This regulation is to inform all agencies and staff offices of their responsibility to ensure that private carriers are not used to transport items in violation of the Private Express Statutes. These statutes restrict the transportation of certain items by means other than the U.S. Postal Service (USPS).

It is the policy of USDA to comply with the provisions of the Private Express Statutes (39 U.S.C., 601-606 and 39 CFR parts 310 & 320) when sending material delivered by persons other than USDA employees.

Effective October 1, 1983, the Director of Transportation, General Services Administration, entered into a contract with DHL Airways, Inc., (#GS 00T 42276) whereby overnight service is offered to Federal Agencies for express small package shipments. While use of this service is generally mandatory, employees should be cautioned regarding the shipment of recording discs, magnetic tapes and messages or letters through DHL and other private carriers. In most cases, it is unlawful under the Private Express Statutes for any one other than USPS to carry such items.

Questions should be directed to Mail and Reproduction Management Division, Office of Operations, on 382-1666 or 447-8393.