How to Address an Envelope/Package

student mailing address

envelope address

The address to which you send the mail must be written in the following way:

• recipient name
• company name (if applicable)
• address (with apartment or suite number)
• city, state and postal code (on the same line)*
• country*

The return address should be written in the upper left corner of the envelope.

• The return address is not a requirement for all types of mail. However, omitting a return address prevents the USPS from returning the item to you if it is undeliverable. (for example, damage, postage due, or an incorrect address)
• some classes or types of mail require a valid return address.

the stamp or postage is placed in the upper right corner of the envelope.

For more information, including how to send international letters, see the USPS “Customer Guide to Shipping by Mail.”

package address

When addressing, write the address on the largest side and parallel to the longest edge of the package.

The address you are shipping to should be written as follows:

• recipient name
• company name (if applicable)
• address (with apartment or suite number)
• city, state and postal code (on the same line)*
• country*

*(for letters or packages going outside the US, contact mail center staff if you have questions about the address format for international shipments)