It's a good idea to keep the following in mind to ensure that packages are delivered promptly:
Extreme Temperatures: Desert temperatures typically exceed 100 degrees.
The Box: Select a box strong enough to protect the contents and large enough to accommodate cushioning. If reusing a box, cover all previous identifications and markings with a heavy black marker or adhesive stickers.
Cushioning: Cushioning the contents with newspaper is a novel way to send news from home. Styrofoam and bubble wrap are also good choices. Close and shake the box. If it rattles, add additional cushioning to keep items from shifting.
Batteries: Occasionally a battery powered item such as a radio or electric razor will turn itself on during shipment. Be sure to remove and wrap the batteries separately.
Sealing: Tape the opening of the box and reinforce all seams with 2" wide tape. Use clear or brown packaging tape, reinforced packing tape or paper tape. Do not use cord, string or twine as it causes the package to get caught and possibly harmed in sorting equipment.
Include a card describing the contents: Occasionally improperly wrapped packages fall apart during shipment. Including a card inside the package that lists the sender's and recipient's information along with a description of the contents helps in collecting items that have fallen open during processing.
The Department of Defense (DoD) has requested that those who send mail use the service member’s full name (with or without grade, rank, etc.), or a specific title (e.g., Commanding Officer, Supply Officer, etc.). Also required is the unit designation and APO/FPO (Air/Army Post Office™ or Fleet Post Office) information with the nine-digit ZIP Code (if one is assigned) and a return street name/number, city, state, and ZIP CodeTM. For parcels, mailers are asked to write on one side only with the recipient’s information in the lower right portion.
Note: Do not include the country or the base camp’s city, as it might be routed through the host country’s mail system.