Pvis On Heavier Envelopes/Packages

Like many here, I apply stamps on even heavier mailings, say, over a pound. I'll present these at the post office counter. One area post office insists on adding a $0.00 PVI (meter stamp) to the parcel, followed by the postmaster getting annoyed because usually the clerk does not know how to make a zero value PVI. Consequently, I now slightly underpay with stamps, and the clerk adds a, let's say, 0.15 cent PVI to the item, which they seem to know how to do.

Last week I took a slightly underpaid priority mail envelope to a different post office,. The clerk proceeded to apply 15 cents in actual postage stamps to it, that is, no PVI. I mentioned my surprise and the clerk said PVIs are no longer needed, even on heavy items. That was news to me. Is the clerk correct?

Process changes occurred concurrent with the new postal rated effective 7-11-2023. It may have included no longer needing a zero PVI.

I cannot find any documentation on this change. It may be deeply buried. However, your mail item is accepted and you should not need to fear bad thing without a PVI.

edit:



Now all items first class over one pound get free tracking which would make the PVI unneeded. Likewise what was known as first class package mail of any weight has been provided with tracking as part of the new USPS Ground Advantage which replaces among other items, First Class Package services. Application of a tracking number shows the mail item was review by a clerk just as a zero PVI (Postage Validation Imprint).

wasn't the PVI needed to insure that the package of 1lb or higher was received at a Post Office by a clerk for verification of contents?

That was one purpose of a zero PVI, also no supplanted by the application of a tracking number.