If you’re creating a postcard for marketing or packaging, getting the size right is key. Postcards are one of the simplest and most cost-effective print products – but the dimensions you choose will affect the final look and feel.
Here’s everything you need to know about postcard measurements, including the standard UK sizes we offer at instantprint.
What Are the Standard Postcard Dimensions?
At instantprint, we offer two postcard sizes:
A6 Postcard Dimensions (Standard Size)
- Millimetres: 105mm x 148mm
- Inches: 4.13" x 5.82"
- Pixels: 1795 x 1287 at 300dpi
A6 postcards are perfect for thank you notes, discount cards and direct mail. They’re small, cost-effective and easy to tuck into a parcel or hand out at events.
A5 Postcard Dimensions
- Millimetres: 148mm x 210mm
- Inches: 5.82" x 8.26"
- Pixels: 2480 x 1748 at 300dpi
A5 postcards give you extra space to showcase visuals, explain services or feature longer messages. They're great for event promotions and creative campaigns.
Which Postcard Size Should I Choose?
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide between A5 and A6:
| Size | Best For |
|---|---|
| A6 | Compact designs, offers, short messages, mail campaigns |
| A5 | Bold visuals, detailed designs, impactful promotions |
Paper Types and Finishes Available
You can fully customise your postcards at instantprint with a wide choice of finishes:
Paper Types
- Silk: Smooth and professional, with a subtle sheen
- Uncoated: Great for writing on, with a natural feel
- Best Gloss Front: High-shine on the front, uncoated on the back – ideal for vibrant designs and handwritten notes
Lamination Options
- None: A simple finish, ideal for writable postcards
- Matt: Smooth and non-reflective for a soft-touch look
- Gloss: Shiny and bright, perfect for colour-heavy designs
- Velvet: A luxurious soft-touch feel that adds a premium edge
Embellishments
- None: Clean and classic
- Spot UV: Gloss highlights to draw attention to key areas
- Gold or Silver Foil: Metallic accents that catch the light
Understanding Bleed, Trim and Safe Area
To make sure your design prints exactly as expected, here’s what to keep in mind:
- Bleed Area: Extend backgrounds or colours 3mm beyond the trim line to avoid white edges
- Trim Line: This is where the postcard will be cut
- Safe Area: Keep all important text and logos inside this zone so nothing gets trimmed off
You can use our free postcard templates from instantprint to get the layout right from the start.
Quick Reference: Postcard Measurements
| Size | mm | Inches | Pixels (300dpi) |
|---|---|---|---|
| A6 | 105 x 148 | 4.13" x 5.82" | 1795 x 1287 |
| A5 | 148 x 210 | 5.82" x 8.26" | 2480 x 1748 |
