Direct Mail Postcard Size Comparison Guide
Postcard size affects the space available for your message, artwork layout, printing specifications, and potentially your mailing costs. The best choice depends on the offer and the mailing service you plan to use.
4 × 6 postcards
A compact format for a focused message, such as one offer, a business name, and a clear response method. Check the mailing service and postal classification before choosing this size.
5 × 7 postcards
A larger canvas for photographs, product highlights, or a more detailed promotional message. Confirm current postage and mailing requirements.
6 × 9 postcards
A useful format when a promotion needs more room for visuals, terms, or multiple service highlights. Compare production and mailing costs.
6 × 11 postcards
An extended format that can accommodate substantial creative content. Confirm actual finished dimensions and eligibility for the intended USPS service.
Oversized direct mail
Larger mailpieces can support prominent visuals and more detailed information. Verify available printing specifications, postal dimensions, thickness, and preparation requirements.
How to Choose Your Postcard Size
Start with your campaign objective. A simple coupon may need less space than a promotion featuring multiple services or product photographs. Keep the main offer and call to action easy to read.
Artwork, Bleed and Safe Areas
Confirm the printer's finished-size template, bleed requirements, resolution, and safe text areas before designing. Keep essential text clear of trim edges and required postal addressing areas.
Check USPS Eligibility Before Ordering
Not every postcard size qualifies for every postal service or rate. EDDM has specific dimensional and other eligibility requirements. Confirm current rules using official USPS guidance before printing or preparing your mailing.
Compare the Full Campaign Cost
Consider printing, design, postage, mailing preparation, and any distribution services. A larger postcard may provide more creative space, but the lowest printing price alone does not determine the lowest overall campaign cost.
Explore EDDM printing guidance or review available EDDM packages. Confirm actual available sizes and prices on the applicable product pages.
Related Direct Mail Planning Resources
Continue planning your campaign with these complementary guides.
- Direct Mail Offer Design — Develop a clear offer and customer response
- Campaign Budget Planning — Estimate printing, postage and campaign expenses
- Landing Page Planning — Connect printed mail to measurable online responses