Zip Moving and Storage

The Fun Side of Moving

How to Correctly Write an Apartment Address

Reading time: 5 minutes

Writing an apartment address correctly ensures your mail gets where it needs to go without delays. The correct format is key when ordering a package or sending a letter. The address should include the recipient’s name, the street address with the apartment number clearly labeled, and the city, state, and ZIP code. Small mistakes like omitting “APT” or placing details on the wrong line can confuse you, so getting it right is important.

Let’s break down the proper format step by step! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:

Why Proper Formatting Matters

Incorrectly formatted addresses can lead to delayed deliveries, lost mail, or packages being sent to the wrong location. Understanding proper address formatting is essential for moving companies, real estate professionals, or anyone in the service industry to maintain customer satisfaction and avoid logistical issues.

How to Write an Apartment Address: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Start with the Recipient’s Name

The first line should always include the recipient’s full name. Avoid using nicknames or incomplete names, as this may confuse delivery.

Example:
John  Doe

2. Write the Street Address and Apartment Number

On the second line, include the building number and street name. If the recipient lives in an apartment, write the apartment number after the street name, either separated by a comma or on the same line after “Apt” or “#.”

Formats to Choose From:

  • 123 Main Street, Apt 4B
  • 123 Main Street #4B


Always use USPS-approved abbreviations for street types (e.g., “St” for Street, “Rd” for Road, “Ave” for Avenue).

3. Add the City, State, and ZIP Code

The next line should include the city, followed by the state abbreviation in capital letters and the ZIP code.

Example:
Springfield, IL 62704

4. International Addresses

If you are sending mail from outside the U.S., add “UNITED STATES” in all capital letters on the last line.

Example:
John Smith
123 Main Street, Apt 4B
Springfield, IL 62704
UNITED STATES

Common Address Abbreviations

Here are some commonly used abbreviations approved by USPS:

  • Apartment: Apt
  • Suite: Ste
  • Building: Bldg
  • Floor: Fl
  • Room: Rm


Using these abbreviations will save space and avoid potential formatting issues.

Mistakes to Avoid

1. Leaving Out the Apartment Number

If the apartment or unit number is omitted, the mail might not reach the intended recipient.

2. Using Incorrect Abbreviations

Stick to USPS-approved abbreviations to ensure clarity.

3. Excessive Punctuation

Unnecessary punctuation marks, such as periods or commas in ZIP codes, can confuse sorting systems.

4. Forgetting the ZIP+4 Code

Include the full ZIP+4 code whenever possible for faster and more accurate delivery. For example:

  • Springfield, IL 62704-1234

How do you write "Apt" in your apartment address?

Wondering how to include “Apt” in your address? It’s super simple. Just toss it on the second line right after the street name and number. You could spell out “Apartment” if you want, but honestly, “Apt” gets the job done faster and looks cleaner – it’s kind of the standard.

Some people put the apartment number on a third line and the city and state on a fourth. Technically, that’s not how it’s supposed to be, but guess what? Your mail will probably still make it. So, if you’re running out of space on the second line, feel free to sneak it onto a third. No harm, no foul.

Address ComponentAbbreviationExample
ApartmentAPT456 Elm St, APT 203
BuildingBLDG789 Oak Ave, BLDG B
FloorFL101 Pine Rd, BLDG A, FL 3
SuiteSTE555 Maple Dr, STE 12
RoomRM678 Birch Blvd, RM 45
DepartmentDEPT890 Cedar Ct, DEPT 102
UnitUNIT234 Spruce Ln, UNIT 4B

How to Write International Apartment Addresses?

Writing international apartment addresses requires careful formatting to ensure proper delivery. Follow these steps for accuracy:

  • Recipient’s Name: Write the full name of the mail recipient.
  • Apartment Information: Include “Apartment,” “APT,” or the local equivalent before the apartment number. For example, Apartment 5B or APT 5B.
  • Street Address: Add the street number and name, ensuring they match local conventions—for example, 123 Elm Street.
  • City and Postal Code: Write the city name followed by the postal or ZIP code. Example: London SW1A 1AA.
  • Country Name: Always include the destination country in uppercase letters on the last line. For example: UNITED KINGDOM.


Example Address Format

John Doe
APT 5B
123 Elm Street
London SW1A 1AA
UNITED KINGDOM

  • Extra advice – Always check the postal guidelines of the destination country to match their specific requirements.

Why Does This Matter for Moving Companies?

For moving companies, accurate address formatting ensures:

  • Proper scheduling and coordination.
  • Avoidance of miscommunication during pickups or deliveries.
  • An enhanced professional reputation by minimizing logistical errors.


When it comes to moving, even small details – like how to write “Apt” in your address can feel like a big deal. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to tackle it all alone.

At Moving and Storage, our friendly neighborhood movers are experts at turning stressful moves into smooth, worry-free experiences. From carefully packing your belongings to ensuring everything arrives safely at your new home, we’ve got your back every step of the way.

Why stress when you can move smarter? Contact Zip Moving and Storage today, and let us handle the hard work so you can enjoy the excitement of a fresh start!

Elevate your move with our checklist!

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.