Domestic Mail Manual

Mail returned to sender by order of chief field counsel (or under 508.1.0 and 508.2.0 ) because of dispute about right to delivery of mail and cannot be determined which disputing party has better right to mail.

* 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 endorsement, 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 Endorsement

A mailer endorsement is used to request forwarding, return, or address correction service. This endorsement (and other marking) must be prepared under 102 or 202 . The endorsements 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
  1. Undeliverable-as-addressed Certified Mail is treated as First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage — Retail.
  2. 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.
  3. 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
  1. 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.
  2. Alternative addressing formats under602.3.0 may not be used on mail with any extra service or mail with any ancillary service endorsement 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.
  3. The Priority Mail portion of a Priority Mail Open and Distribute shipment receives the forwarding, return, and address correction services described inExhibit 1.5.1 . The mail enclosed within the Priority Mail Open and Distribute shipment receives the services appropriate for its class.
  4. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial, or Priority Mail pieces bearing USPS Marketing Mail markings and endorsements under202 and 244.5.1 for letters, flats, and parcels, receives forwarding, return, and address correction services for USPS Marketing Mail under 1.5.3 .
  5. “Change Service Requested” is not permitted for the following:
    1. Priority Mail, other than Priority Mail containing perishable matter under601.8.0 (except for live animals).
    2. First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial, or Priority Mail pieces containing hazardous materials under601.8.0 .
    3. 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.
    4. First-Class Mail pieces containing Ballot Mail under703.8.0 .
    1. “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.
    2. “Change Service Requested” (Options 1 and 2) are valid for use only on ACS participating pieces.
    3. The words “Option 1” or “Option 2” must not be part of the “Address Service Requested” or “Change Service Requested” endorsement on mailpieces.
    4. 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.

    [1-21-24] (3)This endorsement is not valid for Ballot Mail under 703.8.0 .

    1.5.2 Periodicals
    1. Periodicals matter is forwarded only to domestic addresses.
    2. Publications with an alternative addressing format under602.3.0 are delivered to the address when possible. Forwarding service is not provided for such mail.
    3. 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 under4.2.2d and705.23.5.2 , an address correction service fee must be paid for each notice issued.
    4. 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.
    5. The publisher may request the return of copies of undelivered Periodicals by printing the endorsement “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 endorsement 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.
    6. 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.

    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

    1.5.3 USPS Marketing Mail
    1. [1-21-24] USPS Marketing Mail pieces are forwarded only to domestic addresses.
    2. The exceptional address format under602.3.0 may not be used on mail with any ancillary service endorsement or mail with any extra service (except as allowed for Marketing parcels with USPS Tracking service).
    3. [1-21-24] The endorsement “Change Service Requested” is not permitted for the following:
      1. Mailpieces containing hazardous materials under601.8.0 . Mailpieces containing hazardous materials must bear the endorsement “Address Service Requested,” “Forwarding Service Requested,” or “Return Service Requested.”
      2. Mailpieces containing Ballot Mail under703.8.0 .

      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.

      • Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded (no charge); separate notice of new address provided. Address correction fee charged.
      • Months 13 through 18: Piece returned with new address attached (only weighted fee 2 charged).
      • After month 18: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (only weighted fee charged).
      • Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded (no charge); separate notice of new address provided. Address correction fee charged.
      • Months 13 through 18: Piece returned with new address attached and separate ACS notice of new address provided. Weighted fee 2 charged for return of piece and address correction fee charged.
      • After month 18: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached and separate ACS notice of reason for nondelivery provided. Weighted fee 2 charged for return of piece and address correction fee charged.
      • Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded (no charge); separate notice of new address provided. Address correction fee charged.
      • Months 13 through 18: Piece returned with new address attached (only weighted fee 2 charged).
      • After month 18: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (only weighted fee charged).
      • Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded. Forwarding postage is charged to the mailer at the applicable First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, or Priority Mail single-piece price for the weight of the piece. Separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      • Months 13 through 18: Piece returned with new address attached (postage charged as above: “If no change-of-address order on file”). Separate notice provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      • After month 18: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (postage charged as above: “If no change-of-address order on file”). Separate notice provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      • Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded. Forwarding postage is charged to the mailer at applicable First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage — Retail single-piece price for the weight of the piece. Separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      • Months 13 through 18: Piece returned with new address attached; return postage is charged to mailer at applicable First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage — Retail single-piece price for the weight of the piece. Separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee is charged).
      • After month 18: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery; return postage is charged to mailer at applicable First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage — Retail single-piece price for the weight of the piece. Separate notice of reason for nondelivery provided (electronic ACS fee is charged).
      • Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded (no charge to addressee); separate ACS notice of new address provided (ACS address correction fee and forwarding postage are charged at First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage — Retail single-piece price as appropriate for weight of piece, via mailer’s ACS participant code).
      • Months 13 through 18: Piece returned with new address attached (only Bulk Parcel Return Service fee charged).
      • After month 18: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (only Bulk Parcel Return Service fee charged).
      • Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded (no charge).
      • Months 13 through 18: Piece returned with new address attached (only weighted fee 2 charged).
      • After month 18: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (only weighted fee 2 charged).
      • [1-21-24] Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded; postage due charged to the mailer at applicable Forwarding Fee based on the mailpiece shape for USPS Marketing Mail; separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      • Months 13 through 18: Piece disposed of by USPS; separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      • After month 18: Treatment same as noted under “If no change-of-address order on file”.
      • Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded; postage due charged to the mailer as at the applicable First-Class Mail or USPS Ground Advantage — Retail single-piece price for the weight of the piece; separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      • Months 13 through 18: Piece disposed of by USPS; separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      • After month 18: Piece disposed of by USPS; separate notice of reason for nondelivery provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      1.5.4 Package Services and Parcel Select
      1. Package Services and Parcel Select mail is forwarded only to domestic addresses.
      2. Except for Bound Printed Matter pieces including USPS Tracking, the exceptional address format under602.3.0 may not be used on mail with any ancillary service endorsement 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.
      3. The endorsement “Change Service Requested” is not permitted for Package Services or Parcel Select mailpieces containing hazardous materials under601.8.0 .
      4. 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.
      5. 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.
      6. Bound Printed Matter with no ancillary service endorsement and with an extra service other than USPS Tracking or Signature Confirmation service is treated as though endorsed “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”, “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.

