How to Send a Deployed Soldier a Care Package

Sending care packages to a deployed soldiers, sailors, or airmen is a simple way to remind them that they are not forgotten. While there are some restrictions, mailing a package to an APO or FPO address is like sending one to a domestic address. It is important to keep the climate of the destination in mind when selecting items to include in the package, because many deployments are in areas that experience extreme heat. Military mail also prohibits shipping pork or pork products, alcohol and pornography.

Things You'll Need

• Resealable plastic bags
• Customs forms
• USPS-approved boxes
• Bubble wrap or other packing material
• Packaging tape
• Mailing labels

Instructions

1. Call 1-800-610-8734 and select Option "1" to order free shipping materials from the U.S. Postal Service. Allow four to five days to receive your six boxes, tape, labels and customs forms found in the military mail kit.

2. Place any containers with liquids in zippered bags.

3. List package contents on the required customs forms as you add the items to the box. You may group items for the form. For example, you may list individual packages of crackers, cookies and trail mix collectively as snacks.

4. Pack the box with your contents, checking that they comply with military mail restrictions.

5. Add filler material as needed. Unbuttered popcorn can replace bubble wrap or foam packing pellets.

6. Tape the box securely.

7. Print the APO/FPO address and your return address clearly on a label. Affix it securely to the box.

8. Complete the remainder of the customs form. Place it in the plastic envelope provided, but do not affix it to the box.

9. Deliver your package to the post office.

Tips & Warnings

• Wait until you arrive at the post office to add the customs form to the box, as the copies are stamped and separated first.

• Military mail regulations prohibit shipping pork or pork products, pornography, alcohol, pictures of nude or partly nude persons and religious materials in quantities other than for the personal use of an individual service member.

References

• U.S. Department of Defense: Postal Service Offers Free Shipping Materials to Military Families
• Soldiers' Angels: Care Package/Shipping FAQs
• Soldiers' Angels: How Do I Send a Package to My Soldier?
• Soldiers' Angels: What Are the Rules and Restrictions on Mailing to APO/FPO Addresses?

Resources

• Soldiers' Angels: Care Package Suggestions
• Spouse Buzz: Care Package Suggestions
• Soldiers' Angels: Themed Care Package Ideas
• The Fun Times Guide: Great Ideas for U. S. Soldiers Care Packages