Intro to Manifesting

Slide 1:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Introduction to Manifest Mailing
The words included are:
Presented by: <insert name here>
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Good morning (afternoon).  My name is ___________.  
Today’s presentation is on Manifest Mailing. 
After completing this presentation, you should have a better understanding of the U. S. Postal Service’s acceptance requirements as they relate to mail piece design.
End of Slide 1.



Slide 2:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Agenda
The words included are:
(bullet)What is a Manifest Mailing System (MMS)?
(bullet)Why would you use an MMS?
(bullet)What types of mail can be manifested?
(bullet)What are the benefits of an MMS?
(bullet)What are the different types of manifests?
(bullet)What resources will you need?
(bullet)How to get started?
(bullet)What is MAC and MAC Gold?
(bullet)Questions?
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Today’s agenda will include: what is manifesting and why you would want to use a manifest system, the types of mail that can be manifested, the benefit of manifesting, different ways of reporting your pieces in a manifest, the resources you will need, how to get started and the postal certification of certain commercial manifest software.
If you have any questions, please save them for the end of the seminar when we will be having a Question and Answer session.
End of Slide 2.



Slide 3:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System	
The words included are:
(bullet)What Is a Manifest?
(bullet)Stable, flexible postage payment method
(bullet)Media
(bullet)Format and summary
(bullet)Why Manifest?
(bullet)One continuous mailstream
(bullet)Increased discounts
(bullet)Improve acceptance
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Let’s first talk about what a manifest mailing system is.
Manifesting is the most stable, flexible and reliable method for postage payment method used by mailers and supported by the Postal Service.  
Hundreds of millions of dollars are transacted yearly through manifest mailing systems currently in place.  And manifesting is growing.
A Manifest Mailing System is an automated system that calculates and documents postage for all pieces in a mailing.  
It documents information which allows the postal service to verify that the correct postage is paid for all pieces.
A manifest mailing systems allows a mailer to eliminate the need to affix postage (meters or precancelled stamps), to prepare one continuous mailstream, to mix non-identical weight and rate mail, to increase presort densities and lower postage costs, and to expedite acceptance.  
Single-piece rate mail of different classes may be presented on one manifest.
End of Slide 3.



Slide 4:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System
The words included are:
(bullet)Computerized listing
(bullet)Specific format
(bullet)Listed by unique ID number
(bullet)Postage details
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
A manifest is a computerized listing of all pieces in the mailing in a specific format determined by the class or classes included.  
Each piece is listed on the manifest by its unique identification number, which appears on the mailpieces, usually on the address label. 
There are several ways to list the pieces on the manifest which I will discuss later in the presentation.
The manifest may be presented in hard-copy or electronic format, either by diskette or access to a computer terminal.  
A hard copy of the postage statement or facsimile is always required.
ID numbers may be numeric or alpha-numeric & are listed in ascending order on the manifest.  
Postage details such as weight, level of sortation, sack or pallet level, and postage, both individual and cumulative, are also included on the manifest.
End of Slide 4.



Slide 5:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System
The words included are:
(bullet)What Can Be Manifested?
(bullet)All classes of mail except Periodicals
(bullet)Express Mail may be manifested under standards of Publication 97
(bullet)Parcels, flats & letters
(bullet)200 pieces or 50 pounds
(bullet)Permit Imprint mailings
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
A manifest mailing system is very versatile.  It may be used for all classes of mail except Periodicals.  
Express Mail may be manifested under a separate application and approval process outlined in Postal Service Publication 97.
Mail of any processing category, letters flats or parcels, may be manifested and you only need a minimum of 200 pieces or 50 pounds of mail to get started.  
Larger volume mailings will gain greater efficiencies using a manifest mailing system.
Parcel mailers have found our manifest mailing system to be very attractive.  
The combination of reasonable rates, pick-up service, Extra Services (including free Delivery Confirmation for Priority Mail or Parcel Select, with USPS approved electronic submission of the delivery confirmation data) are all factors in considering the Postal Service for shipping of parcels.
A permit imprint is used on all pieces in a manifest mailing.
End of Slide 5.



