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The revised postal regulation (DMM 601.6.3) states that the delivery address on mail sent in window envelopes must show completely, with 1/8” clearance, at all times during processing and delivery, even if the insert moves.
The DMM is the Domestic Mail Manual. It is the USPS manual that contains standards governing domestic mail services; descriptions of the mail classes and services and conditions governing their uses; and standards for rate eligibility and mail preparation.
The regulation pertains to all mail sent in window envelopes.
The “tap-test” is the method used to see if mail meets the regulation. The mail is tapped on the top, bottom, right, and left sides. The delivery address must remain visible in the window with 1/8” clearance at all times.
Mail sent in window envelopes will be subject to the tap-test. Mail that does not meet the regulation will be separated and metered at full-rate (no presort discount applied). All mail will be submitted to the post office without delay.
No, CMS will be conducting random quality control tests but will no longer be notifying the sender.
CMS is committed to assisting customers meet this regulation. There are several ways to alter mailings to meet this regulation; changes to the size of the envelope or envelope window, re-formatting of the address, adjustments to the insert fold/size, etc. Call CMS customer service with your specific question at 360-664-9506.
Mail that does not meet the regulation will be metered at full rate and submitted to the USPS. However, by postal service standards this mail is considered “nonmailable” and may be returned to the sender by the USPS.
For specific questions contact CMS at 360-664-9507. Additional information can also be found on the United States Postal Service website at www.usps.com.
The regulation as written in the USPS Domestic Mail Manual:
6.0 Special Mailing Containers
6.3 Window Envelope
For all letter-size and flat-size mail in window envelopes, every character in the delivery address, including any postal barcode, marking, or endorsement, must be completely visible through the window throughout the full range of movement of the insert bearing the delivery address. Any window envelope used for letter-size or flat-size mail claimed at automation rates or for letter-size mail claimed at Enhanced Carrier Route high density or saturation rates must also meet the barcoding standards for letters and flats in 708.4.0. Any window envelope used for letter-size or flat-size mail claimed at any other rate must meet the following additional standards: