With military care package shipping, it is crucial to understand the requirements of international customs forms. The currently compliant customs form, PS 2976-R, is mandatory for packages weighing more than 16 ounces and containing goods, as care packages often are. Only packages under 16 ounces containing only documents are exempt.

The customs form serves as a passport for your care package as it crosses international borders. It allows foreign customs authorities to inspect care package contents and ensure the import of prohibited items is avoided. Customs forms are also used to evaluate duty and tax fees. Interestingly, while USPS assists with the customs process, it’s actually managed by the Customs and Border Protection Department of Homeland Security.

A correctly filled customs form must provide a detailed description of the package items, including the quantity and unit price for each item. For example, instead of using general terms like ‘clothes’ or ‘gifts,’ detailed descriptions such as ‘men’s cotton shirts’ or ‘knit hats’ are acceptable. In cases where more than five items are listed, an additional customs label will be produced. Remember, all labels must be attached to the boxes.

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