Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the PRIVATE EXPRESS STATUTES?
The Private Express Statutes are the laws giving the USPS the exclusive right to carry letters over postal routes. Although there are certain items excluded from the definition of "letters," proper postage must be paid on any letters privately carried by others. Those exceptions are listed in DMM GO11.4.5 and 4.6. Possible violations should be reported to the Manager, Business Mail Entry for clarification.

How are designs selected for new stamps and postal stationary?
Subjects for commemorative postage stamps and stationary may be proposed by the public through correspondence to the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee. The Committee reviews suggestions and makes recommendations to the Postmaster General, who makes the final selections.

Can a customer drop metered mail in a city other than appearing in the meter indicia?
Metered mail must be deposited in the city where the license is held except that limited quantities may be dropped at other offices if dispatched is expedited. There are other exceptions allowed under special authorizations such as drop shipments, combined mailings etc. Contact Business Mail Entry for further information.

Does the entire date have to appear on all metered mail?
First-class mail and special services mail must bear the entire date except for metered reply postage. The month and year only must be shown on meters printed on separate tapes with the day omitted for third and fourth class mail.

Is a mailpiece less than 3 1/2" x 5" mailable?
Mailpieces less than 3 1/2" x 5" are mailable only if over 1/4" thick. All other pieces less than 1/4" thick and under the minimum size must be returned to sender as nonmailable. Use Notice 5 to attach mailpiece for return.