‘Was That the Second Driveway, Or The Third?’

TOPEKA, KS – When we give directions, many of us go to great detail to help people find their way. Does this remind you of anyone?

“There’s nothing to it! Turn left at the gas station. Watch for the big pothole in the road, and turn left just past it. Look for the blue building and turn right. Count three driveways. Then take the fourth. YOU CAN’T MISS IT!”

When you address your cards, letters and packages, don’t take shortcuts. Make sure you include all of the details necessary to help us deliver for you:

• When addressing an envelope or package, type the address or print it legibly, in permanent ink, and in capital letters if possible, so it can be read at arm’s length. Do not use commas or periods. And remember: If the address can’t be read, it can’t be delivered.
• Use a Post Office Box or a street address, but don’t use both. For the street address, always include the apartment or unit number, building number, and any other information that helps distinguish the location.
• Sometimes a directional (N, E, SW) is the only thing that distinguishes the destination from another address just like it clear across town (“310 SMITH ST N” vs. “310 SMITH ST S”). Make sure to include it when applicable.
• Save the last line for the city, state, and ZIP™ Code. Use the abbreviation for the state if you know it. If you don’t know the ZIP Code, go to www.usps.com and click on Find a ZIP Code. At the end, the website will give you a complete delivery address in the best possible format for your use.
• Always include a return address in the upper left-hand corner on the same side of the mailpiece as the delivery address. Make sure it’s complete, too.

“Honey, was that the second driveway, or the third?”

Even the smallest mistake can mean a big difference in handling your mail. If you dial the wrong telephone number, you don’t get the correct person on the other end. The same holds true for your mail. One wrong digit in a ZIP Code can be the difference between Connecticut and California.

For more information on proper addressing, or to check your state abbreviation or ZIP Code, call 800-ASK-USPS (800-275-8777), go online to www.usps.com or come see us at the Post Office™.

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