Comox Military Family Resource Centre

For ‘Operational Deployments’

19 Wing provides support for care packages being sent to personnel who are 'operationally deployed' (sent away on operations, generally overseas). Packages are sent via military truck across Canada, not via Canada Post. The truck generally goes out once a week, therefore anyone wanting to RUSH a parcel should use Canada Post at their own expense. Please note: your deployed family member or friend doesn’t have to be from Comox for you to use this service.

For Packages going to the ships only:

These packages will also be sent via military truck, as above. They don't need a customs form, but they do need to list the contents on the outside of the package, bottom left hand side is best. The sender must put their return address and telephone number on the outside of the package.

**Note: if you are a spouse or significant other of a member deployed on a ship, but you reside here in the Comox Valley, please contact our Family Separation & Reunion Coordinator. She would love to hear from you so that we can offer you support during your time of separation.

For Personnel on TD/course (usually within Canada)
These packages will be mailed via Canada Post using Family Separation & Reunion Services funds if available. They are required to be no larger than a regular sized shoebox and weigh no more than 10 lbs and may be sent weekly by a family member or designated ‘sponsor’ only.

Rules for Mailing Packages

General:

• Charitable donations/humanitarian aid will not be accepted - personal care packages only
• This service is available to friends and family as well as co-workers of deployed personnel
• An individual can mail 1 parcel per week

Size and Weight for Operational ‘Deployment’ & Ship Care Packages:

• Senders are encouraged to use boxes provided by the Comox MFRC
• Maximum length of 1 meter for any one dimension, and 2 meters for the length plus girth
• Maximum weight is 10 kg (approx 22 lbs)
• Oversize/overweight parcels will not be accepted

How to Address/Label Parcel:

• Sender must place their name, address and phone number on top left corner (phone # not required on TD packages)
• Sender must clearly list contents of parcel on the bottom left corner (also not required for TD packages within Canada)
• Sender must assure address of member is correct – we are not responsible if parcels are lost or misdirected

Undeliverable Packages (sent on the truck):

• Senders should not use this service if the CF member is due back within 4 weeks of sending
• Should mail be undeliverable, the sender will be contacted and must decide to either donate the parcel in theatre or to pay return postage (money order sent to applicable CFPO)

Loss, Theft or Damage (to packages sent on the truck):

• CF and FMO Victoria are not responsible for any loss, theft or damage caused to items sent via this service
• No claim can be made through Canada Post, as no postage has been affixed
• For lost or damaged parcels, contact FMO Manager at 250-363-2174 (maximum indemnity $100)
• Any parcel requiring special service(s) such as insurance or registration must be mailed at sender's expense

Prohibited Items:

• These parcels are subject to x-ray/search, and any prohibited items will be seized and disposed of
• A list of seized items will be sent to sender and addressee

Here is a very general list of items that are prohibited:

• Articles which are obscene/immoral
• Compressed gases (aerosols)
• Corrosive liquids/solids (bleach, acids, ammonia)
• Batteries (separate, or in an item)
• Flammable liquids/solids (lighter fluid, matches)
• Explosives
• Alcoholic beverages
• Drugs and narcotics (including prescription drugs)
• Cold medicine
• Vitamins
• Perishable items (fruit, meat)
• Large electronic devises (TV's, VCR's, computers)

Ideas for Care Package Contents