Postal Bulletin 22086 - October 3, 2002 - USPS.com® - About

98 POSTAL BULLETIN 22086 (10-3-02)
Because the packaged coils for Postal Stores are bulky and could cause
storage problems for stores and SDOs, Postal Stores will get two direct
shipments of coils — one shipment before the first day of issue and the
other shipment just after first day of issue. Both shipments will equal
one-half of the expected sales needs. SDOs will need to order additional
packaged coil stock based on their available storage space and the
available storage space in their Postal Stores. The Tape Stamps will be
sent through the SDOs for proper accountability transferring. However,
they will be boxed and identified for specific Post Office locations. The
distribution quantities going to offices are based on an individual Post
Office’s prior sales history of coil stamps.
POS offices other than Postal Stores (traditional Post Offices) will receive
their coils in “sticks” of five, which can be broken off into single coil units.
This format takes up less drawer space. Traditional offices also will receive
a shipment of Tape Stamp dispensers. These dispensers are made
especially for Tape Stamp coils and will sell for $1. The dispensers will be
packaged for slat wall display.
Sales associates are encouraged to explain to customers how to use the
new Tape Stamps and stamp dispenser. As an option, sales associates
should explain that the coil can be used on standard 1-inch tape
dispensers. It’s important to note that Tape Stamps will not dispense
properly using standard stamp coil dispensers — the dispenser will gum
up, making it difficult to dispense the stamps. Tape Stamp coils can also
be used without a dispenser. The customer should simply replace the
starter tab on the first stamp after using the desired amount of stamps.
This tab makes the coil easier to use and prevents the stamps from
sticking to the roll. Storage: Avoid exposing Tape Stamp coils to hot
temperatures. If exposed to hot temperatures, cool to room temperature
before using.
The holidays are coming The Holiday retail drive period begins October 19. Research tells us that
during this period folks who don’t regularly frequent Post Offices will be
coming in more often to buy stamps for cards and to send gifts. The goal
of the drive period is to look for opportunities to educate residential
customers on Postal Service products and services that best fit their
mailing needs. In particular, spread the word about Express Mail and
Priority Mail services, along with extra services like Insurance and
Delivery Confirmation services.