Your 2024 Guide to Postcard Rates
When it comes to mailing postcards through the United States Postal Service (USPS), understanding the size requirements and rates can help you save money and ensure that your mail is processed efficiently. However, it can be difficult to sift through all the specs and pricing that come along with USPS mailings. We're here to help! Here's our quick reference guide for your 2024 - 2025 postcard rates, sizes, and additional considerations.
In short, the standard size for a USPS postcard is 4.25 x 6 inches, and if sent first class, it will cost about $0.48 to $0.56 per piece (8/21/24). This size is commonly used for postcards, and if you're sending one through the mail, it needs to be at least 3.5 x 5 inches and no more than 6 x 11.5 inches in size to qualify for postcard rates.
Postcard Sizes:
USPS has specific size guidelines for postcards, and adhering to these can impact both the cost and delivery of your mail. You can see all USPS sizing on their website.
- Standard Size: The most common postcard size is 4.25 x 6 inches. This size is widely used for personal and promotional postcards due to its balance between visibility and cost.
- Minimum Size: A postcard must be at least 3.5 x 5 inches.
- Maximum Size: Postcards can be no larger than 6 x 11.5 inches to be eligible for postcard rates. Larger postcards will need to be mailed at letter or package rates.
- Thickness: Postcards must be between 0.007 and 0.016 inches in thickness. This ensures they can be processed efficiently without causing issues in the sorting machinery.
USPS Postcard Rates:
USPS offers a special rate for postcards that is generally lower than the rate for letters. Here’s a breakdown of the rates and benefits:
- First-Class Mail Postcard Rate: As of 2024, the rate for a standard postcard sent via First-Class Mail is 48 to 56 cents. This rate is applicable for postcards that meet the size and thickness requirements mentioned above.
- Marketing Mail Postcard Rate: For bulk mailings of 200 or more, USPS offers discounted rates through Marketing Mail. These rates vary based on volume and other factors but can be significantly lower than the standard First-Class rate.
- Non-Profit: As of 2024, the USPS Nonprofit postcard rate is 32 cents. This rate is specifically for postcards sent by qualifying nonprofit organizations that meet certain criteria.
- Additional Services: If you need tracking, delivery confirmation, or insurance, these services are available but may increase the overall cost. Standard postcard rates do not include these extras.
Additional Considerations:
- Maximize impact at the lowest cost: Talk to your Colortech representative (that's what we're here for!) to understand the largest size you can go within your postage cost. For example, you may be able to mail a 6 x 11 inch postcard for the same cost as a 5 x 6 inch postcard. The print cost between those sizes will be very minimal in comparison to the additional real estate and the same postage price.
- Design and Layout: Ensure your postcard design adheres to USPS guidelines for size and layout. This will prevent delays or additional charges.
- Bulk Mailings: If sending a large volume of postcards, explore USPS’s bulk mailing options for potential discounts and additional services. Give us a call to discuss your options and get a quote, free of charge!
By understanding these guidelines and rates, you can effectively utilize USPS postcard services to communicate with your audience or correspond with friends and family in a cost-effective and efficient manner.
Still unsure? We're always here to help!