US Postal Service (USPS)

In this Guide

Overview

The US Postal Service (USPS) delivers all types of mail and parcels from the United States to any destination worldwide.

Support for Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb)

Parcel supports the USPS Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) for USPS shipments. IMpb is a new barcode for packages only. This barcode can be used for most domestic services where applicable.

Supported Origins and Destinations

A USPS carrier can be used for shipments originating in the 50 US states. Supported destinations include the 50 US states, Puerto Rico and other US Territories, as well as numerous non-US destinations for International shipments depending on the USPS International service.

Labels and Barcodes

Parcel supports the following label formats for a USPS carrier:

  • Minimum 4 X 6 inch thermal label

  • Graphics (PNG) label

Supported Printers

  • Datamax

  • Eltron

  • Intermec

  • PNG (laser printer)

  • Zebra

Note: Parcel supports only models of the printers listed above that provide a 203 dpi resolution.

Services and Compliance

Supported Services

The following United States Postal Service (USPS) services and Special Services/Accessorials are supported.

  • Domestic Services

  • International Services

  • Special Services/Accessorials

Note: As of January 26, 2014, USPS is rebranding its Express Mail service as Priority Mail Express.

Recent Updates: 2023 USPS Rate and Compliance Changes

New Rates are effective from Jan 22, 2023. Rates are updated for the following USPS services:

  • Domestic Services

  • International Services

  • Special Services/Accessorial.

Updated the following USPS Postage Statement (PS) forms to meet the 2023 requirements:

  • PS Form 3600-FCM

  • PS Form 3600-PM

  • PS Form 3605-R

Compliance Changes:

  • USPS introduces a common price table Commercial Base for Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail.

    • End of day file (Shipping services file) updated for the Postage Type to map Type A (Commercial Plus Pricing) to Type B (Commercial Base Pricing).

  • USPS follows separate non-standard fees for the following Expedited and Ground Products:

    • Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express

    • Parcel Select

  • USPS no longer supports Regional Rate Boxes for Priority Mail Service.

    • The system generates the following alert, if a user selects any of the Regional Rate Boxes for Priority Mail Service:
      USPS Priority Mail Regional Rate Box service is no longer available, please select other Priority service to continue shipping.

    • Effective from Jan 22, 2023.

  • Local zone is eliminated.

    • Zones 1 and 2 are considered as separate zones.

    • The following services are impacted:

      • First-Class Package Service

      • Parcel Select Destination

      • Priority Mail

      • Priority Mail Express

Previous Updates: 2022 USPS Rate and Compliance Changes

USPS Peak Season Rate Update are effective from October 2, 2022, to Jan 22, 2023. The USPS Rates are updated for the following Domestic Services:

  • Priority Mail

  • Priority Mail Express

  • First-Class Package Service

  • Parcel Select Ground

  • USPS Retail Ground

Rate Updates (Effective from July 10, 2022)

The USPS Rates are updated for the following services:

  • Domestic Services

  • International Services

  • Special Services/Accessorials

Priority Parcel commercial rates changes:

    • At account default rating options tab, Cubic Pricing is removed from the Priority Parcel Commercial rates dropdown. Now the dropdown values are Base Pricing and Plus Pricing.

    • At account default tab, a new field with the checkbox Priority Mail Cubic Rates is added.

    • Based on the selection of dropdown values at Priority Parcel Commercial rates and checkbox selection at Priority Mail Cubic Rates, rates will be calculated from the respective cubic/base/plus pricing.

Compliance Changes

  • The USPS Special Handling - Fragile special service is no longer supported from July 10, 2022.

  • There is no insurance charge for the first $100 dollars of the USPS all Priority Mail outbound shipment with effect from July 10, 2022.

Postage Statement Changes
The following USPS Postage Statement (PS) forms are updated to meet the new 2022 requirements from USPS.

  • PS Form 3600-FCM – First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service.

  • PS Form 3600-PM – Priority Mail.

  • PS Form 3605-R – Package Services.

Rate Updates
The USPS Rates are updated for the following services:
• Domestic Services
• International Services
• Special Services/Accessorials

Compliance Changes
The Compliance Changes for USPS are as follows:

  • A new 'Threshold for Non-Standard Domestics Package Fees' section has been added with Package Length Threshold Min (Inches), Package Length Threshold Max (Inches), Package Length Threshold Above (Inches) and Package Volume (Cubic Feet) fields on the Account Defaults > SvrPrty tab to configure the package with Non-Standard Dimension or Cubic Measurement for applying Non-Standard Package Length Charge or Non-Standard Package Volume Charge for domestic packages, including Priority Mail Parcels, Priority Mail Express Parcels, Parcel Select Ground, Parcel Select, Parcel Select Lightweight Irregular and Parcel Select Lightweight Machinable are effective from April 3, 2022.

  • Non-Standard Package Length Charge:

    • The Non-Standard Package Length Charge of $4.00 will be applied to domestic packages with a length greater than 22 inches and no more than 30 inches, effective from April 3, 2022.

    • The Non-Standard Package Length Charge of $15.00 will be applied to domestic packages with a length greater than 30 inches, effective from April 3, 2022.

    • The Non-Standard Package Length Charge of $3.00 will be applied to domestic packages with a length greater than 22 inches and no more than 30 inches and enabling Parcel Select LightWeight Destination NDC Entry, effective from April 3, 2022.

    • The Non-Standard Package Length Charge of $11.25 will be applied to domestic packages with a length greater than 30 inches and enabling Parcel Select LightWeight Destination NDC Entry, effective from April 3, 2022.

  • Non-Standard Package Volume Charge:

    • The Non-Standard Package Volume Charge of $15.00 will be applied to domestic packages with a volume greater than 2 cubic feet and/or enabling Parcel Select LightWeight Destination NDC Entry, effective from April 3, 2022.

  • Non-Compliance Charge:

    • The Non-Compliance Charge of $1.50 will be applied to domestic packages with a package length greater than 22 inches or volume greater than 1 cubic foot and if the dimensions are not provided in the electronic manifest file (SSF).

  • Parcel displays "Parcel Shippers are Restricted to use only Maximum five extra services with any piece" error message when user select more than 5 extra services with any piece.

Postage Statement Changes
The following USPS Postage Statement (PS) forms are updated to meet the new 2022 requirements from USPS.

  • PS Form 3600-FCM – First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service.

  • PS Form 3600-PM – Priority Mail.

  • PS Form 3605-R – Package Services.

Previous Updates: 2021 USPS Temporary Price Increase and Compliance Changes

Price Increases

The USPS Prices are increased for the following services are effective from August 29, 2021.
• Domestic Services
• International Services
• Special Services/Accessorials
Includes the 2021 Peak Holiday Season Temporary Rates Changes for USPS carrier are effective from October 3, 2021 to December 26, 2021, see the USPS Website. The USPS Rates are updated for domestic and international services.

Compliance Changes and Postage Statement Changes

The following Compliance Changes and Postage Statement Changes for USPS are effective from August 29, 2021.

  • The Registered Mail and Return Receipt special service prices are increased for First-Class Mail International Service.

  • PS Form 3600-FCM – First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service.

Compliance Changes

The following Compliances Changes for USPS are effective immediately.

  • Parcel now stops in supporting the following ECOMPRO Services for USPS Carrier.

    • ECOMPRO

    • ECOMPRO Flat Env

    • ECOMPRO Lg Flat Rate Box

    • ECOMPRO Medium Flat Rate Box

    • ECOMPRO Small Flat-Rate Box

    • ECOMPRO Legal Flat-Rate Env

  • Parcel supports the Priority Mail International Service for ECOMPRO destination countries.

  • All Priority Mail International shipments (regardless of the destination country) now displays a tracking barcode range with the prefix "C" that is printed on the Customs Forms.

  • The latest International Service Center (ISC) Zone Chart has been updated for USPS Carrier.

Recent Updates: 2021 USPS VAT Compliance

  • The USPS VAT Compliance is applicable for IOSS Shipments to EU27 and Northern Ireland destinations.

  • The users can enter the Sender IOSS Number for USPS carrier, as shown below:

    • Navigate to Warehouse Options screen > International > Shipment Level Options section and select 'VAT No' from the Importer Reference Type drop-down list.

    • Enter the VAT Number in the Importer Reference Number field.

- Importer Reference Type = 'VAT No'.
- Importer Reference Number = VAT Number. For Example: 65214343467
This number is not printed on 2976-A and 2976-B Customs Forms.

