Welcome to our unaccompanied tours (UT) blog, Foggy Bottom Rambles! We can share information, programs, and resources quickly with you and since blogs are a two way street, we (and the other readers) can hear from you. What's in a name you say? This blog reflects how we (back here in DC, Foggy Bottom area) provide information (rambles) to you. Find websites and information, upcoming webinars, programs and events. FLO does not endorse organizations or companies linked-to in this blog, the views they express, or the products/services they offer. Let us know what you think: contribute to the blog or email us at FLOAskUT@state.gov.

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

Remember to Vote!


Shipping Holiday Packages?

 What You Need to Know...
October through January is the busiest time of the year for pouch and DPO mail. To ensure all your holiday packages arrive on time, Diplomatic Pouch and Mail (DPM) recommends that mail and parcels arrive at their facility by Friday, November 21. The U.S. Postal Service also wants DPO mail by the dates listed on their website.

Visit DPM’s intranet site for current address and parcel size limit information. The site also has links for prohibited items (14 FAM 723.2) and Bulk Shipments (14 FAM 723.3). Check out their online Shipping Wizard tool that lists post-specific restrictions, provides personal/official (unclassified) pouch addresses, and has a calculator that can determine if your item is within the required size limits.

Remember: Make sure all items have registry/tracking numbers. Also, lithium batteries can only be shipped installed within electronic items, not separately, and must be done in accordance with 14 FAM 723.2.

You’ll find answers to many common questions on DPM’s intranet site. You may also email pouch-related questions directly to DPM-Answerperson@state.gov or DPO-Answerperson@state.gov for Diplomatic Postal Mail related questions.