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508 Recipient Services
1.0 Recipient Options
1.1 Basic Recipient Concerns
1.1.1 Delivery to Addressee
Addressees may control delivery of their mail. Without a contrary order, the mail
is delivered as addressed. Mail addressed to several persons may be delivered
to any one of them.
1.1.2 Refusal at Delivery
The addressee may refuse to accept a mailpiece when it is offered for delivery.
1.1.3 Refusal After Delivery
After delivery, an addressee may mark a mailpiece “Refused” and return it within
a reasonable time, if the piece or any attachment is not opened. Mail that may
not be refused and returned unopened under this provision may be returned to
the sender only if it is enclosed in a new envelope or wrapper with a correct
address and new postage. The following may not be refused and returned
postage-free after delivery:
a. Pieces sent as Registered Mail, insured, Certified Mail, collect on delivery
(COD), and Adult Signature.
b. Response mail to the addressee’s sales promotion, solicitation,
announcement, or other advertisement that was not refused when offered to
the addressee.
1.1.4 Mail Withheld From Delivery
An addressee may request the postmaster, in writing, to withhold from delivery
for a period not to exceed 2 years any foreign letter or printed matter with a
specified name or address on the outside.
Overview
1.0 Recipient Options
2.0 Conditions of Delivery
3.0 Customer Mail Receptacles
4.0 Post Office Box Service
5.0 Caller Service
6.0 General Delivery
7.0 Premium Forwarding Services
8.0 Firm Holdout
9.0 Pandering Advertisements
10.0 Sexually Oriented Advertisements
11.0 Hold Mail Service
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1.1.5 Addressee Identification
If the delivery employee does not know the person claiming to be the addressee,
delivery employees may withhold from claimants certain mail pending
presentation of an acceptable primary form of identification as specified under
608.10.3, or if suitable under 508.6.0 for general delivery.
1.1.6 Remailing Returned Mail
Generally, a returned mailpiece that was undeliverable-as-addressed or refused
by the addressee may not be remailed unless it is placed in a new envelope or
wrapper with a correct address and new postage. A returned shortpaid
mailpiece can have the necessary additional postage affixed to the original piece
and does not have to be placed in a new envelope or wrapper.
1.1.7 Priority Mail Express and Accountable Mail
The following conditions also apply to the delivery of Priority Mail Express,
Registered Mail, Certified Mail, mail insured for more than $500.00, Adult
Signature, or COD, as well as mail for which a return receipt is requested or the
sender has specified restricted delivery:
a. The addressee (or representative) may obtain the sender’s name and
address while held by the USPS employee before accepting delivery and
endorsing the delivery receipt.
b. Unless an electronic signature is used as described in 503.1.8a., a mailpiece
may not be opened or given to the recipient before the recipient signs and
legibly prints his or her name on the applicable form or label and returns the
form or label to the USPS employee.
c. An acceptable primary form of identification as specified under 608.10.3
may be required of the recipient before delivery of the mailpiece.
d. When delivery is not restricted at the sender’s request, mail addressed to a
person at a hotel, apartment house, etc., may be delivered to any person in
a position to whom mail for that location is usually delivered.
e. USPS responsibility ends when the mailpiece is delivered to the addressee
(or another party, subject to 1.0).
f. A notice is provided to the addressee for a mailpiece that cannot be
delivered. If the piece is not called for or redelivery is not requested, the
piece is returned to the sender after 15 days (5 days for Priority Mail
Express, 10 days for COD), unless the sender specifies fewer days on the
piece.
g. A hand stamp approved by the Postmaster may be used by the addressee
(or authorized agent) to provide the signature and name of the individual or
organization receiving the mailpiece as follows:
1. The hand stamp imprint must fit within the Signature and Printed Name
blocks on PS Form 3849, without overlapping into other sections.
2. To obtain approval for a hand stamp, the company must submit a
written statement to the postmaster that the person whose name
appears on the stamp is authorized to accept accountable mail,
accompanied by a sample of the authorized employee’s signature.
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After approval, the documentation is held by the postmaster and the
stamped signature and name are acceptable only if a legible impression
is provided within the Signature and Printed Name blocks on
PS Form 3849.
3. For mail addressed only to a federal or state official, the stamp need
show only the name and location of the accepting organization. In these
cases, the stamp imprint must fit within the Printed Name and Delivery
Address block of PS Form 3849 without overlapping into other
sections.
1.1.8 Additional Delivery Standards for Restricted Delivery
In addition to following standards specified under 1.1.7, postal employees must
deliver mail marked “Restricted Delivery” only to the addressee or person
authorized in writing as the addressee’s agent and under the following
conditions: (Note: USPS may require an acceptable primary form of identification
as specified under 608.10.3 from the addressee or agent receiving the mail.)
a. Mail for famous personalities and executives of large organizations is
normally delivered to an agent authorized to sign for such mail.
b. Mail for officials of executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the
government of the United States or of the states and possessions and their
political subdivisions, or to members of the diplomatic corps, may be
delivered to a person authorized by the addressee or by regulations or
procedures of the agency or organization to receive the addressee’s mail.
c. Mail for the commander or other officials of military organizations by name
and title, is delivered to the unit mail clerk, mail orderly, postal clerk,
assistant postal clerk, or postal finance clerk, when such individuals are
designated on DD (Department of Defense) Form 285 to receive all mail
addressed to the units for which they are designated. If the person accepting
mail is designated on DD Form 285 to receive ordinary mail only, then
restricted delivery mail addressed to the commander, or other official by
name and title, is delivered to the mail clerk only if authorized by the
addressee.
d. Mail for an inmate of a city, state, or federal penal institution, in cases where
a personal signature cannot be obtained, is delivered to the warden or
designee.
e. Mail for minors or persons under guardianship may be delivered to their
parents or guardians.
f. An addressee who regularly receives restricted delivery mail may authorize
an agent on PS Form 3801 or by letter to the Postmaster and must include
the notation “This authorization is extended to include restricted delivery (or
Adult Signature Restricted Delivery) mail.” PS Form 3849 also may be used
for the authorization, if the Post Office has no standing delivery order or
letter on file, when the addressee enters the name of the agent on the back
of PS Form 3849 in the space provided and signs the form. The agent must
sign for receipt of the article on the back of the form.
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g. When mail is addressed to two or more persons jointly, all addressees or
their agents must be present to accept delivery together. The delivery
receipt obtained and the return receipt, if any, must be signed by all joint
addressees or their agents. The mail may then be delivered to any of the
addressees or their agents unless one or more addressees or their agents
object, in which case delivery is not made until all the addressees or their
agents sign a statement designating who is to receive the mail.
h. Either person may sign for mail addressed to one person in care of another
(i.e. “In Care Of”).
1.2 Carrier Release Endorsement for Parcels
The carrier release endorsement “CARRIER—LEAVE IF NO RESPONSE”
instructs carriers to leave the parcel if no one is available to accept the parcel or
when the addressee has filed a written order to allow a carrier to leave the
parcel.A parcel may be left in an unprotected location, such as a stairway or
uncovered porch, only when it bears the “CARRIER—LEAVE IF NO RESPONSE”
endorsement. The endorsement must appear directly to the left of the postage
area (preferred) or directly below the return address as specified in 102.4.1 and
202.4.3. A carrier release endorsement may be used on only:
a. Uninsured parcels.
b. Parcels which do not require a signature.
1.3 Jointly Addressed
For mail that is jointly addressed:
a. Such as “Mr. and Mrs. John Doe,” or “John and Jim Doe,” neither party is
entitled to control delivery of such mail over the objection of the other.
b. To husbands or wives, neither party may control delivery of mail addressed
to the other.
1.4 Delivery to Addressee’s Agent
1.4.1 Basic Standard
Unless otherwise directed, an addressee’s mail may be delivered to an
employee, to a competent member of the addressee’s family, or to any person
authorized to represent the addressee. A person or several persons may
designate another to receive their mail.
1.4.2 Minor
A minor’s guardian may control delivery of mail addressed to the minor. If there is
no guardian and the minor is unmarried, either parent may receive delivery of the
minor’s mail.
1.4.3 Incompetent Person
Mail may be delivered under the order of the guardian or conservator for a
person legally declared incompetent. If there is no legal representative, the mail
is delivered as addressed.
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1.4.4 Deceased Person
Mail addressed to a deceased person may be received at the address of the
deceased by anyone who would normally receive the addressee’s mail at that
address. The mail may also be forwarded to a different address, such as that of
an appointed executor or administrator, if an order of request is filed at the Post
Office.
1.5 Delivery to Individual at Organization
1.5.1 To Address
All mail addressed to a governmental or nongovernmental organization or to an
individual by name or title at the address of the organization is delivered to the
organization, as is similarly addressed mail for former officials, employees,
contractors, agents, etc. If disagreement arises where any such mail should be
delivered, it must be delivered under the order of the organization’s president or
equivalent official.
1.5.2 Not to Address
Mail addressed to a governmental or nongovernmental official by title or by
organization name, but not to the address of the organization, is delivered to the
organization if the organization so directs.
1.6 Delivery at Hotels, Institutions, Schools, and Similar Places
1.6.1 Patient or Inmate
Mail addressed to a patient or inmate at an institution is delivered to the
institution authorities. If the addressee is no longer at that address, the mail must
be redirected to the current address, if known, or endorsed appropriately and
returned by the institution to the Post Office.
1.6.2 Hotel or School
Mail addressed to a person at a hotel, school, or similar place is delivered to the
hotel, school, etc. If the addressee is no longer at that address, the mail must be
redirected to the current address, if known, or endorsed appropriately and
returned by the institution to the Post Office.
1.6.3 Prisoner
Mail addressed to a prisoner is subject to the mail security standards in the
Administrative Support Manual.
1.6.4 Registered Mail Addressed to Hotel or Apartment House
Registered Mail addressed to a person at a hotel or apartment house is delivered
to the persons designated by the management of the hotel or apartment house
in a written agreement with the USPS (Form 3801-A). If the sender restricts
delivery of the Registered Mail, it may not be delivered to that designated
person, unless the addressee authorized that person in writing to receive
restricted-delivery mail.
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1.7 Conflicting Delivery Orders
1.7.1 Delivery to Third Party
If persons make conflicting orders for delivery of the same mail, and they cannot
agree among themselves who should receive the mail, the mail may be delivered
to a named receiver or third party unanimously agreed to by the disputing
parties.
1.7.2 Receiver in Dispute
If the disputing parties are unable to select a receiver, they must furnish the
postmaster all available evidence on which they rely to exercise control over the
disputed mail. USPS may hold or return mail pending resolution of the dispute.
1.7.3 Court Order
Mail is delivered under a court order issued for mail claimed by different persons.
1.8 Commercial Mail Receiving Agencies
1.8.1 Commercial Mail Receiving Agency
The definition of a Commercial Mail Receiving Agency is as follows:
a. A Commercial Mail Receiving Agency (CMRA) is defined as a business that,
in whole or in part, accepts the delivery of U.S. Mail on behalf of another
person or entity as a business service. U.S. Mail is inclusive of all classes of
mail.
b. An office business center (OBC) is a business that operates primarily to
provide private office facilities and other business support services to
individuals or firms (customers). OBCs receive single-point delivery. OBCs
are considered CMRAs for Postal Service purposes and must comply with
the requirements in 1.8.
c. A business or individual that operates primarily to provide reshipping or
redelivery services to individuals or firms (customers) is considered a CMRA
for Postal Service purposes and must comply with requirements in 1.8.
1.8.2 Procedures
The procedures for establishing a commercial mail receiving agency (CMRA) are
as follows:
a. An addressee may request mail delivery to a CMRA. The CMRA accepts
delivery of the mail and holds it for pickup or remails it to the addressee,
prepaid with new postage.
b. Each CMRA must register with the Post Office responsible for delivery. Any
person who establishes, owns, or manages a CMRA must provide PS Form
1583-A, Application to Act as a Commercial Mail Receiving Agency, to the
postmaster (or designee) responsible for the delivery address. The CMRA
owner or manager must complete all entries and sign the PS Form 1583-A.
The CMRA owner or manager must present acceptable primary and
secondary forms of identification as specified under 608.10.0 The forms of
identification presented must be current (not expired). These forms of
identification must contain sufficient information to confirm that the
applicant is who he or she claims to be and is traceable to the bearer. The
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postmaster (or designee) must list and record on PS Form 1583-A (block 10)
sufficient information to identify the two acceptable forms of identification.
