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Domestic Mail

DMM REVISION

Machinable Parcel Testing Changes

Effective April 17, 2004, Domestic Mail Manual (DMMTM) C010.7.0, C050.4.3, C050.6.0, and G043 are revised to require requests for testing parcel eligibility for the barcode discount to be sent to BMC Operations at Postal ServiceTM Headquarters.

We will incorporate this revision into the printed version of DMM 59 and into the monthly update of the online DMM available via Postal Explorer at http://pe.usps.gov.

Domestic Mail Manual (DMM)

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C Characteristics and Content

C000 General Information

C010 General Mailability Standards

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[Delete 7.0, Mailing Test Packages.]

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C050 Mail Processing Categories

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4.0 MACHINABLE PARCEL

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4.3 Exception

[Revise 4.3 to read as follows:]

Some parcels may be successfully processed on BMC parcel sorters even though they do not conform to the general machinability criteria in 4.1. The manager, BMC Operations, USPS® Headquarters (see G043 for address), may authorize a mailer to enter such parcels as machinable parcels rather than irregular parcels if the parcels are tested on BMC parcel sorters and prove to be machinable. Mailers who wish to have parcels tested for machinability on USPS parcel sorting machines must:

a. Submit a written request to BMC Operations. The request must list mailpiece characteristics for every shape, weight, and size to be considered. If the letter requesting testing describes a mailpiece that falls within the specifications of pieces that were tested previously, the mailpiece will not be tested.

b. Describe mailpiece construction, parcel weight(s), estimated number of parcels to be mailed in the coming year, and preparation level (e.g., destination BMC pallets).

c. Send 100 samples to the test facility designated by the manger, BMC Operations, at least 6 weeks prior to the first mailing date. The manager, BMC Operations, will recommend changes, to ensure machinability, of parcels that do not qualify.

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6.0 OUTSIDE PARCEL (NONMACHINABLE)

[Revise the first sentence to read as follows:]

An outside parcel is a parcel that exceeds any of the maximum dimensions for a machinable parcel.***

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G General Information

G000 The USPS and Mailing Standards

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G040 Information Resources

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G043 Address List for Correspondence

[Add the following address:]

BMC OPERATIONS
US POSTAL SERVICE
475 L'ENFANT PLZ SW RM 7631
WASHINGTON DC 20260-2806

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- Mailing Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 4-15-04

Customized MarketMail Is Shaping the Future of Direct Mail

The Postal ServiceTM introduced Customized MarketMailTM (CMM) on August 10, 2003, bringing to life the dreams of creative advertising mail designers nationwide. Perhaps you have seen the Krispy Kreme® donuts, jet airplanes, giant quarters, or reindeer antlers in your mailbox, promoting products and services in your community.

These creative pieces can take virtually any shape and design to demand attention, deliver high impact, and generate greater response rates. Here are some facts about CMM:

• CMM has proven successful for businesses: The first CMM user in the nation, Great Circle Family Foods, a Krispy Kreme franchisee in the Los Angeles area, received an 11-percent response rate - more than three times the group's typical response rate for unsolicited mailings.

• The public accounting firm Rosenfield Raymon Pielech achieved an amazing 20-percent response rate using CMM. The total cost of the firm's mailing was about $1,500, and it generated approximately $120,000 in new business, a phenomenal 8,000-percent return-on-investment.

• CMM is now an even more effective marketing tool for businesses. As of March 4, 2004, business mailers can attach Standard Mail® matter - such as business reply cards and envelopes, coupons and coupon booklets, thin merchandise samples, promotional magnets, and other marketing material - to their CMM pieces.

• Another enhancement to CMM allows mailers to use standard delivery addresses in addition to the "Occupant" and "Exceptional" address formats. Changes in the CMM mail preparation procedures also have recently taken effect.

• CMM users must have or must obtain a Standard Mail permit. Postage for CMM pieces is 57.4 cents for Regular Standard Mail service and 46 cents for Nonprofit Standard Mail service.

• CMM pieces can be as small as the smallest mailable letter (3.5 inches by 5 inches), as large as the largest flat (12 inches by 15 inches), and any size in between. The maximum weight for a CMM piece is 3.3 ounces. In addition, for safety, CMM mailpieces cannot have sharp or pointed edges.

• CMM pieces do not have to be uniform in thickness as long as the thickest point is less than 0.75 inch. The minimum thickness is 0.007 inch. To ensure adherence to standards, mailers should have their CMM mailpiece designs reviewed by their local Postal Service acceptance unit before production.

• CMM users must send a minimum of 200 pieces per mailing, but not necessarily per destinating delivery unit (DDU).

• CMM users must take their mailings to the DDU or dropship them to the DDU by sending them via Priority Mail® service or Express Mail® service in packaging marked "Postmaster - Open and Distribute."

