What Are Standard Direct Mail Sized?
When planning a direct mail campaign, it’s important to know what is standard direct mail size. Not only can a good size save you money on postal charges, but it also helps you stand out from the competition. There are plenty of choices when it comes to determining the best size for your postcard. The size you choose depends on many factors, including the message you are trying to send. Choosing the right size for your postcard can help you attract more responses and increase your ROI.
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For instance, if you are mailing a long-form sales letter or newsletter, an 8.5″ x 11″ standard letter is perfect. It will allow you to add plenty of space for mailing indicia and details. If you’re mailing a photo or an image, a 4″ x 2.25″ standard postcard will give you more room to put your image on the front and include a stamp or other design elements.
However, if you’re looking to create a special offer on your postcard, a smaller direct-mail postcard can be more effective. A smaller postcard can also be less expensive to print than a larger one.
Another factor to consider when choosing a standard direct mail size is your timeframe. During the holidays, a postcard might require a special delivery, so if you’re planning to advertise your holiday offerings in this way, it’s important to decide on a size that will be effective for your particular mailing. Generally, a 9″ x 12″ envelope produces the best response rates.
In addition to deciding on a size, you’ll want to make sure you’re using the right font and style for your marketing copy. Using an eye-catching font will help you grab and hold attention, boosting your response rate. Having an easy-to-read, informative, and attention-holding marketing message will help you sell your products and services.
When you’re putting together a direct mail campaign, it’s crucial to ensure your postcards comply with USPS requirements. The USPS has specific guidelines for what’s considered a true postcard, as well as other machinable pieces. You can check the Basic Standards for Mailing to learn more about these regulations.
If you’re sending your postcards through USPS, you should be aware of the size and weight restrictions for first-class, bulk, and non-bulk mail. These restrictions are labeled clearly, making it easier for you to comply.
Oversized postcards (also known as “flats”) are also governed by USPS guidelines. Unlike regular postcards, oversized postcards are not eligible for letter-rate postage. But, these postcards can still be mailed at First-Class or Market Mail rates, if they meet certain dimensions.
The size and weight of your postcards will also be a factor in the cost of sending them. For instance, a 6″ x 11″ postcard is much more expensive to print than a 3.5″ x 5″ card. Even if you’re printing a small number of postcards, you can save a lot of money by using a direct mail automation platform.
