How to Address Postcards: A Step-by-Step Guide
Written By: Nemilou Despuez | Published on November 14, 2024Whether you use postcards for business or personal communications with your loved ones, it is important to address them correctly to avoid mailing mishaps.
In this article, 48HourPrint shares a step-by-step guide on how to address your postcards correctly to ensure they reach their recipients on time. We also include tips to help you deliver an impactful, memorable message.
1. Start at the back.
Postcards have two sides. The front often displays a stunning photo or a beautiful typography, while the back has a solid line dividing it into two sections. The right side is for the address and postage stamp, whereas the left side is where you can write a message.
2. Add the recipient’s address.
The right side has three diagonal lines where you must write the recipient’s address. Make sure you write it neatly and legibly to avoid mailing mishaps.
You can add a bright border around the address so the postal workers can spot it easily.
3. Add the date.
Put the date on the upper left side of the postcard. This way, the recipient will know when it was written and sent.
4. Write a personal message.
Write your message on the left side, just below the date. Since postcards are small, get right to the point. For example, if you want to promote a business, focus on just one product or event (e.g., holiday sales, a trade show, or a free concert).
If the postcard is meant for someone close to you, consider sharing a memory, wishing them well, or telling them an anecdote about a special moment on your trip.
5. Sign off with your name.
Before adding your name, you may want to write a closing line such as “hugs and kisses” (for personal use) or “thank you for trust and support” (for business use).
6. Add a postage stamp.
Add your stamp above the mailing address in the top right corner of the postcard. You may need to use more than one stamp, especially for international mailing.
You can buy stamps from the post office, pharmacies, grocery stores, and other retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Postcards
Q:How should I correct a mistake while writing the address on a postcard?
If you make a mistake with the address, write the correct one on a piece of paper and tape it on the postcard.
Q:How can I make my postcard stand out and be memorable to the recipient?
Use bold colors, eye-catching typography, and beautiful imagery in your postcard design. If the card is for business promotion, incorporate your brand elements into the design.
Q:Can I put a postcard in an envelope?
Yes, you can put a postcard in an envelope if you want to. Just make sure you write the recipient’s full name and address on the bottom half of the envelope and place the stamp on the top right corner. Mailing without a return address is allowed under USPS regulations, but should you wish to include it, place it on the top left corner of the envelope.
Q:What are some tips for postcard writing?
You can skip the standard greetings since you are not writing a letter. Instead, write something cheerful like “Greetings from [company name] team!” or “Hello from your biggest fan!” When it comes to writing your message, try to focus on just one topic to keep things short and sweet.
Q:What are some key differences between postcards and letters?
Postcards are smaller than letters, so you must focus on just one topic. Also, they usually don’t require a response from the recipients.
Conclusion
Properly addressing your postcard ensures that it will reach its destination on time and deliver a memorable and impactful message to the recipient. Are you looking to create custom postcards with a stunning design? If yes, check out the best practices for postcard designs or this extensive collection of free templates from 48HourPrint.