Australia Post Parcel Post Guide May 2008
Content
Parcel Post
Parcels within Australia
May 2008
133917_PostChargesBookletCover231 1
7/5/08 2:15:36 PM
Parcel Post Guide
1
Australia Post Headquarters
GPO Box 1777
MELBOURNE VIC 3001
PARCEL POST GUIDE
MAY 2008
Amendment 2008/1P
Authorised by C Koo, Group Manager Parcels, Australian Postal Corporation
Purpose
The Parcel Post Guide contains the standards of the Australian Postal Corporation regarding Parcel
Post services within Australia. The Parcel Post Guide is revised and published periodically.
Terms and conditions of service
Under the Australian Postal Corporation Act 1989, the Board of the Australian Postal Corporation
determines the terms and conditions that apply to postal services. Terms and conditions are
contained in the Australia Post Terms and Conditions (APTC) and Determination of Postage Charges
(Rates Determination), which are available on the Internet at http://www.auspost.com.au.
Disclaimer
Although Australia Post has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this Post
Guide at the time of publication, Australia Post makes no warranty, guarantee or representation
regarding the correctness, completeness, reliability, suitability or currency of this Post Guide. The
information in this Post Guide may be revised at any time and services may be modified, added to or
withdrawn without notice. Up-to-date information can be obtained from any post office. Australia
Post shall not be liable to any person, whether a purchaser of this Post Guide or not, for any loss or
damage of any kind whatsoever arising from any errors or omissions in this Post Guide or from
reliance placed upon all or any part of the contents of this Post Guide.
Instructions
Please file this Parcel Post Guide within the Post Guides cover as it contains references to other Post
Guides in the series. Other current Post Guides are:
General Post Guide
Amendment No. 04/1G
Letter Post Guide
Amendment No. 05/1L
International Post Guide
Amendment No. 07/1
Dangerous & Prohibited Goods and Packaging Post Guide
Amendment No. 2005/1D
ABN 28 864 970 579
May 2008
2
Parcel Post Guide
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Australia Post
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MELBOURNE VIC 3001
Or send a facsimile of the form to:
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Is any
information not
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confusing?
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a mistake such
as a misspelled
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Directory easy
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easily find what
you need?
Have you any
suggestions for
improving this
Post Guide?
May 2008
We aim to make this Post Guide:
easy to use
easy to read
accurate and complete.
We welcome ideas from all Australia Post staff
and customers that will help us in this aim.
Send your comments, suggestions, brickbats or
bouquets to:
Editor
Post Guide
Australia Post HQ
GPO Box 1777
MELBOURNE VIC 3001
or send a fax to (03) 9204 7891.
Please include references to page numbers,
where appropriate.
Also, let us know how to contact you, as we will
acknowledge all contributions.
Many thanks.
Editor
Post Guide.
Parcel Post Guide
3
Table of Contents
How to use this Post Guide........................................................................................ 5
Section 1 – Summary of allowable Parcel Post service combinations .............. 6
Section 2 – Dangerous goods declaration ..............................................................7
P2.1 – Dangerous and Prohibited Goods ............................................................................. 7
P2.2 – Parcels that must bear a dangerous goods declaration........................................... 7
P2.3 – Locations where surface parcels may be carried by air........................................... 9
Section 3 – Parcel Post – General provisions ...................................................... 10
P3.1 – Scope – Definition of Australia ................................................................................10
P3.2 – International Mail Security Arrangements ...............................................................10
P3.3 – Customs regulations –apply to the following postcodes ........................................ 11
P3.4 – How big? How small? How heavy?.......................................................................11
P3.5 – Cubic weight ............................................................................................................. 12
P3.6 – Cubing policy ............................................................................................................12
P3.7 – Parcel Post charges and charging zones ...............................................................12
P3.8 – Unclaimed, undeliverable, refused and withdrawn parcels....................................15
P3.9 – Compensation and Extra Cover ..............................................................................15
P3.10 – Change-of-address (redirection) and holding services ........................................ 15
P3.11 – Enquiries and complaints.......................................................................................15
Section 4 – Express Post Parcels, Express Post Satchels and
Express Post Platinum..............................................................................................16
P4.1 – Express Post service description ............................................................................16
P4.2 – The Express Post networks .....................................................................................18
P4.3 – How to use Express Post satchels ..........................................................................19
P4.4 – How to use Express Post parcels............................................................................19
P4.5 – Lodgement times ...................................................................................................... 20
P4.6 – Express Post Platinum Service description ............................................................20
P4.7 – Express Post Platinum networks ............................................................................. 22
P4.8 – How to use Express Post Platinum .........................................................................23
Section 5 – Prepaid Parcel Post Satchels ............................................................. 24
P5.1 – Service description ...................................................................................................24
P5.2 – How to use Parcel Post satchels ............................................................................. 24
Section 6 – Regular Parcels ..................................................................................... 25
P6.1 – Service description ...................................................................................................25
P6.2 – How to use Regular parcels.....................................................................................26
Section 7 – Cash-on-delivery (COD) service......................................................... 27
P7.1 – Service description ...................................................................................................27
P7.2 – How to use COD .....................................................................................................28
Section 8 – Local Delivery service in country areas ........................................... 29
P8.1 – Service description ...................................................................................................29
P8.2 – Lodgement conditions ..............................................................................................29
P8.3 – Postcode areas eligible for the Local Delivery service...........................................30
Section 9 – Reply Paid Parcel service.................................................................... 31
P9.1 – Service description ...................................................................................................31
P9.2 – How to apply for a Reply Paid Parcel contract .......................................................31
P9.3 – Obligations of a Reply Paid customer.....................................................................31
P9.4 – Variations to the Reply Paid Service contract ........................................................32
P9.5 – Cancellation of a Reply Paid Service contract........................................................32
P9.6 – Addressing standards for Reply Paid parcels.........................................................33
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
Section 10 – Registered Post...................................................................................34
P10.1 – Service description.................................................................................................34
P10.2 – Proof of posting and delivery .................................................................................35
P10.3 – How to use Registered Post ..................................................................................36
P10.4 – Delivery Confirmation............................................................................................. 36
P10.5 – Person-to-Person delivery .....................................................................................37
Section 11 – Extra Cover .......................................................................................... 38
Section 12 – Key Return service .............................................................................39
Section 13 – Articles for the blind........................................................................... 40
Section 14 – Medical Educational Remote Area Parcel Service........................41
P14.1 – Service description.................................................................................................41
P14.2 – Eligible medical parcels .........................................................................................41
P14.3 – Eligible educational parcels ...................................................................................41
P14.4 – Eligible postcodes ..................................................................................................41
P14.5 – Special prices .........................................................................................................42
P14.6 – How to access the service .....................................................................................42
Section 15 – Preparation of Parcel Post mail .......................................................43
P15.1 – Addressing..............................................................................................................43
P15.2 – General packaging considerations ........................................................................ 43
P15.3 – Some useful packing pointers ............................................................................... 44
P15.4 – Postpak products....................................................................................................44
P15.5 – Plastic wrapping and covers..................................................................................45
P15.6 – Payment of postage ...............................................................................................45
INDEX ...........................................................................................................................46
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
5
How to use this Post Guide
This Post Guide contains detailed reference material about the Australia Post Parcel Post services
within Australia. We have tried to avoid unnecessary duplication. This has meant a certain amount
of cross-referencing.
To help you go directly to the correct place in this Post Guide or in another Australia Post
publication, we show here the most common questions asked and the quick way to find the right
answers.
A numeric reference, for example P1.2, refers to the section number.
A reference in italics, for example Post Charges, refers to another Australia Post publication.
Before you file this Post Guide, take a little time to understand the way it structures its information.
This will save you time later when you need to find something in a hurry.
What are the
features of each
main parcel
service?
Summary of service combinations
Section 1
What are the
delivery times?
Prepaid Parcel Post satchels
Section 5
Regular parcels
Section 6
What contents
are prohibited?
Express Post parcels and satchels
Section 4
See Post Charges.
Dangerous goods declaration
What supplementary
services are
available?
What special
services are
available?
Cash on delivery (COD) Section 7
Local delivery in country areas
Section 8
Key return service
Section 12
Reply Paid
Registered Post
Section 10
Articles for the blind
Section 13
Extra Cover
Section 11
Medical Educational
Remote Area Service
Section 14
How do I
prepare a parcel
for the post?
What is cubing?
Section 9
Delivery Confirmation
Person-to-Person delivery
Preparation of mail
P10.4
P10.5
Section 15
See back cover.
What about
customer
services?
What if I have
other queries?
Section 2
Also, see Dangerous and Prohibited Goods & Packaging Post Guide.
For change of address, unclaimed,
undeliverable or refused mail, and
withdrawal from the post, see the
General Post Guide.
Check:
•
the detailed table of contents on pages 3 and 4
• the index on pages 47 and 48
If you cannot find what you need, telephone 13 13 18.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
SECTION 1 – SUMMARY OF ALLOWABLE PARCEL POST
SERVICE COMBINATIONS
P1.1 – Supplementary services available in the main Parcel Post services
The table shows the supplementary services that Australia Post permits in each of the three main
Parcel Post services. Refer to the relevant section in this guide for details of each service.
Supplementary
Services
Regular Parcels
Reply Paid
See
Section 9
COD
See
Section 7
Registered Post
See
Section 10
Extra Cover
See
Section 11
See P10.4
Person-to-Person
delivery
Local Delivery
Delivery
Confirmation
See P10.5
See
Section 8
Express Post
See
Section 9
Parcel Post
Satchels
Medical
Education
Remote Area
Parcel Service
P1.2 – Supplementary service combinations available with Regular Parcels
The table shows the conditions that apply to supplementary services used in combination with Regular
Parcels.
Reply Paid
Supplementary service
Condition
Available only to customers with a Reply Paid Service Contract.
COD
Available for all Regular parcels.
Registered Post
Available for all Regular parcels and prepaid Parcel Post
satchels.
Extra Cover
Available only with COD or Registered Post.
Delivery Confirmation
Available only with Registered Post (excluding prepaid Parcel
Post satchels).
Person-to-Person delivery
Available only with Registered Post (excluding prepaid Parcel
Post satchels).
Local delivery
Available only in the designated country postcode areas.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
7
SECTION 2 – DANGEROUS GOODS DECLARATION
P2.1 – Dangerous and prohibited goods
Certain items must not be posted in parcels. Certain items may be carried in parcels only if they meet
certain conditions and are packed in a specific manner.
P2.1.1 – Dangerous and Prohibited Goods & Packaging Post Guide
The Dangerous and Prohibited Goods &
Packaging Post Guide (8833729) prohibits the
lodgement of articles in all nine classes of
dangerous goods. Each class is illustrated below
with some examples of common substances that
fall (or might fall) into the class. If you have any
doubts about a particular substance, consult the
Dangerous and Prohibited Goods & Packaging
Post Guide (8833729) for more details.
Class 1 – Explosives
Ammunition
Fireworks
Igniters.
Class 2 –Gases – flammable gas, non-flammable, non-toxic gas and toxic gas
Aerosol products
Carbon dioxide gas
Class 3 – Flammable liquids
Alcohol
Flammable paint and thinners
Flammable perfumery products
Class 4 – Flammable solids
Magnesium, metallic
Matches of all kinds
Class 5 – Oxidising substances and organic peroxides
Adhesives, some
Bleaching powders, some
Dyes, hair or textile, made of
organic peroxides
Cigarette lighters, butane.
Flammable varnish removers.
Zinc powder.
Fibreglass repair kits.
Class 6 – Toxic (Poisons) and Infectious substances, including drugs and medicines
Exceptionally, Australia Post accepts drugs and medicines in prescription quantities and non-dangerous
perishable biological substances when packed and transmitted in the prescribed manner. For the
prescribed conditions, see Dangerous and Prohibited Goods & Packaging Post Guide (8833729).
Class 7 – Radioactive materials
Class 8 – Corrosives
Cleaning liquids, corrosive
Class 9 – Miscellaneous
Paint or varnish removers
Oiled paper
Magnetised materials
Genetically modified organisms
(GMOs)
Thermometers, mercury filled.
Polymerisable materials.
P2.1.2 – Sender’s responsibility
The sender of a parcel is responsible for complying with the conditions for dangerous and prohibited
goods contained in Dangerous and Prohibited Goods and Packaging Post Guide (8833729).
P2.2 – Parcels that must bear a dangerous goods
declaration
Any domestic non-letter article that requires carriage by air must bear an Aviation Security and Dangerous
Goods Statement. Pilots of aircraft and Australia Post staff at hand-over points must be certain that each
article in an Australia Post consignment complies with Civil Aviation Safety Regulations.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
The table shows the lodgement conditions that require the declaration for each of the main Parcel Post
services.
Service
Express Post parcel
Lodgement condition
The sender has signed the declaration on the Express Post
label.
Express Post satchel
The sender has signed the declaration on the Express Post
satchel.
Express Post Platinum
satchel
The sender has signed the declaration on the Express Post
Platinum satchel.
Parcel Post satchel
The sender has signed the declaration on the Parcel Post
satchel.
Regular Parcel addressed to
any location where surface
carriage may be by air – see
P2.3
The sender has affixed a signed Aviation Security and
Dangerous Goods Statement – Australia Post label 8836791
P2.2.1 – Form of declaration
If the Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Declaration label (8836791) is not available for a Regular Parcel
or a Local Delivery Parcel, the sender may endorse the front of the parcel:
AVIATION S ECURITY AND DANGEROUS GOODS DECLARATION : THE SENDER ACKNOWLEDGES
THAT THIS ARTICLE MAY BE CARRIED BY AIR AND WILL BE SUBJECT TO AVIATION SECURITY AND
CLEARING PROCEDURES; AND THE SENDER DECLARES THAT THE ARTICLE DOES NOT CONTAIN ANY
DANGEROUS OR PROHIBITED GOODS, EXPLOSIVES OR INCENDIARY DEVICES. ARTICLES WITHOUT
THIS DECLARATION COMPLETED WILL NOT BE CARRIED BY AIR. A FALSE DECLARATION IS A
CRIMINAL OFFENCE. (NAME/SIGNATURE).
The declaration is valid only if:
the sender has signed the declaration
the parcel shows the return address of the sender.
P2.2.2 – Contract parcels
Contract parcels to a location where surface parcels may be carried by air must bear an Aviation Security
and Dangerous Goods Declaration label (8836791) or an imprint that reads:
AVIATION S ECURITY AND DANGEROUS GOODS DECLARATION : THE SENDER ACKNOWLEDGES
THAT THIS ARTICLE MAY BE CARRIED BY AIR AND WILL BE SUBJECT TO AVIATION SECURITY AND
CLEARING PROCEDURES; AND THE SENDER DECLARES THAT THE ARTICLE DOES NOT CONTAIN ANY
DANGEROUS OR PROHIBITED GOODS, EXPLOSIVES OR INCENDIARY DEVICES. ARTICLES WITHOUT
THIS DECLARATION COMPLETED WILL NOT BE CARRIED BY AIR. A FALSE DECLARATION IS A
CRIMINAL OFFENCE. (NAME / SIGNATURE).
P2.2.3 – Australia Post action if declaration not made
If a person presents an eligible article for lodgement at a post office and cannot give an assurance that
the contents are not dangerous or prohibited, Australia Post will not accept the article for carriage.
If Australia Post discovers an Express Post parcel or satchel or an Express Post Platinum satchel in a
gold street post-box with the declaration unsigned, Australia Post will forward or send the article in the
Regular parcel service. The Express Post delivery guarantee no longer applies.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
9
P2.2.4 – Australia Post action with suspicious articles
If Australia Post has grounds for reasonable suspicion that an article contains dangerous or prohibited
goods, Australia Post may open the article for inspection at any point during its postal carriage. The
Australian Postal Cor poration Act, 1989 authorises Australia Post to dispose of contents that are
prohibited, dangerous or become physically offensive during carriage.
P2.3 – Locations where surface parcels may be
carried by air
The table shows the postcodes of those Australian locations where surface carriage of post may
involve shipment by air. All parcels addressed to these postcodes require an Aviation Security and
Dangerous Goods Statement. Parcels to these postcodes that do not have a signed statement
may be returned to sender.
State
New South Wales
Postcodes
2836
2880
Queensland
4470-4498
2898
2899
0860
0872
4816
4821-4830
4871-4891
South Australia
5710
5731
Northern Territory
0822
0852
0882
0885
Western Australia
0880
0881
6161
6429-6448
6450
6532
6537
6635
6638
6640
6642
6646
6701
6705
6707
6639
6710-6716
6718
6720-6725
6728
6730-6731
6740
6733
6743
6751-6754
6758
6760-6762
6765
6770
6798
Tasmania
6799
7255-7257
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
SECTION 3 – PARCEL POST – GENERAL PROVISIONS
Unless specifically stated otherwise, the provisions in this section apply to all Parcel Post and Express
Post services.
P3.1 – Scope – Definition of Australia
The conditions of service of the Parcel Post apply to all places within Australia. The following places
are within Australia:
Lord Howe Island NSW 2898
Australian Antarctic Territory TAS 7151
Territory of Heard Island and McDonald Islands TAS 7151.
The conditions also apply to:
Christmas Island (Indian Ocean) WA 6798
Cocos (Keeling) Islands WA 6799
Norfolk Island NSW 2899.
All parcel charges to Christmas Island (6798), Cocos (Keeling Islands (6799) Norfolk Island (2899) and
the Australian Antarctic Territories (7151), except postage prepaid products, are GST free.
P3.2 – International mail security arrangements
Following Federal Government requirements in December 2002, Australia Post has implemented a
series of specific security measures for the acceptance and processing of international mail. Australia
Post customers are required to provide acceptable Photo or Signature identification when lodging
international mail. Failure to provide identification will result in mail being delayed. Further, Australia
Post will not accept international mail unless the necessary Customs documentation is completed and
signed.
Australia Post will also apply these security measures to:
International Sea Mail;
Mail addressed to Australian external territories (Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands,
Norfolk Island, Australian Antarctic Territory and Territory of Heard Island & McDonald
Island); and
Defence Force Mail that requires customs documentation, refer to Section 4 of International Post
Guide (8838525)
Photo or Signature Identification
Acceptable forms of Photo or Signature Identification include:
Drivers Licence issued by an Australian State or Territory (with a photograph)
Passport (with a photograph)
Government issued ID
Bank Credit/Debit Card
Tertiary Student ID (with a photograph)
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
11
P3.3 – International Customs regulations apply to the
following postcodes
Customs regulations apply to the following places.
Christmas Island (Indian Ocean) WA 6798
Cocos (Keeling) Islands WA 6799
Norfolk Island NSW 2899.
Australian Antarctic Territory 7151
Territory of Heard Island and McDonald Island 7151
The table shows the required customs documentation. For the other customs regulations that apply,
refer to the International Post Guide (8838525).
Service
Parcels and satchels
without Extra Cover
Regular Parcels with
Extra Cover
Contents
Required documentation
Up to 2 kg in weight and up to $500 8832667 (CN22)
in value
More than 2 kg in weight
8832659 (C231/CP72)
More than $500 in value
8832659 (C231/CP72)
All
8832661 (C233/CP74)
P3.4 – How big? How small? How heavy?
The following guidelines applies to non-contract parcels. Different size restrictions may apply to
contract parcels as detailed in individual Business Parcel Contracts. A maximum parcel length of
105cm applies to all articles unless approved in writing from the Group Manager, Parcels Group.
P3.4.1 – Maximum weight
The maximum allowed weight of a parcel lodged at a post office is 20 kg.
P3.4.2 – Maximum size
The length of the greatest linear dimension of a parcel must not exceed 105 cm.
The girth of a parcel must not exceed 140 cm.
Some examples of how to measure the length and girth follow.
Cylinders
Length
If the parcel is a long cylinder, its axis (length)
must not exceed 105 cm and its circumference
(girth) must not exceed 140 cm.
Girth/
Circumference
Boxes
If the parcel is box-shaped, then its length (its
longest dimension) must not exceed 105 cm. The
girth is achieved by measuring around all the other
dimensions and must not exceed 140 cm.
Eg. a parcel measuring –
50cm long, 30cm high & 40cm wide
(0.3m) + (0.3m) + (0.4m) + (0.4m) =
Girth 140cm (1.4m)
Irregular shapes
If the parcel is irregular in shape, its length is the
distance between the two furthest-apart points on
the surface of the article and must not exceed 105
cm. The girth, measured around the 'fattest' part
of the article at right angles to its length, must not
exceed 140 cm.
Length
Girth
Length
Girth
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P3.4.3 – Minimum size
The girth of a parcel must be at least 16 cm. For example, a broom handle or a pencil-shaped parcel is
not acceptable.
If the parcel is box-shaped, both its length and its width must be at least 5 cm.
P3.5 – Cubic weight
Australia Post assesses the weight for parcels over 1kg that are square or rectangular in shape, as
whichever is the greater of:
the actual weight in kilograms
the volume in cubic metres multiplied by 250 ie. the cubic weight.
See the back cover of this guide for how to calculate the cubic weight of a parcel.
P3.6 – Cubing policy
For parcels over 1kg that are square or rectangular in shape, Australia Post will assess charges
according to their actual weight equivalent, whichever is greater. The cubic weight is the parcel’s
volume in cubic metres multiplied by 250. Australia Post reserves the right to also apply cubic charges
to a parcel weighing less than 1kg, and to parcels that are irregular
P3.7 – Parcel Post charges and charging zones
P3.7.1 – Basis of Parcel Post Charges
The table shows the basis of charges in each of the Parcel Post services.
Service
Regular Parcel up to 500 g
Charges
A basic charge to anywhere in Australia.
Parcel Post Satchel
Customers prepay postage to anywhere in Australia on purchase
of the satchel. Discounts are available for bulk purchases.
Regular Parcel over 500 g
A basic charge that depends on whether the parcel is for delivery
in the same state or interstate plus a distance charge per kg
based on the lodgement and destination zones
Local Delivery Parcel
A basic charge that depends on whether the parcel exceeds
500 g and whether carriage by air is necessary
For details of the charges, refer to the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
13
P3.7.2 – Parcel Post charging zones
The table shows all Australian Postcodes and their equivalent Parcel Post zones. These zones
determine the distance charge component of Express Post parcels and Regular parcels over 500 g.
