Changes effective January 14, 2013, recent enhancements and other important reminders

The price and service changes noted below were implemented to Regulated and non-Regulated Transaction Mail and Direct Marketing services on January 14, 2013. Additionally, other recent or upcoming changes of interest to customers are also noted. The posting of the January 2013 changes on July 16, 2012 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 continue to review and update the Customer Guides, Mail Preparation and Presortation Guides and Postal Standards.

Transaction Mail and Direct Marketing Services

Price and service changes are summarized for the following. Select the service name for details:

• Customer Guides Summary of Changes
• Mail Preparation and Presortation Guides and Postal Standards Guides Changes
• Lettermail™
• Registered Mail
• Incentive Lettermail™
• U.S.A. and International Letter-post™
• Addressed Admail™
• Business Reply Mail™
• International Business Reply Mail™
• Publications Mail™
• Unaddressed Admail™
• Change of Address
• Hold Mail
• Postal Boxes

Frequently asked questions about these changes are available.

Customer Guides are documents that form part of your Agreement with Canada Post.

The 2013 Customer Guides include an Amendment to Section 3.4 - Paying for Your Mailing, whereby effective January 14, 2013, there was an increase to the Administration Fees, as well as newly introduced Administration Services Fees pertaining to providing copies of invoices, Orders (Statements of Mailing, Bills of Lading, Manifests) and cheques. Further details have been provided in the 2013 Customer Guides available at canadapost.ca/customerguides.

No other substantial changes to these documents were made other than those required to implement the changes noted in the respective Overview of Changes below.

All the 2013 Customer Guides were posted here on November 16, 2012. Changes to the 2013 Customer Guides include:

• A highlights page indicating where changes have been made.
• Any changes required to implement the approved 2013 service changes.
• Clarification throughout each guide to improve understanding.

Refer to the Important Updates section, conveniently located at the beginning of each Customer Guide for a listing of the changes and quick links to the revised sections.

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Mail Preparation and Presortation Guides are documents that form part of your Agreement with Canada Post.

On November 16, 2012, Canada Post released the following updated Guides which came into effect on January 14, 2013

Mail Preparation and Presortation Guides

• Machineable Presort
• Machineable Mail
• Letter Carrier Presort (LCP)
• NDG Presort
• Lettermail Presort
• Unaddressed Admail
• Brick-Piling

Postal Standards Guides

• Machineable Postal Standard – Standard / Short and Long (S/L)
• Machineable Postal Standard – Oversize (O/S)
• Non-machineable Addressed Admail
• Non-machineable Publications Mail
• Lettermail

Refer to the Important Updates section, conveniently located at the beginning of the Guides for a listing of the 2013 changes to the Guides and quick links to the revised sections.

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Price changes to our regulated services (Government approved)

Canada Post continues to maintain and improve a universal postal service to all Canadians, while remaining self-sufficient and relevant as an economic enabler of Canadian business. We are committed to providing you with services that help you grow your business and stay connected with your customers. These price increases are needed to ensure we continue to provide you with the high level of service you have come to expect from us.

Price changes to our regulated services

The following price changes to regulated services came into effect January 14, 2013 following Government approval.

Lettermail Changes

• REMINDER – Get Your Mail Delivered On Time, Every Time

  Help ensure your mail is delivered on time, every time, by following the proper addressing guidelines. Refer to the “Important Addressing Information” brochure and the Canada Post Addressing Guidelines at canadapost.ca/addressing.



• REMINDER – New Postal Box Payment and Renewal Options Available

  The set-up, billing and renewal processes for commercial Postal Boxes are easier!

  The following benefits make it more convenient to have a Canada Post Postal Box:

  • You can now rent Postal Boxes at multiple locations across the country without having to go to the post office where the Postal Box is located.
  • Your Postal Box or Bag Service will now automatically renew at the end of your rental term using your Canada Post billing account. No need to worry about sending cheques or acting on renewal notices.
  • All details of your Postal Box rental(s) are clearly indicated on your invoice.

  All you have to do is call the Canada Post Commercial Service Network at 1-866-757-5480.

Registered Mail

Registered Mail Price Changes

Effective January 14, 2013, the price for the domestic Registered Mail service increased by 25 cents (3% increase), from $8.25 to $8.50 (excluding postage).

USA and International Registered Mail Price Changes

Effective January 14, 2013, the price for the USA and International Registered Mail service increased by 75 cents (5.2% increase), from $14.50 to $15.25 (excluding postage).

The Advice of Receipt option increased by 5 cents (2.8%) from $1.80 to $1.85.

• RECENT CHANGE - EST Now Prints Barcoded Labels for Domestic Registered Mail Items
  You can now create and print a domestic Registered Mail bar code label using the Electronic Shipping Tools (EST) desktop software with a compatible 4” x 6” thermal label printer. EST will:
  • capture each of your domestic Registered Mail tracking identifiers in our tracking system and associate them with the Order (Statement of Mailing) number;
  • enable you to set-up email Notifications on domestic Registered Mail items;
  • let you assign a “Customer Reference” to each domestic Registered Mail item which can be used for tracking;
  • provide you with additional tracking events;
  • allow you to use the Advanced Tracking options within the Online Business Centre (OBC), which includes tracking by using the Order (Statement of Mailing) number.

