Make a soldier smile.

Military Shipping Tips

1. Packages can only be sent to military members through the U.S. Postal Service. Contact the USPS at 1-800-610-8734 to request a free Military Care Package Mailing Kit created especially for sending packages to service members.
2. Assemble your care package in a Scotch™ Mailing Box, which are available in various sizes. Find one that fits your items, keeping in mind that packages must not weigh more than 70 lbs. or be larger than 108 inches in total circumference (total length + total width).
3. Not sure what to include in your care package? Non-perishable foods like energy bars, beef jerky, nuts, pretzels, candy and individual packets of condiments; drink mixes, like lemonade or iced tea for hot climates and hot chocolate or tea for cold; magazines; small personal products; ear plugs; socks; small games; disposable cameras; notepads; and pens are always welcome. Family photos, local newspapers, children's artwork and favorite music can also help to remind a soldier of home.
4. Priority Mail packages can take up to 14 days to reach their destination — sometimes more, depending on where your soldier is stationed. Consider this length of time plus any climate extremes when assembling your care package.
5. Make sure that all jars, tins and containers are secure by placing Scotch® Packaging Tape over lids. Decorative Scotch® Shipping Packaging Tapes adds a little extra personalization.
6. Take a close inventory of what you include in the package — it'll make filling out the customs form easier when you're ready to send it off. Including a list of items in the package is a good idea in case the package comes apart during transit, and so the soldier knows that everything is accounted for upon arrival.
7. Packages may be traveling quite a distance to reach their destination. Wrap any fragile or delicate items with Scotch™ Cushion Wrap, and fill any extra space with it, too.
8. Reinforce box corners with Scotch™ Corner and Edge Reinforcers. This will help ensure that your box stays sturdy and safe throughout its entire journey.
9. Finally, seal the box with Scotch® Heavy Duty Shipping and Packaging Tape to ensure your box stays sealed through transit.