Deadlines for holiday shipping around the corner

Published Nov. 21, 2013
By Airman 1st Class Dylan Nuckolls
52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Just as the ground collects more snow, the expanding lines at the base post office seem to signal the approach of the holiday season.

But there are simple, time-saving tips that can help people mail their packages home for the holidays easier and on time.

Staff Sgt. Vernon Howard, custodian of postal effects with 52nd Communications Squadron, said preparation is the key.

"Be prepared - make sure you have your customs forms available," Howard said. "Make sure your addresses on your boxes are correctly filled out and legible, and make sure you don't have any unauthorized items in your boxes."

The customs forms are available at the facility, along with a full list of unauthorized items, like weapons, drugs or alcohol. The recommended placement for addresses is to put the sending address in the top left corner and the receiving address in the center and slightly to the right.

According to the U.S. Postal Service website, holiday shipping deadlines for Europe are as follows:

Space Available Mail (SAM) - Nov. 26, 2013

Parcel Airlift (PAL) - Dec. 3, 2013

First Class/Priority Mail - Dec. 10, 2013

Priority Mail Express - Dec. 17, 2013

By keeping the deadlines and preparation in mind, Sabers can get their gifts to family, friends and loved ones around the world and just in time.

For more information,log on to www.usps.com or visit the post office.