State
Postcodes
Zone
ACT
0200-0299
N2
Deemed to be in NSW for charging purposes
2600-2639
N2
Deemed to be in NSW for charging purposes
Northern Territory
0800-0999
NT1
New South Wales
1000-2263
N1
2264-2484
N2
2485-2486
2487-2499
N2
2500-2530
N1
N2
2555-2574
N1
2575-2639
N2
2640-2641
Victoria
N2/Q1 Use whichever zone offers the lower charge
2531-2554
2642-2647
N2/V2 Use whichever zone offers the lower charge
N2
2648
V2
2649-2714
N2
2715
V2
2716
N2
2717-2719
V2
2720-2730
N2
2731-2739
V2
2740-2786
N1
2787-2879
N2
2880
S2
2881-2889
N2
2890
N1
3000-3220
V1
3221-3334
V2
3335-3341
V1
3342-3424
V2
3425-3443
V1
3444-3688
3689-3690
3691-3749
Special conditions
Deemed to be in Victoria for charging purposes
Deemed to be in Victoria for charging purposes
Deemed to be in Victoria for charging purposes
Deemed to be in Victoria for charging purposes
Deemed to be in South Australia for charging
purposes
V2
V2/N2 Use whichever zone offers the lower charge
V2
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P3.7.2 – Parcel Post charging zones – continued
VIC - continued
Queensland
3750-3811
V2
3910-3920
V1
3921-3925
V2
3926-3944
V1
3945-3971
V2
3972-3978
V1
3979
V2
3980-3983
V1
3984-3999
V2
8000-8999
V1
4000-4224
4225
South Australia
Western Australia
Tasmania
May 2008
V1
3812-3909
Q1
Q1/N2 Use whichever zone offers the lower charge
4226-4299
Q1
4300-4449
Q2
4450-4499
Q3
4500-4549
Q1
4550-4699
Q2
4700-4805
Q3
4806-4899
Q4
9000-9299
Q1
9400-9596
Q1
9597-9599
Q2
9700-9799
Q1
9880-9919
Q2
9920-9959
Q3
9960-9999
Q4
5000-5199
S1
5200-5749
S2
5800-5999
S1
6000-6214
W1
6215-6699
W2
6700-6797
W3
6798
W3
Christmas Island (Indian Ocean) – customs
regulations apply – see P3.3
6799
W3
Cocos (Keeling) Island – customs regulations
apply – see P3.3
6800-6999
W1
7000-7999
T1
Parcel Post Guide
15
P3.8 – Unclaimed, undeliverable, refused and
withdrawn parcels
For the conditions that apply to unclaimed, undeliverable, refused and withdrawn parcels, refer to
Section 5 of General Post Guide (8837578).
P3.9 – Compensation and Extra Cover
For the conditions that apply to compensation and Extra Cover, refer to Section 6 of General Post
Guide (8837578).
Also, see Sections 10 and 11 of this guide – Registered Post and Extra Cover.
P3.10 – Change-of-address and holding services
For the conditions that apply to change-of-address and holding services, refer to Section 7 of General
Post Guide (8837578).
P3.11 – Enquiries and complaints
People with an inquiry or complaint about damage, delay or loss of a parcel, should contact an office
of Australia Post and provide full details.
P3.11.1 – Lodgement of enquiry or complaint
Senders or addressees may lodge enquiries or complaints:
on the enquiry form available at any office of Australia Post
by post or telephone, if attendance at an office is inconvenient.
P3.11.2 – Non-delivery
Australia Post accepts an enquiry or a complaint about non-delivery of a parcel article if:
the applicant can describe the parcel and give sufficient lodgement details
sufficient time has elapsed to allow the parcel to reach its destination in the ordinary course of
carriage
the applicant can provide reasonable evidence that the parcel was posted and has not yet been
delivered
the applicant makes the enquiry within one year of the lodgement.
Action by Australia Post for non-delivery enquiries
The table shows the Australia Post action for non-delivery enquiries.
Service
Ordinary Post
Action taken
No search
Express Post
Search at the delivery office
Express Post Platinum
Search at the delivery office
Registered Post
Search at the delivery office
Parcels with Extra Cover
Search at the delivery office
Delivery Confirmation
Search at the delivery office
Australia Post returns undeliverable articles found in the mail to the sender, if possible.
P3.11.3 – Delayed delivery
Anyone making an enquiry or complaint about delayed delivery should, if possible, submit the
envelope or the cover of the delayed article in the condition in which they received it.
P3.11.4 – Information not to be divulged
Australia Post does not give information about postal articles or electronic mail messages that pass
through a post office, except to the person to whom the article or message is addressed.
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Parcel Post Guide
SECTION 4 – EXPRESS POST PARCELS, EXPRESS POST
SATCHELS AND EXPRESS POST PLATINUM
P4.1 – Express Post Service description
The Express Post service provides:
a guaranteed next-business-day delivery service for parcels and satchels correctly posted on a
business day between places specified in Express Post networks
low next-business-day delivery costs
further savings for the bulk purchase of Express Post Satchels.
For details of the Express Post Letter service, refer to the Letter Post Guide (8833731).
Post charges
Express Post charges are in the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P4.1.1 – Supplementary services
Supplementary services, such as Extra Cover or COD, are not available with Express Post.
P4.1.2 – Reply Paid
Customers with a Reply Paid Service Contract may use Express Post Parcels and Satchels for the
return of parcels – refer to Section 9.
P4.1.3 – The Express Post guarantee
Australia Post guarantees next-business-day delivery over specified routes within an Express Post
network to all Express Post parcels and satchels that bear a signed Aviation Security and Dangerous
Goods Statement and are correctly lodged by the published lodgement time. Should Australia Post fail
to deliver on the next business day, the sender receives a free equivalent-value Express Post satchel or
a refund of postage for an Express Post parcel on presentation of the customer receipt.
The Express Post guarantee does not apply to articles that:
are addressed to a postcode not included in an Express Post network – see P4.2
are lodged in an Express Post satchel from which the OFFICIAL USE ONLY barcode strip has been
removed
bear an Express Post parcel label from which the OFFICIAL USE ONLY barcode strip has been
removed
on which the Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Statement, has not been signed by the
sender – Australia Post treats such an article as a Regular Parcel and forwards it by surface mail or
returns it to the sender
are addressed to roadside delivery addresses in Tasmania, Victoria, South Australia or Western
Australia
are incorrectly or inadequately addressed
have been incorrectly lodged in a red street post box
weigh more than the weight limit of the respective satchels
bear insufficient postage.
P4.1.4 – Parcels and satchels travelling outside an Express Post
guaranteed network
For parcels and satchels sent to or from a location that is not in an Express Post guaranteed network,
Australia Post provides the fastest possible delivery using its normal network arrangements. The
guarantee does not apply to these articles.
P4.1.5 – Valuable items
Do not use Express Post to send valuable items such as cash, bullion, precious stones or negotiable
securities. Australia Post accepts no liability for the loss of or damage to such items in Express Post.
Refer to P10.1.3 – Articles that you should always send by Registered Post.
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P4.1.6 – Delivery
Usually, Express Post articles addressed to a post office box receive an early morning delivery.
Express Post articles addressed to a street address receive normal postal delivery.
If an item for delivery in the guaranteed network is not delivered on the next working business day
after posting, you can call 13 13 18 to check the delivery date of an Express Post article. You must
have retained the SENDER TO KEEP label or the receipt and know the delivery address and the
lodgement place and time.
P4.1.7 – Basis of Express Post Charges
Service
Express Post satchel
Express Post Platinum satchel
Charges
Customers prepay postage to anywhere in Australia on
purchase of the satchel. Discounts are available for bulk
purchases
Express Post parcel up to 500 g
A basic charge to anywhere in Australia
Express Post parcels over 500 g
A basic charge that depends on whether the parcel is for
delivery in the same state or interstate plus a distance
charge per kg based on the lodgement and destination
zones
For Express Post charging zones refer to P3.7.2 – Parcel Post charging zones
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P4.2 – The Express Post networks
P4.2.1 – The Express Post interstate network
The table shows the places and postcodes in the Express Post interstate network.
State or Territory City or district
ACT
Canberra CBD
Canberra suburbs
NSW
Sydney CBD
Sydney suburbs
Gosford
Newcastle
Tweed Heads/
Murwillumbah
Wollongong
Victoria
Melbourne CBD
Melbourne suburbs
Postcodes
2600–2601
0200-0250; 2602–2639; 2900–2920
1000-1299; 2000–2009
1300-1920; 2010–2249; 2555–2574; 2740–2786
2250–2265
2280–2300; 2302–2310
2484–2490
2500–2530
3000–3010; 8000-8010
3011–3210; 3335-3338; 3340#; 3427-3429; 3750#3755#; 3757#; 3765-3767; 3782; 3785-3796; 38003806; 3810#; 3910-3915; 3930-3934; 3975-3977#;
8011-8899
Geelong
3211–3220
Ballarat
3350; 3353-3356
Bendigo
3550; 3552-3556
Shepparton/Mooroopna/ 3629-3632#
Kialla
Seymour
3660-3661
La Trobe Valley
3825; 3840–3844
Queensland
Brisbane CBD
4000–4004
Brisbane suburbs
4005–4209
Gold Coast
4210–4299; 9726; 9728; 9729
Booval/Ipswich
4300–4305
Toowoomba
4350; 4352+
Strathpine/Caboolture
4500–4510; 4520
Sunshine Coast
4550–4601
Maryborough City
4650#
Hervey Bay City
4655#
Bundaberg City
4670#
South Australia
Adelaide CBD
5000–5005; 5800-5879
Adelaide suburbs
5006–5199; 5880-5999
Western Australia Perth CBD
6000–6005; 6800-6899 for delivery only to other
CBD postcodes: 1000-1299; 2000–2009; 2600–
2601; 3000–3010; 4000–4004; 5000–5005; 58005879; 7000–7003; 7250; 8000-8010
Tasmania
Hobart CBD
7000–7003
Hobart suburbs
7004–7019; 7050–7053; 7055; 7842
Northern Tasmania
7248–7325
#
+
Service guaranteed in townships only in these postcodes.
Service guaranteed to Mail Centre post office boxes only.
May 2008
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P4.2.2 – The Express Post intrastate networks
Within each State, Express Post provides guaranteed next-business-day delivery between the primary
metropolitan area of the capital and main provincial centres. The Express Post intrastate networks of
Victoria, Queensland and Tasmania also link provincial centres with each other. Ask at your local
office of Australia Post for the Express Post service it can provide or call 13 13 18 or visit
www.auspost.com.au
P4.3 – How to use Express Post Satchels
P4.3.1 – Express Post Satchels
The Express Post satchel service is available only if you use the special prepaid Express Post satchels.
The price of each satchel includes the Express Post charge to any Australian destination. The table
shows the available Express Post Satchels.
Dimensions
355 mm 220 mm
Maximum weight
500 gm
Suitable for
Video cassettes and other small items.
405 mm 310 mm
3 kg
Large books and other bulky items.
Satchels are available singly or in packs of 10, with discounts for bulk purchases.
Refer to the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
Larger satchels are also available under contract conditions.
P4.3.2 – Preparation and lodgement of Express Post Satchels
With Express Post Satchels, there are no stamps to buy or postage to calculate:
purchase your Express Post satchel
place your article in the satchel – make sure it does not exceed the permitted maximum weight
complete the address details and the sender’s details on the front of the satchel
sign the Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Statement on the satchel
remove and retain the SENDER TO KEEP lift-and-peel tab from the front of the satchel
lodge in a gold street post-box or over the counter at an office of Australia Post.
P4.4 – How to use Express Post Parcels
P4.4.1 – Express Post parcel labels
If your article is unsuitable for a satchel or weighs more than 3 kg, you can obtain Express Post parcel
labels from any office of Australia Post. Australia Post requires an Express Post parcel label on all
Express Post parcels. The table shows the available labels.
NSW
8835289
VIC and TAS 8835290
SA and NT
8835292
WA
QLD
8835291
8835293
P4.4.2 – Preparation and lodgement of Express Post parcels
To prepare and lodge your Express Post parcel:
prepare and pack your parcel – see Section 15 – and obtain an Express Post parcel label
complete the delivery address and the sender’s address on the label
sign the Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Statement on the label
either weigh the parcel and assess postage at the Express Post parcel rate or take it to an office of
Australia Post for weighing and assessment
affix the necessary postage stamps, a postage meter imprint or a postage label to the Express Post
parcel label
affix the Express Post parcel label to the front of the parcel having removed the tear-off Customer
Receipt
lodge at the counter of an office of Australia Post and have the Customer Receipt completed and
postmarked by the counter officer
keep the completed Customer Receipt as your record of posting.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P4.5 – Lodgement times
P4.5.1 – Express Post gold street post-boxes
Post your Express Post satchels in an Express Post gold street post-box by 6 pm on any business day.
The following places have earlier “post-by” times (ask your local office for details):
Perth metropolitan area, outside the CBD
many provincial centres
P4.5.2 – Lodgement over the counter
Lodge your Express Post parcels over the counter at any office of Australia Post by the advertised
Express Post post-by time. At larger offices in metropolitan areas, this is 5 pm.
P4.6 – Express Post Platinum Service description
Express Post Platinum is a premium service that provides:
Guaranteed delivery by 12.00 midday next business day to business addresses within the published
network. Delivery by 5.00pm is guaranteed to residential addresses within the network.
Proof of delivery. Provided by obtaining the addressee’s signature at the time of delivery.
Track and trace. Within the guaranteed network Express Post Platinum items will have their
barcode read at key processing points on delivery. This information will be available to customers
on Australia Post’s web site.
Proof of posting. If posted at a post office counter within the Express Post Platinum network, a
removable flap on the satchel will be date stamped by the counter officer and given to you as a
record of lodgement.
A choice of two pre-paid satchels, one for items up to 500 grams and one for items up to 3
kilograms.
Lodgement options. Satchels can either be lodged in Express Post GOLD boxes, or over the
counter at retail outlets.
Post Charges
Express Post Platinum charges are in the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P4.6.1 – Supplementary services
Supplementary services such as insurance, Reply Paid and COD are not available with Express Post
Platinum.
P4.6.2 – Express Post Platinum Guarantee
Australia Post guarantees delivery by 12.00 midday next business day to business addresses and delivery
to residential addresses by 5.00pm next business day over the routes specified in the published service
network, provided the satchel is correctly posted on a business day Monday to Friday.
If we do not deliver as promised, the sender will receive a free Express Post Platinum satchel of the
same type.
The Express Post Platinum guarantee does not apply to articles:
On which the Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Statement has not been signed by the sender.
Which weigh more than the weight limit printed on the satchel.
Addressed to a location not included in the Express Post Platinum network – see P4.7.
Addressed to a roadside delivery address in Victoria, Western Australia, South Australia or
Tasmania.
Lodged at a location not included in an Express Post Platinum network – see P4.7.
From which the “OFFICIAL USE ONLY” barcode strip has been removed.
Which are incorrectly or inadequately addressed.
Incorrectly lodged in a red street posting box.
P4.6.3 – Satchels travelling outside an Express Post Platinum network
For satchels sent to or from a location not included in an Express Post Platinum network, Australia
Post provides the fastest delivery using its normal network arrangements. The guarantee does not
apply to these satchels. A signature is still obtained on delivery.
May 2008
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P4.6.4 – Valuable items
Do not use Express Post Platinum to send valuable items such as cash, bullion, precious stones or
negotiable securities. Australia Post accepts no liability for the loss of, or damage to, such items lodged
in an Express Post Platinum satchel. Refer to P10.1.3 – Articles that should be sent by Registered Post.
P4.6.5 – Delivery
The current delivery status of an Express Post Platinum item sent within the network can be checked
on Australia Post’s web site. To do this, you must have retained the SENDER TO KEEP barcode
number label.
If an Express Post Platinum item has not been delivered as promised, you can call 13 13 18 to check on
that item’s status. To do this you must have retained the SENDER TO KEEP barcode number label
and know the delivery address and the lodgement place and time.
P4.6.6 – Delivery to PO Boxes
Express Post Platinum satchels addressed to PO Boxes may not be delivered until after the normal PO
Box delivery time.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P4.7 – Express Post Platinum Networks
The Express Post Platinum national network differs from the Express Post network by including many
Perth suburbs and excluding some outer metropolitan areas in other capital cities. It also excludes
some provincial areas from the national network. The area covered by the State networks is also more
restricted.
National Network
For delivery by midday next business day, Express Post Platinum satchels can be sent between all the
capital cities, excluding some outer metropolitan areas, Darwin, and a number of major provincial
cities.
ACT
State or Territory
City or district
Canberra and suburbs
Postcodes
0200-0250; 2600-2620; 2900-2920
NSW
Sydney and suburbs
1000-1920; 2000-2077; 2084-2096;
2100-2104; 2109-2125; 2128-2155;
2157; 2160-2170; 2173-2174; 21902232; 2234; 2555-2557; 2560-2567;
2748; 2750-2751; 2760; 2762-2764;
2766-2768; 2773
Gosford region
2250-2263
Victoria
Queensland
Newcastle
2280-2310
Wollongong Area
2500-2530
Melbourne and suburbs
3000-3023; 3025-3089; 3095-3096;
3100-3105; 3108-3110; 3118-3133;
3134#; 3135-3138; 3140-3153; 31553156; 3161-3207; 3211; 8000-8899
Geelong and suburbs
3215-3220
Morwell
3840
Brisbane and suburbs
4000-4179
Gold Coast†
4210-4221; 4223-4227; 2484-2490;
9726; 9728-9729
Ipswich†
4305
City of Toowoomba†
4350
Strathpine/Caboolture†
4500-4510
South Australia
Adelaide and suburbs
5000-5109; 5111-5113; 5154-5155;
5158-5166; 5800-5999
Western Australia
Perth and suburbs
6000-6031; 6050-6066; 6070-6073;
6090-6112; 6147-6176; 6800-6960
Tasmania
Hobart and suburbs
7000-7018; 7050-7053; 7055
Launceston†
7248-7250
† Service not available for items sent from WA and Launceston to QLD locations outside Brisbane
and suburbs
# Ringwood only
State Networks
Between a State capital city and selected provincial centres (within that State) and in some States
between those provincial centres.
May 2008
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P4.8 – How to use Express Post Platinum
To use the Express Post Platinum service you must use the special pre-paid Express Post Platinum
satchels. These satchels are available in the following two sizes:
Maximum Weight
500 grams
Dimensions
230mm x 353mm
3 kilograms
310mm x 405mm
Discounts are available for satchels purchased in packs of ten.
P4.8.1 – Preparation and lodgement of Express Post Platinum satchels
With Express Post Platinum satchels there are no stamps to buy or postage to calculate, you:
Purchase an Express Post Platinum satchel.
Place the item in the satchel, making sure it does not exceed the maximum weight.
Complete the address on the front of the satchel and the sender’s details on the back.
Sign the Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Statement on the satchel.
Remove the SENDER TO KEEP lift and peel barcode number tab from the front of the satchel
and affix it to the extended closing flap of the satchel.
Lodge it either in an Express Post GOLD street posting box by 6.00pm (earlier in some localities)
or over the counter of a post office within the Express Post Platinum network by that office’s
Express Post closing time.
If lodging in an Express Post GOLD box, tear off and retain the customer receipt section of the
closing flap prior to posting.
P4.8.2 – Proof of posting at a post office counter
All Express Post Platinum satchels posted over a post office counter will have the “customer receipt”
on the extended closing flap date stamped, in the place indicated, by the accepting counter officer. The
customer receipt will then be removed from the satchel and be given to you, as your “proof of
posting”.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
SECTION 5 – PREPAID PARCEL POST SATCHELS
P5.1 – Service description
The Parcel Post satchel service provides:
an economical and easy way to send a parcel – the purchase price of the satchel includes prepaid
postage to anywhere in Australia
no postage to assess or stamps to buy
further savings for the bulk purchase of Parcel Post satchels.
Post charges
Parcel Post satchel prices are in the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P5.1.1 – Supplementary services available
Supplementary services, such as Registered Post and Extra Cover are available with Parcel Post
satchels.
P5.1.2 – Supplementary services not available
Supplementary services, such as Reply Paid, COD, Person-to-Person and Delivery Confirmation (card)
are not available with Parcel Post satchels.
P5.1.3 – Delivery standards and timetable
Parcel Post satchels provide Australia-wide coverage. The delivery timetable is the same as for Regular
Parcels – see Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P5.1.4 – Valuable items
Refer to P10.1.3 – Articles that you should always send by Registered Post.
P5.2 – How to use Parcel Post Satchels
P5.2.1 – The available Parcel Post satchels
The Parcel Post satchel service is available only if you use the special prepaid Parcel Post satchels. The
price of each satchel includes the Parcel Post charge to any Australian destination. The table shows the
available Parcel Post satchels.
Dimensions
355 mm 220 mm
Maximum weight
500 gm
Suitable for
DVD’s, video’s and small items.
405 mm 310 mm
3 kg
Large books, clothing, shoes and other bulky items.
Satchels are available singly or in packs of 10, with discounts for bulk purchases.
Refer to the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P5.2.2 – Preparation and lodgement of Parcel Post Satchels
With Parcel Post satchels there are no stamps to buy or postage to calculate:
purchase your Parcel Post satchel
purchase and affix a prepaid Registered Post label when proof of delivery with signature is required
place your article in the satchel – make sure it does not exceed the permitted maximum weight
complete the address on the front of the satchel and the sender’s details on the back
sign the Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Statement on the satchel
if the satchel is addressed to any of the places in P3.3, complete and attach the appropriate
customs declaration
lodge over the counter at an office of Australia Post or in a red street post-box if the size of the
aperture permits.
When using the Registered Post service, lodge over the counter at an office of Australia Post when
Extra Cover and proof of posting is required
May 2008
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SECTION 6 – REGULAR PARCELS
P6.1 – Service description
The Regular Parcel service provides an economical way to send a parcel to anywhere in Australia by
surface mail.
