How to Choose the Right Postcard Size and Finish for Your Services

Choosing the right postcard size and finish helps your business stand out and connect with customers. Larger postcards are best for big promotions, while smaller ones work for quick reminders. Finishes like glossy, matte, or soft-touch add the right look and feel to match your brand.

A McKinsey report found that people's time spent consuming content has grown by just 1-2% annually over the past decade. This means getting real attention is harder than ever. A postcard with the right size and finish can help your message break through.

Picking the right postcard is more than just choosing a design. The way it looks and feels can shape how people see your business. Learn how to choose a postcard size and finish that grabs attention and leaves a strong impression.

What Is the Standard Postcard Size?

The most common postcard size across most printing services for postcards is 4"x6". This size is compact, cost-effective, and qualifies for the lowest postage rates. For many businesses, it is the starting point for direct mail campaigns.

A 4"x6" postcard is perfect for short messages and simple offers. It is easy for customers to read quickly without feeling cluttered. Standard postcard dimensions have been a reliable option for decades.

What's the Best Postcard Size for Me?

The best postcard size depends on your business goals. Larger cards give you more room for details, while smaller ones are better for quick messages. Choosing the right size helps your postcard make a stronger impact.

A 6"x9" or 6"x11" card works well for launches, promotions, and big events. Consequently, a 4"x6" card is perfect for reminders or short updates. Designs with lots of images or text need more space, while simple layouts look sharp on smaller cards.

Use Finish to Control the Look and Feel

First impressions matter in every aspect of life and business. A postcard's finish sets the tone before your message is even read. Glossy finishes highlight bold colors and make images look sharp, while matte finishes create a smooth, premium look.

Matte finishes are also easier to write on, which is useful if you want to add a personal note. Glossy postcards are often chosen for vibrant designs and image-heavy layouts. Both options help businesses stand out in different ways.

Leverage Oversized Postcards for Mailbox Dominance

Oversized postcards offer a major advantage in crowded mailboxes. Their larger surface area makes them hard to miss. When planning an oversized campaign, consider the following:

• 6"x9" postcards are large enough to stand out but still affordable to mail
• 6"x11" postcards dominate the mailbox and deliver maximum impact
• Extra space allows you to include more details without crowding the design
• Bigger postcards are often saved longer because they look more important

Oversized postcards give you more room to tell your story and highlight your services. They can guarantee effective direct mail for those who want to make a bold statement. These bigger postcards can be used for special events, promotions, or new service launches.

Choose Finishes That Align with Brand Personality

Every business has a unique brand personality. Postcard finishes should reflect that personality clearly and consistently. By choosing a paper finish according to your brand, you create a stronger connection with customers.

For example, a soft-touch coating feels smooth and elegant, ideal for medical or real estate services. A UV spot coating highlights key details like your logo or call-to-action. Each choice shapes the impression customers will form.

Balance Design With Mailing Costs

Cost plays an important role in postcard marketing. Small businesses should weigh the trade-off between savings and impact. Key factors to consider include:

• Standard 4"x6" postcards qualify for the lowest postage rate
• Oversized postcards (6"x9" or 6"x11") cost slightly more to mail
• Larger cards may increase response rates, offsetting the extra cost
• Postage discounts are available for high-volume campaigns

Balancing postcard design options and budget ensures your campaign stays effective while remaining affordable. Ensure your mailing costs are proportionate to your needs. The right postcard size can make both your message and your spending go further.

Why Postcard Size Matters for ROI

Postcard size influences how your message is received. Larger cards often get more attention and can carry more information. Smaller cards, however, may deliver quick, targeted reminders at a lower cost.

ROI improves when size and finish match your business goals. The most effective campaigns balance creativity with strategy, helping your message stand out in a crowded market. By testing different sizes, you can learn what works best for your audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Design Postcards in Custom Sizes?

Yes. While most printers offer standard options, many also allow custom sizes. This can give your postcard a unique look, but it may affect printing and mailing costs.

What Postcard Size Works Best for Coupons or Vouchers?

Medium-sized cards, like 5"x7", are popular for coupons. They are large enough to cut out and save, but not so big that they feel wasteful.

Do Certain Industries Benefit More From Specific Postcard Sizes?

Yes. Real estate agents often use larger postcards to show property photos, while medical offices may use mid-size cards for appointment reminders. Home service businesses might prefer smaller cards for quick seasonal offers.

How Does Postcard Orientation Affect Size Choice?

Postcards can be designed in landscape or portrait orientation. Landscape often works better for images, while portrait is useful for bold headlines and vertical layouts. Orientation can change how much space feels available, even at the same size.

Is There a Limit to How Large a Postcard Can Be?

Yes. The U.S. Postal Service has maximum size rules for postcards that still qualify for mailing. Anything larger may be treated as a flat or flyer, which can change postage rates.

Discover the Best Postcard Size and Finish for Your Business

Choosing the right postcard size makes your message more effective. Finishes add personality and reinforce your brand. Together, these elements help your business stand out and connect with new customers.

At Taradel, we make direct mail and digital marketing easy. Our platform helps small businesses design, launch, and track campaigns in minutes. Start your campaign today and see how the right postcard size can help your business grow.