Price and service changes will be implemented to Regulated and non-Regulated Transaction Mail and Direct Marketing services on January 12, 2009. The posting of the January 2009 changes at this time (July 14, 2008) reflects Canada Post's continuing efforts to respond to customers' requests for a predictable and manageable environment for price and service changes.
The information in this "Overview of Changes" is for information purposes only and should not be regarded or relied upon as legal advice or opinion.
While no substantial changes other than those noted in this Overview of Changes are anticipated, we are reviewing and updating the Customer Guides, Mail Preparation and Presortation Guides and Postal Standards.
The revised Customer Guides and an overview of changes identifying the revisions to the Mail Preparation and Presortation Guides and the Postal Standards will be posted here by November 10, 2008.
TRANSACTION MAIL AND DIRECT MARKETING SERVICES
Price and service changes are summarized for the following affected services. Click on the service name for details:
Frequently Asked Questions on these changes are available. Click here.
CHANGES APPLICABLE TO ALL SERVICES
Improvements to Preparing and Depositing Your Orders
Beginning in January 2009, Canada Post will implement changes to our verification process to help provide faster, more efficient induction checks resulting in a more consistent and positive induction experience for our customers.
Changes are planned for our Receipt Verification Units (RVUs), equipping them with portable data terminals that will quickly and easily provide the receiving employees with important mailing information when Orders are scanned. This technology deployment begins in January 2009 and is planned for implementation in all RVUs by the end of March 2009.
Also beginning January 12, 2009, Canada Post will introduce an interface which will allow customers to import their Mailing Plan into the Electronic Shipping Tools (EST - Desktop and Online versions). This enhancement will reduce the amount of manual data entry required when preparing Orders for Presort Lettermail and Letter Carrier Presort (LCP) Addressed Admail and Publications Mail.
We will also introduce an optional new file import capability for Machineable Lettermail, Machineable Addressed Admail and Machineable Publications Mail to assist customers when creating their Orders in EST to reduce the manual data entry required.
The electronic transmission of the Mailing Plan into EST will be mandatory for LCP Addressed Admail and LCP Publications Mail by July 1, 2009 at which time it will also be mandatory that LCP Addressed Admail and LCP Publications Mail container labels adhere to the new container label specifications.
For Presort Lettermail Orders containing items from multiple weight bands on a single Order, the file import capability is not recommended. Use of the import file capability is therefore optional for all other Presort Lettermail Orders.
Important Reminder
Customers are reminded to always provide proper Order documentation at the time of induction to avoid potential delays and surcharges.
This change will impact Section 3.2.2 of the 2008 Addressed Admail Customer Guide and Section 3.2.2 of the 2008 Publications Mail Customer Guide.
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TRANSACTION MAIL SERVICES
Domestic Lettermail Overview of Changes
Domestic Lettermail Price Change
In June 2000, the Government of Canada approved a Price-Cap Formula for the regulated domestic basic letter rate, which is the standard domestic letter price available to the general public for standard mail weighing up to 30g. Under these current Letter Mail Regulations, increases in the domestic basic letter rate have been restricted by a price-cap formula that limits increases to two-thirds the rate of inflation as reflected by the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The CPI has increased 14.5 per cent since 2002, while the price of a basic stamp has gone up only 8.3 per cent or 4 cents. This does not adequately reflect Canada Post’s costs in operating the postal service - in particular rising costs for labour, fuel and transportation.
In response to rising cost pressures, Canada Post is proposing an amendment to the Letter Mail Regulations to establish the rates of postage for domestic Lettermail for the next three years. The domestic Lettermail rate would increase from 52 to 54 cents in January 2009. The rate would rise by two cents per year in the following two years. Even after these rate increases, Canada will continue to enjoy the 3rd lowest rate of postage in the developed world.
For details on all 2009 Lettermail prices including price changes to Oversize Lettermail and the new Irregular Oversize refer to the 2009 Lettermail Price Sheet for details.
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New "Irregular Oversize" Specification and Price for Lettermail
In order to facilitate mail processing and ensure that our customers continue to receive the highest level of service, Canada Post is proposing to revise the specifications for Oversize (O/S) Lettermail. The proposed new specifications will apply to Lettermail items that are thick and rigid, or thick and have box-like edges as these types of items require additional efforts during the sortation and delivery processes.
Effective January 12, 2009, items that are thick and rigid, or that are thick and have box-like edges, will be defined as "Irregular O/S" Lettermail. “Irregular O/S” Lettermail and “Regular O/S” Lettermail items must be containerized separately.
“Regular Oversize" Lettermail items will include:
- Items that are between 0.18 mm and 10 mm thick, regardless of flexibility; and
- Items that are between 10 mm and 20 mm thick that meet the new flexibility requirement and do not have box-like edges
In order to meet the flexibility specification for “Regular O/S" Lettermail, an item’s short edge must be able to bend around a curve with a radius of 140 mm without being damaged. Items that are thick and rigid and cannot bend, or items that cannot touch all points along the curve, will be defined as "Irregular O/S" Lettermail.
"Irregular Oversize" Lettermail items will include:
- Items that are between 10 mm and 20 mm thick that do not meet the new flexibility requirement and/or have box-like edges
Note that boxes—with or without hinges, gaps or breaks that allow the piece to bend—are not considered as being flexible.
Both “Regular O/S” and "Irregular O/S" Lettermail will retain all of the benefits and features of Lettermail, including Return to Sender and 2, 3, 4 day delivery (Local, Provincial, National) service standards.
Test for Flexibility
Check to make sure that the thickness of a Lettermail piece is between 10 mm and 20 mm. Then to test for flexibility, apply either Test A or Test B. Test A is the most reliable test to determine the flexibility of a mail item.
Test A
Using the new plastic template with the 140 mm radius curve (available to Post Office employees in December 2008) bend the item around the curve along the length of the item so that it touches all points along the curve without excessive force applied. If the item does not bend along the curve it fails to meet the flexibility criteria.
Test B
Use the Table Flex Test. Note that this test is provided for illustration purposes only.
| Step 1: |
Place your mail item flat on a table, with the long edge of the item parallel to the table’s edge. |
| Step 2: |
Extend the mail item halfway off the edge of the surface, so that one half of the short edge is flat on the table and the other half is off the table. Hold the half of the item that is still on the table flat with one hand. |
| Step 3: |
With your other hand, press down on the item slightly at a point approximately 2.5 cm from the long edge of the item that is off the table. |
| Step 4: |
If you can push the edge approximately 2.5 cm down without lifting up the half that is flush with the flat surface—and without damaging the item—it will likely qualify as “Regular O/S" Lettermail. If the item cannot bend 2.5 cm towards the floor without lifting up the other edge, or without damaging the item, it will likely not meet the flexibility requirement, and would be defined as "Irregular O/S" Lettermail. |
In addition to the introduction of these specification changes, Canada Post has proposed new price points for "Irregular O/S" Lettermail that bring the price of the service in line with the higher cost incurred to process and deliver these thick and rigid Oversize items that cannot be efficiently processed mechanically.
Irregular Oversize Lettermail items are not eligible for Incentive Lettermail prices.
The table below outlines the proposed specifications and pricing for “Regular O/S" Lettermail and "Irregular O/S" Lettermail.
| Definition |
Oversize Lettermail items that:
- are between 0.18 mm and 20 mm thick
|
Oversize Lettermail items that:
- are between 0.18 mm and 10 mm thick; or
- are between 10 mm and 20 mm thick that are flexible and
- do not have box-like edges
|
Oversize Lettermail items that:
- are between 10 mm and 20 mm thick that are rigid and/or have box-like edges
|
| Full Rate Pricing |
|
|
|
| Up to 100 g |
$1.15 |
$1.18 |
$2.36 |
| Over 100 g up to 200 g |
$1.92 |
$1.96 |
$3.92 |
| Over 200 g up to 500 g |
$2.65 |
$2.75 |
$5.50 |
| Incentive Rate Pricing |
|
|
|
| Up to 100 g |
$1.13 |
$1.16 |
N/A (no incentive rate offered) |
| Over 100 g up to 500 g |
$1.13 + $0.0036 per g
over 100 g |
$1.16 + $0.0038 per g over
100 g |
N/A (no incentive rate offered) |
As of January 12, 2009, items deposited as O/S Lettermail that are not priced accordingly will be treated in accordance with our short-paid policy.