Post charges
Regular Parcel charges depend on weight and distance. Charges are in the Post Charges Booklet
(8833665).
P6.1.1 – Supplementary services
The following supplementary services are available with Regular Parcels:
Cash-on-delivery (COD) – see Section 7
Registered Post – see Section 10
Extra Cover – see Section 11
Delivery Confirmation – see P10.4
Person-to-Person delivery – see P10.5
Reply Paid – see Section 9
Medical Educational Remote Area Parcel Service – see Section 14.
P6.1.2 – Delivery standards and timetable
Regular Parcels provide Australia-wide coverage.
Service
For delivery…
Same State
Other State
Regular Parcel
Within metropolitan areas of capital
cities or within the same city or town or
environs
1
-
Between a metropolitan area of a capital
city and a country location
1-3
-
Between country locations
1-4
-
Between Sydney/Brisbane;
Sydney/Melbourne;
Melbourne/Canberra;
Melbourne/Adelaide
-
2
Between Sydney/Adelaide;
Melbourne/Brisbane;
Melbourne/Tasmania;
Adelaide/Brisbane; Adelaide/Canberra
-
3
Between other capital cities
-
4-5
P6.1.3 – Valuable items
Refer to P10.1.3 – Articles that you should always send by Registered Post.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P6.2 – How to use regular parcels
P6.2.1 – Preparation and lodgement of regular parcels
To prepare and lodge your regular parcel:
prepare and pack your parcel – see Section 15
complete the address on the front of the parcel and the sender’s details on the back
if the parcel is addressed to any of the postcodes in P2.3, complete and sign an Aviation Security and
Dangerous Goods Statement and attach it to the parcel – see P2.2.1
weigh the parcel and assess postage at the regular parcel rate or take it to an office of Australia Post
for weighing and assessment
affix the necessary postage stamps or a postage meter imprint
if the parcel is addressed to any of the places in P3.3, complete and attach the appropriate customs
declaration
lodge over the counter at an office of Australia Post, or in a street post-box if the size of the
aperture permits and correct postage has been affixed
Note: Customers lodging under a Business Parcel Agreement will have different preparation
requirements.
P6.2.2 – Preparation and lodgement of regular parcels by Registered Post
To prepare and lodge your regular parcel by Registered Post:
prepare and pack your parcel – see Section 15 and Section 10
complete the address on the front of the parcel and the sender’s details on the back
if the parcel is addressed to any of the postcode in P2.3, complete and sign an Aviation Security and
Dangerous Goods Statement and attach it to the parcel – see P2.2.1
weigh the parcel and assess postage at the regular parcel rate or take it to an office of Australia Post
for weighing and assessment
affix a prepaid Registered Post label
affix the necessary postage stamps or a postage meter imprint
when proof of posting and/or Extra Cover is required, complete the Registered Post and Optional
Services lodgement document (8836964) and lodge over the counter at a post office – see P10.2.1
Registered Post parcels lodged in a street posting box do not receive proof of posting. Proof of
posting is necessary to substantiate a claim for the total loss or damage of a Registered Post parcel
– see P10.3.4.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
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SECTION 7 – CASH-ON-DELIVERY (COD)
P7.1 – Service description
The Cash-on-Delivery (COD) service provides Australia Post customers with the means to collect
charges for goods or postage (or both) from their own smaller non-account customers. The service
offers:
proof of posting and delivery
compensation up to $100 included in the COD fee
optional Extra Cover up to $5000
collection of the amount due from the addressee before delivery by Australia Post
payment of the amount due to the sender by Money Order.
Post charges
COD fees and charges are in the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P7.1.1 – Parcel Post services used
COD articles may use only the Regular Parcels service.
COD articles may not use Express Post or Parcel Post satchels.
P7.1.2 – Supplementary services
The following supplementary services are available with COD:
Local Delivery – see Section 8.
Extra Cover – see Section 11.
P7.1.3 – What can be sent COD?
Articles in the COD service must be:
articles sent in execution of a bona fide order from the addressee, or
articles addressed to their owner on which service charges (such as repairs and maintenance) or
other fees are payable.
P7.1.4 – Collection options
The sender of a COD article may instruct Australia Post to collect one or both of:
postage and fees only, collected from the addressee
collection of money from the addressee and remittance to sender plus any collection of postage or
fees from the addressee.
P7.1.5 – Delivery
Australia Post will not deliver a COD parcel until the addressee has paid the full amount due (cash or
EFTPOS Debit Card only). The addressee may not open the parcel or examine its contents before
making payment. The addressee may not make part payments.
Delivery at an office
Australia Post has completed delivery of a COD parcel at an office when Australia Post has:
received payment in cash or EFTPOS Debit Card, and
handed the parcel to the addressee or an authorised agent.
Delivery to a Locked Bag, a Private Mail Bag or a Community Bag
Australia Post has completed delivery of a COD parcel addressed to a person at a Locked Bag, a
Private Mail Bag or a Community Bag when Australia Post has:
received payment in cash or EFTPOS Debit Card, and
placed the COD parcel in the bag, and
despatched the bag from the office where the bag was made up.
P7.1.6 – Method of Payment
Australia Post will only accept payment in CASH or EFTPOS DEBIT CARD for COD articles.
P7.1.7 – Refused or undeliverable COD Parcels
A delivery office will hold a COD article for up to 10 working days from the date of its receipt at the
office. If the article remains undelivered at the expiry of that time, Australia Post deems it
undeliverable. The sender of a refused or undeliverable COD parcel must sign a receipt on its return
and pay any postal charges not prepaid on lodgement and return postage. Refer to Section 5 of the
General Post Guide for the return postage payable and other conditions for the treatment of
unclaimed, refused or undeliverable articles.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P7.2 – How to use COD
To prepare and lodge your COD parcel:
prepare and pack your parcel – see Section 15
complete the address on the front of the parcel and the sender’s details on the back
if the parcel is addressed to any of the postcodes in P2.3 (locations where surface parcels may be
carried by air), complete and sign an Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Statement and attach
it to the parcel – see P2.2.1.
ensure the parcel is suitably marked as a COD article – see P7.2.1
take it to an office of Australia Post for weighing and assessment
complete the COD Application Form (8832967) – see P7.2.2 – and retain the receipt
affix the necessary postage stamps or a postage meter imprint if postage is not being paid by the
addressee
if the parcel is addressed to any of the Australian overseas territories in P3.3, complete and attach
the appropriate customs declaration
lodge over the counter at an office of Australia Post.
P7.2.1 – Marking
A COD parcel must be clearly marked with COD tape (8837991) on at least two sides of the parcel.
The tape must not obscure the address.
P7.2.2 – COD Application Form
Australia Post accepts COD parcels for lodgement only when the sender has completed the
appropriate COD Application Form (8832967).
The sender should retain the receipt portion of the form as proof of lodgement.
P7.2.3 – Application to waive COD charges
The sender of a COD parcel may subsequently apply to Australia Post to deliver the parcel to the
addressee without collecting payment. The application must be:
in writing and addressed to the Postal Manager at the office of lodgement
accompanied by the receipt of the COD Application Form (8832967)
made in sufficient time for the delivery office to act before delivering the parcel.
There is no fee for this service, but the sender must pay the cost of any postage, telephone calls,
facsimile or electronic messages necessary to give effect to the application.
P7.2.4 – Application to return a COD parcel
The sender of a COD parcel may subsequently apply to Australia Post to return the parcel to the
sender. The application must be:
in writing and addressed to the Postal Manager at the office of lodgement
accompanied by the receipt of the COD Application Form (8832967)
made in sufficient time for the delivery office to act before delivering the parcel.
The fee for this service is in Post Charges Booklet (8833665). The sender must also pay return postage,
if applicable, and the cost of any postage, telephone calls, facsimile or electronic messages necessary to
give effect to the application.
P7.2.5 – Application for Statement of Delivery
Up to 12 months after lodgement, the sender of a COD parcel may apply to Australia Post for a
Statement of Deliver y. The statement gives details of the delivery and the payment received from the
addressee. The application must be:
in writing and addressed to the Postal Manager at the office of lodgement
accompanied by the receipt of the COD Application Form (8832967)
The fee for this service is in Post Charges Booklet (8833665). Australia Post refunds the fee if the
Statement of Deliver y reveals an error or omission by Australia Post.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
29
SECTION 8 – LOCAL DELIVERY SERVICE IN COUNTRY
AREAS
P8.1 – Service description
The Local Delivery service is available only within defined country postcode areas to anyone who
lodges a Regular Parcel at the office that will deliver the parcel. It offers considerable savings that
reflect the elimination of intermediate sorting and transport costs between other Australia Post offices.
For a definition of the office of delivery, see P8.2 – Lodgement conditions.
Post charges
Local Delivery charges are in the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P8.1.1 – Supplementary services
The following supplementary services are available with Local Delivery Parcels:
Cash-on-Delivery (COD) – see Section 7
Registered Post – see Section 10
Extra Cover – see Section 11
Delivery Confirmation – see P10.4
Person-to-Person delivery – see P10.5
Medical Educational Remote Area Parcel Service – see Section 14.
The Local Delivery service is available only for Regular Parcels. It does not apply to Express Post
parcels or satchels.
P8.1.2 – Eligibility
Anyone can lodge a Local Delivery Parcel within a country postcode area irrespective of where they
live or carry on business. The place of lodgement must be the office of delivery for one of the
designated country postcode areas in P8.3.
P8.1.3 – Carriage by air
For lodgement in those postcodes listed in P2.3 – Locations where surface parcels may use air carriage,
local delivery might be by air. If so:
a special rate applies to parcels of more than 500 g – see Post Charges Booklet (8833665)
the parcel must bear an Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Statement (8836791)– see P2.2.
P8.1.4 – How to use Local Delivery
With the exception of the lodgement conditions in P8.2, you use the Local Delivery service in the
same way as Regular Parcels – see P6.2.
P8.2 – Lodgement conditions
Local Delivery lodgements must be at the counter of the office from which the parcel will be delivered.
The office must be the office of delivery for one of the designated country postcode areas in P8.3.
Not all offices are delivery offices. The Postal Manager of any office can advise senders of the location
of the office that delivers to the local postcode area.
Regular Parcel charges apply to any parcel that requires transportation from the lodgement point to the
office of delivery.
Australia Post considers that a parcel is lodged at the office of delivery in each of the following cases:
it is addressed to a private box, a locked bag or for counter delivery at the office where it is lodged,
even if that office is not the delivery office for the postcode area
the lodgement is at an office designated by a Commercial Manager of Australia Post for the
purpose of receiving Local Delivery lodgements
the lodgement is at an office that controls a delivery depot with no counter lodgement facilities
it is brought by private mail bag to the office from which it will be delivered
the sender delivers it to a mail contractor who, in the course of his or her duties, hands it in at the
office from which it will be delivered.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P8.3 – Postcode areas eligible for the Local Delivery
service
The Local Delivery service operates only in the postcodes shown.
0835-0899
1970-1999
2240-2490
2500-2554
2575-2599
May 2008
2640-2739
2787-2880
2890-2899
3211-3334
3342-3424
3444-3749
3812-3909
3921-3925
3945-3971
3979
3984-3999
4210-4499
4550-4899
5200-5749
6215-6507
6509-6646
6700-6799
7200-7499
7900-7999
9597-9599
9700-9799
9880-9999
Parcel Post Guide
31
SECTION 9 – REPLY PAID PARCEL SERVICE
P9.1 – Service description
The Reply Paid parcel service allows customers to invite respondents to return parcels to them at no
cost to the respondent. The customer pays the postage, including a delivery fee, for each parcel
returned.
Customers must complete a Reply Paid Service Contract with Australia Post before they can use the
Reply Paid parcel service.
P9.1.1 – Scope
The Reply Paid parcel service applies only within Australia. It is available with Regular parcels,
Medical Educational Remote Area Parcels and Express Post parcels. Express Post satchels can only
be used with the Reply Paid Service under separate contract conditions.
P9.1.2 – Service combinations
Reply Paid Service Contract customers cannot combine any supplementary services, such as
Registered Post or Extra Cover, with the Reply Paid parcel service. However, respondents may
choose to pay for these services when they lodge a Regular Reply Paid parcel for return. No
supplementary services are available to respondents with Express Post parcels.
P9.2 – How to apply for a Reply Paid parcel contract
P9.2.1 – Application form
To apply for a Reply Paid Parcel Service contract, complete form 8835097 – Reply Paid Service
Application, available at post offices. Reply Paid customers require an Australia Post charge account
for billing purposes.
P9.2.2 – The approval process
When Australia Post accepts an application for a Reply Paid Parcel Service Contract, Australia Post:
sends the customer an acceptance advice
sends the customer the required address format
sends the delivery office a Delivery Facility Notification
P9.3 – Obligations of a Reply Paid customer
P9.3.1 – Obligation to pay
The customer must pay the postage and the appropriate delivery fee for each parcel whether accepted
or refused.
P9.3.2 – Obligation to reveal source
The customer must disclose the source of any Reply Paid Parcel to allow the appropriate distancebased charges to be calculated.
P9.3.3 - Prohibitions
A customer must not:
issue Reply Paid invitations unless the customer has a current Reply Paid Service Contract with
Australia Post.
Allow a Reply Paid Parcel to be lodged in Australia for delivery outside Australia.
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Parcel Post Guide
P9.4 – Variations to the Reply Paid Service Contract
P9.4.1 – Variation to name and address
At any time, a customer may apply in writing to vary the name or address appearing on Reply Paid
Parcels. Provided the variation is not in breach of the Reply Paid Service Contract, Australia Post
normally approves the variation.
P9.4.2 – Transfer of Reply Paid Parcel service
A customer may transfer the obligations under a Reply Paid Service Contract to another person or
organisation only with the prior written approval of Australia Post. Australia Post will deem the new
Reply Paid Service Contract customer to have accepted all the conditions of the contract as issued to
the relinquishing customer.
If the customer is a partnership and reconstitutes by the retirement or addition of partners, Australia
Post regards the reconstituted partnership as the customer. Australia Post deems the reconstituted
partnership to have accepted all the conditions of the contract as issued to the original partnership.
P9.4.3 – Australia Post variations
Australia Post reserves the right, at reasonable notice, to require a customer to change the design or
any other feature of previously approved Reply Paid specifications.
P9.5 – Cancellation of a Reply Paid Service Contract
P9.5.1 – Cancellation by customer
A customer may cancel a Reply Paid Service Contract by giving one month’s written notice to
Australia Post.
P9.5.2 – Cancellation by Australia Post
Australia Post may cancel a Reply Paid Service Contract by giving seven days’ written notice to the
customer if:
the customer breaches any of the Reply Paid Service Contract terms and conditions
the customer becomes or is in jeopardy of becoming insolvent
the customer, being a company, passes a resolution or a court makes an order that the customer
shall be wound up
a receiver or manager on behalf of a creditor is appointed to a customer, or circumstances arise
which entitles a court or a creditor to appoint a receiver or manager to a customer.
P9.5.3 – Obligations of a customer after cancellation
When a contract is no longer in force, the customer must cease to publish the Reply Paid address and
must not issue any pre-printed Reply Paid articles.
P9.5.4 – Articles lodged after cancellation of the contract
The customer is liable to pay Australia Post for any charges, postage or fees for Reply Paid Parcels
lodged after the cancellation of a Reply Paid Service Contract.
If, after cancellation of the Reply Paid Service Contract, a customer continues to invite respondents
to use the Reply Paid Parcel Service, Australia Post will treat the responses as underpaid mail – refer
to Section 2 of General Post Guide (8837578).
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
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P9.6 – Addressing standards for Reply Paid Parcels
The address on a Reply Paid Parcel must conform to the standards below.
If not hand-written, the address is printed in Courier
12 point or a comparable fixed-pitch font with no
effects such as italic, bold or shadow.
The left margin is justified.
“Attention” or
reference
details appear
below “Reply
Paid 62357”
and the
organisation
name
The first line contains the words
“Reply Paid” followed by the Reply
Paid number allocated by Australia
Post.
Reply Paid 62357
Australia Post
Attn: Mr A. Brown
GPO Box 1777
MELBOURNE VIC 3001
The last line contains the locality or post office name,
state abbreviation and postcode in UPPER CASE
letters with no underlining or punctuation of any sort.
Only one or two spaces separate each element.
The second last line contains the
post office box address or the
street address.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
SECTION 10 – REGISTERED POST
P10.1 – Service description
Registered Post offers additional security to senders of parcels and a range of optional services to give
even greater peace of mind. It provides:
a unique identification number for each parcel
proof of posting if parcels are lodged over the counter at an office of Australia Post
a signed record of delivery
compensation up to $100 included in the registration fee provided that proof of posting exists
optional Extra Cover up to $5000 – see Section 11
optional Delivery Confirmation card
optional Person-to-Person delivery.
Post charges
The registration fee and the fees for the optional services are in the Post Charges Booklet (8833665)
P10.1.1 – Parcel Post services used
Registered Post parcels may be used with the following Parcel Post services:
Prepaid Parcel Post satchels – see Section 5
Regular parcels – see Section 6
Local Delivery – see Section 8
Reply Paid parcels, only if the respondent pays the registration fee – see Section 9
Medical Educational Remote Area Parcel Service – see Section 14.
Express Post parcels and satchels cannot use Registered Post.
P10.1.2 – Supplementary services and service combinations
The table shows those Parcel Post services that you may use as a supplement to Registered Post or in
combination with Registered Post.
Service
For more information, refer to….
Extra Cover up to $5000
P11.1 – Extra Cover
Delivery Confirmation card
P10.4 – Delivery Confirmation card
Person-to-Person delivery
P10.5 – Person-to-Person delivery
P10.1.3 – Articles that you should always send by Registered Post
You should always send the following articles by Registered Post, as Australia Post accepts no liability
in any other Parcel Post service.
Coins
Jewellery
Negotiable securities
Non-negotiable instruments Precious stones
such as passports, wills, or Valuable items of any nature.
title deeds
Non-negotiable instruments – limit of cover
Australia Post limits the document reconstruction costs of lost or damaged non-negotiable
instruments to $100.
Bank notes, currency notes and coins
Australia Post accepts in the Registered Parcel Post bank notes, currency notes and coins that are
legal tender in their country of origin up to a value of $A200. However, Australia Post accepts no
liability for the loss of or damage to any such notes and coins.
Australia Post prohibits bank notes, currency notes and coins in any service other than Registered
Post within Australia.
Note: Australian notes, of whatever age, currency or denomination, are legal tender in Australia.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
35
P10.1.4 – Articles not accepted in Registered Post
Australia Post does not accept an article in the Registered Post if:
the cover is not in sound condition and securely sealed
the parcel bears the appearance of having been opened and resealed
the address is written in pencil or any erasable medium
the addressee is a set of initials, an acronym or a codename, unless the address also contains a
‘care of’ named addressee
it is an Express Post parcel or satchel.
P10.2 – Proof of posting and delivery
P10.2.1 – Proof of posting
Proof of posting is necessary to substantiate a claim for the total loss of a Registered Post parcel.
Senders who require proof of posting should complete a Registered Post and Optional Services Lodgement
Document (8836964) or Registered Post and Optional Services Lodgement Document multi (8836965) and lodge
their Registered Post parcels over the counter at a post office and receive a postmarked receipt. No
proof of posting is available for Registered Post parcels lodged in a street post box.
P10.2.2 – Proof of delivery
Australia Post obtains a signature from the recipient and records an electronic track event on delivery
of a Registered Post parcel. Track events are visible online for a period of one month via the tracking
website, located at www.auspost.com.au. Historical track events and signatures are available by
calling 13 13 18.
For the rules and conditions that apply to the delivery of Registered Post articles, refer to Section 4 of
General Post Guide (8837578).
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P10.3 – How to use Registered Post
P10.3.1 – Registered Post Lodgement document
You may send an individual Registered Post parcel by completing a Registered Post Lodgement
Document and receiving a single Registered Post Label to affix to the parcel. The price of the label
covers only the registration fee and does not include postage. Refer to Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P10.3.2 – Prepaid Registered Post Labels
Prepaid Registered Post Labels are available as singles and boxes of 50 labels. You can affix a
Registered Post Label to a parcel of your choice. The price of the label covers only the registration
fee and does not include postage. Refer to the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P10.3.3 – Registered Post imprint
Customers may print their own imprints
containing a Registered Post imprint and
a common identification number. The
imprint must conform to the minimum
size and colour specifications in the
illustration.
Do not use a Registered Post imprint if
you require compensation exceeding
$100. You must complete a Registered
Post lodgement document to record
details of the contents and purchase
Extra Cover.
Refer P11 – Extra Cover.
38 mm
7 mm
PMS186
PMS151
15 mm
Identification number
Identification number
Customers should apply to the Australia Post Sales and Marketing Department in their State for the
single identification number. This identification number applies to all Registered Post parcels in the
one lodgement, on condition that no two parcels in the lodgement have the same addressee.
Conditions of lodgement
Customers must lodge Registered Post parcels bearing a Registered Post imprint over the counter at
an office of Australia Post.
Bulk lodgement receipt
The lodgement receipt for Registered Post imprint lodgements shows only the total number of
parcels in the lodgement and the common identification number.
P10.3.4 – Enquiries
You may enquire at your local post office about the delivery of a Registered Post parcel or about loss
of or damage to its contents. The enquiry must be within 6 months of lodging the parcel. You must
be able to quote the Registered Post identification number and produce the lodgement receipt.
P10.4 – Delivery Confirmation
The optional Delivery Confirmation service is available only in conjunction with Registered Post.
The sender records their name and address on a Delivery Confirmation Card when lodging a
Registered Post parcel over the counter. The card accompanies the parcel to the delivery office.
When Australia Post completes delivery, the person who accepts delivery signs the card. Australia
Post postmarks the card and returns it to the sender in the ordinary post. This service may not be
used with prepaid Parcel Post satchels.
The weight of the Delivery Confirmation Card is not included in the assessment of postage of the
Parcel. Note: This differs from the equivalent service in the International Post where the weight of
the card is included in postage assessment.
The fee for Delivery Confirmation is in Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
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P10.5 – Person-to-Person delivery
The optional Person-to-Person delivery service is available only in conjunction with Registered Post.
