Format an international address by following the destination country’s own line order, writing the country name clearly on the last line and keeping characters plain. Every country has its own style, so a quick check of the local format avoids most delivery problems.
Principles That Hold Almost Everywhere
- The destination country goes on the final line, in capitals, and in the language your carrier asks for.
- Write the address the way it would be written locally, not in your home format.
- Keep the postal code on the line where the local post expects it.
- Use only characters that the label printer and carrier form can show. If a name has special letters, check how the form handles them.
- Include a phone number or email when the form asks. Customs or delivery staff may need it.
How Formats Differ
| Element | Where it may vary |
|---|---|
| Street number | Before or after the street name |
| Postal code | Before or after the town; letters and digits differ |
| Region | Required in some countries, left out in others |
| Unit detail | Placed before or after the street line |
| Name order | Family name may come first in some places |
The table shows the type of change to watch for, not rules. Look up the destination country’s format from its postal service or from your carrier’s current instructions.
Step by Step
- Ask the recipient to send the address exactly as it appears on their own mail, if possible.
- Copy it into the carrier form line by line without rearranging.
- Add the country name in full on the last line.
- Check the postal code against the pattern used in that country.
- Fill in customs details that the form requires, such as a description of contents. Take care to be accurate and consistent with the order.
- Print the label and compare it against the recipient’s version.
Customs and Paperwork
International parcels often need a customs form with a content description and value. What the form needs, and which items are restricted, depends on the carrier and on both countries. Check the carrier’s current instructions before you pack, so that you can adjust the contents if needed.
Keep a small reference sheet of destinations you ship to often, with a sample address for each. Copy the pattern the next time you send there, and update the sheet when the recipient corrects you.
FAQ
Should I translate the address?
Generally, copy it as the recipient gives it. Translating street names can cause confusion. Ask your carrier if it prefers a certain script.
What if the postal code is unknown?
Ask the recipient. A missing code can slow a parcel, and some forms will not accept an empty field.
The Short Version
Use the recipient’s own format, write the country in full, check the postal code and complete customs details accurately. Confirm every rule with the carrier’s current instructions.