Maximum dimensions and weights for Oversize Lettermail:
Maximum length: 380 mm
Maximum height (width): 270 mm
Maximum thickness: 20 mm
Maximum weight: 500 g
Items that exceed the maximum allowance for any of the above specifications must be sent as a parcel.
Shipping options
Depending on the item being sent and your shipping requirements, there are multiple domestic shipping options to choose from.
| Full Rate Pricing |
$1.18 – $2.75 |
$2.36 – $5.50 |
From $6.05 |
From $6.75 |
From $13.47 |
Service Delivery Standard
L = Local
R = Regional
P = Provincial
N = National |
L: 2 days
P: 3 days
N: 4 days |
L: 2 days
P: 3 days
N: 4 days |
L: 1 day
R: 1-3 days
N: 2-7 days |
L: Next day
R: Next day
N: 2 days |
L: Next AM
R: Next AM
N: Next AM to 2 days |
| Return to Sender |
Included |
Included |
$ |
$ |
$ |
| Tracking |
No |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Signature on Delivery |
No |
No |
$ |
$ |
Yes |
Recommended packaging and shipping practices
Canada Post has a variety of shipping options and features for different items and customer needs. To help our customers choose the most appropriate and lowest cost shipping option, Canada Post has compiled some recommended packaging and shipping practices.
Tip # 1: Send media discs in slim CD or DVD jewel cases
Today, if you use the Oversize Lettermail service to send a media disc—such as a CD, a DVD or a video game disc—in a standard CD or DVD case you would pay $1.15 to mail an item within Canada.
Beginning in January 2009, media discs packaged in older, thicker CD and DVD cases will likely be defined as Irregular Oversize Lettermail, with the applicable postage of $2.36 (assuming the item is less than 100 g). However, if you send the disc in a slim CD or DVD jewel case, or the disc by itself with no case in a sturdy envelope, the item would most likely be less than 10 mm thick and would be defined as “regular” Oversize Lettermail. In 2009, this would only cost you $1.18 in postage, a three-cent increase (2.6%) over the 2008 price for “regular” Oversize Lettermail.
Other examples that may qualify for the "regular" Oversize Lettermail prices include:
- Slim DVD case (7 mm thick);
- Slim CD jewel case (5 mm thick);
- Any item less than 10 mm thick, regardless of its flexibility; or
- Any item up to 20 mm thick that is flexible and does not have a box-like edge.
Tip # 2: Remove all unnecessary thick or rigid packaging
By removing all unnecessary packaging from the item being sent, you will:
- Reduce the thickness, which makes it more likely to be defined as “regular” Oversize Lettermail; and
- Reduce the item’s weight, which could drop the item into a lower weight band and price bracket.
As well, removing unnecessary rigid packaging will make the item more flexible, and more likely to be defined as “regular” Oversize Lettermail.
This could save you up to $2.75 in shipping costs per item.
Tip # 3: Limit the use of bubble wrap to fragile items
If the item you’re sending isn’t fragile and doesn’t need the added protection of bubble-wrap, consider sending it in a standard envelope. The thickness of the packaging can add significantly to the bulk—and the shipping costs—of an item.
Tip # 4: Work with your item’s flexibility
Oversize Lettermail items between 10 mm and 20 mm thick need only be flexible along the short edge of the envelope. Some items, such as soft cover books, are flexible along the base, but not along their spine. By ensuring that you package these items so that their flexible edge is in line with the short edge of the envelope, your item is more likely to meet the flexibility requirement and be defined as “regular” Oversize Lettermail.
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Introduction to Lettermail Advisor
In January 2009 Canada Post will introduce the Lettermail Advisor an interactive online tool that will help customers design a Lettermail piece and illustrate best practices. This user friendly online resource centre will have built-in rules and guidelines to help create great looking Lettermail envelopes and cards while ensuring items are compliant with current Lettermail specifications. The tool will also provide the opportunity to learn more about each element of a mail item.
Lettermail Advisor will be available from the Canada Post website. Customers will choose the type, the size of a mail piece and various mail piece elements, then based on the information provided the tool will produce a mock-up of the piece showing the boundaries of various mail piece elements (such as an address block area and an area for advertising) scaled to the appropriate size. The end result will be a mock-up of the envelope or card that customers can be used as a reference when creating the actual piece.
Watch for the Lettermail Advisor at this location in January 2009!
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Registered Mail Price Changes
Effective January 12, 2009, Registered Mail will increase by 0.25 cents (3.4% increase), from $7.25 to $7.50.
Registered Mail Solution Reminder for Large Volume Mailers
Customers asked for a simpler, automated process that would be more efficient for large volume users of Registered Mail. On May 1, 2008, we introduced a new option to allow for the printing of the domestic Registered Mail artwork elements and bar code directly on an envelope or on a notice/letter to show through the envelope window. This automated option puts an end to the long and tedious process of peeling and sticking labels on each mail item, while maintaining all the benefits of Registered Mail. Please note that peel and stick labels continue to be available.
Click here for step by step instructions on how to implement this option
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USA and International Letter-post Overview of Changes
Proposed price changes effective January 12, 2009:
| Standard up to 30 g |
$0.98 |
| Standard over 30 g up to 50 g |
$1.18 |
| Oversize up to 100 g |
$1.96 |
| Oversize over 100 g up to 200 g |
$3.40 |
| Oversize over 200 g up to 500 g |
$6.80 |
| Standard up to 30 g |
$1.65 |
| Standard over 30 g up to 50 g |
$2.36 |
| Oversize up to 100 g |
$3.90 |
| Oversize over 100 g up to 200 g |
$6.80 |
| Oversize over 200 g up to 500 g |
$13.60 |
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Incentive Lettermail Overview of Changes
Incentive Lettermail Price Changes
There will be price increases to Incentive Lettermail effective January 12, 2009. For details refer to the 2009 Incentive Lettermail Price Sheet.
The 2009 Incentive Lettermail Customer Guide will be posted here by November 10, 2008.
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Allowing Partial Mailings for Incentive Lettermail
Partial mailings are currently permitted for Addressed Admail and Publications Mail whereby customers can induct parts of a single Order over the course of several days. During recent consultations, Lettermail customers also ranked this option highly in terms of providing them with the most benefit and the most positive impact. As a result, effective January 12, 2009, partial mailings will be permitted for Incentive Lettermail.
To align with Addressed Admail and Publications Mail, the Electronic Shipping Tools (EST) will be updated to accommodate partial mailings for Incentive Lettermail as follows:
(1) Downstream mailings option in EST will not be allowed for Incentive Lettermail.
(2) Full Mailings are defined as a single deposit.
(3) Partial Mailings, Details Known enables more accurate identification of inducted volume.
(4) Partial Mailings, Details Unknown is used primarily when customers cannot accurately estimate the volume of each deposit.
Also:
- Customers will be able to print additional copies of that Order through the “Copy/Reprint” functionality.
- Each deposit copy of the Order will be designated as a “Partial Shipment”.
- The overall total dollar value of the entire Order will be printed on EVERY deposit copy of the Order.
Incentive Lettermail Requirements when the "Partial Mailing" optionis selected
- All deposits must be made within seven (7) calendar days. Any partial deposit that does not meet the 7-day window will require a new Order.
- The entire Order (total mailing volume and cost) will be invoiced upon induction of the first partial mailing.
- If issues are noted with the mailing upon induction, the current process for contacting customers will be followed. Any adjustments to a partial Order will be applied after the 7-day deposit window date has passed. As a result, based on the date of deposit of the first partial mailing, the adjustment may be on a different billing cycle than the initial total Order invoice.
