Royal Mail has published packaging guidelines on its website to help customers wrap parcels securely before sending them. The postal service advises that all edges and openings should be taped down firmly.
"Seal securely with nylon or vinyl tape along all edges and openings," explains Royal Mail. Letters or parcels with sharp edges, including documents held together with staples, should also be covered with tape.
Sharp edges and padded envelopes
"Flatten any sharp edge from staples or metal fastenings, and cover with tape," instructs Royal Mail. Customers are also advised to use padded envelopes if the package contains sharp edges or odd shapes.
The guidelines are designed to protect letters during transit, as the postal service uses machines to sort mail. "We use machines to sort your mail and occasionally this can result in packaging being damaged. If we spot a damaged item, we will place it in a Royal Mail bag to try and prevent further damage," the guidance says.
Addressing and return address advice
Customers are advised to include a contact name, address, and telephone number inside the package. While a return address should be left on the outside of the parcel, no email addresses or post numbers should be included for privacy reasons.
Royal Mail also provides guidance on addressing mail: "The name and address go on the bottom left corner of the front of the envelope or parcel. Use clear and easy to read handwriting (or font if you are printing the address). Use a pen or ink that is clear against the colour of the envelope or parcel. Left align the text (no centred or 'stepped' lines)."
Clear addressing for delivery
The advice continues: "No commas or full stops. Leave a generous margin around the address. Place the correct postage on the top right."
For the return address, customers are advised to place it on the back of the envelope and clearly label it by writing 'return address' before filling in the information underneath. The correct way to address an envelope may vary depending on its destination, but customers are asked to ensure the address is clearly visible against the envelope's colour. Anyone using a coloured envelope could add a white label to make it clear, and the address should be written in pen or ink.
