Visual Diagram: Exactly Where 'To' and 'From' Go on Envelopes and Boxes

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Q1: What happens if I accidentally reverse the "To" and "From" address positions?
A1: If the return address is placed in the center and the destination address appears in the top-left, sorting cameras will read the center text as the target. The letter will be routed back to you. If no postage is visible near the address the scanner picks up, the piece may be rejected for non-payment.

Q2: Is a return address legally mandatory on domestic US mail?
A2: A return address is not mandatory for regular domestic First-Class letters bearing standard stamp postage. It is, however, required on all packages, Priority Mail, registered items, mail requiring customs paperwork, and any parcel weighing over 10 ounces. Omitting it from regular letters means the item cannot be recovered if delivery fails.

Q3: Can I write the recipient's address in cursive or decorative script?
A3: Avoid script, calligraphy, or condensed fonts on envelope exteriors. Modern OCR cameras process sans-serif print typography with significantly higher accuracy than cursive styles. Script fonts often force mechanical sorters to kick the item to manual review, adding up to 3 days of handling time.