Care Package 101

http://elizabethdoodah.blogspot.com/2013/01/blind-you-with-my-love.html

With moving day quickly approaching... the question about care packages has come up numerous times!  Every time the question is asked, first of all I feel very LOVED but at the same time apprehensive as I don't really know how to do this internationally. 

SO after asking around and doing some "research"... here is what I have found...

1.  There is a delay... 3 weeks at the fastest but usually 1-3 months... so should probably stay away from perishables.

2. Customs fee... I will have to pay a customs fee (up to 54%) which will be a percentage of what the package is "valued" at...aka. list things very low on the customs form!!! "Educational materials" also go through better than things labeled like "chocolate" on the customs form!!

3.  No valuables... Just in case you were wanting to send diamonds or a million dollars  :) ... don't  send anything of great value as it could likely be stolen.  Also don't put money or a check in the box as those will not make it to me!  If you want to send a monetary gift send it through the ITFM US address with my name on it.

4. Think of light-weight items to help with shipping costs. Remove all cardboard and plastic wrap that is really not needed to help reduce weight for shipping.


As a friend in Kampala said... "The Ugandan mail system has all gotten much better and faster through the years and hopefully will continue to!"

My address in Uganda will be:

ITFM- Integrity Primary School
c/o Angela Calhoun
PO Box 71748
Kampala, UGANDA, AFRICA

If you need some really fun ideas... here are some links from pinterest...

http://gluedtomycrafts.blogspot.com/2013/04/im-mailing-myself-to-you-1.html

http://www.thepatrioticpam.com/2013/03/creative-care-packages.html?m=1

http://www.alittless.blogspot.com/2012/08/care-package-idea.html

http://www.lovefromhomeblog.com/search/label/Care%20Packages

http://elizabethdoodah.blogspot.com/2013/01/blind-you-with-my-love.html

Again... I am so blessed to know that people are thinking of me and praying for me throughout this journey!  This journey/adventure will be much more fun shared with friends.  If you are not up for sending a care package, that is fine, I understand but envelopes with cards... notes of encouragement... pictures of the kiddos... etc... are always accepted!  Also anything "hand-delivered" will also be much appreciated!!   Maybe if things are mailed now... I will actually get them when I arrive in September!  LOL!