How to send a Letter in Germany (Simple Step by Step Guide) #

What you will need to send a letter in Germany

• An envelope and your letter
• The recipient’s full address (as it appears on their mailbox)
• Postage (stamp, mobile stamp code, or online/printed postage)

Tip: In Germany, mail is delivered only if the recipient’s name is on the mailbox. If it isn’t, add “c/o / z. H. / bei” with the host’s name.

Step 1: How to write address on the envelope correctly? #

Write the recipient’s address bottom-right. Sender (your) address goes top-left. Format for German addresses:

Keep a small margin around the address so machines can read it.

Step 2: Choose your postage #

Option A) Buy a physical stamp (in person) #

Get stamps at a Deutsche Post branch, DHL shop, or stamp-selling kiosk. Some locations may only accept cash/Girocard (not all take Visa/Mastercard).

Option B) Use a Mobile Stamp (App) #

In the Post & DHL app, buy a “Mobile Briefmarke,” then write the 2-line code (e.g., “#PORTO” + 8-character code) in the stamp area (top-right). Supports Postcard, Standard, Compact, and Large letter; no add-ons/tracking. Pay via PayPal, credit card, Apple/Google Pay. deutschepost.de

Option C) Print online postage (Internetmarke) #

Buy and print postage at home. Useful for international letters or if you need add-ons (e.g., registered).

Step 3: How to send a letter? #

• Drop in a yellow mailbox (Briefkasten) or hand it in at a post office.
• Use the location finder to see the nearest box/branch and last collection times (“Leerung”). deutschepost.de

Step 4: Need tracking or proof? Use Registered Mail (Einschreiben) #

• Einschreiben Einwurf – carrier records that it was put in the mailbox; no signature.
• Einschreiben Standard – delivered with signature (any adult at the address can sign).
•  Add-ons:
  • Rückschein – you get a signed receipt card back.
  • Eigenhändig – only the named recipient may sign.

• Liability (loss/damage): up to €20 (Einwurf) or €25 (Standard). Buy online or at the counter.

How long does it take? #

Most domestic letters arrive next business day if posted before the last pickup. Delays can happen around holidays or strikes.

Quick decision guide (what to pick) #

• Just sending a normal letter in Germany?
  Use Mobile Stamp or a €0.95 stamp, drop in any yellow box.
• Sending abroad or need extras (e.g., registered)?
  Use printed online postage (Internetmarke) or buy at a branch
• Need proof it arrived?
  Choose Einschreiben (Einwurf for mailbox proof, Standard for a signature).

Common mistakes to avoid #

• Name mismatch on mailbox: Letter may be returned.
• Wrong placement of the address: Machine can’t read it. Keep it bottom-right with margins.
• Choosing add-ons in the app: The Mobile Stamp doesn’t support extras/tracking. Use Internetmarke or the counter for add-ons.

Sending a letter in Germany is simple once you know the steps with the right postage, a clear address, and a yellow mailbox nearby, your mail will be on its way in no time.

Read our guide about Germany Pfand system