CMM is just one of the value-added services that the Postal Service provides to meet the direct mail needs of business customers. Other direct mail products and services from the Postal Service include Repositional Notes, NetPost Mailing OnlineTM, and Reply Mail services.

For more information on CMM, see the article titled "DMM Revision: Customized MarketMail - Addressing, Attachments, and Mail Preparation" starting on page 29 in Postal Bulletin 22123 (3-4-04). Or for the most up-to-date information on CMM, visit the CMM web site at www.usps.com/customizedmarketmail.

- Implementation and Outreach,
Pricing and Classification, 4-15-04

Employees

ELM REVISION

Availability of Sunday Premium Pay

Effective April 15, 2004, the availability of Sunday premium pay will increase in certain situations. The Employee and Labor Relations Manual (ELM) revisions noted in this article concerning ELM 430, Basic and Special Pay Provisions, rescind the revisions announced in Postal Bulletin 22023 (5-4-00, page 65).

The Treasury and General Appropriations Acts of 1998 and 1999 (P.L. 105-61, 105-277) contained language that forbade federal agencies that received appropriated funds from paying Sunday premium except for hours actually worked. The Postal ServiceTM originally believed that it was covered under this statutory limitation, and the May 2000 ELM changes were implemented to reflect this interpretation. However, further legal investigation has determined that the Postal Service is not covered under this statutory restriction. The ELM revisions published below, therefore, represent re-implementation of the substantive provisions found in ELM 15, in place before the May 2000 ELM change.

We will incorporate these revisions into the next printed version of the ELM and also into the online version, available on the Postal Service PolicyNet Web site; go to http://blue.usps.gov; click on More References, then Manuals. It is also available on the Internet; go to www.usps.com; click on About USPS & News, then Forms & Publications, then Postal Periodicals & Publications, and then Manuals.

Summary of Changes

Subchapter 430, Basic and Special Pay Provisions

The term "guarantee" has been changed to "guaranteed" throughout.

432.462, Applicability, adds a reference to 432.464b to clarify that tardiness at time clock procedures does not trigger an obligation of the Postal Service to pay Sunday premium.

432.464, Special Cases, adds a comma and removes the word "actually" from paragraph (b).

432.63, Pay Computation, removes the statement "Also Sunday premium is only paid for time actually worked."

Exhibit 434.3, Sunday Premium Pay Eligibility Table, modernizes names, abbreviations, and shorthand notations for bargaining unit and nonbargaining unit rate schedules, and it clarifies the salary table handling of casual employees.

434.31, Policy, reverts to the substantive content of ELM 15, before May 4, 2000.

434.32, Eligibility, reverts to the substantive content of ELM 15, before May 4, 2000.

434.33, Leave, reverts to the substantive content of ELM 15, before May 4, 2000.

434.34, Pay Computation, reverts to the substantive content of ELM 15, before May 4, 2000.

Employee and Labor Relations Manual (ELM)

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4 Pay Administration

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430 Basic and Special Pay Provisions

[Replace the term "guarantee" with "guaranteed" throughout 430.]

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432 GENERAL DEFINITIONS AND PROVISIONS

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432.4 Service Periods

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432.46 Five-Minute Leeway Rule

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432.462 Applicability

[Replace the first paragraph of 432.462 with the following:]

This 5-minute leeway rule applies only to full-time and part- time regular schedule employees. Part-time flexible, casual, transitional, and temporary employees are allowed the 5-minute privilege for clocking purposes, subject to ELM 432.464b, but are paid on the basis of their actual clock rings.

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432.464 Special Cases

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[Replace paragraph (b) of 432.464 with the following:]

b. Eligible bargaining unit employees receive Sunday premium for all hours worked during a scheduled tour any part of which falls on Sunday. The amount of Sunday premium cannot exceed the hours worked, nor can it exceed 8.00 hours per tour. If the only reason that part of an employee's clock time falls on Sunday is that the employee clocked in 0.08 hour or less before the scheduled tour started or 0.08 hour or less after the scheduled tour ended, then the employee is not eligible for any Sunday premium.

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432.6 Guarantee Time

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432.63 Pay Computation

[Replace 432.63 with the following:]

As a general principle, when employees are told to clock out by management prior to the end of the guaranteed period, the employees are compensated for the hours of the guaranteed period at the rate of pay they would have received had they actually worked the hours. There are, however, conditions under which employees are not compensated for the remaining hours of the guaranteed period. Generally, this occurs when an employee requests to leave the postal premises because of an illness or for personal reasons or leaves without proper authorization.

Note: The 5-minute leeway rule does not apply to any clock rings for an employee entering a guaranteed time status. The employee is credited with the time reflected by his or her clock rings.