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Incentive Lettermail Price Changes

There were price increases to the Incentive Lettermail™ service effective January 14, 2013.

The Incentive Lettermail prices for the “Standard Over 30 g up to 50 g” Machineable category increased to 80 cents and the Presort category increased to 79 cents.

The “Standard Over 30 g up to 50 g” Incentive Lettermail prices represent a 27% - 28% discount from the full Lettermail rate.

Canada Post’s 2013 pricing strategy was aimed at protecting the affordability of the “Up to 30 g” category which is used to a much greater extent than the “30 g to 50 g” category.

For details refer to the 2013 Lettermail Price Sheet.

2013 Incentive Lettermail Customer Guide

The 2013 Incentive Lettermail Customer Guide was posted here on November 16, 2012.

Incentive Lettermail Summary of Changes

The Incentive Lettermail Overview of Changes provides details on the following changes to Incentive Lettermail that came into effect January 14, 2013, as well as recently introduced enhancements and important reminders.

• POSTPONED UNTIL JUNE 14, 2013– Container and Shipping Unit Labels with a 2D Data Matrix Barcode for Presorted Mail

  First communicated July 2012, the requirement for container and shipping unit labels featuring 2D barcodes will come into effect June 14, 2013.

• NEW JANUARY 14, 2013 – Increase to the Maximum Size of Cards/Postcards

  Effective January 14, 2013, the maximum acceptable size of a Standard / Short and Long (S/L) card or postcard increased from 235 mm by 120 mm to 245 mm in length by 156 mm in width. This change aligns the size of cards and postcards to the maximum size for Standard Short and Long (S/L) envelopes and self-mailers and applies to Incentive Lettermail Standard Machineable / Presort.

• NEW JANUARY 14, 2013 – Introducing a New Letterflatainer (LFT) as a Container Option

  Canada Post is introducing a new letterflatainer (LFT) as a container option for customers mailing Standard (S/L) Lettermail, Short and Long (S/L) Addressed Admail and Short and Long (S/L) Publications Mail.

  The Electronic Shipping Tool (EST) will offer letterflatainers as a container option based on the following introduction schedule:

  EFFECTIVE JANUARY 14, 2013	EFFECTIVE JUNE 14, 2013
  Lettermail / Incentive Lettermail - Standard (S/L) Machineable Mail	Incentive Lettermail - Standard (S/L) Presort
  Addressed Admail - Short and Long (S/L) Machineable Mail (excluding Machineable Presort)	Addressed Admail - S/L Machineable Presort, LCP Presort and NDG Presort
  Publications Mail - Short and Long (S/L) Machineable Mail	Publications Mail - S/L LCP Presort and NDG Presort

  Refer to the Machineable Mail LFT Reference Guide for details.
  Refer to the Presort Mail LFT Reference Guide for details

  Notes:
  - Special attention must be given to the paper weight specifications for container labels used with LFTs.
  - Lettertainers will continue to be made available as a container option for Standard / Short and Long (S/L) mail.

• NEW JANUARY 14, 2013 – Amendment to Section 3.4 Paying for Your Mailing of the 2013 Customer Guides

  The 2013 Customer Guides include an Amendment to Section 3.4 - Paying for Your Mailing, whereby effective January 14, 2013, there was an increase to the Administration Fees, as well as newly introduced Administration Services Fees pertaining to providing copies of invoices, Orders (Statements of Mailing, Bills of Lading, Manifests) and cheques.

• NEW JANUARY 14, 2013 – Machineable Mail Advisor Tool Updated

  The Machineable Mail Advisor has been updated to reflect enhancements introduced to Standard / Short and Long (S/L) machineable mailings deposited at Canada Post sites that have new mail sorting equipment. These locations can be found in the "Induction Locations and Cut-off Times" document. Some of the enhancements include:

  • Reduced Quiet Zone for Barcoding
  • Reduced Quiet Zone Around the Address Block
  • Acceptable Fonts
  • Vertical Address Orientation
  • Sealing Requirements for Two and Three-Panel Folded Self-Mailers
  • Acceptance of Coins and Key Tags as Enclosures

  The Machineable Mail Advisor templates have also been updated to reflect the changes in Oversize Machineable Mail.

  For details refer to the applicable Postal Standards guide.

• RECENT CHANGE - EST Now Prints Barcoded Labels for Domestic Registered Mail Items

  You can now create and print a domestic Registered Mail bar code label using the Electronic Shipping Tools (EST) desktop software with a compatible 4” x 6” thermal label printer. EST will:

  • capture each of your domestic Registered Mail tracking identifiers in our tracking system and associate them with the Order (Statement of Mailing) number;
  • enable you to set-up email Notifications on domestic Registered Mail items;
  • let you assign a “Customer Reference” to each domestic Registered Mail item which can be used for tracking;
  • provide you with additional tracking events;
  • allow you to use the Advanced Tracking options within the Online Business Centre (OBC), which includes tracking by using the Order (Statement of Mailing) number.

