You’ve picked out the perfect card (or penned a heartfelt letter) for someone special, but now you’re staring at the envelope wondering… where does the stamp go? Is there a “right” way to address it? Can I just pop it in the nearest letterbox and call it a day?
Trust me, you’re not alone. As someone who sends cards and letters on the regular, I know the confusion is real—especially if you’re not a serial snail mail sender. So, let’s clear it up with this friendly guide to sending your cards and letters within the UK.
How to Address an Envelope
Addressing an envelope isn’t rocket science, but there are some handy tips to make sure your card arrives safe and sound:
• Write the recipient’s name and full address in the centre of the envelope.
• Use separate lines for the name, street, town, and postcode (in block capitals for extra clarity).
• Always pop the stamp in the top right corner.
• Avoid writing anything important on the top left corner—it’s reserved for postmarks and might get covered up.
• Use a waterproof pen to save your address from the unpredictable British weather (seriously, don’t let rain turn your address into an inkblot test).
Which Stamp Do You Need?
For most cards and letters, a standard 1st Class or 2nd Class stamp will do the trick.
• 1st Class: Delivery in 1-2 days (ideal for last-minute birthdays).
• 2nd Class: Delivery in 2-4 days (if you’re more organised than most).
• If your card is particularly hefty or oversized, you might need a Large Letter stamp.
Pro Tip: Keep a stash of stamps handy—because who hasn’t had that last-minute “Oh no, it’s Aunt Jean’s birthday tomorrow!” moment?
Stay organised: If you’re someone who loves being ahead of the game, why not try using one of our Birthday Card Planners? It’s a great way to keep track of important dates and make sure you never forget a special occasion again! Plus, with a plan in place, you can avoid the panic and send your card with plenty of time to spare.
Envelope Sizes and Extra Bits
Most greeting cards fit comfortably under the standard Letter size. But if you’ve gone all out with extras inside (like confetti, stickers, or photos), check the weight and thickness. You might need to bump it up to a Large Letter stamp.
Got a fancy dark envelope? Regular pens won’t show up, so grab a white or metallic gel pen or stick on a paper label for the address. And don’t forget to seal the envelope properly—a little glue or washi tape works wonders.
Where to Post Your Card or Letter
Once your envelope is ready, you can:
1. Drop it in your nearest red postbox (check the collection times on the front).
2. Head to your local Post Office.
3. Use letterboxes found in supermarkets or other handy spots.
Worried your card might go on an unexpected adventure? Add your return address on the back flap—just in case.
Eco-Friendly Envelope Tips
Let’s keep things green:
• Most envelopes are recyclable, so pop them in your paper recycling bin or take them to a local recycling centre.
• Switch to washi tape for sealing envelopes—it’s paper-based, cute, and eco-friendly!
Post with Confidence
Sending a card or letter is such a thoughtful way to brighten someone’s day—and honestly, we could all use a little more snail mail love in our lives. With these simple tips, you can pop your cards in the post with confidence and know they’ll reach your loved ones in one piece.
So grab that pen, seal that envelope, and spread some joy through the post!
