New York – Security rules changing for mailing packages over 13-ounces.

New York – Starting on Monday, people who mail parcels weighing 13 ounces or more with stamps as postage will have to hand over the package the post office counter.

Previously, the requirement applied only to mail over 16 ounces.

Postal officials said the change is part of the effort to improve security in the mail.

Customers who want to drop a heavier parcel into a mailbox, postal lobby slot or have it collected by their carrier can still do so, but they must use postage other than stamps.

Alternative postage is available at automated postal centers in many post office lobbies, online at the post office’s Click-N-Ship service on http://www.usps.com or with PC postage from private companies.

Businesses can continue to use postage meters for packages of any weight [ap]