When considering the mail, postcards give an efficient and cost-effective way of reaching recipients. From vacation greetings to a business promotion or simple note, knowing USPS postcard sizes and mailing tips could mean the difference in efficiently and effectively sending your message to your recipients. Here is a review of various postcard sizes accepted by USPS and some practical tips for mailing your postcards:.
Understanding USPS Postcard Sizes
The United States Postal Service has specifications on the size of postcards, which facilitate smooth processing and ensure that your note, or whatever piece of correspondence it is, arrives promptly. Here is a breakdown of key dimensions and their implications:
Standard Postcard Size
.Dimensions: 3.5 inches high x 5 inches long
.Usage: This size works very well for simple notes or brief updates, quick promotional pieces, and fits easily into most standard mail slots. It is also less expensive for bulk mailing.
Large Postcard Size
.Dimensions: 4.25 inches high x 6 inches long
.Use: Can hold more detailed content, such as detailed promotions, event invitations, or more elaborate greetings. Still within the standard size limits of the USPS but with a bit more real estate to be creative.
Oversized Postcards
Dimensions: 6 inches high x 11.5 inches long (maximum)
Use: Large postcards are ideal for catching attention. They are usually used for direct mail or to make special announcements. These, however may require additional postage because of the size.
Mailing Tips for Postcards
Good mailing practices will help your postcard campaign achieve its desired effect and ensure that your postcards reach their destinations without problems. The following are some tips to consider:
Follow USPS Guidelines
.Be sure your postcard meets the USPS size requirements. To qualify for postcard pricing, the mailpiece must be rectangular and meet the maximum and minimum size limits.
.Your postcard should be between 0.007 inch and 0.016 inch thick. If it’s thinner or thicker than this, it could be considered a letter or flat, impacting your postage costs.
Add Proper Addressing
.Always leave the space for the recipient’s address in the upper right corner of your postcard. This area needs to be clear and legible.
.Place your return address in the top left corner. This ensures that the postcard can be returned to you if there is a problem with delivery.
Design with Intention
.Be sure to leave room in your design for the USPS addressing requirements. Do not place any critical information where the address will be placed.
.Convey your message through contrasting colors and readable fonts. The front should catch eyeballs, while the back has to explicitly convey your message.
Notice Postage Rates
.USPS gives a reduced postage rate to a regular-sized postcard in contrast to letters. However if the size of the postcard is big or does not meet specifications of the standard, it would require additional postage.
.Determine the exact postage you will need to mail your postcard, looking at the dimensions and weight using USPS’s online postage calculator.
Protect Your Postcard
.You may want to use a hardy cardstock to withstand damage during transit. This helps not only to save the look of your postcard but also to present your message in good shape.
.If sending in bulk, make sure that the postcards are not bent or folded in the course of handling or on their way to the recipients.
Plan Your Mailing Schedule
.Timing can be everything when it comes to your mail campaign. For promotional postcards, be sure to send them at times that coincide with events, sales, or seasonal times of the year.
.Note that the actual time it takes for the postcard to be delivered will vary depending upon the distance it must travel and the efficiency of the postal service.
Conclusion
When you send postcards using the USPS, you can create a personal yet effective way of communicating. Knowing the various postcard sizes and a few mailing tips from the USPS will get the most from your postcard’s reach and efficiency. Whether you are sending personal greetings or running a marketing mail campaign, these guidelines will help your postcards arrive quickly and in great condition. So the next time that you’re about to mail a postcard, here are the things to consider: how to mail a postcard effectively.