• RECENT CHANGE - Mail Deposit Practices Introduced Across the Country

  We have assessed the capabilities of our mail deposit locations to ensure they are properly equipped and capable of handling your mail efficiently and on time. The type of mail and the quantities which can be accepted in each of these facilities have been defined. When preparing your mailing, ensure your most convenient mail deposit location has not changed by visiting canadapost.ca/depositlocations.

  Mail deposit practices were introduced throughout 2012 and continue to be rolled-out across the country.

• RECENT CHANGE – Introducing Canada Complete™ Lists

  Canada Complete^TM Lists provide the largest reach in Canada, drawing from our mail delivery database of over 13 million addresses. By customizing your mail with a name and/or an address, you can provide an instant boost to open rates and responses. With our additional targeting filters, supplement your list by pinpointing specific audiences based on geographic, demographic, and lifestyle criteria that best match what your prospects look like.

  Why choose Canada Complete?

  • We have more addresses than anyone else with the best market penetration in the country.
  • You gain access to the most complete list that can provide nationwide access to apartments and suite numbers.
  • You know the validated addresses are deliverable and you save money by reducing returned mail.
  • You can exclude existing customers by suppressing addresses you already have – only pay for the records you need.
  • It’s Canada’s best list for accessing Canadian New Movers – a segment that spends $11B annually.
  • You can enhance your list with a range of unique and exclusive targeting filters to reach your best audience.

  Refer to canadapost.ca/lists or call the Canada Post Data Targeting Solution Centre at 1 877 281-4137 to access the lists and for complete details.

• REMINDER – New Postal Box Payment and Renewal Options Available

  The set-up, billing and renewal processes for commercial Postal Boxes are easier! The following benefits make it more convenient to have a Canada Post Postal Box:

  • You can now rent Postal Boxes at multiple locations across the country without having to go to the post office where the Postal Box is located.
  • Your Postal Box or Bag Service will now automatically renew at the end of your rental term using your Canada Post billing account. No need to worry about sending cheques or acting on renewal notices.
  • All details of your Postal Box rental(s) are clearly indicated on your invoice.

  All you have to do is call the Canada Post Commercial Service Network at 1-866-757-5480.

• REMINDER – Two-Year Address Accuracy Transition Period for Excluded Large Urban Business Addresses Expired on January 11, 2013

  Canada Post’s Point of Call Address Data is used in Address Accuracy software for validating and correcting mailing lists and for producing a Statement of Accuracy. December 2011, we extended the transition period for “excluded large urban business addresses” for another year to January 2013 in order to provide you with more time to correct these addresses before they’re considered invalid and counted against your Statement of Accuracy score.

  The transition period for “excluded large urban business addresses” expired on January 11, 2013.

  For more information, or to obtain a list of recognized software providers, visit canadapost.ca/am.

• REMINDER – Machineable Envelopes Must be Sealed Properly

  To ensure smooth processing of your envelopes through our automated equipment, please remember:

  • Not to seal envelopes with staples, clasps, buttons, string or other similar devices.
  • To make sure your envelopes are closed and completely sealed with adhesive.
  • The flap adhesive must be at least 13 mm for complete and secure sealing.
  • Ensure the amount of adhesive on the flap is not excessive as it may cause the envelopes to stick together.
  • The portion of the flap without adhesive must not extend more than 13 mm from the bottom fold and 19 mm from the right and left edges.

  For complete details, refer to Section 2.3.1 on Sealing in the applicable Postal Standards Guide.

• REMINDER – Make Sure You Use the Most Current Software for Your Mailings

  Both the National Presortation Schematic (NPS) and the Software Evaluation and Recognition Program software (SERP) are updated monthly. Using the most current versions will help meet your service expectations.

  Your SERP supplier will advise you when the newest versions are available. For the most current National Presortation Schematic visit canadapost.ca/nps.

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U.S.A. and International Letter-post Price Changes

There were price increases to the U.S.A. and International Letter-post services effective January 14, 2013. For details refer to the 2013 U.S.A. and International Letter-post Price Sheet.

The 2013 International Incentive Letter-post Customer Guide was posted here on November 16, 2012.

Addressed Admail Price Changes

There were price increases to the Addressed Admail™ and Dimensional Addressed Admail services effective January 14, 2013. For details refer to the 2013 Addressed Admail Price Sheet.

2013 Addressed Admail Customer Guide

The 2013 Addressed Admail Customer Guide was posted here on November 16, 2012.

Addressed Admail Summary of Changes

The Addressed Admail Overview of Changes provides details on the following changes to Addressed Admail that came into effect January 14, 2013, as well as recently introduced enhancements and important reminders.

