Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail Open and Distribute shipments.
- Global Express Guaranteed.
- Priority Mail Express International.
- Priority Mail International.
- First-Class Package International Service
7.2.2 Stamped Pieces over 10 Ounces or More than One Half-Inch in Thickness
7.2.3 Extra Services
- Certified Mail.
- USPS Tracking.
- Adult Signature (not allowed for certain items under 503.8.0)
- Insurance.
- Signature Confirmation.
- Return receipt.
7.2.4 Volume
7.2.5 Service Changes
7.2.6 Requesting Pickup on Demand Service
A customer may request Pickup on Demand service and schedule a pickup at www.usps.com, or for USPS Connect Local through USPS Click-N-Ship. Pickup on Demand service allows a customer to have pickup on a specific date within a two-hour timeframe. Customers may schedule Pickup on Demand service up to one year in advance, or for USPS Connect Local up to three days in advance. A same-day request for pickup must be made before 5:00 a.m. local time on the requested day.
7.3 Scheduled Service
7.3.1 Availability
7.3.2 Service Agreement
- Use PS Form 5542, Scheduled Pickup on Demand Service Agreement, to specify the time, place, day or date, frequency of service, and approximate volume per pickup.
- The terms of the service agreement may be amended with the consent and approval of both parties.
7.3.3 Service hours
7.3.4 Customer Changes
The customer must notify the serving Post Office at least 24 hours before a scheduled pickup if the pickup is to be canceled or the volume of mail to be picked up is more than 20% higher than the volume specified in the service agreement. The customer may terminate scheduled Pickup on Demand service, effective 24 hours after the USPS receives customer‘s written notice of termination at the serving Post Office. The customer must pay all fees for Pickup on Demand service provided before termination of service. Customers should make notifications of change to their requests through the www.usps.com Pickup on Demand application, or for USPS Connect Local through USPS Click-N-Ship.
7.3.5 USPS Changes
The USPS may terminate Pickup on Demand service, effective 24 hours after the customer receives written notice of termination from the serving Post Office. Termination is based upon the customer‘s failure to pay postage and fees or to meet the standards for Pickup on Demand service in 7.0. The customer may appeal this termination of services to the manager, Post Office Operations, but must pay for all fees for Pickup on Demand service provided during the appeal period.
8.0 Address Management System
8.1 Address Management System Prodicts and Fees
For Address Management System (AMS) products and fees, see Notice 123—Price List.
8.1.1 Carrier Route Information System
The official city delivery scheme, “Carrier Route Information System,” is available to mailers.
8.1.2 Address Changes to Election Boards and Voter Registration Commissions
For the designated fee, USPS provides address changes to election boards and voter registration commissions.
8.2 Election Boards and Voter Registration Commissions
8.2.1 General
8.2.2 Fee Assessment
8.2.3 Procedure
- An authorized official of the board or commission must sign and submit to the manager, Address Management Systems (district), a written request that lists the Post Offices for which change-of-address information is desired.
- If the request is approved, an agreement must be obtained from and signed by an authorized official of the board or commission detailing the terms under which the change-of-address information is to be released.
- The board or commission receives the requested information from the postmasters of the listed Post Offices and pays those postmasters the applicable fees.
8.2.4 Lists
8.2.5 Prohibitions
8.3 Fee Assessment
8.3.1 Corrections
The fee for correcting name and address lists or occupant lists is assessed for each name or street address on the list. Individual apartments are considered separate addresses. The minimum fee in 8.1 applies to lists with fewer than 30 names or addresses. For assessing the fee, the USPS considers a list to be all the addresses sent at one time to the appropriate postal facility.
8.3.2 Rural Route Consolidation
8.3.3 Cards
8.3.4 Election Board and Voter Commissions
8.3.5 Payment
8.3.6 Time Limit
8.4 Name and Address List Correction
8.4.1 Preparation
8.4.2 Card Size
8.4.3 Submission
The customer must submit the address cards or mailing lists to the district manager of Address Management Systems for addresses within the district. (The address of each district may be found the Address Management System Locator tool available on PostalPro at https://postalpro.usps.com.) Unless directed otherwise by the district, the customer must address the submission as follows:
MANAGER
ADDRESS MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
[STREET ADDRESS]
[CITY STATE ZIP CODE]
8.4.4 Postage
8.4.5 Elements Corrected
- Cross off names to which mail cannot be delivered or forwarded.