Australia Post affixes a Person-to-Person Delivery label to the parcel at the time of lodgement. On
delivery, Australia Post requests the recipient to provide proof of identity.
Australia Post delivers only to the person addressed or some other person specifically nominated in a
previously authorised Authority to Receive Person-to-Person Deliveries – refer to Section 4 of General
Post Guide (8837578). A parcel in the Person-to-Person service that is addressed to a minor may be
delivered to the minor’s parent or guardian. This service may not be used with prepaid Parcel Post
satchels.
The fee for Person-to-Person delivery is in Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
SECTION 11 – EXTRA COVER
P11.1 – Service description
P11.1.1 – Availability
Extra Cover up to $5000 is available only as a supplement to Registered Post or COD services. The
Registered Post and COD services include compensation up to $100 as part of the standard fee.
For the Extra Cover fee payable, refer to Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P11.1.2 – Eligibility
To be eligible for Extra Cover, the article must conform to the conditions of Extra Cover contained
in Section 6 of General Post Guide. This includes the definition of adequate packing.
To be eligible for an Extra Cover claim for total loss of an article, you must provide proof of posting.
See P10.2.1 – Proof of posting.
P11.1.3 – How to purchase Extra Cover to $5000
To purchase Extra Cover up to $5000, you must lodge the parcel over the counter at an office of
Australia Post and complete a Registered Post Lodgement Document or a COD Application Form.
These documents record a description of the contents of the article and the level of Extra Cover
required.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
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SECTION 12 – KEY RETURN SERVICE
P12.1 – Service description
This service allows a customer to guarantee to pay postage on unenclosed keys received in the post.
The service is of particularly use to:
hotels or motels when guests inadvertently leave without returning their keys
key return organisations that return lost keys to their owners.
The service is available only within Australia for keys carried by surface mail as Regular Parcels.
Post charges
Australia Post delivers keys on payment of Key Return postage for each key – refer to Post Charges
Booklet (8833665).
P12.1.1 – Eligible keys
Marking of keys
To be eligible for the Key Return service, keys must be marked or attached to a tag that contains one
of the following inscriptions.
POSTAGE WILL BE PAID ON DELIVERY TO:
POSTAGE AND FEE WILL BE PAID BY:
POSTAGE AND FEE WILL BE PAID ON DELIVERY TO:
The name and postal address of the person or organisation to which the keys should be returned
must follow the inscription.
Important Note: When marking new keys or tags for potential use in the Key Return service always
use the inscription POSTAGE WILL BE PAID ON DELIVERY TO. Although Australia Post accepts the
other inscriptions shown above, these are no longer valid for new inscriptions.
Size of keys
To prevent possible damage to processing equipment, keys must stand up at least 6 mm when laid on
a flat surface. Australia Post does not accept a single key, or a key and its tag, that is not at least
6 mm thick at some point.
P12.1.2 – Lodgement
The finder (or inadvertent holder) of eligible keys may lodge them unenclosed in a street post box
without payment of postage.
Key-return organisations that use the post to return keys to their owners must enclose keys in an
addressed letter or parcel and prepay postage.
P12.1.3 – Delivery
Australia Post carries unenclosed keys by the Regular Parcel service.
Australia Post delivers to the name and address on the key (or on the attached tag) when the
addressee has paid postage.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
SECTION 13 – ARTICLES FOR THE BLIND
P13.1 – Service description
Subject to the conditions below, certain Regular
Parcels for the blind attract concessional rates. Refer
to the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P13.1.1 – Eligible contents
The following items are eligible in Regular Parcels as
articles for the blind:
correspondence, documents or literature wholly
written in embossed characters as used by the
blind – that is, Braille or Moon
an aid for the teaching of Braille to the blind
a plate for embossing literature for the blind
special paper intended solely for the blind, on
condition that any communication on the paper
is wholly in Braille or Moon
any form of speech recording for the use of the
blind.
A parcel that contains any other item not in this list is
not eligible for the concessional rate.
P13.1.2 – Eligible participants
8835189
To attract the concessional rate, either the sender or
the addressee of an article for the blind must be:
a blind person, or
an institution or organisation recognised by Australia Post as an institution or organisation
which is both organised and operated for the primary purpose of serving the needs of the blind.
Refer to Section 5 of Letter Post & Electronic Mail with Australia Post Guide (8833731) for a list of
recognised institutions and organisations.
P13.1.3 – Make-up conditions
To attract the concessional rate, parcels containing articles for the blind must:
comply with the dimensions and weight of a Regular parcel – see P3.4
be in wrappings or covers that can be easily opened for inspection
show the name and address of the sender on the outside of the cover
bear the 8835189 ( PM275) label as illustrated, or the words MATERIAL FOR THE USE OF THE
BLIND (or similar) in a prominent position
contain only eligible contents as defined in P13.1.1 – Eligible contents.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
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SECTION 14 – MEDICAL EDUCATIONAL REMOTE AREA
PARCEL SERVICE
P14.1 – Service description
This service offers special tiered parcel rates for posting parcels up to 5kg, containing health and
education materials to and from people living in remote communities. It applies to all postcodes
throughout Australia which are classified as remote or very remote in the Accessibility/Remoteness
Index of Australia (ARIA+). Certain other eligibility requirements apply.
P14.2 – Eligible medical parcels
Medical supplies that are eligible for this service are:
prescription medicines
non-prescription pharmacy medicines
other medical products specified by a registered medical practictioner.
Parcels must be posted by or to one of the following:
a registered medical practitioner
a practising ophthalmologist/optometrist/optician
a dentist
a retailer or wholesaler of medicines and medical supplies.
Dietary supplements, alternative/complimentary/herbal remedies, vitamins, veterinary supplies and
nappies are excluded from the service.
Existing terms and conditions apply governing the quantities, packaging and permissible senders of
medicinal products.
P14.3 – Eligible educational parcels
Educational materials that are eligible for this service are printed, written and/or electronic media
related to a recognised course of study organised by a certified educational institution.
They must be lodged by or to an educational institution or private tutor.
Stationery, educational toys, office supplies or books are excluded unless specifically related to a
course of study.
P14.4 – Eligible postcodes
State
Postcodes
Northern Territory
0822, 0837-0852, 0854-0899
New South Wales
2361, 2386-2388, 2396, 2400, 2405-2407, 2410, 2551, 2672, 2675,
2711, 2715, 2824-2825, 2828-2829, 2831-2840, 2873, 2877-2880,
2898-2899
Victoria
3396, 3419, 3424, 3485, 3500, 3502, 3506, 3509, 3512, 3889-3892
Queensland
4025, 4183, 4385, 4406, 4416-4420, 4422-4423, 4425-4428, 44544498, 4627, 4702, 4705, 4707, 4709, 4718-4736, 4739, 4741-4746,
4756-4800, 4802-4805, 4807, 4816, 4820-4830, 4854, 4871-4876,
4890-4891
South Australia
5220-5223, 5267-5268, 5275, 5302, 5304, 5341, 5432, 5434, 5440,
5575-5577, 5582-5583, 5602-5607, 5630-5690, 5710-5734
Western Australia
6161, 6262, 6328, 6335-6348, 6350, 6352, 6353-6367, 6369, 63726375, 6386, 6398, 6415, 6418, 6420-6427, 6429-6431, 6434-6441,
6443, 6445-6450, 6468, 6472-6479, 6484-6485, 6488, 6490, 65146519, 6522, 6532-6537, 6603-6799
Tasmania
7109, 7140, 7186, 7190, 7215, 7255-7257, 7264, 7330, 7467-7470
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P14.5 – Special prices
The five simple flat rate price steps for this service are as follows:
Small parcels up to 250g
Small parcels over 250g up to 500g
Large parcels over 500g up to 5kg
Small local parcels up to 500g
Large local parcels over 500g up to 5kg
Medical Educational Remote Area Parcel Service charges are in the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
These prices are valid anywhere in Australia to or from remote postcodes.
Parcels over 5kg are not eligible for the service.
P14.6 – How to access the service
If you believe that your parcel is eligible for the new prices:
Ensure that either the delivery or return address clearly indicates that you or the recipient are
eligible.
When presenting your parcel at a post office, advise the counter staff that you wish to use the
service.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
43
SECTION 15 – PREPARATION OF PARCEL POST MAIL
P15.1 - Addressing
The address on a parcel must conform to the standard below.
Legible
Include the locality, state and postcode
“Recipient” address must be clearly distinguishable from the “Return address” i.e use larger text
for the “Recipient” address or place the “Return Address” on the opposite face of the parcel.
The table below provides recommendations for addressing parcels.
Address component
Position and format
Name of addressee
First line of address
‘Attention of:” or other reference details
Second, and if necessary, third line of address
Street address, Box number, or Locked bag
number
Second last line of the address and contains no
punctuation or underlining
Locality name or the name of the office of
delivery
The first component of the last line of the
address. It must be in UPPER CASE letters and
contain no punctuation or underlining
The State or Territory abbreviation
The second component of the last line of the
address. It must be in UPPER CASE letters and
contain no punctuation or underlining
The Postcode
The third component of the last line of the
address. It must be in UPPER CASE letters and
contain no punctuation or underlining
Note: The correct positioning and layout of the “locality, state and postcode” in the address line is
important for sorting requirements.
Example:
Mr A Sample
Australia Post
Business Manager
Suit 4
Level 16 321 Exhibition Street
MELBOURNE VIC 3000
P15.1.1 – Addressing of plastic-wrapped parcels
Senders may affix an address label to the outside of the plastic cover or under the plastic cover. If it
is under the plastic cover, the address label must:
remain fixed in position during postal carriage
remain visible and legible through the plastic at all times during carriage.
P15.2 – General packaging considerations
Dangerous & Prohibited Goods and Packaging Post Guide (8833729) contains the requirements for
packaging articles. In general, all parcels must be made-up and packed to:
prevent injury to any person handling the parcel
prevent the contents escaping and damaging other postal articles
prevent damage to equipment and vehicles, particularly aircraft
protect the contents from loss or damage caused by the stress of handling and carriage
protect the contents from loss or damage caused by extremes of climate.
Australia Post staff are pleased to advise customers on the best ways of packing particular items and
to recommend suitable Postpak products.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P15.3 – Some useful packing pointers
P15.3.1 – Containers
Strength of container material
Strong cardboard, fibreboard or wood are generally satisfactory materials for the manufacture of
containers such as boxes, cartons or mailing tubes, but the necessary strength depends on the mass,
size and nature of the articles in the container. A range of Postpak containers is available to suit most
purposes.
Size of container
If a container is too large for its contents, pack all spare space with cushioning material such as
Postpak bubble-wrap to prevent the contents shifting or receiving sudden jolts during carriage.
Recommended cushioning materials
Pack any items needing special protection with adequate cushioning to ensure they can withstand the
rigours of postal transmission. Make sure that:
the contents are protected from outside pressure on the parcel
if the parcel contains two or more items, wrap and pack each item separately and then cushion
each item to protect it from damaging the others.
Cushioning materials should be light and readily able to absorb pressure and impact. Suitable
materials include:
Postpak bubble-wrap
wood wool
cotton
fibreboard
tissue paper
felt pads
shredded paper
cellulose materials
corrugated cardboard.
P15.3.2 – Tapes
Polypropylene tape is usually adequate when applied carefully. Postpak packaging tape is particularly
strong.
P15.3.3 – Wrapping
Use only heavy-grade wrapping paper for all but small light parcels. If a parcel contains several items
or a stack of items, do not rely on the wrapping to hold everything together. It is likely to tear or
break under pressure. Firmly tie or tape the items or the stack together before you apply the outer
wrapping.
P15.4 – Postpak products
The payment of a compensation or Extra Cover claim for a parcel depends on the use of adequate
packaging. Australia Post approves the range of Postpak protective products as adequate packaging.
For the range and prices of Postpak products, refer to the Post Charges Booklet (8833665) or the
current Australia Post Stationery & Mailing Supplies Catalogue.
Australia Post may refuse to accept a parcel, even if the sender uses a Postpak product, if:
the Postpak product is inappropriate to its contents and is used or fastened incorrectly
the Postpak product has been used previously
the contents are fragile – such as fine glassware, clay figures, soapstone, or alabaster – and are
inadequately protected by sufficient internal shock-absorbing material, such as Postpak bubblewrap
the contents are likely to perish or become physically offensive during the ordinary course of
carriage
Australia Post has specific packaging requirements for the contents – such as liquids, poisons,
and so on – and the sender has not met these requirements.
Refer to Dangerous and Prohibited Goods and Packaging Post Guide (8833729) for the Australia Post
packaging requirements for specific goods.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
45
P15.5 – Plastic wrapping and covers
Australia Post accepts parcels enclosed in plastic wrapping or covers if they meet the specifications
below.
P15.5.1 – Conditions of use
Senders may enclose a parcel in a plastic wrapping or cover if:
all articles in the cover are securely bound, taped or tied together as well as wrapped
the plastic material complies with P15.5.2 – Plastic specification
the welds, if any, must be as strong as the parent material.
P15.5.2 – Plastic specification
Plastics can cause problems with some postal operations. In general, medium impact-resistant, antistatic polyethylene is suitable if its attributes fall within the limits shown in the table.
Attribute
Value
Comments
Thickness
A minimum of 35 m.
Recommended values for
polyethylene are:
50 m for articles up to 500 g
100 m for articles over 500 g
Impact strength
Equal to 50 m film.
Refer to AS1326 – 1972
Tearing resistance
At least 450 mN in any direction Refer to AS TMD1922 – 1989
Kinetic coefficient of friction
Between 0.2 and 0.4
Refer to AS 1326 – 1972
Gloss level
60 units ± 10%
Refer to AS 1326 – 1972
You may use a material other than polyethylene if it meets this specification. Domestic cling wrap
and recycled plastic bags are not acceptable. You may send a sample (0.6 m x 1.6 m) for testing to:
Group Manager Parcels
Australia Post HQ
GPO Box 1777
MELBOURNE VIC 3001
P15.6 – Payment of postage
Full details of the various methods of paying postage are in the General Post Guide (8837578). The
table shows the specific conditions that apply to regular parcels.
Type of parcel
Conditions
Paper-wrapped parcel
Postage stamps affixed to the top-right of the address side of the
parcel or the top-right of an address label.
A postage meter imprint affixed to the top right of the address
side of the parcel or the top-right of an address label, and a
return address shown on the parcel.
Plastic-wrapped parcel
Postage stamps affixed to the top right of the address side of the
parcel on an exterior label or other device suitable to allow the
application of a cancelling postmark, or postage stamps affixed to
a tie-on label.
A postage meter imprint affixed to the top right of the address
side of the parcel or the top-right of an address label, and a return
address shown on the parcel.
Bulk mailing for the application
of a PAID postmark
A suitable surface in the top-right of the address side of the
article to allow the application of the PAID postmark.
Bulk mailing with a Postage
Paid imprint
A Postage Paid imprint in the top right of the address side of the
parcel or the top-right of an address label, and a return address
shown on the parcel.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
46
INDEX
A
addressing
plastic-wrapped parcels ...........................P15.1.1
Reply Paid ....................................................... P9.6
air carriage for surface parcels, postcodes ..... P2.3
Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods
Statement ........................................................... P2
Australia, definition............................................ P3.1
Australian Antarctic Territory.......................... P3.1
B
bank notes.......................................................P10.1.3
blind, articles for.................................................. P13
blind, recognised institutions
and organisations......................................P13.1.4
C
cash on delivery ..................................................... P7
charges, basis of............................................... P3.7.1
charging zones ................................................. P3.7.2
Christmas Island (Indian Ocean)
...................................................P3.1, P3.3, P3.7.2
Cocos (Keeling) Islands .............P3.1, P3.3, P3.7.2
COD Parcels .......................................................... P7
Coins ................................................................P10.1.3
compensation ...................................................... P3.9
complaints.......................................................... P3.11
containers........................................................P15.3.1
contract parcels, dangerous goods declaration
....................................................................... P2.2.2
covers, plastic .................................................P15.1.1
cubic policy.......................................................... P3.6
cubic weight...................................P3.5, Back cover
currency notes................................................P10.1.3
customs regulations............................................ P3.3
D
Dangerous Goods ................................................ P2
delayed delivery..............................................P3.11.3
delivery
COD ................................................P7.1.5, P7.2.5
delayed ........................................................P3.11.3
Express Post ............................................... P4.1.6
Express Post Platinum .............................. P4.6.5
Key Return ................................................P12.1.3
non-delivery...............................................P3.11.2
Person-to-Person ........................................ P10.5
proof of ......................................................P10.2.2
Delivery Confirmation .................................... P10.4
delivery timetable........... see Post Charges Booklet
dimensions
Express Post satchel.................................. P4.3.1
Express Post Platinum satchel ................... P4.8
Parcel Post satchel ..................................... P5.2.1
parcel, maximum........................................ P3.4.2
parcel, minimum ........................................ P3.4.3
E
Educational parcels.......................................... P14.3
enquiries............................................................. P3.10
Registered Post......................................... P10.3.4
Express Post lodgement times .........................P4.5
Express Post Platinum lodgement times.... P4.8.1
Express Post networks ......................................P4.2
Express Post parcels..............................................P4
Express Post Platinum networks.....................P4.7
Express Post satchels ............................................P4
Extra Cover ................................................ P3.9, P11
H
Heard Island.........................................................P3.1
IInternational mail security arrangements .......P3.2
K
Key Return service...............................................P12
L
Local Delivery to country areas ..........................P8
lodgement
COD.................................................................P7.2
Express Post Parcel................................... P4.4.2
Express Post Platinum.............................. P4.8.1
Express Post satchel.................................. P4.3.2
Local Delivery ................................................P8.2
Parcel Post satchel ..................................... P5.2.2
Regular parcel ............................................. P6.2.1
lodgement times, Express Post ........................P4.5
Lord Howe Island...............................................P3.1
M
McDonald Island ................................................P3.1
Medical Education Remote Area Parcel
Service ...............................................................P14
Medical parcels ................................................. P14.2
N
non-delivery ................................................... P3.11.2
Norfolk Island ............................. P3.1, P3.3, P3.7.2
notes, bank and currency............................. P10.1.3
P
packing parcels ................................................. P15.2
Parcel Post satchels................................................P5
Parcel Post service combinations .......................P1
parcels, Express Post.............................................P4
Person-to-Person delivery.............................. P10.5
plastic wrapping and covers........................... P15.5
postage, payment of......................................... P15.6
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
postcode areas
air carriage for surface parcels .................... P2.3
local delivery................................................... P8.3
Postpak products.............................................. P15.4
preparation of parcels......................................... P15
proof of delivery............................................P10.2.2
proof of posting.............................................P10.2.1
R
refused parcels..................................................... P3.8
refused parcels, COD ..................................... P7.1.5
Registered Post .................................................... P10
Regular Parcels....................................................... P6
Reply Paid parcels ................................................. P9
S
satchels
Express Post & Express Post Platinum ...... P4
Parcel Post......................................................... P5
service combinations ......................................... P1.2
Statement of Delivery, COD ........................P7.2.5
47
T
taping of parcels ............................................ P15.3.3
U
unclaimed parcels................................................P3.8
undeliverable parcels ..........................................P3.7
undeliverable parcels, COD .......................... P7.1.7
W
weight of parcel, maximum........................... P3.4.1
weight, cubic ............................................Back cover
withdrawn parcels ...............................................P3.8
wrapping of parcels ...................................... P15.3.3
wrapping, plastic............................................... P15.5
Z
zones, charging ................................................ P3.7.2
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
48
Post Guide Order Form
For:
New subscriptions
Replacement guides
Please copy the order form overleaf
and fax it to:
(03) 9877 1033
Or mail it to:
Post Guide
PO Box 4202
KNOX CITY CENTRE VIC 3152
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
49
Post Guide Order Form
Fax a copy of this form to: (03) 9887 1033
Or mail it to: Post Guide
POSTlogistics
PO Box 4202
KNOX CITY CENTRE VIC 3152
Are you already a Post Guide subscriber?
Post Guide prices are in the Post
Charges Booklet (8833665 ).
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Please send me the following Post Guides:
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We collect your personal information to process your order for the Post Guide and for billing purposes. Without
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while it is held by us. We will assess your request as required by law and will tell you why if access is denied.A
request to access, update or correct any information should be directed to the Chief Privacy Officer, Australia
Post, GPO Box 1777, Melbourne VIC 3001.
May 2008
For parcels over 1kg that are square
or rectangular in shape, Australia Post
will assess charges according to their
actual weight or cubic weight equivalent,
whichever is greater. The cubic weight
is the parcel’s volume in cubic metres
multiplied by 250.
Why?
Cubic charging is a fairer system for all,
because prices reflect the costs involved in
handling a variety of different sized parcels,
and also ensure that the “user pays”
principal applies.
This applies to light bulky items that, while
they may not weigh a lot, take up valuable
freight space. Trucks and planes have a
fixed amount of space.
If you would like
further information visit
any post office, our
website auspost.com.au
or call 13 13 18 during
business hours.
“How is Cubic
Weight calculated?“
Cubic weight is calculated by measuring
and multipling the length, height and the
width of the parcel. The result is then
multiplied by a cubic weight conversion
factor of 250.
e.g. a parcel weighing 10kg
but measuring –
50cm long, 30cm high, & 40cm wide
(0.5m) x (0.3m) x (0.4m)
= 0.06m2 x 250
= 15
has a cubic weight of 15kg and therefore
postage would be assessed on the basis of
15kg despite the actual weight.
Note: Australia Post reserves the right
to also apply cubic charges to a parcel
weighing less than 1kg, and to parcels that
are irregular or cylindrical in shape.
8833732 May 2008
ABN 28 864 970 579
133917_PostChargesBookletCover232 2
7/5/08 2:15:37 PM
Parcels within Australia
May 2008
133917_PostChargesBookletCover231 1
7/5/08 2:15:36 PM
Parcel Post Guide
1
Australia Post Headquarters
GPO Box 1777
MELBOURNE VIC 3001
PARCEL POST GUIDE
MAY 2008
Amendment 2008/1P
Authorised by C Koo, Group Manager Parcels, Australian Postal Corporation
Purpose
The Parcel Post Guide contains the standards of the Australian Postal Corporation regarding Parcel
Post services within Australia. The Parcel Post Guide is revised and published periodically.