Slide 6:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System
The words included are:
(bullet)Extra Services 
(bullet)Combine payment for pieces and Extra Services 
(bullet)Delivery and Signature Confirmation services
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
If you use extra services, they can be included on the manifest with a separate column showing the extra service fees.  
Insurance, certified, CODs, and return receipt as well as both delivery and signature confirmation can be listed on the manifest.
A summary for extra service fees is also required when they are part of a manifest mailing.  
The summary must show a subtotal for each type of extra service, a grand total, and a listing of the fees paid per postage statement.
A separate application process is needed for extra services, and Delivery and Signature Confirmation.  
Additional information is available in Publication 109, Special Services Technical Guide:  Postal Forms and Labels (Domestic Services Only) and Publication 91, Confirmation Services Technical Guide.  
End of Slide 6.



Slide 7:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System
The words included are:
(bullet)What Are the Benefits?
(bullet)Effective use of information 
(bullet)Reduce costs
(bullet)Better customer service
(bullet)Improved quality control
Image Information:
At the far right is a cartoon image of a treasure chest.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Using a manifest mailing system will provide benefits for your business.  
Among those benefits are the effective use of information that may currently be difficult or cumbersome to access, the opportunity to reduce both postage and preparation costs, and the ability to provide better customer service. 
Another important benefit to both you and to the Postal Service is improved quality control over processes in your facility. 
We’ll look at each of these benefits individually.
End of Slide 7.



Slide 8:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System	
The words included are:
(bullet)Information Control 
(bullet)Inventory
(bullet)Productivity
(bullet)Order fulfillment
(bullet)Accounting/Billing
(bullet)Marketing efforts
Image Information:
At the far right is a image of a desktop computers.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Information is the key to growing your business and a manifest mailing system can provide you with an abundance of it, starting with inventory control.   
Manifest systems currently available can tie order fulfillment to inventory, accounting and billing, and marketing efforts.
By using your customer’s order or account number as the unique piece id number, you can quickly identify what was ordered by any customer, when that order was filled and mailed, and when or how it was paid for.
Marketing efforts for specific items can then be targeted to those most likely to purchase them.
Productivity can be tracked by line or product segment, giving you the opportunity to place personnel where they are most needed at any given time.
End of Slide 8.



Slide 9:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System
The words included are:
(bullet)Cost Control 
(bullet)Program system to select “Best” rate
(bullet)Combine mail - Better distribution
(bullet)Reduce or eliminate data entry
(bullet)Produce labels & forms by computer, not manually
(bullet)Reduce or eliminate postage meters
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Cost control and reduction is important to every business and a manifest system can assist you in those efforts.
Manifest programs for parcels are available to select the “best” rate, whether that means the lowest cost or the quickest delivery!
Combining parcels into one mailstream offers the opportunity for better distribution and lowered costs through better use of destination entry discounts.
Labels for parcels are produced by the manifest system, complete with address and return address, permit indicia, and ancillary service endorsements when desired.  
Scanning systems automatically capture the pertinent information, reducing manual data entry.
For letter or flat mailings, manifesting allows for combining non-identical weight pieces.  
So where you may have been making several mailings, you could consolidate those mailings into one which could decrease the workload and improve presort thereby reducing postage.
By paying for the postage through a permit imprint account, you would no longer need to spend time metering postage on parcels or individual letters or flats.
End of Slide 9.



Slide 10:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System
The words included are:
(bullet)Customer Service 
(bullet)Inventory
(bullet)Orders processed faster
(bullet)Immediate access to shipping records
(bullet)Improved quality control 

Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
By using the manifest system to keep track of both inventory and purchasing trends, you’ll be able to reduce backorders and stay ahead of the game.
Customer queries about their orders can be frustrating to both you and your customer when their order information is difficult to find.  
Again, information control makes it possible to access records easily and respond to those questions in a timely fashion.  Saving you time and increasing your customer’s satisfaction.
Improved quality control will result in faster processing of orders and fewer errors in order fulfillment.  More satisfied customers.
For letters and flats, batch manifesting is a great tool to manage quality assurance and control. (I will explain the “batch” method in more detail in an upcoming slide.)  
Batching allows mailers to incorporate variable billing data or targeted advertising inserts using a sequential number identification.  
Should you need to withdraw one or more mailpieces for any reason, you will know exactly which mailpieces are affected and where they are located in the mailing.  
Damaged pieces may be recreated and re-inserted into the mailing in the exact location where they belong. 
End of Slide 10.



