What Are USPS Postcard Mailing Requirements for 2025?
Postcards are intended for writing and mailing without an envelope. They were initially developed in the late 19th century as a quick and affordable way to communicate before businesses started using them for marketing and promotions.
Whether you need postcards for business-related purposes or personal communications, you have to meet USPS mailing guidelines to ensure they qualify for mailing and avoid additional fees, delays, and delivery failure.
Postcard Size Requirements
To qualify for USPS postcard mailing, your card must adhere to a strict size requirement: It should be at least 3.5” x 5” and not larger than 6.12” x 11.5”. Postcards that are too small may get damaged by mail processing equipment, resulting in delivery failure. Or if they are too big, USPS will classify them as a “letter,” which means additional charges.
Postcard Shape Guidelines
To qualify for First-Class Mail postcard mailing and its benefits, your postcards should also adhere to the standard shape in addition to the size requirements. They should be rectangular with either square or rounded corners.
The USPS has a mail processing system that can only sort and handle postcards with a standard shape and size. Thus, using shapes other than a rectangle can lead to additional postage fees or mail delivery failure.
Paper Thickness Specifications
The paper should have a thickness between 0.007 inch and 0.016 inch to qualify for postcard mailing.
Thin and flimsy paper tends to get caught in mail processing equipment. If your postcards get damaged while being sorted and processed, they won’t reach the destination.
If you can’t determine the thickness of a paper, use an index card as a reference. If you’re still in doubt, your local post office can help you since they have a tool for measuring cardstock thickness.
Weight Limitations
Postcards must weigh no more than an ounce to qualify for First-Class Mail service and enjoy its benefits, which include a lower rate compared to letters and free forwarding and return.
If postcards exceed the standard weight, you may need to pay extra postage fees or require a special mailing service. Thus, avoid using decorative items like stickers and ribbons that can add weight to the paper.
Addressing Postcards Correctly
The USPS has a strict set of guidelines when addressing postcards. Here are some of them:
- The right side of a postcard is for the destination address, while the left portion is for the message.
- Leave enough space (about 4.25” x 1.5”) for barcodes and postmarks.
- Write legibly and clearly, preferably using block letters or a clean, simple font.
- Avoid decorative attachments, such as stickers, magnets, ribbons, and other items because they may disqualify the mail piece for mailing at the First-Class Mail postcard price — or even make it non-mailable.
Postcard Design and Content Guidelines
Postcards are primarily designed for short messages or greetings, so they often have simple designs and content. Follow these tips to create an impactful and memorable correspondence.
- Generally speaking, the copy should be around 20% - 30% of the postcard’s surface area. The idea is to leave enough white space or “breathing room” between text and other elements to improve visual appeal, readability, and focus.
- If you use postcards for marketing and promotions, make sure to include a call to action, which would encourage the readers to take a specific step. Common examples include Call a Phone Number, Register Now, Join Now, Visit a Website/Store, and Scan a QR Code.
- Do not use glossy finishes on the address section. Although you can use postcards made of glossy cardstock, make sure the area for address and barcode stays matte to keep them scannable and readable.
- Use legible and readable fonts for postcards. Examples include Helvetica, Lato, Calibri, Futura, Georgia, and Verdana.
- Use respectful and appropriate language on your postcards. Keep it friendly, polite, and welcoming.
- To ensure compliance, use a design template. NextDayFlyers offers free design templates to help you print postcards that meet USPS requirements without the guesswork. The templates are categorized based on industries, from healthcare services and retailers to food businesses and construction.
- You can also seek the help of experts, such as your local postal officer or a trusted printing service provider.
Conclusion:
Now that you know USPS postcard mailing requirements, you can send out your postcards without the risk of additional fees, delivery failure, and delays.
If you’re ready to print your postcards for marketing promotions, special events, or personal use, NextDayFlyers offers a wide range of customization options, including different laminations, thickness, and folding styles.