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434 OVERTIME AND PREMIUM PAY

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434.3 Sunday Premium

434.31 Policy

[Replace 434.31 with the following:]

Sunday premium is paid to eligible bargaining unit employees for all work and paid training or travel time performed during a scheduled tour that includes any part of a Sunday. EAS-23 and below nonbargaining employees receive Sunday premium only for time actually worked on Sunday, provided that the time is part of the employee's regular schedule, or the time is eligible for FLSA-exempt additional pay (see Exhibit 434.3). Note that:

a. An employee entitled to Sunday premium may also be entitled to other premiums for the same tour (see 434.8).

b. Bargaining unit employees may not be credited with Sunday premium in excess of the hours worked per tour, of 8.00 hours per tour, or of 16 hours per service week.

c. Sunday premium does not apply if Sunday time is due only to late clocking out or early clocking in (see 432.462 and 432.464b), to a temporary schedule change at the employee's request, or to a temporary schedule initiated by management if the employee receives out-of-schedule premium or nonbargaining rescheduling for the Sunday time.

434.32 Eligibility

[Replace the text of 434.32 with the following:]

Exhibit 434.3 describes those employees who are eligible to receive Sunday premium. It is important to note that only those employees who have been scheduled to work on a Sunday are eligible to receive the premium. If the employee has not been scheduled, then he or she is not eligible for Sunday premium unless the time worked is eligible for FLSA-exempt additional pay.

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[Replace Exhibit 434.3 with the following:]

Exhibit 434.3
Sunday Premium Pay Eligibility Table

¹ Casual employees are covered in RSC-E (salary table E6) regardless of the bargaining unit they supplement.

² Grades 23 and below only, excluding postmasters, officers in charge, postal inspectors, and employees in management developmental programs.

434.33 Leave

[Replace 434.33 with the following:]

If an employee is on leave for any part of the tour, he or she is not entitled to Sunday premium for the leave hours.

The exception is that Sunday premium will be continued while an eligible employee is in continuation of pay (COP) status, or is on military or court leave. An eligible employee also continues to receive the Sunday premium when the employee is rescheduled due to compensable disability in lieu of placement into COP status.

434.34 Pay Computation

[Replace 434.34 with the following:]

Eligible employees receive Sunday premium, in addition to their basic salary, equal to 25 percent of their hourly straight time rate for each hour of work up to 8.00 hours, or in the case of nonbargaining employees, for each hour of work eligible for FLSA-exempt additional pay.

Note: Hours worked in excess of 8.00 paid hours on a Sunday by bargaining unit employees are paid as overtime pay, as provided in ELM 434.13.

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- Compensation,
Employee Resource Management, 4-15-04

REVISED PUBLICATION

Publication 553 Helps Employees Identify Sexual Harassment and Inappropriate Sexual Conduct

We have revised Publication 553, Employee's Guide to Understanding Sexual Harassment (February 2004). The educational publication, which is being mailed to employees' homes this month, outlines the Postal Service'sTM policy on sexual harassment and inappropriate sexual conduct. It also provides information on what sexual harassment is, what to do about it, and how to prevent it.

Publication 553 is available on the Postal Service PolicyNet Web site; go to http://blue.usps.gov; click on More References, then PUBs. It is also available on the Internet at www.usps.com; click on About USPS & News, then Forms & Publications, then Postal Periodicals and Publications, and then Publications (either PDF Format or Text Format).

You can order additional copies of Publication 553 from the Material Distribution Center (MDC) by using Touch Tone Order Entry (TTOE): Call 800-332-0317, option 2.

Note: You must be registered to use TTOE. To register, call 800-332-0317, option 1, extension 2925, and follow the prompts to leave a message. (Wait 48 hours after registering before placing your first order.)

Use the following information to order Publication 553:

PSIN: PUB 553
PSN: 7610-04-000-5098
Unit of Measure: EA
Minimum Order Quantity: 50
Quick Pick Number: N/A
Bulk Pack Quantity: 1000
Price: $0.1443
Edition Date: 02/04

- Headquarters and Field Programs,
Diversity Development, 4-15-04

REMINDER

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

All career Postal Service employees are eligible to enroll in Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). Through the Postal Bulletin and other media, we will keep you informed of the benefits of having an FSA - we will remind you of open season dates, enrollment options, etc.

If you're like most people, you have health care expenses that you have to pay yourself because your health insurance doesn't cover them. These could include expenses for doctor and dentist visits, over the counter medicines, vision care, and so on. Even if you itemize deductions on your income tax, these expenses are not usually high enough for you to claim a deduction.

However, by signing up for an FSA, you can get a tax break.

Here's how it works: You contribute money from your paychecks to an FSA, which allows you to cover your eligible health care expenses throughout the year with tax-free money. Meanwhile, whatever you contribute isn't subject to federal income tax, or Social Security tax, or Medicare tax.

With an FSA, you pay less for your health care expenses.

If you don't sign up for an FSA, you're still going to have to write a check for your health care expenses. It's just that without an FSA, you pay for your health care without a tax break.

