Everything NY State DOCCS allows — and doesn't allow — in one place. Updated from the official directive.
Per incarcerated individual. 30 lbs maximum total weight combined across all packages that month.
No hand delivery. No dropping off at the facility. Packages must be shipped through an approved carrier.
Families cannot ship directly. Under Directive 4911A, packages must come from an approved vendor like Vender Resale.
These categories are permitted under Directive 4911. Each has specific requirements — read the rule before ordering.
Must be commercially sealed — vacuum-packed, hermetically sealed, or factory-sealed packaging only. No homemade food, no bakery items, no glass containers, no metal cans.
Standard civilian clothing is allowed. No camouflage patterns. No hooded sweatshirts with drawstrings.
Flat soles only. The sole must be solid — nothing that could conceal contraband inside it.
Alcohol-free products only. Check the ingredients list — if alcohol appears anywhere, it is not allowed.
Clear or transparent housing required — staff must be able to see inside the device. Wired only, no wireless or Bluetooth.
Fire-retardant material is required — this is not optional. Standard flame-resistant blankets and bedding are permitted.
Books and magazines must be sent directly from the publisher or retailer — not from your home. Board games require superintendent approval.
Cigarettes and cigars are allowed but must carry New York State Tax Stamps. No exceptions — unstamped tobacco is rejected.
These items will get your package rejected — and repeated violations can result in suspension of package privileges.
Follow these rules exactly. A single mistake — like a handwritten return address — can get your package flagged before it even opens.
No hand delivery. You cannot drop packages off at the facility in person — they will be rejected. All packages must be shipped through an approved carrier.
A handwritten return address triggers automatic x-ray inspection and increased scrutiny. The return address must be printed — either by the carrier label or pre-printed on the box.
The inmate's Department Identification Number (DIN) must appear on the package. Without it, the package cannot be routed to the correct individual. You can find the DIN using the DOCCS inmate lookup tool.
Each incarcerated individual may receive a maximum of 3 packages per calendar month from all sources combined.
The combined weight of all packages received in a calendar month cannot exceed 30 pounds. This counts across all senders — not just yours.
Any individual item valued at more than $30 must be accompanied by a printed receipt. Handwritten receipts are not accepted.
Do not mix items from multiple vendors in one box. Each package must originate from a single approved vendor.
Every product on our site has been verified against Directive 4911. When you order through us, you don't have to worry about your package being rejected — we only carry compliant items. We handle the shipping labels, the carrier requirements, and the documentation. You just pick what to send.
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