Most postcards don’t fail because of design. They fail because of how they’re printed.
You can have a clean layout, a strong offer, and a clear message…
…and still get no results.
Because printing decisions—paper, size, quantity, timing—directly impact whether your postcard gets noticed or ignored.
That’s why the real question isn’t:
“Where should I print postcards?”
It’s:
“What’s the best way to print postcards for what I’m trying to achieve?”
This guide breaks that down clearly—so you don’t waste money, miss deadlines, or send something that gets thrown away.
What “the best way” actually means (and why it’s different for every campaign)
There isn’t one perfect way to print postcards.
There’s only the way that fits your campaign.
Because printing choices should change depending on:
- whether you’re promoting an event, a sale, or a service
- how quickly you need them
- how many you’re sending
- how competitive your market is
A real estate agent sending 500 postcards to a local farm area doesn’t need the same setup as a retail brand running a seasonal promotion.
If you treat every postcard the same, you lose the advantage.
The 3 printing decisions that impact results the most
Before choosing a printer, focus on these three things. They matter more than anything else.
1. Size: What gets noticed vs what gets ignored
Postcard size isn’t just about design—it’s about visibility.
Smaller cards are cheaper, but easier to overlook. Larger postcards stand out more in the mail and often get higher response rates, especially in competitive areas.
If you’re unsure which size to choose, this guide on breaks down when each format actually works.
2. Paper and finish: What feels cheap vs what gets kept
This is where most businesses cut corners—and it shows.
Thin paper and glossy finishes can make your postcard feel disposable. Heavier stock or premium finishes signal quality and make people more likely to hold onto it.
If you’re trying to build trust or promote a high-value service, this decision matters more than saving a few cents per piece.
3. Quantity: What saves money vs what wastes it
Printing too few postcards increases your cost per unit.
Printing too many without a clear distribution plan leads to waste.
The best approach is simple: print based on your distribution strategy, not just your budget.
If you’re running a targeted campaign, it’s better to send fewer, better-designed postcards than thousands with no clear audience.
Online vs Local Printing: Which one actually makes sense?
This is where most people get stuck.
Both options work—but not in the same situations.
Online printing: Better for speed, scale, and consistency
Online platforms give you:
- faster turnaround
- more size and paper options
- better pricing for medium to large runs
If you already have your design ready and need to move quickly, online printing is usually the most efficient option.
For example, ordering through Overnight Prints allows you to customize your postcard size, paper, and turnaround in minutes—without delays or back-and-forth.
You can explore options here: Print Postcards
Local print shops: Better for small runs and hands-on help
Local printers are useful when:
- you want to review samples in person
- you need help adjusting your design
- you’re testing a small batch
But they tend to be:
- more expensive per unit
- slower depending on workload
- limited in customization options
For ongoing marketing campaigns, they’re harder to scale.
How much does it cost to print postcards?
Costs vary based on:
- size
- paper type
- quantity
- turnaround time
But here’s the pattern:
- Smaller quantities → higher cost per postcard
- Larger quantities → lower cost per postcard
- Faster turnaround → higher total cost
If budget is a concern, focus on optimizing quantity and format instead of choosing the cheapest option blindly.
For a deeper breakdown, you can also review this guide on to see how cost ties into performance.
The biggest mistakes that kill postcard campaigns
Most postcard campaigns don’t fail because of the idea.
They fail because of execution.
Here are the mistakes that matter most:
Printing without a clear goal
If your postcard doesn’t have one clear purpose—promotion, event, or awareness—it won’t convert.
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Choosing the cheapest option instead of the right one
Cheap printing often leads to:
- poor paper quality
- weak first impressions
- lower response rates
Saving upfront can cost you more in lost results.
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Ignoring timing
Postcards for events or promotions need to arrive at the right moment.
Too early, and people forget.
Too late, and the opportunity is gone.
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Overcomplicating the design
Too much text, too many elements, or unclear messaging will reduce effectiveness.
If you’re unsure how to structure your postcard, this guide on can help you simplify your messaging approach (the same principle applies).
what to put on your postcard
So, what’s the best way to print postcards?
If you want a clear answer:
- Choose the size based on visibility, not just cost
- Invest in paper quality if you want to stand out
- Print based on your distribution plan
- Use online printing for speed and scalability
- Keep your message simple and focused
That combination consistently performs better than trying to optimize just one factor.
Before you print, make sure your postcard is ready
Printing won’t fix a weak message.
Before placing your order, double-check:
- your headline is clear
- your offer is easy to understand
- your call to action is obvious
If the content doesn’t work, the print won’t either.
Ready to print your postcards?
If you already have your design and want a fast, reliable option, you can start here: Postcards
You’ll be able to choose your size, paper, and turnaround based on what your campaign actually needs.
Final takeaway
The best way to print postcards isn’t about choosing the cheapest or fastest option.
It’s about making the right decisions before you print.
Because once they’re printed, there’s no fixing them.