- Correct initials and/or last names when the name apparently is known to the owner of the list.
- Correct the house, rural, or Post Office box number; correct the last line (Post Office name, state abbreviation, and 5-digit ZIP Code); and, in multiple-unit buildings, add apartment, suite, or room numbers if known by the USPS employee.
- Correct spelling of street names, suffixes, and placement of directionals to conform to the Carrier Route File scheme.
- Provide new addresses, including ZIP Codes, for customers who have moved and filed permanent forwarding orders that are still active, and for addresses, if known, that are undeliverable because of USPS adjustments.
- Mark an “X” in the upper right corner of the card or next to each entry on the sheet where no change is necessary.
8.4.6 No Additions
In making list corrections, USPS employees do not add a new name or address to a card or list.
8.5 Occupant Lists
8.5.1 Submission
8.5.2 Elements Corrected
- Provide new addresses, if known, for addresses that are undeliverable because of USPS adjustments.
- Correct last lines (Post Office names, state abbreviations, and 5-digit ZIP Codes), spelling of street names, suffixes, and placement of directionals to conform to the Carrier Route File scheme.
- Cross off numbers representing incorrect or nonexistent street addresses, but do not change or add numbers.
- Indicate business addresses with a “B” in the upper right corner of the card, or opposite the street number as printed on the sheet, as applicable.
- Indicate rural route addresses with an “R” in the upper right corner of the card, or opposite the street number as printed on the sheet, as applicable.
- Enter the number of separate family units opposite addresses of multiple-unit dwellings.
- Mark an “X” in the upper right corner of the card or next to each entry on the sheet where no change is necessary.
- Group the corrected cards or sheets by carrier route for return to the list owner.
8.6 Sortation of Lists on Cards by 5-Digit ZIP Code
8.6.1 Coding
The customer must code mailing lists by 5-digit ZIP Code for single 5-digit ZIP Code Post Offices.
8.6.2 Preparation
8.6.3 USPS Sortation
8.7 Election Boards and Voter Registration Commissions
8.7.1 General
Election boards or voter registration commissions may use the “Return Service Requested” endorsem*nt and/or the National Change of Address Linkage System (NCOALink) to maintain current address lists.
8.7.2 Procedure
- An authorized official of the board or commission must sign and submit to the manager, address management systems (district), a written request that lists the Post Offices for which change-of-address information is desired.
- If the request is approved, an agreement must be obtained from and signed by an authorized official of the board or commission detailing the terms under which the change-of-address information is to be released.
- The board or commission receives the requested information from the postmasters of the listed Post Offices and pays those postmasters the applicable fees.
9.0 Address Sequencing Services
9.1 Address Sequencing Service Fees
9.2 Service Levels
- Sequencing of address cards or electronic address files.
- Sequencing of address cards or electronic address files, plus inserting only blank cards for missing addresses or missing sequence numbers for the addresses missing from the electronic files.
- Sequencing of address cards or electronic address files, plus inserting cards with addresses for missing or new addresses, or inserting addresses into electronic files for missing or new addresses.
- For address cards or electronic files, if qualification is met, the USPS will provide seeded addresses to the list owners for inclusion in their address files for file protection.
- If a request for sequencing contains a seeded address, the owner of the seeded address will be notified within 30 days of detection. If all known possibilities of fraud cannot be ruled out, the request will be denied and the Postal Inspection Service will be notified.
9.3 Card Preparation and Submission
9.3.1 Color, Size, and Quantity
9.3.2 Limitation
The customer must not submit address cards or an address file in excess of 110% of the possible deliveries for a specific 5-digit ZIP Code delivery area. Customers requesting the service level in 9.2c will be allowed three attempts to qualify a ZIP Code for the service within a 12-month period. Failure to qualify within three attempts within 12 months will result in a suspension of 1 year for any additional attempts to qualify the ZIP Code.
9.3.3 Addressing Format
Addressing format is specific to the media being used.
- Card Processing. Cards must be faced in the same direction and bear only one address each. The customer’s current address information must be computer-generated, typed, or printed along the top of the card. The address must be within 1 inch from the top edge of the card in about the same location on each card submitted. Each card must include a complete address, but the ZIP Code is optional. Street designators may be abbreviated as shown in Publication 28, Postal Addressing Standards. When sequence cards are used to obtain address sequencing information for Post Office boxes, the box section number must be substituted for the carrier route number (if shown).
