How Much Does It Cost to Send a Card in the Mail?
Sending a card in the mail typically costs anywhere from $0.53 for a standard postcard to $0.73 for certain specialty cards, with most standard letter-sized greeting cards costing $0.68. The exact price depends on the card's size, weight, shape, and destination.
Common Card Postage Rates
The cost to mail a card primarily depends on its dimensions and weight. Here's a breakdown of common postage rates for domestic mail within the contiguous United States:| Card Type | Dimensions | Postage Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Postcard | (e.g., 3.5" x 5" up to 4.25" x 6") | $0.53 |
| Specific Postcard Example | 4.25" x 6" | $0.56 |
| Standard First-Class Letter Card | (Up to 1 oz, e.g., 5" x 7") | $0.68 |
| Specific Reception/RSVP Card | 4.25" x 5.5" | $0.73 |
Note: The specific postcard and reception/RSVP card examples highlight how certain dimensions or card types may have unique postage requirements, sometimes slightly different from general standard rates.
Factors Affecting Card Postage
Several factors can influence the final postage cost for your card:- Weight: Standard First-Class mail covers items up to 1 ounce. If your card (including any inserts or enclosures) weighs more than 1 ounce, additional postage will be required. Each additional ounce typically costs an extra $0.24.
- Size and Shape:
- Standard Cards: Most greeting cards fit within the standard letter dimensions (rectangular, up to 6.125" high x 11.5" long x 0.25" thick). These generally qualify for the standard First-Class Mail rate ($0.68).
- Large Cards: Cards exceeding standard letter dimensions but still within "flats" (large envelope) specifications will cost more.
- Non-Machinable Cards: Cards that are square, rigid, unevenly thick (e.g., due to embellishments like bows or buttons), or don't bend easily may incur a "non-machinable surcharge" in addition to the standard postage. This surcharge can add around $0.40 to the cost. The 4.25" x 5.5" reception or RSVP card costing $0.73 suggests it might fall into this category or require slightly more than 1 oz postage for its specific design.
- Postcards: To qualify for postcard rates, a card must be rectangular, at least 3.5" x 5" and no more than 4.25" x 6" and 0.016" thick. The 4.25" x 6" postcard example costing $0.56 is slightly above the general postcard stamp price, potentially due to thickness or other specific characteristics.
- Destination: The rates mentioned are for domestic mail within the contiguous United States. International mail will have significantly higher costs and different rate structures.
- Additional Services: Services like certified mail, registered mail, or tracking will add to the postage cost.
