FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Postmaster Rick Brandon says nothing brightens the day more than mail from friends and loved ones.  Follow these guidelines so your letters and packages are intact when they reach moms and dads serving around the world.

• Use the service member's full name.  Include the unit and APO/FPO (Air/Army Post Office or Fleet Post Office) address with the nine-digit ZIP Code.
• Include a return address and customs declaration form (available online).
• For packages, print on one side only with the recipient's address in the lower right portion.  Or print a postage-paid label online with Click-N-Ship, which will automatically standardize your APO/FPO address.
• When sending packages, select a strong box with room for cushioning.  If you use a recycled box, cover all previous labels and markings with a heavy black marker or adhesive labels.
• Cushion contents with Styrofoam or bubble wrap to keep items from shifting.  Double-box fragile items with cushioning inside and between the boxes to absorb shock.  remove and wrap batteries separately.  Put a card inside the package listing the sender's and recipient's addresses with a description of the contents.
• Tape the opening of the box and reinforce all seams with 2-inch-wide tape.  Use clear or brown packaging tape, reinforced packing tape or paper tape.  Do not use cord, string or twine.
• Make sure you're aware of mailing restrictions.  Every country has customs regulations regarding incoming mail.  Generally, the following are prohibited in the region of Operation Iraqi Freedom: obscene articles, any matter depicting nude or seminude persons, bulk quantities of religious materials contrary to the Islamic faith, and pork or pork by-products.
• For specific restrictions and mailing rates to an APO/FPO address, call 800-ASK-USPS, consult your local Post Office, or phone the Military Postal Service Agency at 800-810-6098.
• Got to http://www.usps.com/supportingourtroops/  for more tips on how to keep in touch with the men and women serving over seas.