Delivering packages to business associates or people you know can be difficult, especially if you've never shipped a package before. However, as long as you know what to write and where, the package will arrive safely to the recipient. Learn the different elements of shipping and return addresses so you can write them down neatly and correctly. Check the package for any general errors when you have finished writing the address. So, you can check whether there is an error or not that could hinder the delivery time.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Labeling Shipping Addresses
Step 1. Print or write the shipping address in parallel on the longest side of the package
Write the address on both sides of the packet on the largest side. This allows you to write the address on both sides to prevent sending errors.
Do not write the address on the folds of the box
Step 2. Use a pen or permanent marker to write the address as clearly as possible
While most post offices accept packages with the address written in pencil, there is a chance that the writing will fade if you write this down.
Choose a pen with a color that contrasts with the color of the package box. For example, use a black pen if the package is white or brown
Step 3. Write the recipient's full name in the middle of the package
Write down the recipient's official name, not a nickname, to avoid mis-receiving the package. Use the recipient's old address if they recently moved house so the new occupant can easily forward the package to your friend.
Write the recipient's full name or email the company asking whose name should be written on the package
Step 4. Add the street address just below the recipient's name
Write the street name and post office number or PO BOX. Also enter the name of the apartment or house number if any. Also, if applicable, also write down specific cardinal directions, such as east or northwest, on the package to ensure it reaches its destination.
As much as possible, make sure street addresses are written on the same line. You can write the apartment name and house number on a new line if your address is long enough
Step 5. Enter the recipient's city name and postal code under the street name
Spell the city name completely and correctly below the street name. If you're not sure how to spell it correctly, please check it out and make sure. Add the zip code to the right of the city name so the package will get to the right destination, even if the city name is spelled incorrectly.
- Do not use commas or periods in shipping addresses, even if you separate the city name and postal code.
- In the United States, also add the name of the state between the city name and postal code. For international posts, such as Indonesia, add the name of the province and the name of the country next to the postal code. Look up each country's postal code format to make sure you're entering the correct code.
Part 2 of 3: Labeling the Return Address
Step 1. Write the return address on the left corner of the package
Don't forget to write down the return address separately to minimize shipping errors. The shipping address should be in the middle, while the return address should be in the top-left corner.
Do not combine shipping and return addresses
Step 2. Write “SENDER” in capital letters before writing your address
If the delivery and return addresses are written close enough, writing the word “sender” above the return address will clarify the situation. Also add a colon after writing “SENDER”, then write your address below it.
Step 3. Add the address in the same format as the return address
Start by writing the street address, apartment name or house number, and/or specific directions on the first line. Then, continue with the city name and zip code.
Step 4. Double-check the clarity of your handwriting
Both the shipping address and the return address must be written clearly so make sure your writing is legible. If the package is not delivered for any reason, it will be sent back to the sender's address.
Paste a white label above the address written on the package and then rewrite the address if the writing looks dirty or untidy
Part 3 of 3: Checking for Common Errors
Step 1. Do not abbreviate addresses that are not accepted by the post office in your country
Most post offices accept road abbreviations such as Jl for street, secondary addresses such as No for numbers, province and country names such as West Java for West Java or UK for United Kingdom.
Do not abbreviate city names. Spell it completely to avoid sending errors. For example, Jakarta, not JKT
Step 2. Use the correct postal code according to the destination area
Packages may take longer to arrive if you enter the wrong postal code. This error is more fatal than if you don't write it down at all. In some cases, packages can also be lost if there is an error in writing the postal code. Look up the postal code before writing it down to make sure you're writing the correct code.
Step 3. Reread the address to make sure you wrote the correct address
Write the address slowly because writing in a hurry can increase the possibility of misspelling. Compare the address that has been written with the correct address, as well as the return address. If there is an error, paste a white label over the wrong address and then rewrite the address.
Step 4. Write the address in the box that is the appropriate size for the package
If you enter the correct address, but don't use the correct box size, packaging and shipping costs will be impacted. If you're not sure which box will fit your package, ask the post office about this.
Tips
- Write the address clearly so that the writing can be read from arm's length.
- Make sure the contents of the package are wrapped and sealed securely, especially if you are shipping fragile items.
- Buy the right amount of stamps and according to the weight of the package.
