Despite how easy postcards are to send, they’re also surprisingly easy to mess up. Where does the message go? Which corner gets the stamp? How many lines should you use?
Here’s a quick guide to getting it right — no guesswork, no wasted postage.
✍️ The Anatomy of a Postcard
Most standard postcards are split into two sides:
- Left side: this is where your message goes
- Right side: this is where you write the recipient’s address and place a stamp
Here’s how to format each part.
📮 How to Format the Address (U.S.)
Use this format for domestic (U.S.) postcards:
Recipient Name
Street Address or P.O. Box
City, State ZIP Code
✅ Example:
Jamie Rivera
123 Applewood Ln
Portland, OR 97205
Place this on the right side of the postcard — aligned left and centered vertically.
💌 Where to Put the Stamp
Stamps go in the top right corner, above the address.
As of 2024, you need a Postcard Stamp ($0.53) or a regular Forever Stamp ($0.68 works too, but costs a bit more).
✉️ Where to Write Your Message
Your message goes on the left side of the card — short, sweet, and handwritten (or printed, if you’re using a service like ours).
Keep it under 4–5 sentences — think of it like a friendly tweet with better vibes.
🌍 Sending Internationally?
If you’re mailing a postcard outside the U.S., use a Global Forever Stamp (currently $1.55), and include the country name in ALL CAPS on the last line of the address.
🌐 Example:
Akira Sato
1-2-3 Dogenzaka
Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0043
JAPAN