Slide 11:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System	
The words included are:
(bullet)Improved Quality Control 
(bullet)Integrated Shipping System Reduces Errors
(bullet)Double shipment
(bullet)Wrong items or quantities
(bullet)Wrong customer
(bullet)Wrong shipping method
(bullet)Wrong day shipment

Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
To participate in the Manifest Mailing System, you must implement a documented quality control program that ensures the integrity of the system, the eligibility of the mail for the rates claimed, and your ability to take corrective actions.   
This generally consists of taking random samples and checking the weight, postage, and destination against the manifest information.
Used along with the integrated manifest system, these simple actions, taking only a few minutes, can reduce such customer-unfriendly errors as shipping the wrong items or quantities, using the wrong shipping method, and double shipments. 
End of Slide 11.



Slide 12:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System
The words included are:
(bullet)Types of Manifest Formats
(bullet)Itemized listing
(bullet)Batch listing
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Now that we have covered the benefits of using a manifest mailing system, let’s discuss some of the basic elements of a manifest.
I mentioned earlier in the session that a manifest is simply a computerized listing of all the pieces in the mailing in a specific format determined by the class or classes included in the mailing.
There are two different formats that can be used to manifest the pieces you are mailing. 
In an itemized listing, each piece of mail is individually listed by unique identification number, weight, and other pertinent information.  
This would be the type of listing that you would typically use for a mailing of parcels.
In a batch listing the mailing is divided into groups of mail with consecutive identification numbers.  
Only the identification numbers of the first and last pieces of each group are listed on the manifest, along with the piece count and the total postage charges for the entire batch. 
This method is limited to Piece Rate letter- and flat-size mailings.  “Batches” may be either a “fixed” or “floating” size. 
A “fixed” batch, for example, may have 20 pieces in each “batch” with the remaining volume in a tray or sack having fewer pieces.  A “floating” batch is the entire volume within a sack or tray.
End of Slide 12.



Slide 13:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Single Piece Itemized Manifest
Image Information:
Snapshot of a table.
Information on the table:
Itemized Manifest
Single-Piece Rate - Priority Mail
(With Cumulative Postage Column)
Mailers Name and Address
Post office of Mailing:
Entry Facility (PVDS):
Permit Number:
MAC Version#:
(Or Software Version #)
Date of Manifest:
Class of Mail:
Processing Category:
Manifest Sequence #.

Table has 10 rows and 7 columns.
Row 1:
Column 1:
(Header)Piece ID Number
Column 2:
(Header)ZIP/Zone
Column 3:
(Header)Actual Weight
Column 4:
(Header)Postage Based Weight (LBS)
Column 5:
(Header)Class/Rate
Column 6:
(Header)Postage
Column 7:
(Header)Cumulative Postage


Row 2:
Column 1:
1234
Column 2:
850/4
Column 3:
19.4514
Column 4:
20
Column 5:
P
Column 6:
17.40
Column 7:
$17.40


Row 3:
Column 1:
1357
Column 2:
450/4
Column 3:
20.6789
Column 4:
21
Column 5:
P
Column 6:
17.70
Column 7:
$35.10


Row 4:
Column 1:
1358
Column 2:
Column 3:
2.6789
Column 4:
1
Column 5:
PF
Column 6:
4.60
Column 7:
$39.70


Row 5:
Column 1:
1359
Column 2:
728/2
Column 3:
6.9801
Column 4:
7
Column 5:
P
Column 6:
8.85
Column 7:
$45.55


Row 6:
Column 1:
1579
Column 2:
852/4
Column 3:
9.0456
Column 4:
10
Column 5:
P
Column 6:
13.10
Column 7:
$61.65

Row 7:
Column 1:
1789
Column 2:
202/5
Column 3:
6.0678
Column 4:
12
Column 5:
PDR
Column 6:
18.95
Column 7:
$80.60

Row 8:
Column 1:
1999
Column 2:
390/2
Column 3:
7.8909
Column 4:
8
Column 5:
P
Column 6:
7.75
Column 7:
$88.35

Row 9:
Column 1:
2345
Column 2:
462/4
Column 3:
12.3456
Column 4:
13
Column 5:
P
Column 6:
14.75
Column 7:
$103.10


Row 10:
Column 1:
2468
Column 2:
450/5
Column 3:
7.0987
Column 4:
13
Column 5:
PDN
Column 6:
14.75
Column 7:
$117.85

PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Here is an example of a single-piece rate Priority Mail itemized manifest listing.  
You can see that at the top (header) of the manifest, general information is provided including the mailers name, permit number, the type of manifest software used, the date, the class of mail and the processing category of the pieces.
Below the header, in the body of the manifest, each piece is listed by a unique identification number.  
In addition to the unique piece ID, the ZIP Code and zone, the actual weight of the piece, the postage based weight (for dimensional weights and/or balloon rates), the class/rate of mail, the postage and a column for the cumulative postage is provided. 
The class/rate column uses standard abbreviations that are listed in our Publication 401.
The manifest would have additional columns if additional extra services such as Delivery or Signature Confirmation were being used.
End of Slide 13.



