Sending care packages to deployed service members is a meaningful way to show support. It also expresses appreciation for their service. These packages, filled with comfort items and morale boosters, bring a sense of home. They can significantly improve the daily lives of our brave troops. However, it’s important to know what to include and how to package them securely. Choosing the best shipping methods is also crucial. This ensures your care package reaches its destination safely and promptly. In this guide, we will share essential tips for sending care packages overseas. You’ll learn how to select the most appreciated items and navigate shipping restrictions. We will also cover customs forms. This will help you send a military care package that truly supports our deployed troops.

When sending care packages for service members, selecting the right items can make all the difference. Consider including non-perishable snacks like protein bars, nuts, and trail mix, which are both nutritious and easy to carry. Hygiene products such as toothpaste, deodorant, and wet wipes are also highly valued.
Additionally, personal touches like handwritten letters, photos, and small mementos from home can significantly boost morale. Entertainment items such as books, puzzles and games provide a welcome distraction during downtime. Lastly, seasonal items or holiday-themed goodies can bring a touch of festivity and warmth to their environment. By thoughtfully choosing these items, you ensure your care package not only meets practical needs but also provides emotional support, making a real impact on the daily lives of our deployed troops.

When sending care packages overseas, it is crucial to be aware of prohibited and restricted items which should be avoided to reduce any issues with delivery. Perishable items should be avoided like fresh fruits, vegetables, and homemade goods since they can spoil and some items can be prohibited based on where they are going. Aerosols, alcohol and products containing alcohol (handsanitizer, eye glass wipes, some mouth washes) are prohibited from being sent to an APO, FPO or DPO address. Tobacco products are generally restricted and can lead to the confiscation of your package.

Additionally, avoid sending any form of weaponry, including knives or firearms, as these items are strictly forbidden. Be cautious with batteries. Alkaline batteries should clearly be listed on customs and remain in original packaging. Items with lithium batteries must be new, in the product and follow the guidelines of what’s shippable. It’s also important to steer clear of any items that could melt like chocolates or leak such as liquids. Always check the military specific guidelines to make sure you are following the rules. Sometimes common items like coffee, over-the-counter meds, or even any meat products like beef jerky, tuna or chicken packages can be restricted beyond the typical pork restriction. By adhering to these restrictions, you can ensure your care package reaches its destination safely and without delay.

Adding personal touches to your care package can significantly enhance its impact on the recipient. Feel free to decorate the inside of the box as well to add a bit of fun. Handwritten letters are particularly cherished, as they offer a glimpse of home and provide emotional support. Including recent photos of family, friends, or significant events can help service members feel connected to their loved ones. Small mementos, such as a child’s drawing or a special keepsake, can also add a sentimental value that is deeply appreciated. Consider including handmade items like a knitted scarf, or personal item to offer a sense of closeness and warmth. These personal touches not only brighten the day of a deployed service member but also remind them that they are remembered and valued. By adding these heartfelt elements, you transform a simple package into a powerful gesture of support and love

Ensuring that your care package arrives intact requires careful packing. First, select a sturdy box that can withstand the rigors of overseas shipping. Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top to prevent damage during transit. Fill the box completely without overstuffing. Securely seal all liquid items in plastic bags and limit quantities. Tape the box securely using strong packing tape, reinforcing all seams and edges. Clearly address the package with the recipient’s rank, full name, and address information. You can also include a return address inside the package if you wish. By following these secure packing tips, you can help ensure your care package reaches its destination safely and in good condition.

Accurate completion of customs forms is mandatory when sending care packages overseas. Clearly list all contents in the package, including a detailed description of quantities and approximate values, to avoid delays or confiscation, or returned packages for insufficient customs details which are all nonrefundable. It is important to be specific and detailed; general terms like “snacks” and “hygiene” don’t comply with the requirements. Following these guidelines will help your package reach the service member. If you’re using an online tool like ShipThrifty your customs details will print right on your shipping label. Depending on how many items are in your package a customs continuation form may also be generated. Both labels should be placed on the package.

Using ShipThrifty to create your shipping labels and customs forms offers a host of benefits that make the process seamless and stress-free. Whether you’re family member, nonprofit or part of a company that supports our troops ShipThrifty’s platform is designed with your needs in mind. Here are some of the top advantages:

Creating shipping labels and customs forms can be a complex task, especially when sending packages to overseas bases. ShipThrifty simplifies this process by offering an intuitive, user-friendly interface that guides you step-by-step through the label creation process. You can generate all necessary documentation in one place, reducing the time and hassle typically associated with shipping.

ShipThrifty provides discounted shipping rates with major carriers to help you save money on shipping. Whether you’re sending a care package to deployed service members or shipping products to customers, these savings can add up quickly.

ShipThrifty’s tools make military shipping so much easier. From the brandable care package request form, to the way the tools bring information in for label creation the process is simplified so you can focus more on your mission than the administrative tasks.

One of the biggest challenges when shipping to overseas bases is ensuring all customs forms are filled out correctly. Inaccurate or incomplete forms can lead to delays, nonrefundable returned packages or even confiscation of your package. Make sure you enter the details necessary to ensure that your customs documentation is accurate and compliant with all regulations for a smooth and timely delivery. ShipThrifty, has views to the restrictions right inside the tools making it easier for you to follow the USPS rules.

Stay informed about the status of your shipment with ShipThrifty’s real-time tracking feature. You’ll receive updates on your package’s location and estimated delivery time, giving you and your recipient peace of mind. This is especially beneficial for military care packages so you know where your package is at and when it arrives to your recipient.

ShipThrifty prides itself on its top-notch customer support. Their team of experts is always ready to assist you with any questions, concerns, or to lend a helping hand because you are more than a just a number.
Using ShipThrifty to create your shipping labels saves you time, money and hassles and gives you a team that has your back. Sign up today and experience the ShipThrifty difference for yourself!

By incorporating ShipThrifty into your shipping routine, you’ll enjoy a more efficient, cost-effective, and reliable process. It’s time to take the guesswork out of your care package shipping. Support our troops and boost their morale the easier way with ShipThrifty.