How do I format Military Addresses?
Sending a package to an overseas U.S. military base is relatively straightforward if you keep a few things in mind.
When sending packages to the Military (APO/FPO/DPO), you get to pay domestic prices, but you are required to follow specific guidelines when it comes to formatting addresses.
How to Format Your Military Addresses for Validation with USPS
Write out the service member's full name in the address - All mail sent to the Military must be addressed to someone specific. Note: addressing mail to "Any Service Member" is no longer permitted by the USPS.
Include the unit and box (where applicable) into Address Line 1.
In the 'City' field, enter APO/FPO/DPO.
- NOTE: APO is used for Air/Army Post Office; FPO is used for Fleet Post Office; DPO is used for the Diplomatic Post Office.
From the State field, select:
- Armed Forces - AE is the abbreviation for Armed Forces. It is used for armed forces in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Canada.
- Armed Forces Pacific - AP is the abbreviation for Armed Forces Pacific and is used for the Pacifics.
- Armed Forces America - AA is the abbreviation for Armed Forces America, as it excludes Canada.
- Then enter in a five-digit zip.
If you need any help or have any questions - feel free to contact us.
Calculating Your Package's Cubic Tier
For Boxes and Rigid Packages:
- Measure the outer dimensions (length, width, height) in inches
- Round each measurement down to the nearest quarter inch
- Multiply length x width x height
- Divide the result by 1728 (cubic inches in a cubic foot)
- The result is your package's cubic feet measurement
Example: For a box measuring 12.3" x 9.5" x 3":
- Round down to 12.25" x 9.5" x 3"
- 12.25 x 9.5 x 3 = 349.125
- 349.125 / 1728 = 0.202 cubic feet
- This package falls into the 0.3 cubic feet pricing tier
Note: Maximum size for any single dimension is 18 inches
For Envelopes and Soft Packs:
- Measure the length and width of the empty envelope
- Round down to the nearest quarter inch
- Add the length and width together
- Use the total to determine the pricing tier:
- Tier 0.1: Up to 21"
- Tier 0.2: 21.01" to 27"
- Tier 0.3: 27.01" to 31"
- Tier 0.4: 31.01" to 34"
- Tier 0.5: 34.01" to 36"
Restrictions
- Tubes and rolls are not eligible for Cubic pricing
- Maximum combined length and girth is 84 inches
Benefits of Using Priority Mail Cubic
- Cost savings: Cheaper than weight-based pricing for small, heavy items
- Predictable pricing: Easy to calculate shipping costs based on box dimensions
- Fast delivery: 1-3 business day delivery to any US address, including PO boxes
- Free tracking: Monitor shipments at no extra cost
- Included insurance: $100 of coverage with every shipment
- No surcharges: Residential and fuel surcharges included in the price
Tips for Maximizing Savings
- Optimize packaging: Use the smallest box possible that safely fits your items
- Consider breaking up large orders: Sometimes shipping in multiple smaller boxes can be cheaper
- Use cubic feet calculators: Online tools can help quickly determine your package's tier
- Compare rates: Always compare Cubic rates with other shipping methods
- Use Commercial Pricing: Accessing Commercial Pricing rates can lead to even more savings
2024 USPS Priority Mail Cubic Rates
Accessing Priority Mail Cubic Rates
Priority Mail Cubic isn't available at regular Post Office counters. However, many online shipping platforms and 3PL providers offer access to these rates. By partnering with a fulfillment provider, you can easily access these discounted rates and streamline your shipping process. For small-scale sellers not yet ready for a 3PL, Pirate Ship offers free access to USPS Priority Mail Cubic rates with no monthly fees or minimums.
