Mailing and residential address
Here's a breakdown of the differences between a mailing address and a residential address:
Mailing Address:
A mailing address is a standardized format used for sending mail and packages. It typically includes the following information:
- Street number or PO box number
- Street name or route number
- City or town name
- State or province abbreviation (if applicable)
- ZIP code or postal code (if applicable)
Example: 123 Main St, Anytown, CA 12345
Residential Address:
A residential address is a specific location where a person or family lives. It may include additional information beyond what's required for a mailing address, such as:
- Apartment or suite number (if applicable)
- Building or complex name (if applicable)
- Floor or unit number (if applicable)
- Neighborhood or district name (if applicable)
Example: 123 Main St, Apt 101, Anytown, CA 12345
Key differences:
- A mailing address is primarily used for sending mail and packages, while a residential address is used to identify a specific location where someone lives.
- A mailing address may not always match the exact location where someone lives, as it may be a PO box or a shared mailbox.
- A residential address typically includes more specific information, such as apartment or suite numbers, which can help identify a specific unit within a building.
When to use each:
- Use a mailing address when sending mail or packages to someone, as it's the most efficient and reliable way to ensure delivery.
- Use a residential address when providing your own address or when you need to identify a specific location, such as when filling out a form or registering for a service.