Postcard Design Specifications

Post cards must fit strict design standards.

Postcards appear basic in design, but are created to fit specific guidelines determined by the United States Postal Service. Postcards that do not meet these requirements can interfere with the mailing system and may not be delivered in a timely manner.

Size

Postcards should be rectangular, with an aspect ratio of 1.3 to 2.5. This number is calculated by taking the length of the postcard and dividing it by the height. A first-class postcard can range in size from 3.5 by 5 inches to 4.25 by 6 inches. Square postcards stand out from the usual rectangular mail but will not fit through automated postal machines, resulting in extra postage costs and longer delivery times.

Layout

Postcards should have a 5/8-inch clear area along the bottom for barcoding, and the address field must be free of text. A vertical line on the card used to separate the text and address areas can cause problems for a barcode reader.

Paper Stock

Non-glossy papers in a white or light color print best. The postcard's address area should be free of aqueous or UV coatings. These coatings require address labels, further increasing the cost of printing and mailing a postcard.

References

• American Direct Mail: Postcard Design Specs

Resources

• United States Postal Service: Physical Standards for Commercial Letters and Postcards