Letter Size Mail Piece Design

A Designer’s Illustrated Guide to USPS Mailing Requirements Dear Marketer, We hope you benefit from and find notable value in this illustrated guide to USPS Mailing Requirements. Our goal at Quad is to help marketers improve response rates and the cost effectiveness of direct mail. We do so by connecting data insights with a robust production platform, advancements in personalization and the industry’s leading postal optimization and transportation network. A key component to your success is designing mail pieces for postal compliance, which are also production efficient and win in the mail box. Quad’s solutions leverage proven strategies into highly effective direct mail campaigns that drive successful multichannel communications. With a suite of fully integrated solutions and a robust, diverse operational platform, we encourage you to take advantage of the unparalleled results we’ve delivered for others. These strategies utilize the power of integrated, micro-personalized campaigns combined with the highest level of direct mail format innovation to drive greater results and ROI. What makes Quad the industry leader in Direct Marketing solutions? • Design Innovation providing clients with market-proven mail format designs changing the way consumers interact and respond. • 1:1 Personalization through an industry leading platform expertly converting data into compelling and actionable content. • Connecting Print to Digital taking direct mail mobile and optimizing brand consistency across all media. • Quad Delivery Solutions offering clients the industry’s only integrated drop-ship, commingle, and co-pal letter mailing solutions and unrivaled postal optimization including reliable, predictable in-home delivery We are committed to working with you to connect your message more effectively across channels, improve customer relationships through exceptional print and online communications, compress schedules while reducing your workflow and distribution costs. Our clear, concise strategies serve as the fundamental underpinning of marketing plans designed to fill your market needs and achieve your objectives. We have the innovative solutions and impassioned talent to contribute to the success of your business.

Scott Harvey Vice President Sales, Direct Marketing 414-566-6254 [email protected] The information in this book was interpreted and illustrated using the regulations found in the USPS Domestic Mail

Manual (DMM). It is a • Quad participated in the USPS 2009 folded selfmailer testing supporting the PCSC in the development of the collaboration of content final regulations. from our subject matter • Our designers have a complete understanding of the elements that need to be considered to meet letter experts from Quad's Design rate mail regulations. These include but are not limited to category, caliper, size, stock, construction, die cutting, Innovation and Mailing and closure requirements. Teams. • Quad has a robust, industry-leading manufacturing platform which includes conventional and inline production. Our equipment is diverse and allows for exceptional and limitless design innovation. • Our designers are always looking for ways to efficiently develop mail pieces and will point out areas for improvement and make suggestions to our customers. • Designers routinely consult the USPS PCSC with questions on mailability and will send actual stock mock-ups for official written approvals. Table of Contents Postcards 1 Machinable and Automation Letters 2 Booklet Mailers 4 Folded Self Mailers 8 Unenveloped Mail Pieces 18 Non-Machinable 20 Address Placement 22 Glossary 24 USPS Links 25 Processing Classes 26 Postcards Size and Caliper

Cards claimed at postcard rates must be: • In aspect ratio, see page 2 • A minimum size of 3.50" x 5.0" 4.25" max • A maximum size of 4.25" x 6.0" • Minimum caliper .007" (7 pt) 3.50" min • Maximum caliper .016" (16 pt) 6.0" max Above specifications applies to each stamped card or 5.0" min postcard or each half of a double stamped card or postcard.

Note: A card greater than 4.25" x 6.0" is oversized and follows 3.50" x 5.0" minimum size 4.25" x 6.0" maximum size the regulations for Machinable and Automatable Letters.

Description: Single Card Perfs on Cards

A card must be formed either of one piece of cardstock or A card may have perforations or tearing guides if they do of two pieces of stock permanently and uniformly bonded not eliminate or interfere with any address element, postage, together, bulking to a minimum thickness required for the marking, or endorsement and do not impair the physical card’s size. integrity of the card. • Corners can be square or have .125" corner radius • Cards can be covered with a plastic laminate as long as the card cannot be peeled apart and is paper under the laminate

Description: Double Card

A double card consists of two attached cards, one of which is designed to be detached by the recipient and returned by Perf on fold at the mail as a single card. bottom of piece OK • A double card can have the fold at the top or bottom of with double postcards the long edge. The USPS prefers the fold on the bottom. A double card cannot be designed as a oblong with the fold on the short side. be readily examined. Any sealing, on the left or right sides • The reply half of the double card must be used for reply of the card, no matter the sealing process, is not permitted. only and cannot convey any other message. • Since the sides of a double postcard (mailing at card prices) • The address for the reply portion must be on the inside. cannot be sealed, enclosures are prohibited. • Plain stickers, seals, or single wire stitch (staple) may be used • Each half of a double stamped card or postcard can be a to fasten the open edge, at the top or bottom, once the card minimum of .007" thick up to a maximum of .016". is folded if affixed so that the inner surfaces of the cards can

Attachments

The following examples are allowable attachments for • A label affixed with permanent adhesive (totally adhered) postcards. for showing the delivery or return address. • A paper label such as a wafer seal or decal affixed with • A small piggyback label that is intended to be removed from permanent adhesive to the non-addressed side of the card the first half of a double card and permanently applied or within the message area on the address side. The label to the reply half. It must be totally adhered to the card surface. sits to the left of the address block, and cannot be made It cannot interfere with the postal processing equipment. of a material other than paper.

Page 1 Machinable and Automation Letters Description

Machinable and Automation letter mail is rectangular, with four square corners and parallel opposite sides, like #10 or 6x9 conventional envelopes, and oversized cards. Mail pieces prepared as a Folded Self Mailer (FSM) (see page 8), #10 Conventional Unenveloped (see page 18) or a Booklet Mailer (see page 4) follow 6x9 Conventional separate regulations that are covered in subsequent sections.

Machinable Letters: Mail that can be sorted by mail processing equipment. Automation Letters: Mail can be scanned and processed by automated mail processing equipment. It contains a Oversized Card Delivery Point Barcode and considers address placement to receive Automation discounts.

Size

Size (USPS) • 3.50" x 5.0" min • 6.125" x 11.50" max 6.125" max See Folded Self Mailers or Booklets sections for specific category size requirements. 3.50" min

11.50" max 5.0" min

Aspect Ratio

Aspect Ratio: The dimension of a mail piece is expressed as a ratio of height to length, known as aspect ratio. For letter size pieces, the length is the direction parallel to the delivery Height address as it is read. The height is perpendicular to the length.

Letter size mail is viewed as a horizontal rectangle. 5.125" • Divide the length by the height to determine aspect ratio. • Result must fall within 1.30 - 2.50 range. In the example Length at right, 10.0", (length), is divided by 5.125", (height), to 10.0" yield an aspect ratio of 1.95.

