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August 21, 2005
Military Packages
At least once a month, I mail a package to friends who are serving in Afghanistan and Iraq. When I take the package to the post office, I am required to fill out a five-part "Customs Declaration and Dispatch Note -- CP 72" form (USPS Form 2976-A.)
I know that there are certain items which can't be mailed to Iraq and Afghanistan, but what's the customs form really used for?
Does anybody -- other than the USPS and the U.S. Military -- handle the package or inspect the package? I would hate to think a foreign postal service or foreign customs agents would get involved with a package from the U.S.A. to U.S. troops.
I know we have several people on the blog who have military backgrounds. Can you supply any information about how a package to our soldiers is handled and what thappens to all those copies of the customs form?
Thanks!
Posted by admin at August 21, 2005 08:53 PM
Comments
I am with a non-profit organization called Soldiers Angels. You adapt a soldier and commit to sending him letters, cards and care packages. It's a great way to support the troops. So it seems I am always at the post office, sending letters and packages. And yes we always have to fill out the custom forms, even though they can be a pain. The forms are so they can track back to that box if they need to. The post office keeps a copy, 1 goes to the sender and one goes with the box. The U.S.P.S and the Military Post Office are the only ones handling the packages. Packages are rarely opened but may open if something suspicious, or if liquid is leaking out, that sort of thing. If I can find out anything more I will let you know. Please tell everybody about "Sodiers Angels". Its such a great cause, and it makes a huge difference to the soldiers. www.soldiersangels.org , it will change your life forever, it has mine!!
Until next time, jc
Posted by: Jc at August 22, 2005 08:24 AM