Slide 14:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Single Piece Itemized Manifest Summary
Image Information:
Snapshot of a table.
Information on the table:
Mailer's Name:
Manifest Sequence Number:
Date of Manifest;
For 3600 - R
Part C - Priority Mail
Table has 12 rows and 5 columns.
Row 1:
Column 1:
(Header)C1
Column 2:
(Header)Zone
Column 3:
(Header)Pieces
Column 4:
(Header)Weight (Lbs)
Column 5:
(Header)Totals


Row 2:
Column 1:
Column 2:
Flat-Rate Envelope
Column 3:
7
Column 4:
8.5000
Column 5:
$35.56


Row 3:
Column 1:
C2
Column 2:
Flat-Rate Box
Column 3:
12
Column 4:
27.0000
Column 5:
$105.60


Row 4:
Column 1:
C3
Column 2:
Unzoned (1 pound or less)
Column 3:
20
Column 4:
19.2500
Column 5:
$93.00

Row 5:
Column 1:
C4
Column 2:
Local, 1, 2
Column 3:
100
Column 4:
815.0000
Column 5:
$5300.00


Row 6:
Column 1:
C5
Column 2:
3
Column 3:
217
Column 4:
2126.6000
Column 5:
$2126.60


Row 7:
Column 1:
C6
Column 2:
4
Column 3:
8
Column 4:
72.0000
Column 5:
$104.00


Row 8:
Column 1:
C7
Column 2:
5
Column 3:
63
Column 4:
315.0000
Column 5:
$812.70


Row 9:
Column 1:
C8
Column 2:
6
Column 3:
5
Column 4:
57.2500
Column 5:
$96.60


Row 10:
Column 1:
C9
Column 2:
7
Column 3:
20
Column 4:
105.0000
Column 5:
$281.00


Row 11:
Column 1:
C10
Column 2:
8
Column 3:
3
Column 4:
29.000
Column 5:
$48.15

Row 12:
Column 1:
Column 2:
Totals
Column 3:
455
Column 4:
3574.6000
Column 5:
$9000.20
End of Table.

Table:
Information on the table:
Total All Postage Statement(s)
Table has 2 rows and 6 columns:
Row 1:
Column 1:
(Header)Manifest Sequence #
Column 2:
(Header)Statements Sequence #
Column 3:
(Header)Postage Statement
Column 4:
(Header)Pieces
Column 5:
(Header)Weight (lbs)
Column 6:
(Header)Postage


Row 2:
Column 1:
12345
Column 2:
12345-1
Column 3:
Form 3600-R-Priority Mail
Column 4:
455
Column 5:
3574.6000
Column 6:
$9000.20
End of Table.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
At the end of the itemized manifest, there is always a summary of postage.  
In this case, the parcels in the manifest are listed by line items from the postage statement, flat rate envelopes, box, and zones with the number of pieces, the actual weight by zone, and the total postage for each zone.  
Information that should appear on the postage statement is provided at the bottom of the summary. 
End of Slide 14.



Slide 15:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: First-Class Letter Mail Example
Image Information:
Snapshot of a table.
Information on the table:
Floating Batch Manifest
First-Class Mail (Automation)
Presorted Letters/Cards
Mailer's Name and Address
235.6.02
Post office Mailing:
Entry Facility (PVDS):
Permit Number:
MAC Ver. #: (Or Software Ver. #)
Date of Manifest:
Class of Mail:
Processing Cat: LTRS DMM
Manifest Sequence #:
Page 1
Table has 13 rows and 12 columns.
Row 1:
Column 1:
(Header)Tray#
Column 2:
(Header)Tray Size
Column 3:
(Header)Tray Level
Column 4:
(Header)Tray ZIP
Column 5:
(Header)Group Dest
Column 6:
(Header)Piece ID #
Column 7:
(Header)5B
Column 8:
(Header)3B
Column 9:
(Header)AB
Column 10:
(Header)MB
Column 11:
(Header)Batch Postage
Column 12:
(Header)Cum Postage


