Guide: How to Address a Package

Sending a package to a business or someone you know can seem daunting, especially if it's your first time. However, understanding what information to include and where to place it ensures your package reaches its destination smoothly. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the various components of both the delivery and return addresses to ensure accuracy. After addressing your package, double-check for common mistakes to avoid delivery delays.

Position the delivery address parallel to the longest side of the package. Write both the delivery and return addresses on the package's largest surface area. Ensure there's ample space between the addresses to prevent confusion. Avoid writing over any seams on the box.

Opt for a pen or permanent marker to ensure the address remains legible. While pencils may be accepted by postal services, they are more prone to smudging or fading over time.

• Select a pen with a contrasting color to your package; for instance, if your package is white or tan, use a pen with black ink.

Write the recipient's full legal name at the center of the package. Using their legal name instead of a nickname enhances the chances of successful delivery. This is particularly useful if the recipient has recently relocated, as their previous address can forward their mail accordingly.

• If sending the package to a business entity, ensure to include the full company name. Alternatively, contact the company for the appropriate recipient name.

Place the street address directly beneath the recipient's name. Include either the Post Office (P.O.) box or the street address, along with any apartment or suite numbers as applicable. Additionally, specify directional indicators like east (E) or northwest (NW) if necessary, ensuring accurate delivery.

• Try to maintain the street address on a single line; if the address extends to two lines, place the apartment or suite number on a separate line.

Below the street address, provide the recipient's city and zip code. Ensure the complete and accurate spelling of the city name directly below the street address. In case of uncertainty, verify the spelling. Adjacent to the city, include the zip code to facilitate correct routing, even if the city name is misspelled.

• Avoid using commas or periods within the delivery address, even when separating the city and zip code.
• For U.S. addresses, insert the state between the city and zip code. For international destinations, incorporate the province and country alongside the zip code. Verify the format of zip codes for each country to ensure accuracy.

Position your return address in the upper left corner of the package. Keep your return address distinct from the delivery address to prevent confusion. Ensure your delivery address is centered, while your return address occupies the top left corner.

• Avoid any overlap between the return and delivery addresses.

Print 'SENDER' in capital letters above your return address. This helps distinguish your return address from the delivery address. Adding a colon after 'SENDER' ensures clarity, followed by your address details below.

Format your address identically to the delivery address. Start with your street address, apartment or suite number, and any directional indicators on the first line. Then, include your city and zip code below.

Ensure your handwriting is clear and legible. Both the delivery and return addresses should be easily readable, but clarity is particularly crucial for the return address. In the event of delivery failure, the package will be returned to the sender.

• If your address is smudged or messy, cover it with a white label and rewrite it neatly.

Avoid using unauthorized address abbreviations according to your country's postal service regulations. Most postal services approve abbreviations for street designators (e.g., ST for street), secondary street indicators (e.g., APT for apartment), directional indicators (e.g., N for North), and state or country abbreviations (e.g., CA for California or UK for the United Kingdom).

• Do not abbreviate city names; spell them out completely to avoid confusion (e.g., use Los Angeles instead of LA).

Ensure you use the correct zip code for your intended destination. Incorrect zip codes can significantly delay your package or even result in its loss. Always verify the zip code before writing it down to ensure accuracy.

Double-check your addresses to ensure accuracy. Write your address slowly to minimize errors, and compare it with the correct delivery and return addresses. If you spot any mistakes, cover them with a white label and rewrite the addresses.

Choose the right-sized box for your package when writing your address. Selecting the correct box size is crucial to avoid affecting packaging integrity and shipping costs. If you're unsure which box to use, seek assistance from a postal service staff member.

• Ensure your address is legible enough to be read from an arm's length away.
• Securely wrap and seal the contents of your package, especially if it contains delicate items.
• Ensure you purchase the correct amount of postage based on the weight of your package.