October is the perfect time for military families to start preparing holiday shipments, especially for loved ones stationed overseas. With postal timelines tightening as December approaches, it’s crucial to send gifts and care packages early. The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has released specific deadlines to ensure military mail reaches its destination by December 25.
Important USPS Deadlines for Military Mail 2024:
For guaranteed delivery by Christmas, consider these cutoff dates for various regions and services:
- APO/FPO/DPO ZIPs 090-099, 340, and 962-966:
- First-Class and Priority Mail: December 9
- Priority Mail Express Military Service (PMEMS): December 16
- Space Available Mail (SAM): November 6
For certain remote or high-demand areas, such as ZIP 093, PMEMS is not available. Families should carefully select the appropriate service to avoid delays. Additionally, free flat-rate boxes are available for military mail, and USPS offers discounted rates, including $21.15 for its largest Priority Mail flat-rate box, which includes a $1.50 discount for military destinations. Remember, printing the mail label online also comes with a discount on the mail price, and allows you to drop off the labeled package at your local post office without waiting a line – that is a win during the busy holiday season.
Packing Tips to Ensure Safe Delivery
- Label clearly: Avoid listing the service member’s country to comply with military mail guidelines.
- Customs Sheet: Be as detailed as possible on the customs sheet.
- Include an internal address card: In case the exterior label is damaged, placing a duplicate label inside the package ensures it still arrives.
- Order supplies early: Free military care kits, containing flat-rate boxes and tape, can be requested from USPS by calling 800-610-8734 or visiting the USPS website.
USPS anticipates processing over 12.6 million pounds of military mail this season, making it essential to plan ahead. Shipping early reduces the risk of delays caused by high mail volume and ensures your loved ones receive their holiday surprises on time.
By organizing now, families can avoid the holiday rush and make sure their gifts bring a touch of home to service members abroad. For further details, including complete USPS guidelines, visit their official holiday shipping page
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