International and Military Shipping

Need to send baby shower gifts to your daughter living in Italy? Or how about sending military personnel a care package? Customs forms can be complicated and challenging. No package will be delivered without the form completed correctly. At Pak Mail Pittsburgh, we simplify the process by assisting you in completing the forms and making international shipping as easy as mailing a letter.

Customs forms aren't the only headache when shipping internationally. There are specific and varying item restrictions for sending your package overseas. Reading a list of rules and regulations can be overwhelming. If the rules are not followed, it could mean long delays in delivery. Check out the list below for a few general but helpful pointers.

1. Batteries must be removed because electronic devices can inadvertently go off while in transit. They just don't want things ticking, vibrating, or making any kind of noise like clocks or radios. Other prohibited items include hazardous or flammable material, (including cologne), aerosol cans, firearms, furs, perishables, plants, tobacco and liquor to name a few.
2. Avoid sending anything that will melt such as chocolates. Also, it is recommended to avoid sending very fragile items since the shipping process may take multiple truck loads and unloads increasing the risk of damage. Pornographic material is illegal in some countries.
3. International shipping can be expensive depending upon the speed of service, distance, weight and package dimensions. Of the factors that determine the rate, weight and size are very important. When possible, select lightweight items for shipping. Packages less than 4 pounds are the most economical to send. Keep in mind also, that box and packing material adds to the total weight.
4. Military shipping rates are the same as domestic rates since APO and FPO zip codes are to military post offices located within the U.S. Military post offices distribute mail and packages to overseas personnel as a free service, however custom forms must be completed as usual.