Postcards are one of the simplest and most versatile print products, but choosing the right version still matters. The size, stock, coating, and final use all affect how the finished piece looks, feels, and performs.
This guide will help you choose the right postcard for promotions, handouts, direct mail, invitations, and display use. It will also help you decide when a rack card or coated postcard is the better option.
Postcards work well for a wide range of applications, including:
They are popular because they are compact, affordable, and easy to distribute.
The best size depends on how much information you need to include and how the card will be used.
4″ x 6″
A strong everyday choice for handouts, simple promotions, reminders, and lower-cost postcard runs.
5″ x 7″
A more premium-looking size that works well for invitations, special promotions, and designs that need more visual space.
5.5″ x 8.5″
A good option when you want more room for content without moving into brochure territory.
4″ x 9″
Useful for taller layouts and often a better fit when the card will be displayed in a rack.
If you need a non-standard size, a custom quote is usually the best route.
A standard postcard is usually the right choice for handouts, direct mail, invitations, and general promotions.
A rack card is usually the better choice when the piece is meant to sit in a brochure rack, counter display, waiting room, tourism stand, or retail holder. The taller, narrower format makes it easier to display and easier to spot.
If the main goal is display placement, choose a rack card. If the main goal is general distribution, a standard postcard usually makes more sense.
Coated postcards are a good choice when appearance matters and you want a more polished finish.
They are often used for:
If you want a more standard, flexible postcard with a wider range of paper choices, a custom postcard is usually the better fit. If you want a cleaner, more finished look, coated postcards are often worth the upgrade.
Custom postcards are better when you need more control over:
This is usually the right choice when you know exactly what you want and do not want to be boxed into a narrow set of preset options.
If the postcard is being mailed, size matters. Mailing rules can affect postage and machinability, so it is worth checking those requirements before finalizing the design.
That is especially important if you are planning a large direct mail run or using a custom size.
Some postcard projects benefit from extra finishing, but most do not need it.
Depending on the project, additional options may include:
These are usually best for more specialized applications rather than standard postcard jobs.
Choose a standard postcard when you want a flexible, general-purpose print product.
Choose a coated postcard when you want a more polished and durable promotional piece.
Choose a rack card when the piece will be displayed in a brochure rack or holder.
Choose a custom quote when you need an unusual size, specialty finishing, or a postcard that does not fit the normal product setup.
Laser Sharp offers postcard printing with flexible options for size, stock, and finish. Whether you need simple handouts, premium coated postcards, or rack cards for display, the goal is the same: make it easy to order the version that fits the job.
Browse the postcard options online or request a quote for custom sizes and specialty finishing.
What is the most common postcard size?
4″ x 6″ is one of the most common postcard sizes because it is compact, practical, and cost-effective.
When should I use a rack card instead of a postcard?
Use a rack card when the piece will be displayed in a brochure rack, holder, or display stand.
Are coated postcards better?
They are better when you want a more polished look and a stronger surface finish. They are not automatically better for every use.
Can I order a custom postcard size?
Yes. Custom sizes are possible, and a quote is usually the best place to start for non-standard formats.
Do I need lamination or other special finishing?
Usually not. Most postcard jobs do fine without it, but specialty finishing can make sense for specific applications.
