Parcel to BFPO but with UK postcode confused

^!£$&

Please can someone help me? I've sold something to be sent to a BFPO address but there is also a british postcode and area on the end of the address I've been given.

I want to make sure it gets there so am i right in thinking i would send this parcel via HM forces postal service option (ie rather than standard uk post services):eek: thanks

mudcow304

Hi, don't worry, it's probably all fine. There were a number of websites that refused to accept BFPO numbers (including Ebay). This was a pain for anybody trying to use Ebay whilst serving away overseas or on operations. As such BFPO eventually came up with postcodes that worked in place of BFPO numbers. The address should look like:

12345678 Rank Name
Random unit details (lots of abbreviations)
OP xxxx (if Operational)
BFPO xxx
BFx xxx

Alternatively they may put the BFPO number as the street name and BFPO as the town depending on how difficult the website is making their life!

If it is an Operational BFPO then there is a 2kg weight limit, however it will be free to send if you go into the Post Office. Oh and keep in mind that the service to some areas is unbelievably slow. It's not uncommon where I am for post to take 4-5 weeks to get here! :mad:

molerat

You should only use the BFPO number, is the post code BF1 XXX ? The post codes are to get round the problems with web sites that need a post code, the area should not be used as it can cause problems with the post office. All you need to know https://www.gov.uk/british-forces-post-office-services

^!£$&

Ok thanks for your speedy replies its just over 2 kg but not in an operational area from what I can gather so I've read that should be ok. thanks

^!£$&

molerat wrote: »

You should only use the BFPO number, is the post code BF1 XXX ? The post codes are to get round the problems with web sites that need a post code, the area should not be used as it can cause problems with the post office. All you need to know https://www.gov.uk/british-forces-post-office-services

Yes the postcode is as quoted by you so I shall just use the BFPO number thanks again xx

onandoff

mudcow304 It's not uncommon where I am for post to take 4-5 weeks to get here!

I don't know where you are but that should definitely not be the case.
I haven't been in Afghan for sometime but mail transit times should be approx. 6 days (letter or packet). On occasions mail gets delayed for various reasons (incorrect address, miss-sorted, Capacity problems, Unit move etc). I dare say you have a lot going on but if your mail is taking that long on a regular basis, make sure your details are correct and if so make an official complaint on a PF58.

I have answered many complaints, and almost all of them have a sound reason for delay, if not I always advise the customer to fill out a PF58 or fill out the complaints book in the BFPO (if they have one....they should have one!).

Take care on your tour.

Fruit_and_Nut_Case

onandoff wrote: »

Take care on your tour.

Seconded. :grouphug:

PHARR

Returned last year, mail from the UK can vary. Letters and such took around 4-5 Days, Parcels 1-2 Weeks.

But anybody in theatre (operational tour) are aware of this and are advised and aware to be patient.

DominicVaz

There were a number of websites that refused to accept BFPO numbers