The U.S. Postal Service has finalized a new labeling requirement for Bound Printed Matter machinable parcels based on this year's deployment of upgraded package sorters. The rule takes effect July 6 but mailers are encouraged to comply as soon as possible. Bound Printed Matter is Package Services mail (typically catalogs, books and other printed material) that weighs up to 15 pounds and meets specific eligibility standards. Under the rule, published in yesterday's Federal Register, when a BPM machinable parcel consists of multiple pieces for a single address secured with transparent shrinkwrap, mailers must label the parcel using one of these options:

• A firm optional endorsement line followed by the five-digit destination ZIP code of the parcel.
• A blue, pressure-sensitive, barcoded Label F on the address side of the parcel.

The new standards do not apply to BPM flats or irregular parcels. The USPS said these markings will let its new high-speed automated package processing system recognize that these BPM machinable parcels are intended for a single address.

Deputy Postmaster General and Chief Operating Officer Pat Donahue today announced an organizational realignment that will transfer administration of the Arizona and Nevada-Sierra Districts from the Pacific Area to the Western Area and the Carolinas from the Eastern Area to Capital Metro.

The change will be effective April 1.

"Managing mail volume and delivery expansion is a critical element of our overall transformation strategy," said Donahoe. "As mail patterns continue to shift throughout the nation, it makes sense to align these districts with the appropriate administrative capacity."