Postcards are a standard form of mail and they can be used for a number of purposes. Many people on vacation like to send a postcard from their destination back home to family and friends. Many companies also use direct mail postcards for advertising purposes. Some people also like using them as a way of sending a quick personal greeting, message or thank you note. When sending a postcard through the postal system you will need to consider postage costs and this typically means postcard stamps.
A postcard is the simplest type of mail to send. With no envelope required the recipient can see the message right away and most postcards come with an attractive design on the front which grabs the attention of the person receiving it. A postcard is also the most affordable way to send mail through the postal system. Standard postcard stamps typically cost 28 cents and this compares with a standard letter stamp which costs 44 cents.
There are a few different types of postcard stamps available and the one you use will typically depend on the postcard. If you buy your own standard sized postcards then you will need adhesive stamps to stick on these. These can be purchased in postal offices or retailers that have stamps available for sale. To send a postcard domestically in the US, stamps cost 28 cents for a standard sized postcard. This is usually rectangular in shape with the dimensions being between 3½ and 4¼ inches high, between 5 and 6 inches long and between 0.007 and 0.016 inches thick. A larger size postcard can be more expensive to send with the standard letter rate of 44 cents or more being required depending on the actual size of the card
It is also possible to get pre-stamped postcards which can take the work out of deciding the exact cost of stamp required. These have the postcard stamps printed on the card itself and there is no need to add a separate stamp. These can be purchased in a number of designs and are available in postal offices and also online at the United States Postal Services website shop. These are available in 28 cents and 44 cents sizes with some of the designs including scenic American Landscapes, Cowboys of the Silver Screen, Kelp Forest and the Simpsons. There are many designs to choose from and the cost for a book of 20 pre-stamped 28 cents postcards is typically 14.95. A book of 10 pre-stamped 44 cents postcards can cost between $8.95 and $15.95. It is also possible to buy a 28 cent stamped reply card and this has a Koi Carp stamp and costs 62 cents for a set of 2. If you buy online you will also need to include shipping costs into the final price.
Postcards are the simplest and most affordable way to send mail. Whether you use separate postcard stamps or pre-stamped postcards is a personal choice, although having both available means you can easily send any postcard you want through the mail. Whether you do this for business or pleasure you can ensure that your postcard will get to the recipient in a timely manner and provide them with the information needed.