• POSTPONED UNTIL JUNE 14, 2013 – Container and Shipping Unit Labels with a 2D Data Matrix Barcode for Presorted Mail

  First communicated July 2012, the requirement for container and shipping unit labels featuring 2D barcodes will come into effect June 14, 2013.

• NEW JANUARY 14, 2013 – Increase to the Maximum Size of Cards/Postcards

  Effective January 14, 2013, the maximum acceptable size of a Standard / Short and Long (S/L) card or postcard increased from 235 mm by 120 mm to 245 mm in length by 156 mm in width. This change aligns the size of cards and postcards to the maximum size for Standard Short and Long (S/L) envelopes and self-mailers and applies to Addressed Admail Machineable Presort and Machineable Mail.

• NEW JANUARY 14, 2013 – Introducing a New Letterflatainer (LFT) as a Container Option

  Canada Post is introducing a new letterflatainer (LFT) as a container option for customers mailing Standard (S/L) Lettermail, Short and Long (S/L) Addressed Admail and Short and Long (S/L) Publications Mail.

  The Electronic Shipping Tool (EST) will offer letterflatainers as a container option based on the following introduction schedule:

  EFFECTIVE JANUARY 14, 2013	EFFECTIVE JUNE 14, 2013
  Lettermail / Incentive Lettermail - Standard (S/L) Machineable Mail	Incentive Lettermail - Standard (S/L) Presort
  Addressed Admail - Short and Long (S/L) Machineable Mail (excluding Machineable Presort)	Addressed Admail - S/L Machineable Presort, LCP Presort and NDG Presort
  Publications Mail - Short and Long (S/L) Machineable Mail	Publications Mail - S/L LCP Presort and NDG Presort

  Refer to the Machineable Mail LFT Reference Guide for details.
  Refer to the Presort Mail LFT Reference Guide for details

  Notes:
  - Special attention must be given to the paper weight specifications for container labels used with LFTs.
  - Lettertainers will continue to be made available as a container option for Standard / Short and Long (S/L) mail.

• NEW JANUARY 14, 2013 – Amendment to Section 3.4 Paying for Your Mailing of the 2013 Customer Guides

  The 2013 Customer Guides include an Amendment to Section 3.4 - Paying for Your Mailing, whereby effective January 14, 2013, there was an increase Administration Fees, as well as newly introduced Administration Services Fees pertaining to providing copies of invoices, Orders (Statements of Mailing, Bills of Lading, Manifests) and cheques.

• NEW JANUARY 14, 2013 – Machineable Mail Advisor Tool Updated

  The Machineable Mail Advisor has been updated to reflect enhancements introduced to Standard / Short and Long (S/L) machineable mailings deposited at Canada Post sites that have new mail sorting equipment. These locations can be found in the "Induction Locations and Cut-off Times" document. Some of the enhancements include:

  • Reduced Quiet Zone for Barcoding
  • Reduced Quiet Zone Around the Address Block
  • Acceptable Fonts
  • Vertical Address Orientation
  • Sealing Requirements for Two and Three-Panel Folded Self-Mailers
  • Acceptance of Coins and Key Tags as Enclosures

  The Machineable Mail Advisor templates have also been updated to reflect the changes in Oversize Machineable Mail.

  For details refer to the applicable Postal Standards guide.

• RECENT CHANGE - EST Now Prints Barcoded Labels for Domestic Registered Mail Items

  You can now create and print a domestic Registered Mail bar code label using the Electronic Shipping Tools (EST) desktop software with a compatible 4” x 6” thermal label printer. EST will:

  • capture each of your domestic Registered Mail tracking identifiers in our tracking system and associate them with the Order (Statement of Mailing) number;
  • enable you to set-up email Notifications on domestic Registered Mail items;
  • let you assign a "Customer Reference" to each domestic Registered Mail item which can be used for tracking;
  • provide you with additional tracking events;
  • allow you to use the Advanced Tracking options within the Online Business Centre (OBC), which includes tracking by using the Order (Statement of Mailing) number.
• RECENT CHANGE - Mail Deposit Practices Introduced Across the Country

  We have assessed the capabilities of our mail deposit locations to ensure they are properly equipped and capable of handling your mail efficiently and on time. The type of mail and the quantities which can be accepted in each of these facilities have been defined. When preparing your mailing, ensure your most convenient mail deposit location has not changed by visiting canadapost.ca/depositlocations.

  Mail deposit practices were introduced throughout 2012 and continue to be rolled-out across the country.

• RECENT CHANGE – Introducing Canada Complete™ Lists

  Canada Complete™ Lists provide the largest reach in Canada, drawing from our mail delivery database of over 13 million addresses. By customizing your mail with a name and/or an address, you can provide an instant boost to open rates and responses. With our additional targeting filters, supplement your list by pinpointing specific audiences based on geographic, demographic, and lifestyle criteria that best match what your prospects look like.

  Why choose Canada Complete?