Weight

Postage Weight Processing Maximum Weight • The first 2 ounces are charged the same postage. Pieces • Machinable enveloped letters and cards - 3.3 ounces. over 2 ounces pay an additional ounce charge to mail as a • Automation enveloped letters and cards - 3.5 ounces First Class Letter. • Booklets, folded self mailers and unenveloped - 3 ounces

Page 2 Thickness

The thickness of paper is measured in thousandths of an inch, • Minimum: .007 pt, .009 if height exceeds 4.25" and expressed in mils or points. Total thickness of a package or if length exceeds 6.0". is calculated by taking the caliper of a stock and multiplying • Maximum: .25" by the number of panels. Total mailing caliper includes glues, labels, etc. See Folded Self Mailers or Booklets sections for specific category thickness requirements .009 pt min total mail piece thickness

Min size 6.125" max 4.25" max 3.50" min

5.0" min 6.0" max 11.50" max

Max Size .007 pt min total mail piece thickness

Address Placement Flexibility / Machinability

See page 22 for diagram of address placement. To ensure transport through automated mail processing machines, a mail piece and its contents must bend easily when subjected to a transport belt tension of 40 pounds around an 11-inch-diameter drum.

Page 3 Booklet Mailer Definition

Binding methods that are compatible with machinable Booklets consist of multiple bound sheets or pages. processing include: (outer panels plus one or more 2-panel sheets/ribbons) • Spine glue line • Perfect binding • Saddle stitched: A permanent fastening with at least two staples in the fold. • Any binding method that creates a uniformly thick mail piece. Minimum flap size, internal or external, is 1.50". Attachments are allowed on booklet mailers if contained inside mail piece and secured with glue tacks.

Size

The maximum height for all machinable and automation booklets is 6.0 inches and the maximum length can vary between 8.0" and 10.50", depending on the booklet design category.

3.50" min

5.0" min 6.0" max

6.0" max 3.50" x 5.0" minimum • All styles except Wallet 9.50" max

10.50" max 4.0" only 6.0" x 9.50" maximum • Simple spine with internal flap • Simple spine cover to cover 6.0" x 10.50" maximum 4.0" x 8.0" maximum 5.20" - 8.0" • Light weight • Simple spine-even pages 4.0" x 5.20" minimum • Mid weight • Oblong Wallet style • Heavy weight • Folded, vertical and horizontal

Thickness

Thickness on booklets is measured at the spine of the mail piece. • .009" minimum, .25" maximum

Weight

Postage Weight Processing Maximum Weight • The first 2 ounces are charged the same postage. • Machinable enveloped letters and cards - 3.3 ounces. Pieces over 2 ounces pay an additional ounce charge • Automation enveloped letters and cards - 3.5 ounces to mail as a First Class Letter. • Booklets, folded self mailers and unenveloped - 3 ounces

Address Placement Flexibility / Machinability

If the booklet has a flap, internal or external, the address is the To ensure transport through automated mail processing side the flap extends from. For booklets without a flap, either machines, a mail piece and its contents must bend easily cover can have the delivery address. when subjected to a transport belt tension of 40 pounds See page 22 for diagram of address placement. around an 11-inch-diameter drum.

Page 4 Cover Stock

Cover stock requirements vary with 40# minimum basis recommended for better processing performance. References to weight for folded booklet designs and range from 60# through paper weights are for book-grade paper unless otherwise noted. 80# minimum basis weight depending on length and design of Note: Tab specifications and tab placement on booklet the booklet. Lighter-weight paper tends to be easily damaged mailpieces is detailed on page 7. in processing equipment. The use of paper that is 10 pounds heavier than the required minimum basis weight is

Simple Spine Booklet Spine forms bottom edge of mail piece. Booklet Type Size Closure Cover Stock Simple Spine - Even Pages Height: 3.5" - 6.0" (3) 1.50" dia wafer seals 50# min 5.0" - 9.0" Max weight 3.0 oz Length: 5.0" - 10.50" 60# min over 9.0" - 10.50"

Comment Front cover may be up to a maximum of .25" shorter folded edge than pages and rear cover.

Internal Flap Height: 3.50" - 6.0" Continuous glue line or tacks (3-suggested) 80# minimum Max weight 3.0 oz Length: 5.0" - 9.50"

H Address this side only F Comment No perfs allowed on fold of inner flap.

Cover-to-Cover Height: 3.50" - 6.0" Continuous glue line or tacks (3-suggested) 80# minimum Max weight 3.0 oz Length: 5.0" - 9.50"

Comment Cover cannot extend more than .625" beyond inner pages.

Oblong Booklet Spine on leading, (shorter), edge. No cover-to-cover sealing. Booklet Type Size Closure Cover Stock Oblong Booklet - Even Pages Height: 3.50" - 6.0" (3) 1.50" dia wafer seals 60# min 5.0" - 9.0“ Max weight 3.0 oz Length: 5.0" - 10.50" 70# min over 9.0" - 10.50"

Folded Edge

Oblong with Internal Flap Height: 3.50" - 6.0" Minimum .125" continuous glue line sealing 60# min 5.0" - 9.0" Max weight 3.0 oz Length: 5.0" - 10.50" internal flap and (2) 1.50“ dia wafer seals 70# min over 9.0" - 10.50"

*Glue Line

Folded L Address this side only R Edge

Page 5 Booklet Mailer Cover-to-Cover Simple Spine Booklet Spine forms bottom edge of mail piece.

Booklet Type Size Closure Cover Stock Light-Weight Height: 3.50" - 6.0" Min .125" continuous 70# minimum Max weight 0.8 oz Length: 5.0" - 10.50" glue line

Mid-Weight Min .125" continuous Max weight over 0.8-1.6 oz glue line PLUS (1) 1.50" dia wafer seal

Heavy-Weight Min .125" continuous Comment Max weight over 1.6-3.0 oz glue line PLUS Cover cannot extend (2) 1.50" dia wafer seals more than .625" beyond inner pages. External Flap Simple Spine Booklet Spine forms bottom edge of mail piece. Booklet Type Size Closure Cover Stock Light-Weight Height: 3.50" - 6.0" Min .125" continuous 70# minimum Max weight 0.8 oz Length: 5.0" - 10.50" glue line

H Address this side only F

Mid-Weight Min .125" continuous Max weight over 0.8-1.6 oz glue line PLUS (1) 1.50" dia wafer seal Comment Heavy-Weight Min .125" continuous Minimum 1.50" outer Max weight over 1.6-3.0 oz glue line PLUS flap. May be longer, but (2) 1.50" dia wafer seals cannot be closer than 1.0" from bottom. Internal Flap Simple Spine Booklet Spine forms bottom edge of mail piece. Booklet Type Size Closure Cover Stock Light-Weight Height: 3.50" - 6.0" Min .125" continuous 70# minimum Max weight 0.8 oz Length: 5.0" - 10.50" glue line

H Address this side only F Mid-Weight Min .125" continuous Max weight over 0.8-1.6 oz glue line PLUS (1) 1.50" dia wafer seal

Heavy-Weight Min .125" continuous Comment Max weight over 1.6-3.0 oz glue line PLUS Minimum 1.50" (2) 1.50" dia wafer seals inner flap. No perfs on flap fold.