Furnishing false information on the application or refusing to provide
required information is reason for denying the application. If any information
required on PS Form 1583-A changes, the CMRA owner or manager must
file a new application with the postmaster.
c. The postmaster (or designee) must verify the documentation to confirm that
the CMRA owner or manager resides at the permanent home address
shown on Form 1583-A; witness the signature of the CMRA owner or
manager; and sign Form 1583-A. The postmaster must provide the CMRA
owner or manager with a copy of the DMM regulations relevant to operating
a CMRA under 1.8. The CMRA owner or manager must sign the Form
1583-A acknowledging receipt of the regulations. The postmaster must file
the original of the completed Form 1583-A at the Post Office, scan and
upload a copy into the Facilities Database (FDB), and provide the CMRA
with a duplicate copy.
d. A CMRA is authorized to accept the following accountable mail from their
customers for mailing at the Post Office: insured, Priority Mail Express,
Certified Mail, COD (excluding COD Hold For Pickup), USPS Tracking, and
Signature Confirmation mail. The sender (CMRA customer) must present
accountable mail items not listed to the Post Office for mailing.
e. CMRAs that do not operate within Postal Service regulations will be
suspended from authorization to act as a CMRA until the CMRA complies
with regulations. If the CMRA does not comply in 30 days or less, the Postal
Service may terminate the CMRA’s authorization to accept mail on behalf of
others.
f. A Private Mail Box (PMB) must not be used for, or in connection with, a
scheme or enterprise that violates any federal, state, or local law; breaches
an agreement with a federal, state, or local agency whereby the box
customer has agreed to discontinue a specified activity; or violates or
attempts to evade any order of a court or administrative body.
1.8.3 Addressee and CMRA Agreement
Procedures for delivery to a CMRA are as follows:
a. The following applies:
1. Mail delivery to a CMRA requires that CMRA owners or managers
complete and sign PS Form 1583, Application for Delivery of Mail
Through Agent, regarding themselves. A separate PS Form 1583 must
be completed for each addressee of a Private Mail Box (PMB) for
residential or personal use. Spouses must each complete and sign a
separate PS Form 1583 to both receive mail at the same PMB. Each
spouse must provide acceptable primary and secondary forms of
identification as specified under 608.10.0.
2. A parent or guardian may receive delivery of a minor’s mail by listing the
name(s) of each minor on PS Form 1583 (block 11).
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3. [7-14-24] The mail addressee (the applicant) must sign or confirm his or
her signature in the physical or virtual (in real-time audio and video)
presence of the CMRA owner or manager or authorized employee, or
acknowledge his or her signature in the physical or virtual (in real-time
audio and video) presence of a notary public commissioned in a United
States state, territory, possession, or the District of Columbia. The
addressee must complete all entries on PS Form 1583. The CMRA
owner or manager must verify the documentation to confirm that the
addressee resides or conducts business at the permanent address
shown on PS Form 1583. The address is verified if there is no
discrepancy between information on the application and the
identification presented.
4. If information on the application does not match the identification, the
CMRA must deny the application. Furnishing false information on the
application or refusing to provide required information is reason for
withholding the addressee’s mail from delivery to the agent and
returning it to the sender.
5. When any information required on PS Form 1583 changes, the
addressee must complete a new application with the CMRA. The
addressee must provide acceptable primary and secondary forms of
identification as specified under 608.10.0. The identification presented
must be current (not expired). It must contain sufficient information to
confirm that the applicant is who he or she claims to be and is
traceable to the bearer.
6. The CMRA owner or manager must list and record on PS Form 1583
(block 10) sufficient information to identify the acceptable primary and
secondary forms of identification presented and write on PS Form 1583
(block 4) the complete CMRA delivery address used to deliver mail to
the addressee.
b. A CMRA must not modify or alter PS Form 1583 or PS Form 1583-A.
Modified or altered forms are invalid and the addressee’s mail must be
returned to sender in accordance with USPS regulations.
c. The CMRA must enter the information provided on each PS Form 1583 and
upload a clear and legible copy of each identification document into the
USPS CMRA Customer Registration Database (CRD). The following also
applies:
1. The CMRA must maintain, at a minimum, a digital copy of a completed
PS Form 1583 at the CMRA business location. The PS Form 1583 must
be available at all times for examination by Postal Service
representatives and Postal Service inspectors.
2. Images of the primary and secondary forms of identification are not
required to be retained at the CMRA after they are uploaded into the
CMRA Customer Registration Database. If, upon review by the Postal
Service, the image uploaded is not clear and legible, the CMRA will be
notified to promptly collect and upload a replacement image.
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d. A CMRA must represent its delivery address designation for the intended
addressees by the use of “PMB” (private mailbox) or the alternative “#” sign.
Mailpieces must bear a delivery address that contains at least the following
elements, preferably in the following format:
1. Line 1: Intended addressee’s name or other identification. Examples:
JOE DOE or ABC CO.
2. Line 2: “PMB” and number or the alternative “#” (pound sign) and
number. Examples: PMB 234 or #234.
3. Line 3: Street number and name or Post Office box number or rural
route designation and number. Examples: 10 MAIN ST STE 11 or PO
BOX 34 or RR 1 BOX 12.
4. Line 4: City, state, and ZIP Code (5-digit or ZIP+4). Example: HERNDON
VA 22071-2716.
e. As an alternate to the format presented in e., the following format may be
used:
1. Line 1: Intended addressee’s name or other identification. Examples:
JOE DOE or ABC CO.
2. Line 2: Street number and name or Post Office box number and “PMB”
and number or the alternative “#” (pound sign) and number. Examples:
10 MAIN ST PMB 234 or #234 or PO BOX 34 PMB 234 or #234.
3. Line 3: City, state, and ZIP Code (5-digit or ZIP+4). Example: HERNDON
VA 22071-2716.
f. As an exception to the formats presented in e. and f., when the CMRA’s
physical address contains a secondary address element (e.g., rural route
box number, “suite,” “#,” or other term), the CMRA customer must use
“PMB” in the three-line format. It is not permissible to combine the
secondary address element of the physical location of the CMRA address
and the CMRA customer private mailbox number, e.g., 10 MAIN ST STE
11-234. The CMRA must write the complete CMRA delivery address used to
deliver mail to each individual addressee or firm on the Form 1583 (block 3).
The USPS may return mail without a proper address to the sender endorsed
“Undeliverable as Addressed, Missing PMB or # Sign.” The three-line format
must be as follows:
1. JOE DOE
10 MAIN ST STE 11 PMB 234
HERNDON VA 22071-2716
2. JOE DOE
RR 12 BOX 512 PMB 234
HERNDON VA 22071-2716
g. The CMRA must be in full compliance with 1.8.1 through 1.8.4 and other
applicable postal requirements to receive delivery of mail from the Post
Office.
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h. The CMRA must ensure that all its addressees (customers) have a current
PS Form 1583 on file and that information for each addressee is up to date
in the USPS CMRA Customer Registration Database. Updates must include
termination dates for any PMBs closed in the previous quarter. Any expired,
illegible, or unclear identification or address documents uploaded into the
CMRA Customer Registration Database will be considered not in
compliance.
i. The CMRA must certify in the USPS CMRA Customer Registration Database
each quarter (certification due on January 15, April 15, July 15, and October
15), that every PS Form 1583 it submitted is current, all termination dates
have been updated, and no identification documents are expired.
j. The postmaster may, with the next higher level approval and notification to
the Postal Inspector-In-Charge, suspend delivery to a CMRA that, after
proper notification, fails to comply with 1.8.1 through 1.8.4 or other
applicable postal requirements. The proper notification must be in writing
outlining the specific violation(s), with a 30-day period to comply.
k. With the approval of suspension of delivery, the postmaster must provide
the CMRA with written notification of the effective date and the reason(s). If
the CMRA fails to comply by the effective date, return mail to the sender
endorsed “Delivery Suspended to Commercial Mail Receiving Agency.”
l. The Chief Postal Inspector or designee may issue an emergency
mail-withholding order to withhold mail to any PMB holder who is suspected
of utilizing a CMRA or PMB for any activity that violates United States Code
Title 18 or Title 39, and that the mail be returned to sender, forwarded to the
mail recovery center, or otherwise handled in accordance with a court order.
The CMRA must give the mail addressed to the withheld PMB to the letter
carrier or return it to the Post Office responsible for delivery to the CMRA the
next business day after receipt.
1.8.4 Addressee and CMRA Agreement
In delivery of the mail to the CMRA, the addressee and the CMRA agree that:
a. When the agency relationship between the CMRA and the addressee
terminates, neither the addressee nor the CMRA will file a
change-of-address order with the Post Office. The CMRA must write the
date of termination on its copy of PS Form 1583. The CMRA must enter the
date of termination in the USPS CMRA Customer Registration Database as
soon as practical. The CMRA must retain the endorsed copies of PS Forms
1583 for a minimum of 6 months after the termination date. PS Forms 1583
filed at the CMRA business location must be available at all times for
examination by Postal Service representatives and Postal Service
inspectors.
b. The CMRA must remail mail intended for the addressee (customer) for at
least 6 months after the termination date of the agency relationship between
the CMRA and addressee. The remail of mail intended for the addressee
(customer) is the responsibility of the CMRA. This includes at least a
6-month period immediately after the termination date of the agency
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relationship between the CMRA and the addressee. The addressee
(customer) must provide the remail address (or email if correspondence is
scanned for digital delivery) on PS Form 1583. The remail address must be
entered into the USPS CMRA Customer Registration Database. If the
addressee collects his or her mail in person at the CMRA, but elects to have
his or her mail remailed for the 6-month post-termination period, the CMRA
must record this remail address on the CMRA’s copy of PS Form 1583 and
enter this remail address in the USPS CMRA Customer Registration
Database with the date of termination.
c. If mail is remailed by the CMRA to the address of a former customer during
the 6-month remail period and returned by the USPS endorsed “Moved, Left
No Address,” then the CMRA may return that mail to the Post Office with the
approval of the postmaster or station manager. The approval is subject to
evidence that the mail was remailed with new postage to the former
customer at the address provided when the relationship was terminated
and/or the verified home or business permanent address provided on the
customer’s Form 1583. Upon approval, the CMRA may return to the Post
Office only First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service — Retail, Priority
Mail, Priority Mail Express, accountable mail, and USPS Retail Ground
received for the former customer. The CMRA must return this mail to the
Post Office the next business day after receipt without new postage.
d. A CMRA may not refuse delivery of mail if the mail is for an addressee who is
a customer or former customer (within the past 6 months).
e. If the CMRA has no Form 1583 on file for the intended addressee, the CMRA
must return that mail to the Post Office responsible for delivery with this
endorsement: “Undeliverable, Commercial Mail Receiving Agency, No
Authorization to Receive Mail for this Addressee.” This mail is returned to the
Post Office without new postage. The CMRA must return misdelivered mail
the next business day after receipt.
f. The CMRA must not deposit return mail in a collection box. The CMRA must
give the return mail to the letter carrier or return it to the Post Office
responsible for delivery to the CMRA.
2.0 Conditions of Delivery
2.1 City Delivery Service
2.1.1 Establishment
City delivery is provided according to USPS policies and procedures, the
characteristics of the area to be served, and the methods needed to provide
adequate service. Requests or petitions to establish, change, or extend city
delivery service must be made to the local postmaster.
2.1.2 Accommodating Customer Hardship
Changes in the type of delivery authorized for a delivery point may be considered
if service by existing methods imposes an extreme physical hardship on the
customer.
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2.1.3 Customer Maintenance of Receptacles
Customers must provide authorized mail receptacles or door slots, except for
mail receptacles authorized by the USPS to be owned and maintained by the
USPS. The purchase, installation, maintenance, and replacement of mail
receptacles used by customers for mail delivery are not the responsibility of the
USPS. However, the USPS may authorize neighborhood delivery and collection
boxes and parcel lockers to be purchased, installed, maintained, or replaced by
the USPS.
2.1.4 Businesses
Mail receptacles or door slots are not required at businesses and offices that are
open and have someone on hand to receive the mail when the carrier calls.
2.1.5 Receptacles With Locks
If a lock is used on a mail receptacle, the receptacle must have a slot large
enough to accommodate the normal daily mail volume.
2.1.6 Door Slot
A door slot for mail must meet specific criteria:
a. The clear rectangular opening in the outside slot plate must be at least
1-1/2 inches wide and 7 inches long.
b. The slot must have a flap, hinged at the top if placed horizontally, or hinged
on the side away from the hinge side of the door if placed vertically.
c. When an inside hood is used to provide greater privacy, the hooded portion
must not be below the bottom line of the slot in the outside plate if placed
horizontally, or beyond the side line of the slot in the outside plate nearest
the hinge edge of the door if placed vertically.
d. The hood at its greatest projection must not be less than 2-1/16 inches
beyond the inside face of the door.
e. The bottom of the slot must be at least 30 inches above the finished floor
line.
2.1.7 Apartment Mail Receptacles
Apartment house mail receptacles must be approved by the USPS. The
purchase, installation, maintenance, and replacement of mail receptacles,
boxes, or parcel lockers are not the responsibility of the USPS except for
neighborhood delivery and collection boxes and parcel lockers authorized by the
USPS to be owned and maintained by the USPS. When apartment buildings are
substantially renovated or remodeled to provide additional apartments, or a
material change is made in the location of boxes, obsolete receptacles must be
replaced by currently approved receptacles.
