Sending holiday mail to troops

Special to the Herald Times
RBC I Ensuring those serving in the nation’s armed forces and diplomatic service receive their holiday mail in time is a priority for the Postal Service. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Deadlines for Christmas delivery to U.S. Military and APO/FPO depend on the destination. For most destinations, the following cutoff dates apply:
Priority Packages and First-Class Cards and Letters: Dec. 9
Priority Express Mail: Dec. 16
The Postal Service offers a $2 discount on its largest flat rate priority box when sent to an APO/FPO/DPO address.
USPS offers a free Military Kit consisting of:
– Two Priority Mail APO/FPO/DPO Flat Rate Boxes
– Two Priority Mail Medium Flat Rate Boxes
– Priority Mail tape
– Priority Mail address labels
To order the kit, call 800-610-8734.
Always check with www.usps.com, which will provide packaging tips, prohibited items and other customs requirements.