Page 6 Folded Booklet Mail pieces that are bound and folded to letter size.

Folded booklets are mail pieces that are bound and then booklet may be prepared with the spine as the trailing edge, folded to letter size. The folded spine may be either the however, this configuration is not recommended. leading edge or the top of the booklet. If necessary, the

Booklet Type Size Closure Cover Stock Folded Booklet - Vertical Height: 3.50" - 6.0" (3) 1.50" dia wafer seals 40# min Max weight 3.0 oz Length: 5.0" - 10.50" First fold, spine glued or Folded stitched Edge Second fold

Folded Edge

Booklet - Horizontal Height: 3.50" - 6.0" Up to 2.0 oz: (3) 1.50" dia wafer seals 50# min 5.0" - 9.0" Max weight 3.0 oz Length: 5.0" - 10.50" Over 2.0 oz: (3) 2.0" dia wafer seals 60# min over 9.0" - 10.50"

Spine and Open Edge

Second fold

First fold, spine glued Folded Edge or stitched

Wallet Style Booklet Spine forms bottom edge of smaller sized mail piece.

Wallet Style Booklet Height: 4.0" (only) Up to 2.0 oz 60# min entire booklet or Max weight 2.5 oz Length: 5.20" - 8.0" (2) 1.50" dia wafer seals, 1.25" 70# cover with 50# inner pg from bottom. Over 2.0 oz up to 2.5 oz (2) 2.0" dia wafer seals, .75" from bottom

Comment + or - .125" vertical tolerance Folded Edge for tab placement

Tab Specifications Tab Placement: One, Two and Three Tabs, fold on bottom

• Non-perforated tabs made of opaque paper (min 60#), translucent paper Placed within 1.0" Placed within 1.0" from edge from edge (min 40#), vinyl or plastic. Cellophane Placed within .50" from bottom Placed within .50" Placed within .50" tape may also be used. from bottom from bottom • The placement can vary .25" in either direction. Oblong Wallet Style • Tabs must be tight against the edge of the mail piece. A maximum .0625" Placed within overhang is recommended. Folded Placed within Placed within 1.0" from edge 1.0" from edge Folded • Vinyl tabs and cellophane tape Edge Edge 1.25" or .75" Centered Address Address from bottom closures are not acceptable within Lead Lead the barcode clear zone.

Page 7 Folded Self Mailers Description

A Folded Self Mailer (FSM) is formed of two or more panels are folded together or folded and brought together then that are created when one or more unbound sheets of paper sealed to make a letter-size mail piece.

FSM Categories: Basic Folded Self Mailers

Bi-fold In a two panel piece, both panels must be equal or nearly equal in size.

Horizontal Oblong

Tri-fold Equal or nearly equal Two of the three panels must be Equal or equal or nearly equal in size and 1.50" min nearly equal 5.0" min the third a minimum of 1.50" if in a horizontal orientation or 5.0" if Equal or in an oblong orientation. nearly equal 1.50" min 5.0" min Horizontal Oblong

Multi-Panel

Multi-panel Ribbon Nested Ribbons (up to 12 panels) (tabbed/wafer sealed)

Secured Panels in a Basic FSM (DMM Section 201.3.14.3d)

Internal shorter panels must be covered by a full-size panel, must have only one edge that is shorter and no further than and count toward the maximum number of panels (12 panels one inch away from the edge of the external panel. max). Optionally, internal shorter panels can be secured but Note: Secured panels do not need to be of the same stock.

Tack

Glued 1.0" max Tack 1.0" max Here

1.0" max

Single Panel Multiple Panels Cross glued panel

Page 8 FSM Categories: FSM With Attachments

See section on page 10 describing a host, attachment and enclosure. Tack • Attachments include tacked ribbons of different sizes, onserted cards and Tack labels 8 pt (.008") in thickness or greater. • Attachments must be secured at least .50" from any edge.

Multiple Glued Panels • Onserted Card Single Glued Panel • Matrix Card (2 or 3 ply) • Label Card 8 pt or greater

FSM Categories: FSM With Loose Enclosures

FSM with loose enclosures include long flap and long flap with gate with inserts and other various outer envelope styles.

Long Flap Long Flap with Gate

Quarter Fold FSM

• Folded two times with each fold at a right angle (perpendicular) to the preceding fold. • One sheet of paper quarter-folded creates four panels.

• Multiple sheets can be folded together to yield more panels. Folded Edge The maximum number of panels for a Quarter Fold FSM is (must be 4 - 12 or 8 - 24 depending on stock. See “Minimum Stocks" address lead) on pg 12. • A single layer attachment or reply envelope allowed within. Folded Edge (must be bottom edge) • Perfs or dies on 100# stock if under 1 oz and 120# if over 1 oz. • Tabbed/Wafer sealing only • A sheet can also fold to yield more than 4 panels, for example, 17.0" x 15.0" folding to 8.50" x 15.0" folding in thirds to 8.50" x 5.0" = total of six panels.

Four Panels Six Panels Eight Panels

Page 9 Folded Self Mailers Host / Attachment / Enclosure

Host: The panels that make up the main carrier of the FSM • If multiple attachments are adhered on separate panels, (12 panel maximum on host). but in stacked alignment, combined thickness is applied Note: If the internal insert is the same size as the external panel to maximum thickness allowed. on three edges and no more than 1.0" away from the fourth it • Where multiple attachments are placed adjacent across is considered a secured panel and counted as part of the host.* length, the thickest attachment applies toward the maximum thickness allowed. Attachment: Smaller in size and/or made of a different material than the host. Enclosure: Enclosures must be secured in a pocket or by • On an interior panel, secured minimum .50" from any edge another method that ensures containment within mail piece • If multiple attachments are adhered, they must be nearly and prevents excessive shift. uniform in thickness. Note: Flaps and pockets are not counted as panels.