Row 2:
Column 1:
(optional columns)3
Column 2:
Column 3:
Column 4:
Column 5:
Column 6:
Column 7:
Column 8:
Column 9:
Column 10:
Column 11:
Column 12:


Row 3:
Column 1:
1
Column 2:
2
Column 3:
5DG
Column 4:
01603
Column 5:
Column 6:
001-250
Column 7:
250
Column 8:

Column 9:
Column 10:
Column 11:
78.310
Column 12:


Row 4:
Column 1:
2
Column 2:
2
Column 3:
5DG
Column 4:
01703
Column 5:
Column 6:
251-650
Column 7:
400
Column 8:
Column 9:
Column 10:
Column 11:
124.800
Column 12:
78.310


Row 5:
Column 1:
3
Column 2:
2
Column 3:
5DG
Column 4:
75601
Column 5:
Column 6:
651-1127
Column 7:
477
Column 8:
Column 9:
Column 10:
Column 11:
148.824
Column 12:
352.244


Row 6:
Column 1:
4
Column 2:
2
Column 3:
3DG
Column 4:
012
Column 5:
Column 6:
1128-1604
Column 7:
Column 8:
477
Column 9:
Column 10:
Column 11:
157.887
Column 12:
510.441


Row 7:
Column 1:
5
Column 2:
1
Column 3:
3DG
Column 4:
012
Column 5:
Column 6:
1605-1627
Column 7:
Column 8:
23
Column 9:
Column 10:
Column 11:
7.613
Column 12:
518.054


Row 8:
Column 1:
6
Column 2:
2
Column 3:
3DGS
Column 4:
110
Column 5:
110
Column 6:
1628-1677
Column 7:
Column 8:
50
Column 9:
Column 10:
Column 11:
16.550
Column 12:
534.914


Row 9:
Column 1:
Column 2:
Column 3:
Column 4:
Column 5:
113
Column 6:
1678-1727
Column 7:
Column 8:
50
Column 9:
Column 10:
Column 11:
16.550
Column 12:
551.464

Row 10:
Column 1:
Column 2:
Column 3:
Column 4:
Column 5:
114
Column 6:
1728-1792
Column 7:
Column 8:
65
Column 9:
Column 10:
Column 11:
21.515
Column 12:
583.054

Row 11:
Column 1:
Column 2:
Column 3:
Column 4:
Column 5:
116
Column 6:
1793-2067
Column 7:
Column 8:
275
Column 9:
Column 10:
Column 11:
91.025
Column 12:
674.079


Row 12:
Column 1:
7
Column 2:
2
Column 3:
3DG
Column 4:
405
Column 5:
Column 6:
2068-2544
Column 7:
Column 8:
477
Column 9:
Column 10:
Column 11:
157.887
Column 12:
832.276


Row 13:
Column 1:
8
Column 2:
1
Column 3:
3DG
Column 4:
405
Column 5:
Column 6:
2545-2567
Column 7:
Column 8:
23
Column 9:
Column 10:
Column 11:
7.613
Column 12:
839.889
End of Snapshot of Table.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
This is an example of a batch manifest for First-Class letter mail.  The top header of the manifest is similar to the itemized manifest.
However, the body of the manifest in the batch manifest is different.  
In this example, the pieces are not listed individually.  Instead, they are grouped into “batches” or segments.  
The mailpieces are listed in consecutive identification number order with no breaks in the number sequence.  The manifest lists the batches consecutively by ZIP Code and in presort order.  This manifest would show the exact order in which the mailing is prepared in trays.
The total postage for each batch and cumulative postage totals are also listed.  
This manifest may also have a summary listing that consolidates the detailed information about the mailing, The summary would include all information that is necessary to complete the postage statement. 
End of Slide 15.