2.2 Rural Delivery Service
2.2.1 Establishment
Rural stations and branches are established, and rural delivery is provided,
according to USPS policies and procedures, the characteristics of the area to be
served, and the methods needed to provide adequate service. Requests or
petitions to establish, change, or extend rural delivery service, signed by the
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Additional Services: Conditions of Delivery
heads of families wanting this service, must be given to the postmaster of the
Post Office from which delivery service is desired, or from which the route
operates, as applicable.
2.2.2 Accommodating Customer Hardship
On the customer’s written request, the postmaster may approve an exception to
the currently authorized method of delivery, if the type of rural delivery authorized
imposes an extreme physical hardship.
2.2.3 Parcel Delivery
An ordinary parcel too large to fit into a customer’s mailbox is not left unless the
customer has filed a written order with the postmaster relieving the USPS and
carriers of all responsibility in case of loss or depredation of any such parcel left
outside the box.
2.2.4 Delivery to Recipient With Contagious Disease
Mail is delivered to a customer’s mailbox if a quarantined disease exists,
provided that delivery can be made without exposure to contagion. No mail is
collected from such box while the quarantine is in force.
2.2.5 Insufficient Postage/ Mailable Matter
Generally, mailable matter is collected from a rural mailbox if postage is fully
prepaid or money equal to the required postage is left in the mailbox. Money in a
rural box is left at the customer’s risk. When postage or money is insufficient to
cover postage, the mail is not collected, or if the sender cannot be identified, the
mail is treated as unpaid mail. Mailable matter not bearing postage found in,
placed on, attached to, supported by, or hanging from rural boxes is handled
under the applicable standards.
2.3 Highway Contract Delivery Service
2.3.1 Establishment
Highway contract routes are established, and delivery service on such routes is
provided, according to USPS policies and procedures, the characteristics of the
area to be served, and the methods needed to provide adequate service.
Requests or petitions for new routes, or for extensions of service or changes in
the line of travel or schedule of highway contract service, must be directed to the
USPS distribution networks office with supervision over the transportation of
mail in the area involved.
2.3.2 Parcel Delivery
An ordinary parcel too large to fit into a customer’s mailbox is not left unless the
customer has filed a written order with the postmaster relieving the USPS and
carriers of all responsibility in case of loss or depredation of any such parcel left
outside the box.
2.3.3 Mail Collection
Generally, mailable matter is collected from a mailbox if postage is fully prepaid
or money equal to the required postage is left in the mailbox. Money in a mailbox
is left at the customer’s risk. When postage or money is insufficient to cover
postage, the mail is not collected, or if the sender cannot be identified, the mail is
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Additional Services: Customer Mail Receptacles
treated as unpaid mail. Mailable matter not bearing postage found in, placed on,
attached to, supported by, or hanging from boxes is handled under the
applicable standards.
2.3.4 Mailbox Location
Curbside mailboxes meeting the applicable standards in 3.0 must be placed
where they protect the mail and can be conveniently served by carriers without
leaving their vehicles. These boxes must be on the right side of the road in the
direction of travel when required by traffic conditions or when driving to the left
to reach the boxes would violate traffic laws by the carrier.
3.0 Customer Mail Receptacles
3.1 Basic Information for Customer Mail Receptacles
3.1.1 Authorized Depository
Except as excluded by 3.1.2, every letterbox or other receptacle intended or
used for the receipt or delivery of mail on any city delivery route, rural delivery
route, highway contract route, or other mail route is designated an authorized
depository for mail within the meaning of 18 USC 1702, 1705, 1708, and 1725.
3.1.2 Exclusions
Door slots and nonlockable bins or troughs used with apartment house
mailboxes are not letterboxes within the meaning of 18 USC 1725 and are not
private mail receptacles for the standards for mailable matter not bearing
postage found in or on private mail receptacles. The post or other support is not
part of the receptacle.
3.1.3 Use for Mail
Except under 3.2.11, the receptacles described in 3.1.1 may be used only for
matter bearing postage. Other than as permitted by 3.2.10, or 3.2.11, no part of
a mail receptacle may be used to deliver any matter not bearing postage,
including items or matter placed upon, supported by, attached to, hung from, or
inserted into a mail receptacle. Any mailable matter not bearing postage and
found as described above is subject to the same postage as would be paid if it
were carried by mail.
3.1.4 Clear Approach
Customers must keep the approach to their mailboxes clear of obstructions to
allow safe access for delivery. If USPS employees are impeded in reaching a
mail receptacle, the postmaster may withdraw delivery service.
3.2 Curbside Mailboxes
3.2.1 Manufacturer Specifications
Manufacturers of all mailboxes designed and made to be erected at the edge of
a roadway or curbside of a street and to be served by a carrier from a vehicle on
any city route, rural route, or highway contract route must obtain approval of
their products under USPS Standard 7, Mailboxes, City and Rural Curbside. To
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Additional Services: Customer Mail Receptacles
receive these construction standards and drawings or other information about
the manufacture of curbside mailboxes, write to USPS Engineering (see 608.8.0
for address).
3.2.2 Custom-Built Mailbox
The local postmaster may approve a curbside mailbox constructed by a
customer who, for aesthetic or other reasons, does not want to use an approved
manufactured box. The custom-built box must generally meet the same
standards as approved manufactured boxes for flag, size, strength, and quality
of construction.
3.2.3 Locked Box
A mailbox with a lock must have a slot that is large enough to accommodate the
customer’s normal daily mail volume. The USPS neither opens a locked box nor
accepts a key for this purpose.
3.2.4 Mailbox Post
The post or other support for a curbside mailbox must be neat and of adequate
strength and size. The post may not represent effigies or caricatures that tend to
disparage or ridicule any person. The box may be attached to a fixed or movable
arm.
3.2.5 Advertising
Any advertising on a mailbox or its support is prohibited.
3.2.6 Location
Subject to state laws and regulations, a curbside mailbox must be placed to
allow safe and convenient delivery by carriers without leaving their vehicles. The
box must be on the right-hand side of the road in the direction of travel of the
carriers on any new rural route or highway contract route, in all cases where
traffic conditions are dangerous for the carriers to drive to the left to reach the
box, or where their doing so would violate traffic laws and regulations.
3.2.7 Address Identification
Every curbside mailbox must bear the following address information:
a. A box number, if used, inscribed in contrasting color in neat letters and
numerals at least 1 inch high on the side of the box visible to the carrier’s
regular approach, or on the door if boxes are grouped.
b. A house number if street names and house numbers have been assigned by
local authorities, and the postmaster authorizes their use as a postal
address. If the box is on a different street from the customer’s residence, the
street name and house number must be inscribed on the box.
3.2.8 Owner’s Name
The mailbox may bear the owner’s name.
3.2.9 More Than One Family Sharing a Receptacle
If more than one family wishes to share a mail receptacle, the following
standards apply:
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Additional Services: Customer Mail Receptacles
a. Route and Box Number Addressing. On rural and highway contract routes
authorized to use a route and box numbering system (e.g., RR 1 BOX 155),
up to five families may share a single mail receptacle and use a common
route and box designation. A written notice of agreement, signed by the
heads of the families or individuals who want to join in the use of such box,
must be filed with the postmaster at the delivery office.
b. Conversion to Street Name and Number Addressing. When street name and
numbering systems are adopted, those addresses reflect distinct customer
locations and sequences. Rural and highway contract route customers who
are assigned different primary addresses (e.g., 123 APPLE WAY vs. 136
APPLE WAY) should erect individual mail receptacles in locations
recommended by their postmasters and begin using their new addresses.
Customers having different primary addresses who wish to continue sharing
a common receptacle must use the address of the receptacle’s owner and
the “care of” address format:
JOHN DOE
C/O ROBERT SMITH
123 APPLE WAY
Customers having a common primary address (e.g., 800 MAIN ST) but
different secondary addresses (e.g., APT 101, APT 102, etc.) may continue
to share a common receptacle if single-point delivery is authorized for the
primary address. Secondary addresses should still be included in all
correspondence.
3.2.10 Delivery of Unstamped Newspapers
Generally, curbside mailboxes are to be used for mail only. However, publishers
of newspapers regularly mailed as Periodicals may, on Sundays and national
holidays only, place copies of the Sunday or holiday issues in the rural route and
highway contract route boxes of subscribers if those copies are removed from
the boxes before the next scheduled day of mail delivery.
3.2.11 Newspaper Receptacle
A receptacle for newspaper delivery by private carriers may be attached to the
post of a curbside mailbox used by the USPS if the receptacle:
a. Does not touch the mailbox or use any part of the mailbox for support.
b. Does not interfere with the delivery of mail, obstruct the view of the mailbox
flag, or present a hazard to carrier or vehicle.
c. Does not extend beyond the front of the mailbox when the box door is
closed.
d. Does not display advertising, except the publication title.
3.3 Wall-Mounted Centralized Mail Receptacles
3.3.1 Manufacturer Requirements
Manufacturers of wall-mounted centralized mail receptacles used for mail
delivery must receive approval under the specifications and procedures in USPS
Standard 4. The specifications and other information can be obtained by writing
to USPS Engineering (see 608.8.0 for address).
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3.3.2 Customer Requirements
The installation of proper equipment is required for delivery service. The type of
equipment must be approved by the USPS under 3.3.1 and must be appropriate
for the structure. Customers should discuss the types of approved equipment
permitted for their structures with their postmaster before purchasing and
installing delivery equipment.
4.0 Post Office Box Service
4.1 Basic Information for PO Box Service
4.1.1 Purpose
Post Office Box (PO Box) service is a premium service offered for a fee (See
Notice 123—Price List) to any customer and for no fee to customers who are not
eligible for carrier delivery (also see 4.5.2). The service allows a customer to
obtain mail during the hours the box lobby is open or access is otherwise
available and is provided only through receptacles owned or operated by the
USPS or its agents. PO Box service does not include alternate means of delivery
established to replace or extend carrier delivery service. A postmaster (or
designee) and a box customer may not make any agreement that contravenes
the regulations on PO Box service or its fees. Competitive PO Box service (see
4.5.4) is available in designated postal locations and offers service
enhancements for PO Box customers.
4.1.2 Definition
Post Office Box, PO Box, or the # symbol when a Post Office street address is
used as allowed under 4.5.4, designates this service in an address. Competitive
PO Box service is available for customers located within the service area of a
competitive mailbox service provider. Market-Dominant PO Box service is
available to serve customers not served by a nearby competitor. Box customer
applies only to the person who signs the application as an individual or to the
organization on whose behalf an individual signs the application.
4.1.3 Box Size
There are five box sizes and availability of sizes varies by facility. A customer is
assigned a box size based on the customer’s needs and the availability of boxes.
The postmaster may require a customer to use a larger size box if the customer’s
mail volume increases beyond the capacity of the present box. The fees for
boxes increase with box size. The following chart describes approximate box
capacities and frontal dimensions.
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4.1.4 Number Assignment
A number is assigned to each PO box. Mail intended for delivery through a box
must show the assigned PO box number in the address immediately above the
city, state, and ZIP Code.
4.1.5 Box Availability
When no box of the appropriate size is available, the postmaster may handle the
application for box service in one or more of the following ways:
a. Refer the customer to another postal facility with available capacity.
b. Place the customer’s name on a waiting list for box service.
c. Provide general delivery service until an appropriate size box becomes
available.
d. Offer a smaller or larger box, or caller service, at its applicable fee.
4.1.6 Unavailable Box
Online customers cannot apply for a box that is not available but can place
themselves on a waiting list for the box. Customers must pay the correct fee for
the service they receive, regardless of the box size applied for.
4.1.7 Service Period
PO Box service is available in 3-, 6- or two 6-month (semi-annual) prepaid
periods. The 3-month option requires establishing an automatic recurring
renewal payment available online or at select post offices with automatic
recurring payment functionality. The 3-month option is not available at Post
Office locations on the semi-annual (April/October) payment schedule.
4.1.8 Limitation on Service
The postmaster may require a box customer to use caller service under 5.0
based on the volume of mail received, or the level of service requested by the
customer, or the availability of boxes. A customer required to use caller service in
this manner may submit a written request to the postmaster for a new
determination not more than semiannually. Existing box customers will not be
allowed to use additional boxes at Post Offices having a waiting list for PO
Boxes.
BOX SIZE
CAPACITY
(Cubic Inches)
WIDTH AND HEIGHT
(Inches)
1 Under 296 3 by 5.5
2 296 through 499 5 by 5.5
3 500 through 999 11 by 5.5
4 1,000 through 1,999 11 by 11
5 2,000 or more 22.5 by 12
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Additional Services: Post Office Box Service
4.2 Service
4.2.1 Application
Customers may apply for PO Box service by completing PS Form 1093,
Application for Post Office Box Service, at a Post Office or online and presenting
it to any postal retail facility. When submitting an application, all applicants listed
on the application (including both spouses and other individuals listed, except
for minors) each must present two items of valid, current identification. One must
be an acceptable primary form of identification, as specified under 608.10.3, and
the other an acceptable secondary form of identification, as described under
608.10.4. Both must contain sufficient information to confirm the applicant’s
identity and be traceable to the bearer.