- Electronic Processing. The customer must submit address files on electronic media, as described by USPS. Call the National Customer Support Center at 1-800-331-5747 for a copy of the required format.
9.3.4 Header Cards
When submitting address cards, customers must provide carrier route header cards prepared with standard 80-column computer card stock (or another size as described in 9.3.1). The header cards must be typed, computer-generated, or printed by the customer. A route header card of the same size as the address cards must be placed in front of the cards for each route. All columns must be provided on the header cards, regardless of the service level requested. Column headings may be abbreviated. Examples of the required format for the route header card can be obtained from the National Customer Support Center (see 608.8.0 for address).
9.3.5 Delivery Unit Summary
A Delivery Unit Summary must be typed, computer-generated, or printed and provided by the customer for card processing. A printed copy or electronic file will be acceptable for address file submissions. When submitting address cards, an original and two copies must be submitted for each 5-digit ZIP Code. When submitting an address file, an original and two copies of a printed form or one electronic file must be submitted for each 5-digit ZIP Code. This form, used by the USPS to provide summary information to the customer, is necessary for calculating total charges for the service level provided. For address card submissions, the original is returned to the customer with the cards as the customer’s bill. For electronic address file submissions, a computer-generated Delivery Unit Summary is returned as the customer‘s bill. Upon receipt of payment, the ZIP Code will be qualified for Computerized Delivery Sequence (CDS), and product fulfillment will begin. Examples of the required printed or electronic format of the Delivery Unit Summary can be obtained from the National Customer Support Center (see 608.8.0 for address).
9.3.6 5-Digit ZIP Codes
9.3.7 Submitting Cards or Electronic Files
The designated place for submission of addresses for sequencing depends on the type of media used.
- Card Processing. The customer must submit the containers of address cards to the district manager of Address Management Systems for carrier routes within the corresponding district. (Exception: Address cards only for addresses in the city where the customer is located may be submitted to the postmaster of that city.) Unless directed otherwise, the customer must address containers of address cards to:
- Electronic Processing. The customer must submit address files on electronic media to:
MANAGER ADDRESS MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE
[STREET ADDRESS]
[CITY/STATE/ZIP+4]
9.3.8 Postage
9.3.9 USPS Sequencing
9.3.10 USPS Time Limits and Billing
9.3.11 Seasonal Addresses
9.4 Sequencing Cards With Blanks for Missing Addresses or Sequencing Address Files With Missing Sequence Numbers
9.5 Sequencing With Address Cards or Address File Sequencing With Addresses Added for Missing and New Addresses
9.5.1 USPS Sequencing
9.5.2 Separate Address Groups
- Types of addresses (residential, business, or a combination).
- Number of addresses on the cards or in the address file.
- Name, mailing address, and telephone number of the list owner or agent.
9.5.3 Post Office Boxes
9.5.4 Address Percentage
9.5.5 Calculating Percentage
9.5.6 Resubmitting Cards or Address File
Customers must monitor community growth and determine when address cards or address files need to be submitted for resequencing to maintain the 90% eligibility level of address coverage. Such a determination is not supplied by the USPS. See 509.1.0, for information on obtaining delivery statistics.
9.6 Service Charges
9.6.1 Basic Service
For sequencing of address cards or address files, the fee in 9.1 is charged for each address card or address that is removed because of an incorrect or undeliverable address. All cards removed are packaged separately and returned to the customer.
9.6.2 Blanks for Missing Addresses
For sequencing of address cards or address files with total possible deliveries shown, the fee in 9.1 is charged for each address card or address that is removed because it is incorrect or undeliverable. No charge is assessed for the insertion of blank cards or missing sequence numbers (for address files) showing the range of missing addresses in a submitted list.
9.6.3 Missing or New Addresses
For sequencing of address cards or address files with missing or new addresses added, the fee in 9.2 is charged for each address card or address that is removed because it is incorrect or undeliverable, and for each address (possible delivery) that is added to the customer’s list. For apartment or office buildings with a series of addresses for which the USPS provides a range of addresses, the charge is for each address (possible delivery) in the range or series.
