Standard Postcards
Standard Postcards Overview
Standard postcards—also known as custom postcards or postcard printing—are a cost-effective marketing tool designed for direct mail, handouts, and promotional campaigns.
Printed on durable cardstock with multiple finish options, postcards deliver strong visual impact while remaining practical for everyday marketing. Many sizes are mailing-friendly, making them useful for promotions, announcements, direct mail campaigns, and customer follow-ups. Before choosing a size, review our guide to USPS postcard size requirements and mailing guidelines to help reduce mailing issues and avoid unnecessary postage costs.
From bulk postcard printing to local promotions and customer outreach, standard postcards provide reliable brand visibility. For postal campaigns, consider EDDM postcards. For premium presentation, explore UV & foil postcards.
Common Use Cases for Standard Postcards
Standard postcards are widely used for promotions, event announcements, direct mail campaigns, business marketing, and customer retention. Their lightweight format makes them easy to distribute through both mailing programs and in-person marketing efforts.
For more distinctive campaigns, die-cut postcards provide a customized alternative.
How to Choose the Right Postcard
The best postcard depends on your design and campaign goals. Gloss and UV coatings enhance color vibrancy, while matte finishes offer a softer, more refined appearance. Uncoated stocks are ideal for handwritten notes, addressing, or personalization.
Standard postcards remain one of the most effective marketing formats for businesses seeking a balance between reach, impact, and cost.
Paper Options and Print Finishes
Choose from a range of premium cardstock options, starting with economical 14pt stocks and industry-standard 16pt premium stocks, including Eco White Cover and Premium Pearl. For a heavier feel, 17pt and 18pt specialty papers offer added rigidity and texture. To compare the difference in thickness, feel, durability, and common use cases, review our 14pt vs 16pt cardstock guide before choosing your postcard paper.
Sizes and Layout Flexibility
Popular sizes include 4" × 6", 5" × 7", and 5.5" × 8.5", along with larger formats for expanded messaging. Both horizontal and vertical layouts are supported, and many sizes align with USPS mailing standards for predictable postage and delivery.
Design Tips for High-Performance Postcards
Successful postcards focus on clear messaging, strong visual hierarchy, and a single call to action. Keep layouts clean, use high-contrast elements, and prioritize readability.
If needed, our Design Services can help optimize your artwork for print and mailing requirements. All design fees can be credited toward your final print order.
Standard Postcards Paper Options
Select the right paper stock based on finish, durability, and how your postcards will be used.
14 pt. Cardstock Gloss
- Smooth gloss coated surface for vibrant, high-impact color
- Bright finish enhances images and graphic details
- Sturdy cardstock with a classic premium feel
- 14 pt. thickness
14 pt. High Gloss UV (Front Only)
- High-gloss UV coating applied to the front side only
- Enhances color depth and shine on the printed face
- Back side remains uncoated for a clean, natural feel
- Smooth, polished appearance with strong visual impact
- 14 pt. thickness
14 pt. Matte Lamination
- Matte laminated surface with a smooth, non-glare finish
- Reduces reflections for a clean, professional appearance
- Lamination adds durability and scratch resistance
- Premium cardstock feel
- 14 pt. thickness
16 pt. High Gloss UV
- High-gloss UV coated surface for maximum shine and visual impact
- Enhances color depth and contrast for bold graphics
- Smooth, polished finish with a premium appearance
- Extra-sturdy cardstock feel
- 16 pt. thickness
16 pt. Premium Eco White Cover
- Eco-friendly white cover stock made with recycled content
- Natural, uncoated surface with a clean paper feel
- Contains a writable surface for notes, signatures, and stamps
- Extra-sturdy cover stock with a sustainable focus
- 16 pt. thickness
17 pt. Premium Linen
- Subtle woven linen texture with a refined, tactile paper feel
- Natural, uncoated surface with a classic, elegant appearance
- Contains a writable surface for notes and signatures
- Extra-sturdy cardstock with a premium textured finish
- 17 pt. thickness
18 pt. Natural Textured
- Pronounced natural texture with a rich, tactile paper feel
- Uncoated surface with a warm, organic appearance
- Contains a writable surface for notes and signatures
- Heavyweight cardstock with a distinctive textured finish
- 18 pt. thickness
16 pt. Premium Pearl
- Smooth pearl finish with a subtle shimmer and radiant look
- Soft metallic sheen adds depth and visual elegance
- Bright surface enhances highlights and color contrast
- Extra-sturdy cardstock with a refined, luminous feel
- 16 pt. thickness
Frequently Asked Questions
What are standard postcards used for?
What paper options are available?
Can postcards be printed on both sides?
Can I write on postcards?
Can I choose the orientation of my postcard?
Are rounded corners available?
Can I upload my own design?
Product Specs & Templates
Our production team will remove the guideline lines before printing, and they will NOT appear on the final product.
We believe effective visual communication starts with clarity, responsibility, and thoughtful planning. Our focus is not just on outcomes, but on building a reliable process that delivers consistent results across every order.
By combining efficient production workflows with carefully selected materials, we aim to reduce unnecessary waste while maintaining dependable quality. This approach allows us to support both everyday needs and larger initiatives without introducing complexity or uncertainty.
Early planning plays a key role in how we work. When projects are prepared in advance, production becomes smoother, resources are used more efficiently, and costs stay predictable. This mindset helps create better results for everyone involved.
From initial setup to final delivery, we prioritize transparency, consistency, and support. Our goal is to make each step clear and manageable, so expectations are aligned and outcomes remain dependable.
At every stage, we focus on building long-term trust through practical decisions, steady execution, and a commitment to responsible production.