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What can MERLIN do?
MERLIN verifies First-Class Mail®, Standard Mail®, and Periodicals mail against the standards set in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®) for:
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Postage discounts |
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Sorting |
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Barcodes |
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Piece counts |
It automates the previous manual acceptance process for First-Class Presort Mail, Standard Mail and Periodicals to qualify for workshare discounts.
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What can be analyzed by MERLIN?
MERLIN processes letters, postcards, and flat-size pieces that meet the following criteria:
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Maximum length – 12 inches |
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Maximum height – 15 inches |
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Maximum thickness – ¾ inches |
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Maximum weight – 16 ounces |
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How are samples selected for testing?
The U.S. Postal Service® randomly selects samples for MERLIN testing according to the following guidelines for mailings:
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Less than 10,000 pieces – 500-piece sample size; limit testing to random mailings |
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10,000 or more pieces – 1,000-piece sample size; test every mailing |
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How does MERLIN analyze mail and provide results?
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The U.S. Postal Service processes the selected samples on MERLIN to verify that the mailpieces qualify for the rates claimed. After MERLIN has completed running samples, it analyzes the data and provides the MERLIN operator with reports to be shared with the mailer.
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How do I appeal MERLIN results?
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If your mailing has not passed MERLIN verification, you can request a second level review with U.S. Postal Service acceptance personnel. If you are unable to resolve it, you may elect to appeal the results.
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