  • Given IOSS number will be passed in the Importer's Reference Number field in the Manifest File (Shipping Services File-SSF) for USPS carrier.

Previous Updates: 2021 USPS Rate and Compliance Changes

Rate Updates
The USPS Rates are updated for the following services:

  • Domestic Services

  • International Services

  • Special Services/Accessorials

Compliance Changes
The following Compliance Changes for USPS are effective from January 24, 2021.

  • The latest International Service Center (ISC) Zone chart has been updated.

  • The number of International country price groups for Priority Mail Express International (PMEI), Priority Mail International (PMI), and First-Class Package International Service (FCPIS) services has been increased from 17 to 20 groups.

  • Added the new dimensional rules for First-Class International and First-Class International Parcels services to the User Packaging type.

The following Compliance Change for USPS is effective from July 7, 2020.

  • The latest Domestic Zone File has been updated.

Postage Statement Changes
The following USPS Postage Statement (PS) forms are updated to meet the new 2021 requirements from USPS.

  • PS Form 3600-FCM – First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service.

  • PS Form 3600-PM – Priority Mail.

  • PS Form 3605-R – Package Services.

Previous Updates: 2020 USPS Rate Change

The Rates Changes 2020 RC2 for USPS are effective from October 18, 2020 to December 27, 2020, see the USPS Web site.
The USPS Rates are updated for the following services:
• Domestic Services

  • Parcel Select DNDC

  • Parcel Select Ground

  • Priority Mail Commercial

  • Priority Mail Express Commercial

  • FCPS Commercial (Weight Not Over (ounces))

  • Parcel Select Lightweight

Previous Updates: June 2019 USPS Rate and Compliance Change

Compliance Changes
The following Compliance changes for USPS are effective from June 23, 2019.First-Class Mail International (FCMI) will no longer support mail pieces greater than 15.994 oz.
• The Dimensional Weight rules are now applicable to Priority Mail Express (Priority Mail Express Parcels) and Parcel Select Services (Parcel Select Ground and Parcel Select).
• The Dimensional Weight (DIM) Divisor for Priority Mail packages over 1 cubic foot (1728 cubic inches) is being adjusted from 194 to 166 and DIM pricing now applicable to all zones.
• New Shipping Services File (SSF) Rate Indicator codes are now introduced for Priority Mail Express and Parcel Select.
• Two new mail type codes – "00" and "99" are added in National Zone Chart Matrix "exceptions" file.

Postage Statement Changes
• PS Form 3600-PM – Priority Mail.
• PS Form 3605-R – Package Services.

Previous Updates: Note on USPS Rate and Compliance Patches

USPS Rate and Compliance Patches - 2019 RC2
The Rates and Compliance Changes 2019 RC2 for USPS are effective from January 27, 2019. For information, see the USPS Web site.
Rate Updates
The USPS Rates are updated for the following services:

  • Domestic Services.

  • International Services.

  • Special Services/Accessorials.

Compliance Changes
The following Compliance changes for USPS are effective from January 27, 2019.
• Balloon pricing will no longer apply to Priority Mail Parcels (PRTY), Parcel Select Ground (PSNP) and Parcel Select (PSEL) services.
• Balloon Rate Indicator codes are no longer being used in Shipping Services File (SSF) for Priority Mail and Parcel Select services.
• Zone-based pricing is added to First-Class Package Service (FCPS).
• The SSF will include a valid Domestic Zone for First-Class Package Services (FCPS).
• Country name is updated from "Swaziland" to "Eswatini".
• The latest zoning file has been implemented.
• The latest International Service Center (ISC) Zone Chart has been updated.
The following Compliance changes for USPS are effective from June 23, 2019.
• The Dimensional Weight (DIM) Divisor for Priority Mail packages over 1 cubic foot (1728 cubic inches) is being adjusted from 194 to 166 and Dimensional Weight (DIM) pricing is applicable to all zones.
• The Dimensional Weight rules are applicable to Priority Mail Express (Priority Mail Express Parcels) and Parcel Select Services (Parcel Select Ground and Parcel Select).
• New Shipping Services File (SSF) Rate Indicator codes are introduced for Priority Mail Express and Parcel Select services for dimensional weight packages.

Postage Statement Changes
• PS Form 3600-FCM – First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service.
• PS Form 3600-PM – Priority Mail.
• PS Form 3605-R – Package Services.

Manifest Report Changes
• USPS Itemized Manifest Summary - First-Class Package Services.

USPS Rate and Compliance Patches - 2018 RC2

Parcel supports the following Rates, Postage Statement and Manifest Report changes for 2018 RC2. For information on these changes, see the USPS Web site.
Rate Changes
Parcel incorporates changes to rates for the following USPS services and accessorials:

  • Domestic Services.

  • International Services.

  • Special Services/Accessorials.

Postage Statement Changes
The following USPS Postage Statement (PS) forms are updated to meet the new 2018 requirements from USPS.

  • PS Form 3600-FCM – First-Class Mail and First-Class Package Service (Page 1, 7, Parts A, B, C, & S).

  • PS Form 3600-PM – Priority Mail (Page 1, Parts F & S).

  • PS Form 3605-R – Package Services (Page 1, Part C, E & S).

Manifest Report Changes
The following Manifest Reports are updated to meet the 2018 requirements by USPS.

  • Summary Single-Piece Mixed with Extra Services.

  • Summary Parcel Select Lightweight Irregulars.

  • Summary Parcel Select Lightweight Machinable.

  • PS Form 3605-R Parcel Select Lightweight Machinable.

  • PS Form 3605-R Nonpresorted Bound Printed Matter.

Domestic Services

Service (Code)

Description (see usps.com for details)

Electronic Verification System (eVS)

Parcel now supports the USPS Electronic Verification System (eVS) for paperless manifesting for Domestic shipments.

First Class:

  • First-Class Flats (FCF)

  • First-Class Letters (FCL)

  • First-Class Package Service (FCPS)

First Class Mail is for letters, and large envelopes. This service, along with Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express, can be used for personal correspondence, handwritten or typewritten letters, and bills or statements of account. It may also be used for advertisements and lightweight merchandise.
Weight limit: 13 ounces (max weight for letters is 3.5 ounces)
Only non-automation single-piece is supported.
Delivery to APO/FPO addresses is supported.

Priority Mail:

  • Priority Mail Parcels (PRTY)

  • Priority Mail Flat Box (PMFB)

  • Priority Mail Flat Envelope (PMFE)

  • Prty Mail Lg Flat-Rate Box (PMDLB)

  • Prty Mail Lg Flat-Rate Box APO/FPO (PMAPLB)

  • Prty Mail Small Flat Rate Box (PMFSB)

  • Prty Mail Flat-Rate Padded Env (PMFPE)

Priority Mail is for delivery of documents and packages in an average of 2 to 3 days. Flat-rate shipping is also available for any destination and any weight up to 70 lb. when you use either Flat Rate Envelopes or Flat Rate Boxes.

  • Delivery to every address in the United States - including PO Boxes and military addresses.

  • Flat rate envelopes and flat rate boxes are available.

  • Maximum size is 108 inches in length and distance around the thickest part combined.

  • Dimensional weight rating applies to parcels measuring more than one cubic foot (1,728 cubic inches) in volume that are destined to zones 5-8.

    Weight limit: 70 pounds
    Delivery to APO/FPO addresses is supported.

Priority Mail Legal Flat Rate Envelope (PMLE)

This service is available for Priority Mail Commercial Base customers. Pricing is the same as for the regular Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope.
The following accessorials are available with this service:

  • Insurance

  • Registered mail

  • Certified Mail

  • Delivery Confirmation

  • Signature Confirmation

  • Return Receipt

  • COD

  • Restricted delivery

Priority Mail Regional Rate Box A (PMRRA)

Priority Mail Regional Rate Box A is available for Commercial Base customers. This box is zone-priced according to the following specifications:

  • 15 lb. weight limit.

  • Side Loading – 13 1/16" x 11 1/16" x 2 ½"

  • Top Loading – 10 1/8" x 7 1/8" x 5"

    Notes:

  • Dimensions listed are Outside dimensions. Parcel does not validate Regional Rate Box A dimensions.

  • Parcel does validate Regional Rate Box A weight.

Priority Mail Regional Rate Box B (PMRRB)

Priority Mail Regional Rate Box B is available for Commercial Base customers. This box is zone-priced according to the following specifications:

  • 20 lb. weight limit.

