How to send an inmate in California a package

If your looking to send someone in California's corrections system a care package, you may not mail it directly. You must use a vendor from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation's approved list of vendors. Packages may be mailed up to once per calendar quarter, depending on the privilege level of the inmate, and may not exceed 30 pounds in weight.

Things You'll Need

• Inmates name
• CDC#
• Dorm information
• Prison they are in

Instructions

1. Visit the website of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to find approved inmate package providers. Many of them will send a catalog to the inmate to let him see what he wants.

2. Include the inmate's name, institution name and address, release date, inmate number and dorm information on the order form after selecting the package you want to send.

3. Include your name and contact information in the sender's information section.

4. Enter payment information.

Tips & Warnings

• Try not to order a package too late into a quarter

• Make sure the inmate receives your package, some package companies sometimes don't receive an online order, so make sure you get a confirmation from them. And then check on it a week or two later and make sure it got mailed out.

References

• California Department of Corrections and Rehabiliation: Inmate Visiting Guidelines
• Union Supply Direct: Rules and Regulations

Resources

• California Department of Corrections and Rehabiliation: How to Contact an Inmate
• Union Supply Direct: Order Form