Military shipping addresses such as APO (Army Post Office), FPO (Fleet Post Office), and DPO (Diplomatic Post Office) should always be entered exactly as provided by the customer. Order management systems may incorrectly flag these addresses because they do not use traditional city names, and states are represented by military abbreviations such as AA, AE, or AP. Do not attempt to correct the address by adding the recipient's country or foreign city, as doing so may send the package outside the U.S. Military Postal System and delay delivery.
A properly formatted military shipping address begins with the recipient's name on the first line. The second line may contain a Unit Number, PSC, Ship Number, Group Number, or Box Number, depending on the destination. The city field should contain APO, FPO, or DPO, followed by the appropriate military state abbreviation (AA, AE, or AP) and the correct five-digit ZIP Code. Never include a country name or foreign city on the shipping label, as military mail is routed entirely through the U.S. postal network.
Packages being shipped to military installations or U.S. embassies outside the United States generally require a completed customs declaration. When filling out the customs form, describe each item clearly using simple, accurate language instead of vague terms such as "gift," "parts," or "miscellaneous." Include the quantity of each item, its declared value, and answer every required customs question completely. Remember that the customs declaration and the shipping label serve different purposes, and both must be completed correctly.
Shipping regulations for military mail can vary depending on the destination ZIP Code. Before sealing any package, use the USPS Military Mail restrictions tool to verify current mailing requirements for that specific APO, FPO, or DPO ZIP Code. Restrictions may apply to package dimensions, weight limits, accepted mail classes, and prohibited items. Certain military locations prohibit products such as food, medications, live plants, or other restricted goods, while other destinations may allow them. Always verify the rules for each shipment individually.
Products classified as hazardous materials require additional attention before shipping through military mail. Aerosol sprays, perfumes, alcohol-based hand sanitizers, nail polish, and products containing lithium batteries often have special mailing requirements and may not qualify for air transportation. Some lithium batteries must meet specific packaging standards, while certain flammable or pressurized products may only be accepted under limited conditions. Review the latest USPS hazardous materials guidelines before shipping these items to ensure compliance.
Military shipments often travel through multiple processing facilities before reaching their final destination, which can increase transit times. Use strong, durable shipping boxes that can withstand repeated handling, seal every seam securely with high-quality packing tape, and apply labels smoothly so they remain attached throughout transit. Placing a duplicate address card inside the package provides an additional safeguard if the exterior label becomes damaged. Consider the shelf life of products before shipping, as perishable goods may spoil during extended delivery times even when they are otherwise permitted for military mailing.
