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May 10, 2012

An Update to the FSM Rules :: More Options for Trifolds

In January the USPS introduced new tabbing requirements for folded self-mailers, which required some significant design changes (referenced here and here). What the new rule stated was that the address panel couldn’t be on the final fold panel – effectively breaking up the design and flow of most tri-folds & multi-folds we see in the mail stream today.

On Monday, the Post Office updated the DMM to include an addition to the new FSM ruling that puts that final fold panel as address panel back in play. According to Section 201.3.14.4.a.1:

Additionally, horizontal folded tri-fold and multi-fold pieces having the final folded panel as the addressed panel must include an additional 1-inch tab (1-1/2 inch preferred) for pieces weighing up to 1 ounce; or a 1-1/2 inch tab for pieces weighing over 1 ounce, placed 1/2 inch from the bottom of the leading edge. Instead of a tab, a 3/8-inch glue spot or 1/8-inch wide glue line placed 1/2 inch from the bottom and no more than 1/4 inch from the leading edge may be used.

trifold_designs

So, if the address is on the final fold, your mailing can still qualify for automation rates if an additional tab (or glue spot or glue line) is added to the lower leading edge of the mailpiece.

It’s worth noting that this change does add some cost as most machines will require a bump-n-turn set up or an additional pass to add that third tab (much like the booklet tabbing requirements) - but this cost is much more manageable than trying to stomach nonautomation, nonmachinable rates for a piece that has been running through the postal equipment relatively well for quite sometime.

And consider this a win for those who voiced concern. The USPS gets their fair share of knocks – it’s admittedly probably tough being a quasi-government agency trying to create efficiency in a market that isn’t necessarily growing and where “easier” alternatives abound if they make the rules too strict – but they do listen. And, as this example shows, they will often find ways to adapt their thinking to keep the customer happy.

 


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