Whenever you enter a domestic address into Pirate Ship, our system runs it through the USPS address database for validation purposes 👍 If the address isn't a direct match, Pirate Ship will automatically correct it using the suggestions USPS makes.
This usually results in small changes, like fixing a spelling error, or changing "Street" to "Drive." However, it isn't uncommon for street names, city names, or zipcodes to change either!
The best way to doublecheck the autocorrections you're seeing on your label is by using the Look Up a ZIP Code tool on the USPS website. Here, you can:
Search for the entire address, and view any corrections
If the zipcode changed, search by city/state to see the recommended zipcodes
If the city changed, search by the zipcode to see what cities it covers
If USPS is unable to find the address in their database AND has no suggestions, they'll assume you know best and accept the address anyway 😉 The package should still make its way to your recipient's local Post Office, but it's up to their local mail carrier to deliver it to the right place.
What if Pirate Ship says my address is invalid, but it is correct in the USPS database?
This will most frequently happen when the address in the database does not contain a ZIP+4. When a ZIP+4 is missing, USPS does not recognize it as an address they deliver mail to directly 🙈 This can happen when they don't have street delivery in that area, or if it's a brand new building that hasn't been added to the database yet. In this case, you'll need to see if your recipient has an alternate address you can use, like a PO Box.
Why does Google Maps say the original version of the address is correct?
Google Maps sometimes shows addresses that USPS simply doesn't deliver mail to. USPS relies solely on their own database and address validation system to deliver a package successfully, not Google 🙁
Can I add or change an address in the USPS database?
Yes! This can easily be done by visiting your local Post Office, or finding your local Address Management System Office.
I want to use the address I was provided. Can I turn off the autocorrections?
We strongly recommend keeping any autocorrections that USPS suggests! If the address doesn't match what's in their database, there's a chance the package will be returned to you 😅
If you still wish to disable address corrections, simply head to your Settings > General Settings, and select "Disabled" under Enable Automatic Address Correction.
Just remember, Automatic Address Correction is there to ensure that USPS considers the address deliverable, and will help correct any spelling mistakes! Disable this setting at your own risk 😜
Have any questions? Click the blue chat button to get in touch with our support crew!