Wednesday, March 2, 2011

If it fits, it ships: From your neighbourhood USPS


It’s not pretty, but it’s not Postage Due. This would qualify for flat-rate pricing.

Yes, there’s tape, but it’s only to reinforce the seal. This too qualifies for flat-rate pricing




Customers are flocking to flat-rate products thanks to a huge marketing campaign and our own employees talking about the packaging. However, there’s been some confusion as to what can go in an envelope and if tape can be used.
According to the DMM 123.1.5, any amount of material (up to 70 pounds) may be mailed in a USPS-produced Flat Rate Priority Mail envelope or box as long as the package is not reconfigured.
Just because tape is applied to a Flat Rate Priority Envelope or Box, doesn’t disqualify it from the rate. Tape is acceptable and may be applied to the flaps and seams to reinforce the container, provided the container is not reconstructed. The container flaps must be able to close within the normal folds. However, for minor gaps and closure variances, acceptance employees should accept the mailings and honor the flat-rate pricing.
Additionally, a flat-rate envelope doesn’t have to lie flat. There is no maximum thickness requirement. It’s the price that’s “flat” and not the packaging.
With very few exceptions, “If It Fits, It Ships,” should always apply.





(H/T Jane)

No comments: