Is the USPS changing the rules for Bound Printed Matter?

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses recent changes announced by the USPS regarding Bound Printed Matter (BPM) and how these changes affect mailing practices for Pampered Chef consultants. Participants share their experiences and seek clarification on the implications of these new rules.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Opinion-based
  • Anecdotal

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that the USPS changes require all BPM to be paid by permit imprint and deposited at Business Mail Entry Units (BMEU), which may complicate mailing processes.
  • Another participant expresses frustration at the increased costs associated with mailing host packets, having recently paid a higher priority rate.
  • Several users mention confusion about what qualifies as BPM, with questions about catalogs and mini-catalogs being raised.
  • One participant shares their experience of a host packet being ruined in the rain, highlighting concerns about mailing reliability.
  • Another participant explains that BPM is a less expensive class of mail but is not guaranteed for quick delivery, emphasizing the need for bulk permits to use it.
  • One participant seeks clarification on whether the new rules affect sending catalogs without envelopes and expresses general confusion about the changes.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the implications of the USPS changes, with some participants expressing frustration over increased costs while others seek clarification on the specifics of BPM.

Contextual Notes

Participants are primarily discussing the impact of USPS mailing regulations on their business practices as Pampered Chef consultants, particularly in relation to sending catalogs and host packets.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking to understand the recent USPS changes regarding Bound Printed Matter and how it may affect their mailing strategies may find this discussion relevant.

dannyzmom
dannyzmom
Gold Member
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The USPS announced that effective September 11, 2008:

• All Bound Printed Matter (BPM) must be paid by permit imprint and deposited at Business Mail Entry Units (BMEU).
• Mailers will no longer be able to pay postage with stamps, meters, APC, or PC Postage.
• BPM will not be accepted at retail counters, in collection boxes, or by carriers.
• All BPM must be deposited and accepted at the Post Office facility (BMEU) that issued the permit.
 
Wow that stinks!

Thank you for letting us know though.
 
What do they consider BPM? Catalogs in envelopes?
 
Yeah does that mean "media mail" that some get cheaper?
 
I found this out today, too, when I tried to send a host some more catalogs and ended up having to pay $4.80 for Priority Rate!!!! Yikes!
 
Chefstover2 said:
I found this out today, too, when I tried to send a host some more catalogs and ended up having to pay $4.80 for Priority Rate!!!! Yikes!
Click to expand...

Yep, that's the standard that I pay!:(
But at least we can stuff it FULL and it's still only $4.80!
 
I normally pay that anyway, it stinks! I try to deliver my host packets if I can rather than mail them. Oh well...
 
It's $4.75 if you print your priority mail flat rate online. I know that's only $.05, but it adds up!
 
I've always paid the priority rate too if I mail them.
I mailed a host packet the other day, & the host called to see if I can re-send everything. Apparently it got ruined in the rain:grumpy:
 
Oh great. I've gotta go mail a host packet tomorrow. I normally drop them of at their house or bring the packets to my shows, but this host has been on the fence about her party date and i've been holding off to be sure she wasnt' going to change the date again.
 
lacychef said:
I've always paid the priority rate too if I mail them.
I mailed a host packet the other day, & the host called to see if I can re-send everything. Apparently it got ruined in the rain:grumpy:
Click to expand...

Oh, now that's a bummer!:grumpy:
 
  • Thread starter
  • #12
lacychef said:
I've always paid the priority rate too if I mail them.
I mailed a host packet the other day, & the host called to see if I can re-send everything. Apparently it got ruined in the rain:grumpy:
Click to expand...

With it being hurricane season here, I have gotten in the habit of putting all host packets and anything else important that I mail in plastic before mailing.
 
dannyzmom said:
The USPS announced that effective September 11, 2008:

• All Bound Printed Matter (BPM) must be paid by permit imprint and deposited at Business Mail Entry Units (BMEU).
• Mailers will no longer be able to pay postage with stamps, meters, APC, or PC Postage.
• BPM will not be accepted at retail counters, in collection boxes, or by carriers.
• All BPM must be deposited and accepted at the Post Office facility (BMEU) that issued the permit.
Click to expand...

Just trying to make sure I am reading this right. All of the above just pertains to Bound Printed Matter--right? Thanks.
 
Is that for if you are sending a catalog without an envelope? Please forgive my dense brain on this one... I'm not real clear on what this means. What about the mini-catalogs that we send with a stamp? Is that out also? Sorry... my brain is too tired to figure this out.
 
Bound Printed Matter is a special class of mail that's less expensive than first class. It's also a space-available class, so it's not guaranteed to be delivered quickly, hence the lower cost. You needed to specifically request it, and there were some restrictions (like everything in the packet needing to be bound together - no loose papers). That class of mail will no longer be accepted at the counter. Only people/organizations with bulk permits will be able to use it.
 
That is what JLLR uses to send its monthly magazine. So it is the pre-printed "postage" on items right?
 
quiverfull7 said:
Is that for if you are sending a catalog without an envelope? Please forgive my dense brain on this one... I'm not real clear on what this means. What about the mini-catalogs that we send with a stamp? Is that out also? Sorry... my brain is too tired to figure this out.
Click to expand...

THANK YOU!!!!!! I was so confused! Ok, that's kind of normal for me... I may as well state that or KG may do it for me! :)
 
No. That's just pre-printed postage, although orgs. that pre-print are usually using bulk postage. And just because they're sending bulk, doesn't mean that it's going BPM. Bound printed matter will be a subset of bulk postage. Sort of like: all hot dogs are sausages, but not all sausages are hot dogs. ;)
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bound Printed Matter (BPM) and how does it relate to USPS regulations?

Bound Printed Matter (BPM) is a class of mail used for printed materials that are bound together, such as books, catalogs, and other publications. The USPS regulates BPM to ensure that it meets specific criteria for weight, size, and content. Changes to BPM regulations can affect how businesses and individuals send these types of materials through the postal service.

Are there any recent changes to the USPS rules regarding Bound Printed Matter?

Yes, the USPS periodically reviews and updates its regulations for Bound Printed Matter. Recent changes may include adjustments to weight limits, pricing structures, or eligibility criteria. It is essential for senders to stay informed about these updates to ensure compliance and optimize their mailing strategies.

How can I find out about the latest USPS changes to BPM rules?

The best way to stay updated on USPS changes to Bound Printed Matter rules is to regularly check the official USPS website or subscribe to their mailing list for announcements. Additionally, industry publications and mailing associations often provide insights and summaries of any regulatory changes.

What should I do if my BPM mailings no longer comply with the new USPS rules?

If your BPM mailings no longer comply with the new USPS rules, you will need to adjust your mailing practices. This could involve changing the format of your materials, re-evaluating your mailing list, or exploring alternative mailing options. Consulting with a postal expert or contacting USPS customer service can also provide guidance on how to proceed.

Will the changes to BPM rules affect my shipping costs?

Yes, changes to Bound Printed Matter rules can potentially affect your shipping costs. If the USPS adjusts pricing structures or weight limits, it may lead to higher or lower shipping fees for your mailings. It is advisable to review the updated pricing information provided by USPS to understand how these changes will impact your budget.

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