How to address envelopes correctly

To address an envelope correctly, write the full address with the postcode, put the post town and postcode in capitals on their own lines, avoid commas and full stops, and leave a clear margin around the address. For international mail the same rules apply, plus the country name in capitals on the last line.

How to address envelopes correctly in the UK

Royal Mail’s official guidelines are:

1. Use the full, correct address, with the entire address and postcode.
2. You do not need to include a country name (as long as the post town and postcode are used).
3. Avoid using commas or full stops.
4. Do not centre or stagger the address lines.
5. Leave a generous margin around the address.

The lines should read:

• Line 1 – addressee’s name
• Line 2 – street name and building number
• Line 3 – locality name (if required)
• Line 4 – POST TOWN, in capitals
• Line 5 – POSTCODE, in capitals, in full and on its own line

How to address envelopes correctly internationally

Most of the UK rules apply to international mail too:

1. Use the full, correct address, with the entire address and post/zip code.
2. Avoid using commas or full stops.
3. Do not centre or stagger the address lines.
4. Leave a generous margin around the address.
5. Write the country’s name on the last line in capitals.
6. Write your return address on the back so the item can be returned if there is a delivery issue.
7. Do not forget the Air Mail sticker for international items, except when using International Economy.

The lines should read:

• Line 1 – addressee’s name
• Line 2 – street name and building number
• Line 3 – place name
• Line 4 – province, state, department or postcode when required
• Line 5 – country name, in block capitals

Things to be aware of

Always make sure you have paid the correct postage, especially when sending to customers – you can face a surcharge for over- or under-paying. Also make sure the correct postcode is used, as it is vital for getting mail to the right destination. If you are not sure of a postcode, Royal Mail has a free online postcode finder.

Use a franking machine

Franking your mail with a low-cost franking machine helps ensure you always pay the correct postage, eliminating the risk of over- or under-paying. It is a cost-effective way to send mail, especially in large volumes. Get a franking machine quote here today.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to include the country when posting within the UK?

No – as long as the post town and postcode are used, you do not need a country name.

Should I use commas in an address?

No – avoid commas and full stops, and do not centre or stagger the lines.

How should the postcode be written?

In capitals, in full, on its own line.