  • Side Loading – 16 1/4" x 14 1/2" x 3"

  • Top Loading – 12 1/4" x 10 1/2" x 5 1/2"

    Notes:

  • Dimensions listed are Outside dimensions. Parcel does not validate Regional Rate Box B dimensions.

  • Parcel does validate Regional Rate Box B weight.

Priority Mail Express:

  • Parcels (EXPR)

  • Flat Envelope (EMFE)

  • Legal Flat Rate Envelope (EMLE)

Service for time-sensitive letters, documents or merchandise.

  • Next day delivery by noon or by 3:00 pm to many destinations.

  • Delivery to most addresses in the United States - including PO Boxes.

  • Delivery to most locations 365 days a year, including Sundays and holidays at no extra charge.

  • Automatically insured to $100 against loss or damage.

  • Maximum size is 108 inches in length and distance around the thickest part combined.

Weight limit: 70 pounds

Priority Mail Express Legal Flat Rate Envelope (EMLE)

This service is available for Priority Mail Express Commercial Base and Commercial Plus users. Pricing is the same as for the regular Priority Mail Express Flat Rate Envelope.
The following accessorials are available with this service:

  • COD

  • Insurance

  • Restricted Delivery

  • Return Receipt

Bound Printed Matter:

  • Bound Printed Matter (BPM):

  • BPM Destination NDC Flats (BDBF)

  • BPM Destination NDC Irregular Parcels (BDBI)

  • BPM Destination NDC Parcels (BDBP)

  • BPM Destination SCF Flats (BDSF)

  • BPM Destination SCF Irregular Parcels (BDSI)

  • BPM Destination SCF Parcels (BDSP)

  • BPM Presorted Flats (BPF)

  • BPM Presorted Irregular Parcels (BPI)

  • BPM Presorted Parcels (BPP)

  • BPM Nonpresort Flats (BSF)

  • BPM Nonpresort Irregular Parcels (BSI)

  • BPM Nonpresort Parcels (BSP)

The Bound Printed Matter service is for permanently-bound sheets of advertising, promotional, directory or editorial material such as catalogs and phone books.
Weight limit: 15 pounds

Media Mail (MEDM)

Mail books, sound recordings, recorded video tapes, printed music, and recorded computer-readable media (such as CDs, DVDs, and diskettes). Cannot contain advertising except for incidental announcements of books.

  • Rates are based on weight and size.

  • Only single-piece mailing is supported.

  • Delivery to APO/FPO addresses is supported.

  • Weight limit: 70 pounds.

Parcel Select (PSEL)

Machinable parcels must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum weight: 6 ounces (3.5 ounces for parcels prepared under DMM 401.1.5.2)

  • Maximum weight: 35 pounds (25 pounds for books and other printed matter).

    Notes:

  • Parcel Select pieces measuring over 108 inches but not more than 130 inches in combined length and girth are mailable at the applicable Oversized Price.

  • An item weighing less than 20 pounds but measuring more than 84 inches (but not more than 108 inches) in combined length and girth is charged the price for a 20-pound parcel for the zone to which it is addressed (Balloon Price).

  • Parcel Select is a Domestic service that offers additional discounted rates, specifically, the Destination Entry discount rate that applies to shipments entered at the destination NDC/ASF for delivery within the DNDC/ASF service area and part of a mailing of 50 or more Parcel Select pieces using permit imprint or metered postage. Nonmachinable parcels are subject to a surcharge (does not apply to pieces mailed at oversized prices or sent with special handling).

Parcel Select Lightweight:

  • Parcel Select Lightweight Machinable (PSLWM)

  • Parcel Select Lightweight Irregular (PSLWI)

Parcel Select Lightweight is a presorted parcel product designed for large and medium-sized shippers as an affordable service for shipping multiple parcels weighing less than one pound with the following features:

  • Two- to nine-day delivery window

  • Free Delivery Confirmation™

  • Entry point: NDC

Restrictions to Parcel Select Lightweight shipments are as follows:

  • Parcel Select Lightweight requires a minimum of 200 pieces or 50 pounds per mailing. It can not be used for sending personal correspondence, handwritten or typewritten letters, or bills and statements of account. Rates are based on weight, shape, preparation, and entry. Automation rates are lower than nonautomation rates.

  • Non-barcoded parcels are subject to a eight-cent surcharge.

  • Weight limit for individual mail pieces: less than 16 ounces: - Machinables – 3.5-15.994 oz. - Irregulars – 1.0-15.994 oz.

    Notes:

  • Parcel Select Lightweight replaces the Standard Mail parcel service with corresponding machinable and irregular pricing options. Parcel Select Lightweight also retains the physical standards, eligibility, and entry level pricing previously applicable to Standard Mail parcels. All previous Standard Mail options are now removed from Parcel.

  • On USPS labels with this service, Indicia01 (top lines in upper right corner box) reads: PARCEL SELECT LIGHTWEIGHT

Parcel Select Ground (PSNP)

Parcel Select Ground is the commercial equivalent of USPS Standard Post. There are no special discounts and no minimum number of pieces required. See the USPS Quick Service Guide for Parcel Select (under Commercial Parcels). Parcel supports machinable, nonmachinable, balloon, and oversized pieces.
Note: Parcel Select Ground replaces Parcel Post, which is no longer supported.

International Services

Service

Description/Notes (see usps.com for details)

Priority Mail Express International (EMS)

  • Flat-Rate Envelope (EMIE)

  • Legal Flat-Rate Envelope (EMILE)

Rapid international delivery to more than 190 countries (see the USPS Priority Mail International Web page).
This service includes the following additional features:

  • Delivery in 3 to 5 business days.

  • Money-back guarantee to select destinations.

  • Delivery in 3 to 5 business days.

  • Free Package Pickup service at your home or office.

  • Includes USPS Tracking®.

  • Includes up to $100 of insurance for non-negotiable documents and up to $200 of insurance for merchandise for loss or damage.

  • Delivery status information option.

  • May qualify for Free Package Pickup™.

    Notes:

  • The following USPS pricing options (rates) are available with Priority Mail Express International: Commercial Base.

  • Weight limits for Priority Mail Express International service vary by country and are noted in the Individual Country Listings in the USPS International Mail Manual. The maximum weight limit for any Priority Mail Express International shipment is 70 pounds.

  • Parcel no longer supports USPS Flat Rate Boxes for this service.

Priority Mail Express International Legal Flat Rate Envelope (EMILE)

This service is available for Priority Mail Express Commercial Base users and is the International version of the Priority Mail Express Legal Flat Rate Envelope service. Pricing is the same as for the regular Priority Mail Express International Flat Rate Envelope.
The following accessorials are available with this service:

  • Restricted Delivery – When combined with Registered Mail.

  • Return Receipt – When combined with Registered Mail.

  • Registered Mail

First-Class Mail International (FCI)

  • Flats (large envelopes) (FCIF)

  • Letters (FCIL)

  • Parcels (FCIP)

Send letters, large envelopes, and small packages up to 4 lbs to more than 190 countries.
The following USPS pricing options (rates) are available with First-Class Mail International: Retail, Commercial Base (parcels only), and Commercial Plus.
Note: In Parcel, Registered is the only Special Service allowed with First Class Mail International.

Priority Mail International (PMI)

  • Small Flat-Rate Box (PMISB)

  • Medium Flat-Rate Box (PMIB)

  • Large Flat-Rate Box (PMILB)

  • Flat-Rate Envelope (PMIE)

  • Legal Flat-Rate Envelope (PMILE)

Send mail and packages up to 70 lbs to over 190 countries:

  • Delivery in 6 to 10 business days for many major markets (depends on origin and destination).

  • Delivery status information option (not available for Priority Mail International Flat Rate Envelopes or Small Flat Rate Priced Boxes).

  • May qualify for Free Package Pickup™.

The following USPS pricing options (rates) are available with Priority Mail Express International: Retail and Commercial Base.

Priority Mail International Legal Flat Rate Envelope (PMILE)

This service is available for Priority Mail Commercial Base users and is the International version of the Priority Mail Legal Flat Rate Envelope service. Pricing is the same as for the regular Priority Mail Express International Flat Rate Envelope.
The following accessorials are available with this service:

  • Restricted Delivery – When combined with both Registered Mail and Return Receipt.