9.6.4 Customer’s Bill
9.6.5 Free Services
These services are provided at no charge for all three levels of service:
- If the customer includes a rural address (box number) in a deck of cards or address file submitted for sequencing, and a street address is assigned to that box number so it can be served on a city delivery route, a correct address card or address is included at no charge.
- The USPS attempts, but does not guarantee, to make simple corrections to addresses (e.g., obvious spelling errors) that can be identified as a specific delivery address and are not undeliverable as addressed or nonexistent. Corrections are noted on the cards placed in proper carrier route sequence in the returned cards and identified by a rubber band around the card.
9.7 Submitting Properly Sequenced Mailings
9.7.1 Customer Responsibility
9.7.2 Changes
9.7.3 Out-of-Sequence Mailing
9.7.4 Reinstatement
10.0 Informed Visibility
10.1 Basic Standards
10.1.1 Description
- Use of an IMb on mailpieces entered as part of a full-service mailing under 705.
- Use of a Mailer Identifier that has been registered (through the Business Customer Gateway, accessible on usps.com) to receive scan data.
- Verification by the Postal Service that the IMb as printed meets all applicable postal standards.
10.2 Barcodes
10.2.1 General Barcode Requirements
Each piece in a mailing that is intended to generate IV information must bear an Intelligent Mail barcode under 10.2.2. Mailers must apply Intelligent Mail barcodes under 204.1.0 and the following standards:
- Reply pieces must meet the following standards:
- For Business Reply Mail, the piece must bear a barcode that corresponds to the subscriber‘s Business Reply Mail ZIP+4 codes assigned by the USPS under 505.1.0.
- For other reply mail, the piece must bear a barcode that correctly corresponds to the delivery address.
- Outgoing pieces must bear an Intelligent Mail barcode that correctly corresponds to the delivery address.
10.2.2 Intelligent Mail Barcode Requirements
To obtain IV, mailers must apply Intelligent Mail barcodes on letter-size pieces or on flat-size pieces meeting automation-compatibility standards in 201.3.0 (letters) or 201.6.0 (flats). The following standards apply:
- Intelligent Mail barcodes must meet the barcode and format standards in 204.1.0 and in Specification USPS-B-3200 at http://postalpro.usps.com/.
- Place barcodes on letters and flats according to 202.5.0.
11.0 USPS Tracking Plus Service
11.1 Description
USPS Tracking Plus service allows customers to request that the Postal Service retain scan data, or scan and signature data for their packages, beyond the Postal Service’s standard data retention period, for up to 10 years for a fee (see Notice 123–Price List). Customers may request USPS Tracking Plus service online at usps.com or through a Shipping Services file.
11.2 Scan Data Retention
USPS Tracking Plus service is available for scan data retention on mailpieces shipped via the following products:
- Priority Mail Express.
- Priority Mail.
- First-Class Mail (letters and flats) with a purchased trackable extra service.
- USPS Ground Advantage Service.
- Parcel Select.
- Library Mail and Media Mail.
- Bound Printed Matter.
- USPS Marketing Mail and Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail parcels with purchased USPS Tracking and Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail parcels with a trackable extra service.
11.3 Scan and Signature Data Retention
USPS Tracking Plus service is available for Scan and Signature Retention on applicable products listed in 11.2. Except for Priority Mail Express, the customer must have purchased an underlying signature service (e.g., Signature Confirmation service, Adult Signature service).
12.0 USPS Label Delivery Service
12.1 Description
USPS Label Delivery Service provides customers with an option to have the Postal Service print and deliver their domestic outbound and return mailing labels for a fee per label at a Post Office where available. USPS Label Delivery Service is not available for Air or Army Post Office/Diplomatic Post Office/Fleet Post Office (APO/FPO/DPO) addresses. Customers requesting USPS Label Delivery Service will be provided tracking information.
12.2 Eligibility
USPS Label Delivery Service is available for the following:
- Retail and Commercial Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail.
- USPS Ground Advantage — Retail.
- USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial.
- USPS Returns Service.
12.3 Extra Services
No extra services are available with labels requested through USPS Label Delivery Service.
12.4 Requesting USPS Label Delivery Service
A customer may request USPS Label Delivery Service at usps.com.
12.5 Fee
The USPS Label Delivery Service fee is listed in Notice 123—Price List.