Slide 16:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Keyline for First-Class/Standard Mail Letter/Flat Batch Listing
There is a blue box made to look like an envelope.  The order is this:
Return Address information:
ABC Company
123 Corporation Way
Company Site US 98765-4321 

Dark Blue color for the Stamp and then Stamp information:
Permit Imprint for Mail Class & Type

Address information:
MR MIKE MANCHESTER
4421 POSTAL LN
MYTOWN MD 20711-1101

There is a box with the words 'Keyline Location' and a arrow pointing to the Address and and another arrow pointing to another box with the words '5691  1  AT  .334  A#67BA'.
From this box with the words '5691  1  AT  .334  A#67BA' are arrows pointing to each set of letters with information for each.
The arrows goes as follows:
'5691' arrow pointing to 'Consecutive ID Number'.
'1' arrow pointing to 'Weight in Ounces (FCM only)'.
'AT' arrow pointing to 'Rate Category Abbreviation'.
'.334' arrow pointing to 'Postage Paid'.
'A#67BA' arrow pointing to 'Optional Internal Mailing Code'.
At the bottom of the 'blue envelope' is the words:
'Barcode Clear Zone'. It has an arrow pointing to the left and right and the words '4 ¾”' above it.
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
The information for a batch manifest listing for a First-Class or Standard Mail letter or flat mailing is printed on the face of the mailpiece.  
The information may be printed in the lower left corner of the piece but most frequently it is printed above the address in a keyline on the label.
As shown in this example, the consecutive identification number is the first element of the keyline.  
The keyline also contains the weight of the mailpiece, the rate category abbreviation and the postage for the piece.  
An additional internal mailing code may also be included at the option of the mailer.
A parcel mailing using an itemized listing would only require the unique identification number on each parcel.  
If an extra service is used such as Delivery Confirmation, then a barcoded label would also be applied to the piece.  
The unique identification number and the address could all be a part of the barcoded label.
End of Slide 16.



Slide 17:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System
The words included are:
(bullet)What Resources Do You Need? 
(bullet)Computer hardware
(bullet)Internet connection
(bullet)Software
(bullet)USPS MAC certified
(bullet)Scales
(bullet)Trained personnel
(bullet)Quality assurance process
Image Information:
At the far right is a cartoon image of a man sitting down at a desktop computer and a woman standing next to him, watching him using it and pointing to the monitor.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
The hardware needed for a Manifest Mailing System is a computer terminal, a printer, and a scale.
An inline scale may not be needed depending on the type of manifest you are using.  Scales are used in most itemized postage parcel and single piece rate letter and flat postage environments.  Predetermined weights are generally used in the presort letter and flat mail batch mailing process.
An Internet connection allows submission of electronic data & postage statements and eliminates printed paper reports.
Software can be developed in-house or purchased from a vendor.  Either way, the software must generate documentation in a specific format to support the manifest mailings.
The Manifest Analysis and Certification (MAC) program is a voluntary program in which the postal service tests vendor-supplied software to determine its accuracy.  
The latest list of MAC-certified vendors can be found on the RIBBS website at ribbs.usps.gov.  We will discuss the MAC program a little later in the session.  That web address is included in your handouts.
Precise piece weights are necessary to ensure proper payment of postage, so accurate scales play an important role in a good manifest systems.  Scales must be zero-balanced daily and maintained to the manufacturer’s specifications. 
To ensure the integrity of the system, employees responsible for using the manifest system must have a clear understanding of their roles.  Quality control procedures and reporting documents are included in the authorization and must be approved by the Postal Service.
End of Slide 17.



Slide 18:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System
The words included are:
(bullet)How Do You Get Started? 
(bullet)Consult with Account Manager or BME
(bullet)Review Pub 401, Guide to the Manifest Mailing System
(bullet)Decide on manifest software
(bullet)Prepare application
Image Information:
At the far right is a cartoon image of a fortune teller gazing into a crystal ball and a man sitting across from him wiht the bubble above his head that reads 'MMS?'.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
To get started, you will want to discuss your mailing conditions with a Postal Service account manager or someone from Business Mail Entry.  
In preparation, you should identify specifically what you will be mailing including class of mail, processing category (letters, flats or parcels), if will you be using any extra services, how you will determine the weight of the pieces, and how frequently you will mail. 
Publication 401, Guide to the Manifest Mailing System, contains a detailed explanation of manifesting as well as an application and samples of both manifests and quality control procedures.  
Only one application is required, regardless of the number of classes or processing categories of mail that will be manifested. 
If using Extra Services, a separate application for barcode certification may be required.  
This application should be filed concurrently with the manifest application.  Use Pub. 91 for Delivery and Signature Confirmation services and Pub. 109 for other Extra Services (Certified, Insured, Registered etc.)
It is most important that you consider what manifesting software you will use before you proceed with the application.  
You can contact various vendors or consider Manifest Analysis Certification (MAC) or MAC Gold certified software vendors listed on our ribbs.usps.gov web site.  
In considering a software vendor, also evaluate their level of customer support.  
Some vendors will closely guide you through the USPS application process and generating the appropriate documentation which can reduce the application approval time.
The Manifest Mailing System application is in Pub. 401 and it can be completed manually.
End of Slide 18.