  • Return Receipt – When combined with Registered Mail for the following destinations: - Argentina - Australia - Bahrain - Guinea-Bissau - Hong Kong - Kuwait - Pakistan - Qatar - Republic of Korea (South Korea) - Singapore - South Africa - Taiwan - Tunisia

  • Registered Mail
    Note: Only retail rates apply for Priority mail International.

Priority Mail International to Canada

USPS offers zone-based pricing options to Canada for both consumers and businesses eligible for Retail, Commercial Base or NSA pricing.
Notes:

  • Canadian destination regions are based on the first digit of the destination Canadian postal code. See the USPS Web site for more information on these.

  • Flat Rate and Regional Rate products are excluded and apply to single-piece priced shipments.

Special Services/Accessorials

Most of these services can be selected in the Options dialog box (while processing a package on the Warehouse page, click OPTIONS on the Parcel tab).

Note: For International Special Services, it is up to the user to determine which countries support which services. These services are as follows:

  • Priority Mail International Insurance – This insurance is available only for Priority Mail International parcels and only to certain countries. For information on which countries, see the USPS Individual Country Listings. Insurance is not available for Priority Mail International Flat Rate Envelopes or Small Flat Rate Priced Boxes. See the following USPS Web page: Priority Mail International Insurance.

  • Registered Mail

  • Return Receipt

  • Restricted Delivery

    Service

    Description/Notes (see usps.com for details)

    Barcoded

    Non-barcoded Parcel Select Lightweight parcels are subject to a seven-cent ($0.070) surcharge (May 2009).
    Note: For standard and flat-rate USPS packaging, Parcel now automatically barcodes all labels for all services. Some services with nonstandard (user) packaging may result in non-barcoded labels. In this case, when the label displays or prints out, you need to verify whether it is barcoded or not to determine if the Barcoded Discount or Non-barcoded Surcharge applies.

    Certified Mail

    Certified Mail service provides the sender with a mailing receipt and, upon request, electronic verification that a package was delivered or that a delivery attempt was made. To use Certified Mail with Parcel, you must also enter the Article Number from Form 3800 on the Warehouse Options screen and select (check) the Certified Mail check box under Package Level Options on this screen as well.
    Certified Mail is available with the following Mail Classes:

    • First-Class Mail

    • Priority Mail
      The following accessorials can be combined with Certified Mail:

    • Restricted Delivery

    • Return Receipt
      Notes:

    • Certified Mail is available for Domestic shipments only.

    • Parcel does not support Form 3800, which is used for Certified Mail. It is the user's responsibility to complete this form.

    • The Certified Mail fee is in addition to postage and other fees, and is charged per piece according to USPS Notice 123; check the USPS Web site

    Collect on Delivery (COD)

    The US Postal Service Carrier collects a specified amount from a recipient, and then forwards the funds to the mailer. The text "US Postage and Fees Paid" appears on the label. The shipper must complete Form 3816 and attach it to the parcel to the left of the delivery address. Parcel does not print Form 3816; obtain the stock from USPS and complete it by hand.

    To select C.O.D. while processing a package on the Warehouse page, click OPTIONS. On the Shipment tab, select the COD type and option on the left side, then enter the COD Amount on the right side of the screen. For multi-package shipments, the COD Amount can be different for each package, but the COD type and option must be the same for all of the packages in the shipment.

    Note: This service is available for Domestic shipments only.

    Delivery Confirmation - Electronic only

    Provides a tracking number that can be used to verify delivery or delivery attempts.
    Available with First Class Parcels, Priority Mail, Parcel Select Lightweight parcels, and Package Services parcels.
    US Postal Service approval required.

    While processing a package on the Warehouse page, click OPTIONS, then select Delivery Confirmation Required from the Delivery Confirmation list.

    Insurance

    Provides up to $5,000 indemnity coverage for a lost or damaged article of mail.

    While processing a package on the Warehouse page, click OPTIONS, then enter the amount to insure in the *Piece Value* field.

    Is Machinable

    The US Postal Service applies the nonmachinable surcharge to First Class letters (both domestic and international) that meet one or more of the nonmachinable criteria. The nonmachinable criteria are listed in the DMM Section 101.1.2 (https://pe.usps.com/text/dmm300/101.htm).

    To avoid applying the nonmachinable surcharge to First Class Letters as stated above, you must select the Is Machinable check box in the *Options* dialog box (on the Warehouse page, click (OPTIONS).

    Non-Rectangular

    If you process domestic Priority Mail parcels to zones 5-8 that measure more than one cubic foot (1,728 cubic inches) in volume, the calculated dimensional weight of these parcels is compared to the actual weight and the greater of the two is used to rate the package. If the parcel is non-rectangular, a different dim weight calculation is used that reduces the dimensional weight outcome.

    To specify a Priority Mail parcel as non-rectangular, select the Is Non-Rectangular check box in the *Options* dialog box (on the Warehouse page, click (OPTIONS).

    Priority Mail Small Flat Rate Box

    USPS has added a Small Flat-Rate Box with dimensions: 8 5/8" x 5 3/8" x 1 5/8".
    This box is usable for both Domestic and International shipments and does not have an APO/FPO rate.
    Service Codes:

    • PMFSB - USPS Priority Mail Small Flat-Rate Box

    • PMISB - USPS Priority Mail Intl Small Flat-Rate Box

    Registered

    Provides secure handling by the US Postal Service. Provides the sender with a mailing receipt, and a delivery record is maintained by the Postal Service. Registered service includes its own insurance. This Special Service is not available with C.O.D. Special Service.

    While processing a package on the Warehouse page, click OPTIONS, then select the Registered Mail check box.

    Note: This service is not available with eVS.

    Restricted Delivery

    Requires delivery to be directed only to the addressee or the addressee's agent. You can select this Special Service only if you first select one or more of the following Special Services: Return Receipt, Registered, or Recorded Delivery (not currently supported).

    While processing a package on the Warehouse page, click OPTIONS, then select the Restricted Delivery check box.

    Return Receipt

    Provides a mailer with evidence of delivery. After delivery, the receipt is mailed to the sender.

    While processing a package on the Warehouse page, click OPTIONS, then select the Return Receipt check box.

    Signature Confirmation - Electronic only

    Provides a recipient name and signature in addition to everything the Delivery Confirmation Special Service provides (date, time, and ZIP Code).
    Available with First Class Parcels, Priority Mail, and Package Services parcels.
    US Postal Service approval required.

    While processing a package on the Warehouse page, click OPTIONS, then select Signature Required from the Delivery Confirmation list.

    Special Handling

    Provides preferential handling in dispatch and transportation. Required for certain specified materials.
    Domestic services only.

    While processing a package on the Warehouse page, click OPTIONS, then select the Additional Handling check box.

Parcel Select Compliance

Parcel Select is a Domestic service that offers the Destination Entry discount rate that applies to shipments delivered to a USPS specified distribution center and addressed for delivery within that center's service area.

Compliance Requirements and Eligibility Criteria

Parcel supports the following level of entry for Parcel Select: Destination Network Distribution Center (DNDC). Shipments must be delivered to a DNDC/ASF for delivery within the DNDC/ASF service area (ZIP Code range for that facility) and must be part of a mailing of 50 or more Parcel Select pieces. In addition, each piece must include a complete delivery and return address including a correct ZIP Code or ZIP + 4 Code.
Caution: If the Validate Address option is selected, Parcel validates addresses and zones. However, Parcel does not validate the other previous requirements. Additionally, Parcel does not validate machinability/non-machinability criteria. (See following section.) The shipper must ensure that all non-validated conditions are met.

Physical Standards
Parcel Select Destination Entry packages are priced as machinable or nonmachinable according to the standard criteria for these categories as described in the USPS Domestic Mail Manual (DMM).
Machinable parcels must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum weight: 6 ounces (3.5 ounces for parcels prepared under DMM 401.1.5.2)

  • Maximum weight: 35 pounds (25 pounds for books and other printed matter).

Mailpieces sent at Parcel Select Destination Entry prices are subject to the applicable nonmachinable prices in DMM 453.1.0, except for parcels paying oversized prices (see the following subsection) or parcels for which the special handling fee is paid. Mailpieces are nonmachinable if they meet any of the nonmachinable criteria defined by USPS.

Support for Balloon and Oversize Pricing
Parcel supports USPS balloon and oversized pricing as follows:

  • Parcel Select pieces measuring over 108 inches but not more than 130 inches in combined length and girth are mailable at the applicable Oversized Price.

