Shipping holiday gifts deadlines between the Pacific and CONUS near

How to send it

• First class – Handles ite ms weighing up to 13 ounces. Flat-rate packaging available.
• Priority – Same as First-Class mail but for items weighing over 13 ounces to 70 pounds. Combined length and girth limit of 108 inches. Flat-rate packaging available.
• Express mail military service (EMMS) – Offers preferred and/or expedited service. Not available from all USAFE APOs.

Extra services

• Insurance – Offers coverage against loss or damage up to $5,000, with the price based on the declared value of the item(s).
• Registered – Offers maximum security, insuring items up to $25,000, with the price based on the declared value of the item(s). Tracks movement of mail from beginning to end.
• Certified – Provides evidence of mailing as well as the date and time of delivery or attempted delivery. Requires the recipient to sign upon delivery.
• Delivery confirmation – Shows when an item was delivered or when delivery was attempted using a Track and Confirm tool you can use on your computer.
• Certificate of mailing – Offers evidence of the date your mail was accepted by the post office.
• Return receipt – Provides proof that an item was delivered, through a postcard or email showing the signature of the recipient.
• Restricted delivery – Specifies who can sign for and receive your mail
• Special handling – Offers preferential handling if you’re sending something that needs extra care.

Mailing tips
Print names and addresses of both shipper and recipient clearly on packages with a pen or permanent marker.

Put an extra label with the addresses inside the package in case the original one is defaced. Also include an itemized list of contents.

• Select a box strong enough to protect the contents and appropriate for the amount and size of items inside.
• Leave space for cushioning inside the carton, using bubble wrap, Styrofoam peanuts, or newspaper to protect the contents.
• Use tape designed for shipping, using enough to secure the opening and seams of the box.
• Put newspaper or packing material in hollow items to avoid damage during transport.
• Write “fragile” or “perishable” on packages when shipping such items.
• Use boxes, envelopes and tubes the post office provides for Express Mail and Priority Mail.

PMEMS is available to selected military/diplomatic Post Offices. Check with your local Post Office to determine if this service is available to an APO/FPO/DPO address.