Flap (not counted as a panel)

Host

*Host: Same width and stock as outer. can be up to 1.0" shorter in Attachment height than the panel it is glued to

Loose Enclosure

Host Card: Considered an attachment Pocket (not counted as a panel)

Page 10 Size Other Characteristics

Minimum: 3.50" x 5.0" Weight Maximum: 6.0" x 10.50" Same weight requirements as for Machinable and Automation Letters, see page 2. (Up to 3 ounces)

3.50" min Aspect Ratio Same aspect ratio requirements as for Machinable and 5.0" min Automation Letters, see page 2. (1.30 - 2.50) Address Placement See page 22 for diagram of address placement. The address cannot be on the flap or flap side of the mail piece and solid fold must be at the bottom. 6.0" max Flexibility / Machinability To ensure transport through automated mail processing machines, a mail piece and its contents must bend easily 10.50" max when subjected to a transport belt tension of 40 pounds around an 11-inch-diameter drum.

Minimum Stocks

Category Up to 1 oz Over 1 oz

Basic FSM 70# 80# Add die window with reveal or perfed opening 100# 120#

FSM with attachments or with loose enclosures 80# 100# Add die window with reveal or perfed opening 100# 120#

Quarter Fold, 4 - 12 panels 70# 80# Stocks other than newsprint

Quarter Fold, 8 - 24 panels Newsprint-55# min, other stocks-60# min

• Internal stocks can be lighter or heavier as long as the max • If stock is a heavy caliper like 79# hi-bulk for example (.007) thickness for the category is not exceeded. it may be OK to use. Mailing/USPS approval required when • A die on the edge of flap can run on the stock required for using stock with basis weight less the those written in the the format’s category, not the heavier 100#/120# required regulations. for adding a die window or reveal or Pull Open Strip, Pop-Out or Pop-Open Panes.

Thickness

Category/Element Minimum Maximum FSM overall thickness, 4.25" x 6.0" or less .007“ .25" FSM overall thickness, > 4.25“ x 6.0" .009" .25" Quarterfold - Interior Attachment ——— .012" FSM with attachments or FSM with loose enclosures Up to 1 oz Over 1 oz up to 3 oz

Maximum internal thickness of pop-up device, .05" .09" attachments and/or loose enclosures

Page 11 Folded Self Mailers Flap

Flaps are created when an extended portion of the address • Die cut shape(s) on an external flap are allowed. side panel is the final fold over to non-address side. Folds • Edge along contour must be well sealed to panel using tabs, from top down. Flaps are used for closure of mail piece. glue spots or elongated glue line. However an .125" Note: Flaps and pockets are not counted as panels. continuous glue line to seal along the contour of the die cut pattern's edge is highly recommended. • Dies on the edge of flap run on the stock required for the Flap Extends from address side cover. format’s category, Folds from top not the heavier down. 100#/120# required for other die cut elements, window or reveal or

Address on Pull Open Strip, Pop-Out opposite side or Pop-Open Panes. Non-address side

On horizontal folded pieces, external flap must extend from On oblong, vertical folded pieces, external flap must extend top on non-address side. It must be a minimum 1.50" at the on non-address side from lead to trail edge. It must be longest point, but extend no closer than 1.0" from bottom. minimum 5.0" at the longest point, but extend no closer than 1.0" from trail edge.

5.0" min flap size

1.50" min flap size Flap can fall anywhere within this area

Flap can fall anywhere Flap sits within this area minimally 1.0" from trail of piece Flap sits minimally 1.0" from Address Trail bottom of piece Fold

Must have minimum of 2 panels here with shorter flap. Second panel can be no more than 1.0" shorter than the first.

Lead Edge

Outgoing address Outgoing Address

Flap

Fold

Must have min of 2 panels here with shorter flap. Flap 2nd panel can be no more than 1.0" shorter than the first.

Page 12 Panels

Panels are created when sheets 1 1 4 of paper are folded. Each folded Three Six Four Panels Panels Panels section of a sheet is considered 2 2 3 1 a separate panel with both sides 5 counting as one panel. 3 3 4 6 Note: Flaps and pockets are not 2 counted as panels.

The number of panels is 1 Flap determined by the number of Loose 1 2 sheets in the mail piece and the Enclosure number of times the sheets are 2 folded. For example one sheet, folded twice equals three Pocket panels. Two sheets, folded Two panels, pocket and Two panels twice equals six panels. enclosures not counted Flap not counted

• Maximum number of panels in the host portion of an FSM covered by a full size panel. In multi panel mail pieces, the is 12. The minimum is 2. (See page 10 for definition of host) outside panel may be shorter but not more than 1.0" from • Maximum number of panels for Quarter Fold FSM is 4 - 12. the top or trail edge. This panel is the non-address side of If on newsprint, 8 - 24. the mail piece. • The panels should be equal or nearly equal in size. Panels, more than 1.0" short must be internal to the mail piece and

Panel Orientation

Horizontal Folded Trifold / Oblong Multi-fold Mail Pieces Address is not allowed on closure Outgoing address Outgoing address Address can be on either side panel in oblong formats. Both of a tri or multi-folded mail outside panels must be full size. piece. Includes 3, 4 or more Tri-Fold Multi-Panel Note: If closure panel is short of panels continuously folded in Address on middle panel. No tack needed on lead. finished size, it is considered a flap. one direction. See page 12 for flap requirements. Note: requires tack at address lead, .50" from bottom of mail Non-Addressed Side Outgoing address Outgoing address piece if address is on the closure panel. The glue must be adhered from the address panel to the Tri-Fold Multi-Panel Outgoing Address internal panel. Optionally, tack Address on closure panel. Tack, tab or glueline required Address can be replaced with tab or glue on lead edge. Lead line. (see DMM section 3.14.4, a1) Addressed Side

Horizontal with Short Closure Panel (Sealed with tabs) No tabs here No tabs here Note: If sealing with tabs, they can only be applied to the left Within 1.0" from top and right side if outer panel is short of the finished height.