- Each individual partial deposit of an Order must be made at the same deposit location and accompanied by a copy of the Order.
- Customers will not be able to mix Incentive Lettermail with full-rate Lettermail or full-rate Letter-post on the same Order.
- Customers will be able to mix Machineable Mail and Presort Mail on the same Order.
- When creating an Order, each partial mailing, as well as each individual deposit (with the exception of the last deposit) must meet the minimum volume deposit requirements of 500 items for Presort Mail and 5,000 items for Machineable Mail. A warning message will display at the time of Order creation to remind customers about the minimum deposit requirement and the 7 calendar day deposit window.
Note
Phantom adjustments and the best value option in EST do not apply to partial mailings (refer to the section directly below Phantom Adjustment / Best Value for details).
The 2009 Incentive Lettermail Customer Guide reflecting this change will be posted here by November 10, 2008.
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Phantom Adjustment / Best Value Option for Incentive Lettermail
(effective August 4, 2008)
Currently, when customers create an Incentive Lettermail Order within Electronic Shipping Tools (EST) they must meet the minimum volume requirements otherwise a phantom adjustment applies. The phantom adjustment is the price of the applicable postage applied to the difference between the minimum required volumes and the declared volumes. Phantom adjustments are automatically made in EST and can been seen by customers through the Order preview option prior to finalizing an Order. However, at a certain volume it is more beneficial for a customer to declare a mailing at the full rate rather than declare the items at the incentive rate with a phantom adjustment.
In order to address this situation and eliminate the need for customers to recalculate the best price by considering an alternative, there will be new functionality in EST (Desktop and Online versions) effective August 4, 2008 which will identify situations where paying full rate for a mailing may be more economical and will advise the customer on the best value option.
The phantom / best value functionality will apply to Incentive Lettermail Full Mailings only (not Partial Mailings).
As customers create their Incentive Lettermail Order, EST will display a warning message when it is more economical for a customer to declare the mailing at the full rate. The warning will recommend the best value option (basic rate). If a customer agrees with the proposed option by clicking “OK”, EST will automatically convert the volumes to the best value option. A customer can choose not to proceed with the best value option by clicking on “Cancel”.
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Use of Metal Strapping on Pallets for Incentive Lettermail
Effective immediately, use of metal strapping on all pallets is no longer permitted due to the safety hazards they represent to our customers and employees. The Mail Preparation and Presortation Guides (canadapost.ca/postalservices) have been updated accordingly and non-compliant mailings will be surcharged or refused beginning January 12, 2009.
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New Wooden Pallet Specifications for all Mail on Pallets
Canada Post is introducing new specifications for wooden pallets that will help ensure a safer workplace for our employees, reduce damage to mail and ensure that pallets are compatible with material handling equipment used at our processing and delivery installations.
We recommend that you convert to compliant wooden pallets as soon as possible. Effective January 12, 2009, wooden pallets that do not meet the new specifications will be subject to a surcharge or refused for mailing.
The new wooden pallet specifications include:
- if using wooden pallets, only the block design is acceptable (see diagram below)
- must allow four-way entry by a Canada Post forklift and two-way entry by a Canada Post pallet hand jack (to handle pallet with no bottom deck board obstruction)
- pallets don’t have critical defects, i.e. exposed nails, significant splits, missing wood, decay and damaged/ jagged members
- top surface of the pallet required to be flat and stable to enable the mail to be safely loaded/unloaded without tipping or sliding
- pallets withstand temperatures of -40°C to 40°C and severe Canadian weather conditions such as rain, snow, ice and humidity
- openings for forks shall be: a minimum of 102 mm (4”) high on opposite sides of the pallet that do not have bottom deck boards; and a minimum of 89 mm (3.5”) for opposite sides that do have bottom deck boards
Diagram:
For more information on pallet use go to canadapost.ca/postalservices select Mail Preparation and Presortation Guides and click on the Brick-Piling Guide.
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Introduction to Lettermail Advisor
In January 2009 Canada Post will introduce the Lettermail Advisor an interactive online tool that will help customers design a Lettermail piece and illustrate best practices. This user friendly online resource centre will have built-in rules and guidelines to help create great looking Lettermail envelopes and cards while ensuring items are compliant with current Lettermail specifications. The tool will also provide the opportunity to learn more about each element of a mail item.
Lettermail Advisor will be available from the Canada Post’s web site. Customers will choose the type, the size of a mail piece and various mail piece elements, then based on the information provided the tool will produce a mock-up of the piece showing the boundaries of various mail piece elements (such as an address block area and an area for advertising) scaled to the appropriate size. The end result will be a mock-up of the envelope or card that customers can be used as a reference when creating the actual piece.
Watch for the Lettermail Advisor at this location in January 2009!
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Do-It-Yourself Checklist
The Do-it-Yourself Checklist to Avoid Common Errors is a great reference tool customers can use as a guide on mail preparation. The Checklist itemizes the most frequently encountered domestic and international mailing issues and provides references where customers can obtain further information for proper mail preparation.
Click here to access the Do-it-Yourself Checklist to Avoid Common Errors.
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Note Other Upcoming Incentive Lettermail Customer Guide Changes
Section 2.2.1 Addressing:
Clarification of “return address” rules to speak to issues with commingling.
Section 3.2.1 Machineable Mail
Note the NEW address to submit Machineable Mail items for testing:
CANADA POST
MAIL STANDARDS AND TESTING
ENGINEERING AND MAINTENANCE
2701 RIVERSIDE DR SUITE N0625
OTTAWA ON K1A 0B1
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DIRECT MARKETING SERVICES
Addressed Admail Overview of Changes
There will be price increases to Addressed Admail effective January 12, 2009. For details refer to the 2009 Addressed Admail Price Sheet.
Please Note: Effective January 12, 2009 the Addressed Admail S/L Machineable Mail "up to 50 g" weight band will be split into two weight bands - Up to 30 g and Over 30g up to 50g. The "up to 30 g" category will be priced at $0.38 per item, $0.01 lower than the current price for an item of that weight.
The 2009 Addressed Admail Customer Guide will be posted here by November 10, 2008.
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Addressed Admail Scoops up Catalogue Mail
Catalogue items are currently accepted in various product lines, such as Catalogue Mail, Addressed Admail, Parcels, Publications Mail (certain conditions apply), and Lettermail. The Catalogue Mail product is defined as printed matter of bound or sewn pages that are specifically designed to sell or promote products or services. Examples of acceptable items include promotional catalogues, lists of products, directories and university calendars, to name a few. Catalogues weighing more than 500 g up to 22.7 kg are considered a Catalogue Mail item. Additionally, in order to qualify for Catalogue Mail, customers must have a minimum deposit of 2,500 items (NDG sortation option only).
We understand there is customer confusion owing to overlapping specifications and requirements when customers are deciding on a service for their mailing. We are addressing the issue and simplifying our product offering by discontinuing the Catalogue Mail service effective January 12, 2009. As we are expanding the specifications of the Addressed Admail service to accommodate the broader “catalogue” requirements, many Catalogue Mail customers will simply be able to use their Addressed Admail Agreement for catalogue items weighing less than 1.36 kg.
The following changes will be made to the Addressed Admail specifications:
- Increase in the Oversize maximum weight allowable for Letter Carrier Presort (LCP) and NDG categories from 500 g up to 1.36 kg (in two weight bands – 500 g to 750 g and 750 g to 1.36 kg);
- Increase in the Oversize maximum size allowance for LCP and NDG categories from 380 mm x 270 mm x 20 mm to 380 mm x 270 mm x 35 mm;
- Include the ability to send samples with catalogues weighing over 500 g;
- Include the Repositionable Notes (RPNs) option for catalogues.
Considerations:
- The current Addressed Admail minimum bundle requirement of 8 items per grouping is applicable to the new sizes (versus 4 items per grouping for the current Catalogue Mail service).