Furnishing false information or refusing to provide required information may be
sufficient reason to deny the application or discontinue service. If any information
required on PS Form 1093 changes, the box customer must update the
application. Application procedures are as follows:
a. In all cases:
1. Spouses may complete and sign one PS Form 1093.
2. Other adult persons, employees or other representatives of
organizations, or minors under a parent or guardian, who receive mail in
the PO Box, or additional box users authorized to pick up mail from the
box, must be listed on PS Form 1093.
3. Customers applying for Competitive PO Box services must also
complete and sign a Customer Agreement when selecting any of the
service enhancements described in 4.5.4.
4. Minors (a person under 18 years of age) may be provided with PO Box
service, unless the minor’s parent or guardian submits a written
objection to the appropriate postmaster, but are ineligible to apply for
PO Box service online.
b. Under these additional conditions when applying online:
1. An applicant searches for and selects a box and the service time
period.
2. The applicant must complete all required items on the online PS Form
1093, and read the Privacy Act statement.
3. The applicant must complete the payment information.
4. The applicant must present an unsigned printout of the online PS Form
1093 in person to the Post Office and, upon approval, receive the box
number and keys or lock combination.
4.2.2 Transferring Service
PO Box service may be transferred, without payment of an additional fee, to any
box of the same size and fee group at a different facility of the same Post Office.
To transfer service, the box customer must submit a new application to either
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Additional Services: Post Office Box Service
facility. A box customer may transfer service no more than once in any
semiannual payment period and must submit a completed PS Form 3575 at the
time of transfer.
4.3 Conditions of Use
4.3.1 Mail Receipt
In accordance with the standards in 4.2, any individual box customer or
organization may receive through the box any mail properly addressed to the
box number.
4.3.2 Mail Only
Only mail and official USPS notices may be placed into a PO Box.
4.3.3 Accumulation and Overflow of Mail
A box customer must remove mail promptly from the box. If mail will not be
removed from the box for more than 30 days and an overflow condition is
probable, the customer must make prior arrangements with the postmaster.
When mail for a customer’s PO Box exceeds the capacity of the box on 12 of
any 20 consecutive business days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and national
holidays), the box is in an overflow condition. Customers whose box is in an
overflow condition must use caller service, change to a larger box, or use one or
more additional boxes to which mail will be addressed.
4.3.4 Unlawful Activity
A PO Box may not be used for, or in connection with, a scheme or enterprise that
violates any federal, state, or local law; breaches an agreement with a federal,
state, or local agency whereby the box customer has agreed to discontinue a
specified activity; or violates or attempts to evade any order of a court or
administrative body.
4.3.5 Forwarding
A PO Box may not be used when the primary purpose is to have USPS forward
or transfer mail to another address free of charge.
4.3.6 Address Change
Customers may file change-of-address orders as follows:
a. Organizations. Only the box customer or authorized representatives of the
organization listed on the PS Form 1093 may file change-of-address orders.
The organization is responsible for forwarding mail to other persons
receiving mail at the box.
b. Residential box customers, Fee Groups 1 through 7 and 30 through 44. Only
the box customer listed on the PS Form 1093 may file change-of-address
orders, and is responsible for forwarding mail to other persons receiving mail
at the box.
c. Residential box customers, Fee Group E. The box customer or any other
person listed on the PS Form 1093 may file an individual change-of-address
order. Only the box customer may file a change-of-address order for the
entire family.
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Additional Services: Post Office Box Service
4.4 Basis of Fees and Payment
4.4.1 General
PO Box fees are based on the box size (see 4.1.3) and the fee group to which the
box’s 5-digit ZIP Code is assigned.
4.4.2 Fee Changes
A change in PO Box service fees applicable to a 5-digit ZIP Code can arise from
a general fee change. In addition, USPS may assign a fee group to a new ZIP
Code, may reassign one or more 5-digit ZIP Codes to the next higher or lower
fee group based on the ZIP Codes’ cost and market characteristics, or may
regroup 5-digit ZIP Codes. Except when boxes from two or more ZIP Codes are
being merged into one location, a ZIP Code may be moved only into the next
higher or lower fee group. If boxes in two or more ZIP Codes merge, the fee
group will be that of the receiving location, even if one of the fee groups changes
by more than one level. No ZIP Code may be moved into a different fee group
more than once a calendar year. A change in Post Office Box service fees takes
effect on the date of the action that caused the change unless an official
announcement specifies another date. If PO Box service fees are increased, no
customer must pay the new price until the end of the current service period, and
no retroactive adjustment will be made for a payment received before the date of
the change. The fee charged is that in effect on the date of payment.
4.4.3 Payment
All fees for PO Box service are for 3-, 6-, or two 6-month (semi-annual) prepaid
periods, except as noted under 4.4.5, 4.4.7, and 4.4.9.The general rule is that a
fee may be paid up to one year in advance; however, when boxes from two or
more ZIP Codes are being merged into one location, a customer has the option,
prior to the merger, to renew at the current fee for another rental period, even
when this results in a fee being paid more than one year in advance. Customers
may pay the fee using any of the following methods:
a. In person using cash, credit or debit card, or check or money order payable
to the postmaster.
b. By mail using check or money order payable to the postmaster. A mailed
payment must be received by the postmaster on or before the due date.
c. At a self-service center using a credit or debit card.
d. Online at www.usps.com/manage/po-boxes.htm using a credit card,
including for online automatic PO Box renewal.
4.4.4 Payment Period
Except under 4.4.6, the beginning date for a PO Box fee payment period is
determined by the approval date of the application. The period begins on the first
day of the same month if the application is approved on or before the 15th of the
month, or the next month if approved after the 15th of the month. Fees for
service renewal may be paid any time during the last 30 days of the service
period, except under 4.4.3, but no later than the last day of the service period.
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Additional Services: Post Office Box Service
4.4.5 U.S. Agencies
Federal agencies whose payment period coincides with the federal fiscal year
may pay their box fees during the first quarter rather than in advance.
4.4.6 Exception
Postmasters at offices with fewer than 500 PO boxes may set April 1 and
October 1 as the beginning of payment periods for box customers in their
offices. Payment periods beginning other than April 1 or October 1 are brought
into alignment with these respective dates by adjusting fees as follows:
a. New service, one-sixth of the semiannual fee is charged for each remaining
month between the beginning of the new payment period and the next
April 1 or October 1.
b. Existing service, one-sixth of the semiannual fee is charged for each
remaining month between the end of all currently paid periods and the next
April 1 or October 1.
c. Next one or two semiannual payment periods, an adjustment may be
accepted in addition to fees.
4.4.7 Change of Payment Period
Except for customers at Post Offices subject to 4.4.6, a PO Box customer of
record may change the payment period by submitting a new application noting
the month to be used as the start of the revised payment period. The date
selected must be before the end of the current payment period. The unused fee
for the period being discontinued may be refunded under 4.6, and the fee for the
new payment period must be fully paid in advance. Except when boxes from two
or more ZIP Codes are being merged into one location, a change of payment
period date must not be used to circumvent a change in box fees.
4.4.8 Academic Institutions
The USPS does not set or collect fees for boxes owned by an academic
institution if the boxes are separate from designated USPS areas and serviced
by employees or agents of the institution.
4.4.9 Adjusting Fees
In postal facilities primarily serving academic institutions or their students, box
fees may be adjusted to fit the semester schedules, using the matrix below.
Charges are rounded up to the next multiple of $0.10. No refund is made for
discontinued service when a box is obtained under this standard.
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Additional Services: Post Office Box Service
4.5 Fee Group Assignments
4.5.1 Basic Information on Fee Groups
PO Boxes are assigned to fee groups (see Notice 123—Price List or contact
the local Post Office) and classified as competitive or market-dominant based
upon the Post Office location.
4.5.2 Fee Group E — Free PO Box Service
Customers may qualify for Group E (free) PO Box service at a Post Office if their
physical address location meets all of the following criteria:
a. The physical address is within the geographic delivery ZIP Code boundaries
administered by a Post Office.
b. The physical address constitutes a potential carrier delivery point of service.
c. USPS does not provide carrier delivery to a mail receptacle at or near a
physical address for reasons in 4.5.3b. “At or near a physical address” is
defined by reference to how carrier delivery is established in a particular
locale or ZIP Code.
4.5.3 Additional Standards for Free PO Box Service
Only one Group E (free) PO Box may be obtained for each potential carrier
delivery point of service, under the following conditions:
a. Group E PO Box customers are assigned the smallest available box that
reasonably accommodates their daily mail volume.
b. Eligibility for Group E PO Boxes does not extend to:
1. Individual tenants, contractors, employees, or other individuals
receiving or eligible to receive single-point delivery to a location such as
a hotel, college, military installation, campground, or transient trailer
park.
2. Locations served, or eligible to be served, by centralized delivery or
grouped receptacles such as cluster box units, apartment style
receptacles, mailrooms, or clusters of roadside receptacles.
3. Locations where circumstances not within the control of the Postal
Service prevent extension of carrier delivery, such as town ordinances,
private roads, gated communities, unimproved or poorly maintained
roadways, or unsafe conditions.
SERVICE PERIOD ADJUSTED FEE
95 days or less 1/2 semiannual fee
96 to 140 days 3/4 semiannual fee
141 to 190 days Full semiannual fee
191 to 230 days 1-1/4 semiannual fee
231 to 270 days 1-1/2 semiannual fee
271 days to full year 2 semiannual fees
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Additional Services: Post Office Box Service
4. Locations served by a delivery receptacle that a customer chooses to
locate along a carrier's line of travel and to which the Postal Service
makes delivery.
c. A customer must pay the applicable fee for each PO Box requested in
addition to the initial free Group E PO Box.
d. The online application tools described in 4.2.1b cannot be used for free PO
Box service.
4.5.4 Additional Standards for Competitive PO Box Services
New customers in competitive locations receive 13 months of service for a 12
month PO Box payment, are not required to pay the key deposit for the first two
PO Box keys, and may receive expanded hours of PO Box access and earlier
deposit of mail into the PO Box. Customers in competitive locations may also
complete a customer agreement to receive one or more of the following
enhancements:
a. Street Addressing
1. The option to use the Post Office street address for their mailing
address along with customer’s box number preceded by # as follows:
John Smith
123 Main Street #4567
Any Town, NY 10001
2. Customers who choose to use the street addressing designation also
have the option of receiving packages from private carriers at the
customer’s Post Office Box address, if the packages comply with
applicable Postal Service standards governing mailability (e.g.,
70-pound maximum weight; 130 inches length and girth maximum
dimension; hazardous, restricted, or perishable matter under
Publication 52).
b. Signature on File – the option to simplify receipt of Priority Mail Express, mail
insured for more $500.00, and Signature Confirmation items, all of which
may include an electronic Return Receipt request, by providing a signature
kept on file by the Postmaster.
4.6 Fee Refund
4.6.1 Calculation
When PO box service is terminated or surrendered by the customer, the unused
portion of the fee may be refunded as follows:
a. If service is discontinued at any time within the first 3 months of the 6-month
(semi-annual) service period, then one-half of the fee is refunded.
b. If service is discontinued after the beginning of the fourth month of the
6-month (semi-annual) service period, then none of the fee is refunded.
c. If service is discontinued and the customer has prepaid for the next 6-month
(semi-annual) service period, then the entire fee for that next period is
refunded.
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Additional Services: Post Office Box Service
d. If customers using the Automatic Renewal option choose a 3 month service
period and service is discontinued anytime during that period, no refund is
provided.
4.6.2 Discontinued Postal Facility
When a postal facility is discontinued or relocated, a box customer at that facility
may obtain a refund of unused box fees if box service at that location is
discontinued and additional travel of 1/4 mile or more (from the physical address
on the customer’s Form 1093) is required to obtain equivalent service. For this
purpose, one-sixth of a semiannual fee is refunded for each month left in the
payment period. The refund is computed from the first day of that month (if the
effective date of the facility discontinuance is on or before the 15th of the month)
or from the first day of the next month (if the effective date is after the 15th of the
month).
[7-14-24]
4.6.3 Group E PO Box Service Fee Refund
[7-14-24] If a postmaster determines that a customer paying for PO Box service
was entitled to Group E (free) PO Box service under 4.5.2, a refund of prorated
fees may be issued for each full consecutive month preceding the determination,
up to a maximum of 24 months. Interest is not paid on the amount refunded.
4.7 Keys and Locks
4.7.1 Key Deposit
Two PO Box keys are initially issued to each new box customer. Except for new
customers in Competitive PO Box groups 30-44, which has no key deposit for
the first two keys, box customers must pay a refundable key deposit on each
key. When box service is terminated, the key deposit is refunded to the customer
for each key (including additional keys in 4.7.2) that is returned to the Post Office
where the box was issued.