  • An item weighing less than 20 pounds but measuring more than 84 inches (but not more than 108 inches) in combined length and girth is charged the Balloon Price for a 20-pound parcel for the zone to which it is addressed. (Balloon Price).

Special Services
All the Special Services previously offered with Parcel Post (no longer supported) are applicable for Parcel Select with the exception of the Barcode Discount, which does not apply for Parcel Select. The Surcharge for Special Services also applies in the same way that it previously did for Parcel Post.

Packaging Types
User Packaging is the only valid packaging type for Parcel Select. Parcel validates packaging type against service and returns an error message if the incorrect packaging type is selected.

Rating
Parcel Select postage is based on the price that applies to the weight increment of each addressed piece and on the DNDC Zone to which the piece is addressed.
Parcel first registers whether the parcel is marked machinable or non-machinable, calculates the zone from the destination entry point (DNDC) to the final destination, and then looks up the price based on the weight and the zone.
Notes:

  • Balloon pricing applies on parcels greater than 84 inches in length and girth but less than 20 pounds (use the 20 lb. price).

  • Oversize pricing applies to parcels greater than 108 and less than 130 inches in length and girth. A price calculator can be found at the following link: https://postcalc.usps.com/business

  • Price is per pound or fraction of a pound. Any fraction of a pound is considered a whole pound; for example: if an item weighs 3.44 pounds it is priced at 4 pounds.

  • The minimum price per piece is the 1-pound price.

General Consideration (Required Forms)
The following consideration also need to be taken into account when shipping with the Parcel Select service: When a Parcel Select shipment is uploaded, a single Form 3605-R and a separate Form 8125 for each NDC in the Upload are generated; for example: if shipments in the Upload are being delivered to three different NDCs, Parcel creates a single Form 3605-R and three separate Form 8125s, one for each NDC. For printing a Form 8125 for a specific NDC, see the instructions on the form.

Options Screens

Shipment Tab

Overview of USPS Options Screen

Use the USPS Warehouse Options screen to configure optional services for mail pieces such as insurance coverage, restricted delivery, evidence of mailing and/or a record of delivery. The following USPS services and Special Services/Accessorials are supported.

  • Domestic Services

  • International Services

  • Special Services/Accessorials

To configure the USPS options:

  1. After configuring a USPS shipment on the Warehouse screen, click OPTIONS to display Options screen.

  2. Carry out the following actions:
    Configure the shipment level and package level options as required. (See the following section.)
    For International shipments, fill out the Shipment tab, and then click the International tab to display options for International shipments (eVS only). See the section International Tab.

The following table includes all the fields for all USPS services.
Note: The actual display and configuration of some of these fields depends on the service selected. Not all fields listed are displayed for all services.
USPS Options Screen Shipment Tab


Shipment Level Options - Common Section

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Early Entry Discount BPM

To avail early discounts for bulk quantities of BPM, select this check box.
Note: USPS offers commercial prices, carrier route prices, and destination entry discounts for bulk quantities of Bound Printed Matter (minimum quantity is 300 pieces).

Customer Charge Type

From the drop-down list, select the type of customer charge as follows:

  • Fixed - The charge is a fixed amount.

  • Percentage - The charge is a percentage of the total charge for the shipment.

Customer Charge

Enter the customer fee applicable for the service based on the Customer Charge Type; for example, if the Customer Charge Type is Fixed and the customer charge is $1.00, enter 1.00 without the currency symbol; if the Customer Charge Type is Percentage, and the charge is 10% of the total charge for a shipment, enter 0.10.

Email on Delivery

Enter the Email address of the consignee to send an email notification to when the shipment is delivered.

Email on Delay

Enter the Email address of the consignee to send an email notification to when the shipment is delayed.

Email on Sent

Enter the Email address of the consignee to send an email notification to when the shipment is sent.

PS Lightweight Sack Level

From the Parcel Select Lightweight Sack Level list, select the appropriate presort level from the following:

  • 5-Digit – Delivery address on all pieces includes the 5-digit ZIP Code.

  • NDC – Network Distribution Center where all pieces are addressed for delivery in the service area of the same auxiliary service facility (ASF).

  • Mixed NDC – Combination of multiple NDCs.
    Note: For more information, see the USPS online manual: General Information for Mail Preparation

Hold for Pickup

Select this checkbox to have the USPS facility hold the package for pickup.


Shipment Level Options - Additional Service Section

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Is Machinable

If this shipment contains machinable packages, select this check box.

Registered Mail

If this shipment is Registered Mail, select this check box.
Registered Mail is the most secure service that the USPS offers. This service monitors the movement of the mail from the point of acceptance to the point of delivery. Registered Mail also provides the sender with a mailing receipt and, upon request, electronic verification that an article was delivered or that a delivery attempt was made.
Note: This service includes its own insurance.

Restricted Delivery

From the list, select the Restricted Delivery option from the following services:

  • Collect on Delivery (COD) Restricted Delivery

  • Insurance > $500 Restricted Delivery

  • Registered Mail Restricted Delivery

    Registered Mail Restricted Delivery permits a mailer to direct delivery only to the addressee (or addressee's authorized agent). The addressee must be an individual specified by name. This service also provides the sender with a mailing receipt, and a delivery record is maintained by the Postal Service.
    Notes:

  • This service includes its own insurance.

  • This service is not available with eVS nor with COD Special Services.


Package Level Options - Other Section

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Type this...

Special Handling - Fragile

Select this check box if the account uses preferential handling in dispatch and transportation. Special handling is required for certain specified materials.

Piece Value

Enter the value of each individual item in the shipment.
Note: USPS provides up to $5,000 indemnity coverage for a lost or damaged article of mail.

Signature Services

From the drop-down list, select the level of signature from the following options:

  • Adult Signature Required

  • Adult Signature Restricted Delivery

  • Signature Confirmation

  • Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery

Customer Reference Number

Enter the Customer Reference Number to be printed on the label.

Article Number

Enter the Article Number.
Note:To use Certified Mail with Parcel, you must enter the Article Number from Form 3800 in this field.

Declared Value

Enter the Declared Value. This amount is calculated as a percentage of the value declared for insurance in excess of the base value. The maximum allowable declared value for insurance is $5000.00 per shipment.

Certified Mail

From the list, select the Certified Mail services combined with any of the following accessorials:

  • Certified Mail

  • Certified Mail Adult Signature Required

  • Certified Mail Adult Signature Restricted Delivery

  • Certified Mail Restricted Delivery
    Note: Certified Mail Service provides the sender with a mailing receipt and, upon request, electronic verification that a package was delivered or that a delivery attempt was made.

Is Non-Rectangular

Select this check box to specify a parcel as non-rectangular.

Return Receipt

Select this check box to generate return labels that will be used by the consignee to return packages.

Return Receipt Barcode

Enter the Return Receipt barcode.

Signature Required

Select this check box if a signature is required.


Package Level Options - Common Section

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Type this...

USPS Endorsement

To have the carrier leave the package if no recipient if no recipient is available to claim or sign for it, select CARRIER-LEAVE IF NO RESPONSE. Otherwise, leave this field blank.

COD Amount

Enter the amount for Cash on Delivery.

After configuring the USPS options, click DONE to save the values and close the Options screen. Otherwise, click CLEAR TAB to clear the values from the fields on this tab or click CLEAR to clear all USPS Options screen values.

International Tab

Use the International tab on the USPS Warehouse Options screen to configure optional services for international services such as Priority Mail Express International®, Priority Mail International® and First-Class Mail International®.
Notes:

  • Parcel only displays the International tab on the USPS Options screen when a USPS International service is selected for a shipment on the Warehouse screen.

  • Parcel supports USPS International shipments with eVS only. See the eVS Help topic.

  • For more information, see the online USPS International Mail Manual.

Shipment Level Options

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Importer Reference Type

From the drop-down list, select one of the following options for Importer Reference type if the item requires an importer's reference:

  • Importer Code

  • Tax Code

  • VAT No

Importer Reference Number

Enter the Importer Reference Number associated with Tax Code, VAT Number or Importer Code, depending on the selection of Importer Reference Type.

Invoice Number

Enter the Invoice Number.

Certificate Number

Enter the Certificate Number.
Note: The Certificate Number is not the same as "Export License Number" or "AES ITN Number." This number is granted to notify foreign government agency in direct relationship to "Package Restrictions" and the Certificates are issued by Other Government Agencies (OGA) that allow for the Export of goods.