Slide 19:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System
The words included are:
(bullet)What to Submit with Application
(bullet)Sample manifest
(bullet)Sample mailpiece or label
(bullet)Postage statement
(bullet)Description of quality control procedures
(bullet)Piece weights
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Once completed, submit the application to the local post office or Business Mail Entry Manager with:
1) A sample of each type of manifest; 
2) Sample mailpieces or address labels showing the permit imprint and unique ID number or keyline. 
3) Completed sample of each postage statement.
3) A detailed description of your Quality Control procedures and forms used to document those procedures.  
4) Publication 401 provides quality control procedures that you can adapt for your own use; as well as samples of Quality Control worksheets.
5) Rate tables and Zone matrices, if you will manifest Zone-rated mail;
6) Presort documentation, if applicable;
7) Sample of any privately printed Extra Services labels with certification from the NCSC, and a sample PS Form 3877 or facsimile if Extra Services are used and required information is not reported on the manifest.
8) Your method for determining pieces weights. 
You have two ways of determining the weights that will be used for your pieces.  
You may use a scale to weigh each piece or you may use a predetermined weights.  
Predetermined weights allow you to record the weight based on the contents of the pieces without weighing each piece at the time or mailing.  
A written explanation of how the piece weights are calculated must be provided with the application. 
End of Slide 19.



Slide 20:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System
The words included are:
(bullet)Authorization
(bullet)Authorization letter for district-approved systems
(bullet)Temporary authorization 
(bullet)Final approval
(bullet)When errors are noted
(bullet)Assist to resolve problems
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Your application and documentation will be reviewed by district postal personnel followed by an on-site review and, if a district-approved system, an authorization letter will be issued.  If the system is a Business Mailer Support (BMS)-authorized system, the district will authorize a temporary authorization letter.  
During that time, the Postal Service will regularly sample your manifest mailings and notify you of any corrective actions that need to be taken.
Within 90 days, BMS will conduct an on-site review. 
If your system and QC procedures meet postal standards, you will be given a final authorization.
If your system does not meet postal standards, your application will not be approved and we will work with you to discover and correct any deficiencies.  
All Manifest Mailing Systems are permanently authorized until such time there is evidence that postal revenue may not be protected.
End of Slide 20.



Slide 21:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System
The words included are:
(bullet)Acceptance verification - validating accuracy
(bullet)Test once a week
(bullet)1.5% error tolerance
(bullet)Adjust postage when errors exceed 1.5%
(bullet)95% quarterly accuracy
Image Information:
At the far right is a cartoon image of a woman with glasses, sitting at a desk using an adding machine, with a book in front of her and a clock on the wall behind her.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
The sampled pieces are compared against the manifest to ensure accuracy.
There is a 1.5% threshold for the verification of your manifest. 
If our comparison shows that the postage adjustment factor (PAF) is more than 1.5%,  the mailer will either pay a postage adjustment or rework the entire mailing.   
The reduced frequency verifications continue as long as all mailings pass the verification.  If a mailing fails, verification is done on every mailing until three consecutive mailings pass. 
The Postal Service goal for all manifest systems is 95% or better accuracy, and we track this on a quarterly basis.
Systems that fall below the 95% accuracy may be reviewed at any time.
End of Slide 21.



Slide 22:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System
The words included are:
Manifest Analysis & Certification
There is an image of letters forming a pyramid and it starts with the top letter being an 'M'; the second letter at the left is the letter 'A' and the 3rd letter at the right is the letter 'C'.  There is a gold triangle in the middle of all these letters.  The letters are in red.
There is the words:
MAC 
&
MAC Gold
There is an image of letters forming a pyramid and it starts with the top letter being an 'M'; the second letter at the left is the letter 'A' and the 3rd letter at the right is the letter 'C'.  There is a red triangle in the middle of all these letters.  The letters are in gold.
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Let’s talk a little about software.
The Postal Service, in cooperation with the mailing industry, has developed a certification program, known as MAC™ (Manifest Analysis Certification), to evaluate manifesting software. 
MAC is a software certification program that sets the standard of excellence for manifest software. 
The certification process provides a common platform to measure the quality of manifest products and determine their accuracy in accordance with requirements set forth in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) and Publication 401, Guide to the Manifest Mailing System. 
Software that successfully complete the MAC testing process are granted MAC certification.
End of Slide 22.



