Stupid postal regulations

[dirtbag]

I'm not sure where it's going thru, but I'm waiting for a small package from Greece, 40 days so far...

[cavguy]

Usually once it hits the ISC or customs it has been my experience that it takes no longer than 7 days to clear and be on its way. Don't know whats up with USPS now...

[cavguy]

Finally, 11 days to clear customs in NY -- to delivery on the West Coast.

[Bobby]

I bought a Spicy Vegetable Rigatoni (just the individual serving) on Ebay March 2..Package arrived yesterday March12..England to United States 10 days....


Bobby

[TurtleNomad]

Adrian and I have been discussing a ration+ swap for a few months now, and I'm almost ready to send it. This will be my first ever swap! And my first overseas shipment since 9/11.

First, I want to pick the group's brains about the different sending options (reliability, speed, cost), and what sort of items trigger customs problems.

I gather it's best to label things as "camping supplies".
Any other advice?

Thanks in advance!

[cavguy]

"camping supplies" is good to go. I always use USPS Priority Mail International you can use the flat rate box if it is heavy and save some $$. I have had not too good luck with their less expensive options... If you mark the package as "food" then it could trigger a customs search.

[ak70g2]

I always use the romanian post services. Seems to be ok, never lost a parcel.

[TurtleNomad]

"camping supplies" is good to go. I always use USPS Priority Mail International you can use the flat rate box if it is heavy and save some $$. I have had not do good luck with their less expensive options... If you mark the package as "food" then it could trigger a customs search.

Thanks cavguy!

It's mostly freeze dried food, and some first aid supplies.
I'm about to do some errands, and will pass a PO, so I'll see what size boxes they have.

I'm aiming to send this tomorrow morning, depending on last minute emergencies/chaos/etc. If that isn't viable, I'll send it Tuesday morning, after a (I hope!) not too frantic weekend.

[TurtleNomad]

Update:
I picked up each of the medium and large flat rate boxes, plus the "express mail" box.

I just tried packing stuff in the large flat rate box, and I can get all the "core" items in, but not all the freeze dried.

I am very impressed at how compact the AlpineAire 14-day no frills packages are! One of each variety (ten total), take up about the same space as six regular entrees!

Is it a problem if I use duct tape, instead of packing tape to seal the box?
I always have duct tape, of course.
Packing tape, not-so-much.

According to this USPS page:
https://www.usps.com/ship/priority-mail ... l-flat.htm
"Delivery in 6 to 10 business days"

Is that accurate?
Any other reliable options?
I do like the concept of it being trackable.

What's the name of the customs form, and is it normally in the pigeon hole thingies, or will I have to get it from a clerk?

Can I use the self-serve machine, or human clerk only?

[ak70g2]

Last parcel I got from US was from Name_not_found, it took exactly 8 working days from the date he send the parcel and the date I've received the "warning" from postal office. The customs for is PS Form 2976, I think you'll get from post.