Non-Delivery Instructions

From the list, select the option for Non-Delivery Instructions as follows:

  • Redirect Address – Select this option if the package is to be redirected to another recipient if delivery cannot be completed.

  • Return to Sender – Select this option if the package is to be returned to the sender if delivery cannot be completed.

  • Treat as Abandoned – Select this option if no action is to be taken (USPS determines what to do with the package) if delivery cannot be completed.

Sender Customs Reference Number

Enter the Customs Reference Number.


Non-Delivery Instructions

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Redirect Country

From the list, select the country where the redirect company or individual is located in this field.

Redirect Company/Name

If you selected Redirect Address from the Non-Delivery Instructions drop-down list (see previous table), enter the name of the company or individual where the package is to be redirected if it cannot be delivered to the original recipient.
Note: If the Redirect Address option is selected from the Non-Delivery Instructions from the Non-Delivery Instructions drop-down list, you must fill in all the fields in Non-Delivery Instructions section.

Redirect Address 1

Enter the first line of the redirect company or individual address in this field.

Redirect Address 2

Enter the second line of the redirect company or individual address in this field.

Redirect City

Enter the name of the city where the redirect company or individual is located in this field.

Redirect State/Province

Enter the name of the state or province where the redirect company or individual is located in this field.

Redirect ZIP/Postal Code

Enter the ZIP or postal code of the redirect company or individual in this field.

Redirect SMS Number

Enter the SMS (text messaging) Number of the redirect company or individual in this field.

Redirect Email Address

Enter the email Address of the redirect company or individual in this field.


Package Level Options - Common

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Description of Package

From the drop-down list, select one of the following items for the package description:

  • Commercial Sample

  • Document

  • Gift

  • Humanitarian Donation

  • Merchandise

  • Other

  • Returned Goods

Description of Package Comments

Enter any comments needed to clarify the package description selected from the previous list. For example, if you select Other for the package description, use this field to describe the package.

Package Restriction

If any restrictions apply to the package, from the Package Restriction drop-down list, select one of the following options:

  • Other Restriction

  • Phytosanitary Inspection

  • Quarantine

  • Sanitary Inspection

Package Restriction Comments

Enter any comments needed to clarify the package restriction selected from the previous list. For example, if you select Other Restriction, note the nature of the other restriction using this field.

Customs Description

Enter the description required for the appropriate customs processing.

Special Drawing Right (SDR) Value

Enter the Special Drawing Right (SDR) Value.
Note: SDR is an international reserve asset, created by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to supplement its member countries' official reserves. Convert the U.S. dollar amount to the SDR value and enter it in the SDR value field. For example: 1.00 (U.S.$) = 0.6509 (SDR).

Click CLEAR TAB to clear the fields on the USPS International tab of values. Click CLEAR to clear the entire options screen or click DONE to save the values on the Options screen and close the screen.

Commercial Pricing

Overview

Commercial mailers with USPS who send mail using Priority Mail®, Priority Mail Express® or First-Class™ Package Service may be eligible for the following types of discounts off of the retail rates:

  • Commercial Base Pricing

  • Commercial Plus Pricing

Parcel supports these pricing types. Parcel also supports Commercial Plus cubic pricing, which is a USPS pricing method based on a combination of mailpiece cubic measurement and zone. See the USPS Domestic Mail Manual for detailed requirements. Also see the topic Commercial Plus Cubic Rating.

Commercial Base Pricing

For this type of Commercial pricing. USPS imposes no shipping volume requirements and no additional requirements other than permit imprint or pre-sort requirements, if applicable. Eligibility is based on how customers prepare shipments. Commercial Base pricing is available for customers who use permit imprints or digital mailing systems that generate an Information Based Indicia (IBI) and submit data electronically to USPS.


Commercial Plus Pricing
Eligibility is based primarily on shipping volume as follows:

  • Priority Mail®: 75,000 pieces or more in prior year.

  • Priority Mail Express®: 5,000 pieces or more in previous four quarters.

  • First-Class Mail™ Package Service Parcels: agreement to mail more than 5,000 pieces in a calendar year. (The First-Class™ Package Service commercial plus parcels category is designed for machinable parcels that weigh less than 16 ounces.)

Notes:

  • USPS determines eligibility for Commercial Plus pricing as follows: - Based on past shipping volume. - Customer commitment to ship a certain volume.

  • Discounts under this program are automatically displayed if the appropriate pricing type has been configured for the Commercial Plus permit number. For information on configuring Commercial Pricing with Parcel, see the following Help topic: US Postal Service - Shipper Defaults - Rating Options Tab.

Commericial Plus Cubic Pricing

Commercial Plus cubic pricing is a USPS pricing method based on a combination of mailpiece cubic measurement and zone. Cubic pricing is intended for use by large volume commercial Priority Mail shippers who qualify for Commercial Plus pricing and who ship specified minimum volumes as follows: Priority Mail Cubic — More than 250,000 Priority Mail packages annually or who have a customer commitment agreement with USPS.
Notes:

  • Cubic pricing applies to domestic shipments only.

  • Use the Account tab on the USPS Shipper Defaults screen to enable cubic rating.

Eligibility for Commercial Plus Cubic Prices
Existing Priority mail customers can avail themselves of cubic pricing by presenting qualifying mailpieces that meet the following criteria:

  • Measure (length x width x height) .50 cubic feet (864 cubic inches) or less.

  • Weigh 20 pounds or less.

  • Fall within the limit for length and girth of parcels.

Commercial Plus Cubic Tiers
Cubic prices are tier-based as follows:

Tier #

Consists of mail pieces measuring...

Tier 1

Up to and including .10 cubic feet

Tier 2

Greater than .10 up to and including .20 cubic feet

Tier 3

Greater than .20 up to and including .30 cubic feet

Tier 4

Greater than .30 up to and including .40 cubic feet

Tier 5

Greater than .40 up to and including .50 cubic feet

See the following popup topic for an example of a Cubic Pricing table.
Note: The price list is available in USPS Notice 123.


Example: Determining Cubic Tier Measurements
Carry out the following steps to determine the cubic tier for both rectangular and nonrectangular parcels:

  1. Measure the length, width, and height in inches. Round off each measurement to the nearest whole inch.

  2. Multiply length times width times height, and then divide by 1728. (1728 = the number of cubic inches per cubic foot.)

For example, if you have a parcel that measures 6" x 6" x 6": 6 x 6 x 6 = 216 divided by 1728 = .125 cubic feet; since this value exceeds .10 (the Tier 1 threshold) but is less than .20, the rate for this package is calculated based on Tier 2 pricing.


Label and Barcodes
Priority Mail pieces qualifying for the Commercial Plus cubic price must bear the appropriate indicator, printed on the piece or produced as part of the permit imprint indicia. Parcel places this marking directly below the permit imprint indicia as in the following example:
images/download/attachments/290513679/worddavd5908c39e9e289da1b4cb79cc1531816.png
Note: When Electronic Verification System (eVS) manifesting is selected as in the previous example, the cubic pricing label and barcodes also meet eVS requirements.

Electronic Verification System (eVS)

The US Postal Service's Electronic Verification System (eVS) enables parcel shippers to prepare parcel shipments electronically.
With eVS-qualified shipments, hard-copy manifests, postage statements, forms and reports, and adjustment worksheets are all replaced with electronic documentation. Postage statements are generated from the shipper's electronic files and postage is then electronically deducted from the shipper's postage payment account. Additionally, shippers can continuously review the results of postage samplings in order to monitor shipments and make rating adjustments as needed. USPS manages all eVS-related documentation.
Note: For more information about eVS, refer to USPS Publication 205, Electronic Verification System Business and Technical Guide©, available on the USPS Publications Web site. The following sections summarize the information that Publication 205 provides.
Supported Services with eVS
The following table lists the eVS-supported services together with supported pricing/processing categories for these services.
Notes:

  • Qualified shippers can use eVS for all Domestic services with Commercial accounts that Parcel supports. Commercial Plus accounts that qualify for cubic pricing also qualify for eVS. (See the following table.)

  • All Special Services supported with the eVS-supported services listed in the following table are also supported for eVS. However, please note that, with eVS, you can select at most three special services per parcel.

  • Letters, cards, and Registered Mail are not supported with eVS.

  • For more information on USPS services and special services, see the following topic: US Postal Service - Supported/Modified Services.

    For service...

    Parcel with eVS supports the following pricing/processing categories...

