Common operational procedures code

The common operational procedures code (pdf, 68KB) is designed to manage inter-operator issues expected to occur in a multi operator market. For example:

mail identification 
An important part of making sure the common operational procedures set out in the code work well in practice are the mail identification codes that appear on licensed mail (subject to certain exemptions). These unique "code identifiers" quickly enable operators to identify mail intended for another operator and re-route it accordingly. 
reposted mail, 
including forwarded mail, and anything marked "gone away" or "return to sender". 
misposted mail - 
mail put into the wrong collection box or bag. 
miscollected mail - 
mail mistakenly collected by the wrong company.  
misdirected customer service enquiries. 

The code came into force on 1 January 2006. Licensees are required by the Code to sign up to a default agreement (pdf, 258KB) that has effect in the absence of bilateral arrangements, for managing these issues between operators.

We are currently working with Royal Mail on systems to make sure that mail redirections work well in the multi-operator market.