And you can use your FSA for dependent care (day care) expenses too.

Think about it: tax breaks mean that you keep more of your money. It's almost like getting free money.

The next open season will start in November 2004 - start planning now.

- Compensation,
Employee Resource Management, 4-15-04

SAFETY REMINDER

Not Properly Securing a Vehicle Can Be a Moving Experience

Procedures for properly securing a vehicle and avoiding a roll-away or runaway vehicle have been well known to Postal ServiceTM employees for more than 15 years. Employees learn the procedures in driver training programs and during safety talks and driver observations. Yet sometimes Postal Service employees still leave the controls of their vehicles without properly securing them and safeguarding against rollaway and runaway accidents.

What Do You Risk With a Rollaway or Runaway Accident?

Rollaway or runaway Postal Service vehicles have pinned their operators, run over their operators who were chasing them and fell beneath their wheels, and even struck members of the community. Unattended vehicles have struck parked vehicles along streets, homes, and businesses; trees; and moving private vehicles in streets and intersections.

These incidents:

• Damage Postal Service vehicles and private property.

• Can sometimes injure our employees and others.

• Increase our operating costs.

• Create an unfavorable perception of our vehicle drivers.

Why Do Rollaway or Runaway Accidents Happen?

Rollaway or runaway vehicle accidents occur because operators are in a hurry, take short cuts, and do not properly secure the vehicle when leaving the controls of the vehicle. This type of accident occurs across the spectrum of operators - from the new driver to the professional driver with more than 30 years of service.

Typically, when a rollaway or runaway occurs, it is not the first time that the operator has failed to properly secure the vehicle. In most cases, the operator has been in the habit of not properly securing the vehicle, and eventually a rollaway and/or runaway happens.

It takes only one failure of a vehicle operator to place the gearshift selector adequately in park for an accident to happen. Often employees who have experienced runaway and/or rollaway accidents claim, "I thought it was in park!"

You Must Properly Secure Your Vehicle

If you do not follow the proper steps for securing a vehicle upon leaving the vehicle controls, you are taking a gamble. As vehicle operator, you are responsible for all decisions for the safe operation of your vehicle. Follow these procedures to safely secure your vehicle:

• Place the gear selector in "park."

• Turn off the engine.

• Remove the key.

• Set the parking brake.

• Curb or turn the wheels to minimize vehicle travel distance should any of the above steps fail to keep the vehicle from rolling or running away.

Remember: Accidents Don't Just Happen!

In addition to following these procedures, you should be aware of the condition of your vehicle. Even though Postal Service vehicles receive scheduled periodic maintenance, you should complete vehicle repair tags as needed.

You can find more information on Postal Service job safety requirements in Handbook EL-814, Postal Employee's Guide to Safety, and Handbook EL-803, Maintenance Employee's Guide to Safety.

- Safety Performance Management,
Employee Resource Management, 4-15-04

Finance

NOTICE

Local Tax Code Information

The United States Postal Service® collects appropriate federal, state, and local taxes from the pay of our employees who are subject to these deductions. Based on agreements between local taxation authorities and the United States Treasury Department, the Postal ServiceTM collects occupational license taxes, city and/or county income taxes, revenue taxes, senior citizen taxes, mental health taxes, residence taxes, or, in some locations, two of these taxes.

The updated Local Tax Code (LTC) listing adds a number of additional tax collection locations, and indicates the type(s) of taxes collected directly from our employees via payroll deduction procedures.

Some of the taxes shown below are automatically deducted from the salaries of Postal Service employees who live or work within the geographic boundaries of specific taxing authorities. However, most of these taxes have not been established as automatic deductions. If you are subject to any of these local taxes, you must be proactive and complete and submit the proper taxation paperwork. You are ultimately responsible for ensuring that the correct local taxes are deducted from your pay.

All Postal Service employees are reminded that they are bound by Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Executive Branch at Title 5 of the Code of Federal Regulations Part 2635. This includes Section 2635.809, which states, "Employees shall satisfy in good faith their obligations as citizens, including all just financial obligations, especially those such as Federal, State, or local taxes that are imposed by law."

If you live or work in a locality that is subject to one (or more) of the taxes listed below and the correct deduction(s) is not being assessed from your pay, you should immediately complete PS Form 4, Employee's City or County Withholding Certificate. After completing these forms, send them to the appropriate Personnel office for entry into your master file.

- Payroll Accounting,
Finance, 4-15-04

International Mail

ICM UPDATES

International Customized Mail

We have combined ICM updates into one Postal Bulletin article to save space and paper. 13 ICM updates appear here.

