After the last post on this topic, I promised more details, so here it is. One disclaimer. I am NOT an expert. I’ve simply been sending packages to troops overseas since October 2006 and since that time, I’ve picked up a bit of knowledge along the way. Here is a bit of what I’ve learned. FOLLOW THE RULES Certain things are forbidden by the military, or by the US Postal Service, or in some cases, by the laws of nature. Learn the rules and follow them. The military doesn’t allow any porn. So the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition, Maxim Magazine or a Hooters calendar is okay to send. Hustler, Penthouse or Playboy is NOT okay. The USPS does not allow you to send anything in an aerosol container. Also, familiarize yourself in advance with the 5-part customs forms you will have to fill out to ship to an APO address. And investigate your shipping options. Books, media (such as DVDs and CDs) can go Media Mail which is cheaper than First Class Mail, but the contents of the package are limited to the above items. Flat Rate Boxes are a good option for heavy items. And finally depending upon the […]

This is just a quick, not at all comprehensive, list of tips for shipping items to deployed troops overseas. I just got home from the post office and wanted to get down my thoughts while they’re fresh. USPS FLAT RATE PRIORITY MAIL SHIPPING The Large Flat Rate box is a nice size and fits quite a bit. It would be perfect for shipping books. I filled it with canned goods. It is $12.50 to ship no matter what weight so you want to fill it up with all the heavy items you’re sending. If you are sending lighter stuff, use regular shipping. 5-Part Customs Forms To ship overseas you need to fill out a 5-part Customs Form. Go in advance and ask for a few to take home with you. I had a surprise when I arrived at the Post Office–there are new forms out since the last time I used them nearly 2 years ago so throw out any old forms and get the new ones. Tips for filling out the form: Be as general as possible. I listed simply “SNACKS” on my form, not the individual items. You can get into trouble with shipping restrictions if you get too […]