  • We have more addresses than anyone else with the best market penetration in the country.
  • You gain access to the most complete list that can provide nationwide access to apartments and suite numbers.
  • You know the validated addresses are deliverable and you save money by reducing returned mail.
  • You can exclude existing customers by suppressing addresses you already have – only pay for the records you need.
  • It’s Canada’s best list for accessing Canadian New Movers – a segment that spends $11B annually.
  • You can enhance your list with a range of unique and exclusive targeting filters to reach your best audience.

  Refer to canadapost.ca/lists or call the Canada Post Data Targeting Solution Centre at 1 877 281-4137 to access the lists and for complete details.

• REMINDER – New Postal Box Payment and Renewal Options Available

  The set-up, billing and renewal processes for commercial Postal Boxes are easier! The following benefits make it more convenient to have a Canada Post Postal Box:

  • You can now rent Postal Boxes at multiple locations across the country without having to go to the post office where the Postal Box is located.
  • Your Postal Box or Bag Service will now automatically renew at the end of your rental term using your Canada Post billing account. No need to worry about sending cheques or acting on renewal notices.
  • All details of your Postal Box rental(s) are clearly indicated on your invoice.

  All you have to do is call the Canada Post Commercial Service Network at 1-866-757-5480.

• REMINDER – Two-Year Address Accuracy Transition Period for Excluded Large Urban Business Addresses Expired on January 11, 2013

  Canada Post’s Point of Call Address Data is used in Address Accuracy software for validating and correcting mailing lists and for producing a Statement of Accuracy. December 2011, we extended the transition period for “excluded large urban business addresses” for another year to January 2013 in order to provide you with more time to correct these addresses before they’re considered invalid and counted against your Statement of Accuracy score.

  The transition period for “excluded large urban business addresses” expired on January 11, 2013.

  For more information, or to obtain a list of recognized software providers, visit canadapost.ca/am.

• REMINDER – Machineable Envelopes Must be Sealed Properly

  To ensure smooth processing of your envelopes through our automated equipment, please remember:

  • Not to seal envelopes with staples, clasps, buttons, string or other similar devices.
  • To make sure your envelopes are closed and completely sealed with adhesive.
  • The flap adhesive must be at least 13 mm for complete and secure sealing.
  • Ensure the amount of adhesive on the flap is not excessive as it may cause the envelopes to stick together.
  • The portion of the flap without adhesive must not extend more than 13 mm from the bottom fold and 19 mm from the right and left edges.

  For complete details, refer to Section 2.3.1 on Sealing in the applicable Postal Standards Guide.

• REMINDER – Make Sure You Use the Most Current Software for Your Mailings

  Both the National Presortation Schematic (NPS) and the Software Evaluation and Recognition Program software (SERP) are updated monthly. Using the most current versions will help meet your service expectations.

  Your SERP supplier will advise you when the newest versions are available. For the most current National Presortation Schematic visit canadapost.ca/nps.

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Business Reply Mail Price Changes

There were price increases to Business Reply Mail™ and International Business Reply Mail™ effective January 14, 2013 with the exception of the Annual Fee which remained unchanged. Canada Post amended the Business Reply Mail Price Sheet to reflect a “Machineable” and a “Non-machineable” category. For details refer to the 2013 Business Reply Mail Price Sheet.

2013 Business Reply Mail Customer Guide

The 2013 Business Reply Mail Customer Guide was posted here on November 16, 2012.

Business Reply Mail Summary of Changes

The Business Reply Mail Overview of Changes provides details on the following changes to Business Reply Mail that came into effect January 14, 2013, as well as recently introduced enhancements and important reminders.

• NEW JANUARY 14, 2013 – Business Reply Mail Non-machineable Price Adjustment

  Business Reply Mail items that are non-machineable, will be invoiced at the applicable Non-machineable weight price per item returned. As a result, your Canada Post invoice will indicate “Other BRM Up to 100 g” rather than one of the three existing non-compliance descriptions: BRM artwork element incorrect, BRM artwork element missing or BRM specs non-compliance. For details on adjustments and surcharges refer to the document “Details on Surcharges and Adjustments for Business Reply Mail and International Business Reply Mail”

  Recent improvements in new equipment and technology have improved the handling of Business Reply Mail through our network. To ensure your items qualify for the lowest applicable Business Reply Mail price, it is important that your items be Machineable. Refer to the brochure “Making Your Business Reply Mail Machineable” or the Business Reply Mail Customer Guide.

  To assist you in creating and preparing accurate Business Reply Mail, be sure to always us the BRM Artwork Online Tool at canadapost.ca/obc.

• NEW JANUARY 14, 2013 – Amendment to Section 3.4 Paying for Your Mailing of the 2013 Customer Guides

  The 2013 Customer Guides include an Amendment to Section 3.4 - Paying for Your Mailing, whereby effective January 14, 2013, there was an increase Administration Fees, as well as newly introduced Administration Services Fees pertaining to providing copies of invoices, Orders (Statements of Mailing, Bills of Lading, Manifests) and cheques.

• REMINDER – New Postal Box Payment and Renewal Options Available

  The set-up, billing and renewal processes for commercial Postal Boxes are easier!

