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of reinforcement can get caught in mail-processing
equipment. If twine or cord is used, it should be at least
20-pound stress strength. Loose strapping, especially
metal, is not acceptable because it may be a hazard to
mail-handling personnel and equipment. If metal
strapping is used, it should have smooth or
plastic-coated edges.
STAPLING
Closing of containers with staples and steel
stitching is acceptable if the following methods are
used:
Easy and average loads—staples are spaced no
more than 5 inches apart.
Difficult loads—staples are spaced no more than
2 l/2 inches apart.
Staples for all loads should not be more than l l/4
inches from the ends of the box.
MARKINGS
Markings by the mailer must be of a material that is
not readily water-soluble or can easily be rubbed off or
smeared. Customers should be encouraged to mark the
address and return address directly on the package.
The markings must be sharp and clear at a distance of
30 inches. It is recommended that the address also be
inserted inside the parcel to aid in delivery if the
address on the package becomes unreadable.
Special Markings
Table 3-2 lists the wording that may be used for
marking and labeling envelopes and packages by
postal customers. Markings or endorsements, when
3-5
PRESSURE-SENSITIVE FILAMENT TAPE
REINFORCED KRAFT PAPER TAPE
KRAFT PAPER TAPE
This tape is composed of filaments imbedded
in pressure adhesive. It is extremely strong
and only short "L" or "C" shaped strips are
needed to accomplish effective closure. How-
ever, closure and reinforcement may be accom-
plished by complete banding as illustrated. It is
important to tape the ends of the flaps ( /).
This tape is about 3 inches wide and is com-
posed of several laminated layers with fila-
ments running both lengthwise and across.
It is extremely break resistant and has excel-
lent adhesive qualities. Reinforced tape is
preferred over the plain kraft tape. Equivalent
plastic tapes may be used in the same manner.
This is a one-thickness tape available in many
widths and strengths. It must be correctly
applied, both as to positioning and adhesion,
and must be graded in use according to the
size, shape, and weight of the package. It
is not adequate for heavy packages. Of par-
ticular importance is the absolute necessity
for fully taping down the ends of the packages,
( / ).
PCf0303
Figure 3-3.—Closing a parcel with tape.
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