Terms and conditions of service
Under the Australian Postal Corporation Act 1989, the Board of the Australian Postal Corporation
determines the terms and conditions that apply to postal services. Terms and conditions are
contained in the Australia Post Terms and Conditions (APTC) and Determination of Postage Charges
(Rates Determination), which are available on the Internet at http://www.auspost.com.au.
Disclaimer
Although Australia Post has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this Post
Guide at the time of publication, Australia Post makes no warranty, guarantee or representation
regarding the correctness, completeness, reliability, suitability or currency of this Post Guide. The
information in this Post Guide may be revised at any time and services may be modified, added to or
withdrawn without notice. Up-to-date information can be obtained from any post office. Australia
Post shall not be liable to any person, whether a purchaser of this Post Guide or not, for any loss or
damage of any kind whatsoever arising from any errors or omissions in this Post Guide or from
reliance placed upon all or any part of the contents of this Post Guide.
Instructions
Please file this Parcel Post Guide within the Post Guides cover as it contains references to other Post
Guides in the series. Other current Post Guides are:
General Post Guide
Amendment No. 04/1G
Letter Post Guide
Amendment No. 05/1L
International Post Guide
Amendment No. 07/1
Dangerous & Prohibited Goods and Packaging Post Guide
Amendment No. 2005/1D
ABN 28 864 970 579
May 2008
2
Parcel Post Guide
Addressing and distribution requests
Change of
address
New Post Guide
subscriptions
Additional
copies of Post
Guide
Copy the order form at the back page of this Post
Guide and send the completed copy to:
Post Guide
Australia Post
GPO Box 1777
MELBOURNE VIC 3001
Or send a facsimile of the form to:
(03) 9887 1033.
Or EMAIL [email protected]
Editorial suggestions
Is any
information not
clear or
confusing?
Have you found
a mistake such
as a misspelled
or incorrect
word?
Do you find this
Directory easy
to use? Can you
easily find what
you need?
Have you any
suggestions for
improving this
Post Guide?
May 2008
We aim to make this Post Guide:
easy to use
easy to read
accurate and complete.
We welcome ideas from all Australia Post staff
and customers that will help us in this aim.
Send your comments, suggestions, brickbats or
bouquets to:
Editor
Post Guide
Australia Post HQ
GPO Box 1777
MELBOURNE VIC 3001
or send a fax to (03) 9204 7891.
Please include references to page numbers,
where appropriate.
Also, let us know how to contact you, as we will
acknowledge all contributions.
Many thanks.
Editor
Post Guide.
Parcel Post Guide
3
Table of Contents
How to use this Post Guide........................................................................................ 5
Section 1 – Summary of allowable Parcel Post service combinations .............. 6
Section 2 – Dangerous goods declaration ..............................................................7
P2.1 – Dangerous and Prohibited Goods ............................................................................. 7
P2.2 – Parcels that must bear a dangerous goods declaration........................................... 7
P2.3 – Locations where surface parcels may be carried by air........................................... 9
Section 3 – Parcel Post – General provisions ...................................................... 10
P3.1 – Scope – Definition of Australia ................................................................................10
P3.2 – International Mail Security Arrangements ...............................................................10
P3.3 – Customs regulations –apply to the following postcodes ........................................ 11
P3.4 – How big? How small? How heavy?.......................................................................11
P3.5 – Cubic weight ............................................................................................................. 12
P3.6 – Cubing policy ............................................................................................................12
P3.7 – Parcel Post charges and charging zones ...............................................................12
P3.8 – Unclaimed, undeliverable, refused and withdrawn parcels....................................15
P3.9 – Compensation and Extra Cover ..............................................................................15
P3.10 – Change-of-address (redirection) and holding services ........................................ 15
P3.11 – Enquiries and complaints.......................................................................................15
Section 4 – Express Post Parcels, Express Post Satchels and
Express Post Platinum..............................................................................................16
P4.1 – Express Post service description ............................................................................16
P4.2 – The Express Post networks .....................................................................................18
P4.3 – How to use Express Post satchels ..........................................................................19
P4.4 – How to use Express Post parcels............................................................................19
P4.5 – Lodgement times ...................................................................................................... 20
P4.6 – Express Post Platinum Service description ............................................................20
P4.7 – Express Post Platinum networks ............................................................................. 22
P4.8 – How to use Express Post Platinum .........................................................................23
Section 5 – Prepaid Parcel Post Satchels ............................................................. 24
P5.1 – Service description ...................................................................................................24
P5.2 – How to use Parcel Post satchels ............................................................................. 24
Section 6 – Regular Parcels ..................................................................................... 25
P6.1 – Service description ...................................................................................................25
P6.2 – How to use Regular parcels.....................................................................................26
Section 7 – Cash-on-delivery (COD) service......................................................... 27
P7.1 – Service description ...................................................................................................27
P7.2 – How to use COD .....................................................................................................28
Section 8 – Local Delivery service in country areas ........................................... 29
P8.1 – Service description ...................................................................................................29
P8.2 – Lodgement conditions ..............................................................................................29
P8.3 – Postcode areas eligible for the Local Delivery service...........................................30
Section 9 – Reply Paid Parcel service.................................................................... 31
P9.1 – Service description ...................................................................................................31
P9.2 – How to apply for a Reply Paid Parcel contract .......................................................31
P9.3 – Obligations of a Reply Paid customer.....................................................................31
P9.4 – Variations to the Reply Paid Service contract ........................................................32
P9.5 – Cancellation of a Reply Paid Service contract........................................................32
P9.6 – Addressing standards for Reply Paid parcels.........................................................33
May 2008
4
Parcel Post Guide
Section 10 – Registered Post...................................................................................34
P10.1 – Service description.................................................................................................34
P10.2 – Proof of posting and delivery .................................................................................35
P10.3 – How to use Registered Post ..................................................................................36
P10.4 – Delivery Confirmation............................................................................................. 36
P10.5 – Person-to-Person delivery .....................................................................................37
Section 11 – Extra Cover .......................................................................................... 38
Section 12 – Key Return service .............................................................................39
Section 13 – Articles for the blind........................................................................... 40
Section 14 – Medical Educational Remote Area Parcel Service........................41
P14.1 – Service description.................................................................................................41
P14.2 – Eligible medical parcels .........................................................................................41
P14.3 – Eligible educational parcels ...................................................................................41
P14.4 – Eligible postcodes ..................................................................................................41
P14.5 – Special prices .........................................................................................................42
P14.6 – How to access the service .....................................................................................42
Section 15 – Preparation of Parcel Post mail .......................................................43
P15.1 – Addressing..............................................................................................................43
P15.2 – General packaging considerations ........................................................................ 43
P15.3 – Some useful packing pointers ............................................................................... 44
P15.4 – Postpak products....................................................................................................44
P15.5 – Plastic wrapping and covers..................................................................................45
P15.6 – Payment of postage ...............................................................................................45
INDEX ...........................................................................................................................46
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
5
How to use this Post Guide
This Post Guide contains detailed reference material about the Australia Post Parcel Post services
within Australia. We have tried to avoid unnecessary duplication. This has meant a certain amount
of cross-referencing.
To help you go directly to the correct place in this Post Guide or in another Australia Post
publication, we show here the most common questions asked and the quick way to find the right
answers.
A numeric reference, for example P1.2, refers to the section number.
A reference in italics, for example Post Charges, refers to another Australia Post publication.
Before you file this Post Guide, take a little time to understand the way it structures its information.
This will save you time later when you need to find something in a hurry.
What are the
features of each
main parcel
service?
Summary of service combinations
Section 1
What are the
delivery times?
Prepaid Parcel Post satchels
Section 5
Regular parcels
Section 6
What contents
are prohibited?
Express Post parcels and satchels
Section 4
See Post Charges.
Dangerous goods declaration
What supplementary
services are
available?
What special
services are
available?
Cash on delivery (COD) Section 7
Local delivery in country areas
Section 8
Key return service
Section 12
Reply Paid
Registered Post
Section 10
Articles for the blind
Section 13
Extra Cover
Section 11
Medical Educational
Remote Area Service
Section 14
How do I
prepare a parcel
for the post?
What is cubing?
Section 9
Delivery Confirmation
Person-to-Person delivery
Preparation of mail
P10.4
P10.5
Section 15
See back cover.
What about
customer
services?
What if I have
other queries?
Section 2
Also, see Dangerous and Prohibited Goods & Packaging Post Guide.
For change of address, unclaimed,
undeliverable or refused mail, and
withdrawal from the post, see the
General Post Guide.
Check:
•
the detailed table of contents on pages 3 and 4
• the index on pages 47 and 48
If you cannot find what you need, telephone 13 13 18.
May 2008
6
Parcel Post Guide
SECTION 1 – SUMMARY OF ALLOWABLE PARCEL POST
SERVICE COMBINATIONS
P1.1 – Supplementary services available in the main Parcel Post services
The table shows the supplementary services that Australia Post permits in each of the three main
Parcel Post services. Refer to the relevant section in this guide for details of each service.
Supplementary
Services
Regular Parcels
Reply Paid
See
Section 9
COD
See
Section 7
Registered Post
See
Section 10
Extra Cover
See
Section 11
See P10.4
Person-to-Person
delivery
Local Delivery
Delivery
Confirmation
See P10.5
See
Section 8
Express Post
See
Section 9
Parcel Post
Satchels
Medical
Education
Remote Area
Parcel Service
P1.2 – Supplementary service combinations available with Regular Parcels
The table shows the conditions that apply to supplementary services used in combination with Regular
Parcels.
Reply Paid
Supplementary service
Condition
Available only to customers with a Reply Paid Service Contract.
COD
Available for all Regular parcels.
Registered Post
Available for all Regular parcels and prepaid Parcel Post
satchels.
Extra Cover
Available only with COD or Registered Post.
Delivery Confirmation
Available only with Registered Post (excluding prepaid Parcel
Post satchels).
Person-to-Person delivery
Available only with Registered Post (excluding prepaid Parcel
Post satchels).
Local delivery
Available only in the designated country postcode areas.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
7
SECTION 2 – DANGEROUS GOODS DECLARATION
P2.1 – Dangerous and prohibited goods
Certain items must not be posted in parcels. Certain items may be carried in parcels only if they meet
certain conditions and are packed in a specific manner.
P2.1.1 – Dangerous and Prohibited Goods & Packaging Post Guide
The Dangerous and Prohibited Goods &
Packaging Post Guide (8833729) prohibits the
lodgement of articles in all nine classes of
dangerous goods. Each class is illustrated below
with some examples of common substances that
fall (or might fall) into the class. If you have any
doubts about a particular substance, consult the
Dangerous and Prohibited Goods & Packaging
Post Guide (8833729) for more details.
Class 1 – Explosives
Ammunition
Fireworks
Igniters.
Class 2 –Gases – flammable gas, non-flammable, non-toxic gas and toxic gas
Aerosol products
Carbon dioxide gas
Class 3 – Flammable liquids
Alcohol
Flammable paint and thinners
Flammable perfumery products
Class 4 – Flammable solids
Magnesium, metallic
Matches of all kinds
Class 5 – Oxidising substances and organic peroxides
Adhesives, some
Bleaching powders, some
Dyes, hair or textile, made of
organic peroxides
Cigarette lighters, butane.
Flammable varnish removers.
Zinc powder.
Fibreglass repair kits.
Class 6 – Toxic (Poisons) and Infectious substances, including drugs and medicines
Exceptionally, Australia Post accepts drugs and medicines in prescription quantities and non-dangerous
perishable biological substances when packed and transmitted in the prescribed manner. For the
prescribed conditions, see Dangerous and Prohibited Goods & Packaging Post Guide (8833729).
Class 7 – Radioactive materials
Class 8 – Corrosives
Cleaning liquids, corrosive
Class 9 – Miscellaneous
Paint or varnish removers
Oiled paper
Magnetised materials
Genetically modified organisms
(GMOs)
Thermometers, mercury filled.
Polymerisable materials.
P2.1.2 – Sender’s responsibility
The sender of a parcel is responsible for complying with the conditions for dangerous and prohibited
goods contained in Dangerous and Prohibited Goods and Packaging Post Guide (8833729).
P2.2 – Parcels that must bear a dangerous goods
declaration
Any domestic non-letter article that requires carriage by air must bear an Aviation Security and Dangerous
Goods Statement. Pilots of aircraft and Australia Post staff at hand-over points must be certain that each
article in an Australia Post consignment complies with Civil Aviation Safety Regulations.
May 2008
8
Parcel Post Guide
The table shows the lodgement conditions that require the declaration for each of the main Parcel Post
services.
Service
Express Post parcel
Lodgement condition
The sender has signed the declaration on the Express Post
label.
Express Post satchel
The sender has signed the declaration on the Express Post
satchel.
Express Post Platinum
satchel
The sender has signed the declaration on the Express Post
Platinum satchel.
Parcel Post satchel
The sender has signed the declaration on the Parcel Post
satchel.
Regular Parcel addressed to
any location where surface
carriage may be by air – see
P2.3
The sender has affixed a signed Aviation Security and
Dangerous Goods Statement – Australia Post label 8836791
P2.2.1 – Form of declaration
If the Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Declaration label (8836791) is not available for a Regular Parcel
or a Local Delivery Parcel, the sender may endorse the front of the parcel:
AVIATION S ECURITY AND DANGEROUS GOODS DECLARATION : THE SENDER ACKNOWLEDGES
THAT THIS ARTICLE MAY BE CARRIED BY AIR AND WILL BE SUBJECT TO AVIATION SECURITY AND
CLEARING PROCEDURES; AND THE SENDER DECLARES THAT THE ARTICLE DOES NOT CONTAIN ANY
DANGEROUS OR PROHIBITED GOODS, EXPLOSIVES OR INCENDIARY DEVICES. ARTICLES WITHOUT
THIS DECLARATION COMPLETED WILL NOT BE CARRIED BY AIR. A FALSE DECLARATION IS A
CRIMINAL OFFENCE. (NAME/SIGNATURE).
The declaration is valid only if:
the sender has signed the declaration
the parcel shows the return address of the sender.
P2.2.2 – Contract parcels
Contract parcels to a location where surface parcels may be carried by air must bear an Aviation Security
and Dangerous Goods Declaration label (8836791) or an imprint that reads:
AVIATION S ECURITY AND DANGEROUS GOODS DECLARATION : THE SENDER ACKNOWLEDGES
THAT THIS ARTICLE MAY BE CARRIED BY AIR AND WILL BE SUBJECT TO AVIATION SECURITY AND
CLEARING PROCEDURES; AND THE SENDER DECLARES THAT THE ARTICLE DOES NOT CONTAIN ANY
DANGEROUS OR PROHIBITED GOODS, EXPLOSIVES OR INCENDIARY DEVICES. ARTICLES WITHOUT
THIS DECLARATION COMPLETED WILL NOT BE CARRIED BY AIR. A FALSE DECLARATION IS A
CRIMINAL OFFENCE. (NAME / SIGNATURE).
P2.2.3 – Australia Post action if declaration not made
If a person presents an eligible article for lodgement at a post office and cannot give an assurance that
the contents are not dangerous or prohibited, Australia Post will not accept the article for carriage.
If Australia Post discovers an Express Post parcel or satchel or an Express Post Platinum satchel in a
gold street post-box with the declaration unsigned, Australia Post will forward or send the article in the
Regular parcel service. The Express Post delivery guarantee no longer applies.
May 2008
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P2.2.4 – Australia Post action with suspicious articles
If Australia Post has grounds for reasonable suspicion that an article contains dangerous or prohibited
goods, Australia Post may open the article for inspection at any point during its postal carriage. The
Australian Postal Cor poration Act, 1989 authorises Australia Post to dispose of contents that are
prohibited, dangerous or become physically offensive during carriage.
P2.3 – Locations where surface parcels may be
carried by air
The table shows the postcodes of those Australian locations where surface carriage of post may
involve shipment by air. All parcels addressed to these postcodes require an Aviation Security and
Dangerous Goods Statement. Parcels to these postcodes that do not have a signed statement
may be returned to sender.
State
New South Wales
Postcodes
2836
2880
Queensland
4470-4498
2898
2899
0860
0872
4816
4821-4830
4871-4891
South Australia
5710
5731
Northern Territory
0822
0852
0882
0885
Western Australia
0880
0881
6161
6429-6448
6450
6532
6537
6635
6638
6640
6642
6646
6701
6705
6707
6639
6710-6716
6718
6720-6725
6728
6730-6731
6740
6733
6743
6751-6754
6758
6760-6762
6765
6770
6798
Tasmania
6799
7255-7257
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
SECTION 3 – PARCEL POST – GENERAL PROVISIONS
Unless specifically stated otherwise, the provisions in this section apply to all Parcel Post and Express
Post services.
P3.1 – Scope – Definition of Australia
The conditions of service of the Parcel Post apply to all places within Australia. The following places
are within Australia:
Lord Howe Island NSW 2898
Australian Antarctic Territory TAS 7151
Territory of Heard Island and McDonald Islands TAS 7151.
The conditions also apply to:
Christmas Island (Indian Ocean) WA 6798
Cocos (Keeling) Islands WA 6799
Norfolk Island NSW 2899.
All parcel charges to Christmas Island (6798), Cocos (Keeling Islands (6799) Norfolk Island (2899) and
the Australian Antarctic Territories (7151), except postage prepaid products, are GST free.
P3.2 – International mail security arrangements
Following Federal Government requirements in December 2002, Australia Post has implemented a
series of specific security measures for the acceptance and processing of international mail. Australia
Post customers are required to provide acceptable Photo or Signature identification when lodging
international mail. Failure to provide identification will result in mail being delayed. Further, Australia
Post will not accept international mail unless the necessary Customs documentation is completed and
signed.
Australia Post will also apply these security measures to:
International Sea Mail;
Mail addressed to Australian external territories (Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands,
Norfolk Island, Australian Antarctic Territory and Territory of Heard Island & McDonald
Island); and
Defence Force Mail that requires customs documentation, refer to Section 4 of International Post
Guide (8838525)
Photo or Signature Identification
Acceptable forms of Photo or Signature Identification include:
Drivers Licence issued by an Australian State or Territory (with a photograph)
Passport (with a photograph)
Government issued ID
Bank Credit/Debit Card
Tertiary Student ID (with a photograph)
May 2008
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P3.3 – International Customs regulations apply to the
following postcodes
Customs regulations apply to the following places.
Christmas Island (Indian Ocean) WA 6798
Cocos (Keeling) Islands WA 6799
Norfolk Island NSW 2899.
Australian Antarctic Territory 7151
Territory of Heard Island and McDonald Island 7151
The table shows the required customs documentation. For the other customs regulations that apply,
refer to the International Post Guide (8838525).
Service
Parcels and satchels
without Extra Cover
Regular Parcels with
Extra Cover
Contents
Required documentation
Up to 2 kg in weight and up to $500 8832667 (CN22)
in value
More than 2 kg in weight
8832659 (C231/CP72)
More than $500 in value
8832659 (C231/CP72)
All
8832661 (C233/CP74)
P3.4 – How big? How small? How heavy?
The following guidelines applies to non-contract parcels. Different size restrictions may apply to
contract parcels as detailed in individual Business Parcel Contracts. A maximum parcel length of
105cm applies to all articles unless approved in writing from the Group Manager, Parcels Group.
P3.4.1 – Maximum weight
The maximum allowed weight of a parcel lodged at a post office is 20 kg.
P3.4.2 – Maximum size
The length of the greatest linear dimension of a parcel must not exceed 105 cm.
The girth of a parcel must not exceed 140 cm.
Some examples of how to measure the length and girth follow.
Cylinders
Length
If the parcel is a long cylinder, its axis (length)
must not exceed 105 cm and its circumference
(girth) must not exceed 140 cm.
Girth/
Circumference
Boxes
If the parcel is box-shaped, then its length (its
longest dimension) must not exceed 105 cm. The
girth is achieved by measuring around all the other
dimensions and must not exceed 140 cm.
Eg. a parcel measuring –
50cm long, 30cm high & 40cm wide
(0.3m) + (0.3m) + (0.4m) + (0.4m) =
Girth 140cm (1.4m)
Irregular shapes
If the parcel is irregular in shape, its length is the
distance between the two furthest-apart points on
the surface of the article and must not exceed 105
cm. The girth, measured around the 'fattest' part
of the article at right angles to its length, must not
exceed 140 cm.
Length
Girth
Length
Girth
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P3.4.3 – Minimum size
The girth of a parcel must be at least 16 cm. For example, a broom handle or a pencil-shaped parcel is
not acceptable.
If the parcel is box-shaped, both its length and its width must be at least 5 cm.
P3.5 – Cubic weight
Australia Post assesses the weight for parcels over 1kg that are square or rectangular in shape, as
whichever is the greater of:
the actual weight in kilograms
the volume in cubic metres multiplied by 250 ie. the cubic weight.
See the back cover of this guide for how to calculate the cubic weight of a parcel.
P3.6 – Cubing policy
For parcels over 1kg that are square or rectangular in shape, Australia Post will assess charges
according to their actual weight equivalent, whichever is greater. The cubic weight is the parcel’s
volume in cubic metres multiplied by 250. Australia Post reserves the right to also apply cubic charges
to a parcel weighing less than 1kg, and to parcels that are irregular
P3.7 – Parcel Post charges and charging zones
P3.7.1 – Basis of Parcel Post Charges
The table shows the basis of charges in each of the Parcel Post services.
Service
Regular Parcel up to 500 g
Charges
A basic charge to anywhere in Australia.
Parcel Post Satchel
Customers prepay postage to anywhere in Australia on purchase
of the satchel. Discounts are available for bulk purchases.
Regular Parcel over 500 g
A basic charge that depends on whether the parcel is for delivery
in the same state or interstate plus a distance charge per kg
based on the lodgement and destination zones
Local Delivery Parcel
A basic charge that depends on whether the parcel exceeds
500 g and whether carriage by air is necessary
For details of the charges, refer to the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
May 2008
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P3.7.2 – Parcel Post charging zones
The table shows all Australian Postcodes and their equivalent Parcel Post zones. These zones
determine the distance charge component of Express Post parcels and Regular parcels over 500 g.