- Customers transitioning to Addressed Admail will require a minimum of 1,000 items only, versus the minimum deposit of 2,500 items required for Catalogue Mail.
- Letter Carrier Presort (LCP) is an Addressed Admail preparation option, whereas NDG is the only option for the current Catalogue Mail. The heavier catalogue items between 500 g and 1.36 kg will now be able to be sent as LCP, if desired.
- There is no impact on Dimensional Addressed Admail.
Determining factors as to whether a catalogue item is declared as Addressed Admail include content and weight. To be accepted as Addressed Admail, the items must meet the Addressed Admail definition, i.e. promoting the sale or use of a product or service, soliciting donations or contributions, or reporting on financial performance, primarily for promotional purposes. Currently, to qualify as Addressed Admail, catalogues must also weigh less than 500 grams and the mailing requires a minimum deposit of 1,000 items (NDG or LCP sortation options).
For items that are not applicable due to content, other services are available such as Lettermail and Publications Mail (certain conditions apply). The following chart illustrates possible options available for items weighing less than 1.36 kg that will not meet Addressed Admail content requirements on January 12, 2009:
| |
| Directories* |
Catalogue Mail |
|
|
| Professional Handbooks |
Catalogue Mail |
|
|
| University Calendars** |
Catalogue Mail |
- Lettermail
- Publications Mail
- Parcels
|
- Publications Mail (up to 1.36 kg)
- Parcels
|
| List of products |
Catalogue Mail |
- Lettermail
- Publications Mail
- Parcels
|
- Publications Mail (up to 1.36 kg)
- Parcels
|
*Categorical directories, are considered promotional and are acceptable as Addressed Admail (as opposed to alphabetical listings which would not qualify).
**College/university calendars sent to registered students are considered fulfilment and therefore not acceptable as Addressed Admail. Promotional calendars sent to non-students are acceptable as Addressed Admail.
Effective January 12, 2009, catalogue items that weigh more than 1.36 kg will need to be shipped as Parcels. Since Parcel shipments have different packaging requirements, need separate Orders and use a specific weight and destination price structure, we recommend that customers consult the Parcel Services Customer Guide for additional information.
Customers with a Catalogue Mail Agreement will be contacted in the coming months to discuss the best alternative based on the customer's mailing needs.
Software Evaluation and Recognition Program (SERP) will be adapted to allow for the heavier weight categories in Addressed Admail. As updates will be made to SERP software to accommodate this change, it will be important that customers ensure they are using the correct version of the software for mailings as of January 12, 2009.
The 2009 Addressed Admail Price Sheet reflects the new weight bands.
The Addressed Admail Customer Guide, Mail Preparation and Presortation Guides and the Postal Standards will be updated throughout to accommodate this change. The new Customer Guides and an overview of changes identifying the changes to the Mail Preparation and Presortation Guides and the Postal Standards will be posted here by November 10, 2008.
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Change to Legal Notification Period for Addressed Admail
Effective January 12, 2009, the notification period for Addressed Admail will change from 180 calendar days to 30 calendar days to align the notification period with all other Canada Post services. The Addressed Admail Customer Guide Terms and Conditions will be updated to reflect this change.
The 2009 Addressed Admail Customer Guide reflecting this change will be posted here by November 10, 2008.
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Machineable Mail Readability Rate Increase for Addressed Admail
To qualify for the Machineable Mail price, mailings must achieve the required read rates. Machineable Mail read rates provide a readability percentage based on various elements such as ink clarity, envelope window clarity, size, colour, font, and luminescence. Machineable Mail readability does not validate the address – it provides a read rate based on the ability to read the address.
To improve the quality of Machineable Mail, we are increasing the readability rate targets for Machineable Addressed Admail and Machineable Publications Mail to align with the minimum target rates of Incentive Lettermail. For S/L and O/S Machineable Addressed Admail and Publications Mail, the required readability rates will increase from 90% to 95% and 80% to 85% respectively.
Customers can refer to the Postal Standards for more information at canadapost.ca/postalstandards
If customers wish to determine their mailing's machineability read rate, they should send a 200-piece sampling of their S/L or O/S mail to the following address as specified in the Customer Guide(s) in the section on Machine Readability Requirements and Evaluation Sample Note the NEW address:
CANADA POST
MAIL STANDARDS AND TESTING
ENGINEERING AND MAINTENANCE
2701 RIVERSIDE DR SUITE N0625
OTTAWA ON K1A 0B1
Results will be sent via email to the customer's designated Canada Post representative, usually within five (5) business days after receipt of the samples.
Pricing adjustments for mailings that fail to meet the read rates will be applied as follows:
| …greater than 95% for S/L and greater than 85% for O/S |
…no price adjustment. |
| ….less than 95% for S/L and less than 85% for O/S |
…a $0.10 per item price adjustment will apply to the difference (95% or 85% less the actual read rate). |
* as measured by our automated equipment
The following is an example of a 100,000 piece mailing of Standard (S/L) items based on the new read rate targets:
- Actual readability rate is 80%
- Target readability rate is 95% (formerly 90%)
- The difference between target and actual = 95% - 80% = 15%
- 15% of total mailing (100,000 items) = 15,000 items
- 15,000 items at a surcharge of $0.10 per item = $1,500 surcharge
The Addressed Admail Customer Guide and the Postal Standards will be updated to accommodate this change. The revised Customer Guide and an overview of changes identifying the revisions to Postal Standards will be posted here by November 10, 2008.
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Reduction in Minimum Pallet Height for Brick-piled Addressed Admail
Effective immediately, Addressed Admail customers are no longer required to obtain approval to reduce the minimum brick-piling height from 500 mm to 150 mm for Local pallets and 300 mm for Forward pallets.
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Use of Metal Strapping on Pallets for Addressed Admail
Effective immediately, use of metal strapping on all pallets is no longer permitted due to the safety hazards they represent to our customers and employees. The Mail Preparation and Presortation Guides (canadapost.ca/postalservices) have been updated accordingly and non-compliant mailings will be surcharged or refused beginning January 12, 2009.
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Reusable Plastic Pallets for Addressed Admail
Effective immediately, the offer of safe, reusable plastic pallets is now open to qualifying Addressed Admail customers who mail brick-piled O/S LCP or NDG Addressed Admail items. Customers who wish to use the Canada Post reusable plastic pallets must have an Agreement with Canada Post for a mail service, and will be required to sign a Memorandum of Agreement. Further, mail must be brick-piled as per the brick-piling specifications outlined in the Mail Preparation and Presortation Guide. The minimum number of pallets that can be ordered at a time is forty (40) (previously 200) for a nominal fee of $2.00 per pallet per use.
The reusable plastic pallets help address safety issues more commonly found with wooden pallets and are environmentally friendly. For more information, please contact our Commercial Service Network at 1.866.757.5480.
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New Wooden Pallet Specifications for all Mail on Pallets
Canada Post is introducing new specifications for wooden pallets that will help ensure a safer workplace for our employees, reduce damage to mail and ensure that pallets are compatible with material handling equipment used at our processing and delivery installations.
We recommend that you convert to compliant wooden pallets as soon as possible. Effective January 12, 2009, wooden pallets that do not meet the new specifications will be subject to a surcharge or refused for mailing. Reusable plastic pallets, noted directly above, may also be an alternative solution.
The new wooden pallet specifications include:
- if using wooden pallets, only the block design is acceptable (see diagram below)
- must allow four-way entry by a Canada Post forklift and two-way entry by a Canada Post pallet hand jack (to handle pallet with no bottom deck board obstruction)
- pallets don’t have critical defects, i.e. exposed nails, significant splits, missing wood, decay and damaged/ jagged members
- top surface of the pallet required to be flat and stable to enable the mail to be safely loaded/unloaded without tipping or sliding
- pallets withstand temperatures of -40°C to 40°C and severe Canadian weather conditions such as rain, snow, ice and humidity
- openings for forks shall be: a minimum of 102 mm (4”) high on opposite sides of the pallet that do not have bottom deck boards; and a minimum of 89 mm (3.5”) for opposite sides that do have bottom deck boards
Diagram:
For more information on pallet use go to canadapost.ca/postalservices select Mail Preparation and Presortation Guides and click on the Brick-Piling Guide.
