USPS offers domestic rates for sending packages to military addresses, even if the actual destination is a foreign country. This is because USPS® delivers the packages to the domestic military base, and the military then delivers the mail around the world. Note that this means it can take longer than normal for delivery.
When shipping to military addresses, make sure you include the unit and box numbers (if assigned). To prevent the packages from entering foreign mail networks, do not include city or country names in APO, FPO, and DPO shipping addresses; those three-letter designators should be entered in the City field, and AA, AE, or AP should be entered in the State field.
The proper format to enter a military address is:
Name - First and Last
Address Line 1 - Unit and Box numbers
Address Line 2 - Usually not needed, but if the address includes an FOB (Forward Operating Base) it can be put here
City - APO (Army Post Office)/FPO (Fleet Post Office)/DPO (Diplomatic Post Office)
State - AA (Armed Forces Americas)/AE (Armed Forces Europe)/AP (Armed Forces Pacific)
Zip Code
Country - United States
Example:
First Last Name
Unit 1 Box 1000
APO, AE 09898
United States
If you're shipping from a military address, this same formatting above applies to creating your Ship From Address 👍 Learn more about how to edit your Ship From Address.
Filling out customs forms
Whether you're shipping to or from a military address, USPS requires you to fill out customs forms for these shipments, since packages travel on international flights to reach their destinations. So, make sure to fill out the customs form when creating the shipment in Pirate Ship, and be as detailed as possible about what you're sending 😉
Military addresses require Harmonization Codes
When filling out your customs form, you'll also need to include the harmonization number for your item(s), no matter where the military base you're shipping to is located.
Once you enter all the necessary info, your label will then be printed with the customs form included!
Note: if you are using a package preset, you'll need to click Modify Package to fill out the customs form!
Any questions? Click the blue chat button to get in touch with our Support Crew 😃