On December 3, 2003, the Postal ServiceTM entered into an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement with a Qualifying Mailer. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service now makes public the following information concerning the Agreement:

a. Term: December 17, 2003, through December 16, 2005.

b. Type of mail: Global Express MailTM (EMS). Every item must conform to the mailing requirements set forth in the IMM for EMS.

c. Destination countries: Worldwide.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: The Postal Service has agreed to transport EMS to international destinations for delivery by the appropriate authorities.

e. Minimum volume commitments: The Mailer has agreed to meet an annualized minimum of 3,000 pieces of Global Express MailTM (EMS).

f. Worksharing: The Mailer has agreed to:

1. Comply with the terms and conditions for mailing EMS as set forth in the IMM.

2. Pay postage for EMS by means of a dedicated Express Mail Corporate Account (EMCA) in accordance with the EMCA requirements set forth in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM).

g. Rates: The Mailer has agreed to pay postage at a rate discounted at twelve (12) percent off nondiscounted published rates in effect on the date of mailing in accordance with Exhibit 1.

Exhibit 1

On December 3, 2003, the Postal Service entered into an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement with a Qualifying Mailer. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service now makes public the following information concerning the Agreement:

a. Term: December 17, 2003, through December 16, 2004.

b. Type of mail: Global Express MailTM (EMS). Every item must conform to the mailing requirements set forth in the IMM for EMS.

c. Destination countries: Worldwide.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: The Postal Service has agreed to transport EMS to international destinations for delivery by the appropriate authorities.

e. Minimum volume commitments: The Mailer has agreed to meet an annualized minimum $20,000 in postage for Global Express MailTM (EMS).

f. Worksharing: The Mailer has agreed to:

1. Comply with the terms and conditions for mailing EMS as set forth in the IMM.

2. Pay postage for EMS by means of a dedicated Express Mail Corporate Account (EMCA) in accordance with the EMCA requirements set forth in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM).

g. Rates: The Mailer has agreed to pay postage at a rate discounted at ten (10) percent off nondiscounted published rates in effect on the date of mailing in accordance with Exhibit 1.

Exhibit 1

On February 19, 2004, the Postal Service entered into an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement with a Qualifying Mailer. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service now makes public the following information concerning the Agreement:

a. Term: March 4, 2004, through March 3, 2005.

b. Type of mail: Global Express MailTM (EMS). Every item must conform to the mailing requirements set forth in the IMM for EMS.

c. Destination countries: Worldwide.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: The Postal Service has agreed to transport EMS to international destinations for delivery by the appropriate authorities.

e. Minimum volume commitments: The Mailer has agreed to meet an annualized minimum commitment of $12,000 in EMS postage.

f. Worksharing: The Mailer has agreed to:

1. Comply with the terms and conditions for mailing EMS as set forth in the IMM.

2. Pay postage for EMS by means of a dedicated Express Mail Corporate Account (EMCA) in accordance with the EMCA requirements set forth in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM).

g. Rates: The Mailer has agreed to pay postage at a rate discounted at eight (8) percent off nondiscounted published rates in effect on the date of mailing in accordance with Exhibit 1.

Exhibit 1

On February 23, 2004, the Postal Service entered into an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement with a Qualifying Mailer. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service now makes public the following information concerning the Agreement:

a. Term: March 8, 2004, through March 7, 2005.

b. Type of mail: Global Express MailTM (EMS). Every item must conform to the mailing requirements set forth in the IMM for EMS.

c. Destination countries: Worldwide.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: The Postal Service has agreed to transport EMS to international destinations for delivery by the appropriate authorities.

e. Minimum volume commitments: The Mailer has agreed to meet an annualized minimum commitment of $12,000 in EMS postage.

f. Worksharing: The Mailer has agreed to:

1. Comply with the terms and conditions for mailing EMS as set forth in the IMM.

2. Pay postage for EMS by means of a dedicated Express Mail Corporate Account (EMCA) in accordance with the EMCA requirements set forth in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM).

g. Rates: The Mailer has agreed to pay postage at a rate discounted at eight (8) percent off nondiscounted published rates in effect on the date of mailing in accordance with Exhibit 1.

Exhibit 1

On February 20, 2004, the Postal Service entered into an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement with a Qualifying Mailer. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service now makes public the following information concerning the Agreement:

a. Term: March 5, 2004, through March 4, 2006.

b. Type of mail: Global Express MailTM (EMS). Every item must conform to the mailing requirements set forth in the IMM for EMS.

c. Destination countries: Worldwide.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: The Postal Service has agreed to transport EMS to international destinations for delivery by the appropriate authorities.

e. Minimum volume commitments: The Mailer has agreed to meet an annualized minimum commitment of $20,000 in EMS postage.

f. Worksharing: The Mailer has agreed to:

1. Comply with the terms and conditions for mailing EMS as set forth in the IMM.

2. Pay postage for EMS by means of a dedicated Express Mail Corporate Account (EMCA) in accordance with the EMCA requirements set forth in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM).

g. Rates: The Mailer has agreed to pay postage at a rate discounted at ten (10) percent off nondiscounted published rates in effect on the date of mailing in accordance with Exhibit 1.

