How to Address a Postcard in Six Steps

With the advent of technology, there are many different ways to send a postcard nowadays. You can use an online service, or you can even send a postcard digitally. However, if you want to send a physical postcard through the mail, you need to know how to address a postcard correctly.

Postcards are still widely used for both personal and business mail. This guide explains how to address a postcard correctly, including where to write the address, message, date, and stamp.

Are postcards still relevant?

Even though many believe they are outdated, postcards have stood the test of time and continue to find their way into mailboxes worldwide. Whether used for announcements, promotions, reminders, or creative mail pieces, postcards remain a reliable and effective format.

In business, postcards are commonly used for local marketing, outreach, and direct mail campaigns. Real estate professionals, travel brands, retailers, and schools often rely on postcards to reach specific neighborhoods or audiences.

For younger generations, postcards have also taken on new life as collectible items and printed artwork. They’re often displayed on desks, walls, or bulletin boards, blending communication with design.

Postcards are used for far more than personal notes. Today, they’re commonly used for announcements, promotions, reminders, and creative mail pieces.

How to address a postcard correctly in 6 steps

Start at the back

Postcards have two sides. The front usually features an illustration, design, or photograph, while the back is divided into two sections. The larger section on the left is for your message, and the right side is reserved for the mailing address.

Add the address

Write the recipient’s address on the right side of the postcard, using the printed guide lines if present. Make sure the address is neat and easy to read so it can be processed correctly.

If you make a mistake, it’s best to rewrite the address on a separate piece of paper, cut it neatly, and securely attach it over the incorrect area.

Write the date

Add the date near the top of the message area. This helps the recipient know when the postcard was written and sent.

Include a personal message

Use the left side of the postcard to write your message. This can be a short note, announcement, or brief message. There are no strict rules here, so feel free to keep it simple or add a personal touch.

Sign off with your name

Don’t forget to include your name so the recipient knows who the postcard is from. A simple sign-off works perfectly.

Add a postage stamp

Place the postage stamp in the top right corner of the postcard. The number of stamps required may vary depending on destination and postal regulations.

Does postcard addressing differ from envelopes?

The placement is different, but the address format itself is the same. Always include the recipient’s full name, street address, city, state or province, and postal code.

Crafting the perfect postcard message

Now that you know how to address a postcard, it’s time to think about what you want to say.

Postcards sent to friends or family can be more personal, while postcards used for business are typically short, clear, and direct. Many businesses include a brief message, branding elements, or contact information.

Make your message stand out

Your postcard design should be visually engaging and easy to read. Use quality imagery and keep text concise so your message is clear at a glance.

Keep it short and clear

Postcards work best when the message is direct. Focus on the main point and avoid unnecessary details.

Be personal when possible

Addressing postcards to specific individuals can make them feel more thoughtful and relevant, especially for repeat customers or local outreach.

Double-check the address

Before sending, confirm the address is accurate and complete to avoid delivery issues.

And that’s it. You now know how to address a postcard correctly. If you’re planning a printed postcard, it can also help to understand common postcard sizes before finalizing your layout. When you’re ready to put these steps into practice, you can order custom postcards in a range of sizes and finishes.