How to Design Postcards That Double as Packaging Inserts

For small businesses and e-commerce shops, every order shipped is a marketing opportunity. 

Adding a postcard insert inside your packaging is an easy, affordable way to thank customers, promote repeat sales, and showcase your brand personality. 

Here’s how to design postcards that don’t just fill space, they drive loyalty and conversions.

Why Packaging Inserts Work for E-Commerce

When someone opens their order, they’re most engaged with your brand. That “unboxing moment” is prime real estate. A well-designed insert can:

• Build emotional connection (a handwritten note, a thank-you) 
• Encourage repeat purchases (promo codes, loyalty offers) 
• Generate referrals (QR codes linking to shareable reviews or social media) 

👉 Related blog: Print Products That Make Your Brand Look Bigger Than It Is

Types of Postcards That Work Best as Inserts

1. Thank-You Cards 
   • Short gratitude message: “Thanks for supporting our small business!” 
   • Add customer’s first name if possible. 
   • Include social handles for easy tagging. 
2. Promo Code Cards 
   • Offer free shipping, a % discount, or “buy 2 get 1” deal. 
   • Make the code bold and scannable. 
   • Time-limit it to create urgency. 
3. Product Story Cards 
   • Share the story behind your product, your team, or your mission. 
   • Customers love knowing they support real people. 
4. Review Request Cards 
   • Encourage Google, Etsy, or Shopify reviews. 
   • Add a QR code that links directly to your review page. 

Design Tips for High-Impact Inserts

• Keep it simple: One clear message per card. 
• Use strong visuals: Lifestyle images, bold logos, clean typography. 
• Match your packaging: Colors and design should feel cohesive with your brand box, tissue, or wrapping. 
• Double-sided: Use one side for design/thank-you, the other for offers or QR codes. 

👉 Pair with other packaging products:

• Postcards 
• Wrapping Paper 
• Custom Tissue Paper 

Example Layout for a Holiday Insert

Front:

• Brand logo + holiday greeting (“Happy Holidays from [Brand Name]”) 
• Image of your product in use 

Back:

• Thank-you message 
• Promo code for next purchase 
• QR code → Reviews page 

👉 Related blog: How One Café Doubled Reviews Using Coasters and Stickers

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding with text: Your customer has seconds of attention during unboxing. 
• Generic designs: Make it feel personalized, not mass-produced. 
• Forgetting a call to action: Always tell them what to do next (shop again, follow, review). 

Packaging inserts are small investments with big returns. A simple postcard can transform an order into a marketing touchpoint, strengthening loyalty and boosting repeat sales. With the holiday season approaching, now is the time to design inserts that make your brand unforgettable.

🎯 Start creating now: Custom Postcards

👉 Related resources:

• Retail Marketing That Pops: Posters & Bookmarks 
• Folders That Sell: Pocket & Presentation Folders