Slide 23:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System
The words included are:
(bullet)MAC™
(bullet)Certifies vendor supplied manifest software 
(bullet)List of certified vendors
(bullet)CSP – certified software products 
http://ribbs.usps.gov/files/mac
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
MAC was developed in response to mailer requests for a manifest system that has been already certified by the postal service.  
All MAC systems produce manifests, postage statements, and shipping labels in identical format.  
Under the MAC program, the USPS National Customer Support Center (NCSC) tests only the developer’s MMS software. 
The software processes a series of electronic test files which the NCSC analyzes for accuracy and compliance. 
This process has greatly improved the consistency and the accuracy of manifest software, but to begin manifesting mail each MMS installation must be authorized by the USPS through a multi-level process.
Here's the address for the ribbs website where you can find the latest list of MAC and MAC-Gold vendors.  Just click on the CSP link for a list of products and vendors.
End of Slide 23.



Slide 24:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Manifest Mailing System
The words included are:
(bullet)MAC Gold™ 
(bullet)Single piece FCM, Priority Mail and Parcel Post 
(bullet)Pre-approved Manifest Mailing System – hardware & software 
(bullet)Purchase, install, begin mailing
(bullet)USPS confirmation review
http://ribbs.usps.gov/files/mac
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Under the MAC Gold program, a developer’s entire system, software, and hardware (scales & printers), are certified as compliant. 
The developer participates in traditional software testing and then provides the software to the NCSC along with hardware specifications and instructions for use. 
The scope of MAC Gold is focused on the manifest system’s ability to correctly process First-Class Mail®, Priority Mail, Parcel Post (all single-piece rate), and Insurance with the integrated barcode and Delivery and Signature Confirmation Services. 
The NCSC puts the developer’s system through several tests to determine if it will function accurately on the specified hardware under many different conditions. 
This extra scrutiny allows the MAC Gold user to begin manifesting mail immediately, provided the system is installed and operated according to the developer’s and manufacturer’s instructions. 
MAC Gold allows manifest authorization to take place concurrently with the shipment of mail. 
Once tested and approved, the MAC-Gold system needs no local authorization as long as it’s installed and operated according to the manufacturer's instructions.
The vendor and mailer follow the MAC Gold application process and notify the local Business Mail Entry personnel prior to installation of a MAC-Gold system.
Using a simple checklist, a confirmation review is conducted on the first day of mailing.
Using a MAC Gold certified system will ease the application process and get you up and mailing almost as soon as you get the software installed.
End of Slide 24.



Slide 25:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Conclusion
The words included are:
(bullet)Manifest Mailing System has benefits that add to your bottom line
(bullet)Manifesting is versatile
(bullet)Consult with a Postal Service representative
(bullet)Review Publication 401
(bullet)Use MAC or MAC Gold software
(bullet)Get started today!
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Let’s review some of the material we covered in today’s session.
A Manifest Mailing System can help you reduce costs and provide better customer service which will help to improve your bottom line.
A Manifest Mailing System can be used for different classes of mail and different rate categories, and Extra Services may also be included.
Consultation with the USPS representative can provide you a better understanding of how manifesting can help provide you with assistance in the application process.
The Publication 401 contains information on the application process for all types of manifest mailing systems.  
You will only need the sections of the publication that apply to the type of mail you will be mailing. 
MAC software is certified to ensure that it produces the manifest and documentation according to USPS requirements.
MAC Gold software and hardware provide you with a pre-approved manifest mailing system that allows you to begin mailing almost as soon as you can install the software.
The only thing left to do is get started today!
End of Slide 25.



Slide 26:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
The words included are:
QUESTIONS ?
Image Information:
There are 4 cartoon images surrounding the word 'Questions'.
They are as follows:
Top left:
Light Blue Envelopes
Bottom left:
Flat Package
Top right:
Yellow Envelopes
Bottom right:
Stacks of different sizes of what appears to be packages.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Thank you for your attention.  
I hope this has been informative for you, and I’ll be glad to answer any questions.
End of Slide 26.