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Optical Endorsement Line Option for Addressed Admail
Currently, Addressed Admail Letter Carrier Presort (LCP) mailings require that customers print and manually apply a label to identify each bundle (grouping) of Distribution Consolidation Facility (DCF), Forward Consolidation Point (FCP) and Residue mail.
As an alternative to this requirement, a more customer friendly option will be available January 12, 2009. The Optical Endorsement Line (OEL) will be generated by Software Evaluation Recognition Program (SERP) whereby the DCF, FCP and Residue bundle information will be printed directly on to the mail item or address label as the top line of the address block.
Follows are examples of address labels generated by SERP including the required DCF, FCP and Residue grouping details.
| K0A 9Z0 OTTAWA ON DCF |
| C. SMITH XX15(C) |
| 362 KELLY LANE |
| CUMBERLAND ON K4C 1A7 |
| K0A 9Z0 OTTAWA ON FWD |
| T. CHARLES XX5 (C) |
| 423 SARAH STREET |
| HAWKESBURY ON K6A 2A5 |
| OTTAWA ON FWD RESIDUE |
| T. CHARLES XX5 (C) |
| 123 MAIN STREET |
| CORNWALL ON K6H 5E4 |
This new option will save costs and improve accuracy for our customer's mail preparation process.
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Sexually Explicit Material (effective June 12, 2008)
The Government of Canada has approved an amendment to the Non-mailable Matter Regulations providing a definition of sexually explicit material and applicable requirements when such items are mailed as Addressed Admail or Unaddressed Admail.
The Non-mailable Matter Regulations, made under section 19 of the Canada Post Corporation Act, set out a list of items that Canada Post considers unacceptable for mailing purposes and provide for the process of disposing of such items.
The regulatory amendment to the Non-mailable Matter Regulations provides a definition of sexually explicit material, as agreed to by the Federal Court in a recent ruling on the mailing of such material:
"Sexually explicit material" means images or representations of nudity that are suggestive of sexual activity; images or representations of sexual intercourse, with no suggestion of violence or degradation; or written text that describes sexual acts in a way that is more than purely technical, with no suggestion of violence or degradation.
The regulatory amendment specifies that such material is non-mailable as Addressed or Unaddressed Admail unless it is enclosed in an opaque envelope that is clearly marked as containing adult material. Sexually explicit material will also not be permitted on the outside of an envelope.
The amendment, effective June 12, 2008 is reflected in the updated Canada Postal Guide and Section 2.1.4 Non-Mailable Matter of the Addressed Admail Customer Guide and the Unaddressed Admail Customer Guide.
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Do-It-Yourself Checklist
The Do-it-Yourself Checklist to Avoid Common Errors is a great reference tool customers can use as a guide on mail preparation. The Checklist itemizes the most frequently encountered domestic and international mailing issues and provides references where customers can obtain further information for proper mail preparation.
Click here to access the Do-it-Yourself Checklist to Avoid Common Errors.
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Recent Amendment to Addressed Admail Customer Guide
An Amendment to the Addressed Admail Customer Guide, posted June 12, 2008 provides for scented items if produced using micro-encapsulated scent infused ink/lacquers.
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Note Other Upcoming Addressed Admail Customer Guide Changes
Section 3.2.1 Machineable Mail:
Note NEW address to submit Machineable Mail items for testing:
CANADA POST
MAIL STANDARDS AND TESTING
ENGINEERING AND MAINTENANCE
2701 RIVERSIDE DR SUITE N0625
OTTAWA ON K1A 0B1
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AdCardTM for Addressed Admail and Unaddressed Admail
The AdCard maximum size is being reduced from 139.7 mm x 215.9 mm (5 1/2” x 8 1/2”) to 136.5 mm x 212.7 mm (5 3/8” x 8 3/8”). This slight reduction in size will allow use of full pages during production, eliminating the excess paper edges that need to be cut off and disposed of. This small change means a more efficient production process and reduced paper waste.
In June 2008, Canada Post introduced Scented AdCard™ – bringing a new sensory dimension to our one-stop solution for direct mail campaigns (Unaddressed Admail and LCP Addressed Admail)! Scented direct mail is one of five senses utilized in sensory marketing to evoke an emotional response and contribute to the success of a campaign.
Scented AdCard is produced using a leading edge micro-encapsulation technique to infuse scented oils into ink and lacquer, which is then printed directly on the Scented AdCard as part of the printing and production process. Fragrances are dormant until the specified area is rubbed, eliminating the risk of scents being released during the production and delivery process. These new inks and lacquers do not need to be sealed provided the scented patch complies with Canada Post requirements.
Use Scented AdCard to:
- Increase brand awareness
- Make marketing messages stand out from the crowd
- Create immediate emotional response and impact consumer recall as a result of the sensory impressions
For a selection of fragrances and additional information on Scented AdCard, visit canadapost.ca/scentedadcard
An Amendment to the Addressed Admail Customer Guide and the Unaddressed Admail Customer Guide, posted June 12, 2008 reflects the ability to mail scented items if they are produced using micro-encapsulated scent infused ink/lacquers.
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Business Reply Mail / International Business Reply Mail Overview of Changes
There will be price increases to Business Reply Mail and International Business Reply Mail effective January 12, 2009. For details refer to the 2009 Business Reply Mail Price Sheet.
The 2009 Business Reply Mail Customer Guide will be posted here by November 10, 2008.
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We understand there is customer confusion regarding which Canada Post service to use when mailing catalogues. To help address this issue, Canada Post is simplifying its product offering by discontinuing the Catalogue Mail service effective January 12, 2009. Changes will be made to the Addressed Admail agreement to include items previously covered by the Catalogue Mail agreement. This will enable many customers to simply use their Addressed Admail agreement to mail items previously sent using their Catalogue Mail agreement. Current Catalogue Mail agreement customers will be contacted to assist in transitioning to other alternative mail services.
For details refer to the section above on Addressed Admail Scoops up Catalogue Mail.
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There will be price increases to Publications Mail effective January 12, 2009. For details refer to the 2009 Publications Mail Price Sheet.
The 2009 Publications Mail Customer Guide will be posted here by November 10, 2008.
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Implementation of Letter Carrier Presort (LCP) Distance-Based Pricing
In 2008 a distance-based (Local, Regional, National) structure was introduced for Letter Carrier Presort (LCP) mailings with no price differentiation as agreed between Canada Post and the publishing industry.
Introduction of the new pricing structure without price differentiation has allowed customers time to assess their Local, Regional and National mix in preparation for the 2009 distance-based price implementation. Refer to the 2009 Publications Mail Price Sheet for price details and note that there will be no base price increase to Local mailings on January 12, 2009.
The new pricing structure is based on weight, the presortation level and the Local, Regional or National origin-destination as embedded in the SERP software.
LCP distance-based designations:
Local
The Local price applies to mail deposited at an approved postal facility for delivery within the same city or town, with some exceptions*.
Regional
The Regional price applies to mail deposited at any approved postal facility for delivery within the same province, with some exceptions*.
National
The National price applies to mail deposited at any approved postal facility for delivery anywhere in Canada that does not qualify as Local or Regional.
Residue
Residue items are considered National for pricing purposes.
Phantom charges
Phantom charges will be based on the Local "Delivery Mode Direct” up to 200 g base price.
*Exceptions to these Local and Regional designations (e.g., Atlantic provinces are all Regional to each other) have been programmed into the SERP software. A listing is available at canadapost.ca/pmsupportdocuments
Please note that if the deposit location declared on the Order differs from the actual deposit location, the National prices will apply.