  The following benefits make it more convenient to have a Canada Post Postal Box:

  • You can now rent Postal Boxes at multiple locations across the country without having to go to the post office where the Postal Box is located.
  • Your Postal Box or Bag Service will now automatically renew at the end of your rental term using your Canada Post billing account. No need to worry about sending cheques or acting on renewal notices.
  • All details of your Postal Box rental(s) are clearly indicated on your invoice.

  All you have to do is call the Canada Post Commercial Service Network at 1-866-757-5480.

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Publications Mail Price Changes

There were price increases to Publications Mail™ effective January 14, 2013. For details refer to the 2013 Publications Mail Price Sheet.

2013 Publications Mail Customer Guide

The 2013 Publications Mail Customer Guide was posted here on November 16, 2012.

Publications Mail Summary of Changes

The Publications Mail Overview of Changes provides details on the following changes to Publications Mail that came into effect January 14, 2013, as well as recently introduced enhancements and important reminders.

• POSTPONED UNTIL JUNE 14, 2013 - Container and Shipping Unit Labels with a 2D Data Matrix Barcode for Presorted Mail

  First communicated July 2012, the requirement for container and shipping unit labels featuring 2D barcodes will come into effect June 14, 2013.

• NEW – January 9, 2013 – Canada Post Delivers Weekly Electronic Undeliverable Publications Mail Reports to uPM Recipients Using a New File Transfer Solution

  On January 9, 2013, Canada Post began delivering all undeliverable Publications Mail (uPM) reports to uPM recipients using a new file transfer solution (previously PosteCS^TM).

• NEW – January 14, 2013 – Sample and Promotional / Novelty Items in Publications Mail: Now Accepting Heavier Items

  Increase your advertising growth revenue opportunities by offering your customers samples, promotional and novelty items with your publication.

  Effective January 14, 2013, changes to Publications Mail Samples and Promotional / Novelty (SPN) items included the following:

  • No price increase for SPN items weighing up to 75 g
  • $0.03 to $0.05 savings for Single and Multiple SPN items weighing over 75 g up to 100 g
  • New maximum weight band over 100 g up to 250 g

  For details refer to the 2013 Publications Mail Price Sheet.

• NEW JANUARY 14, 2013 – Introducing a New Letterflatainer (LFT) as a Container Option

  Canada Post is introducing a new letterflatainer (LFT) as a container option for customers mailing Standard (S/L) Lettermail, Short and Long (S/L) Addressed Admail and Short and Long (S/L) Publications Mail.

  The Electronic Shipping Tool (EST) will offer letterflatainers as a container option based on the following introduction schedule:

  EFFECTIVE JANUARY 14, 2013	EFFECTIVE JUNE 14, 2013
  Lettermail / Incentive Lettermail - Standard (S/L) Machineable Mail	Incentive Lettermail - Standard (S/L) Presort
  Addressed Admail - Short and Long (S/L) Machineable Mail (excluding Machineable Presort)	Addressed Admail - S/L Machineable Presort, LCP Presort and NDG Presort
  Publications Mail - Short and Long (S/L) Machineable Mail	Publications Mail - S/L LCP Presort and NDG Presort

  Refer to the Machineable Mail LFT Reference Guide for details.
  Refer to the Presort Mail LFT Reference Guide for details

  Notes:
  - Special attention must be given to the paper weight specifications for container labels used with LFTs.
  - Lettertainers will continue to be made available as a container option for Standard / Short and Long (S/L) mail.

• NEW JANUARY 14, 2013 – Amendment to Section 3.4 Paying for Your Mailing of the 2013 Customer Guides

  The 2013 Customer Guides include an Amendment to Section 3.4 - Paying for Your Mailing, whereby effective January 14, 2013, there was an increase Administration Fees, as well as newly introduced Administration Services Fees pertaining to providing copies of invoices, Orders (Statements of Mailing, Bills of Lading, Manifests) and cheques.

• NEW JANUARY 14, 2013 – Machineable Mail Advisor Tool Updated

  The Machineable Mail Advisor has been updated to reflect enhancements introduced to Standard / Short and Long (S/L) machineable mailings deposited at Canada Post sites that have new mail sorting equipment. These locations can be found in the "Induction Locations and Cut-off Times" document. Some of the enhancements include:

  • Reduced Quiet Zone for Barcoding
  • Reduced Quiet Zone Around the Address Block
  • Acceptable Fonts
  • Vertical Address Orientation
  • Sealing Requirements for Two and Three-Panel Folded Self-Mailers
  • Acceptance of Coins and Key Tags as Enclosures

  The Machineable Mail Advisor templates have also been updated to reflect the changes in Oversize Machineable Mail.

  For details refer to the applicable Postal Standards guide.

