Sending a letter may feel old-fashioned, but it’s still essential to communication—especially when you want it to look professional or personal. Knowing how to address an envelope correctly ensures your message arrives at the right place without delay, whether you’re mailing a wedding invite, a business letter, or an international card, and formatting matters.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to label envelopes, from the return address in the top left corner to the recipient’s address in the bottom half of the envelope. You’ll also learn about choosing the correct postage stamp location so your mail reaches its destination smoothly and efficiently—locally or globally.
Why Knowing How to Address an Envelope Still Matters
Many people believe snail mail is old-fashioned. But it’s still used for legal documents, greeting cards, and invitations. Mistakes in the mailing address format can cause lost mail or delays. In 2024, USPS postage costs and ZIP+4 code usage remain essential.
According to etiquette expert Diane Gottsman from the Protocol School of Texas, properly addressed mail shows respect and avoids confusion, especially for formal envelope mailings like job applications or wedding invites.
General Envelope Addressing Format (USPS Standard)
To start, always use dark ink on a light envelope. The recipient’s address should go in the center of the bottom half of the envelope. Your return address goes in the top left corner. The postage stamp location is always on the top right.
Here’s how the layout should look:
Envelope SectionWhat to Include
Top Left Return address
Center Recipient’s address
Top Right Postage stamp location
If you’re unsure how many stamps to use, visit the USPS Price Calculator. It helps calculate postage cost per ounce based on size and weight.
How to Address a Personal Envelope
A personal letter is usually informal. Use the person’s full name or a nickname. For example, if you’re mailing a card to a friend, write their name and home address in the center. The return address should be clear in the top left.
Here’s an example:
Emily Carter
789 Maple Lane
Nashville, TN 37209-4512
You can use a fun design, but don’t cover the recipient’s address location. Use one Forever stamp unless it’s heavier than one ounce. You can check how many stamps to use based on weight.
How to Address a Business Envelope
A business address is more formal. You must include the full name, job title, and company name. You may also use “ATTN / c/o format” when writing to a specific person within a business.
Example of a business letter envelope format:
Michael Johnson
Marketing Director
Creative Agency Inc.
321 Madison Ave
New York, NY 10017-8490
Always use a clean, typed label or neatly written address. This is important for a formal envelope. Depending on the size or if it’s an oversized envelope, use one or two Forever stamps.
How to Address a Military Envelope (APO/FPO/DPO)
When writing to a service member, use the military address (APO, FPO, DPO) format. You don’t include the country. Use the correct region code: AE for Europe, AA for the Americas, and AP for the Pacific. Always include the ZIP+4 code.
Military mail format:
SSG Thomas Rivers
Unit 456 Box 1234
APO AE 09354-1234
Use a Forever stamp for letters. If you’re sending a package, check USPS rules for weight and customs forms. It’s best to include the sender’s return address on the envelope or box.
How to Address International Mail from the USA
When sending mail overseas, the format is key. Always write the international shipping address in English. Use capital letters for the country. Add the ZIP+4 code for the return address, and check the current USPS postage rates for 2025.
Sample international postage format:
Liam Thompson
23 Abbey Road
London W1D 3QU
UNITED KINGDOM
For most countries, you’ll need a Global Forever stamp. The USPS website provides the postage cost per ounce for heavier mail. To avoid mistakes, use an envelope template example.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Addressing Envelopes
One major issue is placing the recipient’s address too low or too far to the right. This may confuse USPS sorting machines. Don’t decorate over-address areas. Use easy-to-read ink and avoid cursive unless it’s very clear.
Another mistake is forgetting the ZIP+4 code, which helps with faster delivery. And be sure to know how to send mail when writing to international or military addresses.
Final Tips for Mailing Success
Make sure to check your spelling before mailing. Use block letters or print for clarity. Use the addressing envelopes for standard events like weddings or parties. This adds a personal and classy touch.
Using a label is okay, but many prefer a handwritten envelope address for a warm touch. Still, be neat. The label vs handwritten envelope debate comes down to purpose: use labels for business, handwritten for personal.
FAQs
What is the correct envelope mailing format?
Always include the recipient’s address in the center and the return address in the top left corner, and place the stamp in the top right.
Can I send international mail with a Forever stamp?
No. You need a Global Forever stamp for overseas letters. For packages, calculate the exact USPS postage rates.
How do I address wedding invitations?
Use formal titles and full names. Place names clearly in the center. This shows respect and follows snail mail etiquette.
Can I write in pencil?
Avoid pencils. Use dark ink so USPS machines can read it easily.
Is it okay to use fancy calligraphy?
Only if it’s legible. Avoid swirls that may make the recipient’s address unreadable.
Conclusion
Knowing how to address an envelope is a timeless skill. Whether you’re writing a formal letter envelope, sending a business address note, or mailing a card to a friend, the rules help ensure delivery.Remember to use the correct return address placement, know the recipient’s address location, and follow proper envelope mailing tips. By using this guide, you’ll never worry about how to send international mail or address a military envelope again. Take your time, write clearly, and let your letter talk.