Royal Mail issues notice to anyone writing addresses by hand

The company says that how an address is written can affect how easily and accurately an item is sorted and delivered, especially on handwritten letters and parcels.

The company’s guidance says: “Use clear and easy to read handwriting (or font if you are printing the address).”

It also recommends using ink that contrasts strongly with the envelope or parcel to ensure readability throughout the delivery process.

While no specific pen colour is prohibited, black ink on a white label or light-coloured envelope is generally the safest option.

Royal Mail says: “It’s important that the address shows up against the colour of your envelope.”

Pens that smudge or produce faint marks can cause problems if the writing becomes blurred during handling.

Royal Mail advice on how to format addresses

Royal Mail also advises customers to place the address on the bottom left-hand side of the front of the envelope or parcel, with the postage in the top right corner.

Addresses should be left-aligned rather than centred or staggered, and there should be adequate space left around the address.

Punctuation such as commas or full stops should be avoided.

The correct address format begins with the recipient’s name, followed by the property number and street name.

If the property has a name instead of a number, this should be included as part of the address.

The local area or village should follow, then the town—written in capital letters.

Royal Mail says that including the county is not necessary for UK mail and can be omitted without affecting delivery.

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The postcode should be written in capital letters on the final line of the address.

Royal Mail said: “Write the address clearly on the front, following our guidelines, and always include a postcode if possible.”

For international mail, the destination country should be written in capital letters on the last line.

Do you write addresses by hand, and did you know this guidance? Let us know in the comments.