When addressing mail to the post office or a P.O. Box, there are important details you must include. They include the first name, last name, name of the business, zip code, and the P.O. Box address. How can you write or include this information correctly on a parcel?
While the process is mostly similar across post offices, it is always best to inquire or ensure your format aligns with the post office’s requirements if you are unsure.
In this guide, you will learn how to write a P.O. Box address, the steps to take after writing it, precautions, and the benefits of sending letters to a P.O. Box.
How To Write P.O Box Address [Online & Offline]
Writing a P.O. Box address for a letter is very. It only requires you to know where to fill out the information (first name, last name, company name, P.O. Box number, and zip code).
For context, here is what each address line should feature:
- Address line 1: The recipient’s name (preferably their first and last name) and P.O. Box number.
- Address line 2: The recipient’s city, state, and ZIP code.
Below is an example of what a P.O Box addressing should look like:
- Ethan Hunt P.O Box 237
- Miami, USA, Zip 1234
Steps to Take after Writing P.O Box Address
Now that you are familiar with how to write a P.O Box address manually and online, let’s see the steps you need to take after the procedure:
1. Provide a return address
After writing the P.O. Box address correctly, the next step you need to take is to include a return address in the upper left corner of where the P.O. Box address is.
A return address informs the mail recipient about you (the sender) and serves as the focal point for returning your mail if it is undelivered.
2. Affix the appropriate postage or stamp
You must also affix the proper postage or prepaid shipping label at the upper right corner of the P.O. Box address. Before doing this, it is usually best to use a postage calculator (for USPS) or contact a post office representative.
Both options will help you know the appropriate postage your parcel needs. Mind you; international mail may require extra postage and customs forms.
These forms must be filled out correctly and submitted before your package can be cleared for shipping.
P.O Box Addressing Precautions
1. Do not include the recipient’s street address
Unless you are asked to by a post office official (which is almost impossible), you are not required to include the recipient’s street address in your letter when mailing to a P.O. Box.
You need to understand that the recipient gave his or her P.O. Box address for a reason.
2. Write legibly
After addressing your letter correctly and completing all the complementary steps, you must ensure your writing is legible and clear.
Preferably, print handwritten details and avoid stylish writings or fonts like cursive. They may be difficult to read during sorting and delay shipping.
3. Double-check the address information
Before submitting your mail at the post office for shipping, double-check it for errors. The P.O. Box and return addresses are usually the most important details.
Once they are correct, other issues relating to your mail can be easily sorted.
Benefits of Mailing to P.O Box
- It helps you maintain privacy. When mailing to a P.O. Box, you do not need to include your address or the recipients.
- P.O. Boxes are more secure and less susceptible to theft. You need a key or a code to access your P.O. Box.
- It is an ideal option for RVers or people with no permanent address. For example, USPS offers a service called General Delivery. It is a service that lets you access your mail regardless of location.
- P.O. Boxes are affordable and receive mail faster than residential addresses or mailboxes.
FAQs
Can you send it to a P.O. Box without a name?
It is always best to include a name or pseudonym (at least) alongside a correct P.O. Box number.
Can my friend use my P.O. Box?
A PO Box belongs to one primary owner. However, the registered owner may permit other people, such as family members, to use the box.
Are P.O. Box addresses free?
It depends on your location. You usually only start paying for a P.O. Box when it starts receiving mail.
Conclusion: How To Write P.O Box Address
Writing a P.O. Box address correctly on a letter is crucial to its acceptance and successful delivery by the post office. The process requires you to include the recipient’s name and the P.O. Box number in the first address line.
This should be followed by the recipient’s city, state, and zip code in the second address line. Aside from writing this address correctly, other details that must feature in your letter are the return address and stamp.
You should also make sure all your writings are legible, and devoid of mistakes, and the letter does not feature any physical address.
I hope you found this guide helpful. If you did, please see how to write a PO Box address on Amazon.
Thanks for reading.
