LORAC 05

I have been told that using a laptop is no problem as they should have the label on the power lead stating: "input 100-240 V" so long as you use an ordinary adaptor with it or buy a UK power lead from an electrical place like Currys.

Yes, we had to complete a USPS Form 2976-A for each box and because there are only about 4-5 lines on the form, some boxes may take multiple forms. You are allowed to *somewhat* generalize about the contents, but try to be as specific as possible.

These forms are very time-consuming to fill out. I would suggest you go get a handful from your local Post Office and fill in as much of it ahead of time as possible. You will also want to address your box beforehand.

We were also sure to mark 'USED' on every item to avoid any type of customs fee on the other end. So far, so good and we've shipped a total of 6 boxes now.

Here's what we spent on the last shipment of 18"x20"x18" boxes. We bought our boxes from WalMart. We line each box with an oversized bin liner, drop in a sheet of paper with the "TO" and "FROM" address, seal with good quality strapping tape, and then finish off with "shrink wrap".

55 pounds = $195.75
44 pounds = $162.20
41 pounds = $150.00

So far, everything we have sent has arrived in excellent condition.

We use one of those hand-held portable digital luggage scales to weigh each box and so far it's been spot-on.

By the way, if you are sending books or certain other printed matter via USPS, use an M-bag.

Have fun!!!!!!!!!



Denise - ready to put the kettle on

See my previous reply, but to answer this, yes the Customs forms are available at the Post Office. I think you can fill them out online but we always seem to have problems with the *&#$(@#$ USPS website so have just filled them out by hand.

Thanks DDL. I went to the P.O. today and got the forms ready. I asked about what I would put on the list. A few of the boxes are filled with a single items of many varied things - a couple of this and a few of that. It's a complete mixed box of stuff.

The lady said "oh generalise it, like toiletries and so on..." I then read the form while I was there and on the form it clearly stated that they needed specific details and NOT "men's cotton shirts" or "toiletries". I pointed this out to her saying I had written everything down as I put it in the box but there were about 26 different items in one box in particular and only 4 lines to write them down. She said "you can always put an extra list in with the envelope." She also told me to only weigh one box and guess the rest! My scales are pretty accurate and the contents of the boxes vary from 23lbs to 48lbs. Any fool would know the difference there. Aarrggh!!! My point is everything she said was contradictory. I mean, come on!

I am pretty anxious to do it all properly as I want to prevent any mishaps or incur any expense or problems the other end as a relative will be receiving the parcels for me. And I am a worry guts!