Mail or fax a copy of your orders to your sponsor and they will take it to the post office to set up a P.O. Box for you.
You can use the P.O. Box to start forwarding your mail, especially items like magazines that need up to several weeks lead time for an address change.
If you are sending any packages in advance of your arrival, be sure to keep in mind the following mailing tips:
Addresses/customs forms clearly written: Ensure mailing addresses are clearly written on the box with the return address on the upper left-hand corner. Use proper names in the "to" and "from" lines to make sure the mail gets to its destination on time. Customs forms must list everything contained in the package and cannot have generic terms like "gift" or "present."
Check your mail regularly: Check your mail on a regular basis (every two to three days), or more if expecting packages. After 15 days of sitting on our shelf, they will be returned to sender. If you ship your items too early it may be returned before you have a chance to pick it up.
How to prevent returned mail: To prevent your package from being "returned to sender," contact customer service and put your box on hold if you are going TDY or taking leave for more than 15 days. You may also allow someone else to check your mail by filling out the required paperwork at customer service. Otherwise, mail will be returned.
Mailing restrictions: Do not abuse your military postal system privileges. Various items like alcohol, flammable items, etc., are not authorized for shipping and can't go through the MPS. Find out what you can and cannot send by checking the guidance posted around the Post Office before buying and packaging it. Customs will find unauthorized items and you will be prosecuted and lose your MPO privileges.
Shipping before arrival: Please note issues surrounding sending items here in advance. Specifically, priority mail or better gets packages here with 10-14 day, but standard postage, FEDEX, DHL, etc. will be sent Space-A once it gets to the APO.
Shipping before arrival: Please notify the post office, DSN 782-5514, and
your sponsor of items being sent prior to your arrival as a precautionary to
prevent items being returned.
Current as of April 14, 2021