Tips for Sending Care Packages
Understanding how to get that package to your loved one!
We’ve been through more than a few deployments in my husband’s 15 years in the Army. However, I ALWAYS have to re-check the best ways to send care packages when he is deployed. Instructions, regulations and do/don’t send lists are always changing so make sure you check BEFORE you mail a package.
Also, check with their unit/FRG for the correct mailing address, the way to list the name and when to stop sending packages prior to homecoming.
I’m also working on an upcoming post on different themed care packages which keep things new and fun.
Tips for Sending a Care Package
- Supplies- Visit USPS.com to order boxes (some sizes are free) or go in person to stock up your supplies. Remember to get boxes, tape, mailing labels and customs forms. For flat rate priority boxes the post offices charges a flat mailing fee regardless of weight or content. Make sure to check up to date rates!
- Schedule pickup- Pickup can be easy! USPS allows you to schedule front door pickup of your boxes if you schedule by 2 AM the previous day. We can all use a little help with checking off our to-do list.
- Don’t skimp on tape Be liberal with the tape! Care packages go through a rough route to delivery. Make sure your boxes stay together by taping all of the seams and using packing tape which is strong enough to withstand all the stops to your loved one.
- Keep the decorations on the inside-Do not decorate the outside of the box. Some units do not allow it and you don’t want your box to be returned or never reach your loved one. Keep all of the decorations and love inside. Also, your loved one may be sentimental and corny with you AND love the things inside the box but they may not want to share all that with their buddies. Save them that embarrassment (this from a wife that sent a HUGE Valentine’s card years ago and was quickly asked not to do it again, with a smile of course!)
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Customs forms- COMPLETE and accurately fill out the customs form. You can be vague to prevent theft but at least put the category and estimated price. If you include Doritos it is safe to put snacks but I wouldn’t recommend listing anything extremely personal. Photos, DVDs, etc. are good categories to list if you do not want to be specific. It’s up to you and you can always insure you package for a very low fee.- Guidelines- Check, Check and Re-check the current mailing guidelines for the region your loved one is stationed (even if they been there before.) Some areas prohibit pork products, etc. Pornographic materials of any kind are also not allowed (magazines like Maxim are sometimes considered to be in this category). The guidelines change and are updated so make sure the list you reference is current/
- Seal each item- Section! If you send food in the same box as toiletries make sure all items are sealed. Putting them in sealed Ziploc bags is a great way to be extra careful.
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Inventory- As with any shipment involving the military it is always a good idea to inventory the contents. Make yourself a list of what you sent and check with your loved one when they receive the box.- Keep track - Number your packages AND your letters. Things may not always arrive in the order that you send them. Numbering the box or letter will help with context, etc. It’s also helpful if you make a deployment scrapbook after homecoming to be able to organize letters and cards.
- Creativity is key- Be creative and have fun! Themes, holidays and games are great ways to make each box special and something to look forward too. It also helps to have a theme when deciding what to include in the package.
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SASE- Send self-addressed AND stamped cards, stationary and other writing tools. It is a big help to have those items ready. Time is sometimes short and hours worked long. Being able to write a quick letter and place in the mail is much appreciated and increases the chances of YOU finding those precious letters home in the mailbox. If you have kids it is a great idea to include dated birthday cards, christmas cards, graduation cards, etc. that can be easily sent back home and help your loved one remember those special dates.- Help families and friends- Send your friends and family a “write to _____” package during deployment. Addressed and stamped envelopes, tips on sending care packages and lists of suggested items are great things to include. ”civilian” family members may not be as up to speed on how to send things are we military spouses are and we sometimes forget that. Helping make it easier for them and also having additional people send care packages is a great morale booster for everyone.
- Don’t forget battle buddies- Send extras! There is always a single soldier or someone who is not receiving care packages. Having extra items, especially toiletries and snacks, to hand out to battle buddies will be a plus for your loved one!
- Care package sign-ups- Sign your loved one and their unit up for care packages from military friendly organizations. Operation Paperback and Operation Homefront are just two organization that send care packages to military members overseas.
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Plan ahead- Address a bunch of boxes as soon as you get an address. Make a list of themed care packages and holiday boxes you want to send and every time you go shopping buy an item or two for a box. This helps with getting overwhelmed or forgetting to send a box.
Send care packages, e-mails AND letters (yes, I mean snail-mail.) Send often, e-mail often, treasure phone calls and Skype dates and always say or write “I love you” before you hang up the phone or seal an envelope. Don’t forget to make a countdown chain and start watching those days pass while you look forward to homecoming!
Live, Love & Learn- Ms. MommyHH6
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Tips for Sending Care Packages was first posted on May 2, 2013 at 9:00 am.
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