Ordering Packages for Someone at Alexander C.I.: Windows, Pre‑approved Items, Shoes, and Electronics
North Carolina's statewide inmate package program is pretty straightforward once you understand the timing and item limits. Here's how seasonal windows work, what
Seasonal packages run on set ordering windows through the statewide program, and Alexander C.I. follows that schedule. For the Spring window shown on the package site, the First Day to Order is Wednesday, January 7.
That same Spring window has a firm cutoff as well. The Last Day to Order listed is Friday, February 6, so you’ll want to get your order in before the window closes.
When you shop the North Carolina inmate package pages, the items you see there are already pre-approved for statewide purchase. In plain terms, that means you’re choosing from a list that’s been cleared for ordering through the program, rather than trying to send in something that needs extra review.
Footwear is where a lot of package orders get tripped up. Under the program rules, an offender may only possess one pair at a time in each of these categories: work boots, tennis shoes, and shower shoes. So if you order a second pair of any one of those types, it can create a problem because they aren’t allowed to keep “extras” on hand. Before you buy, treat it like a replacement decision: you’re trying to swap out what they already have, not add another pair to storage.
- ✓ Ask what footwear they currently have (work boots, tennis shoes, shower shoes) before you order
- ✓ Order with “replace, not add” in mind - only one pair of each type can be possessed at a time
- ✓ Double-check the category you’re buying (boots vs. tennis shoes vs. shower shoes) so you don’t accidentally create an extra pair in the same category
Note: Some prisons may not have the infrastructure to support rechargeable electronic devices. You’re responsible for confirming any electronics you purchase are compatible with the restrictions and conditions at the receiving facility.
One more thing that can affect your order: control status. If the offender is placed on control status - HCON, MCON, ICON, or Safekeeper - before a package ships, Union Supply Direct will cancel the order. You’ll get a refund, minus a $5.00 restocking fee.
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