State
Postcodes
Zone
ACT
0200-0299
N2
Deemed to be in NSW for charging purposes
2600-2639
N2
Deemed to be in NSW for charging purposes
Northern Territory
0800-0999
NT1
New South Wales
1000-2263
N1
2264-2484
N2
2485-2486
2487-2499
N2
2500-2530
N1
N2
2555-2574
N1
2575-2639
N2
2640-2641
Victoria
N2/Q1 Use whichever zone offers the lower charge
2531-2554
2642-2647
N2/V2 Use whichever zone offers the lower charge
N2
2648
V2
2649-2714
N2
2715
V2
2716
N2
2717-2719
V2
2720-2730
N2
2731-2739
V2
2740-2786
N1
2787-2879
N2
2880
S2
2881-2889
N2
2890
N1
3000-3220
V1
3221-3334
V2
3335-3341
V1
3342-3424
V2
3425-3443
V1
3444-3688
3689-3690
3691-3749
Special conditions
Deemed to be in Victoria for charging purposes
Deemed to be in Victoria for charging purposes
Deemed to be in Victoria for charging purposes
Deemed to be in Victoria for charging purposes
Deemed to be in South Australia for charging
purposes
V2
V2/N2 Use whichever zone offers the lower charge
V2
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P3.7.2 – Parcel Post charging zones – continued
VIC - continued
Queensland
3750-3811
V2
3910-3920
V1
3921-3925
V2
3926-3944
V1
3945-3971
V2
3972-3978
V1
3979
V2
3980-3983
V1
3984-3999
V2
8000-8999
V1
4000-4224
4225
South Australia
Western Australia
Tasmania
May 2008
V1
3812-3909
Q1
Q1/N2 Use whichever zone offers the lower charge
4226-4299
Q1
4300-4449
Q2
4450-4499
Q3
4500-4549
Q1
4550-4699
Q2
4700-4805
Q3
4806-4899
Q4
9000-9299
Q1
9400-9596
Q1
9597-9599
Q2
9700-9799
Q1
9880-9919
Q2
9920-9959
Q3
9960-9999
Q4
5000-5199
S1
5200-5749
S2
5800-5999
S1
6000-6214
W1
6215-6699
W2
6700-6797
W3
6798
W3
Christmas Island (Indian Ocean) – customs
regulations apply – see P3.3
6799
W3
Cocos (Keeling) Island – customs regulations
apply – see P3.3
6800-6999
W1
7000-7999
T1
Parcel Post Guide
15
P3.8 – Unclaimed, undeliverable, refused and
withdrawn parcels
For the conditions that apply to unclaimed, undeliverable, refused and withdrawn parcels, refer to
Section 5 of General Post Guide (8837578).
P3.9 – Compensation and Extra Cover
For the conditions that apply to compensation and Extra Cover, refer to Section 6 of General Post
Guide (8837578).
Also, see Sections 10 and 11 of this guide – Registered Post and Extra Cover.
P3.10 – Change-of-address and holding services
For the conditions that apply to change-of-address and holding services, refer to Section 7 of General
Post Guide (8837578).
P3.11 – Enquiries and complaints
People with an inquiry or complaint about damage, delay or loss of a parcel, should contact an office
of Australia Post and provide full details.
P3.11.1 – Lodgement of enquiry or complaint
Senders or addressees may lodge enquiries or complaints:
on the enquiry form available at any office of Australia Post
by post or telephone, if attendance at an office is inconvenient.
P3.11.2 – Non-delivery
Australia Post accepts an enquiry or a complaint about non-delivery of a parcel article if:
the applicant can describe the parcel and give sufficient lodgement details
sufficient time has elapsed to allow the parcel to reach its destination in the ordinary course of
carriage
the applicant can provide reasonable evidence that the parcel was posted and has not yet been
delivered
the applicant makes the enquiry within one year of the lodgement.
Action by Australia Post for non-delivery enquiries
The table shows the Australia Post action for non-delivery enquiries.
Service
Ordinary Post
Action taken
No search
Express Post
Search at the delivery office
Express Post Platinum
Search at the delivery office
Registered Post
Search at the delivery office
Parcels with Extra Cover
Search at the delivery office
Delivery Confirmation
Search at the delivery office
Australia Post returns undeliverable articles found in the mail to the sender, if possible.
P3.11.3 – Delayed delivery
Anyone making an enquiry or complaint about delayed delivery should, if possible, submit the
envelope or the cover of the delayed article in the condition in which they received it.
P3.11.4 – Information not to be divulged
Australia Post does not give information about postal articles or electronic mail messages that pass
through a post office, except to the person to whom the article or message is addressed.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
SECTION 4 – EXPRESS POST PARCELS, EXPRESS POST
SATCHELS AND EXPRESS POST PLATINUM
P4.1 – Express Post Service description
The Express Post service provides:
a guaranteed next-business-day delivery service for parcels and satchels correctly posted on a
business day between places specified in Express Post networks
low next-business-day delivery costs
further savings for the bulk purchase of Express Post Satchels.
For details of the Express Post Letter service, refer to the Letter Post Guide (8833731).
Post charges
Express Post charges are in the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P4.1.1 – Supplementary services
Supplementary services, such as Extra Cover or COD, are not available with Express Post.
P4.1.2 – Reply Paid
Customers with a Reply Paid Service Contract may use Express Post Parcels and Satchels for the
return of parcels – refer to Section 9.
P4.1.3 – The Express Post guarantee
Australia Post guarantees next-business-day delivery over specified routes within an Express Post
network to all Express Post parcels and satchels that bear a signed Aviation Security and Dangerous
Goods Statement and are correctly lodged by the published lodgement time. Should Australia Post fail
to deliver on the next business day, the sender receives a free equivalent-value Express Post satchel or
a refund of postage for an Express Post parcel on presentation of the customer receipt.
The Express Post guarantee does not apply to articles that:
are addressed to a postcode not included in an Express Post network – see P4.2
are lodged in an Express Post satchel from which the OFFICIAL USE ONLY barcode strip has been
removed
bear an Express Post parcel label from which the OFFICIAL USE ONLY barcode strip has been
removed
on which the Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Statement, has not been signed by the
sender – Australia Post treats such an article as a Regular Parcel and forwards it by surface mail or
returns it to the sender
are addressed to roadside delivery addresses in Tasmania, Victoria, South Australia or Western
Australia
are incorrectly or inadequately addressed
have been incorrectly lodged in a red street post box
weigh more than the weight limit of the respective satchels
bear insufficient postage.
P4.1.4 – Parcels and satchels travelling outside an Express Post
guaranteed network
For parcels and satchels sent to or from a location that is not in an Express Post guaranteed network,
Australia Post provides the fastest possible delivery using its normal network arrangements. The
guarantee does not apply to these articles.
P4.1.5 – Valuable items
Do not use Express Post to send valuable items such as cash, bullion, precious stones or negotiable
securities. Australia Post accepts no liability for the loss of or damage to such items in Express Post.
Refer to P10.1.3 – Articles that you should always send by Registered Post.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
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P4.1.6 – Delivery
Usually, Express Post articles addressed to a post office box receive an early morning delivery.
Express Post articles addressed to a street address receive normal postal delivery.
If an item for delivery in the guaranteed network is not delivered on the next working business day
after posting, you can call 13 13 18 to check the delivery date of an Express Post article. You must
have retained the SENDER TO KEEP label or the receipt and know the delivery address and the
lodgement place and time.
P4.1.7 – Basis of Express Post Charges
Service
Express Post satchel
Express Post Platinum satchel
Charges
Customers prepay postage to anywhere in Australia on
purchase of the satchel. Discounts are available for bulk
purchases
Express Post parcel up to 500 g
A basic charge to anywhere in Australia
Express Post parcels over 500 g
A basic charge that depends on whether the parcel is for
delivery in the same state or interstate plus a distance
charge per kg based on the lodgement and destination
zones
For Express Post charging zones refer to P3.7.2 – Parcel Post charging zones
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P4.2 – The Express Post networks
P4.2.1 – The Express Post interstate network
The table shows the places and postcodes in the Express Post interstate network.
State or Territory City or district
ACT
Canberra CBD
Canberra suburbs
NSW
Sydney CBD
Sydney suburbs
Gosford
Newcastle
Tweed Heads/
Murwillumbah
Wollongong
Victoria
Melbourne CBD
Melbourne suburbs
Postcodes
2600–2601
0200-0250; 2602–2639; 2900–2920
1000-1299; 2000–2009
1300-1920; 2010–2249; 2555–2574; 2740–2786
2250–2265
2280–2300; 2302–2310
2484–2490
2500–2530
3000–3010; 8000-8010
3011–3210; 3335-3338; 3340#; 3427-3429; 3750#3755#; 3757#; 3765-3767; 3782; 3785-3796; 38003806; 3810#; 3910-3915; 3930-3934; 3975-3977#;
8011-8899
Geelong
3211–3220
Ballarat
3350; 3353-3356
Bendigo
3550; 3552-3556
Shepparton/Mooroopna/ 3629-3632#
Kialla
Seymour
3660-3661
La Trobe Valley
3825; 3840–3844
Queensland
Brisbane CBD
4000–4004
Brisbane suburbs
4005–4209
Gold Coast
4210–4299; 9726; 9728; 9729
Booval/Ipswich
4300–4305
Toowoomba
4350; 4352+
Strathpine/Caboolture
4500–4510; 4520
Sunshine Coast
4550–4601
Maryborough City
4650#
Hervey Bay City
4655#
Bundaberg City
4670#
South Australia
Adelaide CBD
5000–5005; 5800-5879
Adelaide suburbs
5006–5199; 5880-5999
Western Australia Perth CBD
6000–6005; 6800-6899 for delivery only to other
CBD postcodes: 1000-1299; 2000–2009; 2600–
2601; 3000–3010; 4000–4004; 5000–5005; 58005879; 7000–7003; 7250; 8000-8010
Tasmania
Hobart CBD
7000–7003
Hobart suburbs
7004–7019; 7050–7053; 7055; 7842
Northern Tasmania
7248–7325
#
+
Service guaranteed in townships only in these postcodes.
Service guaranteed to Mail Centre post office boxes only.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
19
P4.2.2 – The Express Post intrastate networks
Within each State, Express Post provides guaranteed next-business-day delivery between the primary
metropolitan area of the capital and main provincial centres. The Express Post intrastate networks of
Victoria, Queensland and Tasmania also link provincial centres with each other. Ask at your local
office of Australia Post for the Express Post service it can provide or call 13 13 18 or visit
www.auspost.com.au
P4.3 – How to use Express Post Satchels
P4.3.1 – Express Post Satchels
The Express Post satchel service is available only if you use the special prepaid Express Post satchels.
The price of each satchel includes the Express Post charge to any Australian destination. The table
shows the available Express Post Satchels.
Dimensions
355 mm 220 mm
Maximum weight
500 gm
Suitable for
Video cassettes and other small items.
405 mm 310 mm
3 kg
Large books and other bulky items.
Satchels are available singly or in packs of 10, with discounts for bulk purchases.
Refer to the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
Larger satchels are also available under contract conditions.
P4.3.2 – Preparation and lodgement of Express Post Satchels
With Express Post Satchels, there are no stamps to buy or postage to calculate:
purchase your Express Post satchel
place your article in the satchel – make sure it does not exceed the permitted maximum weight
complete the address details and the sender’s details on the front of the satchel
sign the Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Statement on the satchel
remove and retain the SENDER TO KEEP lift-and-peel tab from the front of the satchel
lodge in a gold street post-box or over the counter at an office of Australia Post.
P4.4 – How to use Express Post Parcels
P4.4.1 – Express Post parcel labels
If your article is unsuitable for a satchel or weighs more than 3 kg, you can obtain Express Post parcel
labels from any office of Australia Post. Australia Post requires an Express Post parcel label on all
Express Post parcels. The table shows the available labels.
NSW
8835289
VIC and TAS 8835290
SA and NT
8835292
WA
QLD
8835291
8835293
P4.4.2 – Preparation and lodgement of Express Post parcels
To prepare and lodge your Express Post parcel:
prepare and pack your parcel – see Section 15 – and obtain an Express Post parcel label
complete the delivery address and the sender’s address on the label
sign the Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Statement on the label
either weigh the parcel and assess postage at the Express Post parcel rate or take it to an office of
Australia Post for weighing and assessment
affix the necessary postage stamps, a postage meter imprint or a postage label to the Express Post
parcel label
affix the Express Post parcel label to the front of the parcel having removed the tear-off Customer
Receipt
lodge at the counter of an office of Australia Post and have the Customer Receipt completed and
postmarked by the counter officer
keep the completed Customer Receipt as your record of posting.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P4.5 – Lodgement times
P4.5.1 – Express Post gold street post-boxes
Post your Express Post satchels in an Express Post gold street post-box by 6 pm on any business day.
The following places have earlier “post-by” times (ask your local office for details):
Perth metropolitan area, outside the CBD
many provincial centres
P4.5.2 – Lodgement over the counter
Lodge your Express Post parcels over the counter at any office of Australia Post by the advertised
Express Post post-by time. At larger offices in metropolitan areas, this is 5 pm.
P4.6 – Express Post Platinum Service description
Express Post Platinum is a premium service that provides:
Guaranteed delivery by 12.00 midday next business day to business addresses within the published
network. Delivery by 5.00pm is guaranteed to residential addresses within the network.
Proof of delivery. Provided by obtaining the addressee’s signature at the time of delivery.
Track and trace. Within the guaranteed network Express Post Platinum items will have their
barcode read at key processing points on delivery. This information will be available to customers
on Australia Post’s web site.
Proof of posting. If posted at a post office counter within the Express Post Platinum network, a
removable flap on the satchel will be date stamped by the counter officer and given to you as a
record of lodgement.
A choice of two pre-paid satchels, one for items up to 500 grams and one for items up to 3
kilograms.
Lodgement options. Satchels can either be lodged in Express Post GOLD boxes, or over the
counter at retail outlets.
Post Charges
Express Post Platinum charges are in the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P4.6.1 – Supplementary services
Supplementary services such as insurance, Reply Paid and COD are not available with Express Post
Platinum.
P4.6.2 – Express Post Platinum Guarantee
Australia Post guarantees delivery by 12.00 midday next business day to business addresses and delivery
to residential addresses by 5.00pm next business day over the routes specified in the published service
network, provided the satchel is correctly posted on a business day Monday to Friday.
If we do not deliver as promised, the sender will receive a free Express Post Platinum satchel of the
same type.
The Express Post Platinum guarantee does not apply to articles:
On which the Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Statement has not been signed by the sender.
Which weigh more than the weight limit printed on the satchel.
Addressed to a location not included in the Express Post Platinum network – see P4.7.
Addressed to a roadside delivery address in Victoria, Western Australia, South Australia or
Tasmania.
Lodged at a location not included in an Express Post Platinum network – see P4.7.
From which the “OFFICIAL USE ONLY” barcode strip has been removed.
Which are incorrectly or inadequately addressed.
Incorrectly lodged in a red street posting box.
P4.6.3 – Satchels travelling outside an Express Post Platinum network
For satchels sent to or from a location not included in an Express Post Platinum network, Australia
Post provides the fastest delivery using its normal network arrangements. The guarantee does not
apply to these satchels. A signature is still obtained on delivery.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
21
P4.6.4 – Valuable items
Do not use Express Post Platinum to send valuable items such as cash, bullion, precious stones or
negotiable securities. Australia Post accepts no liability for the loss of, or damage to, such items lodged
in an Express Post Platinum satchel. Refer to P10.1.3 – Articles that should be sent by Registered Post.
P4.6.5 – Delivery
The current delivery status of an Express Post Platinum item sent within the network can be checked
on Australia Post’s web site. To do this, you must have retained the SENDER TO KEEP barcode
number label.
If an Express Post Platinum item has not been delivered as promised, you can call 13 13 18 to check on
that item’s status. To do this you must have retained the SENDER TO KEEP barcode number label
and know the delivery address and the lodgement place and time.
P4.6.6 – Delivery to PO Boxes
Express Post Platinum satchels addressed to PO Boxes may not be delivered until after the normal PO
Box delivery time.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P4.7 – Express Post Platinum Networks
The Express Post Platinum national network differs from the Express Post network by including many
Perth suburbs and excluding some outer metropolitan areas in other capital cities. It also excludes
some provincial areas from the national network. The area covered by the State networks is also more
restricted.
National Network
For delivery by midday next business day, Express Post Platinum satchels can be sent between all the
capital cities, excluding some outer metropolitan areas, Darwin, and a number of major provincial
cities.
ACT
State or Territory
City or district
Canberra and suburbs
Postcodes
0200-0250; 2600-2620; 2900-2920
NSW
Sydney and suburbs
1000-1920; 2000-2077; 2084-2096;
2100-2104; 2109-2125; 2128-2155;
2157; 2160-2170; 2173-2174; 21902232; 2234; 2555-2557; 2560-2567;
2748; 2750-2751; 2760; 2762-2764;
2766-2768; 2773
Gosford region
2250-2263
Victoria
Queensland
Newcastle
2280-2310
Wollongong Area
2500-2530
Melbourne and suburbs
3000-3023; 3025-3089; 3095-3096;
3100-3105; 3108-3110; 3118-3133;
3134#; 3135-3138; 3140-3153; 31553156; 3161-3207; 3211; 8000-8899
Geelong and suburbs
3215-3220
Morwell
3840
Brisbane and suburbs
4000-4179
Gold Coast†
4210-4221; 4223-4227; 2484-2490;
9726; 9728-9729
Ipswich†
4305
City of Toowoomba†
4350
Strathpine/Caboolture†
4500-4510
South Australia
Adelaide and suburbs
5000-5109; 5111-5113; 5154-5155;
5158-5166; 5800-5999
Western Australia
Perth and suburbs
6000-6031; 6050-6066; 6070-6073;
6090-6112; 6147-6176; 6800-6960
Tasmania
Hobart and suburbs
7000-7018; 7050-7053; 7055
Launceston†
7248-7250
† Service not available for items sent from WA and Launceston to QLD locations outside Brisbane
and suburbs
# Ringwood only
State Networks
Between a State capital city and selected provincial centres (within that State) and in some States
between those provincial centres.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
23
P4.8 – How to use Express Post Platinum
To use the Express Post Platinum service you must use the special pre-paid Express Post Platinum
satchels. These satchels are available in the following two sizes:
Maximum Weight
500 grams
Dimensions
230mm x 353mm
3 kilograms
310mm x 405mm
Discounts are available for satchels purchased in packs of ten.
P4.8.1 – Preparation and lodgement of Express Post Platinum satchels
With Express Post Platinum satchels there are no stamps to buy or postage to calculate, you:
Purchase an Express Post Platinum satchel.
Place the item in the satchel, making sure it does not exceed the maximum weight.
Complete the address on the front of the satchel and the sender’s details on the back.
Sign the Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Statement on the satchel.
Remove the SENDER TO KEEP lift and peel barcode number tab from the front of the satchel
and affix it to the extended closing flap of the satchel.
Lodge it either in an Express Post GOLD street posting box by 6.00pm (earlier in some localities)
or over the counter of a post office within the Express Post Platinum network by that office’s
Express Post closing time.
If lodging in an Express Post GOLD box, tear off and retain the customer receipt section of the
closing flap prior to posting.
P4.8.2 – Proof of posting at a post office counter
All Express Post Platinum satchels posted over a post office counter will have the “customer receipt”
on the extended closing flap date stamped, in the place indicated, by the accepting counter officer. The
customer receipt will then be removed from the satchel and be given to you, as your “proof of
posting”.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
SECTION 5 – PREPAID PARCEL POST SATCHELS
P5.1 – Service description
The Parcel Post satchel service provides:
an economical and easy way to send a parcel – the purchase price of the satchel includes prepaid
postage to anywhere in Australia
no postage to assess or stamps to buy
further savings for the bulk purchase of Parcel Post satchels.
Post charges
Parcel Post satchel prices are in the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P5.1.1 – Supplementary services available
Supplementary services, such as Registered Post and Extra Cover are available with Parcel Post
satchels.
P5.1.2 – Supplementary services not available
Supplementary services, such as Reply Paid, COD, Person-to-Person and Delivery Confirmation (card)
are not available with Parcel Post satchels.
P5.1.3 – Delivery standards and timetable
Parcel Post satchels provide Australia-wide coverage. The delivery timetable is the same as for Regular
Parcels – see Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P5.1.4 – Valuable items
Refer to P10.1.3 – Articles that you should always send by Registered Post.
P5.2 – How to use Parcel Post Satchels
P5.2.1 – The available Parcel Post satchels
The Parcel Post satchel service is available only if you use the special prepaid Parcel Post satchels. The
price of each satchel includes the Parcel Post charge to any Australian destination. The table shows the
available Parcel Post satchels.
Dimensions
355 mm 220 mm
Maximum weight
500 gm
Suitable for
DVD’s, video’s and small items.
405 mm 310 mm
3 kg
Large books, clothing, shoes and other bulky items.
Satchels are available singly or in packs of 10, with discounts for bulk purchases.
Refer to the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P5.2.2 – Preparation and lodgement of Parcel Post Satchels
With Parcel Post satchels there are no stamps to buy or postage to calculate:
purchase your Parcel Post satchel
purchase and affix a prepaid Registered Post label when proof of delivery with signature is required
place your article in the satchel – make sure it does not exceed the permitted maximum weight
complete the address on the front of the satchel and the sender’s details on the back
sign the Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Statement on the satchel
if the satchel is addressed to any of the places in P3.3, complete and attach the appropriate
customs declaration
lodge over the counter at an office of Australia Post or in a red street post-box if the size of the
aperture permits.
When using the Registered Post service, lodge over the counter at an office of Australia Post when
Extra Cover and proof of posting is required
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
25
SECTION 6 – REGULAR PARCELS
P6.1 – Service description
The Regular Parcel service provides an economical way to send a parcel to anywhere in Australia by
surface mail.
