Where To Put A Stamp On A Letter

Nick Leason

-Oct 8, 2025

Wondering where to put the stamp on your letter? The placement of a stamp on a letter in the United States is straightforward, usually in the upper right corner. Knowing the proper placement ensures your mail gets delivered efficiently, without delays due to postal processing. This guide explains everything you need to know about stamp placement, from the standard location to exceptions for oversized mail and special situations.

Key Takeaways

Standard Placement: Stamps go in the upper right corner of the envelope.
Oversized Mail: Place stamps to the right of the return address or on the longest side.
Clearance: Ensure the stamp doesn't cover the address or return address.
Multiple Stamps: Arrange multiple stamps neatly in the upper right corner.
Common Mistakes: Avoid covering any part of the address or return address.

Introduction

The United States Postal Service (USPS) relies on automation to sort and deliver mail. Proper stamp placement is crucial for these automated processes to work correctly. Incorrect placement can lead to delays or even the return of your mail. Understanding where to put a stamp is, therefore, a fundamental part of mailing. — Brookfield, WI Zip Code: All Five Digits & Info

What & Why

The primary reason for placing stamps in a specific location on a letter is to facilitate the automated sorting process. The USPS uses sophisticated machines that scan envelopes to read the address and then sort the mail. These machines are programmed to look for the stamp in a specific location. Adhering to the standard placement guidelines ensures that your mail can be processed efficiently and without interruption.

Benefits of Correct Stamp Placement

Faster Delivery: Properly placed stamps allow for quick scanning and sorting, speeding up delivery times.
Reduced Errors: Accurate placement minimizes the chances of your mail being misdirected or undeliverable.
Professional Appearance: Following guidelines gives a neat and professional look, which is important in a business context.
Cost-Effectiveness: Avoiding delays and errors reduces the potential for additional costs or the need to resend mail.

Risks of Incorrect Stamp Placement

Delays: Mail can be delayed if the stamp is not placed correctly, as it may need to be manually processed.
Return to Sender: In extreme cases, improperly stamped mail may be returned to the sender.
Additional Fees: If the mail is considered underpaid due to improper stamp placement, it might require the recipient to pay extra.
Frustration: Incorrect placement leads to general frustration for both the sender and receiver, especially when the mail is important.

How-To / Steps / Framework Application

Following a few simple guidelines can ensure your mail is processed and delivered without issues. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Identify the Envelope: Determine the type and size of the envelope you are using. Standard envelopes have a specific orientation for the address and return address.
Locate the Upper Right Corner: Find the upper right corner of your envelope. This is where the stamp should be placed in almost all cases.
Apply the Stamp: Carefully place the stamp in the upper right corner, making sure it's fully adhered to the envelope. Ensure there are no air bubbles or loose edges.
Check for Obstructions: Ensure the stamp does not cover any part of the delivery address or the return address.
Consider Oversized Mail: For large envelopes or packages, consider additional placement options such as to the right of the return address, or the longest side.
Use Multiple Stamps: If you need to use more than one stamp, arrange them neatly in the upper right corner. Don't cover the address or return address.

Addressing Different Mail Types

Standard Envelopes: Place the stamp in the upper right corner. These are the most common types of mail.
Large Envelopes (Flats): Place stamps to the right of the return address or along the longest side. This ensures that the postal service can identify the postage.
Packages: Packages often have the postage placed on the largest surface, away from seams or edges. You may need to use multiple stamps to cover the postage.
Postcards: Stamps go in the upper right corner on the front side, just like standard envelopes.

Examples & Use Cases

Here are some real-world examples and use cases to illustrate the guidelines for stamp placement:

Personal Letters: Placing stamps on personal letters follows the standard placement, in the upper right corner.
Business Mail: Businesses often use a window envelope, the stamp must still be placed in the upper right corner. The USPS machines use this placement for bulk mail.
Holiday Cards: During the holidays, the increased volume of mail means clear stamp placement is essential. Adhere to the standard upper right corner.
Oversized Mail: For wedding invitations or oversized cards, place the stamps to the right of the return address or the longest side to ensure that the machine recognizes the postage.
International Mail: International mail may need more postage, and the placement rules are the same as domestic mail. Make sure to use the appropriate postage for the country.

Best Practices & Common Mistakes

To ensure your mail arrives without any issues, follow these best practices and avoid common mistakes: — NY Jets Schedule: Dates, Times, And TV Info

Best Practices

Use Enough Postage: Always make sure you use the correct postage for the size and weight of your mail. Use the USPS website or your local post office to determine the correct postage amount.
Secure the Stamp: Make sure the stamp is fully adhered to the envelope. Loose stamps can get caught in the machinery and cause delays.
Use a Smooth Surface: Apply the stamp to a clean, dry surface to ensure it adheres properly. Avoid applying it over seams or folds.
Double-Check the Address: Always double-check the delivery address and return address before sealing the envelope.
Use Clear Packaging: If you are using a package, make sure the stamp and address are clearly visible and not covered by tape or other materials.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Covering the Address: Avoid placing the stamp over any part of the delivery address or the return address. This can make the mail undeliverable.
Using Insufficient Postage: Ensure you have enough postage, especially for heavier or larger items. Insufficient postage can lead to the mail being returned or the recipient having to pay extra.
Using the Wrong Stamp: Make sure you are using the correct postage for your type of mail (e.g., domestic, international, postcard). Incorrect stamps can lead to delays.
Placing the Stamp Incorrectly on Oversized Mail: For larger mail, don't just stick the stamp anywhere. Follow the guidelines for these envelope types (i.e. to the right of the return address).
Folding the Stamp: Avoid folding or bending the stamp, as this can damage it and make it difficult for the USPS to process the mail.

FAQs

Where exactly do I place the stamp on a standard envelope? The stamp goes in the upper right corner of the envelope.
What if I have a large envelope or package? For large envelopes, place the stamp to the right of the return address or on the longest side. For packages, place the stamp on the largest surface, away from seams. — Ashley Nicole Moss: News Anchor & Media Influence
Can I put multiple stamps on an envelope? Yes, you can use multiple stamps. Arrange them neatly in the upper right corner, but do not cover the address or return address.
What happens if I put the stamp in the wrong place? If the stamp is placed incorrectly, your mail might be delayed, returned to the sender, or require the recipient to pay extra.
How do I know how much postage to use? You can use the USPS website or visit your local post office to determine the correct postage amount based on the size, weight, and destination of your mail.
Is it okay if the stamp covers part of the return address? No, avoid covering the return address with the stamp.

Conclusion

Proper stamp placement ensures that your letters, cards, and packages reach their destination efficiently. By placing stamps in the upper right corner of standard envelopes, and following guidelines for larger mail, you're helping the USPS automate its sorting process, which leads to faster delivery times. Remembering these simple rules can save you time and trouble, ensuring that your mail arrives safely and promptly. Now that you know where to put the stamp, send your mail with confidence!

To learn more about sending mail and other USPS services, visit the USPS website.

Last updated: October 26, 2024, 10:00 UTC