Some deadlines for sending mail to Air/Army Post Offices, Fleet Post Offices, and Diplomatic Post Offices (AFOs/FPOs/DPOs) will pass in just a few short weeks, according to a recent U.S. Postal Service press release.

Mail to and from APO/FPO/DPO ZIP codes starting with the digits 090 to 099, 340, and 962 to 966 should be sent by the following dates to reach its destination before Christmas, per the release:

• Retail Ground mail: By Nov. 6.
• First-class letters and cards, and Priority Mail: By Dec. 9.
• Priority Mail Express Military Service (PMEMS): By Dec. 16 (Note: This service not available to AE ZIP 093).

Materials sent before Dec. 26 may be subject to a temporary price increase covering many types of mail, from a 25 cent surcharge on light packages in nearby areas to a 75 cent charge on Priority Mail boxes and envelopes to a $5 charge on heavier shipments over longer distances. See the press release for detailed information and links to help determine rates; these increases are separate from the recent permanent hike in first-class stamps, which moved from 55 cents to 58 cents as of Aug. 29.

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Those planning multiple military mailings this season can purchase a Military Kit with six boxes – two APO/FPO flat-rate boxes and four medium flat-rate boxes – address labels, customs envelopes, and Priority Mail tape.

Learn more about shipping materials to military members, and how you can secure free shipping supplies, at this link.