Packing Instructions

The following are some suggestions when packing boxes to send overseas. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact Operation Stars & Stripes, Inc., and we will be happy to help you.

1. All snacks must be prepackaged. Homemade goodies are discouraged due to Customs regulations.

2. Do not send the following items: pressurized cans (such as shaving cream), chocolates (except for during the winter months), pornographic materials, alcohol, and items containing pork. This will slow down the time it takes for your package to arrive.

3. Place all items that could potentially leak in sealed bags. This will ensure that the other items in the package are not ruined in the event one item should leak.

4. It is always helpful to pack using packing peanuts, bubble wrap, or the comics from the newspaper (they double as entertainment for the troops to read). If you ask your local businesses and stores, they will usually save their boxes and excess packing materials for you.

5. Write out your service member's name and address and tape it to the inside of the box lid. In the event that the address on the outside of the package is not legible, the address will be available on the inside.

6. Always include "Operation Stars & Stripes, Inc." in your return address. This tells this service member that the package is safe to open.

7. When sending packages overseas, you must fill out a short Custom form at the local post office. If you do not wish to pay return postage, write the following on the Custom form, "Keep package and share with your unit if this service member has been redeployed."

8.You may wish to insure your package, but it is not a must. Insurance is quite inexpensive.

9. We suggest you send the packages regular mail, instead of priority. We have found that they arrive at the same time, generally. Some post offices have a reduced rate when shipping to an APO box, so make sure to ask before you send. Also, if sending books or other reading materials, reduced "book rates" are available.