USPS Changes are Coming
What Does it Mean For Me?
By Kathy Dickenson
You’ve probably heard about the changes in bulk mail (standard mail) regulations being implemented by the United States Postal Service (USPS). Yes, the related acronyms such as IMB, NCOALink, PostalOne! and CASS certification can be confusing. And it’s a daunting task to wade through the regulations in the weighty Direct Mail Manual (DMM) or online.
So why is the USPS changing a system we’re all comfortable with? The short answer is, cost savings. They’re feeling the same pressure as every other business. They’ve experienced a decline of 14% in volume and two billion in revenue, and people are increasingly choosing email as their preferred channel of communication.
The new changes save money in several ways. One is the requirement that you submit Postage Statements online using PostalOne! Another is the requirement of a barcode and CASS certification (which optimizes carrier routes, and the zip and delivery point codes that appear on mail-pieces). Yet another is the change from a Post net Barcode system to an Intelligent Mail Barcode System (IMB), which works far more precisely. The Post net Barcode will be “indulged” until May 2011 (visit http://ribbs.ups.gov.), but those who adopt the IMB early will receive incentive discounts.
Another part of the plan is the revision of Move Update Standards, to reduce the number of pieces that require forwarding or return. This revision became effective November 23, 2008, and currently has a “grace period” for compliance that will end January 1, 2010. New Move Update standards require your mailing list to be compared against the USPS database once every 95 days, to ensure that it is current. (Learn about related options at http://ribbs.usps.gov.)
Now that you know the what, why and when, the big question is, “What does this mean for me?” Many who mail only a monthly or quarterly newsletter find these requirements a bit overwhelming (not to mention annoying!). So, what are your options?
DO IT YOURSELF – You can apply for a PostalOne! password at www.usps.gov and submit your forms online, where you can also apply for an IMB. You can purchase software that enables you to barcode your own mail. (If you elect his option, make sure that the less expensive software does everything you need, namely Post net and IMB, CASS certification, and one of the Move Update options). You can download the IMB that works with your software from the USPS website, which converts the old barcode to the new one. All clear? Not so fast: you will also need to keep abreast of USPS regulations and updates – the software will have a learning curve. Note too, that the software purchase option involves a yearly subscription fee, and services such as Move Update options are “add-ons” to the basic fee.
LET THE USPS DO IT FOR YOU – The USPS has a list of certified vendors (usually large mailing companies) who can prepare and mail your pieces for you.
You may also elect an Ancillary Service Endorsement to meet Move Update requirements for First Class or Standard Mail service, which offers the following endorsements to update addresses:
- Return Service Requested
- Temp-Return Service Requested (First Class Mail Only)
- Address Service Requested
- Change Service Requested (for First Class Mail only available in conjunction with ACS)
This option involves an additional fee (you pay first class postage) on all pieces that are returned to you with an updated address.
VISIT A LOCAL VENDOR WHO PROVIDES MAILING SERVICES
In our area there are a few vendors who have the software and systems to prepare your mailing to meet all USPS requirements. By going local, you can enjoy the advantages of more personalized service, advice, and flexibility. With complex, impersonal regulations it can really help to have someone you know “holding your hand”. As with the software, make sure your local vendor has what it takes to meet the CASS certification, Move Update, and IMB requirements.