Exhibit 1

On March 16, 2004, the Postal Service amended an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement dated March 3, 2003. The Agreement was published on page 69 of Postal Bulletin 22099 (4-3-03). The Amendment modifies the term of the Agreement. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service previously announced entering into an International Customized Mail Service Agreement with this qualifying mailer and now makes public the following information regarding this Amendment:

a. Term: March 17, 2003, through March 16, 2006.

b. Type of mail: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

c. Destination countries: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

e. Minimum volume commitments: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

f. Worksharing: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

g. Rates: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

On February 13, 2004, the Postal Service entered into an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement with a Qualifying Mailer. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service now makes public the following information concerning the Agreement:

a. Term: February 27, 2004, through February 26, 2005.

b. Type of mail: Global Express MailTM (EMS). Every item must conform to the mailing requirements set forth in the IMM for EMS.

c. Destination countries: Worldwide.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: The Postal Service has agreed to transport EMS to international destinations for delivery by the appropriate authorities.

e. Minimum volume commitments: The Mailer has agreed to meet an annualized minimum commitment of 600 pieces of EMS mail.

f. Worksharing: The Mailer has agreed to:

1. Comply with the terms and conditions for mailing EMS as set forth in the IMM.

2. Pay postage for EMS by means of a dedicated Express Mail Corporate Account (EMCA) in accordance with the EMCA requirements set forth in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM).

g. Rates: The Mailer has agreed to pay postage at a rate discounted at eight (8) percent off nondiscounted published rates in effect on the date of mailing in accordance with Exhibit 1.

Exhibit 1

On December 3, 2003, the Postal Service entered into an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement with a Qualifying Mailer. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service now makes public the following information concerning the Agreement:

a. Term: December 17, 2003, through December 16, 2004.

b. Type of mail: Global Express MailTM (EMS). Every item must conform to the mailing requirements set forth in the IMM for EMS.

c. Destination countries: Worldwide.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: The Postal Service has agreed to transport EMS to international destinations for delivery by the appropriate authorities.

e. Minimum volume commitments: The Mailer has agreed to meet an annualized minimum of 1,000 pieces of Global Express MailTM (EMS) or $20,000 in postage for Global Express MailTM (EMS).

f. Worksharing: The Mailer has agreed to:

1. Comply with the terms and conditions for mailing EMS as set forth in the IMM.

2. Pay postage for EMS by means of a dedicated Express Mail Corporate Account (EMCA) in accordance with the EMCA requirements set forth in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM).

g. Rates: The Mailer has agreed to pay postage at a rate discounted at ten (10) percent off nondiscounted published rates in effect on the date of mailing in accordance with Exhibit 1.

Exhibit 1

On March 16, 2004, the Postal Service amended an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement dated April 11, 2003. The Agreement was published on page 37 of Postal Bulletin 22102 (5-15-03). The Amendment modifies the term of the Agreement. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service previously announced entering into an International Customized Mail Service Agreement with this qualifying mailer and now makes public the following information regarding this Amendment:

a. Term: April 25, 2003, through April 24, 2006.

b. Type of mail: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

c. Destination countries: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

e. Minimum volume commitments: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

f. Worksharing: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

g. Rates: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

On November 25, 2003, the Postal Service entered into an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement with a Qualifying Mailer. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service now makes public the following information concerning the Agreement:

a. Term: December 9, 2003, through December 8, 2004.

b. Type of mail: Global Express MailTM (EMS). Every item must conform to the mailing requirements set forth in the IMM for EMS.

c. Destination countries: Worldwide.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: The Postal Service has agreed to transport EMS to international destinations for delivery by the appropriate authorities.

e. Minimum volume commitments: The Mailer has agreed to meet an annualized minimum of $60,000 in postage for Global Express MailTM (EMS).

f. Worksharing: The Mailer has agreed to:

1. Comply with the terms and conditions for mailing EMS as set forth in the IMM.

2. Pay postage for EMS by means of a dedicated Express Mail Corporate Account (EMCA) in accordance with the EMCA requirements set forth in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM).

g. Rates: The Mailer has agreed to pay postage at a rate discounted at twelve (12) percent off nondiscounted published rates in effect on the date of mailing in accordance with Exhibit 1.