Not along the top. Outgoing address Outgoing address

Address on Middle Panel Address on Closure Panel

Page 13 Folded Self Mailers Die Cut Elements

Folded self-mailers may be produced with three distinct types Note: When die cut elements are added to the exterior panel, of die cut elements on the exterior panels: minimum stock weight increases: 100# up to 1 oz., 120# over • Address window 1 oz. regardless of category. • Die cut reveal opening, used to draw attention to important information within the mail piece • Die cut thumb notch

Die Cut Address Window: (used to display address Die cut address window sits within this area

information) must meet address visibility standards for 1.50" window envelopes in the USPS DMM and meet the following additional conditions: 1.50" 1.50"

• Maximum 2.0" high by 4.0" long Die John Sample • When an address window appears on a mail piece, no 123 Any Street Anytown, USA 54321 other die cut shapes may be made on the exterior panels

• Placed at least 1.50" from all edges of the mail piece 1.50" Lead

Die Cut Reveal Opening: (reveals the contents of the Die cut openings sits within this area

mail piece) One or two die cut holes on one external panel. 1.50" • Circular: 2.0" maximum diameter

• Rectangular: maximum 1.50" high by 2.0" long with 1.50" Die 1.50" .25" radius corners John Sample 123 Any Street Address Side Anytown, USA 54321 • Place at least 1.50" from all edges of the mail piece 1.50" Lead Non-Addressed Side Addressed side of mail piece • Place at least 5.0" from the leading edge and 1.50" from all other edges Die cut openings sit within this area

• Dies must be positioned at least 1.50" apart when two 1.50" or more die cut openings are used Die 5.0" 1.50" 1.50"

Die

Lead 1.50" Non-addressed side of mail piece

Die Cut Thumb Notch A single .50" semi-circular notch placed on the trail edge of either outside panel. outgoing address outgoing address

Notch on non-addressed side Notch on addressed side

Page 14 Perforations on Host

• On addressed or non-addressed side of the mail piece or on a fold. • Host piece must be made of card stock or equivalent grade. • The perforations have a cut-to-tie ratio of 1mm cut max/ 1 mm tie min • Perforation on a fold or perforations that extend to any edge of a mailpiece must end with a tie where it intersects the edge* • If perforations are on the address side of the mailpiece, there must be a clear space of at least 1" from any address element (eg. OEL, barcode, barcode clear zone, etc.), and * Perf stops .1875" short of any edge. The .1875" tolerance allows postage area for variation on press to ensure there is not a cut at the edge

Perforations - Pull Open, Pop-Out, Pop-Open

* Pull Open Strip (zippers) 1.0" Horizontal: Position • Placed on the non-addressed side of the mail piece .50" min, .5625 max perforated strips • Horizontal strip minimum 1.0" from fold* parallel to the length • Vertical strip minimally 5.0" from address lead** (the long side) of the mail piece at least • .50" minimum width, .5625" maximum width 1.0" from the top • The perforations have a cut-to-tie ratio of 1mm cut max/ Address Lead edges. Thumb notch 1 mm tie min Non-addressed side of mailpiece. or half moon die OK • Min stock: 100# up to 1 oz., 120# over 1 oz. (all categories) Die at address trail only. on zipper.

**Vertical: Position .50" min perforated strips parallel to the height 5.0" min 2.0" min. (the short side) of the mail piece at least 5.0" from the leading Address Lead and 2.0" from the trailing edge. Non-addressed side of mailpiece.

Pop-Out Panes (die perf elements) Perforations around the entire perimeter; or Pop-Open Panes (pull tabs) 1.0" Perforations on three sides. • May be rectangular, circular, or oval shaped • Perforated panes may not be on mail pieces with die cut 1.0" 1.0" min 1.0" Pop-Open design elements Pop-Out 3 sides 4 sides 4.0" x 4.0" max • Maximum of 4.0" long by 4.0" high 4.0" x 4.0" max • Placed on the non-addressed side of the mail piece, minimally 1.0" from fold or edge • Multiple panes spaced at least 1.0" apart 1.0" • May not have address elements appear in perforated openings • The perforations have a cut-to-tie ratio of 1mm cut max/ Non-addressed side of mailpiece. 1 mm tie min • Min stock: 100# up to 1 oz., 120# over 1 oz. for any category Page 15 Folded Self Mailers Glue Closure Methods

Closure method depends on mail piece design. Glue lines, • Contoured glue line (slapstick): .125" wide, within .25" tacks or tabs can be used. The number of tacks or tabs and of each edge placement is determined by weight and category. • Continuous glue line: .125" wide, within .25" of each edge Glue options below are illustrated on flaps, but the same (variation within .125" will be allowed). glue options apply to sealing panels. • Glue Spots: .375" dia., 3 or 4 depends on mail piece design and weight Glue seal methods below apply to Basic FSM and FSM with • Elongated Glue Spots: .125" x .50", .25" x .50" or attachments/loose enclosures. They do not apply to quarter .125" x 1.0", 3 or 4 dependent on piece design and weight fold designs. *Glue dimensions above are minimums. Wider/bigger is acceptable.

Glue Type Horizontal Horizontal with die Oblong Oblong with Die

Note: Oblong pieces can also be sealed with 2 tacks at trailing edge and 1 centered on the top edge. Contoured Glue Line

1.0" or less

Continuous Glue Line

1.0" or less

Glue Spots Basic FSM under 1 oz

Glue Spots Basic FSM over 1 oz and all other FSM categories any weight

Elongated Glue Line Basic FSM under 1 oz

Elongated Glue Line Basic FSM over 1 oz and all other FSM categories any weight

Page 16 Tabs (Wafer Seals) or Tape

• Non-perforated tabs may be made of opaque paper • Tab placement is subject to .25" variance in either direction. (min 60#), translucent paper (min 40#), vinyl or plastic. • Tabs must be tight against the edge of the mail piece. A Cellophane tape may also be used. maximum .0625" overhang is recommended. • Tabs may be colored. • On oblong mail pieces, tabs are not allowed on the bottom. • Number and location of tabs/tape is dependent on mail • Tabs do not apply to Folded Self Mailers with tear off piece design and weight. openings. • Placement on sides, within 1.0" of top edge, lead and trail. • Vinyl tabs and cellophane tape closures are not acceptable • Lower lead edge tab placed within .50" from bottom edge. within the barcode clear zone.

Tab Placement

Tab Size and Number

Category up to 1 oz over 1 oz up to 3 oz Basic FSM (2) 1.0" tabs (2) 1.50" tabs FSM with attachments, FSM with loose (2) 1.50" tabs (2) 2.0" tabs OR enclosures, Basic FSM with dies or perfs (3) 1.50" tabs, horizontal Quarter Fold (tabbing required) (2) 1.0" tabs (3) 1.50" tabs, horizontal (2) 1.50" tabs, oblong

Horizontal FSM Tab Placement

Placed within 1.0" Placed within 1.0" from edge OR from edge OR Placed within 1.0" Placed within .50" from edge from bottom

Use with full size outer panel only Use if over 1 oz, see above chart

Oblong FSM Tab Placement

Placed within 1.0" from Centered Centered OR top and bottom edge OR Placed within 1.0" from top and bottom edge