4.7.2 Additional Key Fee
A box customer may obtain additional keys at the Post Office where the box is
located by submitting Form 1094 and paying the refundable key deposit (4.7.1)
and the non-refundable key fee (see Notice 123—Price List) for each additional
key. Worn or broken keys are replaced without charge when returned to the Post
Office where the box is located.
4.7.3 Restrictions
A customer using a PO box may not obtain or use keys other than those issued
by the USPS.
4.7.4 Lock Replacement
The box customer may request that the PO Box lock be changed by paying the
non-refundable lock replacement fee in (see Notice 123—Price List). Lock fees
are charged for replacing keyed locks and for re-setting combination locks.
Customers may turn in PO Box keys for the old lock and get a refund of the key
deposit. Two keys are provided with the new lock, with a refundable deposit for
each key charged under 4.7.1.
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4.7.5 Late Fee Payment
The lock replacement fee also applies as a late payment charge when the
customer renews a box more than 10 days after the renewal due date, whether
or not the lock is actually changed.
4.8 Service Refusal or Termination
4.8.1 Refusal or Termination
A postmaster may refuse to approve or may terminate PO Box service, including
that of a Group E (free) PO Box customer, if: the applicant or box customer
submits a falsified or incomplete application for box service; within the 2 years
before submitting the application, the applicant physically abused a box or
violated a standard on the use of a box; refuses to update information on the box
application; conducts himself or herself in a violent, threatening, or otherwise
abusive manner on postal premises or there is substantial reason to believe that
the box is being or will be used for unlawful activities as described in 4.3.5 and
4.3.6. The customer is notified of the Postmaster’s determination to refuse or
terminate service and of the appeal procedures.
4.8.2 Customer Appeal
The applicant or box customer may file a petition appealing the postmaster's
determination to refuse or terminate service within 20 calendar days after notice
as specified in the postmaster's determination. The filing of a petition prevents
the postmaster's determination from taking effect and transfers the case to the
USPS Consumer and Industry Affairs, who issues the final agency decision. The
Consumer Advocate’s decision constitutes the final agency decision.
4.8.3 Surrendered Box
A PO box is surrendered if:
a. A box customer refuses or fails to pay the proper fees by the due date.
b. A box customer submits a written notice to discontinue service.
c. Any person other than the box customer attempts to renew service at the
end of the period for which the box is issued.
d. A box customer, or an appointed executor or administrator of a deceased
box customer, submits a permanent change-of-address order, except as
provided in 4.8.4d.
e. A Group E residential box customer files a permanent change-of-address
order and no other person listed on the Form 1093 files a new Form 1093 to
become the box customer.
4.8.4 Boxes Not Surrendered
A PO box is not surrendered if:
a. A box customer dies or disappears before the end of the period for which
the box is issued.
b. A box customer submits a temporary change-of-address order.
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c. Except as provided in 4.8.4d, a change-of-address order is submitted by
any person other than the box customer, or an appointed executor or
administrator of a deceased box customer, for mail addressed to the box.
d. A Group E residential box customer files a permanent change-of-address
order and another person listed on the Form 1093 files a new Form 1093 to
become the box customer.
5.0 Caller Service
5.1 Caller Service Fees
Fees are charged for each separation provided per semi-annual (6-month)
period. See Notice 123—Price List.
5.2 Basic Information
5.2.1 Purpose
Caller service is a premium service available for a fee to any customer who:
a. Requires more than free carrier service,
b. Receives more mail than can be delivered to the largest installed Post Office
box at the postal facility to which the caller's mail is addressed,
c. Is required to use caller service by standard.
5.2.2 Pickup
Caller service does not include general delivery service. Customers who use this
service pick up their mail at the Post Office call window or loading dock during
the time period designated by the postmaster. Customers who receive mail for
clients may participate in caller service subject to 1.0, and 2.0. Agreements
between a postmaster and a caller that contravene the standards for caller
service or its fees are not valid.
5.2.3 Caller
A caller is an individual, or the organization represented by the individual, signing
the application.
5.2.4 Service Types
Reservation of caller numbers makes it possible for the caller of record to hold
caller numbers for future use. Destination caller service is caller service provided
at the postal facility to which the caller's mail is addressed. Origin caller service
(accelerated reply mail) is described in 5.8.
5.2.5 Caller Service Number
The Address Management Service System (AMS) office assigns caller numbers.
Customers may reserve caller numbers for future use or obtain caller services by
paying the reserved caller number fee or caller service fee in 5.1. Subsequently,
the postmaster or his designee will contact AMS which will issue the number.
Availability of this service may be restricted and numbers are not issued
immediately upon payment of the fee.
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5.2.6 Caller Service Number—Address Element
Except under 5.2.7, caller service customers must use their assigned caller
service number in their mailing address as their “Post Office Box” (PO Box)
number, which should be placed immediately above the city, state, and ZIP+4
Code.
5.2.7 Exemption
A postmaster may exempt any customer continuously receiving firm holdout
service since July 3, 1994, from the standard in 5.2.6 that correspondents must
use the assigned Post Office box (caller service) number in the address.
5.2.8 Restriction
The USPS may restrict caller service if such service adversely affects postal
operations.
5.2.9 Required Use
When mail for a customer’s Post Office box(es) exceeds the capacity of the
box(es) on 12 of any 20 consecutive business days (excluding Saturdays,
Sundays, and national holidays), or when the customer seeks multiple caller
service separations, the postmaster can require the customer to use caller
service, change to a larger box, or use one or more additional boxes (subject to
availability) to which mail will be addressed. A customer required to use caller
service because of the mail volume received may, once per semiannual payment
period, make a written request to the postmaster for a new determination of
whether current mail volume requires continued use of caller service.
5.2.10 U.S. Agencies and Schools
Federal agencies and the various schools and departments within educational
institutions are considered separate customers for 5.2.9.
5.2.11 Eligible Customers
Caller service may be provided to the following:
a. A new customer planning to receive an incoming volume of mail that cannot
fit into the largest available Post Office box.
b. A customer wanting a Post Office box when a box is unavailable, and the
postmaster determines that such service does not adversely affect postal
operations.
c. A customer formerly receiving firm holdout service.
5.3 Service
5.3.1 Application
To reserve a caller number for future use or to apply for caller service, applicants
must complete all relevant spaces on PS Form 1093-C, Application for Post
Office Caller Service, and submit it to any postal facility that provides retail
service. The facility need not be the one where the applicant desires destination
caller service. An incomplete or falsified application is sufficient reason to deny
or discontinue service. An application is not considered approved until USPS
verifies the applicant’s identity. Types of primary and secondary forms of
identification that the Postal Service will accept are listed under 608.10.0.
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5.3.2 Transferring Service
Caller service may be transferred, without payment of an additional fee, to a
different facility of the same Post Office if that facility has caller service. To
transfer service, the caller must submit a new application either to the facility
where service is currently provided or to the facility where service is desired. A
caller may transfer service no more than once in any semiannual payment period
and must submit a completed PS Form 3575 at the time of transfer.
5.3.3 Minor
Caller service may be provided to a minor (a person under 18 years of age)
unless the minor’s parent or guardian submits a written objection to the
postmaster.
5.4 Conditions of Use
5.4.1 Mail Receipt
An individual caller or organization may receive mail properly addressed to the
caller number. Mail addressed only to a caller number is delivered to the caller so
long as no improper or unlawful business is conducted. A caller who, as a regular
practice, wants to call for mail at a postal facility more than once in any 24-hour
period must obtain the postmaster’s approval of the pickup schedule.
5.4.2 Updating
When any information required to be provided by the caller on PS Form 1093
changes, the caller must notify the Post Office of such changes.
5.4.3 Unlawful Activity
Caller service may not be used for, or in connection with, a scheme or enterprise
that violates any federal, state, or local law; breaches an agreement between the
caller and a federal, state, or local agency for the caller to discontinue a specified
activity; or violates or attempts to evade any order of a court or administrative
body.
5.4.4 Forwarding
Caller service may not be used when the primary purpose is to have USPS
forward or transfer mail to another address free of charge.
5.5 Basis of Fees and Payment
5.5.1 Caller Service Fee
Customers must pay the caller service fee listed in 5.1. The fee must be paid for
each caller number or separation used, with the following exceptions:
a. If a caller receives mail addressed to many caller numbers but receives a
bulk delivery of mail not separated to those numbers, the caller service fee is
charged for the number to which the separation of mail is made. Reserved
caller number fees are charged for all the remaining caller numbers to which
mail is addressed.
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b. When a Post Office Box service applicant is provided a single caller service
separation because of a shortage of available Post Office boxes, then the
fee charged is the fee for the largest installed Post Office Box. In this
instance, neither the caller service fee nor the reserved caller number fee is
charged.
5.5.2 Reserved Caller Number Fee
Customers must pay the annual reserved caller number fee in 5.1 once each
calendar year for each number reserved, subject to the following:
a. Reserved caller number fees are not prorated. Customers who continue to
reserve caller numbers for a new calendar year must make renewal
payments before January 1 of the new calendar year.
b. If a caller has reserved a number and subsequently receives mail separated
to that number or otherwise notifies the Post Office that they intend to begin
receiving mail addressed and separated to that number, the appropriate
semi-annual fee for caller service will be charged. No refund for the reserved
caller number fee will be made. If the customer continues to receive mail
addressed for separation to the caller number, no reserved caller number fee
will be charged for the following year.
5.5.3 Fee Changes
A change in caller service fees (including reserved number fees) can arise from a
general fee change. Any change in caller service fees takes effect on the date of
the action that caused the change unless an official announcement specifies
another date. If a caller service fee is increased, no customer must pay at the
new price until the end of the current service period, and no retroactive
adjustment is to be made for a payment received before the date of the change.
The fee charged is that in effect on the date of payment. In addition, USPS may
assign a fee group to a new ZIP Code, may reassign one or more 5-digit ZIP
Codes to the next higher or lower fee group based on the ZIP Codes’ cost and
market characteristics, or may regroup 5-digit ZIP Codes.
5.5.4 Number
If a caller uses a physical Post Office box to obtain a caller number, the
applicable fees for both Post Office box service and caller service must be paid.
5.5.5 Payment
The basic caller service fee is for a 6-month period. The fee must be paid in
advance for each 6-month period. The fee may be paid for two periods at a time
(i.e., up to 1 year in advance), but not more. The fee that must be paid is the one
that is in effect on the day that the fee is paid. Except for federal agencies paying
through Intra-Governmental Payment and Collection (IPAC), fees must be paid
using the Enterprise Payment System (EPS).
5.5.6 Caller Service Fee Payment Period
Except under 5.5.8, the beginning date for a caller fee payment period is
determined by the approval date of the application. The period begins on the
first day of either the same month if the application is approved on or before the
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15th of the month, or the next month if approved after the 15th of the month.
After that, caller fees for renewal of service may be paid any time during the last
30 days of the service period, but no later than the last day of the service period.
5.5.7 Change of Caller Service Fee Payment Period
A caller of record may change the payment period by submitting a new
application noting the month to be used as the start of the revised payment
period. The date selected must be before the end of the current payment period.
The unused fee for the period being discontinued may be refunded under 5.6,
and the fee for the new payment period must be fully paid in advance. A change
of payment period date may not be used to circumvent a change in caller service
fees.
5.5.8 Exception
Postmasters at offices with fewer than 500 Post Office boxes may set April 1 and
October 1 as the beginning of payment periods for caller service customers in
their offices. Payment periods beginning other than April 1 or October 1 are
brought into alignment with these respective dates by adjusting fees as follows:
a. New service: One-sixth of the semiannual fee is charged for each remaining
month between the beginning of the new payment period and the next April
1 or October 1.
b. Existing service: One-sixth of the semiannual fee is charged for each
remaining month between the end of all currently paid periods and the next
April 1 or October 1.
c. Next one or two semiannual payment periods: An adjustment may be
accepted in addition to fees.
5.6 Fee Refund
5.6.1 Discontinued Number
When caller service is terminated or surrendered by the customer, the unused
portion of the fee may be refunded as follows:
a. If service is discontinued any time within the first 3 months of the service
period, then one-half of the fee is refunded.
b. If service is discontinued after the beginning of the fourth month of the
service period, then none of the fee is refunded.
c. If service is discontinued and the customer has prepaid for the next
semiannual service period, then the entire fee for that next period is
refunded.
5.6.2 Discontinued Postal Facility
When a postal facility is discontinued or relocated, a caller service customer at
that facility may obtain a refund of unused caller service fees if caller service at
that location is discontinued and additional travel of 1/4 mile or more (from the
physical address on the caller’s Form 1093) is required to obtain equivalent
service. For this purpose, one-sixth of a semiannual fee is refunded for each
month left in the payment period. The refund is computed from the first day of
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that month (if the effective date of the facility discontinuance is on or before the
15th of the month) or from the first day of the next month (if the effective date is
after the 15th of the month).