To ensure the accuracy of Local, Regional and National designations, the deposit location postal code must match the "outlet name" postal code in EST. A list of major deposit location postal codes is available at canadapost.ca/pmsupportdocuments
The distance-based structure requirement means a more detailed breakdown on Electronic Shipping Tools (EST) Orders. Therefore Orders printed via EST beginning January 2009 will no longer be restricted to a single page but may be made up of multiple pages.
If customers choose to deposit at more than one location, they can obtain instructions on downstream entry online at canadapost.ca/obc by selecting EST Help Centre and User Guides. From that page, customers can go to Online Entry under Online Order and select Communications Services or click on Publications Mail Service under Desktop Order.
The minimum volume continues to be 1,000 items per Order. All LCP items on an Order are combined to calculate the total volume of the Order, including those in downstream or partial mailings.
There is no change to manual Orders which only apply to NDG Presort National prices.
The 2009 Publications Mail Price Sheet has been updated to reflect all the price changes including the distinct price points denoting Local, Regional or National categories for LCP.
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Change to Legal Notification Period for Publications Mail
Effective January 12, 2009, the notification period for Publications Mail will change from 60 calendar days to 30 calendar days to align the notification period with all other Canada Post services. The Publications Mail Customer Guide Terms and Conditions will be updated to reflect this change.
The 2009 Publications Mail Customer Guide reflecting this change will be posted here by November 10, 2008.
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Changes in Canada Post's Participation in the Publications Assistance Program (PAP) (effective March 31, 2009)
The Publications Assistance Program (PAP) which is administered by the Department of Canadian Heritage (DCH) will undergo changes. Canada Post will continue to maintain the billing services for PAP on behalf of DCH for a transition period after Canada Post ceases to contribute to the PAP fund effective March 31, 2009.
Customers will be communicated details on this subject by DCH directly. Canada Post will continue to work with the DCH to ensure an effective transition.
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Machineable Mail Readability Rate Increase for Publications Mail
To qualify for the Machineable Mail price, mailings must achieve the required read rates. Machineable Mail read rates provide a readability percentage based on various elements such as ink clarity, envelope window clarity, size, colour, font, and luminescence. Machineable Mail readability does not validate the address – it provides a read rate based on the ability to read the address.
To improve the quality of Machineable Mail, we are increasing the readability rate targets for Machineable Addressed Admail and Machineable Publications Mail to align with the minimum target rates of Incentive Lettermail. For S/L and O/S Machineable Addressed Admail and Publications Mail, the required readability rates will increase from 90% to 95% and 80% to 85% respectively.
Customers can refer to the Postal Standards for more information at canadapost.ca/postalstandards If customers wish to determine their mailing's machineability read rate, they should send a 200-piece sampling of their S/L or O/S mail to the following address as specified in the Customer Guide(s) in the section on Machine Readability Requirements and Evaluation Sample Note the NEW address:
CANADA POST
MAIL STANDARDS AND TESTING
ENGINEERING AND MAINTENANCE
2701 RIVERSIDE DR SUITE N0625
OTTAWA ON K1A 0B1
Results will be sent via email to the customer's designated Canada Post representative, usually within five (5) business days after receipt of the samples.
Pricing adjustments for mailings that fail to meet the read rates will be applied as follows:
| …greater than 95% for S/L and greater than 85% for O/S |
…no price adjustment. |
| ….less than 95% for S/L and less than 85% for O/S |
…a $0.10 per item price adjustment will apply to the difference (95% or 85% less the actual read rate). |
* as measured by our automated equipment
The following is an example of a 100,000 piece mailing of Standard (S/L) items based on the new read rate targets:
- Actual readability rate is 80%
- Target readability rate is 95% (formerly 90%)
- The difference between target and actual = 95% - 80% = 15%
- 15% of total mailing (100,000 items) = 15,000 items
- 15,000 items at a surcharge of $0.10 per item = $1,500 surcharge
The Publications Mail Customer Guide and the Postal Standards will be updated to accommodate this change. The revised Customer Guide and an overview of changes identifying the revisions to Postal Standards will be posted here by November 10, 2008.
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Reduction in Minimum Pallet Height for Brick-piled Publications Mail
Effective immediately, Publications Mail customers are no longer required to obtain approval to reduce the minimum brick-piling height from 500 mm to 150 mm for Local pallets and 300 mm for Forward pallets.
Use of Metal Strapping on Pallets for Publications Mail
Effective immediately, use of metal strapping on all pallets is no longer permitted due to the safety hazards they represent to our customers and employees. The Mail Preparation and Presortation Guides (canadapost.ca/postalservices) have been updated accordingly and non-compliant mailings will be surcharged or refused beginning January 12, 2009.
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Reusable Plastic Pallets for Publications Mail
Effective immediately, the offer of safe, reusable plastic pallets is open to qualifying brick-piled O/S LCP or NDG Publications Mail items. Customers who wish to use the Canada Post reusable plastic pallets must have an Agreement with Canada Post for a mail service, and will be required to sign a Memorandum of Agreement. Further, mail must be brick-piled as per the brick-piling specifications outlined in the Mail Preparation and Presortation Guide. The minimum number of pallets that can be ordered at a time is forty (40) (previously 200) for a nominal fee of $2.00 per pallet per use.
The reusable plastic pallets help address safety issues more commonly found with wooden pallets and are environmentally friendly. For more information, please contact our Commercial Service Network at 1.866.757.5480.
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New Wooden Pallet Specifications for all Mail on Pallets
Canada Post is introducing new specifications for wooden pallets that will help ensure a safer workplace for our employees, reduce damage to mail and ensure that pallets are compatible with material handling equipment used at our processing and delivery installations.
We recommend that you convert to compliant wooden pallets as soon as possible. Effective January 12, 2009, wooden pallets that do not meet the new specifications will be subject to a surcharge or refused for mailing. Reusable plastic pallets, noted above, may also be an alternative solution.
The new wooden pallet specifications include:
- if using wooden pallets, only the block design is acceptable (see diagram below)
- must allow four-way entry by a Canada Post forklift and two-way entry by a Canada Post pallet hand jack (to handle pallet with no bottom deck board obstruction)
- pallets don’t have critical defects, i.e. exposed nails, significant splits, missing wood, decay and damaged/ jagged members
- top surface of the pallet required to be flat and stable to enable the mail to be safely loaded/unloaded without tipping or sliding
- pallets withstand temperatures of -40°C to 40°C and severe Canadian weather conditions such as rain, snow, ice and humidity
- openings for forks shall be: a minimum of 102 mm (4”) high on opposite sides of the pallet that do not have bottom deck boards; and a minimum of 89 mm (3.5”) for opposite sides that do have bottom deck boards
Diagram:
For more information on pallet use go to canadapost.ca/postalservices select Mail Preparation and Presortation Guides and click on the Brick-Piling Guide.
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Optical Endorsement Line Option for Publications Mail
Currently, Publications Mail Letter Carrier Presort (LCP) mailings require that customers print and manually apply a label to identify each bundle (grouping) of Distribution Consolidation Facility (DCF), Forward Consolidation Point (FCP) and Residue mail.
As an alternative to this requirement a more customer friendly option will be available as of January 12, 2009. The Optical Endorsement Line (OEL) will be generated by Software Evaluation Recognition Program (SERP) whereby the DCF, FCP and Residue bundle information will be printed directly on to the mail item or address label as the top line of the address block.
Follows are examples of address labels generated by SERP including the required DCF, FCP and Residue grouping details.
K0A 9Z0 OTTAWA ON DCF |
C. SMITH XX15(C) |
362 KELLY LANE |
CUMBERLAND ON K4C 1A7 |
K0A 9Z0 OTTAWA ON FWD |
T. CHARLES XX5 (C) |
423 SARAH STREET |
HAWKESBURY ON K6A 2A5 |
| OTTAWA ON FWD RESIDUE |
| T. CHARLES XX5 (C) |
| 123 MAIN STREET |
| CORNWALL ON K6H 5E4 |
This new option will save costs and improve accuracy for our customer's mail preparation process.