Address Lead Address Lead Address Lead OR USPS Preferred

Placed within 1.0" from edge

Centered

Page 17 Unenveloped Mail Pieces Description

Any format, deemed by the USPS Prices and Classifications piece will follow recommendations from the USPS. Department, that does not fall into a known category but is Unenveloped mail pieces usually require sealing on four considered machinable when properly sealed is considered sides, however, the Open Sleeve Style mail piece does not. unenveloped. Unenveloped Mail Pieces are processed at Automation Examples of known letter categories include: Letter Rates. postcard, enveloped, booklet and folded self mailer. There are two additional groupings under the category Design requirements such as size, caliper, thickness, weight, of unenveloped: orientation and flexibility follow the requirements for • Open Sleeve Style Letter size mail pieces Machinable and Automation Letter, unless otherwise noted. • Mailers with Tear Off Strips Stock and sealing requirements for the unenveloped mail

Size

Unenveloped mail pieces follow the size requirements for Machinable and Automation Letter mail. Minimum: 3.50" x 5.0" Maximum: 6.125" x 11.50". 6.125" max

3.50" min

5.0" min 11.50" max

3.50" x 5.0" minimum 6.125" x 11.50" maximum

Stocks

Stock weights allowed differ and are dependent on the Category Under 1 oz Over 1 oz mail piece design. Open Sleeve Style 80# min stock 100# min stock Stocks allowed in the two known unenveloped categories are at right. Mailer with Tear 60# min stock Off Strips (80# stock recommended if over 1oz or has inserts)

Other Characteristics

Weight Flexibility / Machinability Same weight requirements as for Machinable and To ensure transport through automated mail processing Automation Letters, see page 2 (Up to 3 ounces). machines, a mail piece and its contents must bend easily when subjected to a transport belt tension of 40 pounds Aspect Ratio around an 11-inch-diameter drum. Same aspect ratio requirements as for Machinable and Automation Letters, see page 2 (1.30 - 2.50). Address Placement See page 22 for diagram of address placement. The address cannot be on the flap or flap side of the mail piece, and solid fold must be at the bottom.

Page 18 Open Sleeve Style

• Panels are joined with .125" glue line • Use of notches does not follow the same rules as Folded Self • Inner flaps must be a minimum of 1.50" wide Mailers. Notches can be larger than .50" diameter and perfed. • Attached or loose panels inside the sleeve follows thickness requirements for FSM with interior attachments or loose enclosures. .05" if under 1 oz, .09" if over 1 oz.

Bi-fold Sleeve Sleeve with Die Perf Two Panel Sleeve Non-addressed panel Thumb Notch Two symmetrical horizontal permanently sealed to inner Die-cut Tack panels sealed together along flap along the top edge. Notch the top and bottom edges. Glue Line Die-perf Notch

.125" Glue Line

1.50" Internal Flap

Mailers with Tear Off Strips

Includes same cut letter size mail pieces with tear off strips (snap ends) and envelopes with enclosures and tear off strips (snap packs). Tear strips may be on lead, trail, lead and trail or lead, trail and top. Left and right open ends must be sealed.

Single ribbon - 2 panel with or Single ribbon, multi panel Enclosures in wrap with tear strip Enclosures in wrap with tear without flap and notch at trail strip at lead

Outgoing address Outgoing address

Tear strip can be on lead, trail or both

Tear-Off Strip Specifications Cut-to-Tie Ratio • The top-sealed edges may have a perforated horizontal One ounce or less: 1 mm cut (max)/1 mm tie (min) line that joins the leading and trailing edge perforations. Over one ounce: 1 mm cut (max)/2 mm tie (min) There is no maximum stub size for this, since it ends at the vertical perfs and does not go to the edges of the piece. No perf here No perf here • Vertical tear-off strips may be up to .5625" wide Glued

• Glued on 3 sides. Three tacks or solid glue line are .5625" maximum No maximum size on top tear strip required along top stub. • Welds on left and right edge can be sealed with solid glue lines, elongated tacks (or patches) or .375" glue spots. If Glued Glued

spots, there must be enough in the tear strip to keep it Fold closed so the end user must open using the tear strip. Snaps on both ends with perforation through cover panels at the top that stops at either snap edge

Page 19 Non-Machinable Description

Non-machinable: Mail that cannot be sorted on mail processing Below are examples of some formats already deemed equipment because of size, shape, weight, content, address as non-automated, non-machinable mail by the USPS. legibility or does not fall within a known letter category. Note: There is a per piece surcharge PLUS the cost to Non-machinable must be processed manually. Some mail as non-machineable mail. non-machinable mail pieces may be eligible to mail as a automated flat, provided it meets the automated flat criteria.

Two-panels To be considered an auto-letter FSM, the mailer must contain two full size panels that are equal or nearly equal in size.

Oblong booklet with tear strip Two reasons this cover to cover booklet becomes non-machinable: • Considered a booklet, however there are no accommodations for a cover to cover oblong booklet. • No accommodations for stub on oblong design.

Tear Strips Poly-wrapped Letters If the tear strips on the Automatically considered

right and left edge are stubs greater than .5625" non-machineable if poly John Sample 1234 Any Street greater than .5625" the wrapped and mailing as Any Town, USA 54321 piece is considered a letter. non-machineable.

Page 20 Appendix Address Placement Address Placement On Postcards

• The address side of a card is the side bearing the destination • Cards claimed at the presorted or automation card prices that address and postage. contain a message area on the address side must be divided • The address side may contain a message. vertically or horizontally and meet the standards below. • Miscellaneous graphics or printing, such as symbols, logos, or characters, that appear on the address side of cards not containing a message area are generally acceptable provided the items are not intended to convey a message.

Vertically Divided Cards

1. The address side of the card must be divided into a right 1 Vertical rule is not required portion and a left portion, with or without a vertical rule. The left portion is the message area. Indicia 2. The delivery address, postage, and any USPS marking or endorsement must appear in the right portion. The right 3 portion must be at least 2.125" wide (measured from the Non delivery information * right edge of the card, top to bottom inclusive). can extend into address area Non Delivery Information 3. For cards claimed at the presorted price, nondelivery only above address block

address information may extend into the right portion Address Block only above the address block and if the information is shaded or surrounded by a border that has at least .125" clearance between the delivery address block and the border. Mailers may choose not to shade or border the 2 3.50" min* nondelivery address information if there is at least .125" of clear space around the delivery address block. 1 Message Area 1 Address Area 3 * The smallest IMB barcode is 2.625 long, requiring .125" white .125" clearance space on either side (2.875" minimum). It is recommended to around address allow 3.5" from the right edge for IBM barcode tolerance, block and IMB non-live area and press variation.