Exhibit 1

On November 28, 2003, the Postal Service entered into an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement with a Qualifying Mailer. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service now makes public the following information concerning the Agreement:

a. Term: December 9, 2003, through December 8, 2006.

b. Type of mail: Global Express MailTM (EMS). Every item must conform to the mailing requirements set forth in the IMM for EMS.

c. Destination countries: Worldwide.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: The Postal Service has agreed to transport EMS to international destinations for delivery by the appropriate authorities.

e. Minimum volume commitments: The Mailer has agreed to meet an annualized minimum of 3,000 pieces of Global Express MailTM (EMS) or $60,000 in postage for Global Express MailTM (EMS).

f. Worksharing: The Mailer has agreed to:

1. Comply with the terms and conditions for mailing EMS as set forth in the IMM.

2. Pay postage for EMS by means of a dedicated Express Mail Corporate Account (EMCA) in accordance with the EMCA requirements set forth in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM).

g. Rates: The Mailer has agreed to pay postage at a rate discounted at twelve (12) percent off nondiscounted published rates in effect on the date of mailing in accordance with Exhibit 1.

Exhibit 1

On March 19, 2004, the Postal Service amended an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement dated April 11, 2003. The Agreement was published on page 35 of Postal Bulletin 22102 (5-15-03). The Amendment modifies the term of the Agreement. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service previously announced entering into an International Customized Mail Service Agreement with this qualifying mailer and now makes public the following information regarding this Amendment:

a. Term: April 25, 2003, through April 24, 2005.

b. Type of mail: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

c. Destination countries: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

e. Minimum volume commitments: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

f. Worksharing: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

g. Rates: All other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in force.

On March 5, 2004, the Postal Service entered into an International Customized Mail (ICM) Service Agreement with a Qualifying Mailer. In accordance with International Mail Manual (IMM) 297.4, the Postal Service now makes public the following information concerning the Agreement:

a. Term: March 19, 2004, through March 18, 2005.

b. Type of mail: Global Express MailTM (EMS). Every item must conform to the mailing requirements set forth in the IMM for EMS.

c. Destination countries: Worldwide.

d. Service provided by the Postal Service: The Postal Service has agreed to transport EMS to international destinations for delivery by the appropriate authorities.

e. Minimum volume commitments: The Mailer has agreed to meet an annualized minimum commitment of 600 pieces of EMS mail or $12,000 in EMS postage.

f. Worksharing: The Mailer has agreed to:

1. Comply with the terms and conditions for mailing EMS as set forth in the IMM.

2. Pay postage for EMS by means of a dedicated Express Mail Corporate Account (EMCA) in accordance with the EMCA requirements set forth in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM).

g. Rates: The Mailer has agreed to pay postage at a rate discounted at eight (8) percent off nondiscounted published rates in effect on the date of mailing in accordance with Exhibit 1.

Exhibit 1

- Pricing Strategy,
Pricing and Classification, 4-15-04

NOTICE

Compliance Date for New Customs Forms Rescheduled to June 5, 2004

In Postal Bulletin 22123 (3-4-04, page 69), the article "IMM Revision: Compliance Date for New Customs Forms Rescheduled to April 4, 2004" noted that, starting on April 4, 2004, mailers must use the January 2004 editions of the following three customs forms:

• PS Form 2976, Customs Declaration CN 22 - Sender's Declaration (green label)

• PS Form 2976-A, Customs Declaration and Dispatch Note - CP 72

• PS Form 2976-E, Customs Declaration Envelope - CP 91

However, we have rescheduled the mandatory compliance date for using the January 2004 editions of these forms to June 5, 2004.

This extension will not require a change to the language in the printed version of the International Mail Manual (IMM) or the online version of the IMM, which can be accessed via Postal Explorer at http://pe.usps.gov.

- Mailing Standards,
Pricing and Classification, 4-15-04

Philately

STAMP ANNOUNCEMENT 04-07

Lewis & Clark: The Corps of Discovery, 1804-1806, Prestige Booklet of 20 Stamps

To commemorate the bicentennial of the official launch of the Lewis and Clark expedition on May 14, 1804, the Postal ServiceTM will issue a special 32-page prestige booklet, Lewis & Clark: The Corps of Discovery, 1804-1806 (Item 882600), on May 14, 2004, in the following cities:

• Astoria, Oregon

• Atchison, Kansas

• Great Falls, Montana

• Hartford, Illinois

• Ilwaco, Washington

• Orofino, Idaho

• Omaha, Nebraska

• Pierre, South Dakota

• Sioux City, Iowa

• St. Charles, Missouri

• Washburn, North Dakota

Priced at $8.95, the Lewis & Clark prestige booklet includes 20 First-Class Mail® stamps ($7.40 value) and features informative text, historic illustrations, and scenic photographs. The prestige booklet goes on sale nationwide May 15, 2004. It is the third such booklet to be issued by the Postal Service, following U.S. Navy Submarines (2000) and Old Glory (2003).

Meriwether Lewis and William Clark led the Corps of Discovery on a heroic expedition from the mouth of the Missouri River near St. Louis to the Pacific Ocean and back. President Thomas Jefferson had instructed them to follow the Missouri and Columbia Rivers and locate the elusive Northwest Passage.