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Proof of Payment Location Reminder for Publications Mail
Proof of Payment is the Basic Identifying Information that appears on the Publications Mail item or the Publications Mail indicia. The “Proof of Payment” for Publications Mail must appear on the outside of the Publications Mail item, preferably on or near the address label.
Refer to the Publications Mail Customer Guide, section 2.2.1.2 Basic Identifying Information for details.
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Do-It-Yourself Checklist
The Do-it-Yourself Checklist to Avoid Common Errors is a great reference tool customers can use as a guide on mail preparation. The Checklist itemizes the most frequently encountered domestic and international mailing issues and provides references where customers can obtain further information for proper mail preparation.
Click here to access the Do-it-Yourself Checklist to Avoid Common Errors.
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Undeliverable Publications Mail (uPM) Reminder
Our new automated process for undeliverable Publications Mail, introduced in January 2008, offers:
- Improved turn-around time in receiving the undeliverable Publications Mail addressing information
- Summary and detailed reports in electronic format
- Reports that are easily reconcilable against the respective invoice
If customers haven’t yet registered for the undeliverable Publications Mail automated process, they can still do so online at canadapost.ca/upmform. If customers are unable to register online, or if they want to update an already submitted email address(es), please contact our Credit Management Group at 1.800.267.7651.
Customers already using the automated process are to ensure they place the “key line” code above the recipient’s name on the Publications Mail label to ensure reporting accuracy.
Customers can continue to receive the hard copy undeliverable Publications Mail items to a Canadian address*. A processing fee of $1.00 ($1.05 as of January 12, 2009) plus applicable postage will be invoiced for each returned item.
*This option cannot be combined with the undeliverable Publications Mail electronic report option.
For additional information on the undeliverable Publications Mail automated process, consult the Frequently Asked Questions or call our Commercial Service Network at 1.866.757.5480.
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Unaddressed Admail Overview of Changes
There will be price increases to Unaddressed Admail effective January 12, 2009. For details refer to the 2009 Unaddressed Admail Price Sheet.
The 2009 Unaddressed Admail Customer Guide will be posted here by November 10, 2008.
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Two-Tier Service Offering for Unaddressed Admail
Effective January 12, 2009, we will be introducing two categories for Unaddressed Admail; "Basic" and "Premium".
The Basic category will allow customers to send "Standard" size items (excluding samples), targeting residential points of call (including houses, apartments, farms) and the "Upon Receipt" delivery option.
The Premium category includes the characteristics within the "Basic" category plus value-added features such as Samples, Oversize items, the "Specified Delivery Start Date" delivery option and targeting to Business points of call. The Premium price will only be applied once to a mailing, regardless of how many premium features are chosen.
To provide you with a clearer understanding of how the Premium price will be applied click here.
Refer to the 2009 Unaddressed Admail Price Sheet for details
Possible mix of “Basic” and “Premium” scenarios
The Premium price will apply to the entire Order if all the mail items are Oversize or Samples, or if coverage is all Business points of call or all Specified Delivery Start Date. In other cases, the Premium price will apply only to the portion of the Order containing the Premium features. Refer to the following table for examples of when Premium prices apply if the Order is mixed.
If… |
Then… |
The Order has a mixture of Specified Delivery Start Date and Upon Receipt for different delivery installations… |
…only the volume for the Specified Delivery Start Date delivery installations will be charged the Premium price. Delivery installations with Upon Receipt will be charged the Basic price |
The Order indicates Upon Receipt for all delivery installations with a mixture of Residential and Business coverage… |
…only the Business volume will be charged the Premium price. The Residential volume will be charged the Basic price. |
The Order indicates Specified Delivery Start Date for all delivery installations with a mixture of Residential and Business coverage… |
… all volumes will be charged the “Premium” price. |
Note that the Premium price is only applied once to an Order, regardless of how many Premium features have been selected.
The following options will be available with both the Basic and Premium categories:
Return to Sender
Undelivered Unaddressed Admail that bears a specific request for return will be returned to sender at the Regular Parcel Counter prices.
Undeliverable Unaddressed Admail
If, for any reason, the Unaddressed Admail items cannot be delivered, the items may be returned to the customer, by specific request to do so. The cost for this option is the applicable Regular Parcel Counter price. Alternatively, undeliverable items will be disposed of, or recycled, as determined by Canada Post.
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Reduction in Container Weights for Unaddressed Admail
Effective January 12, 2009 the maximum container weight (including bags) for Unaddressed Admail will be reduced from 25 kg to 22.7 kg (50lbs) to align weight specifications for Unaddressed Admail mailings with other Canada Post services.
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Reduction in Minimum Pallet Height for Unaddressed Admail (effective immediately)
Effective immediately, the minimum pallet height requirement is reduced from 500 mm to 150 mm for “direct to delivery installation” pallets of brick-piled Standard and Oversize Unaddressed Admail. This change minimizes bag and container usage and maximizes direct to station pallets.
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Use of Metal Strapping on Pallets for Unaddressed Admail
Effective immediately, use of metal strapping on all pallets is no longer permitted due to the safety hazards they represent to our customers and employees. The Mail Preparation and Presortation Guides (canadapost.ca/postalservices) have been updated accordingly and non-compliant mailings will be refused beginning January 12, 2009.
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Reusable Plastic Pallets for Unaddressed Admail
Effective immediately, the offer of safe, reusable plastic pallets is open to qualifying Unaddressed Admail customers who mail Standard and O/S Unaddressed Admail items. Customers who wish to use the Canada Post reusable plastic pallets must have an Agreement with Canada Post for a mail service, and will be required to sign a Memorandum of Agreement. Further, mail must be brick-piled as per the brick-piling specifications outlined in the Mail Preparation and Presortation Guide. The minimum number of pallets that can be ordered at a time is forty (40) for a nominal fee of $2.00 per pallet per use.
The reusable plastic pallets help address safety issues more commonly found with wooden pallets and are environmentally friendly. For more information, please contact our Commercial Service Network at 1.866.757.5480.
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New Wooden Pallet Specifications for all Mail on Pallets
Canada Post is introducing new specifications for wooden pallets that will help ensure a safer workplace for our employees, reduce damage to mail and ensure that pallets are compatible with material handling equipment used at our processing and delivery installations.
We recommend that you convert to compliant wooden pallets as soon as possible. Effective January 12, 2009, wooden pallets that do not meet the new specifications will be refused for mailing. Reusable plastic pallets, noted above, may also be an alternative solution.
The new wooden pallet specifications include:
- if using wooden pallets, only the block design is acceptable (see diagram below)
- must allow four-way entry by a Canada Post forklift and two-way entry by a Canada Post pallet hand jack (to handle pallet with no bottom deck board obstruction)
- pallets don’t have critical defects, i.e. exposed nails, significant splits, missing wood, decay and damaged/ jagged members
- top surface of the pallet required to be flat and stable to enable the mail to be safely loaded/unloaded without tipping or sliding
- pallets withstand temperatures of -40°C to 40°C and severe Canadian weather conditions such as rain, snow, ice and humidity
- openings for forks shall be: a minimum of 102 mm (4”) high on opposite sides of the pallet that do not have bottom deck boards; and a minimum of 89 mm (3.5”) for opposite sides that do have bottom deck boards
Diagram:
For more information on pallet use go to canadapost.ca/postalservices select Mail Preparation and Presortation Guides and click on the Brick-Piling Guide.
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Updated Householder Definitions Applicable to Unaddressed Admail
Canada Post recently clarified the definitions for Householder Types, making it easier for customers to differentiate the types of delivery points: houses, apartments, businesses or farms. Click here to view the updated definitions.
Sexually Explicit Material (effective June 12, 2008)
The Government of Canada has approved an amendment to the Non-mailable Matter Regulations providing a definition of sexually explicit material and applicable requirements when such items are mailed as Addressed Admail or Unaddressed Admail.
The Non-mailable Matter Regulations, made under section 19 of the Canada Post Corporation Act, set out a list of items that Canada Post considers unacceptable for mailing purposes and provide for the process of disposing of such items.
