Friends and family who are in the military really appreciate receiving letters and packages from home. Being away from home during the holidays is difficult, especially for those who are stationed overseas. It’s time to start thinking about getting those all-important cards, letters and packages in the mail!

Shipping Methods

Military mail must be sent through the United States Postal System only and for packages, priority mail is best. All priority mail is transported by air while surface mail goes by ship, which can take up to 8 weeks.

Package Restrictions

In addition to size and weight limits for packages sent to APO/FPO addresses, firearms, alcohol, perishable foodstuffs and certain hazardous items are also restricted. There may be special restrictions based on destination, as well.

Shipping Costs

Domestic shipping rates apply to APO/FPO addresses. For packages, flat rate priority mail is often the least costly as regular priority mail rates are calculated based on weight and distance. A priority mail package weighing 6 pounds, for example, will be delivered across town for less than $10 while shipping across the country costs almost $20.

Shipping Challenges for Merchants

Most gifts shipped by merchants to APO/FPO addresses incur additional charges due to higher shipping expenses. Not only must they be shipped through the USPS, all packages require hand-delivery to the post office and shipping by priority mail provides the only option for timely delivery.