      • Parcel Select: at USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial price plus the additional service fee.
      • Package Services: at the appropriate single-piece price for the specific class of mail.
      • Months 1 through 12: Package Services forwarded postage due at the single-piece price for the class of mail. Parcel Select forwarded as postage due to addressee at the USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial price plus the additional service fee. In both cases, separate notice of new address is provided (address correction fee charged). If addressee refuses to pay postage due, piece is returned with reason for nondelivery attached and postage charged as follows:
        1. Parcel Select: at the USPS Ground Advantage price plus the additional service fee.
        2. Package Services: at the single-piece price for the class of mail.
      • Months 13 through 18: Piece returned with new address attached (postage charged as noted in items a and b under “Months 1 through 12.”)
      • After month 18: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (postage charged as noted in items a and b under “Months 1 through 12.”)
      • Months 1 through 12: Parcel forwarded. Forwarding postage is charged to the mailer at the applicable Package Services single-piece price or the USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial price plus the ACS & Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional service fee. Separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      • Months 13 through 18: Parcel returned with new address attached; (postage due charged as above: see “If no change-of-address order on file”).
      • After month 18: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached; (postage due charged as above: see “If no change-of-address order on file”).
      • Months 1 through 12: Parcel forwarded. Forwarding postage is charged to the mailer at the applicable Package Services single-piece price or the USPS AGround Advantage — Commercial price plus the ACS & Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional service fee. Separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      • Months 13 through 18: Parcel returned with new address attached (postage charged as above: see “If no change-of-address order on file”). Separate notice provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      • After month 18: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (postage charged as above: see “If no change-of-address order on file”). Separate notice provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      • Months 1 through 12: Parcel forwarded. Forwarding postage is charged to the mailer at the Package Services single-piece price or the USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial price plus the ACS & Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional service fee. Separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee is charged).
      • Months 13 through 18: Parcel returned with new address attached; return postage is charged to mailer as above: see “If no change-of-address order on file”). Separate notice provided (electronic ACS fee is charged).
      • After month 18: Parcel returned with reason for nondelivery; return postage is charged to mailer as above: see “If no change-of-address order on file”). Separate notice provided (electronic ACS fee is charged).
      • Months 1 through 12: Package Services forwarded postage due at the single-piece price for the class of mail. Parcel Select forwarded as postage due to addressee at the round Advantage — Commercial price plus the additional service fee. If addressee refuses to pay postage due, piece is returned with reason for nondelivery attached; postage charged at the applicable Package Services single-piece price or the USPS Ground Advantage price plus the additional service fee.
      • Months 13 through 18: Piece returned with new address attached (postage charged as noted under “Months 1 through 12.")
      • After month 18: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (postage charged as noted under “If no change-of-address order on file.”)
      • Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded; postage due charged to the mailer at applicable Forwarding Fee based on the piece shape (flat); separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      • Months 13 through 18: Piece disposed of by USPS; separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      • After month 18: Treatment same as noted under “If no change-of-address order on file”.
      • Months 1 through 12: Parcel forwarded; postage due charged to the mailer at the Package Services single-piece price for the specific class of mail or the USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial price plus the ACS & Shipper Paid Forward/Return additional service fee; separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      • Months 13 through 18: Parcel disposed of by USPS; separate notice of new address provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      • After month 18: Parcel disposed of by USPS; separate notice or reason for nondelivery is provided (electronic ACS fee charged).
      1.5.5 Priority Mail Express
      1. Priority Mail Express is forwarded only to domestic addresses.
      2. Directory service is provided for Priority Mail Express that cannot be delivered because of an incorrect or incomplete address.
      3. The Priority Mail Express portion of a Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute shipment receives the forwarding, return, and address correction services described inExhibit 1.5.5 . The mail enclosed within the Open and Distribute shipment receives the services appropriate for its class.
      4. 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:
        1. The mail is refused before the end of the 5 calendar days.
        2. 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 to102.4.0 or 202.4.0 , directing the return of undeliverable mail after fewer than 5 calendar days.
        • Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded (no charge); separate notice of new address provided (address correction fee charged).
        • Months 13 through 18: Piece returned with new address attached (no charge).
        • After month 18: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (no charge).
        • Months 1 through 12: Piece forwarded (no charge).
        • Months 13 through 18: Piece returned with new address attached (no charge).
        • After month 18: Piece returned with reason for nondelivery attached (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
        1. Parcel Select at the USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial price plus the additional service fee.
        2. Package Services at the single-piece price for the specific class of mail.
        3. 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
        1. 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.
        2. Items with incidental First-Class Mail enclosures or attachments are returned according to the class of the host piece.
        3. An undeliverable combination mailpiecethat 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
        1.8.2 Refused Mail
        1.8.3 Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial
        1. Priority Mail pieces with a valid Address Change Service (ACS) participant code marked “Perishable” and endorsed “Change Service Requested.”
        2. 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
        1. For 5 days if for delivery by rural or highway contract route carrier.
        2. 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.
        3. 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
        1. 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.
        2. 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.
        3. Undeliverable articles of $25 or more in value are treated as dead mail.
        4. Dead letters are opened at mail recovery centers to determine the name and address of the addressee or sender to permit delivery or return.
        5. 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:
          1. USPS Marketing Mail;
          2. Package Services; and
          3. Insured First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage — Retail, or USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial pieces containing USPS Marketing Mail, or Package Services enclosures.
          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
          1. Contact the local Post Office to initiate a MRC Search form.
          2. 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
          1. 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. (See1.5,1.6, and1.7 for additional information.)
          2. A record of change-of-address orders from general delivery to a permanent local address without a time limit is kept 6 months.
          3. 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
          2.1.3 Temporary Forwarding
          2.1.4 Methods of Filing
          1. 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 under608.10.2 and608.10.3 when presenting PS Form 3575 at the Post Office.
          2. Use Internet Change of Address (ICOA) at moversguide.usps.com. Customers using the ICOA method must:
            1. 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.
            2. 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
            1. 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.
            2. 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.
            3. 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.
            4. 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:
              1. The change-of-address order is submitted through the Internet Change of Address (ICOA) entry under2.1.4b . All other change-of-address methods are prohibited.
              2. Only “Individual” orders are permitted.
              3. 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
              1. Priority Mail Express;
              2. Priority Mail;
              3. First-Class Mail;
              4. USPS Ground Advantage – Retail;
              5. USPS Ground Advantage – Commercial;
              6. Periodicals; and
              7. 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
              2.3.2 Priority Mail Express
              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 endorsements 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
              1. Click-N-Ship.
              2. Registered end-users of USPS-approved PC Postage products.
              3. Permit imprint.
              4. USPS-approved Information-Based Indicia (IBI) postage meters when also using an authorized Hold For Pickup label.
              5. A mailer‘s Enterprise Payment System (EPS) account when used with a Package Intercept request.
              6. 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:

              1. Mailpieces bear an applicable Priority Mail Express label (under115.2.1 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.
              2. 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 in3.1.1 . 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
              1. 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, endorsements, and extra service labels.
              2. If the mailpiece is a machinable parcel under201.7.0 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
              1. Commercial mailings of First-Class Mail letter-size and flat-size pieces.
              2. Mail addressed to APO/FPO and DPO destinations.
              3. 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 ):