    Bound Printed Matter

    Non-presorted prices, presorted prices, Destination Network Distribution Center (DNDC) prices, Machinable parcels and Irregular parcels.

    Priority Mail Express

    Commercial prices, all processing categories.
    Notes:

  • eVS is not available for Retail pricing with Priority Mail Express.

  • Since packages rated using Priority Mail Express Flat Rates are processed as Flats and have the same processing category as Flats, this pricing is supported by eVS.)|

    First Class Package Service

    Single-piece price; Machinable and Nonmachinable parcel processing categories.

    Media Mail

    Single-piece prices; Machinable parcels.

    Parcel Select

    Prices include Destination Network Distribution Center (DNDC) prices (including balloon and oversized prices); machinable parcels.

    Priority Mail

    Single-piece price, Flat Rate Envelope, and Flat Rate Box; all processing categories.
    Note: Since packages rated using Priority Mail Flat Rates are processed as Flats and have the same processing category as Flats, this pricing is supported by eVS.

    Parcel Select Lightweight

    Presorted prices, Destination Network Distribution Center (DNDC) prices; Machinable parcels, Irregular parcels, and Not Flat-Machinable pieces.

    Parcel Select Nonpresort

    Machinable, nonmachinable, balloon, and oversized pieces.

    Priority Mail Express International

    Flat-Rate Box, Flat-Rate Envelope, Legal Flat-Rate Envelope.

    Priority Mail International

    Small Flat-Rate Box, Large Flat-Rate Box, Flat-Rate Envelope, Legal Flat-Rate Envelope.

    First Class Package Service International

    Non-automation, single-piece.

    eVS Account and Access Requirements
    There are two basic types of USPS requirements for setting up your eVS system to work with Parcel: Account requirements and computer access requirements. The following sections summarize these requirements.
    Account Requirements
    To participate in eVS, shippers are required to establish the following accounts with USPS specifically for eVS:

  • Permit Imprint Account – Establish a single Permit Account Number for eVS at the administering district business mail entry unit closest to the shipper's corporate office using PS Form 3615 (Mailing Permit Application and Customer Profile – see Publication 205 Appendix C).

  • Postage Payment Account – Establish a PostalOne! postage payment debit account for automatic funds withdrawal each time a postage statement is generated by eVS from the eVS mailer's uploaded Manifest files. (This account requires a linked CAPS postage payment account, established separately. If you already have a CAPS account, you can link to this account.)

  • Mailer Identification Numbers – Obtain a Master Mailer ID for all Manifest file transmissions. If needed you can obtain additional Mailer IDs for specific parcel records.

Notes:

  • These accounts can be initiated using the USPS eVS Pre-application Profile forms in Appendix B of Publication 205.

  • To set up Parcel to work with eVS, you need to enter information from these accounts on the eVS tab of the USPS Shipper Defaults screen.

Access and File Transfer Requirements
In addition to the previous account requirements, the following requirements for computer access and file transfer must be met. After obtaining the required accounts as previous described, you need to complete and submit the following:

  • USPS Form 1357-C (Customer Request for Web Access – see Publication 205 Appendix C). This provides you with the login ID and password for your PostalOne! account.

  • USPS Form 1357-S (Request for Computer Access) to set up the file transfer mechanism. Access is via a logon ID and password provided by USPS.

  • USPS Form 5051 (Confirmation Services – Electronic Option Application). This administrative application establishes your customer profile, with your contact information for the USPS Account Management Delivery Confirmation (AMDC) database.

  • eVS Manifest Application – Information regarding the projected level of file testing and the estimated range of postal resources needed to help the applicant meet all eVS requirements for manifesting. (See Publication 205, Appendix B.)

Notes:

  • To use eVS with Parcel, you also need to provide USPS with the static IP addresses of the computers on which Parcel is installed.

  • To set up Parcel to work with eVS, you need to enter information from these accounts on the eVS tab of the USPS Shipper Defaults screen.

Electronic Files and Manifests

At the end of day (EOD), all eVS shipments are closed with a single EOD Close operation. Parcel then uploads the encrypted eVS Manifest file to the USPS Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) site and retrieves all error reports for the previous Upload, providing the user with any errors that may be present in the file. An entry in the log file indicates the name of this USPS error report file. You can then log in to the USPS SFTP site and retrieve a detailed error report (see the following section), correct the eVS Manifest file as necessary, and then retransmit it. For more detail on this process, see the following Notes.
Notes:

  • See the following popup topic for a flowchart of the eVS Close process.

  • See the following popup topic for a flowchart of the eVS Upload process.

Error Reporting and Correction
If the response file automatically downloaded from USPS indicates that there were errors in your EOD eVS Manifest file, you can log in to the USPS SFTP site and manually download the Confirmation/Error/Warning Report. This report details whether the eVS Manifest file was successfully transmitted and whether the data quality was good. If the eVS Manifest file contains errors or edit warnings, the report lists these, as well as providing summary information including how many records in the file were read and how many contain errors or warnings.
If there are errors or warnings, you can then use the information in this report to correct your eVS Manifest file, and then re-upload it. (Note that even a single error in the Header Record can cause the entire eVS Manifest file to be rejected.) Correct any errors, and then retransmit the file or create and upload a new file with the necessary corrections.
Any USPS error messages are updated in the Parcel database are also stored in a folder for customer retrieval. For more information on this, refer to the following sample USPS Confirmation/Error/Warning Report.
The following is an example of the error message that Parcel displays on the Close Manifest screen if USPS rejects a Manifest:
images/download/attachments/290513679/worddavec4467daeefd32a4749360f2b0428e8d.png
Note: The vast majority of parcel manifests submitted by Parcel should clear the USPS eVS system with no errors resulting in rejection. In case of an error, contact your e2open, LLC. Support Representative and provide the records that need to be corrected.


Data Encryption
Files are transmitted in both directions (uploaded to and downloaded from the USPS SFTP site) as follows:

  1. Both USPS and e2open, LLC. generate public and private keys. The public keys are used for data encryption, and the private keys are used for data decryption at each end of the data transmission process respectively, following standard cryptographic methodology developed for secure electronic data transmission.

  2. Parcel encrypts the data in the EOD eVS Manifest file using the public key provided by USPS, and then transmits the encrypted data to the USPS SFTP server where it is decrypted using the USPS private key.

  3. The USPS response file is encrypted using the e2open, LLC. public key. The USPS encrypted response file is then downloaded to Parcel and decrypted by Parcel using the company private key. The USPS response file only acknowledges receipt of the uploaded eVS Manifest if there are errors are warnings. If so, this file lists in summary form any errors in the file. (See previous section.) Otherwise, no file is returned.

Notes:

  • Data security is also validated with electronic signatures in both directions (files are digitally signed).

  • It is important to have a basic understanding of this process, since information regarding the location of the USPS public key file, the e2open, LLC. private key file, and the e2open, LLC. private key pass phrase must be entered on the eVS tab of the USPS Shipper Defaults screen when setting up eVS.

  • e2open, LLC. Support sets up the eVS encryption process in both directions and provides the necessary public and private key files for your Parcel system, as well as the login information required for this process. When you receive your public and private key files and the passphrase for your private key, store them in a secure location. The public key files and private key files for this encryption process are generated by Open Source software called PGP. For more information on PGP, see the International PGP Home Page. To download an open source PGP tool to encrypt, decrypt, sign, and verify text, see the SourceForge page Portable PGP.

Other eVS Reports Online

Mailers can access reports for their eVS mailings through the PostalOne/eVS Web site at the following URL: http://www.uspspostalone.com.
Reports available on this Web site are the monthly eVS reports derived from manifest and sampling data. Information in these reports can be used as diagnostic tools to identify quality issues in eVS manifest mail preparation, rate calculations, and transportation operations. This allows mailers to monitor the accuracy of mailings and postage payments and take any necessary corrective action to minimize the potential for additional postage payment.
Note: Parcel users must create and maintain their own login accounts on this Web site and retrieve their eVS reports separately from the Parcelapplication.

Packaging Types

When you process a US Postal Service shipment on the Warehouse page, you can select the following types of packaging in the Carrier Packaging Type list (on the Parcel tab):

Packaging Type

Description

Flat-Rate Envelope

Paperboard envelope for use with Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, and Global Priority Mail service. The same rate applies regardless of weight or destination.

Flat-Rate Small Envelope

A smaller sized Flat Rate Envelope (see previous row).

