Postcard USPS Specifications

Standard & First Class Requirements & Automated (Bulk Rate) Mail

First Class Postcard - a First Class Postcard has a current rate of 28¢. The smallest mailable size for ANY postcard is 3.5" x 5." The largest postcard size for mailing at the First Class (28¢) rate is 4.25" x 6." The paper thickness must be at least 0.007" (mil) and not more than 0.016" (mil) in thickness.

Jumbo Postcards - oversized postcards can measure up to 6.125" x 11," but the postage required is the standard letter rate of 44¢. The paper thickness of a postcard over 4.25" X 6" postcard must be at least 0.009" (mil) and not more than 0.25" (mil) in thickness.

First Class Postcard Specification Chart

28¢ Rate
Length
Height
Thickness

Minimum
5"
3.5"
0.007"

Maximum
6"
4.25"
0.016"

Jumbo Postcard Specification Chart

44¢ Rate
Length
Height
Thickness

Minimum
5"
3.5"
0.009"

Maximum
11.5"
6.125"
0.25"

Aspect Ratio - in order to receive the lower automation postage rates or the 24¢ First Class postcard rate your postcard must have an "aspect ratio" between 1.3 and 2.5 to qualify. The aspect ratio is simply a number calculated by taking the length of the postcard and dividing it by the height. There is one exception: a postcard with the dimension 5 1/2 inches by 4 1/4 inches, which is exactly the size of a standard letter-sized piece of paper divided precisely into 4 equal pieces which is an aspect ration of 1.29 as there is no paper waste.

Clear Areas - the address clear area and barcode clear area must be completely free of any text to qualify for automation postage rates. A background graphic is permitted, but must be 7% greyscale or less.

Contrast - the address area background must be white or a light color.

Coatings - the address area must be completely free of UV or aqueous coatings or laser addressing will not be possible as the toner will not adhere. Labels can be used, but it will cost more money and look less attractive.

Postcard Specifications Template

Download Postcard Specifications PDF

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