HM Forces Mail

Sending HM Forces Mail

Sending letters to HM Forces is straightforward, but here’s a few guidelines:

• don’t write the destination country on the BFPO address.
• seal the edges of large letters and packages with adhesive tape.
• Don’t use an Airmail sticker.
• the same maximum size dimensions for Royal Mail’s international services apply.

Size and weight limits

Items in the form of a postcard, letter or parcel
Minimum: One surface at least 90mm x 140mm
No single side must be longer than 600mm.

Cylinder
Minimum: length plus 2 x diameter should be at least 170mm
No single side can be shorter than 100mm.

As with UK domestic mail, BFPO Airmail prices reflect Royal Mail’s current rates, so prices will depend on whether you are sending a letter, large letter or parcel.

Sending HM Forces Special Delivery Guaranteed™

If you're sending something valuable, use HM Forces Special Delivery Guaranteed™. This service is only for BFPO numbered addresses and gives you:

• a signature on delivery
• compensation for loss or damage
• pre-paid envelope for jewelry or valuables available at Post Office®.

HM Forces Royal Mail Signed For™

The ideal solution when:.

• You want a signature on delivery
• don’t need compensation.

Free airletters for Forces personnel on operational duty

Otherwise known as ‘Blueys’,these are regulated by the Ministry of Defense and can change. You can:

• Get them in the Post Office®
• Send to Forces personnel on operational duty.

Customs

All parcels to BFPO destinations must have a signed customer declaration attached to the outside of the parcel. Read our Customs information.

HM Customs and Excise pays close attention to all HM Forces Mail arriving in or leaving the UK. It’s important to fill in and sign the declaration on Customs label CN22 or CN23. Local customs authorities at overseas bases also have the right to examine mail addressed to HM Forces. They may make charges under local regulations. For more about this, read our Customs information or ask at your local Post Office® branch.

Prohibited and restricted goods

We have a list of prohibited and restricted goods that you cannot send.

Countries overseas also have their own rules on what they will and will not allow to be sent by post. Please check that you are able to send your item.