Flats

For use with First Class Mail service. Flat rate envelopes and boxes collectively.

Keys and Identification devices

Packaging for mailing keys and identification cards.

Letter Packaging

Non-Flat rate envelope.

Postcard

For postcards.

User Packaging

Non-US Postal Service packaging (your own packaging). Choosing this option activates the User Packaging drop-down list on the Warehouse screen.

Forms and Reports

Notes:

  • Parcel uses the Jasper reporting tool to generate all US Postal Service postage statements in PDF format. If you are using Windows Server 2003, the DOS window might appear and remain on the screen (the service runs in the background) while a postage statement is being generated. Do not interfere with or close the DOS window. If you close the DOS window, the Jasper reporting service automatically restarts, a process that takes 30-40 seconds.

  • On the Reports page, when you select a postage statement and click Print, if Parcel returns the error _Report Server could not be started{_}, you need to start the Kewill Reporting Service manually. To do this, navigate to the Windows Control Panel > Administrative Tools > Services list (click Start in the lower-left corner of your desktop to find the Control Panel). Locate the Kewill Reporting Service in the Services list. Right-click on it and select Start.

Parcel supports the following US Postal Service postage statements and manifests. The following table lists the names for these forms in Parcel.


Miscellaneous Reports

Report Name

All PS Forms

All Single-Piece Mixed Itemized Manifest/Summary

Priority Mail Express Verification Manifest (Pub 97)

Form 3877 Facsimile - Mixed Extra Services

Itemized Presorted Bound Printed Matter

Itemized Presorted Bound Printed Matter DSCF/DDU

Itemized Presorted Parcel Select Lightweight Irregulars

Itemized Presorted Parcel Select Lightweight Machinable

Itemized Single-Piece Mixed with Extra Services

PS Form 3152 Confirmation Services

PS Form 3152-E Priority Mail Express Certificate (Pub 97)

PS Form 3600-R First-Class Mail Flat

PS Form 3600-R First-Class Mail Letter

PS Form 3600-R First-Class Mail Parcel

PS Form 3600-R First-Class Package Services

PS Form 3600-R Priority Mail

PS Form 3605-R Media Mail

PS Form 3605-R Nonpresorted Bound Printed Matter

PS Form 3605-R Parcel Select Lightweight Irregulars

PS Form 3605-R Parcel Select Lightweight Machinable

PS Form 3605-R Parcel Select Nonpresort Barcoded

PS Form 3605-R Presorted Bound Printed Matter

PS Form 3605-R Single-Piece Parcel Select

PS Form 8125 Plant Verified Drop Shipment

Qualification Report Parcel Select Lightweight Irregulars

Qualification Report Parcel Select Lightweight Machinable

Summary Parcel Select Lightweight Irregulars

Summary Parcel Select Lightweight Machinable

Summary Presorted Bound Printed Matter DSCF/DDU

Summary Presorted Bound Printed Matter Flats

Summary Presorted Bound Printed Matter Parcels

Summary Single-Piece Mixed with Extra Services


USPS Customs Declaration Forms
The following USPS Customs Declaration Forms are reformatted according to Guidelines for Privately Printed Customs Declaration Forms Version 1.3:

Report Name

PS Form 2976 – Customs Declaration CN22

PS Form 2976-A – Customs Declaration and Dispatch Note CP72

PS Form 2976-B – Customs Declaration and Dispatch Note CP72

Tracking Delivery Confirmation

Delivery Confirmation and Signature Confirmation offered by the US Postal Service allow you retrieve batch tracking information for US Postal Service shipments processed with those services. You must sign up with US Postal Service to use Delivery or Signature Confirmation.

To use US Postal Service Delivery/Signature Confirmation in Parcel, follow these steps:

  1. Obtain the required information from the US Postal Service.

  2. Complete the Delivery/Signature Confirmation setup information in the Parcel Web Admin (DC Config) Tool.

  3. In the Parcel UI, from the System menu, select Scheduler > Tasks.

  4. Specify the required values for the fields on the Manage Tasks screen; from the For Carrier drop-down list, select USPS.
    For information on using the scheduler to schedule a tracking task including descriptions of the fields on this screen, see the following Help topic: Scheduler-Task -Scheduling Batch Tracking.

  5. Click ADD in the lower right-hand corner of the page to add the task, and then click SAVE to save the task.

Reference Fields

You can use reference fields to include reference information (such as customer reference number) for each shipment in the US Postal Service End-of-Day (EOD) upload file (anything with delivery confirmation). The following table lists the reference field that is available in the US Postal Service module.

Ref Field

Shipment/Pkg Level

On Label?

In Upload?

Length

SOR Field

CUSTREFNO

Package

No

Yes

30

N/A

Glossary of Terms

This topic displays definitions of terms specific to the US Postal Service. Use the letter links below to navigate to that section of this topic.

#

Terms

Definitions

A

ASF

Automated Sorting Facility or Auxiliary Service Facility (ASF) – A mechanized U.S. Postal Service facility, usually part of a general mail facility (GMF), that has its own service area and serves as a satellite processing hub for a particular Network Distribution Center (NDC)

B

Bulk

synonymous with 'presorted'.

C

Concatenated Integrated Bar Code

The bar code required on U.S. Postal Service labels; contains the Package Identification Code (PIC) used for tracking packages and the Postal Routing Code. This bar code replaces the need to print a separate ZIP Code bar code for Confirmation Special Service packages using the 3-cent bar code discount. This type of bar code is used for all USPS services except Priority Mail Express.
If the barcode is concatenated, the human-readable portion contains both a standard PIC and a postal routing code for a total of 30 digits. This string is divided into the following sections: a three–digit Application Identifier (420), followed by a space, followed by the five–digit postal routing code (ZIP Code), followed by a space, followed by the PIC parsed into groups of four digits with a space placed between each group. Two check digits are appended; for example: 420 22153 9102 0268 3733 1000 0395 21
Note that the PIC is prefixed with the digits 91 for all services. (The next two digits in this initial group of four digits are the Service Code indicating the type of service; in the previous example, the "02" in 9102 = Parcel Select Lightweight with Delivery Confirmation.) When processing a U.S. Postal Service package with Delivery or Signature Confirmation and Insurance Special Services, the Concatenated Integrated Bar Code combines the information for both types of Special Services (eliminating the need to print two separate bar codes on the label).

D

DDU

Destination Delivery Unit - Local post offices located in neighborhoods across the United States.

DNDC

Destination Network Distribution Center (DNDC) rate – A U.S. Postal Service rate for Parcel Select Lightweight that is properly prepared and entered by the mailer at the Network Distribution Center or other designated postal facility that serves the delivery address on the mail.

M

Machinable

Describes parcels whose dimensions, weights, or both, allow them to be processed on mechanized parcel sorting equipment.

N

NDC

Network Distribution Center (NDC) – A highly mechanized U.S. Postal Service mail processing plant that distributes Parcel Select Lightweight in piece and bulk form. Formerly Bulk Mail Center (BMC).

P

Package Services

Formerly known as Fourth Class Mail and Parcel Select Lightweight (B); this class includes Inter-NDC, Intra-NDC, Parcel Select, Media Mail, Library Mail, and Bound Printed Matter.

Permit Imprint Indicia

System used by the US Postal Service for labels or marks applied to a mail item to indicate electronic postage payment. A permit imprint indicia consists of human-readable characters and symbols containing information such as mail class, destination city and state, company name, Permit No., and pricing method. (Not all of these items may be included in a given permit imprint indicia.)

Postage Statement

A form provided by a mailer to the U.S. Postal Service that reports the volume of mail being presented and the postage payable or affixed, and which certifies that the mail meets the applicable eligibility standards for the rate claimed.

PVDS

Plant-Verified Drop Shipments, a type of U.S. Postal Service mail. Mailings that are verified and paid for at a postal facility different from the one at which they are accepted as mail and deposited into the mail stream. The mailer must complete a PS Form 8125, have it verified by the Post Office, and include it with the mail

R

Rate Case

Process by which the U.S. Postal Service implements a rate or classification change.

Single Account Number for Multiple Location IDs

Parcel allows shippers to use the same shipper account to ship from multiple shipping locations Only for eVS Account.

For Example:

  • Instance-1- Location – Chelmsford, Carrier – USPS, Account Number – 123456, Domestic Code – USPS01.

  • Instance-2- Location – Chelmsford, Carrier – USPS, Account Number – 123456, Domestic Code – USPS02.