Postal Requirements

Sources For More Information

Because there are unusual exceptions in all classes of domestic and international mail, and because regulations change, contact the U.S. Postal Business Center in your city for the most current information.

For Designers

American Center for Design publishes "Federal Regulations for Designers" and answers questions relating to mailpiece design and automation compatible mail. (312) 787-2018 phone, (312) 649-9518 fax

Mailpiece Design: Introduction
The informative links on this page will help you understand the Postal Service's mailpiece design requirements. They will help you design mailpieces that qualify for postal discounts. These links will aid printers, graphic artists, form designers, and envelope manufacturers. They are also useful for small and large businesses handling their own mailing campaigns. If you affect the design process, explore these informative links.

For Small to Medium Business Mailers

Postal Business Centers are located around the country: their primary focus is to improve service and to assist in converting the mail to be conducive to automation. Among the services offered:

• Adding ZIP+4 codes to address files including a one time free U.S.P.S. diskette coding service
  
• Diagnosing Business Reply and Courtesy Reply envelopes and cards for readability and machinability
  
• Postal products services and information

Call your post office for more information.

Zip+4 address lists

Printed ZIP+4 code state directories can be purchased at a nominal cost from local post offices.

Artwork

For free FIM and bar code positives for Postage-paid reply, Business Reply Mail and for Courtesy Reply Mail contact your local Postal Business Center.

Additional Postal Requirements