A template according to the invention is configured for manual testing of a mail piece to determine if the dimensions and stiffness of the mail piece are acceptable for passage through an associated automated mail sorting machine. The template includes a frame having a pair of spaced, curved walls defining a curved test slot. The curved slot has an open end through which a mail piece can be inserted and a removal opening for removing the mail piece from the slot. The removal opening in a preferred embodiment comprises a lengthwise slot in one of the curved walls through which the mail piece can be manually held and pushed back out of the open end of the template. The template may include a bracket for mounting the template on a secure surface.