Choosing the Right Standard Postcard Size for Printing and Mailing

Written by UPrinting    ●    Updated on December 12, 2023

Postcards continue to be one of the most affordable and flexible tools for marketing and communication. Whether you’re promoting a sale, sending invites, or sharing personal updates, picking the right size is key to making sure your message stands out while fitting within USPS mailing guidelines at the same time.

Most Popular Postcard Sizes

Postcards are available in a range of sizes tailored to different messaging needs and mailing specs. Some formats are more commonly used due to their practicality, eye-catching dimensions, and postage advantages.

Here’s a quick overview of the top postcard sizes that businesses, marketers, and individuals commonly choose:

Choosing the right size makes a noticeable difference, not just in design impact, but also in postage classification and handling efficiency.

Common Postcard Dimensions

Beyond the most-used options, here are standard postcard sizes often used for various campaign types:

• 4" x 6"
• 4.25" x 6"
• 5" x 7"
• 5.5" x 8.5"
• 6" x 9"
• 6" x 11"

These sizes let you tailor your design—whether you need something compact or want to command more attention with a larger format.

Folded Postcard Options

Need more real estate to tell your story? Folded postcards offer extra space for visuals, offers, or event details. Choose between half-fold or trifold styles depending on how much content you want to include.

Half-Fold Sizes:

• 8.5" x 6" (folds to 4.25” x 6”)
• 10" x 7" (folds to 5” x 7”)
• 11" x 8.5" (folds to 5.5” x 8.5”)
• 12" x 9" (folds to 6” x 9”)
• 12" x 11" (folds to 6” x 11”)

Trifold Sizes:

• 12.75" x 6" (folds to 4.25” x 6”)
• 15" x 7" (folds to 5” x 7”)
• 16.5" x 8.5" (folds to 5.5” x 8.5”)

Folded formats are great for storytelling, multi-offer promotions, or events with schedules and detailed information.

Postcard Design Tips

No matter how creative your design, it’s essential to follow USPS layout standards. Misplaced address blocks or indicia can cause delays or incur extra postage. To make things easier, you can download free layout templates on the Templates tab, each one aligned with USPS mailing specs. Need a hand? Reach out via Live Chat or call 1-888-888-4211 for expert assistance with design or mailing.

Mailing Guidelines for Standard Postcards

Flat or folded, your postcard must stay within USPS size rules: minimum of 4" x 6", maxing out at 6" x 11".

Postage Tips:

• Sizes up to 4.25" x 6" qualify for First-Class Postcard rates (quick delivery, lower postage).
• Larger sizes up to 6" x 11" fall under First-Class Letter or Standard Bulk Mail, depending on your mailing volume.

More mailing details can be found on the Mailing tab of this page

What if Your Postcard is Oversized?

Postcards exceeding size limits can still be mailed, just with a few adjustments:

• Insert them into envelopes (additional postage applies).
• Use the self-mailer option (hand-stamp and deliver directly).
• Let us handle it for you! We offer complete mailing services. Once printed, we prep your postcards in 2–3 business days. Folded pieces take an extra 2 days for sealing (tabbing).

For delivery, you can choose:

• First-Class Mail (3–5 business days, faster but pricier)
• Standard Bulk Mail (5–14 business days, more economical)

(Note: Delivery times may vary during peak seasons or bad weather.)

Your choice of postcard size affects everything from postage rates to visual impact. Whether you’re planning a flash sale, sharing an invite, or sending an update, UPrinting offers expert support, professional printing, and mailing services to help you deliver your message beautifully and on time.