The United States Postal Service is implementing a new online-only customs form for mailing overseas packages that will soon replace the handwritten form customers are currently using, according to the Vicenza Post Office.
Vicenza Postmaster Lonnie L. Heuer says the change will speed up the process for all packages mailed from Italy postal service centers.
"The new customs form allows faster processing at the Postal Finance Counter and mitigates addressing mistakes through verification by USPS," Heuer said.
Customers can continue to use the older forms, but are encouraged to start using the new forms now. Heuer says the date for the changeover hasn't been set yet, but it's good for customers to get used to the new process.
The new online form can be found on the USPS website. Customers will enter all information about the package being mailed online and then print out the form to bring with them to the mailroom, Heuer said.
The new system will allow postal employees to scan the form, and all of the customer's information will automatically be entered into the system, Heuer added.
Heuer also recommends residents use the new system as they prepare to mail packages for the holidays. Mailing deadlines for 2015 are listed below.
As for mistakes to look out for, Heuer says the biggest issues he sees are customers using incorrect addresses or using boxes with old labels that haven't been properly covered up. He says it's important to double-check your packages before you bring them in.
Finally, as packages from the states start arriving, he says it's important for residents to pick them up as soon as possible, to insure the CMR has room for the next day's shipment.
Even though the holidays can be a busy time, Heuer wants Vicenza residents to know that every employee at the mail room is dedicated to getting all packages delivered as quickly as possible.
"Knowing that parcels delivered may contain a present from loved ones that will brighten their holiday makes it all worthwhile," Heuer said.
2015 Holiday Mailing Deadlines, Europe to CONUS
SAM Parcels - Mail out no later than Nov. 25.
PAL Parcels - Mail out no later than Dec. 3.
Priority Parcels and First-Class letters - Mail out no later than Dec. 10.
The Italy postal service centers will have extended hours at the following locations to help get those packages and letters to you before Christmas:
Caserma Ederle -- Saturdays from Nov. 28 to Dec. 19, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 19 will be pick-up only.
Del Din - Dec. 19, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., pick-up only.
Camp Darby - Dec. 19, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., pick-up only.
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