
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: SUNDAY, December 11, 1994                   TAG: 9412130025
SECTION: EXTRA                    PAGE: 5   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

IF YOU WANT IT THERE BY CHRISTMAS:

Use a complete address, including apartment number, quadrant designation such as N.W. or S.W., and type of street, such as road, avenue or boulevard.

Never guess a Zip code. If you're unsure, call the post office to verify it.

On packages, use high-strength filament tape. Make sure the contents are well-padded, and that the only writing on the outside is the destination and return address.

When sending large envelopes, be sure to indicate the appropriate level of service, such as first-class or priority mail. Otherwise it may travel third-class and could be delayed.

Type or computer print addresses. Hand-addressed mail adds a personal touch, but it has to be sorted by workers instead of high-speed processing equipment.

Avoid colored envelopes, especially red and dark blue ones, which can cause havoc for scanning equipment. White provides the best contrast with blue or black ink.

If you use Christmas seals, don't put them on the corners of envelopes. They can be mistaken for foreign stamps and be rejected by cancelling machines.

If you want to make sure your cards arrive on time, mail them by Dec. 19. Although the post office promises three-day delivery across the country, mail volume will be particularly heavy, and that could cause delays.

by CNB