flat mail preparation optimization november 5, 2003 1 flat mail preparation optimization issue #81...

FLAT MAIL PREPARATION OPTIMIZATION

November 5, 2003 1

FLAT MAIL PREPARATION

OPTIMIZATION

Issue #81

MTAC

November 5, 2003


November 5, 2003 2

5 – Digit Package Scheme for Flats (L007)

Covers Standard Flats, Periodicals, & Bound Printed Matter Flats

Run multiple 5-digits on same AFSM 100 sort plan

Incoming secondary sortation

In effect since early 2003

Experienced problems with newspapers & rigid items


November 5, 2003 3

5 – Digit Package Scheme for Flats (L007)

Reinforced machinability criteria to mailers

Borderline AFSM 100 compatible items should not use scheme

Majority of issues have been resolved

Very few reported concerns recently

Preparing to expand concept to 3-digit scheme


November 5, 2003 4

3 – Digit Package Scheme for Flats

L007 issues cleared up – ready to start

Covers Standard Flats, Periodicals, & Bound Printed Matter Flats

Run multiple 3-digits on same AFSM 100 sort plan

Incoming primary sortation

All within single ADC?


November 5, 2003 5


Increases bundle size

Decreases number of bundles

Reduces allied labor expenses associated with prepping flats (Operation 035)

LDC 17 is one of last major areas of opportunity to target


November 5, 2003 6


Notified field operations coordinators of intent

Scheduled on MOS agenda to introduce

Letter to MOSs prepared to begin data collection

Should have scheme combinations by next MTAC


November 5, 2003 7

Co-Palletization / Co-Packaging of Mixed Classes

Product Redesign initiative

Covers Standard flats, Periodicals, & Bound Printed Matter flats

Lukewarm industry reception to Co-Pal

Stronger support for Co-Packaging

Co-Packaging subgroup met to discuss initiative


November 5, 2003 8


Helps consolidate flat streams

Gets out of sacks and onto pallets

Allows for deeper penetration into system

Reduces number of containers used

Reduced bundle breakage from decreased sack usage


November 5, 2003 9


Concerns about acceptance and verification

Issues around minimum package size

Timing issue – will this take away time from cost based rates work?

Industry split on how to proceed


November 5, 2003 10


Operational concerns about Standard ADC pallets

Can all ADCs handle Std. pallets?

Periodicals and Std flats often processed in different facilities

How to give Std service, but process in Periodicals mailstream?

Uncertain status


November 5, 2003 11

Periodical Firm Bundles

Periodicals mailings prepared under M940 and M950

5% limit would not apply to non-CRRT Firm bundles

Only for Firm bundles claiming 5-digit or basic rate

Firm bundle is treated as CRRT mail

Firm bundle is not opened/processed on FSMs


November 5, 2003 12

Periodical Firm Bundles

Bottom line – If L001 container exists, put all Firm bundles for those zips in container

Idea newly introduced to workgroup

Being reviewed for reasonableness and practicality

Will have status update at next MTAC


November 5, 2003 13

APPS – Barcoded Labels

5 new presort barcoded labels

Width modulated barcode on labels

Proposed rule issued August 18, 2003

Final rule issued October 17, 2003

Postal Bulletin – October 30, 2003

Effective date for use – April 1, 2004


November 5, 2003 14

APPS – Optional Endorsement Lines

Subgroup formed to address concerns

Issues with maximum character length

Abbreviations may be necessary

Soliciting industry member for subgroup

Suggestions to be tested by Engineering

Proposed rule will be issued for comments


November 5, 2003 15

APPS – Address Visibility Requirement

Address block on top piece must be clear:

DMM M020 (Packages) 1.1 (Facing) –

“Except as noted in 1.2, all pieces in a package

must be “faced” (i.e., arranged with the addresses

in the same read direction), with an address

visible on the top piece”.


November 5, 2003 16

APPS – Packaging Guidelines

Do not use rubber bands

Do not use string

Strap before shrinkwrapping works best

Guidelines at this point

If intend to make requirements – will have supporting data, and will provide ample lead time

Will update at next MTAC

flat mail preparation optimization november 5, 2003 1 flat mail preparation optimization issue #81...

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