How to Ship a Gift to a Solider in Iraq

Having a relative or friend serving in Iraq calls for a lot of your support. Many soldiers look forward to care packages or letters sent to them from home. Even if you don't know anyone serving, you can still send a care package to your neighbor's brother or your co-worker's wife. Receiving a package from home lets them know someone is thinking of them.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Check the county's customs and laws where your service member is stationed by visiting Travel Document Systems' website.

2. Find out what the rules for the particular military unit are. Some have additional restrictions.

3. Wrap packages well and list all contents on the package.

4. Address your letters and packages with the soldier's name, assigned organization, unit number and Army Post Office (APO).

5. Fill out a customs form, stating whether it is a gift.

6. Apply appropriate postage. The post office will determine how much postage each package will require.

Tips & Warnings

• Military ZIP codes may be found through the United States Postal Service website.
• The Army discourages the use of websites and charity groups that give out troops' contact information because it can raise security issues.
• Do not send your packages and letters addressed to "Any Service member."
• Some countries prohibit alcohol, pork, pork by-products and pornography.
• Do not put the country or city on the package to keep it from going through the host country's mail system.

Resources

• The United States Postal Service website offers a list of zip codes and mailing tips.
• Find a country's customs allowances and restrictions at Travel Documents.