Post charges
Regular Parcel charges depend on weight and distance. Charges are in the Post Charges Booklet
(8833665).
P6.1.1 – Supplementary services
The following supplementary services are available with Regular Parcels:
Cash-on-delivery (COD) – see Section 7
Registered Post – see Section 10
Extra Cover – see Section 11
Delivery Confirmation – see P10.4
Person-to-Person delivery – see P10.5
Reply Paid – see Section 9
Medical Educational Remote Area Parcel Service – see Section 14.
P6.1.2 – Delivery standards and timetable
Regular Parcels provide Australia-wide coverage.
Service
For delivery…
Same State
Other State
Regular Parcel
Within metropolitan areas of capital
cities or within the same city or town or
environs
1
-
Between a metropolitan area of a capital
city and a country location
1-3
-
Between country locations
1-4
-
Between Sydney/Brisbane;
Sydney/Melbourne;
Melbourne/Canberra;
Melbourne/Adelaide
-
2
Between Sydney/Adelaide;
Melbourne/Brisbane;
Melbourne/Tasmania;
Adelaide/Brisbane; Adelaide/Canberra
-
3
Between other capital cities
-
4-5
P6.1.3 – Valuable items
Refer to P10.1.3 – Articles that you should always send by Registered Post.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P6.2 – How to use regular parcels
P6.2.1 – Preparation and lodgement of regular parcels
To prepare and lodge your regular parcel:
prepare and pack your parcel – see Section 15
complete the address on the front of the parcel and the sender’s details on the back
if the parcel is addressed to any of the postcodes in P2.3, complete and sign an Aviation Security and
Dangerous Goods Statement and attach it to the parcel – see P2.2.1
weigh the parcel and assess postage at the regular parcel rate or take it to an office of Australia Post
for weighing and assessment
affix the necessary postage stamps or a postage meter imprint
if the parcel is addressed to any of the places in P3.3, complete and attach the appropriate customs
declaration
lodge over the counter at an office of Australia Post, or in a street post-box if the size of the
aperture permits and correct postage has been affixed
Note: Customers lodging under a Business Parcel Agreement will have different preparation
requirements.
P6.2.2 – Preparation and lodgement of regular parcels by Registered Post
To prepare and lodge your regular parcel by Registered Post:
prepare and pack your parcel – see Section 15 and Section 10
complete the address on the front of the parcel and the sender’s details on the back
if the parcel is addressed to any of the postcode in P2.3, complete and sign an Aviation Security and
Dangerous Goods Statement and attach it to the parcel – see P2.2.1
weigh the parcel and assess postage at the regular parcel rate or take it to an office of Australia Post
for weighing and assessment
affix a prepaid Registered Post label
affix the necessary postage stamps or a postage meter imprint
when proof of posting and/or Extra Cover is required, complete the Registered Post and Optional
Services lodgement document (8836964) and lodge over the counter at a post office – see P10.2.1
Registered Post parcels lodged in a street posting box do not receive proof of posting. Proof of
posting is necessary to substantiate a claim for the total loss or damage of a Registered Post parcel
– see P10.3.4.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
27
SECTION 7 – CASH-ON-DELIVERY (COD)
P7.1 – Service description
The Cash-on-Delivery (COD) service provides Australia Post customers with the means to collect
charges for goods or postage (or both) from their own smaller non-account customers. The service
offers:
proof of posting and delivery
compensation up to $100 included in the COD fee
optional Extra Cover up to $5000
collection of the amount due from the addressee before delivery by Australia Post
payment of the amount due to the sender by Money Order.
Post charges
COD fees and charges are in the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P7.1.1 – Parcel Post services used
COD articles may use only the Regular Parcels service.
COD articles may not use Express Post or Parcel Post satchels.
P7.1.2 – Supplementary services
The following supplementary services are available with COD:
Local Delivery – see Section 8.
Extra Cover – see Section 11.
P7.1.3 – What can be sent COD?
Articles in the COD service must be:
articles sent in execution of a bona fide order from the addressee, or
articles addressed to their owner on which service charges (such as repairs and maintenance) or
other fees are payable.
P7.1.4 – Collection options
The sender of a COD article may instruct Australia Post to collect one or both of:
postage and fees only, collected from the addressee
collection of money from the addressee and remittance to sender plus any collection of postage or
fees from the addressee.
P7.1.5 – Delivery
Australia Post will not deliver a COD parcel until the addressee has paid the full amount due (cash or
EFTPOS Debit Card only). The addressee may not open the parcel or examine its contents before
making payment. The addressee may not make part payments.
Delivery at an office
Australia Post has completed delivery of a COD parcel at an office when Australia Post has:
received payment in cash or EFTPOS Debit Card, and
handed the parcel to the addressee or an authorised agent.
Delivery to a Locked Bag, a Private Mail Bag or a Community Bag
Australia Post has completed delivery of a COD parcel addressed to a person at a Locked Bag, a
Private Mail Bag or a Community Bag when Australia Post has:
received payment in cash or EFTPOS Debit Card, and
placed the COD parcel in the bag, and
despatched the bag from the office where the bag was made up.
P7.1.6 – Method of Payment
Australia Post will only accept payment in CASH or EFTPOS DEBIT CARD for COD articles.
P7.1.7 – Refused or undeliverable COD Parcels
A delivery office will hold a COD article for up to 10 working days from the date of its receipt at the
office. If the article remains undelivered at the expiry of that time, Australia Post deems it
undeliverable. The sender of a refused or undeliverable COD parcel must sign a receipt on its return
and pay any postal charges not prepaid on lodgement and return postage. Refer to Section 5 of the
General Post Guide for the return postage payable and other conditions for the treatment of
unclaimed, refused or undeliverable articles.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P7.2 – How to use COD
To prepare and lodge your COD parcel:
prepare and pack your parcel – see Section 15
complete the address on the front of the parcel and the sender’s details on the back
if the parcel is addressed to any of the postcodes in P2.3 (locations where surface parcels may be
carried by air), complete and sign an Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Statement and attach
it to the parcel – see P2.2.1.
ensure the parcel is suitably marked as a COD article – see P7.2.1
take it to an office of Australia Post for weighing and assessment
complete the COD Application Form (8832967) – see P7.2.2 – and retain the receipt
affix the necessary postage stamps or a postage meter imprint if postage is not being paid by the
addressee
if the parcel is addressed to any of the Australian overseas territories in P3.3, complete and attach
the appropriate customs declaration
lodge over the counter at an office of Australia Post.
P7.2.1 – Marking
A COD parcel must be clearly marked with COD tape (8837991) on at least two sides of the parcel.
The tape must not obscure the address.
P7.2.2 – COD Application Form
Australia Post accepts COD parcels for lodgement only when the sender has completed the
appropriate COD Application Form (8832967).
The sender should retain the receipt portion of the form as proof of lodgement.
P7.2.3 – Application to waive COD charges
The sender of a COD parcel may subsequently apply to Australia Post to deliver the parcel to the
addressee without collecting payment. The application must be:
in writing and addressed to the Postal Manager at the office of lodgement
accompanied by the receipt of the COD Application Form (8832967)
made in sufficient time for the delivery office to act before delivering the parcel.
There is no fee for this service, but the sender must pay the cost of any postage, telephone calls,
facsimile or electronic messages necessary to give effect to the application.
P7.2.4 – Application to return a COD parcel
The sender of a COD parcel may subsequently apply to Australia Post to return the parcel to the
sender. The application must be:
in writing and addressed to the Postal Manager at the office of lodgement
accompanied by the receipt of the COD Application Form (8832967)
made in sufficient time for the delivery office to act before delivering the parcel.
The fee for this service is in Post Charges Booklet (8833665). The sender must also pay return postage,
if applicable, and the cost of any postage, telephone calls, facsimile or electronic messages necessary to
give effect to the application.
P7.2.5 – Application for Statement of Delivery
Up to 12 months after lodgement, the sender of a COD parcel may apply to Australia Post for a
Statement of Deliver y. The statement gives details of the delivery and the payment received from the
addressee. The application must be:
in writing and addressed to the Postal Manager at the office of lodgement
accompanied by the receipt of the COD Application Form (8832967)
The fee for this service is in Post Charges Booklet (8833665). Australia Post refunds the fee if the
Statement of Deliver y reveals an error or omission by Australia Post.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
29
SECTION 8 – LOCAL DELIVERY SERVICE IN COUNTRY
AREAS
P8.1 – Service description
The Local Delivery service is available only within defined country postcode areas to anyone who
lodges a Regular Parcel at the office that will deliver the parcel. It offers considerable savings that
reflect the elimination of intermediate sorting and transport costs between other Australia Post offices.
For a definition of the office of delivery, see P8.2 – Lodgement conditions.
Post charges
Local Delivery charges are in the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P8.1.1 – Supplementary services
The following supplementary services are available with Local Delivery Parcels:
Cash-on-Delivery (COD) – see Section 7
Registered Post – see Section 10
Extra Cover – see Section 11
Delivery Confirmation – see P10.4
Person-to-Person delivery – see P10.5
Medical Educational Remote Area Parcel Service – see Section 14.
The Local Delivery service is available only for Regular Parcels. It does not apply to Express Post
parcels or satchels.
P8.1.2 – Eligibility
Anyone can lodge a Local Delivery Parcel within a country postcode area irrespective of where they
live or carry on business. The place of lodgement must be the office of delivery for one of the
designated country postcode areas in P8.3.
P8.1.3 – Carriage by air
For lodgement in those postcodes listed in P2.3 – Locations where surface parcels may use air carriage,
local delivery might be by air. If so:
a special rate applies to parcels of more than 500 g – see Post Charges Booklet (8833665)
the parcel must bear an Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Statement (8836791)– see P2.2.
P8.1.4 – How to use Local Delivery
With the exception of the lodgement conditions in P8.2, you use the Local Delivery service in the
same way as Regular Parcels – see P6.2.
P8.2 – Lodgement conditions
Local Delivery lodgements must be at the counter of the office from which the parcel will be delivered.
The office must be the office of delivery for one of the designated country postcode areas in P8.3.
Not all offices are delivery offices. The Postal Manager of any office can advise senders of the location
of the office that delivers to the local postcode area.
Regular Parcel charges apply to any parcel that requires transportation from the lodgement point to the
office of delivery.
Australia Post considers that a parcel is lodged at the office of delivery in each of the following cases:
it is addressed to a private box, a locked bag or for counter delivery at the office where it is lodged,
even if that office is not the delivery office for the postcode area
the lodgement is at an office designated by a Commercial Manager of Australia Post for the
purpose of receiving Local Delivery lodgements
the lodgement is at an office that controls a delivery depot with no counter lodgement facilities
it is brought by private mail bag to the office from which it will be delivered
the sender delivers it to a mail contractor who, in the course of his or her duties, hands it in at the
office from which it will be delivered.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P8.3 – Postcode areas eligible for the Local Delivery
service
The Local Delivery service operates only in the postcodes shown.
0835-0899
1970-1999
2240-2490
2500-2554
2575-2599
May 2008
2640-2739
2787-2880
2890-2899
3211-3334
3342-3424
3444-3749
3812-3909
3921-3925
3945-3971
3979
3984-3999
4210-4499
4550-4899
5200-5749
6215-6507
6509-6646
6700-6799
7200-7499
7900-7999
9597-9599
9700-9799
9880-9999
Parcel Post Guide
31
SECTION 9 – REPLY PAID PARCEL SERVICE
P9.1 – Service description
The Reply Paid parcel service allows customers to invite respondents to return parcels to them at no
cost to the respondent. The customer pays the postage, including a delivery fee, for each parcel
returned.
Customers must complete a Reply Paid Service Contract with Australia Post before they can use the
Reply Paid parcel service.
P9.1.1 – Scope
The Reply Paid parcel service applies only within Australia. It is available with Regular parcels,
Medical Educational Remote Area Parcels and Express Post parcels. Express Post satchels can only
be used with the Reply Paid Service under separate contract conditions.
P9.1.2 – Service combinations
Reply Paid Service Contract customers cannot combine any supplementary services, such as
Registered Post or Extra Cover, with the Reply Paid parcel service. However, respondents may
choose to pay for these services when they lodge a Regular Reply Paid parcel for return. No
supplementary services are available to respondents with Express Post parcels.
P9.2 – How to apply for a Reply Paid parcel contract
P9.2.1 – Application form
To apply for a Reply Paid Parcel Service contract, complete form 8835097 – Reply Paid Service
Application, available at post offices. Reply Paid customers require an Australia Post charge account
for billing purposes.
P9.2.2 – The approval process
When Australia Post accepts an application for a Reply Paid Parcel Service Contract, Australia Post:
sends the customer an acceptance advice
sends the customer the required address format
sends the delivery office a Delivery Facility Notification
P9.3 – Obligations of a Reply Paid customer
P9.3.1 – Obligation to pay
The customer must pay the postage and the appropriate delivery fee for each parcel whether accepted
or refused.
P9.3.2 – Obligation to reveal source
The customer must disclose the source of any Reply Paid Parcel to allow the appropriate distancebased charges to be calculated.
P9.3.3 - Prohibitions
A customer must not:
issue Reply Paid invitations unless the customer has a current Reply Paid Service Contract with
Australia Post.
Allow a Reply Paid Parcel to be lodged in Australia for delivery outside Australia.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P9.4 – Variations to the Reply Paid Service Contract
P9.4.1 – Variation to name and address
At any time, a customer may apply in writing to vary the name or address appearing on Reply Paid
Parcels. Provided the variation is not in breach of the Reply Paid Service Contract, Australia Post
normally approves the variation.
P9.4.2 – Transfer of Reply Paid Parcel service
A customer may transfer the obligations under a Reply Paid Service Contract to another person or
organisation only with the prior written approval of Australia Post. Australia Post will deem the new
Reply Paid Service Contract customer to have accepted all the conditions of the contract as issued to
the relinquishing customer.
If the customer is a partnership and reconstitutes by the retirement or addition of partners, Australia
Post regards the reconstituted partnership as the customer. Australia Post deems the reconstituted
partnership to have accepted all the conditions of the contract as issued to the original partnership.
P9.4.3 – Australia Post variations
Australia Post reserves the right, at reasonable notice, to require a customer to change the design or
any other feature of previously approved Reply Paid specifications.
P9.5 – Cancellation of a Reply Paid Service Contract
P9.5.1 – Cancellation by customer
A customer may cancel a Reply Paid Service Contract by giving one month’s written notice to
Australia Post.
P9.5.2 – Cancellation by Australia Post
Australia Post may cancel a Reply Paid Service Contract by giving seven days’ written notice to the
customer if:
the customer breaches any of the Reply Paid Service Contract terms and conditions
the customer becomes or is in jeopardy of becoming insolvent
the customer, being a company, passes a resolution or a court makes an order that the customer
shall be wound up
a receiver or manager on behalf of a creditor is appointed to a customer, or circumstances arise
which entitles a court or a creditor to appoint a receiver or manager to a customer.
P9.5.3 – Obligations of a customer after cancellation
When a contract is no longer in force, the customer must cease to publish the Reply Paid address and
must not issue any pre-printed Reply Paid articles.
P9.5.4 – Articles lodged after cancellation of the contract
The customer is liable to pay Australia Post for any charges, postage or fees for Reply Paid Parcels
lodged after the cancellation of a Reply Paid Service Contract.
If, after cancellation of the Reply Paid Service Contract, a customer continues to invite respondents
to use the Reply Paid Parcel Service, Australia Post will treat the responses as underpaid mail – refer
to Section 2 of General Post Guide (8837578).
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
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P9.6 – Addressing standards for Reply Paid Parcels
The address on a Reply Paid Parcel must conform to the standards below.
If not hand-written, the address is printed in Courier
12 point or a comparable fixed-pitch font with no
effects such as italic, bold or shadow.
The left margin is justified.
“Attention” or
reference
details appear
below “Reply
Paid 62357”
and the
organisation
name
The first line contains the words
“Reply Paid” followed by the Reply
Paid number allocated by Australia
Post.
Reply Paid 62357
Australia Post
Attn: Mr A. Brown
GPO Box 1777
MELBOURNE VIC 3001
The last line contains the locality or post office name,
state abbreviation and postcode in UPPER CASE
letters with no underlining or punctuation of any sort.
Only one or two spaces separate each element.
The second last line contains the
post office box address or the
street address.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
SECTION 10 – REGISTERED POST
P10.1 – Service description
Registered Post offers additional security to senders of parcels and a range of optional services to give
even greater peace of mind. It provides:
a unique identification number for each parcel
proof of posting if parcels are lodged over the counter at an office of Australia Post
a signed record of delivery
compensation up to $100 included in the registration fee provided that proof of posting exists
optional Extra Cover up to $5000 – see Section 11
optional Delivery Confirmation card
optional Person-to-Person delivery.
Post charges
The registration fee and the fees for the optional services are in the Post Charges Booklet (8833665)
P10.1.1 – Parcel Post services used
Registered Post parcels may be used with the following Parcel Post services:
Prepaid Parcel Post satchels – see Section 5
Regular parcels – see Section 6
Local Delivery – see Section 8
Reply Paid parcels, only if the respondent pays the registration fee – see Section 9
Medical Educational Remote Area Parcel Service – see Section 14.
Express Post parcels and satchels cannot use Registered Post.
P10.1.2 – Supplementary services and service combinations
The table shows those Parcel Post services that you may use as a supplement to Registered Post or in
combination with Registered Post.
Service
For more information, refer to….
Extra Cover up to $5000
P11.1 – Extra Cover
Delivery Confirmation card
P10.4 – Delivery Confirmation card
Person-to-Person delivery
P10.5 – Person-to-Person delivery
P10.1.3 – Articles that you should always send by Registered Post
You should always send the following articles by Registered Post, as Australia Post accepts no liability
in any other Parcel Post service.
Coins
Jewellery
Negotiable securities
Non-negotiable instruments Precious stones
such as passports, wills, or Valuable items of any nature.
title deeds
Non-negotiable instruments – limit of cover
Australia Post limits the document reconstruction costs of lost or damaged non-negotiable
instruments to $100.
Bank notes, currency notes and coins
Australia Post accepts in the Registered Parcel Post bank notes, currency notes and coins that are
legal tender in their country of origin up to a value of $A200. However, Australia Post accepts no
liability for the loss of or damage to any such notes and coins.
Australia Post prohibits bank notes, currency notes and coins in any service other than Registered
Post within Australia.
Note: Australian notes, of whatever age, currency or denomination, are legal tender in Australia.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
35
P10.1.4 – Articles not accepted in Registered Post
Australia Post does not accept an article in the Registered Post if:
the cover is not in sound condition and securely sealed
the parcel bears the appearance of having been opened and resealed
the address is written in pencil or any erasable medium
the addressee is a set of initials, an acronym or a codename, unless the address also contains a
‘care of’ named addressee
it is an Express Post parcel or satchel.
P10.2 – Proof of posting and delivery
P10.2.1 – Proof of posting
Proof of posting is necessary to substantiate a claim for the total loss of a Registered Post parcel.
Senders who require proof of posting should complete a Registered Post and Optional Services Lodgement
Document (8836964) or Registered Post and Optional Services Lodgement Document multi (8836965) and lodge
their Registered Post parcels over the counter at a post office and receive a postmarked receipt. No
proof of posting is available for Registered Post parcels lodged in a street post box.
P10.2.2 – Proof of delivery
Australia Post obtains a signature from the recipient and records an electronic track event on delivery
of a Registered Post parcel. Track events are visible online for a period of one month via the tracking
website, located at www.auspost.com.au. Historical track events and signatures are available by
calling 13 13 18.
For the rules and conditions that apply to the delivery of Registered Post articles, refer to Section 4 of
General Post Guide (8837578).
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P10.3 – How to use Registered Post
P10.3.1 – Registered Post Lodgement document
You may send an individual Registered Post parcel by completing a Registered Post Lodgement
Document and receiving a single Registered Post Label to affix to the parcel. The price of the label
covers only the registration fee and does not include postage. Refer to Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P10.3.2 – Prepaid Registered Post Labels
Prepaid Registered Post Labels are available as singles and boxes of 50 labels. You can affix a
Registered Post Label to a parcel of your choice. The price of the label covers only the registration
fee and does not include postage. Refer to the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P10.3.3 – Registered Post imprint
Customers may print their own imprints
containing a Registered Post imprint and
a common identification number. The
imprint must conform to the minimum
size and colour specifications in the
illustration.
Do not use a Registered Post imprint if
you require compensation exceeding
$100. You must complete a Registered
Post lodgement document to record
details of the contents and purchase
Extra Cover.
Refer P11 – Extra Cover.
38 mm
7 mm
PMS186
PMS151
15 mm
Identification number
Identification number
Customers should apply to the Australia Post Sales and Marketing Department in their State for the
single identification number. This identification number applies to all Registered Post parcels in the
one lodgement, on condition that no two parcels in the lodgement have the same addressee.
Conditions of lodgement
Customers must lodge Registered Post parcels bearing a Registered Post imprint over the counter at
an office of Australia Post.
Bulk lodgement receipt
The lodgement receipt for Registered Post imprint lodgements shows only the total number of
parcels in the lodgement and the common identification number.
P10.3.4 – Enquiries
You may enquire at your local post office about the delivery of a Registered Post parcel or about loss
of or damage to its contents. The enquiry must be within 6 months of lodging the parcel. You must
be able to quote the Registered Post identification number and produce the lodgement receipt.
P10.4 – Delivery Confirmation
The optional Delivery Confirmation service is available only in conjunction with Registered Post.
The sender records their name and address on a Delivery Confirmation Card when lodging a
Registered Post parcel over the counter. The card accompanies the parcel to the delivery office.
When Australia Post completes delivery, the person who accepts delivery signs the card. Australia
Post postmarks the card and returns it to the sender in the ordinary post. This service may not be
used with prepaid Parcel Post satchels.
The weight of the Delivery Confirmation Card is not included in the assessment of postage of the
Parcel. Note: This differs from the equivalent service in the International Post where the weight of
the card is included in postage assessment.
The fee for Delivery Confirmation is in Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
37
P10.5 – Person-to-Person delivery
The optional Person-to-Person delivery service is available only in conjunction with Registered Post.