• RECENT CHANGE - EST Now Prints Barcoded Labels for Domestic Registered Mail Items

  You can now create and print a domestic Registered Mail bar code label using the Electronic Shipping Tools (EST) desktop software with a compatible 4” x 6” thermal label printer. EST will:

  • capture each of your domestic Registered Mail tracking identifiers in our tracking system and associate them with the Order (Statement of Mailing) number;
  • enable you to set-up email Notifications on domestic Registered Mail items;
  • let you assign a "Customer Reference" to each domestic Registered Mail item which can be used for tracking;
  • provide you with additional tracking events;
  • allow you to use the Advanced Tracking options within the Online Business Centre (OBC), which includes tracking by using the Order (Statement of Mailing) number.
• RECENT CHANGE - Mail Deposit Practices Introduced Across the Country

  We have assessed the capabilities of our mail deposit locations to ensure they are properly equipped and capable of handling your mail efficiently and on time. The type of mail and the quantities which can be accepted in each of these facilities have been defined. When preparing your mailing, ensure your most convenient mail deposit location has not changed by visiting canadapost.ca/depositlocations.

  Mail deposit practices were introduced throughout 2012 and continue to be rolled-out across the country.

• RECENT CHANGE – Introducing Canada Complete™ Lists

  Canada Complete™ Lists provide the largest reach in Canada, drawing from our mail delivery database of over 13 million addresses. By customizing your mail with a name and/or an address, you can provide an instant boost to open rates and responses. With our additional targeting filters, supplement your list by pinpointing specific audiences based on geographic, demographic, and lifestyle criteria that best match what your prospects look like.

  Why choose Canada Complete?

  • We have more addresses than anyone else with the best market penetration in the country.
  • You gain access to the most complete list that can provide nationwide access to apartments and suite numbers.
  • You know the validated addresses are deliverable and you save money by reducing returned mail.
  • You can exclude existing customers by suppressing addresses you already have – only pay for the records you need.
  • It’s Canada’s best list for accessing Canadian New Movers – a segment that spends $11B annually.
  • You can enhance your list with a range of unique and exclusive targeting filters to reach your best audience.

  Refer to canadapost.ca/lists or call the Canada Post Data Targeting Solution Centre at 1 877 281-4137 to access the lists and for complete details.

• REMINDER – New Postal Box Payment and Renewal Options Available

  The set-up, billing and renewal processes for commercial Postal Boxes are easier!

  The following benefits make it more convenient to have a Canada Post Postal Box:

  • You can now rent Postal Boxes at multiple locations across the country without having to go to the post office where the Postal Box is located.
  • Your Postal Box or Bag Service will now automatically renew at the end of your rental term using your Canada Post billing account. No need to worry about sending cheques or acting on renewal notices.
  • All details of your Postal Box rental(s) are clearly indicated on your invoice.

  All you have to do is call the Canada Post Commercial Service Network at 1-866-757-5480.

• REMINDER – Two-Year Address Accuracy Transition Period for Excluded Large Urban Business Addresses Expired on January 11, 2013

  Canada Post’s Point of Call Address Data is used in Address Accuracy software for validating and correcting mailing lists and for producing a Statement of Accuracy. December 2011, we extended the transition period for “excluded large urban business addresses” for another year to January 2013 in order to provide you with more time to correct these addresses before they’re considered invalid and counted against your Statement of Accuracy score.

  The transition period for “excluded large urban business addresses” expired on January 11, 2013.

  For more information, or to obtain a list of recognized software providers, visit canadapost.ca/am.

• REMINDER – Machineable Envelopes Must be Sealed Properly

  To ensure smooth processing of your envelopes through our automated equipment, please remember:

  • Not to seal envelopes with staples, clasps, buttons, string or other similar devices.
  • To make sure your envelopes are closed and completely sealed with adhesive.
  • The flap adhesive must be at least 13 mm for complete and secure sealing.
  • Ensure the amount of adhesive on the flap is not excessive as it may cause the envelopes to stick together.
  • The portion of the flap without adhesive must not extend more than 13 mm from the bottom fold and 19 mm from the right and left edges.

  For complete details, refer to Section 2.3.1 on Sealing in the applicable Postal Standards Guide.

• REMINDER – Make Sure You Use the Most Current Software for Your Mailings

  Both the National Presortation Schematic (NPS) and the Software Evaluation and Recognition Program software (SERP) are updated monthly. Using the most current versions will help meet your service expectations.

  Your SERP supplier will advise you when the newest versions are available. For the most current National Presortation Schematic visit canadapost.ca/nps.

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Unaddressed Admail Price Changes

Canada Post is pleased to remind you that prices for the Unaddressed Admail service will not increase in 2013.

Only the 2013 Price Sheet for Unaddressed Admail Non-Contract prices is available online. Qualifying customers may have access to lower prices by signing an Agreement. For further details contact the Commercial Service Network at 1 866 757 5480.

2013 Unaddressed Admail Customer Guide

The 2013 Unaddressed Admail Customer Guide was posted here on November 16, 2012.

Unaddressed Admail Changes

The Unaddressed Admail Overview of Changes provides details on the following changes to Unaddressed Admail that came into effect January 14, 2013, as well as recently introduced enhancements and important reminders:

• NEW – January 6, 2013 – Changes to EST Online and Express Order Entry

  On January 6, 2013, EST Online and Express Order Entry for Unaddressed Admail were upgraded to integrate and simplify the paperwork and improve the Order entry processes. Some of the key changes include simplified paperwork and improved Order entry process.

