how to use c/o in postal address efficiently & accurately
The best way to understand what a postal address looks like is to look at an example, which is why we’ve provided one below.
jane smith c/o blueberry, inc. 619 street city, 35242 street
The example above should give you a general idea of what a c/o address should look like. however, the proper use of co in address is not limited to how or what you write on the envelope. You can take a few steps to ensure the deliverability of your mailings with a postal address, including the following.
Step 1: Make sure you have the correct information
When it comes to business correspondence, the postal address is often used when the recipient’s primary address is not available. therefore, you must make sure the secondary address is correct unless you want the USPS to return your mail.
Everything from your company name to your zip code needs to be accurate if you want your mail to be delivered without delay. To make it easier, you can use an address verification tool like postgrid to verify the address.
Step 2: Make sure you’re using the correct format
after you get the return address, you need to make sure it is in the standardized format defined by usps. You must write c/o or “in charge of” before the name of the person responsible for delivering the mail to the recipient.
For example, let’s say you’re sending direct mail to someone at your workplace using a postal address. here, the company is responsible for delivering the mail to its recipient. therefore, you must follow the c/o with the company name.
Similarly, when sending mail to a home address, the c/o must be followed by the resident’s name. the person who receives your mail with the c/o address can pass it on to the actual recipient of the mail.
Step 3 – Make sure to provide the return address
The chance of having your mail bounced is relatively low when you use a postal address. however, you must still provide a return address on the envelope. use the left corner of the envelope to write your return address.
the usps will return your mail if they are unable to deliver to the address you provided. Plus, you can use return mail to identify postal addresses you can’t send direct mail to and avoid unnecessary costs.
Step 4: Attach required postage
everyone knows that you need to include the necessary postage to send any postal mail. however, most people have no idea what postage they need to adhere to on their mail. the usps will return the mail if the postage is not enough, and if it is more, you will lose the money.
It’s hard to keep track of postage attachments, especially when it comes to business communication. however, you can save yourself the trouble by using a direct mail automation tool like postgrid. advanced tools like postgrid automate the entire direct mail process, including postage.
step 5: check and send your mail
The final step in the correct use of co in address is to take one last look at the mail. check all the information on the mailing envelope and make sure everything is in order. check if you have the correct recipient name and address.
In addition to this, you should also verify the return address you provided in the mail. once you have made sure that everything is in order, you can send the mailer. however, an easier way to send mail is to use an automated direct mail system like postgrid.