If your loved one is in the military overseas, shipping them a care package is an excellent way to give them a little piece of home in a new country. However, to ensure the recipient gets their gifts without issue, it’s important to be aware of shipping requirements and regulations. The following four tips will help smooth out the process.

Tips for Sending Care Packages to Military Members

1. Check the Country’s Shipping Rules

When shipping a package, be aware of any regulations or limitations the country has on deliveries. Some undeliverable items include fragile items, liquids, flammable items, and material deemed offensive by service members. The United States Postal Service lists these limitations by country.

2. Seal Contents Securely

Your package will likely come across different types of weather, from showers to excessive heat. When preparing your box, seal the contents in plastic bags to prevent any damage in case the items are exposed to moisture or if something inside melts or leaks.

3. Choose Sturdy Materials

Your package has to travel a long way; help it arrive at its destination safely by selecting sturdy packing materials. Your shipping facility can recommend which boxes are best for your needs. You will also likely want to use bubble wrap or packing paper.

4. Don’t Overpack

It can be tempting to put as much as you can in your care package, but overstuffing the box could cause it to open during transit.  Place enough in your package so items don’t shift or become damaged but leave some room to allow the box to be closed securely.

If you’re shipping a care package to a loved one in the military but don’t know where to start, talk to the professionals at Box Stop in Lexington, KY. For more than 30 years, this shipping facility has provided the supplies and services you need to get your deliverables to their destination safely, including varying box sizes and packaging materials. To learn more about Box Stop and their services, visit them online or call (859) 271-2393.