Along the way, they explored much of the territory of Louisiana, the vast uncharted wilderness west of the Mississippi River that the United States had recently purchased from France. They mapped rivers; collected plants and animals new to science; held councils with Indians; and kept detailed journals - books destined to become classics of both American history and American literature.

The booklet contains two semijumbo stamp designs in self-adhesive panes of 10. The stamps feature individual portraits of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark painted by Michael J. Deas in a style reminiscent of early 19th-century portraits of the two explorers. The text was written by Ron Fisher, a Lewis and Clark enthusiast who has visited many of the expedition's sites and first wrote about the Corps of Discovery in 1970. Fisher's article, "Lewis and Clark: Naturalist-Explorers" appeared in the October 1998 issue of National Geographic.

How to Order First Day of Issue Postmark

Customers have 30 days to obtain the first day of issue postmark by mail. They may purchase new stamps at their local Post OfficeTM, by telephone at 800-STAMP-24, and at the Postal Store Web site at www.usps.com/shop. They should affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes (to themselves or others), and place them in a larger envelope addressed to:

LEWIS AND CLARK PRESTIGE BOOKLET
POSTMASTER
320 MICHIGAN AVE
OROFINO ID 83544-9998

LEWIS AND CLARK PRESTIGE BOOKLET
POSTMASTER
100 W CHERRY ST
HARTFORD IL 62048-99980

LEWIS AND CLARK PRESTIGE BOOKLET
POSTMASTER
214 JACKSON ST
SIOUX CITY IA 51101-9998

LEWIS AND CLARK PRESTIGE BOOKLET
POSTMASTER
621 KANSAS AVE
ATCHISON KS 66002-9998

LEWIS AND CLARK PRESTIGE BOOKLET
POSTMASTER
112 S FIFTH ST
ST CHARLES MO 63301-9998

LEWIS AND CLARK PRESTIGE BOOKLET
POSTMASTER
215 1ST AVE N
GREAT FALLS MT 59401-99980

LEWIS AND CLARK PRESTIGE BOKLET
PHILATELIC WINDOW
1124 PACIFIC ST
OMAHA NE 68108-9998

LEWIS AND CLARK PRESTIGE BOOKLET
POSTMASTER
721 MAIN AVE
WASHBURN ND 58577-9998

LEWIS AND CLARK PRESTIGE BOOKLET
POSTMASTER
750 COMMERCIAL ST
ASTORIA OR 97103-9998

LEWIS AND CLARK PRESTIGE BOOKLET
POSTMASTER
225 S PIERRE ST
PIERRE SD 57501-9998

LEWIS AND CLARK PRESTIGE BOOKLET
POSTMASTER
128 LAKE ST
ILWACO WA 98624-99980

Customers requesting multiple cancellations (two or more first day cancellations) should send their request to:

POSTMASTER
100 W CHERRY ST
HARTFORD IL 62048-9998

Customers should specify how they wish their stamps to be cancelled (i.e., which states). Without specific instructions, the Postal Service will apply the Hartford, Illinois, cancellation. After applying the first day of issue postmark, the Postal Service will return the envelopes through the mail. There is no charge for the postmark. All orders must be postmarked by June 13, 2004.

Philatelic Products

The Lewis & Clark prestige booklet (Item 882600), a philatelic product, will be issued on May 14, 2004. Sales of this item must be tracked in account identifier code (AIC) 092.

A Lewis & Clark philatelic print and prestige booklet set will be available only at the 11 first day of issue sites. Each site will receive 250 sets.

The Lewis & Clark prestige booklet and full pane set (Item 882693) will be available in postal stores, online at www.usps.com, and by telephone at 800-STAMP- 24.

Distribution: Item 882600, $8.95 Lewis & Clark Prestige Booklet

The Lewis & Clark prestige booklet (Item 882600) will be distributed to and sold at only the following locations:

• First day of issue sites

• Philatelic centers nationwide

• Collectables section of select postal stores

• Stamp Fulfillment Services (SFS) in Kansas City, Missouri

• Special events held along the Lewis and Clark historic trail

Stamp distribution offices (SDOs) will not receive a standard automatic distribution of the Lewis & Clark prestige booklet for subsequent distribution to Post Offices; however, all SDOs, will automatically receive a philatelic center distribution of this philatelic item.

Initial Supply to Post Offices

The Lewis and Clark prestige booklet will not be distributed to or sold at all Post Offices. SDOs will make a subsequent automatic distribution to authorized philatelic centers, using PS Form 17, Stamp Requisition/Stamp Return. SDOs must not distribute this prestige booklet to Post Offices before May 10, 2004.

Philatelic Requirement

SDOs will receive an automatic distribution of this philatelic item for subsequent distribution to each philatelic window. Philatelic distributions are rounded to master carton size (480 prestige booklets).