care packaging?

[lissie398]

question...I haven't sent a care package to my boyfriend yet. I plan on sending one next week cause he's still in Kuwait and he told me to wait until he leaves to go to where he's suppose to go. But I still don't know what I'm suppose to do. I keep hearing about the custom forms...Where do I get one or do they give me one at the PO? I'm not sending any cookies or stuff like that yet just snacks and regular stuff I guess. Can someone guide me on what I'm really suppose to do or how it goes. I would really appreciate it!

[Heather]

They will help you out at the post office with the customs form. Its really easy. You can request a few, some flat rate boxes and some address labels or there is 1800# you can call and they will send you out a package of flat rate boxes, custom forms, address labels and the plastic things the customs forms go in. Its handy.

[guynavywife]

you need a customs form, which they have at the post office. It is a simple enough form, your name and addy, his name and addy, and the contents of the box (fill it out as you pack).
Priority mail packages get there a whole lot quicker, but the time can be random. (I mailed three identical boxes at the same time, 2 got there in 1 week, the other took 2 more weeks.)

The priority mail is not much more expensive, especially if you use the flat rate boxes (about $9) and fill it as much as possible.

Do NOT send glass or perishable items.
I put anything with liquid or messy into ziplock bags as well.

in addressing the box and customs form, do not use rank, just name.

Also no alcohol or porn

All boxes are subject to inspection, and many of them are.

Hope this helps.

Order it all on the PO website, thats what I did..

[Julianne]

A good way to start is order the free military packaging thing from the post office. That way you get familiar with the forms and different boxes. Figure out which boxes you like best, then just order those specific ones from the USPS website. They also give you a humongous roll of tape that will last forever.

USPS provides free military packing supplies to help support the troops. As of October 25, 2004 the USPS is offering free packing materials for family and friends of military members who are deployed overseas (APO and FPO addresses only). These kits are not available at the USPS website. To take advantage of this service call 1-800-610-8734 then press 1 for English, then press 0 to talk to an operator. Once you have the operator on the line simply ask for the 'Military Pack' and they will send you boxes, packing materials, tape, mailing labels, and customs forms free of charge. It will take 7 to 10 days for the package to arrive.

[lissie398]

thanks so much I just called the number you gave me and asked for the military pack. Thanks!! The girl gave me and id number for when I want to reorder again I just use the number. I can't thank you enough!!