Mailing requirements for postcards

Here are the mailing requirements for postcards in the United States:

Postcard Size and Shape

• Postcards must be rectangular in shape, with a maximum size of 6 inches (15.24 cm) in height and 4.25 inches (10.8 cm) in width.
• The postcard must be at least 0.007 inches (0.18 mm) thick.

Postage

• The cost of postage for a postcard is currently $0.35 (as of 2022).
• You can use a Forever Stamp, which is a stamp that can be used to mail a postcard regardless of the current postage rate.

Addressing

• The postcard must have a valid mailing address on the front side, including the recipient's name, street address, city, state, and ZIP code.
• The address must be written in a clear, legible handwriting or printed using a typewriter or computer.

Content

• The postcard can contain any type of message or image, but it must not contain any obscene or indecent material.
• The postcard must not contain any advertising or promotional materials that are not related to the message or image on the postcard.

Postmark

• The postcard must have a postmark from the United States Postal Service (USPS) to be considered mailed.
• The postmark must be applied by the USPS at the time of mailing, and it must be visible on the front side of the postcard.

Delivery

• Postcards are typically delivered within 3-5 business days within the continental United States.
• Delivery times may vary depending on the destination and the efficiency of the USPS.

Tracking

• Postcards are not trackable, as they do not have a tracking number.
• If you need to track your postcard, you can use a tracking number on a First-Class Mail letter or a Priority Mail package.

Special Requirements

• If you are mailing a postcard to a military address, you must use a special military postmark and follow the USPS's guidelines for mailing to military addresses.
• If you are mailing a postcard to a foreign country, you must use a Forever Stamp and follow the USPS's guidelines for mailing to international destinations.

It's always a good idea to check with your local post office or the USPS website for any specific requirements or restrictions on mailing postcards.