Postcards are a great way to stay in touch with friends and family, and they’re relatively inexpensive to send. However, the cost of sending a postcard can vary depending on the destination, the weight of the postcard, and the type of postage you use.
United States Domestic Postcard Rates (2023)
- First Class Mail: $0.40
- Standard Mail: $0.35
International Postcard Rates (2023)
- Canada and Mexico: $1.20
- Other countries: $1.30
Postcard Weight and Postage
The weight of your postcard will also affect the postage cost. Postcards that weigh more than 1 ounce will require additional postage.
Types of Postage
There are two main types of postage you can use to send a postcard:
- First Class Mail: This is the most expensive type of postage, but it also provides the fastest delivery times. First Class Mail postcards typically arrive within 1-3 business days.
- Standard Mail: This is a less expensive type of postage, but it also provides slower delivery times. Standard Mail postcards typically arrive within 5-7 business days.
How to Save Money on Postage
There are a few things you can do to save money on postage when sending postcards:
- Use Standard Mail: Standard Mail is significantly less expensive than First Class Mail.
- Buy postcards in bulk: Many retailers offer discounts on postcards when you buy them in bulk.
- Use a mailing service: Mailing services can help you save money on postage by combining your postcards with other mailings.
Postcard Mailing Tips
- Use a postcard that is the correct size and weight. The standard postcard size is 4″ x 6″. Postcards that are larger or heavier will require additional postage.
- Write your message clearly and concisely. Postcards have limited space, so it’s important to keep your message short and to the point.
- Address your postcard correctly. Make sure to include the recipient’s full name and address, as well as your own return address.
- Use a stamp that is the correct amount of postage. If you use too little postage, your postcard may be delayed or returned to you.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using the wrong type of postage. First Class Mail postage cannot be used on Standard Mail postcards, and vice versa.
- Not using enough postage. If you don’t use enough postage, your postcard may be delayed or returned to you.
- Addressing your postcard incorrectly. Make sure to include the recipient’s full name and address, as well as your own return address.
- Sending a postcard that is too heavy. Postcards that weigh more than 1 ounce will require additional postage.
FAQs
- How much does it cost to send a postcard in 2023? The cost of sending a postcard in 2023 varies depending on the destination, the weight of the postcard, and the type of postage you use. Domestic postcards cost between $0.35 and $0.40 to send, while international postcards cost between $1.20 and $1.30 to send.
- How much does it cost to send a postcard in 2025? The cost of sending a postcard in 2025 is expected to increase slightly. Domestic postcards are expected to cost between $0.37 and $0.42 to send, while international postcards are expected to cost between $1.25 and $1.35 to send.
- What is the cheapest way to send a postcard? The cheapest way to send a postcard is to use Standard Mail postage. Standard Mail postcards cost less than First Class Mail postcards, but they also take longer to arrive.
- How long does it take for a postcard to arrive? First Class Mail postcards typically arrive within 1-3 business days, while Standard Mail postcards typically arrive within 5-7 business days.
- Can I send a postcard without a stamp? No, you cannot send a postcard without a stamp. If you do not use enough postage, your postcard may be delayed or returned to you.
- What should I write on a postcard? Postcards are a great way to share a quick message with friends and family. You can write about your travels, your day, or anything else that you want to share.
Conclusion
Sending postcards is a great way to stay in touch with friends and family, and it’s relatively inexpensive to do so. By following the tips in this article, you can save money on postage and ensure that your postcards arrive on time and in good condition.
