Take Note – November 7, 2025

2025 RECOMMENDED HOLIDAY MAILING DATES AND TIPS

Air Force and Guardians stationed in the European theater should note the recommended holiday mailing dates to ensure timely delivery of cards, letters, and packages to the United States:

• USPS Ground Advantage: Nov. 21
• First Class Mail (including greeting cards) and Priority Mail: Dec. 9
• Priority Mail Express Military Service (PMEMS): Dec. 16

These dates apply to mail originating in Europe and heading to U.S. destinations or vice-versa. We encourage our Air Force and Guardians postal patrons to mail early to ensure their items arrive on time.

Correct Addressing: Ensure complete, accurate addresses. Print or type the recipient’s address parallel to the package’s longest side and ensure it’s legible from arm’s length. Visit www.usps.com to check current address format.

Return Address: Include your return address in the upper-left corner of the same side of the package as the recipient’s address.

Customs Declaration Requirements

All mail from outside the U.S. is subject to customs inspection. Ensure all customs forms are accurately completed and descriptions of items are clear to avoid delays or return to sender (RTS). Be specific, such as “wooden skateboard” instead of “skateboard.” Some standard prohibited items include: Cigarettes or loose tobacco, hand sanitizer, alcoholic beverages, vape products and perfumes containing alcohol.

For faster service, complete your customs forms online at USPS.com. Many post offices offer expedited service for customers with pre-printed customs forms.

ATTN: Those packing up, leaving the KMC

Many members wait too long to begin the household goods moving process, thereby causing additional stress and delays. The 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron Personal Property Office advises movers to call them at +49-631-536-7727 three weeks before moving to begin the booking process.

Official Photo Studio has moved

The 86th AW/PA Official Photo Studio has moved to our new permanent location. The new location is in the second-floor offices located in the back portion of the Hercules Theatre, Bldg 2101. To schedule an appointment, go to www.ramstein.af.mil. If you have any questions call DSN: 480-9199.

Finance Customer Service

Finance customer service walk-ins are 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Monday-Friday, in building 2108.

Appointments can be booked through the QR code. For all other matters, please submit a ticket through the Comptroller Services Portal at https://csp.cce.af.mil/