OK, Im using flat rate boxes... And the PO sent the boxes but not the customs forms, so I wrote down everything on paper as I packed, and I will just put it on the customs form later.

Now, I can close it up right? I don't need to put the cutoms form in the box? :shock I have no clue how this works.


And do I just write the address right on the box???

Also, with the customs form do I need to list everything, or can I just put candy, or food item?

Be generally specific on the customs form...write candy instead of hershey bar, etc.
Customs form goes on the outside of the box. You can write the address right on the box or on a label. I prefer to send EVERYTHING priority mail because it comes faster.

the boxes i have are the flat rate priority mail boxes

The customs form will be handled by the postal worker. They'll fill out their part, and then tape a copy to the outside of the box. You'll also get a copy.

I always use the stick on priority mail labels, but a flat rate box should have a place for you to address it!

no, you don't need to put the customs form in the box. Just fill it out when you get there.

ok thank you ladies, my two boxes are filled and ready to go

The customs form goes on the outside of the box and you do need to list what's in the box.

our post office was telling me a few weeks ago not to put the exact item on the custom form. don't put CD's or Ipod or Movies. its more like to get stolen, she said to put eletronics and Mis. and baked goods. also dont' use masking tape to tape it with! i had to buy package tape at the post office LOL

yeah, I was told the same thing. I only put grocery items and toiletries and the amount is always $20.00 to avoid theft

Seal up the box and then use the regular address label on it. When you take it to the post office they'll look over the customs form (for completeness) and then stamp all the copies, give you one, and then seal it onto the package. I'm never very specific with whats in the box. Just don't leave it blank.

to save time in the future grab a stack of customs forms and bring them home with you, have about 5 or so filled out already (just with both of your addresses) then they are ready to go when you mail your next one you just have to add the items and signature and date ;)
Also sometimes its actually cheaper to use regular boxes if you are sending light stuff, so you can always go to the post office and weigh it before sealing the box and figure out whether the flat rate is a better deal or not (trust me sometimes its not!) I also went to microsoft word and typed up both my address and his, and then printed copies or saved it to my desktop so I could print address labels in a second, its just faster than writing it all!

there is an 800 number somewhere that you call and get the overseas kit, it comes with customs forms and priority mail tape, but not flat rate boxes. :irked you still have to address the customs forms oh and check the box on the bottom of the form that says you want it to come back to you if it becomes indeliverable. that way you don't lose what you send. oh and be warned that if you put a small amount on the price if it gets broken or stolen they won't refund you the price of what was in there, just what is listed on the box, so it becomes a catch 22 for you.

I'm pretty sure you have the option of insuring the package if there is anything important.

The military kit comes with a couple flat rate, but also just standard boxes. Keep the heavier stuff in the flat rates.

Well I ordered everything online, got most of it yesterday, got the rest today.

The boxes are heavy, so the flat rate is good. I weighed them, they are about 15 pounds each or so...

But thanks for the tips ladies!!