Mail Christmas Cards and Packages Early to Service Men and Women Overseas

It’s time to start thinking about mailing holiday cards, letters and packages to service men and women overseas.  The first recommended mailing date Nov. 8 is fast approaching. 

Deadlines for mailing to specific APO/FPO/DPO destinations vary according to the specific classes of mail as provided in the chart below.  Mailers are reminded that all mail addressed to an overseas military/diplomatic post office is subject to certain conditions or restrictions regarding content, preparations and handling.

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

     PAL is a service that provided air transportation for parcels on a space available basis. It is available for Standard Post items not exceeding 30 pounds in weight and 60 inches in length and girth combined.  The applicable PAL fee must be paid in addition to the regular surface price of postage for each addressed piece sent by PAL service.

     SAM parcels are paid at Standard Post prices with maximum weight and size limits of 15 pounds and 60 inches in length and girth combined.  SAM parcels are first transported domestically by surface and then to overseas destinations by air ona space available basis.