With a flap that opens on the short end of the envelope, an open end policy envelope is a contemporary alternative to a standard # 10 envelope, which opens on the long end. The contemporary vertical orientation of policy envelopes often leads to the question: “What is the proper way to address policy envelopes?”
The answer to this question is that there is no “right” way to address policy envelopes. It is simply a matter of preference.
Address envelopes vertically
Since policy envelopes have a vertical orientation, some feel inclined to address them in the same direction that they will be opened in. To address your envelopes in the vertical fashion, it works best to place the recipient’s address on the front of the envelope, and the return address on the back flap, as shown below. If you prefer, you could also place the return address in the upper left hand corner opposite the stamp. Just note that since the envelope is thin, this does not always look right with long return addresses.
Please note that vertically addressed policy envelopes require additional postage.
Address envelopes horizontally
As shown below, you can also orient your addresses horizontally, as you would with a standard #10 envelope. Keep in mind that with this method, your addresses will not run parallel to the direction of opening. You also eliminate the option to place the return address on the back flap.
Question: If you address the policy envelope horizontally, would you recommend orienting the flap on the left or right side when you turn the envelope over which will have a logo or address on it?
Thank you for your question Natalie. We recommend that you address the envelope with the flap left aligned, not right aligned. This way, there is far less chance of envelope damage if the envelope is run through a postage machine.