Horizontally Divided Cards

1. The address side of the card must be divided into an upper portion and a lower portion, with or without a horizontal Return Address Indicia rule. The portion of the address side that does not contain the destination address is the message area. Message Area 2. The address, postage, and any USPS marking or endorsement must appear within the portion containing Return Address Indicia the destination address. address block 3. As an alternative, when the destination address appears Address Area 1.50" min* within the lower portion, it is permissible for the postage, Address in lower portion of card. Postage, return address return address, and any USPS marking or endorsement to and any USPS markings or endorsements can be at the top.

appear in the upper portion. The portion bearing the Return Address Indicia destination address must be at least 1.50" high. address block

Address Area 1.50" min*

Message Area

Address in upper portion of card Page 22 Letter Mail

Applies to all letter rate mail including Inline Envelopes, Folded Self Mailers and Unenveloped mail pieces.

Address block barcode located within area 10.50" from right and 4.0" from bottom

6 10.50"

Address located in grey, (OCR) area 1&7 2&8

USPS USPS .50" .50" John Sample John Sample 5 4 123 Any Street 123 Any Street 4.0" 2.75" Anytown, USA 54321 Anytown, USA 54321

Recommended address location on uncoated stocks. Centered or left-justified

3&9 .625"

Recommended Additional Requirements (non-window mailer) On a letter-size piece, the recommended address placement • The minimum clearance between the barcode and any is within the optical character reader (OCR) read area, which information line above or below it within the address block is a space on the address side of the mailpiece defined by must be at least 0.028” these boundaries: • The separation between the barcode and the top line or 1. Left - Minimum .50" from the left edge of the piece. bottom line of the address block must not exceed 5/8”. 2. Right - Minimum .50" from the right edge of the piece. • The clearance between the leftmost and rightmost bars 3. Bottom - .625" from the bottom edge of the piece. and any adjacent printing must be at least 1/8”. 4. Top of address area - 2.75" from the bottom edge Additional Requirements (window mailer) of piece. • The clearance between the barcode and the top Required and bottom window edges must be at least 0.028”. 5. Address block barcode placement located within • The clearance between the leftmost and rightmost area 4.0" from the bottom edge of the piece. bars and any adjacent printing or window edge must 6. Address block barcode placement located no more than be at east 1/8”. 10.50" from right edge of the piece. (Applies to letter mail • These clearances must be maintained during the insert’s greater than 11.0” in length.) range of movement in the envelope. 7. Left - Must be minimum .50" from the left edge of the piece. 8. Right - Must be minimum .50" from the right edge of the piece. 9. The bottom line of the address block, including the barcode, must be at least .625" from the bottom of the piece.

Page 23 Glossary of Postal Terms & Abbreviations

5-digit—Mail sorted directly to a 5-digit ZIP Code. Carrier route presort mail—Mail sorted by carrier route to qualify for discounted postage. The mail requires no Address Change Service (ACS)—An automated primary or secondary distribution. The term is a general process that provides change-of-address information descriptor of the available prices for this type of preparation, to participating mailers who maintain computerized which includes carrier route standard mail, carrier route mailing lists. The information is captured in Computerized periodicals, and carrier route bound printed matter. Forwarding System (CFS) units and sent to mailers on electronic media, which reduces the volume of manual Courtesy Reply Mail (CRM)—Envelopes or postcards that change-of-address notices. a mailer provides to its customers to expedite delivery of their responses. The customer affixes the reply postage Address correction service—A system of ancillary service before mailing. endorsements that allows mailers to obtain the addressee’s new (forwarding) address or the reason for nondelivery. Drop shipment—Typically the movement of a mailer’s product on private (non-postal) transportation from the Ancillary service—Forwarding, change, return, or address point of production to a postal facility located closer to correction service included within a mail class. Depending the destination of that product. on the mail class, these services are performed at a charge or at no additional charge, if and when the service is First-Class Mail (FCM)—A class of mail that includes all actually provided. matter wholly or partly in writing or typewriting, all actual and personal correspondence, all bills and statements Ancillary service endorsement—A marking used by a of account, and all matter sealed or otherwise closed mailer to request the new address of an addressee and against inspection. Priority Mail is a subclass of First-Class to provide the USPS with instructions on how to handle Mail. Any mailable matter may be sent as First-Class Mail. mail that is undeliverable as addressed. Indicia—Imprinted designation on mail that denotes Area Distribution Center (ADC)—A mail processing postage payment (e.g., metered postage or permit imprint). facility that receives and distributes mail destined for specific ZIP Codes. Intelligent Mail barcode—An Intelligent Mail barcode is the USPS-developed barcode that mailers use to encode Aspect ratio—The dimension of a mailpiece expressed routing and tracking information on mail that can be read as a ratio of length divided by height (for letters and cards, by automated mail processing equipment to sort mail length is the dimension parallel to the address as read). For and to provide tracking information to the mailers. An example, a postcard 5-1/2 inches long by 3-1/2 inches high Intelligent Mail barcode consists of 65 vertical bars, has an aspect ratio of 1.57. An aspect ratio between 1.3 each representing one of four possible states: full bar, and 2.5, inclusive, is required for automation compatibility. ascender, tracker, and descender. These 65 bars encode Automated Area Distribution Center (AADC)—A a string of 31 digits, divided into two parts: a 20-digit distribution center that uses multiline optical character tracking code and an 11-digit routing code (when readers (MLOCRs), barcode sorters, and other equipment required). The 11-digit routing code may contain a ZIP designed for processing automation-compatible mail. Code, a ZIP+4 code, or a delivery point code, unless Automation-compatible mail—Mail that can be scanned required to contain a certain level of code in specific and processed by automated mail processing equipment, applications; no correction digit is needed within an such as a barcode sorter. Intelligent Mail barcode. Auxiliary Service Facility (ASF)—A mail processing facility Letter-size mail—A mail processing category of mailpieces, that has its own service area and serves as a satellite including cards, that do not exceed any of the dimensions for processing hub for a particular Network Distribution letter-size mail (i.e., 11-1/2 inches long, 6-1/8 inches high, Center (NDC). 1/4 inch thick). Business Reply Mail (BRM)—A service that allows a Machinable—The ability of a mailpiece to be sorted by mail permit holder to receive First-Class Mail and Priority processing equipment. Compare with nonmachinable. Mail back from customers and pay postage only for Mixed AADC (Automated Area Distribution Center)— the returned pieces. These pieces must have a specific Mail sorted to multiple Area Distribution Centers because address and format. Postage and per piece charges there were not enough pieces to fill a tray within a single are collected when the mail is delivered back to the distribution area. permit holder.

