NEED FOR SECURE PACKING

Southland Times, Issue 24235, 19 September 1940, Page 11

NEED FOR SECURE PACKING

The Post Office again desires to emphasize the necessity for securely packing parcels for soldiers serving overseas. Advice recently received from the base Post Office in Egypt discloses that while parcels are, in the main, received in good condition, a small number arrive damaged or with the address missing, due to being wrapped in flimsy paper and tied with thin twine. When parcels are insecurely packed and wrapped the net result is a waste of time and money by the sender and a disappointment to the intended recipient.

It is desirable that parcels should be enclosed in strong calico, linen or canvas, securely sewn up, it is stated. Soft articles and perishable goods should be enclosed in tins with the lids soldered on. Parcels should be addressed in block letters. It is most important that the number of the echelon be included. In addition, a slip of paper bearing the complete name and address of the soldier and of the sender should be enclosed. It is advisable not to include tobacco or cigarettes in post parcels for soldiers in Egypt, as the addressees are required to pay high Customs duty on such items.

Finally, the Post Office suggests that Christmas parcels for the forces in Egypt and England should be posted not later than during the last week in October to ensure delivery at the appropriate time. -