As a military member stationed overseas, getting packages shipped to an APO address can be a bit of a challenge. Not all companies deliver to APO addresses, which can leave you scrambling for a workaround. I learned this the hard way when I decided to upgrade my laptop.
I was browsing through Apple’s website, excited to finally get my hands on a new MacBook. Everything was going smoothly until I reached the shipping section. That’s when I saw the dreaded message: “We do not ship to APO addresses.” I felt stuck—buying a laptop from a local store wasn’t an option, and asking someone back in the States to forward it to me would be complicated. That’s when I started exploring shipping services that cater specifically to APO addresses.
Here’s my take on three popular services for APO shipping:
APO Box: My Go-To Solution
Website: apobox.com
I’ve personally used APO Box several times, and I have to say, the experience has always been smooth. The registration process is straightforward, and they give you a U.S.-based address to use when ordering from stores that don’t ship directly to APO addresses. Once your package arrives at their facility, they handle the customs forms and forward it right to your APO.
What I Liked:
- Reliability: Every package I shipped arrived without issues.
- Pricing: The costs were reasonable and transparent, which was a relief compared to some other forwarding services.
- Ease of Use: Their system made it simple to track packages and manage shipping.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free service to bridge the gap between U.S.-based retailers and your overseas location, I’d definitely recommend giving APO Box a try.
Ship It APO: Reddit’s Favorite
Website: shipitapo.com
While I haven’t personally used Ship It APO, it comes highly recommended by others in the military community, especially on forums like Reddit. I’ve seen several posts in the Air Force subreddit praising this service for its efficiency and customer support.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- Military Focus: The service is built specifically for APO/FPO shipping, so it’s tailored to our unique needs.
- Positive Feedback: Many users mentioned that the service was quick and reliable, and they appreciated the military-friendly rates.
If I ever needed an alternative to APO Box, I’d probably give Ship It APO a shot based on the glowing reviews.
APO Direct: An Option Worth Exploring
Website: apo-direct.com
APO Direct is another service I’ve come across but haven’t had the chance to use yet. From what I’ve researched, it seems like a straightforward forwarding service for military members and diplomats stationed abroad.
What Looks Promising:
- User-Friendly: Their website is clean and easy to navigate, which is always a good sign.
- Focus on Simplicity: They seem to offer a no-frills service to get your packages where they need to go.
While I can’t speak from experience, it might be worth trying if you’re exploring options beyond APO Box or Ship It APO.
Final Thoughts
Final Thoughts
For military members and their families stationed overseas, services like APO Box, Ship It APO, and APO Direct can be a game-changer. My experience with APO Box was seamless, and while I haven’t tried the others yet, the positive feedback from fellow Airmen makes them worth considering.
If you’re stuck like I was—unable to get a crucial item shipped to your APO address—don’t lose hope. These services are here to bridge that gap and make sure you can get what you need, no matter where you’re stationed.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this post are solely my own and do not reflect the views of any organization or company. I am not affiliated with, compensated by, or responsible for any of the services mentioned in this article. I encourage readers to conduct their own research and due diligence before using any of these services. Experiences may vary, and it’s important to find the best option that suits your individual needs.
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