The U.S. Postal Service has released the 2004 holiday recommended mailing dates for those wanting to send packages to or from the United States or forces in the Middle East.

Different dates have been set for the various mailing options and mail destined for military members with deployed units, which have APO addresses starting with 093.

There is a 70-pound limit for incoming or outgoing APO/FPO mail.

For mail going to APO and FPO addresses:

Packages sent parcel post, the recommended deadline to send is Nov. 13;Space-available mail — Nov. 27;Parcel airlift — Dec. 4;Priority mail, first-class cards and letters — Dec. 11; for APO addresses beginning with 093 — Dec. 6.Express mail — Dec. 20. Local post offices can determine which APO/FPO addresses can receive express mail, but Navy ships do not have express mail services.For mail from APO and FPO addresses:

Space-available — Nov. 20.Parcel airlift — Dec. 4.Priority mail, first-class cards and letters — Dec. 11.Express mail — Dec. 18. Only certain base post offices can send express mail.The USPS also recommends that all mail carry the servicemember’s full name, with or without rank, military organization or unit, and full APO or FPO address, but should not indicate the deployed country’s name in any part of the address.

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