Australia Post affixes a Person-to-Person Delivery label to the parcel at the time of lodgement. On
delivery, Australia Post requests the recipient to provide proof of identity.
Australia Post delivers only to the person addressed or some other person specifically nominated in a
previously authorised Authority to Receive Person-to-Person Deliveries – refer to Section 4 of General
Post Guide (8837578). A parcel in the Person-to-Person service that is addressed to a minor may be
delivered to the minor’s parent or guardian. This service may not be used with prepaid Parcel Post
satchels.
The fee for Person-to-Person delivery is in Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
SECTION 11 – EXTRA COVER
P11.1 – Service description
P11.1.1 – Availability
Extra Cover up to $5000 is available only as a supplement to Registered Post or COD services. The
Registered Post and COD services include compensation up to $100 as part of the standard fee.
For the Extra Cover fee payable, refer to Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P11.1.2 – Eligibility
To be eligible for Extra Cover, the article must conform to the conditions of Extra Cover contained
in Section 6 of General Post Guide. This includes the definition of adequate packing.
To be eligible for an Extra Cover claim for total loss of an article, you must provide proof of posting.
See P10.2.1 – Proof of posting.
P11.1.3 – How to purchase Extra Cover to $5000
To purchase Extra Cover up to $5000, you must lodge the parcel over the counter at an office of
Australia Post and complete a Registered Post Lodgement Document or a COD Application Form.
These documents record a description of the contents of the article and the level of Extra Cover
required.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
39
SECTION 12 – KEY RETURN SERVICE
P12.1 – Service description
This service allows a customer to guarantee to pay postage on unenclosed keys received in the post.
The service is of particularly use to:
hotels or motels when guests inadvertently leave without returning their keys
key return organisations that return lost keys to their owners.
The service is available only within Australia for keys carried by surface mail as Regular Parcels.
Post charges
Australia Post delivers keys on payment of Key Return postage for each key – refer to Post Charges
Booklet (8833665).
P12.1.1 – Eligible keys
Marking of keys
To be eligible for the Key Return service, keys must be marked or attached to a tag that contains one
of the following inscriptions.
POSTAGE WILL BE PAID ON DELIVERY TO:
POSTAGE AND FEE WILL BE PAID BY:
POSTAGE AND FEE WILL BE PAID ON DELIVERY TO:
The name and postal address of the person or organisation to which the keys should be returned
must follow the inscription.
Important Note: When marking new keys or tags for potential use in the Key Return service always
use the inscription POSTAGE WILL BE PAID ON DELIVERY TO. Although Australia Post accepts the
other inscriptions shown above, these are no longer valid for new inscriptions.
Size of keys
To prevent possible damage to processing equipment, keys must stand up at least 6 mm when laid on
a flat surface. Australia Post does not accept a single key, or a key and its tag, that is not at least
6 mm thick at some point.
P12.1.2 – Lodgement
The finder (or inadvertent holder) of eligible keys may lodge them unenclosed in a street post box
without payment of postage.
Key-return organisations that use the post to return keys to their owners must enclose keys in an
addressed letter or parcel and prepay postage.
P12.1.3 – Delivery
Australia Post carries unenclosed keys by the Regular Parcel service.
Australia Post delivers to the name and address on the key (or on the attached tag) when the
addressee has paid postage.
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
SECTION 13 – ARTICLES FOR THE BLIND
P13.1 – Service description
Subject to the conditions below, certain Regular
Parcels for the blind attract concessional rates. Refer
to the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
P13.1.1 – Eligible contents
The following items are eligible in Regular Parcels as
articles for the blind:
correspondence, documents or literature wholly
written in embossed characters as used by the
blind – that is, Braille or Moon
an aid for the teaching of Braille to the blind
a plate for embossing literature for the blind
special paper intended solely for the blind, on
condition that any communication on the paper
is wholly in Braille or Moon
any form of speech recording for the use of the
blind.
A parcel that contains any other item not in this list is
not eligible for the concessional rate.
P13.1.2 – Eligible participants
8835189
To attract the concessional rate, either the sender or
the addressee of an article for the blind must be:
a blind person, or
an institution or organisation recognised by Australia Post as an institution or organisation
which is both organised and operated for the primary purpose of serving the needs of the blind.
Refer to Section 5 of Letter Post & Electronic Mail with Australia Post Guide (8833731) for a list of
recognised institutions and organisations.
P13.1.3 – Make-up conditions
To attract the concessional rate, parcels containing articles for the blind must:
comply with the dimensions and weight of a Regular parcel – see P3.4
be in wrappings or covers that can be easily opened for inspection
show the name and address of the sender on the outside of the cover
bear the 8835189 ( PM275) label as illustrated, or the words MATERIAL FOR THE USE OF THE
BLIND (or similar) in a prominent position
contain only eligible contents as defined in P13.1.1 – Eligible contents.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
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SECTION 14 – MEDICAL EDUCATIONAL REMOTE AREA
PARCEL SERVICE
P14.1 – Service description
This service offers special tiered parcel rates for posting parcels up to 5kg, containing health and
education materials to and from people living in remote communities. It applies to all postcodes
throughout Australia which are classified as remote or very remote in the Accessibility/Remoteness
Index of Australia (ARIA+). Certain other eligibility requirements apply.
P14.2 – Eligible medical parcels
Medical supplies that are eligible for this service are:
prescription medicines
non-prescription pharmacy medicines
other medical products specified by a registered medical practictioner.
Parcels must be posted by or to one of the following:
a registered medical practitioner
a practising ophthalmologist/optometrist/optician
a dentist
a retailer or wholesaler of medicines and medical supplies.
Dietary supplements, alternative/complimentary/herbal remedies, vitamins, veterinary supplies and
nappies are excluded from the service.
Existing terms and conditions apply governing the quantities, packaging and permissible senders of
medicinal products.
P14.3 – Eligible educational parcels
Educational materials that are eligible for this service are printed, written and/or electronic media
related to a recognised course of study organised by a certified educational institution.
They must be lodged by or to an educational institution or private tutor.
Stationery, educational toys, office supplies or books are excluded unless specifically related to a
course of study.
P14.4 – Eligible postcodes
State
Postcodes
Northern Territory
0822, 0837-0852, 0854-0899
New South Wales
2361, 2386-2388, 2396, 2400, 2405-2407, 2410, 2551, 2672, 2675,
2711, 2715, 2824-2825, 2828-2829, 2831-2840, 2873, 2877-2880,
2898-2899
Victoria
3396, 3419, 3424, 3485, 3500, 3502, 3506, 3509, 3512, 3889-3892
Queensland
4025, 4183, 4385, 4406, 4416-4420, 4422-4423, 4425-4428, 44544498, 4627, 4702, 4705, 4707, 4709, 4718-4736, 4739, 4741-4746,
4756-4800, 4802-4805, 4807, 4816, 4820-4830, 4854, 4871-4876,
4890-4891
South Australia
5220-5223, 5267-5268, 5275, 5302, 5304, 5341, 5432, 5434, 5440,
5575-5577, 5582-5583, 5602-5607, 5630-5690, 5710-5734
Western Australia
6161, 6262, 6328, 6335-6348, 6350, 6352, 6353-6367, 6369, 63726375, 6386, 6398, 6415, 6418, 6420-6427, 6429-6431, 6434-6441,
6443, 6445-6450, 6468, 6472-6479, 6484-6485, 6488, 6490, 65146519, 6522, 6532-6537, 6603-6799
Tasmania
7109, 7140, 7186, 7190, 7215, 7255-7257, 7264, 7330, 7467-7470
May 2008
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Parcel Post Guide
P14.5 – Special prices
The five simple flat rate price steps for this service are as follows:
Small parcels up to 250g
Small parcels over 250g up to 500g
Large parcels over 500g up to 5kg
Small local parcels up to 500g
Large local parcels over 500g up to 5kg
Medical Educational Remote Area Parcel Service charges are in the Post Charges Booklet (8833665).
These prices are valid anywhere in Australia to or from remote postcodes.
Parcels over 5kg are not eligible for the service.
P14.6 – How to access the service
If you believe that your parcel is eligible for the new prices:
Ensure that either the delivery or return address clearly indicates that you or the recipient are
eligible.
When presenting your parcel at a post office, advise the counter staff that you wish to use the
service.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
43
SECTION 15 – PREPARATION OF PARCEL POST MAIL
P15.1 - Addressing
The address on a parcel must conform to the standard below.
Legible
Include the locality, state and postcode
“Recipient” address must be clearly distinguishable from the “Return address” i.e use larger text
for the “Recipient” address or place the “Return Address” on the opposite face of the parcel.
The table below provides recommendations for addressing parcels.
Address component
Position and format
Name of addressee
First line of address
‘Attention of:” or other reference details
Second, and if necessary, third line of address
Street address, Box number, or Locked bag
number
Second last line of the address and contains no
punctuation or underlining
Locality name or the name of the office of
delivery
The first component of the last line of the
address. It must be in UPPER CASE letters and
contain no punctuation or underlining
The State or Territory abbreviation
The second component of the last line of the
address. It must be in UPPER CASE letters and
contain no punctuation or underlining
The Postcode
The third component of the last line of the
address. It must be in UPPER CASE letters and
contain no punctuation or underlining
Note: The correct positioning and layout of the “locality, state and postcode” in the address line is
important for sorting requirements.
Example:
Mr A Sample
Australia Post
Business Manager
Suit 4
Level 16 321 Exhibition Street
MELBOURNE VIC 3000
P15.1.1 – Addressing of plastic-wrapped parcels
Senders may affix an address label to the outside of the plastic cover or under the plastic cover. If it
is under the plastic cover, the address label must:
remain fixed in position during postal carriage
remain visible and legible through the plastic at all times during carriage.
P15.2 – General packaging considerations
Dangerous & Prohibited Goods and Packaging Post Guide (8833729) contains the requirements for
packaging articles. In general, all parcels must be made-up and packed to:
prevent injury to any person handling the parcel
prevent the contents escaping and damaging other postal articles
prevent damage to equipment and vehicles, particularly aircraft
protect the contents from loss or damage caused by the stress of handling and carriage
protect the contents from loss or damage caused by extremes of climate.
Australia Post staff are pleased to advise customers on the best ways of packing particular items and
to recommend suitable Postpak products.
May 2008
44
Parcel Post Guide
P15.3 – Some useful packing pointers
P15.3.1 – Containers
Strength of container material
Strong cardboard, fibreboard or wood are generally satisfactory materials for the manufacture of
containers such as boxes, cartons or mailing tubes, but the necessary strength depends on the mass,
size and nature of the articles in the container. A range of Postpak containers is available to suit most
purposes.
Size of container
If a container is too large for its contents, pack all spare space with cushioning material such as
Postpak bubble-wrap to prevent the contents shifting or receiving sudden jolts during carriage.
Recommended cushioning materials
Pack any items needing special protection with adequate cushioning to ensure they can withstand the
rigours of postal transmission. Make sure that:
the contents are protected from outside pressure on the parcel
if the parcel contains two or more items, wrap and pack each item separately and then cushion
each item to protect it from damaging the others.
Cushioning materials should be light and readily able to absorb pressure and impact. Suitable
materials include:
Postpak bubble-wrap
wood wool
cotton
fibreboard
tissue paper
felt pads
shredded paper
cellulose materials
corrugated cardboard.
P15.3.2 – Tapes
Polypropylene tape is usually adequate when applied carefully. Postpak packaging tape is particularly
strong.
P15.3.3 – Wrapping
Use only heavy-grade wrapping paper for all but small light parcels. If a parcel contains several items
or a stack of items, do not rely on the wrapping to hold everything together. It is likely to tear or
break under pressure. Firmly tie or tape the items or the stack together before you apply the outer
wrapping.
P15.4 – Postpak products
The payment of a compensation or Extra Cover claim for a parcel depends on the use of adequate
packaging. Australia Post approves the range of Postpak protective products as adequate packaging.
For the range and prices of Postpak products, refer to the Post Charges Booklet (8833665) or the
current Australia Post Stationery & Mailing Supplies Catalogue.
Australia Post may refuse to accept a parcel, even if the sender uses a Postpak product, if:
the Postpak product is inappropriate to its contents and is used or fastened incorrectly
the Postpak product has been used previously
the contents are fragile – such as fine glassware, clay figures, soapstone, or alabaster – and are
inadequately protected by sufficient internal shock-absorbing material, such as Postpak bubblewrap
the contents are likely to perish or become physically offensive during the ordinary course of
carriage
Australia Post has specific packaging requirements for the contents – such as liquids, poisons,
and so on – and the sender has not met these requirements.
Refer to Dangerous and Prohibited Goods and Packaging Post Guide (8833729) for the Australia Post
packaging requirements for specific goods.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
45
P15.5 – Plastic wrapping and covers
Australia Post accepts parcels enclosed in plastic wrapping or covers if they meet the specifications
below.
P15.5.1 – Conditions of use
Senders may enclose a parcel in a plastic wrapping or cover if:
all articles in the cover are securely bound, taped or tied together as well as wrapped
the plastic material complies with P15.5.2 – Plastic specification
the welds, if any, must be as strong as the parent material.
P15.5.2 – Plastic specification
Plastics can cause problems with some postal operations. In general, medium impact-resistant, antistatic polyethylene is suitable if its attributes fall within the limits shown in the table.
Attribute
Value
Comments
Thickness
A minimum of 35 m.
Recommended values for
polyethylene are:
50 m for articles up to 500 g
100 m for articles over 500 g
Impact strength
Equal to 50 m film.
Refer to AS1326 – 1972
Tearing resistance
At least 450 mN in any direction Refer to AS TMD1922 – 1989
Kinetic coefficient of friction
Between 0.2 and 0.4
Refer to AS 1326 – 1972
Gloss level
60 units ± 10%
Refer to AS 1326 – 1972
You may use a material other than polyethylene if it meets this specification. Domestic cling wrap
and recycled plastic bags are not acceptable. You may send a sample (0.6 m x 1.6 m) for testing to:
Group Manager Parcels
Australia Post HQ
GPO Box 1777
MELBOURNE VIC 3001
P15.6 – Payment of postage
Full details of the various methods of paying postage are in the General Post Guide (8837578). The
table shows the specific conditions that apply to regular parcels.
Type of parcel
Conditions
Paper-wrapped parcel
Postage stamps affixed to the top-right of the address side of the
parcel or the top-right of an address label.
A postage meter imprint affixed to the top right of the address
side of the parcel or the top-right of an address label, and a
return address shown on the parcel.
Plastic-wrapped parcel
Postage stamps affixed to the top right of the address side of the
parcel on an exterior label or other device suitable to allow the
application of a cancelling postmark, or postage stamps affixed to
a tie-on label.
A postage meter imprint affixed to the top right of the address
side of the parcel or the top-right of an address label, and a return
address shown on the parcel.
Bulk mailing for the application
of a PAID postmark
A suitable surface in the top-right of the address side of the
article to allow the application of the PAID postmark.
Bulk mailing with a Postage
Paid imprint
A Postage Paid imprint in the top right of the address side of the
parcel or the top-right of an address label, and a return address
shown on the parcel.
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
46
INDEX
A
addressing
plastic-wrapped parcels ...........................P15.1.1
Reply Paid ....................................................... P9.6
air carriage for surface parcels, postcodes ..... P2.3
Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods
Statement ........................................................... P2
Australia, definition............................................ P3.1
Australian Antarctic Territory.......................... P3.1
B
bank notes.......................................................P10.1.3
blind, articles for.................................................. P13
blind, recognised institutions
and organisations......................................P13.1.4
C
cash on delivery ..................................................... P7
charges, basis of............................................... P3.7.1
charging zones ................................................. P3.7.2
Christmas Island (Indian Ocean)
...................................................P3.1, P3.3, P3.7.2
Cocos (Keeling) Islands .............P3.1, P3.3, P3.7.2
COD Parcels .......................................................... P7
Coins ................................................................P10.1.3
compensation ...................................................... P3.9
complaints.......................................................... P3.11
containers........................................................P15.3.1
contract parcels, dangerous goods declaration
....................................................................... P2.2.2
covers, plastic .................................................P15.1.1
cubic policy.......................................................... P3.6
cubic weight...................................P3.5, Back cover
currency notes................................................P10.1.3
customs regulations............................................ P3.3
D
Dangerous Goods ................................................ P2
delayed delivery..............................................P3.11.3
delivery
COD ................................................P7.1.5, P7.2.5
delayed ........................................................P3.11.3
Express Post ............................................... P4.1.6
Express Post Platinum .............................. P4.6.5
Key Return ................................................P12.1.3
non-delivery...............................................P3.11.2
Person-to-Person ........................................ P10.5
proof of ......................................................P10.2.2
Delivery Confirmation .................................... P10.4
delivery timetable........... see Post Charges Booklet
dimensions
Express Post satchel.................................. P4.3.1
Express Post Platinum satchel ................... P4.8
Parcel Post satchel ..................................... P5.2.1
parcel, maximum........................................ P3.4.2
parcel, minimum ........................................ P3.4.3
E
Educational parcels.......................................... P14.3
enquiries............................................................. P3.10
Registered Post......................................... P10.3.4
Express Post lodgement times .........................P4.5
Express Post Platinum lodgement times.... P4.8.1
Express Post networks ......................................P4.2
Express Post parcels..............................................P4
Express Post Platinum networks.....................P4.7
Express Post satchels ............................................P4
Extra Cover ................................................ P3.9, P11
H
Heard Island.........................................................P3.1
IInternational mail security arrangements .......P3.2
K
Key Return service...............................................P12
L
Local Delivery to country areas ..........................P8
lodgement
COD.................................................................P7.2
Express Post Parcel................................... P4.4.2
Express Post Platinum.............................. P4.8.1
Express Post satchel.................................. P4.3.2
Local Delivery ................................................P8.2
Parcel Post satchel ..................................... P5.2.2
Regular parcel ............................................. P6.2.1
lodgement times, Express Post ........................P4.5
Lord Howe Island...............................................P3.1
M
McDonald Island ................................................P3.1
Medical Education Remote Area Parcel
Service ...............................................................P14
Medical parcels ................................................. P14.2
N
non-delivery ................................................... P3.11.2
Norfolk Island ............................. P3.1, P3.3, P3.7.2
notes, bank and currency............................. P10.1.3
P
packing parcels ................................................. P15.2
Parcel Post satchels................................................P5
Parcel Post service combinations .......................P1
parcels, Express Post.............................................P4
Person-to-Person delivery.............................. P10.5
plastic wrapping and covers........................... P15.5
postage, payment of......................................... P15.6
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
postcode areas
air carriage for surface parcels .................... P2.3
local delivery................................................... P8.3
Postpak products.............................................. P15.4
preparation of parcels......................................... P15
proof of delivery............................................P10.2.2
proof of posting.............................................P10.2.1
R
refused parcels..................................................... P3.8
refused parcels, COD ..................................... P7.1.5
Registered Post .................................................... P10
Regular Parcels....................................................... P6
Reply Paid parcels ................................................. P9
S
satchels
Express Post & Express Post Platinum ...... P4
Parcel Post......................................................... P5
service combinations ......................................... P1.2
Statement of Delivery, COD ........................P7.2.5
47
T
taping of parcels ............................................ P15.3.3
U
unclaimed parcels................................................P3.8
undeliverable parcels ..........................................P3.7
undeliverable parcels, COD .......................... P7.1.7
W
weight of parcel, maximum........................... P3.4.1
weight, cubic ............................................Back cover
withdrawn parcels ...............................................P3.8
wrapping of parcels ...................................... P15.3.3
wrapping, plastic............................................... P15.5
Z
zones, charging ................................................ P3.7.2
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
48
Post Guide Order Form
For:
New subscriptions
Replacement guides
Please copy the order form overleaf
and fax it to:
(03) 9877 1033
Or mail it to:
Post Guide
PO Box 4202
KNOX CITY CENTRE VIC 3152
May 2008
Parcel Post Guide
49
Post Guide Order Form
Fax a copy of this form to: (03) 9887 1033
Or mail it to: Post Guide
POSTlogistics
PO Box 4202
KNOX CITY CENTRE VIC 3152
Are you already a Post Guide subscriber?
Post Guide prices are in the Post
Charges Booklet (8833665 ).
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Please send me the following Post Guides:
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General Post Guide
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Dangerous and Prohibited Goods and Packaging Post Guide
International Post Guide
Post Guide Index
Complete Post Guide including all amendments in the current calendar year
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Privacy Notice
We collect your personal information to process your order for the Post Guide and for billing purposes. Without
your personal information we cannot process your order. You may request access to your personal information
while it is held by us. We will assess your request as required by law and will tell you why if access is denied.A
request to access, update or correct any information should be directed to the Chief Privacy Officer, Australia
Post, GPO Box 1777, Melbourne VIC 3001.
May 2008
For parcels over 1kg that are square
or rectangular in shape, Australia Post
will assess charges according to their
actual weight or cubic weight equivalent,
whichever is greater. The cubic weight
is the parcel’s volume in cubic metres
multiplied by 250.
Why?
Cubic charging is a fairer system for all,
because prices reflect the costs involved in
handling a variety of different sized parcels,
and also ensure that the “user pays”
principal applies.
This applies to light bulky items that, while
they may not weigh a lot, take up valuable
freight space. Trucks and planes have a
fixed amount of space.
If you would like
further information visit
any post office, our
website auspost.com.au
or call 13 13 18 during
business hours.
“How is Cubic
Weight calculated?“
Cubic weight is calculated by measuring
and multipling the length, height and the
width of the parcel. The result is then
multiplied by a cubic weight conversion
factor of 250.
e.g. a parcel weighing 10kg
but measuring –
50cm long, 30cm high, & 40cm wide
(0.5m) x (0.3m) x (0.4m)
= 0.06m2 x 250
= 15
has a cubic weight of 15kg and therefore
postage would be assessed on the basis of
15kg despite the actual weight.
Note: Australia Post reserves the right
to also apply cubic charges to a parcel
weighing less than 1kg, and to parcels that
are irregular or cylindrical in shape.
8833732 May 2008
ABN 28 864 970 579
133917_PostChargesBookletCover232 2
7/5/08 2:15:37 PM