Page 24 Network Distribution Center (NDC)—A highly mechanized Tap test—When an insert showing through the window is mail processing plant that distributes Standard Mail and moved to any of its limits inside the envelope, the entire Package Services in piece and bulk form. Also see Auxiliary barcode must remain within the barcode clear zone, and Service Facility (ASF). a clear space must be maintained that is at least 1/8 inch between the barcode and the left and right edges of the Nonmachinable—The inability of a mailpiece to be sorted on window, at least 1/25 inch between the barcode and the mail processing equipment because of size, shape, content, top edge of the window, and at least 3/16 inch between or address legibility. Such mail must be processed manually. the barcode and the bottom edge of the mailpiece. Nonprofit Standard Mail—A subclass of Standard Mail Undeliverable-As-Addressed (UAA)—Mail that the USPS that is available only to qualified organizations specified cannot deliver as addressed and must forward to the by U.S. statute. addressee, return to the sender, or send to a mail Permit imprint—Printed indicia, instead of an adhesive recovery center. postage stamp or meter stamp, that shows postage ZIP code—A system of 5-digit codes that identifies the prepayment by an authorized mailer. individual Post Office or metropolitan area delivery station Presort—The process by which a mailer groups mail by associated with an address. ZIP Code so that it is sorted to the finest extent required ZIP+4 code—A nine-digit numeric code composed of two by the standards for the price claimed. Generally, presort parts: (a) the initial code: the first five digits that identify is performed sequentially, from the lowest (finest) level the sectional center facility and delivery area associated to the highest level, to those destinations specified by with the address, followed by a hyphen; and (b) the standard and is completed at each level before the next four-digit expanded code: the first two additional digits level is prepared. Not all presort levels are applicable to designate the sector (a geographic area) and the last all mailings. two digits designate the segment (a building, floor, etc.). Sectional Center Facility (SCF)—A postal facility that serves as the Processing and Distribution Center (P&DC) for Post Offices in a designated geographic area as defined by the first three digits of the ZIP Codes of USPS Links those offices. Some SCFs serve more than one 3-digit ZIP Code range. USPS Postal Rate Single-Piece—A postage price available for individual The rate charged for mailing depends on the size of the file, pieces of Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class versioning, demographics and how far the mailing can be Mail, Standard Post, Media Mail, and Library Mail. It is not sorted with mixed AADC the highest within the given range available for Periodicals except under the price category and 5-digit the lowest. Go to http://pe.usps.gov/text/ of basic. This type of price contrasts with prices available dmm300/Notice123.htm to view current postal rates. for commercial mail. USPS DMM (Direct Mail Manual) Standard Mail—A class of mail that weighs less than http://pe.usps.gov/text/dmm300/201.htm 16 ounces. It comprises the subclasses of Regular Standard Mail, Nonprofit Standard Mail, Carrier Route Standard Mail, and Nonprofit Carrier Route Standard Mail. These subclasses include circulars, printed matter, pamphlets, catalogs, newsletters, direct mail, and merchandise. Standard Mail may be sent at carrier route, automation, and nonautomation (machinable and nonmachinable) prices.

Page 25 Processing Classes Industry Definitions

Mail Class Mail File—File that contains all data elements specific to The classification of domestic mail according to content the mailing, as well as name and address. (e.g., personal correspondence vs. printed advertising). Commingle—Process of combining and presorting mail Class refers to the postage level a mail piece will be charged pieces into a single presort/mailstream for letter-size mail. and the service it will receive. Content and time dictates what class of mail should be used. Co-Palletization—Process of combining trays of presorted mail on to a pallet to create a full pallet to First Class Mail a postal destination. A class of mail that includes all matter wholly or partly in Cycle Time—The amount of time, usually counted in days, writing or typewriting, all actual and personal correspondence, for a project to be completed, from receipt of materials by all bills and statements of account, and all matter sealed the mail service provider to in-home mail delivery. or otherwise closed against inspection. Any mailable matter may be sent as First Class Mail. Priority Mail is a subclass of Personalization—The process of imaging variable and First Class Mail. First Class Mail is typically more expensive non-variable data on a mailpiece. (ie. name and address than Standard Mail and travels faster. Another advantage of on envelope and salutation on letter inside). using First Class is if undeliverable, it will be returned to the Consolidation Facility—Warehouse utilized for storing sender at no additional charge. All First Class mail requires a pallets of mail and creation of truck loads of mail to return address on the mailing panel. First Class is required if the USPS. mailing pieces include different, personal information for every Drop Shipment—Movement of mail on non-postal recipient such as invoices, statements, etc. transportation. Standard Mail A class of mail that weighs less than 16 ounces. It comprises the subclasses of Regular Standard Mail, Nonprofit Standard Mail, Carrier Route Standard Mail, and Nonprofit Carrier Route Standard Mail. These subclasses include circulars, printed matter, pamphlets, catalogs, newsletters, direct mail, and merchandise. Standard Mail may be sent at carrier route, automation, and nonautomation prices. Standard Mail is a more economical way to mail, however, it typically takes longer for the mail to arrive and undeliverable pieces do not get sent back to the sender. Standard Class pieces are essentially identical, without any personal information. Invoices, statements and other individual information cannot be sent standard. Personalized name, address and salutation, is permitted and other generic personalization as long as it supports the solicitation. Example; “John Sample, come into our Bridgewater, NJ store and save $20”

Nonprofit Mail A subclass of Standard Mail that is available only to qualified organizations specified by U.S. statute. The postage rates are typically the least expensive way to send mail, however, it can only be sent by a company that is an actual Nonprofit with a valid Nonprofit permit. Nonprofit mail is the same as Standard Mail, but the USPS charges less as a courtesy to Nonprofit organizations.

Page 26 This publication was made possible by the efforts of the following team members: Interpreted and Illustrated by: Lauren Haggerty, Manager Design Innovation Team Reviewed and approved by: Lisa Wurman, Manager Mailing Administration Dale Lathrop, Senior Mailing and Delivery Support Specialists Ralph Haas, Senior Mailing and Delivery Support Specialists Layout and design by: Kelsi Wilson, Graphic Designer, Design Innovation Team Printing: Xeikon 8000, Quad, Monroe NJ Digital Stock: 80# McCoy Silk Text Bindery: MBO Folder / Mueller Presto Stitcher

Letter Size Mail Piece Design: A Designer’s Illustrated Guide to USPS Mailing Requirements is considered confidential information and proprietary to Quad. In addition, this booklet is intended as a guide for informational purposes only. The content contained may change from time to time and is provided on an “As Is" basis without warranty of any kind (express or implied). Reliance on such content is at your own risk. © 2016 Quad/Graphics, Inc. All rights reserved. 01/20/2016 External Electronic