Royal Mail has reminded people who handwrite addresses on letters and parcels that legible and properly positioned writing helps ensure mail is processed and delivered correctly. For those still using a pen to address birthday cards, letters or parcels, the postal service says handwriting should be "clear and easy to read".
Ink contrast and envelope placement
Royal Mail also urges customers to ensure the ink contrasts clearly with the envelope or parcel. It stated: "It's important that the address shows up against the colour of your envelope."
While there's no obligation to use a specific pen colour, pale or faint writing can prove difficult to decipher. Black ink offers strong contrast, especially on white envelopes or address labels. Those using dark, brightly coloured or patterned envelopes should therefore apply a plain white label to make the address more visible, reports the Express.
Formatting and punctuation guidance
The postal service's guidance also explains where the address ought to be placed. The address needs to be positioned towards the bottom left-hand side of the front of an envelope or parcel, while the postage belongs in the top right corner.
Royal Mail suggests keeping the address left aligned instead of centring it or arranging it in a stepped format. Customers should also provide adequate space surrounding the address.
The company advises that punctuation marks, such as commas and full stops, shouldn't be included within the address. The recipient's name should appear first, followed by the property number and street name. If the property has a name rather than a number, this can be used in its place.
Postcode and overseas mail
The local area or village can then be included, followed by the town. Royal Mail recommends writing the town in capital letters. A county does not need to be included on UK mail. The postcode should appear on the final line in capital letters, with Royal Mail advising customers to include one wherever possible.
The company says: "Write the address clearly on the front, following our guidelines, and always include a postcode if possible."
For overseas mail, the destination country should be written on the last line in capital letters.
Customers who are uncertain about a postcode can use Royal Mail's Postcode Finder to verify the details prior to sending their item.
The guidance does not mean customers need to abandon handwriting addresses altogether. Rather, Royal Mail's advice is intended to help ensure addresses remain legible throughout the sorting and delivery process.
Spending a few extra moments using clear handwriting, bold contrasting ink and the recommended format could help make letters and parcels simpler to process.
