March 2, 2012 , USPS ™ proposed the rule to discontinue the POSTNET starting January, 2013. This rule is open for comments until April 2, 2012. FRN can be found at http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-03-02/pdf/2012-5050.pdf
So what does this mean? If this proposal becomes final rule, starting January, 2013, mailers will need to use Intelligent Mail barcode; Basic or Full-Service for letters and flats mail to claim automation price. If you use POSTNET in 2013 you will not be able to claim any automation rates.
Starting January 2014 the plan from Postal Agency ™ is to require Full-Service IMb to qualify for automation rates.
