# Postcards
**Postcards are the go-to choice for high-volume, visually engaging direct mail campaigns.** They're cost-effective, quick to produce, and designed to **grab attention fast**.
Whether you’re announcing an event, promoting an offer, or staying top-of-mind with prospects, postcards deliver your message **without needing to be opened**.
### Sizes & Specifications
| **Size** | **Dimensions** | **Postage Class** | **Delivery Speed** |
| ------------- | -------------- | ------------------- | ------------------------------ |
| **4x6 inch** | 4" x 6" | First-Class Mail | 1-5 business days (estimated) |
| **6x9 inch** | 6" x 9" | First-Class Mail | 1-5 business days (estimated) |
| **6x11 inch** | 6" x 11" | Standard-Class Mail | 7-21 business days (estimated) |
> 📌 **Why the difference in postage class?**\
> USPS **First-Class** delivers faster, but the **6x11 size exceeds First-Class limits**, so it's shipped via **Standard-Class Mail**.
### Paper Type
* **16pt C1S Paper** (Coated One Side)
* **Sturdy, premium cardstock**
* **Smooth finish** with **glossy coating on one side** (perfect for high-quality images)
* **Writable on the uncoated side**, great for personalized notes or QR codes.
### Best Use Cases for Each Size
| **Size** | **Best For** |
| ------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
| **4x6 inch** | Budget-friendly campaigns, quick promotions, reminders, or high-volume outreach. |
| **6x9 inch** | Stand-out messaging, detailed visuals, mid-sized campaigns (great for real estate investors). |
| **6x11 inch** | Bold, large-format promotions where visibility is key (e.g., big sales events, seasonal promos). |
> 💡 **Pro Tip:**\
> The **larger the postcard**, the **more it stands out** in the mailbox—but costs increase accordingly.
### Design Guidelines
* **Resolution:** 300 DPI for images and graphics
* **Bleed:** Add **0.125” bleed** beyond the cut edge
* **Safe Zone:** Keep critical text/logos **0.25” inside** the edges
* **File Format:** PDF
* **Color Mode:** CMYK for print accuracy
### When to Use Postcards
* **Real Estate Investors:**\
Send **6x9 postcards** to absentee owners with a bold headline: *“We’re looking to buy homes in your area!”*\
Add a **QR code** linking to a lead capture form.
* **E-commerce Stores:**\
Use **4x6 postcards** for **new customer promos** or **seasonal discounts**—drive traffic back to your online store.
* **Local Services:**\
Announce **grand openings**, **special events**, or **limited-time offers** with **large 6x11 postcards** for maximum visibility.
### Common Mistakes to Avoid
* **Overcrowding the design:**\
Use whitespace strategically. A cluttered postcard is harder to read and less effective.
* **Ignoring the call-to-action:**\
Every postcard should have a **clear CTA**: *Call Now*, *Scan this QR Code*, or *Visit our Website*.
* **Skipping address verification:**\
Ensure your mailing list is clean—OLC automatically validates addresses via **Accutrace** to reduce undeliverable mail.
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