A Guide on Standard Postcard Sizes and Dimensions
Postcards are one of the best ways to spread your message, send greetings, and get your brand recognized. When it comes to postcard printing, it's important to consider factors such as fonts, colors, materials, and finishes. However, if you want your postcard to fit perfectly in the mail and look great – then size matters. In this guide, we'll get into the details of postcard sizing and learn about the correct guidelines to ensure your postcards not only meet requirements but also grab attention.
What Is the Standard Size For a Postcard?
The typical standard size for a postcard in the United States is 4" x 6". This size is convenient as it easily fits into most envelopes and mailboxes. Moreover, postcards of this size qualify for First-Class Mail pricing, which makes them affordable and ideal for sending out bulk promotions.
NextDayFlyers' Postcard Sizes
Can’t decide which postcard size is right for you? NextDayFlyers offers a wide range of standard postcard sizes for you to choose from.
| Size | Size in Millimeters | Size in Pixels | Description | Ideal Usage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5" x 8.5" | 88.9 mm x 215.9 mm | 1050 px x 2550 px | Slim and elongated, like a bookmark. | Vertical content, event schedules, or product lists. |
| 4" x 6" | 101.6 mm x 152.4 mm | 1200 px x 1800 px | Classic and versatile, like a standard photo. | General promotions, event invitations, or quick |
| 4" x 9" | 101.6 mm x 228.6 mm | 1200 px x 2700 px | Slightly elongated, resembling a standard envelope. | Menus, product lists, or detailed service offerings. |
| 4.25" x 6" | 107.95 mm x 152.4 mm | 1275 px x 1800 px | Slightly larger than the standard shape with a unique shape. | Event promotions with additional space for visuals and details. |
| 5" x 7" | 127 mm x 177.8 mm | 1500 px x 2100 px | Larger than the standard, providing a spacious canvas./td> | Showcasing product images, detailed promotions, or special events. |
| 5.5" x 8.5" | 139.7 mm x 215.9 mm | 1650 px x 2550 px | Mid-sized with a balanced layout. | Various promotions, announcements, or product launches. |
| 6" x 8" | 152.4 mm x 203.2 mm | 1800 px x 2400 px | Rectangular with a wide layout. | Horizontal-oriented content, showcasing landscapes, or detailed information. |
| 6" x 9" | 152.4 mm x 228.6 mm | 1800 px x 2700 px | Larger postcard with ample space for content. | Comprehensive promotions, product catalogs, or detailed service offerings. |
| 6" x 11" | 152.4 mm x 279.4 mm | 1800 px x 3300 px | Large and elongated, resembling a standard sheet. | Showcasing extensive information, promotional calendars, or detailed listings. |
| 8.5" x 11" | 215.9 mm x 279.4 mm | 2550 px x 3300 px | Standard letter size, providing ample space. | Detailed information, product catalogs, or presenting a wide array of visuals. |
3.5" x 8.5"
This size is slim and elongated, resembling a bookmark. Perfect for showcasing event schedules, service lists, and presenting menus, it ensures your message stands out. Postcards of this size can also work as rack cards, which can be displayed at lobbies or reception areas.
4" x 6"
Our classic and versatile size is as big as a standard photo. This is the most popular postcard size and is the go-to for general promotions, event invitations, or any quick announcements. Since it’s eligible for First-Class Mail, it’s considered affordable and ideal for widespread, budget-friendly campaigns.
4" x 9"
This size is like our 3.5” x 8.5” postcard, except it’s slightly elongated like a standard envelope. Postcards of this size have extra space for more details or long texts. Use this postcard for more descriptive menus, product lists, and service offerings.
4.25" x 6"
Slightly larger than the classic but comes in a unique shape so it easily stands out. This size grabs attention and leaves room for creative and impactful designs. 4.25" x 6" postcards also qualify for First-Class Mail, and are great for handing out at trade shows, sending out announcements, promoting new products and services, and more.
5" x 7"
Our medium-sized postcard is larger than the classic postcard and perfectly balances text and images. This size offers the best canvas for showing product images, detailed promotions, or special events while staying within budget.
5.5" x 8.5"
5.5" x 8.5" or half-page postcards are versatile in size and balanced in layout. It can fit image-heavy content, making it suitable for introducing your brand, or advertising promotions, announcements, and product launches.
6" x 8"
If you prefer a wider postcard, this is the postcard for you. This size is best suited for horizontal-oriented content like captivating landscapes, large images, and detailed information.
6" x 9"
6” x 9” postcards are considered large or oversized and have plenty of space for image- and text-heavy content. You can even include a large call-to-action statement that will capture the attention of your audience. Postcards of this size are suitable for comprehensive promotions, product catalogs, or extensive service offerings.
6" x 11"
If you have a bigger budget and want to make a bigger impact, 6” x 11” postcards are the way to go. This size is ideal for showcasing multiple images, extensive information, promotional calendars, or detailed product listings. Whether handed out at events or trade shows or sent through the mail, this size is impossible to miss.
8.5" x 11"
8.5” x 11” postcards are standard letter size with ample space. They're perfect for businesses that need to show plenty of photos or images, detailed information, or present product catalogs.
Postcard Design Guidelines
Now that you understand postcard sizes and dimensions, you’re ready to create your own! Before you get started, it’s important to follow the design guidelines below, use one of our customizable design templates, or check out the layout templates in the Templates tab if you already have a print-ready file so that your postcards will print out correctly and accurately.
- Safe zone – where images or text should be placed. Important text and images should not be placed beyond the dotted area to avoid getting trimmed off.
- Trim – the actual cut of the final design.
- Bleed – this prevents white edges around the postcard when cut. Make sure to extend your design by 1/8” for edge-to-edge prints.
- Border – if your design has a border, the minimum border thickness is 3/8" from the bleed line.
- Recipient’s name and address – placed on the right-hand side of the postcard. This is where you’ll put the name of your recipient and their address.
- Postal clear zone – the space on the upper right corner of the postcard above the recipient’s information. This is where the stamp or indicia will be placed.
- Message – when creating your postcard, use this blank space to personalize your message for your audience.
- Return address – the return address is where the sender's address is located. It is where the recipient can respond or where the postcard will be returned if undelivered.
USPS’ Postcard Guidelines
If you’re considering sending out your postcards through mail, it’s essential to be aware of the USPS’ (The United States Postal Service) postcard guidelines. Depending on the size of the postcard, here are the requirements for the following mailing rates:
First-Class Mail
- Should be rectangular
- Postcard size should be a minimum of 3.5” x 5” (must be 0.007 inch thick) up to 4.25” x 6” (must be 0.016 inches thick)
Standard Letter or First-Class Letter
- Postcards with sizes 4.5” x 6” up to 6” x 11.5”
- Must be rectangular
EDDM
- Postcards with sizes at least 6.125” x 10.5” or 0.25” thick
- Postcards with a maximum size of 12” x 15” or 0.75” thick
- Must weigh less than 3.03 ounces
When creating postcards, choosing the right size and dimensions is crucial. This can greatly impact the effectiveness of your message, whether you’re sending greetings to loved ones or promoting a business. Don’t forget to follow the correct guidelines and tips we've provided in this guide so that you can create postcards that stand out and resonate with your audience.