Standard vs. jumbo postcards

The short answer

Choose the standard 4 x 6 postcard when you are mailing to a targeted list and want the postcard postage class: it is the size the rest of direct mail is measured against. Choose a jumbo 6 x 9 or 6 x 11 card when you want your offer to take the top of the pile and you have a real layout to fill. Both print full color on heavy card, both start at 12 postcards, and both ship in about 2 weeks.

Side by side

Where the standard card wins

A 4 x 6 card clears the mailbox at postcard postage rates, it cannot be closed, and it delivers your offer in the two seconds between the box and the recycling bin. We print both sides in full color on 16pt card, heavy enough not to curl in a mail tray, with a gloss face for photography or an uncoated matte face when the back needs to take a pen. If holding the postcard rate matters to your campaign, design to 4 x 6. See the custom marketing postcards.

Where the jumbo card wins

A jumbo postcard wins by geometry: at 6 x 9 or 6 x 11 it will not slide under the electric bill, and the larger face buys room for a real layout — a photograph that is not a thumbnail, a map, a coupon block and a headline people read standing up. Postage moves to the letter or flat rate at these sizes, which is why they suit fewer pieces and a stronger response per piece. See the jumbo postcards.

The verdict

Pick standard 4 x 6 for targeted lists, coupons and reminders where the lowest postage class matters most.

Pick jumbo when the offer needs room and you want it to sit on top of the stack.

Either way, orders start at 12 postcards and come with a free vector redraw of your logo, a free mockup within 24 hours and shipping in about 2 weeks. Want the wider picture? Read our guide to USPS postcard size and postage rules, or browse every style we make.