Randy Weiler, SPC’s Director of Postal Affairs and Logistics, is here to help you navigate the labyrinth of the USPS. What does it take to efficiently move your projects through the USPS system? What efficiencies can you gain from SPC’s lettershop expertise? Who determines postal increases?

Every month, Randy fields your burning questions about mail and postal affairs in a Q&A format. You can email him at askrandy@specialtyprintcomm.com or post a question via Facebook or Twitter using the hashtag #AskRandyUSPS. We post the questions and his answers each month both here on the SPC blog and on social media. To see a full list of questions that Randy has answered, check the Ask Randy Index.

1) What is the new Enterprise Payment System and how is it different from CAPS?

The USPS has begun the rollout of their new Enterprise Payment System (EPS). EPS will replace the current CAPS (Centralized Account Payment System) method as of April, 2019. The big difference with EPS is that it requires users to access the system via the USPS Business Customer Gateway. EPS is a very self-directed process which has the user create either a Trust Account or an ACH Debit account. Trust accounts can be funded via deposits at most USPS retail offices, via wire or by ACH Credit. Debit accounts work by linking a banking account to a USPS EPS Account. Much like CAPS, zero balance permits (new or existing) can be linked to USPS EPS Accounts. EPS can also be used to pay for many different USPS products and services. Importantly, EPS account holders must provide their Mail Service Providers with their EPS account numbers in order to pay postage for mailings using their permits.

SPC has been using the EPS system for a couple of months.  I have found the biggest convenience is being able to deposit funds into our permits at a local Post Office as opposed to having to drive to the Chicago Post Office where the permits are held.  I suspect that the downside for our CAPS customers will be having to manage the EPS process….Opening the EPS account, Linking permits and pulling reports tracking postage usage.

2) What is the remaining term for Postmaster General Megan Brennan? Can she be re-elected or is there a term limit?

There is no term limit for the position of Postmaster General. The Postmaster General usually remains in office until they decide to retire. It is an important role that steers USPS response to pending Congressional efforts involving the Postal Service.

3) What is your favorite children’s book?

Answer: The Gruffalo

4) Where on my mail piece can I affix an object (a card, magnet, etc.)?

It depends on the type of mailpiece being produced.

• Self-mailer: Interior attachments must be .5” from the edges of the mailpiece.
• Sealed envelopes: Interior attachments are not restricted to any location.
• For the exteriors of any mail type, only clean release attachments and repositionable notes (RPN) are allowed. The allowable locations vary by piece type.

Randy Weiler
Director Postal Affairs and Logistics