Steve posted this thread last week, regarding a new regulation on the size of STAMPED packages allowed in a mail drop box: http://www.paperbackswap.com/forum/view_topic.php?t=59391

The posting says that the rule goes into effect on July 30th.

Last Friday, I dropped a book into a blue box that weighed (according to my postage meter) 13.5 ounces.  The book was just returned to me because it is > 13 ounces. 

So just be aware that this rule seems to already be in effect.

-Deb

edited to include clarification of Stamped packages.  if you buy postage, this rule does not apply.

Yeah they're putting messages on all of the mailboxes now too.  Stamped packages will be returned.  If you use metered mail or buy your postage direct at the post office you will be fine.

Article from Sun Sentinel:

Security rules changing for mailing packages over 13-ounces

Associated Press

11:53 AM EDT, July 24, 2007

WASHINGTON - Starting on Monday, people who mail parcels weighing 13 ounces or more with stamps as postage will have to hand over the package the post office counter.

Previously, the requirement applied only to mail over 16 ounces.

Postal officials said the change is part of the effort to improve security in the mail.

Customers who want to drop a heavier parcel into a mailbox, postal lobby slot or have it collected by their carrier can still do so, but they must use postage other than stamps.

Alternative postage is available at automated postal centers in many post office lobbies, online at the post office's Click-N-Ship service on http://www.usps.com or with PC postage from private companies.

Businesses can continue to use postage meters for packages of any weight.

Okay - I guess I don't understand how using postage you buy online is more secure than stamps.  This just creates more hassle for me, and I am not sure what added security comes from it.

It's not more secure for YOU, it's more secure for the USPS.

Because if there's any problem with the package, they can track it back to a credit card that paid for the postage. Of course, if you were a really crafty letterbomber or terrorist, you'd have used someone else's credit card number, but still, it's a deterrent.

Assuming the book blows up - won't the postage, too? How do you trace that?

ROFL   good question John!!!   I never thought of that!!

I think I covered that part here:  http://www.paperbackswap.com/forum/view_topic.php?t=59601&l=10&ls=10#r1226599

At this moment it's the second to last post.  I'm wondering if perhaps someone did a look through in the true crime section if there isn't a book or two on something related?

To repeat myself in part, bombs don't generally destroy everything including themselves.  There's enough left behind to tell investigators a lot about the bomb and the bomb maker.  It's called a signature.  What the Inspection Service and BATF can do with left overs is truly amazing.  The forensics are very advanced.  I don't know of any bomber in recent history that hasn't been caught including one just a few months ago.

I was told by my mail carrier that if my over-13-oz package has postage stamps, he could pick it up if it also has a meter strip with $0.00 on it somewhere for "signature" purposes.  I mail everything from my office but it is a pain to "buy" postage from our postage meter, however I can easily spit out a $0.00 tape from it.

So, can I just drop my stamped book off at the counter like I do my prepaid postage, or do I have to wait in line?

You shouldn't have to wait in line.  

Michelle, it will probably vary from PO to PO depending on staffing and customer traffic.  In our station you would have to wait in line because we don't have the staff or time to do them later, we have a constant flow of customers and only two clerks.