The correct format
“From” is the return address and goes in the upper-left corner. “To” is the delivery address and goes in the center of the front. Put postage in the upper-right, keep both address blocks on the same side, and leave the lower area clear for the postal barcode.
TO: JANE DOE 1234 MAIN ST APT 5B SPRINGFIELD IL 62704 FROM: ALEX MORGAN 742 EVERGREEN ST PORTLAND OR 97205
From: the return address
The from address tells the postal service where to return an undeliverable letter. Use the sender name, street address or PO Box, and city, state, and ZIP Code. Place it in the upper-left corner on the front of a standard US envelope.
To: the delivery address
The to address is the most important information on the mailpiece. Put the recipient name first, then the company when needed, the street address with any apartment or suite, and the city, state, and ZIP Code on the last line.
- Name or attention line
- Company or organization, when applicable
- Street address, apartment, suite, or PO Box
- City, state abbreviation, and ZIP Code
A simple US to-and-from layout
Keep the two blocks visually separate so there is no doubt which address is the sender and which is the destination. You do not need to print the labels “TO” and “FROM” on a normal letter; placement identifies each block.
Avoid placement mistakes
Do not put the delivery address on the back flap, rotate it across the short side, or add a slogan below the delivery block. Use clear lettering and check the address against the USPS ZIP Code Lookup when the destination is unfamiliar.
- From upper-left
- To centered
- Postage upper-right
- Barcode area at the bottom stays clear
Questions about this format
Where does the from address go on an envelope?
Put the return or from address in the upper-left corner on the front of a standard US envelope.
Where does the to address go on an envelope?
Put the delivery or to address in the center area of the front, parallel to the longest side of the envelope.
Official references
Reviewed against the postal guidance listed below. EnvelopeFormat is independent and is not affiliated with USPS or Royal Mail.