Recommended Holiday mailing dates and tips

Air Force and Guardians stationed in the European theater should note the recommended holiday mailing dates to ensure timely delivery of cards, letters, and packages to the United States:

• USPS Ground Advantage: Nov. 25
• First Class Mail (including greeting cards) and Priority Mail: Dec. 9
• Priority Mail Express Military Service: Dec. 16

These dates apply to mail originating in Europe and heading to U.S. destinations. Similar dates apply if you’re in the U.S. and mailing to European APO/FPO/DPO addresses.

Avoid long lines by mailing early

By mailing early, customers can also take advantage of the economical USPS Ground Advantage service offered at European military post offices. However, this service is slower than priority mail and PMEMS, which are more expensive but provide expedited handling.

Most military mail in Europe is flown to the U.S. on commercial aircraft. Once stateside, packages are routed according to the selected mail service. Proper packaging is essential, as packages will be handled multiple times enroute. Below are tips to ensure your items arrive safely.

USPS mailing tips

• Choose the right box: Use a sturdy box with enough room for padding around the contents. For items up to 10 lbs., opt for paperboard or corrugated fiberboard boxes. If reusing a box, cover all old labels.
• Free USPS boxes: Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express boxes are free at your local post office.
• Cushioning: Add enough padding inside the box. If the contents move when you shake it, add more padding. Place an extra address label inside in case the outer label is damaged.
• Sealing: Use 2-inch-wide tape to seal the box and reinforce the seams securely. Avoid duct tape and use proper packaging materials like clear, brown, or reinforced.
• Shipping liquids: Some nonflammable, nonhazardous liquids are allowed if sealed in waterproof containers. Mark the package with “this side up,” and check with post office personnel for country-specific restrictions.
• Size limits: Packages must not exceed 70 pounds. For faster services like Priority Mail, the combined length and girth should not exceed 108 inches; for USPS Ground Advantage, 130 inches.
• Correct addressing: Ensure complete, accurate addresses. Print or type the recipient’s address parallel to the package’s longest side and ensure it’s legible from arm’s length. Visit www.usps.com to check current address format.
• Return address: Include your return address in the upper-left corner of the same side of the package as the recipient’s address.

USPS extra services

For additional protection or peace of mind, consider adding one of the following extra services:

• Adult signature: Requires a signature from someone 21 or older.
• Certified mail: Provides proof of mailing and delivery attempts.
• Insured mail: Coverage up to $5,000 (USPS services include some insurance).
• Registered mail: Maximum security and optional insurance up to $50,000.
• Tracking and signature confirmation: Real-time tracking and signature verification.
• Customs declaration requirements

All mail from outside the U.S. is subject to customs inspection. Ensure all customs forms are accurately completed and descriptions of items are clear to avoid delays or return to sender. Avoid vague descriptions like “electronics” or “gifts.” Be specific, such as “wooden skateboard” instead of “skateboard.”

Some prohibited items include:

• Cigarettes or loose tobacco
• Hand sanitizer
• Alcoholic beverages
• Vape products
• Perfumes containing alcohol

For faster service, complete your customs forms online at USPS.com. Many post offices offer expedited service for customers with pre-printed customs forms.

Customs declaration options

USPS Click-N-Ship: Customers can create an account, complete their customs declaration, and pay for their mailing using one of several USPS-approved credit cards. This option allows for a quick and efficient mailing process.

Print at Home: Customers can fill out and print the customs declaration from the USPS website without creating an account. Payment can be made at the postal finance window when presenting parcels for mailing.

PS Form 2976-R (Manual option): When the USPS website is unavailable or offline, post office personnel can provide PS Form 2976-R, the Customs Declaration, and Dispatch Note. However, using this manual option may lead to longer waiting times and lines at the post office. Contact your local installation postmaster for more information on mailing tips, customs requirements, or holiday hours.