The regulatory amendment to the Non-mailable Matter Regulations provides a definition of sexually explicit material, as agreed to by the Federal Court in a recent ruling on the mailing of such material:
"Sexually explicit material" means images or representations of nudity that are suggestive of sexual activity; images or representations of sexual intercourse, with no suggestion of violence or degradation; or written text that describes sexual acts in a way that is more than purely technical, with no suggestion of violence or degradation.
The regulatory amendment specifies that such material is non-mailable as Addressed or Unaddressed Admail unless it is enclosed in an opaque envelope that is clearly marked as containing adult material. Sexually explicit material will also not be permitted on the outside of an envelope.
The amendment, effective June 12, 2008 is reflected in the updated Canada Postal Guide and Section 2.1.4 Non-Mailable Matter of the
Addressed Admail Customer Guide and the
Unaddressed Admail Customer Guide.
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Recent Amendment to the Unaddressed Admail Customer Guide
An Amendment to the Unaddressed Admail Customer Guide, posted June 12, provides for scented items if produced using micro-encapsulated scent infused ink/lacquers.
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Note Other Upcoming Unaddressed Admail Customer Guide Changes
Section 3.2 Version Specific - clarification of requirements for "lottery sort" type bundling. This will enable customers to be more creative and targeted with their Unaddressed Admail. This permits customers to test different creative, copy, offers, call to action and colors within a single delivery area.
Section 4.2.4 When to Deposit - Clarification of "Specified Delivery Start Date" and "Upon Receipt" mailings. Also, if a Specified Delivery Start Date mailing is deposited earlier or later than indicated in section 4.2.4, the delivery start date will be changed to delivery "upon receipt".
Also, if a Customer deposits a mailing that includes a portion for local delivery and the remaining portion requiring transportation; they must be unitized in separate container(s), monotainer(s) or pallet(s) when applicable.
Section 1.4.1.1 Who can I target? – adding the definitions of “homes”, “apartments”, “farms” and “businesses”.
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Customer Guide Summary of Changes
The revised Customer Guides and an overview of changes identifying the revisions to the Mail Preparation and Presortation Guides and the Postal Standards will be posted here by November 10, 2008.
The changes to the 2009 Customer Guides include:
- a highlights page indicating where changes have been made;
- continuation of previous years' efforts for content amalgamation;
- any changes required to implement the approved 2009 service changes; and
- clarifications throughout each Guide to improve understanding.
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Data Products - Effective Date – January 1, 2009
| Postal Code Address Data |
$ 3,500 per 12 month subscription |
$ 3,750 per 12 month subscription |
| Delivery Mode Data |
$ 1,500 per 12 month subscription |
$ 1,625 per 12 month subscription |
| Householder |
$ 1,500 per 12 month subscription |
$ 1,625 per 12 month subscription |
| Householder Plus |
$ 6,500 per 12 month subscription |
$ 7,000 per 12 month subscription |
| Householder Plus Elite |
$ 8,000 per 12 month subscription |
$8,625 per 12 month subscription |
| Amalgamation Data Product |
$ 5,500 per 12 month subscription |
$ 5,500 per 12 month subscription (unchanged) |
| Postal Code Directory |
$ 35.95 per copy |
$ 45.95 per copy |
| Digital Directory Files |
$ 20.00 per page |
$ 20.00 per page (unchanged) |
| National Change of Address |
$ 6,500 per year |
$ 8,000 per year |
| 1-900 Postal Code Service |
$ 1.25 per call |
$ 1.25 per call (unchanged) |
Change of Address (Counter and Electronic)
Effective Date – January 12, 2009
Permanent |
| Within Province 6 months |
$ 37.00 |
$ 39.00 |
| 12 months |
$ 66.00 |
$ 69.00 |
| Out of Province 6 months |
$ 40.00 |
$ 45.00 |
| 12 months |
$ 72.00 |
$ 80.00 |
| USA / Int’l 6 months |
$ 105.00 |
$ 110.00 |
| 12 months |
$ 185.00 |
$ 196.00 |
| Temporary |
| Within Province |
$ 34.50 for 3 months
$ 11.50 per additional month |
$ 36.00 for 3 months
$ 12.00 per additional month |
| Out of Province |
$ 37.50 for 3 months
$ 12.50 per additional month |
$ 42.00 for 3 months
$ 14.00 per additional month |
| International |
$ 66.00 for 3 months
$22.00 per additional month |
$ 69.00 for 3 months
$ 23.00 per additional month |
| Permanent |
| Within Province 6 months |
$ 115.00 |
$ 120.00 |
| 12 months |
$ 205.00 |
$ 214.00 |
| Out of Province 6 months |
$ 125.00 |
$ 138.00 |
| 12 months |
$ 225.00 |
$ 245.00 |
| USA / Int’l 6 months |
$ 235.00 |
$ 250.00 |
| 12 months |
$ 410.00 |
$ 445.00 |
| Temporary |
| Within Province |
$ 75.00 per month (no minimum) |
$ 78.00 per month (no minimum) |
| Out of Province |
$ 82.00 per month (no minimum) |
$ 90.00 per month (no minimum) |
| International |
$ 170.00 per month (no minimum) |
$ 180.00 per month (no minimum) |
| School |
$150.00 per year
(can include the Hold Mail service) |
$175.00 per year |
Hold Mail (Counter and Electronic)
Effective Date – January 12, 2009
| Residential |
$7.00 per week
(minimum of 2 weeks) |
$7.50 per week
(minimum of 2 weeks) |
| Business |
$6.50 per day
(minimum of 5 business days) |
$6.75 per day
(minimum of 5 business days) |
| Schools |
$120.00 per year |
$135.00 per year |
Postal Boxes
Effective Date - January 1, 2009
| A set of two (2) postal box keys |
$11.70 (Canada Post does not provide additional keys) |
| One (1) 24-hour security access postal box key |
$15.90 (Canada Post does not provide additional keys)(Unchanged) |
Postal Boxes Pricing Tables
To determine which pricing table to use, consult your local post office.
Postal Box Prices ($) for Urban Areas Excluding Toronto and Vancouver Cores
| A |
Small or General Delivery |
100 mm x 140 mm x 350 mm |
47.00 |
83.00 |
125.00 |
| B |
Medium |
150 mm x 140 mm x 350 mm |
64.00 |
113.00 |
170.00 |
| C |
Large |
300 mm x 140 mm x 350 mm |
83.00 |
147.00 |
220.00 |
| D |
X-Large |
300 mm x 280 mm x 350 mm |
101.00 |
180.00 |
270.00 |
| E |
XX-Large |
600 mm x 280 mm x 350 mm |
244.00 |
433.00 |
650.00 |
| Container and Bag Service |
244.00 |
433.00 |
650.00 |
Postal Box Prices ($) for Urban Areas for Toronto and Vancouver*
| A |
Small or General Delivery |
100 mm x 140 mm x 350 mm |
58.00 |
103.00 |
155.00 |
| B |
Medium |
150 mm x 140 mm x 350 mm |
71.00 |
127.00 |
190.00 |
| C |
Large |
300 mm x 140 mm x 350 mm |
101.00 |
180.00 |
270.00 |
| D |
X-Large |
300 mm x 280 mm x 350 mm |
126.00 |
223.00 |
335.00 |
| E |
XX-Large |
600 mm x 280 mm x 350 mm |
244.00 |
433.00 |
650.00 |
| Container and Bag Service |
244.00 |
433.00 |
650.00 |
*Toronto Core boundaries are defined as: within Bloor St./Lake Ontario/Jarvis St./Bathurst St. The defined forward sortation areas (FSA's) are: M4Y, M5B, M5S, M5T, M5V and M5W. Vancouver Core boundaries are defined as: within Coal Harbour/False Creek/main ST./Stanley Park. The defined forward sortation areas (FSA's) are: V6A, V6B, V6C, V6E, V6G, V6Z, V7X and V7Y.
Postal Box Prices ($) for Rural Areas
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