August 18, 2009

New Deflection Standards Postponed until January 2010

We are extending implementation of the new deflection standards for flat-size mailpieces from September 8, 2009 to January 4, 2010. Mailers are encouraged to take this opportunity and ensure their flats meet the new deflection standards in January.

Current deflection standards will continue to apply only for automation flats during the extension period. For additional information on deflection and allowable droop, please go to our final rule Federal Register (74 FR 15380-15484), New Standards for Domestic Services published on April 6, 2009. You can also access this document on Postal Explorer at pe.usps.com by clicking on Federal Register Notices in the left frame.

Please note that we are retaining the September 8, 2009 implementation date for polywrap standards applying to nonautomation flats.