5.6.3 Reserved Number Fee
The reserved number fee is not refundable.
5.7 Service Refusal or Termination
5.7.1 Refusal
A postmaster may refuse to approve caller service if the applicant submits a
falsified or incomplete application for caller service; within the 2 years
immediately before submitting the application, the applicant violated a standard
on the use of the service; or there is substantial reason to believe that the service
is to be used for activities described in 5.4.3, or 5.4.4.
5.7.2 Termination
A postmaster may terminate caller service if the caller or its representative
falsifies the application for the service; refuses to update information on the
application; violates any standard on the use of the service; conducts himself or
herself in a violent, threatening, or otherwise abusive manner on postal
premises; or uses it for any unlawful activity as described in 5.4.3. The caller is
notified of the postmaster’s determination to refuse or terminate service and of
the appeal procedures to that determination.
5.7.3 Customer Appeal
The applicant or caller may file a petition opposing the postmaster's
determination to refuse or terminate service within 20 calendar days after notice,
as specified in the postmaster's determination. The filing of a petition prevents
the postmaster’s determination from taking effect and transfers the case to the
USPS Consumer Advocate. The Consumer Advocate's decision constitutes the
final agency decision.
5.7.4 Surrendered Service
Caller service is deemed surrendered if the caller submits a permanent
change-of-address order, fails or refuses to pay the appropriate fees by the due
date, or submits a written notice to discontinue service.
5.8 Accelerated Reply Mail (ARM)
5.8.1 Purpose
Accelerated reply mail (ARM) is origin caller service provided at a postal facility
other than the one to which the caller’s mail is addressed. ARM is subject to the
applicable standards for caller service and the additional standards in 5.8.
5.8.2 Applicability
ARM must be obtained at an originating mail processing facility that is fully
automated to process prebarcoded mail.
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5.8.3 Barcoding
The caller’s mail must meet the standards for barcoded First-Class Mail and
must be certified by the mailpiece design analyst at the origin facility where ARM
service is requested. The barcode on the mailpiece must represent the ZIP+4
code or the mailer’s unique 5-digit ZIP Code printed on the mailpiece.
5.8.4 FIM A
The caller’s mail must bear facing identification mark (FIM) A.
5.8.5 Caller Service
Caller service must also be obtained at the destinating postal facility. The
address on all mailpieces to be received through ARM must be the Post Office
box address assigned where destination caller service is authorized. Mailpieces
that show a dual address must show only the Post Office box on the line
immediately above the city, state, and ZIP Code line.
5.8.6 Mailer Receipt
The mailer may either pick up ARM at the origin facility caller service window or
have it reshipped, through PFS Commercial (7.0) service, to the destination caller
service address or to another address specified by the mailer. After updating a
change to the destination address for the PFS Commercial service, the mailer
must provide a 30-day advance notice and submit an amended ARM
application, completing only the “Applicant Information” and “Priority Mail
Express PFS Commercial.”
5.8.7 CMRA
An applicant who is a commercial mail receiving agent (CMRA) must also meet
the applicable standards in 1.0, and 2.0.
5.8.8 Mailer Compliance
Applicants for ARM must meet the application procedures in 5.3. Besides
completing PS Form 1093-C, Application for Post Office Caller Service,
applicants for ARM must also complete PS Form 8061 and submit both forms to
the facility where they desire ARM service.
5.8.9 USPS Actions
USPS will not provide ARM service until it verifies the applicant’s primary and
secondary forms of identification as acceptable under 608.10.0, confirms service
availability at the requested facility, and makes scheme preparations.
5.8.10 ARM Assignment
When the application is approved and the caller service fee received, an ARM
number is assigned. A separate basic fee must be paid for each facility where
ARM service is provided.
5.8.11 Transfer
An ARM authorization may not be transferred to another facility.
5.8.12 Past-Due Caller Fee
Payments for ARM service must be received at least 45 days before the
applicable semiannual period. Payment of the renewal fee is due at least 45 days
before the last day of the last month of the current period. Payment may be
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made for the next semiannual or annual period, as appropriate. If, on notice, the
customer does not pay the fee by the 30th day before the end of the current
payment period, the barcode sortation scheme is revised to remove the
separation for the caller. Once that change is made, the caller must reapply to
obtain further ARM service.
5.8.13 Refund
A refund is made only for future prepaid periods if a caller discontinues ARM
service. No refund is made for the remaining part of the current fee period.
6.0 General Delivery
6.1 Purpose
General delivery is intended primarily as a temporary means of delivery:
a. For transients and customers not permanently located.
b. For customers who want Post Office box service when boxes are
unavailable.
6.2 Service Restrictions
General delivery is normally available at only one facility under the administration
of a Post Office with multiple facilities. A postmaster may authorize more than
one facility to offer general delivery service in accordance with customer and
operational needs. A customer may use only one such location. A postmaster
may refuse or restrict general delivery:
a. To a customer who is unable to present suitable identification.
b. To a customer whose mail volume or service level (e.g., mail accumulation)
cannot reasonably be accommodated.
6.3 Delivery to Addressee
A general delivery customer can be required to present suitable identification
before mail is given to the customer. Prior to mailing, customers should contact
the destination Post Office to determine the authorized facility or facilities and
their applicable ZIP Code(s).
6.4 Holding Mail
Each general delivery mailpiece is held for no more than 30 days, although a
shorter time period may be requested by the sender.
7.0 Premium Forwarding Services
7.1 Premium Forwarding Services Description
Premium Forwarding Services offers three options as follows:
a. Premium Forwarding Service Residential (PFS-Residential): Provides certain
residential customers an option to have all mail addressed to their primary
address shipped to a temporary address as described under 7.2.
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b. Premium Forwarding Service Commercial (PFS-Commercial): Provides
business commercial customers the option to have USPS gather their mail
addressed to business PO boxes or business street addresses and
dispatched to a new address as described under 7.3.
c. Premium Forwarding Service Local (PFS-Local): Provides
residential/individual and business/organization Post Office Box holders the
option to have USPS gather their mail addressed to their PO Box for delivery
to their street address as described under 7.4.
7.2 Premium Forwarding Service Residential
7.2.1 Description
Premium Forwarding Service Residential (PFS-Residential) provides certain
residential customers (see 7.2.4), an option to have all mail addressed to their
primary address shipped to a temporary address by a weekly Priority Mail
shipment. Service is available for a period of not less than 2 weeks and not more
than 1 year. This optional service is separate from the forwarding service offered
in 507.2.0. Customers must pay a nonrefundable enrollment fee and a weekly
charge for each Priority Mail shipment for each week of service requested.
Except under 7.2.4b, the amount due for the total weeks requested must be paid
in full. See Notice 123—Price List.
7.2.2 Extension of Service
Customers may extend PFS-Residential for up to 1 year maximum service from
the initial start date, by contacting the Post Office of the primary address, or, for
customers enrolled online, at www.usps.com/manage/forward.htm. Except
under 7.2.4b, an extension is processed only after the Post Office receives
payment of the shipment charges due for the total weeks of extension requested.
7.2.3 Early Termination of Service
Except under 7.2.4b, a customer who terminates service early may request a
refund for any unused pre-paid weekly shipment charges from the Post Office
serving the primary address.
7.2.4 Use
Participation in PFS-Residential is subject to the following additional standards:
a. Service is available to residential street delivery customers or
residential/personal PO Box customers with a size-one or size-two PO Box
who submit a completed PS Form 8176 at the Post Office serving the
primary delivery address. Customers must provide with the completed
PS Form 8176 acceptable primary and secondary forms of identification as
specified under 608.10.0.
b. Service is available to residential street delivery (not PO Box delivery)
customers who submit an application online at
www.usps.com/manage/forward.htm. The enrollment fee and weekly
shipment charges are processed as services are rendered and must be paid
by credit card. Modification or cancellation of the service can only be made
online when the initial request was completed online.
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c. Customers must designate whether the order is for an “Individual” or an
“Entire Household.”
d. For customers whose primary address is a PO Box, only the box customer
is authorized to initiate the application, and “Entire Household” must be
designated on the application.
7.2.5 Prohibited Use
PFS-Residential is available only from and to domestic addresses, cannot be
combined with any ancillary or extra services, and is not available for:
a. Customers who have an active change-of-address (COA).
b. Customers who have an active Hold Mail Authorization (PS Form 8076). Mail
that has previously been held at the primary address Post Office cannot be
included in the shipments.
c. Customers whose residential use PO Box is larger than a size-two box,
unless their larger size PO Box is being used due to the unavailability of
smaller boxes.
d. Customers whose primary delivery address is that of a business or
organization.
e. Customers whose primary address is a central point to which USPS
provides delivery in bulk to a third party, such as a commercial mail receiving
agency (CMRA), RV park, trailer park, hospitals, hotels, and U.S.
Department of State (see 703.3.0) addresses.
f. Customers whose primary address or temporary address is an APO/FPO or
DPO.
g. Customers whose temporary address is within the 969 3-digit ZIP Code
area or is otherwise in a U.S. territory or possession that requires a customs
declaration.
7.2.6 Weekly Priority Mail Shipments
Premium Forwarding Service Residential shipments are dispatched weekly (on
Wednesday) as Priority Mail with USPS Tracking service. Regardless of any
mailer's ancillary service endorsement on a mailpiece, and provided it fits within
the shipment container, all mail is included in the weekly Priority Mail shipment,
except as follows:
a. Any mailpiece arriving at the primary address that indicates surface only
transportation such as Label 127, “Surface Mail Only” or bears other
hazardous materials markings such as “Consumer Commodity ORM-D”, is
not included in the weekly Priority Mail shipment and must be rerouted
separately via surface transportation.
b. Mailpieces that do not fit in the shipment container, or that require a scan or
signature at delivery, are scanned (when applicable) and then rerouted
separately to the temporary address, subject to the following:
1. Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage – Retail,
USPS Ground Advantage – Commercial pieces and Periodicals parcels
are rerouted separately at no additional charge.
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2. [1-21-24] USPS Marketing Mail parcels are rerouted separately and the
mailer charged postage due at the appropriate 1-pound USPS Ground
Advantage - Retail price.
3. Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, Library Mail, and Parcel Select
pieces are rerouted separately and charged postage due at the
appropriate single-piece price for the class or subclass of mail in which
the piece was originally shipped.
c. Priority Mail is not included in the shipment if such inclusion may delay its
delivery to the temporary address.
d. Any mailpiece arriving postage due at the Post Office serving a customer's
primary address is not included in the weekly Priority Mail shipment and will
be rerouted separately as follows:
1. Mailers of First-Class Mail, USPS Ground Advantage – Retail, USPS
Ground Advantage – Commercial, and Priority Mail pieces are charged
only for the original postage-due amount.
2. Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, Library Mail, and Parcel Select
pieces are rerouted postage due at the appropriate single-piece price
for the class, or subclass, of mail the mailpiece was originally shipped
plus the postage-due amount already indicated on the mailpiece.
7.3 Premium Forwarding Service Commercial
7.3.1 Description
Premium Forwarding Service Commercial (PFS-Commercial) provides business
commercial customers the option to have USPS gather their mail addressed to
business PO Boxes (including Caller Service) or business street addresses within
the same servicing postal facility, and dispatch the mail as Priority Mail Express
or Priority Mail shipments to a new address in bulk. An annual enrollment fee is
required, and applicable postage is charged for each shipment of mail under
7.3.3b. Email notifications are sent with the USPS Tracking number for the
expected delivery date or when there is no mail available to forward. See Notice
123—Price List for postage prices and fees.
7.3.2 Activation
Customers must enroll for PFS-Commercial and pay the annual enrollment fee
online via the Business Customer Gateway at
https://gateway.usps.com/eAdmin/view/signin. Customers must specify the
business PO Boxes (or Caller Service) or business street delivery addresses,
destination address, and frequency (Monday through Saturday). Service is
activated electronically, upon receipt of an email confirmation.
7.3.3 Conditions
Only the authorized recipient (or legal agent) of the business’s (or organization’s)
mail may activate the request for PFS-Commercial service. PFS-Commercial
service is subject to these conditions:
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a. Customers must pay an annual enrollment fee to establish service,
regardless of the number of individual business PO Boxes, Caller Service
numbers, or business street delivery addresses included for each servicing
Post Office. The enrollment fee is refundable only if the request is denied.
b. The annual enrollment fee and applicable Priority Mail Express or Priority
Mail postage for each shipment container is paid using an eVS account
linked to the Enterprise Payment System (EPS).
c. The postage is charged per shipment container as follows:
1. A sack and its contents are considered one piece for calculation of the
price of postage and must not exceed 70 pounds. Postage is
calculated by the weight of the sack and the zone, based on the ZIP
Code of the servicing Post Office and the delivery address for the
shipment, minus the tare weight.
2. A 1-foot managed mail (MM) tray box or 2-foot MM tray box are
considered one piece for the applicable Premium Forwarding Service
Commercial branded flat rate tray box price.
3. A Flat Rate envelope and its contents are considered one piece for the
applicable Flat Rate price.
d. If no mail is collected for a shipment on a designated frequency day, no
postage is charged.
e. Except under 7.3.3g, the following products may be included in a
PFS-Commercial service container: Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, USPS
Ground Advantage – Retail, and USPS Ground Advantage – Commercial
pieces.
f. The mailer must keep a postage-due account or Business Reply Mail (BRM)
account at the originating postal facility where the PO Box or business street
address is located. Any short-paid BRM pieces will be charged to the
mailer’s account prior to shipment.
g. Priority Mail Express, or mailpieces with USPS Tracking, Certified Mail, COD
(excluding COD Hold For Pickup mailpieces unless they are being returned
to the sender or authorized PFS-Commercial customer), insurance,
Signature Confirmation, or Adult Signature are shipped to the destination
delivery office postmaster separately, for proper handling.
h. Registered Mail is not eligible for PFS-Commercial service.
i. Business customers may cancel their PFS-Commercial service effective 24
hours after USPS receives the customer’s request for cancellation through
the Business Customer Gateway. The customer must pay all postage and
fees as applicable for any shipments already scheduled before cancellation
of service is made effective.
USPS may cancel a customer’s PFS-Commercial service request effective 24
hours after the customer receives written notice of cancellation from the serving
Post Office. Cancellation is based upon the customer’s failure to pay postage
and fees, failure to meet the standards for PFS-Commercial service, or when
there is substantial reason to believe that the service is being or will be used for
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unlawful activities. (In this case, cancellation within less than 24 hours may be
granted by USPS.) The customer may appeal this cancellation of services to the
manager, Post Office Operations, but must pay for all postage and fees as
applicable for any service provided during the appeal period.
7.4 Premium Forwarding Service Local
7.4.1 Description
[7-14-24] Premium Forwarding Service Local (PFS-Local) provides
residential/individual and business/organization Post Office Box holders the
option to have the USPS gather their mail addressed to their PO Box (excludes
no-fee Group E PO Boxes) and dispatch the mail to their delivery street address
when both addresses are within the same local servicing postal facility or sorting
and delivery center (S&DC). An annual enrollment fee is required, and a
reshipment fee is charged (see 7.4.3b) for each reshipment container. Email
notifications are sent regarding reshipments or when no mail is available to
forward. See Notice 123—Price List, for postage price and fee.
7.4.2 Activation
Customers must enroll for PFS-Local and pay the annual enrollment fee online
via usps.com at usps.com/manage/forward.htm for residential/individual
boxholders or the Business Customer Gateway at
gateway.usps.com/eAdmin/view/signin for business/organization boxholders.
Customers must specify the active PO Box, a deliverable destination address,
and frequency (Monday through Saturday). Service is activated electronically,
upon receipt of an email confirmation.
7.4.3 Conditions
Only the residential/individual-use PO Box customer or authorized recipient (or
legal agent) of a business’s (or organization’s) PO Box mail that is on file may
activate the request for PFS-Local service. PFS-Local service is subject to these
conditions:
a. Customers must pay an annual enrollment fee per PO Box to establish
service. The enrollment fee is refundable only if the request is denied.
b. The annual enrollment and reshipment fees are paid using a credit card for
residential/individual-use PO Box customers or a permit linked to the
Enterprise Payment System (EPS) account for commercial customers.
c. The reshipment fee is charged for each reshipment container and
non-accountable item that does not fit in a container. Customers may
request reshipments Monday through Saturday.
d. If no mail is collected for reshipment on a designated frequency day, no
reshipment fee is charged.
e. Customers with mailpieces arriving postage due are charged using the
customer’s postage due account prior to delivery. If no account exists, the
appropriate postage due is collected upon delivery.
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f. A business must keep a postage-due account or Business Reply Mail (BRM)
account at the originating postal facility where the PO Box or business street
address is located. Any short-paid BRM pieces will be charged to the
mailer’s account prior to reshipment.
g. Any mailpiece indicating surface only transportation such as Label 127,
Surface Mail only, or that bears other hazardous materials markings such as
“Consumer Commodity ORM-D” is not included in the reshipment, and a
delivery notice will be provided in the PFS-Local reshipment.
h. Priority Mail Express, Registered Mail, Certified Mail, COD (excluding COD
Hold For Pickup mailpieces unless they are being returned to the sender or
authorized PFS-Commercial customer), insurance, Signature Confirmation,
or Adult Signature are shipped separately at no additional charge.
i. Customers may cancel their PFS-Local service effective 24 hours after
USPS receives the customer’s request for cancellation through usps.com or
the Business Customer Gateway. The customer must pay all reshipment
fees as applicable for any reshipments already scheduled before
cancellation of service is made effective.
j. USPS may cancel a customer’s PFS-Local service request effective 24
hours after the customer receives written notice of cancellation from the
serving Post Office. Cancellation is based upon the customer’s failure to pay
the fees, failure to meet the standards for PFS-Local service, or when there
is substantial reason to believe that the service is being or will be used for
unlawful activities. In this case, USPS may grant cancellation within less
than 24 hours. The customer may appeal this cancellation of services to the
manager, Post Office Operations, but must pay for all reshipment fees as
applicable for any service provided during the appeal period.
7.4.4 Prohibited Use
PFS-Local is not available to customers:
a. Who have an active change-of-address (COA), including temporary or
permanent.
b. With an active Hold Mail Authorization (PS Form 8076). Mail that has
previously been held at the primary PO Box address cannot be included in
the reshipments.
c. Who have a no-fee Group E PO Box.
d. Whose primary PO Box address is a central point to which USPS provides
delivery in bulk to a third party, such as a commercial mail receiving agency
(CMRA).
e. Whose primary address or temporary address is an APO/FPO or DPO.
f. Whose address is within the 969 3-digit ZIP Code area or is otherwise in a
U.S. territory or possession that requires a customs declaration.
g. With an active PFS-Residential or PFS-Commercial order.
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8.0 Firm Holdout
8.1 Purpose
Firm holdout service allows a customer to obtain street-addressed mail from the
Post Office when the customer normally receives 50 letters or more on the first
delivery trip, or when the customer is a news agent or publisher’s representative
and receives publications that qualify for newspaper treatment.
8.2 Obtaining and Using Service
To obtain firm holdout service, customers must complete PS Form 3801, Standing
Delivery Order. The form must include the signature of each employee or agent
authorized to pick up the mail. USPS requires each employee or authorized agent
to provide an acceptable primary form of identification as specified under
608.10.3. There is no fee for firm holdout service. On the postmaster’s approval,
based on the availability of resources, the customer may pick up mail at a postal
unit once each delivery day at the time and place of delivery specified by the
postmaster.
8.3 Service Cancellation
A customer may cancel a firm holdout at any time. The postmaster may cancel
firm holdout service when the mail volume falls below the 50-piece requirement
on each delivery day over a 30-day period. The postmaster may also cancel the
service when the mail is not picked up for 10 consecutive days and the customer
does not arrange with the postmaster to hold the mail. A customer may not
request restoration of the service for 1 year after its cancellation.
9.0 Pandering Advertisements
9.1 Prohibitory Order
9.1.1 Initiation by Addressee
Pursuant to 39 USC 3008, an addressee who receives a solicited or unsolicited
advertisement offering for sale matter that, in the addressee’s sole discretion, is
“erotically arousing or sexually provocative,” may, by completing PS Form 1500,
obtain a prohibitory order directing the mailer of the advertisement to refrain from
making further mailings to that addressee. Using this form is not mandatory if the
information that the form solicits is in a signed written statement.
9.1.2 Deceased
A person entitled to receive mail addressed to a deceased person is regarded as
the addressee of such mail for obtaining a prohibitory order in the name of the
deceased.
9.1.3 Addressed to Job Title
A person authorized to receive mail addressed to a job title (e.g., sales manager)
of any business, government agency, or institution, is regarded as the addressee
of such mail for obtaining a prohibitory order covering such job title.
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9.1.4 Apparent Authority
Any person with apparent authority to act for a business, governmental, or
institutional addressee is regarded as the addressee of such organization’s mail
for obtaining a prohibitory order in the name of such organization.
9.1.5 Applying for Order
The application for prohibitory order may be submitted at any Post Office and
must be accompanied by the advertisement on which the application is based,
and its opened envelope or other cover or wrapper. When applying for a
prohibitory order, if the addressee receives mail at more than one address, the
addressee should complete an additional PS Form 1500 for each address.
9.1.6 Applying for Order On Behalf of Children
An addressee who is the parent of one or more children less than 19 years of age
residing with that parent may request an order on behalf of any or all such
children. If the parent of any such child determines that matter offered for sale in
an advertisement addressed to the child is “erotically arousing or sexually
provocative,” the parent may request issuance of an order prohibiting further
mailings to such child. This order is not enforced for mailings received by such
person after that person reaches 19 years of age. Such person, however, may
ratify the order by giving written notice to the manager of the Prohibitory Order
Processing Center (see 608.8.0 for address) that the order is to continue in effect
for himself or herself.
9.1.7 Effects of Prohibitory Order
The prohibitory order forbids the mailer, his or her agents, or assigns from
making further mailings to the designated addressees, effective on the 30th
calendar day after the mailer’s receipt of the order; directs immediate deletion of
such addressees from all mailing lists owned or controlled by the mailer, his or
her agents, or assigns; and prohibits any sale, rental, exchange, or other
transaction by the mailer, his or her agents, or assigns, involving mailing lists
bearing the names of the designated addressees.
9.1.8 Continuing Order With Address Change
An addressee protected by a prohibitory order who has a permanent change of
mailing address may continue the protection provided by the order by notifying
the mailer of his or her change of address and desire to have the order honored
for the new address. The notification must be sent by Certified Mail, return
receipt requested. To enforce any violation of the order at the new address, a
copy of the notification and return receipt must be submitted to the manager of
the Prohibitory Order Processing Center (see 608.8.0 for address). Such written
notification must modify the order by substituting the new address for the
address designated in the original or previously modified order. An order thus
modified takes effect in the same manner as the original order.
9.1.9 Denying Application
A prohibitory order is not issued when the application is based on any of these:
a. The request of a person who the USPS finds does not qualify under any of
the foregoing paragraphs of this section.
b. A mailpiece that the USPS finds does not offer matter for sale.
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c. A mailpiece not originating with the person against whom the order is sought
(e.g., a newspaper or magazine not mailed by the person on whose
advertisement the application is based).
d. A mailpiece received by a foreign addressee who has no regular mailing
address at which mail is delivered directly by the USPS.
e. A mailpiece sent by a mailer not subject to U.S. jurisdiction.
f. A basis in any other way insufficient under the statute.
9.1.10 Abandoned Applications
An applicant for a prohibitory order or its enforcement is deemed to have
abandoned the application if the applicant fails to comply, within 60 days, with
any USPS request to supplement, correct, or complete the application. The
USPS does not keep abandoned applications.
9.1.11 Voiding Orders
A prohibitory order is considered void on expiration of 5 years from the date of
issuance, except that, when application for enforcing a prohibitory order is made,
it is not considered void until expiration of 5 years from the last application for
enforcement. USPS files on such void orders may be disposed of, if a record is
kept of the disposal of each such file and the reason for the disposal.
9.1.12 Availability of Remedies
The fact that a name and address is on the USPS list of persons not wanting to
receive sexually oriented advertisements through the mail does not limit or affect
the authority of the USPS to issue a prohibitory order protecting such name and
address. The issuance of a prohibitory order also does not limit or affect the
authority of the USPS to list, under 10.0, the name and address protected by
such prohibitory order.
9.2 Taking Action Against Violations
9.2.1 Requesting Enforcement
If a person protected by a prohibitory order who receives a mailpiece apparently
in violation of such order opens the envelope or other outside cover of such
piece and writes on it the identifying number of the prohibitory order (if known)
and a statement indicating receipt by mail and the date of receipt (for example, “I
received this mailpiece on [date].”), followed by the person’s signature. The
person submits the piece directly, or through a Post Office, to the Prohibitory
Order Processing Center. Such submission constitutes an application for
enforcing the order.
9.2.2 Enforcement
When the USPS finds, after appropriate administrative proceedings under
prohibitory order Standard Operation Procedures (formerly Notice 241) and 39
CFR 963, that enforcement is warranted, it requests the U.S. Department of
Justice to seek a court order directing compliance with the prohibitory order.
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Additional Services: Sexually Oriented Advertisements
10.0 Sexually Oriented Advertisements
10.1 Basic Information for Sexually Oriented Advertisements
10.1.1 Definition
39 USC 3010(d) defines sexually oriented advertisement as “any advertisement
that depicts, in actual or simulated form, or explicitly describes, in a
predominantly sexual context, human genitalia, any act of natural or unnatural
sexual intercourse, any act of sadism or masochism, or any other erotic subject
directly related to the foregoing.” It also provides that “material otherwise within
the definition of this subsection shall be deemed not to constitute a sexually
oriented advertisement if it constitutes only a small and insignificant part of the
whole of a single catalog, book, periodical, or other work the remainder of which
is not primarily devoted to sexual matters.”