              1. USPS Tracking.
              2. Insured mail.
              3. Signature Confirmation.
              4. Adult Signature Required and Adult Signature Restricted Delivery.
              5. COD.
              3.3 Preparation Definitions and Instructions
              1. 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.”
              2. Affix an address label that has been approved by the National Customer Support Center (NCSC) (see608.8.1 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.
              3. In addition to the markings defined in3.0 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 endorsement 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 Endorsement

              Any obsolete ancillary service endorsement or similar sender endorsement not shown in 1.0 is considered invalid. Material bearing invalid or conflicting ancillary service endorsements will not be accepted for mailing. If discovered in the mailstream, pieces bearing an invalid ancillary service endorsement or conflicting endorsements are treated as unendorsed mail. Exception: Undeliverable Media Mail, Library Mail, and Parcel Select pieces that bear invalid or conflicting ancillary service endorsements 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 endorsement 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
              1. 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 (see4.2.6 ). 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 ).
              2. An electronic option for notices processed electronically, except automated notices under4.2.2a .
              3. A default manual process for notices generated manually.
              4. 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 in705.23.0 . The Basic First-Class Mail and USPS Marketing Mail mailpieces must:
                1. Bear a unique IMb printed on the mailpiece;
                2. Include a Full Service or OneCode ACS STID in the IMb;
                3. Include the unique IMb in eDoc;
                4. Be sent by an eDoc submitter providing accurate Mail Owner identification in eDoc, and;
                5. 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.
                4.2.3 Participant Code and Mailer ID
                1. Traditional Address Change Service (ACS) human-readable participant codes are provided to authorized mailers by the National Customer Support Center (NCSC) (see608.8.0 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.
                2. When using Intelligent Mail barcodes, mailers can participate in the OneCode ACS option of ACS (see4.2.6 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
                1. 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.
                2. 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
                1. Print and place the ancillary service endorsement according to the requirements in102.4.0 and 1.5 .
                2. Print the ancillary service endorsement and the participant code in a non-narrow variant of Helvetica or Arial sans serif font in the range of
                  10 to 12 points.
                3. Use equal line spacing in the address block, including the participant code line and mailer keyline.
                4. When placing the participant code in an optional endorsement line (OEL), the participant code must occupy the first eight positions in the left part of the OEL and be formatted as indicated in203.7.2.3 .
                5. 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.
                6. Mailers preprinting the participant code on an envelope (rather than printing it in the address block or on a label) must meet the conditions in4.2.4 in addition to the following:
                  1. 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).
                  2. When using a mailer keyline, place it in the top line of the address block (but below the preprinted participant code).
                  3. OELs are prohibited when a mailer keyline is used.
                  1. When using a mailer keyline, place the barcode between the top line of the address information and the mailer keyline.
                  2. When not using a mailer keyline, place the barcode between the top line of the address information and the participant code.
                  3. Below the City-State-ZIP Code line.
                  4. Above the participant code and OEL, except when placing the participant code under4.2.5f .
                  4.2.6 Additional Standards—When Using Intelligent Mail Barcodes
                  1. Letter-size mailpieces must be automation-compatible.
                  2. Flat-size mailpieces may be mailed at nonautomation or automation prices.
                  3. 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.
                  4. The Intelligent Mail barcode must contain an 11-digit delivery point code that correctly corresponds to the delivery address.
                  5. 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
                  1. 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.
                  2. 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.
                  3. 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 in4.2.2 . 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
                  4.3 Sender Instruction
                  4.3.1 Mail Not Forwarded
                  1. Mail addressed to “Occupant” or “Postal Customer.”
                  2. Mail with exceptional address format.
                  3. Mail showing specific instructions of the sender (e.g., “Return Service Requested” or “Change Service Requested”).
                  4. 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
                  1. COD mail is not forwarded to overseas military Post Offices.
                  2. 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.”
                  3. COD mail will be handled as requested when marked under503.9.0 .
                  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
                  1. Mailpieces sent to or from International destinations.
                  2. Mailpieces sent to or from APO/FPO/DPO destinations (703.2.0 ).
                  3. Domestic mailpieces requiring a customs declarations label (see608.2.4 ).
                  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”.
                  5. Mailpieces that do not contain a tracking barcode (including those for extra services).
                  6. 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
                  1. For retail customers, the Package Intercept fee may be paid by credit or debit card atwww.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.
                  2. 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:

                  1. Adult Signature Required.
                  2. Adult Signature Restricted Delivery.
                  3. Insurance (if the original shipment included insurance and only for the original value stated).
                  4. 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
                  1. The mailing contains at least 200 pieces.
                  2. 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.
                  3. 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).