• NEW – January 14, 2013 – Eliminating the High Demand Route Premium

  As a result of the overall decline in volume, the High Demand Route (HDR) premium (1.5 cents) within Unaddressed Admail was eliminated as of January 14, 2013.

  There may continue to be references to High Demand Routes within the Electronic Shipping Tools (EST) and Precision Targeter, however the routes will no longer be visually displayed and the premium will not be applied.

• NEW JANUARY 14, 2013 – Amendment to Section 3.4 Paying for Your Mailing of the 2013 Customer Guides

  The 2013 Customer Guide has been updated to reflect an increase to the published Administration Fees (such as NSF fees), as well as newly introduced Administration Services Fees pertaining to providing copies of invoices, Orders (Statements of Mailing) and cheques. For details refer to the 2013 Customer Guides.

• NEW – January 14, 2013 – Consolidation Levels of Flexipack™ Pouches

  The consolidation guidelines for Flexipack pouches changed to improve the effectiveness of this container option. As of January 14, 2013, Flexipack pouches may be consolidated with monotainers or on pallets (Gaylords must be used to stabilize the load) to all four levels of the National Presortation Schematic (NPS), provided only one Flexipack pouch is destined to each rural delivery facility. If there is a sufficient quantity of Unaddressed Admail items to fill more than one Flexipack pouch for one rural delivery facility, other container options such as hard-sided containers, cardboard boxes, or brick-piling must be used.

• RECENT CHANGE - Mail Deposit Practices Introduced Across the Country

  We have assessed the capabilities of our mail deposit locations to ensure they are properly equipped and capable of handling your mail efficiently and on time. The type of mail and the quantities which can be accepted in each of these facilities have been defined. When preparing your mailing, ensure your most convenient mail deposit location has not changed by visiting canadapost.ca/depositlocations.

  Mail deposit practices were introduced throughout 2012 and continue to be rolled-out across the country.

• RECENT CHANGE – Letter Carrier Walk Maps Renamed

  Letter Carrier Walk Maps have been renamed to Urban and Rural Delivery Area Maps. Urban and Rural Delivery Area Maps provide the actual routes or walks, covered by the Canada Post Letter Carriers (Letter Carrier routes) or Rural and Suburban Mail Carriers (Non-Letter Carrier routes). The Urban and Rural Delivery Area Maps are particularly useful to target local neighbourhoods.

• REMINDER – New Postal Box Payment and Renewal Options Available

  The set-up, billing and renewal processes for commercial Postal Boxes are easier!

  The following benefits make it more convenient to have a Canada Post Postal Box:

  • You can now rent Postal Boxes at multiple locations across the country without having to go to the post office where the Postal Box is located.
  • Your Postal Box or Bag Service will now automatically renew at the end of your rental term using your Canada Post billing account. No need to worry about sending cheques or acting on renewal notices.
  • All details of your Postal Box rental(s) are clearly indicated on your invoice.

  All you have to do is call the Canada Post Commercial Service Network at 1-866-757-5480.

• REMINDER – Precision Targeter Takes Unaddressed Admail to the Next Level

  With Canada Post’s Precision Targeter, it is now easier to reach new customers! Try it today, free of charge, at canadapost.ca/precisiontargeter and add this powerful and unique tool to your marketing toolkit.

  Recent enhancements to the Precision Targeter application include:

  • Improved Targeting
  • Improved Visibility
  • Comprehensive Cost Estimate
  • Enhanced Mail Preparation Optimizer Option
  • New Instructional Videos
  • Expanding the Geographic Coverage
• REMINDER – Householder Counts and Maps Updated

  Canada Post recently introduced an improved online version of the Householder Counts and Maps called Residential and Business Counts and Maps that includes new functionality, giving you the ability to:

  • View a summary of your selection
  • Print counts, maps, or your targeted selection
  • Export selected data to an EST Type 2 file (and pass it to a third party or import the data in EST 2.0)

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Effective Date – January 14, 2013

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Effective Date - September 1, 2012

Effective Date - September 1, 2012
To determine which pricing table to use, consult your local Post Office.

NOTE: Contract Customers may pay by Account to renew their Postal Box rentals. Visit Postal Boxes of the Canada Postal Guide at canadapost.ca/postalguide for more information.

Postal Box prices ($) for Urban Areas Excluding the Urban Cores Areas

Postal Box Prices ($) for Urban Core Areas [as per list of forward sortation areas (FSA’s)]*

Postal Box Prices ($) for Rural Areas

Postal Boxes Refund Tables

Refund Prices ($) for Urban Areas Excluding the Urban Cores Areas

Refund Prices ($) for Urban Core Areas

Refund Prices ($) for Rural Areas

Refund Prices ($) for General Delivery

Prices are effective January 1, 2012

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