10.1.2 Legal Means
Section 3010 of Title 39 USC provides members of the public with a means to
protect themselves and their minor children from receiving unsolicited sexually
oriented advertisements through the mail. This section permits any person
served by the USPS to file with the USPS a statement that he or she does not
want to receive such advertisements through the mail. Any mailer who sends
that person an unsolicited sexually oriented advertisement more than 30 days
after the date when the USPS adds that person’s name to its reference list of
those who want this protection may be subject to civil and criminal sanctions,
under 39 USC 3011 and in 18 USC 1735-37.
10.1.3 Mailer Responsibility
The responsibility for ensuring that no unsolicited sexually oriented
advertisement is sent through the mail to any person in violation of section 3010
is placed by that section on the mailer of such advertisements. No USPS
regulations may be used to place this responsibility on the USPS.
10.1.4 Complying With Law
A person who mails sexually oriented advertisements only to persons who
request to receive them does not violate the statute or regulations, if otherwise in
compliance with the law whether buying and using the USPS list.
10.2 Applying for Listing
10.2.1 USPS Form
A person may invoke the protection of section 3010 by completing and filing,
with any postmaster or designated USPS representative, Form 1500, available at
Post Offices.
10.2.2 Authorized Filers
A person may file in his or her own behalf and in behalf of any of that person’s
children under the age of 19 years who reside with that person or are under his
or her care, custody, or supervision. An authorized officer, agent, fiduciary,
surviving spouse, or other representative, may file in behalf of a corporation,
firm, association, estate, or deceased or incompetent addressee.
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10.2.3 Five-Year Retention on List
A person’s name and address are kept on the list for 5 years, unless a request for
revocation is filed sooner by that person. A person must file a new application at
the end of the 5-year period to keep his or her name on the list. The names and
addresses of minor children are removed from the list after the 5-year period or
when they reach 19 years of age, whichever comes first. A minor must file an
original application in his or her own behalf if the minor wants his or her name to
remain on the list after reaching 19 years of age.
10.2.4 Applications for Different Addresses
The filing of a single application results in the listing of a single address for the
person filing. A person who moves must file a new Form 1500 to receive the
protection of section 3010 at his or her new address. Form 3575 may not be
used for this purpose.
10.2.5 Using Listed Addresses
It is not a violation of section 3010 to mail a sexually oriented advertisement to a
person at an address other than that which is shown for that person on the list. It
is a violation to mail such an advertisement to that person at the address shown
for that person even though he or she has moved from that address.
10.3 Requesting Removal From List
10.3.1 Removal
A person, at any time, may request the removal of his or her name and address,
or that of one or more of his or her minor children, from the list by notifying the
manager of the Pricing and Classification Service Center (see 608.8.0 for
address).
10.3.2 Receipt After Removal
It is not evidence of a violation of section 3010 if a person (or that person’s minor
child) receives a sexually oriented advertisement in the mail on or after the date
he or she requests the removal of his or her name from the list or his or her minor
child’s name.
10.4 Availability of USPS Lists
10.4.1 General
Copies of the list and/or periodic amendments to the list are available to any
person paying the annual service fee. The list is provided on a CD-ROM.
Information about or requests for the list must be submitted to the manager of
the Pricing and Classification Service Center (see 608.8.0 for address). A
certified or cashier’s check made payable to the USPS must be received in
payment before the list is provided to the buyer. More information on CD-ROM
format can be obtained from the manager.
10.4.2 Annual Service Fee
The annual service fee is determined by dividing the number of buyers for the
previous calendar year into the total cost to the USPS of compiling, processing,
printing, and distributing the list.
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Additional Services: Sexually Oriented Advertisements
10.4.3 Using Lists
This list may be used by a mailer only to protect persons whose names appear
on it from receiving unwanted sexually oriented advertisements through the mail.
No person, including a subscriber to the list, may use the list for any other
purpose, and no person may sell, lease, rent, lend, exchange, or license another
to use this list for any other purpose, including its use by another to remove
names from a list of persons to whom sexually oriented advertisements are to be
sent. No person may use the list or a copy of the list for preparing mailings or
other lists for sale, lease, rent, loan, exchange, or use by another. Violators are
subject to criminal prosecution.
10.5 Envelope Marking
Section 3010(a) authorizes and directs the USPS to provide a mark or notice that
must be placed on the envelope or cover of any sexually oriented advertisement
sent through the mail, with the sender’s name and address. The following
provisions implement this authority and direction:
a. Any person who mails or causes to be mailed any sexually oriented
advertisement must place in the upper left corner of the exterior face of the
mailpiece, whereon appear the address designation and postmarks,
postage stamps, or indicia thereof, the sender’s name and address. In the
right portion below the postage stamp, or indicia thereof, and above the
addressee designation, there must be placed “Sexually Oriented Ad.” The
words “Sexually Oriented Ad,” however, need not be placed on the exterior
envelope or cover of a mailpiece containing such an advertisement, if the
contents of the mailpiece are enclosed in a sealed envelope or cover, inside
the exterior envelope or cover, and the sealed envelope or cover bears
conspicuously the words “Sexually Oriented Ad.”
b. The name and address of the sender and the required legend, if it is placed
on the exterior face of the mailpiece, must be printed in a type size no
smaller than that used for any other word on the envelope or other cover,
and never smaller than 12-point type. Such type must be no less
conspicuous than the boldest type used to print other words on the exterior
face of the mailpiece.
c. The contrast between the background and printing of the sender’s name
and address and the contrast between the background and the printing of
the required notice must be no less than the contrast between the
background and printing of any other word on the envelope or other
wrapper.
d. A clear space no less than 1/4 inch wide must surround the sender’s name
and address and the required notice, separating each from any other matter
on the same envelope or cover.
10.6 Violations
This is a partial list of conduct that may violate 39 USC 3010 or 18 USC 1735:
a. The mailing of a sexually oriented advertisement in an envelope or other
wrapper that does not bear the name and address of the sender and the
legend “Sexually Oriented Ad,” under10.5.
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b. The mailing directly or indirectly of a sexually oriented advertisement to a
person whose name and address are on the list for more than 30 days.
c. The sale, loan, lease, or licensing of the use of the list or a copy thereof in
whole or in part.
d. The use of the list or a copy of it in whole or in part for any purpose other
than to ensure that no mailings of sexually oriented advertisements are
made to persons on the list.
10.7 Reporting Unsolicited Advertisements
10.7.1 Submitting a Report
Anyone who wants to report receipt of an unsolicited sexually oriented
advertisement after an addressee’s name and address are on the list for more
than 30 days should submit to any postmaster, or directly to the Pricing and
Classification Service Center manager, the entire mailpiece, including the
envelope or other wrapper. The piece must have been opened by the addressee.
When submitting the piece, the addressee must endorse the envelope or other
wrapper and also the inside contents in substance as follows: “I received this
mailpiece on [date],” and sign the statement. If received by the postmaster, the
piece must be forwarded promptly to the Pricing and Classification Service
Center (PCSC). The PCSC then forwards the piece to the appropriate Inspection
Service Field Division Office.
10.7.2 Verifying Inclusion on List
A customer wanting to verify inclusion on the list should write to the Pricing and
Classification Service Center (PCSC) (see 608.8.0 for address).
11.0 Hold Mail Service
11.1 General
11.1.1 Description
USPS Hold Mail service provides customers, or an authorized agent (11.1.2), the
option to have all mail, including accountable mail, for an eligible address held at
the Post Office for not less than 3 days and not more than 30 days. There is no
fee for this optional service. See 11.1.3 for business bulk Hold Mail requests.
11.1.2 Authorized Agent
An authorized agent is someone authorized by the customer to act on the
individual’s behalf. An authorized agent may schedule, change, or cancel a
USPS Hold Mail service request for a particular address as long as the customer
can provide the agent with all the information required to complete the request.
11.1.3 Business Bulk Hold Mail Request
Businesses meeting the applicable standards in 11.0 may submit a bulk request
(10 or more locations) for Hold Mail service. For information on this option,
businesses may contact a Postal Service field account representative, strategic
account manager, or the business service network.
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Additional Services: Hold Mail Service
11.2 Requesting Hold Mail Service
11.2.1 Online Request
Except under 11.1.3, customers may apply for Hold Mail service online at
usps.com. Customers are required to sign in or create a USPS.com account to
verify their identity. Online Hold Mail service requests submitted before 2:00 a.m.
(Central Time) may begin on the same business day. Online Hold Mail requests
submitted after 2:00 a.m. (Central Time) may begin on the next scheduled
delivery day.
11.2.2 PS Form 8076 Request
Except under 11.1.3, customers may apply for Hold Mail service by completing
PS Form 8076, Authorization to Hold Mail, and submitting the form in person to
the local Post Office, providing the form to a mail carrier, or by mailing the form
to their local Post Office. Hold Mail service requests must be accepted by
closing time of the Post Office location for the request to be completed by the
next scheduled delivery day.
11.2.3 Customer Care Center Request
Except under 11.1.3, customers may apply for Hold Mail service by contacting
the Postal Service Customer Care Center at 1-800-ASK-USPS
(1-800-275-8777). Hold Mail service requests made by contacting the Customer
Care Center must be accepted by the closing time of the Customer Care Center
for the request to be completed by the next scheduled delivery day.
11.2.4 Confirmation Number
A confirmation number will be provided only to customers who successfully
establish a Hold Mail service request through usps.com or the Customer Care
Center. Confirmation numbers are also provided to business customers who
successfully establish a bulk Hold Mail request under 11.1.3.
11.3 Change or Cancel a Request
11.3.1 Change or Cancel a Request Submitted Online
To change or cancel a Hold Mail service request submitted online, customers
may go online at usps.com or contact the Customer Care Center at
1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) and provide their Hold Mail confirmation
number. If a customer cannot provide a Hold Mail confirmation number, that
individual must visit the local Post Office and present a form of identification that
is acceptable under 608.10.0.
11.3.2 Change or Cancel a Request Submitted via PS Form 8076
To change or cancel a Hold Mail service request submitted via PS Form 8076,
customers must visit their local Post Office and present a form of identification
that is acceptable under 608.10.0.
11.3.3 Change or Cancel a Request Submitted to the Customer Care
Center
To change or cancel a Hold Mail service request submitted by contacting the
Customer Care Center, customers may contact the Customer Care Center at
1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) or go online at usps.com and provide their
Hold Mail confirmation number. Without a confirmation number, a Customer
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Care Center agent can only extend the Hold Mail service request. To change
(other than extend) or cancel the Hold Mail service request when the Hold Mail
confirmation number is not available, customers must visit their local Post Office
location and present a form of identification that is acceptable under 608.10.0.
11.3.4 Change or Cancel a Business Bulk Request
To change or cancel a Hold Mail service business bulk request under 11.1.3,
businesses must contact their Postal Service field account representative,
strategic account manager, or the business service network.
11.4 Mail Pickup or Delivery
Customers have the option to pick up their accumulated mail under 11.1.1 at
their local Post Office, or have a letter-carrier deliver their accumulated mail on
the ending date specified in the Hold Mail service request under the following
conditions:
a. When customers request to pick up their mail, they must present a form of
identification that is acceptable under 608.10.0. Regular mail delivery will
resume the next scheduled delivery day after pick up of the accumulated
mail.
b. When customers request to have a letter carrier deliver the accumulated
mail, only the mail that will fit in the customer’s mail receptacle will be
delivered. If the accumulated mail exceeds the mailbox size, a PS Form
3849, We ReDeliver for You!, will be left with instructions on pick up or
redelivery of the accumulated mail.
c. Customers must pick up the accumulated mail under items a and b within 10
days of the end date of a Hold Mail service request. If the accumulated mail,
including accountable mail, is not picked up within the 10-day period, it will
be returned to the sender or securely destructed.
11.5 Hold Mail Service Requested with Active Change-of-Address Order
When Hold Mail service is requested with an active change-of-address (COA)
order, it is handled as follows:
a. If the Hold Mail service request is for the customer’s new address, and the
customer is residing at a new address, the customer may submit a Hold Mail
service request for the new address.
b. If the Hold Mail service request is for the customer’s former address and the
customer is still residing at the former address, the COA order must be
canceled before the customer can submit a Hold Mail service request for the
former address.
c. If the Hold Mail service request is for the customer’s former address and the
customer is residing at a new address or a different address, the customer
cannot submit a Hold Mail service request for an address where the
individual does not reside.
11.6 Change-of-Address Order Requested with Active Hold Mail Service
When a COA order is requested with an active Hold Mail service request, the
Hold Mail service request is cancelled and all held mail is forwarded as specified
in the COA order.
Domestic Mail Manual • Updated 7-14-24
